Defamation and Setting The Record Straight

Magnus blew into the offices of Downworld News, slamming both office doors open with Alexander hot on his heels. The magazine was crushed in his fist as he screamed, "Who the FUCK wrote this?! What gives you the absolute right to say these things?"

The receptionist blinked, her hand reaching for the phone. Then she stopped as if unsure who exactly there was to call when the high-profile CEO of Bane Records was standing before her with fire in his eyes.

"Magnus," Alexander said softly from behind Magnus, who could feel his boyfriend rubbing soothing circles over his back as he spoke. "Please calm down. We'll get this resolved, I promise."

"I would like to speak to this, S. Underhill, and his supervisor, now," Magnus bellowed out, not calming down at all. He'd made a deal with this magazine years ago that they wouldn't publish anything in regards to Magnus' personal life without his express permission. Magnus had a select few press members that he trusted enough to allow in on press conferences. Downworld News - whom up until now was a prominent entertainment magazine - being one of them. That was until now. After this article about his and Alexander's relationship, Magnus was seriously rethinking that decision. The article basically slandered Alexander, saying things along the lines of the only reason he was with Magnus was to use him for money. Claiming that there was a rift between Alec and Jace, and Alec needed to use someone else for his meal ticket. This journalist couldn't be further from the truth and it made Magnus far more than simply furious.

The receptionist dialed an extension number.

"Mr. Underhill, Magnus Bane is here with another gentleman, and is demanding to see you immediately sir," she said, voice quivering.

"AND I'M LESS THAN PLEASED!" Magnus yelled, sure that this Underhill person could hear him over the phone as well as down the hall. Magnus could still feel Alexander's soothing touch on his back which was probably why he hadn't sprinted down the hall.

Magnus had only learned of the article that morning, when Cat had come over, dragging Ragnor and Raphael with her looking furious. Cat was equally mad when she found that Alexander was asleep - naked as the day he was born - next to him. Cat wasn't just Magnus' personal assistant, she was also his media liaison. She handled any and all press conferences, or interviews that Magnus did. She had Raphael and Ragnor take Alec out of the room so she could discuss what to do about the journalist tarnishing Alexander's name. She was also less than thrilled to learn about their relationship, which Magnus would get to the bottom of at a later date. She immediately called Downworld News' Editor and Chief, Dorothea Rollins to find out how she could have approved such nonsense to be published in her magazine. Magnus and the others refused to tell Alexander what was said in the article, other than reporting that they were in fact in a relationship, and said some not so nice things about Alec.

"Mr. Underhill will see you, Mr. Bane," the receptionist squeaked, pulling Magnus back to the moment and away from his thoughts. "His office is down the hall, the second door on the left."

"Make sure that his supervisor is there with him," Magnus said, not giving the girl a second glance as he marched right on down the hall to meet with this S. Underhill person.

"Magnus," Alexander said, pulling on his arm to get Magnus to stop walking. "Baby, you need to calm down. We'll find out how he got this information, but please stay calm. We wanted to make our relationship public anyway."

"I know that, Alexander," Magnus said, his voice sounded whiny even to his own ears. "But I wanted us to make the announcement on our own. I didn't want some entertainment magazine leaking the information before we could get it out there, and not only that, but there were some horrible things that were written about you in there. That's why I'm so pissed!"

"Sweetheart," Alexander said smiling and his tone light, however, Magnus felt sure Alexander would not be so calm if he knew what was said about him. "Cat is working on setting up a press conference for later on today to set the record straight. According to Jace, this type of thing happens all the time with celebrities, and usually there's nothing they can do about it."

"But we can do something about this," Magnus countered. "I will not let anyone ruin your reputation for the simple fact that this writer doesn't seem to like me."

"Well now it's out there," Alexander said calmly while moving closer to him, running his hands up and down Magnus' arms, and it instantly made Magnus relax. "Instead of us announcing our relationship, we're going to - at the very least - confirm the speculation of that part of the article. Then at the press conference, we can set the record straight on the wrongful accusations this guy wrote about us. I do want to see this guy get fired for causing you this stress though. I really don't like seeing you like this."

"How are you so calm?" Magnus questioned softly, unable to meet Alexander's eyes.

"Because the news is already in print," Alec responded as if it were the simplest thing in the world. "As I've already said, we were planning to tell our friends today anyway, and I've already told my family. But… are you… are you having second thoughts because of whatever it was that this guy wrote about me?"

Magnus sucked in a breath at the insecurity in Alexander's voice.

"No, darling. I'm not having second thoughts at all. I just don't like not being in control, and this article wasn't of our doing." Magnus said, holding up the magazine. "Plus I signed a contract with Downworld News that I would give them all exclusive interviews, as long as they didn't publish anything without my consent. And I really don't like what was written in here about you," he repeated yet again. Magnus felt that he and Alec were doing nothing but talking in circles around each other this morning.

"Okay," Alec said, Magnus could hear the relief in his voice. "I just wanted to make sure you weren't already regretting us."

"Alexander," Magnus said, moving even closer to his boyfriend. "I don't - and never will - regret what we have. Please don't ever think that."

"Then let's get in there and fry this asshole," Alexander said with a smile, causing Magnus to chuckle and kiss his cheek.

As they continued their way towards S. Underhill's office, Chief Editor, Dorothea 'Dot' Rollins, sprinted down the hallway toward them.

"Magnus!" she called out sounding out of breath. "I am so sorry. I just got off the phone with Cat, and I assure you, I will be handling this myself."

"What the hell, Dot?" Magnus' anger started boiling over again. "Who is this asshole, and how did he manage to get this article out without your approval?"

"I don't know, and I plan to find out now," she responded sounding just as upset as Magnus, as she barrelled through the closed office door.

Inside the opulent office, the person who Magnus presumed to be S. Underhill sat in his office chair, nearly ripping his hair out. He looked worried, as he should be, Magnus thought.

"Steve, who gave you the approval to publish this article without my say so?" Dot asked without any preamble.

"I didn't know!" was the man's response. He looked like he was panicking. "This was my first byline, and Maureen told me to run the story once we were emailed all of the photos that were featured!"

"You mean to tell me that Maureen Brown - my second in command - told you to write an article on one of the few clients we have signed an exclusivity contract with?" Dot scoffed as if she didn't believe him. "You've only been a lead writer for this magazine for three months, and even you were made aware that Magnus Bane was off limits to anyone but myself." She then turned to Magnus and Alexander, and asked, "What do you think, Mr. Bane?"

Magnus opened his mouth to speak, but Alexander beat him to it.

"I think we should call in Maureen, and see what she has to say," Alexander answered instead, crossing his arms over his chest, staring down Underhill with a glare. "I recognize you. You went to high school with me, you followed me around like a lost puppy - all without saying one word to me - then turned into an ass and started rumors about me when I turned you down after asking me out. I didn't even know who you were, Steve! Why the hell would I go out with someone whom I've never even spoken to?" Alexander bullied through. "This wasn't even about Magnus at all, was it? This was about me."

"I'm sorry," Dot said, turning towards Alexander confused. "What's going on here?"

"Okay, fine!" Underhill yelled. "Yes, Alec," he spat, "this was all about you. You never once looked at me in high school. I was in love with you! Yet, I find out that you started dating the very guy who outed you in high school. How could you be such a whore, Alec?"

"Now wait just a minute!" Magnus yelled just as he heard Alexander suck in a breath. "What gives you the right to call someone you don't even know a whore, just because they wouldn't date you in high school? Are you really petty enough to cause problems for someone you don't even know for something that happened over a decade ago?" Magnus scoffed, "C'mon man, grow up!"

Underhill looked as if he was about to respond, but Magnus wouldn't let him. "You don't know anything about Alexander, or myself. I suggest you write a formal apology, and then beg your boss here not to fire you."

"Oh, he'll be begging alright," Dot sneared. "Underhill, you are fired. Do you even know who Alec Lightwood is?"

"Yeah, he's just some guy whose brother is an actor," Underhill scoffed. "He's probably only dating Magnus so he can get his own fifteen minutes of fame."

"That is so far from the truth," she laughed mockingly. "Alec Lightwood is a world renowned chef. He's more popular than his brother, and Magnus combined." Dot looked towards Magnus apologetically. Magnus shrugged unable to care, what she said was true. "Alec here has made a name for himself all on his own. So all of these accusations," she held up the article, "are unfounded! As a journalist, it's your job to research the subjects in which you report on! This is a legitimate publication, not some checkout counter tabloid!"

Magnus watched as Underhill's expression changed to something akin to shock, and glanced at Alec, whose face was growing red from embarrassment. Magnus reached out and pulled Alexander close to him, rubbing his back in a soothing manner. "There was a reason why I wouldn't let you read that article, darling," Magnus whispered in Alexander's ear, then pressed a feather light kiss to his neck. "There were some awful things written about you in this article, but please know that none of those things are true, cintaku."

Magnus watched - with a keen eye - Alec swallowing, his eyes filling with tears, but nodding nevertheless. For anyone who didn't know Alexander, they never would have known that he was slowly falling apart, Magnus on the other hand, knew his lover better than most. He knew how much Alec was hurting right now, and he wanted more than anything to make the hurt go away.

"Magnus, Alec," Dot said, bringing them to her attention. "I want to let you both know that I will personally handle this issue. I was wondering if the two of you would be willing-"

She was interrupted by shouting in the hallway. Magnus couldn't place his finger on it, but the voice sounded terribly familiar to him.

"I don't care what you have to say. I want to see this asshole who wrote this shit about my brother," the voice, whom Magnus could only guess belonged to Jace, said.

"What the?" Alexander questioned, twirling around and opening the door. "Jace?"

"Alec," Jace responded, barrelling into the office. "What are you doing here? Where is this asshole? I want to give that little shit a piece of my mind!"

"Jace, we're handling it," Alec said calmly, placing his hands on his brother's shoulders.

Jace didn't hesitate in his next action. He pulled Alexander into a bone crushing hug. Alec didn't seem to be expecting the display of affection, but Jace must have said something to his brother, causing Alexander to return the hug just as fierce, with a laugh and nod.

Pulling out of their embrace, Jace turned and looked at everyone else in the room. Once his eyes met Underhill, Jace gave the man a glare that Magnus was sure could have made the man go up in flames.

"So, you're the asshole that wrote all that trash about Alec?" Jace's glare grew more intense as he spoke. "Did Victor Aldertree put you up to this?"

"Who?" Underhill and Dot asked simultaneously.

"No, Jace," Magnus spoke up, not wanting Jace to air out his PR issues to journalists. "This guy apparently had an obsessive crush on your brother back in high school, and when he learned that Alexander and I were together he decided to slander your brother's name as a way to 'punish him' for not going out with him back in high school." Magnus didn't even try to keep the disgust out of his voice.

"As I was saying," Dot said, clearing her throat. "I was wondering if you two would be willing to give a statement. I would also like a statement from you was well, Jonathan, as Steve has brought your name into this."

"That should be fine, Dorothea," Magnus said, sighing as exhaustion hit him. "I need to speak to Cat first though."

"And I need to speak to my publicist," Jace added. "I won't do anything without talking to him. I also want him to coordinate everything between Magnus' liaison, and Alec's publicist before we talk to anyone in the press."

"I understand," Dot agreed easily. Not that she would have had much of a choice. Magnus wasn't going to allow another thing to be printed about him or Alexander without getting this shit storm cleared up. "Please let me know when we can meet up again." She then turned to Underhill, "Steve, security is at reception waiting for you. They will escort you out of the building and remove all of your accesses. Once again, you no longer work for this company. Maybe in your next endeavor, you'll be more mindful of the publication's rules concerning high-profile persons."

Huffing, Underhill left the office without so much as a glance. As soon as he was out of sight, everyone turned their gaze towards Dot.

"You may want to clear your schedule, Dot," Magnus said, his tone cold and authoritative. "We'll need to coordinate with our representatives, then get back to you. I want this issue resolved today."

"I understand, Magnus," she said, looking like a kicked puppy. She then turned to Alexander, "And again, I am so sorry this happened, Alec."

"Let's go Alexander," Magnus grabbed his boyfriends hand and gave a reassuring squeeze. "Come on, Jace. We have damage control to work through."

~oOo~

Magnus took Alexander and Jace back to his office to figure out how they'd want to approach the media about the article. Jace immediately called Jem to ask him to meet them there to help come up with a game plan.

"Okay, guys," Alexander stated once they got to Magnus' office, sounding annoyed. "I need to know what the hell was said about me in this article. I need to know what I'm up against!"

"Fine," Magnus sighed before he handed over the magazine. He really didn't want Alexander to see what was written about him. Everything in the article couldn't have been further from the truth, and Magnus had a feeling that Alec would take it personally.

As Alexander opened the magazine to the page containing the article, everyone surrounding the conference table peared forward to get another glance at what was written.

ARTICLE: This reporter was covering the fashion and celeb-beat at the Fou-Fou-Riche eatery Luigi's Italian Restaurant, and who should walk in arm-in-arm with that hunk CEO of Bane Records, Magnus Bane? None other than a stellar low-life, Alexander Lightwood. Who is Alexander Lightwood, you might ask?

He's the brother of none other than Jonathan Herondale, the 'Up and Coming' Star of the hit movie, 'Conspiracy Theory'. Now, Alexander (Alec to his low-life friends) is purported to be riding his brother's coattails and trying to squeeze every penny he can from Jonathan.

Yes! He's so poor, he can't even pay attention. Rumor has it that Jonathan told him, in no uncertain terms, to take a hike and cut off the money supply. So, true to form, Alexander began sniffing out the money like the dog he is.

I guess he showed his tight-jeans-wearing butt in just the right spot, and hooked up with Mondo-Sugar-Daddy Magnus to, once again, ride the money train, whilst letting Magnus ride HIM (if you know what I mean). ~S. Underhill

"Wow," Alexander said laughing and shaking his head. "This dude apparently didn't do any research on me. A quick Google search would've given him all the information he needed to know about me, professionally at least."

Magnus was shocked and relieved. Alexander appeared to be taking this much better than Magnus could have imagined, and that made him wonder if Alexander had dealt with something like this in the past. Magnus made a mental note to ask him about that later.

"Yes," Jem said with a grim expression. "I only know of you because my girlfriend is a fan of yours, but your professional accomplishments are remarkable. What does your publicist have to say about all of this?"

"Uh," Alexander said, shifting in his seat. Magnus furrowed his brows due to his boyfriend's demeanor change. "I don't have one…"

"Really?" Cat gasped, sounding just as confused as Magnus. "Anyone who's in the public eye should have some sort of representative. Who did you use when you were living in Europe?"

"The Food Network had a few reps on retainer," Alec explained. "Bat Valasquez was who they assigned me to for anything PR related. I didn't even think about having to use a rep once I came home since I wasn't planning to make any television appearances any time soon."

"I'll be right back," Cat said, sliding out of the conference room with her phone up to her ear.

"I think we should find a PR rep for you, Alec," Jem said kindly. "Even though you're not planning any new endeavors in regards to cooking shows, it'll still make dealing with the media much easier on you. The situation today being a perfect example."

"How would I be able to get one before we talk to the press later on today?" Alexander asked, his tone came out sounding tight and stressed.

Before anyone could answer, Cat strolled in saying, "Gideon will be down here shortly."

"How were you able to get him here so fast?" Magnus asked slightly in awe.

"He's a fan of both Alec and Jace," Cat responded as she took her seat. "All I had to do was say that Alec Lightwood needed a PR rep and he jumped at the chance. Plus, he was already in the building with one of his other clients."

"Who's Gideon?" Jace asked, his brows knitted together and his head was tilted slightly to the side. He reminded Magnus of a confused puppy that couldn't find his favorite toy.

"Gideon Lightwood," Jem said easily. "He works for the same firm as me. He took over Tessa's contract when I started dating her. Alec you're going to love him. He's kind, but he doesn't put up with anyone's theatrics, and he always looks out for the best interests of his clients. I will be more than happy to vouch for him."

"Uh, L-lightwood?" Alexander stuttered, seemingly surprised. "You do realize that I'm a Lightwood too, right?"

"I'm aware," Jem chuckled. "But he and his family are from Boston. I didn't think there's a family connection between the two of you."

"Yeah," Alexander started rubbing the back of his neck. Magnus placed his hand on Alec's thigh, and gave him a reassuring squeeze. "My dad is originally from there."

"So… it's possible that Gideon could somehow be related to you?" Magnus asked, anxious on Alexander's behalf.

"I guess we'll find out soon enough," Alec shrugged. They didn't have to wait long, because at that moment, there was a knock at the door, and Gideon poked his head in.

"Good morning everyone," he said smiling, shaking hands with Magnus, Cat, and Jem. He then turned to Jace and Alexander, "It's a pleasure to meet you both," Gideon then shook both their hands. "I just want to let you know that I'm a huge fan. Also, I knew that article was a load of crap. Alec, if you're comfortable, I'd really like to sign on as your permanent publicist."

Getting right down to the point as always, Magnus noticed. He took his time looking at Gideon, who appeared to be similar in age to Alec, if not maybe a few years older. His build was very similar to Alexander's, but Gideon had sandy blond hair and grayish green eyes, compared to Alec's black hair and blue eyes. Still, their facial features were remarkably similar. Magnus could see a familial resemblance between the two men.

"Uh," Alexander muttered, sounding unsure of the situation. "The Food Network provided a rep for anyone under their contract, so I don't know what the rates are for hiring you."

"That's okay," Gideon said, his smile still firmly planted on his face. "The firm Jem and I work for is rather small. Our rates are a lot lower than bigger named companies, and even though we're a small company, we like to keep our client base to a minimum. But our clients are usually 'A listers', or 'Up and Comers'."

"Okay…" Alec said, looking as if he didn't really know what to say.

"I'll tell you what," Gideon chuckled. "How about I help you clear up this shit show today, and tomorrow we can meet up for lunch and just get to know one another? Even if you don't want to hire me on, I'd still love to get to know my little cousin." He then turned to Jace, "You too Jonathan. I was told that uncle Robert and aunt Maryse adopted you, so that makes you my family as well."

"Sure?" Jace responded, giving Alec a weary glance in the process.

"Alec?" Gideon asked, his tone sounded hopeful.

"Y-yeah. I guess we can do that," Alexander stuttered, his eyes were wide and cheeks were rosey.

"Great!" Gideon exclaimed with a clap of his hands. "Now, let's get to work."

~oOo~

After hours of planning and hashing out details, it was finally time for their interviews with the press. Magnus kept a close eye on Alexander all day, just to make sure he was as okay as he claimed to be. Alexander didn't appear to be affected by the unnecessary drama that Underhill caused, but Magnus knew that Alec could bottle up and hide his emotions if he wanted to.

"Remember," Magnus whispered to Alexander, running a hand up and down Alec's back soothingly. "Don't scoff or react to anything Jace says to the press. We agreed that the media doesn't need to know about your personal issues with him, and it won't do anyone any good knowing that things have been strained with you two."

"I know, baby," Alec responded with a smile, and quickly kissed him.

Entering the media room, Magnus, Alexander, Jace, and Dot took their seats and waited for the press to quiet down and get settled. It was your typical set up; rows of chairs for the press, a podium placed off to the right side of the platform, then a table set up with microphones and nameplates set in front.

They all agreed to let Dorothea make a statement on behalf of Downworld News first, to try and clear their name once Catarina announced that the accusations in the article were falsified.

Stepping up to the podium, Catarina cleared her throat, "Good afternoon. As most of you know, this morning the newest edition of the Downworld News Magazine was released. Inside the issue, an article was published unauthorized by one of their journalists. This journalist not only painted Magnus Bane and Jonathan Herondale in a negative light, but defamed Chef Alexander Lightwood in the process. With us today is the Editor and Chief of Downworld News, Dorothea Rollins alongside the CEO of Bane Records, Magnus Bane, Jonathan Herondale, and Chef Alexander Lightwood. They will each give a statement, but we ask that you hold all of your questions until the end. Thank you."

Cat stepped away from the podium and gestured for Dot to begin when she was ready.

"Good afternoon," Dot greeted the media, appearing to be apprehensive about speaking to a crowded room. "In 1910 my great grandfather founded Downworld News. He started this company when Broadway Theater was only taking off. The paper back then was more like a two page flier. He wanted to give the public of New York something to look forward to in the entertainment industry. His very first publication was of interviews and critiques on the operetta, 'Naughty Marietta'. He sold the paper for a penny. Eventually the paper was handed down to my grandfather, my father, and then to myself," she laughed nervously and took a deep breath. "This tiny little paper evolved into a prominent entertainment magazine; one that prided itself on getting first hand interviews with celebrities. We continue to critique Broadway shows and movies, but we've moved beyond that. Today, this magazines name and reputation was tarnished by a couple of individuals that no longer represent this company. On behalf of Downworld News, I would also like to apologize to Magnus Bane, and Jonathan Herondale who were put into an awkward position by the actions of my staff. And I sincerely apologize to Chef Lightwood for the things that were written about him by my journalist. I would like you all to know that the staff members in question have been dealt with by me personally on this matter. Thank you."

After Dot's heartfelt speech, Magnus heard her release a shaky breath. He didn't realize that she was so uncomfortable at public speaking. He felt bad for having to put her in that situation, especially given their professional relationship. She always seemed fine when interviewing Magnus in the past, but then again, those had always been one-on-one interviews, with the exception of Cat being there.

"Breath, Dot," Magnus whispered, leaning close so the microphone wouldn't catch what he was saying. "It'll be fine. We've already told you that none of us will retaliate against the magazine."

"Sorry," she murmured back. "I hate public speaking, and it's been a stressful day. I'm just glad it's almost over, but now, you're up."

"Good afternoon," Magnus said, clearing his throat as he stood to take the spotlight. "As you all know, this article painted everyone up here today in a negative manner. I wanted to speak to you all today to set the record straight. First of all, Bane Records, myself included will not be taking any legal action against Downworld News. The actions of two individuals, shouldn't be reflected on how the company runs as a whole. I've always had a good rapport with Downworld News, however, what Ms. Rollins' journalist and Management Editor did was deplorable. My only suggestion for Ms. Rollins would be to have everyone in her company sign Non-Disclosure agreements when they sign on to work for the company," Magnus glanced at Dot, seeing that she was relieved to have it announced that there would be no legal action taken against her company. "As far as my relationship with Alexander, to confirm the rumors, yes we are together."

The media exploded at the news, and Magnus held up his hand to quiet the shouts. It still surprised him that he had that much influence on the reporters that a simple hand gesture could silence the room.

"Alexander and I met because he worked for me as a personal chef. He started out as an employee of mine, but quickly became a friend. When we developed feelings for one another, and decided to enter a romantic relationship, Alexander felt that it would be best not to work for me any longer. I agreed with his decision, and terminated his employment contract. I know for a fact that Alexander does not have an ulterior motive for being with me, just as I don't have a motive for dating him. We care about each other deeply, and that's the only reason we're together. I am with Alexander because I want to be. The only persons opinion I care about on the matter is Alexander's, and his alone. No one else's opinion is relevant," Magnus glared at the press, daring them to say one ill fitted thing against his relationship. When it seemed that no one from the media appeared to care that he was with Alec, Magnus relaxed and smiled.

Magnus leaned over the table and indicated that it was Jace's turn to speak.

"I just want to say that what was written about my brother sickens me," Jace started with so much venum that made Magnus sigh knowing that Jem would not be thrilled that Jace didn't even greet the media. "My whole life, Alec has been there for me and our brother and sister. He has done nothing but support each and every one of us. I'm going to share something with you all that Alec will probably beat the crap out of my later for saying this, but you know what? Who cares. The entire world needs to know exactly how selfless my brother is," Jace turned an apologetic look towards Alec, while Alexander looked at him with confusion. "Alec spent most of his teen years helping our parents raise myself, Isabelle, and Max. He put his wants on the backburner for all of us."

"Jace," Alexander hissed just low enough that the microphones wouldn't pick it up. Jace gave Alexander a look that Magnus couldn't decipher, but judging by the resigned sigh he heard slip out of Alexander's lips, he was letting it go.

"When Alec left to go to Paris, I was a wreck. I missed my brother - and best friend - with everything I had. I didn't let that get me down too much, because I knew that Alec was counting on me to be there for our family since he couldn't be there himself," Jace continued. "I just recently found out that Alec gave up his inheritance so that we all could have more for ourselves. He went to France for culinary school, then made a name for himself all on his own. Hell, I'm pretty sure that the powers that be in the movie industry only gave me a job because of who my brother is," Jace turned and smiled fondly at Alexander, earning an eye roll from his brother. "So, to have this guy defame my brother was idiotic at best. I'm not fighting with Alec, we're both just extremely busy right now between him trying to get his restaurant up and running, and me constantly going back and forth from here to LA for filming. We just don't have the time to hang out like we used to. And for the record, I would never cut off my brother, financially or otherwise. This journalist really didn't check his facts before writing this - and I'm quoting Ms. Rollins here - 'checkout counter tabloid nonsense'." Jace scoffed at the end of his speech.

Even though they all agreed that Alexander and Jace wouldn't air out their family drama, Magnus felt that Jace's little speech was his way of further apologizing to Alexander. And judging on his boyfriends expression - even Magnus could tell that Alexander was fighting back tears - Alec knew that as well. Magnus truly hoped this could be the end of their fight, but he was realistic enough that Alexander needed more than kind words before he could completely forgive his brother for what he put him through. Magnus then reached under the table and gripped his boyfriend's hand, rubbing his thumb across Alec's knuckles.

"Good afternoon. My name is Alexander Lightwood, or as the journalist referred to me as Alec to all of my 'lowlife friends'," Alexander said with a chuckle, causing the media to do the same. "As you all may know, I have been in the media quite a bit in the last few years, and it is no secret that I've been successful at what I do. With that being said, I came back to the States because I miss my family dearly. My parents, brother's and sister are very close to me. I honestly don't care what Steve Underhill had to say about me - because a quick Google search can tell you that I'm not a money hungry leech - but I'm infuriated that he tried to libel my brother and Magnus.

"Jonathan," Alec paused and laughed again, shaking his head. "Or as everyone in our family calls him, Jace, has been splitting his time between here and California for filming. And just as Jace has said, the reason no one's seen us out together is because he's been so busy with his movie. You all may have noticed that he's barely been seen out with his fiance, Clary. My brother is a very busy man, and he and I speak to each other as often as we can. I would much prefer Jace to spend his free time with our parents, siblings, and Clary than to spend time with me. He knows that I'm always going to be there for him, and we don't have to spend every waking moment together. We're best friends, and we're going to be there for one another no matter what. That's just what family does for one another when needed. This morning was the perfect example; Jace - even though he had no idea I'd be there - came into Downworld News on his white horse and raised hell to the journalist. It was a very white knight move, and if an article like that were ever printed about him, I'd do the same thing," Alexander finished, wrapping an arm around Jace to give him a side hug. Jace beamed at Alexander in response.

"Then there's what this guy said about Magnus," Alexander said, and turned towards him with a soft look in his eyes. It made Magnus want to swoon. "Did this guy think Magnus would be stupid enough to date a 'lowlife'?" Alexander scoffed. "Magnus is a businessman - a smart businessman - and he wouldn't just start handing me money out of nowhere. Magnus would never give a handout to anyone who didn't deserve it. That's just not in his nature. Not only that, but I would never use Magnus for personal, or professional gain. He means so much more to me than some stupid little media blip. Just as Magnus said, we are together because we care about one another, and for no other agenda than that. We were even making plans to tell the media about our relationship ourselves, but this wanna-be tabloid reporter beat us to it," Alexander then blushed and turned towards Gideon. "Sorry Gideon, I just didn't know how else to describe him." Everyone in the room chuckled at that, and Gideon shrugged and smiled at Alec. Alec then turned back to the reporters in the room and said, "There are tons of interviews out in the media about me, and if Steve Underhill had done his research, like a real journalist would have done, he never would have fabricated those lies about me. What he's done was a rookie mistake. He took a rumor without getting all of the facts, and ran with it. And just to set the record straight, I'm not the one in this relationship that wears tight pants! I like to be comfortable, and Magnus is the one with the pants that look like they're painted on!" the whole crowd broke out in fits of laughter at Alec's admission. Even Magnus couldn't control his giggles. "Sorry, for some reason that part of the article just irked me."

Shaking his head, Magnus leaned over and kissed his lover on his burning cheeks. "Darling, that was wonderful," Magnus whispered fondly.

They spent the next hour answering questions. All questions seemed sedate, and everyone from the press seemed to have a positive response to his and Alexander's relationship. They were even trying to pry information out of Jace about his new movie, which Jace slyly changed the topic each time. Towards the end of the Q&A session, the questions became more candid, as were everyone's responses.

By the time Magnus woke up the next morning, the press had dubbed him and Alexander as New York's hottest new couple.

~oOo~

Well, there you have it everyone! This was the chapter I decided to be tight lipped about. I'm not exactly sure why, I just felt that if I'd given a preview away, the entire chapter would have been spoiled. Anyway, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas holiday, I know I did. It just went by way too fast!

I also wanted to let you all know that based off the poll on Twitter, as well as your comments, my next story is going to be my Single Dad AU. Hell, the other night while I was trying to fall asleep, I thought of yet another story to write. For some reason my brain just wouldn't shut up and leave me be. Once I get that idea on paper, that'll be the fifth Malec story I'll write. I seriously need to start thinking of originals and see about getting paid to do my hobby lol.

Anyway, I hope you guys have a great New Year, and please be safe when you go out on the town. Don't forget to leave a review. You know I always like hearing your thoughts on the chapters.

Sneak Peek:

Alec was heading back to his loft while looking up date ideas when his phone started ringing, smiling he answered it, "Hey baby!"

"Hello, sayang," Magnus' tone sounded happy and light. He sounded much better than the day before, and Alec prayed that he'd stop thinking about that stupid article. "How was your lunch?"

"It was enlightening," Alec chuckled. "But it was good to get to know Gideon. You all were right, and he does seem like a great guy. I just left him and Jace, actually."

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself, darling," Magnus said, and Alec could hear the smile in his voice.

"I really did. I'm going to talk to my parents about him, and possibly see if they'd be willing to meet him," Alec responded, unable to contain his own smile. "I really think Gideon would feel better knowing that he has family besides the assholes that raised him. I want him to know what it's like to be around family that accepts rather than judges him. I just hope that my dad isn't so hurt by what his family did to him, that he'd take it out on his nephew."

"Your parents are wonderful people, Alexander. I think they'd welcome Gideon with open arms," Magnus said easily.

"Thanks for that, Magnus. I didn't realize how much I needed to hear that." It was true that Alec worried his parents wouldn't want anything to do with his newly acquainted cousin.

"I'm always here to be your voice of reason, cintaku," Magnus said laughing. "So… what's the plan for tonight?"

Alec chuckled at Magnus' not so subtle way to changing the subject to their date.

"I'm not telling you," he replied easily. "You'll have to wait till we get there."

"But darling!" Magnus exclaimed, Alec had to pull the phone away from his ear with how loud his boyfriend was. "How will I know what to wear?"

"Dress casually and comfortable," Alec eluded. He quickly realized how much fun he was having keeping this date a secret.

"Oh," Magnus groaned on the other end of the line. "You're killing me, Alexander."

"Just be comfortable, baby," Alec snickered.

"So romantic," Magnus replied sarcastically.

"Okay, one; sarcasm doesn't become you," Alec chuckled as he heard Magnus scoff on the line. "And two; I'm going to romance the pants off you baby. Just wait and see."