Oh hi there! I'm back again with the…new fanfic chapter. Sorry for how long it took to update, my goal was to reach 20 reviews before I updated and in the end, I decided 19 was close enough because I just wanted to give the chapter to you guys. For chapter 4, I'd really appreciate it if my fic reached 30 reviews though ;) Anyways, before I embarrass myself even more, thank you so much to everyone who has responded so amazingly to my fic. It means so much to me. I just want to say that you are all stars and my favourite people currently...but I'd still love more feedback ;) Also, this chapter has a song in it called Come on Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners. If you haven't heard it before, check it out. I love it and it's such a fun song.
Disclaimer: I don't own the characters or the songs, they belong to their own gorgeous creators. I'm looking at you Cassie!
Warning: Swearing in this chapter…again.
Chapter 3
Third Time's a Charm
Magnus sauntered around his work bench, trying to stop himself from stressing when he couldn't find the right coloured thread. He swore under his voice, certain that he saw it merely minutes before. One of his earphones slipped out of his ear, making him growl when the sound of Lady Gaga's Bad Romance stopped playing in his ear. He grabbed the earphone and shoved it back into his ear, before turning up the volume on his iPod. Lady Gaga was the only thing keeping him awake in that moment. Other fourth year students hurried around him, all working on their imaginative creations.
Magnus hid his yawn behind his hand, exhausted after getting at University to pin the dress that Camille had been modelling. The blonde had slept over at his place the night before and they had stayed up late watching America's Next Top Model. Staying up until one and then waking up at five-thirty in order to get to the university for seven in the morning was a bad mix. He had pulled all-nighters before and survived the next day, but for some reason, Magnus was struggling to last this class. He was very aware that his outfit looked half-assed today, but at least Camille told him that he looked hot with a man bun. That was something good, at least. And from some of the lustful stares he received from other students, they seemed to agree too.
"Hey Magnus," one of the other girls in the class, called Jessamine, said. Jessamine floated towards Magnus, her golden hair in a high ponytail. He noted that she seemed to be in a happy mood, which is somewhat rare for her. "Have you heard that we're getting visitors during class today?"
"Who?" Magnus asked absentmindedly, gasping when he found the right colour thread.
"The Lightwoods." Jessamine stated with a smirk, leaning over Magnus' workbench.
Magnus tensed and shot up. "Oh no."
"What's with the horror? I thought you adored Alexander," Jessamine kidded, her brown eyes sparkling.
"I adore Alexander, however, I do not adore being seen like this," Magnus pointed at his uncharacteristic disarrayed appearance, "by people who know their fashion."
"You mean, their fashion stylists know fashion." Jessamine corrected, sniggering quietly.
"Jessamine, darling, we both know Isabelle Lightwood is a fashion force to be reckoned with." Magnus identified theatrically. "They're the children of Maryse Lightwood – that alone makes them know their fashion."
"Magnus, you work yourself up over nothing. You're so dramatic," Jessamine stepped back gracefully, before eyeing him hungrily. "And you look hot, the man bun look suits you. You should totally do it more often, I've seen multiple people check you in the last fifteen minutes alone."
"Thank you," Magnus smirked, his confidence returning when he saw her praising looks. "Now leave me to let my creative juices flow without any interruptions, dearest Jessamine."
"You always have to make things sound dirty, don't you?" Jessamine giggled, before strutting back to her work bench.
"I am the magnificent Magnus Bane, Jessamine," Magnus yelled, not realising that their teacher, Ms Ke, had opened the classroom door and entered with the visitors Jessamine had been discussing. The whole class was laughing at his antics. "Talking dirty is practically my middle name. Along with sexy fashion designer who will one day rule the world with his voluptuous ass."
Ms Ke cleared her throat, making the class quieten down and Magnus pale. All the students snickered at the expression on Magnus' face. "Thank you for your fine example of an Idris student's behaviour, Mr Bane."
"Oh shit," Magnus shouted, covering his face with both hands.
Ms Ke looked close to smothering Magnus in his sleep as the class cracked up again. "Magnus, that is quite enough."
"Sorry Ms Ke." He replied hurriedly, eyeing the three Lightwoods. Two of which looked rather amused, while the third was bright red and averting his eyes. Alexander.
"I apologise for my student's rather rude self-conduct. Magnus has a grand personality that can be overly wild at times," Ms Ke tried to hide her mixture of mirth and annoyance by smiling tensely. "He's quite the extrovert."
"You just got told," Jessamine hissed at Magnus jokingly.
"I sure did," Magnus replied, trying to hold his laughter in.
"Oh no, Magnus. No," Ms Ke started rushing to say, realising what was about to happen. "Don't you dare, Magnus Bane-"
But it was too late. Magnus burst into a laughing fit, and when Magnus does this, everyone copies. All the other students were crying with laughter and Ms Ke was trying to hide her face while she let out a few chuckles. Tears were streaming down Magnus' face while he cackled.
"Damn you, Magnus!" Jessamine screamed, whacking his arm. "You made me fuck up my makeup."
The shout made Magnus' laughter worse, and he could merely shake his head in reply. Ms Ke started recovering, "Magnus, do you need a moment outside to take control of yourself?"
"Yes Ms Ke, I do." Magnus whispered, shuffling towards the door shamefully with his body trembling from laughter.
"Honestly, such a man child. You're worse than my husband," Ms Ke rolled her eyes as he walked by.
Magnus shot her a wobbly smile, his teeth clenched together together in an attempt to stop himself from cackling again. His face was so red that even his concealer and foundation couldn't hide the evidence. Restrained little noises were emitted by him, sounding like he was gaging from the laughter he was holding in. He paused when he passed the Lightwoods, "nice to see you guys again."
Isabelle grinned, enjoying the show. "We've certainly missed you, Magnus."
Magnus smirked and waddled out of the room, hearing Ms Ke yell out, "Jessamine, do you need to join Magnus outside?"
Magnus waited a few moments to see Jessamine rushing out the door. They stared at each other for a few moments before hooting again. Their laughter filled the halls. "You freaking toddled out of the class. Like this," Jessamine copied the way he walked, making him laugh harder. "I couldn't handle it."
"At least I didn't look like a penguin," Magnus then imitated her gait and they kept crowing.
"Magnus, Jessamine! Move away from the classroom!" Ms Ke ordered, slamming the classroom door shut behind them.
The two guffawed loudly as they stumbled down the corridor, holding onto each other for support. Other students in the hallway recognised Magnus and laughed with him when he began to tell them the story.
"God, you're a crack up, Magnus." One of his friends studying jewellery said in response to the gripping tale.
As they retreated, Magnus could hear their tutor say, "I am so sorry about their immaturity. Sometimes, I swear Magnus is five."
Magnus and Jessamine returned to the classroom when they had finished laughing. Both had the walk of a humiliated student, although this seemed more of an act to please their teacher. Ms Ke was showing the Lightwood's another student's work when they entered and everyone turned around to face them.
Ms Ke raised an eyebrow, a deadly look on her pale face. Magnus couldn't understand why she suddenly looked so familiar to him. "You two in control of yourselves now?"
"Yes Ms Ke," Jessamine and Magnus replied in unison, linking their arms together and trying to nudge each other.
"And what do you have to say to our guests?" Ms Ke pushed, clearly enjoying the power.
"We are sorry for being disrespectful," Magnus started dramatically. "Idris University is for the best students who are focused on their education. I hope our…behaviour hasn't made you think less of this worthy institution."
Jessamine snorted and it made Magnus crack a grin. "Sorry," she added in a hurry when Ms Ke's expression darkened.
"Jessamine, shut up." Magnus whispered, shutting his eyes while his body shook.
"You sounded like a little English boy," Jessamine was holding in her laughter. "Such a worthy institution."
"Back to this very serious situation," Magnus raised his voice, opening his watering eyes. "Forgive us for our sins and let us um…what's the rest of that saying? Quote? Thing that they all say in the movies? Surely you know it!"
Jessamine broke down in laughter, leaning her head against Magnus' arms as he stared bravely at Ms Ke. Their teacher groaned and pointed to their workbenches, "just get to work. You two can show the Lightwoods your designs so they can see you actually have some talent."
"Yes Ms," Magnus said quickly, unlinking his arm and stepping forward before Jessamine had a chance to stand up straight. The blonde nearly toppled over before Magnus caught her. "Jessamine! I shall save you, fair princess."
"Magnus," Ms Ke warned, and he helped Jessamine back to her feet.
"Sorry Ms Ke, just saving a maiden in need." Magnus winked at Alexander, who went red when he remembered their first time meeting. "Some people needs saviours in their lives. And never fear, Magnus is here!"
"Magnus, can you please show the Lightwoods your stuff?" Ms Ke sighed, trying not to show her exhaustion.
"Of course! Right this way," he marched to his workbench. "This is my workbench. I called it the Land of Magnus. It used to be my Holy Grail but then Jessamine made it sound dirty and now I refer to my special junk as that…if you get what I mean. No one can come here unless they have expressed permission from moi-"
"Magnus," Ms Ke glowered at the man, "I meant show them your work, not your workbench."
"Oh sorry Ms Ke. When you said stuff, I thought you meant stuff," Magnus waved at his workbench and boxes full of equipment.
Magnus could see that Izzy was trying to keep a diplomatic smile while Jace was grinning excitedly. Alexander stood still, a small and sort of amused smile on his face while his eyes shone brightly. Magnus then pulled forward the manikin on wheels that was wearing one of his dresses for the fashion show. It was different from the one he spent the morning making with Camille.
"This is my dress. It's sort of inspired by the disparities between social classes. It represents a social hierarchical ranking." Magnus pointed to the top of the dress, where the bodice was tight with purple and cream silk that then had dollar bills pinned on top as the decoration. Some were crumbled and shaped into little flowers. Magnus had added glitter to the top of the dress, where the shoulders had a long train of material drag out from. The cape was purple red with tints of purple, white and black. "The fake money shows how upper class throws it away without utilising it for better things. The use of purple is to represent royalty, while red is passion and blood. I suppose you can guess that black is all the negative feelings. Further down the dress, the material changes to tulle that is a lighter shade of purple. This represents the middle class. And finally, the layer of material underneath is hessian. It's coarse and cheaper than the silk. I've purposefully done a crappy job hand dying it so that it's more dramatic. I used to represent the lower class."
"It looks great, Magnus." Izzy stated, lowering her voice so only Magnus could hear, "best I've seen yet."
"Magnus, despite his lacking maturity, is one of our finest students." Ms Ke announced proudly. "Many believe that he might be the top of the whole year once they graduate."
"We can see that," Jace muttered thoughtfully, eyeing the dress.
"I'd start writing your valedictory speech," Isabelle winked at him and Magnus couldn't help but have a minor freak out that the Isabelle Lightwood reckons he will be top of his class.
"It isn't finish yet, I want to add more detail." Magnus explained, quickly changing the topic back to his dress. "It needs more depth."
"I'm sure you'll figure something out," Magnus was shocked to hear Alec speak. It was the first thing he'd heard him say all day. "You're brilliant. Anyone can see that and from what I've heard, you are mastermind when it comes to fashion."
Magnus gaped at Alec, who went bright red when he realised he spoke aloud. "Thank you, Alexander," Magnus murmured.
Magnus was aware that Izzy and Jace were observing the two men closely. Magnus speedily insisted that he should get back to his work, aware that he probably seemed like a love struck fool. He pointed over to his blonde friend and insisted that Jessamine's dress is a fine piece of art that they must see. Isabelle, Jace and Ms Ke walked away and Magnus turned around, preparing himself to face this dress again. He didn't realise that Alec had lingered behind. Alec stepped closer to Magnus, who started muttering about the possibility of adding sleeves.
"To sleeve or not to sleeve? That is the question," Magnus said and Alec had to conceal his grin. Even when he doesn't know he's being watched, he's overly theatrical.
"It honestly does look great already," Alec whispered, making Magnus jolt and spin around in a flash. Magnus eyes widened and Alec leapt forward when he nearly toppled over into his dress. Hands wrapped around Magnus' waist, making the taller man pause.
"Hi Alexander," he gaped up into the blue eyes. "I suppose it was your turn to play savoir. Next time, maybe give me a little more warning so I don't nearly shit myself."
Alec flushed and realised he hadn't released Magnus. He helped stabilise him, holding on for a moment to long before he stumbled back and scratched his head sheepishly. Nerves crashed into him as he remembered just who he was talking to. It's Magnus, the guy who had been stuck in his head for the past week. "Sorry…I um…didn't mean to surprise you. Promise."
"Alexander, you'll give me a heart attack one day and I'll have to haunt you forever." Magnus joked, going back to the task of evaluating his dress. "My favourite sort of heart attack though."
"You have a favourite sort?" Alec asked wryly, making Magnus chuckle warmly at the other man's rather dry sense of humour.
"Dear Alec, always one to question my satirical nature." Magnus responded when he suddenly gasped. His hand flew up to his mouth, "I know just what this dress needs."
Alec gave Magnus a confused and utterly lost look when the fashion student got to his knees and yanked a box out from under his bench. "You okay, Magnus?"
"Sorry darling, just a stroke of genius happening right now." He giggled and peered up at perplexed Alec. "Get it? Stroke? Like a heart attack? God, I'm funny."
Magnus pulled out what he was looking for and cheered, rushing back to his dress, quickly pining the material. He stepped back and gazed at it proudly, "how does it look?"
"Er…like a dress?" Alec suppled, rolling on the balls of his feet.
Magnus shut him a deadpanned look, "really Alexander? That was the best you could do? Not even magnificent?"
"It's stunning?" Alec added, trying to see if someone could save him.
Magnus growled and rolled his eyes, flouncing towards his dress and continuing to pin the material on. He looked over his shoulder at Jessamine, who caught his eye when Isabelle and Jace happened to be asking Ms Ke a question. She sent him a subtle thumbs up and a nod. Magnus knew what she was saying. Go for it. With that in mind, Magnus decided to sum up all his courage.
"In fact, I do." He suddenly declared, making Alec even more bewildered.
"Do what?" Alec queried and Magnus had to try and hide his mortification. He had just made a fool of himself in front of Alec. Magnus never makes himself look like an idiot, what was happening to him?
He cleared his throat and clarified, "I have a sort of heart attack I like – when it's one caused by incredibly attractive men surprising me. The men have to have black hair and blue eyes, though, so that definitely narrows down the opportunities for me to get this particular sort of heart attack. But black hair and blue eyes is my favourite combination, you see."
"You have a type, huh?" Alec went red, picking up on where Magnus was going with the conversation.
Magnus leaned against the workbench, stretch so that his shirt rose up slightly and showed off his slender hips. Alec politely averted his eyes, after looking like he was about to his a seizure, of course. Magnus felt victory at affecting him. He could almost hear Camille giggling in his ear, "you evil man, Magnus Bane. Taunting the poor boy like that."
"I do now, Alexander." Magnus let the comment hang in the air, while Alec seemed to be considering his options.
"I found out my hair dresser and makeup artist knows you," Alec announced bluntly.
He seemed proud of himself for the topic change and his posture relaxed. Magnus' eyes widened, he certainly didn't expect that response to his flirting. That was new. Since when did his flirtatious attempts get shot down in order to discuss a mutual friend?
"Really? What's their name?" Magnus questioned, partially curious...mainly just trying to go with the flow and figure out where he could put some sexual innuendoes into their discussion.
"Helen Blackthorn." Alec supplied, shoving his hands into his pockets.
A happy smile broke across Magnus' face at the name. "Helen! I love that babe. She is so sweet and fusses like a mother hen. And she's such a cutie. Don't worry, she's not as cute as you though."
Alec gawked at Magnus, spluttering out in shock, "you think I'm cute?"
"I don't think it, I know it, darling." Magnus stared at Alec, who returned it with his own. Magnus took in a deep breath, figuring it was better to just try and see whether Alec was interested in anything. "Alexander, I was…er…wondering-"
"Alec, we should head off soon." Jace interrupted them, making Magnus inwardly curse the blonde.
"Yeah, we should." Alec agreed, stepping away from Magnus. "Maybe I'll see you around again?"
"Maybe, after all, third time is a charm." Magnus flirted, winking at the blue eyed man who hurriedly left the room with Izzy and Jace.
Jessamine sauntered to Magnus' side, standing close. She crossed her arms over her chest and cocked out one hip. "You are so infatuated, Magnus. You've got it bad."
"I so do," Magnus groaned, ignoring Jessamine's arrogant laugh.
"Also, Isabelle left this with me. She asked me to hand it to you." Jessamine handed Magnus a slip of paper that was crumbled. "I didn't peak. I swear."
"I believe you, my dearest angel. Now hop away before I turn you into a frog," Magnus winked at Jessamine, waiting for her to leave him by himself before he unscrambled the paper.
Magnus, come to room 101 at the Manhattan Hotel. 6'o'clock tonight. Wear something nice. See you there, Isabelle xx
Class was finally finished for the day, meaning Magnus had no more distractions when it came to pretending that Isabelle didn't leave the note. His first reaction to reading it was excitement, then followed by panic and finally, despair. He was going to be at one of the fanciest hotels in Manhattan, the last time he'd gone to a hotel was when he was little and he still lived with his parents. Once it was five o'clock, he knew that there was no way to put off the trip any longer. Magnus decided to walk to the hotel, which meant he made more time to think.
He held the phone up to his ear as he made his way through the busy streets of Manhattan, "I don't know, Cammie. Do you think I should go?"
"Honestly Magnus," Camille sighed, her voice sounding softer on the phone than usual. "Can't you see that Isabelle wants to be your friend? If she didn't she wouldn't have spoken to you in the first place. She probably was impressed with your work in class today and wants to get to know you better because of your super style."
"What if it's actually some terribly evil plan of theirs to completely destroy my reputation?" Magnus burst out, eyes wide.
"Do you really think the Lightwoods could be bothered to do that, Mags?" Camille asked dryly. "Be realistic for once, babe."
Magnus sighed dramatically, rubbing at his forehead where a headache was forming. "You're right, which is nothing new. I'm just being overly dramatic."
"Like usual," Camille added helpfully, making Magnus choke out a laugh.
"You're such a bitch, how did I put up with you for so long?" he remarked, causing her to giggle.
"You love me," she reminded him playfully.
Magnus let out a sassy "uh-huh" into the speaker, but he then followed it by whispering, "I certainly do."
"Good, because I love you too, my powerpuff girl." Camille retorted proudly.
Magnus came to the front of the most expensive and famous hotel in Manhattan, where many celebrities stayed. He gulped, trying to hide his nerves. He checked the time and saw that the walk took longer than he planned, but he was still a little early. "I should go, I'm at the hotel. Talk later?"
"Sure thing, babe. Have fun," Camille said, as he said good bye before ending the call and putting his phone in his pocket.
"Here I go," he muttered, before strutting bravely into the hotel foyer.
"So, are you going to tell me what happened between you and Magnus? Or will I have to force it out of you," Izzy said emotionlessly while she critiqued the colour of her painted nails. "This is such a retro colour, I can't decide if I like it or not."
"Stop trying to act all rough and tough, Iz." Alec called out from the bathroom, only in a towel. Water glistened against his fit body and Izzy couldn't help but notice her brother's abs.
"I see the hours in the gym have paid off," she murmured, smirking at his red cheeks when he heard her. "Alec, why are you not dressed yet?"
"Rehearsal ran late," he answered, walking to his wardrobe to pick out an outfit. "Where are we going, Iz?"
"A place where you need to look good," was her cryptic reply. "Why did rehearsals run late?"
"I was writing a new song," Alec replied, pulling out a black singlet.
"Not that singlet, Alec, try again." Izzy commanded bossily, "I thought you were struggling with composing? What was it? You were lacking inspiration."
"I had an idea come to mind, leave it alone, Iz. You don't that thing were you read into everything I say and come up with ludicrous conclusions." Alec complained, hearing Izzy stand up and come to his side.
"This shirt," she ordered, handing him a short sleeved, blue button-up shirt. "And is your new-found inspiration happen to be a man by the name of Magnus?"
"No Isabelle. It isn't." Izzy gave him a look. "No. Nope. No way. Izzy. Stop."
"Do you like him?" Izzy smirked, leaning against the wall next to Alec's wardrobe.
"Of course not, we're just friends, possibly not even that." Alec explained, searching for pants.
"Go for your nice black jeans with no rips," Izzy said, knowing what he was looking for. "You need to look less like a gothic princess on acid and more like a nice gentleman with class. Okay?
"A gothic princess on acid? Really Iz, that's what you think of my style? I didn't even choose the style, you shared a picture of me wearing eyeliner and the public went wild, so Mum decided I needed to roll with the image." Alec rolled his eyes.
Izzy ignored him and continued. "And, if you were just friends, why were you talking so much and offering him so many complements today? Even more so, why are you denying you like him? I've seen you check him out."
"I so do not," Alec yelled, throwing a black boot at her.
Izzy ducked the boot gracefully, "you so do. You check out his ass every time you get a chance."
"I've only seen him twice, Isabelle." Alec debated, pulling out the pair of jeans Izzy had instructed him to wear.
"Twice is enough times to know when you like an ass. And Magnus has a pretty good one." Izzy watched Alec carry his clothes over to the bed. "I like your taste in men, brother."
"Isabelle, just stop." Alec begged, crossing his arms.
"When will you admit you like Magnus?" Izzy pushed on, becoming louder.
"Be quiet," Alec hushed her, biting his lip. "No one can overhear us. The press will have a fieldtrip."
"So you do like him?" Izzy grinned, bouncing happily.
"No…I…Izzy, stop putting words in my mouth." Alec exclaimed awkwardly.
"Tell me the truth." Izzy demanded, closing the wardrobe.
"Izzy-"
"Alec-"
"Isabelle-"
"Alexander, just freaking tell-"
"I like him!" Alec shouted, face bright red and voice thick with emotions. Isabelle's eyes widened as the two siblings stared at each other. "I know I shouldn't and I've only met him twice but I…I can't get the thought of Magnus out of my head. He's there every moment of the day and in my dreams at night. And I shouldn't like that fact but…I do. I do like him and he's charming and handsome and fuck – he has a good ass."
Izzy soared at Alec, pulling him into a hug. "I'm so proud of you."
"For what?" Alec asked, his brow furrowing as he slowly accepted the hug and put his arms around her.
"For admitting the truth. Jace and I were trying so hard to get you to see what was right in front of you," Izzy explained excitedly. "I have to go to tell him now. We need to get you and Magnus together."
"Wait a moment," Alec yelled as Izzy skipped to the door, her phone in her hand.
"It's five to six." She muttered, before smirking. "I'll be back soon, dear brother. Just let me in when you hear me knock. Oh, and stay like that so Jace and I can decide whether you should wear that jean and shirt combo before you bother getting dressed…otherwise it's too much energy at this time of day."
Izzy left with the door slamming behind her. Alec could hear her heels echoing down the hallway before they were gone. He looked down at his damp skin and the white towel around his waist, "damn you Iz."
Alec went into the bathroom to comb his hair. He started humming under his voice, lyrics springing to his mind. "Magnus, I was enchanted to meet you."
Alec kept experimenting with the melody and lyrics until he had finished with his hair. There was a moment of silence while he put the comb away, which let him hear the sound of footsteps coming down the hallway. Alec checked the clock on the wall, surprised to see Izzy had only been gone for one minute.
"That was quick," he said to himself when he heard a knock on the door. "Come in."
Alec strode into the main room just in-time for Isabelle and Jace to enter, although instead of seeing his siblings, his gaze caught familiar green eyes mixed with gold. Alec gawked before wheezing out, "Magnus!".
Magnus' eyes widened as took in the sight of Alec purely in a towel, his heart began to pound in his chest. "Alexander? I…wow…well…this definitely a surprise. It's certainly a sight that I don't mind seeing again. I…I thought I was meant to be meeting Isabelle?"
"What on Earth are you going on about? Isabelle? Erm…Magnus…this is my room. How did you even find it?" Alec rambled out, self-conscious that he was only in a towel.
His hands went to conceal his chest from Magnus' hungry eyes. His face went bright red as he took a step away from the taller man, trying to cover more himself. He suddenly hoped that water didn't make the white towels see-through.
"Isabelle left me a note today," Magnus pulled out a rumpled piece of paper from his back pocket and slowly moved closer to Alec, holding it out. "She told me to come over at 6."
Alec yanked it from the other man, swearing as he read it. "That little witch! No wonder she was so cryptic about tonight."
"You thought she was cryptic to you? I wasn't the one left with the note, she didn't even give it directly to me. She gave it to Jessamine." Magnus informed Alec.
Alec tried to hide his jealousy at the mention of the unfamiliar name, "Jessamine?"
"The blonde chick from today. We got sent out of class for laughing," Magnus told Alec, who bit his lip.
"Her, yeah. She looked…nice…very pretty." Alec said awkwardly, scowling.
"She is rather beautiful, yes." Magnus confirmed, looking unsure about the situation.
"Are you and…Jessamine dating?" he asked slowly, hating her name on his tongue. He found himself shocked when Magnus laughed at the top of his lungs, seeming very amused.
"Alexander, are you jealous? To answer your question – God no, the lady would drive me insane. You met her on one of her rare good days, most days she's the biggest bitch in Idris. She earned that title after she took over after Camille graduated last year. Camille was studying interior design which is one year shorter time than fashion." Magnus blathered in a hurry. "Jessamine's also dating Nate, one of my friend's brother's. They've been together for three years. I hate Nate, he's a douchebag. She could do so much better, even if she can be a bitch."
"I thought he was one of your friend's brothers though?" Alec asked, confusion spilling into his voice.
"He may be Tessa's brother, and I adore her, but Nate on the other hand? I dislike him immensely. He needs a lesson in the art of courting, if you ask me." Magnus waved his hands in the air dramatically, for emphasis on the matter.
There was a knock on the door and both men whirled around. Magnus was the first to speak, "who is that?"
"Do I look like I know? For all I know, it could be the whole bloody city." Alec quickly grabbed the jeans and yanked them on under his towel, which he soon dropped.
"Going commando?" Magnus teased, licking his lips seductively. "I like."
Alec tried to ignore him, but the tell-tale embarrassed stumble as went to the door told Magnus he had a different reaction. Magnus watched as Alec opened the door, before seeing the way he tensed and seemed even more uncomfortable.
In front of Alec stood some of the hotel staff with trays upon trays of freshly made meals. The closest staff member rushed to say, "we've brought your dinner for two, Mr Lightwood."
Alec paled and he immediately realised what Izzy and Jace had done. He could tell that Magnus was straining to hear and see what was happening, so he sighed and stepped back. The worker clocked Magnus sitting on the bed, where had decided look the most comfortable place. Magnus smiled and waved, giving the worker a weird look when he received no response.
Magnus mouthed, "what is that about?" to Alec, who merely shrugged subtlety in response as the food was placed on the table.
"Thank you for that," Alec hurried to say when he was interrupted.
"We're not finished, Sir." One man said, making Alec pause.
"Not…finished?" Alec repeated shakily, eyes going wide before his tone became indignant. "What else is there to do? Oh god."
That was when Alec saw the candles being set up on the table and a bottle of champagne in ice being placed down. Red rose petals were being scattered around the room, and Magnus stood up when the worker insisted on putting them on the bed.
"Did you have some ulterior motive today, Alexander?" Magnus questioned, looking thoroughly confused. "Is there something you need to share?'
"This wasn't my plan," Alec insisted when the lights suddenly went low and romantic jazz music played. "God, no music. No."
"Sorry Sir, it's the orders." One man shrugged sheepishly.
"Orders? Whose orders? Clearly not mine," Alec cried out as the employers began to disperse from the room.
"Have a nice date, Sirs." One said as they left, leaving Magnus and Alec gaping.
Magnus waited for the door to shut before he spoke slowly, "you know, usually when I go on dates, I know I'm going. And I'm asked. And the guy who I'm on the date knows about it too. Maybe I thought I knew date etiquette and was wrong all long."
"I am so sorry, Magnus. Clearly Izzy and Jace thought this was a great idea," Alec huffed, stretching his arms and holding them behind his head.
"It has the potential to be, plus I happen to love surprises." Magnus hesitated, which wasn't something Alec was used to seeing him do. "You have a tattoo. I never knew. See? Surprise number one…well, more like number twenty tonight."
"Most people don't know I have a tattoo," Alec explained self-consciously, lowering his arms to cover the black ink on his ribs. "I make sure of that."
"Looks good," Magnus whispered, automatically reaching out towards it. "Can I ask what it is?"
Alec's nervous habit of shoving his hands in his pocket occurred again, but he still lurched towards the tanned man. Magnus managed to catch him before he inelegantly collapsed on the bed, making Alec get even shyer. "It's one I got when I was sixteen. Jace…um…has one that matches it."
Magnus read the words aloud, "entreat me not to leave thee, or return from following after thee - for whither thou goest, I will go, and where thou lodgest, I will lodge. Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God. Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried. The Angel do so to me, and more also, if aught but death part thee and me."
"It's an oath. We're saying we'll always be like brothers." Alec clarified, his face like the colour of tomato. "We read it in one of his father's book when we were sorting out his parent's stuff."
"I love it," Magnus assured, standing his feet. "Now, that dinner that we were blessed with is going to go cold soon, and while this may not be a traditional date, I'm happy to go ahead with it."
"Date?" Alec questioned, looking like he was experiencing a mixture of many different emotions.
"If you want to make this a date, if not I understand completely, Alexander. You don't go that way and I'm probably just a little wannabe fashion designer who doesn't even get any notice from such an A list celebrity as yourself." Magnus rushed to say, sitting back down the bed and crossing his legs. He grabbed a white cushion and clutched it against his protectively chest.
Alec's gaze was lowered as he internally fought with himself. He had only met Magnus twice, wasn't this a little too fast? Yet, he couldn't deny the attraction he felt. The way everything about Magnus drew him in and it was the best feeling he'd ever experienced. In that moment, he knew he had made his decision
"Here goes nothing," Alec whispered to himself, walking to where Magnus sat on the bed. Alec joined him, the soft mattress contouring under his body.
"Is this where you tell me to get out of your hotel room, stay away from you forever and to stop perving on your glorious abs? Because there's one of those I can definitely not do and I just have to say, your abs will always be perved on by me." Magnus said quietly.
Alec stared at him before bursting into laughter, hearing Magnus also let out a chuckle. "Magnus, I…I come with a lot of baggage."
"I'd hope so," Magnus muttered with a pointed look at Alec's crotch.
Alec went red while he tried to stabilise his breathing. "What I want to say is…I'm probably not boyfriend material. I'm definitely not ready to be outed yet. My parents don't even my about my sexual preferences and I need to keep it that way for a bit longer. That's only one bad thing about me. I go on tours and that means I can't be there for anyone all the time. It won't be like a normal relationship, it'd probably feel like a fling-"
"Just tell me this and none of that will matter for now," Magnus interrupted, placing a finger under Alec's chin and lifting his face to look him in the eye. "Do you like me more than just a friend?"
Alec's mouth felt dry as he struggled to convey his feelings. "I…I feel things for you that have never been felt by me before. No one has caused such a reaction and I met you last week yet…you've been in my mind constantly…and I can't stop writing songs about you and-"
"You've written a song about me?" Magnus asked, a happy smile rising to his face.
Alec nodded self-consciously, "more than one."
"Can I hear them?" Magnus inquired, looking pleased.
"How about after we eat? Our dinner is probably getting cold and that champagne seems like a good idea right now," Alec said with a burst of strength.
Magnus jumped to his feet and whirled around, holding out his slender hand to Alec, with an added flourish. "Let me escort you to the table, Alexander."
Alec took Magnus' hand, a stubborn expression on his blushing face. "How many times do I have to remind you? It's Alec. Just Alec."
"You'll always be Alexander to me," Magnus said lowly as Alec stood. The two men stood closely before Magnus suddenly stepped back. "Dinner time Alec, or I might have something else to eat."
Alec didn't know how to respond to the sexual innuendo, so he merely stayed silent and took his seat at the table. Magnus suddenly scrunched his face up, making Alec stop, trepidation chilling his body. "Did I do something wrong?"
"Not you, darling. Your staff, on the other hand, should be trialled for crimes that are truly unforgiveable." Magnus got to his feet and pulled out his phone. He went to where the music was playing and seemed to be searching the stereo. "Uh huh!"
"What is it?" Alec turned in his chair, trying to see what Magnus was doing when the music changed from jazz to something else.
"Sorry Alexander, but my ears could not handle that rubbish any longer." Magnus smiled innocently, sitting down as the jazz was replaced by more modern day pop songs.
"Why am I not surprised?" Alec chortled, helping himself to some roasted vegetables while a familiar tune began.
"Madonna! Such heavenly music for my ears. Surely you have a genre of music you can't stand, Alexander." Magnus commented, eyeing Alec as he served himself some sliced roasted chicken.
"I'm a singer, I don't have any genres I can't stand or else my job would suck," Alec lied, his eyes straying around the room, away from Magnus'.
Magnus snorted, "you may be a singer, but you, my dear, are a terrible liar."
"I can't stand country music," Alec admitted after a few moments and a large grin broke out across Magnus' face.
"I can understand that, gets on my nerves too." Magnus agreed, beaming happily at the blue eyed boy over the table. "This smells delicious."
"Unfortunately, I cannot take the praise for it, but I'll pass it onto the hotel." Alec joked, reaching for the champagne. "Champagne?"
"Yes please," Magnus handed Alec his glass and it was quickly filled up before Alec did the same to his own. "How about we play twenty questions?"
Alec sipped his drink, savouring the test as he mentally deliberated on Magnus' suggestion. Seeing no problem with it, Alec shrugged. "Sure. You want to start?"
"Favourite colour?" Magnus fired off immediately, resting an elbow on the table.
"Not sure. I guess I don't really have one," Alec shrugged, piling roasted beef onto his plate.
Magnus gasped intensely, looking affronted. "You have to have one, Alexander. Everyone needs a favourite colour in their life."
"Fine…black?" Alec guessed, before seeing Magnus' horrified look. "I mean green."
"I can live with green," Magnus smirked contentedly. "Mine's blue. Your turn to ask."
Alec took a bite of sweet potato, chewing thoughtfully, "how old are you?"
"Twenty-five," Magnus stated, appearing a little more self-conscious. "I'm turning into an old fart. Soon I'll have grey hair."
"Grey hair could suit you. You'd look hot," Alec said before thinking. He became flustered when Magnus sent him a satisfied look. "I'm…I…er…I'm twenty-two."
"I already knew that, handsome. Your age is kind of everywhere in the Bilboard's top 50 sexiest men in the world who are under 30. You're placed at number 15 right now, but I'm sure that'll change soon. Plus, you're a younger man, I like it. It's attractive and makes me feel good." Magnus flashed Alec a grin, seeing how Alec didn't mind the comment. "Any pets?"
"A cat named Church," Alec confessed, taking a sip of his champagne. "He hates everyone except my little brother."
"Jace?" Magnus guessed, only to be surprised when Alec shook his head.
"No, the youngest Lightwood. My brother Max, he's not really into the whole fame scene yet, I don't think he'll ever be. Unless it's for something like being a scientist." Alec simplified and Magnus nodded.
"I vaguely remember hearing about him, but most of that was when he was just born." Magnus explained before a loud, upbeat song started blaring on the speakers. "Oh my god, this is one of my favourites."
"I'd expect all of them to be, it's your device you've plugged in," Alec retorted with a friendly twinkle in his eye.
"Alexander," Magnus started with a merry tone as he got to his feet and twirled for a moment.
Alec stared up at the other man in awe, noting the way his skin shimmered from added sparkle and the spikes in his dark, gelled hair. The angle that he was sitting at permitted Alec to see the piercing climbing up the shells of Magnus' ears as well as in his lobes. Everything about Magnus was gorgeous – Alec couldn't deny it. He quickly averted his eyes and cleared his throat when Magnus sent him a cheeky wink.
"Yes Magnus?" Alec guzzled down some more champagne after having the feeling he'd need it.
"Dance with me?" Magnus requested, holding his hands out towards Alec. "And don't tell me you can't dance. We both know you can, darling."
"I can dance, when it's rehearsed and I'm in control and-"
"Alexander," Magnus crouched down and covered Alec's mouth with a finger, silencing the man. "Lose control for one night and have fun with me. It's just us, you don't have to try and act perfect. Act like yourself and I'm happy as can be."
"Just this once?" Alec confirmed, biting his lower lip nervously.
"Just this once," Magnus vowed, smiling up at his date.
"Fine, you're a dangerous man, Magnus Bane." Alec relented, standing up and looking unsure.
Magnus, realising Alec's awkwardness, quickly grabbed Alec's hands and put them on his slim waist, his own wrapping around Alec's shoulders. Magnus' shirt ruffled up a little, exposing flat expanses of his toned stomach. Alec licked his lips as his breath hitched at the sight and Magnus rewarded him with a blissful hum. Magnus pulled Alec even closer, their breaths mingling as they swayed.
Poor old Johnny Ray
Sounded sad upon the radio
But he moved a million hearts in mono
Our mothers cried
Sang along
Who'd blame them
You've grown, so grown
Now I must say more than ever
(Come On Eileen)
Too-ra-loo-ra, too-ra-loo-rye, aye
And we can sing just like our fathers.
As the song continued, Alec found himself getting more into the dance. He began adding more complicated steps, making the two men weave their way around the room. They managed to not bump into a table, which would've crashed to the ground, along with a $3000 vase.
Magnus was unreservedly laughing as Alec faked a concentrated face, narrowing his eyes seriously as he tugged Magnus closer and whispered, "stay focused, Bane."
"Of course, Mr Lightwood," Magnus replied sensually, making Alec loose his character and go bright red. "You are adorable, Alexander.'
"Oh hush it, you." Alec responded boldly and Magnus let out a snigger.
Come on Eileen
Oh, I swear what he means (what he means)
At this moment you mean everything
You in that dress
My thoughts I confess
Verge on dirty
Oh, come on Eileen
Feeling braver as each moment went by, Alec surprised Magnus by twirling him. Magnus twisted and cackled as his world started becoming dizzier and dizzier.
"Stop. Alec, stop. I'm going to throw up," Magnus wheezed, his eyes watering from the strength of his mirth.
"As you wish," Alec joked, pulling Magnus back to stand still while Magnus recovered.
These people round here
Wear beaten-down eyes sunk in smoke-dried faces
They're so resigned to what their fate is
But not us (no, never)
No, not us (no, never)
We are far too young and clever (remember)
Too-ra-loo-ra, too-ra-loo-rye, aye
And you'll hum this tune forever
"Did you…just Princess Bride me?" Magnus gaped in awe. "Oh my god, you referenced a movie!"
"What? I'm not completely oblivious to the entertainment world around me," Alec chuckled deeply, a sound that Magnus found himself enjoying rather a lot.
"Alexander, you just became fifty percent more attractive right now." Magnus breathed out lightly, his tone airy.
"I'm guessing that's a good thing?" Alec kidded, trying to ignore the insecure feelings returning.
"It's a great thing," Magnus informed him, shrieking when Alec twirled him unexpectedly. "Alec!"
Come on Eileen
Oh, I swear what he means
Aah, come on let's
Take off everything
That pretty red dress
Eileen (tell him yes)
Aah, come on let's
Aah, come on Eileen
"Yes Magnus?" Alec mocked, snickering at the bewildered expression on his date's face.
"When did you become so much more…confident?" Magnus asked, the two slowing down a little to try and catch their breath.
"Good question. I'd say right now, it's a mix of alcohol and not giving a fuck." Alec confessed, partly proud with a bit of sheepishness. "I am so over the rules of society that dictate every little thing I do. It feels nice just to loosen up for one night. Even if it's mainly the alcohol speaking right now."
That pretty red dress
Eileen (tell him yes)
Aah, come on let's
Aah, come on Eileen
"I probably rely on alcohol too much when it comes to my feelings," Magnus disclosed cautiously, trying to read the passionate look in Alec's eye. "I definitely have made a few mistakes when alcohol has been involved."
"Can I tell you something? You can't tell anyone else," Alec mumbled, his eyes hovering over Magnus' lips before they travelled back up to his greenish-yellow orbs.
"You can tell me anything," Magnus whispered, the music suddenly seeming to be mask into the background.
Alec stepped closed to Magnus, their noses touching. "I've longed to meet someone who affected me like this and I know it's kind of shitty that the main reason I have the guts to act like this is because I downed a ton of alcohol in a short span of time and it's hitting me so hard right now…but better now than never."
"I shouldn't like this," Magnus muttered quietly, his lip gloss glistening in the candlelight. "I met you a week ago and while I was attracted to Alexander Lightwood, the amazing singer, performer and dancer…whatever you want to call that side of you…I didn't expect to find myself falling for you. Not your public persona but your true self."
"Trust me, when I came to Manhattan, I didn't have this in mind," Alec motioned to the romantic hotel room surrounding them. "You can thank Izzy and Jace for this. And right now is so…weird for me. I'm not usually like this. I'm not so open about who I am or who I want to be or who I like. I've never been this open. Clearly, you bring out something new in me, Magnus. I can't decide whether it's good or bad."
"Maybe it's not me but the alcohol bringing out something new in you," Magnus joked weakly.
"No, it's you. You have this effect on me that alcohol would never come close to," Alec whispered, moving closer so that their lips for nearly touching.
"You said you couldn't decide whether the change is good or bad. What would you say to finding out?" Magnus' body was becoming more sensitive every time Alec became closer. He able to see the small blemishes in Alec's skin and the different shades of blue in his eyes.
"I-" Alec was interrupted by the sound of his phone ringing, making the two men jolt and immediately let go of each other. It was as if someone had unexpectedly poured freezing water over the two men. "I need to answer this."
"Yeah…sure," Magnus nodded, rushing to the stereo and turning it off. He unplugged his iPod, effectively completely ending the mood. "I probably should head off anyway. I have university tomorrow."
"Magnus," Alec called out, watching as the older man looked close to sprinting out of the room.
"Alexander, this shouldn't have happened. Tonight. I came here expecting Isabelle, not a date and…maybe we're not right. Maybe this isn't meant to be and I'll wake tomorrow, only to find out it was just a dream. I don't know. I have to go," Magnus blurted out, leaving Alec gaping as he ran out of the room, the door slamming behind.
The end. Of this chapter. It was sort of long, but my chapter sizes will vary, depending on how much time I have. Thank you so much to everyone who reviewed! I was just wondering – do you guys want me to keep Magnus' Mum and Dad alive or dead? I want to hear your opinions, although I was thinking of having just one of them alive. Anyways, back to your amazing comments.
floosted – Thanks for liking the first chapter. Sorry if the pairings were confusing! So far, Will and Jem are together and Meliorn is with Seelie. Ragnor likes Camille, Jace and Clary are attracted to each other, then there's Izzy and Simon, who might have a bit of romance in their future ;) And finally, Alec and Magnus. Thanks for reviewing!
Pri-Chan 1410 – I'm glad you liked the way they met. Did you like how they saw each other at Idris and the way Jace and Izzy set them? I really hope you did.
MalecHEART01 – Thank you so much for reviewing again AND loving my story. Your reviews mean so much to me!
Guest (1) – Well here is the next chapter! I hope you enjoyed it.
EAZYADICT – Did you like the chapter? I really hope it was what you wanted Thanks for reviewing.
Sara the best – Sorry for the wait! I like to have around 10 reviews per chapter before I update. It gives me an idea of what people like/dislike/want. Thank you so much for really really enjoing my fic. Aww you're such a sweetheart, staph it you or I'll blush :')
blacknblu30 – Thank you! I'm so happy you liked it.
Tay – Awww you're so cuteeee :') Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your love