Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sound of an alarm stirs Alec from his sleep, and he shoots out to silence it. He falls back onto his pillow and shuts his eyes. The apartment is quiet but won’t be for long, and he relaxes in the temporary quiet tranquility. He inhales and crinkles his nose. He needs to shower before classes or he’s going to stink up the school. He checks over his schedule on his phone, noting he only has one class. His class on python foundations is at noon, and he has three hours to shower, get dressed, get Max fed and dressed, drop him off at Lydia’s, and finally make his way to class.

Alec crawls out of bed quietly, making sure he doesn’t wake Max too early. His son is still sleeping in his dinosaur pajamas, and he can’t fight the smile he makes at seeing his son comfortable and sleeping soundly. He’s been advised to sleep in separate rooms, create some sort of independence and teach him to sleep alone. But sleeping in separate rooms from his child leaves him utterly guilty and lonely. What if he needs him? What if something happens to him? It’s a one bed apartment, and Max would be a few feet away in the living room, but even that is too far. He can’t smell him as clearly there, and he can’t see him through the wall.

No, they will share a room and if it leads to dependent behavior, then so be it. He has only his son, and he’s worked hard to get where he is at. He fought hard for Max, and he’s not going to let other parents in better conditions tell him how to parent. He will love openly and make sure his son knows he’s there for him. Having him too far is too painful for his heart. If his child is happy to fall asleep in his arms, close to his chest with his mother’s face in his hair, then he will continue to do so. Alec couldn’t sleep any other way.

Alec goes to shower, washing quickly with scentless soap. Max has a too sensitive nose for any of his old stuff. He will sneeze and cry if Alec doesn’t smell like normal. Alec made that mistake once, and Max wailed and wouldn’t stop. Alec cried so hard from bone deep guilt he wheezed. He hated himself for taking away something his son finds comfort in. He cried to Lydia on the phone, who was quick to assure him of his competency as a mother. She is a mother too, or he would normally go to Izzy with his troubles. She is the one he goes to for everything else, but when it comes to his son, he favors Lydia.

Lydia was quick to tell him he did nothing wrong. Some babies are okay with perfumes and scented soap, while some are sensitive and prefer the natural scent of his parents. It could also be that Max’s father died, leaving Alec to be all he has. He may prefer the pure scent of one parent to make up for the ghost of the other.

Either way, Alec threw away all his scented body soap.

Alec had just gotten done with his shower when he hears the unmistakable sound of his baby waking up. He coos at him, and he picks him up. He smells his child’s hair as he holds him tightly to his chest. He sits down on the bed and arranges the pillows to lay down comfortably. He reads his textbook on his phone while he feeds his son. He burps him when he’s done, and he gets a set of clothes out of the drawer. Smiling at what he finds, he picks a navy shirt with a lion on it with white pants. Jace sent this outfit in the mail from where he lives in New York with his girlfriend, Clary. Max looks adorable in them, and he sends Clary a picture when he gets done dressing him.

Alec blows raspberries in his belly, who giggles and shrieks at his antics. He tickles his feet and chubby hands, then kisses his rosy cheeks. He hums a tune his mother sang for him when he was a kid. He may not have the best memories of his mother, but Max seems to love his singing. He will sing to him until he falls asleep.

His phone rings, and he picks it up. Lydia’s worried voice greets him. “Alec! I’m sorry to call you so early, but I woke up to Charlotte coughing and throwing up. I am so sorry, but I can’t take care of Max today. I don’t want him getting sick. I can try to ask someone else to watch him for you while you go to class.”

“No,” Alec says more harshly than he intended. The idea of someone he doesn’t know taking care of his son feels like claws digging into his ribcage. Not when his son is so young. He’s not even a year old. He cools his tone to a kinder one. “I will take him to class. I’ve done it before, and Max is quiet. He hardly ever makes a fuss if we sit in the back and stays in my lap.”

“Oh, Alec,” Lydia sighs. The guilt clear in her voice. “Are you safe getting there? I can call you a taxi.”

“No, it’s okay. I made some money selling some things,” he tells her. In the evenings, he’ll go to the park where he’s gained customers and sell bags, beanies, scarves, and whatever else he’s learned to crochet. Crochet is easy, and yarn is cheap. It can be time-consuming, though, but he has plenty of time when he spends all of it at home with a barely year old baby.

He’s lucky he doesn’t have to worry about rent. Max’s father’s family paid off his apartment, and sometimes they’re kind enough to send him food for groceries and other bills. He saves the money for emergencies, as he is on foodstamps and can use it for that. His parents made it quite clear he didn’t approve of his relationship with a man, and they practically banished him from their house when they found out he was pregnant. He was a senior in high school, and he had nowhere to go. It didn’t help that his alpha then died when he was four months pregnant. He died tragically in a car accident, and Alec almost lost the baby from malnourishment and falling into a whirlwind of depression and isolation.

Alec kisses his son’s forehead and says goodbye to Lydia, wishing Charlotte the best and to update him on her. It’s only a speedbump, and he was not lying. Max is very quiet in class, and it is a massive stroke of luck. His professor is kind enough not to mind either of his son’s presence.

Professor Bane. He gets shivers just by thinking of him. He is not only extremely intelligent, but amiable and gorgeous. He is positive everyone in class has a crush on him, and they have every right to. He is an alpha who smells divine, and he dresses like a model. Not a hair out of place, and the heavy weight of his pointed boots as he walks through the aisles of desks. The way he wears such tight fitted suits and neat sweaters, and his slacks snug around his ass.

He’s stunning, and he is fond of his son. He’s only had to bring Max to class twice, and Professor Bane let him in with surprising amount of understanding. He kept sneaking glances at Max, and Alec blushed when he did. His omega pleased to have such a handsome and influential alpha adore his offspring.

Today, though, they’re scheduled to have an exam, and he is not sure what he’s going to do. It’ll be difficult to hold him and take the test, but he’ll have to manage somehow.

Alec sets Max back in his crib, so he can brush his teeth and hair. His hair is getting longer, and it is getting wavy on the ends. He throws on a soft white sweater and jeans. He checks his bag for everything he may need for Max. Diapers, lotion, baby powder, wipes, extra clothes, some toys, and a blanket. At the last second, he grabs a teddy bear that used to belong to Izzy. Max loves the thing, and Izzy goes crazy for the videos he sends her. He will have to visit her in New York when his classes end. He misses his siblings terribly.

He lives close enough to the community college for an uber not to be overwhelmingly expensive. The distance is even shorter if he walks to the cafe down the street for his bagel and coffee. Max cries in the car, and he’s beginning to doubt his son is going to stay quiet for the lecture. He tries to rock him and hum to him, but it does little to soothe him. He checks him over, checks his temperature and diaper but he’s fine in all accounts.

The uber drops him off at the front, but unfortunately his building is on the other side. Max seems to like the walking, falling asleep at some point, but he wakes up the second they enter the door. The hallway is quite loud, and he sighs when Max starts to stir irritably. Class is about to start, and Max doesn’t show any sign of winding down. In fact, he’s starting to cry for all to hear.

“My Max, what’s wrong, darling?” he whispers gently. He goes to the bathroom to try to feed him, but he’s not hungry and doesn’t latch, and his diaper is clean. He’s really starting to worry now. Maybe Professor Bane will let him come back another time to take the exam? Though, he can’t imagine Lydia can take care of Max for a while, and Professor Bane will want him to take the test soon or he could be accused of cheating unless he changes the test considerably.

He really doesn’t want that.

Bane can be strict at times, and that includes locking his door on the day of a test. He hurries to the classroom just in time, and by then Max is crying. Everyone looks up at him, some glaring and most annoyed. He can’t blame them for being annoyed, especially when they’re stressed and about to take a test, but he can’t help it. He’s done everything, and he’s tried all he could to be a good parent. He’s failing at every aspect. He can’t even comfort his son.

He holds Max closer, stuffing his face in his neck and hopes his scent helps. His heart breaks when Max cries harder, and he winces at his wails.

His voice is shaky when he speaks, “I’m sorry, everyone, I’ll leave-”

“Mr. Lightwood.”

Alec freezes, and he turns to find Professor Bane walking over to them. His gaze soft and riddled with worry. “Is little Max okay?”

Alec’s cheeks redden. He feels all eyes on him, and he’s shocked to hear he knows his son’s name. Through the embarrassment and guilt, he is warmed. “He’s been upset all day. He’s not sick, and he’s fed and got enough sleep-”

Professor Bane shakes his head. “Of course, Alexander. I have no doubt he’s well taken care of. Babies just get upset sometimes.” He reaches out but draws back and hesitates. “I can hold him while you work, if you would like. He can help me grade papers.”

Alec instantly gets rushed with adrenaline at the prospect of someone else holding his child. Someone foreign and not pack. An unknown alpha who is not his or his son’s. But the look on Bane’s face is genuine and kind, and he looks enthralled by the baby. He is gorgeous in his dark gray suit jacket with black floral patterns. He has gold cufflinks with matching gold nail polish. He looks at Alec through his eyelashes, and it should be criminal to be so pretty. His bewitching looks flood into Alec like magic, and then he’s giving Max to him as if under a spell.

Professor Bane smiles wild and open, awing at the baby and lighting up like the sun. Max cries exceptionally loud right then, and Bane makes an exaggerated frown. “Poor baby. What’s wrong, honey? You giving your daddy a tough time? Why’s that, huh?”

Bane walks off with Max, softly rocking him and wiping away his tears. He gestures to a pile of papers. “Raj, hand out the tests. My arms are full of precious cargo.”

Raj follows the order and starts to hand out the tests. Alec slowly sits in his chair. Muscles in his legs and arms twitch as if sensing the missing piece of his son and needing to immediately fight for him back. He takes deep breaths, watching his professor with Max. Max stopped crying, and he’s toying with the rings on Bane’s fingers. Bane says something, and Max giggles and sucks on his thumb.

Alec gets the test. He gives Max one more look and turns to the exam.

He tries to finish the exam as fast as he can, but every time he makes eye contact with Bane, he smiles where he sits on the edge of his desk. Max fingers his buttons and collar, and his face is dry of tears. He’s smiling and laughing, and his happiness makes Alec’s heart soar.

Bane winks at him, and Alec looks away blushing.

Alec slows down and takes his time, realizing then he has nothing to worry about. His son is safe and happy. He finishes it in under an hour, and he walks to the front to turn it in. Bane doesn’t seem to notice, happily holding Max. He took a toy from Alec’s baby bag when Alec kicked it closer to him. Max is now gnawing at the plastic in Bane’s lap, and he reaches for Alec when he walks up.

Bane offers Max to him, but Alec waves him off. Max is content where he’s at with his chubby hand around Alec’s pinky. There’s only two more students taking the test, and Alec brings a seat closer. He kisses Max’s hand. He looks up to find his professor staring at him with a soft smile on his face. Alec shivers under his gaze, and his heart is beating like crazy. It might beat right out of his chest if he’s not careful, though there’s enough blood in his cheeks to look like a tomato.

The last two people turn in their tests, leaving them alone. Alec really doesn’t want to ruin the moment, but he doesn’t want to take advantage of his kindness.

Alec tentatively reaches for Max. “Thank you for watching him, Professor.”

Babe chuckles. “I think at this point you can call me Magnus.”

Alec nods. He puts his hands on Max’s sides, right above Magnus’s hands where he’s steadying him. His skin tingles, and his stomach flips. He tries to keep his nerves in check. This close he can smell Magnus’s cinnamon scent, and he fights to decide whether to move slower or get away faster.

“It was an honor,” Magnus says. He waves at Max who reaches for him again. His eyes sparkle, showing more with his eyeliner. “He’s beautiful.”

“Thank you,” Alec says. He can’t help but feel pride.

“He looks just like you,” Magnus compliments. “He has your eyes and your hair.” He purses his lips, hesitant. “Does he take anything from his other parent?”

Alec bites his lip. “He has his dad’s nose,” he explains. As an afterthought, he adds, “He died before he was born. We were in high school.”

“Oh my god, Alexander, I’m so sorry,” Magnus tells him sympathetically. “That’s tragic.”

Alec nods, uncertain what to say. He never learned how to respond to condolences. Can’t exactly say ‘It’s okay.’ “I’m…I’m managing. I knew I wanted to go to college to get a good job. I moved out here because there’s a data analysis program that’s cheap. My, uh, late boyfriend’s family set me up with an apartment. My friend watches Max when I need to do errands. It works out most of the time, so I really do appreciate your leniency. I’m sorry if he was ever a distraction.”

Magnus instantly shakes his head as if the thought offends him or simply hadn’t occurred to him. “He couldn’t if he tried. If you need someone to watch him during the final next week, I can do it. You don’t need to worry about him.”

“I’m afraid I always worry about him,” Alec says honestly. “But thank you. That would help a lot. I feel like I bother Lydia too much.”

Magnus’s face falls. “I’m sure you don’t. You’ve been through a lot, and you’re acing your classes. Doing that with a baby takes a lot of strength, and I admire you for that. Max is very lucky to have you.”

Alec hides his smile behind his son’s head he pretends to kiss. If Magnus keeps talking to him this way, he’s going to melt into the floor. He’s had a crush on Magnus since the first day of class. Everyone talks about how stunningly handsome he is, and he’s a great teacher. He explains concepts well, and no one can resist listening to every word he says. He’s passionate about his work, and he’s happy to stay outside his office hours to help anyone who’s struggling. Alec is terrible at lying or he would’ve tried pretending to not understand something just so he can get a few more minutes with the man.

He doesn’t particularly care about getting anyone’s approval, but he can’t help but grow giddy when this alpha tells him how he admires his strength and capability. It chucks away at the doubt rooting in his brain, telling him Max is doomed from the start because he could be doing more for him.

“Thank you, Magnus,” Alec says meaningfully. Max starts to get fussy again, and he really should get home to study for his other finals.

“Of course, Mr. Lightwood,” Magnus says with a wink like they share a secret. Alec bites back a smile.

“Alec,” he braves. He feels silly being called by his last name now.

Something sparks in Magnus’s eyes. “Well, Alexander,” he purrs. Alec feels weak in the knees. “If you need anyone to watch Max in the foreseeable future, you know where to find me. You can also find my number in the syllabus too.”

Alec quirks a brow at him. “You don’t get tired of students spamming your phone all hours of the day and night?”

Magnus laughs. “You’re right. You, though? I wouldn’t mind if you messaged me after class ends next friday.”

Alec sucks in a breath, not believing what he’s hearing. Surely, he didn’t mean? He has to be hearing wrong. No one in their right mind would choose to spend time with him. His life is a mess already, and there’s no way he can give Magnus any sort of whatever he wants. Most nights he doesn’t get enough sleep from worrying about his son. “I’m very busy with Max,” he tries.

Magnus shrugs. “I don’t mind a bit. In fact, I encourage you to bring him along because I have grown quite fond of him. He’s a very sweet boy. Beautiful like his mother.” His face grows serious, nervous perhaps. “Though, if my intentions are not wanted, then please tell me to fuck off now.”

Now Alec’s omega is a mess and preening. He shakes his head. “They’re wanted.”

I just don’t know what all I can do for you right now. My life is messy and all over the place.

Magnus grins. “Good. Best luck on your finals, Alexander.”

Alec nods and picks up his baby bag. “Thank you,” he squeaks out. He hurries out the door before he can humiliate himself further.

Max babbles and paws at his shirt and neck. He must be getting hungry. He’ll stop soon. His feet move on their own, and he can’t stop smiling.

“What have I gotten myself into?” Alec sighs warmly. Max babbles some more, happy as a clam as if he knows who he’s talking about. Alec chuckles and kisses his son’s forehead.

“I like him too, Max.”

Chapter Text

“Do you like blue or green?”

Max gurgles and grabs on the letter boxes in front of them. He fumbles with the green box with animal cartoons and throws it across the bed.

Alec snorts. “I like blue too.”

He uses the pen to move to the next slide. It’s Sunday morning, and finals start tomorrow. He can safely divide up his time by studying throughout the day and take breaks to eat, crochet, and relax with Max in his lap. While he studies, he speaks out loud as he goes, and Max giggles and claps his hands.

He knew he wanted children since he was small, even more so when he presented as an omega even though his mother tried to wire it in his brain that he would be acting as the brainless omega who can’t do anything except spread his legs. For years he took all the awful things his mother told him into his heart. He even looked for ways to hide his second gender completely, but then he got sick all the time and couldn’t smell his own family. He was spiraling and a shell of himself, and his siblings were worried about him. Izzy and Jace cornered him and begged him to seek help and stop taking whatever black market medication he was on. He was lifeless, and they were scared for his health. He wasn’t even nesting anymore.

Alec didn’t get the message until Izzy and Jace both yelled at their parents and demanded they leave Alec alone. They started protecting him, not leaving his side for even a second. They practically glued him to a nest they made themselves, and they slept as a pack. After years of not doing so, Alec cried five nights in a row.

Alec eventually started feeling better. He met Grant freshman year, and he was good to him. He was a good first relationship, although Grant didn’t have much of a choice when Jace cornered him and threatened him to not dare pull anything and hurt Alec in any way. Grant took it all in stride, and he was Alec’s first everything. Alec loved him, and he continues to do so in Max. He loves Max, and he doesn’t regret anything.

Grant and Max have both helped him feel more comfortable as an omega. His omegan nature he long ago buried deep inside himself flew to the surface the second he read the positive pregnancy test. It was just barely leaving the shadows with Grant with his gentle patience. For a speedy process, Alec adapted quickly. He fell in love with Max when he was just clustered cells. He loved him so much, he yelled at his parents for the very first time. He barely blinked when they kicked him out. Grant’s family was kind enough to let him move in. His siblings wanted to follow, but he insisted he was fine.

He was fine until Grant died when he was six months pregnant. He had to learn to love himself again, and Max helped him every step of the way. He talked to him every day when he could finally speak words again. Every piece he stubbornly pushed down came right to the surface, and he became everything he needed to be for Max.

Which is why he is here in a program at a community college studying as hard as he can with his child in his lap. His siblings in New York five hours away, and him in an apartment he couldn’t dream of paying for. Taking up money-earning hobbies and teaching Max through speaking to him and learning videos. He’s doing everything he can think of, and he feels his exhaustion edging in his vision and aching in his bones.

Alec puts away his ipad and notes. He puts Max on his hip, and he goes to make dinner. The chicken breast is done thawing, and he sets Max in the high chair. He seasons his chicken and gets broccoli out for steaming, talking Max through it.

He puts his dinner in the oven and goes to the counter. “You’re going to eat your veggies and fruit to make your daddy happy,” he says with a huff. He squints at Max, who laughs at him. He cuts up and mashed bananas and adds them to a bowl of cheerios. He grabs a bib and sets the bowl down. Max makes grabby hands for it, making a mess of everything. Alec tsks and shakes his head.

“You’re a menace!” he shouts in their small kitchen. Max laughs louder, and he grins a toothy smile at him.

“You got your uncle’s genes,” Alec says fondly. No wonder Jace can’t get enough of him. Clary too. He pulls out his phone and calls him. Jace picks up on the second ring, and he turns on the camera. He aims it at Max, who’s long forgotten him. He’s got banana all over his cheeks.

Alec groans. “You’re a little monkey. I gave birth to a monkey!”

Jace’s laughter comes through loud as a bell. “He sure does look like one. Buddy, you put the food in your mouth. Not around!”

Max squeals and grabs for the phone, clearly confused why he can hear his favorite uncle but not touch him. Alec coos. “Eating is hard. So very difficult.”

Jace laughs, and Alec turns the camera towards him. He leans it on a book so he can eat at the same time. “Hey, Jace.” He takes a closer look and scowls. “You look like crap.”

Jace groans. “You and Clary, I swear. I need to shower. Tough luck. How are classes?”

“They’re fine,” Alec answers. “I have finals this week. Three classes and all on separate days. It shouldn’t be that bad.”

“You okay with Max? Clary’s got an art show next weekend, and I’m trying to get hours in at the shop. I can pull some strings, though, if you need someone to watch him.”

Alec wipes at Max’s cheeks with a napkin. He’s careful to keep his tone neutral. “No, I’m all set. I got it covered.”

“You sure? I heard from Lydia one of her kids got sick,” he says, worried. “I don’t think it’s a good idea bringing him over there.”

“Yeah, no way,” Alec agrees. “Thankfully I only need to go to class on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. She said she can watch Max after Wednesday. I just got to make it until then.”

Jace furrows his brows. “Hey, man. I’m serious. I can take care of him this week so you can study and get your finals done.”

Alec tenses on instinct and glares microscopically. “No offense, Jace, but I would stress myself out worrying about you and Max. It wouldn’t help.”

Jace rolls his eyes. “You let Lydia watch him!”

“She’s a mom!” Alec argues. “Of three! I trust her.”

“I’m your brother,” Jace weakly retorts.

Alec puts his face in his hands. “Do you remember the last time you tried to pick up Max from his crib?”

Jace sulks in his chair. He grimaces. “Yeah, I held him wrong, and he started crying. Then you tackled me and locked me out of your apartment. People could’ve called the police on me by the way.”

“I would’ve taken a video and showed him when he’s older,” Alec says cocky. “You’re lucky I didn’t claw your throat out. If you weren’t holding him, I would have.”

“I’ve learned since then, asshole!” Jace says, breaking out in a laugh. “I feed him, dress him, and play with him just fine. He would survive if I babysat him for a few hours.”

“He’s taken care of, okay? I’ve got it covered. My professor on Wednesday is cool if I bring him. He’ll take care of him while I take the final.”

The silence on the other end is loud. Alec knows he’s given too much.

“I’m sorry,” Jace starts. His face unreadable. “Do you mean Professor Hot Guy, as Izzy calls him?”

Alec blushes. He should’ve never told her. He sputters. “The final won’t take too long. The study guide is practically the exam. He’ll probably just sleep.”

Jace breaks out in a grin. “So it is!” His eyes widen comically. “And you let him hold Max? A stranger? How hot is this guy?”

“How do I even answer that question?” Alec stalls. He stands to go wash his dishes in the sink. “Do I get a graph? Do I speak like a meteorologist?”

“He’s got you avoiding my question? Man must be hotter than the sun,” Jace jokes. His voice shifts and takes on an authoritative tone. “Yes, Mr. Lightwood, I will take care of your son so you can take the exam. In exchange? Bend over my desk.”

“Jace!” Alec scowls. His face burns. “It’s not like that. He really does like Max, and Max loves him. He hardly cries when he’s holding him.”

“Ah, little Max is a love matcher,” Jace says.

Alec groans and starts washing Max’s face, arms, and sticky fingers. “It’s not like that. I’m sure it’ll go nowhere. You know I have no time for anything.”

Jace shrugs. “Then I’ll watch Max with Clary and you can get laid. Get it out of your system, and you’ll never see him again.”

“I am cleaning banana mush out of my son’s hair right now.”

“Maybe don’t start with that? Or maybe do. He might be into that.”

“I’m going to hang up on you,” Alec bites. He makes a face at Max and gets a giggle in response. “Say goodbye to Uncle Jace. You’ll never see him again!”

Jace laughs, and they move on to Jace’s bike shop. Business is good, and he’s starting to make good money fixing up motorcycles. Alec promises to come visit and see his shop. He tells him he’s proud of him because he very much is. To witness his brother finding happiness and a place in this world spreads warmth inside him. Pride and admiration. Jace was strong for the both of them for a long time, and now he’s got his own mate, home, and a shop he created. It’s a small little shop but it’s his, and he’s swarmed with pride.

“I love you,” Alec tells him sincerely. He feels an ache in his heart, remembering how far his brother is. He’ll be sure to visit the first chance he gets. Probably this weekend since Monday is a holiday.

“I love you too,” Jace responds and hangs up.

Alec goes to pick up Max for his bath, but then he sees he’s got a text message.

Magnus (8:10): How’s Max with smells? My friend’s daughter has some old toys. I can bring them to class to keep him busy. I can wash them.

Alec is smiling before he can stop it. Magnus is too considerate for his own good. They’ve exchanged only a handful of messages. Both of them too busy with end of semester things, and Magnus is still his professor. It feels weird talking to him with the power imbalance, but Magnus hasn’t brought up class and neither has he. Alec has had a steady A the whole class. Some innocent conversation isn’t going to change that.

He picks up Max and brings him to the bathroom for his bath. He puts on some video he finds on a baby app on his ipad, and Max watches it completely entranced as the bath fills up.

He takes out his phone and types a quick response.

Alec (8:19): If you could see the amount of toys he has, you wouldn’t be offering any.

It takes a minute before he gets a response.

Magnus (8:20): I’m sure he does. He deserves everything. Does that bag of yours get too heavy?

Alec bites his lip. He settles his nerves by kissing Max’s head. He types a response and tosses his phone away.

Alec (8:23): Why? Is a big, strong alpha going to carry it for me?

Oh my god. Why did he say that? He didn’t even mean it like… Like that. He doesn’t know what he meant. He’s successfully embarrassed himself, and Magnus will for sure delete his number now.

Wanting nothing more than to distract himself, he takes off his shirt and socks and gets on his knees. It’s easier this way than getting his clothes soaked.

Bath time goes relatively fine. Max has a lot of energy still, and he splashes and tries to eat the bubbles. Alec is sure to pour water on his hands so he doesn’t ingest any soap. It’s not fool-proof, but he hasn’t had any issues yet. He’s careful with his ears as he washes his hair. The floor is covered in small puddles by the time they’re done, and he dries him with a towel. He puts on a clean diaper and a giraffe onesie Lydia gave him. He’s almost too big for it, and a pain Alec has never experienced erupts inside him like a flame.

He sighs and kisses his cheek, and Max grabs for his nose. Alec lies down on the bed and feeds him, but he’s mostly full from the cereal. He borders pillows around them, and he smiles in relief when he sees Max start to fall asleep.

His phone pings on the dresser, and he carefully reaches for it.

Magnus (8:34): If you flutter your eyelashes and say please I would, but something tells me it’d be a trap. You work out, I’m sure.

Alec huffs and rolls his eyes.

Alec (8:35): Now you’re asking me if I work out? You’re not subtle.

He really shouldn’t be entertaining this. Magnus is still his professor. They could get in trouble, but the chance is unlikely. They started talking only three days ago. They didn’t text much, their messages covered from Magnus checking in on Max, Magnus asking if he can drop off coffee for him, and Alec updating him on Max’s antics and tantrums. Their conversations up until this point wouldn’t raise any heads, but apparently they’re crossing the line now.

His phone beeps.

Magnus (8:37): I’m not trying to be. If you want me to do something for you, you only have to ask. You have trouble doing that though.

Alec squints at his screen. Max is asleep, and he carefully sets him in his crib. He lays back on his pillows and tries to conjure words.

Alec (8:40): I have everything I need.

Magnus (8:42): I know. What coffee do you like?

Alec glares childishly at the playful jab. He hasn’t taken up his offer for coffee, and they’re both aware of that fact.

Alec (8:51): That’s favoritism. I don’t want anyone to think you’re not going to give me an honest grade.

The response is quick.

Magnus (8:51): You think I grade anything? That’s what TAs are for.

Alec shakes his head, amused. “This man is ridiculous,” he whispers to a sleeping Max. He can’t say he hates it though. He feels opposite actually, light and eager in a way he doesn’t feel for anyone else wanting to help him.

Magnus (8:53): I can always try to guess your type.

Magnus (8:54): Of coffee.

His heart could give a butterfly’s wing a run for its money. He plugs in his phone and burrows into the covers. He finds Izzy’s scarf he took months ago and holds it close. She’d be going crazy over these texts.

Alec (8:56): Sounds like a challenge.

Magnus (8:57): What do I win?

Alec (8:57): I’m not giving you any sort of hint.

Magnus (8:58): Is that a hint within itself?

Alec bites his lip but can’t fight the smile.

Alec (9:01): Yes, big boy. It’s a hint.

************

The next couple of days are busy. Lots of studying, meal prepping, and crocheting. Meal prepping helps him not have to worry about securing lunches when he’s rushing to class. He goes on and on about the benefits of it to Max, who smiles and gurgles in his toy chair. The chair he’s had to turn off the sound or he would’ve gone insane with him bouncing and hitting every button. The lights keep him entertained in order for Alec to study. Izzy was able to find a ‘free’ version of his course books online. Izzy knows nothing about computers, so he is almost positive she’s seeing someone.

If the man will download him free books, then he’ll happily go to their future wedding. Whoever he is.

Free time is spent crocheting hats and socks for an elderly lady, Claire, down the hall. She’s got grandkids who loved the hat he made for Max. They begged for their own, and Alec couldn’t say no to their joyful faces. Claire promises money and baked dinner in return. He’s declined on multiple occasions, but then he got a whiff of her lasagna and instantly took it.

The exams shouldn’t be difficult. He’s confident and ready, and there’s not much else to do. Tuesday night is a hassle. Max wouldn’t stay down and woke up crying every few hours, leaving Alec with three hours of sleep. He was fine, just upset for some reason. Because he’s already awake with no chance of going back to sleep, he wakes up early to cook breakfast. Eggs, bacon, hash browns, and oatmeal and apples for Max. It’s a relatively easy morning, and Alec has ambient music to relax to. He’s got one earbud in while he gets ready. His phone beeps, and he picks it up. He has to fight his vision to see properly.

A photo of the lake right outside of town greets him. The sky is a plethora of orange and bright yellow over the water. The picture was probably taken this morning. Maybe a morning jog. He tries not to think about a shirtless Magnus jogging in the morning light. It’s a clear morning with thick trees scattered around. It reminds him of when he did cross country and archery. He recognizes the area.

Magnus (9:47): Good morning

Alec (9:48): That’s beautiful. You live so far from the school.

Magnus (9:50): Salem is more beautiful than Boston in my opinion. Less people. I promise the ride to my home is worth it. I cook excellent steak and provide excellent company to pretty men.

Alec smirks, and he looks at Max in his bouncy chair. “This man is cocky.”

Alec (10:07): You’d cook for me?

Magnus (10:09): Of course. little Max too.

He feels like he’s in the photo of the sunrise. Warm and fuzzy. Still, he should probably set boundaries.

Alec (10:12): I’m not going to your house for a first date, Magnus.

He brushes his teeth and dresses Max. He chooses a Winne the Pooh onesie and a beanie he crochet. It doesn’t look the best with the misshapen bee, but it is the first thing that turned out well enough. Plus, he was able to add on little cat ears. His phone beeps.

Magnus (10:20): Oh heavens no. What kind of alpha do you think I am? I’ve got a reputation. Can’t be sowing my oats this quickly.

Alec shakes his head and grins. He packs more things in Max’s baby bag, including his lunch and backpack, and leaves. He orders his coffee and bagel at the coffee shop and orders his uber. He drinks nearly all of his coffee. He’s exhausted and his eyes are strained. He gets to school with an hour to spare. He sets up camp in one of the couches in the hallway. Max plays with toy books and blocks in his lap while he studies his ipad.

Thirty minutes pass and a shadow hovers over him. Max shifts in his lap and shrieks in excitement. Alec peers up to a cup of coffee in front of him. Alec tries to hide his smile.

“Good morning, Alexander,” Magnus says sweetly. He has a blue and gold shirt marked with gold and silver chains. He has an earring in one ear, and he has a blonde streak in his styled hair. He stares hard at the numerous rings on his fingers, artist hands. He hasn’t held hands with anyone who wore jewelry.

Alec takes the offered cup. “Good morning, Magnus.” He takes a long sip, and he cringes at the sweetness.

Magnus laughs. He takes the cup back. “No caramel or mocha. Noted.”

Alec shrugs. “I’m sorry.”

“No need to be sorry. You like what you like, and I like what I like,” Magnus soothes. He gives a pointed knowing grin when he says the last part, and Alec chokes on his own coffee. Magnus is nice enough not to comment. Max makes a loud cry, and Magnus squats down. “I’m so sorry, Max, I would never ignore you, little prince.”

Alec’s heart squeezes as Magnus gives his son attention. The smile alone on his face is sincere, and Max is eating up the attention. Babbling and ranting about something. Magnus goes along with the nonsense, continues to talk like they’re having an actual adult conversation. The whole thing is amusing.

“I’m going to go in to set everything up,” Magnus says. He waves at Max who is making grabby hands at him. “Come in when you’re ready, Alexander.”

Alec watches him leave and presses his cheek to Max’s hair. “He’s coming for us both. I know you already like him.” Max giggles in confirmation and claps his hands. “We have to be careful.”

He can’t be falling for every alpha who bats their eyes and gives him attention. He has two hearts to protect, not just his own.

Other students start showing up. A few of them give him disgruntled looks, not thrilled to have a baby in the room where they take the final. The guilt of bothering strangers used to eat him alive and leave him an anxious mess, but he’s since learned to give himself a break. He’s learned a lot since he’s had Max. Everyone is going to have a problem with a baby. Sometimes he’ll feel terrible, but if Max is happy, healthy, and quiet, he will just ignore the judgmental looks.

He’s gathering his things when Raj walks by and rolls his eyes. Alec tenses in anticipation. Raj has been an asshole since day one. “Using your baby for bonus points is a new low.”

That, though, is a startling accusation, gritting on his already fried nerves. He’s beyond words. “You think I’m using my son as some sort of tactic for a good grade? What kind of idiot are you? I’m not the only parent here. They have childcare services just in the other building.”

“And why isn’t he there then? Less of a pain in the ass for us who actually have futures,” he snipes.

“He’s a baby. They have an age limit.”

“Maybe you should’ve spread your legs earlier. You omegas are good at that. Then he would be older by the time you’re in college.”

The words are a slap to the face. He stands there in total disbelief, too angry and unsettled to respond. His hands are shaking and for a moment he hears the sharp voice of his mother. Her disappointment shown clearly on her disgusted face and her finger pointed to their front door. Get out. You are not my son. I wouldn’t raise such an irresponsible mess of a person.

Max wiggles in his arms, and that pulls him out of his thoughts. His chest is tight but manageable, and he holds Max tighter who’s grown agitated at his absence. “I’m sorry, baby,” he whispers. He takes a deep breath. “We’re fine. Let’s go ace this test.”

If Magnus notices a difference in his demeanor, he doesn’t show it. He happily takes Max when Alec hands him over. He sits him on his lap and tickles his sides. Max erupts into childish laughter, pushing him away. “You’re giving me a run for my money, you handsome devil. Someone likes Winnie the Pooh.”

Max beams at the attention, and there’s drool on his lip. Alec winces and grabs for his bag. “Here. Sorry. I got wipes.”

Magnus doesn’t look concerned. He takes the wipes and cleans his face. Max giggles. “My friend’s little girl drooled so much I’m surprised she didn’t drown herself.”

Alec laughs, getting the attention of others, and he pales. Alec puts the baby bag on the floor. “I best get to my seat. Thank you for watching him.”

“Anything to get my hands on this precious boy,” he says happily.

Alec feels eyes on him as he gets to his desk. He refuses to look back. He hasn’t gotten discriminated against as an omega in awhile, especially one who got pregnant in high school. He was stupid to think it wouldn’t happen again. Things might’ve been better if he wasn’t a single parent now. If Grant hadn’t died, he wouldn’t have to bring Max everywhere. Take care of him every minute of every day while juggling ten other things. He wouldn’t be stared and ogled at or accused of manipulating the system. His own mother called him weak and falling straight into the omega stereotype.

Pressure builds up at the back of his eyes. He shouldn’t be talking about Max like this. He loves him so much it hurts. He tries to focus on the course material so he doesn’t cry. Raj would be elated.

The final is easy, and he finishes it in half an hour. He could go faster, but he can’t exactly leave without getting Max from Magnus. He doesn’t want an audience, and he’s pretty sure Magnus wants to talk to him.

He doesn’t have to wait long until most of everyone leaves. Magnus has Max in his lap holding up a book and quietly reading. Max looks adorably entranced, and he keeps getting sidetracked by the alpha’s gold rings. He tries to grab at them, and Magnus lets him fiddle with them.

Alec’s heart can’t take it, and he joins them. Thankfully, Raj left ten minutes ago along with his friends. No one bats an eye at him. Max lights up when he spots him. “Mama!”

Alec would move heaven and earth for his little boy. Every hurt evaporates into smoke, and he smiles. He gleefully takes Max when Magnus hands him over. He points to the book. “You’re reading books now? I leave to take a final, and you learn how to read? Are you trying to show off to the nice man?”

“We were actually working on his first book,” Magnus teases. “Bestseller. I can already tell.”

The remaining students head out, leaving them alone. Alec avoids their stare, hiding his amusement because he’s never been good at hiding his feelings. Jace told him that.

“I was trying to find the brand for this cute beanie,” Magnus says. “I like the cat ears, and it’s soft.”

“I made it.” At Magnus’s astonished expression, he rubs at his arm. “It’s my first finished project. I’ve gotten better since then.”

“Alexander, it looks amazing. Better than store-bought,” Magnus tells him sincerely. He steps closer to run a finger down Max’s arm. He sticks his tongue out and Max giggles. “You have to make one for my goddaughter. She would love the cat ears.”

“I would love to,” Alec agrees. Magnus is standing close, enough to smell his cinnamon scent and make his heart flutter. He smells good, too good. His head swims, and he realizes what Magnus just said. “You have a goddaughter?”

“Yes,” Magnus says proudly. The pride shines like the sun, and Alec can see the love in his brown eyes. “Madzie. My friend adopted her. Poor thing was abandoned and Catarina found her when she snuck into the hospital’s kitchen. It was a whole process that took months, but she’s her’s now. She’s precious and in the middle of a fairy phase. She loves her wands, wings, and pink dress. Can’t get her out of them.”

Alec grins. “She sounds adorable. My sister had a princess phase. My mother couldn’t get this sparkly blue dress off her. Not even to wash. She smelled so bad. I had to bribe her with tv privileges.”

Magnus laughs heartily. “Older brother came to everyone’s rescue.”

Alec shrugs. “I wonder if little Max will have a dinosaur phase like I did.”

“Of course he will,” Magnus says with a wink. “All the cool kids do.”

Alec blushes. Magnus tickles the bottom of Max’s feet. He runs a finger down Alec’s arm, and goosebumps form in his skin.

Magnus smiles at him. “When’s your last final?”

“Nine on Friday.”

“Perfect,” Magnus beams like a cat got the cream. “Can I pick you up at three?”

“Max’s nap time is at two, but I can text you when we’re ready.” He bites his lip and fiddles with his sweater. “Are you really okay if Max comes too? I can ask Lydia to watch him.”

Magnus softens, and Alec notices a shine in the corner of his eyes. Makeup, maybe? “I don’t mind in the slightest,” he promises. He pokes Max’s nose and does it to Alec but to him he caresses his cheek before pulling away. “It’s a date with two pretty boys.”

If he wasn’t holding his baby, he would’ve maybe stumbled.

Max rambles nonsense, looking all too pleased with himself. They talk a minute more about their plans for the long weekend. They’re cut short when Max cries, and Alec recognizes it as hungry tears. The proof in the way he grabs at Alec’s collar and shirt.

“Little man is hungry,” he says, more disappointed than he expected. “I’ll see you Friday, Magnus.”

Magnus helps him pick up the baby bag. “I can’t wait,” he says warmly.

Alec tries not to embarrass himself on the way out, but his mind is completely overrun by the way Magnus simply looks at him. No one’s looked at him like he was precious or gave him their undefined attention quite like Magnus does. It’s unsettling, not knowing what he’s done to deserve this treatment. What if he stops? What if he messes it up somehow? What if Magnus grows bored with him? What if when he finds out how boring and utterly dull Alec is, he’ll stop looking at him in that way? Or the opposite. He sees how much of a chaotic mess Alec is and wants nothing to do with him?

Max cries harder, completely upset now and hungry. Alec coos at him and finds the closest bathroom. “You just had Magnus’s attention for an hour, and you’re the one crying?”

The rest of his finals turn out as easy as the first. Most of his time is spent thinking about Friday, and how he has no idea what they’re going to do. What is he going to wear? What if Max has a crying spell, and they can’t talk without him fussing? He will have to leave their date and say goodbye to any chance of happiness he would’ve had with the alpha. Say goodbye to his warm smile, careful makeup, and his purring voice that likes saying his name. A voice he definitely doesn’t think about when he’s in bed.

Magnus asked for his finals schedule with no explanation. Completely bewildered, Alec told him, not thinking much on it. Turns out he needed to know when to send various cups of coffee. Thursday morning he got him a latte, and then Friday morning he got him a matcha. Alec gave him the sad news that those are not his favorites. He didn’t feel too bad. Magnus obviously enjoyed the game, and he did too. He hasn’t laughed this hard since Max ate his first cupcake.

He holds the green drink in front of him, above Max’s curious hands, and hits send.

Alec (7:35): Not my drink. It might be Max’s though.

Magnus (7:38): Seems we both like pretty things.

Alec chokes on his own coffee. Lydia raises a brow from where she’s cooking breakfast. Alec ignores her.

Alec (7:40): Why do I get the feeling you sent me this to make that comment?

Magnus (7:42): I knew there was a possibility. Why do I get the feeling you like when I call you that?

Alec (7:43): Why do you say that?

Magnus (7:44): You blush every time

Alec glares at the phone, hard enough to hopefully make Magnus feel it through the miles between them.

He doesn’t specifically try to hide things about himself. When he presented at thirteen, he was pushed into a box by his parents. They talked about him like they had him all figured out. His future was planned out. He was going to marry some alpha they approved of, and he’s going to forget school and become a housewife. He went along with it, desperate for affection he only got when he did what was demanded from him. For the longest time, he didn’t know what he liked or who he was. He went along with what others said and did because he didn’t know he didn’t have to. He didn’t have likes or dislikes, opinions beat out of him. He was a lifeless doll with no original thought.

Grant didn’t call him pretty, and it wasn’t his fault. He called him handsome and smart but never pretty. At the time, he didn’t expect or want it. The first time Grant called him handsome, he didn’t know what to do. He didn’t believe him for a couple of months. Grant had noticed and called him it more as time passed. It was the first step towards learning what he liked from a partner. Because he likes being called handsome but pretty? The effect washes over him, and he’s warm and tingly.

“Okay, who the hell are you talking to?”

Alec busies himself with finishing his bagel. “Hm?”

Lydia turns to him with an accusing stare and holds up her butter knife. “You’re talking to someone. Who?”

“Is this how you usually get answers from your kids? I could call people,” Alec comments drily. Lydia doesn’t respond, not taking the bait. “Okay! I’m talking to someone. I may even have a date later.”

Lydia blinks. “A date? I can watch Max longer. Charlotte is teaching him about animals.”

The way she’s unfazed about anything is why he’s friends with her. She can adapt quickly without a moment's notice. She respects boundaries even when it’s not necessary. He hasn’t talked to Izzy in a week because he’s been busy, so he finds he wants to talk about Magnus. Max gets all excited just saying his name, but he only comprehends so much.

“I am taking him with me,” he says. Lydia looks alarmed. “He is - was - my professor. We started talking about two weeks ago when I brought Max. He was fussy that morning and wouldn’t stop crying, and Magnus offered to watch him. Max cried one last wail, but it was like magic the way he calmed down. He was giggling and happy and took to Magnus within seconds. I’ve never seen him do that.”

Lydia grins knowingly, understanding exactly what Alec is not saying. He likes Magnus with his kid. There is a voice in his head that purrs in satisfaction every time Magnus holds Max and calls him baby or little prince. His omega preens and shows its belly when he watches the alpha with his baby. It’s frankly getting ridiculous.

“When he picks you up - because every gentleman should - tell him you’ve got an alpha friend who works for the government and has three kids. I can hide a dead body.”

Alec snorts. He says goodbye to Max and kisses his head. “You haven’t already?”

Lydia shrugs and holds up her hands innocently. “Nothing you can prove.”

Alec shakes his head, hugs Lydia goodbye and leaves for his last final.

*************

“I’ve got an alpha friend who works for the government and has three kids,” Alec says bluntly. “She can hide a dead body.”

Magnus laughs and steps out of the car. The rather luxurious car with tinted windows and shines too much in the sun. Spotless. He opens the backseat door, revealing a rather large car seat secured in the middle. It’s bigger than the old baby carrier Lydia gave him.

“You didn’t buy this, did you?” Alec asks. It looks incredibly expensive, and he wouldn’t be able to pay him back for at least a few months.

Magnus looks at him confused and picks up Max to hook him into the seat. “No, this is Catarina’s. I told her about you and your son, and she offered me the seat. It’s all belted in and immovable. Max isn't going anywhere. I promise. She lives by it.”

Max gives a gummy smile, and Magnus wiggles his fingers at him. “See? Happy little boy.” He walks around to the passenger door and opens it with flourish. His eyes peer up and down Alec’s form, sending shivers down his spine. “You look stunning.”

Alec turns beet red. He did what he could. He put on a clean black shirt and jeans, and then threw on his leather jacket because Izzy and Clary both said he looks hot and well put together. He showered and brushed through his hair and sprayed on cologne. He doesn’t wear cologne often because of Max, but he figured he can make an exception.

“You look really good,” he says back shyly. Magnus looks exquisite and beautiful in his magenta suit jacket and white button up. The first three are unbuttoned, revealing smooth bronze skin and long silver necklaces. The warmth he associates with Magnus now kindles into a full blown fire.

“Thank you, Alexander,” Magnus says, amused. He shuts the door for him and goes back to the driver's side. “Coffee and then the park. Is that okay? We can get dinner if you’re hungry.”

“That’s perfect,” Alec says, pleased. He’s relieved Magnus didn’t try to take him out to some fancy restaurant or anywhere loud. He’s more caring and mindful than anyone he’s ever met. How is this man real? He checks on Max to make sure he’s okay and comfortable.

They talk a little about finals week, mostly how Alec feels being done and ready to move on to the new semester. He’s taking summer courses, intent on finishing the program as fast as he can. He has no reason to wait and not take summer classes.

“I’m only teaching one class,” Magnus starts. He holds Max on his hip as they wait in line for coffee. “I am happy to watch Max if you need.”

His protective instincts flare to life at the idea of someone who’s not family watching his son. They don’t come full force, happily contained by the adoration he sees clear on Magnus’s face. Max is just as intrigued by the alpha. “Maybe.”

Alec gets to the register and orders. Magnus groans behind him. “Black coffee? Really? That’s your drink?”

Alec smiles victoriously at him and shrugs coyly. “You like all that fancy stuff. I’m easily pleased by the small things.”

Magnus squints at him, and the corner of his lips curve up. He goes to walk by him. Alec is leaning on the counter, making it easy for Magnus to temporarily trap him. Alec’s heart is beating out of his chest as he leans in to whisper, “Another hint, pretty boy?”

Alec closes his eyes and refrains from whimpering. They’re out in public, and Magnus has his son and looks drop dead gorgeous. He’s being dramatic, melting like hot glass under the alpha’s dark gaze. He has to get a grip before he loses his patience and jumps him.

If Magnus can play, he can too. He’s had to keep up with Jace and Izzy his whole life. He can tease just as good as the next one, possibly better.

Their order is called, and he picks their cups at the counter. He returns to Magnus, stepping unnecessarily close. His mind spins at his cinnamon scent, and he is suddenly glad he wore cologne. By the strong desire on Magnus’s face, he probably despises not smelling his natural scent.

He doesn’t get as close as Magnus had done. He’s sure to hold eye contact and speaks deep and tantalizing. A tone even Jace demanded he never use on him. “Take me to the park, alpha.”

Magnus’s pupils dilate, darkening his gaze. He watches sharply as Alec kisses Max’s forehead. The air is tense enough to be sliced by a knife.

Max giggles and rambles, enticed by the affection sandwiched between the alpha holding him and his mother. “Mama!”

Alec laughs, riveting in the endless opportunities here. Magnus is frozen in front of him, and it was completely his doing. “Yes, Max. Mama wants to go to the park.”

He leaves the coffee shop alone, and he tries not to laugh at the way he left Magnus inside. He gets the stroller from the trunk, knowing the park was only a short walking distance away. By then, Magnus comes over looking stiff and miserable. Alec smiles innocently. “What happened? I thought you were right behind me.”

Magnus doesn’t respond. He simply buckles Max into the stroller while singing a soft tune. Alec can’t hear the words if there are any, but the melody is nice. He goes to walk when Magnus shoots up, caging him flat against the car. He’s not touching him, but his hands are clenched into fists on both sides of his shoulders.

Magnus leans in, leaving two inches of space between their faces. He feels his hot breath on him, laced with vanilla from his coffee. He wonders for a second if he’s going to kiss him. Would he? Would he kiss him right here pressed against his car? Right after he just put his son in his stroller? What would it say about him if he didn’t hate it?

Alec can practically feel the shadow of his lips. He’s dizzy and heavy, and the ground is tilting.

“Sorry I stayed behind, darling, I was just trying to calm myself down,” he says hotly. “This omega in there was testing my patience.”

Alec gets swept into the closeness, and he’s drowning. Magnus lets him up for air stepping back and points to the right, appearing all too joyful. Alec rolls his eyes and takes the stroller. They walk in a comfortable silence to the park. There are a fair amount of people, a bunch of families with their kids running around and chasing each other. The sight springs up memories of his siblings and him. When everything was okay.

“What got you into data analysis?” Magnus asks, breaking the quiet air.

Alec throws him a look. “We’re going to talk about school?”

Magnus laughs. “I thought it would be a way to learn other things.”

“Right,” Alec says dumbly. “I knew I needed a degree in something that can often be done at home. I was nervous at first with everything being online, and I wasn’t the best at computers. I feel like I’m doing okay, though, right?”

Magnus chuckles. “You are acing your classes. You’re doing more than okay,” he soothes.

“What got you into data analysis?” Alec questions.

“Well, I grew up good with computers. My father left me and my mom, and my mom worked hard to pay bills and put food on the table. I felt terrible, and I knew I wanted a job that pays well.”

“I didn’t realize being a professor pays well,” Alec asks, confused.

Magnus grins humorlessly. “Not at all. To be honest, this is a side gig. I have another job that takes up most of my time.”

The sight of Magnus’s fancy car makes sense. He didn’t want to comment on it. “What do you do?”

Magnus raises a brow. “I work for the government,” he says in a rushed whisper with a twinkle in his eye.

Alec laughs, “She specifically wanted me to tell you that.”

“I’m glad you have someone you can rely on,” Magnus says. “She sounds strong and willing to do anything for you. It’s a gift to have someone like that in your life.”

The words come from the heart, yet they strike hard at the chest. “Yeah,” he stutters. “My siblings are five hours away, and I don’t see them as much as I want. Lydia has kept me afloat since I had Max.”

“Where did you two meet?”

“I was shuffling tables at a diner, and she worked there too for a time. I was trying to make as much money as I could before Max was born. Grant died, and my parents kicked me out of the house. Grant’s parents said I could live with them until I got financially stable. I did for a while, but it got too much. Living in his house hurt me, and I couldn’t stay there. I already planned to go to a community college. Five hours between me and my parents was best, and my siblings visited me. They still do, we just have very busy lives now. We call all the time though.”

Magnus finds them a bench. Alec sits half a foot away from him, not wanting to assume. Magnus hooks his finger in the loop of his jeans and pulls him closer. Alec flushes and scoots closer. He takes his hand, and his rings are cold on his skin. His hands are strong and hold him tightly, and he feels steady for the first time in a very long while. He’s completely rooted to this bench.

Max begins to fuss for attention, and Magnus beats him to it. He picks him up and holds him close to his chest. “Are you getting jealous over there? You need attention, sweet boy?” He turns to Alec, and the way he looks at him makes him feel vulnerable. Maybe he said too much. Revealed too much of himself.

Magnus caresses his cheek, and Alec leans into the touch. He smells his wrist, and his encompassing scent works its way into his chest and ribcage, slowing his racing heart. “You’re amazing, you know that? You should be so proud of yourself. Max couldn’t have a better parent.”

Alec can’t handle the way he’s looking at him, and he peers at Max. His little boy is playing with Magnus’s necklaces, trying to put them in his mouth. “I want him to have everything,” he says with agonizing honesty.

“I know, sweetheart,” Magnus tells him. His voice lulls him and his clenched muscles and racing thoughts. He wonders for a moment what his alpha voice sounds like. He shouldn’t be thinking about that. “I’ve never seen such a happy baby.”

“Thank you,” Alec says, too choked up to say anything more.

“I hope I’m not crossing any lines,” Magnus worries. “I know we don’t know much about each other, but everything I do learn sheds more light on what an amazing man you are. You’re resourceful, smart, loving, and kind. Max is so lucky.”

Alec smiles. “I’m hoping Raj won’t be in any of my classes, but I bet he will be since we’re doing the same program,” he complains.

Magnus’s face twists. “Why is that?”

Alec hesitates. He doesn’t want to get Raj in trouble. He doesn’t want to draw any more attention to himself from him. He picks at the sleeve on his coffee cup. “He said I was using Max for better grades.”

Magnus tenses. “What?”

Alec sighs. “I don’t know. He said I was using Max to get you to go easy on me. I told him I’m not the only student with a kid, and Max would be at the school’s daycare if he was old enough. Then he said something about how I should’ve had Max earlier, and that’s something omegas are good at.”

Magnus clenches his jaw and deeply exhales. “Could tell the first day he was going to be an asshole. I see his type every class.”

Alec purses his lips. “It’s not true, right? I didn’t think I was, and I certainly never would. I-”

Magnus straightens, turning to him and getting his full undivided attention. His face serious. “I know you wouldn’t ever do that, and you didn’t. You didn’t bring Max to class until the third month. I thought you were beautiful long before that. You helped people if they were struggling, and I learned you are kind too.”

Taken back, Alec looks at him. “You liked me for that long?”

“I wasn’t going to act on my feelings because I didn’t want to be inappropriate or make you feel uncomfortable,” Magnus explains seriously. “Originally, I was going to wait until after finals. Then I saw you come in with a crying baby, and I wanted to help you.”

“Because you felt bad for me?” Alec grumbles. Magnus kisses the back of his hand.

“Of course not, Alexander,” he swears. “You prove every day how capable you are. We all get a little overwhelmed sometimes. I used to get panic attacks every day when I was in high school.”

He can’t imagine Magnus struggling or anything besides for the calm demeanor he seems to permanently have. He was perfectly collected in class, even when he had a cold and someone kept interrupting him. He barely blinked and paid him no mind. Alec never saw the guy again.

“I’m sorry you went through a lot,” Alec says gently. Some day he’ll ask for more details, but right now is not the time. It’s not first date material. None of this is, but they’re already quite a bit nontraditional. It’s healing to talk to someone.

Magnus shrugs, smiling brightly again. “Don’t feel bad for me, darling. I should thank you for letting me hold this adorable baby boy,” he tells him. Max reaches for face, awed by his sparkling makeup, and Magnus pretends to eat his fist. Alec smiles at his son’s happiness.

Magnus’s face softens. “And thank you for letting me take you on a date.” His eyes flicker to Alec’s lips, who catches his breath. Instead, Magnus kisses his cheek. They both look when Max yawns and leans his head on Magnus’s neck. His little hand clutches on the alpha’s collar. Alec’s omega preens at his baby liking Magnus’s scent.

“Let me get you two some dinner,” Magnus offers. “This little one is tired. I bet it’s bedtime.”

Alec agrees. He holds Max while Magnus folds the stroller and carries it over his shoulder. Alec reaches out and takes his hand, and Magnus smiles like he’s just won the lottery. Alec doesn’t understand, but his heart flutters when he holds his hand firmly.

Magnus takes him to get ramen to go, and they drive to Alec’s apartment. Magnus follows him to his front door, and he stays outside while Alec puts Max in his crib. He comes back out, “He needs to eat a little before going to bed.”

“We could’ve gotten something for him,” Magnus tries.

“He’s okay. He breastfeeds his dinner. Trying to wean him,” he explains.

Magnus nods. “Okay,” he says softly, stepping closer to the omega. Alec shivers, breathing hard from the close proximity. From here he can see every speck of his brown eyes, and the silver glistening on his cheeks and in the corners of his eyes. Devastatingly beautiful. Oh how he yearns.

Magnus takes another step, and they breathe the same air. Alec’s mind is foggy, cinnamon filling his nose and surrounding his whole body like silk rope. His knees grow weak.

“I should probably go,” Magnus whispers. He wraps a hand around Alec’s neck, and the pressure itself is enough to do him in. He would be kissing him if he moved an inch. Alec presses back into the wall in order not to fall. He tilts his head, bearing his neck a little, and he looks at him through his lashes.

“Yeah,” he whispers back, fiddling with the other man’s shirt. “You should.”

Magnus kisses him, and he moans. He pulls Magnus in, craving touch and his mouth. The dam has broken, leaving him scrambling to catch up to how much he yearns. How much he wants, and how much he wants Magnus’s hands on him. Their chests touch, and Magnus puts his thumb on his bottom lip, parts his lips and deepens the kiss. Alec whimpers. He forgot he was into being manhandled, and he falls deeper when Magnus runs his free hand down his body to his ass and squeezes. He gasps when Magnus pulls away, directing his focus to his neck. He licks and nibbles at his skin, and Alec grabs blindly at his suit jacket. He’s being eaten alive, and his eyes roll into his head. He’s boxed completely, and he parts his legs to make room. Magnus immediately takes it, pressing their bodies together.

The neighbors are going to complain any minute now about his moaning, but he doesn’t care as long as Magnus keeps touching him. His cock is hard, and he’s burning up. He smells himself, and he knows his underwear is probably soaked. “Magnus-”

Magnus interrupts him with a biting kiss, and he hooks Alec’s leg under his arm. It leaves Alec unable to move, but Magnus free to grind into the crevice between his legs. “I don’t know what you’re doing to me, but you’ve got to stop it,” Magnus says in a shaky breath. Alec chuckles at the audacity and rolls his eyes.

“I’m going to fall,” Alec gasps.

“No, you won’t,” Magnus tells him. He kisses him softer now with the same amount of passion. “I won’t let you.”

Alec kisses him, “I have to go. Max needs me.” Magnus nods and starts to pull away, letting his leg drop to the floor. Alec cocks his head. “He’s hungry.”

Magnus glares at him, daring him to continue. Alec fights back his laughter from his own innuendo. He can tell Magnus wants to laugh. Magnus kisses him one last time. “Goodnight, Alexander.”

“Goodnight, Magnus,” he says. He watches him leave. He walks back into the apartment and feeds Max. His lips tingle, and he goes to bed thinking about their time at the door. The way the alpha maneuvered him the way he likes. Handling him and moving him and kissing him. It’s been such a long time since he’s felt wanted, and Magnus couldn’t get enough of him. He melted into his arms.

He thinks about him for a long time, and how he enjoyed the way he pressed into him and kissed him.

If his hand reaches under the covers, then that’s his business.

Chapter Text

Music plays loud from the stage in the bar. Simon and his band buddies are performing their third song when Clary catches Alec’s eye. Alec nods, and he follows her through the crowd. The bar is relatively large, and it’s often packed on the weekends. Alec has been going for years now because Simon comes here to play with his band. He’s good friends with the owner, Taylor, and she lets him play every few weekends. The band has brought in enough fans to be considered ‘popular’, earning a surprising amount of tip money too.

Alec isn’t much of a fan of the music. Clary, Simon’s best friend, isn’t either. She and him often sneak out and grab tacos. They make sure to stay long enough to appear interested and make face, but by the third song they grab each other’s attention and split.

Alec finds Izzy in the crowd. She holds Max close to her chest, swaying to the music. They clap and wave at Simon, and Max has headphones on for his sensitive hearing. To Alec’s surprise and horror, Izzy told him Simon is the one she’s seeing. He didn’t even know she liked him like that. She always complained about his nerdy tendencies, and how he never shuts up. How all he wanted to do was play his dumb music, play his stupid games, and wear ugly clothes. Although, she did call him cute on occasion and cook for him - unfortunately - and really maybe Alec should’ve known.

Alec looks at Max one more time, seeing he’s safe with her, and Alec follows Clary through the back door into the alley. They walk over to the taco stand down the street. Alec orders his pork enchiladas with chips and guacamole. Clary orders her soft tacos, and she pays for both of them.

Alec shoots her a look. “One of these days you’re going to let me pay.”

Clary smiles at him innocently and shrugs. “Oops! Well, it’s paid for. Whatcha going to do?”

“I have money, Fairchild,” Alec grumbles. “I don’t need you paying for me.”

Clary’s face softens. “I know, but you’re in school. We’re all broke in school. I pay for things now, and then you can pay for anything you’d like once you get your fancy job. Deal?”

Alec huffs, not entirely pleased, but he can understand. He gets why Clary and the others worry about him and pay for everything, but that doesn’t mean he likes it. He hates that he can’t afford stuff. He hates that he doesn’t have a job. It’s not because he wants to be unemployed, but because he doesn’t have anyone to watch Max. He’s too young to be watched for eight hours by anyone Alec doesn’t know personally. Alec doesn’t trust anyone with his son for that long. He can’t afford daycare anyway, and he’s not going to take advantage of Lydia. She’s busy with her own life and taking care of her own kids.

He has to rely on Max’s grandparents to pay for his rent and other bills. He’s got food stamps for food, and he hates using them. Food stamps are plain embarrassing when he’s at the grocery store. He gets two or three glares when he’s at the register. Sometimes even from the clerk.

Alec wouldn’t have to do any of this if he hadn’t moved far away from his parents and everyone else he knows. He refuses to go back. He won’t ever go back. He still makes sure to visit his siblings every other weekend. Being around them makes him feel human again. His siblings laugh and tease him, reminding him of the times when things weren’t so chaotic. He was utterly miserable living with his parents and treated less than human, but at least his siblings were there. They defended him at every turn, and he wouldn’t have made it without them. If he was having a particularly rough night, so deep in his thoughts he was drowning, he would sneak into Izzy’s bed, and she would hold him and tell him lies about everything being alright. If his mother wouldn’t leave him alone about what he should be doing as an omega, he would go find Jace and they would go running or go out of town and throw rocks into lakes or at broken down trains.

He may avoid his parents like the plague, but he’ll always go back for his siblings. Clary too, he supposes. They’ve gotten really close ever since Max was born. It was around the same time her and Jace have been together for five months. Alec wasn’t a fan of her, or anyone really, especially because of his high protective instincts. He hardly allowed Izzy to see Max. He hissed when someone asked to see Max, and those certainly weren't his proudest moments.

He was still living with Grant’s parents when he woke up from a nap, and he was told some short redhead girl dropped off a gift. Turns out Clary got Max an automatic mobile, complete with stars, suns, and moons, all painted herself.

Some animalistic urge inside his head was stubborn enough to entertain throwing it out. His heart, though, made him cry and hug her the next time he saw her.

Their order is called, and they grab a table to eat at. Alec asks about her future art exhibit, and Clary excitedly explains her many pieces she’s been working on. She just finished her major art piece that will hang front and center. Dorothea says she has plenty of interested customers, and they should be expecting twenty or so people. They’re high-buyers, and they love Clary’s art profile.

“You can go, right?” Clary asks. “It’s two Fridays from now, and you shouldn’t have much to do since it’s the second week for this class.”

Alec nods. “Of course I’ll go.”

Clary finishes off the chips and cleans off her hands. She fiddles with her fingers, and there’s too much enjoyment on her face. Alec braces for the worst. “You can bring a guest,” she says neutrally.

Alec sighs and puts his face in his hands. “Jace tell you?”

“Depends,” she hums innocently. “Is there anything to tell me?”

“You’re hilarious,” Alec retorts. He should’ve known Jace would tell Clary. He tells her everything, and there’s not a doubt in his mind that Simon has learned from Clary or Jace. Everyone could know by now about his…whatever with Magnus. Are they dating? They went on one date, and he’s not confident in the relationship topic. His only relationship was in high school, and Grant and him had one date, and then Grant asked him to be his boyfriend a week later. Grant invited him over for dinner with his family, and he followed him, Jace, and Izzy everywhere they went. They spent nearly every day together, making it pointedly clear they were together.

He’s not sure what full-grown adults do. Magnus texted him good morning yesterday and today, but they’ve both been busy since their date. They exchange pleasantries and what they’re up to, but that’s about it. Alec has no idea what they are doing. Do they talk about it? Should he ask Magnus on a date? Isn’t there some sort of three date rule? Three month rule before establishing a relationship?

He rambles to Clary who laughs. “I can’t really talk either. You know how fast Jace and I moved in together. I don’t think there’s any such thing as ‘normal’ when it comes to relationships.” Clary moved in with Jace within a month. Before Jace, there was no one. Clary doesn’t know any more than he does.

There’s a mischievous spark in her eyes. “How old is this guy anyway?”

Alec flushes. “Mid-twenties? Late-twenties? I haven’t asked.”

Clary throws back her head and laughs. Her shoulders shake, and her smile is comically wide. She wiggles her eyebrows. “You like older men, huh? You can’t even drink legally.”

“Stop,” Alec groans. “I turn 21 soon. We’re both consenting adults. He’s not my professor anymore.”

“Still,” Clary goes on. “Kind of hot. You call him ‘Professor’?” she teases.

He slaps her arm, cheeks beet red. He can’t say he hasn’t thought about it, but he sure as hell is not going to admit it. “He’s sweet and caring. He’s nice. Our first date he said I could bring Max. He held him the whole time, and we sat and talked at the park. It was very…nice.”

Clary is grinning. “You’re smiling awfully wide,” she comments, amused. “I see a blush too. What did you guys talk about?”

Alec rolls his eyes. “Nothing like that. We just,” he stops mid-sentence, remembering their date and getting goosebumps. The way Magnus got really close to him, spoke to him in a tantalizing deep voice that sent shivers down his spine. How he teased back, called him alpha. Told him mama wants to go to the park. He doesn’t know what drove him to do that. Some magic cast by Magnus luring the deep parts of his omegan nature to make him want to play. He wanted to bat his eyelashes and preen under Magnus’s gaze, get as much attention as he could from the alpha. He wanted to touch him and be touched in return. Magnus whispering about how pretty he is, touching and kissing his neck.

Pretty boy.

Clary gasps. “Something happened!”

“No!” Alec argues. He blushes hard. “Nothing happened. Why do you care so much?”

“Because it’s fun to see you stutter and blush,” Clary teases. She looks way too pleased for Alec’s liking. He starts to argue, but she takes his hand and softens. “I’m just glad to see you like this. Is it a crime that I want you to be happy?”

“We had one date,” he says lamely.

“And you sound smitten,” Clary says. “Don’t think I haven’t noticed you checking your phone every ten minutes.”

Alec bites his lip, not bothering to deny it. His phone is silent, and he’s trying not to overthink Magnus not texting him in three hours. Realistically, Magnus said he has two jobs. He may consider this three-day weekend a holiday, and he could be relaxing and not doing anything.

Clary squeezes his hands in reassurance. “He sounds like he really likes you. He adores Max. He’s not going to randomly stop being interested in you. It’s the weekend. He’s probably just busy. When did he last text you?”

“Three hours ago,” Alec says glumly.

Clary gives him a flat stare. “I didn’t realize it was three hours. He must be disgusted with you.”

Alec takes back his hands and flips her off. He feels a little silly, but he’s not going to let her know that. “You’re not funny.”

They finish off the evening talking about Jace’s bike shop, and how they’ve gained double the customers. Jace has been very busy lately, trying to earn for both of them since Clary is busy getting ready for her art exhibit. He hired some girl, Aline, and she’s apparently badass and brought on a bunch of clientele. She’s good with her hands as well as the ladies, and she even introduced Jace to her girlfriend, Helen. Jace hired her as a front desk clerk, and she’s really sweet.

They make their way back to the bar, and they walk in just in time for Simon’s last performance. Alec immediately spots Max in Jace’s arms, and Izzy is at the stage batting her eyes at Simon who’s smiling like a goof. Alec looks at Clary, who shrugs and looks as confused as he does.

“Maybe it was her cooking?” Clary asks.

Alec grimaces and goes to join Jace. Jace buys him a beer, and Alec goes to say no but then Clary takes Max and basically demands he has one drink with his brother. It’s been too long. Alec takes the offered beer and chugs away. He doesn’t bother asking how Jace is able to buy beer in the first place.

One beer turns into one beer and a margarita, and he’s a lightweight. He’s warm and fuzzy, smiling at Clary playing peek-a-boo with Max. Simon joins them and sits next to Izzy, who promptly plants a kiss right on his lips. “Oh god, Iz, not while I’m drinking. I’m going to throw up,” Alec complains.

Izzy sticks her tongue at him in retaliation. “At least I’m not making out with my professor. I like my men my age.”

Maybe it’s the alcohol making him giddy because he laughs hard. “Maybe I want a man, not a boy kissing me.”

Izzy laughs, ecstatic. Happiness painted in every part of her face and energy. Her happiness is contagious with her bright red lipstick and wide smile. “Oh, big brother, I knew you weren’t the innocent saint you like to pretend to be.”

Someone hands him another margarita, and he downs half of it. “I have a kid. I did something to get him.”

Laughter erupts in their group, and Alec finishes his drink. Alcohol relaxes him nicely, diminishing his worries and racing thoughts like a balm, and he settles back in his chair. All his worries completely fade away, and he falls into the sweet tranquility he has with his favorite people. Absolutely nothing compares to being with his family, and he’s free to relax and sink into the warmth from the alcohol.

Though, there is one thing he’s found to compare to the scent of his family. A sweet scent that he wants to wrap around himself and have it sink deep into his skin and never leave. Embrace him like a hug and blanket to cover up in his bed.

Magnus. Magnus. Magnus. He went to bed the night of their date thinking about the way he pushed him against the wall and kissed him like he was drowning. Every touch was on fire, leaving trails of gasoline down his sides and under his leg from where he held him. Alec could taste him later that night, smell him and feel his powerful hands on him while he touched himself, gasping his name into his pillow.

His phone buzzes, and he fumbles getting his phone out. His hand coordination fails him, and he nearly drops his phone twice. He squints his eyes to read better. It’s only an email confirmation for another online order for crochet hats and a purse. He needs more emergency funds, and he has plenty of time to crochet. He doesn’t have to think while doing it, so he can do it at any time.

Jace stands up and wraps his arms around Clary. They both giggle at something Max does, and he takes a picture. He sends the picture and sets his phone down.

Alec (5:45): They’re stealing my son and being gross.

He gets a response instantly.

Magnus (5:46): Well you know, babies aren’t free. Stealing a baby saves money, I heard.

Alec snorts but it comes out far louder and messy than he meant. He chokes on his drink. Jace laughs at him.

“Is that him!” Izzy shouts. Alec ignores her.

Alec (5:47): Oh is that what you’re doing? Using me to save money on getting a baby?

Magnus (5:50): Of course I am. You think I enjoy kissing you?

Alec bites his lip. He’s pleasantly drunk, and his body temperature is increasing. He can feel the ghosts of Magnus’s lips on his.

He sips more of his drink, and he takes a picture with a pout to his lips. He hits send without a caption.

It takes longer to get a response, and he blushes when he finally hears back.

Magnus (6:04): I would do so many things to those lips of yours.

Heat crawls through his body like a snake, setting his body on fire from the inside. He’s getting boiled alive, and his pants are getting too tight. It’s getting painful, and he’s too buzzed and out of his mind to think clearly.

He wants Magnus here. He wants to crawl in his lap and feel those large hands on him. He wants to be kissed so thoroughly he can taste Magnus everywhere he goes. He wants to always be covered in his scent, and he wants to rub it into his nest to smell every night.

His phone beeps again.

Magnus (6:11): Are you drunk? Do you need to be picked up?

He’s touched by the alpha’s concern. He giggles and holds his phone closer to his chest.

Alec (6:12): Pick me up like you did in the hallway?

The lights on the patio are brighter now, and he feels numb in his arms and legs. He feels amazing. He should go out drinking more.

His phone beeps.

Magnus (6:15): Alexander, you’re a menace. Do you need to be picked up?

Alec laughs, thinking about what Magnus is doing. He may not have thought about him in the past three hours, but he certainly is now. Would he drive here just to pick him up if he had no other way home?

You’re a menace.

Alec (6:17): Would you drive over and kiss me, alpha?

Alec puts down his phone but misses the table entirely, and he accidentally knocks over a glass. Glass crashes to the ground, causing everyone else to turn around and check on his well being. Alec stands up and trips on his own feet. Jace catches him easily, only having one beer so far, and pats his back.

“Time to head home now,” Jace tells him. “Or you’re going to break something and your alpha won’t be too happy with me.”

Alec giggles at the idea of Magnus swooping in and defending his honor. Kiss away any bruises and cuts he may cause. Maybe he should text him again.

Alec stumbles again, crashing into the table. He pushes off, laughing when there’s a roar of laughter behind him. The world tilts on its axis, and someone holds out their arm. Alec leans onto them, finding Jace shaking his head in amusement.

“I’ve missed you so much, brother,” Jace says. The sincerity is strong and Alec smiles. There’s two Jaces in front of him, and he picks one to kiss on the cheek. He smells family and becomes less steady on his feet.

“I love you too.”

*****

Alec’s head is pounding when he opens his eyes. He squints at the sunlight and covers his face with a blanket. He groans at the splitting pain, and his stomach tosses and turns. He should’ve stopped after the first drink.

He doesn’t try again until an hour goes by and after throwing up last night's contents. He finds tylenol and water on his bedside table, and he swallows three for good measure.

He’s in only his boxers, and he smells awful. He needs to take a shower. The crib by the bed that Jace and Clary pull out when he’s in town is empty. He very nearly rushes out of the room to search for Max, but then he hears a baby shriek outside followed by Izzy talking.

Alec relaxes at the sound of his son. He digs through the closet for extra clothes for him. Clothes he’s left here for when he stays for the weekend or too tired to go home.

Alec showers and slides on fresh clothes. He’s setting the bed when he spots his phone. Thankfully, it’s plugged in and fully charged. He turns it on and opens his messages. He sees messages from Magnus that have been opened which is confusing. He doesn’t remember touching his phone when they left the bar. He reads over the messages, paling more with every one.

Magnus (6:19): I would swim and fly to kiss you, darling.

Magnus (6:21): Alexander, you’re worrying me. Are you okay? Is someone taking care of you?

Magnus (6:25): I don’t care if you’re on a date, but please tell me you’re okay.

Magnus (6:40): I need you to take care of yourself.

Magnus (6:56): Call me, darling. Let me know if you’re okay.

The messages stop there, and he looks at his call history and sees there was an outward call to Magnus five minutes after his last text.

He definitely doesn’t remember calling him. Oh, God. What did he say? He was drunk and horny. He could’ve said anything.

I don’t care if you’re on a date.

The words feel like cement drops in his stomach. What did Magnus mean? Did he not… Did he truly not care if he went on a date with someone else? Did their date not matter to him? Was he being tossed to the side? Was he not enough for him? Alec thought their date went well, really well. He couldn’t wait for the next one, but it turns out that may never happen.

Call me darling. Let me know if you’re okay.

Surely, he wouldn’t have said that if he didn’t care?

The scent of bacon and syrup wafts into the air, and his stomach growls. He slides his phone in his pocket and joins the others in the kitchen. Simon and Clary are cooking, while Izzy is sitting at the table with Max in her lap. She’s feeding him bananas and singing softly in his ear.

Alec goes to his son and kisses his son’s head and then Izzy’s cheek. Izzy brightens, “How’s your head, dear brother? How much did you throw up?”

Alec glares weakly at her. He takes his son into his arms and kisses his forehead. Max grabs at his hair and squeals happily. “Threw up my weight. Thanks for asking.”

Breakfast is ready, and Clary makes Alec his plate since his hands are full. “Any more texts from that hot professor? You were texting him last night before you got too drunk.”

Alec winces. “Yea, it doesn’t look too good. He sent me a few messages, and then apparently I called him? By the look of the messages, I’m not sure if I’ll hear from him again.”

Jace shuffles into the room freshly showered. Simon hands him a plate, and he sits down next to Clary. “You didn’t call him. I called him. He wouldn’t stop texting, and you wouldn’t stop yapping about him.”

Alec freezes. “You did what?”

Jace holds his hands up. “I didn’t say much! I was buzzed, and all I told him was that you were with your siblings and will be staying the night here. He wanted to make sure you were okay. He was grouchy for a second but then got nice after I told him I was your brother. Almost told him we were banging to see what he would do.”

“Oh my god,” Alec groans. He doesn’t know what he’s more embarrassed over. Magnus learning he got drunk at a bar like the true college student he is, or his brother telling his crush they’re having sex. Max giggles and grabs at his chin. “You didn’t.”

Izzy giggles, eyes bright with mischief. “Hot professor definitely didn’t enjoy having another man call him on your phone. Possessive much?”

Alec looks away. “You must’ve heard wrong. He doesn’t feel possessive over me.”

Jace’s face contorts, obviously unconvinced. “No, dude, that man could have strangled me. He was not happy. I’m afraid to meet this guy in person. He’ll see your stunning alpha brother and start swinging.”

“You’re so funny, Jace,” Alec growls. Max starts to get fussy, unhappy with his mama being angry. Alec whispers apologies, rubbing his back and coos. “I’m sorry, baby. Your uncle is just being stupid.”

“Hey! Fuck you. I thought you’d be happy I confirmed his feelings for you,” Jace bickers.

Alec says nothing. He lost his appetite. He needs to get back home for class, and he has to do laundry for the week. He listens to his siblings converse and make fun of each other. They go extra hard on Simon and Izzy, who hid their relationship for a month. Clary knew around a week longer but that’s because she found Izzy’s jacket in Simon’s apartment one day. Simon didn’t confirm anything, but he sweated like a pig and started rambling.

They go get pizza down the road, one final hurrah before Jace drives Alec home. Alec hugs Izzy extra tight goodbye, telling her she’s going to give him anxiety if she keeps holding secrets from him. Izzy makes him promise to keep her updated on ‘hot professor’ and that she would drive over to watch Max so he can ‘get some.’ He politely tells her he’s not going to ask her to drive five hours just so he can get laid. Also, he might’ve lost hot professor’s affection last night. Magnus probably doesn’t want him anymore. He made it clear they weren’t together.

I don’t care if you’re on a date.

Alec says goodbye to Clary and hugs her. He gives a subtle glare at Simon and warns him he never truly liked him, and he won’t hesitate to help Izzy hide his dead body. Simon takes it all in stride, though he does blanch and cough and scurry to the other side of the room. Izzy slaps his shoulder, but what else is he supposed to do? Isn’t that one of the jobs he has as a big brother?

Him and Jace get going at two and should be home around seven. Jace is in the middle of ranting about customers being assholes to Helen when Alec gets a notification.

Magnus (3:15): Good afternoon, Alexander. How are you feeling today?

Alec glares at his phone. Anger rises in his chest like a hurricane and reminds him of the headache he still has from last night.

Magnus doesn’t care if he went on another date? Fine. He thinks so low of him that he thinks Alec is going to go on another date right after making out with him against his front door in the hallway of his apartment? What? Does he think he goes on multiple dates a week? Spreading his legs for anyone who gives him attention? How dare he?

Now Magnus is asking him about how he’s feeling? He’s not some weak omega who needs an alpha checking on him. Especially one who thinks so badly of him. He is a parent, and he can take care of himself and his son.

He shoves his phone in his pocket and ignores it for the rest of the day. He’s still mad when he gets home, and Max cries from being up past his bedtime and is upset because Alec is upset. Seeing Max upset makes him feel like shit, and he’s sure to give him extra cuddles and kisses before putting him in his crib.

It all shows him he has to be more careful with who he allows in his life. He can’t be going out with every alpha who’s nice to him and smells like heaven. No matter how safe he feels beside Magnus. Not only physically but emotionally. Allowing Magnus to take care of Max and watch his son snuggle into his chest and hold tight to his collar. He has to stop this before Max becomes truly attached to the alpha and makes everything worse.

Alec gets absolutely no sleep that night. Too angry and filled with pent up torment like an overflowing sink.

He drops off Max at Lydia’s house again after having breakfast with her. The day should be easy considering it’s the first day. Thankfully, all the classes for the data analysis program are all huddled together in one building.

Unfortunately, all teachers part of the program have their offices there. Including Magnus who walks over to him with a gifted cup of black coffee. Alec blinks at him. “Um.”

Magnus’s smile is uncharacteristically small, artificial and withdrawn. “Good morning, Alec. Do you have a moment to talk in my office?”

Alec. The name digs into him like a stubborn thorn. He glances at his phone and sees he has twenty minutes before his class. He considers lying, but he’s certain Magnus knows class schedules. He nods and gathers his things. He follows Magnus into his office. He stands there stiffly, not sure where or if he wants to put his things. He stays standing. Magnus looks vaguely amused for a second, but then his face falls like he can’t gather enough energy to smile.

The room is tense, and Alec picks at the nails. He hears the clock tick.

Magnus sits on top of his desk with his hands in his lap. He purses his lips, and Alec momentarily remembers the way it felt to kiss him.

“Did you have a nice weekend?” Magnus asks.

Alec gives him a long, calculating stare. Is there a threat behind that question? He wants to lie and say he didn’t do anything, but Magnus would know he’s not telling the truth. Why can’t people just say what they mean? Instead of hiding accusations behind meaningless questions.

“I did,” Alec answers dryly. He clears his throat. “Did you?”

Magnus folds his arms loosely. He’s smiling again, looking thoughtful about what he says next. There’s a hint of hurt there, and it catches Alec off guard. “I was worried about you. I haven’t heard from you since Sunday. Your brother, Chase? He said you got drunk at a bar. I wanted to make sure you were okay, but I never heard back.”

Alec weakly smiles. “Jace,” he corrects. “I was visiting him.”

Magnus nods, lowering his gaze. “He wouldn’t tell me who all you were with - which is fine. I didn’t have to know. I - I well, he told me you were partying with a pretty boy, and I thought you were on a date.”

That catches Alec’s attention. “What?”

Magnus must read his tone wrong because he holds his hands up defensively. “I really didn’t mean to intrude. It’s seriously none of my business. I just wish I knew.”

Alec is completely lost. He has no idea where this is coming from. “Knew what?”

Magnus sighs, and he sounds irritated. “I’m not looking for a fling, Alec. If what you want isn’t long-term, then I’ll kindly have to step back.” Alec gapes like a fish and Magnus continues. “We can be friends. I can watch Max in case of an emergency. I’m afraid we can’t see each other in a romantic sense anymore.”

Alec’s stomach drops to the floor. There’s a metal grip on both of his lungs squeezing the life out of them. It was one thing to be furious at Magnus and vowing to cut him out of his life, but it’s another thing to hear it be said. Pressure builds in the back of his eyes, and he hates this feeling.

Silence fills the room, and Alec has to look away. He can’t meet Magnus’s gaze and not fall apart.

Alec wets his lips, pulling his shattered voice together. “Did you really not care if I was on a date the other night?”

Magnus tenses from head to toe, face pinched in alarm. He stands there quietly, getting his scrambled thoughts together. He taps his fingers on his desk nervously. “We’re not exclusive, Alexander. I didn’t want to intrude on anything you may be up to.”

“You thought I would go on a date two days after we did?” Alec asks, flabbergasted. He can’t wrap his head around being with anyone romantically but Magnus. His cinnamon scent and kind eyes. The way he cares for a baby that is not his own.

Alec felt truly seen with Magnus. They understood each other’s troubles, and their souls clicked like puzzle pieces. He hasn’t relaxed in someone else’s embrace like he does with Magnus. He felt cared for and recognized. With Magnus, he can sit back and let him handle things.

To hear Magnus say such things brings a hurt he didn’t expect.

Magnus softens. He looks as bad as Alec feels, and he wants to comfort him. Hold his hand and breathe each other in.

“I didn’t want to assume,” Magnus says carefully. He folds his arms across his chest like he’s hiding his heart. “It hurt thinking you were with someone,” he says honestly. “Imagining someone else was kissing you. Touching you. I couldn’t bare it.”

“No one was, Magnus,” Alec insists, his voice cracking at the end. He steps closer, needing him to understand. He stops when Magnus meets his eye, and he looks hauntingly vulnerable and exposed.

“I've had issues in the past with trust and false feelings,” Magnus admits. “I can’t be played like that again. When you went into your apartment that night, I wanted to follow you in and kiss you again. I couldn’t get enough of you. Talking to you and seeing you blush and smile. You opened up my heart after it turned to stone for five years. I felt that spark and desire, and you’re so beautiful and strong.”

Alec stops breathing when Magnus caresses his cheek. His words drip somber honesty, and the way he looks at him has the weight of a ton of bricks to the chest. He’s rooted there, unable to move.

“I thought you lost interest in me. You stopped texting, and Jace said you were drunk at a bar. First thought I had was of you flirting with someone or them buying you a drink. You moved on, maybe you didn’t feel the same way. I thought you made your point by not responding yesterday,” Magnus explains. He’s not meeting Alec’s eye, gaze set on his lips. Alec’s mind shuts off, consumed by the blinding heat running through his veins and turning his insides into goo. This was just a huge misunderstanding, and he is on cloud nine and wants nothing more than to forget everything these past two days. He licks his lips, mouth going dry and useless. Magnus watches, entranced. He moves back to lean on Magnus’s desk, and Magnus follows him, not letting him get away. “But in reality you were just being stubborn.”

Alec shakes his head. “But you said you didn’t care.”

“I shouldn’t have said that,” Magnus says seriously. He’s got his hands planted on the desk on both sides of Alec. Alec is stuck. “I was protecting my own heart when actually I ended up hurting yours.”

Alec nods, not knowing what to say. He can’t think with Magnus so close. He can’t imagine being the person to make Magnus want to open his heart again after five years. What caused him to do it? Who hurt him? What did they do? He can see the vulnerability on Magnus’s entire being from the forlorn look in his eye and how he gravitates closer. They both are, and he’s starting to feel whole again.

Alec searches for a kiss, only for Magnus to turn to the side. He whines, “Magnus.”

“Tell me you’re mine,” Magnus says. His hot breath fans Alec’s cheeks. He tilts his head to scent Alec right under his chin.

Alec whimpers, moving his head back to give Magnus more skin. Magnus doesn’t take it and instead gently blows on the sensitive skin, driving Alec crazy. He’s losing his balance. “Magnus-“

“You don’t want me to be possessive,” Magnus says close to his ear. His lips graze the heated skin. Alec closes his eyes because no, he really doesn’t. “You don’t want that at all. No, you want to be taken care of. You want someone who can take some of the responsibility because you work so hard and are unbelievably strong and independent because you’ve had no other choice. You want someone you can trust, and you can let go just a little bit.”

Alec’s mind is spinning, and his heart is beating too fast. If Magnus would just kiss him. Touch him some more. Why is he so far?

Magnus presses his thumb to Alec’s bottom lip, and he’s watching him like he’s an experiment he’s dissecting. He leans in and Alec’s heart sings because he’s finally going to be kissed. Then Magnus stops mere millimeters, and Alec’s omega is howling.

“I can be that for you, sweet thing,” Magnus says sweet like caramel. He’s oozing patience, and Alec has had just about had it. “But you can’t push me away. You have to talk to me. Let me earn your trust.”

Alec could’ve sworn Magnus was magic. The way his voice is so alluring and calls to him like ships to a siren. The magic wraps around him and tugs everything he has to give. His voice, his smell, his entire being is too much not to obey. Maybe he was being a brat. Maybe he was being stubborn and for what? What does he have to gain from being that way? Not Magnus. Here he can stick his nose in his neck and let his cinnamon scent invade him, fill him up and tie him down with sweet promises and countless kisses and teeth marks.

“Okay,” Alec chokes out. Every breath he falls deeper and deeper into Magnus’s hold. “Will you kiss me now? I want all of that, I just want and you’re being mean…”

Magnus laughs, amused and far too cocky. Alec takes the initiative, kissing him hard and sighing into it. He wraps his arms around his neck, pulling him in so they’re pressed together from head to toe. His axis tilts when Magnus picks him up and sets him on his desk. Alec parts his legs to make room for him, and he bites Magnus’s bottom lip and sinks his tongue into the kiss to taste him. Now that he knows he can have him, he wants more. More kisses and hands sneaking under his shirt as they’re doing right now.

Magnus kisses his Adam’s apple and his jaw, Alec closes his eyes and tilts his head back. Magnus is hard against him, and his hands are hot where they hold tight on his waist. Alec peeks at the desk. He nudges Magnus away. “I have to get to class.”

Magnus sighs and pouts. Alec giggles at the ridiculousness. “Let me take you out to dinner.”

Alec smiles, wide enough to make his cheeks hurt. He stands and grabs his bag. He kisses Magnus on the cheek. “Okay.”

“By the way, I don’t like that Nate guy,” Magnus grumbles. He looks like an annoyed child.

Alec hesitates and then realizes. “You mean Jace?” At Magnus’s irked expression, he grins. “You’ll have to learn to like him. He is my brother. He’s everywhere. You’ll see him next week at his girlfriend’s exhibit.”

Alec raises a challenging brow at the man, who sighs dramatically. “I suppose. Although, you’re the only art I want to examine.”

Alec goes beet red. “That was terrible. I feel embarrassed for you.”

“Don’t be,” Magnus tells him with another peck on the lips. “I love when you blush, pretty boy,” he purrs.

Alec runs smack into the doorframe trying to leave.

Chapter Text

A rustling breeze sweeps through the grass and up towards the railing, catching at the napkins spread on the table. Alec quickly grabs his and smoothes it on his lap. He runs his fingers through his hair and squints at the setting sun. It’s early evening, and the drive here took forty minutes. Magnus had insisted on showing him the town of Salem, promising nice weather and an exquisite view. He drove them to a small restaurant that slightly rises above a small part of the harbor. There’s a park nearby, full of joyful kids and parents chasing after them. Alec has to admit the whole thing is quite lovely, and he remembers vacations he used to go on with his family back when he was young. His mother being a lawyer meant they had plenty of money to spend, and he’s been to ten countries and experienced many cultures and met fascinating people. Back when spending time with his parents meant laughter and teasing, before it grew into knowing glares and curled lips.

His family never brought him here. His sister mentioned coming here to visit during Halloween season, but their mother refused, saying how busy it gets and utterly annoying tourists are. It is only June, and many people are doing their own trips and adventures with the start of summer.

They sit on the grand porch, and Max is staring intensely at the group of ducks waddling in the grass. He makes grabby hands at them, and Alec snorts. “You can’t go over there, bud. They’re as big as you.”

From the other side of the table, Magnus looks at him in amusement. He wiggles his fingers and Max reaches for him. He pokes the baby in the chest. “You can’t go over there. What if we get you mixed up with one of the duck’s babies? We’d go home with a duckling!”

Max shrieks in laughter and shakes his head, bringing one of Magnus’s fingers in his mouth. Magnus gasps, “You can’t eat me! I drove us here!”

Alec shakes his head, rolling his eyes fondly at his antics. His cheeks ache from smiling, an ache he’s not used to. “You can’t eat him, baby. Mama would be sad.”

He peeks up at Magnus to find him grinning, and his eyes and smile are gentle. He’s pleased, he can tell. He wonders if maybe he’s as pleased as Alec when Magnus dotes on his son. The way his heart blooms like a garden full of roses. Magnus makes his blood boil in the best of ways, lighting up his body like the sky on the fourth of July. There is no other reason for how much he blushes under the alpha’s stare. How he wants to tilt his neck to allow Magnus to nip at the soft, vulnerable skin there and layer it with marks and bites.

Pulling himself together, he reads over the kid’s menu after deciding on his own. “What made you decide to live out here?”

Magnus looks out toward the water. “I came out here with my friend, Ragnor, when we were in high school. We came here the week of Halloween, and we had a blast. Caused a lot of trouble and almost got banned for the rest of our lives. Ragnor’s mom had our heads, but it was one of the best times I’ve had. It’s smaller than other places I’ve lived, and that is one of the things I liked most about it.”

“Does he live here?” Alec asks.

“Yeah, he’s a professor too. He teaches advanced English courses, and he’s flying to Peru next week for the summer,” Magnus explains. “He vowed to never work during the summer.”

Alec nods in understanding. “You didn’t go with him?”

Magnus looks at him with a whimsical gaze. His lips twitch, hiding a smile. “I’m far too busy here.” Alec rolls his eyes, unable to hide his own. Before he can argue, Magnus says, “I am not sure if I am allowed to go anyway. They weren’t happy with me the last time I was there.”

Alec chuckles. He doesn’t believe him for a second. “You and banishment. What do you do to these poor people?”

Magnus suddenly turns embarrassed, and he peeks around to make sure no one can hear them. The porch tables are mostly empty, save for one couple a few tables away. “I think I burst their eardrums with my flute playing. I might actually be banned. I played horrible, and I was told to please leave and never come back.”

Alec blinks at him, waiting for him to say he was kidding, but he never does. Alec chokes on his laughter, grabbing at his chest when he struggles to breathe. He can’t help but imagine a bunch of posters with Magnus’s sketch on them, stating his capture was awarded either dead or alive. “Oh my god. You really play that bad?”

Magnus groans, cheeks tinted pink with discontentment. “Does it help that I was drunk?”

Alec laughs, trying to imagine Magnus playing drunkenly on a flute with a crowd of people yelling at him to stop. Magnus playing so awful that an entire country agrees to banish him. The scene makes him laugh harder, and he puts his face in his hands and his shoulders shake while Magnus looks on in exaggerated despair. Max throws a fit from no one paying him attention, and Magnus coos at the little boy.

Alec tries to even out the embarrassment by going over the time Jace regrettably auditioned for a part of the school’s play. He auditioned to play the part of one of the monkeys in Wizard of Oz. He danced around like a loon and was later informed he couldn’t act even if his life depended on it. Then Alec told him about the time he got locked in the girls locker room in nothing but a towel. He had to borrow some random girl’s shorts so he wouldn’t be fully nude while he climbed out through the window. Izzy found him from where she was at cheerleading practice right outside the gymnasium. She tried so hard not to laugh when he told her what happened. She ended up taking ten minutes just to stop laughing and gasping for air.

They’re both in laughing fits by the time the server comes over to take their order. Her face lights up once she sees Max. Alec tells her his name, always glad to show off his son. She calls him a cutie and goes to put their orders in.

Before Alec can think to, Magnus grabs for the baby bag and pulls out toys with suction cups. Without being told, he sticks them to the high chair and Max goes nuts over them. “You said you have a goddaughter, right? She must adore you.”

Never mind that his own brain has grown to mush. Stupid alpha and his competence.

As if just by the thought of her, Magnus smiles fondly. “Madzie. She’s four. I see her when I can, typically once or twice a month. She has me wrapped around her little finger.”

Alec smiles, wishing his heart to stop beating so fast. Magnus shows him a few pictures. Some at the park, the mall, and some with her painting Magnus’s nails and adding glitter to his face and hair. He pulls it off, more handsome in them than Alec thought possible. “She’s precious.”

Magnus beams. “She is.”

Perhaps he shouldn’t, but he can’t resist from showing Magnus pictures of Max when he was younger. Him in his first onesie and seeing things for the first time. Max used to fit practically in his palm. He remembers the first three months after giving birth when all he would do was stare at Max like he wasn’t real. He used to stare and stare, try to figure out how he made this special boy he now holds every day and night. How is he supposed to do anything with Max so small and vulnerable? Max was attached to his chest for the first five months. Izzy had to wrestle to hold him.

“Sometimes it feels so surreal,” Alec says with a level of seriousness that strikes Magnus silent. “How am I supposed to care for someone so small and tiny?”

Magnus is quiet for a moment, and then he sets his hand warmly on top of Alec’s. He squeezes softly, offering comfort and Alec squeezes back. His words do not tremble or allow argument. “You are an amazing parent, Alexander. He’s so lucky to have you. He loves you so much.”

Magnus kisses his knuckle, and Alec swallows, suddenly embarrassed. Is he really going to be one of those parents who can’t talk about anything but their kid? Nonetheless, Magnus’s embrace sends warmth through his veins to his insides. He’s slowly turning into putty, and Magnus is too far for his liking.

It must be printed on his face because Magnus switches chairs, sitting down right beside him. He kisses Alec’s cheek, and the omega brings their hands together tightly. He breathes his cinnamon scent, rubbing his nose against his jaw, feeling the way he immediately relaxes in his hold. It should be alarming how fast he’s grown reliant on Magnus’s smell, sensing the tranquility tied inside. He wants it wrapped around himself, dig in his skin until it mixes completely with his.

They sit there in comfortable silence until the food comes moments later. Alec is closer to Max now, and he cuts up the veggies and fruits on his plate. Magnus asks about his sister, and Alec smiles and gushes about her. How she’s badass and a pain in the ass. She’s passionate with normal stubbornness of an alpha, and she was a huge supporter of his when he found out he was pregnant. She fought with their parents every day, even when Alec told her there’s no point.

He tells Magnus about her and her omega boyfriend, Simon. A huge nerd and the best friend of his brother’s girlfriend. Simon and him aren’t very close but that’s mostly because they don’t have much in common and hardly ever see each other. He’s nice enough though, and apparently treats his sister well. That’s all he cares about.

Alec goes on to say Simon and Jace are surprisingly close. Simon taught him how to play video games, and they have game night every few weeks. It reminds him he should ask when the next one is and see if he can go. Magnus purses his lips and rolls his eyes with a drawn out hum. Alec grins. “I can’t believe you're jealous over Jace.”

“He said you were partying with a pretty boy.”

“He was talking about Max!” Alec retorts. He hesitates. “Well, I don’t know. He could’ve been talking about himself.” Magnus laughs and goes back to eating, and Alec knows he’s not actually upset. “I should tell you he’s not actually my brother. More like an adopted brother. His parents weren’t the best, and he spent most of his time at our house. My mom called him her son once or twice, and then it inevitably stuck.”

He worries for a moment that Magnus will be upset with the news, but instead he looks thoughtful and also a thousand miles away. “That’s very sweet of your mother to let him stay with you. I’m glad Jace had somewhere to go.”

Alec forces an indulgent smile. Maryse was always a fan of Jace. Hugging him the second she saw him, cooking his favorite meals, and attending every one of his games. She went to Alec’s archery and cross country events, but it just wasn’t the same. She didn’t watch with the same eagerness and pride as she did Jace. She never said, but Alec has a feeling it was because she finally had the alpha son she thought she had with Alec before he presented as an omega. All her attention switched from him to Jace. From the second Alec left his secluded room when his first heat ended, he could already tell his mother preferred Jace now.

Alec doesn’t tell Magnus anything, but it is only their second date. He can’t exactly drop all his baggage right here, and clearly Magnus isn’t telling him something. It still hurts, though, and he happily accepts kisses to his palm and forehead. He vaguely ponders if it’s odd to be exchanging this much affection. He tries to recall his early dates with Grant and if they were this forward with each other. He remembers holding hands a lot, but there wasn’t much kissing going on until months later. It was high school, and Alec already felt repressed just by being an omega. The idea of kissing his alpha boyfriend in front of someone and having it reach his mother somehow kept him up most nights in fear of reprimand. Any kissing happened behind closed doors, and he took advantage of every chance. Grant called him insatiable, and Alec hadn’t understood.

The bill comes, and Magnus snatches it up. Alec tries to argue, but Magnus says he pays because he’s the one who asked him out. He then holds the bill out from Alec’s reach, and he has no choice but to let him pay.

“Fine,” Alec grouches. He points outside. “But I’ll get dessert.”

There’s an ice cream salon half a mile away, and they walk to it. Magnus holds Max, and they both share some of their ice cream with him. They sit on a bench and talk a little about mundane things. Alec ends up holding Magnus’s ice cream because Max is enraptured by his clothes and necklaces.

“Was Max’s father into fashion?” Magnus asks, amused.

Alec squints at him. “Are you implying I’m not?” Magnus gives him a long look, obviously fighting a grin and Alec huffs. He looks down at his gray shirt and jeans, suddenly feeling self conscious. “Do I not look nice?”

“You look fabulous, darling,” Magnus reassures. He has a twinkle in his eye, and his smile sends flames down Alec’s spine. Alec tries to hide his blush by looking to the right at the gathering ducks.

“Grant wore nice clothes I guess.” Alec shrugs. “He was pretty popular. He was on the cheerleading squad with my sister. He was a base, and all the girls liked him.” Alec picks at his nails and tickles the bottom of Max’s foot. “He was on his way to a game when it happened.”

Magnus inhales sharply. He puts a hand on Alec’s knee that he hadn’t realized was bouncing anxiously. “That’s awful. He was so young and sounds like he was well-loved. It must’ve hurt you like I can never believe.”

Alec nods, and he smiles wetly at Max who reaches for him like he knows he’s sad. It used to be that he couldn’t go an hour without thinking of him. Now, he’s regretful to admit some days he doesn’t think about him. He’ll forget until Max scrunches his nose the way Grant did, and suddenly it’s like a punch to the stomach. Guilt festers deep in his chest, and it’s in the form of giant bricks layered on top of each other. He takes his son back and holds him close, smelling soap and shampoo in his dark hair.

Magnus’s brown eyes are soft, carrying the weight of how much he cares. Effortlessly genuine like he’s been since the beginning of class. “He’d be very proud of Max and you. You take such good care of him. I’m sure he loves you both.”

Magnus stands up and throws out their empty bowls. He smiles softly at him. “Come on.” He holds his hand out and winks, and Alec’s lip twitches. He takes the offered hand and stands up. The tightness of his chest loosens at Magnus’s words, and he doesnt know how to thank him in words and instead kisses him. He sighs into it. There’s a hand on his jaw that tickles. He gives Max to Magnus who accepts eagerly. Magnus holds out his hand, and Alec takes it.

Magnus drives him home, and Alec puts Max in his crib before returning to him in the hallway. He wonders what would happen if he let Magnus in but he denies himself just as quickly. If Magnus comes inside, he’ll smell his scent everywhere. It’ll add to his home and shift into place like it’s meant to be, and it’ll drive Alec crazy. He already looks forward to smelling Magnus’s cinnamon scent on Max, planning to stick his nose in his son’s hair and pathetically pine over the sweet mix of his son and alpha.

Magnus looks incredibly handsome under the low light of the hallway. Alec presses against him, speculating every inch of his face. Magnus basks in the attention, letting him touch freely. “You’re beautiful,” Alec tells him sweetly.

Magnus searches his face. For lies? Alec is not sure, but he needs him to believe him. How can he not know? From his blemish free bronze skin, dark brown eyes that read him like a book, smooth muscular hands, to the way he does his makeup. He carries himself confidently, though never overstepping any boundaries Alec may have. He’s sincere and patient. All wrapped in a drop dead gorgeous man, and Alec wants so badly his knees are weak. Strong, firm hands lightly settle on his waist, and he imagines them grazing his skin.

Alec kisses him, and it’s so different than last time when Magnus kissed him first. Alec kisses Magnus first and presses in closer. He hesitantly puts his hands on Magnus’s shoulders, having no idea what to do with them. Magnus helps him, taking over and switching positions. His back is against the wall now, and he’s being cornered. He loves the feeling, needing the alpha everywhere. The kiss is not nearly as steamy and need you now as the last one, but no less needy as they devour each other. Alec gives it as good as he’s getting, but then Magnus nips at his lip, and he gives all the power to him. He follows Magnus’s lips with a low whimper. He loves how he tastes, and heat boils in his belly. A warmth resembles his heat and spreads like fire along his body.

Alec has no idea how much time has passed, and he remembers where he’s at. With a disgruntled sigh, he breaks the kiss. He sucks in air, breathless. “I got to give Max a bath. He’s probably hungry too.”

Magnus’s gaze flickers down briefly at his chest. His eyes far darker now, horny and mischievous. “I’m a little hungry too.”

“You’re disgusting,” Alec tells him, turning his head to hide his burning cheeks. He’s not going to think about that here, not with Magnus so close and able to see how much the thought affects him. He shoves the alpha away and makes for his door. Magnus is still looking far too pleased with himself, as he kisses Alec with a grin.

“Goodnight, Alexander,” he says, incongruently tender and takes Alec’s breath away.

Alec smiles. “Goodnight, Magnus.” He watches him leave for the elevator, and he shuts his door. He hears Max crying. He coos, “Aw, baby, what’s wrong?”

Max stops crying after some kisses and rubbing his back. He feeds him and gets up to start his bath. He puts on a kids show for him and gives him his bath toys. Once all clean, he picks him up and puts him in an Eeyore onesie. He blows raspberries on his belly, loving the way he shrieks and giggles and grabs at his hair. “Mama!”

He gets into bed with Max to his chest. He puts his face in Max’s hair, smelling his normal baby scent and strawberries. He inhales deeply, calmed by having his son in his arms. Max goes down after some cuddles and softly speaking to him about his day. He’s fast asleep when Alec puts him in his crib. Right before he does, he smells a hint of cinnamon. His heart picks up, and he basks in it. He lets himself relish in it, thinking of Magnus and his tenderness. The safety he feels every time he’s with him. He goes to bed then and sleep finds him with Magnus’s smile on his mind and swollen kissed lips.

******

The rest of the week is uneventful. He’s busy from school and trying to stay up to date with his hobbies and chores. When he’s not working on school or crocheting, he’s teaching Max about colors and animals. He talks through doing laundry and dishes, and Max crawls around and giggles at him. He’s getting pretty close to standing up without help. There’s a part of Alec that knows how proud he’s going to be, and he’s going to explode in happiness and love for his son, but he’s also going to realize how time is slipping. His son is growing up and soon will no longer fit in his arms. A part of him will forever be sad about it, but he will also love him more and more every day and be proud of everything he achieves.

He takes so many pictures of Max. Videos. Photos. His phone should be slow with how full the storage is. He doesn’t apologize, and he’ll ask Simon how to get bigger storage or where else to put them. He sends some to Magnus throughout the week. One of him with food all over his face. One of him playing in the dirt and grass at the park. One of him surrounded by all his toys because he couldn’t decide what he wanted. One or two of him having a tantrum. If Magnus is annoyed, he doesn’t show it. He comments on each one, claiming Max is the most adorable baby in the world.

Sometimes he’ll send him selfies. He feels dumb doing it, but his enjoyment from Magnus’s attention is far greater than his embarrassment. A stupid part of his brain preens at the attention. It started when he innocently sent a picture of a sleeping Max on his chest and a little part of his face was showing. The focus was supposed to be Max, but Magnus didn’t agree. He texted back saying he thinks often of kissing him, and how he wished he were doing it right now. The text sent butterflies in his stomach, and he started sending him pictures of himself more.

Izzy would be overjoyed.

Sunday morning he’s standing in Lydia’s shower with a wrench in his hand and soaked.

“Too bad I’m not attracted to you or I would be one lucky girl,” Lydia purrs from the doorway.

Alec grunts as more water spews out from where he’s replacing the shower head. “I would make a better husband. At least I can install a shower head correctly. A simple Youtube search suffices.”

Lydia grins. “Well, shit, I should’ve said yes when you proposed to me.”

Alec sighs loudly and holds out his arms in a ‘what can you do’ gesture. Back when Jace did tech theater and thought he wanted to be an actor, the group of them ran a couple of scenes together. Alec and Lydia played fiancés, and Alec proposed to Lydia in one of the scenes. They still joke about it. He throws his shirt off since it’s too drenched and clings to him. Lydia whistles, and Alec flips her off. Lydia takes a picture when he does, and he notices it’s his phone.

“What are you doing?” Alec asks suspiciously. Lydia smiles mischievously and types something. Alec sighs and goes back to work. “You know, I figured out how to child lock the screen for Max. Didn’t think I’d need it for another adult.”

Lydia laughs and puts his phone on the counter. She leaves to check on the kids in the living room. Max and her youngest play together and watch tv. The usual way things go when Alec comes over on the weekends to fix stuff around her apartment. She watches the kids while Alec works on something her husband ‘fixed’. Her husband took the rest of the kids to visit their grandparents and go to the grocery store.

Alec finally fixes the shower, and he wipes his body off with a towel. He’s drying his hair when he checks his phone and sees a few messages from Magnus and one from him he absolutely did not send. It’s a picture of himself, shirtless and drenched from head to toe. He’s angled away from the camera which he’s thankful for, holding out his middle finger. He reads the message attached and he blushes scarlet.

Alec (11:14): Breakfast with a show. You like savory or sweet?

Magnus (11:20): While you’re a tease, I know you wouldn’t actually send this. Whoever you are, I thank you for your service.

“Lydia!” he hisses. He finds her in the kitchen. “I fix your shower and you repay me with this? You owe me at least a thousand for all the house projects I’ve done. I expect a check in the mail by tomorrow!”

Lydia tries to look innocent but fails. She hands Max a sippy cup of apple juice. “Your mama is yelling at me. Your aunt Lydia is just trying to get your mama laid.”

Max laughs and Alec scoffs. “Don’t talk like that to him!” Lydia laughs harder and goes back to the kitchen. Alec sighs and reads the other message.

Magnus (11:21): I’m sure I have something at my place that needs fixing. What’s the going rate for a pretty little thing like you?

“You’re an absolute evil woman,” Alec gripes.

“Uh-huh,” Lydia says. “Put your wet clothes in the dryer.”

Alec scowls and goes into the hallway closet to grab a shirt and pants he’s forgotten here. He puts those on and throws his wet clothes in the dryer. He pulls out his phone.

Alec (11:32): You fix someone’s shower and they do this to you. Never trusting Lydia again.

The response comes fast.

Magnus (11:33): She sounds fun. Lucky woman to have a strong man for a handyman.

Alec (11:34): If you say so. I really need to get back to the gym or at least run in the morning.

Magnus (11:36): You look gorgeous. How do your sleeves hide those muscles?

Alec (11:38): You can thank a 20-pound baby

Alec goes back into the living room where a sandwich is waiting for him. He thanks Lydia by not glaring at her.

Magnus (11:41): Give him a kiss for me.

Alec bites his lip and looks over at Max. Max is playing with a plastic toy phone at a miniature kitchen set up with Charlotte. He’s leaning on things and trying to stand up.

Magnus gives Max so much affection, holding him dear like he was his kid. He doesn’t pretend Max’s father doesn’t exist. He freely brings him up, not bothered in the slightest with Alec having a baby with someone else. Not caring that Max looks like a mix of Alec and someone else. Not many people are okay with that, even more so with alphas. Something about their smell irks them, but Magnus hasn’t shown resentment or indignation. His rapture is pure and bright, refreshing like a cool breeze.

Alec (11:44): As long as I get one too.

“I don’t think I’ve seen you smile like this,” Lydia says, getting his attention. She is happy for him. “This professor must be something else. Is he sweet? I want to see a picture of him.”

Alec thinks of the handful of pictures Magnus has sent him. From during one of his runs in the morning, the grumpy pout he made when he dropped his bag and spilled his coffee, and one of him waking up with one of his cats on his face. “I don’t have a picture.” Lydia raises an eyebrow, but he shrugs. “He is very sweet. He gets me coffee every morning either at the school or sent to my apartment. He cares a lot for Max and asks about him and makes sure we have everything we need.”

Lydia smiles, and there’s something on her face that catches him off guard. “Do you like the way he smells?”

The first time he met Magnus, he thought he smelled good. Devastatingly good. He’d smell it when he turned in assignments or exams, and he’d have to force himself to go back to his desk. He would dream of putting his nose right under his jaw where it’s strongest and inhale, greedy to have it on him everywhere. He’s done it twice now, and he’s getting addicted. He wants to take the scent of cinnamon home with him, and cover his half-assed nest with it.

“Yes,” Alec states. “He smells like cinnamon. Not the spicy kind but cinnamon rolls.”

Lydia nods. Her happiness is clear as day on her face. “He sounds like a giver.” She takes his dishes and washes them in the sink.

“Yeah,” Alec says weakly. “It’s weird.” He grew up protecting his sister and Jace and being there for them. He did everything his parents wanted him to, and his mother still preferred his siblings over him. He stopped expecting anything from people in order to save himself from being let down. In the end, his parents still managed to do so.

Magnus is a giver, and he has no idea how to handle it.

His phone goes off again. It’s a picture of Magnus. He’s sitting in a small plastic chair with purple glitter on his eyelids, cheeks, temple, and lips. He has butterfly clips scattered in his hair. He holds a teacup with his forefinger and thumb. His nails are pink. He has a serious expression on his face.

Magnus (12:15): How do I look?

Alec chokes out a laugh. He shows Lydia the picture and she snickers. He even shows it to Max who giggles and claps his hands.

Alec (12:18): It looks like a unicorn threw up on you.

Magnus (12:21): I’m hurt, Alexander! Madzie worked very hard to make me look my best for you.

Alec looks at the picture again.

Alec (12:23): Are you at the park?

Another picture comes in, and this time it’s Magnus with a little girl dressed in a pink princess dress. She’s smiling wide.

Alec (12:27): She did a great job. Cute little girl. Are you babysitting today?

Magnus (12:29): I worked a little this morning, but then Cat was called in. I’m watching Madzie until late. She wanted to have a tea party, and she knows I can’t say no to her

Alec (12:32): Kids know they have us wrapped around their tiny fingers.

Alec goes back to clean up the bathroom, and he grabs his clothes. His phone beeps.

Magnus (12:36): You’re free to join us. Think we’re twenty minutes away from you. I can order you an uber. I’d pick you up, but we sort of made a mess here

“Max, buddy, you want to go to the park and see Magnus?” Alec asks the little boy. “He has a little girl there too, and you can be friends.”

Max claps his hands in agreement and reaches out to him. Alec picks him up and kisses the top of Charlotte’s head in goodbye. “Goodbye, sweet girl.”

“You leaving?” Lydia asks from where she’s picking up old laundry.

“Yeah, we’ve been invited to a tea party at the park,” he explains.

“This one is the third, right?” Lydia asks. Alec nods. “Then maybe you will get laid soon.”

“That’s-“ Alec argues. “That’s not on my mind.” Liar. “We haven’t been together for that long anyway.”

“That really doesn’t matter,” Lydia argues back. “He’s sweet, caring, hot, watches your kid, takes care of you, you like his smell, and makes you smile. Sometimes nature takes over faster than time passes when you click so well. He sounds great to me. Wish there were two of him.”

“Oh my god,” Alec groans. “You date him then.”

His omega practically slices at his ribs for suggesting Magnus dating someone not him. Are they even dating? Are they together? It’s a lot weirder being twenty and a parent and asking someone if they’re boyfriends. At least with Grant the alpha asked him after his archery practice and that was it.

He’s getting ahead of himself. It’s been only two weeks. But haven’t they discussed how much they like each other? There’s gotta be some sort of title or claim. Right?

Lydia drives him home so he can pick up a few things, and she’s kind enough to drive him to the park. He spots Magnus across the large field by the playground. He’s sitting in a kid size chair at a table about the same size. The sight is hilarious. His knees must be killing him.

Magnus lights up when he sees them, and he walks over and kisses Alec. He kisses Max on the head. “I’m so glad you guys were able to join us for tea.”

“Wouldn’t miss it,” Alec says. Max makes grabby hands at Magnus, and the alpha takes him happily. Alec feels a tug on his pants, and he looks down to find a little girl in a pink dress and a wand in her hand. She smiles toothily at him. She has a tiara in her hair.

“I’m Madzie,” she greets politely.

Alec smiles and crouches down. “I’m Alec.” He gestures to the table. “Did you do all this? It all looks great. Can I have some tea?”

She jumps and immediately grabs him an empty cup and fake pours him tea. Alec pretends to drink it and rubs his stomach. “Did you make this? This is the best tea I’ve ever had.”

“What do you say?” Magnus reminds gently.

Madzie beams. “Thank you!”

Alec reaches into Max’s baby bag and pulls out a purple and pink beanie. The base of it is pink with a purple band and decorative points to form a crown. “I see you already have a crown, but maybe this one you can wear when you go to sleep and not hurt yourself.”

Madzie smiles, and she squeals excitedly. Alec helps her put it on after promising to keep her tiara safe. “Thank you! Thank you! I love it!”

“Let me see it,” Magnus tells her. She turns towards him, and his face melts. “I love it. It looks great.” She leaves to go pick flowers near the tree. Magnus bounces Max on his lap. Alec moves his chair closer to him.

Magnus takes his hand. Max is chewing on a plastic cup. “You are too sweet. Making that beanie. I’m going to have to barter bedtime and dessert to get it off her.”

Alec grins. “A princess should never go without her crown.”

“It looks amazing, darling. I’m jealous. How long did it take you?”

“Ive gotten the hang of crocheting. I do it for extra money. A bunch of ladies at my apartment and some here love them, and they buy them for their grandkids. Bags, hats, shirts, and little animals. I can find steps online. That beanie took me a few days.”

“Well, she adores it. Thank you so much, Alexander,” Magnus tells him. Max fidgets in his hold, and he twists around to stuff his face in Magnus’s neck and goes back to sleep. Magnus rubs his back. “How were classes this week?”

“They were good,” Alec says. He moves off the chair and sits in the grass. Madzie is on the playground now running with another girl her age. “How was your week?”

“It went alright. I had to work a little over the weekend. Got everything done though,” Magnus says.

Alec tilts his head. “Grading papers or something?”

“No, I’m a data engineer, and I work remotely. I just teach a course every now and then when I’m needed. My friend is department head, and I’m covering for a woman who lost her mother and then had a kid. She won’t be back until next semester.”

Alec nods sympathetically. He would know the despair she must be going through. “It’s nice of you to help her. The pain she must be experiencing. It tears you up inside. I hope she has a support system.”

Magnus wraps his arms around Max. “I’m going over this week to help with dishes and laundry. Stuff around the house so she can get some rest. She has a husband and a sister helping her get through it.”

Alec thinks briefly of the pain of losing Grant and feeling alone. He wanted to lay in bed and never move again. He didn’t eat for weeks. He pushes the thoughts away for something lighter. “Remote, though? That’s good. That’s something I need. I’ve been looking at remote jobs online. Probably get some customer service chat line job.”

They spend the next hour at the park. Madzie plays tag with a few other girls while Magnus holds a sleeping Max. Magnus talks about his second job as a data engineer, and Alec tries not to look too perplexed. Maybe that will be him one day. Making tons of money, and he can take care of Max without anyone as a safety crutch. He can pay Max’s grandparents back for paying all his bills. They don’t have to do it. Alec is the one who moved out of a perfectly fine house where meals were cooked for him and free babysitters. While they tried to persuade him to stay, they also understood his turmoil of living in the bedroom of the father of his kid who’s dead. It hurt too much. He’ll be sure to pay them back for everything.

“I doubt they’ll take the money,” Magnus says. He kisses Alec’s fingers. “They just want to make sure you’re okay. They love you and Max.”

“I should probably bring Max over,” Alec says with guilt growing in his stomach. He’ll call them tomorrow and make plans. “I have been busy.”

“Are they far? I can drive you,” Magnus offers.

“I can take the train,” Alec declines. He’s already feeling guilty for using Grant’s parents. He can’t ask Magnus to drive him five hours to New York.

“I have a meeting in a few weeks. I can drive you,” Magnus says. “No inconvenience on my part. Not like it was in the first place.”

Alec sighs and rubs at his eyes. It’s getting late. “You just don’t give up. Do you?”

Magnus smiles wide like the Chesire cat. “Nope. Now, it’s close to dinnertime. Would you like to come over? Madzie asked for mac and cheese. We can make two boxes.”

“Sounds appetizing,” Alec teases. “Should probably add some veggies in there.” Magnus shrugs and offers to drive to the store to pick up some. He hasn’t been to the store in awhile, reminding Alec of his empty fridge. With Magnus’s hands full, Alec goes to get Madzie. They hold hands to Magnus’s car, and he helps buckle them both in. Magnus still has the baby seat hooked up, and he suppresses a smile.

Magnus drops him off at the front of the store, and Alec races in and grabs a few things. He grabs broccoli, oatmeal, and some comfy clothes for Max in case they’re there past his bedtime and falls asleep for the night. He purchases it all with cash he got from selling a crochet top to one of his usual customers. Magnus picks him up, and he drives them to his house. He lives a bit outside of town at the end of the street. It’s a brick house and two-stories, and it’s charming with multiple windows with white shutters. It’s quaint and inviting with a front porch wrapped around the front and sides. Lush greenery and thick oak trees surround the property. Magnus reaches across Alec for a garage door opener that is hooked on the sun visor. He squeezes Alec’s knee and parks in the garage.

Alec picks up Max and Magnus helps Madzie out of the car. The inside is just as inviting as the exterior. Brick walls, big fireplace, and extravagant furniture. Expensive liquor bottles cover the top shelves of one of the walls, too far up for small child hands to reach. Half of them are whiskey bottles at least a hundred years old, at least according to the years stated on the labels. He doesn’t know much about alcohol, but he’s heard old liquor can be sold for thousands.

Alec follows Magnus to his kitchen with Max on his hip. The kitchen has a sort of rustic appeal with dark wood tables and stools. Pots and pans hang on the wall, and Alec reaches for a pot to steam the broccoli and boil water. Magnus is talking about his time during college with Ragnor when Madzie comes up and pokes at Alec’s side. She looks at the omega shyly.

“Can I play with Max? I can show him my dolls,” she asks.

Alec looks at Magnus, who doesn’t say anything or argue, letting him make the call. Seeing nothing clearly wrong or worrying, he allows it. Precautions are important. “Bring them in here, hun. Get some pillows and blankets so he can be comfortable. Make a little fort. You can be queen of the castle.”

Madzie runs off, thrilled to have a playmate. Alec and Magnus watch amused as she sets up blankets after blankets. Four layers of blankets and armfuls of pillows cover the floor next to the kitchen table. She starts collecting her dolls and organizing them. She lists their names and characteristics. Alec sets Max on her makeshift fortress, and she starts handing over stuffed animals and barbie dolls. She tells him about their likes and dislikes, and he stares at her like he’s listening to every word with drool on his chin.

Alec is watching them when strong arms wrap around his waist. He leans into Magnus’s broad chest and he shivers as lips press kisses on his neck.

“Gotta finish making dinner, darling,” Magnus whispers. Alec whines and Magnus chuckles. With every ounce of strength, Alec pulls away from his embrace, and they both finish cooking dinner. Magnus brings out a high chair Madzie used to use. He cuts up the broccoli and piles the food on a small plate. Magnus gets Madzie’s plate ready, and then he sits down beside Alec.

Madzie talks about her school while they eat. She helps feed Max and talks as she does. She would make an amazing older sister.

Madzie’s eyes droop after dinner, and Alec follows Magnus to her room to start getting her ready for sleep. His extra bedroom is decorated with her things. Alec convinces her out of her princess dress with the promise of watching whatever she wants in the morning, and she changes into her pajamas but keeps her beanie on. It makes Alec smile, and she kisses her head goodnight. She runs off to brush her teeth. Max is starting to fuss in his arms, and Magnus pulls out a small crib from another room from when Madzie was a baby.

Alec changes his diaper and goes to find a bathroom. “I have to feed him. Still weaning.”

Magnus stops him. “You don’t need to feed him in the bathroom. Just go in the bedroom, darling.”

“Alright,” Alec says, thankful he doesn’t have to go to the bathroom. It’s where he usually goes when he’s in public, and it’s demeaning. He goes to the bedroom and lays on the bed to feed him.

Alec puts his shirt back on and grabs a towel to burp him. He lays him down in the crib and leaves the room. He finds Magnus on the couch with a drink in his hand. Alec rubs at his eyes. It’s been a long day, working on projects at Lydia’s place and Max kept him up crying from a stomach ache the previous night. Magnus softly smiles at him and puts his drink down. “Do you need anything?”

“I should go home,” Alec says. He’s exhausted and Max needs to go to bed. It’s way past his bedtime and his too. He also has class tomorrow.

Magnus walks over and gestures absentmindedly. He acts coy. “You can take the extra room. Max is safe and he’s already asleep. I go to campus tomorrow. I am happy to drive you. Cook you breakfast. Make you coffee.”

Alec glares tiredly at him, especially when wandering hands play with the bottom of his shirt. He wants them on his skin, not the cloth of his shirt, but he’s not going to let his exhaustion mess with his judgment. They certainly feel nice, and he’s having a hard time arguing to leave. His mind is weak with Magnus so close. Magnus kisses his neck, and he says goodbye to his inhibitions. He leans in for a kiss, and he’s rewarded with a sigh.

Alec runs his fingers through Magnus’s hair, parting his lips for a taste. He tastes the whiskey on his tongue, and it adds to his already sabotaged brain. He urges Magnus closer, needing to be touched. He needs the alpha’s hands on him, needs them to circle around him and bring their bodies together.

Alec whimpers when his hair is pulled at the same time as a hand slides under his shirt. He curls into it, encouraging more touches.

This is their third date. Lydia said something about third dates and getting laid. What if this is it? Should he? Does he want to? He almost laughs at the idea of not wanting Magnus. Surely, Magnus wants him? From the way he bites his lip and stakes claim on the omega’s neck says it all. Both hands are clawing at his skin, and slick is starting to drip out of his hole. He’s getting hot all over, almost like his heat although it’s not due for another three months.

Magnus breaks the kiss, and his eyes are dark and dilated. He’s breathing heavily, trying to catch his breath. “Come on, Alexander. It’s time for bed.”

Alec nods right away and tries to pull him back in. Magnus huffs a laugh. “No, I mean. You’re tired. I’m tired. We can’t.”

Alec tries blinking away the fatigue. Did he hear that right? “You don’t…”

“Trust me, I do,” Magnus says darkly. He presses against Alec, pushing him to the wall behind him. Alec feels him hard and straining in his pants, and he gasps his name. Magnus kisses him softly, and Alec falls into it. His mind is a cloud of smoke, and he can’t think of anything but the feel of Magnus’s lips and the sound of his voice.

“Magnus,” Alec moans.

“Come on,” Magnus whispers. He leads them back into the extra bedroom across from Madzie’s where Max sleeps peacefully in the crib. Magnus guides him to the bed and tells him to sit. He kneels in front of Alec and starts untying his laces.

“You’re evil,” Alec murmurs, groggy. He feels the comforter. He must’ve fallen back. “You and your stupid soft blankets and hypnotizing voice. Why do you have to smell so good?”

He hears soft laughter, and warm breath fans his face. “You like my smell, darling?”

“Mhmm,” Alec hums. He closes his eyes. “Cinnamon rolls…”

He hears laughter as he passes out.

Chapter Text

There’s a lot more people out at six than Alec thought there would be. Many times he’s had to go around people and change direction to avoid crowds. There are other people who have the same idea as him, jogging in the cool air to wake up for the day. Other people are out with their kids, teenagers and young adults are out getting coffee or lounging on the grass, and some are washing their cars or mowing the lawn. He notes the strollers people are using to bring their kids on their morning jog. The old one Alec has would not be sufficient enough. Maybe he can afford a new one sometime soon. His little crochet business goes wild with orders during vacation times.

Alec’s breathing grows ragged. He hasn’t gone on a run since he had Max. He couldn’t afford the time to do so, and he didn’t have the equipment to bring him. He had also been too exhausted to leave his bed earlier than he’s required, and that doesn’t include the mornings when his head is too heavy, filled with somber thoughts. Grim thoughts of his past alpha, the father of his kid who left him alone in this world. Then he’s saddened by memories of him, and how much he relied on him. No - not relied on. He loved him, and now he’s gone. He’s expected to be strong for Max, and all he wants is to be held and kissed and told he’s loved. He can sometimes feel the light weight of Grant’s lips on his eyelids.

He’s better now, a lot better. He hasn’t woken up crying in four months, though once in a while he’ll stare at the wall and practice smiling.

A little girl at the playground he jogs by now smiles and waves at him. He smiles back, and he decides now is the time to return. He’s been jogging for half an hour, and he’s running out of energy. He only had coffee so far today.

Plus, he’s eager to get back to Magnus. Air kicks back into his lungs at the thought of seeing him. Catarina picked up Madzie around the time he left for his jog. Magnus promised him breakfast once he came back. Magnus insisted he go on a jog, reminding him of his text about wanting to work out again, and how he hasn’t had time to do it. He’ll take care of Max, and there is nothing to worry about.

Max. Little Max who was not in the crib by the bed, and Alec nearly ripped the door off its hinges looking for him. He woke up slowly on fluffy white pillows that smelled like artificial flowers. Freshly washed he thinks. He nearly forgot where he was. The room gave no hints from the little decor and clean furniture. He must’ve woken up in the middle of the night because he woke up under the blankets. He smelled only himself in a far comfier mattress.

Only himself and a slight trace of Max who should be with him. Moments later the wood of the door cracked when he flung it open. He ran around the house, and he swung the kitchen door hard enough to leave dents behind it. Magnus jumped at the commotion, and he turned to Alec who instantly zeroed in on Max in his arms.

The kitchen had been silent, tension heavy between them as they read each other. Alec’s ears rang, and he heard blood in his ears. Magnus wasn’t Magnus then, simply a faceless threat now. He wasn’t looking at Magnus, so he flinched, ready for a fight when the alpha slowly set Max in his high chair. He walked backwards with his palms up, appearing nonthreatening. It was when Magnus was on the other side of the kitchen when Alec went to Max. He snatched him up and pressed his nose in his hair, breathing his familiar scent. His body buzzed, and his thoughts were scattered.

There are two pans, spotless and flat. Clean enough to give a reflection, and he froze at the sight of himself.

Gold eyes. Angry gold with hints of red like molten lava and ancient swords under the sun, and it’s then he feels shame burning his face.

“I’m sorry,” Alec said. He closed his eyes, shaking away the misplaced anger.

Magnus smiled tightly, mostly out of caution not animosity. Seeing Alec losing his fire, he leans against the counter. “No, I’m sorry,” he said guiltily. “I shouldn’t have taken him. This is a new place. I just heard him fussing a little and thought I’d have him fed and have coffee and food ready for when you wake up. I’m so sorry I made you worry.”

Food was cooking on the stove and in the oven. Nothing was ready, except for the coffee. To Alec’s surprise, Magnus has an espresso machine. The machine looked brand new. There was a cup of black coffee beside an americano. Magnus said he’d like it if he likes black coffee.

“You didn’t buy this for me, did you?” Alec asked worriedly.

Magnus laughed. “I took it out of the garage for you. It was a gift from Ragnor, though I usually get my coffee at the shops. I got it out of the garage thinking you’d like it.” He played with the cuff in his ear. Nervous. “Is it good?” he gestured to the drink.

Alec took another sip. It’s smooth and slightly bitter but the water makes it less sharp. “It’s good.” He kissed Magnus’s cheek, still feeling guilty. Last time he had gold eyes had to be three months ago when he caught Jace holding Max wrong. Before that, Simon asked to hold him after just meeting him and Alec growled.

“Thank you.”

Alec makes the journey back, switching back and forth from jogging and walking. He needs to leave soon to get Max dressed and drop him off at Lydia’s. He needs to get his bags too. Simon was able to find his textbook for this class, and he has it on his ipad. He hopes he charged it.

Alec gets to the house. His stomach rumbles, and he can already smell bacon in the air. He walks to the door, and the door is locked. He doesn’t think too hard about it, figuring people normally lock doors. He does. He knocks on the door, and there is no answer. He knocks harder next, starting to get anxious. There’s still no answer, and this time he rings the bell. He refrains from ringing it multiple times, not wanting to distress Max. He’s growing impatient. The anger from earlier coming back with such intensity he’s having trouble breathing.

Then the door opens, and a man opens the door. He looks to be Alec’s age, possibly younger. He also looks irritated. “Who the hell are you?”

Alec has gotten compliments on his abundant amount of patience. He’s had to be patient with Jace and Izzy. Watching over them, especially with Izzy when she was born. He pledged to take care of her as older brothers should. Then Jace is crazy in his own way, jumping into trouble every chance he gets. He’s still got copious amounts of patience, but it dwindles into nothing when it comes to Max. “I’m Magnus’s friend. I went on a jog,” he explains like this person was a child, not a man. Every word laced with menace, slowly amplifying along with his voice with every second the man does not get out of his way. “My son is here. Either you let me in, or I break your arms and bite a chunk out of your throat.”

The man startles back, horrified at what he sees on Alec’s face. His voice, words, or gold eyes, or maybe all three. He’s not sure, but either way the man gets out of his way like he would with a racing car. Alec’s mind is a bit foggy, but he finds the kitchen. Max is there in his high chair eating banana and avocado. Magnus must’ve heard the commotion because he comes running from the pantry. His eyes frantic.

“What happened? Are you okay?” Magnus asks.

The man from the front door comes in. He’s mad, pointing his finger at the omega. “Who the fuck is he?”

Max cries, stressed from the yelling, and Alec bares his teeth. He goes to say another threat, but then Magnus puts his hand up, quietening him. “Raphael, I understand you are a beta and grew up with betas so you don’t understand omega or alpha instincts, but you have got to stop. I told you Alec should be showing any minute now-”

“You didn’t tell me he had a kid!” Raphael argues. “He said he was going to rip my head off.”

“Tear your throat out,” Alec corrects snidely. Magnus throws him an exasperated look but doesn’t comment.

“As you can see,” Magnus scolds. Raphael rolls his eyes, but he side-eyes Alec like he’s about to attack him again. “When I tell you I am expecting someone, let them in. That could’ve ended terribly.”

“Whatever,” Raphael huffs, and Alec sees he’s embarrassed. Good. He’s lucky he’s still standing. He bows halfheartedly. “Nice to meet you,” he sneers and leaves.

Alec sits in a chair close to Max, feeling the tension in his muscles roll off them. He sighs and combs at his son’s hair. There’s banana all over his face, and he gnaws at his fingers. His blue eyes bright and happy, and Alec completely relaxes. He grabs a napkin and cleans him up. “You’re a mess, bud. What am I going to do with you?”

“What am I going to do with Raphael,” Magnus grunts. He comes over to Alec and caresses his face. He has slippers on with green aliens on them. Alec huffs a laugh and leans into the alpha’s embrace. He looks up to only be confused by Magnus’s intensity. The way he looks troubled, and he gets nervous.

Alec puts his hands on Magnus’s waist. “Magnus? What’s wrong?”

“I’ve upset you twice this morning, and it’s not even eight o’clock,” Magnus complains. He runs a finger over Alec’s eyebrow like he’s trying to memorize it. “I’m so sorry, darling. I just want you to be comfortable here.”

“I am comfortable here,” Alec says. He means it. He does feel comfortable here. He is comfortable wherever Magnus is. He presses his face against Magnus’s stomach, wrapping his arms around him. Magnus pets at his hair, and he closes his eyes. He smells his shirt, admiring the cinnamon with lavender. “I just… I’m sorry.”

“There’s nothing to be sorry for,” Magnus insists. He combs Alec’s hair out of his eyes. Alec hides his face some more. “I should’ve known better. I mean to help take the stress away. Not add more on.”

Alec shakes his head because he knows. He knows Magnus cares about him, and he wouldn’t hurt Alec like that. Alec was the problem. He’s the one with the trust issues. He’s the one who shouldn’t have reacted so badly. He should’ve known that Magnus wouldn’t just take Max from him. He reacted the same way the first time Izzy took Max first thing in the morning. Alec had gone nuts then too, and he scared Izzy half to death.

Not that he particularly cares for him, but he mutters, “I hope I didn’t scare Raphael too bad.” Alright, maybe he just wanted to say it. He’s a bit smug about how much he must have terrified the guy, but he is an asshole. It’s more for Magnus’s sake than his.

Magnus chuckles and leans back to meet Alec’s eyes. Alec tries to look innocent, but Magnus doesn’t believe it for a second. “Believe it or not but he is a good friend. Very loyal.”

“What is he? A dog?” Alec asks drily.

Magnus laughs and leans down to kiss him. Alec stands up to get a better angle.

Alec’s ears perk at footsteps.

“Not in the kitchen,” Raphael grumbles. He snatches an apple off the counter, and he pales when he bites into it. Alec stares at him, unfaltering and cold like glaciers, eyes shifting into a yellow tint, and Magnus continues to kiss right under his jaw. Deliberately a distraction and pets at his hip. It takes several minutes for Alec to submit and close his eyes.

Raphael rushes out like the room itself is on fire.

*******

“How about this?”

Alec’s mouth twists. “Looks like a checkerboard turned into a shirt.”

Izzy sighs but appears to agree with his statement. She turns back to the racks. She idles through the selection. “Alec, you can’t always be wearing black. You need something different. You’d look good in green.”

“Black, blue, or gray,” Alec repeats stubbornly.

“Absolutely not!” Izzy scolds. She holds up another contestant. A light red button up. She throws her brother a wide grin. “A smaller size too to show off your muscles.”

Alec rolls his eyes and swaps his son for the offending shirt. Izzy takes him happily, pressing lipstick covered kisses all over his face. She follows him into the hallway for the dressing rooms. “Still don’t know why I need to get anything new. Clary’s art exhibit can’t be that fancy, can it?”

“Jace said it is,” she says loud enough for Alec to hear. He closes the dressing door. “A bunch of buyers are expected to show. I told her we would look our best.”

“I have nice shirts,” Alec grumbles. He slides on the new shirt and buttons it closed. The material is soft and breathable, and the color isn’t too bad. The sleeves are a little tight, but Izzy was right about his muscles filling them out nicely.

“You’ve got ten shirts, big brother,” Izzy argues. “All of them some shade of black or gray. I suppose I’ll give you points for your white sweaters, but it’s far too hot to wear them.”

Alec turns to his side, checking himself out in the mirror. His stomach is not as flat as he likes, but he’s much thinner than when he had Max. He looks good though, and he’ll look more himself once he creates a jogging routine. Maybe he’ll sneak out to the gym once a week.

“Are you even listening to me?” Izzy asks. Her tone more amused than annoyed.

“Yes,” Alec says. He opens the door to let Izzy look him over. Izzy nods approvingly and then squints at him with a growing grin.

“How’s the professor?” she teases.

“He’s not my professor anymore,” Alec reminds her. “You make it sound so dirty when you call him that and not his name.”

Izzy giggles. “Alright, how’s Magnus? Is he going on Friday?”

Alec smooths down his shirt. “Yeah, he’s going. He’s driving us there.”

Izzy nods and looks over him again. She’s quiet for a moment. Her face falls serious. “You know, I’ve never seen you like this. Worried about your appearance. It’s cute.”

Alec shrugs, too embarrassed to respond. He can’t deny it. He doesn’t get swept up in his appearance. He doesn’t think much about what he looks like. He usually hid in the shadows growing up, behind Jace and Izzy. He preferred little to no attention. Style was the last thing on his mind. He didn’t even care about what he looked like around Grant.

Now, though, he shaves and trims his facial hair. He wears clothes without holes in them, and he brushes his hair. He eats more veggies and fruit, and he started doing push ups before bed. He tries not to think about it, but how can he not? Every time Magnus calls him pretty, he just wants to preen like a cat and offer him his neck. He wants hands on him, petting and stroking his skin. He wants him to whisper sweet nothings in his ear and for Magnus to look at him like he’s a treasure.

He wants so desperately he can’t breathe sometimes. His skin hot and clammy, and his body filled with need. It’s like a different kind of heat, desire in the form of fire scaling his bones. Magnus has done nothing to push for more.

It’s driving Alec crazy. Maybe Grant was right.

You’re insatiable, Alec.

“Alec?”

Alec looks at Izzy and realizes he got caught up in his thoughts. She’s pointing at a different section. He inhales deeply. “Pants? I have jeans.” Izzy shakes her head and hauls him by his wrist to try on pants. She picks out some slacks and has him try them on. Alec puts Max in the stroller and goes to the dressing room.

“I have nice pants,” Alec grumbles. “Andrew said he likes the dark blue ones I wore the other day.”

He hears Izzy stop playing with Max outside. “What? Who’s Andrew?”

Alec finishes buttoning. “This guy in my class. He’s nice.” He sees the door handle move, and he lets Izzy in. He sees her alarmed expression and he blinks. “What?”

“Alec,” she says slowly. At his confusion, she punches his shoulder. “Alec!”

“Oh my god, what!” Alec exclaims, completely perplexed at her reaction.

“You don’t…” she trails. She exhales and rolls her eyes. “Alec, he was absolutely flirting with you.”

“What? No he wasn’t,” Alec denies.

Izzy crosses her arms. She doesn’t look confronted anymore but oddly amused. “Men don’t compliment each other on their jeans. Were you talking about clothes at all? Any reason for him to bring up your appearance?”

Alec tries to recall. It’s Wednesday today, and Andrew said it yesterday. “Uh, not really? I was called to the front to fill in some code on the board for an exercise.”

Izzy now looks like she’s struggling not to laugh. “Did you happen to drop anything? A marker?”

Alec tilts his head. “How did you know that?”

Izzy fights to breathe now, laughing loud enough for other people to stop and look annoyed. Izzy is not one to care about that. Max giggles at her, clapping with her and throwing around his Bluey toy. Alec stands there befuddled. “What? Why are you laughing?”

“He was checking you out,” Izzy finally explains. Her face shines in hilarity. Alec knows she’s not laughing at the idea of someone finding him attractive, but instead that Alec can’t tell when someone is flirting with him. “You can be so blind sometimes.”

Alec winces, not at all comfortable now. “I don’t know why. We don’t really talk. We have one class together.”

“Is it so impossible for someone to just find you attractive?” Izzy teases. “Is he cute?”

“Uh.” All words gone. Does he think Andrew is cute? He supposes he’s not unattractive. He’s tall and well-built. He thinks he remembers Andrew mentioning he played football in high school. Their first conversation was about Raj, and how he’s an asshole. He has curly blonde hair, and he has a nice smile. Nothing that stands out or makes Alec look twice. He’s actually a bit plain. Not Magnus. “He’s not ugly.”

Izzy snorts, and she looks giddy like he’s telling her some major gossip. “Not Magnus, huh?”

Alec thinks he said that part out loud, but he’s pretty sure he said it without actually saying it. His feelings were written all over his face. He does what he usually does. Deflects. “That’s not what I said. He’s boring. You’d probably like him.”

Izzy sticks her tongue out. “You know, Simon is interesting if you give him a chance.”

Alec’s lips twitch into a smile. Simon and him are too different, but the nerd is sweet to his sister, and he does try to talk to Alec. He’ll move from subject to subject in hopes Alec will cut in or comment. Alec keeps his mouth shut just to see how long the guy will keep talking with nothing to work with. Jace and Izzy catch on quickly enough, and Clary slaps his shoulder when she gets it.

Izzy makes an outfit for him for Clary’s art exhibit on Friday. Dark red shirt and gray slacks. His shoes are fine enough. The same ones he wore at his graduation. Alec follows her around to find her outfit, and she catches him up on her job. She works at a high fashion clothing store in the evenings, and she is going to school to become a forensic pathologist. She wants to do autopsies and determine the cause of death. Work as a detective and a scientist. She’s getting her bachelor in forensic science, and then she’ll go to medical school. She’s incredibly smart, able to graduate a year early since she did dual enrollment. Alec couldn’t be more proud of his little sister. Her career path sounds terrifying, but at least she has a plan, and she’s doing what she wants instead of whatever their mother says.

Alec asks how mom is doing, and Izzy just shrugs. She says just because they’re under the same roof doesn’t mean they talk. She’s hardly home, and Jace moved out with Clary. Alec told her to try not to be at home, and he’s thankful she listened. She spends her time either at school, work, or at Simon’s house with his family.

“Think they’re getting a divorce,” Izzy says.

“Can’t say I’m shocked. When you have an affair, divorce is usually the next step,” Alec says bitterly.

Izzy turns somber. “He’s not at the house. When he is, it’s all strained and tense. I’m waiting for her to snap his neck.”

Alec takes her hand. “I’m sorry you have to witness it. You don’t deserve that.” Izzy smiles, but her heart isn’t in it. “You can stay with me. You’re always welcome to come over to get away.”

Izzy slings her arm around his and leans her head on his shoulder. They go back to walking, heading for the cashier to check out. “And interrupt you and Magnus’s time? Nah, I’m good with Simon.”

“He hasn’t been over.”

Izzy throws him a startled look. “What? Why?”

“I don’t know!” Alec hurries defensively. Yes, he does. He can’t handle his smell in his apartment. Tormenting him. Sinking into all his furniture and clothes. Becoming something permanent. “Everything is still new.”

Izzy hums, nodding even though Alec is confident she doesn’t understand. Izzy practically lived at all her boyfriend’s houses. Either to get away from their parents or to do things he’d rather not think about. She holds him extra tight with a bright smile, and she starts to stir them in another direction. “We should get you something pretty to wear for him.”

Once Izzy sets her mind on something, it is almost impossible to change her mind. In this instance, Alec doesn’t bother stopping her. Something in his stomach stirs at the idea of dressing up for the alpha. Wear something nice and get kisses and touches. More kissing his neck and holding him how he wants him, but this time holding Magnus against him. Make sure their bodies are touching from head to toe. This time he can wrap his legs around him and not let him go. Kiss him as hard as he’s kissing him.

His heart speeds up at driving Magnus wild.

“What if he doesn’t like it?” Alec asks. “What if he doesn’t like what I wear?”

Izzy starts to laugh, but then she sees he’s serious. “Of course he’s going to like what you wear. He would be silly not to. I know how to make you look good, brother of mine.”

Alec doesn’t know where the anxiety is coming from, but once the words start racing out, he can’t stop them. “He said I don’t have any fashion sense.” He gestures to his clothes. Blue flannel shirt and black jeans. He cringes. “He looks good in everything he wears. He dresses like a supermodel. He wears makeup, and his hair is always done. I just wear jeans and the first shirt I find without baby vomit on it.”

“Woah,” Izzy puts her hand on his shoulder. “Where is this coming from?”

“Am I wrong?” Alec asks. “You make fun of what I wear all the time.”

“I do it because it’s fun messing with you,” Izzy explains. There’s hurt in her tone. Worry etched in her features. She reads his face. “He makes fun of what you’re wearing?”

“No,” Alec instantly denies. “No, he didn’t. I just…” he sighs. “Sometimes it sucks when I’m surrounded by people who dress nice, and I look like crap because my laundry is never done. I’m a mess, and I want to wear something nice for once. Look good.”

“Alec, he’s not going to up and leave if he thinks your outfit doesn’t match-” Izzy stops. She blinks a couple of times, and her eyes soften with understanding. Alec looks away, but she holds tight on his arm. “Alec, he’s not going to just disappear over one little thing.”

Alec clenches his jaw, and he fiddles with the new shirt. Cotton. Breathable.

Izzy continues. “I haven’t met him, but the way you talk about him makes him sound like he wouldn’t do that. He cares for both you and Max. He knows you two are a package deal. That’s why he encourages you to bring Max on your dates. He gets you coffee every day. He drives you everywhere you need to go. Offers to help you, not because he thinks you need it but because he cares about you. He’s sweet. If you think he finds you a mess, then I’m not seeing it.”

Alec breathes in deeply, unwinding his anxious thoughts. Okay. He’s okay. Izzy wraps him in a hug, and he squeezes her tight enough to be lethal. She doesn’t complain.

Izzy drops Alec and Max off at his apartment after picking up some food. He puts Max down for his afternoon nap. Alec plays a video one of his professors put online, and he watches while he crochets. He makes a bag with strawberries on both sides. He’s about a third of the way done by the time Max’s nap ends. He coos at him and kisses his chubby cheeks. He changes him into a clean diaper and puts him in an elephant shirt and soft pants with gray stripes. He tickles his feet once he’s dressed. He holds him high above him, and Max shrieks in laughter at his silly faces. He lays him on his back on the bed and kisses his tummy. He starts talking about his day, and what he’s learning in classes. He gets the learning tools out and goes over the alphabet, animals, and other various things. He pulls out a touch-and-feel book about farm animals and tools.

They spend the next hour learning about farm animals and the noises they make.

He tells Magnus this when he picks them up. Magnus laughs and takes Max the second Alec walks out of his apartment. His face is lit up, smile wide and takes up his whole face. He holds him to his chest and reaches for Alec’s hand, and they walk down the stairs together. Magnus buckles Max into the chair, and then opens Alec’s door. Alec moves around him to sit, but then Magnus cuts him off. He cups his face and kisses him. Something inside Alec’s chest heaves in relief, and he melts in his hold. He kisses him hard, breathing in his cinnamon scent and pulls him closer by the bottom of his shirt.

Maybe it was the mentioning of Magnus earlier with Izzy that makes him hold onto him. Kiss him longer and with meaning. It takes everything within him to release him, and he sees Magnus’s smile. Dazed but happy by the intensity of it, and Alec reciprocates the smile and gets in without an explanation.

The plan is to spend the evening together, make dinner and cuddle on the couch. The art exhibit is on Friday, and he wants to tell Magnus about his siblings and friends he’s going to meet for the first time. He’s a bit antsy about it, although there’s nothing to worry about. They loved Grant, and they’ll be sure to like Magnus. They’ll tease him for a while, a joke here and there about their age difference.

“I’m 26, not 50,” Magnus laughs.

“Six years difference,” Alec says anyway. At Magnus’s hurt expression, he’s sure to intercept. “I don’t mind. It doesn’t matter to me. Not like I’m a teenager, and it’s definitely not from you chasing after me or me chasing after you. Four months of class, and we hardly spoke outside of me answering or asking questions.” He blushes a little thinking back, when he would get nervous asking questions. Back then, Magnus looking at him made him nervous, and he stumbled over his words constantly. He was handsome and sweet. His voice would wash over him and make him shiver. He felt warm being around Magnus from the beginning.

Alec squeezes Magnus’s hand, where it rests on his knee. “You were sweet to my kid. I’m not some helpless kid who can’t make his own decisions. I’m an adult. I’m a parent. I’m not dumb. I didn’t even think you knew I existed until I came in with a crying Max.”

Magnus’s lip quirks at that. “Maybe a little dumb,” he says with a wink.

They get to Magnus’s apartment, and they start cooking dinner. Herbed chicken marsala, Magnus says. Alec starts on the sauteed mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes, while Magnus works on the chicken and broccoli. Alec talks about his siblings, and the friends Magnus will meet on Friday. He tells him about both his siblings joking about him being his professor. ‘Professor Hot Guy.’ In the middle of telling him about how annoying Jace can be at first, Magnus leans back against the counter in front of him. Arms crossed with a grin on his face.

“What?”

“Did you just call me ‘Professor Hot guy’?” Magnus asks, looking entirely too pleased with himself.

“I didn’t call you anything,” Alec quickly retorts. His face warms. “Izzy picked the name. She still calls you that, even though you aren’t my professor anymore.” None of what he’s saying seems to be discouraging Magnus. The man keeps smiling. White teeth and lines around his eyes. Alec halfheartedly shoves by him to get to the sink. “Get back to cooking. You’re going to burn the chicken.”

“Oh, come on,” Magnus laughs. “I love seeing a pretty boy blush.”

“I’m going to call an uber right now,” Alec threatens, nowhere near his phone.

They eat dinner at the table. Alec sits with Max on one side and Magnus on the other. Magnus has a habit of sitting right beside Alec, no matter the size the table is. No matter how little space it leaves Magnus. Alec doesn’t comment. He hides his smile and sits close enough for their shoulders to touch. Close enough for Magnus to kiss his cheek and shoulder, and Alec can smell him simply by turning his head.

Magnus holds Max while Alec washes the dishes. Magnus had offered to do it all, and Alec distracted him by giving him Max. Magnus, the fool, took him instinctively. He plays with some toys Alec brought in his bag. Alec watches for a second, and then he takes him into the bedroom he slept in before. He feeds Max, and then changes his diaper and cleans him up. He puts him in a onesie with the Star Wars logo on it. Simon got him it.

Magnus puts on a movie. He says it’s a classic about some car that drives to the future. Alec isn’t sure. He’s not really listening. He gets Max comfortable in the crib from the other room. He sits next to Magnus, uncertain how close he should get. He doesn’t get close enough to touch, but they would if they moved an inch. He listens to Magnus talk about the movie, and how people today still reference it.

Alec nods along to his commentary, even though he’s not really paying attention. Magnus is talking, but his brain isn’t processing the words. His soothing voice calms his racing thoughts. He’s been up since five, and he went to class and Izzy took him clothes shopping. He had to study and crochet during Max’s nap, and his lack of sleep is catching up to him.

He rests his head on Magnus’s shoulder. Magnus offers him a drink. Fuck it. Maybe it’ll help him relax. Magnus makes him a whiskey sour. It’s strong, but the orange slice makes it slightly better. He’s in the middle of a sip when Max starts to get fussy. Before he can do it, Magnus picks him up. He rocks him from side to side, whispering about how adorable he is.

Magnus kisses his temple and rubs his back. He hums as he calms the upset baby.

“Poor thing might be tired,” Magnus says. Alec swallows and nods. His head swims. Magnus sits down, playing with Max until eventually he calms down. Magnus carefully puts him back in the crib with one last kiss to his forehead. Magnus sits back down on the couch.

Alec finishes his drink and joins him on the couch but instead of sitting beside him, he sits in his lap.

“Alec-”

Alec kisses him. He kisses him hard and with meaning. He puts one hand on Magnus’s neck and his other in his hair, holding him close. He’s got whiskey on his breath, and his body and mind are floaty. Hands grab his waist, and he jumps at the touch. He pushes for more, grazing his tongue along Magnus’s bottom lip. He wants a taste of him. He wants to taste, smell, and bite him until he’s all he can think of. Until he’s all Magnus can think of.

Magnus pulls away, and it’s then he registers the insistent hands pushing on his chest gently. The room spins a little, and he goes in for another kiss.

Magnus dodges him this time, and he cups his face. He touches Alec’s bottom lip. “Hey. Alec, what’s wrong? It’s okay.”

Alec doesn’t hear his harsh breathing until then. Magnus is looking at him worriedly. His smile is forced but the worry isn’t. He hates making Magnus anxious. It’s the last thing he wanted. He doesn’t remember sitting in his lap.

His cheeks grow warm, and he starts to get up. “I’m sorry-”

Magnus brings one hand down to his waist, tilting his face back towards him. “Darling, are you okay?”

“I’m being crazy,” Alec mumbles. He shakes his head and tries to get up again.

“Alec,” Magnus tries again. There’s a firm hand on the back of his neck. “Don’t run away. Talk to me, Alexander.”

“I just,” Alec mutters. His words fail him. Words flash in his mind, but nothing catches on. They slip past his fingers like running water. The alcohol isn’t helping. He gestures between them and vaguely at Max. “Are we-” He inhales sharply. “What are we?”

Magnus blinks. His brows furrow. “Darling-”

Alec interrupts. “I need something. I need a title. What are we to each other?”

Some of Magnus’s worry fades as he considers. “We’re together.”

“Are we dating? In a relationship?”

Magnus’s face brightens, although slightly weary as if struggling to figure out if this is a game or test. “What brought this on?”

Alec wishes Magnus would let him go, so he can at least hide his face. Hide his shame and guilt for making things difficult. His mother’s voice rings in his head. He’s not completely sure what brought this on. “I was out with my sister today, and we were talking. She was getting me an outfit for Friday, and then she was teasing me about my clothes. I brought you up, and then she brought up Simon. Her boyfriend. Then she was saying she wanted to get me something nice to wear for you.” He flushes when Magnus raises an eyebrow at that. “My parents are getting divorced, and Izzy still lives with them. It’s hard for her, and I started to think about Max and how attached he’s getting to you. I started to think about my messy life, and what if one day you realize that’s what I am. Then you disappear and I - I have to protect Max.”

He’s not crying, but he feels the tears at the back of his eyes. He can’t seem to catch his breath, and he’s embarrassed and ashamed for his outburst. It was like all his thoughts these last few weeks have grown into one large avalanche that was waiting to blow and crush him. Not even just then, but all the times he pondered what his next relationship will be like after Grant. He knows single parents find love sooner or later, but how do they do it? How are they able to juggle so many things at once? Build new connections while holding down old ones. He’s trying to do school, take care of a baby, and make money on the side. How is he supposed to make time for anyone?

He has to make sure to protect his son too. He won’t risk hurting him for selfish reasons.

Alec is being pulled closer and thick arms wrap around him. He hears words, but he doesn’t understand them. He’s mumbling apology after apology. He thinks he hears ‘breathe’, and he does. He breathes rapidly, smelling cinnamon and stuffing his head with it. Magnus’s scent washes over him, filling every inch of his body and deep in his veins. He calms his breathing, taking large breaths and doing it slower. He hears Magnus instruct him to breathe.

You’re alright.

You’re with me.

You’re safe. You’re with me. You’re okay.

He rests his cheek on Magnus’s shoulder, falling deeper into the rhythm of the alpha’s fingers in his hair. His body fully submits, and his mind follows right behind.

Alec breathes for a while, and Magnus leans back to meet his eyes. He scrutinizes him, checking him over. He must be happy with what he sees because he smiles. “I want to get to know everything about you, Alexander. I want to kiss you so much I can smell your scent everywhere I go. I want you to teach me your bravery, love, and strength just so maybe I can become half the man you are.”

Alec shakes his head, fighting off the declarations. In times like this one, he thinks about Jace. “You’re being ridiculous. Will you ask me to be your boyfriend now?”

Now Magnus looks flustered, yet the amusement hasn’t completely left. “If you waited five minutes, this could’ve been avoided.”

A smile breaks out on Alec’s face. “You were going to ask me tonight?”

“Yes,” Magnus hisses and kisses him. He turns their bodies to the side to lay Alec on his back on the couch. “You impatient omega. Yes I was going to ask.”

Alec kisses him, parting his legs to make room for the alpha. Magnus holds the back of his knee and pushes it more to the side, and he licks into his mouth for a better taste. Magnus kisses like he’s hungry, but he’s touching like Alec is something valuable. Caressing the back of his knee to his thigh, leaving a trail of fire through his body. His other hand travels up to Alec’s throat, firm and possessive. That part of Alec that is ravenous and wanting kicks in, and he kisses feverishly, stealing the air in his lungs. He’s somewhat buzzed, but he’s getting drunk more on kisses than alcohol ever did.

Alec’s hands are sliding under Magnus’s shirt, feeling the hot skin and muscles, when his wrists and grabbed and being redirected to his sides. Alec lets out a low growl and tries to use his legs to bring him closer, only for Magnus to put more of his weight on him. He can’t move how he wants. He nips at Magnus’s lip in retaliation, but he’s quickly subdued with teeth to his neck. Goosebumps form on his arms, and he tilts his head.

Magnus hushes him, and he realizes he’s been gasping the other’s name in a mantra. He doesn’t expect to like the solid weight of Magnus’s body holding him down, but it manages to calm him down. Magnus kisses and licks his neck and collarbone, and Alec doesn’t have much choice but to lay there and take it.

He knows Magnus is hard. He can feel him against his own hard dick. He tries to maneuver under him, and he rubs against him. He sighs at the relief, no matter how little with four layers of clothes between. If Magnus would just-

“Stop,” Magnus tells him, almost sounding like a plea. His voice is deeper now, revealing how affected he is. It’s not his alpha voice, though, so he’s got wiggle room. Alec whines and tries again but Magnus stops him. “Alec,” he says again. “You truly are a menace.”

“Let me-“ Alec tries. Magnus kisses him again, but it’s only to distract him. He does indeed distract him, and Alec happily falls back into him.

Magnus pulls away with a grin plastered to his face. He’s beaming and looking beautiful, and Alec leans up for another. Magnus gives him a chaste kiss. “Not tonight,” he whispers. He laughs when Alec glares. “We’ll get there.”

Magnus kisses him one more time, and he turns Alec to his side to spoon him on the couch. Alec tries to pay attention, but he’s too caught up by the heat radiating from Magnus’s body. They talk instead and soon enough he’s on his back again, but Magnus stays on his side. He hovers over him and kisses him again.

“Do your other friends kiss you like this?” Magnus whispers against his cheek.

Alec dodges his next kiss and squints at him. “What?”

“You told Raphael you were my friend,” Magnus says, stressing friend. His grin is wide.

“When he was keeping me from my son!” Alec retorts weakly. “I didn’t know what to tell him, and I didn’t really care.” He expects an argument, Magnus upset he yelled and nearly attacked his friend, but Magnus just looks proud. Magnus kisses his nose.

“You vicious pretty boy.”

They spend the rest of the night watching the movie. Alec couldn’t explain the movie if he tried. Too busy listening to the soft thrum of Magnus’s voice. They talk and exchange short kisses and smiles, and it gets far too late to stick around. Alec stands to leave, and he’s careful picking up his sleeping son.

When they get to his apartment, Alec puts Max in his crib. He spends the next hour kissing Magnus in the hallway between soft laughter and sweet smiles.

Alec spends Thursday and most of Friday working on homework. Magnus is busy with his job. Not as a professor but as an engineer. He only teaches one course, and it’s for freshmen. He offers tutoring too, but hours for that is over zoom. He’s busy, but he doesn’t go one day without either giving or sending Alec his coffee. It doesn’t matter how many times Alec insists he can get his coffee himself.

“I know you can get it yourself,” Magnus says when Alec brings up the topic again. They’re in Magnus’s office, and Alec’s class is down the hall. “I just want to get it for you. Is that a crime?”

“No,” Alec says grumpily. Magnus kisses his cheek goodbye.

They leave for Clary’s exhibit right after Alec’s class. They pick Max up from Lydia’s, who smiles way too knowingly at Alec. Magnus is charming and quickly wins Lydia’s good graces by complimenting her on her kitchen. The same kitchen she’s been redecorating for three months now. He then crouches down and compliments Lydia’s oldest, Jackson, on his drawing. Lydia quickly goes from protective alpha best friend to completely smitten and in deep conversation with Magnus about Alec’s indifference with movies.

“Think he’s been watching too many children's movies,” Lydia jokes.

“I showed him Back to the Future the other day, and he didn’t like it!” Magnus guffaws.

“For your information, I have never liked movies,” Alec argues. “I’m not a ‘sit in one spot for an hour and a half’ kind of guy.”

Instead of getting angry or irritated, Magnus simply smiles and squeezes his hand. “Sounds like a challenge to me,” he says fondly. His voice grows deeper, tantalizing. “Or we can play a movie and not watch it.”

Alec fights off a smile of his own, and Lydia shoos him out. “Go be gross somewhere else!” Magnus walks out of the apartment first, and Lydia stops Alec to whisper, “I like him.”

“You’ve made that clear,” Alec says. “Pretty much have hearts in your eyes.”

“He’s so sweet,” Lydia says, more sincere than her last statement. Focused and genuine. “Which is what you need. You deserve to be happy, Alec.”

Alec hugs her. They don’t do this often, which is why he hugs her tight. Lydia has been a valuable friend ever since they met. She was always there, permanent and everlasting with her friendship. There were times when no matter how crazy busy she was, she would show up when he needed her. He won’t forget her loyalty and love. He kisses her temple, and then makes his way down back to Magnus’s car.

They drive the five hours there, and they go to Jace and Clary’s apartment so they can get changed into dressier clothes. Jace makes a comment about Magnus being Alec’s professor. It’s innocent and doesn’t hold any weight, but nonetheless Alec glares at him before dragging him into a tight hug. Magnus takes it all in stride, matching the blonde’s energy with a remark about Alec stealing all the family’s handsome features and pretty face.

Clary and Magnus get on like two peas in a pod. After the initial shock of Magnus’s comeback, she lets out a high and delighted laugh. Magnus compliments her sparkly black dress and high heels. He says his minor was in fashion, and he would have followed that career path if he had more time.

Right. When Magnus’s father left him and his mother, he took it upon himself to get a job to provide for them. Alec can see it in the way Magnus dresses and holds himself. Every time Alec thinks he sees Magnus look his best, the very next day he looks even better. More gorgeous and magnificent. Everything about him is magnetizing. The way he moves his body, enticing and alluring. All Alec wants to do is stare and stare, brand him in his head.

Izzy slinks in in a fitted red silk dress. Her makeup is perfectly set. Bright red lipstick, long eyelashes, and eyeliner drawn for a sharp cat eye. Magnus sees her and strides right up to her. As if speaking with each other telepathically, Izzy holds out her hand. Magnus takes it and kisses the back of her hand.

“Lightwood genes are truly something,” Magnus praises. “Ta beauté est captivante.”

Izzy’s smile takes up her entire face. She shows off her pearly white straight teeth, and she giggles. “Merci, tu es gentil.”

Alec fakes reaching for her hand, and she slaps his shoulder. He snickers and pulls her into a hug. Simon comes into the room, dressed in a gray suit jacket. He’s wearing an old t-shirt and jeans. Alec quirks a brow at Izzy, who is far too in love to think of Simon as anything other than perfect. Alec introduces Simon to Magnus, and Simon makes a movie reference Alec doesn’t understand. Magnus looks amused but in a way in which a parent views a child. It’s awkward and Izzy tells him not everyone lives and breathes Star Wars.

She kisses his flushed cheeks, and Jace slaps his shoulder with a crooked smile. “Leave the professor alone, dork.”

Magnus changes first, but all he changes is his pants. He adds more eyeshadow and gel to his heart, but he’s dressed and ready in ten minutes. Alec goes to change his clothes too, and Izzy makes grabby hands for her nephew.

Alec goes into the other room and changes into the dark red button up and gray slacks. He smooths down his hair, but it’s getting long and unruly. He needs a haircut. He shaved, though, so he doesn’t look like a mess. He sprays cologne as an afterthought, and he slides on his nice shoes. He goes back to collect Max and change his clothes. It’s an outfit Clary got him. Tan overalls and a white shirt underneath. Cute white converse shoes. Alec tickles him and gives him an eskimo kiss. Alec hurries up and leaves the room, and Simon comes over for Max. Alec stares at him.

Simon rolls his eyes dramatically. “Alec, come on. Let me hold the little man.”

Alec glares at him but it’s more for show. They both know Alec is messing with him. Alec hands him Max, “Try not to get your germs on him.”

“Haha,” Simon laughs dryly. “You win any awards for your sense of humor?”

It’s time for them to leave, and they move towards the door. Alec and Magnus are last. Alec is about to go out the door when Magnus stops him. He cups the omega’s face, eyes soft, gaze traveling from head to toe. “You look stunning, darling. How am I expected to go to an exhibit full of art when the real masterpiece is right in my grasp?”

Alec feels his cheeks go warm, and he rolls his eyes. “You’re ridiculous,” he complains. He goes to say more, but Magnus cuts him off with a kiss. It’s short compared to the others. Short and sweet, and Alec’s heart flutters. He kisses the corner of Magnus’s lips. “You are beautiful,” he tells him sincerely.

Magnus brightens like the sun right then, and Alec’s fingers itch to take a picture of him. He realizes then they don’t have any pictures together. They’ll have to fix that.

Jace bounds up the stairs and tells them they have to go. “Stop making out and let’s go,” he jests.

The exhibit is empty when they get there. It doesn’t open for another hour while Clary makes any last minute changes, and the caterers can finish setting up champagne and snacks. Clary is off talking to the owner of the building, and the others get to know Magnus better. The topics don’t approach below surface-level with the limited time. They talk long enough for Magnus and Jace to get more comfortable with each other, which means they are becoming more relentless with the jokes while Izzy and Alec laugh. The doors eventually open, and people come streaming in. Alec takes Max back from Simon, and he walks with Magnus to explore the many paintings on the walls. Alec has seen one or two of them already from Clary’s sketchbooks, but most of them are brand new.

“Looks like a meadow,” Magnus notes on one, admiring the range of watercolors. “She’s wonderful. If I didn’t already have my walls covered, I’d think about buying one.”

“We’re already dating,” Alec starts, testing the way the word sounds on his tongue. He likes it. “You don’t have to win me over by buying my friend’s work.”

“Just because we’re dating doesn’t mean I stop trying to win you over,” Magnus says. “I like making you smile.”

Against his will, Alec smiles, and his arms form goosebumps. They walk around more to admire the rest. Magnus’s hand grazes his back as they walk, having to stop here and there to give Max attention. Half an hour later, and they walk back towards the front where he spots Izzy. Izzy’s body is on defense, arms folded and back completely straight. Her face is perfectly emotionless, detached and not giving anything away. Suspicion grows, leaving a trail of ice in his veins.

They’re right behind Izzy when he sees her. Her firm shoulders and glacial stare. Disappointment painted on like one of Clary’s art pieces. Her expression only intensifies when her eyes land on him. She doesn’t blink or move, but Alec can see the shifting inside her head. The way her jaw clenches and eyes harden like stones.

“Mother,” Alec greets.

“Alec,” she responds. She manages to sound hostile in everything she says.

Max holds onto Alec’s shirt, getting drool on it. Magnus, who is holding the baby bag, gets a small tissue to wipe the mess. It’s then when Maryse looks at Magnus. She squints at him like she would at a bug, but she doesn’t say anything. Alec’s chest tightens, and he meets Izzy’s eyes. Her happiness from earlier has disappeared, and she looks the same way she usually does after a talk with mom. Defeated.

“Are you liking the exhibit?” Alec asks. He doesn’t recognize his voice. It’s wrong and off. Robotic. “Clary said she already sold four of them.”

“Yes, I see the sold signs,” she says bluntly.

Alec nods. He gestures to his mother’s glass. “Would you like another one?”

She’s looking at Magnus, and Alec is certain she has some idea of who he is. From how close Magnus and him are standing, and the fact he has Alec’s baby bag hanging on his shoulder. It doesn’t take a genius to figure it out, and Alec’s stomach is rolling. Never in a million years did he expect her to be here. He didn’t know she knew about the exhibit. Clary wouldn’t invite her. Jace wouldn’t either. She must’ve read about it online or heard about it.

Done speculating, she turns back to Alec, ignoring Magnus’s presence altogether. Magnus introduces himself, but he might as well be talking to a wall.

“Good for you.” A wall would be nicer.

Magnus doesn't say anything else, and Alec wants to scream. She finally answers his question. “Yes, please. Thank you.”

Alec gestures for Magnus to follow him, and he thankfully does. They’re out of earshot when Magnus asks, “Alexander, are you okay?”

“I’m sorry,” Alec says. As if to comfort himself, he rubs Max’s back and kisses his head. He is shaking. “I didn’t think she’d be here. I don’t think anyone knew.”

“Alec,” Magnus says a little louder. “Are you okay?”

Alec nods shakily, breath uneven. They get to the champagne table, and he chugs half of one. He probably shouldn’t be drinking in a room full of people with Max in his arms. He puts the glass down. “We, uh, I haven’t seen my mother in a little over a year.”

Magnus doesn’t respond right away, but his face says it all. “Hey. Breathe, darling. You’re okay. You don’t need to speak to her. I am happy to give her a new glass, or we can both walk away.”

“Izzy is still over there,” Alec says more to himself than Magnus. “I have to get back. I don’t want her alone with her.” He turns back now and sure enough there’s Izzy standing there like a statue while Maryse talks. Her face pinched and annoyed. She spots Alec watching her, and she gestures him over.

He feels like a prisoner shackled in chains standing in front of his doom. He inhales sharply and hands Max to Magnus because he’ll be damned if his mother says anything about him. “Watch him, please?” At Magnus’s concerned expression, he goes on, “Please? I need to get this over with, and it’ll be easier for me knowing he’s with you.”

The worry only worsens, but eventually he leans in to kiss Alec’s cheek. Max gurgles and reaches for him, and Magnus kisses his little fist. “I’ll be over here. I’m right over here with Max.”

Alec looks at him then, hoping his appreciation is seen. With one last deep breath, he picks up a glass and goes over to his mother. He doesn’t hear what they’re talking about. Maryse stops talking, but Izzy looks ready to bolt. It makes him pissed seeing her this way and it’s with more resentment than he expects when he thrusts the glass at her.

Maryse takes the glass without a word. She side-eyes Izzy. “I think Simon wants you,” she tells her. Izzy glances at Alec in alarm, not wanting to leave them alone. Alec shakes his head and tries to wordlessly tell her it’s okay. He’s fine. Maryse again tells her to go, and this time Izzy leaves.

Maryse doesn’t say anything once they’re alone. She scrutinizes the room and drinks her champagne. She makes a point to look at Alec’s outfit. She probably likes the outfit but finds his hair distasteful. She hates when his hair is long.

“Who is that man over there?” Maryse asks sharply. Alec’s stomach drops, and his blood runs cold. He’s frozen to the floor. He knows exactly what she’s really asking. He can hear her thoughts as if they’re written on her face. Disgust. Judgment. Mean. All three words shape his mother. He says nothing, and his mother cuts her eyes at him.

“No one.” Two large rocks drop down his throat to his insides, and his body is no longer his own.

“Are you not ashamed?” she asks. “Max is not even a year old, and you already replaced his father.”

She says nothing Alec didn’t expect her to say, but nonetheless the words hit him like a slap. “I’m not replacing him.”

His mother scoffs and sips at her champagne. “Doubt that. You omegas are all the same. Just bat your eyelashes.” She looks him up and down. “He looks older. Probably had a wife until you seduced him. Those clothes must be new. You normally dress like a harlot.”

Alec racks his brain. He can’t think. He can’t speak. He can’t even move, no matter how badly he wants to. No. No! I didn’t do any of that. I promise. To his horror, his eyes are wet.

His mother is none the wiser. “You’re going to trap that man, Alec. Don’t act dumb. Don’t feel bad either. It’s in your blood. You seduced that helpless man, and you know it,” she sneers nastily. She shakes her head, not even looking at him as if she was too disgusted to do so. Alec hunches his shoulders, desiring nothing more than to have the floor eat him alive.

She flashes her eyes at him, and he wonders if he managed to finally shake his head, pleading with her to please stop. Pleading to understand. “What do you mean ‘no’? God, Alec, can you tell me without lying you haven’t spread your legs for him? Can you even tell me you’ve never stayed at his house?”

Alec’s mind is gone. He’s not in his body anymore. He’s with Magnus and Max. He’s with Izzy and Jace talking to Clary about her paintings. She explains one painting is an altered portrait of a wedding. Lilies, daffodils, and roses hang from the ceiling. More flowers scattered on the floor. It’s from a dream she had, and she has no idea who was getting married. The colors blend with each other. Yellows with the blues. Greens with the pinks. Jace comments about what their future wedding will look like, and Clary turns as red as her hair.

“Better start taking prenatals,” Maryse says bitterly. Alec reels himself back in. She looks annoyed, as if nothing he could do could make her happy. Like he’s been this disappointing since he was born.

“You’ll be pregnant again soon enough, and he’ll leave you like your father did.”

Chapter Text

Alec clicks ‘enter’ again and the same error message pops on his screen. Alec sighs into the palms of his hands irritably, not understanding what he’s doing wrong. The assignments are supposed to be easy. They are easy. It is Java, and it’s a program the class is learning to use. This is the second assignment, and the class is supposed to create code that is simply supposed to produce a yes or no pop-up. Clicking ‘yes’ or ‘no’ gives two different responses. The code is barely five lines long, and there are videos online to guide you. Alec has been working on it for four hours now, and the ‘yes’ option is not giving the correct response. He thought he found the issue and fixed it, but now it says ‘error’. Nothing is making sense, and it’s rapidly driving him insane.

“It’s seven in the morning,” a voice comes from the hallway. Jace stands there, rubbing his eye tiredly in nothing but his sweats. His hair is all over the place, and he walks straight to the pot of coffee.

“Couldn’t sleep,” Alec explains dismissively. His focus is more on the code in front of him.

Jace joins him, standing behind him disapprovingly. “You took a nap yesterday, and you went to bed at seven last night. How are you tired?” he asks critically. He takes a seat next to Alec. He leans back, appearing lazy and carefree, but Alec knows better. He knows Jace is concerned about him. They all are, and he wishes they would leave him alone.

Alec doesn’t appreciate the examination. The anger he’s feeling adds to the ongoing discontentment. He snaps. “I’m in school and have a kid. Is it that crazy that I’m tired? My sleep schedule is all over the place.”

His weak reasoning doesn’t seem to alleviate Jace’s accusation. It morphs into something different. Something worse. Worry. A little stubborn pity. The sight of his pinched features makes Alec’s shoulders tense. “After Clary’s exhibit, you said you wanted to stay with us over the weekend. I was happy to hear that, don’t get me wrong. You know I miss you. I love having you here, but you’re not here. Not really.”

Alec refuses to meet his gaze. He stares at the red words on the laptop. The one Clary lets him borrow. “Jace, I am here. We played cards, and I cooked burgers-”

Jace groans. “You know exactly what I mean. Don’t act like I’m dumb and can’t tell when my brother is not all the way there. You’re living in the motions. Walking around and smiling at the right times, but it’s just you imitating. You smile when you think you should. You respond on command. It’s all an act.”

“What? So you want me to go?” Alec argues sharply. The guilt is immediate.

“No, of course not,” Jace says, hurt. “I want to know what’s wrong. Ever since Friday night, you haven’t been yourself. Did something happen?” He hesitates. “Maryse was there. Did she say something?”

“She says stuff all the time,” Alec deflects. At Jace’s blank expression, he knows this tactic of avoiding answering isn’t working. “She was talking to Izzy, being her usual delightful self. I went over when I saw the way Izzy was standing. She was saying something. I don’t know what, but I went over there.”

Jace curses. “She can’t be civil at a public function. I don’t even know how she heard of it. Neither Clary nor I told her. Clary said there were a few articles online, so she probably heard about it there,” he says bitterly. It’s clear in his voice he feels responsible for Maryse showing up, even though he can’t control what the art gallery posts. On one hand, more people showed up because of the articles. On the other hand, the wrong person learned about it and used it as some sort of opportunity to attack.

“Did she talk to you?” Alec asks.

Jace shrugs, as if his hurt could easily be shoved to the side and erased. As if it didn’t matter. “She tried talking to Clary about her work. She said she’s seen her work done before. I kicked her out after she said that. Clary said she wasn’t affected, but I could tell she was still hurt. She knows Maryse says whatever, aims for your greatest insecurity. Simon and I comforted her while Luke walked her to her car.”

Alec’s lip twitches, imagining Luke throwing Maryse out on her ass. His amusement diminishes, and his voice hardens. “I should’ve been there. I’ll apologize to her when she wakes up.”

“She’s awake already with Max. She paints on the roof sometimes, but you don’t need to apologize. You did nothing wrong. None of us did. Just her,” Jace tells him. His voice takes on a no nonsense tone. “You know that, right?”

“Yeah,” Alec says. No. Nothing I do makes her happy. No matter how hard I try. He feels even more stupid now. Useless. Friday night, he was still trying to make her happy. He answered how he thought she wanted. Even after all this time, after all the time learning to accept himself. After learning to be okay with being an omega, getting to the point where he loves being one. It’s helped him be a better parent. More protective. More adaptive. Being the person Max needs. Even after everything, he reverted back into the kid walking on hot coal to make his mother happy. She asked who the man holding Max was, and Alec was pulled back to a time when he denied any association with Grant.

No one.

The nausea he’s had ever since he muttered those words comes back with a vengeance. His mother went on about him being a slut, and how he probably stole Magnus from someone. He was some sort of temptress who couldn’t close his legs. How he’ll be pregnant sooner rather than later.

God, Alec, can you tell me without lying you haven’t spread your legs for him? Can you even tell me you’ve never stayed at his house?

He can’t. He can’t tell her that. He can’t tell her any of that, because he has spread his legs for him. He did it right on Magnus’s couch, full of fever and need, unable to control his cravings like the mindless omega she claims him to be. He has stayed at his house. The first time he was ever there, he slept over in his extra bedroom because he was drunk. He was exactly what his mother accused him of being. What she accuses all omegas of being.

Alec’s phone goes off, and he pretends not to hear it. He shouldn’t have done that, because now Jace gives him an unreadable look. “Is that Magnus?” He nods. “Are you ignoring him?”

“I’m not ignoring him,” Alec says.

Jace rolls his eyes and stands up. “I’m going to cook some breakfast. Going to make omelettes if you want one. I’m not hungry for the bullshit you’re trying to feed me.”

“I’m not ignoring him!” Alec tries again, though his heart isn’t in it. He knows he can’t lie to save his life. He let his phone die yesterday, but someone must’ve plugged his phone in. He woke up to his phone beside him displaying around ten text messages. Only five are from Magnus, and he hasn’t read them yet.

Jace starts pulling out ingredients from the fridge. “All I can tell was everything was going great until Maryse showed up. She pissed us all off, and we kicked her out. Next thing I know, Izzy is downing three glasses of champagne and you disappeared. Magnus found you in the bathroom, and you came back out. Everything went smoothly again, until the exhibit ended and we were coming back to our place and Magnus left.”

And you didn’t go with him. The words left unspoken, along with the questions following them. Alec doesn’t answer them, too caught up in his thoughts and the way Magnus looked when he left. Hurt. Confused. Worried. He spent hours in the extra bedroom yesterday, secluded and alone with Magnus’s hurt expression branded on the forefront of his mind.

“Are you ready to go?” Magnus asks. He goes over to grab Max’s baby bag, but it remains open with some toys still spread out on the floor. He reaches down to pack, but Alec stops him.

“It’s okay. I’m going to stay,” Alec says. The words feel like glass on his tongue. Scratching his throat and leaving it bloody. He can almost taste metal.

Magnus looks at him confused, then looks at Max who sits on the floor with his fingers in his mouth. They’re in the kitchen. Simon and Izzy left a few minutes ago. Izzy complained about a headache, but Alec knows it’s more than that. She was too riled up from seeing their mother. It always takes a toll on her. Max looks between them, and he makes grabby hands at Magnus. Magnus grasps his hands and tenderly strokes his cheek. “Alright. Are you staying here for the weekend?”

“Yes,” Alec answers wistfully. His chest hurts, and he’s riddled with exhaustion. He wants to sleep. “Jace will drive me back, so you don’t have to.”

“Have to,” Magnus repeats flatly, tasting the word and finding it distasteful. He steps closer and searches Alec’s face. “It’s not a chore, Alexander. I don’t mind the drive, especially when I’m going to see your beautiful face.”

Alec smiles weakly at the attempt to be corny, but in reality he’s being suffocated with guilt. If Magnus had heard him deny their relationship to his mother, he’s positive he wouldn’t feel the same way. He would not be willing to drive five hours to retrieve him. It would hurt him, and that is the last thing Alec wants.

He sucks in a breath when Magnus takes his hand and caresses his face with the other. He wants to melt in his embrace. He wants to go with him back to Boston. He wants to go wherever he goes, but he knows he can’t. He’d be greedy and selfish to refuse to acknowledge their relationship with his mother, and then act like a good boyfriend to Magnus directly after as if he hadn’t betrayed him. He can’t use Magnus more than he already has. Magnus doesn’t deserve this. He shouldn’t be with someone like Alec. Some omega who couldn’t graduate high school without getting knocked up. He’s trash compared to Magnus. He deserves so much better.

You’re going to trap that man, Alec.

Magnus is not helpless, but Alec can still manipulate him. Is that what he’s doing? He should leave Magnus alone while he still can. Even if it hurts.

Alec’s phone goes off again, and Jace raises a brow. “Not ignoring him, huh?”

“I’ll message him later,” Alec says.

Jace gets done with one omelette and works on the next one. “He’s nice to you. You clearly like him. What’s the deal? Did he do something?” he asks, tone turning serious at the end.

Alec quickly denies. “No, he didn’t do anything. He’s wonderful.”

“Who’s wonderful?”

Jace turns to Clary, who comes from the roof with paint on her cheeks and forehead. She has one earbud in, and her hair is in a bun. Max is on her hip. “Magnus, apparently. You know, Magnus, who Alec kicked out when we got home on Friday.”

“Jace,” Alec groans. His head is spinning, feeling suffocated and skin buzzing. “I really don’t want to talk about this.”

“You’re not ready to talk after locking yourself in your room?” Jace asks harshly. Alec glares at him, and he looks away. “I’m sorry, Alec, but you had us worried all day. It sort of reminded me of when Maryse found out you were pregnant. The stuff she said… You didn’t talk to anyone for days and wouldn’t leave your room.”

Alec puts his face in his hands. He understands where Jace is coming from. When Maryse found out he was pregnant, she said the most ruthless things. She said she shouldn’t be surprised with an omega for a son. She should have put him on birth control the second he had his heat. It would’ve saved them a lot of trouble. She called him a disappointment. A slut. He went into his room and wouldn’t come out for six days. Izzy, Jace, and Grant teamed up and helped him get out of the house. He hasn’t gone back.

Selfishly, he wonders what would have happened if Izzy got pregnant in high school. Both their parents and Izzy are alphas. Maryse would have been thrilled.

“Alec.”

Alec jumps, flinching at the touch of someone’s hand on his. Clary sits in front of him, riddled with concern. “Did Maryse say something to you?” Alec stubbornly stays silent, feeling claws around his throat. It leaves him breathless and heart beating ten times its normal speed. His eyes burn.

Alec hears Maryse now. Berating comments about his neediness and manipulation. He remembers going to her for a hug when he was little. She would look at him like he had two heads. She claimed she had no time for this. His father would encourage her to just do it, and she eventually would. The hug felt cold and expired by that point. He didn’t even want it anymore. From then, any contact would feel unwelcome and alien.

You’re insatiable, Alec.

Grant’s voice cuts in, and he squeezes his eyes shut. He can’t catch his breath, and his hands are numb.

“Alec!”

A voice screams at him, and it’s female and muffled. He opens his eyes, and his vision is obstructed by tears. There’s a phone in front of him. It’s Izzy, and she’s on speaker shouting at him. Not shouting at him, but her voice is frantic and desperate. Clary and Jace are sitting on both sides of him, looking just as anxious.

“Alec,” Izzy calls out. “Are you there?”

Alec nods, and he speaks shakily. “I’m okay. I’m…” His chest is tight, and he can’t breathe all that well. His head is spinning, and he feels ready to throw up.

“Alec, honey, what is going on?” Izzy asks. There are other voices there, so she must be at work. “What did Mom say to you? Did she say something to you?”

Clary rubs his shoulder and arm up and down, soothing his nerves. Jace holds his hand. Alec focuses on their scent. Pack. Clary smells like jasmine and peaches. Jace smells like coffee. Max is in his crib, and he smells like strawberries. Their scents together is pack, and they’re with him. They’re with him, and he breathes deep.

Alec recites their conversation. Word per word. He checks out while he does so. The only sign he’s affected is the tears clouding his eyes. They fall without permission, and he tastes salt on his lips. His voice is from far away.

He finishes speaking, and the room is silent. Clary is pressed against him with her arms around him. Jace is staring ahead, his eyes shining in rage. His anger and the way the sun hits them make them look gold.

“Alec, you’re none of those things,” Clary says quietly. “She doesn’t know what she’s talking about.”

“I’m insatiable,” Alec says with teary eyes.

He hears movement on the phone, and he knows Izzy is shaking her head, and she’s crying too. Only she sounds pissed. “No, you’re not.”

“I’m needy and want too much, and I’m sorry.”

“You’re not needy, Alec,” Jace argues. His voice is deep, and his eyes are red. Alpha red. “You never ask for anything. I can’t remember the last time you’ve asked for help.”

“It’s not just that,” Izzy cuts in. Alec is thankful for how much she understands him. “Our mother made you feel bad for wanting physical touch. Wanting physical touch is not bad. It’s human. Omegas need more of it, or at least rumors say, but you’re still human. She shouldn’t ever make you feel guilty for wanting affection.”

“It’s no different than other love languages,” Clary adds. “It’s ingrained in us. She shouldn’t ever have made you feel like a bother. She’s heartless.”

Alec laughs humorlessly, “She was right, though, I have stayed at Magnus’s place. I slept over the first night I was there.”

“That’s called chemistry and feeling safe around him,” Izzy says. “There is nothing wrong with you.”

“You’re not a blushing virgin,” Jace huffs. “You’re an adult with a kid. Slutshaming is not even a concept in the modern world.”

“Except for omegas,” Alec snaps. He sighs, feeling awful. “I’m sorry, I didn’t…”

Jace squeezes his shoulder and smiles. “No, I needed to hear that. I’m sorry.”

Alec smiles stiffly and shakes his head. He wants to believe them, but his safely guarded walls around his heart and brain were smashed into rubble by Maryse, and he’s not sure he can even comprehend what they’re saying. They mean well, and they love him. He’ll take their comfort and hold onto it as long as he can.

Jace finishes cooking his omelette, and they spend the next few hours together. Alec crochets with Clary for two hours. She gives him ideas and sketches them out for him. She sucks at crocheting, but her artistic ability and creativity come in handy. The room’s atmosphere is tense, but it slowly calms once Alec gets Clary talking about her exhibit and buyers of her work. Clary is kind enough to take the bait, going on about the people she met. Where they’re from and how much they paid. She’s already got ideas for the theme for her next exhibit.

Jace and him get in the car around two. Alec ends up falling asleep halfway there. Jace drops him off at home, and he’s unpacking when he finally opens his phone to read Magnus’s texts.

Saturday
Magnus (02:06): Just got home. I miss you already. I hope you have a good weekend with your family.

Magnus (10:37): Good morning, darling. How are you doing?

Magnus (2:13): I’m worried about you. You acted a little strange last night. I want to make sure you’re okay.

Magnus (5:49): Please tell me you’re doing okay. I’m sorry for messaging multiple times. You deserve time with your family, but I’m worried about you.

Sunday
Magnus (07:13): Good morning, Alexander. How are you doing? Thinking of you.

It is now seven in the evening, which means Magnus hasn’t messaged him in twelve hours. What is Magnus thinking right now? Does he think he’s ignoring him? He wouldn’t be wrong. Alec has been radio silent, and he feels horrible. He wasn’t busy at all, only trapped in his own head feeling sorry for himself. He wouldn’t be surprised if Magnus decided he didn’t want an unstable omega mother as a lover. Especially one who can’t take criticism from his mother without falling apart.

A thought sparks in his mind, and it takes root. He chooses to just do it, no thinking. He changes Max into comfier clothes and packs up his baby bag. He orders his uber and heads downstairs. The driver looks put out by Max, but Alec pretends not to see the annoyance there.

Alec’s chest sinks when they finally get to Magnus’s house. The sun has completely set, and it’s late, and he’s starting to regret coming here. He knocks, and Max gets fussy. He sits down on the bench on the porch, rocking Max to sleep.

The front door opens and Magnus steps out. He’s wearing a dark purple shirt and white silky pants. His robe drapes over him, and he’s barefoot. He looks out and spots Alec on the bench. Alec tries for a smile, but it’s timid.

“Hey,” Alec says.

“Hello, Alexander,” Magnus says. He sits down on the other side of the bench, and he brings a leg over his lap. He seems estranged at first, but then he angles his body to better see Max. “Hello, Max,” he adds quieter.

It’s dark out, and the only light is coming from inside the house. The tension is thick, and Alec has no idea what to say. He feels like he’s on an island all by himself with no escape, and he will drown if he even tries. It’s all his fault. He’s the reason he secluded himself. Magnus should be mad at him. Magnus should kick him out. Magnus didn’t do anything wrong, and Alec disappeared on him. He practically kicked Magnus out like he was a stranger.

“Are you alright?”

Alec hates the lack of anger in his voice. It gives him nothing to work with. He doesn’t know what to expect anymore. He was expecting to be yelled at, but Magnus shows no hint of raising his voice. He nods, “I’m okay.” Magnus doesn’t say anything, so he adds without thinking, “I’m sorry.”

“For what?” Magnus asks. Again, no sign of emotion.

“I ignored your messages,” he says with bated breath. “I kicked you out and left you to go home by yourself. I shouldn’t have done that. You deserve better.”

“Hey,” Magnus says softly. He puts a hand on Alec’s arm, moving down to grasp his hand. “Let me decide what I deserve. Something obviously was bothering you. Are you doing okay? Are your siblings okay?”

For some reason, Magnus’s kindness makes his guilt weigh heavier. An anchor in an angry tide. “My mother said some things that I shouldn’t have thought twice about. I let her get under my skin, and I let her ruin our evening. I shouldn’t have been so cold. I should’ve left with you, and then we might have-”

“Alexander,” Magnus interrupts him. He is crouching in front of him, scrutinizing him with a serious expression. His features are tender, and he stands back up to lead them into the house. Max wakes up, and seems to have smelled Magnus. His smile is gummy, and he gurgles and makes silly faces.

Magnus takes baby Max and sets him in the middle of a bunch of toys. They were Madzie’s at one point, and he still has them. He took them out for Max, and the little boy now crawls to a toy car wheel and plastic phone. Magnus walks back to Alec.

“You don’t have to explain yourself,” Magnus says. Alec wants to argue, but Magnus beats him to it. “I get it. I’ve experienced it myself. My father left us when I was in school and before that, he was a monster. He would try to shape me into a monster, but I didn’t let him get to me.” He fiddles with his ear cuff nervously. He meets Alec’s gaze again, and he caresses the omega's jaw. “Just promise to tell me if things ever get that bad. I want to be there for you, and I can’t if you don’t tell me.”

Alec closes his eyes and sighs. His chest is tight and for the first time, he wants to tell someone the crap his mother says. The nasty comments and judgmental tone that haunts the back of his mind. The voice deep down, telling him omegas are weak, so he is weak. Omegas can’t control themselves, and he dresses like he should be standing on the corner. He can’t help himself. He can’t be a leader. He can’t do anything himself. He needs to have an alpha around to keep him in line. He’s useless without one. Max doesn’t stand a chance.

He’s a balloon and being squeezed with every inch of his life.

“But if it makes you feel better, I forgive you,” Magnus tells him, and his voice is too sweet and patient. It makes Alec want to lash out.

What you want sometimes hurts, and he blurts out, “I told my mother you were no one.” Magnus tenses, and his hand turns hard like stone. Alec wants his comfort and understanding back desperately, but it’s too late now. He continues, “She asked who you were, and I said no one. I don’t know why I did it. She was looking at me like she usually does. Like I’m nothing, and I can’t be alone. She’s always thought I was weak, and I knew she would just twist our relationship into me needing you to take care of me or me not being able to control myself.”

His vision is blurry, and he’s dizzy. He can’t believe he’s even saying this. He’s kept his thoughts bottled up ever since he can remember. The only people he’s come close to opening up to are his siblings, and that was when he was at his lowest. He’d be a crying mess by the time his siblings would pull him into his room and hold him. Now, he feels defeated with the world on mute.

“To her, I am insignificant,” he says. He’s there again, standing in front of his mother. “She said I seduced you, and I am trapping you. I was trying to replace Max’s dad. I-I tried to deny all of it, but she accused me of sleeping with you. She told me I couldn’t tell her I never stayed at your house, and she’s right. I c-can’t.” He’s struggling to breathe. He goes to leave, sure Magnus is disgusted with him.

Alec turns around, only for his wrist to get caught. Magnus pulls him right back in, and this time his worry is dialed up, painted all over his face. “Darling, breathe for me.” He takes a deep breath, encouraging Alec to do the same. Alec does, and Magnus smiles tentatively. He holds Alec’s hands tight in his. “Alexander, you’re none of those things. She’s wrong,” he insists when Alec tries to interrupt. His face is scrunched, upper lip curled in anger. “You’re so beautiful, smart, and kind. You’re the strongest person I know. You have dealt with more shit than a person experiences in an entire lifetime. Your mother should never treat you like that. I’m so sorry you’ve had to be the adult in your relationship.”

Alec blinks, struggling to comprehend. He never viewed it as such, but what Magnus is saying is true. He has felt like the adult here. He feels like the parent. He’s been forced to walk on eggshells around his mother, worried he is going to upset her somehow. He doesn’t want that. He never wants to upset her, but it seems no matter what he does, she finds something to be mad at. He’s drowning when he’s with her. He doesn’t recognize himself.

“I’m sorry about your dad,” Alec says shakily, feeling it’s only fair to mention Magnus’s struggles too. He’s not the only one here to have parent troubles.

“We’re not talking about me,” Magnus quips. “We’re talking about you and how strong you are. Resilient and too pretty for my own good.”

Alec snorts, and the sound is grotesque from almost crying. It’s disgusting but Magnus laughs. Alec wraps his arms around him, bringing him closer and stuffing his face in his neck. He scents him, his smell has the undefeated ability to calm him down. His touch, too, welcomes him like a blanket. Magnus holds him close, peppering kisses on his cheek and temple.

Magnus nudges him, and Alec goes to pull away, but the arms around his lower back prevents him. Confused, he leans back enough to see Magnus’s face, but the alpha isn’t looking at him. Magnus is looking past him with a sort of amazement radiating off his face. Lips parted and eyes shining. Perplexed, Alec turns to see and freezes.

Max has his hands on the legs of a stool. His legs are wobbly as he uses the chair for balance. He has a concentrated expression on his face, and he is using all his might to stand on his feet. The two watch in anticipation as he gets on unsteady feet, a common occurrence now, but now he slowly takes a step in Alec’s direction.

Alec’s heart beats like a drum, and he steps forward and kneels down. Max slowly walks to him, and Alec holds his arms out to catch him if he falls. He’s probably smiling like a lunatic, and his heart is beating right out of his chest. Max takes three more big steps and then loses his balance, and Alec easily catches him. He laughs, a buzz of exhilaration thunders in his veins. He’s elated to witness his son take his first steps. He’s been crawling around and leaning on furniture, and it was only a matter of time until he walked. It’s completely surreal now that it has happened, and he’s smiling so hard it hurts. Him and Magnus both urge Max to walk more, this time taking photos and videos. Alec makes sure to send his siblings, Clary, and Grant’s parents a video of Max walking. Gummy smile and bright blue eyes. Alec is enraptured - pride and love bursting in every cell of his body. Magnus is no better, snapping as many pictures and sending some to Catarina with Alec’s permission. He’s smiling wide, spellbound by Max’s new milestone, and he’s beaming when Max walks over to him.

The sight of Magnus with his son makes his omega preen with pride. The animal side of him pleased to see Magnus loving on his son. Smiling encouragingly like a parent would. He’s happy with my son. My son loves Magnus.

Alec didn't think his heart could hold so much love and suddenly he’s yearning. He sits down next to Magnus. Max is in the other man’s lap, grabbing onto his shirt and necklaces. He giggles and shrieks, overjoyed by all the attention he’s getting. Alec kisses Magnus’s cheek, staying close. Magnus smiles right back at him, wide and exuding happiness, and he brings their lips together. Alec sighs into the kiss, feeling weight lift off his shoulders. The stress from the last few days slides right off, and he is light.

“I like you,” Alec says between kisses. “I like you a lot, Magnus. You’re nothing like anyone I’ve ever known.”

Magnus turns incredibly fond, and his brown eyes scrunch in response. He’s got one hand on Max’s head and the other holding Alec’s wrist. “Listen, Alec, I was really broken after my last relationship. She…really hurt me. She hurt me in so many ways, and I honestly didn’t think I would be able to open up to anyone again.” His voice is grave, taking on a note different from when he talked about his dad. When he talks about him, his voice is harsh and angry. When he talks about his ex, he is withdrawn, revealing layers of melancholy. Alec hurts to see him like this - miserable.

“You make me want to open up again,” Magnus says. “I’ve already opened up. It’s easy around you. Painless and uncomplicated. I didn’t think it could make me feel like this.” He looks down at Max, and he kisses his unruly black hair. “I have no desire to replace Max’s father, and I never will. But you trust me with your son, and I won’t forget that.”

“Of course,” Alec says easily. Trusting Magnus is as easy as breathing. He knows Magnus won’t ever hurt Max, and he won’t let anyone hurt him either. “I trust you,” he says earnestly. He leans in for another kiss. The kiss is pure, for once not desiring anything but to hold him close and tell him how much he means to him. It’s safe and good, and he wants to never let go of him.

Magnus drives him home an hour later, after spending it cuddling on the couch and exchanging kisses that grew longer and deeper, making Alec’s toes curl. They kiss more in the hallway outside his apartment, but it’s different from all the other times they kissed. They get caught up in each other with goofy smiles and sincere looks. Alec wonders if this is what Clary and Jace feel like around each other. If this is anything how Izzy gets when she’s around Simon, then he wants Simon in their lives forever.

Alec slides his hands in the pockets of Magnus’s jacket. When Magnus goes to leave, Alec pets the jacket. He must have said something or have the words written on his face, because Magnus removes the jacket and hands it to Alec without another word. Alec blushes, and he takes it. He holds the jacket close to his chest and doesn’t let go. He keeps it closeby while he feeds and bathes Max, and he even puts it on when he’s brushing his teeth. When he lays down in his makeshift nest, he holds it against him. He stuffs his nose in the fabric and breathes in deep, smelling cinnamon and home.

Alec wakes up to tons of messages. Izzy sent him ten messages, exclaiming her excitement and love for her nephew. She demands more photos, and she wants to come see him as soon as possible to see him walking in person. She also adds her giddiness over buying him shoes and new outfits now that he can walk around. Alec looks at the drawers full of baby clothes and groans. He’s growing fast, but not fast enough to warrant three boxes of clothes for every size. Max is certainly not going to be walking around town enough to need more shoes with a purpose more than completing an outfit.

He rants to Magnus on the phone about it, who’s suspiciously quiet. Alec glares at him, and Magnus sheepishly says he saw some stylish shoes for little Max.

“Stylish?” Alec groans. “He’s a baby! My baby!”

“Never too early, darling.”

Jace is ecstatic and so is Clary. Jace is already talking about teaching him how to play sports. Jace was into martial arts and soccer growing up, and he claims Max will be a kicker. Alec is quick to grudgingly confirm, and Jace winces during their videochat.

Clary and Simon both text him to say how happy they are for him. Simon jokes about teaching him how to play videogames sooner rather than later, and Alec says he’s a dead man for suggesting such a thing. Then, Grant’s parents text him back. They’re as thrilled as him, and they’re thankful for him sending them updates. Alec says it’s nonsense to thank him for that, and he makes plans to visit them next week.

“We’ll make you two dinner,” Grant’s mother, Alice, says happily. Her eyes glow. They make arrangements for Wednesday night, with Izzy driving him there. They invite her too, but she politely declines.

A week later on Tuesday morning, he goes to Magnus’s office on campus and tells him about the plans. He feels responsible to tell him about visiting Max’s grandparents. He has nothing to hide, and he doesn’t want Magnus to think he’s hiding anything from him. He’s worried at first that the news will upset him. Finding out your partner is visiting their ex’s parents for dinner is not exactly normal, but Magnus doesn’t bat an eye.

“They sound sweet,” Magnus says. “I’m glad they’re in Max’s life. Max deserves all the love in the world.”

They end up making out right there with Magnus standing between Alec’s legs where he sits on his office desk. He certainly didn’t plan this, had only planned to tell him about his plans and then go to class. What had started with a chaste kiss, quickly evolved into something much more heated. Hands ruffle and tug at his hair and down his body, and he whimpers in his hold. Magnus’s hands and mouth are possessive, biting and licking at his lips. He has no choice but to let him in, surrendering control with a sigh. He doesn’t let it all go, urged on by his own needs, yearning for the warmth of the alpha’s body against his. Magnus sets his attention to his neck, nipping and biting into his skin. He imagines him sinking his teeth in his neck, marking him as his for the rest of their lives. He blames the omega clawing at his chest but for once he’s not full of shame. He welcomes it just as he welcomes Magnus’s wanton touch.

“Fuck, Alexander,” Magnus moans right into the skin below his jaw. His hot breath fans his ear, followed close by the flick of his tongue. Alec gasps when he ruts against him. “You’re so beautiful. Angelic,” he says like he can’t help himself. He rolls his hips again, and Alec lets out a deep moan. He wraps his legs around the alpha’s waist.

“Magnus,” Alec whimpers. There’s fire in his blood, and he’s shaking. Magnus is everywhere, both hands keeping him where he wants him. One hand at the back of his neck, and the second on his waist, moving his body with his.

“Such a pretty boy,” Magnus moans in his ear.

Alec curses, and he scrambles for something to hold. His underwear is soaked in slick and precum, and he’s sure Magnus can smell and feel how close he is. His thrusts are becoming more forceful and less concentrated on rhythm. Alec’s hands are grabbed and held behind him, effectively taking any control he had. It’s filthy and hot, and Alec moans, “Magnus, please. Fuck.”

“Are you going to come?” Magnus asks. Alec must be getting loud because a hand covers his mouth. He hears the metal sound of a zipper, and a hand wraps around his cock. He moans at the contact, and he whines when Magnus starts to jerk him off.

“Magnus,” he moans into Magnus’s hand. His words are muffled. “Fuck, please, Magnus.”

Magnus moves his hand faster, thumbs at the head and Alec see stars. “Come for me, pretty boy. You’re so gorgeous right here.”

And Alec does, driven by Magnus’s muttered sweetnothings and effortlessly working his body through it. He comes so hard he nearly blacks out. Magnus’s hand covering his mouth is the only thing keeping him quiet. Magnus talks him through it, telling him how pretty he is, and how he would give anything to hear his sweet sounds. He angled his cock enough so he came on Magnus’s shirt rather than his own.

Alec looks down between their writhing bodies, and he licks his lips. Magnus is kissing from his neck to his collarbones, leaving short-lasting bite marks. He can’t see much from this angle, but he can see how red and angry his cock is. He’s not as long as him, but he’s thicker, sure to fill him up deliciously.

He’s still trapped in Magnus’s hold, but his mouth is not covered. He catches his breath and leans in as far as he can, arching his back and purrs, “Come for me, alpha.”

Magnus comes, and Alec is unable to look away. Magnus is beautiful, the most gorgeous man he’s ever seen. Even in his post-orgasm mind, he craves everything Magnus has to offer. He wants his scent on him, intertwined with his, so people can smell him on him. He wants to be kissed and held like something desirable. He wants and wants, and Magnus has met him at every turn. He gives, not just from this, but he gives and Alec’s pleasantly still, surprised with how satisfied he is right now. His anxious thoughts can rest.

Magnus kisses him, and Alec sighs into it, not fighting the smile growing on his face. He can’t believe they did this. In Magnus’s office of all places. They clean up with tissue paper, and Magnus’s shirt is ruined. Magnus forgoes it, changing into a purple buttoned-up. Alec appreciates the view of his chest, and Magnus grins at him.

Alec kisses him, needing to rush out right now before he’s late. “I’ll come by when I’m out,” he promises.

“Okay, Alexander,” Magnus says, looking pleased. His eyes are gentle, and the highlighter and eyeliner make them pop.

Alec makes for the door, and he opens it to find Andrew standing there. He has a fist up, ready to knock. He freezes at seeing Alec.

“Oh,” Andrew says. Eyes wide and lips parted as he takes him in. Alec knows what he must look like. His untidy hair, kiss-swollen lips, and flushed cheeks. The smell alone has got to be telling. Alec is still trying to catch his breath and having Andrew scrutinizing him like a child up to no good isn’t helping.

“Hi,” Andrew says awkwardly. He looks from Alec to Magnus, and it must dawn on him because his upper lip twitches in what is obvious amusement. “I can come back later.”

“I was leaving-” Alec tries weakly.

“Did you have a question, Mr. Underhill?” Magnus asks at the same time.

Andrew coughs, “No, it’s okay. I was going to ask if Professor Aldertree was on campus today, but I’ll just email him and check his office after my class. Alec, did you want to get going?”

Andrew looks like he wants to say something else, but he doesn’t. He thanks Magnus and leaves, and Alec throws Magnus an incredulous look and follows him. He doesn’t have time to explain, and he follows Andrew to their desks. His cheeks are red as tomatoes, flushed with embarrassment. They were stupid to mess around in Magnus’s office. They shouldn’t have done anything. He should’ve left to do more reading and get to class on time…

“Here.”

Alec turns and instantly turns pinker. Andrew is holding out a cloth - a scarf. He’s got the biggest smirk on his face. Alec snatches it and wraps the scarf around his neck. He can’t see his neck very well, but Andrew is laughing at him.

Alec puts his face in his hands and puts his head on his desk, too ashamed to say anything. Andrew almost gets kicked out from laughing too hard.

Chapter Text

“She’s going to drown him.”

“No, she won’t.”

Alec's leg bounces. “What if he chokes? He can’t hold himself up-“

“Sweetheart,” Magnus purrs, and it washes over Alec like a stream of water, leaving goosebumps in its wake. He’s given up on working on his phone, drawn to the anxious omega glaring daggers at the young instructor and seconds from losing it. He wraps his arms around Alec’s middle, planting a kiss on his neck. Right below his chin, trying to soothe him. Alec tries to fight against it, but ultimately he doesn’t stand a chance. He leans into Magnus, but his gaze doesn’t stray from Max.

“You heard her. Babies can learn to swim at six months. Max is 11 months, and the instructor has been doing this for five years. She’s getting her masters degree in child development. She’s kind and we like her.”

“You like her,” Alec corrects stubbornly, knowing exactly how silly he sounds. He refuses to meet Magnus’s mirthful gaze, and he can feel his amused grin on his skin. Arms wrap around his middle like secure vines. He’s stubborn, but his body is just as stubborn. He is weak when it comes to Magnus. One breath of his scent is all it takes for Alec to open up, allowing Magnus to take control. Alec gifting him his submission without even asking for it. One kiss - in fact, one touch or meaningful look. Magnus is magic wrapped in a person, reading Alec in a way no one has been able to.

Magnus uses a black painted finger to turn his cheek and kiss him. Alec melts and kisses him back. He allows Magnus to steer him back to the bench to sit down near the other parents. He holds Alec’s hand, massaging his knuckles and thumb soothingly, and Alec calms down.

“What’s the plan for Max’s birthday?” Magnus asks. “Madzie is excited for cake.” Alec gives him a puzzled look, and Magnus blinks, confused too. “September second, right?”

Alec’s lip twitches. “Yes. Uh, Izzy is kind of taking over? I’m not very creative, and she and Clary were practically begging to be in charge of decorating. They decided on a safari themed party. Cut-out zoo animals all over the place. Jace’s place is going to be a wreck. They’ll be finding confetti in their furniture for months.”

Magnus laughs, eyes twinkling the way Alec can’t help but stare. “Did she already get a cake? I have a friend who bakes. She’d love to make one for Max. One of those small ones just for him. He’ll love it.”

“I don’t know, but I can ask. Are you sure your friend would want to? The party is next Friday.”

“Tessa is a kindergarten teacher, and she bakes nearly every day. She could bake a miniature cake in her sleep,” Magnus jokes.

Alec nods. “Okay. How much do cakes like that cost?”

Magnus waves him off. “Tessa won’t take your money. If anything, she’d want to meet the birthday boy, but that’s only if it’s okay with you.”

Alec nods again in agreement. “Of course, yeah. We’re doing the party at Jace’s though. It’s a long drive. The cake will melt or something.”

“A cooler, darling,” Magnus teases. “Why not at your home?”

Alec shrugs. “My apartment isn’t big enough for everyone to come over. Jace’s apartment has far more room.”

“We can have the party at my home. At least this way it’s closer to you, and you don’t have to worry about the cake. I know it’s a farther drive for your siblings, but I have enough room for them to stay the night if they want.”

Alec chews his lip. Does he really want to have Max’s birthday party at Magnus’s house? Are they at that level? Where his siblings gather at his boyfriend’s house to celebrate Max’s birthday? It’s been only three months, and it’s not as if he has the most experience in dating. He’s out of his depth here, and he doesn’t really have anyone to ask. He could ask Izzy or Jace. They’ve been with Clary and Simon for a few years. They’d know how the timeline works, but they don’t have a kid to worry about.

He would hate to ask Izzy, Jace, and everyone to drive down to Salem. They already drive Alec around and waste their gas, and he feels guilty for it.

Although, it would be nice to have his son’s birthday party in his area. He won’t have to worry about driving, packing his and Max’s things, or driving back home the night or morning after. At Magnus’s place, he has a handful of his clothes, baby toys, baby clothes, other baby things, and he even has a toothbrush on the bathroom’s sink. All his things are in the extra bedroom, but he’s only slept in it a few times. He falls asleep in Magnus’s arms in his bed. His face in his neck with muscular tanned arms around him.

He still sleeps at home far more often than Magnus’s, but not a night goes by when he doesn’t think about Magnus. He still has Magnus’s jacket from so long ago, and he falls asleep with it close to his chest. He stuffs his face in the cloth, breathing in his scent like it somehow has all the answers in the world. Magnus must know - has to know - because every time they’re together, he hands Alec something he wore that day. A piece of clothing that is saturated with his scent. Magnus doesn’t say anything, just hands it to him with a soft smile and a kiss to his cheek. Alec gives him back his clothes the next time he sees him, but he has yet to return the first jacket. He’ll have to give it back to him at some point. His smell is fading away.

Maybe he’ll give it to him when he comes to his home. He doesn’t know why he hasn’t let Magnus come into his apartment. He’s not actively against it. He’s quick to go to Magnus’s home or call it a night. Magnus hasn’t mentioned any hurt feelings or asked if he could come in. He’s more than happy to kiss Alec goodnight, not pushing or nudging, and Alec is grateful. He can’t explain it. Maybe it’s him being an omega and being possessive about his safe place. It’s his home and should smell like him and his kid. No outsiders, but Magnus isn’t an outsider. Andrew gets too much joy telling him how he smells more like Magnus than himself. Even Max has cinnamon mixed into his normally strawberry scent.

Magnus is taking over every aspect of his life, and maybe it’s time he truly accepts it. Jace and Clary live together. Izzy pretty much lives with Simon. They’ve made their commitments, and he’s never seen them happier. It’s time for him to make some for himself. He wants that happiness. He wants to be selfish. He wants to be greedy just a little bit. He doesn’t want to live in the shadow his mother hid him under.

“Yeah,” Alec says. He kisses Magnus, feeling his heart squeeze and lips form a smile. “That’s a good idea.”

Magnus’s matching smile makes him feel light as air. He rests his head on his shoulder as they go back to watching Max in the water.

Alec spends the rest of the week making arrangements for Max’s birthday party. According to Izzy, there’s a lot of work to be done, even though he’s turning one and not going to remember any of it.

“Yes, but we will remember!” Izzy argues. “It’s not just for him but for us too. He’s going to look so adorable in his little safari outfit with cake all over his face. My wallpaper for the next century.”

Alec can’t help but agree. His phone storage is nearly full from the thousands of pictures he’s taken of Max. He imagines Max now, smiling and giggling with frosting on his cheeks and nose. He’s going to be thrilled, more than happy with all the attention he’s going to get. He’s so spoiled, and he will continue to be spoiled if he has anything to do with it. He will see to it that Max’s childhood is way brighter than his own. He will never make his son feel guilty for being himself or force him into some box.

Izzy was surprisingly okay with the change of plans. In fact, she was more than happy about the change. She was elated to hear the party will be at Magnus’s. She immediately changed course, researching party stores in Salem and making arrangements. Magnus showed her Tessa’s social media, and she loved her cakes and other desserts. They ranged from large, small, layered, party themed, decked out in decor, and plain and simple. Her mastery is clear, and she is very detail-oriented. She’s also sweet, too, when Alec talked to her on the phone. She was more than happy to get a small cake for Max, and she had many ideas on how to decorate it.

“Thank you,” Alec tells her on the phone after making arrangements. Magnus is in the living room with Izzy and Clary helping them plan out the decorations. “I can pay you. You’re extremely good, and I would feel terrible making you work so hard without getting paid.”

“Absolutely not,” Tessa declines gently. Her voice is light and affectionate, and Alec momentarily visions her as a mother of a few kids or in her classroom full of young kids. She’s very motherly, something he’s not used to. “Magnus is my friend, and I give discounts to friends. Next time I’ll charge you something. I’ll drop it off at Magnus’s at nine, okay?”

“Okay,” Alec says. “Thank you. I can’t wait to see what you’re going to make for Max. He’s going to love whatever you do.”

“I appreciate that, Alec,” Tessa says genuinely. Alec can hear her pleased smile. “I can’t wait to meet you and your little boy.”

Izzy talks about what they’ll do and the mini games they’ll do. Obviously Max is only a baby, but Madzie is coming with a few of her friends and Tessa is coming with her kids, Lucie and James. Max will have plenty to do with his cake, affection from family, the numerous toys, and finger paintings. The party is huge, and Alec is finding himself excited to have everyone over. It being at Magnus’s house makes it feel more real. Like they’re a family, and their lives are now permanently intertwined. His siblings and Magnus’s friends are going to see them together, and suddenly everything will become more set in stone. Their relationship will be known, not only between them but with Max too. It’s not just Alec and Magnus. It’s Alec, Magnus, and Max.

Clary tells him a headcount, and he’s second guessing his excitement for a house full of people. He’s been stressed with class, Max, and keeping up with his hobbies. It’ll be good to have a day off from it all. Izzy promised she, Clary, and Magnus will handle everything.

Everyone leaves, and Alec finds Magnus in the kitchen feeding Max. Max has eggs, spinach, avocado, and strawberries on his plate. Magnus cooked an omelet for himself, and he switched his clothes for something comfier. He now wears purple silk pants with no socks to reveal his painted blue toes. The clock says five, and Alec changes into gym shorts and an old t-shirt. He slides on his tennis shoes and walks into the kitchen.

Max immediately reaches for him. “Mama!”

“Hi, baby,” Alec coos. He kisses his head and turns to Magnus, who’s not even hiding the way he’s checking him out. Alec blushes and kisses him too. “I’m going for a run.”

“Okay, darling,” he says. His eyes glow with something Alec can’t identify, and Alec’s cheeks go pink.

Alec walks out onto the porch, and he does his stretches. The wind blows on his face. The weather is nice this time of year, and the temperature is perfect for running in. He has a normal routine now. He hasn’t done this since he was five months pregnant, so he’s had to get used to moving again. He gets to five miles before he has to call it a night. The whole time he listens to his music, soaking in the cool air and being alone with his thoughts. He used to have time to himself, but then he had Max. There’s really no time alone to yourself when you have a baby.

There are times when he is literally alone with Max in his crib, but there’s a constant voice in the back of his head telling him to listen to his son’s breathing, make sure he’s okay, make sure he’s comfortable, and more neverending trains of thought. But then Magnus takes over, and Alec can pump the brake on thinking. It was not an immediate thing. He didn’t instantly trust Magnus with his son. It was a buildup from Magnus holding Max during class, holding him when Alec left the room for a second, feeding him his snacks, changing him, giving him his lunch, dressing him, until eventually one afternoon after class Alec fell asleep on the couch. He woke up afterwards to find Magnus sitting with Max in his lap. He was talking to Max about his job. He was explaining the program he was working on, and Max had looked so transfixed with wide eyes and open mouth.

Alec’s omega preened at the sight. He couldn’t look away, and there was a part of himself that weighed as heavy as a bag of stones. He felt like some part of his soul was laid bare on the tip of his fingers, held out to Magnus for him to do what he likes. It almost felt too much, and he doesn’t want to lose that part of himself because he could be let down again. He could get hurt, or even worse he could get Max hurt. He’s standing on a ledge, and he’s learning to lean on Magnus a little too much.

His mother’s voice rings in his mind, and there are times when she’s louder than his own thoughts. Most of the time, though, his siblings quieten her’s, and he has the strength to push her down. He reminds himself he has people in his corner - always has. They’ll defend him, even though he’s grown tired of there being anything to defend him from.

Now, Magnus’s soothing voice mixes with them, somehow louder than the others. His calming presence and sweet words. He can breathe when he’s with him. He feels human and safe, and he feels safe giving him Max. He can relax around him, and he doesn’t have to worry about anything. His mind and heart can rest.

The sun is setting when he returns to the house. He unlocks the door with the key Magnus made for him. He removes his shoes and sets them by the door with the other pairs. The same spot he’s been placing them for the past two months. Max is asleep in the crib in the living room, and he finds Magnus in the kitchen. He has a glass of water, and he smiles when Alec walks in. He holds out the glass to Alec in offering.

Alec ignores the glass in favor of pressing the alpha against the counter and kissing him. He presses his body against him, runs his fingers through his hair and the back of his neck to hold him close. Feel his body heat and comforting scent. He wants to wrap himself around him and never let go. He wants and wants, and he tastes him on his tongue and nibbles his bottom lip. He’s not being gentle now, never really can be, can he? There’s fire in his veins surging in his blood, and the cravings are getting to his head. He kisses harder, wanting to taste him forever, and he reaches his hands under Magnus’s shirt. He’s burning up from the inside-out, and that’s not counting the fact he just got done running five miles.

His hair is grabbed, forcing his head back with a gasp. His brain short-circuits, and he feels it all the way down to every nerve in his body. He reaches out to grab fistfuls of Magnus’s shirt, needing to feel him. He arches his back and tries to catch his breath.

“Look at you,” Magnus says in deep awe. Alec can feel his appreciating stare, running from his face to his heaving chest. “What happened during that run that made you so needy, pretty boy?”

Competence? How you treat me? Your kindness? How much Max loves you? How gorgeous you are? How every time I look at you, all I want to do is bare my neck and submit?

“I-I don’t know,” Alec whimpers. Magnus licks his collarbone, and his head is spinning. Magnus still has the firm hold on him, rendering him helpless and where the alpha wants him. That particular fact shouldn’t turn him on so much. “You. You - I want you. Please.”

“What do you want, sweetheart?” Magnus whispers in his ear. His hand slides down to feel from his chest to his stomach and to his ass. He squeezes lightly and Alec groans.

“Anything you want to give me,” Alec pleads. “You - You take care of me. I want you, please, you know what I need. Fuck!” he hisses when Magnus bites at his neck. Hands make their way up his shirt, pinching his nipples and digs into the skin of his chest, tugging a little at his chest hair. God, he loves this. He loves being felt up like this. Scrutinized and laid bare.

“I do know what you need,” Magnus says and sounds far too pleased for what control he has. He tugs harder on Alec’s dark hair. He pulls him closer, and Alec can feel the way he’s affected too. He does an experimental roll of his hips, holding tight onto Magnus’s shirt.

Magnus pulls him away by his hair, but his other hand keeps touching Alec. His free hand slides down his chest to his thighs, feeling his body like he owns it and can’t get enough. Alec’s knees are going weak, and Magnus’s hold on him is the only reason he’s still standing. His cock likes that aspect too much.

“Alexander,” Magnus calls softly. Alec fights to keep his eyes open. Magnus is smiling at him, and he looks gorgeous. “Listen to me, sweetheart. Go start the shower. Pick the soaps you like best, take off your clothes and fold them on the counter, get in, and I’ll be right there. Can you do that for me, omega?”

Alec is nodding before he finishes his instructions. “Yes, anything. I-” he whines when he tries for a kiss and doesn’t get one. He pouts, craving that mouth on his. Magnus relents, kissing the corner of his mouth.

“Get going, my darling,” Magnus urges him. Alec breathes deeply, sorting his thoughts and getting his brain back online. His skin is tingling, but he can focus now. He turns to do as Magnus says, and he curses when he squeezes his ass.

Alec walks back into the living room. Max is still asleep, and he should probably move him into the extra bedroom and closer to Magnus’s room so they can hear him if he cries. He goes to move the crib when he hears a sharp, “Go, Alexander.”

The order may sound demanding, but there’s adoration on Magnus’s face. His eyes are soft as well as his hands when he picks up the sleeping baby. He’ll be moving Max, taking the responsibility from Alec. Alec goes to shower with the picture of Magnus and his son stained on his mind.

He turns the shower on with shaky hands, and he’s trembling when he removes his clothes and folds them. He sets them near the sink, and he looks through the many soaps on the shelves. He finds cherry blossom, his go-to recently. When the water is warm enough, he gets in and begins washing. He eyes the bathroom door, but Magnus must be either getting Max back to sleep or giving Alec time to relax alone. Either way, he has it covered, and Alec closes his eyes and stands underneath the showerhead to let the water pour over him. He begins washing his arms, chest, and legs. The smell of the soap is sweet and floral, and he works to clean off the sweat and crud gathered from the day. It leaves a refreshing feel, relaxing his tense muscles and aches.

Alec jumps when the shower curtain opens, and Magnus walks in. His nudity takes him by surprise, and he doesn’t know why. His bronze skin over arms thick with muscle and sharp collar bones make him want to get on his knees. Those arms could hold him easily, and he visions Magnus holding him up against the wall and fucking him with the water running over them. His cock is thick and hard, and Alec’s caught glimpses of it, but this is an all new feeling. If his cock softened at all between the kitchen and here, the sight of Magnus alone is all it takes to fix that predicament.

“You’re beautiful,” Alec says. The words come out more firm than he meant, but it was fitting. Magnus is beautiful. It’s a fact of life. He is muscular, and he has defined abs that should be a crime to hide under his clothes. Alec used to have abs in high school, but then he got pregnant. His stomach is flat and soft, and he can’t help but feel a little bit self conscious.

Magnus’s smile makes his heart skip a beat, and then he has Alec pressed against the wall. Magnus cornering him seems to be a pattern, but he’s not complaining. Was it a Magnus thing or Alec’s thing? He doesn’t know, but he’s soon going to walk into a room and immediately imagine Magnus pressing him against it.

“Sweet, sweet omega,” Magnus murmurs and Alec preens under the alpha’s attention. He looks him over, and Alec thinks of being eaten alive. Fingers run through his hair, twisting little hairs, and then Magnus leans down to take his nipple in his mouth.

Alec shouts and moans, and his whole body jerks in his hold. It starts off teasing, and then he licks and sucks and Alec can’t breathe. It feels too good, and he doesn’t know what to do with his hands. He stopped nursing about a month ago, but he still has a moment of wonder about how it would feel to have Magnus’s mouth on him when his breasts are full.

Magnus shushes him, and he realizes he’s been moaning his name. “You’re so gorgeous like this. I can do whatever I would like with you, huh, sweetheart?”

Alec nods dreamily, “Yes, I’m yours, Magnus. Please touch me. Please, I-I need you.” His voice is shaky, growing desperate and whiny. He doesn’t care much anymore as long as Magnus touches him.

Magnus kisses him again, and Alec parts his lip for another taste. He whimpers when Magnus leans back and out of reach. “Be a good boy and turn around.”

Alec turns around and Magnus sighs, “You are so pretty, sweetheart. Such a good boy.” Alec’s cheeks are pink with the affectionate words. He’s so receptive to praise, turning his brain into goo. Magnus notices. “You love to be complimented, Alexander?” Magnus knows he does. It’s been clear since their first date. Alec can hear his smile. “I’ll praise you until you’re a shaking whimpering mess on my bed, my darling.”

His words alone have his cock hard and raised to his belly, and the water pours over him. He closes his eyes when Magnus starts lining kisses down from his shoulders to his lower back. It’s like a trail of heat burning him from the inside, getting hotter with every kiss.

Magnus parts his cheeks with both hands, and slick drips out of his hole. A finger presses against his rim, easily sliding in with how open and loose he is. Magnus slides his finger all the way in, and Alec groans.

“Say you deserve this,” Magnus says from where he’s kissing the area between his ass and the back of his leg. He bites one cheek, keeping a steady rhythm of his finger. “Tell me you’re a good boy, darling.”

Alec whimpers, trying to keep from falling. His whole world has narrowed down to Magnus’s hands, sinful mouth, and tongue. Magnus is pumping two fingers into him now, and it feels amazing. He presses his cheek on the wet shower wall and tries to breathe.

His eyes roll back when Magnus runs his tongue slowly over his hole, circling his rim and sinking between his fingers. “I’m a good boy. I’m good. I’m yours, alpha, and I’m good. I deserve this. Please!”

“Such a good boy,” Magnus whispers.

Magnus eats him out like he’s the last meal on earth. He alternates between broad strokes, short kitten licks, and sucking on his hole. Alec is drowning. He tries to breathe with the water washing over his face and hair, all while trying not to slip and fall. Magnus must sense this because he picks up Alec’s leg by the knee and holds it to the side.

Magnus sinks three fingers into him, and Alec groans deeply. The sounds are vulgar, the noise of Magnus’s hand moving faster and deeper into his body. Alec writhes in his hold, losing every bit of himself under the sensation of Magnus’s tongue and long fingers. His cock is achingly hard and heavy, leaking on the wall where it’s trapped.

“You going to come for me, Alexander?” Magnus says with awe. He kisses the back of his thigh, thrusting his fingers in a different angle. Alec bucks with a shout, and Magnus focuses on aiming for that angle.

“Magnus…” Alec whines.

“Yes, darling, come for me,” Magnus encourages. “You taste so good on my tongue. I want to eat you for hours.” The sensual thrall of his voice washes over Alec, and the omega moans loud enough to be heard over the water. His tongue is all the way inside, and Alec goes crazy. Magnus strokes his cock, and that’s all it takes for Alec to come.

Alec can’t move, can only lean on the shower wall and try to get air in his lungs. His muscles are loose and melted into puddles, and he’s too tired to flinch at the sound of a bottle opening. Fingers tug at his hair and scratch at his scalp. Magnus is lathering his hair with shampoo, and the aroma of coconut fills the room.

There’s something incredibly intimate about applying shampoo to a lover’s hair. It’s the act of taking care of someone without being asked, certainly not required but simply doing so because they want to. Magnus wants to take care of him. He says so all the time, as if he is aware of Alec’s stubbornness to believe it. He states not only in words but actions too. He cooks, washes dishes, helps Max get dressed, changes Max’s diaper, cleans Alec’s sunglasses, makes sure Alec’s phone and ipad are plugged in to be charged, and tons more. Things Alec would never even think about asking. He doesn’t know what he’s done to deserve someone like Magnus, and he’s often wondering how long he’ll have him in his life. Right now, though, he’ll appreciate every second of Magnus’s generosity and affection.

He leans back so Magnus can wash out the shampoo. Alec looks nowhere but at Magnus when he reaches for the conditioner. He washes Alec’s hair like it’s the most important thing he’ll ever do.

“I want you,” Alec says. The words come out jumbled and heated.

Magnus finally meets his eye, flickers down for a second, and back up. He’s hard again and he shouldn’t be. He just came but it’s as if he didn’t. His cock is hard and twitching, and Magnus is in the same state. He didn’t come yet, and god he wants to make him come. Preferably inside him with his teeth in his neck and fingers digging in his hips and forcing him to take every inch of him.

Magnus’s eyes are dark, erasing the line between pupil and brown. He searches Alec’s face for any sign of uncertainty, and Alec knows he won’t find any. Pleased, Magnus whispers, “Okay, sweetheart. Lean back.”

Magnus winks when Alec glares at him, but Alec does as he says. Breathtaking want is blended deep inside his body. It’s a volcano of boiling hot desire, and it’s corrupting every last working brain cell. He’s taking short breaths, and he’s so horny he can’t do anything else.

Magnus is supposed to take care of him. Why isn’t Magnus touching him? “Magnus,” he whines pathetically.

A finger presses against his open mouth, and he immediately starts to suck on it. Magnus groans. “Are you going to be a good boy for me?” Alec nods and holds onto the alpha’s arm. He won’t let Magnus leave. He can’t leave. He sighs when Magnus starts kissing his neck, and he bares more of his vulnerable skin. He thinks of hickeys, wondering and secretly hoping he leaves a mark. He wants Magus’s mark on him. He wants everyone to know he belongs to him. He’s not for anyone else. He’s purely, utterly Magnus’s.

“I know you are,” Magnus says with a nip to his earlobe. A response to a question Alec didn’t realize he asked.

The ownership sends a thrill down his spine, and he arches his back. He’s not sure if he looks sexy or silly, but Magnus looks him over appreciatively. His own cock hard against Alec’s hip. He wants it inside him. He wants wants wants.

“You going to fuck me in your bed, alpha?” he murmurs between kisses. He strokes Magnus’s cock, and he shivers and clenches his jaw. Magnus shuts off the water and bites Alec’s lip.

“I am going to make you feel so good,” Magnus purrs. “Go get on the bed, my darling. Spread your legs and show me how much you want me.”

Magnus doesn’t have to say it twice. Alec is gone, head spinning as he makes the short trip to Magnus’s bed. He crawls to the middle and lays on his back. He curses as slick starts dripping out of his hole and gets on the sheets. He wraps his hand around his cock, pumping his fist for some relief. He doesn’t stop when Magnus joins him. He doesn’t see that he needs to, and Magnus smiles cockily. .

He runs a fingertip up Alec’s leg, and his muscles jump under the teasing touch. “You’re a mess, aren’t you, sweetheart?” Magnus comments sweetly. “You feel things so strongly, and you don’t know what to do.”

Alec whimpers and tugs Magnus on top of him. Magnus fits perfectly, and Alec wraps his legs around him. He moans when their cocks touch, and his head is racing. He doesn’t know where to put his hands, and he settles them around Magnus. He pulls him closer, shaking with pleading eyes. “Please fuck me. Magnus… I need it. Please.”

Magnus shushes him, and he plants kisses on his cheeks, forehead, and lips. “I’ll give you what you need, darling. I’ll take care of you.”

“I know,” Alec says with unbearing amount of honesty. He knows Magnus will take care of him. He knows grass is green. He knows the sky is blue. He knows Magnus will take care of him. He can fall completely right now and Magnus will take care of him. Angels, it feels so good to be cared for.

Alec received his birth control shot four months ago, and they both got tested. Everything is good and safe, but Alec still feels his heart ram in his chest when Magnus enters him. He fingered him open in the shower, loosening his hole so he can slide right in. His jaw drops and eyes close, and he focuses on relaxing his body. He groans, feeling every inch of his cock fill him up.

Magnus is demanding in bed. He learned that from the beginning. The way he takes what he wants, and he makes Alec feel so damn good. He’s controlling and demanding, moving Alec’s body the way he wants like a doll. He’s stronger than he looks, and he is deliciously good at holding Alec down and taking from him. Alec fucking loves it. He loves the way Magnus holds his legs apart while he blows him. He’s been held face down as Magnus eats him like he’s his last meal. One hand on his back holding him down and the other holding both his wrists above his head. He wants Magnus everywhere, all over him, biting and licking and touching him.

Alec finds out rather quickly Magnus is no different here. He’s gentle, incredibly patient, talking Alec through it with soft kisses to his lips and cheek. He does so while holding Alec’s hands down on both sides of his head. Alec has never felt so precious and completely owned. Everything Magnus does feels incredible, and he’s being stretched open and he’s losing his mind. It’s been so long, and he can feel every inch filling him so well. His cock throbs when Magnus finally bottoms out, pressing against his prostate and taking every ounce of his sanity.

“Fuck,” he gasps, his eyes flying open. He flexes his fingers, and Magnus holds him tighter.

“God, Alexander, you’re gorgeous,” Magnus murmurs smugly. “Taking my cock like you were made for me.” Alec whines when he pulls out only to fuck back in.

“More,” Alec pleads. He clutches Magnus’s hands, and he rolls his hips to get him deeper. “I need more. More, please, alpha.”

“Your begging is music to my ears,” Magnus says, going deeper and making Alec see stars. “I’m going to give you exactly what you need. You’re everything I’ve ever wanted. Taking what I give you and wanting more. I’ll give you everything. I promise, my good boy.”

“Magnus, please,” Alec pleads desperately. He tries to take him deeper, but he’s rewarded with a firm hand holding him in place and that makes his cock weep precome. Magnus surrounds him, restraining him and forcing him to take exactly what he wants. He pleads for more, and Magnus gives him more and then some. He pinches his nipple, sinks his teeth in his neck and shoulder, and his cock grazes his prostate every two thrusts. He may be restraining him, but he’s giving every inch of Alec’s body attention. There’s not a single part of him unscathed, and he’s quickly reaching his second orgasm.

“You feel so fucking good around me,” Magnus moans. Alec feels a give in his hold, and he uses his remaining energy to flip them over. The second he’s settled, he moves hard and fast. Magnus grips the back of his legs and the back of his hair. Alec shouts as his hair is tugged harshly, and he digs his nails in Magnus’s shoulders.

“You feel me inside you, sweetheart?” Magnus whispers in his ear. Alec moans, his orgasm right in his reach. Magnus is watching him so openly, and he’s seen the expression before. He’s seen people gaze up at paintings at the museum or even at the moon and twinkling stars with the exact same look. Alec needs to kiss him more than he needs to breathe.

“Fuck me harder,” Alec pants sharply. He moves with every word, growing harder and deeper. He feels the bottom of Magnus’s cock thicken. “Fuck me until I feel you tomorrow. I-I want your knot, please.”

“You want to feel me tomorrow, my darling?”

Magnus grabs onto Alec, holding him up and fucks into him roughly. Alec clutches onto him, trying to keep it together as Magnus splits him open. He looks down at Magnus and sees his eyes heavy with lust and desire. Magnus flicks down to his lips, and Alec leans down to crash his lips with his. They’re both panting and moaning, and Alec’s cock is leaking trapped between their bodies. Magnus thumbs at his cockhead. He moans into the kiss, and he comes at the next direct hit to his prostate.

Magnus groans, bringing Alec’s body down on his cock and comes deep inside him. He kisses Alec’s parted lips, and Alec closes his eyes. Magnus moves them so they lay on their sides a foot away so they don’t lay in their mess.

Magnus runs his fingers lazily up and down his body, massaging various parts of his arms and legs. He runs his fingers through the omega’s hair, and Alec’s eyes flutter open. He smiles when Magnus places his chin on his shoulder, and he turns to give him the kiss he’s quietly asking for. He takes a deep breath, feeling pleasantly warm in his cinnamon scent.

“You’re so beautiful,” Magnus murmurs, eyes searching his face and clasping their hands. Alec smiles back. His heart does a little squeeze. Fifteen minutes later, Magnus’s knot deflates enough to part. Magnus goes to retrieve a damp cloth and cleans between Alec’s legs and chest. He does it gently, and Alec is asleep by the time he’s done.

********

A week later Magnus’s house is filled with people. Izzy, Jace, Simon, Clary, Catarina, Madzie, Madzie’s two friends, Tessa, her husband and two children, and Raphael. Tessa and her husband, Will, don’t stay long. She’s there to drop off the cake and leave, but then she gets sidetracked by Max, and she lights up at the sight of the baby. Max is absolutely thrilled by all the attention, and he loves his cake. Frosting is all over his face and hands, and Alec takes pictures and videos of it all.

The counters are covered in desserts and snacks, including the cupcakes he and Magnus made the night prior. They made two batches with a short pause in between due to Magnus goading Alec into a kiss by smearing frosting on his lips. They fucked in the kitchen with Alec bent over the counter and frosting and cake batter in places they shouldn’t be.

Alec cleaned the area thoroughly, but he still refuses to eat a cupcake. Magnus will look at him all knowingly, and Alec will get hard and that would be an annoyance.

Jace is holding the birthday boy, and Alec warns him to stop spinning him or he’ll regret it. Jace has yet to stop, and Alec has the wet wipes and new shirt ready.

Sure enough, Max throws up on him, and Alec vaguely points in the direction of the wet wipes and shirt. Jace looks ready to barf himself, and Alec knows now he’s learned his lesson.

“Idiot,” Raphael says beside him.

“Guarantee he won’t do that again,” Alec comments, amused. He clears his throat. “What were you saying? I was distracted.”

Raphael doesn’t look particularly bothered by his inability to stay focused on his rant. “I need a better system at my bar. Lily is a decent bartender, and she’s brought in clientele. We’re busy, and we need to get more organized.”

Decent. Raphael owns a bar, and his sales have tripled since he hired Lily. ‘Decent’ doesn’t come close to the truth, but it’s Raphael. He’ll look at Beethoven and call him ‘lucky’. He’ll watch the Olympics and call them ‘above average’.

“You opened your bar a year ago,” Alec says. “Makes sense you’re still fixing some things.”

Raphael rolls his eyes. “My system is fine. I don’t need to change anything.”

Alec squints at him. Raphael is hard to read. He doesn’t outright say what he means. A conversation with him usually ends in a headache. “Then why are you bringing this up? Why are you even talking to me? Thought you didn’t like me.”

Raphael raises a brow. “I don’t like anyone. I’m just saying my bar is getting busier, and I suppose it could be updated. Although, I’d have to hire some idiot to do it. I’m too busy for that. I got better things I could be doing.”

Alec throws him a look. “Are you referring to me as this idiot?”

Raphael doesn’t look at him. Instead, he’s looking at Max, who’s walking into a grinning Simon’s arms. “Not an idiot with the computer I heard. Either at the bar or at home. It doesn’t matter as long as you get it done.”

Alec blinks, dumbfounded. “You’re offering me a job? Am I dying?”

“Quit being dramatic,” Raphael snipes. “About time you make your own money rather than Magnus paying for everything.”

“I am going to assume I struck a chord there, and you didn’t mean that,” Alec says carefully with a dangerous edge. “Or I will kick you out. I’ll tell Magnus you got sick.”

“So damn dramatic,” Raphael repeats, though it’s obvious he’s alarmed by the way he steps closer to the snack table. He pulls out his phone and reads something or pretends he is. “Ask Magnus for the address, and you come by Monday after your classes.”

“Why don’t you have Magnus do it?” Alec asks skeptically.

Raphael scoffs. “He’s doing enough charity work. Plus, I couldn’t afford him.”

Alec purses his lips and nods. On one hand, he needs a job. He should make his own steady income, and it’s hard as a single parent who’s going to school. But does he truly have to work for someone so obnoxious? He’s learned not to take anything the man says to heart, but he somehow gets remarkably close to a person’s weak spot.

It would be nice to have a job though. He could put it on his resume. His resume hasn’t been touched in a year. Of course it hasn’t been too long since he graduated high school, but people at least have jobs by now. This way he can put organizational skills, program editor, or at least data analysis on there. He could also say ‘I can work with giant assholes who think they’re better than you.’ What are future employers going to do? Call Raphael? He’ll put Jace’s phone number down.

Alec goes around the room and says hello to everyone. Madzie and her friends are playing pin the donkey and covered in glitter he has no idea where they got. Jace and the others are talking amongst themselves. Jace changed his shirt, and Clary is still wiping his face and arms off. Simon is holding Max now, and he’s talking to him about video games. Alec winces and hopes Max doesn’t turn into a gamer. Although, he’ll admit there are worse things to get into.

There’s a table by the front door where all the gifts were placed. He made a registry with Clary’s help, and he sees a bunch of items he needed. Outlet covers, door knob covers, and other baby-proofing items. He did need more clothes because Max is getting bigger. He sees cute superhero clothes with a cape, and he’ll be sure to take pictures of Max in them.

There’s a board full of pictures of Max underneath a paper giraffe and hanging vines. There’s some of him laughing and giggling, and half of them have his family in them looking at him adoringly. Alec smiles looking at them. He’ll never get enough of his son’s laughs and giggles. His son’s happiness is music to his ears, and he’ll do anything to hear it all the time.

Alec is about to walk away when he spots another picture. The picture is not of Max, and it’s far smaller hidden behind a gift bag.

It takes him a few moments to understand what he’s looking at.

Alec is staring at a picture of Grant. He’s wearing his high school shirt and black gym shorts. His hair tousled and wet from sweat. He’s grinning, and his eyes are in slits. Alec remembers the moment it was taken, because he was the one who took it. He had attended most of Grant’s practices. This one occurred after he finally nailed a big move. He finally caught Kaitlyn Snow, and it was a perfect end of practice. Grant was smiling so wide, and he was beautiful. The picture is small, but it’s there right on the table. The frame is simple, silver and rectangular. The picture hid well behind the gifts and snacks displayed.

“The picture was Magnus’s idea.”

Izzy stands next to him, and she looks at the picture too. A hint of a smile tugs on her lips. She misses him too. They were pretty close. Alec looks at her with wide eyes and she shakes her head. “I mean, of course he didn’t pick the picture. He didn’t pick the frame or where I put it. All he said was that it was important for Max’s father to be here. He knew Max needed that. He knew you needed it too.”

Tears form in the back of his eyes. Izzy is smiling at him, and Alec goes to say something, but nothing he says can explain how much Magnus’s gesture means to him. “He didn’t need to do that.”

“No,” Izzy agrees, still smiling. She must see he’s struggling and continues, “No, he didn’t, but he did. I’m so glad he’s sweet to you, big brother. You deserve it.”

“I’m learning that,” Alec says honestly. He kisses the side of her head and heads off. “I got to find him.”

He finds Magnus heading down the hall. He follows him to Magnus’s bedroom. Magnus turns and smiles crookedly in surprise at his urgency.

“Darling, are you alright-“

Alec kisses him. Probably harsher than necessary, but his heart is pounding away, and he needs Magnus to know how much he means to him. How much he appreciates him and all he does for Max. A baby not his own, though he treats him like he is. Magnus’s kindness still surprises him, and he’s shown no signs of stopping. It’s surreal how sweet he is. Loving on a baby not his own and then reaching out to Izzy to make sure Max’s father is represented at his birthday. He can’t understand him, maybe he never will because he’s never met someone so generous and giving.

Magnus pulls away grinning, and he laughs softly when Alec follows his lips. “What’s gotten into you, Alexander?”

“Hopefully you,” Alec says suggestively and Magnus grins wider. Alec shakes his head. “I just…I lo-like you a lot. You are like no one I’ve ever known. That picture of Max’s father? You didn’t need to do that.”

Magnus looks bashful. “Of course I did. I’m not going to pretend he never existed. That wouldn’t be right. Max should know who he is.”

“Yeah,” Alec says, choked up. He can feel the tears forming. How can anybody be so selfless? “Yes, you’re right. He… He would appreciate everything you do for him.”

“I don’t know about that,” Magnus teases, but he can’t hide the hard lines around his face. Worry.

“Yes,” Alec says, putting more certainty. He caresses Magnus’s face and kisses him. “He would, Magnus.”

Chapter Text

“Gorgeous,” a deep, sensual voice breathes on his neck. Alec whimpers and tightens his grip on soft hair that normally has a layer of gel. He arches his back at a particular harsh thrust. Sharp teeth bite into his neck, and it takes him by surprise. He lets out a loud grunt, and a palm shoots up to cover his mouth.

Both men freeze. Alec meets Magnus’s gaze, and they both widen their eyes in fearful apprehension. The house is silent, except for the clock ticking on the wall. Alec listens for the smallest creak, tiniest wind on the window panel, and any other sound that translates to the awakening of the other human in the house.

A minute goes by and Alec hears nothing. He pulls on Magnus’s hair, guiding his head back down to his chest. He begins moving again, but Magnus doesn’t move his hand. His eyes roll back when Magnus runs his tongue flat on his nipple, while simultaneously grabbing his hips and bringing his body down onto his cock. Alec feels every delicious inch, getting deeper and brushing his prostate. He found the perfect angle minutes ago, and he’s shaking and struggling to remain quiet.

“Magnus,” Alec moans out a plea, and it comes out muffled. He loves the way Magnus uses his body, not allowing him a sliver of control. He has no choice but to try to hang on, grab onto whatever part of Magnus he can. There’s something about the way Magnus moves him around, putting all his attention on Alec. Alec can’t get enough, and he groans.

“Are you okay with your neck squeezed?” Magnus asks.

Alec circles his hips, and it’s like lightning buzzing pleasantly in his veins. He shakes his head. His hair is suddenly yanked backward, and he really likes his hair pulled. Magnus’s hand is the only reason his moan doesn’t leave the room. He can’t move his head, and there is a stern arm wrapped around his back and holding his body down so Magnus has all the power here. Alec can’t move or argue while Magnus can freely fuck into him. Alec shakes, spurred on by the dominance.

“Then be quiet,” Magnus says darkly, and he holds Alec up to fuck into. He chuckles as if a thought just occurred to him. “I am. For what it’s worth.”

Every thrust hits his prostate dead-on, and he can’t feel his body. Pleasure ripples through his body and sharp along his spine. He couldn’t form words or thoughts, besides make me come, make me come… Almost there. He fights Magnus’s hold, and he meets his thrusts in a delectable broken rhythm. His cock is trapped between their bodies, and he ruts against Magnus’s defined stomach.

“You’re so beautiful,” Magnus moans, voice getting deep and breathless. “The only thing about this position I don’t like is that I can’t see your face when you come. All I can enjoy is the feel of your hole tightening around me and seeing your body squirm.”

Alec whimpers, and he comes. He tries hard to keep the noises in, but it’s useless when it comes to Magnus and how good he makes him feel. He’s never come this hard in his life, and he thought he wouldn’t like the way the alpha holds him down. He likes to take control, and he always wants more. He wants to take and take until he’s lost all touch of reality.

This, though? The way Magnus holds him in a vice and takes from him just as greedily, he loves it more than he thought he would. He craves it. He wants Magnus to never stop holding him like this or looking at him in that hazy way. He wants dents in his skin from Magnus’s fingers, and he wants to be thrown around like a doll.

He can tell Magnus is about to come, and he gasps, “No! No, don’t knot me. Max-”

“I know,” Magnus reassures. He bites into Alec’s neck and wraps an arm around his waist. Alec couldn’t get away if he wanted to, and the thought shouldn’t make him shiver. Magnus comes with a groan, and Alec pets at his hair. He kisses the alpha’s slack lips, his nose, and his eyelids.

Alec wets his lips, and three little words are at the tip of his tongue. He can feel them. He can taste them, and the way they are seconds from slipping out.

I love you.

Alec keeps his lips sealed, not wanting to blurt those words right now. Right here. Not when his body is completely relaxed and weightless. He’s covered in his come, and Magnus’s knot still presses against his rim. Right now isn’t ideal, and he has to think about it first and what it means.

Does he love Magnus? How can he not? Magnus is…Magnus!. Someone who makes him ridiculously happy. He loves Max and takes care of him. He takes care of Alec. Alec never has to worry when he’s with Magnus. Magnus is always three steps ahead of him, holding his things, listening to him, helping him with Max, and kissing him like somehow Alec’s lips have all the answers. Magnus makes him feel secure for the first time in his life. Like Alec can relax, and he can rely on Magnus to catch him if he falls.

“What are you smiling at?”

They’re sweaty and gross, and they need to shower. Magnus looks stunning. He looks more beautiful than any of the world's wonders, and he shines brighter than the sun. He’s not wearing any makeup here. He woke Alec up with his mouth, and they both probably have terrible morning breath. Magnus looks so…open and precious, and Alec’s heart is beating so fast. He’s never felt like this with anyone, and he can’t help but be scared a little.

“I get to see you shower,” Alec lies easily. It’s not a total lie. He indeed loves to see Magnus shower, happy to see him naked with water droplets on his brown skin. He wants to lick them off every time.

They both turn when they hear a crying Max. Alec takes a shower first, and Magnus gets dressed to get Max ready for the day. Alec showers fast, and he borrows one of Magnus’s shirts. It’s a little snug on him, but it’s soft and smells like Magnus. He goes into the kitchen, and Max shrieks at him with his hands out.

“My baby,” Alec coos. Alec kisses his cheeks and nose, and he spins him around and smiles at Max’s laughter. Magnus smiles and kisses Alec’s cheek, and he leaves to take his own shower. Alec goes to the fridge in search of food, and he pulls out eggs, spinach, bacon bits, and avocados. He chops it all up when it’s done and makes a plate for Max, sitting him in his high-chair.

He hears the shower turn off, and he gets up to pull out ingredients to make french toast. Five minutes later, Magnus walks out in blue silk pants and a black robe. Alec doesn’t hide the way he checks him out, and Magnus winks.

“Could you drive me to Max’s grandparents’ house next weekend?” Alec asks. He flips the bread in the eggs without looking at Magnus.

Magnus walks by with Max in his arms, who has egg on his cheeks. Magnus cleans him up, and then goes over to kiss Alec’s cheek, and Alec blushes. “Of course, darling. Ragnor is back in town for a week. I’ll visit him so you can catch up.”

Alec nods and bites his lip. “You don’t have to do that. You can…stay.”

Magnus stands there quietly for a second, perplexed. He kisses Max’s fists as if it were a habit. “You want me to meet them?”

“They want to meet you,” Alec corrects. Something flickers across Magnus’s face. Genuine surprise and soft. Alec knows he connected the dots. Alec has been talking to Grant’s parents about Magnus.

It shouldn’t have been a surprise. Yesterday, Alec was in the middle of explaining to Grant’s parents how he’s started to work out again, Max is getting the alphabet down, and Max has become a huge fan of painting. There’s a certain type of paint that only shows up on paper, and their apartment is full of Max’s paintings. Alec gives them two to have. One of stick figures that is supposed to be Alec and Max. The other one is of a cow Max saw during the ride here. He talks about Clary, and how thrilled she is to have a painting partner.

He also tells them he might have a job. He’s going to be working at a friend’s bar to create some system to better organize his orders and stocks. Alec is in the middle of telling them about Max’s obsession with ‘Oops! I Did It Again’ by Britney Spears, when Grant’s mother, Beverly, asks unprompted, “Are you seeing somebody, Alec?”

Alec’s eyes nearly popped out of his skull. He gaped like a fish, struggling to read the room and how they could have possibly known. He showers before he comes over to cover his scent, although Magnus is usually the one driving him. All Alec’s clothes smell like cinnamon now.

His heart is beating out of his chest. How could he be so stupid? He shouldn’t be dating some alpha when he has a baby to take care of. It was selfish of Alec.

But the idea of Magnus leaving him physically hurts, and he doesn’t know how he would get out of bed. Not when he’s so used to waking up in Magnus’s arms, and kisses to his cheeks and whispered sweet nothings. Strong arms that make him so safe and loved.

“He is nice to Max,” Alec says lamely. He needs them to know Max is safe. He wouldn’t do anything to hurt Max. He is wearing a white sweater, and he tugs at the sleeves. What if they get mad? What if they want to keep Max now that Alec is seeing someone new? What if they call him selfish for replacing Grant? He wouldn’t blame them for thinking that way. He is needy, and he shouldn’t be putting Max in danger just because he selfishly wanted to not be alone.

“Magnus got him the brushes,” he explains further. His voice is shaky, and he’s not looking at them. “He is very fond of Max. He feeds him and plays with him.”

“Alec, honey,” Beverly interrupts. She’s getting older, and there is a stern wrinkle between her eyebrows. “I am not angry. I trust you. You wouldn’t put Max in danger. I am so glad Max has someone else in his life to take care of him - to take care of you. Max needs someone to take care of you, dear. I worry about you sometimes.”

Alec swallows hard. Grant’s father, Ben, is holding Max, and his son reaches for him in anguish as if he knows his mama is upset.

“You’re just happy,” she explains like that was all that matters. “You smell different, and there’s so much life inside you. More than even when we first met you.”

The fact someone is noticing the way he’s much happier now makes him choked up. There was a long time when he was so depressed he didn’t get out of bed. He would stay in his nest with Grant’s clothes to his chest, and he wouldn’t eat. Izzy and Jace begged him to take care of himself. They were terrified and nothing seemed to motivate him to move. It wasn’t until Clary came to him and told him he needed to eat for the baby’s sake, that Alec finally caved and ate some crackers and drank some water. She even convinced him to take a bath, and she washed his hair for him.

Clary told him later she didn’t mean for it to sound like she cared for the baby more than him. She just had a feeling he !thought like that, and it was the next best approach. Remind him he was living for two now, and his siblings needed him too.

It got bad again when Max was born, but not nearly as numbing. He was better after a month, and he couldn’t get enough of his son.

“Magnus asked my sister to put a picture of Grant out during the party,” Alec says. He could convince them of Magnus’s love for Max, but he also has to make them aware of Magnus’s incredible selfless act and respect for Max’s father.

Beverly beams, and a tear slides down her cheek. “We would love to meet him. If he has time of course.”

The request doesn’t sound nearly as weird as he might’ve thought. It makes sense they would want to meet the man Alec is trusting with Max. “I’ll ask him. He’s…very nice. He’s sweet to me. I’m really happy.”

Beverly smiles wide, and he can see sadness there, but her happiness for Alec’s wellbeing is stronger. She stands up, and Alec hugs her. “Want some lunch, hun? I made meatloaf last night.”

“I would love some.”

Magnus picked him up an hour later. He’s buckling Max into his seat when Alec asks, “Did Raphael tell you about offering me a job?”

Magnus gets in the driver's seat and pulls out of the driveway. “Yeah, he told me. You start tomorrow, right?”

Alec nods, and he looks down at the envelope in his hand. “How long do you think he’ll need me? I really need to start making my own money. Paying my bills. I’m tired of Grant’s parents paying everything for me. I want to be independent.”

Magnus puts his hand on his. “You’re strong, Alexander. I have full faith you can do anything you set your mind on. Trust me, you’ll be plenty busy at his bar. A few months at least, and then we can figure something out. Another opportunity might come up. I do know people who may have something for you. Plus, in a blink of an eye, you’ll be done with the program.”

Alec squints. “I’m surprised you haven’t offered me a job.”

Magnus laughs. “Because I know it’d make you mad.”

Alec blushes and shrugs. “Can’t have you doing all the work. I want to earn my way.”

Magnus shakes his head and brings Alec’s hand to his lips to kiss. “You’re the strongest man I’ve ever known. Max is so lucky. I am so lucky.”

Alec smiles. “Not as lucky as I am.”

***********

Raphael’s bar, Hunter’s Moon, is a nice bar. The atmosphere is open and friendly, and there are plenty of tables, two pool tables, dart boards, and foosball. There are even small couches in the corner for people to sit with their friends and chat. There are lights dangling around the room, giving the space a nice warm glow.

Alec gets there after his class. He takes an uber because Magnus is busy with a student. Raphael welcomes him with a humph and a scowl, and he points to the back. There’s an office and a storage area, and Alec turns on a rather ancient looking computer. It turns on well enough, and he sets up a small playpen for Max.

An asian woman with long black hair and pink ends comes in to say hi, but she instantly spots Max and squeals. “Oh my goodness! What a cutie!”

She skips over and picks up Max, who’s smiling wide and grabs for her hair in fascination. “Who is this adorable boy?”

“Max,” Alec tells her. He stands there awkwardly, not sure what to do or say. He’s happy to see Max get attention, and Max is obviously loving it too. “Who are you?”

“Lily. You must be Alec,” she says. She puts Max back down, before sitting down beside him. Alec had pulled out some of his toys, and Lily picks up a toy guitar. “I didn’t think you’d show up.”

“What? Because of Raphael?” Alec guesses. He shrugs. “I’ve dealt with people like him before. Still do. I’m happy to have a job, even if my boss is an asshole.”

Lily giggles, eyes shining in amusement. “I think that’s what makes him so delectable.”

Alec cringes. “Pretty sure he doesn’t know what a smile is.”

“Still hot,” Lily grins, and Alec shakes his head. He grins in return. There’s something about her that pulls on his smile. He also considers that Lily knows Raphael a lot better than he does. Maybe there’s something about him Alec doesn’t see. Her and Magnus speak highly of him. Alec could at least give him a chance.

“I’ll watch this cutie while you work. We’re not busy right now, and Maia is coming in later too,” Lily offers.

“Sure.”

Max starts searching through his toys and showing Lily. Lily sits with Max for another twenty minutes, and then she leaves to serve customers. Alec puts on a movie for him when he starts to fuss, and Alec sets up a makeshift bed for him to fall asleep on. The office is relatively quiet with the door shut and no one bothers him. He gets to work on planning out a system, and how he could be most efficient. He checks out the storage and kitchen in the back, and there’s little order. Creating some sort of filing system should be the first step, and he gets to brainstorming.

Alec is feeding Max the sandwich he packed this morning when three hours later, Raphael walks in. “Food here not good enough for you?”

Alec gives him a dry look. He cleans off the jelly on Max’s face, and the boy crawls back to his pile of musical toys. “Can’t afford to buy lunch every day I work. You do know I took this job to make money, right?”

Raphael isn’t looking at him. He’s looking down at Max, who’s on his feet gripping on Raphael’s pants. He’s holding up a toy dinosaur to try to show it off. Raphael doesn’t take it, and he puts the toy in his mouth. He leans on Raphael’s leg and giggles.

Alec clears his throat. Raphael says, “I think I can afford to feed my workers. We have burgers and nachos right now. I’ll have Bat make nachos.”

“Oh,” Alec says, taken back. Raphael still sounds like it’s inconvenient for him based on his grouchy tone. The way he watches Max is contradictory. There’s something friendly about his youthful face. “Thanks.”

Raphael seems unable to focus with Max tugging on his pant leg. Raphael has his hands in his pockets, and he’s staring down at Max with an incomprehensible expression.

“You can hold him, ya know,” Alec says, uncertain. He knows his fair share of people who don’t like children or just have a dislike of holding them. Raphael, though, is studying him with no hostility or affection. His expression is raw, and Alec wonders if he lost someone. “You don’t have to stare at him like that. He wants you to pick him up.”

Raphael purses his lips and seems to draw back. He shakes his head and leaves. Max, distraught by being ignored, chases after him on unsteady legs. Alec follows him, and Max spots Lily behind the bar and claps his hands in excitement. Alec goes to pick him up, but Raphael beats him to it. He snatches him up and spins him around.

“You’re not even 21 months, you crazy boy!” Lily laughs from the other side of Alec.

“Careful little guy,” a drunk man at the counter grumbles. He’s a large man dressed like a construction worker. He’s working on his second beer, and he’s eyeing Max in a way that tugs at Alec’s instincts and fury. “Wouldn’t want someone to snatch you up.”

And Alec is walking. His gaze pointed unflinchingly on the alpha. Alec leans over the counter, far enough to hook his fingers over the edge. The man, no longer confident and more sober than he was previously, leans back. His eyes full of fear.

Alec smiles and taps his sharp elongated nails on the wood. They make an awful scraping noise. The man flinches, and he smells revolting and terrified. “Please,” Alec whispers darkly. “Tell me what you mean by that.”

The man pales. “It was a joke-“

Alec smiles wider. He feels the weight of his fangs on his lips. “I love jokes. Do you want me to tell you a joke? It’s really good. An alpha and an omega walk into a bar, and only one comes out. Take a guess who it is.”

The man shakes his head quickly. He looks at his friends, who’s sitting there frozen and not looking at him. “That’s not necessary.”

Alec pouts and taps his fingers. His nails scrape against the wood, and then he circles the man’s glass with one nail. “Fine. Well, I’m going to go to the back with my son. You let me know if your next drink tastes funny to you.”

The man looks really ready to either piss himself or run as fast as his legs can carry. Alec turns back and nearly runs into Raphael. Raphael is holding out Max like the baby was an actual bomb. Max has no cares in the world, all happy and giggling with his arms out to Alec.

Raphael scowls, “Take your son back, you psycho.”

Alec takes Max. His nails and teeth are back to normal, but unlike the alpha at the counter, Max is hyperfixed on Alec’s mouth. He pokes Alec’s lips, and Alec bares his teeth at him before kissing and nibbling on his fingers.

Before Alec has to worry about whether Raphael was actually siding with the asshole, Raphael points his finger at the man. “I’ve had it with you. You make everyone uncomfortable, you piece of shit. Go! Lárgate de aquí, pendejo!”

Alec can hear the anger in his voice, and the way it unsettles the whole room. The bar opened an hour ago, and the five customers are staring horrified at Raphael. They’ve probably never seen him like this. His eyes aren’t red, and he’s no alpha, but he’s pissed and doesn’t breathe again until the man leaves.

“Holy shit,” Lily says, ending the silence. She looks positively impressed. “That was amazing!”

Raphael rolls his eyes, and now he’s back to his usual pissy self. “I have security for evening and night, but I will get someone for the afternoon crowd too.”

Alec is surprised at his intensity, and there’s a chance he judged Raphael a little too unfairly. The man might have a severe attitude problem and practically called Alec a charity case, but there is more than what meets the eye when it comes to the jerk.

“What happened here? Why is it so quiet? Someone die?”

A woman with dark skin around the same age as Izzy comes in. She has tight curls and a green bandana. She has a blue plaid shirt and dark skinny jeans. She goes behind the bar and hangs her brown jacket on a hook. She looks confused at Alec and Max. She gestures in hello. “Hi? I’m Maia. Are babies allowed in bars now?”

“Yeah, they changed the law this morning,” Alec jokes dryly. “Alec.”

Maia laughs and waves her fingers at Max. “Are you here to organize this dump?”

“Nice,” Raphael grouches.

Alec’s lip twitches. “Yeah, but it’s not so bad. It’s been a couple of years since I’ve worked on a computer that still runs on a hamster wheel.”

“You’re fired.”

Lily slaps Raphael’s shoulder. “No, you’re not. Anyway, Alec scared the crap out of this man being weird with his son, Max. Turning white as a sheet. Then Raphael kicked him out, and then said we’re going to get security from the moment we open.”

Maia puts a hand on her hip, “I told you we should have security during all business hours. There are creeps all over the place.”

“I’m sorry,” Raphael says. “I didn’t think it was an issue, and nothing has happened.” Silence. His features harden. “Right?”

“Right,” Lily tells him. “Maia and I would kick their asses if someone did try something. I’m not going to say no to security though.”

“I’ll start looking today,” Raphael assures. Maia and Lily have stopped listening because Max sneezed, and they both awed. Then Maia asks to hold him, and Alec gives him to her. She plays with him while Alec eats the nachos Bat cooks for him. When the evening crowd starts filtering in, Maia puts Max back in his playpen and goes out to help Lily. Alec works for another hour and then calls it a day. He tells Raphael he’ll come back on Wednesday. He is saying goodbye to all of them when Magnus comes in to take him home.

Magnus catches up with Maia and Lily, who offer him a drink. Magnus promises to come back later when they don’t have little Max with them. Magnus hugs them both, before pulling a slightly hesitant Raphael into a hug. Raphael doesn’t look too annoyed, and he hugs him back.

“Don’t be a stranger,” Raphael tells him. Alec knows he means it because he wouldn’t have said it if he didn’t. Raphael ruffles Max’s hair, and Max starts to cry and hits at his hand.

“He’s tired,” Alec says regrettably. Raphael nods. “Thanks again for the opportunity. It shouldn’t take too long to get a system up and running.”

Raphael waves him off. “Take your time. Not really in a rush.”

Alec thanks him again, and he and Magnus leave. Magnus sits down in the driver's seat after buckling Max in his seat. “Your place or mine?”

Alec smiles and considers telling him his apartment because Magnus is not going to the school. Magnus works at home tomorrow, and he knows Magnus will offer to drive him to classes. Magnus is sweet like that, but Alec always feels bad for it. He doesn’t want to be an inconvenience, but he also wants to be where Magnus is. He loves waking up in his arms and looking at him before he has to get out of bed. He’s beautiful when he’s sleeping, and his face is soft in the morning light. He also washes his face before he goes to sleep. Alec loves him in his makeup and jewelry, but it’s also incredibly intimate to see him completely bare and gorgeous. He’s the only person to see him like that. Vulnerable and fragile, and Alec could get high on it.

“Your place,” Alec answers finally. He can’t hide the smile, and Magnus is smiling too.

Alec works on his homework while Magnus watches Max in the living room. Magnus helps with cooking chicken breast and asparagus when he’s done, and then dinonuggets and broccoli for Max. Max falls asleep after eating, and they spend the rest of the night watching a movie in each other’s arms. Magnus offers to draw him a bath, but he declines and asks for cuddles in bed instead.

Alec moves Max to his bed, and he comes back to the glorious sight of Magnus shirtless and in comfy pants. Alec properly looks him over, appreciating his chest and abs on full display. He wiped some of his makeup off, but he still has some faint highlighter on his cheeks. He has four rings on, and they’re bulky and silver. He loves the feel of them on his body. Once he spent much of his attention kissing and licking them.

Alec removes his clothes and joins him in bed. Magnus is laying on his back under the covers, and his eyes rake over him and causing him to shiver. Alec kisses him on his forehead, breathing in his scent. “On your side, love.”

Magnus looks at him suggestively but does as he says. Alec scoots closer, bringing their bodies together and wrapping his arms around him. He squeezes one leg between Magnus’s, craving close proximity and touch. Alec scoots up a bit to put his chin on top of Magnus’s head. Magnus is warm and snug against him, and he reaches for his hand. They fit together like puzzle pieces.

I love you.

“Goodnight, Magnus.”

“Goodnight, Alexander.”

*****************

The next two weeks go by in a flash. Alec’s classes are going well, and he’s making progress on Raphael’s bar. He’s got a good plan going, and he has the proper books to get some code together. He has to use very little anyway, and it’s more with Microsoft for now. He has to watch a few videos to understand excel, but he eventually figures it out. He talks a little with Magnus about it, and he helps with the small details. He lets Alec control the conversation, and he just fills in the gaps.

“Analysts work together,” Magnus tells him in his office. Alec crochets on the floor with Max watching an educational video. “It’s not completely solo work.”

“This isn’t really analyzing,” Alec says.

“You’re collecting, analyzing, and predicting. You’re organizing and inputting data to make an efficient management system,” Magnus says bluntly. “You’re analyzing, darling.”

“Well, when you say it like that,” Alec grumbles. Magnus laughs and kisses him.

On Sunday, Magnus drives them to Grant’s parents house for lunch. Beverly made a chicken salad and pulled pork sandwiches. They welcome them in with open arms. It’s awkward for the first hour, but Max is an expert at calming the tension. Magnus is also very personable, and his natural charm draws them in. It helps they already like him with the way Alec talks about him, and Beverly is sure to tell him that. Alec blushes when Magnus smirks at him.

Alec gets nervous when they start talking about Grant. He doesn’t want Magnus to get uncomfortable with talking about Alec’s previous lover, but Magnus looks unbothered. He listens to every word, and he smiles encouragingly when Ben realizes the subject may be inappropriate.

“Don’t worry about me,” Magnus says. “I can’t imagine losing a child. You love him, and you miss him. Of course you’re going to talk about him. That’s the whole reason I’m here, right? To take care of Grant’s son, and I promise I always will to the best of my ability.”

Beverly smiles, but she still looks uncertain. “We want you to take care of Alec too. He’s like a son to us too. We love him.”

Magnus grasps Alec’s hand and intertwines their fingers. For a second Alec believes he’s about to say he loves him too, but he’s sure that’s him projecting.

“I will take care of him, just like he takes care of me.”

Beverly looks at Alec with a loving smile, and Alec’s eyes get watery. She’s happy for him. She’s been like a mother to him since he met her, and every time it hurts him. It’s a punch to the stomach every time he feels the motherly love he is supposed to get with Maryse. His own mother grew cold the second he presented as an omega. He was nothing to her, like he was trash she could throw out.

Beverly and Ben know this, and maybe that’s why they’re adamant on Magnus taking care of him. Other than his siblings, he isn’t used to having someone watch his back. Their kindness and family love mean the most to him. He hugs them tight when it’s time to go.

“I have a job now,” Alec tells them. The words give him a sense of pride, and he almost repeats himself. “I am hoping to pay some bills myself. Maybe stop using food stamps.”

“That’s great, honey,” Beverly says. Her face lights up.

Ben puts his hand on his shoulder. “I am proud of you. You let us know if you need anything. Don’t get yourself in trouble just because you think you owe it to us.”

“Yeah,” Alec says, unable to string words together. His emotions are out of whack, and he doesn’t want to cry. “I appreciate you for everything you do. I wouldn’t have made it without your help.” He wouldn’t have had the money to leave his parents, and he would be a zombie in a cell. He would be depressed and miserable, and there’s no way he would be able to take care of Max. His mother would only make it worse. He would have drowned.

Now he loves every aspect of his life. Not one part would he change a single detail.

When Magnus drops Alec off at his apartment, Alec hurries around the car. He pulls a surprised laugh out of him when he pushes him up against the car. He caresses his face, and all the air in his lungs leaves him at such beauty. Magnus has brown eyes that look like milk chocolate and sometimes they look gold in the light. His eyelashes are dark and long, and there are black smudges under his eyes that make them pop. He has an ear cuff, and Alec is drawn to it whenever Magnus toys with it in a form of habit.

Magnus dressed nicely for today. He wore a black vest over a dark blue buttoned-up. Two silver necklaces dangle from his neck, and he painted his nails. The fact he wanted to look nice makes Alec’s heart skip a beat. It makes him feel special, and he remembers again how much Magnus cares. How big a heart he has. Maybe one day he’ll hold that heart in exchange for his.

I love you.

“Do you know how much you mean to me?” Alec asks.

Magnus smiles, and it’s different from all the ones he normally makes. The smile is profoundly tender, hearing the pure honesty in his words. His eyes sparkle as he gazes up at the omega.

“Not nearly as much as you mean to me.”

Alec doubts that, and he tells him that before Alec takes Max inside. He kisses Magnus’s cheek and leaves.

**************

Wednesday morning, it all comes crashing down. At least, for Alec’s head. It feels like a gavel is banging on his head, cracking hard at his skull. He hasn’t had a migraine in two years, and this one comes with a vengeance. He fumbles for the blinds and closes them, quickly making the room go dark. Every move hurts, and he tries to keep his head steady. He can barely open his eyes, but he needs to at least get to his medicine cabinet. He needs to get medicine, and then dig through his freezer for something frozen to put against his pounding head.

The pain is blinding, and he runs into five different things before he makes it to the bathroom. He cringes at the creaking from opening the bathroom mirror. He knocks over three other bottles, searching for the advil. His hands are shaky, and he ends up dropping them all. Alec flinches.

Then he hears Max crying, and he almost starts crying too. He fumbles for the bottles, and he crouches on the floor. He has to squint in the dark, and he finds the correct one. He swallows three pills with water from the sink. He groans and puts his face in his hands. He works on his breathing, as he pleads for his head to stop pounding. He can feel it in his bones and each time he closes his eyes.

Max continues to cry, and Alec begs again for the pain to go away but it doesn’t. It’s gotten worse since he got out of bed, and there is no way he’s making it to class or Raphael’s bar. He does need to get to Max because he needs him, and no matter how much pain he’s in, it’s nothing compared to poor Max crying out for him from his crib. He has to be strong for him. He must be hungry.

Alec uses the sink and tub to stand up, and he has to pause when the pain gets too great. He works through it, until he’s standing over Max. He coos at him, “My Max, why are you crying, sweet pea? You’re okay, baby.”

Max usually calms down once Alec says good morning to him, but this time he doesn’t. He has a snotty nose and cries harder, and Alec physically recoils and covers his ears uselessly.

Fuck, what if he’s sick?

“Are you sick, honey?” Alec asks. He checks his forehead for a fever, and his heart sinks when he’s burning up. “Fuck.”

He starts to think about what Max needs. He needs water, tylenol, and food. God, what if he needs to go to the doctor? Did he eat something bad? How long has he been sick? He was good yesterday…

He flinches when Max shrieks again, crying hard and heavy. His vision is getting blurry, and his stomach is rolling with nausea. His mind is foggy, and he can’t begin to think of the first step. What food does he have? His hearing, vision, and nose are all sensitive, and the idea of cooking breakfast makes him want to puke.

Alec cleans Max’s messy nose, and he tries to soothe him. His crying is excruciating and feels like nails on a chalkboard. He picks him up to coddle on the couch. He feels Max’s forehead and sighs when he finds a fever.

He needs to get aspirin for himself and tylenol for Max. Where does he keep it?

A phone rings, and Alec groans in pain. He needs to find his phone. Was it plugged in? He goes back to his bed and fumbles around the covers for his ringing phone. He closes his eyes when the overwhelming light turns on, and he answers blindly.

“Hello?”

“Darling? Are you okay?” Magnus’s voice comes through.

“I-I’m fine,” Alec answers. “Why?”

“I said I would drive you to class today and watch Max. Did our plans change? I’m halfway there.”

Fuck. He forgot about that. “Oh, no, I’m sorry. I am not feeling that well. I’m not going to class today.”

It’s silent for a second. “Alexander, are you okay? You sound off.”

“You’re shouting,” Alec complains.

“I promise I’m not,” Magnus says in a lower volume. Alec sighs. “Are you sick?”

“I’m fine.” Alec whimpers when Max cries louder. He gently rocks him, but it does no good.

Magnus turns more serious and worried. “Darling, what’s wrong? Is that Max? Is he okay?”

“He’s sick. He has a fever. I was about to give him some tylenol,” Alec says. He racks his brain. “I think it’s in the bathroom.”

“You don’t sound that good either, darling,” Magnus says suspiciously. “Are you okay? I am twenty minutes away. I’ll go to the store for some medicine and soup. I’ll be there in thirty minutes, okay?”

Alec shakes his head. “You don’t have to do that. I’m fine.”

“If you’re truly fine, then I’ll come say hi, and then I’ll leave,” Magnus argues easily. “I’ll be there soon.”

Alec hangs up, and he sighs. Max cries out again, and the pain gets bad enough he starts to shake. He’s fighting tears, but doing that makes his head hurt worse. He’s dizzy and nauseous, and he’s seconds from throwing up. He tries to focus, but Max isn’t helping, and he feels useless. Poor Max is in pain, and he can’t do anything.

Alec inhales deeply, and he walks to the kitchen. He needs to drink water and so does Max. He still needs to find the aspirin, and Max needs to eat. He sets Max in his chair, and then pours water into a sippy cup. He goes to give it to him, but Max smacks it away and cries hysterically.

Alec freezes, closing his eyes, and he can feel his stomach fighting him. He’s dizzy and nauseous, and he can feel saliva gather at the back of his throat. He puts the cup on Max’s tray quickly.

He barely makes it to the toilet in time. He throws up, hovering over the seat with shaky hands. His head is pulsing, and he’s crying. His eyes burn and throb. He lays his head on the seat, and his stomach caves into itself. The room is spinning, and he groans.

“Alexander?”

Alec is sure he’s imagining voices, but then Magnus is there kneeling in front of him. He pets at his hair. “Alexander, what’s wrong?”

“My head…” Alec moans. He’s here already? How long was he throwing up? “Migraine.”

“Explains the lights,” Magnus whispers. He rubs Alec’s back. “Let’s get you on your bed, darling. I’ll get you an ice pack for your head.”

“Max,” Alec tries.

“He’s safe in his chair. Let’s get you to bed, and I’ll get to him.”

“He’s crying and alone-“

“He’s drinking his water and sniffling. You’re crying and alone. Please come with me, sweetheart,” Magnus tries more urgently. He helps Alec to his feet and steers him to the sink to wash out his mouth. He puts an arm around Alec’s waist and guides to the bed. “Come on. Lay down. I’ll get you some water and an ice pack.”

Alec slowly lays down, and he closes his eyes. “How did you get in? How long…”

“I decided to come here first. I was knocking for five minutes,” Magnus explains, sounding guilty. “I wouldn’t have used your emergency key if I wasn’t worried. You weren’t answering my calls.”

Alec groans and stuffs his face in the pillow to try to block out the little light. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize,” Magnus lightly scolds. He kisses the top of Alec’s head. So light like a feather. “I’ll be right back.”

He hears the click of the door, followed by hushed talking and crying. Alec doesn’t hear much more after that. He doesn’t know how long it’s been when he hears footsteps getting closer and then fade off. He hears them again, and then Magnus is gone.

Sometime later, a hand rubs the back of his neck and back. A low voice instructs him to turn over, and he does so, slowly. Magnus gives him an ice pack, and Alec sighs at the relief it offers. He doesn’t see or hear Max, and he can’t help but worry.

“Max was burning up…” he gets out. Magnus offers him water, and he drinks some to cool his throat.

“I took his temperature, and it’s low. Just a little cold. I gave him some juice and cooked some eggs. I couldn’t find any soup, so I ordered some groceries to be delivered. You both need electrolytes,” Magnus tells him gently. “I’m going to run him a bath. Read it helps.”

Alec tries not to get stuck on Magnus googling how to take care of his son. He was worried about caring for him, and he looked up how to do it. Alec wants to smile but his facial muscles hurt. He groans at a harsh pulse vibrating menacingly in his head. He feels a kiss on his head, and he’s left alone again.

Alec must have fallen asleep, and he hears a knock on the front door. He hears Magnus quietly rush over so the knocking doesn’t wake him up. More soft talking and then the door is closed.

A little later, the bedroom door opens. Alec blinks awake, and his migraine isn’t so bad anymore. It’s still there, and it threatens to come back if he moves too much. He watches patiently as Magnus comes over with a tray. Alec slowly and carefully sits up, and his stomach growls at the smell of chicken noodle soup.

Magnus takes back the warm ice pack and sets it down. He arranges the tray over Alec’s lap. He kisses Alec’s cheek and then opens a bottle. “Drink some gatorade, sweetheart.”

Alec drinks a few sips. “How is Max?”

Magnus stirs the soup and feeds him a spoonful. “He’s sleeping. He drank some pedialyte after his bath, and then had some chicken noodle soup with stars. He watched a little of his show and fell asleep. His fever went away.”

Alec sighs, relieved. He would’ve hated to go to the doctor like this if his fever got bad enough. He would’ve had to order an uber there, and then another one to the nearest pharmacy or hospital. A weight is lifted off his shoulders, and the soup is filling his stomach nicely. He feels a little more himself now. “Thank you, Magnus. I-I can’t express how much this means to me. You didn’t have to do all this.”

“Shh,” Magnus shushes him. He swipes Alec’s bangs out of his eyes. He’s sitting on a chair he must have brought in from the other room. “I’m always here for you, Alexander. For you and Max. He’s doing much better. How’s your head?”

“Better,” Alec answers honestly. His last migraine didn’t go away until two days later. It’s not completely gone, but it’s manageable now. Magnus kept the lights off, but the one light from the kitchen pours in, and it doesn’t hurt so bad. “Still there, but it doesn’t feel like someone is dropping a hammer on my brain. It should be gone tomorrow.”

Magnus smiles and helps him lay back down. “Max should be fine in 48 hours. You know how colds are. He’ll be perfectly fine.”

Alec holds out his hand, and Magnus intertwines them. Alec brings their hands to his chest and kisses his knuckles. “Seriously. I would be a mess on the floor still, and Max would be helpless in his crib. I can’t believe I left him like that.”

Magnus shushes him again and looks deep in his eyes to make sure he hears every word. “You’re only human. You were sick, and Max was perfectly safe in his highchair drinking water. You put him above yourself because you are an amazing parent, and you would have continued to do so if I hadn’t shown up. You’re strong, and you would have gotten back to Max. But I am here, and both of you are okay and feeling better. That’s all that matters.”

Alec nods, still holding his hand. “Thank you for coming and taking care of us. It truly means a lot to me, and I need you to know that.”

“Of course,” Magnus says. His eyes are gentle, and even in the dark he looks gorgeous. If he’s tired, he doesn’t show it. “You mean so much to me. Both of you do. Thank you for letting me in and caring for you. You could’ve kicked me out.”

Magnus has never been in his apartment, and Alec wasn’t sure when he was going to invite him over. It was one last wall between them, and it was scary to tear it down. Now, he wishes he had done it sooner.

Magnus runs his fingers through Alec’s hair, and Alec leans into it. “I can put Max in his crib and leave if you’d like. Call me if you need anything.”

Magnus moves to stand up, but Alec’s hand shoots out and grabs his wrist. The jostle hurts his head, but he speaks anyway, “Please.”

It’s only one word, but it’s enough to translate his need for Magnus to stay. Magnus brings Max to his crib, and then removes his clothes. He’s in his boxers, and he looks over Alec’s makeshift nest in intrigue. He’s clearly nervous, and Alec smiles quietly at him and reaches out to him. Magnus crawls into the bed and curls around him. He’s careful not to move Alec too much, not wanting his migraine to get worse again. He kisses his shoulder and closes his eyes. Cinnamon mixes with the scents of his siblings, filling that chasm Alec didn’t know was there. It washes over him like a cool breeze, and he sinks deeper into the sheets. Exhaustion weighs heavy on his eyelids.

“I love you,” Alec whispers.

A shuffle of movement. “What did you say?”

Alec makes a noncommittal noise. “Nothing.”

Chapter Text

Alec wakes the next morning completely relaxed. He can’t remember the last time he woke up on his own with no alarm or important plans ahead. No hurry or rush to go get Max. He leisurely stirs awake, and he stretches and blinks to properly look around. Every muscle in his body is pleasantly relaxed, and he breathes deeply. He smells familiar cinnamon, and recognizes the warm muscular arms wrapped securely around his waist. They are steady and strong, not allowing a single inch of space between their bodies. He feels safe, confident the man holding him is a permanent variable in his life. A detail in his world he won’t lose.

He angles his head to read the clock and sees it’s barely eight in the morning. It’s the latest he’s ever slept in, even when he was back home with his parents and siblings. His mother was adamant they were all punctual, responding negatively if a single hair was out of place. Jace did not care, and Maryse was not bothered either. Jace was her favorite and always will be, while Izzy and Alec fought for a hug or nod in approval.

The house was not quiet like the apartment is now. It’s strangely welcoming, with a vast amount of tranquility and rooms flooded with familiar smells and decorations. Alec digs deeper into his nest. The scents of his siblings warm his body like a thick coat, and he soaks in the comfort greedily. The pounding in his head is long gone, and he snuggles back into Magnus’s arms. He runs a finger along his lover’s arms, feeling out the muscles and heated skin. Arms he thinks about falling into at the end of the day. Arms he wants around him when he goes to sleep and when he craves solace and support, and he knows Magnus can provide it all to him.

The arms around him tighten, bringing his body closer, taking up any possible space left. A cool nose skims under his chin, and Alec tilts his head. He gets a soft kiss, and he sighs in content. He maneuvers his head to kiss Magnus’s temple.

His heart flutters at the memory of Magnus taking care of him and Max. How he must have been at least somewhat overwhelmed with coming into Alec’s apartment and finding little Max abandoned in his high chair and Alec throwing up in the bathroom. He had to make a choice - all of the choices. He got Alec safely to bed, and then he went to take care of Max. Poor boy had a cold and was crying up a storm, flailing in discomfort and misery. Alec was riddled with guilt - still is. He should’ve taken care of him. On the other hand, Magnus was there for him. He took the responsibility and ordered up electrolytes and medicine for him, and then put him to bed.

He was strong when Alec wasn’t, and Alec will forever be grateful. Grateful he can rely on him when things get tough, and that is something he thought he would never get. To have someone who will help him in times of need is something entirely overwhelming and incredible. He can trust Magnus to take care of him. Take care of him and his son, and that is worth more than every piece of gold in the world.

Alec hums when Magnus kisses him some more, layering his neck with kisses. The apartment is abnormally hushed. He sucks in a breath, suddenly alarmed there’s not a crying baby begging for his attention.

“Magnus,” Alec gasps. More kisses, and he weakly shoves the alpha off. “I need to check on Max.”

“I checked on him an hour ago,” Magnus whispers. “I rocked him to sleep. His fever broke, but he’s got a stuffy nose. I made him diluted apple juice, and he fell asleep. He might be hungry soon.”

“Should probably get him a humidifier or something,” Alec theorizes. Magnus kisses his collarbone, and Alec closes his eyes. “I’ll get one while I’m out today.”

Magnus grunts. “How’s your head, darling? Is your migraine gone?”

Alec nods, smiling blissfully with every kiss he gets. He turns his head to join their lips together, exhaling deeply at the addicting taste of his lips. He turns around to face him, bringing the other man’s face down by his cheek. Magnus intertwines their fingers and kisses his palm, and Alec’s eyes flutter shut.

The affection is incredibly tender, not rushed or with any particular goal. The kisses are gentle and longing. Alec lays back and Magnus follows him down, nipping at his lips and down to his chest. The different scents get to Alec’s head, and he smiles at the ceiling. He’s feeling like he’s on cloud nine, drunk on the sensation of the present.

“You’re beautiful like this,” Magnus says with admiration. His voice shakes with awe, and Alec shivers at how much he means it. How much emotion is leaking through his words.

“You make me so happy,” Alec tells him earnestly. “You can’t even begin to understand how much you mean to me.”

Magnus’s hand slides up Alec’s leg, petting over his skin. Alec notices they’re both just in their underwear. “I have a pretty good idea,” he says mischievously.

Alec leans for a kiss, bringing Magnus’s closer by the back of his neck. He kisses him until they’re both breathless and a good risk of wandering hands. He kisses one last time, and then starts to get up. “Hold that thought,” he says slowly, seductively.

Magnus stretches on the bed like a cat. Alec slides on some sweats and goes into the other room and checks over Max. The little one is still asleep, and he feels his forehead to find no fever. His nose is red. Congestion probably. He will have to go to the store after class.

“I need to make a doctor’s appointment for Max,” Alec says, mostly to himself. “He needs to get some vaccines. Chickenpox, measles, and hepatitis I think.”

He begins cooking breakfast, and he calls Max’s pediatrician. They have an opening next week, and he makes a note on the fridge. Max coughs while he’s on the phone, and he asks for over the counter recommendations. He adds them to a list, and he hangs up. He changes Max while biscuits cook in the oven. Max is fussy and coughs a little. He tries not to worry. The doctor told him he was most likely just congested and a humidifier would help tons. Alec can’t help but be anxious. Max is only one, and he hates the sight of his baby suffering.

Magnus joins him in the kitchen. He kisses the top of Max’s head. Alec chews on his nail. “I might have to miss class today.”

“I can watch him, sweetheart,” Magnus offers easily. He takes Max into his arms. Alec goes back to cooking. Magnus sways him a little and rubs Max’s back. “We will be okay here.”

“You work too,” Alec points out. “Besides, what if something happens? I can call Lydia. She may be off work today.”

“I can call Cat,” Magnus suggests. “I believe she’s off today, and Madzie goes to school.”

Alec nods. He doesn’t want to bother Lydia. She has Charlotte to watch. Catarina is a nurse, and she’d know when or if Max needs to go to the doctor.

They spend the rest of the morning eating breakfast, and Magnus does the dishes and trash while Alec takes care of a crying Max who appears to have had it with feeling miserable. Alec changes his diaper and then holds him close to his chest, wanting more than anything to take all his pain away. Little Max is a wonderful baby, doesn’t cry often and sleeps well, and it hurts Alec to watch him suffer like this. Nothing Alec does seems to help, and he feels like a wire struck with lightning. All chaos and desperation because he should be able to help Max. He’s his mom, and it’s his job to take care of him.

Sometimes he wonders if Max hates him. If he should do more. He’s failing at being a parent no matter how hard he tries.

“Hey.”

Alec blinks and a tear rolls down his cheek. He blinks again to clear his vision. Magnus is crouching in front of him where Alec sits on his bed with Max in his lap. Magnus puts his hands on Alec’s knees, calmly rubbing circles on his sweats. His eyes are filled with worry, and he urgently checks over him. He puts a hand on Max’s head. “What happened? What’s wrong, Alexander?”

Alec’s lips wobble. “Max is sick. He’s not - I - he’s not feeling good. I don’t know what to do.”

“Yes, sweetheart, you do,” Magnus says gently. “He has a small cold. He is going to be just fine. I promise. We’re going to go buy a humidifier and any medication his pediatrician recommended. We’re going to hold him together and give him the extra love he needs.” Max reaches for Magnus, who caresses his cheek and wipes the frustrated tears. Alec gently rocks him and pats his back.

“I don’t want to leave him with Catarina,” Alec tries weakly. “I don’t want him to think I’m abandoning him…”

Magnus bites his lip and swallows. He nods in understanding. “I understand, Alexander. I promise he will be okay with Cat. She’s a nurse, and she’s been taking care of Madzie for years. She is a wonderful parent, and she will know just what to do if anything were to happen.” Alec stays silent, and Magnus rubs his leg soothingly. “How about this - I drive us to class and as soon as your class ends, we will go directly back to Cat’s. Max won’t be there a moment longer than necessary. We’ll go to the store, and we will come back here and cuddle him all night long. Tomorrow is the weekend, and we will spend every second of it together.”

Alec holds Max close to his chest. Max holds onto Magnus’s pointer finger, and his soft cries shift louder until Magnus gives him his whole hand to play with. He puts Magnus’s fingers in his mouth, and the both of them laugh. Alec laughs wetly.

“Okay,” Alec sighs. He feels for Max’s head. No fever. “Have you asked Cat yet? I can pack some of his things.”

Magnus smiles and kisses his nose. “I’ll call her right now.”

Magnus leaves the room to do just that. Alec stuffs diapers, blankets, pillows, and toys into Max's bag. Magnus comes back in and tells him everything is set up at Cat’s. Magnus watches Max so he can shower and get ready. Once he’s done, Magnus takes the chance to get ready. He doesn’t have anything to wear so he borrows one of Alec’s shirts. He’s a little taller than Magnus, so the clothes are baggier than usual. Magnus looks far too excited when he opens Alec’s closet, almost instantly teasing Alec for his all dark clothing taste and sweaters all have holes in the sleeves. Alec blushes and digs around for a shirt. Magnus puts it on, pleased.

Alec snorts. “What is it?” He appreciates the view of Magnus in his shirt and his tight pants. He puts on a little makeup he must have had on him. He’s glowing.

Magnus shrugs. “Smells like you.” His eyes are gentle. “Smells like my Alexander.”

Alec blushes harder, feeling it travel down to his chest. “Your Alexander,” he agrees. He adds softly, “My Magnus. My alpha.”

I love you.

Magnus smiles, and his eyes glow, revealing a shade of red. Alec’s eyes shine gold for a moment, and he pulls Magnus in for a kiss. His lips are soft and warm, and he breathes in deeply, cherishing the smell of him.

Max cries from where Alec sat him in his crib. Alec pulls back and goes straight for his son. He picks him up, and Magnus grabs the bag and follows him out to his car. Alec gets Max comfy in his seat before sitting in the passenger seat.

The car ride is hectic with Max crying and Alec trying to comfort him. At a red light, Alec switches to the backseat to properly watch over him. Alec grows anxious, practically vibrating in his seat and rambling about missing Max and telling him repeatedly how much he loves him.

“I’m not sure about this,” Alec mumbles when they get to Cat’s apartment. Rather than get offended, Cat smiles knowingly.

“Aw, poor baby,” she coos at Max. She holds out her arms, but Alec doesn’t move. “Alec, hun, I’ve got him. You work on that degree so you can provide for your son. He needs you to work hard for him, and that is exactly what you are going to do by passing your classes.”

Alec understands - he really does. Although, he hates the idea of leaving his sick kid with someone else when he is perfectly capable. “He needs me, and what if something happens to him? I will never forgive myself.”

“I’m a nurse,” Catarina reminds him gently. “I can take care of him. He is safe with me. If anything happens, I promise I will text you. I will text you about everything. If he so much as coughs. I will run him a warm bath, swaddle him in blankets, and I will make sure he stays hydrated. I’ll put on his favorite shows.”

Alec purses his lips and looks at his son. He’s drooling, and his nose is boogery. He’s crying and hanging onto his shirt. Alec kisses his head. He knows Catarina is right. If he wants his son to have a good future, he needs to get a good job. He can make good money, and he can give Max whatever he needs. Max won’t have to worry about anything if it’s up to Alec.

He just wishes he doesn’t have to rely on a stranger. What is he thinking? Cat is not a stranger. He’s spent time with her many times in the past, and Magnus has known her for years. Magnus and Alec visit her and Madzie at least once a week.

“Are you sure you don’t mind? I know how busy you are, and I’d hate to ruin one of your days off.”

Cat scoffs, “This precious boy ruin my day? Impossible. He’ll keep me company for the next two hours.”

Alec sends Magnus a sharp look. “Two hours.”

“Of course,” Magnus promises him. “We will be back as soon as your class ends.”

“Max will be perfectly safe,” Cat says. She smiles genuinely, trying to make the message clear. Alec appreciates her friendship. His omega claws at his chest at leaving his sick kid with someone other than Magnus, but he wills it down. He doesn’t have much choice, and if he’s going to leave Max with anyone, he’s glad he can leave him with someone who can properly take care of him.

Alec kisses Max’s head and hands her to Cat. She coos at Max, wincing when he screams. “You poor, poor baby. Very, very upset, aren’t you? Let’s get you something to drink.” She nods towards her phone on the table. “I’ll call you if anything comes up, but there won’t be. I’ll see you in a little bit.”

“Thank you,” Alec tells her. Magnus grasps his hand, says his own goodbyes, and he guides them both out. They’re walking to the car when Alec sees a parked running car with black out windows. There’s nothing particular about the car that calls to him, but it’s still odd to see, and he’s already anxious from Max being sick and having to leave him with a friend.

Magnus pulls him close and leans his forehead against his. “I would never allow anything to happen to Max. If I didn’t trust Cat with everything I have, I wouldn’t leave him with her. You know I love him.”

Alec takes a deep breath. “I trust you. I just have never left him with anyone but pack. This is the first time in a while I’ll be leaving him with someone for the first time.” He sighs. “It’s nothing against her.”

“I get it,” Magnus says. He caresses Alec’s face, touching his bottom lip. “I love Max. I would do anything to protect him. He’s safe with Cat. I promise.”

“I trust you,” Alec says again with more meaning, and it’s scary how true the words are. He trusts Magnus. He trusts his judgment. He trusts him to keep him and his son safe. He trusts him to protect them, and he trusts him when he says he loves Max.

His heart flutters, wanting to hear those words said to him.

Alec ducks in for a kiss, and the act fills his lungs with air. The ache in his chest from leaving his son behind smoothes over enough to gain the strength to walk away. He gets in the car the same time the black car drives off.

************

“Max Lightwood?”

Alec stands up with Max. “Here.”

“Hello, Alec,” Dr. Hargreeves welcomes. Her smile is friendly, and he’s liked her since he first met her when Max was barely two days old. She was kind and patient with him, even when he got overwhelmed and couldn’t calm down. She gave him resources and advice on how to take care of himself and Max. She held his hand through the entire thing, and he was greedy to rely on someone resembling a mother figure.

She’s older than Maryse, and she has long straight blonde hair. Her face grows wrinkles when her bright blue eyes land on Max, and she smiles wide. “How’s my favorite patient?”

Max giggles, and Alec smiles and follows her in the office. “He’s good. He’s getting over a cold he had last week. He's still congested, but he’s a lot better now.”

“Over the counter medication working okay?”

“Yeah,” Alec answers. He sets Max on the patient bed, and he helps remove everything but his diaper so she can examine him.

Dr. Hargreeves tickles Max’s feet, and he erupts into giggles. “Oh, what a beautiful baby boy! You’re getting so big. Eating solid food?”

“Mostly,” Alec says. “Almost switched over completely.”

“Sleeping well through the night?” She feels his legs and toes.

“Sleeps a lot better than before,” Alec explains, wincing as he remembers Max screaming and crying at midnight every night for a month. “He naps twice a day. He goes to sleep at seven or eight, and then wakes up at five or six. He was sick last week and woke up every few hours.”

“Poor thing,” she says sympathetically. She assesses Max’s eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. She inquires about cognitive and social development. Alec explains Max is walking now - often in fact. He doesn’t walk perfectly, occasionally falls and cries unless Alec either makes him laugh or pretends not to notice. Something about babies and crying when they think someone is reacting to them. When you don’t react, they won’t either.

“Does he hold onto things?” she asks.

Alec smirks. “Yeah. He likes to throw things a lot. I don’t know. He’s got my brother’s temper sometimes.”

Dr. Hargreeves laughs. “Does he respond to his name? Say any words?”

“He says some words calling for a specific toy or ‘blue’, and he even says ‘Rach’. He loves her on youtube. He calls me ‘mama’, and he calls my…” he hesitates. Dr. Hargreeves raises a brow, and she looks far too knowing. Alec’s cheeks pinken. “My partner, er, Max calls him ‘Mags’.”

“A partner, hm?” she smiles mischievously. “You trust this partner of yours with Max?”

Alec fiddles with his fingers. He pictures Magnus with Max, and how certain he is when he holds him. Back when he was Alec’s professor and baby Max fussed and cried in class. Magnus offered to hold him while Alec did his assignments, and he didn’t look even a little put out or deterred. Max had relaxed into his arms almost instantly. Magnus was always vigilant too. If Alec wasn’t actively watching Max, Magnus was. He was attentive while working too, getting up the second Max starts to fuss and solving whatever issue. Hungry, dirty diaper, wanting attention, anything. He’d make sure Max was okay, and then go right back to what he had been doing.

More than that, Magnus was so gentle with him. Alec might be hesitant with confessing his feelings for Magnus, but Magnus certainly wasn’t hiding his love for Max. He almost looks fragile himself, like he couldn’t believe Max was there. Not all the time, but on some occasions he’ll have these moments when he seems off. Magnus tries to hide it with dramatics, but Alec was really good at reading people.

Magnus had given Max a bath one night, and then Max woke up the next morning itchy and cried all day. Alec and Magnus were both startled to find that his skin was red and irritated. Alec had been confused, not understanding what went wrong. Magnus told him with a voice so uncharacteristically quiet and frail admitting that he got Max a new soap.

“He’s allergic,” Magnus says, uncharacteristically gutted. Disappointment and regret laced in his voice, and he looked devastated. Magnus had been so angry with himself. He went to the store to buy some oatmeal bath treatment. His eyes were downcast as he washed over Max’s back, and Alec took his hand in his. He had a feeling this ran much deeper than feeling regret for a small mistake.

“You’re nothing like your father,” Alec told him. “You didn’t do anything wrong. He’s just allergic. There’s no way you would’ve known. It happens, Mags.’”

Magnus met his gaze, and Alec knew he struck home. Magnus said his father was a terrible man, and he wanted Magnus to follow in his footsteps. Magnus hadn’t talked to him since he was a kid, but he knew at such a young age he didn’t want anything to do with him.

“You should be mad at me,” Magnus argued.

“For making a mistake?” Alec argued back. He squeezed his hand. “You didn’t know. Now you do. There’s nothing to be done. The oatmeal is already helping. I’m not mad, and Max isn’t mad. I know you wouldn’t do anything to hurt him. You love him, and he loves you.”

Max reaches for Magnus. The alpha leans down to kiss his head and wash behind his ears. “I’m sorry.”

“He forgives you,” Alec told him. “It’s okay.”

A weak smile broke out on the alpha’s face. He kissed Alec’s cheek and hid his face in his neck.

“Thank you.”

“Yes,” Alec finally says. “I trust him so much it’s terrifying.”

Dr. Hargreeves smiles. “That’s good. As long as you’re sure. I’m glad you have someone helping with Max. I was worried about you. Babies are a lot of work.”

“Oh I know,” Alec jokes. “I have my siblings too. I’m not worried. Max has all the love in the world.”

“Good,” she says. “Everything looks good to me. We have to do some shots. Hold him for me, keep him distracted.”

It’s a two-man job with the vaccinations. Dr. Hargreeves coos at Max and distracts him with tickles and funny faces and voices. Alec holds his hands and feet, and he keeps him distracted with a soft voice and holding up his toys. Max barely notices the first two, but he cries during the third. Alec kisses him twice as much and promises to put on the cartoon Bluey when they get home.

Max continues to cry all the way to Magnus’s house. Magnus was busy with a meeting, so Alec had to take an uber. Max is covered in tears and refuses to stop, and Alec’s heart breaks for him. None of his toys help and neither does Ms. Rachel on youtube.

Alec pinches the bridge of his nose, already planning out his sleepless night ahead of him. When Magnus comes home, the alpha walks in looking vaguely stressed and very tired. Alec is about to offer to go home so he can get some sleep without a crying baby keeping him up. Before he does, Magnus’s face softens at the sight of them. He puts his bag down on the table and removes his jacket, and he joins Alec on the couch.

Max shrieks and reaches for him, “Dada.”

Alec’s brows shoot up. Magnus goes pale, entirely thrown and not sure what to do or say. Alec is speechless, not at all expecting Max to call Magnus that. They haven’t encouraged it. Magnus certainly wouldn’t, not wanting to intrude or step on toes.

It’s…extraordinary. Alec holds his hand out, willing the other man to come over. Magnus happily takes it. Once Max is settled in his lap, his crying stops completely. His eyelids get heavy, and he stuffs his face in Magnus’s neck.

Alec sighs, and he scoots closer, craving Magnus’s body against his. He brings a leg over Magnus’s lap and curls his body into his side. He leans his head on his shoulder. Magnus kisses his head, and Alec peers up at him.

“I love you,” Alec says. “I wanted to make some grand gesture, but I really wanted to say it. I need you to know.”

Magnus smiles, and his eyes water. Alec finds his own vision getting blurry. He can hear his heart beat in his ears, and he’s terrified. He’s scared to have his true feelings out there. If Magnus rejects him now, he doesn’t know what he’ll do. He fears it will break him, crack his chest open and bleed right here on the couch.

“I love you too, Alexander,” Magnus says in a low whisper. Max is fast asleep. The effects from the vaccines and busy day are finally kicking in. He lays unmoving on Magnus’s chest, and he lightly snores.

Alec squeezes Magnus’s knee and lays his head back down on his shoulder. He shuffles impossibly closer to Magnus, needing to feel him and have his scent fill his nose to lull him to sleep. He closes his eyes and falls asleep with a full heart and mind buzzed with endorphins.

**********

“You enter the inventory here. Make sure you’re counting correctly, and I would be specific as possible with every item so it doesn’t throw off any counts. I suggest alphabetical and break it into categories. Have a baseline so the order will show the correct number to order.”

Lily makes a face. “You’re done with everything already?”

“Not at all,” Alec says. “I still gotta make sure it works properly. The code is very bare, but it should work okay. It’s all improvements for now. I’ll do counts with you at least for the next four weeks.”

Lily nods, relieved. “Good. I was going to miss you two.” She points at Max, who’s somehow gotten his hands on some paperwork. He’s trying to climb on the desk, and Lily laughs. “Are you going to have any more babies?”

Alec drops his phone, blindsided by the question. He curses. “No, I don’t think so.”

“Not a fan of big families?” Lily asks casually. “I get it. It was just my mom and I growing up. She was my whole world.”

Alec turns to her. Max is handing her plastic fruit, and she smiles at him. Not a normal Lily smile that lights up her entire face. She doesn’t have a scent to read her emotions or second gender. “Did she pass?”

“Yeah,” she confesses. “I was put into an orphanage. It was weird going from just the two of us to suddenly a huge house full of kids. The younger ones swarmed to me. I had no idea what I was doing, but I was there for them. They followed me around. I did not understand why they liked me so much. I didn’t complain though. I liked it. Not one minute was I alone which was probably a good thing. I was there for years. I am glad I had something resembling a family.”

Alec leans against the desk and folds his arms. “You’re an omega.”

She doesn’t look at him, having expected him to figure it out. Omegas don’t normally get adopted, even though they’re cherished more often than not. There was a time when they were hated and had no rights. They were hunted down and used as baby machines. That time is long gone now, but people like Alec’s mother still think they’re weak when they absolutely aren’t.

It’s usually betas or alphas adopting, and they’re not keen on adopting an omega. Alec guessed jealousy.

“Why do you hide your scent?” Alec asks, curious.

“I don’t know,” Lily answers, candidly. “All those kids were drawn to me because of my nature. When someone is my friend, I want it to be because they genuinely like me. I don’t want them to blindly be taken with me. I know it’s dumb.”

“It’s not dumb,” Alec consoles her. “I get it. My mother hated me the second I presented. I wanted to hide my scent after that, but my siblings encouraged me not to.” He joins her where she sits on the floor. Max is playing with one of his picture books. “I’m not going to tell you what to do. You have every right to think the way you do, but there are advantages to being an omega. Advantages you should be proud of having.”

“Like what?”

“We don’t demand the room, but we get it anyway,” Alec tells her. “We bring people together. We don’t have that alpha rage or annoying need to flash our eyes. We make people listen to us without force, and we have strong leadership skills. We have a strong sense of empathy, and we know how to work as a team. We may draw people in, but nothing to do with being an omega keeps them from leaving. If those children followed you around, it was because you were kind and they knew they were safe with you.”

Lily toys with her pink hair. Her downcast eyes spark with interest, and her sadness slowly fades like clouds after a storm.

“We’re also,” Alec grins. “Dangerous when we have to be.”

Lily grins too, both remembering how fast that man ran out of the bar. “Terrifying, really.”

Alec takes her hand. “I’m not trying to persuade you to do anything. I promise you that. I just know how I used to feel. I used to feel so small and desperate to hide away. I didn’t want to be an omega, and my mother made me hate what I was.” He looks over at Max, who is wearing a shirt with cartoon aliens and brown pants. A shirt Magnus got him.

“I love who I am. If I didn’t have my siblings being there for me, motivating me to be my true self, being there for me through everything, I wouldn’t be who I am. I wouldn’t have Max or Magnus. I wouldn’t have been with Max’s father. Right now, I would be miserable and lost, still living with my parents.”

Lily studies him, looking seconds away from laughing. “Omegas can make notable speeches too.”

Alec laughs and shrugs. “I try.”

Lily gets on her feet, mood entirely shifted. “We can do the order tomorrow. You want a drink?”

“No, thank you,” Alec declines. “I’ll probably just sit out there and wait for Magnus. I’m going to work on some homework.”

Lily shrugs, “I'll join you when I go on lunch.”

“You’re not already on one?” Alec asks suspiciously

Lily grins. “I’m on a well deserved break.”

Alec rolls his eyes and gathers his things. He sets up camp at a booth with his ipad out and Max with his markers. Maia gets him some paper to draw on. Max can only draw scribbles for now, but he shrieks eagerly and draws circle after circle. Maia sits down and joins in on the drawing. Max is adamant with what colors she can draw with, and Maia laughs.

Maia draws with Max for another ten minutes before she has to go back to work. She promises to come back with chicken nuggets and a burger for Alec.

“I’m not hungry,” Alec says as he scrolls through another powerpoint.

“You fed Max lunch. You’ve got to be hungry too,” Maia argues lightly. “I’ll be back.”

Alec rolls his eyes fondly and gets back to note taking. The bar is mostly empty, considering it is only three. Magnus should be here soon. He’ll work on his assignment until then.

Max drops a blue marker on the floor and cries. Alec reaches for the marker. A hand beats him to it, and Alec leans back. It’s an older Asian man with shoulder length black hair. He has a grin that’s not entirely genuine. Alec has noticed this man before. He usually sits in the corner with a whiskey glass. He doesn’t stay for long, and he is usually gone by the time Magnus shows up. There’s something strange about him, and Alec catches him looking at him far too often than he likes.

The man holds out the marker, and he’s smart enough to offer it to Alec and not Max. The man stands tall over him in a fancy black trench coat and pointed shoes.

“Here,” he says. Alec doesn’t move. Max draws with a purple cry now, drawing triangle after triangle. His voice reminds Alec of a slithering snake.

“Thanks,” Alec says dryly. His mother would smack for the lack of manners, but he can’t help but turn into stone.

The man doesn’t seem to mind the blunt response. He sets the marker down. He studies Max, and Alec wants to kick him.

“He has your eyes,” the man notes. While it’s supposed to be affectionate, it sounds anything but. “Eyebrows. That’s not your nose though. The father’s?”

“Mhm,” Alec grunts. “That’s how genetics work.”

“What’s his name?”

Alec picks up Max to set him in his lap, feeling better with him closer. He doesn’t trust this guy. Everything about him screams ‘danger’. “If you don’t mind, I was working on something.”

“I’m only asking for a name,” he says with a condescending tone.

Alec sneers at him, and his eyes glow omega gold. His gums ache from his fangs. “His name is my son. His name is the weapon I use on you if you don’t leave us alone.”

The man’s eyes flicker to the cutlery on the table. Alec taps the knife with a sharp claw, and the man holds his hands up. “My apologies. Maybe next time.”

The man leisurely leaves as if he doesn’t have Alec watching his every step. Not a care in the world and with a smile too knowing and arrogant. Alec doesn’t relax until he walks out the door, but he keeps Max on his lap, not willing to let him go yet.

Magnus shows up fifteen minutes later, and he goes straight to Alec. Joy is painted all over his face, and it gives Alec enough energy to conjure a hello and smile. Alec gives him Max, and Magnus spins him around, causing the little one to squeak in laughter.

Alec watches them. Magnus dances across the room with little Max in his arms. Max is giggling and flailing his arms, not a care in the world. Safe in the alpha’s arms and his laughter is contagious.

Magnus waltzes over to Alec, and his face turns serious. He cups the omega’s face, and Alec leans into the touch.

“What’s wrong, darling?” Magnus asks. He shuffles Max in his arms, and he kisses his chubby hand when he grasps his nose and mouth.

Alec smiles and shakes his head. “Nothing. There was a strange man earlier. Struck up a weird conversation with me, and I didn’t like the way he was looking at Max.” Magnus’s face hardens, and Alec hurries out, “He’s gone now. I told him to leave.”

Pride shines on Magnus’s face, though it’s obvious he’s still thinking about the man. “Are you okay?”

Magnus is trying to sound calm, but Alec knows him too well. Magnus cares a lot for people he loves, and he’s not going to take well to the fact someone was making Alec nervous. “I’m okay. Max is okay. The man is gone. I doubt he’ll come back here. We’re okay, Mags.”

His words produce the effect he wanted. Magnus smirks. “I bet you struck the fear of god in him, my terrifying omega.”

Alec preens under the attention, loving that Magnus is always proud of him. No matter what he does, Magnus still thinks he’s the strongest person he knows. He’s said it again and again in his words and actions, and Alec melts each time.

He melts now, watching Magnus with his son. The pure elation on his face, and how proud he looks now showing off Max to people like he was his son. In some ways he is. In some precious ways he is Max’s father. He’s so gentle and loving with him, and Magnus has told Alec how much he loves Max. How happy he gets when he makes Max laugh or smile. He always agrees to babysitting Max, and he does it without being asked too. He took care of Max when he was sick, changing him, playing with him, and loving on him. He knows what games he likes, how he likes making cow sounds the most, and how he prefers avocado over banana in the mornings.

Magnus’s competency is…sexy. The fact Alec can rely on him, trust him enough to take care of things. Take care of Max and him. Alec doesn’t even have to ask anymore. He knows Magnus will be there no matter what, and it’s incredibly attractive. Hot.

Alec looks at the ceiling, at the vents above him. They appear to be working, but he is getting hot. He wipes the back of his neck, and his palm comes back wet.

Alec packs up his things and says goodbye to Maia and Lily. He promises to come in tomorrow. Magnus gets Max and his diaper bag and guides them to his car. Alec watches Magnus buckle Max into his chair. Behind him, Alec sees a black car with dark windows parked in the corner of the parking lot. It looks exactly like the one he saw parked in front of Cat’s apartment.

“Alec?”

Alec turns to Magnus. Magnus is sitting in the driver's seat looking concerned. “You look a little hot. Are you okay?”

Alec spots a hint of skin peeking behind two unbuttoned buttons of his shirt. The car smells like a mix of their scents, just like it does in both of their homes now. Magnus’s home and car smell like Alec. Magnus smells like him, and it makes Alec’s heart race.

“You’re so beautiful,” Alec tells him. Every word comes out full and weighted, taking a piece of his heart. “I love you.”

Magnus’s eyes are like windows, and Alec sees his reflection in them. Every piece of him is priceless, holding the beauty of a thousand museums. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for this man. He’d cross oceans and bend time for him. He loves him so much. He’d bare his soul and give him his heart in ribbons.

If he closes his eyes, he can practically feel Magnus’s teeth in his neck. He wants to be claimed. He wants to feel Magnus everywhere, marking his body for the world to know. He wants Magnus’s hands on him, under his clothes, in his body. Pressing kisses on his skin and his love in his bloodstream.

He’d let him breed him. They’d make gorgeous children. He told Lily he doesn’t want more children, but he absolutely does. He wants a big family. He always has. Magnus’s skin tone, dark brown eyes, and natural charisma that has everyone falling in love with him. They’d have Alec’s wavy hair and eyebrows. They-

“I love you too, my Alexander,” Magnus says tenderly. It sends shivers down Alec’s spine, talking directly to his omega. He wants to submit and present and tear off their clothes.

Alec shakes out of it. He turns up the air conditioning to the max and presses against the door. If Magnus notices the strange behavior, he doesn’t comment on it. He puts his hand on Alec’s thigh and drives off. Alec tenses at the touch, feeling the heat sink through his clothes.

It’s a long car ride, and it takes everything within Alec not to crawl across the center console and have his way with Magnus. He closes his eyes and he gets visions of Magnus holding him face-down on the bed and kissing and licking every inch of his body. The desire is not too overwhelming. He can control himself, as long as he doesn’t breathe too deep. If he holds his breath, goes to work or class, he could probably last a few more days. At the longest - a week.

As soon as they get to Magnus’s home, Alec gets Max and clambers inside. He starts on dinner, starting with the chicken and rice. Magnus comes in and plays with Max, singing the alphabet and playing with counting blocks. Alec almost burns the chicken from staring.

Usually, Magnus feeds Max his dinner, but Alec does it instead. He makes it a point not to look at Magnus, choosing to talk about his day. Max watches him completely transfixed and giggles at the faces Alec makes.

“Mama!”

Alec’s heart flutters, happy to be distracted from his racing thoughts. Magnus is telling him about his days and the project he’s working on. Alec tries to listen, but it’s gotten worse since they got here. His symptoms are worsening, and he’s slowly slipping.

Magnus picks up their dishes and sets them in the sink. He moves his chair closer to Alec and sits down. He caresses the omega’s face, and Alec sighs into the touch. “What’s wrong, darling? What’s got you worked up?”

Magnus reads him too well sometimes. Alec is not one to talk around something. He prefers coming right out. “My heat is coming up. A week maybe.”

“Oh?” Magnus says, delighted. He prods more. “That’s what has you looking at me like that?”

“No.” Alec bites his lip. He lowers his voice. “I’m thinking about you breeding me. Often, in fact. I don’t actually want that, so that’s when I realized my heat is due.”

Magnus studies his face and stands up. Alec licks his lips and stands. He reaches down and tugs with the end of Alec’s shirt. His face twists darkly. “You don’t want me to breed you?”

Alec’s breathing sputters, and he shakes his head.

Magnus’s grin is seductive and it takes up his whole face. He grabs Alec’s waist and pulls him close to whisper in the omega’s ear. “Are you sure? Is that why you haven’t looked at me since the bar?”

Alec swallows. “You’re being ridiculous.”

“Am I?” Magnus tugs on Alec’s hair lightly, and Alec sighs and tries to hide his burning cheeks. “I’ll fuck a whole litter in you. Each one prettier than the last. And with your brains…”

“Stop!” Alec exclaims, squirming out of Magnus’s hold, needing space or he may faint. The picture Magnus is painting is getting to his head. The room is scorching, and his bangs are sweaty on his forehead. He’s hard and embarrassed. His underwear is soaked, and Magnus can probably smell him. He hasn’t had a heat in almost two years, and he feels exposed and needy.

Magnus leans on the table. “I’m sorry, hun. You’re just fun to mess with.” His mouth quirks. “Almost as fun as listening to your cute little snores.”

Alec’s cheeks pinken. “I don’t snore.”

Magnus rolls his eyes fondly. He sombers up. He holds Alec’s hands. “How do you usually spend your heats? I can keep Max here, and you spend it at your apartment? Or if you’re more comfortable here, I can stay at your apartment. Bring over some of his clothes and mine-”

“Magnus,” Alec interrupts his rambling, hating the way he sounds desperate to please. “I don’t - I want to be with you.”

Magnus’s eyes widened, taken back. “You do?”

Magnus looks completely surprised, and Alec doesn’t understand how he could be. Omegas spend their heat with someone they have an intimate relationship with. Someone they trust inexplicably to protect them and take care of them at their most vulnerable. Make sure they eat and stay hydrated. Make sure they’re as comfortable as they can.

How could Magnus believe Alec wouldn’t want to spend his heat with him? Magnus is his whole world. He’s his alpha and he’s so good. He wants him everywhere and cover him with love and hold him. He wants to be covered in his scent and be held down and fucked hard with teeth in his neck. He knows Alec inside and out, and he would do him so well. There is nothing more intimate than spending a heat with someone, and there is nothing Alec wants more than to pull Magnus even closer. He wants Magnus to claim him as his omega, and he wants to claim him as his alpha.

He also really wants Magnus naked and be at his mercy.

Alec tilts his face down, looking at him through his eyelashes. “Oh, you’re fucking me. I’m going to present all nice and pretty for you.” He bites Magnus’s earlobe. “Alpha.”

Magnus’s eyes darken, flickering blood red. He leans in, bringing their lips together and licking into his mouth. Alec groans and grabs Magnus’s shirt to pull him close. He needs him more than air, and he whimpers when Magnus yanks on his hair.

“Be a good omega and put Max down for his nap,” Magnus breathes into his ear. Alec’s knees grow weak.

“You have to present for your alpha.”

***********

“I have electrolytes, protein bars, snacks, water bottles, lube, and towels all set out in the bedroom, darling. Your beautiful Isabelle is going to pick up, little Max, right?”

“Yeah,” Alec says over the phone. He is in his closet throwing his most comfy clothes into a bag. He probably won’t put them on, but it’s better safe than sorry. “She’ll come tomorrow morning at around nine. I talked to Raphael and my professors. Thankfully the worst part of my heat happens over the weekend.”

They talk a little more about their day, and Alec turns on the video so Magnus can see Max. Max is eating his dinner, and he reaches for the phone when he hears the alpha’s voice. His adorable face scrunches up and giggles, and Magnus coos at him.

“Dada!” Max shrieks and babbles a couple of random words. Magnus brightens at the name. Magnus had been nervous for a while, unsure how Alec felt about Max calling him ‘dad’. Alec had cupped his face and promised him it’s okay. If Max were to call anyone in the world ‘dad’, he is proud that Magnus is that person. Magnus is Max’s everything, just like he’s Alec’s everything.

Someone knocks on the door. “Someone is here. I am going to put Max down, and I’ll try to go to sleep. Get as much rest as I can.”

“Okay, sweetheart,” Magnus says. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow afternoon. I love you.”

Alec smiles. “I love you too.”

He kisses the top of Max’s head and goes to the front door. He opens it to find a woman with dark skin and long curly hair. She’s wearing a blazer and slim trousers. She holds herself all business-like, but her eyes are kind. “Hello? Who are you?”

“My name is Cristina Rosales, and I am from the Department of Children and Family Services.”

Alec stares. Cristina gives a tight smile. She gestures inside. “I was called about a report about the safety of one Max Lightwood? It’s believed the child’s welfare is in question. I need to perform an inspection of the home.”

Alec gapes. “Department of… Do you mean DCFS?”

“That’s the one,” she says. “Are you Alexander Lightwood? The parent.”

“I’m his mother…” Alec’s stomach threatens to hurl his dinner. “He… I’m sorry, someone reported me?”

“Max Lightwood. Is he here?” she asks, ignoring his question. Alec nods numbly, moving out of her way. He follows her into the kitchen, where Max sits in his high chair eating his dinner. Chicken nuggets and green beans. She looks around. “Is it just the two of you here?”

Alec’s heart bangs in his chest. “My partner sleeps over some nights. Do you want some water?”

“That would be great, thank you,” Cristina accepts. Alec doesn’t move. “Mr. Lightwood? Are you alright?”

Alec stares at her, not feeling his legs or arms. “I-I, er, yes. I’m okay. I don’t - I don’t understand. Max is okay. I wouldn’t do anything to hurt him…”

“I understand, Mr. Lightwood. Can we please take a seat and discuss the steps here?” she asks, pointing to the chairs.

Alec sits down, almost tripping over the legs. Max giggles and reaches for him. Alec squeezes his fists. He’s shaking.

Cristina sets her binder and papers on the table. “Someone reported their concern for Max’s safety. Said his parent wasn’t properly taking care of him. This usually means not being fed properly, hygiene, or other types of neglect. I am here to ask you questions, check the home for safety protocols, and just generally learn more about the situation. Do you understand?”

Alec shakes his head, but then says, “I do.” His leg bounces. Cristina gets her paperwork together and pulls out a pen. She smiles at Max who holds out a messy hand to her. He giggles and has drool on his chin. Alec wipes his face with a hand towel.

“What do you do for work, Mr. Lightwood?”

“Alec,” he tells her. “It’s just Alec. I’m a student. I work for a friend of my partner. Data analytics. I am creating a system to help organize his bar. His ordering system.”

“Where is Max while you work?”

“He’s either with me, with my partner, or with my friend, Lydia,” Alec answers. He already knows his answer is awful. It sounds disorganized. Unreliable. Chaotic.

Cristina looks at him. “You keep an infant at a bar?”

“He’s in the back with me. He’s in his playpen with a bunch of his toys,” Alec tries to explain. His voice shakes with nerves.

“He shouldn’t be in a bar, Mr. Lightwood,” she retorts. She writes notes down.

Alec swallows, trying to breathe. “I can’t afford a babysitter, and I need to work. My partner works, and my siblings live hours away. He only has me, and I promise Max is safe. He stays with me in Raphael’s office playing with his toys or sleeping.”

Cristina looks over him. Her sternness loses its intensity by a small but noticeable degree. “I’ll need Raphael’s phone number for clarification and verification of employment. A baby shouldn’t be in a bar, Mr. Lightwood. Who is Lydia?”

“Lydia Branwell,” he says. “I’ve known her since we both worked at a diner. I was pregnant at the time.”

“Why were you working?”

“I needed money so I could leave my parents. I couldn’t stay with them.”

“Why not?”

Alec meets her eye and then breaks contact. “Do you really need to know?”

Cristina’s eyes soften sympathetically and shakes her head. “Is it just you two living here?” Alec nods. “You said you had a partner,” Cristina starts. “He doesn’t live here? What does he do for work?”

“He’s a professor. He isn’t teaching right now. He’s also a data engineer. I don’t know what company or anything. I’m sure he’s told me…I just can’t remember right now.”

“You say ‘partner’,” Cristina points out. “Where is Max’s biological father?”

Alec takes a napkin and wipes Max’s sticky hands. “Heaven if you believe in that. Nowhere if you don’t.” Cristina widens her eyes. “He passed. He died before Max was born.”

Cristina’s jaw drops for a second, and then she straightens her shoulders. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

“Yeah,” Alec says, having nothing else to say.

Cristina’s voice turns slightly warmer. “How did you and your partner meet?”

“He was my professor,” Alec explains. Cristina throws him a hard look, and he stammers. “We didn’t talk until classes were over. There were days when I had to take Max with me. He would hold Max while I took a test or if he was fussy. He’s really good with children. He would stop crying almost instantly.”

Cristina writes more down. “I’ll need Lydia Branwell’s number. Your siblings’ numbers and your partner’s. If required, I may need to interview them. What are their names?”

Alec gives her the names. Then, Cristina looks around the apartment. She writes some notes and says a few comments about safety. She points out sharp corners and cabinets. Alec shows her Max’s toys, books, clothes, and playpen. He shows her the food he feeds him, and what he bathes him with.

Thankfully, Cristina lost most of her intensity. She stopped taking lengthy notes.

“So you go to school and work?” Cristina asks. Alec nods. “That must be hard with a kid.”

Alec picks Max up from his crib, craving to hold him like no other. Max fusses a little, sleepy. “Look, Cristina, I know how it must look, but I’m trying my best, okay? He’s fed three times a day, and he eats fruits and veggies at least twice. He takes two or so naps. I have educational videos playing occasionally, and I talk to him because I heard it helps them develop. He knows some of the alphabet, and he knows farm animals. He loves cows. I go to classes, and I have to bring him sometimes. Lydia has kids of her own, and I trust her with mine. I visit my siblings on the weekends, and they adore him. They fight over him and love him. My partner takes such good care of him. Cooks, cleans, changes his diaper, and everything. He loves him more than anything.”

Cristina sighs. “I believe you. I just had to follow the protocol. Cover my tracks. I’m not worried about you, Alec. Max is obviously very safe and happy here. I will still be following up on your siblings, friends, and partner. As long as their answers match up, I will be sure to close this case.”

Alec sighs, shoulders sag with relief. “Thank you. I really don’t know what I did to get on your radar. Max gets all the love in the world. He’s a happy kid.”

Cristina smiles and tentatively rubs Max’s arm.

“The one who reported. Do you know who?” Alec asks carefully.

Cristina shakes her head. “It was anonymous.”

Alec’s mouth twists in distaste. “Someone can report my parenting skills and ability to take care of my child. Threaten to take my son from me. Get the government on my ass, and they get to do it anonymously?”

Christina swallows, and she fiddles with her binder. “It uh… was a woman. An older woman. Older than you.”

Chapter Text

Alec is pacing the kitchen floor, trying in vain to hold the tears back and screams in his chest. He’s shaking and his skin is itchy. He’s sweating from everywhere under his clothes, and the fan above him is going max speed.

There’s a knock on the door, and it’s faint under all the anxiety running in Alec’s head and rapid moving chest. He fears for a second it’s DCFS again, Cristina forcing herself in and taking his son away from him. The government pointing their fingers, accusing him of neglecting Max as if he ever would. As if he wouldn’t kill for him. As if he wouldn’t break bones and tear down buildings to get to Max. He would starve himself before he ever thinks about doing the same to him.

He’s breathing hard and full of anger. His mind racing for a point of attack. There’s nothing to be done at midnight, and he hates being blindsided. He strives in being organized and having a plan for whatever comes his way. He has a plan A to Z at the drop of a hat because he’s had no other choice. Pregnant in high school? Get a job, earn enough money to move out. Different career options that work best for him and Max, correlating with how much time he has and who can watch him. He has his siblings, Lydia, and Max’s grandparents to watch him. He has numbers for shelters, and he knows where to go if things were to get bad. He has a plan for anything, and he prides himself on that.

Some stranger calling to report his parent skills? He… He’s got this. He has resources, and he is smart. There’s no corner he can’t get out of.

Fuck. What does he do first?

“Alec!”

Alec freezes mid-step, and it’s instinct to stand in front of the doorway leading to where Max is sleeping. His omega clicks his nails and fangs menacingly, and he makes himself bigger. The voice sounds familiar, but it doesn’t quite reach his primal fear and anger. His muscles hurt from where they constrict and relax testily.

It’s a man standing a safe distance from him. He has his hands up defensively, and he hears him call his name again quietly. It’s a pull in Alec’s chest, and he takes a tentative sniff.

The familiar scent of alpha affects his body first, and he lets out a growl. The scent of sandalwood and rich herbs soothe over his arms like a balm, and then fill his lungs, taking root in his chest. It wraps around him like a blanket, and Alec clenches his jaw. His fangs are out, and they bite at his lip.

“Hey,” the voice says. Alec flinches when the man takes a step, and he stops there. “You’re okay. Everything is alright. Can you take my hand?”

Alec wants to snap at the stranger, demanding him to leave if he wants to continue living. All he wants is to tear the strange alpha into pieces and rip his throat out. Instead, he breathes again, and he recognizes the scent. It’s the one scent he’s become weak to. One he trusts more than anything, and one he’s learned he is in no danger for submitting to.

The alpha takes another step, and Alec watches him. His fangs are gone, and his claws are dull. His defenses are completely back to normal, settling back uneasily. He allows the alpha to come closer, and his knees are weak. A warm hand wraps around his wrist, and he falls into the other’s body. He wraps his arms around his neck, and he plasters his body to the one person he’d always crave in times like this. When everything is dark and gray, and he can’t control the whirlwind in his mind and tightening of his chest.

Magnus copies him, holding him just as tightly and with great feeling. Alec sticks his face in his neck, needing reassurance and comfort. Magnus gives it to him, not minding at all that he’s got nails digging in his sides and back. He holds Alec tight, arms wrapping like rope around Alec’s middle.

Alec’s heart goes steady, relaxing into his alpha’s hold. Everything within submitting to him without another thought, knowing he’s safe to do so, and it’s something he needs right now. He needs this more than he needs to breathe, but he can breathe right now. He's coming back to himself. He’s settled here in Magnus’s arms. Magnus runs a finger soothingly down his side, and Alec focuses on it.

“You’re okay,” Magnus whispers. Alec nods, recognizing the truth. He’s safe. He’s coming back to reality. “You’re so good for calling me over. I wouldn’t want you to be alone right now. You’re never alone when you have me, sweetheart.”

Alec sighs shakily, and he pulls back. His body aches from the stress from the potential danger to his family - to his pack. Magnus’s face is open and showing how much truth is in his words. He means every word, and Alec can see and hear his love. Alec smiles tentatively, and he kisses him. It’s harder than he meant to, but Magnus meets him halfway, realizing how much Alec needs this.

His scent, his smile, and sweet words surround Alec. Alec relaxes in his arms, and he pulls away. “Thank you for coming.”

Magnus squeezes his wrist still in his hand. “Of course, Alexander. Are you okay?”

Alec wants to say no, but Magnus means for now. He means at this moment. “I’m okay. I don’t know what to do. I want to text Lydia, but I know she’ll wake up and get to digging. I don’t want to bother her with everything she already deals with.”

Lines form around Magnus’s eyes. “And it was DCFS? Did she show you her I.D.?”

“Yeah,” Alec answers shortly. “Why? You think it could be someone pretending?”

“I don’t want it to be, but I can’t help but be cautious,” Magnus answers cryptically. “Blame my history.”

“She was the real deal,” Alec explains. “She left her card with her number. She said she wasn’t worried about Max, and she is going to call you, Izzy, Jace, and Lydia. If answers match, then she’s going to close the case.”

“We’ll talk to Izzy tomorrow morning, and we’ll be sure to create a plan. Have our answers line up, so there won’t be any cracks,” Magnus says. He goes to the counter and starts to boil water for tea. “We will call Lydia and see if she can do anything.”

“It was probably my mother,” Alec says, ripping the bandaid off, and the blood flows out of his heart and down his shaking arms. Magnus doesn’t respond. “Cristina claimed it was an older woman. Everyone in this building loves Max, and my neighbors sometimes cooks us dinner because they know how busy I am. They didn’t do this, and there’s no one else who would do this to me. I’m a good parent. The only person who would call on me is my mother. She’s doing everything she can to ruin what I have, and she hates knowing I got away from her.”

Magnus looks at him remorseful. “I’m so sorry, Alexander. You are the best parent that little boy could ask for. He loves you. You’ve done absolutely nothing wrong.”

Alec shakes his head. “If I had stayed-“

“You didn’t stay, and you shouldn’t have,” Magnus interrupts. His own anger shines through, and it reminds Alec of his complicated relationship with his father. “You would’ve been miserable and trapped, and she would’ve controlled every aspect of your life. You did what you thought was best, and you were right to do so. You’re surrounded by people who love you and want you to thrive. She would’ve just kept knocking you down. There is absolutely nothing you should feel guilty about.”

Alec’s eyes sting again. From the DCFS visit, his omega going feral, and his heat hurdling forward and making him vulnerable, he has no strength to fight off Magnus’s kind words. They both make him want to submit and preen, but they also stitch the wounds bleeding out. They soothe his hurts and heal his bruises and scars. Magnus is good at that - making him feel strong and powerful.

“Come on, sweetheart,” Magnus whispers, steering Alec to his room. “Go lay down on the bed. I’ll bring you the tea, and you can get some rest.”

Alec walks into his room, and he spots his packed bags. “I can’t leave, Magnus. I have to be here. I can’t leave my home and Max. I-I can’t leave him. I might actually tear my hair out.”

He can’t imagine being away from Max right now. Hormones are a funny thing. It’s normal for heats to make omegas very horny, but they also intensify all hormones. If he’s taken somewhere far from Max right after being told there’s a chance he could lose him - no matter how small - his omega could lose its mind. He could essentially tear into his skin and severely hurt himself. Heats make omegas stir crazy and beg for sex, but their children will go above that.

Magnus joins him, and he sets the steaming mug on the nightstand. His gaze is soft, and Alec always feels so seen by him. Magnus helps him hold the steaming mug steadily. “I would never expect you to do that. I brought you the blankets and pillows for your nest. A couple of my shirts. I even brought my laptop just in case. I’m not leaving you, and I’m certainly not taking Max from you.”

Alec nods, feeling better already. However, having his alpha not only soothes his worries about his son, but it unfortunately reminds his body his heat is about to get real bad. He’s getting hot again, and he slides off his clothes, leaving him in his underwear. He crawls on the bed, his nest, and he situates the blankets and clothes of his family to get comfortable. The plan wasn’t to have his heat here, so it’s not as steady or firm as he would like. He doesn’t have experience with nests. Any reminder of his second gender would’ve pissed off his mother. He once asked for her jacket, and she denied him. She yelled at him whenever he had too many of his siblings’ clothes in his room. She wanted him to have nothing resembling a nest.

Alec lived through years hating himself. He hated how clingy he was. He hated how much he craved his family’s scents, and how badly his fingers ached to create a nest. When nights were particularly bad, he would cling onto one of Izzy’s scarves and a very old shirt of Jace’s. His omega cried and clawed to be let out, but Alec refused. His omega didn’t see the light of day until his siblings fought for him, filling his room with their scents and demanded snuggles. His mother refused to acknowledge his second gender, leaving Alec with little to nothing to rely on. His siblings knew what he needed before he did.

He watched a few videos and read some articles, but they ultimately said his instincts would just know how to build a nest. Alec was frustrated, but after Magnus took them on a trip to a local fabric store and Alec picked out his favorite fabrics and materials, he got a better idea. They brought it all back to Magnus’s, where Magnus left him alone to build it on their bed. Alec spent hours frustrated when it all kept falling apart, but then he finally got a rhythm down. By the end of the night, he was happy with what he made, and Magnus kissed his cheeks and held him close and told him how proud he was.

Magnus helps him with starting the nest, piling Alec’s favorite fabrics for the base and pillows and clothes around the border. It’s the bare minimum, but Alec is exhausted, and he just wants to be held until he has to face tomorrow.

Alec lays on his side, and Magnus comes back in a thin shirt and silk pants. He places water bottles, gatorade, and crackers by the bed. Alec smiles at him, feeling his cheeks turn pink when Magnus takes his shirt off without being asked. Alec takes it from him, setting it on his pillow and dragging Magnus to him so his scent is everywhere. His alpha, his siblings, and Max all surround him, and for now that’s enough. Heat is rising in his body, and he’s too exhausted to do anything about it.

What he does, though, is wait for Magnus to get comfortable, and then he crawls on top of him. He sticks his face in Magnus’s neck, calming down from his scent. This is enough for now, though he is falling. He’s getting dragged into his heat, and he’ll succumb to it sooner rather than later.

*******

He’s on fire when Alec wakes. Fire swims in his veins, consuming him entirely. He grabs for something - anything to hold on to. He was sweating profusely, and he laid on top of a puddle of his own sweat. He was naked, so he must’ve torn them off in his sleep.

Alec gasped for air, drowning in his own misery. Then a figure is on him, shushing him and kissing him from his temple to his neck. Alec moans, and he tilts his head, instinctively showing his vulnerable skin to his alpha. He knows it was him. His scent alone was overwhelming, delicious and tantalizing, calling to him. He smells like home with the spicy touch of alpha his blood calls for.

“Please,” Alec whimpers. He mumbles Magnus’s name in a broken plea. He snakes his arms and legs around Magnus’s body, finding him just as naked. He can feel that he’s hard as he ruts against him, desperation claiming him. He wants and wants, needs him. He’ll beg if he needs to. “Please, Magnus. Fuck me.”

“You’re so perfect,” Magnus breathes between kisses. It sounds like a purr and by the smile clear in his voice, he’s pleased with the panting omega underneath him. Alec moans again, higher now as he claws at the alpha’s back.

Magnus groans, arching his back into the touch. His eyes are dark when he looks down at Alec, and the omega whines again. Annoyance flickers on his face, and Alec manages a glare when Magnus grins at him - all too knowing.

His alpha is a tease, and he doesn’t like it. He shoves hard, switching their positions and using his hands to hold Magnus down. His hand slips, skimming the sweaty bronze skin of his neck. Magnus’s eyes lighten up to Alec’s befuddlement. He roams Alec’s body, sliding back to run a finger over his dripping hole. Slick is pooling out, covering Magnus’s thighs and the bedsheets. Alec’s breath hitches, and he reaches back to line up Magnus’s cock with his hole and sink down.

Both groan. Alec closes his eyes, and his lips part as he finally gets what he wants. His toes curl as he’s filled inch by inch, stretching deliciously, and he only gives himself a second before moving. He is whimpering, louder and louder the more he loses himself. “Alpha, fuck me.”

“Fuck yourself,” Magnus retorts with an infatuated grin and hazy gaze. There is sweat pooling in his collarbone, and Alec wants to lick him. Get his water from Magnus’s body. Relying solely on his alpha to give him what he wants.

Magnus tries to shift, but Alec instantly flexes his hold on him. Alec tightens around him, and Magnus groans. Magnus’s hands lay at his sides, twitching with every move Alec makes. Every time he moves up and down, his hands holding Magnus down, and every whimper and moan. Magnus’s eyes are red and dark, and he hasn’t stopped watching Alec.

Alec moans brokenly, “My alpha needs to fuck his omega.”

Magnus grins wider, “I’d say my little omega is getting fucked just fine.” He watches entranced when Alec leans forward, gasping from the new angle. “He knows what he wants, and he takes it.”

“I want your knot,” Alec begs, forgetting the conversation. He’s too damn hot and turned on to be blamed for forgetting useless words. The constant drag of the alpha’s cockhead on his prostate has him shaking and withering. He can feel a tug on his hole, and he keens. “Fuck! Fuck, fuck. Alpha, pl-please.”

Magnus sits up, Alec too far gone to oppose, petting Alec’s thighs and leans in for an almost kiss. The omega licks into his mouth. Magnus’s hands are on Alec’s hips, helping and guiding him.

“Show me you can take it,” Magnus says with his teeth in Alec’s neck. “Show me what a good omega you are. Let me breed you full. Hang on my knot until you are.”

Alec comes, covering their bellies and falling into Magnus’s chest. Only then does Magnus flip them once more, and he thrusts deep and fast until he comes. He goes until he’s unable, stuck inside a dazed Alec. He’s sweaty and exhausted, and Magnus kisses him softly. Alec mewls from the affection, kissing him back but clearly too out of it.

Magnus moves them until they’re comfortable on their sides. He leans over and grabs them both a water. He opens the lid for him, and Alec drinks more than half of it. Magnus hands him peanut butter crackers, and Alec smiles. “Taking care of me?” he nudges.

“Always,” Magnus says, quick as light like it’s obvious. Alec blushes, thankful right now Magnus wouldn’t be able to tell the difference.

Alec fumbles with his nest material, feeling much better now and sleepy. His mind clears some more, and he turns to Magnus. “Where is Max?”

Magnus gives him a look, and there’s a lace of something Alec can’t label. Alec sniffs at the air, and he hurriedly grabs a blanket to cover himself. “She’s here?” he shouts with an accusing glare.

“No, of course not,” Magnus assures him. “You were getting hot and waking up, so I let Izzy in long enough for her to take him. They’re probably at the park just down the road. I’m happy to tell her to come back.”

Alec sends him a sharp stare, fighting his need to yell at him for letting someone take his son. But then he reminds himself that someone is Izzy. Izzy has Max, and she’ll be back. She’s within walking distance, and she’ll be here any minute. He’ll have two pack members soon enough.

He can’t help but be antsy with his son gone. After last night, he never wants him out of his sight. If he weren’t in this…predicament, he would have Max in his arms right now. He’s still antsy, and by the time Izzy is back, Alec is cleaned up and in new clothes, welcoming her at the door. Instead of grabbing Max, he hugs Izzy too with Max between them. Izzy laughs and hugs him back, delighted at the affection.

Pack. Alec takes a deep breath. Pack.

Alec kisses her cheek, and he takes his son. He kisses Max all over his cheeks, who squeals and giggles at his antics.

Izzy puts a bag on the table. Alec’s stomach growls at the smell of bacon. “We brought food!”

It pains him to do so, but Alec gives Max to Magnus. He tries to eat beside Izzy with Max in his lap, but Max gets too fussy and tries to grab his food. Magnus takes him happily, bouncing him in his lap. Max grows bored of that quickly, and he walks around the apartment holding Magnus’s hand.

Alec watches lovingly while he eats. He has his head on Izzy’s shoulder, scenting her and the strong layers of Simon and Jace. He wishes they were there because he always wants his siblings with him during his heat. When he wasn’t losing himself in the sheets, he was at his siblings’ side wanting to be held. Being omega, he wants his pack alpha’s attention, but it was his mother for a while, until she was no longer. That title went to his sister, and she held him for however long he wanted.

Then it was Grant until he died.

Magnus is his alpha now. One gentle alpha to another. Alphas are usually territorial, but he doesn’t seem to mind him cuddling up to another alpha. His attention either on Max or on his laptop when he gets the occasional email.

Alec cuddles into Izzy’s side on the couch, closing his eyes and enjoying the little break. He wraps his arms around his sister, and Izzy kisses the top of his head. Max is there too, jealous of the pack cuddles and wanting in. She tells him what’s been going on with her and Simon. Classes are going good, and Simon has taken the role of housekeeper while she’s busy. He cooks her dinner almost every night, and Alec is confident he’s only doing that so she doesn’t cook. Not only because she’s busy and stressed, but because no one likes Izzy’s dishes. She could kill someone with her cooking skills.

Alec turns to Magnus, who is wearing a shirt of his but a pair of pants of Alec’s. He types away at his computer with one hand, and the other he’s holding Max. Max is climbing all over him, putting his fingers in his face and talking gibberish about cows. He holds a gigantic cow plushie Jace got him, and he pushes it into Magnus’s face.

Magnus closes his laptop and sets it away, realizing he’s not getting anywhere with a baby climbing all over him. He picks up Max and spins him around, holding him upside down and tickling his belly. Max’s long curly hair nearly touches the floor, and he shrieks with glee. It is clear from here how much Max loves Magnus, and Magnus with him.

“Oh my god,” Izzy says with only mild disgust, and she withdraws her hands from his. She stands up, and he can tell she’s not truly bothered. There’s unmistakable fondness on her face. “Have your way with him. I’ll take the tiny gentleman.”

Alec doesn’t so much as blink, eyes trained on the alpha currently watching him back with eyes slowly turning crimson.

Alec doesn’t hear the door shut, too busy clawing his clothes off and jumping on his bed. He gets on his hands and knees, arching his back and presenting his ass. The whole room smells like sex, and he’s soaked in his slick. He’s sweating all over, and there’s a hand holding him down by the back of his neck.

He visibly shakes when Magnus parts his cheeks, sliding his cock over his hole. He took off his shirt, but his pants and underwear were pulled down to his thighs. It should not be so hot. He wants him inside so bad he could cry. He is crying, crying out Magnus’s name and alpha, alpha, alpha.

“So beautiful,” Magnus whispers into his ear. He presses his tip in, pressing all the way in. Alec sighs, eyes rolling back and he arches his back some more. He shifts back, meeting his lover’s thrusts head on.

Magnus is everywhere. His scent is everywhere, and his hands are everywhere. He’s kissing and nipping at his upper back, shoulders, neck, and ears. He calls Alec a good omega, who cries out and pants and whimpers underneath him, like he can’t handle everything all at once but couldn’t bare to not have all of Magnus.

It’s when Magnus sinks his teeth into his neck, panting his name and little omega, his knot teasing at his rim, that Alec comes. Magnus intertwines their fingers, holding Alec where he wants him and comes deep inside him. His knot pops, and Alec moans high and needy, unable to move with teeth to his neck. A sensation all too close to how it would feel if Magnus actually bit him. His heart skips a beat.

Magnus kisses his jaw and situates them onto their sides. His once rough demeanor now turns soft, kissing and petting Alec like he’s something precious. Alec smiles at the action, digging back closer into his hold.

Alec angles his head to kiss him. “I love you,” he says softly.

Magnus kisses his temple and eyelid. Alec feels sleep creeping in. “I love you too.”

******

His heat lasts two days. Heats don’t last long with a partner, and Alec sleeps most of the second day. His body was exhausted. They had sex five more times, the worst hit happening through the night when Alec couldn’t stop crying. Magnus spent half of it fucking him and the other half cooling him with ice packs. He didn’t have a heat for two years because he was pregnant and then severely depressed when Grant died. His body apparently wanted him to suffer.

Alec is thankful Izzy took Max. He wouldn’t want him here while he’s in such a bad state. Magnus wouldn’t have been able to handle both Alec and Max. Magnus had been so worried over him, though he did a good job hiding it. He did what he could - holding him, fucking him, and making sure he ate and stayed hydrated. He must be exhausted too. He couldn’t have gotten much sleep between taking care of Alec, feeding himself, arranging visits with Izzy and Max, and stocking the nightstand with food and waters.

It’s the third day when Alec feels human again. He eats an entire breakfast Magnus had delivered and then some. He takes a shower for the first time, and he stands under the water for fifteen minutes, breathing in the bath salts and soaps. He felt disgusting after the constant sex and sleeping in his own filth. He forgot how much he hated his heats. He felt like an uncontrollable animal afterwards, and he hated it.

He comes back out and Izzy is back with Max.

“Thank you so much, Iz,” Alec tells her earnestly. Max walks to him clapping his hands, and Alec twirls him in circles. “Seriously, I feel bad making you drive all this way.”

“Magnus said you needed to see Max between sessions,” Izzy explains. Alec makes a face at her. She gives him a devilish grin, but she waits for an explanation.

Alec sighs, “I needed to see him because I’m feeling very protective over him.”

“Of course, omega bear,” Izzy says with a tone that says she knows he’s holding pivotal information back. She pokes his side. “Did something happen?”

Alec looks at Magnus, who is drinking coffee while entertaining Max with his farm toys. Magnus’s face softens in a particular way when he turns from Max to Alec. It’s a face that silently communicates his support. Alec can always rely on him for that.

“DCFS showed up at my door four days ago,” Alec says. Izzy’s face drops, and she pales. She looks down at Max.

“DCFS?” Her voice unsteady but her protectiveness stuck, ready to fight. “Why?”

“Someone called them,” Alec explains. He crosses his arms. “Pretty sure it was Mom. The worker said it was an older woman who reported it. She said Max was being neglected.”

“Neglected?” Izzy scoffs furiously. Her disbelief clear in her voice. “Max is the most loved kid in the world. I’d kill for him.”

“I know,” Alec says, confident she actually would do that. He’s seen her fight someone for less.

Izzy shakes her head, lips pinched and brows wrinkled. “I’m going to kill her. How dare she do this. Why would she?”

“Probably believes I can’t take care of my own son,” Alec grumbles, feeling his omega bare its teeth at the idea of something happening to his son. “She never thought I could do anything. She saw me as weak, and she still does, even though I am going to school, have a job, and take care of Max. I can only mess things up in her eyes.”

Izzy looks up at him worriedly. Her brown eyes heavy with sadness laced heavily with anger. “You don’t deserve this, Alec. That little boy is surrounded with love. He’s obsessed with you. You’re his whole world.”

Alec’s smile is watery. “The worker said she wasn’t worried about me. She is confident the case will close. She’s calling you, Jace, Magnus, and Lydia to ask questions and make sure answers match up. As long as they do, the case is closed. That’s it.”

“That's a relief,” Izzy says, her anger dissipating, but Alec knows it’s still there right under the surface.

Alec watches Max run to Magnus, who scoops him up and tosses him into the laundry pile. Max giggles, and Magnus pretends not to see him. Alec smiles, but he’s tired. He turns back to Izzy. “What do I do? What if she does it again? She’s a lawyer, Iz. She could lie. She could keep bothering them or get a hold of someone in the department she could bribe. What if I have to go to court-“

Magnus comes up from behind him, taking his hands into his. Alec squeezes, thankful to have someone who knows when to cut in. He sees deep worry on his lover’s face. “Just call Lydia sometime this week, Alexander.”

“Lydia?” Izzy asks. Recognition sparks. “She works at a law firm. Alec, she’ll know exactly what to do.”

“If she’s not busy,” Alec says, not wanting to bother his friend again. The same friend who’s already done so much for him.

Izzy makes him promise to call Lydia the first chance he gets. This can get ugly quick if their mother decides to cross that line. If she decides to back Alec into a corner purely because she can. She is a powerful law figure, and she has everyone’s phone number. Did she call as anonymous or did she call someone in the department?

Izzy goes to leave but holds up a finger. Her previous disgruntled expression morphing into excitement. “Oh! Simon and I are hosting a Halloween party.” She raises a manicured brow with a mischievous grin. “I already have a costume for Max planned out.”

Alec winces at whatever terrible idea Izzy has for Max. “Isn’t that my decision as his mother?”

Izzy waves him off with a hand gesture. “You’ll love it. He’ll look adorable. Knowing you, you’ll put him in a pumpkin or something boring.”

“A pumpkin is not boring!”

Izzy puts a hand on her hip, and she looks mighty proud. “See? Magnus and I have a plan. You’ll love it.”

Alec slowly turns to Magnus with a heated glare, but Magnus is too enraptured by Max’s drawing to pay attention. He glowers at him. “I really don’t appreciate you two scheming against me. I will not allow my son to be used as some sort of ploy.”

“But what if I promise Max will look so adorable, no one will be able to keep their hands off him? All three of you will be a little family. You will not regret it. I promise,” Izzy swears. Her happiness ingrained in her plea. She folds her hands in front of her, smiling wide and eyes bright.

Alec continues to glare, but his glare will soon fade. His sister is playing her little sister card of innocence. She’s using his love for her happiness against, well aware of what buttons to push.

Alec can never tell her ‘no’. He will try to, and she may bend to change his mind. After, though, he will eventually agree to almost everything she says. She once begged to go to a college party, and he said no firmly until she promised to not leave without him and to stay hydrated. Alec told her he wouldn’t take care of his drunk sister, and Izzy pretended to believe him.

“Come on,” she badgers. Her smile does not fade. “We will go to a pumpkin patch! We will have a photo shoot, and you’ll be in some with Magnus being adorable and gross.”

Alec blushes, and he imagines taking holiday pictures with Magnus. Either him or Magnus holding a baby Max trying to get him to pick a pumpkin. Maybe they’ll put him in a wagon. They will look like a family, and their love will be permanent in those photos. It all feels so surreal and something he doesn’t deserve. Something that should be out of reach for someone like him.

Alec meets Izzy’s gaze, who squeals before he can even give in. “Yes! Oh my gosh, we’re going to have such a great time. Clary and I found such cute jackets, sweaters, and mittens for him. I’ll bring them over. What do you say? Mid-October?”

Alec smiles and nods, excited and relieved at the temporary distraction which was no doubt exactly why his sister brought it up now. In such little time his family was able to make him feel better and give him something to look forward to. More memories with Magnus and Max.

Magnus is beaming, and he shares the good news with Max. “Your aunt and I are going to put you in the finest of clothes, and you’re going to pick a pumpkin in this huge field. We will decorate it, and you can throw all its guts on the floor and walls!”

Max screams and runs around the room in joy. He holds markers in his hands and waves them around. Alec gives Izzy his best eldest brother and annoyed parent glare.

Izzy smiles innocently and hugs Alec and Magnus one more time, “We got him to agree.” She nudges Magnus.

“Did not doubt you, you vixen,” Magnus tells her with a wink.

Alec huffs and goes to walk away. Magnus is faster, catching his arm to lean in and kiss his cheek sweetly. His eyes shining brighter with his eyeshadow and eyeliner. Izzy laughs at the two of them and kisses Alec’s other cheek.

“Goodbye, lovebirds! October 13th for the party,” Izzy says in goodbye.

Magnus caresses Alec’s face, who leans into his touch. “Everything is going to be okay, my darling. You are not alone. You have a team of people who love you and Max on your side.”

Alec blushes. “As long as I have you.”

Magnus kisses him, and Alec sighs into it. “You’re not off the hook for whatever you have planned with Izzy.”

Magnus laughs heartily and with fondness. His laughter booms. “I would be surprised if I wasn’t. No worries, darling, you’ll love it.”

Alec rolls his eyes and goes to Max to get some needed love. He blows raspberries on his belly, causing him to shriek and kick at him. Magnus pretends to come in to save him, to only join in on the tickling. The apartment is full of shrieks and laughter, and Alec’s heart cannot take all this.

Alec is collecting the trash and laundry around the room when Magnus comes in. Alec goes to him, kissing him hard and meaningful.

“Thank you for taking care of me,” Alec says, and Magnus’s smile sombers. “During my heat. I’ve had a complicated relationship with it forever. I don’t like how it controls me. Having no say with what my body wants. My mother hated them too. She hated the fact I was an omega and not an alpha. She’s never looked at me so disgusted the day I went into my first heat. She didn’t look at me for weeks afterwards. I shouted for her, but she wouldn’t-”

Alec chokes, and Magnus helps him sit down. He rubs his arm encouragingly, and he continues. “I hated my heats because my mother hates them, but I’ve learned over the years to be more okay - become comfortable with them. I like how they bring me and my siblings closer. I’ll snuggle up to them, and they will hold me. I scent them and they scent me. It made me feel like I was part of the pack and not a bystander or intruder.”

Magnus kisses Alec’s knuckles. “I’m so sorry you had to go through that. You didn’t deserve any of that.”

“I’m learning that,” Alec says honestly. It’s true. He used to be so hard on himself, and he’s learning from others around him he shouldn’t be.

Magnus goes to pack his things, including the nesting material because Alec does want his nest to be at his house and not here. He spends more time over there anyway. It wouldn’t make sense to have it all here. It wouldn’t smell right with Magnus not here.

He licks his lips and looks around. He should probably look at his school work and see what he has to do. “I’ll get started on my homework, and I’ll send Lydia a text. Hopefully she can help.”

“Okay, Alexander,” Magnus agrees. He gives Max another loving hug and grabs his things. “Walk me out, sweetheart?”

Alec does so, and he’s standing on the sidewalk when a thought occurs to him. “You know, I’ve been noticing this black car everywhere I go. Dark windows I can’t see through. Maybe it was my mother tailing me.”

Magnus freezes from where he’s loading up the car. He gives Alec a hard expression, stress forming wrinkles around his eyes. “A black car? What kind of car?”

Alec thinks back. “A convertible? Not my mother’s taste. Maybe it was a figment of my imagination or a coincidence.”

Magnus’s smile is tight when he comes back to kiss him goodbye. “I love you. I’ll text you tonight, okay?”

Magnus is a bit stiff and avoids his gaze, and Alec tries to ask, but Magnus is already in the car and driving off. Alec watches him go, unable to forget the strain of terror on his face.

Chapter Text

“It’s okay, baby,” Alec shushes Max in his arms. He’s been grumpy and uncooperative all morning. It took Alec an hour to get him washed up, teeth brushed, and clothed. He would start crying, run off, or wiggle out of his parent’s grasp. Not only that, but Alec somehow misplaced his stuffed cow, and Max would not step one foot out the door without it. He screamed and cried, and Alec had to remove himself from the situation to avoid going insane. He sat on his bed and took a few calming breaths, reminding himself he cannot kill his child. No matter how badly he wanted to scream, he couldn’t allow his anger to show. He’s a gentle, loving parent, and he’s not going to act like his mother in any way.

However, he is only human and no saint in the world could calmly handle a screaming toddler.

After breathing exercises, he went back to Max and wiped his tears and spoke to him gently. With strained patience, he said he needs to stop screaming. He cannot act like this and get what he wants. Whether or not Max has the ability to understand him, Alec still felt better about how he responded to his tantrum. He finished dressing his son, found his cow, and they thankfully walked out the door ten minutes later.

Max is drooling on his shoulder, and Alec sighs and pulls out a rag to clean up. He gets a nasty look from a woman sitting down in the waiting room. The Branwell Corporate Law Solutions sign all in black hangs on the wall. Everyone in the room is either a client, a paralegal, or a lawyer. They all wear dressier clothes far more expensive than anything Alec owns. He’s caught two women staring at him like he was a bug, while the others are too cowardly to be caught staring. If he were Jace, he would be meeting their gaze. He’s only Alec, though, and if they’re going to alienate him, then he’s happy to play along.

He’s well aware why they’re acting this way. They’re all graduates with their degrees heavy with experience wearing expensive attire, unveiled disgust, and sneers. Some of them are probably descendants of powerful families and practically born lawyers. None of them have known what it’s like to go hungry or plan out how to get from location A to Z on a budget. They haven’t fed their child while neglecting themselves. When the pipes to their washer explode, they have plenty of numbers to call without worrying about the bill bankrupting them.

Alec in his goodwill clothes with fraying stitches - they’re probably mortified to even be in the same room as him. His dirty sneakers and uncombed hair. His bitten nails and dark circles under his eyes. He bought his rundown mattress from a friend for twenty bucks. These people would be appalled to enter his studio bedroom. They would call infectious disease.

He can see they're scandalized by the toddler wiggling on his lap. Single parent struggling to make ends meet. Pitiful. A waste on tax money. Slut. Opens his legs for anyone. He’s heard it all before.

It doesn’t make him embarrassed or humiliated - just angry. Annoyed. Annoyed they’re judging him for something he can’t control. He didn’t choose for Max’s father to die. He didn’t choose for his mother to hate him so much. He didn’t ask for a mother who hated him for being an omega and wanting to tear him down until he was nothing. He didn’t ask to be kicked out when he had nothing. He didn’t ask to lose everything.

Even after it all, Max is clean, fed, and happy. They’ve got a roof over their head and an alpha who loves them both. He’s in a much better state than before. He can afford all the groceries he wants now, and he’s bought new clothes. Him and Max are comfortable now. That is all that matters. If these people knew him at all, he’d like to imagine they’d be impressed.

Little lies. Alec wonders if they would change their tune if they knew his last name. If they knew who his parents were. Would they pity him or hate his parents?

“Alec?”

Alec stands and grabs Max’s bag. Max crawls down to walk on his own, and Alec takes his hand. He walks by the woman who has not stopped staring at him. He smiles wide at her and follows Lydia down the hall.

He’s not Jace, but he grew up with him. Some of him rubbed off on him.

Lydia shuts the door behind them, and she pulls him into a hug. “Alec, I’m so sorry.”

“It’s…something.” Alec clears his throat. “I thought she had her limits but I suppose not.”

Lydia crouches down and Max runs into her arms. She squeezes him tight. “How she could do that to you and this sweet boy. I couldn’t believe your text. I had to read it five times to understand it was real.”

“Very real,” Alec grunts. He sits down in one of the chairs at the desk and sighs. He puts his face in his hands. “I don’t know what to do. How do I make this go away?”

“Well,” Lydia starts, turning professional in her own seat at her desk. Her expression was serious and grave. Alec appreciated the way she turns off and on at work. She knows when to slip into her lawful, take no shit attitude. “Remain cooperative but avoid making any statements. I did talk to Cristina Rosales on the phone, and she was amicable which is great. She showed no sign of hostility or malevolence. She couldn’t give anything away, but she certainly believes you’re a good parent. You have a job, a home, and you go to school. You’re a responsible adult gaining education.”

Alec nods, and Max joins Lydia at her desk. She picks him up and holds him. He wiggles in her hold, and he shrieks. Alec winces. “He’s teething. He’s not happy.”

Lydia coos, “Poor thing.” Unhappy with the coddling, he runs off again to Alec. Alec sets up a drawing area on the floor.

“You did well selecting supporting statements from me, Izzy, Magnus, and the others. You already sent his medical records, yes?”

“Yeah.”

“Don’t post anything on social media,” Lydia warns.

“I don’t even have one,” Alec replies. “I’ll tell Izzy and Clary to not post him.”

Lydia nods. “Most importantly, do not contact your mother. Never retaliate or contact the person who reports you, even though the allegations are false. This could escalate the situation.”

“Sounds reasonable,” Alec replies. The words taste like char on his tongue. His mother may have been like this ever since he presented, it still hurts to know how much hatred she feels for him and how far she’s willing to go. It physically hurts him to imagine treating Max like this. Max will always know love. He pledges to protect him from hurt to the best of his ability. “I don’t even know what I would say if she was standing right in front of me.”

Lydia is silent, and he doesn’t blame her. He wouldn’t know what to say if he were on the other side. She loves him though. They’ve been there for each other for almost two years now. They’ve been each other’s family and safe havens. Tending like a pack. She may have been the glue holding him together far more than he can count, but he’s done the same for her. It’s tiring being a mother of three and a lawyer. It can be overwhelming, and Lydia doesn’t open up easily. That’s one of the things they have in common. He understands her, and she understands him.

“Do I need to worry about custody?” Alec asks hesitantly.

“No, I do not see that being a problem at all,” Lydia denies. “Your mother may be powerful, but she cannot just take your parental rights. She could challenge them, but I can’t imagine any jury believing her. Your neighbors have also been interviewed, but they have nothing but sweet things to say about you. Legally, your mother has nothing on you. You may get an occasional home visit. However…”

Alec holds his breath, and his chest tightens.

Lydia purses her lips. “This case may still be recorded. That’s the only thing your mother can push through.”

“What does that mean?”

“It could affect the future, such as social services, custody cases, or job opportunities. Jobs being related to children,” Lydia explains.

“But Cristina said she wasn’t worried about me or Max’s care,” Alec argues, restrained.

“I’m just thinking of the worst,” Lydia explains. “Alec, your mother can become a nuisance. While you show great qualities and Max is being taken care of, she could force more needling and push for this to last forever. She could hassle me, Magnus, and your siblings. She could get someone to visit your work. She could do anything. I’m not saying any of it is legal, but considering her position.”

Alec sighs. He looks over at Max. Max is drawing circles on his paper, kicking his feet and babbling. Alec smiles at him, glad he doesn’t understand anything going around it. That’s the last thing he wants. Max shouldn’t worry for a minute. Alec will take care of him.

“I’m sorry if they hassle you. You know I wouldn’t want to inconvenience you or the others,” Alec swears.

“Of course, Alec. I know this, and I am going to help you through this. Me, Magnus, and your siblings. We have your back,” Lydia says earnestly. She takes his hand in hers. “You're his mother. His parent. Unless she claims more false statements or commits perjury, such as you hurting him or starving him, then she has nothing on you. She has no physical proof of anything.”

Alec weakly smiles and stands to hug her. He thanks her again, and she swats at his side for it. She hugs Max again, laughing when he shrieks and cries. She suggests a cold washcloth or a cold spoon for him to chew on and soothe the pain. Alec thanks her again, barely dodging her slap to the shoulder.

“I just want you to know I appreciate you,” Alec defends.

“I know,” Lydia replies, amused. “Now go! I’ve had it with you!”

Alec chuckles and takes Max’s hand, and they leave the office. He doesn’t meet anyone’s eye on the way out.

***********

“Daddy!”

Max runs straight into Magnus’s arms. Magnus catches him and spins them around with the biggest grin. It was a while for Magnus to get used to being called that. Alec mistook the reluctance for discomfort and annoyance. Magnus didn’t say anything, but his expression was uncomfortable like he was seconds from correcting the boy. Though when he asked, he found out Magnus was uncertain with Alec’s thoughts on it. He didn’t want to push any buttons or cross any boundaries. He hoped Alec didn’t think he was replacing Grant because he would never want to. He didn’t want to disrespect the memory of Max’s true father. He didn’t want to upset Alec.

Alec reassured him it was okay. He begged him to believe him when he says he is happy Max is so close with him. Max’s happiness was the important factor here, and he loved Magnus. He followed him around the house, and he was always so ecstatic and full of joy. He sometimes makes the same faces Magnus makes, and he once wore Magnus’s shirt when he somehow got into his closet. It makes Alec’s heart squeeze, and he holds his son extra close, scenting him until his heart’s content.

There is no reluctance now as Magnus grabs the boy and spins him around, gaining shrieks of laughter. He kisses Max’s cheeks, and Max giggles and tries to get away. Magnus lets him go, and Max goes running to his room.

As soon as Max is gone, Magnus pivots straight for Alec and pulls him close. He kisses the omega’s cheek, and Alec kisses him on the lips with a hum.

“Hello, darling,” Magnus greets sweetly.

“Hi,” Alec replies. He plays with one of the alpha’s rings.

Magnus cups his cheek. “Are you okay?”

The question shouldn’t take him by surprise. Magnus reads him too well. Regardless, his throat tightens and his fingers shake. “I just don’t know what to do. Lydia told me there is nothing for me to worry about, but I just got off the phone with Raphael. They requested my paychecks, and Cristina went down there to talk to him about me.”

Magnus frowns. “Raphael would stick up for you. He knows how serious this is.”

“Yeah, he did. The meeting went well, he said. Cristina was nice as she usually is, and she said there’s nothing to worry about. I’ve stopped bringing Max with me. Everything checked out.”

“That’s great,” Magnus says, relieved. He searches Alec’s face, and he leads them to the living room to sit down. He scoots in close. “Then, darling, what’s wrong?”

All his pent up agitation and stress are let go, and Alec struggles to breathe. His eyes water. “How does this end? Is she going to follow me for the rest of my life? Trying to find anything to use against me? Am I going to have to keep looking over my shoulder every day? My home, my job, and anywhere I go. Magnus, she’s not going to let this go.”

“She’s going to have to let this go because she’s not going to find anything,” Magnus says. His voice stern and certain. “There is nothing to find. Max is well taken care of. You have a job. You’ve got all of us standing up for you. Me, Izzy, Jace, Clary, Raphael, Catarina, Lydia, and all the others. They love you and are going to protect you and Max. You are not going to lose Max. She can keep searching, but she’s never going to find anything.”

Alec shakes his head. He’s holding onto Magnus’s arm like a lifeline. He’s probably digging his nails into his skin, but Magnus doesn’t comment on it. “What if I mess up? What if Max gets sick for too long, or he catches pneumonia? What if he breaks a bone, and they blame me-”

“He’s a child, my love,” Magnus shushes him. He wipes Alec’s tears with his thumb. Gentle like a feather. “He is going to break something, but it’s not going to be your fault. It won’t happen for a while. That boy has a vast support system. He won’t know what a papercut is for at least ten years.”

Alec snorts wetly and shuts his eyes. “She just makes me feel so weak and out of control. She makes me doubt myself and my capabilities. When I was young, she would either be avoiding me like the plague or blaming me for something I had no control over. She blamed me for my sister’s weaknesses, and how Jace no longer speaks to her. She blames me for it all. I feel her eyes on me all the time, and I can’t breathe because of it.”

He’s gasping out the words now, and Magnus pulls him closer. Alec wraps his arms around him, stuffing his face in his neck and breathes his scent. It washes over him, tranquility and warmth. It settles in his racing heart beat, and Magnus’s shirt is soaked with his tears.

Magnus continues rubbing his back, whispering sweet nothings and how much he loves him. Alec can’t hear him well, not through his choking and crying. It’s embarrassing, but he can’t make himself stop. It’s emotions demanding to be felt, and he lost control of them. He snuggles deeper into Magnus’s embrace, and he soaks in the comfort, greedy for it.

Magnus runs his hand through Alec’s hair. “You are so strong, Alexander,” he says softly. “You didn’t deserve any of that. You deserve all the love in the world, and it hurts me to hear how terrible she treated you. I’m so proud of you, and I am grateful every day that I have you. I can see how much you shine and inspire others. You’re the first and last thing in my mind every day and night.”

Alec sighs. He’s now partially in Magnus’s lap. Magnus can’t be comfortable, but the alpha doesn’t comment on it. Alec soaks in the security only Magnus gives him, and he feels his airways open.

“Nothing is going to happen,” Magnus tells him. Alec can hear how much he means it. He knows how much Max means to him. “Max is not going anywhere. I - we - won’t let that happen.”

Magnus caresses his face again, and this time Alec nods because he believes him wholeheartedly. He hears how much he means it, and he can see the conviction in his eyes. No one will come close to loving Max as much as Alec does, but there’s no doubt that Magnus would fight hard for him. He means so much to him.

Alec kisses him gently, trying to convey how thankful he is to have him and his support. He couldn’t voice it even if he tried. “I love you,” he breathes.

Magnus pulls him into his lap and wraps his arms around his lower back. Alec kisses him deeper, craving a taste of the one person he trusts more than anything.

Magnus kisses his neck, and Alec shivers. “I love you too.”

“Mama?”

Alec pushes Magnus away. Magnus smiles, and his own lips twitch in amusement. “Yes, baby?”

Max comes over and tugs on his shirt. “I’m hungry.”

“You’re hungry?” Magnus gasps. He gently pushes Alec to the side, and he jumps to his feet. He takes Max’s hand. “Of course you’re hungry. You’re a growing boy. I made us some delicious tacos. Let’s go make you one.”

Alec lays back onto the couch with a sigh. Another reason to be grateful for Magnus. He had no energy to cook. Not with everything going on as well as classes. He smiles gratefully when Magnus prepares him a plate just how he likes them. He follows Magnus’s lips when he kisses his cheek. Magnus winks at him, and Alec smirks.

“Your mama is trouble,” Magnus tells Max. Max giggles.

***********

It’s the weekend before Halloween, and Alec races after Max. The little boy runs naked shrieking loudly, having no intention to put on his cow costume. The same one he was begging to get a week ago.

Max runs around the corner, shrieking with glee, and then runs right into Izzy. Izzy giggles and snatches him up, planting kisses all over his chubby cheeks. “You’re naked! You’re a naked baby! Someone call the police! We got a naked baby on our hands!”

Simon comes over wearing his fake vampire fangs, and he waves around his hands shaped like claws. He spins in a circle, and his cape swishes in the air. “You better put on your costume or I will drink your blood!”

“No!” Max giggles. He reaches for Simon, who takes him and pretends to bite his neck. He helps Alec put the cow costume on Max. Izzy coos at him, and she takes his picture at all angles. She is dressed as Buffy, a vampire slayer. Her plastic wooden blade hangs on her hip. Her long black hair is down with a section tied back. She wears a blue skirt and purple tank top. Of course Izzy would find a way to match with Simon and still dress like a warrior.

Alec gets dressed in his room. He combs his hair and puts on his own costume. It’s simple overalls and a blue flannel shirt he found at the mall. He doesn’t have cowboy boots and even if he did, he wouldn’t wear them. He puts on his black boots and calls it good. He finds everyone in the living room, and Magnus is sitting with Max in his lap. Alec blushes when he checks him over, taking in his costume with appreciative eyes. Alec rolls his eyes and goes over to kiss him on the cheek.

“No hat, cowboy?” Magnus asks with a pur.

“I’m a farmer,” Alec corrects. “I’m not wearing a cowboy hat.”

“Maybe another time,” Magnus says cheekily. Alec blushes. Magnus wears a jean buttoned up with cut off sleeves. The top three buttons are undone, revealing two silver necklaces and a bandana around his neck. His golden skin is on full display, and it reveals more of Magnus’s long neck. He let his goatee grow a little, and there is gel in his hair to make it stick up in his usual mohawk. He looks absolutely delicious, and Alec’s mouth waters. He wants to kiss that neck and cover it in bruises with his teeth.

Magnus squints at him, and he smirks. He stands up with Max on his hip. “Save those thoughts for later, darling. We have pumpkins to pick and pictures to take. I certainly will be enjoying the view.”

“You’re awful,” Alec groans with a shake of his head.

Magnus smiles darkly at him, and he unbuttons Alec’s top button. “There - much better.”

Before Alec could retaliate, a new voice comes by. “In front of the child? You two need to settle down.”

Alec flushes and avoids Clary’s mirthful eyes. She’s dressed like a demon with black wings and red horns. Her lips are painted black. Alec raises a brow. “Wouldn’t a demon appreciate such sinful behavior?”

Clary giggles. Jace walks in, and he’s dressed like an angel with white wings and a halo hovering over his head on a wire. Alec snorts at the sight of his brother dressed like anything holy. “Turn a new leaf, brother?”

Jace smiles wide and mischievous. He wiggles his brows. “I am as pure as the driven snow. I am Saint Jace. I take the high road.”

“Yes, and I am the Virgin Mary,” Alec replies deadpan. “I have pink hair, and I’m preppy. Just call me Frenchy.”

“Men are rats,” Jace quotes. “They’re fleas on rats. Worse! They’re amoebas on fleas on rats.”

“We’re going to be late,” Izzy complains. She’s done with picture taking, and she holds Max’s hand. “I’ll go with Alec and Magnus. Jace and Simon, you want to follow us?”

Jace agrees, and they all head out. Magnus grabs his keys and Max’s baby bag. Alec goes to follow but then goes back to fetch his wallet. He’s the last one out when something stuffed into the corner of the door catches his eye. He leans down and snatches the folded piece of paper. He unfolds it and finds a drawn smiley face. There are no details - only two dots and a long curved line. A simple smiley face. It was clearly meant for them. It was under their doormat. He looks down the hallway and spots no one. He doesn’t hear footsteps, so it must’ve been left here earlier.

Not sure how to read it, Alec goes back into the house and throws the crumpled paper away.

The pumpkin patch is not terribly busy when they get there. The temperature is low and the wind is racing. Alec put Max in thick socks and long sleeves under his costume. He won’t like the beanie because it’ll cover his cow horns, but he’ll try to get him to wear it. Convincing a toddler to do anything is nearly impossible.

They go on a hayride, and Max spends the time clapping and grinning at all the attention he gets. Everyone who walks by compliments the little one on his costume, and how he’s the cutest cow in the whole field. Max giggles and waves at them all excessively, and he jumps around.

Izzy and Clary both take tons of pictures. They take pictures of Max, Alec and Max, and Magnus and Max. Alec’s heart skips a beat when Izzy gestures for all three of them to sit and pose. Alec tries to give Magnus space, but the alpha has none of it. Magnus pulls him close, and they set Max on both their laps. Magnus tickles his side, producing more smiles and laughter. Izzy snaps the photos, and then Max calls it quits and runs off, clearly done with behaving.

Max spends the next hour running around pointing at every pumpkin. Small, large, wide - it didn’t matter. He liked them all, and he refuses to choose one to take home. Most recently, he sits on one, determined on this pumpkin. A pumpkin just as wide as it is tall.

“That’s larger than you, buddy!” Jace shouts.

“Should we get one for Magnus’s house and one for our house?” Alec asks Max. “That one would fit perfectly on his porch. The whole neighborhood can see it.”

“Could just get two for my house,” Magnus suggests. His voice was a bit off. He looks down at his nails and picks at one. Alec has rarely seen him nervous - the ever so confident man. Though Alec has learned it can be a wall hiding his true worries and insecurities. Magnus is exceptional at covering up when he’s upset. The facade comes easily to him. He had to have learned at a young age with his father. Magnus hasn’t told him much about his father, but he is an awful man. Magnus wanted nothing to do with him - whether it was out of hatred or fear.

“Our house?”

Magnus said the words so softly. Alec almost didn’t hear him. He gets a little lightheaded and his heart races. His palms sweat.

Magnus meets his gaze, and his beautiful brown eyes swim with nerves. It’s a sort of shyness Alec is not used to, especially considering it was him making Magnus like this. Like Magnus was asking too much, hopeful for something Alec is more than willing to give.

“Would that be something you are interested in?” Magnus asks cautiously. It’s concerning to see the alpha act like this. As if Alec would turn against him and leave him alone if he asked for something he wants. Asked for too much and Alec would leave him. “I realize it hasn’t been that long, but I would be happy to empty some of my drawers, and Max has clothes and his toys in the extra bedroom. You don’t have to move all your things in-”

Alec confidently grasps Magnus’s hand, and he holds it like a gift. “Magnus, I would love to.”

Magnus’s eyes widen. “You would? Are you sure?”

Alec cups Magnus’s cheek and smiles. His cheeks ache from his unrestrained happiness. “Waking up next to you for the rest of my life… Magnus, I can’t put into words how happy that makes me. I love you so much. I need you to know how much you mean to me. How much you mean to me and Max. He adores you, and there is nobody else I trust more with him than you.”

“Darling,” Magnus chokes. His eyes are wet, and he caresses Alec’s cheek and kisses him. Alec could live on his kisses. He could live on their love. It’s so easy loving Magnus. His heart has never felt so full as it does right now. He’s better with Magnus. He’s more confident in himself, and he’s genuinely more centered and content with his life and the choices he has made. He no longer feels exhausted from trying to catch up. His life is no longer out of his control. He can breathe better, and he’s with someone who loves him and he loves them.

He and Magnus stroll through the pumpkin patch. Magnus holds most of the conversation, but mostly it’s a comforting silence, sparing glances, and knowing smiles. The weather is nicely cool with a light wind, and the sun is going down. Alec doesn’t feel pressured to talk, happy to listen to Magnus talk and look at him just because he can.

Catarina comes by with Madzie, who is dressed as a mermaid. Max immediately runs over to say hi, and Madzie holds his hand as they explore the field of pumpkins. Alec introduces her to his siblings, and Clary gushes over Madzie’s mermaid outfit. Madzie very quickly finds her pumpkin - a white one she plans to paint into a skeleton. Catarina gets her to choose another pumpkin for herself, and Madzie takes it seriously with Max’s hand in her’s.

Magnus joins Catarina for a little while, and Izzy intertwines her arm with Alec’s. They catch each other up on their lives. Izzy with her classes, and Alec with his own classes and work.

“Moving in?” Izzy gasps. Joy shines through her shock. “I’m so happy for you! I knew it was only a matter of time.”

Alec flushes. “It’s still new. We only just talked about it. He’s emptying some of his drawers.”

“Well, next month you’ll be married. Next year you’ll be having another baby…”

Alec chokes, nearly tripping over some vines. “Izzy! I’m trying to get my head around moving in together. It might not even be soon. It’ll be gradual. I’ll have my apartment for a little longer. I don’t want to confuse Max.”

Izzy huffs and rolls her eyes fondly. “Max loves Magnus. He’s climbing all over him every chance he gets.” She shoots him a knowing smirk. “He’s got two Lightwoods doing that.”

Alec blushes, “I don’t want my sister talking about my sex life.”

Izzy laughs. “But it’s so fun watching you get all blushy and embarrassed. It’s so easy, big brother.” Alec rolls his eyes. It seems to be a common occurrence between them. She nudges him. “I like to see you happy. You’re practically radiating when you’re with Magnus. I’m so happy for you. I love you.”

He understands her desire to see him happy. It’s all he’s ever wanted for her, and he sees that when she’s with Simon. After everything she’s been through, it’s a breath of fresh air to see her smile. Besides the stress from school, she’s less tense and more free than a few years ago. The world was dark for her as it was for him. She had her own struggles, and he did his best to be there for her as she had been for him. They struggled together, and they both made it out from the dark storm they were trapped in.

Izzy lost the bags under her eyes, and she created a life for herself. A weight has been lifted off her shoulders. Alec will forever be grateful for Simon and how helpful he was returning his sister to him.

Alec pulls her close and kisses the top of her head. “I love you too,” he says sincerely.

Alec makes his way back to Magnus. Magnus is running around with Max, dancing and exploring the area. Max spots Alec and runs over to him with his arms out. Alec bends down and kisses his cheek, getting a kiss in return. Without another word, Max is running off to Madzie. Magnus takes Alec’s hand.

“How is Izzy?” he asks curiously.

Alec smiles, always willing to talk highly of his sister. “She’s doing good. Her classes are going well. She’s got all As.”

“That’s impressive,” Magnus replies. “Medical school is hard work. I could never do it. I don’t even know how Cat is a nurse. Takes a special power to do it.”

Alec watches his sister hug Simon from behind. He turns around and kisses her. Jace gags beside them, and Clary hits his side in retaliation. “Izzy went through her own challenges when we lived with our mother,” he confides quietly. Sensing the shift, Magnus snuggles into his side, listening closely. Alec inhales deeply. “She’s had her troubles with handling our mother. Maryse not only refrained from showing affection with me but with her too. It was hard on her. Maryse was disappointed no matter what we did. Izzy would tell her she received honors, and our mother would say it was to be expected. She is cold and heartless with all three of us. It really messed up Izzy. She…she started coping in harmful ways - mostly drugs. She’s been sneaking in alcohol since she was fifteen, but it only got worse.”

Magnus rubs his back, face growing heavy in despair.

“She would sneak out almost every night, and I would go with her most of the time. The times she would tell me she was leaving anyway. I knew it was getting bad when she started sneaking out without even telling me. There were nights when I didn’t sleep, too anxious about where she was. I searched for her, and I would find her completely out of her mind at a stranger’s home or at a club. Countless nights I would carry her home.”

Memories of his unconscious sister play in his mind. Her haunting pale face and bags under her eyes. She was so weak, and she lost a lot of weight. She wouldn’t recognize him for a minute when he managed to wake her. He screamed his throat bloody trying to wake her, and he screamed at the people there who didn’t care that a teenage girl was suffering from an overdose. She was out of her mind, and she had bruises on her arms. It was like someone was reaching into his chest and breaking his bones. The splintered bones dug into his lungs, and he bled every time he held his unconscious sister who was clearly suffering. He must’ve held Izzy to his chest for hours, needing his sister to be alright. He needed to protect her like she protected him.

He would never forgive Meliorn for allowing his sister to get so bad. He went feral the last time he saw him. Meliorn tried to make excuses for himself, claiming Izzy was fine and he was watching her. Before he could finish his sentence, Alec had him shoved against a wall. His sharp canines out and snarling with his claws millimeters from his throat. Alec would’ve killed him right then if it weren’t for Izzy saying his name. It takes incredible patience and trust to talk down a feral omega seeking blood. Alec heard her weak voice, and he returned to her within seconds.

He would never forgive their mother for ignoring all the signs and pleads. The way he begged her to listen to him. He begged her to get Izzy help. Izzy was suffering and their mother refused to do anything.

Magnus listens intently, and it was a relief to talk about it. He still has nightmares sometimes about losing his sister and having absolutely no control over it. She hasn’t touched anything since, but he’s terrified to see her fall back into it. Simon promises to watch her and always be there for her. Alec trusts him, but she’s his sister. He would fight for her, and he would do anything for her.

“I’m so sorry, Alexander,” Magnus says earnestly. Alec turns his body to him, seeking the comfort he desperately needed back then. A soothing touch he craved so badly he couldn’t breathe. He can get it so freely now with Magnus. He’s safe with Magnus. His hands are so strong and warm, as eager to give as Alec is to receive. “That must’ve been awful. You two had to be so strong, and I’m so sorry you had to be at such a young age. I’m glad she had you protecting her. Neither of you deserved any of that.”

They didn’t, did they? The more time passes, the more Alec believes it. He didn’t deserve anything his mother did. He didn’t deserve to be treated like an outsider in his own house. He didn’t deserve to have his mother treat him like a diseased animal who shouldn’t be looked at. He deserved to be treated like a human with feelings. He deserved to be treated like a son. Izzy should’ve felt safe in her home.

There’s a loud shriek, and it’s Max running and giggling. Her cow horns are missing. They must’ve fallen off somewhere. The tail of the costume swings behind him with every step, and he has round cheeks from his goofy smile.

“I need him to be happy,” Alec says with unwavering determination. His clenched jaw is painful when he swallows. Magnus holds both his hands tenderly, and it acts like a lifeline. “It’s not a want - it’s a need. I need Max to be happy. I need him to have everything I didn’t. A parent who will love him no matter what. I’ll fight for him like my mother should’ve for me and Izzy. He’s going to know he’s loved.”

Magnus kisses his knuckles and Alec melts. “He’s going to be so loved, Alexander. I love him too. He’s such a sweet boy. You’ve been doing an amazing job, my darling. Raising a beautiful boy.”

There’s something heavy on his chest. Pressure forms in the back of his eyes. He places his face in Magnus’s neck, and he inhales his scent. His spicy scent with cinnamon is addicting. It captures his senses and holds them hostage. Magnus’s scent settles over him like ocean waves, washing over him and leaves him gasping. His omega twists and turns in his chest, pleased to have Magnus so close and giving him his full attention.

It sends shivers through his body, and his omega preens.

Alec presses his lips to Magnus’s skin, kissing from spot to spot. It’s still innocent, really, but verging on devious and playful. When he doesn’t get a response, he angles closer so his nose is pressed below Magnus’s ear. There, he flicks his tongue on bronze skin that smells like heaven.

Magnus brings their joined hands to his own mouth, kissing a knuckle with a dark look in his eyes. His other hand reaches behind Alec to pull him closer. Their bodies now touch more firmly, and Alec hides his smile with a kiss. He leans in his ear.

“Thank you,” Alec whispers. He kisses his earlobe. “I’m just trying to be a good parent.”

“You are,” Magnus replies sincerely. He goes to pull back to look at him, but he jumps when Alec nips at the spot below his jaw. One of the places Magnus is weak for. Alec kisses the spot as an apology.

“What do I get?” Alec asks with a faint hum. His lips twitch, and he gives a heady stare. “Do I get something?”

“For what?” Magnus replies with a silvery tone, understanding the game. He cocks his head. “For being a good omega?”

Alec can’t breathe, too busy trying not to break eye contact. He shivers and toes curl. His skin is hot in the cool air. Magnus’s eyes are near black, and Alec can see a mirror of himself in them.

Insatiable. He’s been called that many times. He translated it to mean greedy or needy, something negative and shameful. His need was far too great for anyone to fill.

Not for Magnus though. Magnus satisfies him just fine. Magnus cares for him, giving him exactly what he wants.

“You want to be a good omega,” Magnus purrs. He caresses Alec’s face, and his hand sinks down to pull at his hair. His other hand comes up to prod at Alec’s bottom lip. Alec feels like a doll. A part of him feels embarrassed for enjoying Magnus calling him a good omega a little too much. Some sort of reaction from not being acknowledged and shunned when he was younger. Now he’s got a partner who appreciates every bit of him and maybe that omega part of him wants to heal. He wants to be good.

Magnus would never shame him for anything. Alec’s heart is safe with him. He can be all himself - not parts.

Magnus kisses him so lightly. It’s soft like a feather and Alec whines when he pulls away. When he doesn’t give him what he wants. Alec needs it. He needs Magnus.

“Be a good omega and tell your sister Max wants to have a sleepover,” Magnus says with an edge. His makeup is still flawless, and the black eyeliner makes his eyes pop. His hands on Alec are stern. “I need to show my omega just what he means to me. How good he is.”

“Okay,” Alec says, almost in a daze. His pants are uncomfortably tight, and his knees are weak when he stands up. Magnus smirks at him, completely aware of exactly what he does to him. Alec glares weakly at him, and he finds Izzy.

Thankfully, Izzy doesn’t give him too much trouble. He does get a smirk of her own and Jace claps his back. Alec is too turned on to feel shame. He’s finally comfortable with his second gender and sexuality in a way that he doesn’t feel the need to hide that part of himself.

Plus he’s been busy and stressed. He needs to get laid.

“There’s a kid activity center at the museum,” Clary says excitedly. She picks up a very tired Max. “You’re going to love it. I’ll take you tomorrow morning.”

Alec vaguely remembers agreeing. He’s too caught up in the way Magnus is looking at him. Even when he’s saying goodbye to Catarina and Madzie, his gaze catches on Alec like it was natural instinct to know where he is.

Izzy takes Max’s bag, and she tells him she got some surprises for him. That probably means she bought him some clothes and toys. Max has everything he needs for a one night trip, and it’s obvious Izzy is ecstatic to have her nephew over. She names movies they could watch and other activities, and Max’s eyes scrunch up with joy. He practically jumps into Simon’s car, and Alec tries not to let that sting. He jogs over and kisses his son’s cheek, and he smiles at how happy his son is.

“I’ll pick you up tomorrow afternoon,” Alec tells him. While he’s eager to spend the entire night alone with Magnus, he’s still going to miss his son. Every time he’s away from his son, it feels like a piece of his heart is missing. Max shares none of his conflicting thoughts, and he claps and kicks his feet while Alec tries to click him into the child seat. “I love you.”

“Okay, Mama,” Max tells him between broken words. He’s going to be talking a mile a minute soon enough. “Miss you!”

Magnus says goodbye to him too. He kisses Max’s temple, “Have fun, sweet boy. Promise me?”

“Promise!” Max shouts. He giggles when Magnus tickles his side.

“We love you,” Magnus tells him.

Magnus takes Alec’s hand when Simon and Izzy drive off. Magnus squeezes his hand and Alec sighs. “I think this is the first time I won’t have him overnight.”

Magnus kisses his shoulder. “Are you okay? We can call Izzy.”

“Oh, that’s okay,” Alec quickly replies. He saw how happy Izzy was making plans for Max, and Max was vibrating in his seat. He wouldn’t want to ruin that. He wouldn’t want to ruin it for Max and his sister. He kisses Magnus briefly, “I’ll be okay. Could we get him at noon tomorrow?”

Magnus rubs his back. “Of course we can. We can cook breakfast and head over there.”

“That’ll be nice,” Alec says under his breath. He already misses Max like he’s missing a limb. Magnus comes around and wraps his arms around him from the back. Alec leans into him, loving how warm and firm Magnus’s chest is. It helps calm him.

Magnus kisses his neck, and heat stirs in Alec’s stomach. “It will be a late breakfast. It’s going to be hard letting you leave the bed. You might have to convince me.”

Alec grins and tilts his head, and he shuts his eyes from the onslaught of fiery kisses. It’s like a trail of lava sinks into his skin setting him on fire. Magnus’s cinnamon scent is everywhere, and he turns pliant in his arms.

“Are you going to cook me breakfast, alpha?” Alec asks. Calling each other by their second gender always seems to rile them both up.

“If it means you stay in my bed,” Magnus purrs. His teeth graze the omega’s skin, and Magnus teases with his tongue.

“You have to get me there in the first place,” Alec teases back, trying to hold back the shiver but failing. The challenge works wonders because Magnus takes his hand and leads them both to his car. They both laugh, and Magnus corners him against the door for deep kisses like he couldn’t wait a short drive back home. There are hands all over him, grabbing his arms, his ass, and his waist. He can feel how hard Magnus is in his pants. It brings a flutter of nerves, proud he can make his alpha go crazy.

“You should wear these more often,” Magnus says with a wink.

Alec laughs breathlessly and rolls his eyes. “There’s no way. I’m throwing these in the trash.”

Magnus snickers and finally lets him go. He opens Alec’s door and then goes to his own. He drives with one hand on Alec’s knee. Alec does the same to him, grazing a finger along Magnus’s pant leg. Magnus glares at him darkly, and Alec can see the challenge there. He laughs and does it again, loving how much he affects him. It’s a welcoming reminder how much the alpha finds him attractive. How just a touch can drive him wild.

Alec does it some more, leaning in between redlights to kiss and nip at Magnus’s neck. The fact Magnus can’t do anything in return drives him to tease him again and again.

He’s kissing below his ear when Magnus speaks. “You’re playing a dangerous game, my darling.”

Alec bites his lip, and he pets Magnus’s chest down to his inner thigh. “You can’t do anything about it.”

“Not right now,” Magnus agrees, voice even. “But when we get home? We’re going to shower, and I am going to eat you out until you forget your name.” Magnus turns to him. His face doesn’t give anything away. “I’m going to hold you to the wall, and you won’t be able to do anything but take it.”

Alec goes still - all the air leaves his lungs. His palms sweat, and his cock is hard. There’s slick soaking his underwear, and he shifts uncomfortably in the seat. Magnus looks at him knowingly, and he takes Alec’s hand from his thigh to his mouth and kisses a knuckle. His pupils are blown wide and dark. He intertwines their fingers and says nothing else.

Magnus parks the car. He takes Alec’s hand and they walk inside. The second they get through the door, Magnus is on him. He unbuttons his overalls with precise fingers, and he shoves them off Alec like they personally offended him. Alec tries to take Magnus’s clothes off, but Magnus grabs his hands and pushes him against the wall. He kisses his neck and chest, and Alec gasps and whines. He tries to touch him back, but Magnus’s grip is tight and unmoving.

Magnus kisses him when he tries to talk, and then he’s being pulled to the bathroom. Magnus finishes removing his clothes, and he turns on the water. Alec gets in and stands under the water. The water feels amazing on his heated skin. He leans back on the wall, and he watches Magnus remove his clothes. He admires his beautiful skin as more reveals itself, and his mouth waters.

Magnus does exactly what he said he would do. He kneels on the shower floor and kisses all the hidden crevices of Alec’s body. The spot behind his knees, the inner part of his thighs, and the sharp jut of his hip. He’s moving dangerously closer to where Alec needs him most. He’s holding Alec to the wall with a firm hand on his abdomen as he slides his tongue along the sensitive skin of his ass. Magnus picks up one of Alec’s legs to situate it to the side. This allows more skin to get to, and Alec has long stopped biting back his moans.

Magnus slides his tongue over his hole, small fleeting kitten licks, and then sinks inside. He moans at the taste of his slick the same time Alec gasps his name and grabs uselessly at nothing. Magnus digs in deeper, properly eats him out with his tongue and fingers, and Alec uses every remaining brain cell to keep from flailing and falling. He’s a noisy mess, and he shouts when Magnus flattens his tongue over him and adds two fingers inside his burning body. His fingers skim his prostate, and Alec shifts back to meet his thrusts.

He’s begging for more, and like everything else, Magnus gives him what he wants. They kiss first, making out like teenagers with teasing touches and matching smiles in the shower. They’re not in a rush to finishing, but Alec kisses him like they are. He bites and kisses Magnus’s neck, unable to restrain his needs and the driven need to have Magnus in every way. He wants him everywhere - around him and in him. He wants him in ways he doesn’t even recognize. He wants, wants, wants…

“I’ll give you what you want,” Magnus promises. They’re in bed now. Magnus nestled between Alec’s legs and ignoring the way Alec tries to pull him impossibly closer. There’s so much love in his eyes, and it’s alarming to see it written so plainly there. Both of them have so much power over the other without even knowing.

They don’t stop kissing the entire time. Everytime Magnus goes deep, he kisses the side of Alec’s gasping lips. Alec sinks his fingers into his back with every harsh thrust, cries out breathlessly and wraps his legs around him. He tilts his head when Magnus seeks out the sensitive skin with a cry.

They kiss during and after. They face each other in bed, and they lay so close under the blankets. Magnus’s knot went down a minute ago. Alec has his eyes shut to the rhythmic pets through his hair.

“I love you,” Magnus whispers in the quiet room.

Alec’s eyes flutter open. He kisses Magnus’s palm. “I love you too.”

It’s unsettling when he wakes up to no screaming toddler or with the purpose to go wake him up to get dressed and fed. Instead of a rush, Alec wakes up slowly and much later in the morning. The first few times he woke, Magnus was there half asleep and looking gorgeous. He must’ve had work to do because he’s gone now. Alec pouts at the empty side of the bed, and he forces himself to get up for the day.

He keeps some clothes here for when he sleeps over. He keeps them either in the closet or on top of the drawers. This time, he finds them in one of the four empty drawers. They’ve been cleaned and organized to hold only his own.

Magnus has said it many times in many different ways, but this is physical. This is proof behind the statements. This is tangible proof that Magnus wants him here. He’s not a visitor anymore but a partner in a serious relationship. Magnus wants him here, and Alec has to remind himself of that fact.

Alec stares at the empty drawers. Arms snake around his waist. “Breakfast is almost done.”

Alec nods. Magnus doesn’t leave. He continues to hold him as if he knew Alec’s legs were weak in an entirely different way.

“You really want me to move in?”

Magnus tenses and tilts his head. “Of course I do. Whenever you’d like. If you want to keep half your things here or all - it doesn’t matter to me. It is early, but I see my future with you. I want you comfortable here. I know as a parent you probably have a million thoughts in your head so if it’s easier to keep some of your things here… That’s okay. More than okay, darling.”

Alec clears his throat. “I just don’t want to intrude.”

Magnus scoffs. “I want you to intrude.”

“You don’t think we’re going too fast?”

Magnus shrugs. “Two women often go to the other’s house on the first date and never leave. I’m giving you a few drawers after five months. Every relationship is different.”

This time, Alec laughs.

Chapter Text

Magnus has never been a tactile person. He’s not used to the comfort physical touch offers. He didn’t understand why people felt the need to reach out and put their hand on him, or even offer a hug in response to bad news. Any touch at all sent shivers down his spine, followed by a small flame of irritation. He wanted to snap at anyone who got too close, and they normally got the message from his stern expression and unsettling silence. The way he frowned deeply at them and all previous amicable behavior erased entirely. People learned early on that Magnus was repulsed by physical touch.

There are exceptions of course. His pack - for one. Catarina - god they’ve known each other forever. He always appreciated a hug from her. She knew him well enough that he has his limits, but he wouldn’t turn her down if she reached out for him.

He will never deny Madzie a hug. The young girl loved him, and he would do anything for her. He’d burn down the world for her if she asked. They’ve fallen asleep with her in his arms dozens of times, and her child-like scent smelt like family and home. When she runs up to him with that wide smile and excited shout and cheer, he immediately crouches down and catches her, scooping her up in his arms.

Magnus is not adverse to parting goodbye hugs, but he would rather not. He will do it for those he cares about, but it makes his skin itchy and tight. So if a hug is not asked for or offered, he will not be initiating one.

Alexander though? Magnus wants to touch him all the time. Any capacity. During sex, after sex, cuddling in bed or the couch, holding hands in the car, pressed against him in line at the store, or even playing footsie at a restaurant. He'll take anything Alec will give him. Touching Alec is as normal and simple as breathing. He doesn’t have to think about it - he just does it. It was as if they were one soul, split apart into two bodies and every day trying to rejoin with its other half.

Alec is hard and soft. His arms are defined by firm muscle and strong legs from morning runs and scattered work-out sessions. His skin, though, is soft as a flower petal and smells just as addicting. Magnus wants to consume him. He wants to lick and bite him until his body is littered with his marks. He wants to tend to his every need while holding him down and taking all he has. He wants to smell like Alec, and he wants Alec to smell like him. He doesn’t want anyone to think Alec isn’t taken. He wants everyone to know Alec belongs to Magnus. Magnus gives him all that he needs, and he will not hesitate to claim the omega in front of anyone who dares to look at him too long.

His plump lips are biteable. His hazel eyes do look beautiful when fogged with lust and pure need. His deep, husky voice does go up multiple octaves when Magnus fucks him with a firm hand holding him down and forcing him to take whatever he gives him. His long neck does feel nice between Magnus’s teeth, and his body is made to take cock. If anyone could see how needy Alec is… well.

Magnus may tear their eyes out.

None of it even compares to how effortlessly beautiful Alec is right here in bed. It’s eight in the morning, and they’re able to sleep in a little. Alec sleeps on his side facing Magnus. His closed eyes relaxed with sleep, and his lips slightly parted and released soft snores. His eyelashes are long and dark on his pale cheek. He wears just underwear under the blanket with his head on Magnus’s pillow.

Or rather their pillows - Magnus’s mind supplies.

His fingers fidget, longing to touch, and Magnus reaches out and runs them through Alec’s hair. His dark hair is soft and smells like raspberries. He must’ve used Magnus’s shampoo, and Magnus smiles and feels his heart flutter.

There are times when it physically hurts to not touch Alec. His fingers ache to reach out and touch like they do now. That alpha side of him wants Alec nice and close. He needs him safe in his bed and using his things. It shows he can provide and Alec approves of his home. The day Alec made a nest in his home, in his bed, was a monumental day. Magnus wanted to kiss and hold him until his heart finally stopped beating right out of his chest.

Magnus hasn’t ever experienced this. This suffocating need. Perhaps it’s from the instincts he was forced to repress growing up with his father. The man who told him it was weak to have a pack. His father was a lone wolf, and he taught Magnus to be the same way.

He hasn’t told Alec, but he suffered in a similar way as Alec. While Alec’s mother abandoned him and pretty much disowned him just for being an omega, Magnus’s father forced him to live the same life as him. Push everyone away and teach him to avoid pack life. To live on his own and alienate himself. Under his father’s roof, Magnus did just that. Not only act like he agreed but to also live every day knowing exactly what his father did. The grief and guilt he felt was stifling.

Unbeknownst to his father, Magnus had a social life. His first friend, Ragnor, was an asshole, but he understood Magnus. He didn’t know everything, but he knew enough to be there for Magnus and keep him sane and human. He was there when Magnus needed a reminder that emotions and strong relationships are important. Empathy and sympathy are both equally important. His father’s crimes were not his fault. Ragnor helped him figure out who he was, and Magnus could never thank him enough. Magnus wants to be his best for Alec and Max.

Magnus inches closer. Alec looks so soft here and cozy. Cozy in Magnus’s bed, hopefully their bed where they’ll wake up to each other for the rest of time.

“You’re staring,” Alec grumbles in his deep sleepy voice. Magnus grins at the adorable man and kisses his cheek. Alec sighs and moves onto his back. Magnus follows him and kisses his other cheek. Alec chuckles and happily takes the onslaught of kisses. He doesn’t kiss back, just accepts the many kisses Magnus offers. Magnus grins with his face in the omega’s neck, loving how soft and pliant he is under his care. It’s so rare to see him like this. He’s a parent who works and goes to school. Not only that, but the pressure built throughout the years stays dormant under his skin. He’s ready to act at a moment’s notice, and his brain is always on.

Having Alec like this, docile and yielding in his arms, makes Magnus tender. He wants to hold him and keep him this way. He hates how stressed Alec gets, and he does what he can to lessen the stress and workload. Try as he might, Alec will hold himself accountable for far too much. Even things out of his control. It breaks Magnus’s heart, though he wouldn’t overstep or cross any boundaries. Alec is unstoppable when it comes to his goals. He’s protective and bright like the sun, far better than Magnus in every way. Magnus wishes Alec wouldn’t take on so much.

Magnus plants kisses under Alec’s jaw, slowly traveling down his body and leaving fleeting kisses. Alec sighs, and he’s got that satisfied look in his eye that Magnus loves to see. He throws his head back when Magnus circles his nipple with his tongue. The sounds he makes. He wants to save them in his memory forever. Replay them whenever he wants.

He crawls under the blankets between Alec’s thighs. He licks and kisses the soft skin, going impossibly slower the more Alec shakes and moans. The omega is hard against Magnus’s chest, and he smells the sweet scent of his slick. Magnus breathes him in greedily, and he skips over Alec’s clothed hard cock. Alec whimpers, and he shushes him. He uses his hand to raise one of Alec’s legs up and to the side, where he can get to the sensitive skin of his inner thigh. His sweet vanilla scent floods him, completely overwhelms him with want. He wants to rip Alec’s underwear off and sink into him like they desperately want. He wants to be inside Alec’s writhing body and make him see stars.

Magnus almost does just so, but he pushes through the omega’s alluring calls and begging. He kisses farther up, and he pushes Alec’s boxers to the side. He flattens his tongue over Alec’s hole, and he flicks the tip over the puckered hole. He sinks it inside, and he moans at the intoxicating taste.

“Magnus!” Alec shouts in surprise. He curses and writhes on the bed, but Magnus holds him in place. He whines and sinks his fingers through the alpha’s hair. His fingers tighten. “Pl-Please, oh my god.”

Magnus switches between flattening his tongue to fucking into him. The boxers are a hindrance, and he helps Alec kick them off. He dives right back into the space between his legs. Alec trembles when he slides his tongue as far as he can go. He moans at the taste, and he sinks one finger deep into his lover’s body. Alec arches his back, and he bites his bottom lip. Magnus frowns and bites his thigh. Alec gasps.

“You keep those beautiful sounds from me, and I’ll stop making you make them,” Magnus threatens. He adds another finger and begins to scissor him. He’s wet and scorching hot, and Magnus wants to sink his canines into him.

Alec’s eyes roll back, and his lips part as he makes a guttural moan. He moves his body, chasing Magnus’s thrusts. His moans come out freely now and unrestrained. Magnus leans forward to lick a stripe up Alec’s cock as a reward. “Such a good omega. Doing as I say. You’re so good at following your alpha’s instructions.”

Alec’s toes curl, and he wraps a leg over Magnus’s shoulder. He whines and shakes, still chasing the hot pleasure. Alec curses. “I need you to fuck me. Magnus, alpha, please.”

“I am fucking you,” Magnus teases him. Alec moans and murmurs his name. A deep frown line between his brows, and his fingers tighten on Magnus’s hair. Magnus shifts his body to squeeze Alec’s ass. The action changes the angle, and Alec’s entire body comes to life. His cheeks are pink, and there’s a faint pink in his chest underneath his dark hair.

“Magnus, baby, please.” Alec’s moans are broken and deep, and he digs his ankle into Magnus’s back.

Magnus kisses his hip adoringly. “You don’t get my cock, darling. I want to see you come on my fingers. I want to see you come apart as I ravish you with my tongue and fingers. I want to hear you say my name over and over until it’s the only word you know.”

Alec’s nodding, and Magnus is confident he doesn’t know what he’s agreeing to. He whispers encouraging praises, watching in delight as his omega shatters beneath him. Between his tongue and fingers, Alec very quickly falls over the edge. He's breathing rough and desperate, and he’s holding onto Magnus like he can’t bare to let him put any more distance between them. Magnus loves it. He loves how needy Alec is, and he loves to be the reason he’s experiencing so much. He wants to give Alec everything, and this includes mind blowing orgasms. He wants to bring Alec to that cliff and leave him there, watch him gasp and whine until he finally pushes him over. Alec cries out his name when he comes, repeating it like a prayer. Magnus keeps going, helping Alec through the aftershocks. He moves up to kiss him. His lips are unresponsive, and he’s breathing hard and unsteady. His eyes are unclear, and Magnus runs his hands over him.

Magnus kisses his shoulder. “I love you.”

Alec smiles lazily, and he lays back on the bed. He would look like an angel if it weren’t for his release drying in his chest chair and belly. “I love you too. Alpha.”

Magnus grins at him, as they both know calling each other by their second gender gets a rise out of them. Alec’s hand wanders down to his silk pants, and Magnus catches it and shakes his head. “That was just for you, darling. I wanted to make you feel good.”

Alec reaches up with that same hand and caresses his face. His eyes gentle. “You always make me feel good.”

Magnus’s heart blooms. He doubts himself sometimes, but Alec clears it right up when he needs it the most. He kisses his nose because he can. “Take a shower. I’ll start on breakfast.”

“Okay,” Alec sighs, and he stretches his arms. He wiggles off the bed and heads for the bathroom. Magnus puts on the shirt closest to him and heads down the hallway. Max greets him with a cry, and Magnus shushes him. Max clings to him as they walk to the kitchen. There is a beautiful bouquet of tulips on the kitchen table. Magnus smells the petals and smiles.

With Max on his hip, Magnus cooks breakfast for the three of them. Eggs with spinach and bacon for Max, and eggs, bacon, and fruit for them. Max doesn’t like eating fruit in the morning, though he is happy with a smoothie when Magnus makes it.

Max is babbling and finishing up his food when Alec walks in. His hair is wet from his shower, and he smells like raspberries. Alec told Magnus once that Max doesn’t like soap with scents. He would get mad when Alec put on cologne or scented shampoo. Magnus was prepared to make the change to scentless soaps, though he was glum about it, but then Max eventually got over it. He likes Magnus’s collection of colognes. He would go through them and spray himself with them, and then claim he is Magnus now with a toothy grin. Magnus’s heart melted at the statement, and he thinks about the little boy every time he picks his cologne or perfume for the day.

Alec comes in, and Max instantly reaches for him. Alec smiles and wraps his arms around the little one and kisses his head and cheeks. “Goodmorning, my baby. What do you have? What did Magnus cook for you, hm?”

“Bacon!” he claims with a loud shout. Alec laughs.

“Bacon? Is that bacon all yours?”

Max giggles and waves the bacon at him. “Yes!”

“What did you say when he made you breakfast?”

Max kicks his feet and takes another bite. His fingers are messy, and there are pieces of egg on the floor. “Thank you, Daddy!”

Magnus’s stomach twists, and he swallows. He has yet to acknowledge Max’s habit to call him that. Every time he does it, all he wants is to smile and hug him as hard as he can. Alec is his moon and stars, and he’s not used to having someone in his life who loves him for him. Who loves him and expresses to him daily on how much he loves him. He can see Alec’s love for him in the way he looks at him, and the way Alec allows himself to be vulnerable around him. He puts his defenses down for Magnus, and it’s earth shattering each time. Magnus has no idea how he got so lucky, but whatever he did led him to have two special boys in his life. His family. His pack. His reason to get out of bed - to hurry out of bed because even a second away from Alec and Max feels like years.

Not only does Alec love him, but Max sees him as a parent. As someone who loves and protects him. Who he can rely on. Because he can. Magnus will always be there for him. Magnus will walk on hot coals to get to him. It took awhile, but he sees Max as his. Just like Alec is his.

However, that doesn’t mean he deserves them. It doesn’t mean that his thoughts don’t turn sour and dark. The voice in his head turns self-deprecating and ashamed, as he tells himself he doesn’t deserve any of this. He’s ruined things in the past, and there is no reason to believe he wouldn’t do it again.

Max knocks over his plate, and Magnus beats Alec to his feet. “I have this, Alexander. Finish eating.”

Alec’s brow furrows, fighting with himself to either stay in his seat and let Magnus handle it or do it himself. Magnus runs his fingers through Alec’s hair, assuring him to sit still. Within seconds, Alec relaxes and goes back to eating. Alec used to insist he does everything for Max. He told Magnus at the very beginning he didn’t want to be a bother after everything Magnus had already done for him. Alec stated he didn’t want Magnus to worry about Max. Magnus had conflicted thoughts about it. On one hand, maybe Alec wanted to prove to Magnus he can handle Max all on his own and he was a good parent. Magnus learned quite early on that Alec’s mother judged him heavily growing up, probably calling him irresponsible and weak because of his second gender. Alec wanted to prove to everyone he can take care of Max on his own.

On the other hand, maybe he didn’t trust Magnus with Max. However, that couldn’t be true because Alec trusted him with Max in class. He let him hold him during tests, and his cheeks often turned pink when watching Magnus with Max.

Months later and Alec quite often happily lets Magnus tend to Max. Particularly early in the mornings when Alec is sleepy and cozy in bed, he won’t even stir when Magnus leaves to check on Max. The trust there is astronomical, and Magnus is suffocated by it. He wants so bad to keep it, hold it in his hands like a treasure but it gets too heavy. The dark voice in the back of his mind comes out to haunt him.

Magnus shakes it off and collects all the dishes. He tells Alec about today’s plans, including a meeting around noon. Alec tells him about a project he has in class, and how he will be at the school for a couple of hours longer than usual. Magnus tells him he’ll pick him up, and he’ll have dinner ready.

“I can cook,” Alec interjects. There are stress lines around his eyes, and Magnus sympathizes. He’s been in his place, though, not with a kid.

“You can, but you are busy, darling,” Magnus says. “No need to worry. You focus on that project, and I’ll make sure dinner is ready by the time we get back. It’s just a recipe in the crockpot.”

The stress lines tense before flattening out. Alec smiles and wraps his arms around Magnus. Magnus accepts the hug, and he kisses his cheek. “Can you pick up diapers?”

“Of course,” Magnus agrees. He sighs at his lover’s smell. He wants it on his skin forever. “Are you going to be ready to go in twenty minutes?”

“Yeah,” Alec tells him. He rifles through his bags. “Andrew is probably already up there. You mind if we get coffee on the way?”

“Of course not. Let me change my pants, and we can get going.”

Magnus goes and gets ready. He is weightless and light as a feather. His life has become delightfully domestic. He knew he was missing something in his life. He hasn’t had the best luck finding a partner. Many of them told him he was too much. Too loud. Too eccentric. He talked too much. Too needy. Too…odd and bizarre. He didn’t think he was like that, and he didn’t believe he asked for too much but apparently he was wrong. You get told something enough times, and you start to believe it to be the truth.

Alec doesn’t think he’s too much. He loves him just the way he is. He was so open and receptive to Magnus’s ideas and plans. He loves the dates Magnus takes him on, and he does the same for Magnus. Alec will text him sweet things and tell him he’s thinking of him. Little inside jokes and stories. Alec surprised him with a shirt that says ‘Talk Data To Me’ and Magnus laughed harder than what was appropriate.

Alec’s made Magnus’s house more like a home. They have their own towels, and they brush their teeth standing next to each other. They have a silent understanding when it comes to Max and who’s going to check on him, dress him, and change his diaper. It’s all domestic and intimate. It’s all so easy with Alec. Magnus was taught he has to work hard for love and even then it’s a privilege.

With Alec, it’s easy and free. Alec gives his love like he has a limitless supply. He does it like Magnus deserves this life with him. Magnus didn’t believe he did for a long time, but when Max looks at him like he’s hung the stars, he can’t help but believe him.

Alec is in the passenger seat, and Magnus is buckling Max into his seat. Max is mumbling an incoherent story for his toy car. Magnus kisses his head, smelling his scent and smelling family.

“I love you,” he murmurs into his dark hair. He goes to the driver seat and starts up the car, taking Alec’s hand and intertwining their fingers.

*****

“You can’t have that, you sweet thing,” Magnus says with a dramatic huff. “You can’t have everything just because you’re cute.”

Max laughs and swings his feet in the cart. He has a plastic car in his hand with the face of a dinosaur. He waves it around and sticks a tire in his mouth. It plays a somewhat quiet tune, and Magnus shakes his head at him fondly.

His meeting ended an hour ago, giving him time to run to the store to pick up the essentials and other things. He grabbed more coffee, creamer, breakfast bars, chips, bananas, and frozen chicken nuggets. Max has been obsessed with chicken nuggets and oranges for the past month and a half. Alec has tried to steer him to other fruits and veggies, but Max is stubborn and refuses to eat anything else.

Max is babbling happily in his seat, and Magnus talks animatedly back. It’s fun to pretend to have a conversation with him, and Max enjoys it based on his loud shouts and giggles when Magnus rants about his projects.

“It’s always the comma, Max,” Magnus tells him matter of fact. Max nods with a gummy smile. “You’re always going to be either missing one or have too many. I have almost failed at least five exams for them. They’re the bane of my existence.”

Max shakes his head, “Yes! Bane!”

Magnus laughs, “That’s what I’m saying! They’re the worst!”

Max continues to babble away, and he pulls at Magnus’s shirt and sleeves. He toys with one of his big rings, and Magnus gives him a stern look. “You are not tricking me again. Your mama was very mad at me for letting you hold onto my ring. Apparently you could have choked and died, but I think you’re too smart for that.”

Not at all. Honestly, he didn’t think about the danger until Alec came in and nearly had a heart attack and shouted about rings being a choking hazard. Alec was furious, and Magnus was filled with guilt. He felt awful, and he promised he would never make that mistake again. Alec, the sweet man that he is, forgave him soon after, but Magnus won’t forget the true terror in his boyfriend’s eyes. For a second, he was terrified for Max’s wellbeing, and Magnus would never make him feel that way again. He’s supposed to be Alec’s safe place, not a potential danger to his child. He doesn’t want Alec worrying about him with Max.

They get to the diaper aisle, and he grabs the right ones. Max drops his car, and Magnus crouches down to pick it up.

“Who’s the lucky mother?”

Magnus would’ve dropped the toy if his fingers weren’t painfully dug into the plastic. His chest constricts painfully, and he focuses on his breathing. He straightens his back, and he leans over Max protectively.

“Go away,” Magnus gripes. He turns around to find another man in an expensive black coat. His father is smirking at him, and his blood boils.

“Didn’t realize I was a grandfather,” Asmodeus says. It’s shaped like a question with the curiosity, but it’s all a game. It’s always a game.

Magnus has three options: deny, confirm, or ignore. He could deny the claim, but that would feel like a betrayal to Alec. Not even his father could make him do that. He could confirm, but it would bring danger to Alec. Asmodeus would know Magnus has someone special in his life and not only that, but there’s a young, vulnerable child in the mix. He could ignore the question, but his father would get suspicious and hone in on anything to get under Magnus’s skin. Avoiding a question is not an option. Asmodeus will think he won, successfully earning any right to snoop into Magnus’s life and find any weakness he can toy with.

Asmodeus is far too dangerous to let him think he’s won.

Magnus once considered Asmodeus his father. For a while, he was all he had after he lost his mother. Asmodeus came back after she died. His mother never told him why he left, but she said it was a good thing he did. Magnus didn’t understand then. Having a father in his life, he thought that meant he had family, but family doesn’t do what Asmodeus does. Family supports and loves you, not endangers your life and makes you feel worthless and alone.

“Didn’t realize you had any right to be in my life,” Magnus retorts. “You don’t get to learn or know anything about me.”

“Hm,” Asmodeus says, looking entirely too pleased with himself. “So he is yours?”

Magnus clenches his jaw. “In every way that matters.”

“What matters is extending our bloodline,” Asmodeus disagrees. “He looks nothing like you, and he doesn’t have our name. You’re delusional to believe he’s in any way yours.”

“It doesn’t matter what you believe,” Magnus sneers. “He is in my care, and I am not you. He doesn’t have to have my genes or have my name. He’s not my flesh and blood, but he has my heart. My heart says he is mine, and he is pack. That is all that matters. Your terms are barbaric and no longer apply here. You know nothing about how a family is forged.”

“Pretending to be a daddy is not the same as being one,” Asmodeus says testily. The dagger hits its target dead-on in the center of Magnus’s chest. He tilts his head to see around Magnus’s frame. He wiggles his fingers at the child.

Max stares at him with his wide blue eyes. He’s holding tightly onto Magnus’s sleeve. Magnus’s suspicion and caution spring to life, morphing to bubbling rage. He steps around the cart, fully hiding Max from his father with his entire body.

“Back off,” Magnus warns through his teeth. His nails extend, not nearly as pointy as an omega’s. Omegas have long and sharp claws that could easily slice someone’s neck or chest open. They’re quick and incredibly dangerous, but an alpha’s claws are nothing to underestimate.

Asmodeus goes to speak but Magnus intercepts with a voice he doesn’t recognize. His eyes burn with crimson red. “You touch a single hair on his head, I will slice your face off. You look in his general direction again, I will staple your eyes shut. You touch him,” Magnus chokes. He’s drowning in waves of fire as gruesome memories that have haunted his dreams for decades flood him. He was a child then, but he’s not anymore. “I will break every bone in your arms and hands. I will keep you awake so you feel every single bone snap.”

“You wouldn’t fight me,” Asmodeus challenges. His eyes and lips were stern and hard. Magnus is happy to see he’s actually taking his threat seriously.

Magnus glares. “Are you sure about that?”

“You’re talking like he’s your own son,” Asmodeus guffaws. There’s twisted amusement in his black eyes. “As if anyone would want a child with you.”

“He. Is. Mine!” Magnus snaps. All his rage boils under his skin. “And I am his. He loves me. He’s upset when I leave, but he knows I will be back. I will always return to him because I wouldn’t abandon him or put him in danger. He knows I love him because I tell him every day.”

Asmodeus’s stern frown melts into a grin. Magnus backs away, needing to hold onto Max to confirm he’s here. There are bees buzzing in his chest, muting all the noise around him. It hurts to breathe, and he needs to leave. He shouldn’t have said anything, but his father has always been good at bringing the worst out of him.

“You come anywhere near me or my family again, you will regret it,” Magnus warns with uncompromising firmness. His voice is sharp as a blade and ready to strike. He doesn’t have to check. His eyes are burning and still a blazing red. “No more following Alec. I hear you’re following him, I will come find you and tear you apart. Do you understand me?”

Asmodeus watches him. His stare is unsettling, but Magnus refuses to back down. He will not allow his father to intimidate him any longer. He’s done it all his life. He’s been the noose tightening around his neck since the day he returned to Magnus’s life.

He’s still in Magnus’s life, and Magnus wishes he would disappear forever. He’s got Alec and Max to think about. While he might have not worried too much about his own life and sanity, he does want to guard theirs.

“I asked if you understand me,” Magnus says darkly. His protectiveness and lifelong terror morphed to rage wraps around his words. His threat slithers into his voice.

Asmodeus’s expression is cocky, as if he was proud of Magnus’s display. The idea cuts into Magnus’s chest. His gaze flickers over Magnus’s shoulders, though he’s unable to see Max with him in the way.

“I understand,” Asmodeus says, somehow managing to appear calm. As if this was his game, not Magnus’s. “You should let this side of you out more, my son. It’d be good for Max.”

Asmodeus leaves with his head held high, and Magnus watches him helplessly.

He’d rather have had him stab him.

**********

Alec is in the kitchen prepping meals for the week. He’s got a busy week ahead of him, and it would be best to have his meals planned out and ready to go for when he’s stuck at the college or too exhausted after work and class to cook. Magnus is not always there to save him from having to cook with his own job and responsibilities. It is a relief to have a partner to split them, but they both have busy lives. They can only do so much in one day.

Magnus has been acting peculiar lately. He hasn’t been himself. He’s been quiet and working more often than usual. He wakes even earlier, and he is in bed by the time Alec is done with his homework. Some of his natural light and charisma has dampened the past two weeks, and no matter how many times Magnus assures Alec he’s fine, Alec doesn’t believe him. He’s gone from worried, guilty, annoyed, and now back to worried. If something is bothering Magnus, he wants to be there for him. He wants to provide and care for him, make him smile and take his worries away. He wants to hold him until he finally confides to him about what is bothering him.

They have always had this pure, warm relationship. There’s so much trust between them, and they are devoted to each other. Just thinking about Magnus makes Alec smile and blush. Magnus’s heart is so big, and he shows his love through his eyes and acts of service. He’s bought Alec a few nice shirts and even bouquets of flowers every two weeks or so. He wasn’t a flower guy, but the act itself was romantic enough to produce butterflies. Magnus makes Alec feel so desirable. Alec can’t walk by Magnus without the alpha reaching out and touching his back or neck. He makes Alec feel wanted in a way he’s never experienced before. It makes him both weak in the knees and lifts his confidence.

Not only that, but Magnus does not hesitate to go check on Max during the night. He doesn’t think twice about getting him dressed and ready for the day. It’s all routine now. When Alec tries to insist on doing it himself, Magnus assures him he loves helping with Max. He loves his son, and it’s a joy to make him laugh and chase him around. He talks to Max like he’s an adult like Alec often does. He doesn't talk down to him in any way. He speaks to him with the respect and compassion Alec wishes his own parents spoke to him when he was young. Seeing Magnus treat his son with patience and attentiveness heals that damaged part inside him. The weight of his past is not as heavy as before.

Magnus has not lost his kindness. If he had, Alec would need to have a serious conversation with him. He’s not going to let Magnus pull away from him without saying anything, and he’s certainly not going to let his son get hurt because Magnus refuses to communicate. At the end of the day, he needs to protect his son. If he has to start pushing Magnus harder to do that, then he will.

He could have all this wrong. He could be reading the entire situation wrong. He could simply be busy and stressed from work. Perhaps he’s working on a big project, or maybe his office hours are filled with confused students. Magnus is too kind to deny anyone, and he would stay late to help others. Maybe Magnus is overworking himself. Would it be inappropriate to step in and tell Magnus he’s worried about him? Should he convey his worry that he was overexerting himself? He’s worried about Magnus, and he wants to help. He hates how tired he looks, and how there’s slowly becoming a wedge between them. It’s not a big deal right now, but what if it worsens?

He bathes Max for the night and settles him into his bed. It takes a bit to get him to fall asleep, but eventually he goes down. Afterwards, Alec decides to take a peek in Magnus’s office. His office is dark and empty, and maybe he shouldn’t be in here. Maybe he’s crossing the line and overstepping, but what if there is something in here that could aid Alec in helping him? Maybe there’s a project he could help with, or maybe he could help with organizing and cleaning up after him. Magnus helps him so much, and Alec wants to be able to do the same.

His office is neat and ordinary. He has a stylish leather chair off in the corner beside a bookshelf. Most of the books relate to data analysis or computer science. There are one or two on the practice of teaching, and then there is a section in the far left on mystery and fiction. There hasn’t been any new additions since Alec first slept over, and he wants to rectify that with a bookstore date. Alec enjoys reading, but he doesn’t have much time to. Maybe he can ask Izzy to watch Max for a night. He’s sure she would be thrilled.

Magnus’s desk is relatively empty. It’s a bit messy with pens and pads thrown around. Magnus isn’t the most neat man, and he insists he has a system. Alec doesn’t believe him since Magnus loses items often. Alec begins to tidy up. He collects the papers and puts them into a pile. Nothing catches his eye. It all pertains to his analyst job, and Alec glances over it. He sets them to the side and goes back to cleaning. Magnus’s bag is on the floor and spilling out paperwork. He tidies it all up before moving on to the bookshelf. He reads over some of the titles and slides them back into place.

He goes back to Magnus’s desk and tries to open the top drawer. It’s stuck, and he tries every angle to get it to open. He jiggles the handle using his might to finally yank it open. Papers fly onto the floor. He curses and gathers them up. One catches his eyes - a check. A check for three grand to the EndCAN organization.

The National Foundation to End Child Abuse and Neglect.

Judging by the dates, it's regularly scheduled for the beginning of the year. He didn’t know Magnus donated to a child abuse organization. He’s never mentioned it. After everything Alec has been forced to deal with, Magnus did not once mention his scheduled donations to child abuse organizations. Searching further, he finds more checks for other charities. Why hasn’t he mentioned this? Why would he hide this from him?

He’s caught up in the papers and solving the puzzle and doesn’t hear the click of the front door or the call of his name. He doesn’t hear the incoming footsteps, but he does look up when the door opens to reveal Magnus. He has his satchel over his shoulder, and he blinks in bewilderment.

“Alexander? What are you doing here?” he asks tentatively. There’s a flicker of irritation, and Alec tries to put his thoughts into words.

He tightens his hold on the papers. “What are these?”

Upon hearing the severity of his tone, Magnus freezes. His face is expressionless and Alec hates it. It physically hurts to see his boyfriend’s walls shut him out.

Magnus comes closer and flicks on the lamp. His eyes adjust, but Alec knows he knows exactly what he’s holding. “They’re checks.”

“To three child abuse organizations and drug abuse organizations.”

“Yes,” Magnus says, voice clipped. He provides no details, and his eyes are hard and defensive.

“This is ten grand, Magnus,” Alec tells him. “I don’t understand. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t need to tell you,” Magnus argues with a strangled voice.

“It’s ten grand!” Alec repeats desperately. “That’s not some cash you have lying around. This is a scheduled donation, and it’s more money I’ve made in a year. You’re hiding this from me. What? You didn’t think I could handle hearing about this? Do you think I’m some sort of gold-digger?”

“I didn’t want to tell you.” Magnus stands there tense and distanced. He’s not even meeting Alec’s gaze. His book bag slides off his shoulder and lands on the carpet with a thud.

“Why not?” Alec asks, trying to keep his voice even but failing. “Magnus, this is a good thing you’re doing. Why would you hide this? You’re not even using your real name.”

The room is small, but Alec feels so far from Magnus. There’s miles of empty air between them. The distance is suffocating. They’ve had their arguments before, but this one seems so much bigger than the rest. He hates how emotional he’s getting. He shouldn’t be mad at Magnus, and he doesn’t know what to think. But why would Magnus hide this from him? Don’t they tell each other everything? Magnus already knows so much about him.

Is Alec not the problem but Magnus? How much does he not know about Magnus?

Magnus looks ready to bolt. His eyes are glued to the floor looking guilty and like a man put on trial. Alec’s goal wasn’t that. He didn’t know there was anything wrong until Magnus got defensive. He wants to understand. Needs to understand, rather than learn today at this moment they aren’t as close as he thought.

Magnus sighs and closes his eyes. He gestures behind him. “Alexander, can we sit down? I’ll tell you everything. I just need to sit down, and this is not a conversation I want to have like this.”

Alec almost says no. He hates when someone isn't telling him something. He knows how dangerous it is to be out of the loop. He wants to demand to be told here and now, so he doesn’t have to live another minute blinded from the truth. He trusted Magnus to tell him everything. They don’t have secrets.

However when he sees the despair and misery in his lover’s face, his fire dies down. Magnus may have withheld information, but he is going to tell Alec now. He’s willing to explain, and Alec has to hear him out.

Magnus leads them to the living room, and Alec sees his hands shake. His eyes are wet with unshed tears, and Alec is suddenly furious with himself for making him this way. Though shouldn’t he be upset that Magnus is hiding something big from him that clearly means a lot to him? He quietens his anger down and heads to the kitchen and brews some tea. Magnus likes his tea after a miserable day and figures he may need it.

Magnus takes it gratefully. He sips at it and sets it on the table. He rubs his hands together, and he takes a long breath. Alec sits down a foot away on the couch before changing his mind. He scoots closer, needing to feel his warmth even when agitated. Magnus must appreciate the gesture as he smiles hesitantly.

Magnus stares ahead, and Alec wishes he would look at him. Maybe he can’t do this if he does look at Alec, and Alec tries not to let that sting. He reminds himself this isn’t about him. It’s about Magnus.

“I told you on our first date about my father and how he left me and my mom,” Magnus starts. Alec nods. “Well, I didn’t tell you she died when I turned fifteen. She died in a car accident. She was coming to a play I was in. She originally wasn’t able to make it because she was forced to work. I was young and mad about it, and I yelled at her that morning. Turns out she talked her coworker into taking her shift. I didn’t find out until hours later when the police came to my school.”

Alec stares at him unblinking. He stares with his lips parted in horror. He can’t imagine the guilt Magnus must’ve felt that day and the many years afterwards. He gently grasps Magnus’s stiff hand, trying to convey how sorry he is.

Magnus bites his lip and breathes. “Someone told my father, and he came back to take me in. He got us an apartment nearby so I could finish high school at the same school. It was a nice gesture from a man who used to terrify me. He supported my schooling, and he even helped me choose a good college. I was already set on data analysis because I wanted to support my mother and I. I thought my father would try to talk me out of college. I figured he would want me to work with him. I didn’t know what he did, but I knew it was nothing good and incredibly dangerous.”

Alec tries to imagine a younger Magnus heartbroken and confused after losing his mother and having to live with his abusive father. He probably didn’t know what his father’s motives were, nor why he was there or if he truly cared about him. Magnus clears his throat.

“He was supportive of my focus on data analysis. He pushed it so much, and he helped with my homework. He, uh, started giving me special tasks and projects. He had me keep track of police cars in our neighborhood and crime hotspots. I didn’t see the harm in it. I couldn’t see why he would care much about it, so I did it. Then he had me keep track of patrol routes, and soon enough he had me analyzing border patrol routines. He moved on to stock markets and cryptocurrencies. I did it all. It felt…nice to work with my father. It was all small things, and I didn’t think of the big picture or why he was so heavily invested with my skills. It was just nice having him around.”

Magnus’s voice is so fragile. Alec intertwines their fingers. “It’s okay, Magnus, you don’t have to-”

“It’s okay,” Magnus interrupts. There’s pain all over his face, but he manages a smile. Alec nods and his smile falls. “There was a…a challenge. He said it was just a small test. It was supposed to be fun. At this point, I was excited to make him proud. He still made me nervous, and he was very distant with me. Though when he showed so much interest in me, I was happy to keep doing it. I was thinking ‘finally I have my father’s attention and he’s not being an abusive asshole like before.’”

Alec plays with one of Magnus’s rings. Magnus likes it when he does that, and he wants to offer comfort when he can.

“It dabbled in some social media marketing,” Magnus explains, voice strained and choked. “He suggested I explore digital marketing. The world runs on the internet nowadays, and we need to be one step ahead. I had to get with the times and use it to my advantage. I was supposed to learn techniques based on behavior and interests. I analyzed social media trends to pinpoint profiles most likely to respond to certain ads or content. He said it would help me with my career in the future, and I believed him. I was stupid enough to believe him.”

Magnus was frozen like ice, and he was not looking at Alec. “Turns out I was helping him find and manipulate potential customers and test out marketing strategies to hook new users. I was helping him find people with certain demographics showing risky behaviors on social media, and then he would manipulate them with ads and content to steer them to him. Alexander, I was helping him target innocent people online.”

“‘Users?’” Alec asks. “Do you mean your father sells drugs?”

“He sells just about anything,” Magnus sneers. “He’s a drug lord and he gets people hooked on his shit, and he never lets them leave. He never lets them walk away. He’s the top alpha in his organization, and he has people everywhere. There is no running from him, and I helped him lure more people in.”

“You didn’t know,” Alec argues. “You had no way of knowing.”

“I did know,” Magnus insists tiredly. His anger bubbles to the surface, and he lets go of Alec’s hand. “I knew from the start he was a monster. My mother called him a monster. He left, and she said it was a good thing. She wanted nothing to do with him, and I let him take me as soon as she was gone. I disrespected her wishes, and now there are thousands more victims of my father thanks to me.”

“You were a child,” Alec disputes more furiously than before. He hates to see Magnus think so harsh of himself. “He was the parent, and he used you.”

“I was gullible,” Magnus shakes his head. “I was weak and desperate, and he took advantage. He used my skills for his dirty work, and I am disgusted with myself.” His tears are free now and rolling down his cheeks. “When I confronted him, he said he and I were the same. I told him I was going to call the police, and he said I couldn’t because I am now responsible for what he’s done. All the fires. The murders. The kidnappings.”

“It is not your fault,” Alec says, more harsh and unyielding. “None of what he’s done is your fault.”

“You and Cat,” Magnus says humorlessly. “You say it’s not my fault. Nothing ever seems to be my fault. I don’t think you understand how much I contributed to everything. He told me his life was good before me. He blames me for losing my mother. His life has been hell because of me.”

“He was a grown man and you were a teenager,” Alec tells him. His earnestness bleeds through his words, and he begs Magnus to listen to him. “What could have you possibly done to torture him so much?”

Magnus stares at him now, finally looking at him but speechless as if he never thought about it like that. Alec could read his thoughts as they came into existence.

He existed. He was born.

“He told me I couldn’t call the police. If I were to, it would be both of us going down. He said his life was in my hands, and he trusted me not to let him down. I did let him down. I left.”

“Magnus,” Alec says gently. “You didn’t ask for that. You were just trying to go to school.”

Magnus’s skin is pale, and his eyes are brimmed with tears. It was as if he was seeing a ghost or Alec’s words physically hurt him. The reality of his words hit him hard, and Alec caresses his wet cheek. “There is nothing ugly about you.”

Magnus doesn’t say anything. Alec doesn’t prod or say anything else. The room is thick with emotion, and Alec does what he can. He holds Magnus, wipes his tears, and holds him tighter. They must’ve sat together on the couch for hours. Alec would’ve sat there for days if Magnus required it.

If he ever meets Asmodeus, there is no telling what he would do. There is little he wouldn’t do for Magnus. He says it so after he cooks dinner and helps Magnus into the bath. Magnus is still a bit numb, and Alec understands. The truth is harsh sometimes, and Magnus is drowning in it. Alec holds him close in their bed. Their fingers are still intertwined, and Magnus is looking at him like he’s got all the answers in the universe.

“I saw him the other day,” Magnus whispers. “He found me at the store with Max.”

“What?” Alec asks, anger flashing. He sits up to face him. “When?”

“Two days ago,” Magnus explains. “I would’ve told you earlier, but things have been hectic. I didn’t know how to bring it up. Up until now, I haven’t told you about him. I wasn’t ready to tell you about him. I was hoping I never would. I ordered him to leave, and he did. Alec, I just need you to be careful, okay? I don’t know what he wants or if he wants anything at all. He likes to put people on edge.”

“Oh, god,” Alec says. “He knows what Max looks like. What if he-”

“I am never going to let him get Max,” Magnus tells him seriously. His protectiveness shines through and borders on deadly. “I will break his neck before he does anything. I promise. I won’t let any harm come to you and him.”

Alec lays back down, but his mind is still racing. He licks his lips. “Or you,” he responds stubbornly.

The intensity in Magnus’s voice lowers, and his eyes grow tender. He settles his head on the pillow and closes his eyes. “Or me.”

“I love you,” Alec whispers in the dark room. Magnus doesn’t respond, but he doesn’t need to. Alec only wanted him to hear it.

**********

“I’m trying a new recipe for the season,” Maia grins. She’s holding a martini glass. “Vodka, Irish cream liqueur, coffee liqueur, gingerbread syrup, and crushed gingersnap cookies for the rim. ‘Tis the season!”

“It’s not even December yet.”

She holds it out, and Alec takes it gingerly. He’s not a fan of alcohol, but it does look appetizing. He takes a long sip and winces. He tries to smile but fails. “It’s good.”

Maia rolls her eyes. “You don’t have to lie. It’s not good at all?”

“I like the Irish cream and gingerbread,” Alec says honestly. “I just don’t really drink alcohol. I’m sure it’s delicious for anyone else.”

Maia shrugs and downs the rest of the drink. Alec widens his eyes. “I think it’s good, and Izzy and Raphael like it. At least, Raphael didn’t immediately say no. I’m going to ask Magnus to try it when he gets here.”

“If it has alcohol in it, Magnus will like it,” Alec teases. Sometimes he prefers something fancy and expensive, but most of the time as long as it’s strong he’ll enjoy it. “He’ll like the look of it. Very Christmassy for Thanksgiving.”

Maia shoves him lightly. “You know people start decorating on the first of November. Didn’t you say you guys put up your tree the other day?”

“Magnus put the idea in Max’s head, and Max wouldn’t stop screaming. We went and bought a tree the next day. Magnus bought him a cow ornament. We put it right at the top.”

“Aw, Max getting spoiled by both of his daddies,” Maia jokes. “I bet Magnus is setting up a Christmas card picture as we speak.”

“You would be correct,” Alec groans. He can’t hide the smile though. “Magnus loves doing all the traditions. I’m not used to it, so it’s definitely a learning curve. I’m sure Izzy is going to fall out of her chair once she receives our card in the mail.”

Maryse didn’t care about holiday traditions. She was never home to do them anyway, so it relied on Alec and his siblings to celebrate with each other. Even Halloween night they were lucky if Maryse was willing to take them trick or treating when they were too young to go alone. They didn’t have a Christmas tree until Izzy pestered their mother into getting one. They didn’t have any ornaments so the tree was empty. Then one year Jace stole a couple of ornaments from a shop down the street and got into trouble. Maryse bought a thing of generic ornaments for the year following it. That’s as far as their decorations got.

Magnus was heartbroken when he heard that. He loved the holidays, and he had a mountain of decorations in his hallway closet. He put up wreaths, lights, stockings, holiday pillows and blankets, and other decor with Max on his shoulders. He even stuck up a mistletoe when Alec wasn’t looking. It was with a Chesire grin when he tricked Alec into standing underneath it. Alec rolled his eyes and gave him a chaste kiss on the cheek.

Alec is not used to holiday cheer due to his upbringing, but he’s steadily getting used to it. He can tell by the apprehensive tone in his siblings’ voices that they are also in the same dilemma. Simon and Clary love the holidays too. Izzy had looked and sounded so scandalized the first time Simon insisted on driving around to look at Christmas lights. Jace didn’t get it either, but he would do anything for Clary. The three siblings were pleasantly surprised by the evening. They all got hot chocolates and enjoyed each other’s company in the cold holiday weather. Alec spent most of the time worried about Max being too cold and getting sick, but he still had a nice time.

Magnus says they will go later in December, and Alec can’t wait. The holidays are becoming one of his favorite things, and he’s glad he can give Max a childhood much different than his own.

Maia and Lily are both creating new drinks for the season. Maia is a little more talented at mixing drinks than Lily. Lily will put anything in everything so her drinks come out oddly colored and too strong to taste like anything but straight liquor. He stands with her now, trying to convince her to put more juice than liquor.

“People drink this, Lily,” Alec deadpans. “They don’t put it in their car for gas.”

“You’re so funny, Lightwood,” Lily snaps and sticks her tongue at him. “Hilarious. Get out of my bar and go be a stand-up comedian.”

Lily reminds him of Clary a little bit. She can be as witty as her and just as clever. She can also be incredibly stubborn. “I just think-”

“You don’t even like alcohol!” Lily sasses.

Alec snorts and bites back the response. He holds up his hands. “Okay. I get it. I’m backing off.”

He’s done for the day, and he’s just waiting on Magnus to pick him up. Bat was kind enough to cook him some birria tacos. He tries to pay but Bat waves him off. That’s common ever since he started here. He’s not sure what Magnus told Raphael, but Raphael refuses to take his money for food. While Alec doesn’t appreciate the pity, he also knows Raphael doesn’t really pity anyone. He’s rough around the edges and hides how much he cares behind a steel wall. If Raphael was truly comping his meals, then it was for a more complex reason than just Alec being too poor to pay for them.

“Excuse me?”

Alec turns to find the older man who normally sits in the corner standing in front of him. The same one he’s pretty sure he kicked out. There’s a cocky grin on his face, and he leans on the counter. Alec refuses to show his unsettled nerves, and he puts on a calm facade.

“Yes?” Alec responds tightly.

The man must notice his refrained irritation, and he looks more amused. “I was just wondering if I could get another whiskey.”

“I’m not a bartender,” Alec grunts. He goes to Maia and asks her to help him. She makes it quickly and slides the glass in front of him. The man does not look away from Alec, not even when he passes his card to Maia to pay.

Maia gives Alec a cautious look, but Alec shakes his head not to worry. He’s got this covered. She walks away, and the man’s smile turns crooked. “Where is that little one of yours? I haven’t seen him in a while.”

Alec clenches his jaw and fists. He tries to keep his voice even. “I had different arrangements made.”

The man taps his fingers on the bar. The way he’s looking at Alec makes him want to snap. He feels exposed under his speculative stare. He reminds him of a demonic creature from a painting in a church. He wouldn’t be surprised if he had a forked tail.

“Afraid someone is going to report you for bringing a child into a bar?” the man asks so casually. It grates on Alec’s nerves.

“You did not read that on my fucking face,” Alec hisses. The red flash of anger attacking like a cornered venomous spider. Cristina told him a woman reported him, concluding it was his mother reporting him. What if his mother sent someone to spy on him? Lydia mentioned she could send anyone to his work. This stranger has visited the bar multiple times. Has he been watching him this entire time? Has he been reporting everything to Maryse?

No. Something about this is wrong. Maryse wouldn’t send someone to watch him. She certainly wouldn’t send a strange man she knew Alec would be weary around. She’s smarter than that. Unfortunately after everything, she is smart and wouldn’t make it this easy for him to sniff her out.

The man shrugs but doesn’t back down and still has that smug grin. His arrogance loud and clear, as if having a pissed off omega in front of him doesn’t bother him in the slightest. He tilts his head and eyes skim down Alec’s body. “Not that hard to deduce. Bringing a child into a bar? I’m surprised you still have him.”

“You’re surprised I still have him,” Alec says, steady and lethally calm. He steps closer and tilts his head. It’s through his teeth when he adds, “Be more surprised if I don’t tear your neck out by the end of this conversation.”

The man has the sense to look vaguely alarmed, but he hides it well. Hardly even a second passes before his face shifts back to smug. Alec wants to punch him. Show him he shouldn’t underestimate a parent protecting their kid.

“Maybe you should give him a sibling,” the man suggests, though the way he says it sounds like a threat. His tone is deliberately controlled, and he somehow acts like he holds all the cards.

Alec sees now he’s standing in front of a powerful man. Maybe he’s always known that. He was on edge every time the man was in the room. He had that aura around him - deadly and threatening.

“Little Max would protect his sister. That’s what brothers do - protect their little sister when she gets herself in trouble. Isn’t that right?”

An immediate chill races down Alec’s spine. He’s frozen in place, unable to react, speak, or breathe. He feels like he’s standing on the edge of a cliff, forced to watch as his attacker comes up behind him and pushes him to his death.

Suddenly the lights are too bright and the music playing is too loud. The walls are closing, and the floor is unsteady under his feet. There’s a weight on his chest as the man continues to watch him like he didn’t just make Alec’s entire sense of safety and normalcy crumble.

“You really are quite beautiful,” the man says. His smile is wide and malicious, filling Alec with enough dread to choke on. “At least some part of me can have you.”

Alec is cold. He’s vulnerable and cold, and he can hear his heart race. He’s silent when the man smirks at him and walks away, leaving Alec to his terror.

Alec doesn’t say a word to anyone. He grabs his things and leaves. He’s quiet when Magnus picks him up. He’s quiet the rest of the night. Magnus keeps sending him concerned looks, but he’s too frozen to say anything. Thanksgiving is next week, and everything is so out of control. He doesn’t have time to freak out about this. After Magnus and his breakdown, he doesn’t want to bother him with this. The man hasn’t even done anything. His threats and implications are something else entirely.

He’s not supposed to know Max’s name but he does. He didn’t outwardly say it, but he implied he knew about his sister and her past issue with drugs. No one knows about that except for Alec, Jace, their parents though they never acknowledged it, and now Magnus. There is no way this stranger knows about Izzy.

Alec has no idea what to do. Magnus knows something is up, but he is letting Alec come to him. Alec doesn’t know where to start, and he needs to organize his thoughts. For now, all he can do is hug his son and let Magnus cuddle him and hold him. He’s greedy for a peace of mind. Reassurance. He needs to feel safe, and he’s always felt safe with Magnus.

He clings onto Magnus, and he stuffs his face in the crook of his neck. His fingers cling to Magnus’s shirt and then wrap around his middle. Magnus rubs his back and kisses the top of his head. He’s talking about something. Alec isn’t listening. He’s not saying anything particularly important, but Alec appreciates him trying to calm him down and distract him.

“I love you,” Magnus whispers in his ear.

Alec swallows hard and pulls Magnus impossibly closer. He didn't say anything, but he needed to hear it.

I love you.

I love you.

********

“Let me help, big brother,” Izzy pleads sweetly. She sits on a stool with her chin on her palm. The counter is covered with bowls, plates, and cutting boards. Veggies, potatoes, turkey, ham, and other food take up all the space. Pans sit on the stove ready to be tended to or used.

“I am not letting you touch anything,” Alec refuses. He peels the potatoes, slices them, and dunks them into the bowl.

Izzy groans. “You and Simon are so mean. I can cook just fine.”

“No you can’t,” Clary says as she’s prepping the turkey. She’s wearing an apron that says ‘Heavenly Helper.’ “Your job is to entertain everyone and make sure there are no fights.”

“Your brother is an asshole, but for some reason he’s gotten easier to handle with the more beer in him,” Izzy hums.

Clary gives her a look. “Is this special beer or something you made yourself?”

Izzy grins and twirls her long black hair. She’s wearing a white blouse and magenta skirt. She looks beautiful and knows it. “Brewed in house,” she answers cryptically.

Clary looks at Alec for help, who pretends to be far too busy with the potatoes to offer her aid. Not as if he would in the first place. Jonathan was an asshole, but he wasn’t the worst. He just didn’t know when to shut his mouth, and he couldn't read the room to save his life. He is a good brother to Clary, though, and Alec and Jace can’t hate him too much.

Clary puts the turkey in the oven and washes her hands. Izzy hands her a glass of wine. “He brought the cheesecake. He’s trying.”

Alec scoffs from where he’s finishing up the shepherd's pie. “He didn’t have to say Max looked big enough to be three.” Alec raises a brow. “Or that I look exhausted.”

Clary winces. “Max barely looks one, and you look fine.”

Alec squints at her. “I’m sorry, are those comments better?”

Clary sighs, “I’m sorry, Alec. I truly am. I’ll talk to him.”

Alec puts the pan in the oven and starts the timer. “For the twentieth time?” Clary’s face falls, and his snark loses its momentum. He pulls her into a hug and kisses the top of her head. “I’m kidding. I stopped caring about what he has to say three years ago.”

“You met my brother three years ago.”

Alec smiles and Clary sighs. “You remember how he asked if I was sure I wasn’t pregnant a week postpartum? He’s also mentioned multiple times how he can’t believe I’m an omega.”

Clary gapes at him. “Alec…”

“Sorry,” Alec says. Clary can be sensitive when it comes to her brother and the stuff he says. She takes on way more than she should. Between her guilt and his anxiety lately, it’s not a good mix. “I mean it. I’m sorry. I’m stressed, and he’s not the only asshole.”

Clary’s frown twitches, “You’re not unbearable.”

Alec taps her nose. “There she is. Clean off the green beans?” Clary agrees. “Izzy, where’s my son?”

“Jace has him,” she tells him. “He’s been naming things with the alphabet for the past hour. Sorry in advance if that’s all Max does.”

Alec chuckles. “Nothing wrong with a talker. If there was, I would have worked harder to chase Simon away.”

Izzy giggles. “Simon was mine from the get-go. Nothing would’ve worked to keep him from me.”

Alec winces and points to the door. “I didn’t need to hear that. Now get out. Everything is almost done anyway. Maybe thirty minutes?”

They all make themselves scarce. Alec pours himself a glass of champagne. Something alcoholic but doesn’t taste too bad. He goes back to the table to start organizing everything. He sets up the rolls, potatoes, green bean casserole, and the rest.

His phone goes off.

Magnus: I’m five minutes away. Do you need anything?

Alec: No, all good here. Thank you.

Magnus: Of course, darling. Love you.

The timers go off, and he gets out the turkey and pies. He sets them down to let them cool off. He’s about to call for Izzy to set the table when his phone goes off. Lydia’s calling. He puts his phone on speaker so he can continue to work.

“Lydia?” he answers. “Happy Thanksgiving.”

“Thank you. Happy Thanksgiving,” she responds stiffly. She’s quiet on the line. “Alec, I have bad news.”

Alec stiffens. He picks up the salad bowl and mixes the contents. “What happened?”

“We heard from your mother,” Lydia says hesitantly. “Maryse is pushing harder, and this time she’s demanding partial custody. She’s requiring scheduled meetings and visitations. She’s implying she’s very worried about her grandson, and she needs to know she has a right to see Max when she thinks his life is in danger. She said Max needs a responsible guardian who is able to take care of him. She claims he’s in danger with you.”

“She - uh, what?”

Alec has gone ice skating every year. He remembers going with his sister when they were young. She used to hold him tight on his arm. Her balance was awful, and she couldn’t stand for long before her legs got wobbly. He spent an hour teaching her how to keep standing, and he wouldn’t let go of her until he was confident she was going to be okay and wouldn’t hurt herself.

She asked him if the ice would break under their feet. He promised her it wouldn’t. She asked what it would feel like, and he told her he didn’t know.

He looked it up online the same night. Difficulty breathing, numbness, loss of coordination, stinging and burning sensation, disorientation, fatigue, and of course pain. Soul-shattering pain all over and deep inside. An overwhelming shock that leaves you gasping for air that never comes.

Alec is positive it would feel exactly like this.

The metal bowl shatters in his hands.

******

“Alec?” Lydia’s voice fills the room. There’s a curse. “I told you not to worry. It’s fine. Everything is okay. Your mother has no supporting evidence of neglect. Please listen to me, Alec. No courtroom is going to agree to this. There is no reason to overreact-“

“What is going on?”

“Magnus?” Lydia asks over the speaker. Her voice cautious at Magnus’s cold tone.

Magnus crosses the room. He hears a crack and looks down at the shattered glass on the ground. Thankfully everyone in the house is wearing shoes. He ignores the glass and goes to Alec’s side. Alec is frozen with his arms held out. Blood covers his palms where glass is embedded. It has to hurt, and Magnus would come closer but he stops when Alec looks at him.

Omega gold stares at him. A gold shade that reminds Magnus of the sunrise. It’s a beautiful color and one Magnus adores. He sees it when Alec is especially happy or pleased. He’s never seen him mad though, not to a degree to show his gold eyes.

He’s been in close contact with a feral omega before. He safely stayed away, not looking at them to prevent provoking them until they either calmed themselves down or their alpha calmed them down. Feral omegas are dangerous and not something to handle lightly.

“Alexander?” Magnus calls. He puts his hands up and evens his breathing. Alec is staring at him. His hands are bleeding heavily onto the floor. His fingers twitch, and Magnus tries not to flinch.

“Darling, please don’t move your hands,” Magnus says, light on the request. He dares to take a step and Alec bares his teeth. His eyes are bloodshot. “You’re bleeding. Please let me help you.”

“What’s going on?” Lydia’s voice comes over the speaker. Alec jolts back and puts himself in the corner. He does so to protect himself.

“Lydia, hang up the phone,” Magnus tells her. Thankfully, she does so with a click. Alec physically relaxes, and Magnus is relieved. His focus goes back to him. “Alexander, you’re bleeding. I want to help you. I wouldn’t hurt you. You know me, darling.”

There’s leveled anguish on the omega’s face, and Magnus wants to hold him but knows he can’t. Not if he doesn’t want to be attacked. Alec’s claws are out and ready to strike. Magnus is not sure who would be more hurt - him or Alec.

Magnus takes a step, and he moves out of the way of the exit. He doesn’t want Alec thinking he’s cornering him in. “I’m here for you. Whatever it is, I am here with you. You’re hurting. Give me your hand. I’ll get the glass out and wash the wound. Make you good as new.”

Alec blinks and he’s breathing hard. At least he’s breathing and not rooted to the floor like a statue. Magnus holds out his hand. Alec looks at it suspiciously like it is going to strike him, and he’s ready to rip him to shreds if he needs to.

“Sweetheart?” Magnus calls again. “Come here, Alexander. I love you. You look beautiful.”

Magnus doesn’t move when Alec finally reaches out tentatively. He’s ready to bolt if he needs to. Magnus smiles at him in encouragement. Alec’s fingers touch his, and Magnus smiles, relieved.

Magnus carefully guides him to the sink. Alec is quiet still, and he watches Magnus’s every move. Magnus explains every step he does. He talks through it all. He explains and points out which glass chip he’s going for next. Alec doesn’t flinch. He just watches Magnus like a hawk.

He doesn’t look so deadly anymore, but his claws are still ready to attack and defend. His eyes are a vibrant gold, but there’s a small degree of softness on his face. Magnus hopes that means he knows who he is. There’s a certain power in being able to make a feral omega submit. While Alec is very much still on edge, he’s calm right now with Magnus enough to allow him to clean his hands and get rid of the broken glass.

Magnus tries not to tense when he hears the kitchen door open.

“Stop,” Magnus orders without looking. Izzy does instantly. “Get me antibiotic cream, bandages, a. broom, and a dustpan. Leave them at the door. Don’t let anyone come in here - not until I say.”

Izzy leaves without another word. Alec looks at the door, and Magnus rubs a soothing circle in his wrist to get his attention back on him. “It’s your sister. She’s getting bandages. Does this hurt?”

Alec’s face is void of emotion. He is looking down at his hands. Magnus wonders if he can feel the pain.

“I need you to drive me to Lightwood Law Firm.”

Magnus tries to read his thoughts through the look on his face. Underneath the calm facade, he sees determination and a great amount of stubbornness. What Alec wants is set. This is not something Magnus will be able to talk him out of.

“Okay,” Magnus says because there’s nothing else to say.

Magnus finishes up with removing the glass from Alec’s hands. He puts cream on them and applies the bandages Izzy gave him. Alec cooperates but it’s a strange calm. It’s the calm before a storm, and it feels like he’s getting Alec ready for war. He doesn’t know what happened. He hasn’t asked. He’ll learn soon enough.

Izzy doesn’t ask either but she looks at her brother with a grave expression. She tells Magnus Max will be safe here and not to worry. Magnus thanks her and grabs his keys.

The car ride is silent. Alec is unmoving in his seat, and he stares off outside. He doesn’t move until they’re parked, and he gets out.

Magnus is not entirely surprised there are people working. It’s not shocking Alec’s mother forces her employees and herself to work. The office is busy and crowded. All the seats are taken. Alec walks straight past them to a huge sleek black door. The letters ‘M. Lightwood’ printed in black.

Alec pounds on the door. The sound spooks everyone in the room. They must see his gold eyes filled with fury. Not even the security guards come up to him.

“Mother!” he shouts. “You want to take my son from me? Do it looking me in the eye.”

The murmurs around the room dwindle down slowly until it’s silent. No one dares to move. Everyone watches the omega hit and kick at the door. His bandaged hands send loud echoes.

Alec grows angrier. “You want my kid? You don’t even want your kids!”

A few gasps sound in the room. Magnus notices over half of the clients here are omegas. They watch the very angry omega pounding at the door. An omega currently shouting at their lawyer’s name.

“He’s mine!” Alec growls and kicks hard at the door. He’s spiraling and very quickly losing sense. The wood splinters and cracks. “Mother!”

The door swings open, and Alec steps back. Maryse Lightwood walks out with a peevish expression. She wears an expensive black suit jacket and matching knee length skirt. Her heels are sharp, and her whole pompous demeanor screams self-importance. She looks at Alec like a bug under her pristine shoes.

“Alexander,” she hisses. Her eyes flicker around the room and take in the many appalled and nervous stares. A hint of rose blooms on her cheeks. “You are causing a scene. Come into my office right now.”

“No,” Alec sneers. “Let’s do it right here in the open. You’ve been a snake this entire time. Going behind my back. You’re doing everything you can to make me look like a bad parent because you can’t stand I’m thriving without you. You said I was nothing just because I am an omega. You called me weak and a slut. I can’t keep my legs closed - well congratulations! I couldn’t close my legs and now I have a son who I adore. A son who gets all the love in the world. Something I never got because you’re too closed-minded to think above your alpha mentality.”

You could hear a pin drop in the silence. No one dares to breathe. Magnus wonders if any of these people have seen a feral omega having a screaming match with their alpha parent - let alone their lawyer.

Maryse fumes, and she keeps her retort low. “You are an entitled spoiled brat who lives on my taxes. You live in a studio apartment paid by your no-good late-boyfriend’s parents. You should be on your hands and knees begging me to take care of your bastard child. Give him a chance to have a good life under an alpha’s care-“

“You’ve never cared about your kids. You didn’t look at me when I presented as an omega. You wouldn’t even touch me. I got pushed to the side and told how weak I was. How I was such a waste of space.”

The omegas of the room have long stopped looking at Alec. They now stare at Maryse. Some with disdain and cold antipathy and most stunned. Maryse pales. She spots Magnus and gestures. “Get your omega out of here!”

Magnus doesn’t have a chance to tell her he’s not Alec’s keeper. Alec does what he wants, and he’s obviously had it with dealing with his mother. The partial custody ambush was the last straw.

Also, Magnus is not going to endanger his own life coming within five feet of a bloodthirsty omega.

There’s a fire in Alec’s eyes bright enough to outshine the stars that guide Magnus to him. Magnus really shouldn’t be falling deeper in love with Alec like this. He hates to see Alec hurt like this, but it’s the way he’s standing up for himself. He’s fighting for what he wants, and his strength is breathtaking.

“You made me feel like a failure,” Alec continues. His voice cracks in his emotional state but he doesn’t stop. “You made me feel like I was this huge burden on you. I was inconveniencing you with my omegan traits. I wanted a hug, and I was shunned.”

Magnus’s heart aches, and he can’t stand the thought of Alec being in so much pain. It hurts him even more when Maryse keeps looking at the people in the room instead of her distressed son spilling his guts to her.

“Alec, this is completely inappropriate behavior,” Maryse says, trying to defuse the situation and hold her ground. “You’re being a child.”

She jumps when Alec moves closer. “You never saw me as a child. You saw me as an obligation. You couldn’t stand the thought that your oldest son was an omega. You felt like you were betrayed or being punished.”

“You come into my workplace and demand such nonsense, and you expect me to, what? Apologize because I didn’t coddle you?”

The laugh Alec lets out is cold and detached. He was getting loud. If anyone hadn’t heard him storming in, they certainly hear him now. “Oh how ironic it is that you help omegas keep their children. You help them when they’re treated unfairly by the state, but you’re just as awful. You hate omegas. You’ve never respected us. I’m sure you charge them thousands just to step foot in your office. Every tissue they cry in is just added to their bill, because you don’t care!”

What follows is silence as the grave. The color drains from Maryse’s face. Her eyes wide as saucers, and there was a vein bulging in her forehead. She was white as sheets, and she slowly took in the room.

Everyone was staring at her. A group of them were standing with curled lips and rage. An omega woman stood in front of her alpha husband. Her lips tight and teary eyes at the act of treachery and deception.

Four women and men leave holding their children. The receptionist and paralegal at the front desk don’t bother stopping them.

Alec steps closer, and Maryse tries to appear unbothered but shrinks away when he sneers at her. “You come for my son again - if you dare - you better call the police because I’m coming for you.”

“You’re threatening me?”

Alec tilts his head. “Threaten? I’m sorry, I don’t know what you mean.” For the first time, he acknowledges the others around him. “Did anyone hear a threat?”

Everyone in the room shakes their head. Magnus fakes an itch in his cheek to hide his smile and chokes down a laugh.

Alec shrugs and turns back to his mother. The gold is not as bright now that his anger has slowly faded away. It is not anger that rolls back into his features but oppressively solemn.

“Let me say this nice and simple,” Alec says coolly. “You keep at this with Max, and I will hunt down every one of your clients and tell them everything. At least the ones that don’t find out from these kind people talking about it online. I hope they got a picture of the face you’re making right now. You look constipated, Mother.”

Maryse looks ready to throw something. Too bad she’s at work. This time, Magnus can’t hold back his smile.

“I will stand in front of this building with posters. I will call your clients. Court recordings and transcripts are public. I will read them and claim perjury in every case. I will read every last detail until I find something. You fight dirty. I’m sure there’s all kinds of illegal actions in them. Jace isn’t the only stubborn one. I’ve got plenty of time, remember? I live off your taxes. I will write reviews. I will put out my own dirty laundry to make sure everyone knows how much of a terrible hypocrite liar you are. You think you’re the only one who can lie? The funny part is, I don’t need to.”

Alec steps closer, and Maryse holds her head up high. Her shallow breathing and fidgeting reveals she’s not as unbothered as she’s trying to portray.

“You ruined my life,” Alec tells her. “I recovered. Now you’re back, and you think you can do it again? I will make your life a living hell.”

Maryse inhales sharply and gives a half-hearted glare. The only sign she dares show with an audience. “Get out.”

Alec smiles smugly. “Of course, Mother. Lovely seeing you. Happy Thanksgiving.”

Alec holds out his hand to Magnus. Magnus takes the offered hand, though careful with his wound. Neither of them say anything in the car. Alec is tense in the passenger seat. He hasn’t fully calmed, but Magnus dares to put a hand on his leg. Alec relaxes by a fraction when he does.

“I’m proud of you,” Magnus tells him. Alec doesn’t respond, but he does lean over to lay his head on Magnus’s shoulder. He kisses his head.

They get back to Magnus’s house. Izzy gets the door, and she and Jace bombard them with questions. Alec tells them he talked to Mom but leaves it to that. Izzy nods and tries to ask Magnus when they’re alone in the kitchen. Magnus promises it’s okay and nothing to be talked about right now.

Alec holds Max in his lap. He talks and acts like normal, but Magnus sees the way he keeps a hand on Max at all times. As if Maryse was going to race in and take him.

Soon enough it’s time for everyone to leave. Izzy knows her brother too well, and she hugs him tight and says something to him. Magnus doesn’t hear what she says, but Alec smiles in return and nods.

Jace comes by and tells Magnus to take care of Alec. He doesn’t need to know what happened, but he’d like to know eventually and for Magnus to watch over him like he’s been. Magnus promises and Jace awkwardly goes in to pat his shoulder but changes his mind and walks away. He must’ve noticed Magnus doesn’t like to be touched. Magnus appreciates the sentiment, though he didn’t expect the man to notice it. Not many people do.

Magnus gets Max ready for bed after putting all the leftovers away and washing the dishes. He brings Max into the bedroom where Alec lays in the middle of the bed. He’s arranged the nest to provide support for little Max in front of him and then Magnus behind him. Magnus smiles at the cute display and gives Max to Alec. Alec cuddles him close, and Max is too tired from the day to protest. Magnus changes into his silk pants and joins them. He wraps his arms around them, and Alec sinks back into his hold.

“I love you,” Magnus whispers. “You’re the strongest man I know.”

Alec smiles but it doesn’t reach his eyes. He intertwines their fingers with the hand he doesn’t have on Max.

“I love you too,” Alec whispers back, knowing both of them need to hear it.

Chapter Text

“Plaid, Alexander?”

“Isn’t plaid common for the holidays? Everyone wears plaid in Christmas pictures.”

Magnus gives him a sideways look. If Max wasn’t giggling and trying to squirm out of his arms from where Magnus was judging heavily on the red plaid sweater and cream colored pants he’s wearing, he might look more intimidating.

“People with no taste wear plaid,” Magnus says bluntly. He brings Max to his chest, but the toddler has no interest in being held. He squirms ruthlessly until Magnus sets him down on the floor. From there he runs off to watch one of his cartoons.

Alec chuckles. “Simon and Clary both wear plaid.”

“Clary wears it fashionably, accompanied with accessories and nice shoes, while Simon looks like he’s going to do your taxes or talk about new comics coming out. He should also get clothes a size smaller. Everything he wears engulfs him. He does not pull it off.”

“That’s a lot of talk for a data analyst,” Alec replies with a smirk.

Magnus gasps with a hand to his chest. “At least I don’t look like a data analyst. I know the difference between silk and satin.”

“There’s a difference?” Alec asks.

Magnus rolls his eyes and kisses Alec’s cheek. “I bought an adorable outfit for him yesterday. Striped pants and a green sweater with a chest pocket. I got us matching green and brown sweaters. I’ll make sure to wash them before the Christmas party.”

“You could bring them over the next time you’re here. If that’s easier,” Alec suggests. He’s folding laundry, and he tries to hide a grin when Magnus presses up behind him. He slides his arms around him, and Alec leans into his hold. He knows what’s coming, and he prepares to stay strong with Magnus and his charm.

Alec tilts his head when Magnus plants a kiss on his neck. His firm chest and strong arms circle him, and he forgets how to make his hands move.

“You could just stay with me,” Magnus tells him. His hands wander to Alec’s shoulders and begin digging his fingers in to press tense muscles. “Spend the night. We can watch a Christmas movie with Max. I’ll make us some hot chocolate with mini marshmallows.”

“Are you using my son against me?” Alec asks breathlessly. If he was holding anything, he’s not holding it now.

“If I were to be using him, which I certainly am not,” Magnus denies with a sultry voice that runs down Alec’s spine and lights his nerves on fire. He closes his eyes and puts his hand on Magnus’s waist, needing to touch him. He lets out a low whimper when Magnus whispers, “Is it working?”

“No,” Alec lies. He peeks behind him to make sure Max is enthralled with his show. He’s sitting completely distracted with his stuffed cow and toy cars.

Magnus clicks his tongue in disapproval and leans closer, “Not even if I promise a massage? Happy ending and all?”

Alec shakes his head. He imagines Magnus’s hands on him, digging into stubborn muscle and slowly persuading every inch of his body to relax. A sensation he very rarely gets to experience with work, school, and a toddler.

“That’s too bad,” Magnus hums in disappointment. “You caught my bluff, darling. I’d give you a happy ending wherever we are.”

Alec laughs but it comes out more as a moan. His fingers are magical, but he refuses to back down. No matter how badly his body wants to lay down on the bed and let Magnus make him feel good. Play his body like an instrument, pluck the exact strings to make Alec shake and tremble.

“Won’t you come with me?” Magnus asks with his deep inviting tone. He’s massaging Alec’s lower back, pressing in hard and circling the skin. His rings are cool even through the material.

“Only if you do one thing for me,” Alec tells him. He hung his head, but he stands up straight. He turns around and kisses him. He kisses him nice and slow, and he slides his tongue along his bottom lip. “You’ll do anything for me, right alpha?”

Magnus nods instantly with a charming smile and eyes fixated on Alec’s mouth. He goes in for another kiss, but Alec leans away.

“I want you to go say goodbye to my son and go home. Pick me up on Saturday to drive around and look at Christmas lights. We’re going with my siblings.”

Magnus pouts. Alec pecks his lips with a shy smile. He gets ready for an argument, but then Magnus shrugs and kisses his cheek. All previous conniving ways are gone in a blink, and he turns to the laundry basket. “Of course, Alexander, but let me help you with this and I’ll leave. Is that okay?”

“Yes,” Alec tells him, feeling somewhat guilty. They finish folding the laundry, and then Magnus goes to Max to kiss and hug him goodbye. Max’s exhaustion comes out when he fusses at the attention.

“What a tired boy!” Magnus teases gently. He rubs at Max’s back and kisses the top of his head. He asks for a kiss, and Max reluctantly does after shaking his head, and the attitude surprises a laugh out of both Magnus and Alec.

“I love you,” Magnus tells Max. “Can I get a high-five?” After a minute of watching the tv, Max puts his little hand up. Magnus laughs and tickles him.

With some prodding from Alec, Max whispers, “I love you.” Alec comes over and kisses the little one’s cheek.

At the front door, Alec fidgets with his fingers. Noticing it, Magnus takes his hand gently and intertwines their fingers. “Call me if you need anything. I’ll pick you up at five.”

“Okay,” Alec agrees. “Sorry for making you drive everywhere.”

Magnus shakes his head. “No worries. I’m happy to do it. I love you.”

“I love you too,” Alec says back earnestly. He needs him to believe him, even when he insists on staying home rather than going with Magnus to his. He smiles when he kisses him.

“You’re too pretty to frown,” Magnus chastises with a grin. Alec rolls his eyes and watches him longingly as he leaves. He shuts the door and finds Max on the floor near the tree.

Alec picks Max up. He is playing with an octopus ornament on the tree. It’s one Magnus got for him. Alec puts it back after fighting for it. “Don’t worry. You’ll see him every day soon enough.”

He’s not sure whether he’s comforting Max or himself. Max is very attached to Magnus, always following him around, crawling all over him to be in his lap, babbling away, showing him his drawings, and wanting to play. Besides Alec, Magnus is his favorite person without a doubt and someone he trusts to keep him safe. If a stranger tries to talk to him, he runs behind Magnus’s legs if he can’t find Alec.

Which is why Alec feels terrible when he tells Magnus he’ll stay home for the night. Max started to cry about it, but Magnus distracted him with the block set they were using to spell out words. He proceeded to spell out ‘LOVE’ and ‘MAX’ in blocks. Alec had to leave the room before he changed his mind.

Maybe he doesn’t want to let go of the independence he’s earned. Not entirely independent considering he doesn’t pay most of the bills, but in one way or the other it’s his home. This apartment is his home, and he’s learned so much about himself here. He became a parent here, and while he’s faced an abundance of roadblocks and issues that should’ve - almost did - discourage him, he hadn’t let anything stop him from providing for his son. He might’ve skipped a few meals but Max never did. He’s used a shirt once or twice for a diaper because he couldn’t afford more in that moment, which made him spiral into a fit of depression and hopelessness, but then he learned how to crochet and was able to make a quick buck in emergencies. He’s also been fortunate with the kind elderly couple a few doors down who had the generosity to at least pretend to be annoyed when their granddaughter left a bag of diapers they didn’t want taking up space and gave to Alec instead.

Compared to then, he’s the most fortunate person in the world. He pays for his groceries, phone bill, and some of the rent. If he sees something he knows Max would like, he doesn’t have to choose between it and food. It’s not everything but it’s something.

Magnus would never push him, but it’s clear he wants Alec to move in with him. He stocked up Max’s room with toys, blankets, white noise machine, music box, and a nightlight. He also purchased a high quality camera he hung in the corner of the room, and it’s connected to an app on Alec’s and Magnus’s phone to check on him at any moment. It was such a thoughtful gift, and his heart can’t contain all the love he has for the alpha. Not only for the fact he went out of his way to make Alec more comfortable, but the fact Magnus got it on his phone too, like he wants to check on Max as much as Alec does. While Alec doubts that, since he checks the camera a hundred times a day, he appreciates the thought of Magnus caring about Max so much. He doesn’t doubt Magnus’s love for Max at all. It’s all in the eyes and how he assumes the role of guardian when Alec is busy. The second Alec’s attention is preoccupied, Magnus hyperfixates on Max like a circling hawk.

He’s not used to having someone care about him this intensely. This affection for him is unwavering and potent, and it makes Alec feel like the priority he’s never been for someone. He’s never been wanted before and as if he was someone important. He feels like a book Magnus has read extensively and repeatedly, not stopping until he memorized every detail of him. Magnus can read him so easily, understanding him completely. Magnus makes it known how significant he is in his life - Max and him both. He treats Max with so much love and care, and in every way other than blood he’s his father.

Magnus has called them his family many times, and every time it makes Alec stop in his tracks, certain he heard him wrong. There are so many people in the world, and Magnus chose him? Wants him? It’s hard to believe, considering everything his mother has told him all his life. His siblings have helped him get over the awful things she’s told him, and what an amazing person he is. His self esteem was in the dirt when he was younger, but he has gotten better. He knows what he wants now, but that doesn’t mean he believes he deserves it.

It’s when Magnus is holding him does he start to believe it. When he’s in Magnus’s arms, and he’s talking to him, wrapped in his scent and being kissed. He feels wanted and safe, and he doesn’t need anything but this man. This wonderful alpha who makes him feel like cloud nine, and who adores his son almost as much as he does. He wants him forever. He wants his bite on his neck for everyone to see.

“We could have him forever,” Alec tells Max in the bath. He’s washing behind his ears while the little boy plays with his rubber ducks. “You want Magnus, baby?” Max giggles, showing off his front teeth. “Daddy?”

“Daddy!” Max shouts excitedly.

Alec chuckles and puts soap on Max’s nose, who scowls and wipes it off. Alec finishes up his bath and rinses out the soap and shampoo. He wraps Max into a towel to dry, and then puts him in a warm train onesie that Simon bought him. Simon is a menace, but he’s good at finding cute baby and toddler clothes.

Max is in no mood to sleep. He spends the next twenty minutes running around and taking out his toys from buckets. Alec takes his own shower and then gets ready for bed. By the time he’s dressed and pouring Max a glass of milk, the little boy’s eyes are drooping. Max has no interest in sleeping in his own bed, so Alec welcomes him in his bed. He snuggles into his side, and Alec kisses his head.

His phone rings on his nightstand. A text message.

Magnus: I just got home. I miss you already. I wish my two sweet boys a good night, and I can’t wait to see you on Friday.

Alec blushes and takes a picture of Max who has fallen asleep on the other pillow. He hits send.

Alec: I said ‘daddy’ and he smiled and said how much he misses you. I’m going to have to get used to you two ganging up on me, huh?

Magnus: Well ‘daddy’ misses you both. Darling, you have no idea. I’ll make it up to you. Every win, I’ll kiss you in a different place.

Alec sinks into his pillow. His cheeks heat up. He gets under the blankets.

Alec: You have a lot of faith in yourself. Who gets to decide where you kiss me?

Magnus: Me, but I can be persuaded to let you move me where you want me.

Alec imagines the heat of Magnus’s body, hovering over him and between his legs. His lips on his neck, while working his clothes off and calling him pretty. His voice alone could drive him over the edge. The praise and sweet-nothings make Alec shiver and whimper.

Alec: And if I said everywhere?

Magnus: I’ll have to answer that in person.

Alec blushes at the thought of his hands on him. Magnus would pay close attention to every inch of his body, kissing and biting until Alec is trembling and begging for more. Every kiss leaves a trail of heat and sets him on fire. Every touch to his sensitive skin dragging him closer to delirium, and all he can think to do is pull Magnus closer.

Alec: Goodnight, Magnus. I love you.

Magnus: I love you too, darling.

Alec closes his eyes, holding one of Magnus’s shirts to his chest.

*****************

“I don’t think this is enough mini marshmallows,” Jace announces when he pulls out the bag out of the pantry. He raises a brow, grinning widely at Alec, who rolls his eyes and pulls another bag out of the drawer. The bag he hid from Max who’s gotten in the habit of opening drawers and cabinets. He had to baby-proof things he hadn’t worried about before when Max was younger. Now that he can walk and climb, Alec had to secure the home more. Once, Alec found him in the bathroom in the bottom cabinet after five minutes of frantically searching for his son. He found Max giggling with a sponge in his mouth that was thankfully new and unused.

“That’s what I’m talking about!” Jace exclaims. His jaw drops when Alec pulls out not one - but three cans of whipped cream. Jace sighs in delight. “You’re my favorite brother.”

“I’m your only brother,” Alec tells him with a grin of his own. He turns the can around, revealing Jace’s name written in sharpie. Jace pretends to swoon, and he throws Alec a wink and grabs the offered can and sprays it directly into his mouth.

Alec scowls. “How does Clary do it?”

“With a smile on her face because I’m adorable,” Jace says confidently. He smiles again, but this time there is whipped cream seeping through his teeth.

“I believe that’s what you believe,” Alec quips back. He sets out some of the other ingredients, including chocolate chips, cinnamon, and peppermint. Clary comes over with Izzy. She’s holding Max in her arms, and his unruly wavy hair is for once styled to the side. His hair was getting long, and Alec needed to make time to cut it.

Growing up, he cut his own hair. He was determined not to ask his mother for anything, and this included haircuts. It was through trial and error that he got good at it. He didn’t particularly care about his hair - as it was the last thing he worried about during that time. He eventually got good at it, and Jace wanted him to cut his hair too.

“What a handsome gentleman, isn’t he?” Izzy says proudly. Max pulls at a strand of her long, black hair, and she pulls her hair free and pretends to bite his thumb. Max giggles.

“He’s my adorable baby,” Alec coos. He taps Max’s nose when he reaches for him. Clary bounces him up and down. “What is that? Gel?”

“Yep! It’s what I used for your Christmas card picture,” Clary tells him. “That picture will be on our fridge for years.”

Alec covers his blush with a scowl. Though, he doesn’t have much to defend himself, considering butterflies flutter in his belly when he spots the framed picture in his living room. He is weightless when he sees the picture of him, Max, and Magnus. It was taken at the park in Magnus’s neighborhood. It was a big field where neighbors come together to watch a movie every month. There were tons of decorations, including the trees covered in lights. The three of them posed in front of it while Catarina took the picture. They wore matching blue and gold sweaters, and little Max let them have five minutes to take pictures. Then he lost all interest and started crying and fussing.

Magnus had the pictures printed the very next day. One copy was on his office desk front and center, and there was another one in his office at the school. Four days passed when Izzy called him yelling about how cute the pictures are. He figures they will hold it against him for years. Not that he entirely cares. He’s proud of his little family.

He spotted the picture on the fridge at Clary and Jace’s place. Jace may have teased him a little, but he was definitely the one to put it there. Jace has a softer heart out of all of them.

“We need to swing by the shop to pick up Aline and Helen,” Jace reminds them with a candy cane in his mouth. “We can take my car.”

Alec nods. “I’ll go with you while Clary, Simon, and Isabelle can take Simon’s car. Magnus will meet us there. He had to work later than he thought.”

They agree to the plan, and they all get into the car. Alec makes sure to clothe Max warmly, without a doubt going overboard. He puts earmuffs, warm socks, booties, and a coat. He would have rather put a beanie on him, but Max strongly objects to anything on his head. He barely tolerates the earmuffs, so Alec puts them on when they are outside in the cold as long as Max allows.

They get to the car and Alec clips Max into the car seat. It’s a brand new one Magnus bought recently. Alec begged Magnus to tell him how expensive it was so he can at least pay for half of it, but the stubborn alpha refused to tell him. Alec can tell it was very expensive. It’s one that you can change through time as Max grows bigger. Max is growing at a fast pace - a fact that Alec refuses to acknowledge. Between the different stages, the overall feel of it, and the way Magnus is very protective over the little boy, of course Magnus would buy the best.

Alec made sure to show him how appreciative he was, but that was followed up with a wave of sadness when the car seat he bought when Max was born became too small for him to use.

Jace whistles when he sees it. “Sugar daddy, Magnus, at it again.”

“He’s not a sugar daddy,” Alec groans at the same time Max exclaims, “Daddy!”

Alec looks at Max, betrayed, and Jace laughs in the front seat. Alec rolls his eyes and gets in the passenger seat.

“I’m just messing with you, buddy. You know I’m proud of you,” Jace tells him earnestly. “You’ve changed a lot. You’re more confident. You’re happy. I was getting seriously worried about you.”

“I know you were,” Alec replies. He sighs into his seat. There’s something comforting about being with his brother. They don’t get much time to themselves anymore. Jace is busy with his business and taking care of Clary when she secludes herself in her work and school. His best friend was busy, but up until six months ago, he would either come pick up Alec to bring him over and send him money to uber there. Jace has so much love to give, and it’s a shame not everyone realizes that.

Alec’s siblings and friends were his rock for a long time, but most of it was Jace. Alec would’ve been nothing without him, and Alec is going to do his best to make it up to him. It’s his turn to be there emotionally for his brother. With his life being much better regulated and organized, he can fully be there for Jace. He can truly be there with him without a clouded mind.

“I am happy. I am very happy,” Alec tells him honestly. “I don’t feel like the world is crushing me. I am not racing to stay alive. I can breathe now. I can focus on things that make me happy now, and I don’t feel like I’m letting anyone down.”

“You were never letting anyone down,” Jace argues. “You were doing your best in a shitty situation.”

“Yeah, well,” Alec sighs. He looks back at Max. “It wasn’t completely shitty.”

“He’s a handsome boy,” Jace says, louder for Max to hear. Max is too distracted with his cow to respond. “Though he loves that cow more than me!”

Alec laughs. “He loves that cow. You’re definitely his favorite uncle.”

“I’m his only uncle,” Jace says, copying what Alec said earlier, making them both laugh.

Alec asks about his business. Jace explains everything is going well, and they are getting tons of clients. Ever since Aline and Helen showed up at Hunter’s Moon, they clicked with Maia like a match with a candle. Maia may be more of an introvert with her tough childhood, she tends to open up to people who have big personalities. Lily gave her no choice but to be best friends. When Aline came in, she immediately complimented Maia’s leather jacket and badass rings. It was no surprise they got along, and then Helen came in with her much softer approach. By the end of the night, all four women were friendly with each other. When Maia mentioned her boyfriend’s bike, Aline brought up her job at a bike shop.

Apparently, Bat knows a lot of people who ride motorcycles. They heard about Jace’s shop, and they headed over there to look around. Ever since then, Jace’s sales have skyrocketed. His business is blooming, and Alec couldn’t be more proud.

“I’m going to have to talk to Aline about hiring more people. We are getting swamped,” Jace explains. “We’re still new, so I am trying to keep track of sales and my inventory. Aline will have to find someone for me.”

“You know, I can help with that,” Alec offers. “I have been helping Rafael with his bar. I created a whole system for him to track inventory and organize his storage. I am almost done with it. When I’m done I can help with inventory management to avoid overstocking, track down trends, and competitive pricing.”

Jace smirks at him. “You want to work for me? I never thought I’d see the day.”

“Oh, please,” Alec scoffs. “Clary helped you with that part. Inventory management is your weakness. You need me.”

“You sound like Izzy,” Jace scowls. “I can get by, asshole.” After a few minutes, he relents. “I would like the help, even if I have to see your face to get it.”

Alec’s lips twitch. “I’ll send you the bill for my services.”

Jace snorts and shakes his head, amused. “Whatever. It will be nice to see you more. Do you need me to pick you up?”

“No, I’ll be fine. I’ll make it work. It’ll just be a few days a week.”

“Are you going to bring Max?” Jace asks hopefully. His face breaks out into a smile when Alec confirms. “Good. I miss the little guy.”

They get to Jace’s store. The neon sign shines ‘Herondale’s Bikes’. They park and walk inside, and Alec halts at the reception desk. The once plain white wall behind the desk now has been a victim to incredible art. There’s a man on a motorcycle, and it’s a graffiti style with bright red, orange, green, and blue colors. It shows the side point of view of the man. His helmet is a vibrant neon green. There is a symbol on the wheels that looks like an arrowhead with two bent lines sprouting from the top. He thinks he’s seen a symbol similar to that in Clary’s notebook when she was designing a title for Jace’s shop.

The redhead walks over and joins him. Alec gives her an approving look. “You’ve outdone yourself, Fairchild.”

Clary smiles wide. “Thank you.” Max reaches for her, and she laughs. Alec gives him to her. “Do you like it, honey? Do you like the pretty colors?”

Alec walks over to say hello to Helen and Aline. He tells them about his future visits to work on inventory and other things to help out the store. The two women grin at him, happy to see him more. Aline jokes about learning embarrassing things about Jace from him, and Helen shakes her head fondly.

They all close up the shop and then head off. Clary, Jace, Alec, and Max take Jace’s car, Helen and Aline take Helen’s car, and the others take Simon’s car. They drive over to the zoo with Christmas music blasting. The place is gigantic, and there are flashing lights around all the trees and buildings. There are tons of people here, and it takes a while to find a parking spot. When they finally get to the front, Alec spots Magnus and smiles at him.

Max screams in delight and runs over to him. Magnus picks him up and kisses his cheek. “My gorgeous boy. What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be with the other monkeys?”

“No!” Max exclaims, shaking his head and giggling. Magnus starts naming animals and Max claps his hands in excitement.

Alec joins them, and Magnus’s eyes go gentle when he looks at him. “Hello, darling.”

“Hi,” Alec replies, feeling butterflies in his stomach. After all this time, he still blushes around him at the smallest of attention. He leans in for a kiss.

“Alec!” a high pitch shout comes from behind him. Alec turns to find Madzie charging over. She wraps her arms around his legs, and he kneels down to hug her.

“Madzie!” Catarina walks up, and Alec politely says hello to her too. He then turns to his siblings and friends and introduces them all. Once done, Magnus takes his hand, and they head over to the entrance.

There are Christmas lights flashing, and there’s a strong scent of barbecue, spiced nuts, popcorn, hot chocolate, and baked goods. Alec gets them hot chocolate, and Max gets chocolate on his mouth.

They walk around to look at the animals. Magnus shares popcorn with him, and they walk ahead of the others. The weather is not too cold, and it’s a beautiful night. Alec and Magnus show Max all the animals. Max likes the peacocks and lions, but he doesn’t like the monkeys. He cries when they howl, and Magnus rubs his back soothingly.

Max is enchanted by the giant metal ball hovering over the small lake. It flashes in color along with the music, and Madzie and Max dance to it. Jace dances in circles with them, and Clary takes videos and pictures.

The children get hungry, and Alec gets some loaded fries to share with Max. Magnus buys himself a hotdog to share too. There are mini apple pies, and Alec gets him one hesitantly. Max had some pie last month during Thanksgiving dinner, and he ended up throwing it up an hour later. This time he lets Max have two bites before cutting him off.

When they go to leave the table, Izzy comes up and wraps her arm around Alec’s and pulls him away to their right. “Switching partners.”

Alec shrugs when Magnus looks at him, who now has Simon at his side talking about Star Wars Christmas specials. Apparently there are Christmas lights in the shape of tauntaun next to the bear exhibit. Magnus throws Alec a pained expression before reluctantly walking off with him and Clary. Simon reaches for Max, and Magnus gives him the toddler. Alec hears Simon mention an ewok outfit for Max, and he hopes Magnus shuts that suggestion down.

Izzy pulls him over to another stand and purchases two glasses of cider. Alec takes a sip, and he surprisingly enjoys it. Izzy grins at him and pulls him forward.

“How are you, big brother?”

He raises a brow at her. He sips some more. “I am good, little sister. Your boyfriend wants to dress my son as a bear.”

“It’s an ewok,” Izzy giggles. She shrugs. “It’s kind of cute.”

Alec shakes his head in disbelief. “If you would’ve told me something in Star Wars was cute five years ago, I would’ve thought you were possessed.”

Izzy squeezes his arm affectionately. “If you would’ve told me you were happy or ‘good’ five years ago, I would’ve known you were lying through your teeth.”

Fair enough. She’s not wrong. “Well, do you believe me now?”

Izzy hums. “I do. It’s all in your eyes and your shoulders. You’re not so stressed and miserable. You smile so easily now, when it used to take a lot of effort to make you smile. A real one.”

“I’m in a much better spot, Iz,” Alec tells her. “I got a job. I can afford things now. I’m not so stressed at the end of the day.”

“Not when you have big, strong arms to cuddle into,” Izzy teases. Alec blushes. “I mean, you’re not small by any means, but you know what I mean. Magnus is your safe place, and he lets you relax.”

“I don’t need him to relax,” Alec weakly argues. Izzy frowns, and he hurries to explain. “I am doing well with my classes. Hopefully in the next year I will have a good stable job. I’m slowly starting to pay for all my bills. Not completely - but some. I’m getting there. I can be fully independent and not have to rely on Grant’s parents. I won’t have to worry about relying on anyone or paying anyone back…”

“Wait,” Izzy interrupts. “Why do you think you owe people?”

Alec gestures vaguely. “Why not? They’re paying for my bills when I should be. I should be able to pay the bills myself. I don’t want to need anyone to do it for me.”

“Alec, we all need someone,” Izzy tells him sincerely. “Do you think you would be happy if you had all the money in the world? Without Magnus? Without your family?”

The answer comes out quickly, “No, absolutely not. I just…” He swallows. He’s nothing without his family. His siblings are the reason he’s still alive. They’re the reason he’s still breathing and pushing himself to be better. Max, of course, is his number one motivator, but before Max, it was Jace and Izzy.

Maybe it was because his mother called him weak. Dealing with his mother last month has only worsened the memories and plagued his dreams. She told him he was always going to be incapable of taking care of himself. All omegas are helpless, and he will always need an alpha to take care of him. All that abuse made him determined to become self-reliant. He didn’t want anyone else to take the credit for his hard work and success.

Battling his mother over Max made his protective instincts go haywire. He wasn’t going to let anyone take his son from him. His need to prove himself blinded him from what’s in front of him - Magnus’s devotion and love for them.

“Magnus wants me to move in with him,” he says, though he’s already told her the day it was brought up. “He doesn’t push me or try to coerce me in any way. He’ll comment here or there, but he’s not cruel. I can tell how much he wants it.”

“Do you not want to live with him? You seemed excited before.”

“Of course I do,” Alec answers, and he stuns himself with how quick he said it. He wants to see Magnus every day. He wants to kiss and hold him, be in his presence and scent him. He never wants him to leave. “I just recently started paying more for bills, and I can afford groceries and anything Max needs. I like being able to take care of both of us.”

“You would’ve been able to even without Magnus,” Izzy says. She shakes her head when Alec gives her a doubtful look. “Alec, you’re intelligent and strong. You don’t need Magnus, but what’s so bad if you do? Sure, he’s helped you, and I understand more than anyone how terrifying it is to trust someone, but haven’t you helped him back? You can’t say you haven’t.”

Alec goes to deny it, but the memory of Magnus in his office flashes in his mind. The misery in his voice, and the way he sounded terrified of his father. When he revealed the overwhelming guilt he felt because of what his father tricked him into doing. How his father blamed him for the death of his mother.

When Alec told him it was none of his fault, Magnus didn’t believe it at first. He was in denial, but Alec told him Asmodeus was a grown man, and there was no reason for Magnus to hold all the guilt he put on him. He had no reason to even be guilty. How could a child torture a grown man so much? When he said that, Magnus’s cold exterior melted a little in realization. Alec held him while he cried, and he told him there is nothing ugly about him because Magnus is the most beautiful man inside and out. He reassured him he would protect him. Asmodeus is not going to hurt them, and he’ll do whatever it takes to protect them.

Magnus thanked him later cuddling in bed. Alec told him he doesn’t need to say thank you. He was just telling him facts. Magnus was much happier after that, and the stress melted off his shoulders. His breathing went even, and he snuggled into Alec’s arms.

“Yes,” he tells Izzy. She gives him an imploring look, but Alec’s silence makes her nod in understanding.

“You help each other because you love each other,” Izzy says. Her sad eyes drift over his face. “I remember the things our mother said, but she is a liar. There is a difference between being independent and isolating yourself. Let yourself be surrounded by people who love you. You’re not alone. You take care of Magnus, and he’ll take care of you.”

Sometimes he hates how insightful his sister can be. She hasn’t always been like this. Simon has helped her bring down her walls and allow her own heart to be tended to. She was in a bad place when she went through her recovery, and Simon was always there for her.

“Magnus got me that job at Hunter’s Moon,” Alec tells her. “He knew Raphael.”

Izzy snorts. “I’ve met him. I’m pretty sure if he didn’t like you, he would’ve kicked you out screaming. You earned that job.” She finishes her cider. “I needed recommendation letters to get into medical school. Clary’s mother bought her art supplies. Should we be crediting our success to them? All of it?”

“No,” Alec says. “I get it. I don’t know why I’m like this. I want to spend the rest of my life with him.”

Izzy gives him a wide, mischievous smile. She hugs his arm. “Don’t let that miserable woman affect how you live your life, but I do get it. Move in with your man or maybe move more of your things in if you think it’s too soon. Sounds like something you both want. Live the happy life you deserve. Make some more babies.”

Alec huffs and kisses the top of her head. He perks up when he hears the sound of his son a little ways away. They must’ve made it back to the group. He goes over to Simon, who’s holding a very distressed Max. Simon is not in a much better state.

“I tried giving him something to drink and eat, but he kept crying. I don’t know what he wants,” Simon says anxiously. He looks ready to yank his hair out. “Magnus is with Madzie and Catarina in the maze.”

“He probably needs to be changed,” Alec explains serenely. Happy to no longer be holding a very fussy toddler, Simon hurriedly hands him over. “I’ll be back.”

Simon apologies, and Alec waves him off. He finds the closest bathroom and heads in. The bathroom is a nice size and relatively clean, and there’s no one inside. He goes to the diaper change station, and he sets Max and his bag on it.

He hears a stall door open while he unbuttons Max’s pants. He cleans him up and reaches for a new diaper. He overreaches and accidentally knocks into the bag, and the diaper tucked into the side pocket falls out. He curses softly and moves to kneel down with a hand on Max to prevent him from falling. His fingers are an inch from the diaper when suddenly another hand grabs it and hands it to him.

Alec takes notice of the tanned skin and the thick gold ring on his index finger. His nails are nicely trimmed and clean. He picks up the diaper and tosses it on the diaper station. Max fidgets, and Alec quickly turns to him to make sure he’s safe. He turns back to the stranger and finds him gone.

The stranger did not say anything, but there was something unsettling about him. Alec can’t remember a toilet flushing, and the man walked straight out without a single word or noise. It brought an eerie foreboding sensation, heightening Alec’s awareness that he’s alone. There was something chilling in the way the man said nothing nor seemed to have any reason to be in the bathroom with Alec.

Alec watches the door in a poised stance, cautious and ready for something he doesn’t know, until relaxing and turning back to Max. When he turns around, he freezes. There’s a yellow sticky note on the diaper. There are no words on it, but there is a smile drawn in bold, sinister lines.

With nerves going haywire, Alec quickly dresses Max and stuffs everything in his bag. He nearly runs straight into a teenage boy when he hurries out.

“Alec?”

Alec turns to find Jace watching him vigilantly. His frown emphasized his brows and lips. “Are you alright?”

Alec turns back to the bathroom. He evens his breathing, and he holds Max tightly to his chest. “I am fine. There was a strange man in there. I didn’t like him.”

“Did he do something?” Jace asks, immediately on alert.

“No,” Alec says coolly. “He picked something up for me, but I didn’t like him. There was something sinister about him. He left this.”

Alec shows Jace the note, and Jace’s face hardens. He tells Alec he’ll be right back, and he heads into the bathroom even though the man is probably long gone by now. Looking at the note now, Alec feels ridiculous, and he knows his options are limited. There’s not much he can do with a note with a drawn smile. It’s not as if the man hurt him or threatened him. No cop is going to do anything with this, and they’ll tell him to call again when the man does something to him. A certifiable way to leave people helpless to those who want to hurt them.

Alec tries to think about who this could be. Who would want to hurt him or make him paranoid? His mind drifts to his mother, but he instantly shuts the thought down. His mother wouldn’t do this. She wouldn’t send a strange man to harass or scare him.

“He’s gone,” Jace tells him when he comes back. Alec nods. He doubted the man was still here. Jace puts his hand on his shoulder. “Are you okay? Do you want to go?”

Max yawns almost as if on cue, and Alec agrees. “Yeah, I don’t want to stick around.”

“Are you going to tell Magnus?”

Alec shakes his head. “No, there’s no reason to. The man is gone. There’s not much to do anyway. I didn’t see his face or any characteristics. Tanned skin and had a ring on his index finger. That hardly narrows down a workable group of people.”

Alec doesn’t mention the fact sticky notes have been left at his front door. No words, but there were stick figures and smiles. All dark and unsettling. The thought of someone leaving these cryptic messages sends terror down his spine, and he feels like someone is watching him. Maybe he was.

He walks with Jace to the others. Magnus is taking pictures of Cat and Madzie in front of the maze’s exit. Christmas music plays from the speakers, and there is fake snow raining down onto them.

He watches Magnus in the hundreds of sparkling Christmas lights. His beauty steals his breath away, but he’s centered to the ground. He’s both light and filled with all the love he has for this man. His stunning bronze skin, the way his chocolate brown eyes crinkle when he’s excited, and how he steals all the attention in the room. It’s his charismatic and charming aura that captivates everyone to be drawn to him. Alec is not blind. He sees the way people look at his boyfriend. He wants to hide Magnus with his body, wrap his arms around him and stick his face in his neck to show them this perfect man is taken.

When he looks at Magnus, all he can think about is how much love he has for him. He’s grateful to have an amazing man to come home to. A kind, selfless alpha who loves Alec and his son. He treats Max like he is his own.

Alec can’t believe how silly he’s been. Of course he wants to be with Magnus, and he blames his mother for the temporary setback and paranoia. There are more factors in play, such as Max and uprooting a toddler out of his normal routine will be hard, but as long as Magnus is patient, they will live in the same home one day. Alec wants so bad to wake up to Magnus every morning. He wants to sleep in his arms every night because it’s there he feels the safest.

He’s been an idiot, but he sees the truth now. Magnus is his home, and there’s nothing wrong with relying on him to keep him safe. That’s what mates do. They love each other.

Magnus falls asleep in his arms that night. Alec kisses his temple and wraps his body around him like a shield, daring anyone in the world to hurt his lover. Whoever this man is, he’ll be sure to learn sooner rather than later how dangerous Alec can be. If he does show again, Alec will show him not to underestimate him. He will show him just how dangerous he is, and how he will not let him hurt anyone he loves.

****************

Christmas is a wonderful success.

Alec wakes up to Magnus and a warm cup of coffee. Magnus leans in for a kiss, and Alec groans childishly. Magnus chuckles in amusement and instead kisses his temple. Magnus leaves to start making a big breakfast, and Alec goes to retrieve Max, who is standing in his crib wearing his red Christmas onesie.

After some much needed tickles and kisses, he brings them into the living room. Their Christmas tree is huge and shines in garland and ornaments. Max shrieks when Alec points out the many gifts just for him. He turns on holiday specials for Max’s favorite cartoons, and he sets him on his small pad of pillows and blankets. He joins Magnus in the kitchen, and he gets started on biscuits and pancakes. He’s more awake now, and he plants a kiss on Magnus’s lips.

They eat breakfast together, and then Alec moves them to the living room to begin opening presents. Izzy got Max a doodle board, and Max immediately puts the pen in his mouth. He’s been teething pretty badly lately so it’s not much of a shock. Jace got him an interactive stuffed cow animal, and it plays peekaboo when Max pushes its left paw. Simon got him a baby walker, and Clary got him some bath toys. Maia, Lily, Helen, and Aline all got smaller gifts, and Alec is thankful to have them.

He misses his siblings and pack members badly, but he wanted to spend the morning with Magnus and Max. The little family he made. After the debacle with his mother and keeping his head straight about the mysterious man and daunting notes, he wants to spend the holidays holding his son and cuddling with his boyfriend.

He wants to tell Magnus, but what would he even say? Random drawn smiles on notes? There’s nothing to even do about it.

Alec groans when Magnus takes out yet another present for Max. He’s downright spoiling him. Alec tries to tell him Max is happy with a box sometimes, but Magnus waves him off with a fond smile and a kiss. Then he pulls out Alec’s gifts, and Alec blushes.

His gifts range from warm sweaters that make Alec’s eyes pop, the cologne he likes, and a nicer bag for classes. Alec tries not to show the relief he feels when that’s all Magnus gets him, but then the grinning alpha tells him to open the bag, and there he finds a piece of paper with the word ‘coupon’ on it.

“I’m looking for a new laptop-“

“You are not buying me a laptop,” Alec tells him with a serious tone.

“I’m not buying you a laptop,” Magnus tells him with his hands held out. He smiles. “I am buying myself a new laptop, and you can have my old one.”

“Magnus-“

“Oh, come on,” Magnus whines. He presses against Alec where he leans on the counter. He looks up at him through his eyelashes with that winning grin Alec loves. Alec stubbornly stands still and squints at him. He despises how much he loves Magnus like this. Wearing little makeup and the clothes he slept in. Magnus pouts and runs his hand down Alec’s arms. “It’s not like I’m not going to bill you.”

Alec raises a brow. “Oh?”

Magnus cups his face, and he smiles softly. “All your sweet kisses.”

Alec groans, but he doesn’t break out of Magnus’s hold. “Magnus, I don’t want you to spend so much money on me.”

“Technically I’m spending it on me,” Magnus points out cockily. His voice is deep and sensual, and Alec listens to him like a melody. He’s got breakfast in his belly and a sleeping toddler on the couch. “I’ve wanted a new laptop for years. I’m giving you my old one. I’m not losing any money I was already going to spend.”

“You’re unbelievable, you know that?” Alec tells him without any malice. He kisses Magnus’s palm, inhaling his scent until it fills his whole body.

Magnus grins and kisses his lips. “You are too, my love. Thank you for the scarf and bag. I love it.” He reaches behind Alec for the scarf and wraps a loop around his neck. “How do I look?”

Alec grins. “You look good in everything.” His cheeks blush when something mischievous sparks in Magnus’s eyes.

“Do I?” Magnus whispers with a sultry voice. His hand slides down Alec’s side to his ass and squeezes. He presses closer when Alec parts his legs to stand between them. He pulls Alec’s hair sharply, pulling a whimper from him.

Alec moans when Magnus cages him in. His arms on both sides of him. His scent alone makes him lightheaded. His cock stirs in interest, and he pulls Magnus impossibly closer. He slips his tongue into the kiss, feeling heat collect in his belly.

“We have an hour before we have to go to Jace and Clary’s,” Alec tells him between kisses. He’s got one leg up on Magnus’s waist, and his hands shake to tear his shirt off. He’s hot, so hot, and Magnus is the only thing who can make him feel good. Every lick, kiss, bite, and the way he manhandles him like Alec was his in every way because he is.

“Have to be quick though,” Alec tells him, out of breath. Fingers dig into his knee and thigh where Magnus holds him. “Can’t leave Max alone.”

“We’ll be quick, but I am going to make you come so hard you see stars,” Magnus tells him where he kisses his neck and behind his ear. Alec whimpers and whines at the feel of his hot breath on him. He brings his hands down and picks him up by the back of his thighs. “One last Christmas gift for you, darling.”

Then Magnus carries him to their bedroom where he throws Alec on the bed. The act alone has Alec’s mind spiraling and pants soaked in slick. There’s something incredibly hot about Magnus being able to pick him up and throw him around where he wants him.

“You’ll have to be quiet, Alexander,” Magnus tells him. His eyes are dark as he hovers over him. He pulls Alec down the bed by his legs. Using two fingers to tilt his chin up, he asks, “Can you do that?”

Alec’s cheeks turn scarlet red, and it’s when Magnus leans down for a kiss that he murmurs, “Yes.”

************

Alec pinches the edge of his nose and sighs loudly. He rubs at his eyes with both of his hands. He gets a slap to the shoulder for his misery, and he raises one brow at a befuddled Lily.

He’s listening to Lily rant about who she kissed on New Year’s eve. So far she’s counted up to five people. She says there were probably more, but she was too drunk at that point to remember. She had went to Helen and Aline’s party, and it was a costume party. Lily dressed up as a vampire. Helen dressed as a Fae. Aline dressed as a warrior. She recounts kissing a beautiful mermaid with bright purple hair, and she has no idea who it was.

“That was probably Queenie,” Helen tells her.

“That doesn’t matter,” Aline waves off. She hits the bar counter. “You kissed Raphael! How was it like kissing an ice boulder?”

“He has very fine lips actually,” Lily scoffs with a dreamy expression. “I would kiss them again.”

“Are you?” Aline exclaims in disbelief.

Lily shrugs. “No, I don’t think so. He said he doesn’t date. It’s not his thing.”

“You are his employee,” Alec cuts in. He swallows the hypocrisy of his first interaction with Magnus as student and professor.

“Yada yada,” Lily says, giving Alec a hand. She leaves to help a customer and then comes back sticking her tongue at him. “I’ve known him for five years, and he hasn’t gone on a single date or expressed interest in anyone. I think he’s asexual or aromantic. Oh well. He’s a good friend and I wouldn’t want to lose him.”

“He’s a grouch,” Maia tells her. She shakes her head in amusement. “I don’t know why you’re attracted to him.”

“He’s honest,” Lily scoffs. She folds her arms defiantly. “He’s honest and kind, and he’s much nicer when it’s closing hours and he’s listening to my rants.”

Alec wouldn’t classify Raphael as mean, per se, but he wouldn’t necessarily call him nice. Although, he was helpful during the whole situation with his mother and telling DCFS good things about him. He’s a kind person as long as no one is there to witness it. He supposes he can’t be too quick to judge Lily’s affections. There are definitely worse people than Raphael.

The door opens and Alec sees Maia glance at the newcomer and then blanch. Aline looks too, and her eyes sharpen. Alec turns to see who bothered them, and he freezes and feels all the air in his lungs rush out.

Maryse.

She stands there in the middle of the bar with her hands clenched in front of her. Her hair is pulled to reveal more of her face. She’s not wearing her normal attire which are suits and fitted clothes. She’s wearing more comfortable clothing. A dark purple shirt and dark slacks. It’s strange to see her out of her heels.

She’s obviously out of her element with the way she holds herself, but she loses some of her discomfort and is replaced with determination once she spots him. She squares her shoulders and walks over.

“Alec,” she says with a tone that sounds too forced for Alec’s liking.

“Mother,” he replies unkindly. To his surprise, she looks very different compared to last month. Growing up, she’d held herself like an emotionless robot. She follows her own rules, uncaring when it comes to Alec and Izzy. Her stare here is not as piercing, and it’s unsettling.

“I wanted to stop by and tell you Merry Christmas,” she tells him. She taps her fingers on the counter, and Alec realizes she’s nervous. He tries to recall the last time she was anything less than poised and collected. His mind comes up empty.

Alec racks his brain for something to say, but he cannot think of anything. He musters, “Okay.”

If she expected more from him, she doesn’t let it show. That alone takes Alec by surprise. However it’s not unlike her to push other people’s feelings because she was too caught up in her own.

“I will not stay long,” she tells him. He frowns at her. He’s not used to her being lost for words. She reaches into her bag and pulls out a small, thin box. When he doesn’t reach for the offered box, she places it between them. “For Max.”

He squints at her and looks down at the gift. She definitely wrapped it. There was not a single wrinkle in the wrapping paper. ‘Max’ is written in her fine handwriting.

He stands there, conflicting whether he will open it here or not. He looks back at her and for once doesn’t see judgment or any hostility. She doesn’t seem too shocked when he doesn’t even touch the gift, and that is the reason why he decides to open it.

He’s careful opening it. He removes the wrapping paper to find a cream colored box. He slides off the lid and stares inside.

“They’re yours,” she says, surprising Alec. “They’re your old shoes. The very first shoes I bought. You didn’t like them at first. You were quicker to put them in your mouth than let me put them on your feet, but they were your favorite.”

“You kept them?” Alec asks, voice strained. He holds them up. They’re tiny and yellow with a dark gray dinosaur stitched on the tip. They are spotless and freshly cleaned which is shocking considering they are almost twenty years old.

“Of course I did,” Maryse says. The bitterness she usually spoke with nowhere in sight. She pulls her hair behind her ear. “You’re my firstborn. I have all your baby things.”

Alec is speechless. He never expected her to keep all his things. He would’ve thought she'd thrown away everything related to him. He didn’t think she cared much about mementos or keepsakes. After all this time, she’s had it all?

“Where is Max?”

“Not here,” Alec says, clipped. “You made sure of that.”

She purses her lips at the reprimand, but she does not say anything.

He almost wants her to fight. He wants her to argue back like she always does. Push him and his boundaries. At least doing that, he would know what she was thinking. She’s too quiet and subdued here. Even snapping at her does nothing. She says nothing. She’s not even looking at him.

It’s not entirely new for her to not look at him. Growing up she would ignore him. She wouldn’t speak to him or be in the same room as him. He would sometimes go days without her saying a word to him. Now, it’s obvious she wants to talk. He can practically see the words on her face. Tons of times he was in her place, desperate to talk to her. Beg her to listen to him and show him the love she gave Izzy and Jace - however little it was. He would stand in front of his parents’ door, wishing he could go in and ask for a hug because his skin itched and eyes burned with tears. His lips would wobble with his throat filled with pleas and choked sobs.

To see her like this… he’s dumbfounded. He’s taken back with having this form of power over his mother. For once it’s his mother wanting something from him rather than the other way around. He doesn’t know how to feel about it. It hurts because he wants to reach out and let her back in his life. He wants so bad to have the mother he’s wished for years for. While he could mark it for revenge, that's not the only reason. His mother did not change overnight, no matter how many times he wished for that. Every night he would go to bed hoping he would wake up to his mother waking him up with breakfast and a hug and kiss.

What he would have given for that.

He has to be smart about this. He has to hold his ground. He has an amazing life now, and he will not allow his mother to come in and destroy any piece of it. For once, he’s happy with his life. He’s accomplished a stable job, good friends, a loving partner, and he’s able to provide for his son. Max is surrounded with love, and he will fight to keep it that way. Absolutely nothing will stop him. He’s gone through too much hurt to let Max feel any degree of hurt he experienced growing up.

“Thank you,” Alec says finally. He may resent her for how she’s treated him and how she tried to steal his son away. His feelings conflict with each other, but there’s a side of him that wants his mother in his life. There’s going to be a permanent part of him that stubbornly insists on wanting her affection. He has no intention to let her get close any time soon. She tried to steal Max from him, and he’s not going to forget that. However, she’s his mother, and he stubbornly hangs on to that slither of hope that she may change.

It may be weeks or months before he speaks to her again. Longer for him to let her see Max. For now, he will accept her gift with tight lips and hooded eyes. She must have realized the danger she was in because she doesn’t inquire about Max again. Instead she asks about Magnus, and even that sets Alec on edge. His answers remain tight-lipped, until she leaves after one more Merry Christmas. It’s said with more emotion than he knows what to do with. Her brown eyes are warm and apologetic. A look he thought he’d never see.

He’s still unsettled when Magnus comes in with Max to take him home. Helen, who has six siblings, immediately comes over to hold little Max. Lily joins her with a flower they put in special drinks.

As if sensing his distress, Magnus comes right to him. He intertwines their fingers together, and Alec can breathe a little better. He closes his eyes when Magnus leans in to kiss his cheek. He leans into it, desperate for the comfort he so freely offers. Magnus leans back to ask with his eyes because they’re still in public and circled by their friends. Alec gives him a small smile and shakes his head, silently promising him he’ll tell him later.

The worry is still there, vibrant in his eyes, but Alec kisses him on the lips and squeezes his hand. He wants to stuff his nose in his neck, but right now is not the time. They’ll be at Magnus’s soon, and only then will they be safe and sound.

Alec says goodbye to the others, and they get into Magnus’s car. Magnus gives him a questioning look, but Alec shakes his head again. He’s still trying to get his thoughts together, and he just wants comfort from his boyfriend. Magnus, because he’s the most understanding man in the world, smiles and kisses the back of his hand and continues to drive.

They end up driving to Alec’s apartment because Magnus has a busy day ahead, and it’s easier on them both to stay at Alec’s. Alec walks in and smiles at the new pot of flowers. He’s not the biggest fan of flowers. He’s not going to decline them, but he doesn’t particularly expect or request them. However, Max likes them, and he feels butterflies flutter in his stomach whenever Magnus gets him more. He doesn’t know what he said or did to make Magnus start buying them for him, but Alec smiles when he sees a new batch every week.

His shoulders ache, and his feet are sore. He’s exhausted and needs sleep. Thankfully, Magnus ordered them dinner. He got Max some chicken nuggets and fries, and then burgers and a salad for them. It’s a simple dinner which is perfect. Magnus does the dishes, and Alec puts Max to bed in his crib after a quick bath.

Alec goes back into the living room, and Magnus goes over to him. Alec wraps his arms around him, and Magnus pulls him tight against him. He sighs into his neck, greedy for his calming scent. Magnus rubs his back soothingly, and Alec relaxes in his hold.

“My mother visited me at Hunter’s Moon,” Alec reveals to him. Magnus pulls back to look at him, concern clear on his face.

“What? Why?” he interrogates.

“She dropped off a gift for Max,” Alec explains. “She wanted to give Max my old shoes I had when I was Max’s age. She kept them.”

Magnus’s eyes flicker across his face, trying to figure out what he’s thinking. Alec doesn’t know himself. “I don’t know why she did.”

“I suppose in her own way, she cared,” Magnus tells him with a frown. “You’re strong for talking to her. Many would have walked away or demanded her to leave.”

“I almost did,” Alec says honestly. “I didn’t say much. If I had, I would’ve yelled at her and never stopped.”

Magnus’s lip quirks up. He runs his hand through Alec’s hair. “My super strong omega. Could’ve ripped off her head and didn’t. No one would have blamed you after all she did.”

Alec sighs. “Some part of me wishes I had.”

Magnus nods. “She would’ve had it coming. I am here for you whatever you decide to do. She doesn’t deserve your forgiveness, but it’s important for you to heal however you require. Whether that means no-contact or maybe speaking to her again in the future.”

Alec tilts his head and successfully cracks his neck with a sigh. He’s sore and tired, and he takes both of Magnus’s hands. He walks backwards to his room and Magnus follows him willingly.

They undress each other slowly. Each removal of clothing is followed by kisses. Nothing about it is sexually-charged. It’s all comforting and intimate, and Alec appreciates the sight of every inch of his lover’s body. He steals kisses to Magnus’s shoulders, under his jaw, his elbow, the inside of his wrists, and his chest.

“Cheeky,” Magnus teases with a warm smile. He plants his own kisses, ranging from Alec’s nose, the dimples in his cheeks, his clavicle, and the spot where his elbow bends. Soft giggles and murmurs fill the room. They strip to their underwear, and Alec pulls the other man into his bed. He waits for Magnus to get situated before squeezing himself into his side. Magnus wraps his arms around him, and he slings his leg over him. He rests his head on his, kissing a patch of his hair when he does.

Alec loves being held like this. He feels entirely safe and secure in Magnus’s arms in his bed. The sporadic kisses to his face and hair makes him smile and let out a low hum, though he denies when Magnus calls it purring. Magnus finds it adorable, while Alec ducks his head and hides his rosey cheeks.

Magnus’s fingers massage the back of his neck in soothing circles. They dig into his sore muscles, and Alec sighs. “Thank you for the flowers. You don’t have to get them for me.”

Instead of another kiss or a sappy comment, Magnus stops completely. His whole body freezes, and his fingers stop moving. Alec frowns and leans back to peer up at him. His face is made of stone. “Magnus?”

“I didn’t get you flowers, Alec,” Magnus says, voice strained. “I’ve never given you flowers. You don’t even like flowers.”

“Yeah, but I just thought…” Alec swallows. He can’t breathe. His stomach sinks, and he has the urge to throw up. “If it hasn’t been you, then who’s been getting me flowers?”

****************

Alec holds tight on his coat as he walks through the snow. He pulls his beanie over his ears securely and rubs his hands together. There’s a lot of students around, hurrying to their next class. It’s the beginning of the semester so there’s more students than usual.

“You nervous about Dr. Lovelace’s first exam?” Andrew asks at Alec’s side.

“Yeah,” Alec answers honestly. “Did you want to meet up at the library tomorrow evening? We can study for a few hours. Izzy is babysitting Max. Think Simon is using him to play dress up with his Star Wars outfits.”

“Babies are basically dolls you can dress in whatever you want,” Andrew jokes. “At least until he gains a personality.”

“Oh, he has a personality,” Alec laughs. “If it’s a hat, it’s an immediate no. He’s unsure about buttons, and sometimes he refuses to wear stuff he didn’t pick out himself. Think he’s copying some of Magnus’s sass.”

Andrew chuckles. “Like he’s the only sassy parent here. I see your face when Aldertree talks in class.”

“A child is more creative than him,” Alec snarks. “Children learn - Aldertree cannot.”

Andrew laughs. They walk through the snow to the other side of the school. They get to the red light, and Alec presses the button. “You don’t have to come with me. I’m just picking up Max. Magnus should be here soon.”

Andrew shrugs. “I have nothing better to do. I wanted to see the little guy.” The light turns green, and they walk the crosswalk. “How did Max handle the fireworks?”

“He hated them,” Alec says. “At least until I added earplugs under the earmuffs. Then he was better, and he liked the sparklers.”

Max handled the commotion in front of Magnus’s house where they all lit fireworks after his ears were firmly protected. He adored the lights and colors, but he would spend the time behind Magnus or wrapped around Alec’s legs. He didn’t know what to do with all the noise and explosions. Hopefully next year he will handle them better. Although, he did laugh when Simon was shooting a firework at Jace and they were both running around.

Max clung to Alec as the night went on. He would cry when Alec put him down, so he ended up holding him for hours. He was sitting on the couch with him when midnight struck and Magnus came over and kissed him and then the top of Max’s head.

It’s been a very stressful couple of weeks. Ever since he found out Magnus wasn’t the one getting him flowers, they were both on edge and racking their brains trying to figure out what to do and who was stalking them. Alec has gotten so paranoid, and he got another camera at a different angle in Max’s room, as well as the other rooms in his apartment. Magnus did the same, covering the whole house with a camera in each room. They hooked up a ring surveillance camera for their front doors too.

They have nothing. Nothing has been caught on camera, and no new flowers. On one hand, it was a good thing since that means nobody has broken in. However, this also means the stalker knew they hooked up cameras because they haven’t tried again.

They spoke the other day about the very real possibility that it could be Magnus’s father. There’s no way to be sure, but Magnus told him guiltily it was a valid option. The theory was further proven when Alec told him about the little notes he’s found.

If looks could kill, Alec would have died by the expression Magnus made. The fury alone could fuel a fire. They started sharing each other’s locations on their phones.

When Alec asked what Asmodeus would want from them, Magnus cryptically told him it could be for anything. Mostly control over the situation. Control over his son after being cut off. A powerful man like him doesn’t take too kindly to being ignored and banished.

It could also not be him, but neither one of them can think of anyone who would be doing this. Alec asked him why he wouldn’t just come talk, and Magnus laughed bitterly and said Asmodeus thrives on this cat and mouse game. He enjoys putting people on edge.

Alec has been on edge for weeks. Every day that passes, he grows more tense. He feels eyes on him constantly, and his hands ache with how much he’s clenched his bones ready for a fight. He knows something is coming, and he hates having to wait. It’s got his protective instincts on overdrive, and he’s ready to fight anyone who looks at him, Max, or Magnus for too long. Every shadow looks like a man watching him, and he hasn’t been able to relax. The only time he does, he’s in bed with Magnus and Max in his arms or in his own nest beside them.

Today he had no choice but to drop his son off at daycare across the street from the school. Magnus had meetings all day, Catarina was working a double, Izzy and the others all worked today, and Alec had class. It was only supposed to be around two hours. At least that’s what he told himself to convince himself Max will be fine. He’s been lucky this entire time with at least one person able to watch Max for him. He would’ve brought Max with him as he’s done many times in the past, but today he had an exam and Professor Lovelace said he couldn’t bring Max even if he stayed quiet. Now that Max is older, he talks plenty and is adamant on walking around. He didn’t blame Lovelace at all, but it still made him uneasy to leave him somewhere.

There are plenty of kids running around in the daycare when he steps in with Andrew. There are games, blocks, musical instruments, stuffed animals, and puzzles all over on the shelves and short plastic tables. There were children playing with cards and building blocks, while others were playing tag or drawing. Alec tries to spot Max, but these were older kids and Max should be with the other toddlers.

There’s a beta woman at the counter wearing a nametag that says ‘Sarah’. She has pink dyed ends, and she’s the one who checked them in when Alec dropped Max off. He goes straight to her. She smiles at him kindly.

“Hello, sir, checking in?”

Alec shakes his head. “No, I’m here for Max.”

She tilts her head. “Max? Max what?”

“Lightwood.”

She purses her lips and types on the computer. “We don’t have any children here with the last name ‘Lightwood’. Could you maybe have dropped him off at another location?”

He stares at her, feeling the world fade around him. His throat constricts, and he uses every ounce of energy to power through his next words. “No. I dropped him off at nine-thirty this morning. You were the one who checked him in.”

Confusion deepens in her eyes. “I’m sorry, sir, but I don’t remember you. Are you sure it was me?”

“Yes,” he hisses. He’s stopped breathing, and his jaw hurts from clenching his teeth. His senses are sharp, yet he doesn’t smell a hint of his son. It only aggravates him more. “It was you. You took my name, student ID, emergency contact, his allergies, everything.”

Her blue eyes widen, but there is no recognition there. “What did he look like? I can ask the others. Maybe someone saw him.”

“He looks like me!” Alec shouts. “He’s wearing a Bluey shirt under a striped jacket and blue shorts. He has his stuffed elephant. He doesn’t go anywhere without it. He was here. Why are you lying to me?”

He’s gained an audience, but it does nothing but anger him more. He doesn’t care about everyone watching. Two workers are around standing in front of the other kids, watching him in alarm, but his heart is beating too loud. He’s dizzy and nauseous, and his canines are hurting.

"I'm not lying,” Sarah tries urgently. She has her hands up trying to calm him down but instead gaining the opposite reaction.

“Alec-” Andrew tries.

“He’s here!” Alec shouts louder, more urgently. “I don’t know what is going on, but he was here. I dropped him off with you. If he’s not here, then we need to call the police. My son is missing. You lost him. I will tear down every inch of this place. I am not leaving until we find my son!”

Everyone is looking at him like he’s insane. Is no one taking him seriously? Does no one believe him? They all saw him. He remembers them commenting on Max’s elephant. He’s not making this up.

Is he?

“Sir, please calm down,” another lady says. “You’re scaring everyone. You need to calm down, and we can try to figure this out.”

“Figure what out?” Alec growls. “My son is here! Max is here, and you are lying to me!”

“Alec!” Andrew yells. He puts his hands up when Alec glares at him. “Come on. Let’s go outside. Let’s breathe. They’re going to call security on you.”

“You don’t believe me?” Alec snaps through clenched teeth. “You think I’m making this up?”

“No,” Andrew says earnestly. “But we’re scaring the kids, and we should go outside.”

“Let them!” Alec hisses. “I want security here. They can help find my son they lost! I-”

Alec spots a figure in the window behind Andrew. He pauses, as a chill rolls down his spine.

The man stands leaning against the building across the street. He wears a long coat with black boots. He wears fingerless gloves, and the buttons on his coat are gold. He has black shoulder-length hair, and he’s tall and thin. None of that is the reason that makes him uneasy.

It’s the wide grin on his face. The ease in his stance. The amusement on his face as if he knows exactly how Alec is feeling and finding delight out of it. But more than anything, there is one more detail that makes Alec cold as ice.

He knows this man. This man he’s seen at Hunter’s Moon. The creepy older man who found way too much interest in Max. He watched them both with dark curiosity. He was like a fox in a henhouse, putting Alec on edge and making him want to fight or run.

“Andrew,” Alec says calmly. His words slice the air. “Luke Garroway. I need you to get a hold of him.”

“What?” Andrew asks, confused. He turns to also look out the window. “What’s going on? What do you see?”

“He’s a cop,” Alec explains shortly. “If you can’t find him, call Clary Fairchild. She’ll know what to do.” His eyes burn with golden flames. “And after that, call Magnus and tell him Max has his elephant. Get security and look for that man on camera.”

“Alec, who is that man?” Andrew asks more urgently. He must also find the man uneasy.

“Just do it,” Alec demands harshly. He pulls out his phone and drops it on the floor. “I’ll be fine. Just do what I say, okay?”

“Alec, tell me what’s going on!” Andrew asks imperatively. “Who is that?”

“Someone dangerous,” Alec says unsteadily. “Someone who is really pissing me off. I need you to do what I say. I’ll be fine, and I’m getting my son back if you follow my instructions to the letter.”

Andrew grabs his arm when he takes a step forward. “Are you going to be alright?”

He reads the deep worry engraved on his friend’s face. He’s known this man for almost a year now. He’s trustworthy, intelligent, and kind. He’s good at following orders, and he can lead when required. Alec trusts him to do as he says. He may be confused, but Andrew is loyal.

Because of all that, Alec decides to be completely truthful. “I’ll be fine if you follow through. If not, I can’t say I will. You have to believe me when I say that man has my son. I don’t know what I’m walking into, but I need to get my son. There is absolutely nothing I won’t do to save him.”

He sees the way Andrew argues with himself. He’s trying to decide whether he’s going to let Alec go, not fully aware of what little Alec won’t do. He’d hate to fight his friend, but he will if he has to. He appreciates Andrew and his friendship, but Andrew is not a father. He doesn’t have that instinct that drives him.

Then Andrew lets go of his arm with a stubborn nod. Alec can see it’s the opposite of what he wants, but he’s happy that Andrew understands how important this is. Without another word, Alec leaves the building.

The man he can only assume is Asmodeus, grins wider.

Chapter Text

The parking lot is full of cars when Alec walks over to Asmodeus.

It’s a power move for sure. The way it’s supposed to make Alec feel powerless. Surrounded by people - police officers - who could do something about this man in front of him, but he knows he can’t. He can’t do anything if it could hurt Max. Max is nowhere in sight, another tactic to prevent Alec from striking out or making a scene. He can’t attack a man who has his son, since he has no idea where Max is. He wouldn’t want to fight this man - kill this man - only to never be able to find his son. He can only assume a man with high power and embedded in the dark undertones surrounding the manipulation and harassment of thousands of struggling communities has plenty of people watching their exchange. Asmodeus most likely has hundreds of people under his thumb and are waiting for a simple sign - the smallest command to whisk Max off to never be seen again if Alec doesn’t cooperate.

Now, standing in front of Asmodeus, he feels like a magnifying glass in the middle of summer. Collecting all the exploding outrage and channeling it into one steady stream. Grouping all the heat and charged energy, ready to aim and detonate any living, breathing thing. Hone it all into one narrow pathway, and set its course on the single man standing in front of him and watch him explode to ash and step right through it. Let the world burn with him.

Asmodeus smiles at him, and Alec wonders if all his experience dealing with other dangerous people would have prepared him to block a direct hit. He’s not naive to think Asmodeus has not pissed off a parent or two, but they are not him. All the crap he’s been through. All the fighting and crying and limiting himself for other people all catapult into one glorious bonfire to shred away at anything that dares to hurt him after it all. It’s an inferno of wrath, and he feels it everywhere. In his chest, his head, his blaring ears, his burning eyes, and his aching nails that he hides in his pockets. If he hits Asmodeus, he may never stop.

All Alec’s innate patience and the rules and manners drilled into him all burn up into flames around him. He can feel the void in his chest, and he feels it spread, eating away all the humanity he has. In the dead of winter, he is on fire.

“You look beautiful,” Asmodeus says with a smile Alec itches to tear apart. How would it feel to sink his claws into his skin and yank?

“Where’s my son?” Alec all but growls.

Asmodeus clicks his tongue. “Omegas are supposed to have manners.”

“I do,” Alec says. “I could’ve punched you in the face but instead I held back.”

“Your mouth is not so vile or brash to be unforgivable, but it’s rude in its own annoying way. Punching me won’t get little Max back. In fact, you touch me at all and I’ll see to it you won’t see him again.”

Alec figured all that. “What do you want?”

“Same as you,” Asmodeus says. There is little in his compassion or any emotion on his face or in the words he speaks. It goes to show how inferior he sees Alec, easily dismissing any threat. It’s discomforting how much he looks like Magnus. Even his body language, though corrupt and threatening, is the same. “Magnus.”

“He’s not here,” Alec tells him, sure he already knows Magnus’s schedule to the exact second.

Asmodeus sighs. “That’s a real shame.”

“Where is Max?” Alec asks again, louder and more abrasive this time.

Asmodeus slides his hands into his pockets. He gestures to a blue car parked on the street. Alec immediately rushes to the car, only to find the car empty and no sight of Max.

The hairs on the back of his neck stand on end when Asmodeus moves behind him. He’s too close, and he smells revolting. It’s too strong and bitter.

Strangers pass them by. While some look mildly interested in an older man standing far too close to him and pressing him to the car, they don’t say or do anything but continue walking.

It takes everything in him to not bolt when Asmodeus runs a finger down his neck. A vivid imagination of breaking the finger into two keeps him settled.

“If I can’t have Magnus, then I’ll have you,” the alpha whispers between them. “If you want to see Max again, I suggest getting in the car.”

With the impending danger of his son in Asmodeus’s hands looming over him, he opens the car door and sits in the passenger seat. Asmodeus joins him in the driver's seat and turns on the car.

The car is not as flashy as he expected, though he was probably trying to be inconspicuous. However, the expensive clothes and the unnerving way he holds himself are enough to have everyone staring or hurry past.

They head south towards the outside of the city. The snow makes everything dark outside and isolating. It’s only another reminder he has no idea where they’re going, and Asmodeus is allowing him to see where they are going. If he’s learned anything from the movies Simon has shown him, it’s not a good sign when the bad guy willingly lets you see the destination.

He pushes those thoughts away. They come too close to Izzy and how he doesn’t know when he’ll next see her or talk to her. Has Andrew gotten a hold of Magnus? Has he told Izzy? Jace? Do they even know what’s happening?

Does Magnus know yet? Is he aware where his father lives? When he cut him off, did he also delete everything he had on him? Does he know the true extent of his father’s insanity?

Hopefully by now, Luke has been notified. Andrew is a good man. He would do as Alec said.

“This is not going to fix anything,” Alec tells him. His racing mind is getting to him. He’s dizzy and can’t breathe. He orders his body to calm down. He can’t spiral right now. “This is not going to make him join you.”

“Whether he does what I say or not, I still win in the end,” Asmodeus says.

Chills race up and down Alec’s body, and his palms are sweaty. Everyone has instincts and a gut feeling, and his are going haywire. “Why is that?”

Asmodeus doesn’t reply right away, and Alec sees the ease in his demeanor. Does he get off on putting people on edge?

“I have mentioned numerous times that you are beautiful,” Asmodeus says. Alec stares at him, and he holds his breath and hopes he doesn’t look the way he feels. The raw horror is so palpable he can taste it.

Asmodeus puts his hand on the center console, too close for Alec’s liking. He’s calm and casual, and Alec hates it. Like he’s grown detached to saying threats.

“Lots of people would pay good money for black hair and blue eyes.”

It has grown impossible to breathe. He tries all his might to inhale enough air into his lungs.

“You plan to sell me,” Alec states. He’s nauseous. “Your son finds happiness with me, and you hate it so much you want to sell me to the highest bidder. While also holding my son over my head.”

Asmodeus laughs, dark and menacing. It reminds Alec of Izzy and the dangers she went through, and how incredibly evil this man is. Magnus had been scared of this man for good reason. Going as far as disappearing on him when he realized what his father did to him.

“If we are being frank with each other,” Asmodeus says with a deep, amused tone. “I do not plan on selling you. Why would I?”

“Because you’re sick,” Alec says, trying to keep his voice steady and succeeding. Fury fuels it all. “You don’t care about anyone. Why not traffick another omega you probably think is a waste?”

Asmodeus waves his hand. “All good guesses. However.” He grins at Alec, not minding the glare in the slightest. He seems more delighted than anything. “Magnus has been holding out on me. I want him on my side. I want him to work with me. He’s my son. It’s part of the family business.”

A family business usually consists of a bakery or some harmless clothing store. Alec holds onto the thought, heart pounding at the way Jace thinks. Jace would’ve actually said it out loud, but Alec doesn’t. He bites his tongue and grasps the comfort Jace gives him.

“So you’re using me to get to him,” Alec concludes. “And you think stealing the both of us will have him racing over here to work with you. After everything you did to him. Treating him like a tool rather than a son and then lying to him. Trying to turn him into something he’s not.”

Asmodeus doesn’t say anything for a few minutes. Alec swears he sees annoyance flicker on his features, but it’s gone in seconds. He takes a deep breath, and then he’s smiling. He shakes his head, chuckling so hard his shoulders shake.

Alec hates him. He hates how he’s treating him like a child, like he’s so much lesser he couldn’t possibly understand.

“He doesn’t know what he is,” Asmodeus says with a sort of aloofness showing how little concern he had on the matter. “He will see the power he could have. The amenities and command he could have. He doesn’t yet know how good he could have it.”

“By scaring people,” Alec retorts harshly. “By ruining people’s lives. That is nothing like him. He left you for a reason.”

“People are weak, Alec. It’s not my fault they can’t control themselves,” Asmodeus says. It all flows past his lips like he’s said it numerous times. “Drugs, sex, money… Humans are animals, and some can’t control themselves. I give them what they want. It’s not my fault if they wake up in nasty alleys high off their mind broken and alone or they live on the street because they spent all their rent money.”

“You’re truly putting the blame on them?” Alec says, disgusted. “You’re not innocent. You get them hooked, and then you attack them when they’re down. You take advantage of them and ruin their lives. That girl, Sarah, back there. You threatened her, didn’t you?”

His eyes trail over Alec’s face to his neck. They are dark and void of any pleasantry. It sends shivers down Alec’s spine, and he has to remind himself he’s here for a reason and he can’t leave.

“You want your son back,” he says. “I want my son back. I’m the only person who can give him to you. You’re the only person who can give him to me. All very interesting. Tell me what you would do for him.”

The request is a haunting demand. He’s dangling his son above him and telling him to beg. It’s humiliating and horrifying, and he’s never felt so small. He’s trapped and disgusted.

He wants to snap his neck.

“Anything,” Alec says, and he hates himself for it. The word tastes like betrayal - to Magnus, Max, and himself.

“I was hoping you would say that.”

**************

The building is not particularly eye-catching, which is both good and bad. There aren’t any features Alec can see in the limited light. Nothing specific to describe if he were to find a phone. However, there are other buildings nearby. They are all made entirely of glass with tall windows, and Alec wonders if it’s his way of showing he’s not worried about anyone. He’s not worried about the law catching up to him or someone venging someone he hurt. He lives in a world so catered to him, he doesn’t even entertain the idea of someone retaliating against him.

The building is the tallest of them all, standing out with its height, but it’s silent as they pull up. The grass was recently cut, and there is a cement path leading to the building. A man comes out and greets Asmodeus, though his eyes flicker down to Alec who stays in the car. The man looks at him like a kid with a fish tank. Wonder and confusion.

Then Asmodeus gestures to his door and the man opens it. Intrigue blooms on his face, surprised to have an omega here. He was probably shocked to see Asmodeus show up with an omega at his side. He’s not ignorant to believe Asmodeus and his men don’t have omegas on standby to give them pleasure. All the omegas they face most likely live in the basement with bruises all over them.

“What are you looking at?” the man asks with a domineering tone. “Eyes on the ground, omega.”

Alec’s gaze does not waiver, further pissing off the man. The man steps closer to him, but Asmodeus puts his hand on the man’s shoulder and shakes his head in amusement.

“This one doesn’t go with the others,” he says. Alec tries not to let his horror show. “This omega is my son’s. He’s mine now, until my son comes to retrieve him.”

I’m not property. Alec scowls.

“Fix your face or I’ll fix it for you,” the man hisses. Alec makes no move to do so, and his face reddens more at Alec’s utter lack of concern for his threat.

“No need to make him submit,” Asmodeus tells him. He walks ahead, and Alec stays put. Asmodeus turns back to him, and the grin he has makes him queasy. “No need to. He’s going to be a good omega and do everything I say. Wouldn’t want anyone to get hurt.”

Alec’s eyes burn.

Alec wordlessly follows Asmodeus into the house. He assumes it’s where he lives. The minute he walks through the front door, his chance of finding Max and running away diminishes to zero.

There are alphas everywhere, and every single one looks at him like he’s a piece of food. Their eyes rake over him, no doubt taking off his clothes in their twisted minds. Their lewd looks make Alec’s blood boil, and his instincts scream at him to run away. Some of them laugh at him while some whistle or tease. Alec’s cheeks are flamed with rage, and they tease him for that too. How they want to make him sweat in other ways. Quite a few must be so self conscious because they threaten to break his legs. Apparently they’re not used to tall omegas and think they need to fix such monstrosity.

Everyone’s eyes are on him, and he stops looking back. There’s too many of them, and he’s not dumb enough to challenge any of them. Not in this dumpster fire of fragile masculinity.

He’s led into an elevator. Asmodeus watches him, intent on making him as uncomfortable as he can. Alec pretends not to notice but he laughs at that too.

They get off in the basement. It’s freezing cold and scarily quiet. It’s too dark to see anything, but a rough hand grabs his arm and pulls. He’s taken to a prison cage with metal bars. Another man stands to the side - a guard, but Alec pays him no mind.

“Where’s my son?” Alec asks urgently, realizing he’s about to be put in a cage when he was told by Asmodeus he’d see him if he came here. The guard grabs him and shoves him inside. “Give me my son! You told me you’d give him to me!”

Asmodeus shrugs, and Alec’s body shakes. “I didn’t say when. See you in the morning.”

“Give me my son!” Alec shouts. The door slams in front of him, and he grabs for Asmodeus. “Give me Max. I did what you said. I did everything you asked. Let me see him!”

An epiphany sends icicles down his spine. Did Asmodeus even have Max? Did he lure him here with lies? Is he nowhere near getting his son back, and he walked straight into an evil man’s trap?

“Y-You said you’d give him to me,” Alec says, shakily. He fights for air that won’t come. He’s shaking and his ears burn with unshed tears. He sinks to his knees, strings cut like a puppet. “You… You promised. I want him back. Please. I’ll do anything.”

“Having you is almost as good as having Magnus,” Asmodeus tells him. He runs a finger down Alec’s cheek. Alec flinches, and his stomach sinks when the man grins. “He left me, and he found you. A tainted omega who couldn’t close his legs. An omega so desperate for love, he couldn’t wait to give it up. Your baby’s alpha died, and you couldn’t wait to give it up again. The professor? You omegas are all so filthy. I’m doing Magnus a favor.”

He sighs with feign pity. Alec stares at him, mouth gaped and his tears flood down. He’s numb inside. His chest caves open, and the cold air drifts in, freezing all his insides.

Asmodeus bends down, putting his hands on his knees to be at Alec’s level. His once amused eyes are as dead as night.

“He ruined my plans I had for him. It’s only fair I do the same to him,” Asmodeus says so gently, it’s like a gifted gun with a bow. “First I take his omega whore for myself, and maybe if Max is lucky, he’ll grow to be an alpha and live his life at my side. Perhaps I don’t even need Magnus.”

The room is spinning when Asmodeus finally leaves. Time means nothing to him. His heart races in his chest. His brain simply turns off.

He hears people talk to him, but he doesn’t move. He hardly even breathes. He leans his head on the cold bars and closes his eyes. He sits in a ball and waits. The only way he can describe it all is his body going on autopilot. Moving enough to breathe.

He doesn’t know how much time passes when he hears something, and he cocks his head.

He hears it again, and he stands up. His legs ache from the sudden movement, but he doesn’t care. The guard standing outside orders him to sit down, but Alec doesn’t look at him. He’s too busy honing in on that sound. That familiar sound he’d hear anywhere.

Max.

Alec pounds on the bars with all his fury. He sees and hears nothing as he steps back and rams his body into them. The bars do not give, but that’s of no importance. Not when they are holding him from his son. He wraps his fingers around two bars, unfeeling to the cold of them on his skin.

He smells iron and sweat, but none of it matters. Not when he smells Max in this building. He’s so close and in range, and there are not enough walls and people in this building to prevent him from reaching him.

There aren’t enough in this entire world to prevent him from hunting him down.

He hears yelling. It’s a man and an alpha. He’s more of a shape than a person. Alec bares his teeth at him and does one more hard tug with both hands.

The metal cracks.

He does it again, and the metal bars crack more. There is pain, but it’s so dwindling and unimportant. He tugs and pulls with his full strength. His hands are numb, but he couldn’t care if he tried. He pulls so hard, there’s a give and a sudden break. He uses both hands for the other bar now. It’s slippery and he can’t get his grip.

He takes a step back and kicks hard.

There’s a commotion but he can’t concentrate enough to focus on the details. He keeps kicking, even when his leg is shaking with adrenaline or pain. He feels nothing. Absolutely nothing except for blind feral rage.

Then he smells strawberries, and his leg freezes midair. He cocks his head, eyes zeroing on a figure in front of him. A beta but just as dangerous.

The figure kneels down, and Alec watches his every move. He watches for any sign of attack or threat, and he’s ready to slit their throat and snap their neck.

But the scent of strawberries is powerful. It gets him to breathe deeply and swallow.

Max. Max. Max.

“Take him,” a voice says. It’s a desperate plea and Alec hears the nerves rattling in the shape’s throat. “Take him. He’s right here. Take him.”

The person backs away slowly, leaving behind a much smaller figure. It’s reaching for him and crying, and Alec is slipping past the bent bars and snatching Max to his chest to race back into the corner. He does not stop watching the man in front of him.

His hands hurt, and the pain increases the more he pulls away from his feral state. Max is crying loudly, and Alec holds him closer. Max eventually quietens down when Alec puts his face in his neck to get comfort from his scent.

His hands are pulsing with pain, and it’s then he notices there’s blood all over him. He’s pretty sure all the fingers of his right hand are broken, and nearly all of his nails are torn.

“Alec?”

Alec glares at the person, daring him to move closer. He’s perfectly capable of fighting even in this state.

“I’m not coming in there unless you say, but I’m pretty sure your hand is broken. Your leg isn’t in great shape either.”

Alec holds Max closer. The little boy stays still and quiet. He listens to his son’s heartbeat and he runs his fingers through his dark wavy hair. His strawberry scent is strong, and he takes deep breaths.

Once he’s calm, he turns back to the man. The beta has long black hair and looks far too familiar now.

Alec widens his eyes, and the man smiles sheepishly. “Alec.”

“Meliorn?” Alec asks with acid.

“Try not to say my name too fondly,” Meliorn jokes. He presses his finger to his lips. “Have to keep our first name basis relationship between us.”

Alec is at a loss for words. Izzy. All those bad memories come flooding back. It’s been years since he found her on the road disheveled and crying, pleading for him to take her home. Pleading for him not to yell at her - don’t be angry, big brother.

As if Alec would use Izzy’s pain and suffering against her to prove a point.

“He doesn’t know I know who you are,” Alec says, complexed. When Meliorn looks at him strangely and slightly annoyed, he adds, “The man who sold my sister drugs. He doesn’t think I know you?”

“I guess not.”

Alec stares off where Asmodeus disappeared. He chuckles dryly until it’s loud and boisterous. He goes to stand up, but his leg and hands disagree with the movement. He groans.

“Can I come in now or are you going to rip me to pieces?” Meliorn asks. “You actually did break your fingers. You punched metal bars until they split.”

“Look at my son for too long, I can’t promise anything,” Alec gripes. His eyelids grow heavy, and the exhaustion and pain come rolling through his body and staking claim. There’s more blood than he expected with some of it getting on Max from where he held him.

Meliorn carefully comes in the cell with a medical bag in hand. He walks slowly and carefully, not wanting to piss off the once feral omega. He crouches as close as he wishes and sets up his tools.

Alec watches him like a hawk as he works. Meliorn is no witch, but he does have wraps, splints, and knowledge to fix his bones back into place. He has to give him stitches in various places, but Alec stays perfectly still.

“Have you been here this whole time?” he asks evenly. Max is asleep and holding onto his cow like a lifeline.

“Yes,” Meliorn answers. He’s pale and has bags under his eyes. He’s wearing a thick jacket with long sleeves. Alec wonders if he pulls them up if he would see the marks. “About a year ago I went too far and took too much of the merchandise. I couldn’t get the money, and I was asked what happened to it. I was brought here, and Asmodeus broke my arm. He put me in charge of the throne room, and I have never left.”

“The throne room?” Alec asks, hesitant to know the meaning behind it. One look from Meliorn is all it takes. Omegas put on display for leering eyes and grabby hands. “Surprised he didn’t put me there.”

Meliorn finishes off the stitch in his leg. “You’ll be a trophy for a while, since you’re tied to Magnus. Give it a few weeks, and he’ll throw you in there.”

“I hope you comfort the others with the same callousness,” Alec says, voice clipped.

“What do you want me to say?” Meliorn asks indifferently. “I’ve run out of false hope. It’s your first day. There are people here who have been for two decades.”

Alec deflates, properly scolded and guilt runs through. The light above them is too bright, and it’s freezing down here. He took off his jacket to wrap around Max. His teeth chatter, and he wraps himself more into a ball.

Meliorn leaves and comes back with a thick blanket. “Tomorrow I can get you a room. You’ll have to share with Cordelia.”

Alec nods. His mind races. He absently tugs the blanket around them and puts his chin on Max’s head. Meliorn had to remove his shoes to look at this foot, so his barefoot is freezing.

“I don’t know you,” he restates to Meliorn. “I can work with that.”

“I am not working with you,” Meliorn tells him. He shakes his head. “If he catches wind that I even know you, and I didn’t tell him, he would have my head.“

Alec turns to him. “Well, I wouldn’t want to put you in a dangerous situation,” he says coldly. Meliorn pales, and he walks closer to him. “It’s not as if you deserve to have your throat cut.”

Meliorn’s face hardens. Alec can see how much he wants to fight back, but they both know Alec has him. “I can tell Magnus where you are.”

“No,” Alec declines blankly, taking Meliorn by surprise. “I need something else from you. You’re going to do it for me because you know as well as I do that you owe me so much more than one measly text.”

“One, Lightwood,” Meliorn seethes.

“Two.”

“One.”

“Three,” Alec says with as much mustered up rage he’s had growing ever since he first found his sister in such a state. Pale and crying, begging Alec to help her.

Meliorn clenches his jaw. “Fine. What do you want?”

****************

Cordelia turns out to be a very sweet girl. She has dark skin and vibrant red hair that hangs low to her waist. She is Persian with black eyes, but they hold a kindness Alec is surprised by. She is wearing a long golden robe draped over her when Meliorn introduces them. It’s early in the morning, and she looks tired when she first opens the door. Meliorn must’ve spoken to her earlier because she smiles at Alec warmly. She doesn’t reach out to him, not even to Max, and he’s relieved by her restraint. Her smile is gentle and warm, and she has a soft floral scent.

She opens the door wider to let them in. The room is exquisite with a large queen sized bed with red cotton bedsheets. Plenty of pillows line the front of the bed, and blue curtains hang on the windows. There is a huge vanity with pillowed chairs and small drawers. Everything is proper and nice, and nothing at all like he expected.

Meliorn leaves, and Cordelia shows him where she keeps the extra blankets, and she shows him the bathroom which is no less magnificent. There is not even a speck of dirt. She points out his toothbrush and soap.

If Cordelia is bothered by sharing a bed with a man, she doesn’t show it. For Max, she cleaned out a bottom drawer for him. It’s stuffed full with blankets and pillows on the sides.

She crouches down to where Max sits on the floor. Max looks up at Alec, and then he giggles and runs over to her. She hugs him close and gives Alec a sheepish smile over his head. “I’m sorry. It’s the best I can do. I’ll try to get more blankets for him to maybe make a fort…”

“It’s okay,” Alec says. “Thank you. You didn’t need to do that.”

Cordelia laughs and runs a hand through Max’s hair. He’s in her lap fully now, and he’s already struggling to stay awake. He didn’t sleep well in the basement. It was freezing, though Alec tried his best to keep him warm. Now in a heated room in the lap of an omega who smells like flowers, he snuggles close and falls asleep.

“Sorry,” Alec apologizes meekly. “He didn’t sleep well.”

Cordelia coos at the toddler. “Never apologize. Poor thing is so tired. I have to go, so he can sleep in my spot.”

Alec stiffens. “You have to go?”

“Chores,” she explains fondly. “It’s not so bad. It’s nice to see the others. Helps us feel a little more human.”

He doesn’t know how she has the strength she does. He wants to ask how long she’s been here, but he doesn't want to know. It’s rude and unnecessary when there’s not much to be done. There’s no point of knowing. He doesn’t want to make her rip any lasting stitches she uses to hide this twisted reality.

To his relief, she changes into simple pants and a sweater. She puts her hair in a bun, and she slides on plain shoes. She puts Max on the bed and tells Alec she’ll be back soon with lunch. She slips out the door without another word.

It’s just him, Max, and Cordelia for three days. The first day, Alec spends the time tense and ready to bolt, ready to do so if Asmodeus charges in here. He doesn’t know if he knows he’s there, and he doesn’t know what he’ll do once he finds out. He told him he’s going to keep him for himself, but he doesn’t know what that means. Will he be forced to stay in his room? Forced to entertain him and his friends?

Is he going to take Max? If he steps out of line, is he going to take him? Hurt him? The possibilities are endless, and it serves to create horrible nightmares and unable to relax during the day. He spends the first staring at Max as if he was going to disappear right in front of him.

Cordelia draws him a bath on the second day. Alec kindly declines, but the redhead is persistent, and the memory of Clary fills his head and his heart cracks.

She fills the tub and with a pointed finger she orders him to take off his dirty clothes. Alec stares at her in befuddlement, but then she turns back around and pours a purple bubbly liquid in the water. The scent of cherry blossoms fills the air, and he eventually does what she says.

She washes his hair, and it’s so tender his eyes turn watery. Only a handful of people have been this soft with him, and he’s had to ask for it more times than not. Magnus is always gentle with him, but this is platonic and pure and something that shouldn’t exist here.

Magnus.

His heart hurts - everything hurts. There’s a hole in his chest increasing in size, and it’s eating him alive. He misses him so much, it’s disorienting. His skin itches, and his omega mourns for his missing alpha. His Magnus is not here and while he might’ve set up this arrangement, he’s still not entirely sure he will survive this.

“I am not the only traveler

Who has not repaid his debt.

I’ve been searching for a trail to follow again,

Take me back to the night we met.”

Alec closes his eyes and imagines a world of Cordelia singing to an adoring audience.

This Cordelia instead helps him out of the bathtub and hands him fresh clothes and a kiss on the cheek.

************

Another two days pass, and Alec wakes to loud knocking. Cordelia is nowhere in sight so he gets up to answer it. Max is chewing on the tassels of one of the pillows. There’s strawberry jam all over his face and Alec sighs.

Meliorn greets him at the door. He holds a tray of breakfast food with one singular flower in the middle. He holds it out expectantly with a dramatically wide smile. “Good morning.”

“Hello,” Alec says awkwardly. He grabs for the tray, feeling for the bottom. The right handle is heavier than the left, and he works to balance it out. “Meliorn, I want to see Asmodeus.”

“Why the hell do you want to do that?” Meliorn asks, alarmed. His face is as pale as the first time he’s seen him. He looks sick and exhausted, but he has enough energy to berate.

“I just want to see him,” Alec says. “I know the risks-“

“I don’t think you do,” Meliorn snaps. “He doesn’t know you’re in this room. He thinks you’re still in your cell without your son. He thinks you’ve been left and forgotten. You really want to make him more aware of you?”

Alec juts his chin and looks over his shoulder at Max. He’s playing with one of Cordelia’s scarves and has a heel in his mouth.

“While you look like death, you also face it head on. Do this for me, and I swear I’ll make it up to you.” Meliorn scowls, but Alec steps closer, effectively silencing him. “Watch over Max while I’m gone.” He swallows. “Take a walk around the block.”

“You may as well as say your goodbyes to him,” Meliorn retorts. Alec glares and flashes his eyes, and Meliorn pales at the vicious gold and sneer. He holds his hands up with a sigh. “I’ll watch him. Take him on that walk. Get your letter.”

Alec puts the tray on the bedside counter, and he sets Max to eat his breakfast. He’ll be distracted for five minutes.

The elevator goes up six floors, all the way to the top. Stepping off is disorienting, especially when hateful eyes land on you the second the doors open. Most leer at him while the others size him up, trying to decide what they want to do to him. He can see clear on their faces what they want to do to him. He’s not used to being stared at so bluntly and practically undressed like a piece of meat. He’s used to hate and judgment from his peers and parents. People either outwardly talk about him or do it behind his back. Traditional alphas throw around ‘slut’ and ‘whore’ the second they see him with Max. Might as well tape the letter ‘A’ on his chest.

He’s not used to this, and he understands now and really should’ve listened to Meliorn more.

Meliorn walks him to a room with mahogany doors much taller than him. He knocks twice, and another man opens the door. It’s the same man he met when he got here.

He looks Alec up and down with a growing grin that makes Alec want to run or punch. He settles for neither, but he does meet his gaze head on.

He’s shoved into the room, and he almost falls. The room is twice the size of his. The first thing he sees is a giant chandelier in the middle of the ceiling. There are three bookshelves made of dark oak, and there is a long leather rug, bold like the man sitting by at his giant desk. He sits back in his chair with his hands folded together, looking all too delighted.

“Where have you been hiding, omega?” he purrs. A chill runs down Alec’s spine, even though he tries his hardest to not be scared of one man. He clicks his tongue. “It seems you’ve weaseled your way to one of my other omega’s rooms.”

If he thinks Alec is going to tell him who he’s been staying with, he will be waiting a long time for a name.

“I have a letter I wrote for Magnus,” Alec says. The man standing at Asmodeus’s side lets out a big, obnoxious laugh. Alec ignores him. “You can read it of course. I want him to know I’m okay. I love him, and I don’t want him to think I’m dead.”

He holds out the letter, but Asmodeus disregards it entirely. “Is there anything else you need? A bigger room? A spa? Fresh new shoes?”

Dread pools in, and he realizes there’s a good chance Asmodeus is going to deny him this. There was always a tiny chance, and Alec might have actually overestimated his ego. Maybe he wanted Magnus to think he killed Alec. Maybe he wanted his son to suffer in the mindless horror of the unknown. Make him wonder forever about what happened to Alec, and how he wasn’t there to stop it.

He grasps at straws - small, silly options he could do instead. None of them work as well as this one. He restrains from looking at the clock on the wall, and he makes himself look smaller.

He forces himself to tilt his head, baring his throat and he looks down. He despises submitting to anyone. He hasn’t done it in a long time, and even then he didn’t bare his throat and beg. Not since he was a kid. “Please. I would do anything.”

The man beside Asmodeus laughs crudely again. Asmodeus, though, says nothing. He sits there in cold silence looking thoughtful.

“I love when omegas kneel,” Asmodeus says with a wide, ominous grin. Dark eyes shine with mischief and tricks. He points to the floor in front of his chair.

Alec keeps his anger in check, even when it burns through him like a wildfire. It consumes him, radiating through every nerve. His teeth are clenched and his gaze is challenging, but he does as he’s told. He goes around his desk and kneels without another word.

Asmodeus smiles down at him, cocky and full of himself. It’s a sick smile and makes Alec regret coming in here and asking for a favor. He should’ve known the man would be so intrigued and delighted at his submission. Alec does not look away when he leans closer, aware of the little pride he has left.

Then the fire alarm turns on, and Alec untenses when Asmodeus turns to the other man. “Are you going to stand there like an idiot or find out what’s going on, Leon?”

Loud footsteps rush to the room. “There’s a fire downstairs!”

Asmodeus gives him a flat look. “Do I need to teach you how to use a fire extinguisher?”

The man flushes, and he glances at Alec. “It’s on the fourth floor. We don’t have clearance.”

Asmodeus narrows his eyes. “Then how did it reach it?”

The man looks about ready to hurl. His skin is flushed and sweaty. “The wires in the control room caught flame. It moved down one level. Everything is ruined.”

“For your sake, I hope you’re wrong,” Asmodeus threatens mildly. He stands from his desk and looks down at Alec as if he forgot he was there. “Leave your letter and I’ll think about it. Go back to whatever rabbit hole you hide in.”

“Thank you,” Alec says. When the man doesn’t move, he adds with barely hidden annoyance. “Alpha.”

Pleased, Asmodeus leaves without another word. Leon glares at Alec before following him close behind.

Alec crawls over to the door and slowly closes the door with a faint click. He returns to the desk.

The homepage greets him. It hadn’t been turned off.

Blood rushes in his ears in exhilaration. He reaches for his pocket and pulls out the USB. He clicks it in with shaking fingers and begins. He only needs a few minutes. He counts in his head exactly three minutes, and then it’s a race. He doesn’t want to be greedy, but he also doesn’t want to not use all the time he has.

By the time he hears footsteps, he works himself into a frenzy. The door creaks open, and Alec’s actively trembling. Instead of Asmodeus, it’s Leon, who sneers at him and looks around the room. “What the fuck are you still doing here?”

“I’m sorry,” Alec cries. He collects every ounce of stress and fear and lets it rapidly grow, and within seconds his cheeks and chin are wet with tears. He points to the letter on the desk. “Please make sure Magnus gets it. I don’t want him to feel guilty for anything. I don’t want him to suffer. I’m sorry, I can’t breathe-“

“Get the fuck out,” Leon hisses. He rams his shoulder into Alec to get by him. “Fuck. Fine.”

“I’m sorry,” Alec says again with one more sniff. He's out of the room and at the elevators. His heart races, and while he shouldn’t appear weak in a place like this, he also left Asmodeus’s office crying. Luckily, there weren't many people in the hallway. It’s a long hallway of closed doors, and he smells the stench of marijuana. He takes the chance to memorize the layout, and he enters the elevator when the doors open.

The doors close and he clicks the button. His knees barely hold him up.

*********

Cordelia is a difficult name to say for a toddler. Instead, Cordelia tells Max to call her Daisy. Her lover calls her Daisy, and it is both easier for Max to say and it makes Cordelia smile.

“Are you going to be okay?” Alec asks worriedly. He is feeding Max on the floor, and Cordelia walks out of her closet.

“Tonight Camille is here with her girls and clients. She is one of the few who respects omegas. She’s not a fan of us being hurt, so Asmodeus pretends when she’s here. He pretends to care about us,” Cordelia explains. Alec nods, remembering from when she first mentioned her name two days ago.

Camille Belcourt. She’s a big name and one of Asmodeus’s closest partners. She owns brothels and a drug cartel, but she mostly focuses on the brothels. She can be vicious and mean, but she’s furiously protective over her girls and omegas. She makes sure they’re all safe, and she provides warm food and rooms. She’s not someone to mess with. Apparently Asmodeus is weary of her. Cordelia said she’s never seen the two of them in the same room without arguing or acting at all civil.

“I can go for you,” Alec tells her. Her eyebrows shoot up to her hairline, stunned. He fidgets with the tassels of one of the pillows. “I feel awful staying here in your space. I can take some of your weight.”

Cordelia bites her lip and runs her hand over the sheets. There’s grief on her face, but determination too. “There is no pointing the finger on this floor,” she says. “I wouldn’t blame you for anything. That’s what they want us to do. All these centuries, and they still want us to fight each other. They don’t want us to be conscious of reality. They can’t afford that to happen. It would tear down everything they’ve built. You’ve done nothing wrong, and I will be okay.”

Alec takes her wandering hand into his. Her eyes are not so black as before, but they are perspiring with melancholy. He hasn’t seen her cry, and something tells him he never will. She’s a rock in a flowing stream being drowned but refusing to go under.

“I have a plan,” he says so quietly. Her eyes flicker to meet his.

She nods. “I would have guessed.” Her face hardens. “Which is not good. No one can know. You can’t let them have even a drop of suspicion.”

Alec squeezes her hand and rests his head on the pillow. “I’ll be sure to protect you.”

The corner of her mouth quirks, and she lays down next to him. Their hands stay intertwined. She reaches out to cup Alec’s face, and for a moment he feels safe. “Three pretty men protecting me. How lucky am I?”

She’s amusing him. He’s confident she can take care of herself. She has the strong will and intelligence to do so.

“Who are the others?” Alec asks.

He raises a brow when she blushes and looks away. She moves to her back. “A gentleman caller. Him and his friend take turns buying my time. His friend is very sweet. I’ve never felt uncomfortable around either of them. They’re the only clients I’ve had in a long time. I mostly sing or dance now when I’m not with them.”

She has a way of speaking like she resides in another time period. “I’m glad you have them.”

Cordelia smiles. Unlike all the others, this smile looks real. It’s a different love entirely to bring such happiness by merely mentioning them. “Where’s your lover, lover boy?”

It feels like his heart has stopped beating. His skin itches, and his chest is so empty. “Probably going crazy looking for me. Trying to get me back.”

“I’m sure he loves you very much,” Cordelia tells him sympathetically.

Alec can’t remember the last time he got a full night of sleep. Every time he closes his eyes, he can only think of Magnus and how he’s in a strange bed far away from home. Far from his pack and the only life he knows. Max is not much better, especially during the first week. He cried and begged to see Magnus, calling out for daddy over and over. “We will both be back with our families soon enough.”

Cordelia scans his face, alarmed. “How are you so confident?”

“Do you know why I had you trip those alarms?” She shakes her head. He goes on to explain but hesitates. “I shouldn’t tell you.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t want you to get hurt,” Alec tells her. He’s seen her hurt. She comes back sometimes with bruises around her arms and on her face. One morning she came back with a bruise around her neck in the shape of two hands. Alec wanted to go fight whoever did that to her, but she had held him back. “I don’t want you to know anything in case something happens. I’m not going to let you get hurt because of me.”

Cordelia bites her lip and joins him on the floor. Max holds out a strawberry, and she smiles at him. “Alec, it’s not going to be easy. No matter what you plan to do, anything can go wrong. Let me help.”

“You’ve already helped me,” Alec says. “And I know. I know there’s so much that can go wrong, but I want to at least try. My… They know where I am. I’ve made sure of that.”

“Getting you out is another story altogether,” Camille tells him. “While I’m impressed with getting them your location, I don’t think you’ve realized how powerful Asmodeus is. He knows everyone. He’s got eyes everywhere.”

“A conqueror like Asmodeus has slaves, not allies,” Alec says.

“And you think you can persuade them to go against Asmodeus and work with you?” Cordelia asks not unkindly.

“No,” Alec answers honestly. “I don’t need them to like me. I need them to hate Asmodeus more.”

Cordelia looks at him worriedly. Her dark eyes hold so much passion it’s surprising she doesn’t drown in her own captivated emotions. She looks down at Max playing with some cards between them. “At least let me take Max at the first sign of trouble. I can take care of him. I know people too, Alec. I can help him.”

While the thought of giving Max willingly to another person makes him blood boil and stomach churn, he’s not naive or stubborn enough to decline an offer he might not even need. “Alright.”

Cordelia gives him a small smile. She stands to leave in her gold robe with a green lace garter belt peeking under the end.

“Are you sure I can’t help?” Alec asks again.

Cordelia waves him off. “It’s Camille tonight. She likes my singing. She calls me her bleeding siren.” She squeezes Alec’s hand. “I’ll be fine. Stay here. Take care of that precious boy of yours.”

Cordelia kisses the top of Alec’s head and walks out the door. Alec watches her go, and wonders just how soon it’ll be him leaving. Will Asmodeus come find him and force him to work? Will he dress him in some lingerie and throw him in the throne room? It was only a matter of time. Nothing is stopping Asmodeus, except for perhaps for faulty pride and ownership over Alec.

How long will it last though? How long before he holds Max over him, forcing him to do whatever he wants?

The thought makes Alec shudder. Nausea forms in his stomach at the thought of sweaty hands on him. Strangers paying with dirty money in order to have him. He’s revolted and cold, and he cleans up after Max.

Melon shows up thirty minutes later, right on time. “I found a movie player and a couple of children's movies.”

It takes Alec by surprise. Meliorn is not normally warm and fuzzy. He didn’t think he cared about Max or anyone. “Thank you.”

When Max spots Meliorn, he tries to say his name but it comes garbled. He runs over to Meliorn and stands in front of him. Meliorn stares at him indifferently, and Max holds up a piece of paper. It’s one he drew yesterday, and there is one big flower drawn in blue crayon on it.

“Oh.” Meliorn takes the paper in such a way someone would’ve thought he was being given a bomb. “Thank you. It’s… very good.”

Alec snorts and rolls his eyes. He puts his hand on Meliorn’s shoulder. “Have fun.”

He leaves the room and walks down the hall to the elevator. There’s a man in black standing to the side of it. He scrutinizes Alec in disgust, and he follows him into the elevator. He doesn’t say anything, but he can feel eyes on him.

He gets off the elevator with the man in tow. As they walk, other men stare at Alec with leering looks. It’s all alphas staring at him, and the hairs on the back of his neck raise.

Leon opens the door when he knocks. “For fuck sake,” he groans. He turns back into the room. “The bitch is back. Probably for another favor.”

Alec ignores his hostility and walks to Asmodeus’s desk. Asmodeus sits back in his chair with a dramatic sigh. “You keep visiting me, Alec. I am a busy man, and you’re starting to test my patience. Does it bother you to be ignored and safe in that little room with Cordelia?”

Safe or not - bothered or not - still an animal in a cage.

“I’m here to discuss her treatment. She comes back hurt every night. There should be more security.”

It’s deadly silent for a moment. Alec doesn’t move. Asmodeus’s dead eyes are glued to him, two endless and corrupt voids. Alec meets his gaze because he isn’t going to Asmodeus to make him uncomfortable or nervous. At least he won’t let it show he’s affecting him. He’s not going to back down from this.

Then Leon laughs, loud and grating. It echoes in the room, making Alec’s blood boil. Again, he refuses to look at him. He refuses to give him an ounce of his attention. He doesn’t turn from Asmodeus, who is fighting off a malicious grin.

“You’re assuming I care about their wellbeing,” Asmodeus says. “I pay them to do what they’re told. Sing, dance, fuck. That’s what they’re for. That’s what you’re for. If you’re so worried, I’m happy to make you go with her. They’d love to have some fresh meat.”

“Somebody held Cordelia down for a full minute. She couldn’t breathe,” Alec says, voice hard. “She comes back with bruises on her wrists. She comes back exhausted. The others have it worse because she sings most nights. How many bones have been broken? How many have been hurt or hit too hard to even get out of bed?”

Tension forms on Asmodeus’s face and irritability grows. “If they do as they’re told, they won't be punished. If they shut their mouth, they would be fine. They’re spoiled there. They have beds and fresh sheets. They may take a bath, tend their wounds. They get fed three meals a day. I take care of them even after they screw me over. You should hear the deals they made with me. They screw me over, and I am nice and let them win it all back. If they don’t, they get brought here. I don’t torture them like I have every right to. They’re lucky to have me.”

“You can’t possibly believe that,” Alec says, both furious and horrified. He looks at the clock behind Leon and turns back to Asmodeus. “A safe place is not a privilege. Not only that, but you’re not a saint just because you didn’t kill them. You threaten them. You set them up for failure, and when they fail, you twist it around to make you look like the good guy. You take them from their families and you use them for your own gain. You’re a monster.”

“I’ve let you stay in Cordelia’s room unbothered. I let Meliorn get away with grabbing two extra plates. You don’t think I haven’t been watching you? I’ve got eyes everywhere.”

Asmodeus stands from his desk, and Alec stays where he is.

“I own you,” Asmodeus growls coldly. “I own you and your son. If I wanted you on your knees, I could break your knees and make you stay there for hours. I could make you beg for the scraps off my plate. You’ve had a luxurious life so far. I could take everything from you. I would be your everything.

“I could make it so you never see Max ever again. I don’t think you understand. I live in a world where omegas are merely birth givers. You could spend the rest of your life on your back.”

Alec has stopped listening. His mind shifts to Magnus, and how he was forced to have this man as his father. He was forced to deal with him his entire life. This man tried to trick Magnus into working with him. He tried to make Magnus into someone he’s not. Evil and cold, when there’s not in a bone in Magnus’s bold that is even remotely sinister or cruel.

“You are an omega. You are nothing. You pray I don’t start getting creative with how I deal with you.” Asmodeus takes another step closer, and Alec does not step back, even though every cell in his body is screaming to run. “Because next thing you know, you will find yourself broken and bleeding on the floor where you belong.”

“I don’t believe any of these threats,” Alec retorts.

“Why is that?” Asmodeus says with a cold intimidating voice.

Alec juts out his chin and looks him straight in the eye. “You can’t even get your son to talk to you.”

The hit comes fast. It rattles his skull and a burn blooms on the left side of his face. He drops to the floor, and this time he doesn’t catch himself.

All the rage, fear, and dread come pouring out of him, staining his cheeks with tears. He collects it all and puts it on display. His body shakes, and his breathing is erratic and wet. His eyes are filled with tears and he tastes salt when the door opens and Camille walks in.

She is medium height, and she wears tall red heels. Her black dress fits her slim body. Her blonde hair is straight and hangs down to her lower back. She holds herself with authority and strength that’s overwhelming. Her presence demands all her eyes on her.

Alec pauses at her gold eyes. She was an omega?

“What the hell is going on here,” she hisses. She snaps, and one of her women goes rushing to Alec’s shaking form on the floor. She narrows her dark eyes at the alpha. “Is this what happens when I’m not around? You make omegas bleed?”

“This is none of your business,” Asmodeus says seething. “He is not a whore. He is collateral and my possession.”

“I’m sorry, did I ask who he was?” Camille snaps. “Did I show any signs of wanting to get to know him? No. I see you threatening an unarmed omega under your care, and I will not allow it.”

Her words may be defending him, but there’s something dangerous about the woman. Her eyes are not kind, even when she glances at Alec. It’s most likely about power and making sure she’s listened to no matter the topic.

“Get up,” Camille orders. It seems she’s protective to a fault, uncaring to be kind and unfamiliar with pity. Confused, Alec does so slowly. She points to the door, and it’s his only option here to do as she says.

He walks by Asmodeus, who grabs him by the throat, teeth bared and eyes narrowed.

“If you show your face here again, I promise you won’t be able to walk again,” he threatens in a low voice. “I’m going to sew that mouth shut, and I’ll throw you in that throne room and leave you there. You’ll learn your place. You’re trying to lead and protect the helpless. They’re a waste of space and so are you.”

“Let him go,” Camille orders him. There’s a controlled rage in her tone, but it shows clear on her face she’s pissed and heard everything he said. “We need to discuss my omegas and whether or not they’re ever coming back here. You’re not the only person with a piece of shit building for rent. I may even do you a favor and take all your omegas.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Asmodeus says between clenched teeth. He turns back to Alec and shoves him away. Unaware of the quickness of Alec’s wandering hands slipping his phone back into his pocket. Just because he wanted to, Alec falls to the floor.

Camille says nothing else, but she still points to the door. Alec gets up and makes himself haste. The door shuts behind him with a slam.

He doesn’t feel safe until the elevator closes in front of him, and he slumps on the railing. He replays the last thirty minutes, hoping he looked as scared and broken and more importantly believable.

Too bad for them, I’ve already been broken once. I fixed myself, and I am not letting anyone get the chance to do it again.

When he gets back to his room, Max is in Meliorn’s lap watching the Little Mermaid. Meliorn takes one look at his wrecked state. Tear stained cheeks and heavy breathing.

“The wolf is home,” Meliorn says cryptically. He spots the bruise on Alec’s face. “I see Camille also sees a lamb in the pasture.”

It’s enough to make Alec laugh, and it’s wet and spirals into insanity. He laughs and laughs, and he thinks about Jace and his impeccable ability to piss off everyone in the room. He’s always to be more like him, and he’s finally doing it.

Dear Magnus,

I’m so sorry it had to come down to this. You are the love of my life, and I remind myself how lucky I was to have you. You were always there for me - the good and the ugly parts of me. In such little time, we’ve gotten so close. In less than a year, I wanted to spend every second together. I wanted to wake up in our bed every day for the rest of our lives. See your gorgeous face and smell your scent. Crazy how fast I fell in love with you. I felt so comfortable around you. You wanted to know everything about me, and I wanted you to know it all.

I remember when we talked about getting a pet. You wanted a cat. You’re always feeding the strays. Think my favorite one was Pumpkin. He was sweet. Maybe you could tell him I miss him? Don’t scare him too much - he may run. Give some tuna to Pumpkin. Arthur will get jealous and show up. He’ll think you like Pumpkin more than him, though that’s silly. Arthur is practically family.

Remember when we first met Pumpkin? I thought he was friends with Arthur, but recently they got into a fight. I don’t think of any of the cats like Arthur anymore to be honest. Maybe there’s some meddling going on. If you see Arthur, maybe you should talk to him. I see Arthur sometimes when I walk to school. He steals Max’s heart. I swear he waits for me. I don’t know. You know how cats act more than me.

I will think about you for the rest of my life. I am grateful for the time we had together. Try to remember me. How much I loved you. What I like to eat for breakfast. At least think fondly when you see my number on your phone.

When I was younger, we were broke and we had limited texts. Unlimited data wasn’t common. Izzy would use up all the texts, and we had to get creative. I don’t know why I’m telling you this, maybe it’ll spark a fond memory cause I’m sure she’ll read this too.

My love for you all flows through me. It’s alarming what little I would do for my family. Maybe when you hear one, you’ll think of me. Maybe you already have.

my Cow misses you A lots. i Miss you and I miss my room a Lot. i think you would Like miss cordElia. she is very pretty. i love you ❤️

max

Chapter Text

The aftermath of Camille’s reign goes faster than Alec would have ever hoped. The amount of omegas, according to Cordelia, dwindled significantly over the next three days. Almost a fourth of them don’t show up the day Camille caught Asmodeus hitting Alec. Then five more omegas do not show up in the throne room. The number goes lower and lower, until Cordelia tells Alec there’s only three of them, including herself. The only reason she was still here is because Camille does not own her. Her father sold her to Asmodeus back when he was alive and drinking his weight every night. He owed thousands of dollars to Asmodeus, and he offered Cordelia to him. Her family looked down upon omegas, and Cordelia told Alec it was only a matter of time when they were going to sell her to the highest bidder.

“My mother didn’t put up much of a fight,” Cordelia said with a forlorn expression. “She cried, but I don’t think she was crying for me.”

Alec held her hand as she spoke, and his heart ached for her.

“No one has really fought for me,” she said. “Not my father or mother. My father sent my brother, Alastair, back to France. He had his hands tied. He swore he would come get me, but that was five years ago.”

“If he’s anything like my sister, Isabelle, he’s without a doubt still searching for you,” Alec told her. “He loves you and wouldn’t give up on you.”

Cordelia smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes. “I think of him most nights. We fought a lot growing up, but we always loved each other. He told me I was the strongest person he knew. He called me Cordelia Joon. Of course only during those short times when we weren’t arguing.”

Alec smiled, and he felt his own eyes burning and forming tears. His chest hurts so bad, and the giant hole threatened to eat him alive. The absence of his pack made him feel so alone, as it squeezed his heart until it cracked and oozed with blood. It reverted him back to when he still lived with his parents, and he was under the same crushing weight of exile and hatred. The darkness choked him in its black void of loneliness, even though his own family was only a room away. It helped that his sister and best friend loved him. They were always there, and they didn’t let Alec drown for too long, but he still drowned and choked for air.

Magnus.

Magnus was the only thing that kept him going. Max and Magnus. Magnus with all his love and kindness. His brown eyes could read Alec like a book. He was Alec’s entire world, and he has never felt so safe anywhere than when he’s in his arms. He thought of him now, and how pissed he must be and spiraling with guilt and sadness. He hated what he was doing to Magnus. He had to get Max back, and he was going to go with Asmodeus no matter what. What he’s doing now has nothing to do with Max, though it could be said what he’s planning to do made sure Max would never have to face Asmodeus again.

No. What he’s doing now is payback. All the people Asmodeus has burned and hurt his whole life. All the lives he’s ruined, including Magnus. Magnus was only a child dealing with his monster of a father. His father lied, tricked, and threatened Magnus numerous times, and Alec was never going to let that happen again.

He knows Magnus would be pissed to hear him think this way, and he would say he would never want Alec to put his life in danger for him. He would insist, plead with him to stay with him and pretend Asmodeus was a faded memory. But Alec can’t. He can’t go on and let Asmodeus hurt people while simultaneously haunting Magnus and making him look over his shoulder. He can’t do that. Not when he can do something about it.

He wants to rip Asmodeus’s throat out.

“You’ll see your brother again,” Alec told her. He squeezed her hand. “He loves you, and he’s probably searching everywhere for you. He would never give up on you.”

Cordelia smiled, and this smile is real. Tears flowed down her cheeks. She is strong and brave, and Alec admired her. She can without a doubt take care of herself, but there are things people can’t do alone. For now, Alec will be there, and he will reunite her with her brother. All this needed to mean something.

Camille shows up at their door a day later. While she had defended him the other day, she is obviously still cruel and demanding. Alec is not one for stereotypes, but there’s not a smidge of warmth or kindness about her that every omega has. Sure, not every omega is nice. Not every alpha is an asshole. Camille, though, is not in the least bit alluring - not even in the omega sense. She’s tough and cold, and Alec can’t imagine her fluttering her eyelashes or persuading anyone to listen to her without violence.

Her eyes are in a constant state of omega gold. She’s always on attack mode, and she’s just that right now. She glances around the room in disgust, and then she looks Alec up and down. She studies him, and there is no sign of approval or contempt. “You’re not particularly unfortunate looking. Would you like to join me and my omegas?”

Alec, taken back by the offer, stares at her in surprise. “Go with you? Where?”

Camille rolls her eyes. “If you enjoy being a punching bag here, I’m happy to leave you with Asmodeus.”

She doesn’t seem deeply perturbed by her omegas getting beat, but maybe that was her goal all along. She can’t show her true feelings openly here. That could get you killed or used against you. Camille has high status, and she didn’t get that by letting people know what she was thinking. Not in this world. Not when there are alphas like Asmodeus in charge.

She didn’t have much empathy to begin with.

“No, I’ll stay,” Alec tells her. He hesitates. “Is Cordelia going with you?”

Camille narrows her eyes. “Why? Is that songbird your lover?”

“No,” Alec answers stiffly. “She is my friend, and I want to know she’s okay.”

Camille rolls her eyes and turns toward the door. “She is staying.” She turns back to him, and this time she allows sick enjoyment flicker on her face. “It seems the both of you have unfinished business.”

Alec pales, wondering what she means and fearing the worst. He doesn’t let her scare him into looking away. Does she know? Does she know about his schemes? What does she plan on doing with this information? She doesn’t have proof of anything, but sometimes suspicions are all you need in this sick world for someone to kill or harm you.

He reminds himself Camille is not a good person. She owns omegas. She may not hurt them, but she got them somehow.

“I won’t say anything, little omega,” Camille grins with sharp teeth. “I’m not fond of blackmail. I like sad unfortunate souls over threats.”

Alec has no idea how to take that. She must wait until someone is on their last leg, helpless and frightened before swooping in like a vulture, looking like an oasis in the middle of the sahara. Tricks them into going with her and using them for everything she can.

“Smells like strawberries in here,” Camille says. It sends chills down Alec’s spine, and he remembers Max is in the bathroom with another omega named Sophia. That same twisted smile grows on her face. “Sad unfortunate souls. Maybe I’ll be back for you.”

And with that, she leaves, and Alec can breathe.

**************

Unfortunately, Camille does take all her omegas with her and then some. This leaves Cordelia and four other omegas to entertain the alphas in the throne room. The evening of the third day comes along, and an alpha Alec has never met before shows up and tells him he’ll be joining Cordelia for the night upstairs.

It takes him by surprise, and he doesn’t bother hiding his growing panic. He’s standing behind Cordelia in the closet. He’s having trouble breathing and he’s lightheaded. “I c-can’t. I don’t know what I’m doing.”

“I’ll be there for the entire time,” Cordelia promises. She gives him on her search through the clothes Alec received for tonight. “I promise I’ll be there. I’ll watch out for you. I won’t be far. I’ll be on the stage. It’s a smaller room than you think. If I think you’re in trouble, I will help. I’ll create a distraction and get you a chance to run off.”

“I will not let you get in trouble-“ Alec says assertively.

“I’ll be fine,” she says imploringly. “You will be fine. The clients are mad about Camille pulling out. It’s a ghost town there, and they’re not happy about it. They can’t seem to get more omegas. I think Camille tore up Asmodeus’s reputation in the omega sex trade. Things have been tense but they haven’t hurt us. Camille has eyes everywhere too. Asmodeus made it loud and clear you’re off limits and now that he’s hurt you, it’s not a good look.”

Alec lets out a choked sound. “You come back with bruises all the time,” he argues. Though those times Camille isn’t here. “They have very messed up limitations.”

Cordelia grimaces. “He’s made it clear he doesn’t stand behind violence against his workers, but so far he hasn’t personally perpetrated or witnessed it happening.” She shrugs reluctantly. “Or so he says.”

They can’t afford to. It goes without saying. They can’t hurt the very few omegas they do have.

“I’ve only had sex with two people,” Alec tells her. His chest is tight, and his vision is blurry. He feels hands on him, and he inhales sharply. “Max’s father and my… my boyfriend. I don’t - I can’t.”

“You have a plan, remember?” Cordelia asks with an encouraging nod of her head. “You’re smarter than them. Trick them. Throw them off. They’re either drunk or high. Do what you’ve been doing and outsmart them.”

“I-“ Alec swallows. He takes a deep breath and centers himself. “What if they make me do stuff? What if they want to have me, and they make me do something I don’t want to do? I’ve seen the needles and trays.”

He’s hyperventilating. He remembers the way Izzy used to be. He was there while she battled her addiction and all the pain she went through. Meliorn looks rough on the best of days.

What if they touch him intimately? What if they don’t let him go?

“I’ll take care of you,” Cordelia tells him earnestly. “I’ll have it covered. Do you trust me?”

Alec takes another shaky breath and nods. He does trust her. She’s the kindest person he knows. He doesn’t know how anyone can be so generous in a place like this, but Cordelia is. She’s kind and gentle, and she can be determined and strong.

“For the first time, we make the decisions here,” she tells him. Her voice is powerful, as if she had the same realization. “We don’t have to do anything we don’t want to. I’ve exclusively been singing. Nothing else. You decide - not them, Alec.”

They’re both quiet for a minute. Cordelia watches him closely, and he sees on her face she doesn’t want him doing this either. He sees guilt on her face - or at least some variety of emotions that look akin to guilt. He will not have her thinking any of this is her fault. She’s done everything to protect him and be there for him. He’s learned to trust her a long time ago, and he needs to continue to do so.

“Okay.” Alec fidgets his hands, pinching the skin of his palm. Cordelia grasps his hand and squeezes. She shuffles through the clothes and holds up an outfit. It doesn’t look too bad. They’re not shorts or anything too scandalous, but they are tight and do not hide his figure much. He changes quickly, and he shuts off his mind before he can go mad.

Cordelia goes to change while he puts Max to bed. He already gave him a bath, and he’s wearing one of his Bluey shirts and holding onto his stuffed cow. He’s already half asleep, and he kisses his forehead. Meliorn shows up a moment later to watch him. He doesn’t tell him to guard him with his life. Meliorn would be a fool not to know Alec would hunt him down if anything happened to Max under his care.

She puts on a fitting gold dress with a wide slit over her leg. Her heels are gold and pointy, and ribbon winds around her calf. She takes her hand and they leave the room and head for the elevator.

It doesn’t take long to hear the whistles and catcalls. Alec holds his gaze on the elevator door, not wanting to let them know they’re making him uncomfortable. His jeans are tighter than he’s used to, and his gray shirt is flimsy and worn. He feels their leering gaze on him, and the way they’re trying to circle around him and intimate him. If they’re looking to scare him, it’s not going to work. He might’ve gotten spooked by being blindsided, but he’s worked through it. If anything, he’s angry. Angrier than before.

One alpha he’s seen on occasion is watching him intensely, and Alec meets his piercing gaze with his own. The man looks alarmingly like Raj, and it only fuels the fire in his chest. Raj called him so many things. Whore. Slut. Waste of space. The way he said omega with bigotry and hatred. Sometimes he was ready for the things Raj called him, but there were also times he was taken by surprise. The hostility would give him whiplash, reverting him back to the resentment he got from his own mother.

He thinks of Magnus now. Magnus loves him for who he is. He’s said again and again how proud he is of him. How resilient and strong he is, and he couldn’t be prouder to have him as his mate. His lover. Magnus loves his ferocity. The day he lashed out at his mother, Magnus told him he’s never been so proud. He admired his bravery and power after everything he’s been through.

Magnus loves him so much, and Alec wants to go back to him. Needs to go back to his side. This man is just another hindrance, and he will tear right through him if he must.

The alpha hesitates. Something in his eyes flicker away, surprised by the unwavering omega staring back at him. He goes pale, and he tries to intimate Alec again with his red eyes, but it doesn’t work. Alec stands unmoving and deadly still.

When the doors open, Cordelia pulls him inside. Alec holds the man’s gaze until the doors shut between them. Cordelia huffs, “You’re trying to make them mad.”

She smiles at him to let him know she’s not really mad.

“I’m tired of bullies,” Alec tells her. “I’ve seen enough brain dead alphas to last me a lifetime.”

When the doors open up for the floor, Alec is met with a smaller room than he imagined. Cordelia wasn’t kidding. The throne room wasn’t as big as he thought. The room was lit by various lights that swam across the room. There was a large bar on the far left side, and a stage on the right. There were couches placed in different places where men sit back and drink. Glass tables are spread around, and there are piles of white powder and plenty of drinks around.

“There used to be tons of people in here,” Cordelia whispers. “Camille really did a number.”

“Can’t say I hate it,” Alec responds. There are about ten men total. One omega with long curly blonde hair sits on the floor beside an older man. She’s giggling, and her eyes are faded. High maybe. She crawls on the man’s lap, where he holds out his finger. She leans down at an odd angle, and then she brings her head back with euphoria radiating on her face.

Music blares in the room, and Cordelia has to get on her toes for Alec to hear her properly. “I have to go. It’ll be okay. I’ll keep an eye on you.”

Alec watches her go. His confidence goes with her, and he’s desperately clinging onto it. He can’t let anyone know he’s panicking. What is he supposed to do?

Someone grabs him by the shoulder. He moves to rip his arm free but pauses when he sees it’s Leon. His blue eyes are cold as ice as usual, and his fingers dig into Alec’s arm.

“I was surprised to hear you were here,” Leon tells him. He yanks Alec closer, and Alec smells the revolting stench of alcohol on his breath. “Thought Asmodeus was keeping you for himself. Now you’re here and ready to play.”

Alec looks down at his hand, and he’s sure his disgust is crystal clear. Leon is too drunk to notice. “Camille took all her omegas with her. There’s only a handful of us now.”

“No good brainless omega whores,” Leon snarls. “You guys have no idea how good you have it. You’ve got a roof over your head and you’re not starving.”

If his son’s safety didn’t rely solely upon Alec, Leon would have several broken limbs and a ripped carotid artery. Instead, he allows Leon to pull him over to one of the couches. Leon sits with a drunk curse and he points at the space on the floor. Alec clenches his teeth and kneels, thankful there’s at least carpet to ease the ache of his legs.

The alpha pulls out a cigarette and lights it. He takes two drags and leans back. Then he looks at Alec with a grin and blows the smoke in his face. Alec remains perfectly neutral, or at least tries to.

He startles when Leon grabs his chin. He arranges him like a doll, pushing Alec’s head back to reveal his long neck. “It’s too bad I haven’t had you yet. Your skin would look marvelous covered in bruises. Those plump lips of yours around my cock or begging me to fuck you.”

Then the hand wraps around his neck. It cuts off his air, and he gasps and grabs for Leon’s wrist. Leon’s blue eyes glare into his, and a menacing, dark grin spreads across his face. He begins to panic.

“What? No one ever hurt you in bed before?” the alpha teases. “For an omega who gave it up so early, you sure are innocent.”

He’s being strangled, and he wraps his arms around Leon’s to break free but it doesn’t work. He hates how much it sounds like he knows him. Does everyone know him? Was everyone just waiting for this moment to pounce? Use him in ways that’ll leave him broken and bleeding? His claws grow, but his oxygen is cut off and he’s too busy trying to suck in air.

“A blushing young omega with a kid,” the man purrs. “The innocent act alone would get me thousands. You know how much someone would pay to get their hands on you? Get you all bruised up?”

Is that the goal? Is that what Asmodeus had planned? He’s heard nothing from Magnus, and so he has to punish Alec for it? Is this whole thing taking too long? Was he never going to see his son again? He fights harder, struggling to breathe and spew out words. He will beg. He doesn’t care. He will beg and plead because like hell he was letting them get their hands on Max with him out of the picture.

Meliorn. Please run away and take him with you.

“Sir?”

Alec is let go, and he gasps and chokes for air. He blinks tears away, and he sees Cordelia standing over them with a tray. She places the glass tray on the table in front of them. There are two rows of white powder.

“Fuck yes,” Leon grunts and leans down with one nostril covered and snorts up the drug. He coughs and rubs his nose. He shoves Alec in. “Maybe it’ll loosen you up.”

Alec widens his eyes at the idea of his inhibitions being drained away and being unable to defend himself. Before he can try to create some crazy lie, Cordelia cuts in with a giggle.

“We’re not allowed so much anymore,” Cordelia tells him with a loose shrug, as if she were affected too. “We can only do a little. Here.”

She holds up a small glass vial. She pours the white substance on her finger and kneels down beside Alec. Her dark eyes are clear and focused. Alec looks down to see it’s not even a third of what Leon snorted.

I’ll take care of you.

Alec remembers the many times Cordelia has held him while he was here. How loving she is with Max, and he even called her ‘Daisy’. She sang to him when he was nervous and scared, and she listened to him when he talked about Magnus and his siblings. She wouldn’t put him in harm's way, and he has to trust her here too.

Moving fast so he doesn’t change his mind, he covers one nostril and inhales the white substance. It instantly burns and irritates his nose, and he chokes a little. He breathes through it and Cordelia runs a hand through his hair.

“Get up here,” Leon grunts, patting his leg as if calling for his dog. Alec doesn’t bother hiding his grimace or glare, seeing as he’s still struggling to work through the irritation.

He gets on Leon’s lap, and he turns rigid. He breathes in and out slowly, trying to relax his nerves. Leon’s body is loose like a puppet cut from its strings. He blinks slowly and his eyes trail down Alec’s body.

Alec sucks in a breath when hands sneak under his shirt. “What? You’ve never had cocaine before? Little omega like you never tried anything?”

It’s becoming clear that what Cordelia gave him was not any form of hallucinogenic drug. He still feels like himself, though his nose still burns slightly.

He lets his imagination run wild. He’s supposed to feel good. He’s supposed to have no cares and no inhibitions. He tries not to think too hard, letting the act take over. He smiles lazily and closes his eyes, but he does not let his guard down.

“Of course I have,” he chuckles. “He lets me have whatever I want when I’m not here.” Alec shrugs and rolls his body down, keeping his eyes closed, and he puts his hands on the man’s shoulders for balance. “I come down here for some fun, and then I go back to his bed. I can’t even tell you what I’ve put up my nose,” he says. “Have whatever I want whenever I want.”

Alec leans in, but Leon tilts his head back to meet his eye. He’s gone incredibly still and cold. “What the fuck did you say?”

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be talking about this…” Alec says, pretending to play coy. “I don’t think I was supposed to tell you that.”

“He lets you have the product? However much? After breaking my sister’s nose the other night?”

“I don’t-“

He gets caught off guard when Leon shoves him hard to the ground. “A fucking waste of space omega who sucks his dick gets free product? I should kill you right here.”

“You can’t kill him,” another man with a deep, grouchy voice comes from behind him. “I haven’t had my turn.”

Leon snarls and storms off. Alec turns to find a tall man with white hair. He doesn’t look old enough to have white hair, but he does. He also doesn’t particularly look comfortable, as if he was forcing himself to show interest in Alec or even be in this room.

He looks bored and disinterested, and he gestures with his pointer finger to a lone chair in the corner. It’s more hidden in the lack of light and away from prying eyes. Though, that also means Cordelia won’t be able to see him that well. It makes him nervous, but he also doesn’t believe this man is dangerous. He’s dressed like a professor, and he doesn’t glance back to make sure Alec is following him.

Alec blames his curiosity. He follows him to where he sits leisurely in the chair. He taps his fingers on the armrest and sighs. Was he annoyed?

“You, uh,” the man clears his throat. He rolls his eyes and gestures to his lap. “I think it’ll look better if you get on my lap.”

Alec furrows his brows. He’s had his fair share of being in a strange man’s lap. “What?”

“Just get on my lap,” the man grouches. When Alec stays standing, he snaps. “He said you were stubborn, but I didn’t think to the point of self destruction.”

Alec stops breathing, and his omega claws at his chest. He can’t mean what he thinks he means. “Who?”

The man gives him a blank stare. “Get in my lap and pretend you’re not for the both of our sakes.”

Right. He has a role to play. He gets on the man’s lap, and the alpha looks away like he’d rather be anywhere in the world but here. He sees now his cheeks are red. He’s actually uncomfortable. It wasn’t his imagination.

“How is he?” Alec asks. The question is out before he can bite it down. “Is he okay?”

“I’m fine. Thanks for asking.” The man reaches into his coat pocket and pulls out a cigar. He lights it and brings it to his mouth. “I don’t know why we’re focusing on me when this is all about you.”

His nonchalance is grating, but it makes sense. He’s referring to himself as Magnus. “I’m okay. This is my first time in this room.”

“Emptier than we expected.”

We. Who does we include? Magnus, Luke and his officers, and his siblings?

“There was an incident,” Alec says cryptically. “Things happened and a partner left and took her omegas.”

“Hmm,” the man grunts. “Something to do with that shiner on your face?”

Alec doesn’t know how the man noticed the bruise. It’s small compared to the other day, and it’s so dark in here. Maybe this man was supposed to report Alec’s wellbeing to Magnus. He wanted to know how he was doing. Magnus is going to go nuts when he finds out. Alec hates knowing he’s causing him pain.

“Don’t tell anyone,” Alec tells him. “I’m fine.”

The man purses his lips. “You get hit, and a partner breaks their contract with Asmodeus. Making this business of his fall apart. Is that a happy coincidence?” Alec doesn’t answer, and the man chuckles. “Impressive.”

“Please,” Alec says, more serious this time. “Don’t tell him about this. Tell him I’m fine. I’ve been in a room this entire time. This is my first time here. I’ve been ignored up until now.”

Alec goes to say something else, but then the man puts his hands on his waist. He tenses up, and then a beta in a suit comes by with a tray. There’s one singular glass of whiskey on it, and the man takes it with a nod. “Put it on my bill - Fell.”

Alec recognizes the name almost immediately. He knows the name of Magnus’s best friend, but he’s never met him. He is an English professor, and Magnus has known him for years. Every time Alec was supposed to meet him, things happened and it had to be pushed back.

How hilarious is the universe to make Alec finally meet Magnus’s best friend here?

Ragnor keeps a hand on Alec’s knee for appearance sake, and he sips his drink. “Doesn’t Asmodeus know you?”

Ragnor shakes his head dismissively. “He never met me. I’ve always been conveniently busy. I don’t like people at the best of times.”

Alec sees eyes on him again, and he runs a hand up Ragnor’s arm. Ragnor doesn’t bat an eye. They exchange slight touches here and there to make the act believable. It’s not completely unpleasant. Ragnor’s hand doesn’t go farther up than his thigh. It more or less feels insignificant. Robotic. Alec scents something familiar, but it’s fleeting and he doesn’t quite catch on to it.

“I got your letter,” Ragnor says, lower than before. “Got a hold of the blonde she-demon. You won’t see her here again.” Alec widens his eyes. “I threatened to get her thrown in prison if she didn’t disappear and never come back, as well as convince everyone else to do also.”

Alec’s brain races. He supposes that it makes more sense this way, but he thought… “Oh, good. I thought it was all because of me. I felt awful.”

Ragnor’s mouth twitches, revealing his first sign of amusement. “It was. You pointed at her - the cats. When Max grows older, are you going to tell him you used him to get out of the clutches of a psycho maniac? You know, he could’ve figured it out if he knew how sneaky you were. You impressed me and that’s hard to do.”

“Omegas are incredibly underestimated,” Alec retorts stiffly. Capitalizing letters to spell out ‘CAMILLE’ might not have gotten everyone’s attention. He would ask who caught on to all the hints in his letter, but this was not the time or place. There was also more information he needed to know. “There’s so many eyes on us,” he says, glancing around. “Should we get a room?”

Ragnor takes a drag from his cigar. “No, I’m almost done here. Are you ready to go?”

Alec’s heart picks up. Ready to go? To leave?

“I can’t leave my friend up there,” Alec says, jutting his chin towards Cordelia onstage. She’s singing and moving her body sensually. There are two men sitting by the stage, completely enthralled with her.

“I wouldn’t worry about her,” Ragnor says indifferently. Alec glares at him as he pulls out his phone. His face remains impassive and detached as he scrolls and types. “I’m coming back in three days. I have to get my affairs in order, but I’m coming back in three days with a few of my friends.”

Alec squints at him, certain Ragnor is not understanding. He leans in, though he pauses when he scents that familiar smell again, and talks quietly. “I am not leaving without her.”

“And I’ll bring some nice men in blue for her too,” Ragnor retorts out evenly. “You’re not the only one we want out of here. You’ve been playing the long game and so have I. There are rules to follow, and we are almost done.”

There is so much to unpack from those words. So many different meanings, and there is much he doesn’t know. He would ask for more if it wasn’t already dangerous enough. There could be microphones and cameras in here, listening to everything he’s saying. They’re talking slow, so most of it will come out muffled, but that alone can cause issues. He still doesn’t know who is in on this. He doesn’t know who Magnus got a hold of. He’s the only one who knows the true dangers of his father and what little he would do to get his way.

“You have a son, right?” Ragnor asks impassively, back to his normal volume. “Where is the little bundle of joy?”

“Safe,” Alec answers stiffly. Ragnor grasps his hands, and he looks down to see he’s shaking. He doesn’t think. He wraps his arms around Ragnor’s shoulders, ignoring his sound of alarm and annoyance. He ignores all that and stuffs his face in the alpha’s shoulder.

There’s the scent again. It’s stronger here. He acts on instinct and moves his face closer to the man’s neck. There he finds a small thin scarf under Ragnor’s collar. It’s securely hidden and light green.

He’s too hyperfocused to say anything or explain in any way. He pulls the scarf free, hands shaking, and stuffs his nose in it.

“No need to ask,” Ragnor grunts, but his tone or attitude are a cover for his true thoughts. His snipes are empty, and they’re nothing to take seriously. Alec has stopped listening to him though.

Magnus. Cinnamon. Not the spicy kind but cinnamon rolls. Sugary and warm.

His eyes burn and his hands and shoulders shake. He’s overwhelmed with emotions. His lover’s scent fills him with a painful need and dread, needing more than ever to return to him. His love is so tangible he can taste it, and the palpable sense of loss weighs heavy. It consumes him alive, swallowing him whole in both distress and profound hope. Happy to finally have something of Magnus, feel the flickering hope that was burning out. It’s back with a vengeance, burning right along with a surge of bitter anger for Asmodeus stealing him from his alpha.

The world blurs around him, and soon enough Cordelia is there helping him back to their room. Ragnor says nothing else, and Alec wasn’t listening anyway. Before he leaves, he puts a hand on Ragnor’s chest pocket.

He gets back to the room with Max in his arms. He stuffs his face in the little one’s hair with Magnus’s scarf around them both.

He’s getting out in three days. Three days. He hopes Ragnor guards the USB with his life.

*************************

Time passes so slowly. The world’s slowest clock hangs over his head, taunting him with everything he loves. He can see the finish line, but he’s also nowhere near it.

He does the only thing he can do. He toys with the alphas upstairs. He picks at their brain and makes them question things. It’s easy to do. So embarrassingly easy. Why alphas are in charge he will never understand. All the alphas in this building are so emotional and trigger happy. Ready to turn on each other with the barest of suspicions.

He’s forced to kneel at Asmodeus’s side during his meetings. He doesn’t know why, maybe it’s to make Asmodeus feel more in charge. In this sick world, it’s good to have a submissive omega forced at your side. Especially one who is the lover of the boss man's son. Maybe it’s supposed to put Alec in his place, but he should know Alec hasn’t once been scared of him. He could argue he was scared of him when he first got here when Asmodeus threw him in a cell and told him he’s taking his son from him. Though, he wouldn’t describe the emotion as fear.

It was rage. Blood-filled rage. He went feral enough to break metal bars, and he would’ve gotten Max back even if it meant killing people to do so.

Asmodeus has been in a foul mood, and it has everyone on edge. Particularly this man Joel who was new and young. Alec could tell he was trying to impress Asmodeus and appear as the perfect worker and warrior. It would’ve worked normally with Asmodeus and his egotistical mindset. He liked games and toying with inferiors. Now, though, he’s been snappy and crude to a whole new level.

Alec watches now as Joel tries yet again to throw his thoughts into the conversation, only to have Asmodeus cut him off and ridicule him. Apparently, the two of them have much different tactics when it comes to intimidating potential clients. “We don’t hide around here, Mr. Prescott. We divide and conquer without mercy. We do not scurry around. We make ourselves known to make them know we mean business. There is no running from me. If you’re scared, Mr. Prescott, to make waves, you better run off to the kids table.”

Joel pales and bites his tongue. Anger glimmers in his eyes, but he hides it well. Joel doesn’t learn because the next meeting hours later, Joel runs in heaving. “I’m sorry I’m late.”

“You were not invited,” Asmodeus says, bored. Joel pales, and he stands there while the meeting finishes. Asmodeus doesn’t look at him when he leaves, along with the others who bump into him hard.

Alec stays behind. “Did you do something to make him mad?” he asks naively.

Joel glares in defense. “Who the fuck do you think you’re talking to?”

“I’m sorry,” Alec says submissively. He fidgets with his fingers. “I just think he was being a little unfair. Rafael doesn’t get treated like that, and he’s in charge of the entire west area.”

Joel narrows his eyes, but his anger falters. “He what?”

Alec shrugs. “That’s why he didn’t make the meeting here, right? He does deals in a bunch of cities. He’s a busy man, and he makes mistakes too. It’s not his fault. He’s only learned this stuff a few weeks ago.”

Alec has made notes on every man Asmodeus works with. Asmodeus orders him to kneel with his head down, but the egotistical man probably doesn’t think Alec can keep track of names and numbers. Like every omega was incompetent and not a threat.

Rafael has been a part of Asmodeus’s team for two years now according to Meliorn, but Joel doesn’t need to know that. With the way Asmodeus treats him, it’s not far-fetched to believe Joel’s confidence has dwindled to nothing and has become doubtful of his capabilities. This doubt and insecurity twist into anger quickly just like Alec wanted.

“Are you fucking serious?”

****************

“The warehouse on Main Street is empty.”

“What do you mean the warehouse is empty?” Asmodeus asks callously.

“I mean it’s empty,” Sam says. “Leon never dropped off the merchandise. There’s nothing there.”

“Have you spoken to him?” Asmodeus asks, brows raised and blackened eyes. Sam swallows and shakes his head. “Where is he?”

Sam fidgets. “No one has seen him since yesterday morning. He was drunk, and he punched several people. We escorted him out.”

“Send Christopher and Joel over and see about this missing merchandise. It’s supposed to be there. If it’s true, check the cameras. I want to know who dared to touch my shit. I want everyone involved here in five minutes and I’ll have their bodies wrung out on the streets for crossing me.”

Sam’s face drains with color, and his eyes flicker to Alec. Sam was one of the nicest ones here, and he didn’t do anything to outwardly harm or make Alec uncomfortable. Alec doesn’t know why he’s here when he clearly has a beating heart.

“Yes, sir,” Sam says before leaving with one final look towards Alec.

Alec stays seated when Asmodeus stands. He stares at the floor, wanting to appear as the meek and useless omega Asmodeus thinks he is.

Alec forces himself not to fight when suddenly his hair is yanked backwards. There is a stab of pain in his neck from the uncomfortable angle. He looks up to find Asmodeus studying him. His dark eyes roam over his face, and Alec orders his body to remain still and quiet. If Asmodeus is suspicious of him, he would’ve done or said something by now. Although, he would also toy with his prey before eating it.

Alec flinches when a nail skims his bottom lip. It traces the shape of it, slightly tugging on it. Is this when Asmodeus threatens him? Is he going to stab him in this chair? What if he underestimated him, and Asmodeus knows it’s him. What if the camera caught him making those changes?

“My son does have marvelous taste,” Asmodeus says, eyes glued to Alec’s mouth. “What if I told you to kiss me if I were Magnus?”

“What if I told you I want to rip your face off?” Alec asks with the sort of calmness before a storm. He stares into Asmodeus’s eyes. When the man finally meets his gaze, he can see surprise there.

“Sharp tongue for an omega.”

“Better to lick the blood off when I make you bleed,” Alec says with the same steady tone. Asmodeus stops touching his lips, though he does put his pointer and thumb on his chin as if he recognized the shred of weakness he showed.

Asmodeus chuckles and steps away. “That mouth of yours is going to get you in trouble. I worry for you. The one to buy you will break you.”

Alec takes shallow breaths. He walks over to stand in front of Asmodeus. “Do what you want with me, but let Max go. You don’t need him. Please. Have my sister or brother come get him. Someone from my work. Someone I don’t know that well. Anyone to come pick him up and take him to my family. He’s a baby. Have me but not him. I’m not going anywhere. I promise.”

Asmodeus cocks his head and squints his eyes. Humor crinkles in them, and runs a finger under Alec’s right eye. “Such pretty tears. Do they always work in your favor amongst naive alphas? You bat your eyes, and you get what you want?”

Anger bubbles in Alec’s chest. He settles it down. “Not in my experience.”

Asmodeus chuckles and lets him go. “Just keep trying then. You’ll get there.”

Alec smiles tightly.

****************

Things happen frighteningly fast, and it even catches Alec by surprise. You’d think a fortress with powerful men like this one wasn’t so…fragile. He almost feels sorry for Sam who stands before Asmodeus again with bad news.

“They took it for themselves,” Sam says, looking grim. “Our coke was laced and killed Jarvis. Our stuff is contaminated. An eye for an eye.”

“What?” Asmodeus seethes. “Why the fuck did Joel buy bad coke? What the fuck was in it?”

“PCP,” Sam answers. “It made Jarvis paranoid and he had a psychotic episode. He opened one of the windows and jumped.”

“Who did Joel deal with?” Asmodeus asks icily. He reaches down and puts a gun on the table. Alec hitches a breath. “Did Jarvis break both legs?”

Sam pales and breathes sporadically. “H-He did. He dealt with a new guy. He promised a good price and Joel made the deal.”

“I want a word with him,” Asmodeus tells him. Sam hurries to comply and leaves without another word. Asmodeus sits back in his chair, staring blankly at the gun. Alec doesn’t dare move.

Asmodeus grabs Alec’s hair and yanks his head back. Alec yelps, and he winces when Asmodeus brings their faces closer. “Did you have something to do with this?”

“No,” Alec hisses painfully. This is all going so fast. Sure, he made Joel insecure and manipulated him, pushing him to make insane choices, but he didn’t mean for any of this to happen. It was especially bad since Jarvis was another influential partner Asmodeus wanted on his team. Joel’s mistake was going to cost them credibility and hack at their reputation.

Alec was cutting it close with the radar he was dodging. Though, it is nice to make Asmodeus squirm and doubt his view on omegas being too weak to understand.

“This empire you have here,” Alec says. Asmodeus’s black eyes dig into him like a knife. “It’s pretty fragile if it can be taken down by one omega.”

“I suppose it would be,” Asmodeus says. “If it were true.”

Asmodeus lets go of his hair. The minute he does, the lights go out. Emergency lights turn on soon after. There’s a lot of commotion in the hallway, and soon Sam barges in with wide eyes. “Someone cut the power. Security says we’re being hacked.”

“Yes, and the sky is blue,” Asmodeus snaps. “I want everyone working on the firewalls to figure out who is doing this. Everyone else secures the proximity. You take the omega down to the cells then collect the rest.”

Asmodeus shoves past Alec, pushing him to the ground and leaves. Alec curses at the scrapes on his arms and legs. He stands and faces Sam, who regards him with a conflicted expression.

Nice or not, he’s not staying with him. He’s not going back into that cell.

He pushes Sam against the wall. Sam doesn’t fight at all, and he even yelps in surprise. He must not have expected Alec to fight back, and to follow along like the pliant omega, and it irritates Alec more. “You make a single noise, and I’ll break your arm.”

“I won’t, but listen-”

Alec doesn’t listen to what he has to say. He pushes him roughly to the floor and books it down the hall. He dodges the elevator and goes down the stairs. The staircase is empty, and it looks haunted with the dimmed red lights. The alarm blares above him, and he’s racing as fast as his legs can manage.

The minute he opens the door to his level, he hears Max crying. His brain goes offline and within a minute he’s back in his room and grabs the man inside and shoves him hard into the wall. He grabs the man’s neck and squeezes.

“Alec!” the man shouts, but his ears are underwater. He blinks and contains himself, and he lets Meliorn go.

“Fuck, I’m sorry,” Alec tells him. He runs straight to Max, who is screaming and picks him up. “It’s okay, baby. You’re alright.”

Meliorn coughs and presses tenderly on his skin. “I’m going to have bruises.” Alec ignores him, and Meliorn clears his throat. “What the hell is happening? Did you do something?”

“No,” Alec says. “But I think if we’re going to run away, we need to do it now.”

Meliorn gapes at him. “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Alec says, losing his patience. “Is there any way out of here? He’s securing the exits, but there’s got to be a way.”

Meliorn runs his hand through his hair, and Alec catches the track marks on arm. “There is but,” his face hardens. “You need to give me Max.”

“You’re not serious-”

“Extremely,” Meliorn tells him, cutting him off. His pupils are enlarged and he’s sweating, but he shows a degree of intent Alec has never seen on him. “I can hide him.”

“Hide him?” Alec asks. “From what? He doesn’t even know it was me.”

“You just had to fuck with multiple things,” Meliorn hisses, though he doesn’t look as pissed as the situation calls for. “You’re pointing fingers. You’re making Asmodeus nervous. He’s questioning everything. Who do you think he’s going to blame? The allies he’s maintained for years or the omega and his son he kidnapped a week ago?”

“He’s not suspicious of me,” Alec argues. When Meliorn rolls his eyes, Alec glares at him. “He felt me up an hour ago. He dared me to kiss him as if he were Magnus. Unless he is messing with me and trying to get me to break, he doesn’t think any of this is my fault.”

“Then tell me why Cordelia is gone,” Meliorn snaps. Alec’s stomach sinks, and he notices the disarray of the room. All of Cordelia’s things are gone when they were just there hours ago. “Tell me why a group of men went into your room and took her. They dragged her out and down the hall. She has never done anything to piss off anyone. He caught up to your game. You are the reason she’s in danger.”

“Where did they take her?” Alec asks, clinging onto his anger and determination. His anger boils more at the sight of the bags under his eyes. He is no help in getting her back.

“How am I supposed to know? She’s gone-”

“She’s not gone yet,” Alec snaps. He hands Max to Meliorn, feeling his heart crack and instincts go haywire. “They must have taken her somewhere.” He kisses Max’s head, heart breaking into two pieces when the toddler reaches for him. He kisses his hands.

“You said you can hide Max. You’re going to do just that. You’re going to hide him until I say it’s clear. Until I come back for him.” His voice becomes sharp like a knife and he tilts his head, flaring his gold eyes. “You let anyone get Max, there is no limit to what I can do.”

“All you do is give threats,” Meliorn grunts. When Alec doesn’t let up, he curses. “Do I need to confirm with you? You waste your time yelling at me when you could be out there finding her!”

There’s a faint knock on the door, and they both tense. Alec walks ahead and carefully opens the door. He stands in the gap to hide the others. “Sam? What do you want?”

“They’re taking your friend to the airport,” he says. Alec makes a move towards him, and he puts his hands up. “They’re downstairs in the garage. You can get there in time if you run.”

His brain yells at him about this being a trap, but he wouldn’t ever forgive himself if he let Cordelia get taken without doing something about it. He gives Max one more long look and runs to the emergency staircase.

Footsteps follow him, and he looks over his shoulder at Sam. Sam’s mouth is in a straight line. “Think whatever you want of me, but I never wanted to be a part of this. My little brother is here, and I needed to get him back.”

Alec says nothing, unable to process more than he already has. He’s numb and empty, and he doesn’t even know what he’s running into. The alarm is still blaring, and the only lights are dimmed and red. He might’ve studied the building from top to bottom, but he’s no longer under any sort of misguided and contaminated protection. If someone finds him, he is going to have to fight.

They make their way to the right level, and he peeks through the small, thin window to look out into the garage. It’s large and mostly empty. He sees commotion over in the far left, and he sees a group of men walking to a van.

“I never wanted to be a part of this either,” Alec says lowly. Sam stares ahead, eyes downcast and ashamed. “I left my alpha because his asshole for a father stole my kid. I was having a very nice time putting my life back together again, and now I’m here without my kid again.” He points out to the van and the group of laughing men. “My goal is to save the only friend I’ve had in this place. Whether you help or not, I don’t care as long as you stay out of my way.”

Sam stares at him with wide eyes, frozen with fear.

Alec leaves soundlessly, and he briskly moves from car to car hiding in behind them and in the shadows. There are five men with some he recognizes. He sees the bottom of Cordelia’s dress between their feet. He squints to see her looking petrified with her hands tied behind her back. Her long red hair is a mess and makeup in disarray.

Alec finds a metal pipe hidden in dust, and he holds it steady. This is the only weapon he sees. He is two cars away from the van now, and he thinks about what he needs to do.

He swings the pipe to his left when he hears a scrape of a boot, and he stops mid-swing once he spots Sam crawling behind him. Sam barely dodges, and Alec gives him an exasperated look.

Sam reaches into his pocket and pulls out a dagger. Alec grips his pipe, ready for any attack. Seeing his rigid stance, Sam loosens his hold on the dagger.

Then Sam is on the move, and Alec hastily follows him. He doesn’t stop at the last car, instead he continues on and rolls under the van.

Cordelia shouts in dismay, and she must’ve been pushed forward and lost her footing. The van’s door is slid open, and she’s shoved inside with more laughing. Cordelia fights, and Alec hears a grunt and loud curse. She must’ve kicked one or two of them.

Alec tries to see what Sam is doing, but it’s dark and can only see the outline of his body. Alec quickly hides behind a pole when one man walks around to the driver's side door. “Shut that whore up. Asmodeus said to get her out now.”

Alec clenches his fists, preparing to swoop in and break his jaw. Instead, Sam rolls out from under the car and joins him. Alec wordlessly asks what he did, though instead of answering, Sam watches with a shockingly elated smile.

The man tries to start the van, but a metallic grinding screeches out. A weak whirring sound sputters, and then the engine chokes.

Alec doesn’t let them be confused for long. He’s up on his feet in seconds, and he goes straight to the driver’s side. The man gets out, and he swings the pipe on his head, knocking him out cold. Sam moves to the other side, having found a long wrench. He delivers his own swings, and loud shouts and grunts echo off the walls.

Using the distraction, Alec crawls into the car and through the front seats. Cordelia is struggling to break out of her confines, and she freezes when she hears Alec approach.

“Cordelia, I’m here,” he tells her quietly. Sam is still fighting strong, but there are two of them left. He needs to get back out there and help him. He quickly removes the bag off her head and unties her hands.

“Alec?” she says, awestruck and her eyes grow wet with more tears. “Oh my god, Alec…”

“You’re okay,” he reassures her. “We have to go. I have help.”

He takes her shaking arm and guide through the front where they crawl through the gap and out through the driver’s door. He needs to search for some place to hide her so he can go help Sam. He only has a knife on him.

He hears a gunshot, and his stomach drops. He walks faster around the cars, but then he freezes when he spots a familiar man walking their way.

Alec puts his arm out in front of Cordelia, who inhales sharply at the sight of Asmodeus strolling over to them like the devil himself. He tsks and waves a finger at them like they are children who need to be punished.

“You almost got away,” he mocks coldly. There’s a tense grin on his face, both taunting and humorless. He was both laughing at them and pissed at the same time. The two emotions fight in his overall demeanor. He’s probably never dreamed of being fooled by someone he sees as inferior.

There’s another gunshot and shouting. Alec doesn’t look away from Asmodeus, but he hears the sound of Sam being tackled and restrained.

Asmodeus sneers at Sam. “I thought better of you. You dare be on their side? They’re fleas on rats. They’re replaceable and weak. They’re controlled by their emotions. They’re good for nothing but to bear children and tend to our needs. They’re not leaders.”

“You’re stupid and oblivious,” Sam bites out. “He’s been scheming this entire time. He’s so beneath you in your eyes, you didn’t even see this coming.”

“And what good did this get him?” Asmodeus snarls. He storms over and punches Sam right in the cheek. Sam falls over with a shout, and there’s blood pouring out through his lips. Asmodeus grabs him by the collar and shakes him. Alec has only seen him put together - not like this - unrestrained and wild.

“This has only made it so much worse for you,” Asmodeus snarls. His eyes red with malice. He throws Sam to the ground, who crumples and folds into himself. He’s angry, though, and shooting daggers at the man above him.

Asmodeus pulls out a gun, and Alec pushes Cordelia farther behind him. He points it at Sam, and Alec intercepts, “You’ve lost, Asmodeus. You’ve lost many of your partners and allies. Ties have been severed. It’s going to take awhile to build back up. I didn’t even have to do much.”

Asmodeus glowers at him, holding tight to the gun, but he’s no longer pointing it at Sam. He has to keep it that way.

“Does it hurt?” Alec asks. Asmodeus cocks his head, surveying him with red alpha eyes who implore to tear him apart. The red flashing lights make him look like the monster he is. Alec doesn’t look away. In this terrifying moment, he thinks of Jace and what he would say. “Does it hurt knowing an omega fucked up so much of your empire? It only took me. Only one. That’s gotta sting.”

“You're cocky,” Asmodeus says coldly. “Do you even know where your son is?”

Alec refuses to take bait. He refuses to entertain the very thought of Meliorn failing him. Asmodeus aims to divert and distract. It’s his whole game. It’s how he got Alec here in the middle of the day.

He can play it too.

“Yes,” Alec says pointedly. “Do you?”

Asmodeus bares his teeth and aims to shoot, but then all the lights turn off. The room turns black as night, making it impossible to see anything. Moving on instinct, Alec moves to the left with Cordelia just in case Asmodeus shot his gun. He tells Cordelia to go hide. She tries to fight him on it, but soon gives in by the strained look on Alec’s face.

He needs to get to Sam. He sees shapes now that his eyes are slowly adjusting. He thinks he sees two men standing over Sam. Alec goes for the one on the left. He’s not the strongest, but thankfully he got back into the gym and can put up some sort of fight.

He swings at the man, knocking him to the ground. Sam is up and kicks out a leg at the other. Alec hears beeping and a different range of lights coming from the other side of the room.

Red and blue.

He hears someone scream, and he looks in time for Asmodeus to spot him and hold up his gun. There’s nothing to hide behind. Everything is too far. All he can do is dodge and run, hope it doesn’t land so he can run and find Cordelia.

The ring of the gun is loud, and Alec jerks to his right. He falls to the ground and shakes. He crawls behind a car and checks his body from head to toe. Nothing. He missed.

Then he hears a garbled call of his name. He looks and spots Sam on his back. He’s lying in a growing pool of blood, and Alec goes cold.

Alec ignores the red and blue lights. He ignores what he might’ve been thankful for right now. Cop cars and SWAT teams. He ignores it all and races to Sam’s side. Someone he viewed as the enemy just yesterday.

Sam’s brown eyes are bloodshot, and his face is badly bruised. He’s bleeding from his chest where he must’ve gotten shot. “Alec.”

“Stop talking,” Alec orders him. “We need to put pressure on it. I hear an ambulance. You’ll be okay. You hear me? You’re fine.”

There’s so much blood, and it covers his hands. He doesn’t realize he’s trembling until two more hands clasp his. Cordelia kneels in front of him, and she helps apply pressure. She shouts for an ambulance.

“You’re going to be fine,” Alec chokes out. Everything comes at him once, and his eyes burn. He’s pretty sure he’s crying, but he doesn’t give up. Cordelia leaves to find a doctor or EMT.

Sam reaches for something in his front pocket and Alec shakes his head. “Try not to move.”

“I need you to do something for me,” Sam says, ignoring him. His hand is shaking and covered with blood. He holds up a small piece of paper. It’s a picture. A boy. A young boy with brown hair.

Alec shakes his head. No. No. No.

“My brother - Dorian. I need you to find him for me,” Sam says between deep breaths. “Bring him home for me. Asmodeus took him, but I haven’t been able to find him. It’s why I’m here. It’s why I even agreed to all this. I’m sorry.”

“You’re going to find him with me,” Alec tells him urgently. He’s given up on holding back tears. “You’re going to see him. You’ll save him just like you wanted.”

Sam pinches his face. “Please, Alec. He’s an omega, and he was taken in the middle of the night. He needs help.”

“You’ll find him-“

“Promise me!” Sam growls out. His brown eyes were furious. Then the anger fades away, and he pleads again. “Please.”

“Okay,” Alec tells him. He holds Sam’s hands in his. There are cops standing over him, and an EMT is there telling him to let Sam go. “I will. I’ll find him. I promise, Sam.”

Sam can’t get out another word. He’s rushed to the ambulance, and Alec watches him, unable to feel his body. He’s breathing heavy and loud, and his hands are covered in blood.

There are plenty of lights to see, but his vision is blurry. He only sees shapes, and he hears nothing. He doesn’t even know where Asmodeus is. Where was Cordelia? He’s not sure. He doesn’t think he could stand if he tried.

Did he even thank Sam? After all he risked to help him?

People are trying to speak to him, but it’s like his brain has turned off. It’s too much. This is all too much, and he can’t process more.

Then a scent drifts into the air, standing out from all the rest. His omega locks onto it, and he’s off.

He pushed someone down, but he couldn’t care if he tried. He runs even though he can’t feel his legs. He can’t feel anything. He sees and hears nothing, but he’s honed in. He runs through people, some who shout his name and some who try to stop him. He must look insane. Maybe he went feral because they all leap out of his way.

He gets to where he needs to be. Where’s he forever meant to be. Where he should’ve been this entire time. He wraps his arms around his target and falls down. His body is drained, but he holds on desperately. He’s not breathing. He’s in his lap and shaking like a leaf.

Magnus.

“Alexander,” Magnus says, as if he’s been drowning and finally brought his head above the surface. “Alec!”

Alec has his face stuffed into his neck, and his arms around his shoulders. His legs ache where they’re also around Magnus. Magnus has one arm around his lower back while the other he has his hand in his hair. He fell with Alec when his knees gave out, and he pressed Alec impossibly closer.

“You’re okay,” Magnus says in his ear. Alec whimpers, remembering Sam and how he told him the same thing. “You’re okay. You’re safe. They have him. He’s not going to hurt anyone else.”

He doesn’t have to ask who he is. He wants to ask how he knows. He wants to ask and make sure Asmodeus won’t hurt another person again, but he can’t speak. Everytime he tries, he can only manage a whimper or whine.

He doesn’t know what’s wrong with him. He wasn’t even hurt. He wasn’t touched. He wasn’t punished or abused. He can’t help but shake though, grappling onto Magnus like a lifeline.

“Where is Max, my love?” Magnus whispers gently.

He must smell him on him. Know he’s alive. This time he manages to speak, “He’s okay. Safe.”

“Of course he is,” Magnus says. He kisses Alec’s forehead from where he can reach. Alec gasps and shivers at the tender touch. “You’re so strong, Alexander. You’re perfect. Can you stand, darling? I want to make sure you’re okay.”

Magnus helps him stand. Alec holds onto him, and there’s some part of him who refuses to let go now that he has him. There are people everywhere. More and more officers flood in and out. Alec spots Luke in the distance talking with his fellow officers and into a walkie-talkie.

“How?” Alec asks with a croak.

Magnus understands his question right away. “My father has been dodging the government for decades. The FBI has been trying to track him down forever, and they’ve failed multiple times to get him. My father has back up plans and sanctuaries all over the world. We had to gather a much larger team to make sure he couldn’t disappear as soon as we showed up.

“As soon as Andrew called me and Luke, I logged into the tracker in Max’s cow. We had the location, but this place is heavily secured, and my father is slippery, and we were not going to let him get away. We needed an airtight case, one even he can’t squeeze his way out of. We didn’t know who we could trust. My father knows everyone. He’s got eyes everywhere. We had to be careful while also keeping the circle small.”

None of which surprises Alec. Some of the men he saw in there looked like cops.

“We were having trouble with his high-tech security systems. Simon came in with a few of his friends and worked around the clock for days. You can blame him for the lights turning off at the end.”

“Did he turn on the emergency lights too? Earlier?”

Magnus hesitates and swallows. “That was your mother.” Alec stares, completely perplexed. “They were talking about shutting down the area, but at this point we knew we were running out of time. My father never stays in the same spot for long. Especially if he’s getting suspicious. Because of Camille, we had insight on my father’s plans and places of business in the area. His friends were getting arrested left and right.”

Magnus narrows his eyes, and his mouth twitches into a smile. He kisses Alec’s palms. “You did that, didn’t you, darling?”

Instead of explaining, Alec kisses him. He sighs into it, needing more and more until he realizes Magnus isn’t going anywhere.

Magnus pulls away and intertwines their fingers. He continues. “We were going to wait to get the papers filed and sent to the judge to order the electric company to shut off the grid. The FBI was going to expedite the process,” Magnus explains. “Your mother didn’t agree with the waiting part. She said she’ll be back, and thirty minutes later she called Luke and told us to go in.”

“That doesn’t sound legal,” Alec says, having nothing else to say. Too dumbstruck.

It surprises a laugh out of Magnus, though his eyes are brimmed with tears. Alec wants to kiss them away. “I don’t think anything legal has happened in the last 48 hours.”

Alec doesn’t laugh. He doesn’t think he could yet. He goes to ask another question, but then he smells something else in the air. His omega bares its teeth and snarls, but it washes away when Alec spots Max in the air.

Meliorn is holding him up like some sort of shield. There’s dirt all over him, but Max is clean. “For the love of God don’t tackle me.”

Alec takes Max with a grateful smile. He holds Max close to his chest and kisses him all over his face, and the little boy squeals and tries to push him away. He has no way to avoid it all, because then Magnus rushes over with tears in his eyes and kisses him everywhere too.

They’re quickly swarmed by everyone else. Izzy and Jace race over and hug him tightly. Then Clary, Simon, and Luke join them. It’s all too much, and he’s crying again, relieved to be with his pack again. Magnus happily takes Max so Alec can hug the others. Each of them greedy for a long, endless hug and kisses to his cheek. He’s needy for it all, feeling insatiable for the love from the pack who helped him get back to them.

Chapter Text

The world continues to spin no matter what happens. It doesn’t matter what you do or what happened to you. Time continues to pass, glossing over the terrible times in hopes it will eventually go away completely.

Alec mixes the eggs in a metal bowl in his kitchen. The house is quiet, except for the soft snores from down the hall. The clock ticks on the wall above him. Sunlight pours in and expels out the shadows from the night before. It’s still early. He’ll wake Max when breakfast is done. He’s surprised he’s not already up and running around in excitement. He was doing so last night.

No matter what Alec said or did, Max refused to go to bed and sleep. He was too amped for the next day and what it brings, and he would go on and on about how excited he was. He starts preschool today, and Alec feels like an overflowing pool. His nerves are going haywire, and he slept for two hours max until he gave up and went into the living room so he wouldn’t bother or wake Magnus.

There are so many reasons Alec didn’t want Max going to preschool. He was not only sad to see his child grow bigger like every parent out there, but he also had worries most parents are lucky not to have. He’s soon too much - been a part of too much - to not be terrified to let his son out of his sight all day. He’s supposed to leave Max alone with strangers for six hours? How is he supposed to focus on anything but the safety of his child? How is going to be able to hand over his only child to a group of strangers and trust them to still have him when Alec comes back?

He’s learned already nothing is set. Nothing can be promised.

He had so many conversations with Magnus about it. Some he could call arguments. Magnus is so sweet - so patient with him. He was the only one who knew how to handle Alec when he gets feral and protective. He’s the only one Alec allows to handle him and the one person he’ll submit to.

Magnus brought it up to Alec when he told him about Madzie starting second grade. At first, Alec didn’t say much. He smiled and moved on, thinking school was so far out of the question, and there was no reason to even talk about it.

Then Magnus brought the subject up again weeks later. Alec is thankful he did. He wouldn’t have spoken a word about it, and Magnus knew that. Magnus was always challenging him in the best ways. At the end of the day, he needs to be given a challenge. He needs a slight push or shove into the right direction. Not only Magnus but his siblings brought up Max’s education. Maia also mentioned it during a dinner out.

In the beginning, Alec refused to think about it. He refused to think about Max and giving him over to strangers for hours a day. He learned already how dangerous it can be. What if it happened again? What if Max was taken again? What if somehow Asmodeus was still out there? What if someone in Asmodeus’s circle hunted them down and stole his son from him?

The chances are slim. Asmodeus is in prison. He can’t harm him from there. He has many partners, though Luke and his team worked night and day for a year to identify and find them all. Alec helped them do it. He had a good portion of Asmodeus’s files on that USB he gave Ragnor. He downloaded everything he could under a small time frame. He also wrote notes about everything and everyone he met. He wrote and memorized schedules and locations, determined to do as much damage as he could from under their noses. He risked so much to make it all happen. Meliorn setting off the alarm in a floor only Asmodeus had clearance to. It took bribery and promises for Meliorn to help him, but he knew it would be worth it. Protecting Max and Magnus was his top priority. His only goal was getting out of there and getting back to Magnus.

The first week after reuniting, Alec spent every second attached to Magnus. His face in his neck and his arms around him. He held the alpha so close that they breathed the same air, and neither one could so much as swallow without the other one knowing about it. His skin was sensitive, and he rubbed his face and nose along the length of Magnus’s neck. His scent was strongest here, and he needed to smell like him. He needed it so bad he could cry. He didn’t want to smell like anything but cinnamon. He wanted to fade into nothing and be imperceptible to the world.

Magnus held on just as tightly. He wrapped his body around him, as if wanting to hide Alec from the rest of the world. Alec had no problem with that, happy to live in their small world forever.

Max saved them, pulled them back into the real world. Alec did his best to hide the dire situation they were in from him. He had backups after backups to keep him safe, whether it involved Alec there or not. If Alec didn’t make it out, Max certainly would.

He protected Max and while Max did join their snuggling for the first two days in their nest, happy to be snuggled between Alec and Max, he made it known he didn’t want to be there anymore. He wanted to play and run around. The thought of letting anyone come near their home made Alec want to bare his teeth and snarl, but he couldn’t seclude Max from the world. He was only a child, and he didn’t understand why Mama wanted to isolate in their room and be in Magnus’s arms forever. Alec had to put Max first, and both he and Magnus decided to let Jace, Izzy, and Clary come by to see Max. Of course the moment they walked in, Alec pulled them into a tight hug, and they laid together in Magnus’s living room on top of a mountain of blankets and pillows. Both Alec and Max were thrilled to be with their pack again.

Progress was slow, but soon enough Alec started school again. He stuck to online courses until he was comfortable enough to leave Max with his siblings in order to go. Clary surprised him with a watch for Max. The watch worked as a GPS tracker too, and it made Alec feel better with leaving him.

Then Alec started work again. As soon as he walked into Hunter’s Moon, Lily ambushed him with a hug. Maia gave him a sheepish grin, and she apologized for Lily. By then, Alec was not so on edge or anxious, and he quickly recovered and gave them both hugs. Raphael showed gratitude in his own way with a subtle smile and nod, and really that’s all Alec needed to believe he had been worried for him too.

He moved on from Hunter’s Moon rather quickly, and he went to work at Jace’s shop. Lily very abruptly told him she couldn’t get rid of her that easily, and Alec choked on his drink and promised to come visit her when he has the time. He invited them to the shop, where Lily very quickly befriended Helen and Aline. Maia and Jace got along well, and even Raphael showed up and made friends with Izzy and Simon. Though, Raphael would never admit it.

It was still so hard to believe everything was going back to where it was. There were times when Alec was so anxious and nervous when walking alone or being home alone with Max. He would forget how to breathe, and his heart raced in his ears. His eyes glued to the dark corners of the apartment or over his shoulder. He felt trapped again, and Those times he considered getting into therapy to help get through this. He was still on assistance programs, and he was worried about therapy costing too much. Though, Catarina told him to let her know, and she could get someone for him at the drop of a hat.

Also, his mother always looked down on therapy. However, his mother has made changes to herself the past couple of years. He doesn’t think his younger self would be able to recognize her.

His life has changed a lot. Max is four now, and they live with Magnus. Magnus brought him to his home after saving him, and Alec never left. He didn’t look back at his old apartment, and he told Grant’s parents to sell it to someone else who may need it. They cried when they heard he was okay. They sobbed over a very confused Max, and Alec left with tons of homemade meals and affectionate words. He promised he would visit them more, and he should make it a point to do so this coming weekend. They’ll want to hear about Max’s first week of preschool.

The weight of strong, warm arms slide around his sides. Alec knows a part of him will always know where Magnus is. Like the planets revolve around the sun, he revolves around his mate. In a crowded room or building, he can just as easily hone in on him, find him within seconds and stalk over to him like a lion with its prey. Follow the aroma of cinnamon rolls and ignore everything else.

Mate.

Soft lips press against his neck. The kiss is both tender and firm like a mark of possession. It sends warm, soothing waves down Alec’s spine and calms his anxious thoughts. The scent of cinnamon is strong, circling around him and leaving him in a haze. He shuts his eyes and tilts his neck, wordlessly yearning for more. Magnus obliges, always doing as Alec asks. He can’t remember one time Magnus said no to him. He’s both the air in his lungs and the glue holding him together. Magnus wouldn’t hurt him or let him drift away.

Kisses lead upwards to the rough skin of his jaw and cheek. He has a five o'clock shadow, and Magnus once told him how handsome he looks like this. Alec’s omega had preened, craving to attract his alpha in every way he can.

Lips pull back to produce sharp teeth and they sink into the permanent bite mark on his shoulder. He didn’t realize Magnus pulled his collar down, but he’s certainly not going to stop him. He loves when Magnus lavishes the bite mark, reminding them both they are each other’s. If Magnus were to unbutton his shirt, he would see the mark Alec left on him. Magnus insisted he bite into the skin over his heart because for him there is no better place. For three days straight, Magnus wore buttoned shirts with the first three unbuttoned. Proudly showing off the bite like a trophy.

Mate.

They aren’t married, but it was only a matter of time. They talked about it for hours before Alec’s heat. They had lived together for two years now, and Alec knew they were going to be together forever. He knew Magnus was going to propose to him very soon, but Alec took this milestone into his own hands. He asked Magnus if he wanted to exchange mating bites. He must have rambled over his own words for fifteen minutes. When he finally met Magnus’s eye, he saw the alpha was staring at him, speechless and mouth gaped. Alec stared right back, certain of his stupidity and recklessness. It was routine to exchange mating bites on the night of the wedding. Older generations would be scandalized, but Alec has long stopped caring what others thought of him. All he knew was that he wanted Magnus forever. He was meant to be with him, and he’s been imaging Magnus’s sharp teeth in his neck for months. He would stare in the mirror and imagine his bite in his pale skin. No one could miss it.

Then, Magnus had pulled him in, kissing him with tears flowing down his face. He was smiling wide enough to make his cheeks ache. They decided to do it during Alec’s next heat. It wouldn’t hurt so bad since Alec would be too heavily dosed on endorphins and frankly too horny to register anything but pleasure. The same goes for Magnus with his rut lining up perfectly now with Alec’s heat. Both were too blissed out to feel anything but a small tinge of pain. Magnus bit him first near the end of his heat. Alec had stretched like a cat with a pleased smile on his face. His gold omega eyes shone and moderately invitingly. Unbeknownst to Magnus, though, because when he leaned in to check on the wound, Alec shoved him away and flipped them elegantly. He held a shocked Magnus down with both hands and sunk back down on his cock and fucked him until Magnus popped his knot, and he sunk his teeth into Magnus’s chest.

Mate. Mate. Mate.

Magnus is going to propose to him one of these days. Alec has no problem being the one to propose. It was modern times, and Alec has long since gained the courage and stubbornness to do it himself. He can be relentless when he wants something bad enough, and he wants Magnus to be his completely - legally too.

He would’ve done it by now, but Izzy gets a twinkle in her eye when he mentions doing it. Then Jace joked about an alpha being the one to propose and not the omega. That had earned him a kick to his chair from Izzy, and Alec raising a brow at Jace who fell to the ground. Clary got flustered the other day, and Alec has a feeling they know something he doesn’t.

“I love you,” Magnus whispers into his ear, causing him to shiver.

Alec turns to face him and pulls him in close. “I love you too.” He kisses him because Magnus is never close enough to him.

Magnus goes and retrieves Max after starting the espresso machine. He sets Max up in his toddler seat, and he helps feed him fruit and eggs while Alec sits pressed into his side and his head on his shoulder.

Alec stares at the cup of coffee in front of him, wondering how one single cup of coffee feels so much like home. It makes him feel human and normal.

They’re getting ready to leave when Magnus stops him with a grin. “You look handsome, darling.”

Alec blushes and fixes his shirt. It was his first day working with Luke, and he wanted to dress to impress. He is determined to make sure Luke doesn’t regret hiring him straight after finishing school. Once Alec went back to school, his views and goals had shifted. He knew immediately he wanted to help people, and he was going to do something important with his focus in analytics. He finished his degree in data analysis with a minor in criminology. He sharpened his skills in risk assessment and critical thinking. He went on to look into internships, but Clary talked to Luke, who was happy to hire him on the crime analyst team. It was a hell of a start, and it was going to help Alec find out what he truly wants to do.

Magnus shared his worries with him. He didn’t want Alec to put himself in difficult situations, especially after everything he went through. He understood Alec’s need to help others who dealt with much worse but similar things, but he didn’t want Alec to suffer in the process.

“You’ll blow up the very ground you stand on to make something right,” Magnus said with strong conviction. Alec knew he referred to his sleepless nights and working himself to death trying to take care of Max. How he sometimes blamed himself for being unable to afford Max’s favorite foods. He would used to come into class with clothes covered in baby drool and puke but at least Max was clean and happy. When he was foolish and thought he could try to pay Grant’s parents back for everything, but then soon found out it wasn’t wanted or possible.

Alec promised him it wasn’t anything like that. He stated this would help him. Helping others helps him, and he has Magnus to rely on. He has Magnus to come home to - their little family. He works hard for them and their future, and he needed to do this.

They drop Max off at his preschool. It was a good preschool in the middle of the city. Luke checked on everyone who works there. Alec made sure Max’s watch wouldn’t come off. Other precautions were done to make sure Max was perfectly safe here. Nonetheless, Alec didn’t want to let go of him. Max was overjoyed seeing the other kids, and he started complaining about wanting to go. It hurt Alec’s heart to see him run off away from him as if he didn’t matter, but he can’t let himself think that way. He was a kid and ecstatic to learn about the world. Alec has protected him and given him all his love. He has to let Max go in order for the both of them to learn what kind of person Max was.

Magnus kisses Alec on the cheek and grasps his hand to guide him out. “Have I ever told you how perfect you are? How you raised such a wonderful boy?”

Alec laughs and wipes at his wet cheek. “No, you haven’t. You’ve never told me that,” he jokes lightly.

Magnus drops him off at the police department. Alec knows he should get a car of his own, but he and Magnus’s schedule lines up enough to have no need for one. He may look into one once he saves enough money.

Luke greets him at the door with a kind smile. Alec had once spent every day with Luke. Luke and him worked together for months trying to pinpoint as many people who worked with or under Asmodeus. They had also worked tirelessly to create the best case they could in order to prevent Asmodeus from ever getting out of prison. They had a tight clear-cut case, but Asmodeus’s trial still took a year and a half to finish and have a decision made.

There were many eyewitnesses including Alec, Cordelia, Sam, and Meliorn. Magnus also spoke about his own time with his father and as a character witness. Cordelia was very thin and frail looking at the beginning, but her confidence and strength slowly sweeped in as time passed. Alec met her lover, James, and a friend of theirs, Matthew. All three were close, and it was plainly obvious how much the two men cared for Cordelia and making sure she felt safe and comfortable.

It was a shock to see Sam again. He was alive and well, but he did have some bad bruises all over him. His brown eyes were sunk in, and he lost weight while he was in the hospital and during his recovery. A younger boy sat next to him, and they held hands. The boy must be Dorian. He had dark hair and bright blue eyes. His eyes were full of ghosts, but he was there for his brother when he got up to the stand. Sam had made a deal and told the jury everything he knew and in exchange he got a few months in prison and then put on parole.

Meliorn was in rough shape, but then he got color in his eyes and skin as time went along. He struggled with going cold turkey, and he had to join a rehab center. He came back looking much better, but he did have two relapses before finally going clean. He’s still an addict and probably will need to go to meetings, but he looks better every day. At one point, he made eye contact with Izzy, who gave him a worried look. Something else mixed with her worry, but then she turned away and never looked back again. She squeezed Simon’s hand hard.

It’s a horrendously long process. Magnus and Alec were there for each other but for entirely different reasons. Magnus and his grief and issues with his father who used him, and Alec with his trauma. Either way, they both showed up to each trial, ready to speak against him as required. Asmodeus had millions and could afford a good lawyer, but Alec, Luke, Luke’s team, and Magnus worked hard to create a good solid case.

Maryse had been there too. Luke told Alec that Maryse broke many rules when she was working to get her son back. He told him she was relentless and cold as a lawyer, but she was an unstoppable force. It had been Izzy who told her what happened to Alec, and she showed up guns blazing at the police department. She argued robotically like it was any one of her clients until time went on, and she grew more desperate and emotional. She almost yelled at the mayor and judges to get things moving faster with warrants. She made several paralegals and receptionists cry.

The day the lights went out, she had falsely claimed to be acting on behalf of the mayor and law enforcement to convince the electric company to comply. Luke tried to convince her not to, but she nearly ripped his head off. Poor Simon had been there, sweating profusely trying to hack into Asmodeus’s security system. She loomed over him like the devil.

“Get my son out of there!”

“Mom!” Izzy cried, defending Simon with her own flushed and tear-filled eyes. “You’re only making it worse. This is not helping.”

Maryse jutted her chin and clicked her tongue. “Fine. I’ll find my own way.”

And she certainly did.

Obviously Maryse could not be any part of the trial due to bias and breaking laws, and Alec does not know what consequences she faced lying like that. He has no idea if anyone even knows what she did except for him, Magnus, Luke, and everyone else who worked on retrieving him. She hadn’t said and he hadn’t asked. He did let her come over to visit, and she told him she loves him. He’s her son, and she will always love him. Alec was taken back when she apologized and a stray tear fell down her cheek.

Alec can’t forgive her yet, but he can work up to it.

He works with Luke for months, learning and training his mind to conquer his future. He knew going in that things may be tough, and he may face similar horrors on paper or in person. It is painful to read about people going through explicitly terrible things. He might not have been sold, drugged, or anything like it, but the threat still hung over him every day and night. He was still put in the throne room and stared at and touched by men who paid for it. Magnus told him so when Alec was discrediting his bravery and minimizing what he went through. Magnus was right - he did go through hell. He made it out, and now he can protect others from experiencing what he did.

He dives headfirst into the work, and then six months go by and he’s a respectable part of the team. Luke works closely with him on all cases, and Luke told him he’s a bright kid with an even brighter future.

Six months in and Magnus drags him out of the office for a short vacation. It was summertime, and Magnus wanted to bring Max to the beach. They would go to Coney Island for the weekend. Magnus picked it when he was listing different places, and then Alec informed him he’s never been. Maryse was not a vacation type of parent. If they went anywhere, it was a boring old city with nothing for children to do. Magnus was appalled and immediately booked them a hotel.

They are driving around Brooklyn when Alec turns to Magnus. “Do not propose to me anywhere cheesy.” Magnus laughs and Alec says more sternly. “I’m serious. Jace and Izzy will joke about it for years.”

“You’re being a little dramatic, darling,” Magnus hums and intertwines their fingers. Alec raises a brow and Magnus grins and pulls out his phone. “Fine.”

“What are you doing?”

“Cancelling the doves.”

Alec groans.

They pile into the hotel after a six hour road trip. Alec is unpacking their toiletries when Magnus races in, breathing hard. “I lost something. I can’t find it!”

Instantly on alert, Alec stops what he’s doing. “What did you lose?”

“This small black box,” Magnus says. He forms a shape with his hands. “It’s velvet and clicks shut.”

Alec glares and folds his arms while a laughing Magnus picks up Max and spins them around the room. Max’s giggles flood the room.

They go to a relaxing dinner and show for the first night. Alec is cutting up Max’s chicken when Magnus leans in. “What beautiful fingers you have, Alexander.” Alec gives him a flat look, annoyed when his cheeks betray him and warm. Magnus leans in farther and his eyes flicker down to Alec’s hands. “All I want to do is decorate them.”

Alec huffs and turns to Max. “Your daddy is infuriating.”

Max laughs, and his eyes light up when a group of colorful women dressed as mermaids walk in. “Mermaids! Are we going to go to the mermaid parade, Mama?”

“Of course we are, baby,” Alec tells him sweetly.

The next day they wake up early to get dressed. Magnus goes all out in bright colors and heavy makeup. His lips are a dark red, and he’s wearing false eyelashes. His eyeshadow is a vibrant green with glitter everywhere. He must have done something different because there is a pattern on the side of his face. It looks like a net a mermaid may get caught in. He wears a purple buttoned up shirt with the first two buttons undone and designer pants.

He looks beautiful. The very sight of him steals the air from his lungs. Alec wants to touch and kiss and praise. Instead he looks his full, branding the look into his memory. His alpha is gorgeous. The most beautiful man he’s ever seen. He wants to lick and kiss and see how far down the makeup gets…

“Mama! I’m a merman!” Max shouts in excitement and runs over. He’s also dressed with colorful makeup. He forgot Magnus asked to help dress him up. Magnus went all out. There’s blue eyeshadow around his wide hazel eyes, and he wears a crown of starfish and pearls around his head. He wears a simple shirt with fish and mermaids.

“Yes, you are!” Alec praises and pulls him close to kiss all over his face. Max shrieks and tries to pull away.

The mermaid parade is extravagant and fun, and Max has an amazing time. He takes so many pictures with the mermaids and asks them loads of questions. They delight in the attention, happy to take pictures and hand out stickers.

“What if a merman proposed to you?” Magnus whispers later as they walk around.

Alec’s cheeks go pink again. The very thought of Magnus dressed as a beautiful mermaid and proposing to him makes him fidgety and annoyingly shy. His heart goes crazy, beating against his chest. However, there has to be thousands of people here, and he did not want all of them as witnesses.

Later, they go to Luna Park. Magnus and Alec have to take turns going on rides. Alec doesn't mind. He’s not the biggest fan of amusement parks anyway, and he’s more than happy to watch Max and listen to the little one point out everything and everyone. There are plenty of rides for Max, and his cries of laughter and joy fill Alec with waves of happiness.

There’s one time when he got off one of the rides and went to find Magnus and Max. He saw them ahead, and Magnus was showing Max something. Magnus was kneeling down, and Max stood against him with one hand clinging to the alpha’s shirt. Their focus was intense, and Alec was not too sure what they were doing. It didn’t matter. His body was going warm again, and he stood there in a daze trying to understand what his body was telling him.

In his head, a little girl stands between Max and Magnus. A little girl with dark wavy hair and bronze skin. She has a toothless smile and thick eyebrows above light brown eyes - the color of coffee and caramel. Features stolen from them both. She is confident and strong, and she is not afraid to step on toes. There is nothing to be scared of because her parents will take care of her.

Alec pushes the vision away, intent on not thinking about things like that. He has no time to think about him and Magnus having children. They are not even married. Though, when has that ever mattered?

Alec walks over on weak legs and joins them. As if knowing exactly what Alec is thinking, Magnus grins at him suggestively and kisses him hard. Alec smiles into it, and his omega is more than excited to know their alpha is having the same thoughts and dreams.

They are on the ferris wheel when Magnus kneels down. Horrified, Alec says, “Magnus, no-”

“I am lacing my shoes,” Magnus interrupts with a mischievous smile. Alec momentarily thinks about pushing him down but holds back.

Magnus continues to mess with him. At dinner, he asks Alec if he likes banners and to be careful when drinking his cider just in case there’s a ring in it. The next day they go to the aquarium, and Magnus tells Alec about a time one of his friends proposed in front of the sea lion exhibit. Afterwards, they go to the art walls at Coney Island. There they find numerous ‘Will You Marry Me’ signs and each time Magnus will wink and smile at a blushing Alec.

They decide to go to the beach, and Alec grabs their bag full of beach tools and buckets. They walk there all holding hands, and they find a somewhat secluded spot in the shade far down. Magnus sets up the towels while Alec puts sunscreen on Max. Max dashes off the moment he’s done, and he joins another boy a little ways down holding his pail and shovel.

Magnus’s eyes shine in mischief. “Will you help me put on sunscreen?”

Alec bites his lip and shakes his head in fake annoyance. Honestly, he doesn’t really mind. He’ll never decline a chance to touch Magnus all over. This way he can tease his alpha with them both knowing they are still in public. Eyes are all over, and they still have to drive all the way home. It’ll not be until tomorrow when they can get their hands on each other and satisfy the craving they have for each other.

Alec enjoys taking his time. He rubs at Magnus’s shoulders and neck, and he ignores the heated look Magnus gives him. Every time he digs his fingers into muscle, he gets a low groan in response. He places a gentle kiss to Magnus’s shoulder, and his eyes cast down to see a very clear bulge in the front of his swim trunks. He shoots him a conniving smile.

“You’re so mean to me, Alexander,” Magnus sighs dramatically. “So cruel.”

Alec chuckles and gives him the sunscreen to apply on him. Magnus teases as much as he does. Alec is left panting heavily by the time Magnus is done, and he’s sitting between his legs. His back to Magnus’s chest. He’s safe and comfortable here, and he closes his eyes and enjoys the cool wind.

Magnus peppers kisses from his jaw down his neck and across his shoulders. They are soft and quick like butterfly kisses, and he’s more relaxed than he’s been in a very long time. The salty scent of the ocean is strong, and he hears the waves and his Max playing with two boys and a girl closeby.

“You should send some pictures to Izzy,” Magnus tells him, suddenly breaking the calm silence.

Alec agrees and pulls out his phone. Izzy promised they wouldn’t bother them, but he knows she would adore any pictures he sends her. He scans the pictures. There are some from the car ride. Max is kicking and crying in the backseat. Max sits in the middle of the hotel bed under the covers. Max in his seat with crumbs all over his face and potatoes on his fingers. There are tons from the mermaid parade, including all three of them standing in front of floats and dancing merpeople.

There are some of them at Luna Park. Max playing games, the three of them on the ferris wheel, one of Alec looking lovingly down at Max and Magnus when they got on the carousel, and then tons of animals and fish from the aquarium.

Then there’s one photo he doesn’t expect. He doesn’t remember taking it or knowing of it. He’s holding a crying Max. Max was crying and screaming because he wanted an elephant toy but could not have it because they didn’t win the arcade game. Max had been very upset, and Alec spent fifteen minutes trying to console him. Magnus disappeared at the time, probably for the restroom.

Except in this photo, all three of them are in it. Alec is holding Max, who finally stopped crying and ended up falling asleep in his arms. That was when Alec said they needed to go back to the hotel for Max to take his nap. He was tired himself, and he wanted to sit and relax in the hotel. At the time, he did not know Magnus was close by. Extremely close by.

He was kneeling a short distance behind them. From Alec’s angle, there was no way of seeing him then. He was holding out a ring with both hands with an expression of plain adoration on his face.

Alec stares, utterly speechless. Magnus reaches out and takes his phone to set on the sand beside them. His other hand comes around him and holds out a ring. Alec stares speechless and mind racing. The ring is silver with black circles overlapping each other in the center. It’s simple and elegant, and it gleams in the sunlight. It is light but also carries every ounce of love Magnus has for him. He spots something, and he tilts the ring to read.

Aku cinta kamu.

He knows what it means. Magnus has told him many times, whispered between them in their nest.

I love you.

There’s a kiss to his ear, but it’s quick and fleeting, as if Magnus was nervous. “I hope it’s not too cheesy, my darling.”

He hears the anxiety in those words, and he turns around to look at him. Magnus’s face is painted with vulnerability and such raw emotion. It hurts Alec to see him like this. Does he not know how precious he is to him? What little he would do for him?

“I love you,” Alec tells him. His body sings with the three words, colliding and growing into one final one like a volcano eruption. “Yes.”

Alec has no idea how they got home after that. Everything is a blur. He does know they kissed for a long time on that beach. They kissed and lavished each other until Max grew bored and found them. The persisting four year old squirms between their laughing bodies with a pout. Alec can’t see through his tears to see his face clearly.

Alec doesn’t look away from Magnus - not once. He watches him, unable to believe this incredible person is his. He can call him his in every way. The man who uplifts him and makes him feel special. He highlights Alec’s strengths and makes him believe he is unstoppable. He provides the safety and love Alec craves, healing the dark pieces of himself that have been haunting him for years. His mate - his incredible, perfect, beautiful mate.

They get married in April of next year. 274 days from when Magnus asked him to marry him on the beach. It’s a small wedding and completely perfect in every way. The wedding takes place in a sunlit garden surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees. The air is scented by blooming flowers, and the golden light of late afternoon bathes everything in a warm glow.

Deep navy blue and rich gold take precedence over the small space. The aisle is lined with golden lanterns and blue hydrangeas, which lead to a floral arch covered in golden sunflowers and ivy. Small round tables are draped in navy blue linens with gold sequin runners down the center. Each table has a low centerpiece of golden marigolds and blue delphiniums. All flowers chosen by Izzy and Clary.

Strings of fairy lights are draped overhead, twinkling like stars as the sun sets after the ceremony. Gold lanterns hang from tree branches, casting a warm glow over the couple and their guests. They shine over both Magnus and Alec as they walk down the aisle. Magnus walks with Catarina, and they walk over the petals Madzie and Max throw onto the silk rug. Madzie has a purple dress and Max wears a suit for his size. Alec and Izzy follow close behind. Jace and Ragnor meet them at the altar.

They pass their families and friends. Clary smiles at them both wide and proud. Simon is next to her holding her hand. Lily, Maia, Raphael, Luke, Grant’s parents, Andrew, and Cordelia and her lover and friend sit behind the family members. Sam and his brother sit on the other side, and Maryse next to him. Alec caught a smile on her face, small and subtle like all her smiles are. Nothing is fixed between them, but their relationship is healing.

Alec and Magnus don’t take their eyes off each other. All Alec wants to do is pull him in close and never let go of him. All his love is clear on his face, and the world around him fades away because Magnus is his entire world.

They repeat the wedding vows. They already exchanged their personal vows the night prior in the safety of their room. Both of them teary eyed and voice shaking.

They kiss when they’re told, and Alec wants this very moment to freeze. He wants to live this moment over and over. His heart is full, and his eyes are wet. He’s full of pride and excitement, and he doesn’t know what to do with his hands other than to hold onto Magnus’s. He doesn’t let go of him for the rest of the evening, except for when Max gets jealous and wants affection for himself.

Alec has no idea what he’s done to get to this moment. This wonderfully beautiful moment he would do anything to live forever. All his favorite people are here. His family. His pack. Everyone is smiling and dancing. He’s wanted this since he knew what love was. He’s had this goal in mind, not having any idea how to get it. He knew heartbreak and loneliness. He knew empty rooms and cold expressions. He dealt with it the best he could, and he worked hard up to this very day when the man he loves is now thoroughly his.

Magnus is his, and he’s never letting him go. All he needs is Max and Magnus. If he has them, he’s unstoppable without any worry of being alone again.

His heart is full and perfectly safe with Magnus.