Life with Magnus
By Shin Sankai
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Author's Notes: I'm back and whilst I thought I was going to wrap this saga up by this chapter, it turns out, travelling gave me some more ideas to throw into this story. So, hopefully people still remember it and wish to read more as I've decided to continue it for a couple more chapters...at least another two or three...I think...
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Chapter Fourteen
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It had been a several days since Magnus withdrew from Alec's advances. And boy was it awkward in his home now. Magnus thought it best he return to working long nights at the bar, trying to minimise the time he spent with Alec and the children in his home. He'd watched Madzie, Max and Raphael frown each night he was dressed in his bartender uniform, he lying to the youngsters (as much as he hated doing that) about Elias being unwell and he needed to look after Ragnor's Bar for the time being. He of course made sure to say this out of ear range from Alec as he would probably call him on his bullshit with the way the man was feeling and acting these days.
Not that he could fault the man really, with everything that had been going on between them. Magnus was a smart man, and so was Alexander. They both could tell sparks flew about them...and on various occasions Magnus did flirt with the man, trying to gauge his reactions, and what adorable reactions they were. Now though, it was like a light had been turned off in Alec's beautiful blue eyes, and Magnus hated the fact he had been the one to do that.
Aside from greeting each other in the mornings and evenings, just to keep things civilised around the children, the friendship (and god forbid Magnus if we called it a possible relationship) between the two men which had been building was pretty much flattened now. So of course he thought it was best to distance himself from the father of two. He wouldn't want to give the man more false hope then he already had lead him on... That in itself made Magnus frown. He had never wanted the man to feel like that.
He so desperately wanted to talk to Ragnor and Catarina about what was going on between the two of them now, but for some reason he was convinced they would side with Alexander, so had decided against it. He didn't want a lecture, even though their advice would be sound and just. After all, both would tell him that it was time for him to move on, move past the heartache he had felt. They would tell him to find his happiness, for he was someone who truly deserved to be loved. It had taken Magnus a long time to believe that he was worth loving, or even capable of loving for that matter. However, like anyone out there, after your heart had been smashed to smithereens, one was still cautious to love again. Maybe... Maybe he should try and explain himself to Alec, hoping the man could possibly understand him more, and in turn, forgive him too.
Since Magnus had met Alexander, all those weeks ago, feelings were flooding his very being thick and fast. Feelings he'd not felt for anyone in a very long time. It was extremely thrilling (and scary) indeed. He'd never been intrigued by another so quickly, nor had another stolen his attention so quickly too. However, what complicated things between the two of them, were not only his own insecurities, but those of Alexander as well. The father of two was a very private man with a mountain of complications it seemed, which he didn't seem to want to share. Magnus had been fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of some, namely the drama he'd caused with his immediate family which had now upset them, a woman named Lydia his parents wanted him to marry, but he did not. And then there was the fact he had two very adorable sons to the woman his family wanted him to marry as well. And lets not go into the fact Magnus was certain he had mixed feelings towards his own sexuality, after having come out to his family and clearly upsetting them in the process.
And then there was Magnus himself, someone Alec probably would have never associated with, someone who was insanely comfortable in his own skin and his ability to be with either sex (though he'd not been with a male partner in quite awhile – probably not since his college days really – well, if we were talking about a serious relationship that is).
Alexander had been intrigued by him the very moment they met at Ragnor's Bar, this Magnus knew immediately. He wasn't an idiot (well in most cases) to notice the intrigue in the man's gaze. Now though, every time he looked in Alec's general direction, those beautiful blue eyes darted away in an instant, not wanting to show him what he was truly feeling now. Alec was now a flurry of mixed emotions, having opened himself up (even just a tiny bit) and probably hadn't done that for just anyone either. Then there was the fact that Alec had boldly, whilst also being under the influence of alcohol (which, lets face it, it always gives everyone a bit more courage) stepped over the thin line of friendship and gave him a thorough kiss. Magnus had, of course, returned it, but then within seconds had pretty much run away from Alec's advances.
Again, a couple of times he had wanted to apologise, but Alexander wouldn't even give him the time of day. My, how quickly their roles had been reversed with just who was avoiding who now.
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A thunk drew Magnus from his thoughts as Alec was sitting on the opposite side of the dining table, practically glaring into his cup of coffee. He noticed the dark circles under his eyes, knowing exactly who was to blame for them, but he couldn't help but think perhaps things were looking up? For this was the first time in five days the man had sat so close to him, or even in his vicinity if Magnus truly thought about it. Maybe Alec was slowly forgiving him?
"Wh-What time do you think you'll be back tonight?" Magnus hated the way he hesitated. He was trying to act normal after all.
"What do you care? Its not your business either way." Ouch... Things were not getting better.
"No!" All eyes focused on Max who was currently glaring at his beloved father. "No Daddy! No!" Max puffed his cheeks out, his big brown eyes blinking widely over at his sour faced father. "Don't fight with Magnus." The youngster almost seemed like he was about to burst into tears!
"Its alright Maxy..." Magnus brushed a soothing hand through Max's hair, plastering a smile on his face and hoped it would ease the youngster. "Its my fault your daddy is like this." Big brown eyes looked up at him. "I upset your daddy, so its taken him a little while to forgive me."
"Why? Daddy likes you, right daddy?" Magnus shifted his gaze to Alec, those blue eyes darting away from him yet again and he felt his heart give a tug at that frown on his face. Even when he was being a sour faced immature brat (as harsh as that sounded) he was still so very cute.
"Alexander..."
"I need to go." Magnus let out a defeated sigh as Alec escaped to the front door, placing on his jacket and scarf. Magnus and the kids watched Alec leave, he not even wishing the three children a good day, nor did he give his sons any hugs!
"I don't like daddy anymore." Magnus got up and gave a pouting Raphael a comforting hug.
"Yes you do." Magnus proceeded to tickle the youngster, needing to hear bubbly laughter and hoped it would lift his own spirits. "Go clean your teeth. Sweet Pea, can you help Raph?" Madzie gave a nod of the head and took Raphael's hand as she directed him towards the bathroom like a doting big sister. Magnus rubbed at his temples, wanting the throbbing headache to cease. He'd pretty much had the same one since he backed away from Alec's advances. He turned his warm gaze to Max, lips parting as he and the youngster needed to talk.
"Why upset daddy?" Magnus wasn't really prepared to get the third degree from a four year old, as he snapped his mouth shut. "You like him too, don't you Magnus?" One of Max's tiny hands rested over one of his fisted ones.
"More then I should..." Magnus mumbled softly and observed as Max tilted his head. Quickly he scooped the youngster into his arms, giving him an affectionate squeeze which in turn set off delightful giggles from the youngster as Magnus carried him to the bathroom, making sure all three had brushed their teeth and then quickly did his own. Everyone placed on their coats and scarves and Magnus stood in front of all three children. "Maxy, I'll speak with your daddy."
"Promise?" Magnus ruffled Max's hair.
"I promise. Now, lets get going." He lifted Raphael into his arms, resting him against his hip and then shuffled Madzie and Max out the door before securing it behind them. "We've a very busy day today." Magnus pressed the elevator button and waited for it to reach his floor. "Its not long now and it'll be Christmas. That is really exciting isn't it?" Nods of the head was their reply. "And today is the day we are making your Christmas cards for the people you love." He received big smiles now. "So, who will you make cards for today?"
"Daddy!" Both boys voiced simultaneously. Of course...
"And Aunt Izzy...and granny and poppy even though daddy looks sad and cranky when he sees them." Max commented. He was such a bright boy even if he truly didn't get everything he was observing around him.
"And Magnus." Raphael piped up.
"Hmm?"
"I'm making a card for Magnus too! I love Magnus." You sweet boy. Magnus pressed his lips to Raphael's forehead.
"Thanks Raph."
"Me too!" Not to be outdone, Max and Madzie also piped up which Magnus grinned at them for, bending to ruffle their hair in affection. It'd been awhile, but finally, a true genuine smile touched his lips. He gave himself a mental note to take them out for ice cream. Maybe that would be a nice treat for everyone, Jace and Clary included.
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Alec took a deep breath as he walked up the stone path towards a very familiar house and then stood on the front porch, hand poised to knock. What the hell are you waiting for, idiot? She knows you are coming... And as though the very person could hear his own thoughts, the door opened and Alec was gazing down into a pair of blue eyes he never thought he would ever see again.
"Hey Stranger," Alec considered himself a strong, reliable and dependable man, never one to show any form of weakness, but regardless of how much he tried to hide from many, this was someone who knew him very well. And then there was the fact she would never judge him either.
"Lydia..."
"Are you going to give me a hug or not? After all, my legs aren't that strong to reach you just yet." She gave him her usual grin and he was done for, dropping to his knees as he hugged the fragile young woman who was currently sitting in a wheelchair. Lydia's dependable arms secured around his shoulders, give him an almighty squeeze...well what she could with her current strength that is. "Its so good to see you."
"I'm so sorry..." Alec confessed in a deep raspy voice.
"The crash wasn't your fault, you silly man." Misty blue eyes lifted to gaze up at her and Lydia couldn't help but smile as she cupped his handsome face in her slender hands. "Nor was it your fault for not coming to see me when I woke up."
"Lydia..."
"Your mother came to apologise to me, for lying to me about your whereabouts. As soon as I knew, I had to get in touch and see you."
"Me too..." Alec stood back up to his full height, stepping into the home he had run away from since Lydia's accident.
"I've already got brewed coffee and cake ready to go." Alec followed Lydia into the lounge room, watching as she clutched at a cane, standing to her wobbly legs for a few moments and then promptly sat on the lounge, curling her legs out to the side and then pat the spot next to her, wanting Alec to sit right beside her. "So, how've you been?" The sparkle in her eyes was something he had dearly missed as he accepted a cup of coffee, slumping down on the lounge, head tilted back as he gazed up at the ceiling.
"Where do I start?"
"You mean other then you finally coming out to your parents and shacking up with a man?" Alec snapped his head up and silently gazed at Lydia, wanting her to explain how the hell she knew that!
"Your mother has been around multiple times, as has my own. On several occasions they've conversed in hushed whispers as though I couldn't understand what they were saying." Lydia rolled her eyes at that.
"Well then you basically know everything."
"Oh come on Alec..." Lydia whined. "I'm booooored. I need the juicy details."
"You sound like Izzy." She grinned at that.
"Come on, please?" Lydia elbowed him in the gut, eyes pleading him to give her more details.
"Alright..." Alec kicked off his shoes and then raised them to rest on the corner of the coffee table, like he were about to go in for a session of therapy.
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Alec wasn't sure how long he'd been talking, but his coffee had gone cold and the piece of cake Lydia had cut him awhile ago remained uneaten and seemed a little bit stale now. And then there was his throat. It was bloody sore and dry!
"And there you have it." He finally turned his gaze to Lydia's slightly narrowed look. "What?"
"So what the heck are you doing here?"
"What do you mean?" Alec finally sat up, trying to work the kinks out of his shoulders since he'd been slouching on the couch for far too long.
"He seems like a really good guy Alec."
"Well, yes..."
"So you've hit a tiny snag..."
"He rejected me!" Alec snapped. "That is hardly tiny!" The father of two huffed like a child.
"The Alec I know wouldn't give up so easily."
"What do you mean?"
"You have way more fighting spirit then anyone I know and with this...alright...not so tiny snag, you've just run away."
"He ran first." Alec mumbled pathetically.
"Yes, but maybe he had a reason."
"You're defending him and you don't even know him."
"Alright, let me place it another way." She had Alec's full attention. "What have I always told you about when you meet the one for you Alec?"
"Lydia..."
"Come on now, what have I always said?"
"Never let them go..."
"And what have you done?"
"I didn't let him go! He ran!"
"So run after him, you big dummy. If you truly love him, don't let him get away."
"Lydia..."
"Do you love him Alec?" She watched his face flush.
"L-Love is a pretty strong word."
"Alec..." Lydia pressed rather sternly.
"I...I mean...its not like I've felt this way before so..." He watched Lydia smile. "I don't know what I feel!" He huffed rather childishly once more, arms folded over his shirt and his eyebrows creased in frustration. "All of this is very new to me."
"Oh Alec..." There was almost laughter in her voice as Lydia pat him on the forearm, almost motherly in a way. "You're so clueless in love."
"Why do you say that?" Alec muttered softly.
"I've known you for years. And I certainly would know when someone makes an impact on you."
"I...guess..." God he hated talk like this.
"And truthfully, the clincher for me that you truly do feel something for this man is the expression you have when you talk about him. I've never seen you look like that." She watched him flush at her honesty. "Oh, I've an idea, why not think what Izzy would do in this sort of situation?"
"No way..."
"Why not?" Lydia blinked in astonishment that her brilliant idea was being crushed in seconds flat.
"She'd just jump on the guy she liked, trapping him beneath her until he succumbed to her ways."
"Well, there is always that." Narrowed blue eyes gazed over at her.
"That'd freak Magnus out!" Alec picked at a stray thread at the bottom of his button down shirt. "And you know I'm not like that either."
"I don't know, maybe you just need some more liquid courage..." Again Alec blushed as Lydia raised her eyebrows multiple times at him rather suggestively. He had let slip that he planted a rather passionate kiss on an unsuspecting Magnus which of course had been reciprocated.
"Liquid courage huh..." Alec mumbled to himself. He immediately wiped the thought from his mind. "A-Anyway, its already awkward as it is between us. I don't want to expand on that."
"Maybe you need to speak to someone else?" Alec opened his mouth, but paused when Lydia pressed a finger to his lips. "And no I'm not talking about Izzy. We both know she totally would just jump on the guy she likes." That did make Alec crack a tiny smile. "What about people that are close to Magnus? What about that Ragnor fellow or Catarina? You've spoken about how close they are with Magnus, maybe see if you can gauge their opinion on the matter?"
"Well..." Could he truly go to Ragnor or Catarina about any of this? He didn't know them as well as Lydia presumed.
"Also, and please know there is no pressure about this either, but if things are as awkward as you say they are, and mainly because you've become a coward..." Alec glared at that. "Would you and the boys like to come back to the house?" She watched his eyes widen. "Just until your apartment is repaired of course."
"Well..."
"Don't worry, you don't have to let them know who I really am. I'm totally fine with being Aunt Lydia to them. After all, I'm not expecting to play happy family or anything like that. I mean, I'd be lying if I didn't say I'd love to see them, see how they've both grown and how wonderful you've raised them and such, but I also don't want to cause any added stress on you either."
"Can I...think about it?"
"Of course you can."Alec gave a slight nod of the head, finally taking a bite of the cake. Yeah, it had gone a little stale. "Now, with that bit over, tell me more about this Magnus Bane fellow. He sounds rather dashing."
"Lydia..."
"I know when you are hiding even more juicy details about him, now out with it Lightwood." He grinned at her stern demand. "And when I'm a lot better, and things do end up working out between the both of you, I'd love to meet the man who stole my dear Alec's heart."
"Lydia..." Alec whined as he slumped back onto the couch once more, delighted with her laughter, even if it were at his own expense. He truly was envious about her positive attitude.
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Alec had finally farewelled Lydia just after they ate lunch together, he having knocked up some chicken and salad rolls for them from the groceries in her fridge. He had promised to keep in touch, give her updates on what was happening between he and Magnus (yeah right) and also to visit often too.
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It was now early afternoon and Alec couldn't believe where he was right at this moment as his blue orbs gazed at a familiar neon sign. On heavy feet the author made his way down the stairs and knocked on the door. It wasn't quite opening time, but his continuous knocking finally got a response as one of the young waiters (Alec believed his name was Jem) unlocked it and opened it up to stare up at his tall form.
"Can I help you?"
"I'm sorry to disturb you, but I must speak with Ragnor."
"And you are?"
"A regular patron...though I've not been in awhile." The look on the man's face said that he was not buying what Alexander was saying. "Look, my name is Alexander Lightwood. Please let Ragnor know I must speak to him about Magnus. I need to speak to him about a private matter." Alec's patience was already thin as it was as this handsome young man still refused him entry.
"What is this about Magnus?" Relief flooded Alec's face even though his heart was technically hammering away due to his nerves. He hadn't been too sure whether he could truly open up to this older man who was always going to be on Magnus' side no matter what.
"I'm sorry to disturb you, but may I have a moment of your time?" There was Ragnor's shrug of the shoulders and Alec was finally allowed inside and headed out the back and to Ragnor's office, closing the door silently behind him.
"So, Mr Lightwood, what can I do for you?"
"Its Alec, and I just wanted to talk to you about Magnus if I could?"
"What about him?"
"Surely you know..." Ragnor raised an eyebrow as he sat back in his chair, patiently waiting for Alec to continue with whatever it was he wanted to say. "I mean...maybe Magnus isn't showing it here, but things are...strained between us." Were those even the right words to use?
"My sweet boy doesn't like giving away much, but it is true that I know when things aren't right with him, though I don't like to push the matter. When he is ready, he will talk to me."
"A-And how do I get him to talk to me? Although, I must admit, I've been making it hard on him to try and talk, but I believe I'm ready now. I want Magnus to take me seriously, so how do I do that?"
"Easily, talk to him." Ragnor tried not to grin at the put out facial expression on the dark haired man in his office. "Why come to me?" Ragnor decided to truly answer the question with a question of his own.
"You are very dear to Magnus. I'm hoping you may show pity on me and help me out?"
"Not likely," Ragnor was quick to respond, not pulling his punches.
"I'm not asking you to betray his trust or anything, just, maybe, I don't know, ask him to give me a chance?"
"So, what is it exactly that you want to say to him?"
"I want him." Alec had never felt his face flush so hot and so quickly then it was right at this moment. He held his breath, waiting for Ragnor to pass judgement on him but exhaled when the man just continued to gaze quietly at him.
"So, I gather you want to be dear to Magnus?"
Alec paused to think, "No...yes...no..." Ragnor arched an eyebrow. "I mean I do. Of course I do, but I...I want to be much more then that. I don't know, maybe my thoughts are all messed up, but in truth, Magnus is all I think about lately."
"You want him to love you." Ragnor watched blue eyes lower. This boy...young man...young father...was so...green. "You know, the last time Magnus truly loved, it ripped him apart." Blue eyes snapped to attention. "She broke his heart and it took him a long time to get over it, though technically I still think he's trying to get over it."
"Is she...still in his life now?"
"Camille is not. She has not been seen or heard of for several years now." Ragnor watched Alec's expression closely, but for now, he was giving nothing away.
"Then why..." Alec faulted with his question. He had no right to ask such things, but then he desperately wanted to know as well.
"I think Magnus has always held Camille dear, because one does do that for the person you thought you would spend your life with."
"I...guess so..." In truth, Alexander didn't have a freaking clue!
"He was going to propose to her." At the wide eyed look, this had clearly caught Alec off guard. "I always suspected she got wind of his plans and then fled, tearing his heart apart and sending the relationship up in flames whilst she was at it."
"He wanted to...marry her?" Oh... Was this young man a little jealous at this news? If only Magnus knew of this sudden visit, maybe his silent wallowing would cease instantly.
"Since Camille, Magnus is not one to allow another into his heart so easily." Ragnor turned his hard and protective gaze for his sweet boy to a nervous Alec. Should he play this out? Make it far more tragic then it was? "Alas, my sweet boy is doomed to wander the earth alone."
"Ragnor..."
"However, for a fleeting moment, there was hope..." Blue rose to meet his crinkled gaze. "At least that is what Catarina and I thought when we discussed the change in Magnus over the past few weeks, since you and your sons came into his life. Well, before the current situation of course."
"Of course..." Alec muttered quietly.
"Intrigue flashed in his eyes...in his entire being the night you came to my bar." Alec felt his heart hammering in his ears. His ears weren't playing tricks on him were they? And by bloody oath he hoped Ragnor wouldn't be an asshole and give him false hope either. "No one, in all the years I have known Magnus, has made him react like that. Not even Camille." Alec let out a shuddering breath. "However, the tension between the both of you is clearly just on Magnus' part."
"Why?"
"If you had been Magnus' first potential interest, and he was still coming to terms with his sexuality and not being truthful to family, wouldn't you not hesitate? Wouldn't you push away, before anything could truly start so as not to feel heartache?" Alec had been lightly blushing before, but now he felt his cheeks darken at Ragnor's frank words. Though Magnus probably hadn't confessed about the current tension between them, the man had clearly talked to Ragnor about him nonetheless. "My sweet boy doesn't want to be hurt again.
And whilst I am certain you are what he wants, he hesitates for your sake."
"For me?"
"You have family you would never want to disappoint."
"M-My family already know about me now."
"You still don't like the idea of disappointing them, correct?" Alec had no comeback for that. "Magnus has no family to think about. He couldn't care less about his own father, and Catarina and I, who are close to him, are not his blood kin. He is who he is...and he is comfortable in his skin. We accept everything about him. You on the other hand..."
"Me, what?"
"For the sake of your family, would you risk it all to be with him? Would you choose Magnus?"
"Y-You can't ask me that!"
"Oh...? And why not?"
"We-We don't even know if it'll work or..."
"Doubts like that will get you nowhere." Alec bit his bottom lip. "With Magnus, it is all...or nothing. You need to choose."
"Choose..."
"A life with Magnus...or a life without him..." Ragnor watched Alec's eyes widen at his bluntness. "This includes being their for each other through all the good times and the bad times. Through every struggle you can think of, mainly facing your family, owning up to them that Magnus is the one you want to be with regardless of their prejudice. You need to decide whether you could handle facing rejection for unbridled love and happiness from Magnus."
"Ragnor..."
"For he would give you that and more, if you chose him." Alec let out a breath he hadn't realised he'd been holding. "Magnus would never ask you to choose him...not for anything in the world. But the question is, how much would you miss out on with Magnus not at your side? At you and your boys' side? Would you regret not taking that step forward for the rest of your life?" Ragnor's wise orbs observed Alec closely. He sat in the seat, much like a statue as he was lost in deep thought. When his head finally snapped up, determination flickered through those intense blue eyes.
"Thank you for your time." Ragnor frowned as Alec stood to his tall height. The little shit wasn't even going to tell him what he was going to do! That was the last time he'd offer his opinion for free!
Ragnor watched Alec flee his office, obviously heading off to find Magnus.
"Ah well, I've done all I can." Ragnor placed a crystal glass on his desk and pulled half a bottle of scotch from a set of draws. "I pray, sweet boy, your happiness finds you soon. Then we can all rest easy."
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Alec was walking down the streets of Brooklyn, debating on how to get Magnus aside, without the kids looking on, so he could confess his seriousness towards him. Of course he was certain Magnus would listen to him, since he was the one that was avoiding him first, so he hoped he still had that chance to talk to the man. And just like Lydia had said, he was a fighter...and he would not go down like this! And then with everything that Ragnor had said to him, by god he was so bloody embarrassed by most of it, but again, as he had confessed, Magnus was all he thought about these days. Well him and his kids (and of course Madzie too) and whether he would forever be scorned by his family for his life choices, there was no way anyone (not even his parents which he never wanted to disappoint) could take away the feelings in his head, his heart and even the butterflies in his gut when Magnus was in his vicinity (let alone up close and personal).
The author stopped dead in his tracks as his line of sight was taken up by a group of men and women, all dressed in darkly coloured business suits as they exited a large building, seemingly heading towards the three Mercedes idling at the curb. Alec narrowed his gaze, trying to figure out where he'd seen the man who was in the centre of the "posse" before and felt his head tilt when startling brown-amber gold eyes glanced at him before turning to look further down the street in the opposite direction. Alec always believed he was top notch when it came to sudden tells of when people were startled or maybe a little uncomfortable and if he had to choose one of those, the man in the centre of the other eleven businessmen and women, he'd say startled fit the bill entirely.
Craning his head, to look over several pairs of shoulders, Alec felt his eyes widen slightly as further down the street was the very man he was looking for! With heart thumping, palms probably sweating (even in the cool afternoon air) and he was sure his cheeks were slightly flushed, Alec quietly gazed at Magnus much like this posse was doing too. He looked so damn good in those leather pants, black silk shit (three buttons undone) and the leopard print jacket. Of course his hair was spiked, silver glitter smattering it, usual eye make-up, rings and necklaces to compliment his attire. A bag was slung over his shoulder, but his intense gaze had watched it slip from his shoulder to thud on the footpath, Magnus seemingly frozen in place.
"Magnus!" Alec finally found his voice, calling out to the man as he pushed rudely through the group blocking his access to the man. He felt eyes watching him, and gave a slight grin when puzzled brown and amber-gold eyes gazed at him, he knocking Magnus from whatever it was that froze him on the spot.
"Alexander..." Just hearing his name was all he needed...even if it were voiced in slight confusion as to what he was doing rather suddenly in front of him. However that wasn't important. What was important was that Alec never thought he would do what he was currently doing right now...and that was, once again, kissing Magnus! Of course the man stiffened in an instant, after all, they were on the streets of Brooklyn! His large hands cupped Magnus' face, not letting him break contact with him until he released all his pent up emotions into this lip-lock. When Magnus responded, it finally triggered Alec's brain to kick in, to realise where they were and that people were watching them, some with intrigue and others with disgust. That was just the way the world was.
"Sorry..." Alec breathed heavily, biting his lip when he realised that Magnus wasn't even paying attention to him! Instead, his gaze was looking over his shoulder and finally Alec turned his gaze and looked in the same direction, right into the narrowed gaze of the man that had eyed him for a fraction of a second earlier. "He looks familiar..."
"Well, you are looking upon Bane Industries creator."
"That's your father!" No wonder those eyes seemed familiar... Both men observed Bane Senior stare at the both of them, Magnus dropping his gaze for a second as Alec bravely (or stubbornly) took hold of his hand, all in full view of the businessman. An elder gentleman whispered into the man's ear and then they all piled into the vehicles and were gone in seconds flat.
"He looked right at us!" Alec burst aloud, anger clearly on his face. "He just got into his car like you weren't even there!" Magnus couldn't help but think how cute Alexander was, getting angry just for him.
"Remember Alexander, we are not close."
"But still!" Alec stopped his rant as Magnus pat him on the arm and gave him a tiny smile.
He finally let go of his hand, though instantly hated not having the man's warm hand in his own. Alec also hated to admit that Magnus and his father did resemble each other, looks wise that is. Eyes especially. Magnus' father, though he didn't know how old he was, but boy he had great genes as he was very good looking for an older gentleman. Alec knew as Magnus aged, he would be exactly the same, if not way more flamboyant (and proud of it) of course. However, personality wise, the men were complete opposites, this Alec could tell even from the mere glances he received from the older man. Magnus was approachable for a start. He was sweet, kind and just down right loveable...secrets and all.
"Thank you for being so sweet."
"I didn't do anything." Alec scratched awkwardly at the back of his head, eyes shifting everywhere but Magnus, however when his sons' caretaker lifted his hand, cautiously placing it against his cheek, the tiny smile was all Alec needed and once again he found himself kissing Magnus! Only this time, it was gentle and sweet, and a little short as he really didn't give Magnus a chance to respond.
"You are full of surprises Alexander." The man shrugged his shoulders like it were no big deal, even though he was certain he was blushing like a fool. He gave a passer-by a glare, they shuffling on quickly and then turned his apprehensive gaze to Magnus, the very man that could either accept him for everything he was (secrets and all) or break him entirely. "What brought that on?"
"You aren't your father." Magnus gave a slight laugh, knocking his forehead against Alec's for a moment.
"That, I am fully aware of." Magnus finally dew away and bent down to pick up his bag, it giving him a few extra seconds to collect his thoughts.
"Where are the kids?"
"Catarina has Madzie tonight and your mother came and got the boys as per your request." Magnus watched Alec's blue eyes narrow at that. "She said you were going to be at the family home this weekend and she was collecting the boys for you."
"I said no such thing." Worry immediately filled Magnus' gaze.
"I'm so sorry, I should have checked with you. I figured, maybe you didn't want to talk to me at all, especially with what's been happening between us, and because of that I assumed you relayed your request through your mother who equally hates me so..."
"I don't hate you." Magnus lifted his gaze to read the truth in Alexander's own eyes. "I admit, you frustrate the hell out of me, but I don't want to live my life with anymore regrets." Alec took hold of Magnus' hands. "I won't run away from my feelings." Magnus felt his breath catch. "And neither should you."
"Alexander..."
"What's with the bag?" Magnus was continuously surprised at how Alec could jump from topic to topic.
"Well, I figured with everyone away I'd just stay the night at Ragnor's."
"You don't like being alone?"
"Well...my home is now overrun by Madzie and the Lightwood's. So much so that the quiet seems to get to me these days."
"Don't go to Ragnor's."
"Alexander..."
"Please Magnus," Alec squeezed his hands. "Can we at least talk?" Looking into this very handsome man's pretty blue hopeful eyes, Magnus was still counting his lucky stars that someone like him could attract Alec's attention, never mind the rejection he gave him days ago. "Lets go home."
"A-Alright..." A tiny little smile would not leave Magnus' lips as he liked Alexander's deep sensual voice calling his place home. And then there was also the fact that Alec took his hand again, walking the both of them down the street as the man finally got his bearings, knowing they were only a few blocks from the apartment building.
Coming back from their sudden meeting on the street, and the lip-locks he'd received from Alexander, was making Magnus a little awkward. He had spent the slow walk back in sheer silence, a mountain of thoughts rushing through his head, eyes downcast as he kept them glued to Alec's left hand holding his right one. The author himself strode down the street, like a man on a mission, lips in a thin line, but Magnus knew he too was in deep thought.
Once they hit the apartment building, Alec finally let go of Magnus and followed the man inside and up the stairs. Usually Magnus would take the elevator, but clearly he needed more time to think things over...or make sense of what Alexander had done on the streets at least.
"You know," Magnus began, shifting his gaze to Alec who was closing the front door to the apartment behind him. "Truthfully, I was going to stay more then a night at Ragnor's."
"Why?"
"You refused to be in my presence Alexander." He watched a tiny frown mar Alec's handsome face as there was no denying that at all. "I figured it was best for me to go."
"B-But this is your home! I mean if anyone should leave, it is me and the boys!" Alec raked a hand through his messy black hair. "I don't want to drive you from your own home Magnus, you've given up so much of your time and space for me and my sons."
"Well..."
"We'll go."
"What?"
"We need to give you back your space so we'll just..."
"No!" Magnus shouted rather suddenly, his raised voice not only surprising him, but Alexander as well. The thought of his home being devoid of the Lightwood's was rather painful to think about. "Please, its alright, the three of you can..."
"Hello lover." Magnus stiffened instantly, knowing Alec had done the same. He darted his gaze to look upon a stunning woman in a low cut floor length red silk dress, one long leg crossed over the other as she sat on his couch, her long slender hand having reached over and turned on a lamp to douse her voluptuous body in pale lighting, her bold emerald green eyes locking onto the rather stiff looking Magnus.
"How'd you get in here?" Magnus jolted, remembering that Alec was here too, his gaze quickly lifting to fierce blue eyes. He found it rather shocking and interesting that Alec took a step forward, left arm out as though trying to keep him away from this "intruder" who had broken into his home. Protecting those you cared about was practically second nature to Alec as his right hand shot into his pocket, pulling out his phone as though ready to call the police.
"Don't," Alec paused, intense blue eyes staring profusely at him, demanding an explanation. "I know her."
"But..."
"Oh Magnus, really, him?" Magnus felt Alec stiffen at his side at the blatant disappointment in the woman's voice as she pointed at Alec like he were an insect of some kind.
"I'll only ask this one more time Camille, how'd you get in here?"
"Ca-Camille?" Magnus turned his intrigued gaze to Alec for a moment, watching as recognition flashed across his face as though he recognised the woman's name. Funny, I don't remember telling you anything... "How?" Magnus thought it best to leave that other thought to himself for now.
"I still have my key."
"You were meant to leave that behind when you walked out and left me broken hearted."
"Oh Magnus, I never broke up with you, I just had things to do." Camille waved it off as though it were nothing, but Alec could feel rage suddenly bubbling within Magnus. He quickly cleared his throat, watching the man simmer down instantly, his deep brown eyes focusing on him.
"Maybe I should leave the both of you to chat, considering you said you know her?"
"Well..."
"I really should call my mother, ask her how my sons are doing, and also try not to start a fight with her for lying to you as well." He watched a tiny grin flutter across Magnus' lips. "Did you want me to see how Madzie is doing?" Magnus dumbly nodded his head, completely lost for words with the sudden appearance of Camille. He observed as she silently eyed Alec as he walked down the hallway and directly into his makeshift bedroom to make the relevant calls.
"Sleeping with a man with kids, really Magnus, that is not like you. After all, you were never good at complicated relationships so I wouldn't think you'd start now."
"How would you know what I'm like now, you've been gone for five years!" Magnus quickly closed his eyes, trying very hard to remain calm. He would need to do double o even triple his Tai Chi tomorrow that was for sure. Instantly he stiffened, eyes snapping open when Camille had sauntered over to him, her body lightly pressed against his. He'd touched every single curve of hers...for years...and yet now he felt repulsed by her. "Ditch the boring father with the kids. Lets go have an exciting adventure, one more time, yes?"
"Alexander is not a boring father, and neither am I." Camille paused from sliding her hand up his arm. Magnus refused to go further with his words since it was none of her business.
"Oh, how cute, you always did want a family." Magnus was so shocked when she kissed him that he froze on the spot. It was only for a few seconds, but finally his hands rose, pushing Camille away just as a clearing of the throat could be heard at the same time.
Magnus darted his gaze over to Alexander. "Um...its...complicated?" He spoke rather pathetically.
"Clearly..." Alec was angry.
Magnus didn't have a chance to try and defend himself when his body stiffened once more. Camille now stood behind him, far too close as she wrapped her slender arms around him, dropping her chin on his left shoulder as she bore her eyes, narrowed in a glare, as though she were trying to protect her property against Alec who she just knew Magnus was falling for.
"Please refrain from touching him." Magnus blinked astounded at Alec's cool, calm and collected request, watching as he folded his arms over his chest looking all manly and defiant. "He doesn't like it."
"How do you know what Magnus does and doesn't like?" The man in question cringed when he felt Camille's right hand run down his chest and flutter over his groin for a brief moment before moving it back up to wrap it around his narrow waist rather possessively.
"Because you make him sick. He's practically white as a ghost looking at you now." That seemed to anger Camille as she finally let go of Magnus, her high heels clacking on his tiles as she made her way over to Alec, sizing him up once more.
"Really Magnus, he's so...plain!" Alec frowned, pretty pleased with himself for keeping his cool, but rather pissed at this woman right now. After all, from what Ragnor had said, she had practically ripped out Magnus heart! And to him that was downright unforgivable in his books! He tried to remain as neutral and unaffected as he could, as hard as that was, and instead followed Camille with his narrowed gaze as she began to circle him like a shark.
"Far from it in fact." Crystal blue eyes darted over to Magnus now, eyes growing slightly wide as Alec finally registered what Magnus was saying about him. "Camille, it was lovely to see you, I wish you the very best with whatever you do, but please never darken my doorstep again."
"Magnus,"
"Ever." He voiced with finality. "Now hand over my key." Magnus placed out his hand.
"You've...changed."
"I suppose I have. After all, you can't just walk all over me anymore. I'm not that same young man I was back then."
"Magnus,"
"I loved you Camille." He watched hers and Alec's eyes widen. Why the hell did she seem that surprised. It wasn't the first time he had said it to her. Camille took a step towards Magnus, but his hand went up warning her off from approaching him. "I am no longer easy to fool. You have done enough damage to me."
"But I..."
"Do you have any idea how long I waited for you to come back?" Magnus knew Alec was staring at him, but for now he couldn't look at him as he needed to get all of this off his chest. He'd been holding it in, carrying it around with him for so damn long. He was certain this is what he needed to do in order to truly move on from the heartbreak she had caused him. Though Ragnor had always said that he had let her walk all over him and that she'd practically killed his feelings...damn near destroyed him entirely. That he had let her destroy him. He hated when Ragnor said that, getting into a fight with him, but what he hated even more was the fact the man had been right. "You screwed with my emotions, so much so I can no longer trust another with my heart." Magnus darted his gaze to a shocked looking Alec. "For years it has remained hardened and protected from all relationships. I've been so afraid to let anyone in, because of what you did to me." He hoped he wasn't blushing like an idiot as he darted his gaze quickly to Alexander. "But perhaps that is changing now." He watched Alec jolt on the spot, surprised by his comment, considering he had rejected his advances a little less then a week ago, but then he had also accepted his surprise kisses on the street earlier on too.
As Magnus stood in his apartment, with both Camille and Alexander, he was now washing himself of all his painful past he had with her, and hoped Alexander now had a better understanding as to why he had originally rejected his advances. And then there was the possibility that with letting everything go, lifting himself up from his darkness to finally see that there was indeed light at the end of the tunnel...and that very light...was Alexander. "Now, give me back my key and don't ever return." Magnus repeated his words.
The silence was thick in his apartment, but after a small amount of time his key was thrown at him, it bouncing off his chest before clinking to the ground and then Camille was gone, door slamming shut behind her.
"At last..." Magnus muttered to himself. "Its finally...over..." And then suddenly all the strength in Magnus' legs left him as he crumbled to the ground.
"Magnus!" Alec rushed to his side, kneeling on the tiles, one strong dependable arm around his shoulders as Magnus began to shake uncontrollably.
"I-I'm alright..."
"No, you're not." Alec voiced rather sternly. He hated to see Magnus in such a state. "Let me help you."
"How?" Alec was stumped as he had no answer to that. Those beautiful brown and amber-gold eyes practically pleaded with him in silence for help and yet he didn't know what the hell he could do for him. Alec wracked his brain and in truth, all he could think to do was wrap his arms around Magnus tighter, allowing the man to rest his head against his shoulder.
"You're free now Magnus." Alec softly confessed, lips pressed to spiked and glittery hair. He didn't know if what he said was going to give Magnus any form of comfort, but when he felt his stiff body slacken against his, and felt the man take in several deep breaths, eyes drifting closed, he knew those words were soothing the man. Well that and his hug...at least he hoped in any case.
The two didn't know how long they stayed that way until Magnus shifted against him, pulling away slightly. His face was slightly flushed, just like Alec's was, and the two men pulled each other to their feet.
"Its getting late."
"It is." Alec agreed quietly.
"We should get an early night. Catarina is dropping off Madzie early tomorrow since she's an appointment to get to by 9am."
"Yes we should." Now it was awkward.
Both men moved gingerly down the hallway, Alec walking Magnus to his bedroom door, even though it weren't that far from the bedroom he stayed in. Magnus found it both laughable and endearing at the same time.
"Well...um...good night."
"Good night..." Alec went to turn away, to head for bed and knew he wouldn't sleep as he would think about all the things he hadn't yet said to Magnus but paused when the man wrapped a graceful hand around his wrist. Alec turned his sparkling blue eyes from the hand around his left wrist and moved it over the arm, up the chest and finally reached Magnus' shifting gaze. "What is it?" Magnus now had Alec's full attention, but as he stared at the man, nothing was coming from his lips! Magnus felt his heart clench when Alec pulled his arm from his light grip. In that moment he instantly knew. He didn't want to let Alexander go.
"Stay with me."
Alec's heart was going a hundred miles an hour, probably the same as Magnus' as he didn't even have a chance to think about an answer as his body followed Magnus into the bedroom. As the door clicked closed, their lips collided rather urgently. Shoes and clothes were being pulled off rather hastily, it was rather comical, both men not being able to help their tiny chuckles at their desperation to feel each other. They both flopped ungracefully onto Magnus' bed, soft laughter still on their lips, it echoing through the dully lit room as they drew closer once more, practically kissing the life out of each other.
# To be Continued #