Help Wanted

by Shin Sankai

Answering an ad in the paper, desperately in need of money to pay the rent and also several other debts, Alexander Lightwood never would of thought he'd be sitting in front of the most beautiful man he'd ever seen in his life and being advised just what the job entails which is far from the private tutoring he thought he was applying for. AU-none Shadowhunter-verse (MALEC)

25. Chapter 25

Help Wanted

By Shin Sankai

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Author's Note: I can't believe we have officially reached the 'ending' to this story!

To all that have stayed with me on this journey, haven't lost hope in this (or me as the writer) and have sent reviews, thank you very much.

I hope, at 'the end' this chapter leaves you feeling all gooey inside and more in love with Malec then ever before. I honestly can't do it any more sickly sweet then this. Lol!

On a plus note, please remember after this there is an epilogue (also filled with much sweetness and some definite smuttiness) which will jump into the future of what has been going on with our boys over a two+ year period, so I do hope you stick around for that.

The Ruelle song I have chosen for Malec is 'What Are We Waiting For'. It totally fit here!

Enjoy the sugar overload ending!

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Chapter 25: All Good Things... Must Come to a Sugary Sweet End.

Magnus was feeling rather nervous as he stood outside his front door, eyes shifting to the bag he was carrying which housed a bouquet.

#

(Earlier that day...)

Magnus had spent the day at the gallery with Clary, holding a private function in the afternoon for a group of thirty. They'd even made a few sales thanks to it too.

The couple were associates of her mother's and it was their 40th anniversary and since they had met in a gallery, they wanted to celebrate with close family and friends at 'Biscuit and Bane' because it reminded them of the one they actually met at back in Glasgow.

Considering Magnus was quite the romantic at heart, he was happy to put on a little midday affair for the couple. He'd even gotten Alec to do a cake which he was happy to do. He'd chosen to do a sponge cake with lashings of sweetened cream and juicy plump strawberries.

Alec had dropped it off, just before the couple and their guests were going to arrive and Magnus had squeezed Alec's hand in thanks as he opened it up to show Magnus and Clary how it looked. Of course it looked lovely.

Though for Magnus, it wasn't as lovely as Alec or the fact this was the first time he'd seen the blue eyed beauty in three days and it had felt like forever, but as soon as Alec walked through the door, a smile lit up Magnus' face. He was even pleased that Alec gave him one in return which made those pretty blue eyes sparkle. Alec, the sweet man that he was, didn't forget to greet Clary and then had handed over the delicate sponge, waiting for them to critique him adorably. He and Clary had beamed happy smiles at him, advising Alec that it looked absolutely delicious and they were confident it would taste just as much too. Alec's cheeks turned pink as a smile graced his lips, super happy at their praises for his efforts.

'Take these as well.' Alec softly voiced, Clary having placed the cake atop the cabinet which housed Magnus' camera and her paintbrushes and peered into the eco bag Alec handed over to see four tupperware containers inside. 'Some extra treats for your little soiree.' Alec pointed out as Clary couldn't help herself as she peaked into one of the containers to see it was filled with double chocolate chip brownies that made her mouth water.

'Alexander, you didn't have to do that.'

'They've been together for 40 years, they deserve to be spoilt.' Magnus just shook his head adoringly since Alec didn't even know the couple but had spent his own time and money preparing the baked goods because he was that sweet. Magnus had paid him for the cake, but would have to think up a present for him at a later date for the extra treats. Both Clary and Magnus watched Alec glance at his phone. 'I can't stay, I promised Max I'd meet up with him and I'm already twenty minutes late.' He offered up in explanation. 'Apparently he's having a hard time picking out flowers for Livia for Valentine's Day.' Alec had rolled his eyes when Max sent him like a thousand messages pleading for his help. Exaggeration, but it was a lot. 'I made extra sugar cookies for you Magnus.' Alec remarked as the said man opened the door for him. Before he could turn away, Magnus took hold of his hand, their eyes connecting instantly. He truly wanted to kiss Alec, by the angel he'd wanted to ever since he woke up in the hospital bed and saw him back at his side, but he also wanted it to be special too. Alec deserved that.

'Thank you Alexander.' He got a tiny grin and a returned squeeze to his hand. When Alec tried to leave, Magnus still didn't let go. When Alec tried to tug his hand out of Magnus' rather tight and warm grip, it brought a sweet laugh to Alec's lips.

'Magnus, let go.' He didn't want to. 'You're making me even later for Max.' Instead of listening to Alec, Magnus threaded their fingers together, pulling so the adorable man ended up being chest to chest with him, head tilted slightly back to look up at him, eyes a little wider. 'Magnus...'

'Can I have a hug before you go?' Whilst they weren't official boyfriends still, and kissing was definitely not on the cards yet, though Magnus was hoping to rectify that very soon, warm hugs and cuddles were definitely a frequent occurrence nowadays.

'You big baby.' Alec giggled adorably as he threw his arms around Magnus' neck, giving him a hearty squeeze and listened to Magnus sigh contently as his arms wound possessive around his waist, pulling him in even closer. 'Feel better now?' Alec murmured into his ear and Magnus gave a simple nod. For Magnus, everything was better when Alec was close by. 'I'll see you tonight.' Alec whispered and was successful in pulling out of Magnus' embrace and headed off with a wave and a spring in his step.

Magnus silently watched him go until he was out of sight.

'When are you going to ask Alec out?' Magnus jerked on the spot, whipping his head around to Clary as she stood there with hands on hips. He kind of forgot she was there.

Not long ago, he'd finally opened up to Clary that he and Alec weren't boyfriends, having broken up pretty much not long after their gallery opening and he was a little taken aback when his sweet little Biscuit started blubbering into his chest, stating she didn't want them to be broken up, that she liked seeing he and Alec all sweet and lovey-dovey whilst also trying to offer him a hug to try and ease the pain. Magnus ended up consoling Clary that day, telling her everything was alright and they were taking things slowly and building a friendship first which was working out well and Magnus knew they both hoped it would lead into a relationship again.

'Well, I was hoping to do that tonight.' Magnus answered truthfully.

'Really?' Clary beamed him a smile.

'I know its Valentine's Day and its awfully cliché to ask on such a day, but I feel now is the right moment. We've come a long way since having broken up and I honestly believe its time I tell Alexander what he really means to me and that I want to be his boyfriend again. Desperately so. A better one this time too.'

'I'm so happy for you Magnus.'

'He hasn't said yes.'

'Yet. He hasn't said yes, yet.' She beamed. Magnus loved his Biscuit's optimism.

'Want to see what I've been working on this past week?'

'Yes!' Clary was dying to know as Magnus had been locking himself up in the attic, working in secret.

Magnus had quickly looked at the time, knowing they had a good twenty minutes before the married couple and their family and friends would start to arrive and so Magnus locked the door, flipped the sign for a moment and took hold of Clary's hand and they rushed up the stairs, laughter bubbling from her lips as she tried keeping up.

'Its not completely finished, I'll do that before heading off to my therapy session after we close up for the day, but what do you think?' Magnus shifted his gaze to Clary to see she had her hands clasped at her chest.

'Oh Magnus, its lovely.' Her fingertip traced over a petal. 'Did you make them yourself?'

'Of course. Alexander deserves the very best these hands can create.' Magnus wriggled his fingers in Clary's widely smiling face, his black nail polish glinting in the pale lighting.

'He's going to love it.'

'I hope so.'

'I know so.' Magnus beamed a wide smile as he cuddled his Biscuit to his side and pressed a kiss atop her head.

(End flashback)

#

Magnus had indeed finished making the bouquet and carefully placed it within a bag and headed off for his therapy session in Manhattan.

Nearly six weeks had passed since Magnus had ended things with Alec, though of course the blue eyed beauty had returned to his side two weeks after their breakup and had been helping him on his road to recovery after his health issues and his problems. He'd recovered from his chest infection and his hairline fractures were healing well, plus he was still going to therapy, though he had changed therapists.

Dr Pangborn and he just didn't seem to click and after Magnus had 'fled' and then he spiralled which landed him in hospital, the relationship between him and the therapist didn't seem to strengthen when he returned for a further two sessions. Magnus had felt it was his fault, but she had been kind and told him sometimes therapists and their clients just did not work out and she suggested he either continue with her colleague or she could assist him in finding another provider, making sure to reiterate that he should continue with his sessions.

Magnus decided to look elsewhere on his own. He knew it was a little silly, but he didn't want him and his brother sharing the same shrink.

He'd been having a coffee with Tessa, meeting her in Manhattan as they were finally catching up on that 'date' from six months back and as they parted ways, Magnus had been so lost in thought that he took a wrong turn and found himself in a dead end alley. Being lost in his thoughts turned out to be a good thing for Magnus that day as he was looking at a frosted glass door with a small sign to the left, nailed on the brickwork which read:

Psychologist: Dr A. Nix

Magnus walked in, listening to a bell chime acknowledging his presence and saw a man behind the desk, feet up and crossed at the ankle on the corner and he was reading a book. Magnus had entered a small room with the rather large desk taking up quite a bit of the space. There was a two seater couch which had seen better days, a water cooler gurgling away, a plant that was crying out for love and attention and some very bad lighting. Atop the desk was a computer that looked like it came from the 90's, chunky screen and all, and would probably weigh a small tonne. Behind the lounging man was dark wooded floor to ceiling shelving, making the room feel even darker and possibly even more cramped then it already was. It was loaded with old dusty books and to the right of it was a closed door which had 'PRIVATE' written on the frosted glass.

Finally finishing his surveillance of his current surroundings, Magnus' gaze rested on the man at the desk who was quietly looking at him from over the top of his book, but hadn't bothered to sit up from his lounging position.

'Are you sure you're in the right building?' Was how the man greeted him behind the desk. 'The accounting firm is next door.' Magnus assumed there had been a few wrong building remarks for the man to voice that without blinking.

'I am in the right building. I'm hoping to speak to Dr Nix.' The book was lowered and it gave Magnus a better view of the man. He looked to be late fifties, possibly early sixties, with white hair and beard. His eyes were dark, but they appeared to hold a warmness to them and Magnus was sure they held a good story or two within them as well.

'You been to a shrink before?'

'Yes.'

'Talked about your problems?'

'I've tried.' The man quietly eyed him. 'Its a work in progress for me.'

'Why'd you leave your last therapist?'

'We didn't gel.'

'And that's important for you?'

'Shouldn't it be?' Magnus thought this was a bit of an odd pre-appointment booking situation he'd found himself in. 'I'm paying good money so shouldn't I feel comfortable with the one I'm telling all my problems to?'

'Got a lot of them have you?'

'Yes.' The room went quiet and just as Magnus was debating on whether he should just back out now, he was jerked from his thoughts at the scrape of the chair.

'Alright then...' Magnus watched the man rise to his tall height. The book snapped closed and was then shoved back into its place on the shelf and the man headed for the closed door.

'Shouldn't you be booking an appointment for me on that?' Magnus waved his hand in the direction of the archaic computer.

'No need, the Doc will see you now.' Magnus was cautious, but he followed the gentleman through the now opened door and stepped into the other room, surprised by the natural light flooding in from the large window to the right. There was another desk and chair, a laptop which was surprising considering the other computer, a couple of filing cabinets tucked in the corner and then to the left, Magnus' gaze rested on a leather couch which actually looked pretty inviting. Next to it was a matching chair, some more bookshelves, thriving plants this time, and even gentle calming music was playing and actually made Magnus feel a little relaxed.

Brown-golden orbs watched the man ruffle around in a draw, pulling out a notepad and pen and then watched as he plopped himself down into the leather chair, one leg crossed over the other.

'So, where do you want to start?' The supposed receptionist clicked the pen whilst pulling out a pair of reading glasses and sat them on the bridge of his nose.

'You're Dr Nix?' Magnus asked slowly as he looked the man up and down. He was dressed in tan slacks and a crinkled white button down shirt. He was sure there was even a coffee stain down the front.

'I am.' A business card was handed over as Magnus gingerly took a seat. 'Dr Aldous Nix at your service. I started out as a GP then got into the psychology and psychiatry fields and have been a practising psychologist for over twenty years now.' Magnus followed where his pen was pointing to look at the doctorates framed on the wall behind the couch. 'A garish gesture, gloating my doctorates like that, but apparently its the legal thing to do these days.' Magnus felt his lips turn up into a smile at the way Dr Nix rolled his eyes. He removed his jacket, throwing it over the arm of the couch and then turned off his phone and laid down, hands clasped against his stomach and gazed up at the ceiling before his eyes drifted closed for a few moments as the tranquility of the room washed over him.

Magnus' first session really was just the basics, providing an overview of himself, with the usual questions being asked about his name, age, basic medical history and so on and so forth. Dr Nix scribbled the information down and then Magnus provided a quick history of what he was really here for and what he was hoping to achieve, most of which was acceptance for everything that had happened over the years.

Next thing Magnus realised, two hours had gone by!

When Magnus sat up, Dr Nix had handed him a glass of water and in his left palm was a small pottery bowl with individually wrapped boiled sweets. Magnus just blinked up at the man before wordlessly taking a sweet. It made him feel like a little kid. Like he were being rewarded for his first visit.

'There is a bathroom through that door if you need it.' Magnus hadn't even realised there was another door. 'Come out when you're ready.' Magnus watched Dr Nix place away his notepad and pen, locking the filing cabinet and then stepped out of the room. Magnus sat for a good couple of minutes more and then finally pulled on his jacket. He did use the restroom, finding it pleasantly clean and then his wallet was $500 lighter thanks to his two hour session.

Magnus had thanked Dr Nix for his time, asked if he could think about whether he wanted to return which he got an affirmative nod of the head for and then he was gone.

Two days later Magnus was making a call to set up regular appointments after having spoken to Raphael and Alec about Dr Nix. They had both commented that Magnus seemed at ease talking about his therapist, even after one session, not really being that way with Dr Pangborn and so with their encouragement he had made the call.

He'd now been Dr Nix's patient for a bit over two weeks now and was positive he'd made the right choice. Plus, after every session, Dr Nix rewarded him with the bowl of boiled sweets. It was quirky of the therapist, to do something like that, but Magnus kind of liked it.

When Magnus had turned up for his session earlier, Dr Nix was in a particular good mood. Not that he wasn't always friendly and made Magnus feel at ease by his presence, but the older man seemed to have a certain bounce to him that afternoon. Magnus, being Magnus, had to ask and before their late afternoon session began, Dr Nix had pulled out his phone and handed it to Magnus.

'Play it.' The man voiced and Magnus did. A little boy was stomping around shouting Pop, Pop, Pop as he did. 'That's my first grandson. He turned one today and those are his first words.'

'He's adorable.'

'Of course he is.' Magnus grinned as Dr Nix swiped up his phone, turning it off for their session and as per usual took his seat and pulled out his notepad, pen and glasses. 'Lets get to it then. I'm not running over this evening. I've got a little boy to pamper when I get home tonight.'

It was probably, most definitely, all types of wrong that Dr Nix had shared some of his private life with Magnus, but the older man was quick to discover that his patient needed to know you and your history, or at least bits of it, in order to share himself. He figured Magnus' other therapist probably didn't understand that which is why they hadn't gelled. Dr Nix on the other hand was a veteran in the field and by their third session, he and Magnus had pretty much gelled. They were in this for the long haul together. He would help Magnus accept everything about his past and live with it.

'Thank you Dr Nix.' Magnus had voiced as he walked out with the older man as he had locked up for the evening and was heading home to see his grandson as stated.

'I expect to hear good news about that in a coupe days time.' Magnus darted his eyes down to the bouquet in the bag since that is where Dr Nix was looking.

'I hope so too.' The two men waved farewell and headed off in different directions, Magnus flagging down a taxi to take him home.

#

Which of course now had Magnus still standing outside his own home, even if he'd already been back for a good ten minutes now. Truthfully, Magnus was feeling quite nervous and he never got nervous. Unless it had to do with Alec these days. The pretty boy was making him feel all sorts of things and Magnus was starting to embrace it all.

Magnus finally shook his head and unlocked the door, slipping inside and placed down the bag, out of sight for now, and removed his jacket and scarf. Just as the door clicked closed and he hung up his outerwear, all eyes from the other occupants in his home shifted to look over at him.

"Papa!" His children called out, scrambling from their seats at the dining table to come give him hugs. Of course he returned them. With kisses too.

"Allie said you might not be home for dinner." Max piped up.

"I wasn't sure how long my meeting would go for, but I'm home now, so that's good isn't it?" All three of his darling cherubs nodded their heads as they headed over to the dining table.

"Look Papa, Grandpa made your favourite curry!" Madzie cheerily voiced as Magnus was watching his father place the bubbling pot onto the table and Alec was just placing down a large bowl of fluffy rice.

"I can see that. It smells wonderful." Magnus shifted his gaze to look at his father. "Thank you."

"How was your session?"

"Good." Magnus replied honestly and accepted the light squeeze to his shoulder from his father.

"Xanda is going to make a lemon pudding for dessert too. We get to eat it with Papa's favourite vanilla bean ice cream." Raphael piped up as he was being helped back into his chair, Alec's fingers gliding through his messy black locks affectionately. "We picked it up for Papa when Xanda came and got us from school."

"Goodness, now I feel really special."

"Papa is always special." Magnus grinned wide at his adorable children as he blew a raspberry against Madzie's cheek, making her giggle delightfully as the six of them sat around the table to have dinner together, breaking into light chatter about their days, Magnus filling them in on the 40th anniversary soiree and how the couple absolutely loved their sponge cake and the extra treats from Alec, he smiling happily at the feedback.

#

Later that evening, after bellies were full, Alec whisked the kids off for their bath, allowing Magnus and his father some alone time together. Though it wasn't a lot of time, so Alec doubted there was much the two men could talk about, but they had done the dishes together and to Alec, even such a simple chore always spoke 'family time' to him.

It was getting late, nearly bedtime for the kids and so Asmodeus felt it was time for him to head off for the evening too. He'd received hugs from his adorable grandchildren and a good night from Alec and then Magnus was walking him to the door whilst Alec was settling down, with a story, with the kids.

"Xanda keep reading!" Raphael whined and Alec tore his gaze from their father and grandfather and he got back on track.

"He's really good with the kids." Asmodeus softly murmured as he was pulling on his overcoat.

"Even when they are being bratty." Magnus piped up, a half smile on his lips. Asmodeus was doing up the buttons and belt on his coat but had just stopped to stare at him. "What?"

"You've changed." Instinctively Magnus glanced down at himself. "Not your attire Magnus." Asmodeus gently voiced. "Your eyes are brighter, your posture has softened and you almost seem...lighter...free even."

"Well..."

"Its nice to see." Asmodeus quickly voiced. "To me that means you are on the road to recovery." Magnus tilted his head at that. "I meant what I said. Keep up with your therapy sessions, place one foot in front of the other to move on with life and you and your children will be fine." Asmodeus watched Magnus sigh in utter relief at hearing his honest words again.

Asmodeus had been very lucky that since Magnus' health scare they had started talking more and interacting more. Magnus and the kids had even gone to Asmodeus' place for dinner or he came over to Magnus' place several time too.

There was even a time when Magnus had been surprised to learn that his father kept his old bedroom off limits to the children, but during one night he had opened it up for them and they had all piled on the bed together and Magnus told them this used to be his room when he was little. The kids wanted to play with his stuff, but Magnus saw the hesitation in his father's eyes and just told them perhaps next time and they settled down to watch a movie in bed instead. Magnus felt almost touched that his father seem to want to preserve that two years they had together.

That night, Magnus and the kids had stayed over, falling asleep his old room and it had truly been one of the best sleeps Magnus had had in a very long time, never mind the fact he woke to a foot in the face from Max and his father chuckling – which was a surprising sound to hear – as he was standing at the open bedroom, a robe tied around his sleeping attire and coming to wake them as he'd cooked breakfast.

"As I said before. I'm not taking the kids away from you as long as you continue to get better. I thought you were doing them harm, but it turns out my threat was what was doing more harm and I should have never used them against you like that." Asmodeus knew he was repeating himself, but he needed Magnus to understand how truly sorry he was.

"Father..."

"I never wanted to do that. I just didn't want you to turn out like me. To forget that they were there." Magnus let out a shuddering breath. "They need you Magnus, so you must continue to get better."

"I will. I promise."

"I know things have been tough, worrisome even over these past weeks, but I can tell you are, once again, wanting to live." Magnus wasn't sure what his father meant by that, but clearly the man wasn't done yet. "You're ready to open your heart." Magnus' eyes widened slightly. Was his father a mind reader!? "Whilst I am aware how popular you are and yes Ragnor, Raphael and Catarina are dear friends of yours, family really, your heart has always been closed off for many years." Asmodeus watched Magnus' eyes drop. "Since Camille, I know you've been hesitant to open up to someone, and that's alright Magnus." The younger man raised his eyes to his father. "I think it was just waiting for someone really special to come along. Someone who will stand by your side through thick and thin. Someone that thinks the absolute world of you."

"Father..."

"And he's right here Magnus." Brown-golden orbs widened a little at those words. "He's always thinking of you." Asmodeus watched a light flush grace his boy's cheeks. He hadn't seen Magnus look like that in...well...ever! "He wants to keep you safe, keep you happy. You and the kids. Most of all though, he just wants you, past history and all." Magnus let out another shuddering breath, heart pounding. "He wants you to be number one, and truthfully, that is all I've ever wanted for you."

"What do you mean?"

"I couldn't make you my number one, and that is my biggest regret, but once I started to accept it, I was certain there was someone truly special out there just for you who would do exactly that. Make you number one above all else because that is what you've always wanted. And you deserve it too."

"Father..."

"You've finally found it Magnus." The man in question tilted his head, remembering Catarina had said something like that ages ago too. He'd sort of forgotten about it, as that would just be wishful thinking in his mind and yet... "You have finally found unconditional love." Brown-golden orbs widened again at his father's confession. "Alec is that very person for you, isn't he?" Magnus shifted his gaze over to the man being spoken of as Alec had moved into the double beanbag and his children went crawling in after him, tucking their tiny bodies into his as he continued to read to them.

"Alexander is a very special man." Magnus confessed softly.

"You can do better then that." Magnus drifted his gaze back over to his lightly smiling father. "I know you dislike the word being spoken so lightly, because for you it brings both good and bad memories back, but isn't that also about accepting your own feelings too, because being in a relationship is all about embracing the good with the bad?"

"Father..."

"I know you're in love with him." Magnus couldn't control the blush on his cheeks or the sudden tingling sensation when his father place a hand on his shoulder once more. It had been a long time since he felt such 'care' coming from the man and Magnus' heart thundered away, overjoyed at the open display of affection his father was trying to convey to him. The tenderness was bringing back all sorts of memories for Magnus when he was a little boy. Of all the times the man truly was an actual loving parent to him. "Its alright Magnus." He jerked back to the present, eyes fixed on his father. "Its alright to confess it aloud to yourself. To me. Accept it. Own it. And once I head home, I hope you confess everything you feel to Alec. He deserves to know the truth."

"I think..." With an encouraged nod, Magnus took in a deep breath. "I love him." Magnus let out a sigh wistfully as his eyes couldn't help but once again shift over to the pretty young man cuddling with his kids, finally accepting his truest feelings. "I love him so much." Magnus whispered wholeheartedly. "I've never loved like this." Magnus confessed again, smiling over at Alec as Madzie was sprawled on his chest and his two boys were curled into his arms, they all looking adorable and sleepy and starry eyed at Alec as he continued to read to them, adjusting his voice to fit the characters in the storybook.

Magnus definitely knew how his children felt. What he felt for Alec was very real. He'd never known feelings like this before as this was much more intense and hotter (naturally) but still so pure and exciting too. It was also very exciting and frightening. He'd already fucked it up before. What was stopping him from doing that again?

"So, what are you going to do about it?" Magnus shifted his gaze back to his father. By the angel Magnus never wanted to give this feeling up. Give Alec up. He and his children were utterly lost without the man. He'd never do something that idiotic again! He'd always voiced communication and honesty was key to Alec regarding his family and yet stupidly hadn't taken his own advice and then all the crap that followed afterwards with Camille and his past and how he'd blown up at Alec due to being thrust into a corner. Well, all of that was his past and with continued help and support from his family and friends, Magnus would learn to accept it all and live with it all, including the abuse he underwent as a child.

Life was what you make of it and Magnus was sick of living in the past now. Sick of that shadow being cast over him. He didn't want it holding him back as it had been.

He was determined to live in the now. And Alec was in the now. He was not the past. Alec was the present and hopefully, for Magnus, the future too.

Alec had become his guiding light. His everything.

"I'll never let Alexander go again." The words had slipped out before Magnus could contain them.

"I'm glad you have finally found the one for you, Mags." Startled eyes turned to look up at older brown-golden orbs which were also a little wider. "Sorry... Magnus."

"No, no its alright." Magnus felt his heart flutter. "Mags is fine." He watched his father give him a small smile before nodding his head.

Magnus had never really had nicknames or endearments when he was growing up, but that name his father had given him, it had curled around his battered and bruised heart, staying with him, and he knew it would always be with him.

"I've been thinking..." Magnus eyed his father as he shuffled about for a moment, seemingly collecting his thoughts whilst also picking up his satchel and placing it over his shoulder. Clearly he'd come to his home straight after work, not bothering to go home first. Even that warmed Magnus' heart to realise that his father, once work was done, wanted to spend time with him and his children. "I'm off on a business trip for a couple weeks, but I was hoping, you know, with the Easter weekend coming up in late March, would you, Alec and the kids like to come out to the lake house, spend the long weekend there? With me?" Magnus blinked a couple of times, finally registering what was being said to him, taking it all in. "We could do a treasure hunt for the kids, like how I used to do for you up there. What do you think?"

Magnus' heart was beating so heavily and rapidly in his chest. Could he really break down his walls around his heart for his father? Could he trust him just this one last time?

"If Alec doesn't mind distracting the kids for a few hours, maybe you could bring along your cameras and we could go for a walk, just you and I, like we used to when you were a little boy." Magnus felt a smile flutter across his lips. "This time maybe you can teach me a few things about the cameras you have." In all his life Magnus had never seen Asmodeus Bane look so vulnerable before. It was almost empowering in regards to the fact that right at this moment Magnus held the cards. The fate of his father and his relationship with him was in his hands to do as he pleased. He could crush him where he stood or try and make peace with all the shit that had happened and turn over a new leaf. Second chances were rare, just as Raphael had said. Magnus already knew he would regret not giving it a go. For his children, for his father, but most of all, for himself.

"That... That sounds like a wonderful idea." Asmodeus let out a shuddering breath. He was going to get his chance to actually be part of his sons life. His sons life, his grandchildren and the man he was in love with. Asmodeus Bane would take Alec Lightwood's words into consideration, actually he already had taken them for everything they were. The gods honest truth and this time round, he knew it was his last chance. He wasn't fucking this up ever again. He wanted Magnus to know just what he truly meant to him. Twenty years without your only child was a long bloody time and Asmodeus was not missing anymore years.

Asmodeus let a small grin form on his lips as he placed his hand on Magnus' shoulder once more and gave it a light squeeze.

"Get back to your family." Magnus flushed once more. He and Alec weren't exactly that 'deep' into a relationship, not since Magnus broke up with him, but the thought of calling the lovely young man his family... It did things to him.

"We're not... We're not like that anymore but..." Magnus was having trouble getting his thoughts together. "Its still a bit complicated but... I hope... I want..." Magnus felt his throat freeze up on him. Asmodeus instantly cupped his cheek.

"What is it, son?" That one word did Magnus in and tears slipped from his eyes before he could control himself. "Mags..." Asmodeus muttered as he stepped closer, pulling Magnus into a hug. "Everything is going to be alright. I promise." Asmodeus mumbled as Magnus held onto him. Asmodeus' gaze shifted over to Alec, watching the worry flash across those blue eyes as he could clearly see Magnus was a little upset right now, but he didn't know why and didn't want to interrupt them nor could he when Madzie had asked him to keep reading in her sweet sleepy voice.

After several moments, Magnus' emotions calmed.

"Sorry about that." Magnus finally collected himself, wiping his fingers under his eyes and hoping he hadn't smudged his eye-liner too much.

"You've nothing to apologise about." Shy brown-golden orbs rose to meet his father's gaze. "You've been hurt so much over the years Magnus, in life, in relationships, in work. I've done it too and that is my biggest regret in life, but things are different now. Alec is right at your side, ready to protect that beautiful but fragile heart of yours. He has brought you back." Asmodeus placed on a gentle smile. "He's helping you heal and has made you love like you've never loved before."

"I..."

"Your spark is back Magnus. Its back because of Alec! Please don't stand here and tell me that the two of you don't have something together or that its complicated. Life is what you make of it and when you find that person you truly love, hold on tight and never let go."

"Father..."

"I can see just how much you both treasure each other, whether you've voiced feelings of love or not." Magnus felt his cheeks warm. "Its there Mags, so don't fight it. Accept it and embrace it. I'm sure even the kids can see it and I'm certain there is no way they will ever want to let Alec go again."

"They do love him very much."

"Have they gotten used to the fact he's not living here anymore?"

"They still miss him, but we go over at least twice a week for dinner and the kids have been able to have a couple sleepovers too, so I think it all helps."

"Are you doing alright with Alec not living here?"

"I'm better then I was." Magnus answered truthfully. "His new home is very lovely. We all feel very comfortable there, just like how he still feels here. That is more then enough for now."

"That's good. Always remember that alright? If you're ever having a bad day, because we all have them, remember even if he's not living with you, he's here Magnus." Asmodeus pointed to his son's heart. "Alec is a very special young man." Magnus glanced up at his father at his rather truthful confession. "He got me to like him, open up to him and I don't do that." His father was pretty much like Raphael in a sense. "I trust him not to hurt you Mags."

"I can do that all my own." Magnus muttered dryly to himself, though Asmodeus had heard him.

"Even so, now that he is back, even though he is not living with you, could you see your life without him? Could you and the kids return to how life was before Alec?" Magnus shook his head.

"Never!"

"Then tell him how you feel. I know for a fact his feelings for you run deep too, possibly even more then what is even comprehensible to Alec."

"H-How...?"

"Just from the conversations we have had since meeting." Magnus' eyebrows furrowed at that, pondering just how many conversations had occurred without him being in ear range. "When you were in hospital, I heard his heartfelt worry for you. He didn't specifically say I couldn't tell you anything of what I heard, but I think its best coming from him if you truly want to know."

"Like what? Oh, no, never mind, you said you wouldn't say anything." Magnus was truly dying to know.

"I won't say too much, but one thing I will say, is just take a look at him." Magnus shifted his gaze to where Alec was lying, his lips dropping to place kisses on his children's heads before their eyes locked. The bliss, the adoration, the care, the happiness, the passion, it was all there! Right in those perfect sparkling blue eyes that had become Magnus' saving grace. Those eyes which always stole the very breath from him, making his heart swell with equal amounts of adoration, care and devotion the world over for Alec.

"I want to marry him." Asmodeus chuckled as that quietly spoken confession that had even shocked Magnus as his cheeks warmed, eyes wide and shifting back to look up at his father.

"How about you actually officially ask him out again and then go from there?"

"Y-Yes..." Asmodeus couldn't help it, his hand rose and he ruffled it through his sons hair, listening to the shocked gasp break through as Magnus jerked away, hair an absolute mess, which made his son so damn adorable as he began to grumble and tuck the strands behind his ears and he fixed the simple ponytail most of the long strands had been pulled into.

"As I said before, get back to your family." Magnus jerked his head into a nod as his father squeezed his hand. "We'll talk soon." Magnus gave another nod as his father's gaze drifted over his shoulder, giving a silent nod to Alec for a moment and then he let himself out. Magnus stood there, just gazing at the closed door.

"You alright?" He startled as he hadn't realised Alec was so close!

"How much did you hear?" Magnus voiced in slight alarm.

"Nothing, why?" Blue eyes jerked to the closed door. "Was it bad? Did he threaten you again? He told me he was going to do better. He promised! If he did threaten you I'm seriously going to..." Alec never did get any further as Magnus' lips were suddenly against his!

Alec, though surprised, immediately melted and accepted the kiss, arms lifting up to wrap around Magnus' shoulders, drawing him closer to his body. They technically weren't together, but by the angel it had felt so right! Alec needed this, wanted this. Had wanted Magnus' touch on him for so long now. He'd missed it since Magnus broke up with him six weeks prior. The desperation soon made itself known as Alec had to quickly stop the whimper from escaping his lips when Magnus finally broke the heated kiss.

All they did was stare at each other, panting breaths mingling and it was all that could be heard. Both men knew they really should be saying something, but the need to kiss again was far stronger then ever and Alec and Magnus clung to each other, breaths hitching as hope burned strong and bright within them.

Each man thought the same thing as they clung to each other for dear life. They should have never let go in the first place.

"The kids?" Magnus murmured against Alec's intoxicating lips before ducking his head to pepper kisses against Alec's neck tattoo, delighting in the pretty boy's shudder.

"Th-They fell asleep. I've been listening to their adorable snoring whilst letting you and your father talk. I didn't want to interrupt."

"They get those adorable snores from you, you know."

"I don't snore..." Magnus rolled his eyes, the continuous denial was utterly precious as he decided to ghost his lips over Alec's bobbing adams apple.

"It must be your melodious voice that makes them drift off to sleep so quickly. It just does things to them."

"L-Like what?" Alec moaned softly as Magnus ground their hips rather unexpectedly together, Magnus' greedy hands holding his hips firmly in place so he felt every single slow movement in perfect sensual detail. "Ma-Magnus..." The man in question felt a shudder ripple down his spine at Alec's breathy moan of his name right at his ear, his arms holding on tighter, like Alec would literally fall if Magnus didn't keep firm grip of him.

"Well, maybe not this voice. This voice is all for me." Magnus teased, knowing his desperate inner voice was probably smashing its head against a wall at his cowardice for not yet confessing to the delicious shivering man in his arms. Finally Alec was back in his arms again.

"I-Is it?" Magnus stopped grinding against Alec, allowing him a moment to breathe, along with himself, as he gazed down at the flushed pretty boy wrapped in his strong embrace. "Are we together? Am I... Am I yours again?" Alec's whispered and hesitant voice tore at Magnus' heart.

'How about you actually officially ask him out again first and then go from there?' His father's deep voice echoed in his brain.

"We need to talk." The sudden seriousness had Alec gulping down the lump in his throat, all heated antics between them ceasing immediately. Of course he knew they needed to talk, they had both been avoiding the next step as it was, but that didn't make it any easier on Alec's anxious nerves. He watched as Magnus took in a few measured deep breaths and then listened to the man begin to pour out his feelings. "All my life I've been met with hardship. Somehow, by sheer willpower I've kept myself going. Yes I've fallen from grace more times then I can count, but still, I've been able to pick myself up, with help on occasions, or all on my own, and would stubbornly keep placing one foot in front of the other and carry on. I now know I was just running away from my problems, but it still meant I was moving. I would do it, most of the time, for my children." Magnus watched Alec give a nod of the head, most definitely relating to a lot of what he was saying in regards to his own personal circumstances, especially when it came to the love he had for his siblings. "In truth, I can count the happiest moments of my life on one hand."

"Magnus..."

"I got to meet my real family, though we are all still estranged these days, but I hope that will change from now on. I hope, by building my relationship with my father that one day I'll get to meet my grandfather, aunt, uncle and cousins again."

"You will Magnus. I'm sure of it." Alec smiled gently at the beautiful man in front of him. He knew the ups and downs Magnus had with his very father, but he knew Magnus would always love the man whether he wanted to or not. He also felt hope within him that the two men were on the way to patching up their relationship. He'd seen the worry and care Asmodeus had for his son and he hoped in some small way he had helped bring the men closer together.

"Sweet Pea was born." Magnus interrupted Alec's thoughts as he went back to telling him what were his greatest and happiest memories. Alec nodded his head, agreeing with Magnus on that because Madzie was his little princess. "Then I was blessed with my cheeky boys. The three of them are my treasures." Alec grinned once more. "I also knew who my true friends were." Again Alec nodded his head.

"I'm so glad through everything you've been through Magnus, you could find some wonderful positives. Hold onto them." Magnus of course was continuously floored at just how sweet Alec truly was. He seriously hoped, beyond anything in the world that what he was about to say would strike a chord within the younger man.

"Even with the hope my father and I can work out our differences and move on, plus having my children with me and my true friends, what has truly stolen the very breath from me was when you came into my life." Alec was half way through a nod when he snapped his gaze up to Magnus, sparkling blue eyes wide in shock.

"Wh-What?"

"That's right. You, Alexander Lightwood."

"B-But I..." Magnus raised his index finger and ghosted it across Alec's lips, halting his adorable stuttering.

"I was lost, broken, stressed and unstable even if I hid all of that inside." Alec's eyes grew wider, breath hitching in his throat. "I was so not the me I know I can be. I'm larger then life itself. I'm always confident in myself and in my abilities and can get anything I want, but I was a shell of myself. My life was shit, even with my beautiful children around me. I couldn't seem to get out of my slump whether it be personally or professionally." Magnus shook his head knowing he still sometimes thought that now, but his life was going to be better because... "It was like magic, the very day I opened up an application and there was a picture of a man with the prettiest and most honest blue eyes I'd ever seen in my life." Alec's mouth dropped open. "I saw a bit of myself in them. Pain, loneliness and yet they held a strength and determination in them that I was absolutely awed by." Alec felt warmth rush to his cheeks as Magnus cupped his face. "I felt an instant connection the minute I saw your photo."

"R-Really?"

"Really." Magnus smiled. "There were several things that caught my attention about you from the minute you walked into the lobby."

"Wh-What are they?" Alec was practically breathless, a tremble rippling through him at the serene smile on Magnus' hypnotising lips.

"I loose my breath when you enter the room." Cheeks turned pinker at the confession. "When you walk by, my heart beats faster." Alec watched Magnus' eyes sparkle that little bit more if it were even possible. Alec was almost ready to pinch himself. Surely this was but a dream! It wasn't though. Magnus was right in front of him as he took hold of his hand and pressed it flat against his chest so he could feel the strong steady rhythm of Magnus' heartbeat. "And when you are standing so close, feeling your breath near me, on me, my skin tingles."

"Magnus..." Alec was practically breathless as Magnus' lips caressed his oh so softly, too softly, as he didn't make true, full contact with him. Alec ached for more.

"I want you in my life Alexander. I need you in my life."

"Magnus..."

"I've had a few lovers in my time, which did form into relationships, and many one night stands, which you are aware of, but never have I felt like this before." Alec gulped down the lump lodged in his throat. "You've unlocked something within me Alexander, and even though it scares me to high heavens, I never want that feeling to disappear." Magnus felt his heart melt when Alec chewed on his bottom lip. He would never tire of the man's adorableness. "I let my fear overpower me before. I'm so sorry I was such an idiot, such a coward, and ran away. I'm sorry I broke not only my own heart, but yours as well." Magnus brought Alec's trembling hand up to his lips as he kissed his knuckles and then his palm before linking both their hands together, holding on tight. "I promise you here and now, it'll never happen again. If you give me another chance, I'll never let you go. I'll spend the rest of my days asking for your forgiveness and making you the happiest man alive."

"Oh god..." Alec all but whimpered, emotions erratic at what was happening.

After Magnus woke in hospital and Alec was there to help him recuperate, though was there as a friend and a support person for the kids, Magnus had cried more then enough to last him a life time. He had thought he'd lost everything and truly only had himself to blame, but as the days moved on, Alec had stayed, being a dear friend to him. Magnus was certain more then ever that even though their relationship had started out so strangely and rather intensely too, neither man could break away from the other.

"I can't guarantee I'm not going to mess up again." Magnus softly confessed, hand coming up to cup Alec's cheek. "I'll try my best not to though."

"We'll work it out Magnus. Whatever happens, we'll work it out. Together." Those very words were like a soothing balm to Magnus.

"I want everything to be perfect for you Alexander, because you deserve that and more. If I don't do that then I..." Magnus stopped when Alec cupped his face, making him look into his sparkling blue eyes. They truly had always been a saving grace for him. They always calmed the erratic emotions swirling within him.

"I'm not asking for perfect Magnus. I just want you."

"Really?"

"Yes." Alec's smile widened as Magnus hugged him tight and he held on just the same. "Though, if I'm honest, you're pretty bloody perfect anyway." Magnus' chuckle enveloped Alec's heart as he felt his lips press sweetly against his temple, then his cheek and then to the sensitive skin behind his ear.

"Thank you..."

Alec just nodded his head and held on tighter. He truly couldn't ever think of letting Magnus slip from his fingers again. He'd done it once, not holding on tight and fighting to stay by his side no matter Magnus' own worries and doubts, and by the angel Alec felt like his heart was ripped from his chest. He knew, after some hard thinking and various talks with his grandparents, Izzy and Raphael was that Magnus had run away from him, trying to allow him the chance to live his life, follow his dreams and not be tainted by him and his past. What Magnus failed to realise is that Alec was prepared to accept him as he was, past and all. He was done running.

For Alec, following his dreams as Magnus wished him to do, was something he did want, because now he had the chance to do that, but what Magnus didn't realise was the fact that he was one of those dreams. The best one.

Alec knew, stubbornly so, he could live a great life now, but that life, in every scenario Alec formed in his head, it had Magnus within them. He could follow his dreams of studying at I.C.E. and also love Magnus with everything he had. Well, Magnus and his kids, if the single father really wanted him that is.

And it seemed he did!

"You are my saving grace Alexander. An angel, my angel, and how you came into my life, and why you said yes that day, I'm so glad you did." Magnus whispered into Alec's ear. "I've never been much of a religious person, but I'll thank every deity out there for you." Magnus felt Alec shake within his arms and pulled back a little to catch the darkening blush thanks to his confessions.

'Does Magnus actually want someone like me?' Alec's shy and very pessimistic internal voice questioned in doubt.

"I know we've teetered a lot in this rather bizarre relationship, and we definitely crossed the line a long time ago, my very hands can still feel the traces of your supple skin, your eager cries fill my ears, my heart, every day." Alec's eyes widened and yes his breath was slightly erratic now too. He hadn't forgotten how it felt being with Magnus either. He doubted his body would ever forget. Nor his heart. "I want that again. I want you for as long as you can stand me."

"Wh-What will we do about your father's threat? The kids..." It was then Magnus realised that he hadn't told Alec about his father backing down!

"My kids are safe Alexander." Blue eyes lifted up at that. "I'm safe." Magnus cupped his face. "Because we have you." Alec let out a shuddering breath, tears shimmering in his intense gaze. "He's retracted his threats. In actual fact he's begging for my forgiveness because he hadn't meant to use my children like that. He didn't want me turning out like him. He didn't want me, in all my craziness, to forget I have children that depend on me. As long as I continue to get better and continue my therapy sessions, he has faith in me that I'll ensure to take care of my darling cherubs to the best of my ability."

"Really?"

"Yes Alexander. He's not going to take them from me. He's not taking them away from us."

"U-Us...?"

"I mean...if you'll have me that is. Officially once more." Alec chewed on his bottom lip again. He had heard correctly right? He wasn't hearing things? "I will never run from you again." Alec's mouth dropped open. So much was happening right now that he was having a hard time trying to process it all. Trying to take it all in. After about a minute, Magnus was getting a little nervous with Alec just quietly looking at him. It was a little unnerving. A lot unnerving if Magnus was honest and decided to be frank and place it into even better words. "Alexander Gideon Lightwood," The blue eyed beauty jerked on the spot when Magnus tenderly took hold of his hands, bringing them to his lips for a moment as his own orbs shimmered with a thousand emotions. "I should have told you a long time ago, maybe even from the moment we met."

"Wh-What is it?"

"I love you Alexander." Blue eyes widened at Magnus' honest and heartfelt confession, Alec's breath hitching in his throat and heart pounding. "I'm so hopelessly in love with you and its never going away."

"Magnus..."

"My feelings are only ever going to get bigger for you." Magnus gave a sheepish smile at his own possessiveness. "If there is even a slither of hope, after everything we've been through, of me pushing you away, of me running away, of me breaking both our hearts, I promise here and now, I'll make it up to you." Magnus placed Alec's hands, palms flat against his chest again, so he could feel the thundering of his heartbeat. It also drew Alec a little closer to Magnus too. "Only you make my heart race like this. Only you, my saving grace, my angel, my Alexander." Magnus gave a tiny little smile, almost coy, and was insanely amazed at himself for this was the first time he was being this truthful about his feelings to a potential partner and one he wanted so very desperately to be his once more. To have another chance at a relationship. One that would develop and grow and went on for years and years to come. Magnus could hope. "I am starting to accept who I am now, past and all, and it has everything to do with you."

"Magnus..."

"I want what we had again. Actually, I want better, because you deserve so much better. I want to show you who I truly am, faults and all. I want you to do the same as well. I promise I'll love all parts of you, the strong parts which take my breath away and the weak parts which make me want to love and protect you more." Magnus could feel his heart hammering in his ears. "I promise good and bad times, hopefully mostly good. Love for me, is not a simple word to be thrown around lightly." Alec let out a shuddering breath, Magnus doing the same. "You want to know something?"

"Yes..." Alec softly replied.

"I don't think I truly knew what love was until I met you." Alec's eyes widened. "If you asked me to place it into one word, I couldn't." Magnus gave a shrug. "Love is amazing and challenging and wonderful and thrilling and confusing and scary and..."

"Messy..." Alec softly placed in.

"And messy." Magnus confirmed. "I want to be all of that...with you." Alec chewing on his bottom lip, and the pink hue in his cheeks, melted Magnus' heart again. "Who I am, what I was before, you know everything about me now, and its yours to take. If you want me again." Magnus let out a shuddering breath. "You make me the happiest man alive and I want to give you everything you give me ten fold. You deserve all that and more." A weight that had been on Magnus' shoulders, one he hadn't realised he even had, lifted once those words came out. He'd finally gotten his true feelings for Alec out in the open and off his chest. "So, what do you think? Will you allow me the honour of loving you? Of my children and I loving you?"

"Magnus..." Alec hiccuped, voice and emotions wrecked.

"Alexander..." Magnus quickly turned away, finally remembering his present for the beautiful sweet man in front of him. He pulled the bouquet from the bag, presenting the entire silk flower bouquet which was filled with red roses, white carnations and calla lilies that he had painstakingly put together and was gripping rather tightly within his lightly shaking hands, holding it out towards Alec. "Please do me the greatest honour of being my boyfriend once more."

"Oh god..." Alec slapped a hand over his mouth.

"My children and I, we'll love you to the end of days and beyond." Magnus was a little shocked when Alec's knees gave out on him, he slumping to the ground with one hand still slapped over his lips, trying to contain his emotions whilst his other was gripping the material of his sweater near his heart. Alec's shoulders began to shake and Magnus' heart swelled with so much love he was sure he was going to burst! This was the most precious and beauteous man Magnus had ever met and by the angel he would make sure he knew it every day. "Please don't cry Angel." Magnus dropped to his knees as well, placing the bouquet aside for now. "Alexander... My darling Alexander..." Magnus whispered his name like a pray. "I love you so much." Magnus' confession echoed through his quiet home, he repeating it over and over to a violently shaking Alec.

When he lightly cupped Alec's flushed face, those blue eyes which were ready to shed a thousand tears made Magnus want to curl himself around Alec's heart, cradle it close, fill it with so much love and warmth and protect it forever. He never wanted to cause Alec any pain for the rest of his life.

"Can I... Can I really..." It was but a whisper, though Magnus was close enough to hear it as Alec was trying to find his words. "Can I really have you?" The softly spoken question broke Magnus' heart. Like Alec believed, even though it had been his fault for hurting him, Alec seemed to think and possibly believe that he was not worthy of his affections. "Can I really call you and the kids mine?" Magnus' heart clenched so tightly in his chest, he truly thought it was going to explode!

"We're all yours Alexander."

"R-Really?" Magnus gave him a nod and Alec sagged forward, face pressed into his chest as he let out one loud breathy sob. It could only be described as pure relief. Magnus carded his fingers of his right hand through Alec's deliciously messy hair whilst the other rubbed soothingly up and down his shuddering back. "I thought... I mean I hoped... I wished once we started meeting up again, during your recuperation and such, that we would...that we could...but I still had doubts, still wondered whether I'm good enough for you."

"Oh Alec... It is I who is not worthy of you." Magnus confessed, pressing his lips atop Alec's head. "I'll spend my life making you fall in love with me. So much so, you won't ever want anyone else, nor would you ever want to part from me even in our toughest times." Alec felt a bubble of laughter leave his lips as he threw his arms around Magnus, tucking his face against the crux between Magnus' neck and shoulder, breathing the man's delicious and homely scent in. Alec thought it best not to tell Magnus that he'd pretty much been that way from the minute they met.

Maybe when he was old and grey, when they were old and grey, he'd finally tell Magnus. No doubt still blushing over it too.

"Magnus..."

"Hmm?" He murmured against Alec's temple, pressing a kiss to it as he revelled in having Alec so close to him again. Delighted in having his BOYFRIEND in his arms once more.

"I love you." Magnus' heart literally stopped at the whispered confession.

"What was that?"

"I love you."

"Say it again." Alec let out a tiny giggle as he finally lifted himself up and drew slightly away, but only so he could cup Magnus' face in his hands, the man doing the same thing to him so they couldn't look away. Not that they would.

"I love you Magnus Bane. So, so, so very much." Alec was blushing up a storm as his own words sunk home within him too. Like Magnus, he'd never felt like this before either. "I realised something awhile ago too, probably when I was trying to get over having lost you."

"What's that?" Magnus whispered softly back.

"A Lightwood like me, just like my grandfather, we love fiercely and only ever once." Magnus watched Alec point at him, pressing his index finger at his heart. "Tag, you're it." A tiny half smile crept to Alec's lips at his own words, cheeks adorably pink.

"Alexander..." The look of bewilderment on Magnus' face was priceless and precious to Alec. Who would of thought that shy little Alexander Lightwood could render someone as magical as Magnus Bane to this.

"What about us?" The two men jerked in their kneeling positions as their eyes darted over to three very awake and widely grinning children.

"Those cheeky little devils..." Magnus softly muttered and let out an exasperated sigh as he made Alec turn to look at him once more, taking hold of his chin. "You sure you want us?" Magnus' index finger went under Alec's chin, tilting it ever so slightly. "We're going to be quite a handful for you."

"I love a challenge." Alec mumbled against Magnus' lips, forgetting the pouting children off to the side for a moment so he could kiss this gorgeous man before him. It was soft and sweet and filled with endless promises, eternal love. Alec sighed dreamily against Magnus' responsive lips before they pulled away, knowing there was plenty of time for that later. They had all the time in the world now. And it was probably a good idea to leave that until when there weren't prying eyes and tiny ears watching and listening.

"My darling children..." Magnus called out, watching his brood come shuffling closer when he beckoned them over. They always looked adorable to him, bias and all, but even more so in winter pyjamas. His boys were in penguin and polar bear pyjamas and his darling daughter was in a set of purple ones with white hearts all over it. "How would you three like another Papa in our family?" Magnus watched Alec jerk his gaze back to him, shock clear as day on his face, lips parted.

"Another Papa?" All three chorused.

"Yes, another Papa." Magnus repeated, fingers threading through Alec's hand.

"M-Magnus, I don't think..."

"We don't need another silly Papa though." The look on Alec's face was absolutely crushing and for a second Magnus thought his little Sweet Pea was going to break her blue eyed prince's heart as for several seconds they watched on as his kids deliberated in adorable whispers before turning to face them once more. "What about having a serious daddy in our family instead?" Madzie cheerily piped up, absolutely flooring the two men as she stood there, chest puffed with love and pride clear as day on her sweet face. She was holding her little brothers hands in hers as they nodded their heads agreeing with their big sister, equally liking the affectionate title of 'daddy' for Alec. They had, after all, heard the man being referred as 'daddy' to them by other adults already and it was sticking in their little minds quite well. In fact, they loved it.

"Not too serious a daddy though." Max cheekily piped up. "We still want to have lots and lots of fun." The youngest Bane child received nods of the head and massive smiles from his older siblings.

"D-Daddy?" Alec finally found his voice, though a stuttering one at that. "Y-You three want me to be...to be...to be a...a daddy to you?" Three pairs of big innocent brown-golden eyes glanced at each other before shifting back to the whirlwind of emotions once again flooding Alec's pretty face.

"Yes!" Magnus' children grinned broadly up at them. "We love you lots and lots!" They chimed in together. Alec chewed on his lip, trying to keep his emotions in cheek, but knew he was quickly failing.

"We want Alec to stay with us forever, just like Papa does." Madzie beamed happily.

"Oh god..."

"Alexander..." Magnus was a little worried that this was too much for the man. Granted he had no idea his children were going to set him off the way they did! He'd done enough with his own love confession as it was! "Alexander, breathe my love, just breathe."

"N-No I'm fine... I just..." Alec glanced at Magnus, eyes a little wide still as he reeled at the 'my love' endearment since he'd never been bestowed with such eternal affection before, remembering when Magnus had said it the last time, but the man didn't know he had then. It warmed his heart instantly. Alec quickly shifted his gaze back to the children. These three children who loved him. He loved them like they were his very own, just like their father. Their father whom he loved so very dearly with all his heart. And then some. He'd do anything and everything for these adorable kids. For them and their sinfully delicious father. "Hey Magnus?"

"Yes?" Alec's heart was pounding, but he knew it was time to let Magnus know.

"As roller coaster as my life has been, it has never felt so amazing, not until I met you." Alec watched surprise flutter across Magnus' face, not prepared for his heartfelt words. "You have this spark. Like if magic were real you would be that. For you are insanely magical, insanely beautiful. You light up everything around me. You allow me to believe that I am someone important, someone truly special. I don't have to hide who I am with you. You make me believe in me. You make me feel happy, safe and warm. You make me feel alive." Alec watched Magnus' mouth gape open. "When I'm with you, I feel like I can be the best me possible. For you, for the kids, for me and my family. I've never liked myself, but when I'm with you, I like me."

"Alexander..."

"I... I love you." Alec gave a tender sweet smile which pulled at Magnus' heart. "Truly I do. I love you with everything that I have, which isn't much but I..." Alec never did get any further in his rambling confession as Magnus pretty much just assaulted him, pulling him flush against him and his lips moulded over his own, a warm wet tongue slipping inside and setting Alec's heart and body on fire! His cheeks flamed red since he did remember they had three pairs of curious innocent eyes watching them and his short nails tugged at the back of Magnus' hair, which of course earned a delicious groan from the man, but it also made their lips drift softly away. "Ma-Magnus... Th-The kids..." Alec was practically breathless.

"Oh, sorry about that." Magnus panted heatedly against Alec's swollen lips. "You just got me all worked up there." Magnus grinned widely, wickedly, allowing Alec a moment to catch his breath and calm his heart too.

"By the angel I love you!" Alec confessed once more, throwing his arms over Magnus' shoulders as he hugged him close, feeling laughter bubble up within him as he pressed his lips to Magnus' neck. Magnus squeezed him heartily back before Alec finally released his hold and shifted his gaze to Magnus' adorable children. "All of you." Alec confirmed as he opened up his arms and was delighted as the kids squealed happily, tiny feet pounding towards him.

"Daddy!" They proclaimed loudly and barrelled into his chest for cuddles.

Tears silently fell from Alec's closed eyes and he let out a tiny hiccup when a pair of strong and warm arms engulfed him – them – from behind. Magnus' lips pressed to the back of his neck, since he was peppering him with sweet kisses there, making him shudder a little at the ministrations.

'Magnus...' Alec's internal voice, which was usually bitter or depressed or anything but happy, was finally at ease and insanely elated at this turn of events. 'Magnus loves me!' It screamed in pure astonishment. 'And I'm his kids daddy now too!' Alec truly wanted to shout that from the rooftop, but the feeling of being engulfed in hugs by the Bane family overpowered it. There was always a chance to shout it another night.

Everything in Alec's hectic life was finally calming. Of course they would have many more things to deal with as the years went on, and by the angel Alec hoped he would have years with these four, because this was truly it for him. The Bane's were his. They were HIS! This was HIS family. His to call his OWN!

Alec was never letting go. Ever.

"I love you." Again it was directed to all four of them, Alec feeling the smile grace his lips when the declaration was voiced to him by the three children still tucked into his chest, clinging adorably to him and giggling up a storm as he peppered the tops of their heads with multiple kisses and then blew raspberries against their skin.

When Alec finally gave them enough, he felt a pair of familiar lips press against his temple, before ducking to his neck, setting off a light flush and then those marvellous lips pressed chastely at his cheek. Alec couldn't help but shift his head, eyes sparkling as he tilted his head upwards, Magnus giving him what he so desperately needed right now which was his lips against his, if only for a brief moment.

"We love you too Alexander. Always." Alec let out a content sigh at Magnus' truthful and heartfelt words. Words that he was certain would keep him going even through the darkest of times.

All these feelings were so very overwhelming as Alec took in a deep shuddering breath, the scent of sandalwood and sugar making him feel the all consuming, all powerful, unconditional love encompassing him safely, warmly, protectively within its tight grip. He leaned into Magnus' strong embrace, knowing the man would keep him and his – no – their children upright. Theirs! Now that was a revelation!

"You going to accept my bouquet now, my love?"

"Absolutely." Alec grinned and his heart soared. He wasn't sure if he'd ever stop pinching himself as the years drew on as he showed off his bouquet to the kids, Madzie, of course, was the most enthralled by it.

Alec couldn't believe that answering a 'Help Wanted' advert, in order to pay the rent, to continue to pay off his parents debts, pay the utilities and put food on the table for his siblings, wearing himself ragged in the process and being chained to such a life which was not what he ever envisioned for himself, would actually turn out like this!

Alec also knew, if he had run away every time things got tough for him over the years, he'd just know that his parents would be disappointed in him even from their graves. He hated the very thought, the pull they had on him, like Camille had on Magnus, but he wasn't afraid anymore. They both weren't afraid anymore. This was their lives and no one should control them like that. Alec was going to do better too. He was going to start loving himself because if someone like Magnus, someone so insanely beautiful and wonderful could love him, then he certainly could start loving himself too. This was his time and with these four, his parents could scorn him for eternity and Alec finally didn't care.

For the first time in his life, Alec could honestly say he was truly happy.

To think, when he met Magnus that day, the advert was not what he thought at all. Little did he know that when he shook Magnus' hand, and accepted the job offer, including the fake relationship to deceive the man's father, the beautiful man was going to take him on the best adventure of his life, filled with ups and downs, but one Alec hoped he could continue to have until his very last breath.

After all, this was everything Alec had ever dreamed of and finally, finally after all his hardships, an angel somewhere in the world was finally smiling down on him.

Perhaps it had even come in the form of grandparents that helped him accept he was a Lightwood. That he could be proud to be a Lightwood, even with the parents he'd been given. Aside from his parents, the Lightwood's he knew were honest and respectful and treasured family values. Alec was learning how very important life was no matter the dice that had been rolled. He truly believed, after all this time, he was blessed. Blessed and able to finally grasp the life he'd always wanted.

Alec had finally found the best love in the world and it came in the magical form of one Magnus Bane and the man's three adorable children. There was no way he'd ever let this go. Let them go. They were stuck with him. For better or worse. He loved once. Fiercely. They were it.

He truly was the best version of himself because he was able to discover himself thanks to Magnus and his children. Alec was accepting his own past, living in the present and hoped for an amazing future.

A future with the four of them as he grinned wide whilst listening to Magnus' confession of love to him once more as they all still sat on the floor cuddled together.

#

(Sometime later...)

With music on, they all sat down to a late midnight snack. Of course it wasn't actually midnight, far from it really, since Alec and Magnus wouldn't allow such young children to stay up quite that late (New Years was the exception) but with all emotions still high, no one was getting any sleep just yet.

Alec believed full tummies would soon make certain children sleepy and then he and Magnus could talk a bit more, mutter confessions of love to each other again and again. Maybe even cuddle, share a kiss or two, or three or four, and then they would just have to see where it would go from there. The possibilities were now endless for Alec to think about. It got his heart all aflutter.

"Papa, are we a real family now that we have Alec back?" Said man was bringing over a serving plate filled with left over pasta and trying not to grin too much like an idiot at his Princess' question to her dashing father. Even with the declarations of love, Alec wasn't sure about moving back in just yet, hoping Magnus wouldn't bring it up because he would hate to hurt the man and their children, but they'd talk about that when the time came. Rationally. He hoped.

What Alec did want to do though, was give Magnus (and his children) a gift. The dashing man had given him such a beautiful bouquet and one that he could keep forever too and even though he didn't think his returned gift was as special as what Magnus had done for him, he knew it would speak volumes anyway, because he'd given it to him. After all, Magnus still carried his omamori with him. It was always in his right pocket and knowing it was there made Alec grin wider.

"You bet we are Sweet Pea." Magnus confessed without a beat and finished pouring warm milk into plastic cups for his babies. Out of the corner of his eye Magnus saw Alec's lips widen.

"Nuh uh..." Eyes shifted to the youngest Bane child as he took a sip of his drink. "We'll be a family when daddy becomes a Bane like us." Magnus shifted his sparkling orbs over to a blushing Alec, he having nearly lost the plate of spaghetti and meatballs as it cluttered onto the table, the man clearly shocked by what Max had proclaimed. "Oh yum!" The youngster stood up on his chair, grabbing the fork and spoon as he slopped a hefty load of food into his waiting bowl. Grated mozzarella following closely after.

"Well..." Magnus slid on over to Alec, slipping his hand into the younger man's lightly shaking one and absolutely loved the blush, the lip chewing, the sparkling blue eyes which were possibly even giving away a bit of their hopefulness at what was proclaimed by a certain four year old. Clearly his sneaky boy had listened to far too many stories amongst the ever chatty ladies who worked at his day care and school. "I quite like that very gesture myself Maxi, what does Sweet Pea and Raph think about daddy becoming a Bane like us?"

"Ma-Magnus..." Alec's face reddened even more.

"Yes!" Was the happy response as the kids began to devour Alec's hearty pasta.

"I guess the jury has spoken." Magnus whispered hotly against Alec's ear, delighting in the tiny shiver the man couldn't hide from him. Magnus lifted Alec's hand to his lips, conveniently it was his left hand and pressed his lips against the man's ring finger, eyes possessively, intensely, not breaking from Alec's wide gaze. "If I recall, I technically have already asked you." Alec felt a stupid goofy grin form on his lips, just as a laugh bubbled out of him when he too recalled Magnus wanting to marry him when he was having his interview. "How about we gloss over that for now as we've all the time in the world, so lets just see where our combined futures leads us, alright?" Magnus felt a smile reach his lips and drifted into his eyes. He knew he was gazing at Alec with all the love, admiration and tender care he had in the world for him and him alone. There was no one quite like Alexander Lightwood. No one else who would steal his heart like he had. And Magnus wouldn't have it any other way. This was his future. Right here.

This dark haired, blue eyed beauty had given him another chance. By the angel Magnus knew he was insanely lucky to even get a second chance with Alec, having ripped his heart out and it would definitely take himself a while to even forgive himself for what he had done. Now though, with Alec giving him another chance, well that was a great starting point for Magnus.

He felt his grin widen as there was that adorable smile from Alec which melted his heart and he really wanted to kiss his beautiful boyfriend, even if only for a moment. Magnus doing just that as he captured Alec's 'alright' between their lips.

"Its time to eat!" They broke the lip-lock, chuckling at being interrupted simultaneously by their hungry and very messy children as they sat side by side, hands linked under the table whilst Alec lifted his right one to wipe a napkin over Max's mouth and Magnus did the same for Raphael whilst Madzie beamed a smile for all it was worth at her beloved family.

"Magnus?" Warm brown-golden orbs shifted to Alec. "This is for you and the kids." Alec softly confessed and Magnus looked down to what was resting within Alec's open palm: A security pass and key.

"Is that..."

"You and the kids are always welcome to stay with me and Jace. And Izzy and Max whilst they are still here for a couple more weeks." Alec's heart pounded away, hoping he wasn't rushing things by offering Magnus free access to his place.

"Alexander..." Magnus closed both hands over Alec's just as a very uplifting song, which had all hearts singing with utter joy, fluttered through the apartment.

I can feel something I've never felt before
Close my eyes, I'll fly right through that open door
Oh, I can hear it beckoning
So loud that it's deafening
I can feel something
Like a fire within

Suddenly, I can see
Everything I've waited for
Awakening, inside a dream
So what are we waiting for?
Open the wild inside
And just let go, 'cause
Suddenly, I can see
So what are we waiting for?

Flashes of light are glimmering like gold
Feel the world igniting deep inside these bones
Can you hear it beckoning,
So loud that it's deafening?
I can feel it burning
Got a fire within

Suddenly, I can see
Everything I've waited for
Awakening, inside a dream
So what are we waiting for?
Open the wild inside
And just let go, 'cause
Suddenly, I can see
So what are we waiting for?

If you never look you'll never discover
This infinite world for you to uncover
I can hear a symphony
Weaving through everything
Calling out to you and me

Suddenly, I can see
Everything I've waited for
Awakening, inside a dream
So what are we waiting for?
Open the wild inside
And just let go, 'cause
Suddenly, I can see
So what are we waiting for?

Suddenly, I can see
Everything I've waited for
Awakening, inside a dream
So what are we waiting for?

Both men beamed massive smiles filled with love at each other as the song died down, shifting into another romantic ballad, and with heart swelling, Alec served up some pasta for him and Magnus as he watched his boyfriend pocket the gifts he gave him.

"Oh, before I forget..." Alec shifted his gaze back to Magnus. "I think you forgot something." Alec pouted a little when Magnus' hand unlinked from his own and observed the man pull something from within the inside of his vest and placed it on the table. "I believe you dropped these." Alec stared down at the packets of seeds he had originally bought for Magnus.

"Those are..."

"Raph picked them up, said you had wanted to give them to me."

"I... I did." Alec blushed sweetly. "I still do." Sparkling blue eyes rose to look up at Magnus before dropping once more to the packets, Alec's index finger on his left hand brushing over the packet which had the seeds for the red roses in it.

"Want to plant them together?" Alec jerked his gaze back to Magnus.

"Really?"

"They'll take awhile to grow, so maybe later on we can return to the garden centre and actually buy the flower bushes themselves, but I like the idea of planting these seeds with you too."

"I... I'd love to." Alec softly voiced, feeling his cheeks turn pink.

"I figured our red roses can be planted in the black pots, my calla lilies in the gold pots and your white carnations in the blue pots. What do you think?"

"Sounds perfect." Alec confirmed with a wide joyous smile when Magnus gave a nod and pressed a kiss to his palm before entwining their fingers together once more.

Magnus began to eat, Alec doing the same, and for the life of him the smile would not fade because right now, everything truly was perfect. And he was certain that was how life would be for them.

The world would keep turning, they would keep moving, the five of them, because life, now, was as it should be.

There would be laughter and tears, good times and bad. There would be hectic times and lazy weekends where possible. There would be arguing and sweet kisses and cuddles and definitely lots of hot sex.

It was going to be perfect because Magnus and Alec were finally back together, but most of all, everything would work out because they had love.

#

The End.