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Chapter Text

Alec Lightwood was known amongst the Shadowhunters as their best up-and-coming soldier. He was agile, intelligent and being primed for taking over as Head of the New York Institute when his parents relocated back to Alicante.

However, within himself, he felt completely lost in the world that surrounded him. He knew he could fight, he knew political missions would come to him with ease, but Alec wasn’t sure how to handle the everyday conversations, the social engagements, talking to girls. He had always admired his brother, Jace, for his ability to talk to anyone with ease, no matter the setting or their status, or their gender, for that matter.

As he got himself ready for the day, he shuddered at the thought, he was so terrible at interacting with the opposite sex. Yet he put the expectation on himself that he should be engaged, and soon, or else he would fall behind. How could he possibly get engaged if he couldn’t hold a normal conversation? Never mind a flirty one.

Alec walked down the halls of the institute with confidence, his shoulders back, steadfast in their position, his hands grasped firmly behind his back and a facial expression of complete neutrality. This was his comfort zone. He approached the main control panel where his mother, Maryse Lightwood stood briefing a team for the day ahead. Alec hung back and observed, nodding along as she spoke, always vastly impressed by her stoicism and her command of a room.

When the other Shadowhunters dispersed, Alec stepped forward, “You wanted to see me first thing, Mom?”

She turned and beamed at him, “There’s my boy” she said, patting his upper arms with both hands, “It’s a big day today, we have Lydia Branwell joining the institute. You remember her don’t you? We stayed at their manor when we visited Alicante over the summers”

Alec nodded, “Yes absolutely. Me and Lydia have stayed in touch over the years”

Maryse responded with a facial expression that Alec couldn’t read, he frowned slightly, “I hope that is okay” he added, trying to remedy whatever error he had made.

“More than okay” she said, a smile dancing on her lips, “We want you to be Lydia’s host while she gets settled in”

“Lydia? As in Lydia Branwell?” Jace cut in, making Alec jump and turn to see his brother, and parabatai, Jace Wayland stood next to him.

“Yes” Maryse and Alec chorused, making Jace laugh, he always brought levity to every conversation, even if it wasn’t required.

“She’s hot” Jace quipped, earning a disapproving look from Maryse and a confused tight lipped smile from Alec.

Was she hot? Alec wondered, he remembered her soft features, her dark brown eyes that used to follow him around the room as he paced and spoke of the future. Lydia’s gentle smile, always reassuring and beautiful, making him feel a warm flutter in his heart, giving him the notion that he could do anything. He hadn’t seen her for a few years now, and he wondered how much she had changed. Alec didn’t have to wait long to find out however, as the Institute’s portal opened, and an older version of his childhood friend strutted into the main control room. Her eyes met his immediately.

“Oh my gosh! Alec, it’s been so long” she squealed and threw her arms around his neck, pulling him into a vice-like hug.

He pulled back, grinning at her, “Lydia, you look great. How have you been?”

They parted fully and looked at each other, Alec took a moment to take in Lydia’s new appearance.

Her lips had gotten fuller, her eyes seemed more serious but full of wonder and excitement at her first institute role. She was in a plain white blouse that was tucked into a tight brown pencil skirt, with matching brown heels. He could now possibly see why Jace thought she was hot.

“I’m great, I can’t believe I’m here!” Lydia proclaimed, the excitement buzzing around her.

Alec chuckled softly, “Great to hear, let me give you a tour once you’ve said hello to the others”

He left Lydia to say her hellos to Maryse and Jace, when Isabelle walked in, grinning, “Well look what the portal dragged in, by the angel!” She shouted.

Maryse shushed her, but couldn’t fight the smile at having more of the younger generation of Shadowhunters together again. Isabelle and Lydia hugged, then Isabelle hooked her arm into Lydia’s, “I must give you a tour”

“Oh, Alec was going to” Lydia said, a smaller voice now, just as Alec hissed, “Izzy that’s my assignment”

“He can come too” Isabelle said, hooking her other arm through Alec’s and dragging them both out of the main control room.

As Isabelle led them into the training room, Lydia couldn’t wipe the smile off of her face, “It’s so good to be assigned to an institute where I know people, this is fantastic” she said.

Alec smiled down at her and while Isabelle let go to grab weapons to show Lydia, Lydia slid her arm through his. She squeezed Alec’s arm, he patted her arm lightly with his spare hand.

The three of them went over the weapons used at the New York Institute and helped Lydia choose a place for her own weaponry that she had transported from Idris.

After an hour of the trio training together, Isabelle sighed and checked the time, “I’ve got to run, but you enjoy the rest of the tour and I’ll see you later?” She offered to Lydia. They exchanged a brief hug before Izzy dashed off through the doors.

They ate lunch and then finished the tour by themselves while Isabelle had to go on mission, and he showed Lydia to her room, informing her that once she was settled, dinner would be available in the canteen.

Alec walked himself back to his own room, and when he pushed his door open, Isabelle was sat on the bed waiting for him, “Iz? All okay?” He asked, a frown knitting his eyebrows together.

“Yes!” She said, bounding up off the bed, Alec shut the door closed and raised his eyebrows at his sister, silent until she continued, “I think Lydia likes you, you know?” with a smirk.

“Really?” Alec asked, surprised.

“Absolutely, how do you feel?” Isabelle asked, quirking an eyebrow at him and pulling him down on the bed to have a seat.

“I’ve always liked her” Alec pointed out, they’d always got on well and their communications were also the perfect blend of lighthearted jokes and in-depth discussions of Clave politics, both historical and present day.

“Maybe you should spend some dedicated time with her then” Isabelle offered, he could tell she was plotting but he almost didn’t care. It was a good idea.

“I think I will, I think our parents would be approving of that. I’m her host while she gets used to the institute, so it gives me the perfect excuse to be around her more”

Izzy grinned at Alec’s words, nodding enthusiastically, “That’s perfect! I’ll help where I can, whatever you need big bro”

They embraced and Alec stroked her hair gently, “You’re the best, Iz”

She returned the gesture and looked at him, “For a while there I wasn’t sure if you were interested in dating or marriage. Whenever me and Jace went on dates you were excited for us but never seemed envious, you never have gone on dates on your own. I thought you might be single and running the institute”

“That would go against my duty as a Shadowhunter” Alec responded with a scowl, “You know I wouldn’t let the Lightwood name be frittered away by my lack of commitment”

Isabelle laughed, “Alec, you’re so funny. Talk about a lack of a romantic streak, we need to get you in a more romantic mindset before you start trying to woo Lydia”

“Woo?” Alec asked, disenfranchised by the word.

“Yes, woo. You will be wooing this girl” Izzy said, slapping her brother’s arm.

He laughed at her, clutching at his arm. She gave a small chuckle in response, “Okay, well now that is settled, I’m off to bed” she patted his shoulder and stood from the bed, “Night, Alec”

“Night, Iz” he chimed, waving her off.

He lay back on his bed, not fully fitting on, his legs left dangling off with the awkward angle. Alec couldn’t help but wonder how he could obtain a romantic streak, and did he need one? Weren’t Shadowhunters known for choosing favourable partnerships, as opposed to wasting time on emotion and romance. Didn’t an over examination or display of emotions make you weaker?

***

Alec had spent a few weeks with Lydia, they had been on countless missions together, and had focused on strategy planning when they weren’t out on the streets of New York.

Alec and Lydia had discovered a small French restaurant near the institute that they frequented a couple of times a week now, their bond deepening. Lydia had kissed him once, it had taken him aback but after a moment he had kissed her back.

Lydia was the ideal marriage candidate: she came from a good family with historical heroism, she was undoubtedly beautiful and his family really liked her. Over his few weeks getting to know Lydia, she had expressed a great interest in politics and one day running her own institute, and Alec couldn’t help but feel an excitement at their aligning of views.

He had gone to Isabelle, a nervousness spiking over his body, “Izzy?” He called as he pushed her bedroom door open.

“Hey big bro, what’s going on?”

He closed the door softly behind him, and he smiled awkwardly, a lopsided expression he couldn’t hide, “I wondered what you would think, if I said I was considering proposing to Lydia” he ventured.

Isabelle gasped excessively and dove on her brother, wrapping him in a big hug, “I think that would be wonderful, I think you should, it would be so great” she was bouncing on the spot in front of him, “When?”

Alec paused, “I was thinking tonight. I was going to grab take out from the restaurant, and then take her to the greenhouse for a more private dinner. You know I can’t do a big show of it”

Isabelle nodded, “Of course! What a wonderful idea!”

Alec left Isabelle practically leaping with joy, and spent the rest of day trying to pass the time until he was proposing. He didn’t think he had ever checked the time on his phone quite so much as he was doing today.

After a painstakingly long day, he had collected their favourite dishes from the restaurant and laid them out on the small table in the greenhouse. He had lit the space with fairy lights that Isabelle had supplied him with, he took a deep breath, smoothing the creases in his dark green button-up. He’d selected his nicest black jeans, and his cleanest boots, in hopes that he looked good enough for a proposal. Given he’d never done this before, he wasn’t sure what was appropriate.

Lydia’s footsteps caught his attention and he willed his shaking breath to calm. “Alec?” she called.

“Here, Lydia” he shouted back, getting down on one knee ready for her to come through to the open space.

She walked in and gasped, her hands shooting up to her mouth in surprised, “oh wow”

“Lydia, we’ve been friends for so long, we spent our summers together, we have kept in contact all this time, and these past few weeks have solidified to me what a great union this would be. I want to head up the New York Institute with you. I want to spend our days together strategising and our evenings eating French food. I want you to be a part of my family, who already love you so dearly. So, Lydia Branwell, will you adorn the marital runes with me, and be my wife?”

Lydia couldn’t hold back the grin that widened on her face and she flung herself at Alec, her hands pawing at his face as she kissed him fiercely. He gulped down his shock and kissed her back, trying to match the pace she was setting. Finally, she pulled back, “Yes, Alec! Absolutely I will!”

He smiled at her and patted her arm gently, stroking in up and down motions, “I’m so happy”. A lump stuck in his throat as he spoke, and he wondered if he was overcome with the emotions of being engaged.

Alec and Lydia spent the rest of their night at the small bistro table, eating the takeout food and chatting eagerly about wedding plans. He felt overwhelmed in the face of the discussions, but he knew that with time his nerves would settle, and he would ease his mind to the marriage he and Lydia would enter into.

***

The next day they shared their news with Jace and Isabelle first over breakfast, they had both been excited for them, with big hugs and smiles spreading on their faces. However, Alec could sense something within Jace, a discomfort, the parabatai bond between them strumming slightly with a feeling of restlessness. They had shared eye contact multiple times throughout breakfast, but Alec couldn’t figure out what was wrong.

After breakfast, Alec and Jace were assigned to the same mission, it was their favourite times to be out in manhattan together, slaying demons and fighting in perfect synchronicity. They balanced each other out equally, Alec with his agility and strategy, and Jace with his sheer strength and quick thinking. As they made their way down the corridor of a vampire den, Jace kept glancing sideways at Alec, until Alec couldn’t take the intensity of the gaze anymore.

“What?” Alec snapped.

Jace rolled his eyes, “You. You seem off. You announced your engagement and it was all smiles and wedding talk, but deep down you feel unsettled”

“No you were making me feel unsettled, I could feel the bond practically humming with dissatisfaction” Alec retorted, giving Jace a pointed look.

“Only because you seemed lacklustre” Jace threw back.

They let the silence hang between them, until they were approached by a rogue vampire that they took down at speed, working in tandem.

“Okay” Alec started, taking a deep breath, “I guess I just haven’t had that particular spark yet”

“You get on so well, what do you mean?” Jace scoffed, shaking his head.

“No, like, the spark you have had with all your women” Alec said, a hand waving in Jace’s general direction.

Jace laughed out “all of my women”, but turned back to serious quickly, “She’s so attractive though, surely you feel something”

“I don’t know” Alec groaned, “It mainly just feels comfortable and easy”

“How hot and passionate” Jace mumbled, just loud enough for Alec to hear.

“I know, I know. It’s not exactly rip your clothes off sexiness… I don’t know how to make that happen” Alec looked pleadingly at Jace then.

“I don’t think it’s something you can force, it’s just something you feel, something that happens to you” Jace said earnestly.

“Maybe it’ll come with time” Alec said, before the two brothers dropped the subject in favour of the mission, as the air thrummed with the anticipation of the fight ahead.

Later that evening, Alec was freshly showered after his mission and alone in his room when a light tapping of knuckles came at his door.

He walked over and opened the door to see Maryse standing in front of me, “I heard you wanted to speak with me, I was going to get an early night, so I thought I’d come check-in”

Alec grinned, “Yes, perfect. Do you want to sit down on the chair?” He offered, gesturing to his two arm chairs that he had in his room for more private chats, usually with Izzy or Jace.

Maryse took a seat, and Alec placed himself in the spare one, angled so he could see here in clear view, “Mom, I have some exciting news”

She twitched at that and leaned in, “Go on”

Alec inhaled sharply with his eyes closed and then met the insistent eyes of his mother when he reopened them. He said the words quickly, almost as if he was scared they would never come out if he didn’t speak now, “I was hoping for Lydia to be here when I told you this, but she’s obviously been called out on mission, but last night, well. I - I proposed to Lydia. We’re getting married”

Maryse’s eyes lit up and she clapped, rising from her chair to sweep Alec into one of her rare hugs, he sighed peacefully into it, enjoying the moment.

“Oh my dear Alec, I am so proud of you. What a fortuitous pairing. You will be perfect for each other, perfect for the institute. The Clave are going to be so pleased, I must send them a fire message as soon as possible. Actually probably tomorrow morning once I’ve had some sleep. Have you considered when?”

Alec swallowed, his mind felt suddenly pulled underwater, “I guess as soon as it is Clave approved, then we can start planning”

“I doubt that will take long. Two proud families with good names joining together in such a union. The Clave will approve this in no time, I’m sure. I’ll tell your Father tonight, he can’t come to New York just yet, but he’ll be so glad to hear this news”

They smiled at each other briefly, before his mother stood from her chair and bid Alec farewell.

***

Alec knocked on the large oak door of his Mother’s office, waiting patiently for Maryse to summon him in. When he heard her call out, he heaved open the door and strolled in, “Evening Mother, you summoned me?”

Maryse looked up from her notes on her desk, and smiled at her son, “Yes, Alec, of course, come take a seat” she said holding her hand out at the chair across from her desk.

As Alec sat down, he crossed his legs and waited, “What’s happening?” He said finally.

Maryse smiled at him, “I want you to head up a high profile political case, it’s a partnership between us and the High Warlock of Brooklyn”

Alec’s jaw went slack, it was an assignment that he had been waiting on, something big where he could showcase his political prowess, “I would be honoured to head up this mission”

“That’s what I wanted to hear, Alec. It’s an important opportunity. However, I don’t believe you’ve met the High Warlock?” She asked.

“No, I haven’t. Despite him coming here for cabinet meetings, I don’t think our paths have crossed. I’m usually on mission or training I believe. Is there anything I should know?”

“Here’s his case, look over it tonight, familiarise yourself with his history, there’s a section on his work with previous Shadowhunters too. He was a major help over a century ago when we had a major issue in London” Alec nodded along as his mother spoke, gripping the folder tightly.

“This mission also includes the werewolves, the New York pack are currently experiencing some difficulties with unruly pack members. They’re turning without a cause and savaging mundanes. We can’t risk that level of exposure or harm, and I don’t want to inform the Clave yet of this, I’m concerned about the Accords, as you can imagine”

Alec gave his mother a serious look then, “Of course, I can see why this is top priority”

She smiled at him, “I knew I could count on you, Alec. So it’s a healthy mix of political maintenance for the sake of the Accords and stopping the downworlders who are inflicting harm. You’ll be meeting Magnus Bane tomorrow, I’ve invited him into the institute for an early morning briefing, you will lead, I won’t need to be present, but you’ll know where I am if you need me.

Alec nodded agin, “Absolutely, thank you for entrusting me with this”

“You’re ready for the responsibility, Alec. You already do a great job out in the field, this is the next step for your career” she assured him, “Also, I must warn you, Magnus Bane can be manipulative at best and deadly at worst, have your wits about you. This case could take up the next few weeks, so please be careful around him. Do not reveal too much, only what you need to. He should be good for portalling, potions and utilising his magic for controlling the shifting of those who disobey the Accords” Maryse warned, a flicker of disgust crossed her features before it vanished. Alec wasn’t sure which part of her warning had dredged up her disdain, but Alec shuddered at it.

After his conversation with his mother, Alec headed to his room and got ready for bed, crawling under the covers, feeling a tiredness wash over him. He stared blankly at the ceiling and his thoughts drifted to having sex with Lydia. Alec couldn’t help but hope that it was better than the kisses they had shared so far. My boredom’s bone deep already, Alec thought as he pressed his fingers to his own lips, he had always thought he would feel more. A guilty crept over him, eating at his flesh as he laid in his bed, clutching the covers to himself, he hoped he wouldn’t disappoint Lydia.

Sighing, he tried to push the thought away, as he opened Magnus’ profile that the Shadowhunters had pulled together. It was a large folder, full of missions and first hand accounts of Magnus’ heroism and helpfulness. The man being presented in this folder didn’t seem to be the same man his mother had told him to keep his wits about, however he guessed a close guard is always better than leaving himself vulnerable. Alec kept flicking through the pages, and he saw a picture of Magnus, it seemed very old and was a photo copy, so it was impossible to really see his features. Surely there’d be better pictures stored in the system.

Alec huffed a sigh and pulled on some pyjamas and socks once he was up from bed. He padded softly down the corridor to the main control room, and took a seat at a desk. Clicking around, he noticed that most applications were locked for updates, when he checked the counter it wouldn’t be complete till the morning, just before Magnus arrived. Alec groaned and pulled a hand down his face in disappointment, he wouldn’t know who Magnus is until he met him, or even what he looked like. With a shake of his head, he went back to his room and flicked through the profile again.

Once he was satisfied, Alec took heaved himself back to his bed and passed out as soon as he was comfortable in his sheets.

Chapter Text

After a few weeks of being engaged, Alec still enjoyed the space and time of sleeping in his own bed, alone. After his mother had given him his brief last night, Alec was grateful for the sanctuary of solitude. Alec stretched his arms over his head lazily as got out of bed, padding lightly across the floor to the bathroom. He often slept in just his boxers, and he felt a level of comfort in his skin while alone, more than he ever did as soon as other people were around.

He got himself ready, taking his time and, quite frankly, holding off the inevitable that was tackling shadowhunter business with a warlock in tow. He had never been on mission with a warlock before, and he was anxious that it would be a difficulty and hindrance having a temperamental warlock by his side. Alec had heard of Magnus Bane, the High Warlock of Brooklyn: a lothario, a loose canon and the most powerful warlock the Nephilim had ever worked alongside.

He had studied Magnus’ case file extensively, but given Maryse had only handed the folder to him yesterday and the institute had been rebooting the whole of the New York Institute’s systems last night, the photos he had seen of Magnus were the historic physical copies. Him in traditional clothing, stood in ancient cities that no longer existed, Alec wondered if he would recognise him, and what sort of clothing he wore now. As his thoughts retraced the memorised words of Magnus’ case file, he rummaged in his dresser for his own clothes to wear. He pulled a grey long sleeved top on, its breathable fabric pressing into the defined lines of his torso. Alec grabbed some black jeans and then laced his black boots up, before heading out to the main control room.

Maryse was waiting for him when he got there, “Perfect timing, son. Magnus should be here in 5 minutes, I just wanted to go over some minor details again”

Alec stood up straight, a militant air to him, his hands clasped firmly behind his back as he maintained eye contact with his Mother.

“When he gets here, I want you to take lead on Comms as we discussed, I’ll be in my office if you need anything, I’m not here to control the mission, it is yours. Remember, while Magnus is on our side, he is not a child of the angels, therefore do not put your life in his hands, protect yourself first” Maryse warned, she went over the strategy Alec had devised and made a sound of agreement as Alec’s plan was laid out in front of her.

Then the sound of static came, and a clearing of a throat behind them. The two whirled around to see a very tall, slender man standing in front of them. Alec quickly pushed his mother behind his back and held his blade up, “Name yourself” Alec commanded.

“Magnus Bane, High Warlock of Brooklyn, charmer of snakes, the only man banned from Peru, but my friends just call me Magnus” the stranger said, bowing at his waist in front of Alec with an outward flourish of his wrist.   

“Alec!” His Mother exclaimed pushing him to the side, “I thought you read the full information packet last night”

Alec flushed, “I - I did, um, the pictures were old, the newer stuff, well photos, were on the system, but it was rebooting last night. I wasn’t expecting this . Those pictures didn’t look like -“ he cut himself off and waved a hand at Magnus.

Magnus, a smirk laid across his mouth, stood to attention at that, smoothing down his coat. Alec took a moment to examine Magnus now, his spiked hair quaffed but slightly leaning over on one side, and he noted the sides of his head were shaved. Magnus was wearing a glittering purple sheer top that a hint of his pectorals could be seen through, and he had layered a dark purple jacket on top. He had tight black trousers on, which were covered in sequins that danced under the lights of the institute. Alec looked into the face of Magnus, he had matching purple highlighter dashed across his cheeks and another smearing of the same makeup across his eyes. Magnus’ fingers and neck were adorned with an eclectic mix of jewellery from simple metals to bright coloured beads. He had to stop himself from staring too intently at the warlock, he was the furthest thing from what he had expected. Magnus may have been unexpected, but Alec couldn’t help admitting to himself, somewhere deep down, that he was one of the most attractive people he had ever seen.

Alec reached his hand out to Magnus for a handshake, “My apologies, Sir. I’m Alec -“

“Alexander Gideon Lightwood, the Clave’s poster child, yes I’ve heard of you” Magnus interrupted, laughter in his tone. He shook Alec’s hand, placing another hand on top of their clasped hands.

Alec blushed a little harder, the touch felt intimate for the first handshake.

“A-anyway” Alec swallowed, trying to get on track, “If you would like to come down to the table, we’ll go over the plan for today” he said, guiding Magnus to the other side of the room.

Maryse watched them go and then gave Alec a curt wave before heading to her office.

“Apologies for the rough start, it wasn’t exactly the smooth introduction I was anticipating for my first warlock” Alec said, taking a sip of one of the glasses of water he’d laid out for them both.

“Your first warlock, hmm” Magnus hummed, a teasing tone lilting over his words, “Well I sure hope I live up to expectation” he flirted.

Alec was taken aback by the brazen nature of Magnus, “You satisfy - not satisfy. As in you’re satisfactory” Alec corrected, unable to shake his flustered demeanour.

“Just satisfactory… I guess I’ll have to try harder” Magnus smirked.

“So, for today’s mission” Alec said trying to get back to the topic at hand, “We’re visiting werewolf territory, there’s an issue with a few werewolves turning suddenly, seemingly no cause. We can’t figure out a solution, and we thought a partnership between the Shadowhunters and the warlocks would be the best way to devise one”

Magnus nodded, a serious look now on his face as he thumbed the pages of the strategy Alec had pulled together. Alec watched him reading for a moment, “I’m glad you see the serious side of this” Alec said.

“Of course, I hate the thought of any of my people, struggling. Even extending to my werewolf friends. They will be mortified knowing they have harmed mundanes, and truly terrified of their lack of control” Magnus mused, worry playing across his features.

Alec felt his strong exterior crack a little, he had been so caught up in worrying about the mundanes, that he hadn’t considered how the werewolves must be feeling. It was a complete oversight on his part.

“You’re so right” Alec said, “We have to find something to help them, my strategy only leads us up to the politics of having the conversation with Lucian Graymark”

“He prefers Luke” Magnus said, almost absentmindedly as he continued to leaf through the large document, “Alexander, you have wrote an extremely long strategy. It is all logical and well thought out, but it doesn’t necessarily allow for flexibility. Things may change. Are you prepared to be more pliant with your plans?”

Alec took a deep breath in, his fists clenched on the table, “Of course, Luke it is. And yeah, I can accept if things require changing in the moment” he noted, a tight lipped smile on his face.

“You definitely appear to be prepared for that scenario” Magnus chuckled, “Not perfectly set in stone at all” he laughed again.

Alec rolled his eyes involuntarily, “I don’t think that is necessarily the main priority, I mainly just wanted to make sure we were on the same page”

“Do not fear, Alexander. I am here to assist the Clave, not to tread on the toes of the over planning, young Shadowhunter”

Alec bristled, narrowing his eyes at Magnus, “I have not over planned. You can never plan too much to go into downworlder territory”

“Is that so, Alexander? I hesitate to imagine how much planning it would take for you to enter my apartment”, Magnus retorted, raising a perfectly arched brow at him.

“I didn’t mean that - any territory is potentially dangerous. I don’t think you’re throwing my life to the wolves” Alec said, glazing over the part that he could only assumed was an implied innuendo on Magnus’ part, “I just want to be prepared for push back, or to alleviate any concerns”

Magnus met Alec’s eyes now, he took a slow sip of his water before setting in back down on the table, the eye contact never wavering, “I will be the alleviating factor, I can promise you that. For this specific occasion, and the price your parents have paid me, I am here on your side, as long as you do not inflict harm without cause” Magnus said, his voice serious and more commanding now.

Alec shuddered slightly, he got the distinct feeling that he was approaching the bad side of the warlock and he wanted to backtrack. He was starting to see why people feared and respected the High Warlock of Brooklyn, he was a formidable opponent, even in debate. He suppressed the urge to give an incredulous look or throw a seething remark back.

“I appreciate the reassurance that you will have my back. Now, is there anything else you need before we head out?” Alec asked.

Magnus smiled then, “No bother, Angel. Nothing on my end, I’m ready to portal us there whenever you’re ready”

Alec nodded, “I just need to grab some weapons”

“Ahhh weaponry” Magnus said approvingly, “Well let’s do it” gesturing for Alec to lead the way.

Alec pressed his fists into the table and rose from his chair, “Great” a different smile now crossed his features, one of determination. Magnus had to admit that he enjoyed this look that had taken over Alec’s face of grit and excitement for the mission.

The weapons rack held every imaginable sword, dagger and bow, Magnus was impressed by the wide variety of options. Alec loaded his holsters up with various daggers, a seraph blade at his side, his quiver over his shoulder, and then hooked his bow over himself. Magnus admired him, Alec looked like a true warrior, ready for battle, although maybe overkill for a meeting with the Leader of the New York Wolf Pack.

Just then, Lydia strode over to them, beaming at Alec, “Good luck, my love!” and placed a kiss on Alec’s lips.

He gently kissed her back and a smile formed on his mouth as he pulled back, “Thank you, Lydia. We’re off now, but I’ll see you tonight?” Alec offered.

“Perfect, I’ll see you then, Alec” she smiled ecstatically, then she turned to Magnus, “Look after my man”

Magnus titled his head slightly, “Oh your man? Why of course, my dear” There was a look on his face that Alec couldn’t exactly discern, “Ready, Alexander?”

Alec nodded before Magnus continued, “Since you’ve never been there, we’ll have to be holding contact when we go through the portal” Alec flushed at the thought but nodded again.

Magnus flourished his hand to create a portal, Alec gasped, he hadn’t seen a portal created in this way before. He had only seen the pre-established portals that the Clave used, he was amazed at how much emotion it elicited from him, the portal was beautiful.

“Shall we?” Magnus asked holding his hand out to Alec.

Alec grasped his hand and let Magnus lead him through the portal onto a shipping container yard. He didn’t release Magnus hand when they arrived, he just took in a breath, “That somehow felt so different from the Clave’s portals” he said, almost breathless.

“Well as much I enjoyed taking your breath away” Magnus claimed, before withdrawing his hand from Alec’s, “The irony is, I actually co-invented the Clave portals with the one and only Henry Branwell, so in part your Clave portals are my portals”

Alec smiled, “Well you did a great job”

“And I did it all to impress you one day, your praise is what I have waited for these past 130 years” Magnus said, the sarcasm practically dripping from his words.

Alec threw him a look, “I was trying to play nice”

Magnus raised his eyebrows at him, “You play very nice” her purred.

Alec’s cheeks turned a deep red, he shook his head at Magnus, “Right, well, let’s actually get on with this mission then”

“Of course, Shadowhunter, shall I lead the way?”

Alec turned to the warlock, “Please” he said, holding his hand out in front of him to let Magnus pass ahead of him.

Magnus headed into the Jade Wolf first, aptly named , Alec thought. When they entered, all heads turned to them, some vicious snarls escaped a few of their lips, and Alec stared them down.

“Magnus Bane, what an honour” called a low, booming voice.

“Luke Garroway, a pleasure as always” Magnus replied, and Alec turned to see the Alpha of the New York pack walking towards them.

Alec watched as Magnus and Luke shook hands, then Magnus spoke again, “This is my associate, Alexander Lightwood”

“Alec? I hadn’t realised Maryse and Robert’s children had grown up already. Time really does fly” Luke said, a wolfish grin on his face as he held his hand out to him. Alec grasped his hand and shook firmly.

“Great to meet you, Luke. An impressive reputation you have. How do you know my parents?” He asked politely.

Luke smiled, “I was a Shadowhunter before I was turned. I grew up with your parents” he shared, his voice conversational, “But I’m assuming you haven’t come for introductions. That’s not the Shadowhunter way”

Alec nodded, “We have heard of the worrying situation with a few members of your pack, we are concerned for their wellbeing” he said, Luke looked mildly shocked, but quickly hid his reaction as Alec continued, “As well as the safety of any mundanes that may cross their path during erratic changes”

Luke’s features were open, “Well we would be grateful for any help that the Clave and the Warlocks can give us. We weren’t aware we had support coming our way”

Magnus jumped in then, “We are always of service when people need help… Both sides” Magnus’ eyes flicked to Alec momentarily before speaking again, “We need a debrief on what’s been happening and we would like to talk to the individuals who are suffering through this”

“In their own time, of course. There’s no pressure for them to speak with us today” Alec added.

“You’re not what I expected when I heard of the Lightwood children. I assumed when they grew up they’d be as staunch as their parents” Luke said, Alec felt a prickle of his skin but Luke’s words seemed like a compliment.

“Thank you?” Alec ventured, unsure what else to offer in response.

Luke whispered to another man to his right and then turned back to them, “Shall we take a seat, gentlemen?” He offered, heading to the furtherest corner of the Chinese restaurant, where there was an empty table.

They all sat down, and Luke pushed two glasses of water towards them with a smile, “I have someone bringing the notes we’ve kept. So we can give you an accurate picture of what’s been happening”

“Great” Magnus said, “Firstly, and most importantly I guess, are there any triggers you’ve noticed?”

“None” Luke said with regret etching in his face, “There’s nothing I’ve noticed. I have been unable to put my finger on anything solid” as he spoke, a man put down a folder in front of Luke, with a thank you, Luke turned back to them.

They spent the next few hours going through the file, and interviewing the werewolves that were struggling with shifting at intermittent times. Alec thought they had actually made a good team on the political front. They seemed to balance each other out, it felt so similar to his fighting style with his parabatai, Jace, except with Magnus it was their words that seemed linked.

When they were done, they said their goodbyes to the wolf pack and left the Jade Wolf with a quick wave. As Magnus summoned a portal, he smiled over at Alec, “Well, we made a fantastic double act”

Alec grinned, “We did, it was a good start, I think the next couple of weeks are going to be great”

“Well back to institute you go then, and I will see you tomorrow”

With a frown Alec spoke again, “Aren’t you coming with me to report back?”

“No, I report to you in this specific situation, and given we’ve been together the whole time, I’m pretty sure you have my report. Oh! Speaking of reports, here’s your copy of what Luke gave us” Magnus said, a snap of his fingers conjured two copies of the report file they had looked over, and he handed one to Alec.

“Okay, that makes sense. Well then, I will send you a fire message with details for tomorrow, or I guess swapping numbers might be easier?” Alec said, scratching the back of his neck. He couldn’t figure out why he felt to nervous, he was shy but not usually when it came to work.

“Of course you can, hand me your phone” Magnus grinned, holding his hand out. Alec gave his phone to Magnus and watched him type quickly.

“All done, and I’ve sent myself a text, so I have your number too” they smiled at each other for a moment, “Well off you go, it’s not easy keeping a portal open, you know?”

“Okay thanks Magnus, I’ll message you!” Alec said as he walked towards the portal.

“And I look forward to it, Alexander” he heard Magnus say as he stepped through the portal back into the institute.

When he entered, Izzy was stood by the main command screen, and she raised her eyebrows at him, “You’ve had a long day, it’s later than we thought you’d be home”

“Well the wolf pack were really helpful, especially Luke. We got all of our preliminary information, and our initial interviews out of the way, so it’s been busy but it means tomorrow we can start strategising” Alec explained to his little sister, who was nodding along.

“See I told you the downworld has good people” she said hitting his chest with the back of her hand, “Didn’t I tell you?”

“Yes, yes you did. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m meeting Lydia at our spot, I thought I’d have a chance to shower, but I have to get straight off. Could you file this for me?” Alec asked, passing Izzy the file from Luke.

“Absolutely, you go have fun, big brother” Izzy chimed and waved him off out of the institute.

He got to the little French bistro just in time for their reservation and smiled at Lydia as he strolled through the door. When he got to the table, he gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead and took his seat across from her.

“How’s your day been?” Lydia asked, as she gestured for the waiter to come over.

“Good yeah, it was actually nice working with Magnus and the wolf pack were super helpful” Alec responded, and paused for Lydia to order a bottle of wine from the waiter. They both ordered their pasta dishes from the menu.

Once the waiter left, she turned her attention went back to him, “How great! I’ve heard amazing things about Magnus, he’s so, so….” Lydia said, searching for the word.

“He’s quite magical” Alec offered, and then saw Lydia’s confused expression, so added, “He’s uh, very, very good at magic”

Lydia laughed slightly, it was a tighter laugh than she usually had but her face had relaxed again, “Indeed. I wish I could meet him properly, it was so brief today, I heard a lot about him when I was growing up in Alicante”

“Really? Like what?” Alec said, his interest piqued.

“Just that no one really knows his age, that he’s had encounters throughout history that would only be assumed as myth and legend if people heard the stories, that he is banned from Peru”

“Yeah he mentioned the Peru thing” Alec said nonchalantly as he poured their wine and then took a sip.

“How amazing!” Lydia exclaimed, “What actually happened?”

Alec stuttered then, “Oh he, he didn’t say what happened. Just that he was the only man to be banned”

“He’s such an enigma” Lydia said wistfully, “Hopefully with him working close with the institute over the next few weeks, I might be able to get to know him”

“I hope so for you!” Alec smiled at her.

Lydia reached over the table and grabbed his hand, “You know what though? All I can think about right now is how I can’t wait to get married, finally share a room at the institute” Lydia grinned at him then.

“I still can’t fathom that they don’t allow bedroom sharing. I feel like the Shadowhunters are going backwards as opposed to forwards” Alec said with a shake of his head.

“We could sneak around…” Lydia trailed off looking at him with those eyes she gave him occasionally.

“I don’t feel comfortable breaking the rules. The law is hard, but it’s the law” Alec reminded her.

Lydia laughed a little, “It’s not exactly the law, it’s a tradition”

Just as Alec was trying to decide what to say, the waiter arrived with the food and placed it front of them. Alec started eating immediately, trying to move away from the conversation. Eventually, their conversation turned to strategy planning and missions, the ideal topics for Alec, he never had understood the need to discuss all the other stuff Lydia approached him with so often.

Once they’d finished their dinner Alec paid up, and they headed back to the institute, parting ways in the hallway with a chaste kiss.

Alec jumped into the shower, letting the hot water run over his skin, enjoying the warmth of the steam. As he leaned back, washing his hair, he thought over the day’s events, a chuckle escaping his lips at his and Magnus’ first meeting. Alec rinsed his hair and grabbed his loofah and body wash to clean the day off.

As he scrubbed his chest, he heard Magnus’ words in his head, ‘Y ou play very nice’ , something about the words had his skin tingling as he moved the loofah over his body. He couldn’t stop thinking about the way he spoke his name, the slight roll of the ‘r’ in Alexander. Alec sighed a little as the loofah slid further down, he couldn’t stop himself from thinking: by the angel, he’s a paradox .

His breathing was hitching now, what was he doing?

The loofah dropped from his grip and his hand tightened around the length of himself, his breathing increasing rapidly. Alec was feverish now, steadying himself against the shower wall with one hand, struggling to hold himself upright. A vision of Magnus’ dark lined eyes flashed behind his now closed lids. His breathing hitched again, and he thought of Magnus’ earlier words ‘I enjoyed taking your breath away’.

His balls rose up, his body tightening before his release overcame him, he panted out Magnus’ name as he shot out the streams of cum over his fist. Without ever touching his skin, Magnus had made him cum.

Exhaustion taking him, he slid down the wall and sat on the floor, basking in the afterglow and the heat of the water beading down his back. He breathed in a shaky breath and looked down at his hand suddenly in shock, “What was that?” he asked himself out loud, frowning.

He stood back up and washed away what had just happened, quickly drying off and taking himself to bed once his pyjamas were on. As he stared at the ceiling, he was confused how those thoughts had overcome him. Alec hadn’t ever directly thought of anyone when he had touched himself, it was always just the sensation of someone else, some anonymous person getting him over the line.

He wondered why he had never had Lydia in his thoughts, surely his future wife should be the first place his mind went to… Until now he had just assumed he wasn’t much interested in sex, but the idea of Magnus touching him, talking to him in that purring voice, it had got him so worked up.

Alec lay awake for a couple of hours, before he realised he hadn’t messaged Magnus about meeting tomorrow, he sighed and reached for his phone.

[23:42 - Alec]

Hello Magnus, it’s Alec Lightwood.

Apologies for the late text, I got caught up and realised I hadn’t confirmed plans with you.

I would like to aim to meet you at 9am, if that works for you?

He put his phone down, but jumped as it immediately dinged.

[23:43 - Magnus]

Why hello yourself, Alexander!

That sounds perfect, I’ll swing by the institute and I can portal us to my apartment😉

Alec couldn’t help but go to reply immediately, but he wasn’t sure what to say. He agonised over whether Magnus apartment was the correct place. Although, it might be nice to have a change of scenery and be somewhere that no one could distract from mission planning. He couldn’t begin to understand the winking emoji that stared back at him, so he swiftly avoided the thought of it.

[23:50 - Alec]

Great, thank you Magnus.

I promise not to overplan lol

As soon as Alec clicked send, he stared mortified at the lol, was that really how he was ending the message? What if Magnus hadn’t even remembered their conversation about how Alec planned so hard, he’d over-plan a visit to Magnus’. He dropped the phone and put both of his palms to his face, internally screaming in horror. Magnus was a revered warlock, and he had just sent him an L-O-L. His mother would be appalled seeing the message he had just sent.

Checking his phone every few minutes, Alec felt a knot tighten in his chest, he had completely embarrassed himself by messaging the High Warlock of Brooklyn. It was his first day on mission with the man, and he had blushed profusely and stuttered continuously, masturbated over him and then sent a ridiculous text. At least Magnus wasn’t aware of the second of his three humiliations that day.

As he stared at the ceiling again, thoughts racing through his mind, the ding came again. He shot up and grabbed for his phone to read the message.

[00:26 - Magnus]

Sorry, Chairman Meow summoned my presence, I can never deny him anything.

Haha! I still expect a 10-page essay on why you’re allowed to enter my warlock lair😉

Relief washed over Alec as he read the message, Magnus had found him funny.

Another message came through then.

[00:27 - Magnus]

Ps. Chairman Meow is my cat🐈‍⬛

He smiled timidly at his phone, no one had ever really laughed at his jokes before, it was a nice change. Alec thought how much he was enjoying the little emojis that Magnus was sending him, he wasn’t sure which ones to use back, so he kept it simple.

[00:29 - Alec]

Tell Chairman Meow that I unfortunately also demand your attention in order to plan effectively! Haha

[00:31 - Magnus]

He’s not happy but he’s willing to allow you over.

See you tomorrow, Shadowhunter😉

[00:33 - Alec]

See you in a few hours, Magnus🙂

Alec couldn’t help but cringe at his emoji choice - he wasn’t sure what the right one was. His siblings and him mainly texted quick updates or phoned each other, and using emojis seemed out of his remit.

The Shadowhunter took in a deep breath, he knew he had to get to sleep now so that he could go meet Magnus feeling refreshed. However, he felt so energised from the day, their easy banter, their text messages that made each other laugh. He sighed out loud, the sooner he got to sleep, the sooner he would be back on mission with Magnus. Strategy planning was important, he had to be effective tomorrow, not overtired and pedantic as he sometimes got on low sleep.

He tried to push away the thoughts he’d had of Magnus earlier and what he had done. There’s no such thing as bad thoughts… right?

Chapter Text

As Alec awoke the next morning, his first thoughts went to Magnus, the usual hardness of the morning felt more strained than normal. He shook his head. Male shadowhunters didn’t fantasise about men, never mind centuries old, eccentric warlocks. A smile crossed his face at the thought.

With a huff, he shook his head again and threw the covers off himself, heading for a cold shower to wash off the sinful thoughts that seemed to be simmering under the surface. Maybe he needed his head checking too, he thought to himself as he turned the water on.

Once dressed in his gear, he realised he didn’t even have time to grab a quick breakfast and went to the control room for his weapon instead. While he was only going to Magnus’ he was aware that you couldn’t guarantee when danger would occur, therefore you needed to be prepared at all times. He had just finished loading his holsters with weapons, when he heard the familiar static of the portal. Alec spun around and grinned at Magnus, he jogged over to where Magnus stood.

“Well aren’t you happy to see me, Alexander”

Alec instinctually looked down at his pants with a frown, which had Magnus bursting into a fit of laughter, “I didn’t mean like that, Alexander. Your mind is in the gutter already this morning”

Alec flushed a fuchsia colour, shock spilling through his body, it normally took longer for Alec’s blush to deepen quite so much, but what had just happened was ridiculous.

“I am so sorry” Alec said hastily.

“Do you apologise whenever you greet someone?” Magnus said, looking at him inquisitively.

Alec chuckled slightly, “No, just you apparently. I keep embarrassing myself somehow” he shook his head in disbelief, not only at the events from mere seconds ago, but also with how open he was.

“Well at least if you’re always apologising, when you actually do something wrong I know i’ll get a proper sorry” Magnus joked.

“Oh I would never” Alec said, sincerity sweeping his features, certain that he would never do something wrong to Magnus.

Magnus quirked a smile at him, “Well that’s very sweet. Now, are you ready? Breakfast will be getting cold” he said, holding a hand out to Alec.

Alec took his hand and said “How romantic” as they stepped through the portal.

He spluttered and choked as they arrived at Magnus’ apartment, the words had come out in a low velvety tone, when he had been aiming for the effect of one of Jace’s quick witted jibes.

“Well there’s no candles, but if you would like it to be romantic, Alexander” Magnus offered, a teasing air to his voice.

“No!” Alec all but shouted, he cleared his throat and looked at his feet, “No, I’m quite alright. Sorry Magnus, I am thoroughly tarnishing my reputation for political prowess”

“Personally, your shy and awkward responses are thrilling” Magnus chuckled, “Anyway, sit down, grab some food and a coffee or tea” Magnus said, swiftly picking up - who Alec assumed was - Chairman Meow. The cat purred softly, and Magnus waltzed to the table, taking a seat and staring at Alec pointedly.

Alec snapped out of his own thoughts and rushed to the table, sitting down across from Magnus.

“Hi Chairman” Alec said, waving at the cat, and then loading his plate up.

Magnus enjoyed watching the Shadowhunter dive into the food so enthusiastically, he was used to his warlock friends who picked politely at his spreads. Alec was downing a cup of black coffee before his eyes met Magnus’ sparkling green eyes again, he smiled politely back at Magnus.

“Chairman seems to like you” Magnus grinned, “Normally if someone sits at the table, he leaves” he said with a bewildered shrug.

“I’m glad, he’s very sweet” Alec said.

“So, with the fear of sounding boring and more like a Shadowhunter than I wish, what is the plan, Alexander?”

Alec beamed at Magnus then, this was his opportunity to redeem himself for the two mortifying things he’d already done today.

“So, I reviewed the file you copied from Luke, and I feel like this isn’t a usual werewolf occurrence from my preliminary research. I wondered if there was some sort of demon involvement maybe, not quite possession, but something similar. I’ve been told you have extensive knowledge and information on demons and the demon realms, so I thought we could spend the day doing research here” Alec said, gesturing to the room before quickly adding, “If you don’t mind having me in your apartment for the day, that is”

“Having you in my apartment for the day would be a pleasure” Magnus said with an arch of both of his eyebrows.

Alec let out a small, choked laugh, “Okay great, I’ll finish eating and then we can start, if that’s okay?” Magnus couldn’t help but laugh heartily again, which gained a frown from Alec, “What?”

“I didn’t realise what you just ate was only round 1, it’s good to see someone eat properly”

Alec pulled a face, “Interesting, I guess you haven’t spent much time with Shadowhunters then”

“Not really no, some old friends, long passed now” Magnus said, he was distant, seemingly lost in his memories.

“I’m sorry” Alec said, as he loaded his plate back up, slowing the pace slightly when he realised Magnus was reliving his past grief.

“All good” Magnus said, waving his hand dismissively, wiping away his thoughts, “It was a long time ago now” he offered with a smile.

They shared a brief smile, before Magnus resumed stroking Chairman Meow and taking a sip of his tea, while Alec continued his breakfast feast.

Once Alec had finished, he grinned at Magnus, “Thank you for breakfast, I had to skip it this morning, I was running late”

Magnus drew his eyebrows together, “I thought you Shadowhunters had an iron clad routine, don’t you get up the same time every day?”

“Yeah, I somehow overran on time” Alec said, looking down into his coffee as he thought back to waking up this morning to the images of Magnus. He tried to will his face not to blush at the memory.

Magnus was either unaware of Alec’s blush, or was ignoring it, but whatever the case was, Alec was grateful to not have to try to explain his reaction. He barely could explain it to himself.

The warlock rose from his chair then, placing Chairman Meow on the seat he just left and wandered back to the empty space in the living room. He brandished his hand, causing a swirl of books and papers to come forth and hang in the air in front of him.

Alec smiled, this was so much more helpful than trying to go through the library systematically. They should have an on call warlock at the Institute, Alec thought. He wandered over to Magnus, “What can I do to help?”

Magnus glanced at him, “These are my materials that reference similar occurrences. You take these” he said, pushing the pages and books across the air and left them open on the table behind him.

Alec sat down on the sofa, “Perfect, I’ll get reading”

They spent the morning in peaceful silence, Magnus stood up in front of the still suspended items, and Alec on the sofa, flicking through old books with a look of deep concentration.

Magnus snapped his fingers causing Alec to flinch out of his focus, “Lunch?” Magnus asked with a smile down at the young Shadowhunter.

“Sounds good, what were you thinking?” Alec asked, placing the book he had been reading down on the couch.

“Hmm, I know a brilliant place that does Brazilian food, or we could nip to Brazil for a bite, what do you think?” Magnus mused, playing with the bejewelled cuff that was clipped to his ear.

“I don’t know if I want to portal all the way to Brazil, but I’ll take the food here” Alec said, nervously tugging at the sleeve of his top. He found it strange that Magnus could just up and go to Brazil at the drop of a hat, no real planning or approval needed, “We’d usually need authorisation for such a trip” he said, almost trying to explain his hesitance to the warlock.

Magnus laughed delicately, “Well, it’s different for me” he said and pointed at Alec with a painted red fingernail, declaring “Shadowhunter” he then pointed his long finger towards himself, “Warlock! It makes a big difference”

Alec pondered this for a moment, “It must be thrilling to be able to make your own decisions, do whatever you want whenever you want”

“You know, by my age you’d think I’d have tired of it, but freedom and unlimited resources really do bring me joy still” Magnus said with a shrug, before trailing a hand through the air across the dinning room table. The cups and plates from earlier vanished and were replaced by a whole host of delicious smelling foods.

Alec sniffed the air and sighed, “Wow, that looks incredible”

“Come. Taste it. You’ll love it” Magnus said, taking a seat and watching Alec make his way over from the couch.

When he sat down, he examined the table, “I don’t even know where to start”

Magnus flashed him a smile and then grabbed a fork, scooping food up, “Start here” he said, holding the fork across the table.

Alec leaned forward and tentatively took the food off the fork, his eyes fluttered closed and he moaned slightly at the flavours that burst forth. Magnus bit back his surprise, he had quite expected Alec to take the fork from him.

“Oh Alexander, how sinful” Magnus purred when he regained himself, “Day two and you’re already moaning in my apartment. Who would have known you’d be so bold”

Alec stared down at the empty plate in front of him, a blush spreading up his neck and along his cheeks, he was unable to control his complete horror at what he had just done. It built until he burst outwardly, words falling from his mouth, “I am so sorry. I keep doing things suggestive and I swear I’m not meaning to, they just seem to happen. I - I’m not good at social interaction and even worse when it comes to anything of this nature” he gestured to Magnus.

“This nature? As in a warlock? A man? A freewheeling bisexual?” Magnus asked, sounding genuinely intrigued by the possible answer.

“A free-what what?” Alec asked, not answering Magnus’ question but amusing him enough that he didn’t care.

“A free-wheeling-bi-sexual” he annunciated for Alec, giving him a pointed look.

“Okay I’ve grasped the freewheeling part but what has being sexual got to do with it?” Alec asked, baffled too much to even start to blush.

“Bisexual? As in, I like men, women and everything in between” Magnus explained, concerned he might be blowing the young Shadowhunter’s mind.

“I didn’t know that was a thing, being gay as a Shadowhunter just means you aren’t dedicated to the glory of the Angel. You have to choose between your destiny and leaning into your urges” Alec shrugged, piling food onto his plate.

He was met with silence, with a frown he looked up at Magnus, who was staring at him slack jawed, Alec eyed him, “What?”

“I just can’t imagine not being myself, not loving whichever soul ignites my passions, not desiring whoever I want” Magnus said, almost unable to hold back his words.

“Oh” Alec replied, “I guess I just want to do the honourable thing” he moved the food around on his plate.

“The honourable thing of marrying Lydia?” Magnus asked.

“Yeah, exactly!” Alec brightened slightly, “She’s fantastic and so easy to be around, and I know we’ll have a good partnership”

Magnus smiled at him, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes, Alec felt like there was a sadness on his face, but he couldn’t figure out why. He started eating, trying to avoid Magnus’ gaze, he somehow felt completely out of his depth, but he wasn’t sure what he was missing.

After a few beats of silence, Alec glanced up, Magnus seemed to also be focused on his food, “This meal is so delicious, where is it from?”

Magnus seemed to blink out of a deep thought, “Oh, it’s from Brazil”

“No I know it’s Brazillian, I meant the restaurant”

Magnus turned sheepish then and looked up into Alec’s eyes, “I conjured it from my favourite chef in Brazil. I’d asked him to prepare it so I could bring you there or summon it here”

Alec couldn’t stop the grin that spread on his face, “That’s so thoughtful!”

Magnus shrugged it off, “What can I say? I’m getting paid well to be your sidekick”, with that they continued to eat, but this time the silence felt more comfortable, and Alec settled into it.

Once they’d finished, Magnus tidied the table with a swish of his hand, and Alec thought he could get used to the ease of living with magic. It was a thought he didn’t linger on too long.

“Back to work then” Alec announced, moving back to his seat in the living room, and Magnus followed him, sitting on the other side of the couch. Magnus quickly summoned his materials to himself and began sifting through the information again. After a few second he gave a movement of his hand and music started playing across the apartment, Alec smiled to himself.

Alec didn’t look up again until Magnus was leaning over his book peering down at him, “Uhm, could I help you Magnus?”

Magnus chuckled, “I’ve asked you if you wanted to stop for dinner multiple times, but you’ve not heard me once”

Alec put his book on the side and looked at Magnus up and down, he was crouching on his knees, one hand on the back of the sofa; the other propping him up next to Alec’s leg. Alec gulped slightly, he wasn’t sure why but he felt vulnerable and as if he wanted to run to the window to put some distance between them.

“Have you got an answer for me?” Magnus queried.

“A-an answer?” Alec murmured.

“To dinner? Do you fancy takeout Chinese?”

“Oh” Alec said, the fog lifting slightly, “That would be very nice”

Magnus whooped and then stood up, magically laying out takeaway containers, and sat down, grabbing chopsticks.

“Come here then, pretty boy” Magnus crooned at Alec.

Alec flushed and got up to join Magnus for dinner, he also picked up the chopsticks and began eating, he found it surprisingly easy to pick his food up and feed himself.

“You follow my instruction well” Magnus teased.

“Well, I’m a trained soldier, born to follow the law and directives” Alec explained matter of factly.

Magnus was quiet then, tucking into the food they were sharing between them, “This is my favourite takeaway, it’s from Britain, my vampire friend owns it so I can take it from the restaurant whenever I fancy”

They smiled at each other, Alec was about to speak when his phone rang, “Oh, two seconds” he said and stood up pressing his phone to his ear.

“Hello?” Alec said, then he was silent while he listened, Magnus was surprised how long he was quiet.

“Oh, I’m so sorry Lydia. We’ve been deep in research” there was another pause as Lydia spoke.

“Well no I’ve not gone hungry, Magnus has kept me fed”

Alec cringed slightly at Lydia’s response, “Non I’m not choosing to have dinner with him over you. We’re taking a break, we’re continuing our work after food”

Another silence, “Well he got us Chinese food”

“Does it matter where from?” Another few seconds passed, “Okay he conjured it from Britain”

Alec drummed his fingers on one of Magnus’ side table as he stood by the window, “No he didn’t steal it, he conjured it. It’s a personal friend”

Alec growled audibly then, “Lydia, the longer you keep me on the phone, the later I will be home”

“Bye” and with that, Alec jammed his phone into his jean’s pocket. He quickly fluffed his hair up and gave Magnus an apologetic grimace, “Sorry Magnus, I didn’t expect you to have to hear that”

Magnus gestured for him to sit back down, “Trouble in paradise?”

“She’s just not happy I wasn’t with her for dinner, but the work we’re doing is important… and this Chinese food is amazing” Alec smiled weakly.

“As long as you’re okay to stay” Magnus said tentatively.

“She doesn’t own me or control my schedule. My mother didn’t specify hours for this mission, I want to make sure we’re thorough, plus if we’re spending the next couple of weeks together, we might as well be comfortable with each other” Alec told Magnus, any stuttering or nervousness left behind in the wake of him being disgruntled.

“You’re so bold when you’re angry” Magnus flashed a wicked look at Alec.

Laughter burst from Alec’s lips, “I guess so”, he sighed slightly, “Did you find anything useful?”

“Some linked information, it’s definitely of demon blood, but there’s actual demons, warlocks and Seelies. We all have demon blood, it all could link”

Alec agreed, “I don’t think it’s demonic, the pattern seems to follow the magical route more than the possibility of multiple possessions”

“Tomorrow I’d like to visit the Jade Wolf again, I want to do some scans for any magical presence on the wolves. It’s a shame I can’t witness what happens when they shift” Magnus said thoughtfully.

“If you get a fire message to Luke to let him know, it’ll given them till tomorrow to gather those who need to be scanned” Alec suggested.

“A good plan… Well I think that covers what we’re able to do for the day. Shall we finish eating and then reconvene tomorrow?”

“Sounds good, Magnus. Thank you for providing food all day by the way, it’s nice not to have to think about what I’m eating next, or eat the cafeteria food” Alec laughed.

“Don’t even worry about it” he declared, returning his attention to the egg foo young in front of him. Alec ate too, feeling at  peace for the first time on a mission. It seemed to flow with ease, in a way he hadn’t expected.

When they’d cleared the table, Magnus summoned a portal and they said their goodbyes, and Alec strode back into the institute. Izzy was there when he got back and he grinned at her, “Do you fancy a training session and a chat?” he offered her.

She looped her arm in his, and pulled him down the corridor, with a short “I thought you’d never ask”

As they walked, she was talking about her day and the tales of the flying demons she’d slaughtered, before asking “What have you done today?”

Alec smiled absentmindedly, “Magnus took me to his apartment, he had breakfast laid out, so we sat down and ate together and had our drinks. Then he did this amazing thing where he swirled all the books in the room and made them come forward and he flew some at me to look through. Oh and then he conjured Brazilian food from a chef friend of his in actual Brazil. Then we found some really interesting things on warlock and seelie magic, and then we had Chinese takeout, but it was from Britain, it was so good. And I used chopsticks for the first time”   

“By the Angel, you got wined and dined today. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you had a crush” Izzy giggled, a confused look on her face as she analysed Alec’s face and gasped, “Wait, do you?”

“What? No? Why would I? Magnus is a warlock, Mom said not to trust him. Plus he’s a man. Plus I’m engaged” Alec babbled, dismissing Isabelle completely.

“Whatever you say, big brother” Izzy said, a new look playing on her face, he frowned down at his sister, unsure where she’d pulled this new conclusion from.

They reached the training room, and got their weapons ready, lowering their centre and grinning wildly at each other. Adrenaline coursing through them as they charged, a clattering of daggers as they crashed into each other.

Hours later, they were taking in heaving breaths on the floor next to each other, “I needed that” Alec said, “I feel like I’m all pent up. I think it’s the lack of on the ground fighting”

“I’m sure that’s what it is” Izzy muttered.

Alec rolled his eyes, “Thanks for training with me this evening, kept me from having to confront Lydia after that argument I mentioned earlier”

Isabelle threw her brother a smile, “No worries, I’ve got you”   

Alec stood up and helped Izzy up off the floor and smiled at her, “I’ll see you tomorrow, Iz”

He headed back to his room, his thoughts racing with what both Lydia and Izzy had said to him. Alec couldn’t process the idea that he was prioritising Magnus in any way, he was prioritising the mission. It had nothing to do with Magnus being his mission companion.

With a huff he threw himself back on his bed, an arm behind his head, while the other rested comfortably on his stomach. As he stared up at the ceiling, he recounted his day, trying to figure out where he had led anyone to believe that he would have shown any interested in Magnus.

His thoughts went to Magnus leaning over him on the couch, his face so close to Alec’s own face, so close he could feel his breath against his skin. Magnus’ eyes had held a mischievous glint while he was peeking over at him, and he remembered the way his body had leaned over him, his toned arms either side of Alec’s body. He could hear his words ‘ Come here then, pretty boy ’, that commanding tone overwhelming his thoughts.

Over and over again he saw Magnus leaned over him, and he started picturing him closer, one of his strong hands slowly went to his waist. He envisioned Magnus pulling Alec’s hips up to meet his, their bodies tightly pressed to each others.

As he imagined the warlock’s touch, his hand slid down his torso, fingers tingling as he reached for his hardening dick. He took a deep breath in, the sound of Magnus’ purr repeating in his head. Alec let out a moan and he could hear the words from before, ‘ you’re already moaning in my apartment ’. He couldn’t stop picturing himself at Magnus’ apartment, it being Magnus’ hand wrapped around his cock.

Alec was panting heavily now, the thought of Magnus on top of him, suddenly they were kissing, it flooded his blood with desire. He felt alight with a burning fire, Magnus was holding him tighter now, pumping him hard and fast, he groaned, arching his back off the bed and rolling his hips. He needed more but he wasn’t sure what he wanted, the thought of Magnus holding him, kissing him with a messy top lip kiss was sending him over the edge. His pleasure building up like waves until he came onto himself, breathless and satisfied, satisfied in his head by Magnus.

Eyes wide, he clutched his chest, he couldn’t believe it had happened again. A shame crashed over him, his body spent over the thoughts of another man, a downworlder touching him. Crashing over my grave , Alec thought. A part of him that he hadn’t realised was dead, was crawling out of the grime and dirt of an unmarked grave deep in his subconscious.

***

He woke up the next morning, unclean and still somehow completely drained, he couldn’t face the thought of what he had done last night. Alec went straight for the shower, scrubbing his skin until it started to feel raw, his anxiety clawing at him.

When he was ready, he walked himself to the main control room to meet Magnus, his blush already a set feature at the thought of seeing Magnus again. Alec cringed at the thought of facing him after the thoughts he’d had of him.

As he came through the entranceway, Magnus was stood chatting to Izzy, Alec’s eyes were stuck on them as he hurried over to them.

“Izzy, what’s going on?” Alec asked, trying to maintain his calm.

“Magnus was just telling me about his wild night with -“

“It wasn’t a wild night!” Alec said frantically

“Not with you” Izzy said rolling her eyes, “Obviously eating Chinese food isn’t wild. Anyway, as I was saying, he was telling me about his wild night with a certain rock and roll band member. Magnus sure knows how to party, among other stuff” Izzy grinned, throwing a wink at Magnus.

“What can I say? Being a warlock has its perks”

Alec began speaking before he could stop himself, “I don’t think it’s you being a warlock that’s the charm. That’s more of an extra”

“My, my, Alexander, what a compliment”

Alec, flustered, waved his hand away, “I didn’t mean like that”

Izzy quirked an eyebrow, “Well on that note, I’ll let you guys get going” she said, walking away.

“Let’s head back to the Jade Wolf then” Magnus said, opening a portal.

“Okay, great!” Alec said, following Magnus and grabbing his hand as they went through to the familiar setting of the New York Wolf Pack’s headquarters.

Magnus took his hand away from Alec’s with a soft laugh, “We don’t have to hold hands through every portal, Alexander. You’ve been here before”

“Oh sorry” Alec said, his cheeks flushing with a rosey glow, “I just, I did it on instinct”

“Quite alright Alexander, now if you wouldn’t mind” Magnus said, gesturing to the front door of the Chinese restaurant. They silently made their way inside, and were greeted by Luke who was walking towards them.

“Welcome back, boys. I’m glad you’ve made progress with your investigation” Luke said, shaking both of their hands.

Magnus nodded his head, “Could we start with the assessment of magical traces, please?”

“Of course, everyone’s ready, they’ll come out one by one for review” Luke smiled, polite as always. Alec was fascinated by his own new interactions with downworlders, his parents had been completely wrong about how downworlders interact with others. He could see the humanity in every single person he came across, see the fear in their eyes, see the sense of guilty, see the desperation to find an answer.

Once Magnus had run his examinations, Luke offered them lunch at the restaurant which they happily accepted. As they ate with Luke, Magnus noted that it was definitely magic but that he was going to spend the afternoon deciphering whose magic it was, and then write up a report for the New York Institute.

“I’ll send you a copy too, Luke” Magnus added after giving his initial update, “Thanks for having us back again, I hope we haven’t been too much of an inconvenience. We best be off now so I can get to work”

“Thank you both so much, our doors are always open” he smiled, and Alec couldn’t help but return it.

When they left, Alec kept pace with Magnus, “So we’ll go to yours and I’ll stay late to help with whatever you need” he said quickly.

Magnus stopped walking and turned to Alec, “Alexander, it’s a simple report. I will get it to you tomorrow morning when we meet, let me get you a portal”

Alec couldn’t hide the disappointment on his face as Magnus created the portal for him to go back to the institute but he huffed a sigh and smiled, “Well… see you tomorrow. Drop me a message if you find anything interesting, and let me know when you’ll be getting to the institute”

He waved to Magnus as he stepped through the portal, returning to the institute, he blinked a few times as he looked around.

“Oh Alec! There you are!” Trilled a voice from across the room, he turned to see Maryse pacing towards him eagerly.

“I have incredible news! The Clave have approved your marriage to Lydia, they have requested it be expedited, so the ceremony will be soon. Details to follow but don’t fret, the institute will have it all under control”

Alec pulled a smile tight across his face, “That’s fantastic news, Mom. I’ll let Lydia know at once”

With that, Alec left and headed to the training room, where he knew Lydia usually was after lunch. He leaned against the door frame as he watched her kick the punching bag repeatedly, she was incredibly strong he commended in his head. Suddenly, she turned to him, “Oh, Alec! It’s you!” She said and started walking over, “Look I’m sorry about yesterday, I think I’ve just been run into the ground this week, it’s been so busy-”

“Hey, I’m sorry too” Alec interrupted, he took both her hands in his and gave her a soft smile, “Our ceremony got approved. Well beyond approved, the Clave are wanting a ceremony as soon as possible. Mom is just waiting on confirmation of the exact date”

Lydia screamed at this and flung herself into Alec’s body, her arms flying around his neck tightly as she bounced on the spot in front of him, “This is the best news!”

She pulled away, her eyes silver lined, “Isn’t this the best news?”

“I couldn’t think of any other news I’d rather hear today” Alec replied, but something in his stomach sunk and the floor felt like it shifted under him, the world seemingly tilted as if something had gone cosmically wrong. He had to stop himself from externally rolling his eyes at himself, “I’m sure we can get a joint assignment to celebrate. Let’s see what missions are available this afternoon” Alec said, offering Lydia his arm. She took it happily, the smile not fading from her lips.

Chapter Text

After Alec had been on mission with Lydia and they’d shared dinner together, alongside Isabelle and Jace, Alec had made his way back to his own room. Grateful for the peace of being alone again.

His phone dinged as he got ready for bed, and he moved quickly to grab it off of his bedside table.

[19:42 - Magnus]

Hi Alexander😉

Updates will be with you tomorrow, I’ll get to you for 09:30

Alec grinned dumbly at his phone, he couldn’t stop his face from configuring itself that way when Magnus messaged.

[19:43 - Alec]

Perfect, I’ll see you then🙂

He sent it and then stared at it blankly, he felt like that was going to end the conversation and for some reason, that was the last thing he wanted.

[19:43 - Alec]

Institute food didn’t quite hit the same spot as what you got for us yesterday haha

[19:45 - Magnus]

Is that so?😉

[19:46 - Alec]

Absolutely, the food we had yesterday was so good

[19:49 - Magnus]

Enjoy, Alexander😉

I’ll see you tomorrow x

Alec frowned at his phone, enjoy what? He didn’t take too long to wonder because then he kept staring at the little ‘x’ at the end of the message. Had Magnus meant to send that? Surely it was an accident, he wouldn’t send a kiss to a mission partner. Alec’s hair stood up on his arms at the thought of the word ‘ kiss ’.

A woosh and a small clatter of a fork made him leap from his bedside, and then he saw a small slice of chocolate cake with cream, and a steaming cup of hot cocoa on the side. A small note said, “From Paris” in cursive letters. His face hurt from the goofy grin that spread out, hurting his cheeks as he reached for his phone again.

[19:53 - Alec]

For me? From you?

[19:54 - Magnus]

Unless someone else is in your room😉

Alec laughed and picked up the plate, enjoying each bite of cake, it was the best cakes he had ever tasted. When he had finished the last sip of cocoa, he placed it down on the table and suddenly with a blue mist, they had gone. He stared at the spot where they’d been for longer than he would care to admit, but what did remain was the small note, which he stashed deep away into his second drawer.

***

The next morning, Alec awoke early, he was pleased for a few minutes of peace before he started his day. His mind was flooded with the thought of Magnus almost immediately, the thought of his magic that so delicately placed his food down and caressed it into a swirling wind that took it away again once he’d finished. Magic was so beautiful, he’d never noticed that before.

He felt his cock twinge at the thought of Magnus’ magic touching him, god what was he thinking. One slip and falling back into the hedge maze that was his own imagination. Visions of Magnus in this room of the institute with him, kneeling on the bed over him and gently running his magic over Alec’s body.

Alec couldn’t help but arch his back into the nonexistent touch, desperate to feel what he longed for, what he couldn’t pry from his thoughts. He slowly removed his own clothing, thoughts of Magnus’ magic doing that for him, or Magnus’ hands even, it made him shudder with anticipation.

He grabbed a hold of his length and gave long, teasing strokes as he thought of the warlock swirling his magic around to create this feeling. That made him speed up, he felt insatiable when it came to the desire for Magnus to touch him. He was already so close.

Giving way to laboured breath , Alec’s thighs shook in the build up, the images of Magnus’ mouth on his cock were divine.

“By the angel, he’s taking all of me” he whispered in a low growl to himself and out of his fantasy he jerked himself to completion. His body falling limply back on the bed.

Alec blinked away the sensual haze that had encapsulated him, and he huffed out his breath. He truly couldn’t stop himself, the urge to touch himself over Magnus didn’t seem to be going away. He wondered how he would feel if Magnus actually did touch him. Would he like it?

Ignoring his own thoughts, he went about getting ready for the day and set off to go meet Magnus. A small spring in his step, that he tried to ignore.

Magnus was already there and was once again speaking with Izzy, Alec couldn’t resist the eye roll at the thought that Izzy was trying to steal his warlock. He stumbled over the thought. Well, not his per se, but his warlock for the mission.

Alec cleared his throat on approach, “Izzy, have you got nothing better to do than bother the High Warlock of Brooklyn?”

He stood close to her, his hands tightly held behind his back, his shoulders squared as he stared down his sister.

Izzy spun and smirked at her brother, “You need to learn how to share big brother. Magnus isn’t a toy for you to keep to yourself”

Alec spluttered at that, a garbled mess of words coming out of his mouth that weren’t coherent.

“Oh dear, jealous are we Alexander? Don’t worry I think you’re the prettiest” Magnus said with a wink. A wink that distinctively did not work to resolve the red vines of embarrassment that threatened to weave across his whole body.

“Whatever. I don’t need you two teaming up against me” Alec muttered, walking to the board that Izzy and Magnus had been talking next to, “Have you got the report?”

“So authoritative, I like that” Magnus chuckled and handed Alec the report.

Alec took it, well more like snatched it, and pushed it at Izzy, “Take this to Mom, tell her I’ll give an official update tomorrow, we’ll be busy today”

“No worries” she said, a little tighter than before, Isabelle smiled politely at Magnus, “I’ll see you soon!”

“Goodbye, doll!” Magnus cooed after her before spinning back to Alec, “Gosh your sister is such a delight, Alexander”

“Indeed” he grumbled, "So what’s the plan for today?”

“Well…” Magnus started, now slightly worried about Alec’s temper this morning, “Based on my time analysing the patterns in the magic yesterday, it isn’t any of the New York warlocks. Which is good news for me, but delays our case a tad. I want to go to the Spiral Labyrinth for a second opinion, see if in anyone recognises the traces of energy”

“Great” Alec chimed, perking up now. “Let’s get going then” he said, walking to the weapons rack and smiling back at Magnus, “Oh and that cake? Perfection”

Magnus smiled faintly back, “I’m so glad you like it’s from my favourite little bakery, just down the road from my apartment”

“Oh I thought it was French”

“It is, I have an apartment in France too”

Alec nodded with an impressed look, “Nice”

“There’s just one thing, Alexander” Magnus ventured, now finally getting the courage to inform Alec of today’s plan, “There are no Shadowhunters allowed, so I will need to go alone today. I promise I will be back tomorrow with a proper lead. Then we can focus on that together for our next steps”

Magnus watched as Alec deflated a little, “Oh, o-okay, yeah, of course, you wouldn’t want a Shadowhunter getting in the way” he nodded at his own words and began putting his weapons back where he had just taken them from, “I’ll get some training in, that way I’m fully ready for tomorrow, see you then”

Alec had spoken with smiles, but Magnus could sense the underlying feelings of rejection that seemed to be etched on Alec’s face, “Alexander, it’s not because you would be in the way, you must know that. It’s just the rules. You of all people should understand, the law is the law and all that” Magnus said with a tsk and a flick of the wrist.

“Why me specifically of all people?” Alec said, now turning defensive. He wasn’t sure where he was going, but he couldn’t hold himself back from the way he was talking to Magnus.

“A Shadowhunter?” Magnus explained, confused what else Alec would think he was referring to.

Alec made a small noise of understanding, “Okay well ring me if you need anything, and text me about tomorrow. I’ll see you later, Magnus” he said, starting to walk away.

Magnus watched him go for a moment, mainly in shock at how bizarrely Alec was reacting to being told he wasn’t going to be dragged along to the Spiral Labyrinth. Then, without too much further thought for the Shadowhunter, Magnus took himself through his portal to go follow up with his other warlock contacts.

***

Alec had spent his time moping around the institute, his attitude towards everyone getting more snide and abrupt throughout the day. Eventually, Jace walked over to where Alec was training, “What’s going on, brother?”

Alec looked up at Jace, “Nothing just training. Why? What’s going on with you?”

“Everyone is avoiding you today because you’re on a rampage through the institute” Jace said, a slow whistle coming from his mouth after he spoke, “You seem a little tense”

“Maybe a little” Alec said with a shrug of his shoulders, as he turned to face Jace. He stretched the muscles out that ached from his relentless day of training.

“Come for a drink with me tonight, just us two, it will do you some good” Jace saw Alec hesitate so added, “For me?”

Alec scowled at Jace but agreed, “Sure, if you want to go for drinks, we can go for drinks”

“Hunter’s Moon, 18:00. We’ll have food out”

Alec nodded at Jace and resumed hitting the punching bag in front of him, unable to slow his tireless pace.

***

Later that night, after he’d showered off the layers of sweat from his training onslaught, Alec entered the Hunter’s Moon, eyes immediately falling on Jace. He smiled, relieved to see him already waiting for him at a a table. Alec made his way over, “Hey” he said, taking a seat next to Jace at the table.

“I got you a beer” Jace said, sliding it to Alec, who took it gratefully, taking a large swig. Jace’s eyes went wide, “Not the best approach when you’ve not drank before” he chuckled.

“I’ll be fine” Alec waved him off, and continued to drink.

Jace had been tapping his fingers against the table since they’d ordered their wings and fries 30 minutes ago, “Do you want to tell me what’s bothering you?” Jace asked finally.

“What do you mean?” Alec asked back, in a way that Jace assumed was an attempt at nonchalance.

As Jace went to speak, Maia dropped the food down on the table, “There you go Shadowhunters” her voice was laced with a slight playful sarcasm.

“Thanks wolfy” Jace teased back before she walked away chuckling to herself, Alec gave Jace a look of disbelief. How had he found the time to start this back and forth  with the werewolf?

“Now, back to you. You’ve been moping all day, Lydia has been asking for you, and Izzy said you were acting weird this morning. So spill” Jace said, his tone turning more serious.

“My mission, the one Mom gave directly to me, has been commandeered by an eclectic warlock”

“As in, Magnus Bane?”

“Yes! Exactly! He’s just gone wandering off without me, leaving me with nothing to do. It’s all very annoying” Alec huffed.

Jace furrowed his brows and made a small noise of agreement, “Maybe another drink then?” He asked.

“Whisky neat” Alec said, “A double” he’d heard from Underhill that it was a good drink and he thought he might as well give it a try.

Jace went and got the drinks, placing them in front of their seats. He watched as Alec took a long drink of his whisky, “Maybe slow down” Jace offered.

“Don’t you worry about me!” Alec chirped, downing the glass of whisky, not realising that those were his last coherent words before he blacked out.

Many drinks later, Jace was laughing at Alec, who was propping himself up on the pool table with one hand, and trying to shoot a ball with the cue with his other.

“And another thing, why is Magnus so sparkly?” Alec slurred.

Jace laughed harder, “He’s eccentric. I think it’s part of his charm”

“Pfft” Alec said, “He’s too hot for his own good” he muttered, before sinking a ball in one of the pockets. Jace would have been impressed by his drunken aim if not for the words that had just left Alec’s lips.

“Hot?” Jace clarified.

“Hot and pretty. Have you seen how beautiful his magic is?” Alec pondered and then let out a giggle.

“Oh my god, you have a crush on Magnus Bane!” Jace exclaimed, feeling as if he had experienced a eureka moment.

“Who wouldn’t?” Alec offered as an explanation.

Jace chuckled at that, “I don’t”

“You should, he’s quite magical” Alec pointed out matter of factly, as if being interested in Magnus Bane was the only logical choice. Jace had quickly messaged Izzy for back up, he felt out of his depths with a drunk Alec confessing his feelings.

When Izzy arrived a short time later, Alec flung himself at his sister, “You came! Because you love us”

Izzy giggled, “That’s the one big brother, I hear you’ve drank quite a lot”

Alec nodded triumphantly, “I have indeed. Too much according to Jace but I’m feeling good”

Isabell smiled at her brother and patted his arms, “So why weren’t you out on mission today?”

“Magnus said I couldn’t go to the Spiral Labyrinth, so he left me behind” he pouted, but then continued his thoughts, “He’s coming back for me tomorrow though. Did I tell you he got me cake from Paris?” Alec giggled again.

“Okay, I’m seeing what you mean now, Jace” Izzy said with a look of concern at Jace. She took a deep breath and turned back to Alec, “But you’re okay, right?”

“If I can see Magnus tomorrow, then yeah” Alec replied with a shrug, turning back to the pool table.

“Of course you are, he’s got to report back about the mission and you need to plan next steps” Izzy noted.

Alec turned around then and looked from side to side like he was in an old fashioned cartoon, before he pulled Jace and Izzy closer to him, “Do you want to know a secret?” Before they had a chance to say anything, Alec continued speaking, “ We’ve already done it in my head ” and then he fell into a fit of giggles and pulled a faux shocked face at both of them.

They stood for a minute, bewildered by Alec’s confession. Then Izzy ventured a guess, “You and Magnus? You’ve done it?”

“No! Shh” Alec said, pressing his finger to his lips with his eyes darting around the room, “Only in my mind”

Alec’s siblings gasped in front of him, Jace wrinkled his nose, “We don’t need to know what you think about when you do… do that!” Jace said waving his hand in the general direction of Alec’s crotch.

Alec shrugged, “Stop interrogating me then” and with that he spun as if to go back to the pool table, but slipped on a drink he’d spilled earlier. His face smashed into the floor and then he was being pulled to his feet by Izzy and Jace.

“Time to head home, big bro” Isabelle said, patting him lightly on the chest, while Jace drew an iratze rune to heal the nose injury and the growing bruises on Alec’s face.

They managed to get Alec back to his room, and as Izzy got him into bed, Jace stood at the doorway, keeping an eye out for anyone passing. Alec groaned in frustration, “Will you get Magnus to come tuck me in?”

Isabelle shushed her brother soothingly, stroking the hair out of his face lightly, “I think Magnus is a little busy right now”

Alec made a slight whining noise before passing out, which made Izzy shake her head and laugh at him, “What are we going to do with you?” she asked, a tinge of sadness to her voice now as she looked back towards Jace.

They left the room, gently shutting the door on a softly snoring Alec, and shared a meaningful glance, “He didn’t mention Lydia once tonight, when I brought her up, he told me not to bring the mood down. I don’t want him to be getting married just because he thinks he can’t have what he wants” Jace said, a frown creasing his face.

***

Alec’s drunken dreams had him feverish; he was on his knees in front of Magnus, his eyes gazing up at him. While the Shadowhunters werent necesssrily religious, his infatuation with warlock was starting to feel sinful. He couldn’t help but want to worship at the altar of Magnus Bane and bask in all his glory.

Alec awoke from his dream and immediately took hold of himself at the thought of having Magnus’ in his mouth. Alec’s bedsheets are ablaze as he grips the covers as tight as his grip on his shaft, and as he came, he moaned out Magnus’ name.

After a few shallow breaths, he shook his head, “God, I've screamed his name, again”

He checked his phone, 06:30, there was no point going back to sleep now. Then he saw a missed call from Magnus and 3 new messages on his phone.

[22:02 - Magnus]

Hi Alexander😉

Are you awake for a call? I just want to go over my plan for tomorrow!

Then another one…

[23:05 - Magnus]

I don’t know if I’ve upset you by not inviting you along today. I want you to know I would have happily had you along if the Spiral Labyrinth had allowed.

[23:56 - Magnus]

Hopefully you’ve just fallen asleep - I’ll come for 08:30

Alec sighed, he couldn’t believe he’d passed out and missed Magnus’ call, he quickly replied.

[06:34 - Alec]

Hey! I’m so sorry, I was spending some time with Jace and Izzy last night and then went straight to sleep when I got to my room.

Looking forward to hearing your update today!

He put his phone down on the bedside table and headed to the bathroom for a shower, until his phone started ringing and he ran back to pick it up.

“Hello? Magnus?” He said panting.

“Alexander, I wasn’t expecting to have you panting so easily” Magnus responded, stunning Alec into silence and making his cheeks blush. When he didn’t reply, Magnus continued, “I can just imagine your flushed cheeks right now. I got you, didn’t I?”

“Possibly” Alec muttered, “Anyway, what’s up?”

“Just wanted to see if I could come sooner? It would be good to talk before we’re preparing to head out. But I need your word that you won’t tell anyone what I am going to tell you”

“Why? How bad is it?” Alec said.

“Not bad, just complicated, shall I come now?”

“Uh, yeah sure”

The phone call disconnected and Alec sighed, he was glad this case was picking up, but he could feel the hangover stinging in his head. As he went to go back to the bathroom, a whirling noise came from the hallway and there was a knock. He frowned, it was early for anyone to be visiting his room.

He slowly opened the door a crack, his head craning around the door and saw Magnus standing waiting, his jaw dropped. Magnus was stood in a purple, leaf print suit, with plum coloured doc martins and a dark purple cravat. His hair was in its classic mohawk and his eye makeup was a dark black today, and, Alec thought his lips seemed glossy.

“Well don’t just stand there, let me in” Magnus said, pushing the door open and causing Alec to stumble backwards.

It was Magnus’ turn to be shocked, he quickly shut the door behind him, staring at Alec.

“Oh god, I just realised I’m only wearing my underwear”

“I think… uhm, Alexander I think the main concern is what has happened within your underwear” Magnus stuttered out. Alec didn’t think he’d heard Magnus stumble over his words before.

Alec glanced down and realised what Magnus had seen, in the centre of his underwear was a cum stain from his early morning touching, “Raziel!” Alec screamed, covering himself, “Oh by the angel, give me a minute” Alec said running into the bathroom.

Once he was showered, he came out in a towel, and strangely he didn’t care about Magnus seeing him that way, especially after what Magnus had just witnessed. A red hue spread along his cheeks and the bridge of his nose as he thought about it.

“I am so sorry, Magnus. That was the last thing you needed this morning”

“I wouldn’t say the last, although it is disappointing to see the spoils of a city as opposed to the erection of monuments” Magnus said, a flirtatious smirk danced on his lips.

Alec sat on the bed and put his head in his hands, clearly not handling this as well as Magnus was.

“I feel like you make these remarks to make me feel better, but I just - it’s confusing me” as Alec spoke, he felt the bed dip next to him.

“What do you mean, Alexander?” Magnus whispered, Alec could sense Magnus’ hand was hovering, unsure where to place itself.

“The flirting is having an impact”

“That’s the point of flirting though” Magnus pointed out.

“But I have a fiancée” Alec said, sitting upright to look at Magnus, “and I’m a Shadowhunter… and I’m a man”

There was something more steadfast in Alec’s eyes now and he rose from the bed to gather his clothes and go into the bathroom. The door shut behind him.

Magnus brow furrowed as the door closed, he wasn’t sure what to say, he had never been stunned into silence. Normally he couldn’t stop speaking, so this was a bizarre turn of events.

Alec finally came out of the bathroom, now fully dressed in tight black jeans and a short sleeved dark blue top. His face seemed to have become stuck in stoicism, and Magnus struggled to imagine the man who was falling apart next to him only a few minutes ago.

“So what update do you have for me?” Alec asked, an air of professionalism now surrounded him.

Magnus decided not to push the young Shadowhunter to explain what he had meant before, “We found a trace of the energy, but I don’t believe it’s true, but unfortunately I can’t reach who it is either”

“Who is it?” Alec said.

“Alexander, are you sure I can trust you?” Magnus asked trying to keep eye contact with Alec.

Alec levelled his eyes on Magnus now, and Alec hoped he hadn’t made the warlock doubt him.

“Of course, during this case I will protect you with my life and you can trust me implicitly, it’s my duty” Alec responded, his gaze hot on Magnus’ now.

“That’s a big claim”

“It’s a big duty”

They stared at each other for a heartbeat longer, and Magnus took a deep breath in, “Okay, the energy of the magic could be tracked to Tessa Gray, one of my dearest friends, one of the most wonderful women and warlocks I’ve ever met. She would never” and Magnus’ voice was fierce with passion and conviction.

“Okay…” Alec said, thoughtful now as he paced in front of the bed where Magnus was sat, “So how do we find her?”

Magnus was in shock, “You believe me?”

“I trust you, I can’t explain it Magnus, but I trust you. Now, what do we do to exonerate your friend?”

“You’re right, we need to find her first and then figure out the issue. I tried a tracking spell but I can’t find her, so I’m hoping she’s somewhere over waters”

“What’s the next step then?” Alec asked, his eyes intense as he was strategising in his head.

“We’ll figure out what she was doing in the lead up to her being untraceable. I think we go to Ragnar Fell first, see if he’s heard from her recently”

“Okay, let’s go”

“I think we should have some back-up, just in case. Are any other Shadowhunters free do you think?”

“I’m sure Mom can spare Jace for a day” Alec told him, “Shall we go get him? Then we can gear up to go”

“Perfect, I believe Ragnor is currently in his English cottage”

Alec smiled at Magnus then and headed for the door, before he got there Magnus grabbed his wrist tightly, stopping him. The Shadowhunter turned, looking directly into Magnus’ eyes, “Thank you Alexander… Truly.” The skin on Alec’s arm tingled until the warlock let him go. With a small nod, Alec led them out of the room and down the corridor to Jace’s room.

He knocked on the door briefly, and they waited. Jace came to the door, “Hey brother, how are you after your wild nig-“ Jace stopped in his tracks at the sight of Magnus behind him.

“Wild night, huh?” Magnus asked, turning his gaze to Alec, “I assumed it was more of a family night”

Jace laughed, “Drunk family night, some more than others” Jace said, jerking his head towards Alec.

Magnus laughed then, “I cannot imagine the stoic solider himself being drunk”

“I couldn’t till last night” Jace said with a shrug.

“Enough, we’re not here to discuss me being drunk. We’re here about Magnus’ friend who we believe is being framed or her magical is being used against her will. We need you to come with us today, Jace”

“Of course, you can count on me. Let’s go gear up” Jace said, slapping Alec on the arm as they made their way to the main operations centre. Magnus stood looking at some of the case file papers while Jace and Alec selected their weapons.

“I don’t know how you’ve been standing so close to Magnus without getting flustered, you normally can’t speak”

“What are you on about?” Alec asks, frustrated with confusion.

“When you are in front of someone you respect, you usually start blabbering. So surely, someone like Magnus would do the same to you”

“I respect him for the mission, but he is not exactly an envoy from the Clave” Alec explained with an eye roll.

“Okay, to put it more bluntly, given you’re not getting it, I’m amazed you can stand in front of the warlock you’ve had sexual fantasies about” Jace’s said in a snarled whisper.

Alec blushed, a blush that only turned redder with the next words, “You’ve had what?” Magnus asked in shock. Despite their enhanced Shadowhunter sense, their conversation had distracted them from their surroundings, and Magnus was directly behind them.

“Uh, I - I didn’t mean to?” Alec offered, unsure what he actually meant by that.

“I don’t know if that makes me feel better or worse” Magnus laughed, “Moving on from that awkward moment, shall we get to Ragnor’s? I may have been paid for joining you on this, it doesn’t mean I have to spend hours watching you two get off to seraph blades” Magnus rolled his eyes and summoned a portal.

Alec looked at the floor, unable to comprehend the complexities of emotions that seemed to be coming from Magnus, and his own emotions that flooded him. Jace gently touched his forearm, “Let’s go then” he said, his voice was gentle, for the sake of his parabatai .

Magnus held out both of his hands to the pair, “Drama queens, come on” a levity had returned to his voice now, which eased a knot in Alec’s stomach.

They each took a hand of the warlock, Alec noticed the crackle of desire under the firm grip of Magnus. He looked sidelong at Magnus, trying to figure out why the feelings he felt were so strong over a simple touch, in comparison to the tepid thumping of his heart when he kissed Lydia. Oh, how I long for our trysts, Alec thought, blushing slightly. Magnus caught his eyes, a moment of understanding passed his face before they stepped into the portal.

Chapter Text

On the other side, the brief look had gone, and Magnus let go of their hands, making his way through the fields down to a small cottage. Jace and Alec followed silently, drawing their weapons in preparation for any danger that may await them. Magnus glanced back at them, looking unsurprised but distastefully at the weapons, before he knocked on the door of the cottage. Swiftly, the door swung open and a man taller than Magnus burst through it, “Magnus! My dear friend!” The man boomed, gripping Magnus tightly in a hug. Alec took in the man, who he presumed was Ragnor Fell, in awe. He had horns that curled in between his waving hair, and his clothing was somehow more eccentric than Magnus’.

“Ragnor, it’s been too long since we saw each other in person”

Ragnor stepped back and moved out of his way, “Pray tell, who are your handsome young friends?”

“Ah, yes, we’re here on business unfortunately. This is Jace and Alec, Shadowhunters from the New York Institute”  Magnus introduced as they stopped forward.

“Oh you do have an affinity for Shadowhunters, young warlock” Ragnor mused.

“Enough playing, Ragnor” Magnus said, it was meant to be commanding but it was laced with a deep fondness, “May we come in?”

“Anything for you, old friend” Ragnor smiled, he moved his way into his own house and the three men followed him.

They had a couple of hours at Ragnor’s cottage discussing and reviewing Tessa’s whereabouts over the previous months. Alec was impressed by the level of altruism this woman had, even the past two months she had done an incredible amount of charity and healing. He could understand why Magnus loved her so much, she sounded like the most compassionate warlock - or human for that matter - he had ever heard of. They said their thank yous and goodbyes to Ragnor as they left; Ragnor pulled Magnus into him, speaking into his ear, and Alec could just heard the words whispered, “There’s something there that I hadn’t heard it in a while but I can sense it in your voice now, and I see the way you look at the one you call Alexander. Tread lightly there, I would hate to see you lose yourself again” with a delicate brush of Magnus cheek and a wave to the Shadowhunter brothers, Ragnor shut the door.

Alec and Magnus held each other’s gaze momentarily before Magnus shook it off and summoned a portal, “Let’s get you back to the institute”

“You’re not coming with us?” Alec asked.

“Alexander, you ask that question every time” Magnus said with exasperation now, “I will be going home to review Tessa’s steps, and hope I find something concrete for us to follow up on”

Jace nodded, “Okay let’s get back to the institute. Thank you, Magnus”

“Goodbye, boys” Magnus waggled his fingers at them and then left England to return home.

When they were back in the institute, Alec turned to Jace, “How did you know about my thoughts?” He paused when Jace looked confused at him and then continued, “The - the sexual ones” he mumbled.

“Other than you not shutting up about Magnus all night?”

Alec was dumbfounded, “All night?”

“Yes, apparently he is too hot for his own good, and pretty and you wanted him to tuck you into bed when we got home” Jace informed him.

Alec’s eyes went wide in shock, “By the angel! What is going on with me? I’m seeing visions - am I bad? Or mad?”

“ Or wise ?” Jace interjected with a smirk.

Alec continued, his anxiety evident in his voice, “What about Lydia? I feel like I’m cheating on her in my head”

Jace gripped Alec’s upper arms tightly between both his hands, “Hey. Only your actions talk , this is your own choice. You just have to figure out what you want”

“Okay, okay” Alec said, his frustration bubbling, an anger rising in him, “I need to go burn off some energy. Uh - thanks for coming along today, I know we didn’t have any big bad demons, but it was good to have you there” and without waiting for a response he started strolling to the training room.

“I’ll always be there, brother” Jace called after him, concern etched at the edge of his voice, but also an unwavering love.

Alec stormed into the training room and went straight to the punching bag, his overwhelming anger consumed him. He started hitting the bag until his anxiety lifted, until all he knew was the rhythmic punching. The Shadowhunter lost himself in the movements.

His skin turned to stone when he finally stared at his bloody knuckles, his breathing erratic from his excessive workout, he hadn’t meant to go until he broke the skin of his knuckles. His thoughts turned to his upbringing, the prison in which he had been rigidly raised, this cage was once just fine , he thought to himself sadly, but now? Now he wanted Magnus. A man, a downworlder, a freewheeling bisexual, apparently. That term still confused him slightly, but what mattered was he knew that the term was something his parents wouldn’t be happy with. It was something he wasn’t sure he was happy with, he didn’t care what Magnus did, but he wasn’t sure he would be able to stomach going against the Clave in such a momentous way.

As he continued to stare at his knuckles, his phone began ringing in his jacket, that he’d strewn on the bench near the entrance. He jogged over to it and saw Magnus’ name, “Magnus? What’s wrong?” Alec answered.

“So I may have accidentally come across Tessa sooner than expected. I need your help, asap. I can’t portal you, I need you to find your own way here, please, now”

“Of course, I’m on my way”

Magnus exhaled in relief, “Thank you, Alexander”

With that, Alec hung up and quickly ran out of the institute, firing a message to Jace about where he was going but not to worry.

Alec, sweaty, arrived at Magnus and his wards allowed him in without any resistance. Alec was almost flattered. Magnus mentally noted the sweat on Alec, and given Shadowhunters rarely sweat, he wondered how fast Alec had run over.

“I’m struggling to contain her, she has a demonic possession. I don’t know which demon yet. I need your angelic power, please, Alexander”

Alec ran to him then, as if it was as logical to him as breathing, his hand contacting with Magnus’ own hand. Their clasp on each other felt like the world stopped turning and Alec stared into the eyes of Magnus as their power flowed together and contained Tessa.

Tessa was screeching in an inhuman manner, her hair standing on end, frizzing at the power surrounding her and the power of Magnus that was overwhelming her. She screamed one last time before collapsing on the floor, Magnus pulled Alec with him and began chanting in Latin, and then in an ancient language that even Alec didn’t recognise, despite his extensive studies growing up.

The woman’s back arched and she shrieked, fighting Magnus’ magic and then suddenly a puff of black smoke exploded around her and she went limp. Magnus fell into Alec’s lap, causing Alec to gasp, the hand that wasn’t clutching at Magnus came up to stroke Magnus’ hair, pushing it back from his exhausted face. So pretty, he thought before he could stop himself. Magnus smiled up at Alec, “Thank you Alexander, there are not many Shadowhunters who would have rushed to my aid, never mind offering me their power”

“I told you before, you can trust me” Alec said sternly, “Are you okay?”

“Yes, all good” Magnus answered, looking down at their hands, still holding each others, and then his eyes trailed over the broken skin of his knuckles, and the bruises forming, “Oh Alexander, what happened?”

Alec froze, embarrassed at the memory of his assault on his own body earlier in the training room, “I-I got too into my training earlier I guess. I was training when you called” He was speaking more truth to Magnus than he usually would with anyone else.

“Come here” Magnus said, and took both of Alec’s hands in his, a wisp of blue started circling Alec’s knuckles, “You’ll be good as new” he whispered gently.

“Thank you, Magnus” Alec smiled tentatively, and then he turned to look at Tessa, “Is she…?”

“She’s okay” Magnus said and raised her from where she lay, his magic carrying her into his spare bedroom, “I’ve put her in bed, she probably won’t wake up till tomorrow. I think you should come over first thing, to prepare for her waking, then we can talk to her together” Magnus suggested.

They were both panting in exhaustion, and Magnus still had Alec’s hands bound in his own as they stared at each other. Alec wasn’t sure how much time they had spent sat there, it felt like an eternity intertwined and yet not long enough at all. Before Alec had an opportunity to think, Magnus was stood up, and had prepared a portal, “Well, Alexander, go get some rest, and I will see you tomorrow”

Alec lightly stroked Magnus’ arm, “Thank you for healing me, and thank you for trusting me” he said, and turned away but his attention was called back to Magnus.

“You look beautiful, you know? In these downtown lights” Magnus said and Alec just smiled, although he wasn’t sure if it was a sad smile, and then left Magnus’ loft.

That night, Alec lay in bed, the thoughts of Lydia in his mind, he was starting to worry this wedding was happening too soon. His mother had planned the ceremony for the following week, Jace was excited to plan his bachelor party, some mundane event that Clary had told him about. Alec wasn’t sure of any of this, he wanted to focus on the mission at hand, his mission with Magnus.

His mind fell to the way Magnus’ wards had almost caressed him as he’d walked through the door, they had seemed to pull him in. Magnus’ magic seemed to like him, he had the distinct feeling of being welcomed in the face of Magnus’ magic.

As Alec thought about it, his hand wandered as usual down to his underwear, and he palmed himself gently through them. Alec thought about Magnus calling him beautiful. He thought about the grip on Alec’s fists that Magnus had, and he thought about Magnus maybe holding them above his head and pinning him down to the floor. Without being able to help himself, he gulped at the thought, the thought of being pinned down by Magnus so that he could be taken by him fully.

Alec hadn’t considered Magnus inside of him before, and the idea of it sparked through his entire body. The notion of Magnus holding him down, and his fingers trailing up his thigh, slowly tracing the letters of ‘mine’ on the inside.

“ What if he’s written mine on my upper thigh ” he moaned aloud to himself as if speaking the words out loud would speak Magnus into existence right there on the bed with him. His desire was blazing, and he was leaking with the anticipation, his grip on his dick shaking slightly. It only added to the sensations running up and down his body. Alec couldn’t help but babble out loud to the empty room as his hand moved faster along the length of himself.

He came, Magnus’ name on his lips once again. As if his name was the only thing he could say, the only thing he could think.

***

The next morning, Alec awoke with a grin on his face, he was determined for this mission to be a success, and today could be the biggest breakthrough they had.

As he got ready, he saw a portal begin to materialise, and then his phone beeped.

[08:03 - Magnus]

Good morning, Alexander😉

I didn’t want to rush you, or invade on your privacy again but the portal is ready when you are.

Alec smiled as he tied his bootlaces, and then walked through the portal.

“Ah good morning, Alexander, once again. Help yourself to coffee and breakfast” Magnus said with a flourish.

As much as the thought of breakfast appealed to him, he couldn’t peel his eyes away from Magnus, his mouth agape. Magnus had known he was coming, it wasn’t as if Alec had caught him unawares, but he was still in his nighttime attire.

He was wearing golden silk pyjama bottoms that hung off of his hips, embracing the curve of his body. Magnus’ bare torso was exposed, the only thing partially covering it was the his sheer gold robe. He had his usual eyeliner and a face full of glittering colour, and in Alec’s eyes, he looked magnificent.

“H-hi” Alec stuttered, a lopsided grin on his face as he continued to stare at Magnus. He wasn’t sure he could move, his eyes couldn’t even meet Magnus’ as he scanned over his body hungrily.

“Well you woke up eager” Magnus crooned, which snapped Alec out of his daze.

“Sorry! Good morning, Magnus”

“Good morning, Alexander, for a third time” he said jokingly, and then added, “Oh and never apologise for admiring artistry” with a wink as he gestured down at his own body.

Alec giggled, it happened before he could stop himself, and he flushed so red that he thought it might be a permanent stain on his face. To distract himself, and not to make eye contact with Magnus, he helped himself to coffee.

“Alexander, I thought it might be good to talk” Magnus said.

Alec turned to him, “Okay, what’s up?”

“What Jace said, you know about the thoughts you’ve been -“ before he could get to the end of the question, there was a small groan from the other room.

Then, a woman’s voice, rough and croaking, called out, “Magnus? Am I at yours?”

“Tessa!” Magnus exclaimed, a wide grin forming on his face, before he ran into the next room. Alec followed gingerly, peeping his head around the door. The two warlocks were already speaking, and Tess taking tentative sips of tea. Magnus explained his hypothesis of what happened, until Tessa held a finger up, looking at Alec.

“And who is this sweetheart, Magnus?”

“Funnily enough, he’ll be one of your great great great nephews.” Magnus enthused before adding “I’m not sure how many greats.”

Tessa chuckled, “Whose?”

“Gabriel and Cecily’s bloodline” Magnus said.

“Oh how wonderful, how I miss sweet and fierce Cecily” Tessa sighed wistfully, then she shook her head and smiled at Alec who nervously scuffed his shoe in the doorway, “Sorry, it appears I’m still a little light headed. It’s very nice to see a Lightwood though, we had some wonderful holidays with your ancestors”

Alec smiled politely, “My middle name is Gideon, after one of my ancestors”

“He trained me to fight, many many years ago now” Tessa said with a smile, her voice was melodic now, returning to what Alec assumed was its usually temper.

There was a lull then as silence fell on the room, “My memories of the past few months are vague” Tessa said after a moment, “But I think jointly we can piece together what happened. The possession was like being in a fish tank, my vision and my hearing was distorted, so not everything makes sense to me. I didn’t know I could be possessed”

“Anything is possible with a greater demon, my dear Tessa” with that, Magnus placed his hand gently atop of Tessa’s and they smiled adoringly at each other, “I’m just glad I managed to expel them. I think I got them back to Edom, but it all happened so fast and the sheer power required was overwhelming”

Magnus looked between the two of them, “Now shall we all go sit down for breakfast?”

Alec found himself sat across from Tessa and next to Magnus, he wasn’t sure why they had sat so close to each other when the table was large enough to accommodate space, but he also didn’t want to move away. He sat and listened to Magnus and Tessa playing out scenarios and going over possible outcomes, and he took everything in. Alec didn’t necessarily have anything to add, but he was formulating a strategy and his official report foreword in his head. While he was internally mid-grand statement of his report introduction, he felt Magnus’ knee press gently into his, he assumed it was an accident, so waited for Magnus to move. However, they stayed touching each other, and it seemed that Magnus was now applying a slight more pressure to their contact. Alec felt almost breathless, he was amazed what a simple touch was doing to his body. Tessa was writing something down while Alec stared down into his cup of coffee, but he could feel Magnus’ eyes studying him closely, trying to gauge his response. Alec tentatively, with his nerves shaking him to his core, pressed his knee into Magnus’, returning the gesture. He wasn’t sure why he had done it and he couldn’t bring himself to raise his eyes to meet Magnus, but there was a warmth brimming inside of him that he hadn’t experience before. The slightest smile spread at the feeling he never knew could exist, a feeling he wasn’t sure how to name.

When they had concluded their conversation, Tessa put her attention to Alec, “So what do you want to do from here, Shadowhunter?”

Alec looked at her for a moment, “I’m getting my official report to the Head of the New York institute, it will explain your possession, your magic trace and the werewolf situation. Then once I’ve submitted it, I will ask for permission for you to go to the pack and reverse your magic, which I’m assuming you’re happy to do?” It was a question, but Tessa got the distinct feeling it was more of a command. She grinned at him, he was such like the Shadowhunters she had spent her early years with, when she was a young warlock and training alongside them.

“Perfect, more than happy to. I think I’ll stay here for a few days, that way I have Magnus with me at all times and we’re both easily reachable” she offered, Alec saw Magnus nod in his periphery.

“Great, well it’ll take a couple of days to get Clave approval, but I’ll keep you guys updated, and just call or message if you need anything. I’ll go now so I can get started” Alec said.

“Wonderful, thank you Alexander” and without standing, Magnus summoned a portal for Alec.

Alec smiled at Tessa, “It was nice to meet you, Tessa, and I’ll see you soon” and then he rose from his chair, “Thanks, Magnus” he added. He squeezed the warlocks shoulder, and as if functioning solely on instinct, he leaned down and kissed Magnus on top of his head before strolling through the portal back into his room at the institute.

And then he stood froze on the spot, staring blankly at his desk. Had - had he just kissed Magnus Bane on the top of the head? Alec was in shock, he couldn’t move his body. Why would he do that? Sure, he did it to Lydia and Isabelle, but that was his fiancée and sister, this was Magnus Bane, High Warlock of Brooklyn. A feared, almighty warlock, not a woman who requires delicacy and sweet gestures. Not that Lydia or Izzy ever regarded themselves that way, nor would they appreciate the sentiment, he reminded himself.

His hand had been firmly clasped against his mouth since he had appeared back in his room, and he couldn’t drop it. He could practically taste his own shock. Alec wasn’t sure whether he should message Magnus to apologise, but the thought of having a response to that message made him decide against it. The Shadowhunter moved to his desk and began drafting his report instead, unsure what else to do with himself in that moment. He allowed himself to get lost in report writing and compiling Magnus and Luke’s reports and notes too. A knock sounded at his door and he called for the person to come in, he turned his head as Lydia made her way into the room.

“Hey Alec, it’s late, how long have you been sat there?” She walked over to him and was gently massaging his shoulders when she asked the question.

He wasn’t sure for a minute, he checked the time on his phone, “Oh god, 6 hours, how did I miss lunch?”

Lydia chuckled softly, “My darling, you’re so sweet” she said, and leaned down to kiss the corner of his mouth, he caught her lips with his and kissed her properly. Visions of Magnus flashed up, but he shoved them down, as deep as he could and focused on Lydia.

He pulled back from her, his desk chair rolling back slightly, “Have you had dinner?”

“No my love, that’s why I came to find you”

He smiled at her, he often forgot how tender she was with him, “Do you want to go to our restaurant?” She nodded and kissed him again, an mhmm sound coming from her, Lydia then moved back and took his hand to pull him up to follow her.

They spent a few hours there, talking about their days, discussing some of the gossip from the Institute that Alec had missed while he was away. He could see them doing this weekly for the rest of their life, chatting idly about the various happenings in their world, sharing jokes and food and wine. He could see it. It would be nice. Alec tried not to feel as if he was convincing himself, he wasn’t, he just sometimes forgot how easy it was to be around Lydia.

Once they’d paid the bill, they wandered back to the institute hand-in-hand, Lydia looked up at Alec, the love in her eyes were clear even to him. “Come to my room tonight, Alec… please” his body stiffened at her words, and he felt a panic surge up from his stomach and grip his throat, his breathing felt cut off.

“Lydia, I… I can’t” he said, almost gasping the words out. He calmed himself, trying to remember the ground beneath him, “We have an example to set, a reputation to uphold, especially if we want to run the institute once we’re married” he pointed out, his voice now back to its steady tone.

She sighed, it was a deep sigh and looked down at the floor as they walked through the Institute doors. Lydia dropped his hand and looked at him longingly, as if she was grieving someone despite them being right in front to her, “Goodnight, Alec”

“Night Lydia” he said back, unsure how to fix the problem that he had caused, other than sneaking around with her for an elicit meeting.

Back in his room and ready for bed, he laid down with an outburst of breath, he felt the need to relieve some of the tension of the day. Alec reached down to touch himself, caressing his bulge through the underwear he was wearing, and he tried to think of Lydia kissing him. As the kiss turned passionate in his head, he felt firm hands on his hips, and as he drew back in the vision, Magnus was in front of him. He couldn’t escape him. Magnus was feverish with his hands, hard touches, nails digging in where they landed, and the kiss was making Alec pant out loud as he touched himself. He could see Magnus above him, preparing to enter him, a long indulgent thrust into his tight hole that had him stroking his cock harder. The warlock was fucking him hard now, labouring above him, he looked like a God claiming what was rightfully his.

Alec would happily be his.

At that thought, he came, soaking his underwear thoroughly. He gasped aloud, both shocked by the force of his orgasm, but also the thought of wanting to belong to Magnus. Wanting to be claimed by him. Alec shuddered and tried to not consider that while he cleaned himself off before he went to sleep.

***

Over the next day, Alec put his focus on his report, ensuring it was up to the high standard that his mother always set. When he was finished, he took it down to Maryse’s office, taking a deep breath in and knocking on the door.

“Come in” she called.

He entered, and a smile spread across her face, Alec thought how much he loved that smile, it was the main warmth and love he felt from Maryse Lightwood and he clung to it.

“Alec, how wonderful to see you. How are wedding preparations going?”

“Izzy and Lydia are full steam ahead, they’re on schedule for next week” Alec confirmed, as if he was relaying a mission update.

“Great news. And how is the case going?”

Alec grinned then, “Really well, we’ve had some really tangible progress, here’s my report. I’ve drawn it up with the Clave in mind, because I think it’s time they’re involved… if you don’t mind me saying” Alec said, stumbling over the last part of his sentence. He never wanted to sound too forceful with his mother.

“Incredible” she said, and took the report from his outstretched hand. She was nodding as she flicked through the pages, and Alec drummed his fingers against the arm of his chair while he waited with bated breath. “Alec this is fantastic work. You’ve managed Magnus and Luke well, you’ve made major progress and you’ve acknowledged the exact moment in which to inform the Clave. I’m proud of you”

Alec fought the tears that were building up behind his eyes, letting his face pull up into a pleased smile, “Thank you, that is great to hear”

Maryse nodded, “I’ll get a message to the Clave immediately, they usually have a two day deliberation period, but I’ll let you know as soon as they respond. You can pause any further activity, unless Magnus or Luke get in touch with any changes or updates. In the meantime, you can go back to daily assignments with Jace” she confirmed.

Alec agreed and they shared a brief hug before Alec left the office, he couldn’t believe how well that had gone. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone to draft a text message.

[12:22 - Alec]

Hi Magnus🙂

Just submitted my report, it’s been received well. Clave will be deliberating for the next two days most likely, but will you updated.

Let me know if you need anything in between now and the Clave’s conclusion.

He felt a giddiness at being able to share his good news with Magnus. They hadn’t spoken since he had left Magnus’ apartment, so he was pleased to have something concrete to send. With that, he headed to the canteen for lunch, where he had sat alone as he ate.

When Alec was finishing up, he could hear a group of Shadowhunters chatting between themselves a few tables over in the canteen. The group was all men and they were laughing and jeering as they spoke, Alec activated his Hearing rune to gain his enhanced hearing. If nothing else, it may be some gossip to report back to Lydia.

“-walks around like this, like he owns this place. I know the Downworlders are known for their antics but he regularly lays with women and men alike, which is just insane”

“I can’t believe he’s allowed in the institute. It is a disgrace to the angel to have a man here who lays with another man” one of them retorted.

“A warlock, not a man” another sneered, speaking the word ‘warlock’ as if it was a slanderous expletive. Alec had to fight himself not to slam his fists down on the table as he stood, and walked to the exit.

As he walked past the table, he leaned down to the retorter and whispered in a low, dark voice, “You’re just jealous because no one would lay with you Blinkwold” It was an icy voice, laced with threats, one that Alec had never heard come out of his own mouth. He couldn’t help but shiver at the cold nature of his own voice as he left the canteen.

After his afternoon on assignment with Jace, Alec took himself to the library to update some hand written demon records, based on the encounter they’d had. While they had the computers, people often liked to reference the library’s wealth of archives. He heard footsteps approaching and his head snapped up to the doorway, he instantly recognised the sound as Lydia’s heels. When she rounded the corner, she beamed at him, as if the weight of anything that had been bothered her had instantly lifted, it was almost overwhelming knowing she felt that way around him. Lydia kissed  him softly when she reached him, but he cringed away; the kiss like a sting to the lips. He blinked excessively as he looked at her, her face was hurt, “What’s wrong?”

Alec flushed, “I don’t know. I think I’m just a little lost without the big case, I’m just waiting around” he answered, completely flustered.

“That’s fair, it’s your first big case that involves reporting up to the Clave. It’ll be a nerve wracking wait” she reassured, patting his arm and joining him at the table.

He looked at her, he wasn’t sure what he felt, it felt emptier than he imagined he would feel looking at his future wife. She was supportive and so kind, but those feelings he had been waiting to blossom into something now seemed as stagnant as pond water. Alec wanted to know how long it would take for his love of her friendship to morph into desire and true love, the way that others often spoke of it. Nephilim were meant to love once and to the depths of their soul, so he was confused why it wasn’t happening sooner for him.

“I’ll leave you to your notes, my love. I'll see you later” Lydia said, kissing him gently in the forehead before she left the library.

He was left staring at the empty doorway, trying to will his emotions to change. Maybe he was broken.

***

It had been two days since he had messaged Magnus, and while his message had been read, Magnus had not replied. His anxiety was making his heartbeat erratic and panicked - he wasn’t sure what to do.

As he was stood at one of the screens in his worried state, he heard Maryse’s voice next to him, “Alec, great news, the Clave have approved the next steps. They want reports with statements on all werewolves who have been affected, and then an arrest of the one responsible. So you must find the source of the demonic possession”

“I believe Magnus sent him back to Edom” Alec pointed out.

“Someone must have summoned the demon” Maryse explained and he nodded.

“Okay, I’ll call Magnus now” Alec said, his mother patted him lightly on the shoulder and then went to brief a group of shadowhunters across the room from where he stood. He immediately rang Magnus, waiting for longer than he wanted, an impatience dug at him. After an insurmountable amount of rings, he heard a lazy answer, “Hello?”

“Magnus?”

“Yes, Alexander?”

“Sorry if I’m disturbing you” Alec started, confused at Magnus’ tone, “I just had an update and a request”

Magnus seemed to brighten then, “Oh that is fantastic! You’re not disturbing me necessarily, I was asleep, I’ve been enjoying a few restful mornings without the rigid routine of the nephilim” there was laughter in Magnus’ voice but Alec felt hurt.

“I didn’t realise I was bothering you with the early mornings… I will… Well, I’m so sorry”

“I’m playing with you Alexander!” Magnus said, and Alec’s heart swelled, he had missed Magnus joking with him, teasing him.

“Okay!” Alec said, almost too eagerly, “We’re approved to go back to the Jade Wolf to revoke the magic. I say we go first thing tomorrow, is it best you speak to Luke?”

“Yes of course, I’ll get a fire message to Luke, and then me and Tessa will come get you tomorrow morning. 9am okay?” Magnus asked.

Alec smiled to himself, “Yes. By the angel, I’ve missed being on mission with you” he said without thinking.

Magnus paused, for longer than Alec could handle, before saying, “Well that is very sweet, Alexander. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow”

Alec tried to sound to causal then, “Yep! You too. Bye, Magnus”

“Bye, Shadowhunter” Magnus said, and then the call disconnected. Alec’s face was hot with a burning embarrassment that took a hold of his whole body.

Chapter Text

The morning after Alec’s call with Magnus, he was in the armoury, preparing himself with his specialised weapons courtesy of the weapon’s master. His slid a dagger into his thigh holster, patting it lightly to make sure it was secure, a pleased smile on his face at his selection. He was grinning at the thought of seeing Magnus again and so with a bounce in his step, he made his way back to the main control room to meet Magnus and Tessa. When he entered the room, his walk became more militant, he noticed they were stood waiting for him and he waved at them. His steady pace turning into a jog to reach them, but he remained controlled in his movements as he approached them, “Hey guys, hope I didn’t keep you waiting, are ready to go?” He asked when he got there.

“No not at all, we just arrived” Magnus said cheerfully, while Tessa said simultaneously, “Hey Alec!” to which Alec replied with a warm smile.

“Let’s get this party started then” Magnus said and opened a portal in front of them.

They all stepped through at the same time and arrived at the Jade Wolf, Luke was waiting for them outside, a nervous smile on his face that he tried to play off as politeness, “Hi all, thank you for coming. I think it is best we do this outside, in case of any incidents. I’ll ask them to come out one by one, if that’s good?”

“Perfect Luke, thank you” Magnus said, rolling up the sleeves of his lavender coloured button-up; despite wanting to focus on the mission, Alec couldn’t help but admire the forearms of the warlock. The first man came out nervously, scratching his arm with long shaking fingers.

Tessa made a small reassuring gesture to come to her, “Let me help you, child” she said softly.

The werewolf came closer then, his eyes trained on Magnus and Alec as he stepped into reaching distance of Tessa, “What are you going to do to me?”

“I’m going to pull my magic out of you. I’m not sure how it will feel, as I wasn’t in possession of my own faculties when this was done to you, but please remember I am helping you. If you need anything or something feels wrong, tell us immediately”

“Okay, I’m ready then” he said, looking into Tessa’s eyes. She took a deep breath, raising her arms from their lounging position by her sides and drew them up slowly along with her magic. Then her magic fiercely blasted the werewolf, encapsulating him, a raging wind of white magic swirled around him. “It’s working” Tessa breathed out.

Then suddenly, the sound of cracking bones started and the man’s eyes turned a deadly green, “I… can’t… stop… it” he choked out as he started shifting, wolf ears growing from the top of his head. Without missing a beat, Magnus had his magic holding the man (well, werewolf now) in place. He had fully shifted and Magnus had him frozen on the spot, the wolf howled angrily, trying to fight Magnus’ magic. Alec watched in amazement as the two warlocks fought to help the werewolf, and then Luke was shifting, and began stalking over to the pair. The Shadowhunter swallowed, his hand darting to his seraph blade in fear.

“No, Alexander. Don’t! He’s going to calm the werewolf down once we’re finished” Magnus shouted over the sound of the magic whirring and the werewolf’s cries.

Suddenly the magic stopped and the werewolf flew to the ground, seemingly dizzy from the experience. Luke, in wolf form, took the opportunity and dove on top of the other wolf, holding them down, analysing if they were calmed. The man turned back, and Luke nuzzled his face to check on him, before turning back to himself and grabbing the man a blanket, “Here” he said, holding it out to him.

“I can feel the weight gone” the man gasped, “I feel free again, in my own control” he was on the verge of tears, his relief clear. “Thank you, thank you all so much” he said and ran back inside.

They spent the next couple of hours working their way through each werewolf who was under the influence of Tessa’s magic. The final werewolf stepped out, a smile wide on their face, as if they already had Tessa’s magic removed from their body, “Thank you in advance, Tessa Gray” she said, approaching them all.

Before the woman could take her remaining steps, a portal opened up and a woman with blue bubbling hair walked through. Her rage was immediate and she pointed a long, crooked finger at Magnus, “You!” Magnus looked stunned for a minute, “You have ruined my plan for these wolves. How dare you!” She screamed. The warlock was physically shaking with anger and Alec instinctively moved in front of Magnus, his seraph blade drawn.

“Alec, don’t” Magnus said, low and with concern, “She could be really dangerous, get behind me.” Alec felt the tug of Magnus’ hand and he let him guide him back, fighting his own instinct to launch at the cold ice-haired woman in front of them. Magnus straightened, “I’m not sure what you’re talking about. Who are you?” He said with an air of nonchalance which had Alec squeaking slightly in shock. Alec was peering out from behind Magnus, looking over his shoulder, chin slightly raised to see the female warlock.

“You don’t remember me? I was in Peru when you were last there. You and that Ragnor ruined my kingdom” she shrieked. It chilled Alec to his very bones.

“We were very drunk during that time, I doubt we collapsed a kingdom. We were on a relaxed holiday” Magnus said, flicking some imaginary lint of his shoulder.

“You did!” The woman continued, “You destroyed everything I’d built, my cults, my demonic portals, you took it all”

“Sounds like you needed taking down” Tessa interjected, her own face had steeled.

“Well you’ve perked up now that demon has left you. You bore me now” she said, waving her hand dismissively.

Tessa made a noise to distaste but was interrupted by Magnus who let out a long drawn out “Aah” and then everyone turned to him, “Marina Valeen, of course, ice witch of Peru, well before me and Ragnor accidentally took you down” he laughed. Alec bristled, now was not the time for laughter. Then before Alec could suggest taking it down a notch, Tess and Magnus both locked their magic onto Marina at the same time. Marina screamed furiously, her hair wild in its frizzing movements, “Alec quick, put the shackles on her.” Alec ran then, using his Nephilim speed to get to her fast and lock the shackles on her wrists that Magnus was keeping behind her back. As soon as they were fastened, Magnus created a portal and shot the warlock through it.

Tessa and Magnus leant against each other, sharply taking in breaths, “That was a tough one” Tessa said with a shaky laugh.

“Indeed my Tessa, thank you for being here”, they hugged each other tightly then, leaving Alec and Luke staring at each other, and the female werewolf panting on the floor, her eyes wide in fear.

Once the warlocks had separated, Magnus helped the young werewolf up and Tessa nodded in reassurance and spoke sweetly, “Let’s help you out.” While Tessa prepared her magic for the werewolf, Magnus sent the institute a fire message informing them of Marina’s capture. Alec was grateful for Magnus’ compliance with the shadowhunting rules, it made his heart thud slightly faster. The final werewolf had the magic removed and Luke shook the two warlocks and the Shadowhunter’s hands before they said their goodbyes and Luke went back into the Chinese restaurant.

Alec turned to them then, “I would value you both coming with me for the final report back. I know you usually don’t, Magnus, but you both understand the magical aspect better than myself. I also need to draft the written copy, but our verbal update will be enough for now”

Magnus grinned, “This has been great fun, young Shadowhunter. Thank you for bringing me along for the ride”

“Well technically it was my parents, but I have enjoyed our time working together” Alec said, holding his hand out to shake Magnus’. The contact had goosebumps appearing on Alec’s arm, but he chose to ignore them for now, and focus on informing his mother of what had transpired.

***

Over the next few days, Alec had the honour of overseeing the Inquisitors visit, and providing a competent presentation to the Clave on the events of the mission. His mother was immensely proud and that just made the experience more enjoyable for Alec. Lydia had been fawning over him since it happened, and while he was pleased for the praise, he started to feel suffocated by the attention. However, he had received a text from Magnus, which somehow became the most important praise he’d received.

[21:34 - Magnus]

I hear Marina has been sentenced and sent to the Gard.

Good job! I’ll raise a solo toast to my favourite Shadowhunter😉

[21:37 - Magnus]

Also saw something that made me think of you this evening while I was out in the city.

Alec had read both message so many times that he was starting to wonder if he was losing his mind. He had replied a quick ‘Thank you’ and love hearted the picture of the downtown lights, unsure how to reply any more effectively than that. “He sent me downtown lights” he murmured to himself as he continued to stare at his phone.

Jace suddenly interrupted his thoughts as he sat down across from him, “what’s going on? What are the downtown lights?” without another word, Alec just waved him off, so Jace changed the subject with a frown, “Are you ready for your bachelor party tonight?”

Alec chuckled, “Not one bit, but I’m happy to be doing something instead of staying inside my room another night. Now the Inquisitor has gone, I can leave the Institute again” they laughed together at that. The Inquisitor had been staunch about maintaining his presence during the process, and Alec had followed the rules strictly to ensure she was happy with his work. When she left, she had commended him on his hard work and it had made it worth it but he was desperate to be out in the world again.

“We better get ready” Jace said, checking the time, “Don’t worry, there’s no crazy costume, but try to choose something nice to wear, Alec”

Alec rolled his eyes, “Fine” he muttered, “I’ll see you in an hour” he said, standing from the table and leaving to his room.

He showered quickly and was ready within 15 minutes, and he paced his room, unsure what to do with his spare 45 minutes. His eyes landed on his phone on the desk, and he considered calling Magnus. But what would he even say? After 12 days together, he still relied on Magnus to make the conversation interesting, to steer them away from strategy and planning. Alec was too rigid to initiate a casual conversation, and he didn’t really want to explain his current situation and the bachelor party. He instead went to the main control room to check the daily reports board. It was an easy task to do while he waited for his family to be ready, which annoyingly took forever.

“Nice of you to show up” he grumbled as Jace and Izzy walked towards him.

“Sorry big bro, it takes a long time to look this good” Izzy smirked, her and Jace sharing a knowing look. Alec rolled his eyes, both of them were too vain for him to comment any further.

“Let’s go” Alec said, and Jace clapped him on the back, guiding him to the door and out into the streets of Manhattan. When they arrived at a Downworlder bar, Alec frowned towards Jace, “We don’t go to Downworlder bars”

“You don’t. Me and Izzy do, we’ve invited a few of the fun Shadowhunters, but the people who are going to bring the real fun, are the Downworlders” Jace said nonchalantly, but Alec could see the excitement in his eyes. He already was worried about the volume of alcohol that Jace and Izzy were going to ply him with, especially after the last time he drank in front of them. Alec’s cheeks flushed a rosy colour at the thought.

“Oh don’t look so worried” Izzy said and pulled him inside. The bar was crowded, full of all sorts of creatures and people, Alec was overwhelmed at the sheet volume of bodies in the room. Everyone cheered and clapped as he entered and he furrowed his brow at Jace, who subsequently pointed at the large poster of Alec hanging on the wall with the words ‘ Groom to be ’ scrawled on it in Izzy’s handwriting. Alec couldn’t hold back the snort of laughter, while it was embarrassing, it also may be a little funny, he had to admit.

“Let’s get you a drink!” Luke said approaching him, “Hero Shadowhunter” he added teasingly, but there was a hint of genuine admiration behind it that pleased Alec. He had actually helped the wolf pack, and they seemed especially grateful. Luke handed him a shot which he took, and then Izzy handed one to him, and then a third came from Jace. The room seemed to go a little blurry before focusing again, the neat alcohol was hitting him fast. Then from beside him Luke whooped, it startled Alec and he flinched at the sound, staring at Luke confused. The werewolf grinned, “Your mission partner is here” and Alec turned to see Magnus strolling towards him, a sheepish smile on his face.

“Here’s Alec’s warlock” Izzy said when Magnus stood next to them.

“He’s not my warlock” Alec retorted, at the same time as Magnus declared, “I do not belong to him.” They made eye contact and laughed, shaking their heads in joint disbelief at Izzy.

While they greeted each other, Luke was coming back from the bartender, “Double shots for the double heroes” he announced. They cheersed and shotted the tequila.

Alec let out a shocked “Woah” and turned to Magnus who looked totally unaffected.

“I’m going to get a cocktail” Magnus said, taking his leave.

"Ooh that sounds good” Alec chirped, scrambling past a few people to catch up to Magnus.

“Like a puppy dog chasing their favourite master” Izzy teasingly commented to Jace, Alec only just caught the words, and he hoped Magnus didn’t hear them.

“I’m yet to make you one of my famous martinis, Alexander. You’ll have to come to my place some time and I’ll make you one, or five” he threw a grin in Alec’s direction.

“Yeah - yeah definitely!” Alec responded, almost too enthusiastically.

“I think you should try the pornstar martini from here, it’s one of my favourites” Magnus advised, one hand on the bar as he leaned over the surface to get the bartenders attention. Alec noticed his sparkly top rise up to reveal the dip at the back of his spine and he gulped, quickly looking back up at Magnus. His free hand was gesturing wildly as he spoke to the bartender and Alec couldn’t help but admire how cool Magnus was, how effortlessly he spoke to the mixologist as they prepared the drinks. They handed the drinks to the pair and Alec beamed at Magnus as they clinked glasses, “To your marriage” toasted Magnus. It made Alec’s smile falter, but he raised his glass slightly regardless and began drinking. Maybe a little faster than he originally anticipated, but he couldn’t believe he was actually getting married. In the heat and excitement of being celebrated by the wolf pack, who had all offered drinks, Alec had kept forgetting and being reminded that he was there because he was marrying Lydia felt like cold water hitting him.

Magnus had been pulled away to talk to another Warlock at the party and Jace was back by his side as they drank, sat at a table, “I can’t believe you invited Magnus” Alec said, his words slightly slurred at this point.

"Well you’ve been working closely with him, the Downworlders love him, plus Izzy and Clary practically begged me… Well threatened me actually”

“I don’t need the temptation” Alec scoffed in response.

Jace raised an eyebrow, “If it’s that easy to tempt you, maybe you need to have all your attention on someone else. Someone who isn’t Lydia”

“I like her and it’s Clave approved” Alec replied, a deep frown etched his face, it was almost petulant.

“Oooh tear my clothes off now, I can’t handle the raw magnetism of it all”

“Shut up, Jace” Alec groaned and rolled his eyes. Jace only laughed at his brother before Alec continued, “I’m going to get a water, I’ll be back in a bit” he said, standing from the table. He moved through the crowd to the bar, and ordered his water, as he took it from the bartender with a ‘thanks’, he stared around. Alec had noticed he was drunk, but suddenly he was dizzyingly drunk and his eyes landed on Clary and Magnus who were dancing, Magnus’ tanned skin was glowing faintly with sweat. His mouth watered slightly, Magnus looked spectacular, and also maybe spectacularly drunk. Magnus found his eyes across the room then, their gaze on each other hot, Alec gestured for him to go outside into the back alley, he had to speak to him about the case.

“Alexander, what is it?”

“I need to discuss the case, I had some questions”

“Of course, fire away. But then you must go back and enjoy your party” Magnus scolded. Alec let out a drunken giggle, and his eyes stared deep into Magnus’, and then the memories of all his dirty thoughts flooded his mind. He felt hungry with desire, and before he thought much further, he crashed his lips into Magnus, grabbing at his face with an urgent need. Magnus gasped for air when he pulled back, shock clear on his face, “Why does it feel like this? Why does it feel like a vow we’ll both uphold somehow?”

Alec’s brow furrowed, “What feels like that?”

“This” Magnus said with a murmur and kissed Alec again, Alec melted momentarily until a sudden daunting realisation hit him.

“Wait no, no this is wrong” Alec said, pushing Magnus away by his chest.

He thought then that Magnus looked hurt, but the look was gone as quickly as it had appeared, “Is it wrong? It feels so right, I can’t stop thinking about you Alexander. I thought it was just me, but you clearly feel it too, and-”

“No, no! I keep these longings locked in lower case, inside a vault for a reason, I refuse to deal with them, especially at my bachelor party. This is meant to be about my wedding, my marriage”

“Alexander, all I’m asking is you explain what’s happening in your head. Just tell-“ but Magnus was interrupted by Alec’s explosion of words.

“Magnus, you don’t get it. It’s like I’ve been having these fatal fantasies every night since I’ve met you, sometimes in the mornings too. My head is spinning, reeling. I don’t stop thinking about you, every day your body, your laugh, your magic is on my mind. You’re beautiful, incredible-“ and then it was Alec’s turn to be interrupted because Magnus’ lips were crashing into his. All at once, neither of them could pull away, their lips moving in sync, their hands on each other’s bodies, their lives irrevocably changed within such a small moment in time. When Magnus broke the kiss, they were panting feverishly, their eyes stuck on each other, like if either of them looked away, then this moment would slip away.

“I… I” Alec started and gulped, “I’d like that martini at your place now” he said, his face turning a wonderful colour, that Magnus thought was much like the pornstar martinis they’d indulged in earlier.

“Your wish is my command” Magnus said, one hand still placed on Alec’s neck, his other hand forming a portal behind himself without a glance over his shoulder. Then he grabbed Alec by the neck and started kissing him again while pulling him through the portal. Magnus’ knees hit the seat of the couch in the loft and he fell backwards, Alec landing on top of him, straddling him. Magnus hummed in delight, “The exact position I’ve been dreaming about you in” Magnus purred as he started kissing down Alec’s neck to his collarbone. Alec whined slightly at the words, leaning into the hot kisses that Magnus was providing. The Shadowhunter’s hips began to move slightly on instinct, and in between the sloppy licks and kisses that Magnus was pressing into his skin, Magnus murmured, “Just as delicious as I’ve been imagining”

“Y-you’ve thought about this?” Alec stuttered out around the moans he was exhaling.

“Mhmm. Haven’t you, sweet boy?” Magnus purred into his ear before gently tugging at his ear lobe, being rewarded with a low desperate sound escaping Alec.

“ I keep recalling things we never did, every night, sometimes in the mornings” he admitted, all too desperate to confess his every sin to Magnus.

“Is that why you’d made such a pretty mess when I visited your room that time?” Magnus asked, his voice sparking with excitement.

Alec bowed his head and nodded, “Yeah, I was thinking about you before you came” the confession made Magnus’ fingers dig into Alec’s hips and a filthy thought of Magnus’ finger prints being bruised into him flashed through Alec’s mind.

“You were thinking about me as you came” Magnus said, it wasn’t a question, but a correction. His voice was low and gravelly as he thrust his hips up into Alec’s, holding him tighter.

“Yes, yes I think about you all the time. I think about you in every way. You’re the only thing. You’ve haunted me. It’s all you” Alec was almost incoherent in his need for Magnus now, the words no longer making sense. Magnus chuckled at Alec darkly as the young Shadowhunter clutched at him, grinding his hips into the warlock. He felt the electricity of Magnus’ magic flaring around them, which only served to make him more desperate. “Take me, Magnus. Please, take all of me” Alec begged, and Magnus was stunned for a second by not only Alec’s words, but the pleading tone with which he spoke them.

“Shhh sweet boy, I’m going to take care of you” Magnus cooed, rubbing his thumbs against Alec’s hip bones, nibbling lightly along his neck, “Let’s lay you down on my bed” and before Alec could respond, he was falling backwards onto soft sheets. Magic licked his skin as he sunk into the silk below him, he groaned his hips bucking up into Magnus’ body. Magnus clicked and the clothes were gone between them, which only served to make Alec claw at him harder. He smirked down at Alec and saw the precome dripping from Alec’s cock, “Leaking for me already darling, how delicious” Magnus growled, slowly using his finger to collect the precome and resting it on his tongue. As he looked into Alec’s eyes, he sucked on his finger, a low groan erupting from his throat, and Alec’s eyes were blown with lust at the sight of him. Magnus took a moment to look at Alec before continuing the assault on his neck, switching between kisses and biting down into the paper white, supple skin. As he did so, his magically lubed up middle finger slowly slid into Alec’s hole, whispering encouragement to the shaking Shadowhunter beneath him. He slowly worked his finger inside Alec until his body relaxed, and then he added a second finger to stretch him out further.

Magnus worked Alec into a frenzy as he eased his third finger inside, “Such a good boy for me, Alexander. You’re taking this so well” he praised in Alec’s ear. Alec could only whimper in response, totally lost in the pleasure Magnus was providing him, their bodies working in sync to open his hole up. Magnus pulled his fingers out suddenly and Alec cried out at the loss, “It’s okay, I’m going to be inside you soon. Are you ready? Do you want that?”

Magnus stared down at Alec and waited, Alec slowly opened his eyes and looked up at Magnus, “Yes, yes Magnus, please.” The lust in Alec’s eyes nearly shattered Magnus’ self control, but he knew he had to go easy with Alec, and so he positioned himself between Alec’s legs. His slicked up cock gently pressed against Alec’s rim, causing Alec to gasp, the need in Alec’s little sounds were driving Magnus crazy. He held onto Alec’s hips as he pushed himself inside slowly, feeling Alec’s tight hole adjust to him inch by inch. Then, finally, he was inside Alec to the hilt, and Alec’s hips began moving rhythmically underneath him, an unspoken request for more.

“Oh god, you were made for this, Alexander” Magnus said, as he started to slide in and out of Alec, slow movements at first, but he couldn’t resist the desperate pleas for more from the young Shadowhunter. With a growl, he leaned down onto the bed, one hand supporting him, the other firmly on Alec’s hip, and thrusted deep and long. He lost control of himself but as he watched Alec’s face, Alec was too lost in pleasure for it to be an issue how hard he was penetrating him. Magnus was hitting Alec’s prostate every few thrusts, making Alec cry out in pleasure.

“I - I can’t stop, fuck… fuck… I’m going to-“ before Alec could finish his sentence, his release splattered across his abdomen and chest, a gargled moan and expletives falling from his mouth. The clenching of Alec’s muscles around Magnus’ cock was heavenly, and Magnus only took a few more pumps inside Alec before his whole body spasmed and he came in gasping breaths.

He buried his face in the crook of Alec’s neck, breathing raggedly, “Fuck, that was incredible, Alexander”

Alec made a faint noise of agreement, seemingly still lost in the overwhelm of their first time together, “ Oh what a way to die ”  he hummed, “What a wild first time”

Magnus chuckled, “Yeah I can imagine your other times haven’t been quite like that”

“Other?” Alec asked, turning to look at him with confusion.

“Like your other first times with people?” Alec blushed at Magnus’ clarification.

“Well…” Alec said, not quite able to meet his gaze, and not able to quite get the words out.

Magnus gasped, “Was that your first time ever?”

Alec nodded, still not meeting the warlock’s eyes.

“Look at me” Magnus said, and while it wasn’t demanding, the tone was authoritative enough for Alec’s eyes to shoot up. Magnus smiled at that, “I wouldn’t have gone as rough with you, if I’d have known” his voice was gentle now, almost tentative.

“No no, Magnus I wanted it. It - it was incredible”

Magnus clicked his fingers, cleaning them both up, “Would you like to stay here tonight?” he offered, his voice was causal but Alec noticed his eyes were desperately searching Alec’s face for the reaction.

“Yes, let me just text Jace” Alec said, and before he could move to look for it, Magnus had summoned it for him. Alec smiled shyly now, much to Magnus’ amusement, before he grabbed his phone from the warlock and sent a quick message to Jace saying he wouldn’t be going back to the Institute with them. He silenced his phone and put it on the bedside table, before turning back to Magnus, who was now under the duvet and patting the space next to him. Alec gladly moved into the spot and shimmied into Magnus arms, the bed sheet fell over them, and Alec sighed happily. It was the most content and satisfied he had ever felt, he didn’t want this feeling to end. That thought echoed through his mind until he surrendered to sleep in the safety and comfort of the warlock’s arms.

Chapter Text

Alec woke up slowly, in a daze of comfort and peace he had never found anywhere before. He stretched his arms up lazily, the covers dropped to just below his chest when he arched his back into the pull of his muscles, as he did he heard a groan from beside him. His eyes flickered over to Magnus, who looked like he was about to devour him, “You can’t look like that, you look too good” Alec sat up with a chuckle, which gained another groan from Magnus, “You really are an angel, I can’t debauch an angel by taking him for a second time so soon”

The high points of Alec’s cheeks tinted a pink as Magnus spoke, “Half Angel” he corrected. Magnus shook his head and laughed at the man in his bed.

“Does that mean I can ravish half of you?” Magnus teased.

“You can have all of me” Alec said with a fierce sincerity that he hadn’t expected from himself. He cleared his throat, “I - I need to get back to the Institute, I‘ll have people wondering where I am”

“Lydia” Magnus breathed, barely above a whisper. Alec nodded, the guilt so evidently written across his face.

“I have to go cancel my wedding” Alec confirmed. A surprised gasp came from next to him, and he turned with a furrowed brow, “What?”

Magnus looked at him searchingly, “I thought you meant you were going back for her. Not to end things with her”

Alec shook his head, almost excessively, “By the angel, no. Not now I know who I am. I… I’m gay. I couldn’t possibly marry - marry a woman”

Magnus sat up next to him then, “Then you’ll come back to me?”

Alec smiled softly, “Of course, I’ll come back to you. I’ll always come back to you”

Magnus was taken aback, “That’s a big statement Shadowhunter”

“You’ve changed my life in a big way” Alec said with a shrug and lightly dragged his thumb over Magnus’ cheek.

Magnus leaned into the touch, gripping onto his hand, gently running his nose down Alec’s palm and placing a kiss on his wrist and whispered against his skin, “Come back soon”

“As soon as I possibly can” the Shadowhunter promised as he left the bed and got dressed in yesterday’s clothes.

Alec begrudgingly had made his way back to the Institute, but had enjoyed the constant ding of messages from Magnus. They had been texting back and forth while he had showered and got changed, preparing to explain why he went missing last night. A loud and repetitive knock slammed into his door and he jumped. He had only just sat down on his bed to reply to Magnus and hadn’t expected anyone to be visiting him before he could leave his room. Abruptly he stood from the bed and crossed to the door, pulling it open to reveal Lydia furiously glaring at him, “You couldn’t have replied to my texts? Not just one? I was worried about” she yelled immediately, “By the angel, you’re literally holding your phone. What is wrong with you? What has gotten into you?” she demanded.

“I-I’m sorry you were worried. I was going to come see you, I was literally just about to leave my room when you got here” he said in a small voice, the realisation and guilt hitting him in waves, but the fear of crawling back into the safety of the engagement hit him harder, “I do need to speak with you actually, it was why I was coming to see you”

“Well you better have a lot to say after just disappearing, everyone was worried. Well except for Jace, but you know what he’s like” she ranted, waving her hands around, clearly maddened by the predicament.

Agitation took over his body, Jace was relaxed because he had known where he was, but he could never explain that to Lydia, it would crush her. “Would you sit, please?” He asked gesturing to the chairs in his room as he carefully positioned himself in one of them. Lydia sat down, frustration etching her face as she crossed her legs with purpose and gave Alec a pointed stare, “Lydia… I - I have some news, and it has shocked me, so I can only imagine it will shock you” Alec started, and he saw Lydia’s face drop into concern which only tugged him further into his own shame. With a deep breath in, he braced himself, “I’ve realised I’m gay”

Lydia sat statuesque opposite him, staring absently at his face, she didn’t look like she was even processing the words he was saying, “But we’re getting married tomorrow” she said flatly, blinking at him in bewilderment.

“Lydia” Alec whispered her name, “We can’t. I can’t do that, not to you, not to myself. I can’t lie to myself anymore. I hadn’t ever considered it an option, I just thought of myself as a failure, as someone who didn’t feel the way others felt. I didn’t realise there was a key part of me missing… I didn’t know who I was…” he trailed off, realising that his declaration wouldn’t be helpful to her, it wouldn’t sooth the pain he was causing. What he was saying would only serve to make himself feel better, and he knew he wasn’t the priority here.

“You must have known” there was an accusatory tone to her words now.

“I swear I didn’t, when I proposed I truly believed that the feelings I had were the strongest I had ever had or ever would. I didn’t realise I was taking a good friendship and a close bond and turning it into a fantasised romantic connection. I’m sorry, I really am, I don’t know how to express to you that I know how badly I screwed up. You are incredible, you’re one of my best friends and I just, I just didn’t know that was all it was for me until now. I thought the rest of my feelings would come with time if I just waited long enough, but then I realised”

Lydia frowned then, “How did you figure it out?”

Alec froze and hoped she didn’t notice the sudden panic rising inside him, he didn’t want to tell her about last night with Magnus, he didn’t want to hurt her anymore. With a sigh he bowed his head, “Meeting Magnus made me realise some things about myself. I realised I was attracted to him slowly as we worked together, but it was so foreign to me, so confusing. I shoved it down as much as possible”

“I knew you were prioritising him over me” she snapped.

“Lydia” Alec warned, “That was about the mission. That had nothing to do with us, or to do with Magnus. You must know that, you know that, right?”

Lydia’s head fell into her hands then as she let out a shuddering sigh, “I don’t know, Alec, I don’t know what to think. Maybe I need to leave. I should transfer out of the Institute. I can’t be here-“ she babbled, standing up and rushing to the door.

Alec grabbed her wrist, “Wait Lydia, you don’t have to go”

“I do, Alec. I need to get out of here. We have nothing left to talk about” she sighed and left the room. He could hear the stomping of her boots down the hallway as she left and he slumped to the floor, mortified that he had hurt Lydia in this way.

Just then Izzy came around the corner looking wild eyed, “Your fiancée is on a rampage… and you’re… on the floor, what is going on?” She said, her eyes trailing down to the crumpled pile he had ended up in. Before he could answer, she turned and closed the door behind her and held her hands out to pull him up.

Once they were sat on his bed, he exhaled slowly, “I ended my engagement”

“For Magnus?” Izzy gasped out.

“For myself. I like Magnus, he’s great, but getting to know him has shown me what actual feelings are. What I felt for Lydia was surface level, it was friendship and nostalgia and a deep respect, but there was no passion. I want to date Magnus, but what I really want is to not have to marry a woman, even if me and Magnus never take it further” Alec explained, although he felt a pang of pain in his heart at the thought of not pursuing Magnus.

“What’s next then?” She asked quietly, almost as if she didn’t want to push Alec to think about it.

“I’m not sure… I have a stone blocking my heart, and I don’t know what to do Izzy. What if I roll the stone away ? What if it’s the end of me as a Shadowhunter? I dream of cracking locks, throwing myself to the ocean rocks, completely letting go and crashing into him tonight, or any night he’ll have me. But is that crazy? Is that too far? Too much?” Alec was breathless as he finished speaking, the fire in him burning excessively, consuming his entire body.

Izzy hummed thoughtfully, a tinge of sadness to the noise, “I genuinely think you need to find out for yourself. I think you come out, let it happen” she said began combing her fingers through his hair, “Someone told me recently how unhappy you seemed before your first big mission and I truly thought maybe it was that you were waiting for your first leadership role. Now, I think it was that you were discovering who you truly are, you were falling for Magnus”

Alec cleared his throat, “Not quite falling” he clarified weakly.

“It might not be love yet, but you care for him” she pointed out.

With a shaky breath, Alec looked up at Izzy, “Am I allowed to cry now?” He asked, his voice cracking and when she held out her arms to him, he collapsed into them, the tears flowing freely.

All the emotions he had been holding back were suddenly crashing over him. “I’ve got you, I’m so proud of you” Izzy spoke soothingly, gently rocking her brother as she stroked his hair, “You’re so brave and we’re going to get through this.” They held onto each other until Alec had calmed down, and then he told her he’d have to go speak to their parents. She’d ushered him back into the shower first, to rinse away the fatigue and emotions that had overwhelmed him before.

Once he was dressed again, Izzy walked with Alec down to the Institute Heads’ office, the one their parents jointly occupied. When they knocked, they heard Maryse call them in, and Alec took a tentative step inside, held onto tightly by Izzy who followed.

“My children” Maryse said bluntly, “I hear you’ve been causing some problems, Alec. Calling off your engagement so close to the wedding, Alec, really?” She chastised.

“I’m not in love with her, Mother” he pleaded.

“Shadowhunters are bound by duty, petty things like love and fantasies need to remain just that, fantasies”

“I want to marry for love, I can fulfil my duty to the Angels and still marry for love” Alec protested.

“You’re being petulant, Alec. Be reasonable”  Robert ordered.

“I won’t marry Lydia” he said icily to his Father.

“You absolutely will marry Lydia, even if it’s make believe , at least you won’t be an embarrassment to us” Maryse snapped, venom lacing her words.

Alec scoffed in her face, but before he could say anything, Robert interjected, “Your mother is right, don’t pretend like she isn’t, Alec. You can’t dishonour us like this. You’re being hasty and you know it. The Clave will not be happy about this”

A passionate blaze of anger rippled through Alec at his parents’ words, “They’re going to crucify me anyway for being gay, and if long suffering propriety is what they want from me, they don’t know how I’ve suffered for years. They don’t get the confusion and the loneliness and the agony I have felt by not knowing myself. I didn’t even know what I was missing because it’s shut down so much in our culture. But now? Now I know myself so stunningly clear, it feels blinding. How can I be guilty as sin for that? Can’t you see it? Can’t you see I’m a full version of myself now? I’m no longer a living ghost, drifting through the Institute, drifting through life like nothing matters!”

There was silence in the room, and Alec felt it echo in his soul, settling there disconcertingly. He realised that he hadn’t mentioned being gay before that second, and he immediately panicked that would tip them over the edge. His teeth worried at his lip as he nervously stared, unblinking at his parents. It felt agonising waiting for them to respond, their faces were unreadable and just as he was trying to think of what to say, Izzy spoke up, “I never realised that being a Shadowhunter meant you didn’t love your children unconditionally”

At those words both of their parents flinched and exchanged a look, “Fine. You can do what you want, but don’t let it interfere with your work and don’t let anyone find out about your… your feelings” Maryse seethed and stood up to leave the room.

“I agree with your Mother. You can leave now” Robert said, shooing them with his hands, “Both of you. Now. Leave” he demanded when neither moved. At that, they both hurriedly stood and left the room, walking down the corridor in silence until they reached Jace’s room and waited on him to answer.

“I think that went as well as it could have with our parents. Plus you know you’ll always have us, we love you unconditionally” Izzy said, pulling Alec into the room without saying anything to Jace as he opened up his door to them.

“What happened?” Jace questioned, his eyebrows furrowing at the conversation that he’d clearly been included in only half way through.

“Alec told our parents that he wasn’t marrying Lydia and that he is gay, all in one swooping statement. It was quite impressive really. Eloquent even… especially for Alec”

Alec looked at Izzy in bewilderment, “Izzy, did you really need to say that?” He asked and was given a simple shoulder shrug in return. Rolling his eyes at his sister, he turned to Jace, “But yeah… it was a lot. They’re not happy, but they’re not disowning me, so there’s that”

“I’m proud of you, brother” Jace praised and patted Alec on the upper arm before giving it a firm, reassuring squeeze, “So what now?”

“I want to go see Magnus” and with those words leaving Alec’s mouth, Izzy squealed in delight.

“You totally should. Go get your man!”

“He’s not my man” Alec pointed out with another eye roll.

“Yet! He will be if you go get him” Jace joined in, waggling his eyebrows at Alec.

Alec clasped a hand to his face and groaned loudly, “You two are insufferable”

“Well go be with Magnus instead then” said Izzy casually, inspecting her nails as she did but the smirk playing on her lips showed her not-so-casual excitement at the prospect.

“I will, I will” he said and pulled out his phone texting Magnus to ask him to create a portal. The portal opened shortly after and he said goodbye to his siblings quickly, waving off their teasing kissing noises and remarks about the warlock. When he stumbled back into the loft, he felt happy again as he saw Magnus stood waiting for him in a silk robe and loose fitting pants. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he strode across the room to Magnus and pulled him into a bruising kiss. The force shocked Magnus, who chuckled as he pulled back, his hand still firmly on the Shadowhunter’s neck, “God, Alexander. The things you do to me. I’m quite literally drowning in the Blue Nile of your eyes, your beautiful eyes” he murmured reverently as he brushed his thumb over Alec’s pulse. After a few seconds of them silently looking at each other, Magnus spoke again, “I’m assuming it went well then?”

“Mostly went very badly actually. Lydia left in a rage and my parents are furious without even knowing about you yet, but I just… I just want to be with you” Alec answered, his eyes still locked on Magnus’.

“What about your holy duty to the Clave and the angels?”

“And what if the way you hold me is actually what’s holy? Have you considered that?”

“Alec that’s very cute, but you know what I mean” Magnus sighed.

“I can still be a Shadowhunter, and I want to change the way the Clave thinks” Alec said, a fiery passion singeing his words now. “Magnus, this is it for me. This is what I want, it’s what I’ve chosen. I want to be myself and I want to give this a shot between us” Alec urged. Magnus kissed him fiercely then, overwhelmed by Alec’s confession, his tongue hastily sliding over the Shadowhunter’s bottom lip. Alec didn’t hesitate to let Magnus’s tongue slip into his mouth, he had spent too long hesitating from Magnus and his own feelings. He lost himself in the kiss, arching into Magnus, panting into his mouth as he felt Magnus’ magic curl and caress up his arms and neck. Moving back slightly, he spoke into their kiss, “You know, I’ve been fantasising about how your magic would feel on me”

“And? The review?”

“Intoxicating. You’re intoxicating” Alec murmured desperately as he kissed the warlock.

“Maybe I should show you what else my magic can do? How else it can make you feel. What do you say?”

“I need that, I need you” Alec gasped as he felt a tingle of magic on every inch of his body. His hands automatically tightened on Magnus’s hair, tugging it gingerly, which was reverently rewarded with a loan moan from the warlock. Magnus manoeuvred Alec backwards into the bedroom and pushed him down onto the bed, easing Alec’s legs apart to lay between them, “This is reminding me of another fantasy” Alec chuckled.

“So many fantasies Mr Lightwood, how did you have any time for shadowhunting? Hmm?” Magnus teased, running a single sparkly nail down Alec’s chest. As he did, Alec also felt the warlock’s magic tingle down his back and sides causing a full body shiver. With a flick of his fingers, Magnus reduced them both to only their underwear, humming with satisfaction as he did.

“It was fairly distracting harbouring so many fantasies. Case in point: when you found me in my bedroom half naked and a complete mess” Alec reminded him, lightly tugging Magnus’ hair as he did, and the warlock’s eyes darkened with need.

“Tell me what you fantasises you had about me while you were all alone with your legs spread open all pretty like this” Magnus was now tracing barely there circles on Alec’s inner thighs causing the Shadowhunter’s hips to buck as he panted lightly.

“I just imagined you claiming me I guess… Writing mine with your finger as you spread my legs” Alec admitted, unable to make eye contact with Magnus as he blushed.

“Like this?” Magnus asked, his index finger now writing ‘mine’ in cursive along Alec’s thigh. The word remained there with the glowing blue of magic and Alec’s breath hitched, nodding when he couldn’t speak.

“My Alexander, all mine” Magnus whispered, rubbing his thumb over the magical word on Alec’s upper thigh and captured Alec’s soft moan as he kissed him. As their lips moved together, Alec felt his skin light up as magic trailed along his body, his moans increasing in volume. The fingers tangled in Magnus’ hair pulled harder then, a desperation clawing at Alec; he had spent so long not acknowledging this part of him and now he was wild with need. Alec whined as his hips pushed up into Magnus’, feeling their hard lengths pressing into each other through the thin fabric of their boxers.

“Need you… need you, please” Alec whimpered into their kiss which drew a guttural noise from Magnus’ throat as his hand gripped Alec’s thigh roughly. The noise made Alec throw his head back out of the kiss, and Magnus took the opportunity to kiss and suck the sensitive spot of Alec’s prominent deflect rune.

“Shall we take these off then?” Magnus played with the waistband of Alec’s boxers as he spoke, “We can’t have you ruining any more of your underwear, now can we?”

Alec couldn’t reply, just letting a whining moan out from his lips as he nodded at Magnus, meeting his eyes when Magnus clicked his fingers. He slid the backs of his knuckles up the underside of Alec’s cock, it was a long, slow and barely there touch that had Alec arching his back, “You’re so beautiful when you arch like this, my sweet Alexander” Magnus praised, kissing along Alec’s collarbone.

“P-please, Magnus… Need it… need you” Alec pleaded, his fingers trailing down to clutch at Magnus’ shoulders.

“Shhh, my love. I’ve got you” Magnus promised, placing soft kisses on Alec’s chest and sliding his now lubed up fingers down Alec’s crease. As Magnus worked his middle finger into Alec, Alec began chanting soft ‘yes’s and the warlock could feel the ring of muscles relax around his digit.

He stretched Alec out leisurely, working gradually up to three fingers, luxuriating in hearing Alec’s increasingly needy breathing. “You’re perfect like this” Magnus murmured into Alec’s neck, alternating kisses and licks against the exposed skin as he spoke. Alec’s hands were still firmly gripping Magnus’ shoulders when Magnus withdrew his fingers and finally, finally , nudged the head of his cock against Alec’s rim. With a shaky breath, Alec pushed himself further down onto Magnus, “In such a rush, my desperate angel,” Magnus cooed with a teasing chuckled as he sat back on his knees and trailed his hands to Alec’s waist. His left hand gripped onto Alec tightly and his right hand smoothly ran down to Alec’s thigh, his thumb pressing on the ‘mine’ that still was imprinted on his the skin. Possessively, Magnus gripped the Shadowhunter’s thigh and pushed further into the warmth of Alec’s wetness, a moan pulled from him at the sensation. Beneath him, Alec was begging for more of him and Magnus was weak not to comply, bottoming out at the pleas, his hips firmly against the back of Alec’s thighs.   

Magnus started with steady, drawn out thrusts that had Alec panting and grinding his hips up to get more friction. He was making sinful noises that had Magnus nearly tipping over the edge before they’d even really started.

“Harder, Magnus... Please… Need more… harder” Alec simpered, his eyes glazing over with need as they met Magnus’ golden cat eyes on full display.

“Anything for you, my Shadowhunter” Magnus murmured reverently and leaned down to place his left hand by Alec’s head, a rough grip still on Alec’s thigh as he sped up his movements. The change in angle had Magnus’ cock slamming into Alec’s prostate over and over, making Alec dizzy with pleasure. Alec’s hands weaved into Magnus’ hair and dragged him into a messy kiss of clashing teeth and searching tongues, the two men exploring each other’s mouths with a searing intensity. Their lips barely parted as Magnus continued his assault on the bundle of nerves that were sparking up Alec’s entire body.

“Yes… yess… keep goin’… Magnus, oh god… I’m going to come, please” Alec pleaded between moans.

“That’s it, my angel, come for me untouched. This is everything you’ve been fantasising about isn’t it?” Magnus exhaled, the hunger evident in his voice. He crashed his hips into Alec repeatedly and watched with feverish worship as Alec’s body shook, the orgasm tearing through him. Pulling back slightly, Magnus’ eyes trailed down the Shadowhunter’s body as thick streams of come splattered his abdomen and chest. Magnus continued to fuck Alec through his orgasm, “Look at you” he said delicately, like Alec was something exceptionally precious to be observed.

Alec clenched tightly around Magnus’ cock and continued to move himself along the length to push Magnus’ over the edge with him. With a splutter of breath, Magnus’ flooded Alec’s hole with his release, his thumb tracing the ‘mine’ on Alec’s thigh as he did. The Shadowhunter continued his movements, milking every last drop out of Magnus and staring up at him wild with desire as Magnus choked out his final moan. He collapsed on top of Alec, and Alec took the additional weight in his stride, stroking lovingly up and down Magnus’ sweat drenched back.

“Sorry I must be crushing you” Magnus chuckled, a wobbly arm moving to prop himself up so he could look down at the man beneath him.

“Don’t worry, Shadowhunter strength, remember?” Alec retorted with a wink, suddenly feeling more confidence than he had ever experienced before.

Their breathing began to steady as the warlock pulled out of Alec, being tentative as Alec’s eyes widened at the sensation. Magnus summoned a wet cloth and began cleaning Alec, Alec let out a shaky laugh when it dipped in between his legs, “Wouldn’t it be quicker to use your magic?”

“It would, but I want to look after you properly” Magnus explained, continuing to carefully press the cloth against Alec’s body. Alec watched him, a lump in his throat at the intimacy, swallowing down the overwhelming emotions that threatened to spill out of him at any moment. Once Magnus had finished, he clicked his fingers for a final clean, then laid down and pulled Alec into his side.

As they curled around each other, Alec whispered into the darkness, “I was being serious before. I wholeheartedly want to choose you. I choose you and me… religiously”

Magnus gave a gentle hum of happiness and pulled Alec tighter against him, “I choose you too, Alexander.”