Life with Magnus
By Shin Sankai
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Author's Notes: Well, thanks for coming on the journey with me. I loved writing this and have decided to give it the best darn fluffy ending I could think of.
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Chapter Seventeen
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"Are you alright Magnus?" Alec had been lounging on one of Magnus' many couches, computer in his lap as his fingers clacked over the keys, but a flurry of colour assaulted the corner of his left eye every now and then. It was Magnus, dressed in a brightly coloured sequinned shirt, definitely not a favourite of Alec's that's for sure, and the man was...pacing!
"He should be here by now." Alec glanced over at the couch closest to the TV and saw the children were eagerly fascinated in yet another Christmas movie, which allowed him a moment to comfort the seemingly worried and stressed Magnus. He placed his laptop on the coffee table and padded quietly over to the pacing man, hands quickly coming up to rest on Magnus' shoulders as the man was about to crash into him. Warm brown and amber-gold eyes snapped up from his phone to look at him.
"He who?" Alec questioned.
"Chairman Meow..."
"Oh," For a minute there Alec was slightly worried that Magnus had invited some man over (which wasn't Ragnor). Not that he'd be able to have any say in such matters since this was Magnus' home after all. He could do whatever the hell he liked and needn't ask him for any form of permission.
"See," Magnus' phone was thrust into his face, the edgy man had a tracking system on as he spied on the delivery route. "The delivery truck is already here and yet...nothing!"
"Well, sometimes systems can be wrong, but you know, you could just look out some windows and double check to see if the truck is down on the street?" Alec couldn't help but grin as his suggestion was like a light bulb moment to the worrying Magnus.
"I look like an idiot."
"An adorable idiot." Alec offered up and received a frown on Magnus' lips. I should have left off the idiot part...
"I just want Madzie to have a nice Christmas." Alec tilted his head at the soft confession. "The death of her mother and grandmother...its still fresh and I..." Magnus didn't get a chance to finish as Alec wrapped him in a hug, one hand around his waist while the other large comforting hand was at the back of his head.
"And you'll give her just that Magnus, don't you worry."
"Well..."
"And the boys and I will help. As will Church and Chairman Meow."
"Yeah?" Both men turned to the door when there was loud knocking on the other side. Magnus gave a tiny jolt, mainly cause he wasn't ready for it when Alec kissed him sweetly on the lips before letting go.
"Definitely." The author grinned as he walked over and opened the door.
"Delivery for Magnus Bane." The man in question instantly walked over, watching the driver give him the once over, eyebrow raised. It was a frequent response he got, but Magnus had gotten over the stares and the snide remarks a long time ago. None of that mattered when he had a dashing author at his side...even if it were still early days. "Thank you very much." The man commented and handed over the live package, Magnus accepting it with both hands.
Alec closed the door and followed Magnus down the hallway which lead to the bedrooms.
"He's going to need a smaller room to become accustomed with."
"So use my bedroom for that."
"And where will you sleep?"
"With you." Magnus gulped down the lump in his throat as Alec opened the door to the immaculate bedroom. He couldn't very well say that for Madzie and the boys' rooms that's for sure.
"Well, not that I mind, but what about the kids?"
"I'll tell them I'm having a sleepover with you whilst Chairman Meow becomes accustomed to his home."
"Alright," Who was he to argue with that? Magnus couldn't help but shudder, and truthfully, he nearly lost his grip on the cage when Alec drew closer, his deep sensual voice murmuring into his ear,
"Relax, I'll be a good boy."
"Please go and get the kitty litter tray, food, bedding and toys I've hidden in my room." He ordered of the author who placed his hands up in defeat and left for a few moments.
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The two men set everything up and Magnus popped open the cage door, they watching a grey fur-ball whiz crazily around the room.
"He's fast." Alec commented and then ten minutes later Chairman Meow seemed to finally calm down, with the help of some delicious (and rather stinky) salmon and rice food. Magnus tried tempting him over to his side of the room, by rattling a mouse in front of his paws and then moving it closer and closer to his human self. With many more painstaking minutes ticking by, Chairman Meow was finally within Magnus' lap, purring up a storm and probably still tired (and a little stressed) from his travelling.
"Can you go and get Madzie and Church for me? I want to introduce them first if that is alright?"
"Of course. He's Madzie's present after all...and Church's new sibling too." Alec left the room quietly and quickly so as not to leave the door open too long and for Chairman to go rushing out and being completely overwhelmed with children and the space of his apartment for that matter.
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With the turn of the doorknob, Magnus found Alec's arms full with both Madzie and Church and the man kicked the door closed behind him.
"Hey Sweet Pea, I've a present here for you." Alec placed the youngster on her own two feet as she slowly walked to Magnus' side, her eyes completely glued to the young adorable cat in his lap. "This is Chairman Meow. Did you want to sit and pat him with me?" Madzie nodded her head profusely as she sat on his left knee, leaning into his chest whilst her eyes were glued to the purring feline. Her tiny hand went out to the grey cat, stroking his soft fur a little tentatively. "Madzie has been such a good girl and so very brave too. So much so that I wanted to surprise her with her very own cat that she can grow up with whilst continuing to live with me."
"He's...mine?" Her tiny voice asked, those big brown eyes looking up at Magnus for a moment.
"He definitely is." Her smile melted Magnus' heart in an instant as she stopped patting her new cat and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"...love...Magnus..." Her muffled and oh so precious confession brought tears to his eyes as he looked over at a grinning Alec.
"As do I, Sweet Pea, as do I..." He tucked some of her frizzy hair behind her ear as they both continued to gaze at Chairman Meow who was now trotting around and exploring some of his new digs. "So, do you think he and Church will get on well?" Magnus queried the youngster who appeared deep in thought as all three watched on as the two cats had a stand off. There was some sniffing, snarling and hissing and hackles raised and all the usual nervous signs. It was pretty tense, but everything went quiet and Church jumped onto the bed, curling up into a ball and promptly went to sleep, not in the least bit phased about having company in his territory...well for now is all they could assume.
"I'll go get Max and Raphael." Madzie was out the door, Alec quickly getting to his feet to guard the door from a curious kitten (Chairman was only a year old, so that was still kitten-y).
The noisy Lightwood boys were getting closer to the bedroom and Alec quickly shushed them as they entered the room with Madzie. Large innocent eyes were filled with wonder at seeing the new cat in Magnus' home as Chairman Meow had decided he quite liked Magnus' lap and made his way back over to curl in it once more.
"You need to be really quiet if you want to pat Madzie's cat alright?" Alec sternly voiced to his sons as they nodded their heads in unison. All three sat around Magnus, each getting a turn at having the young feline within their laps, the room filling with delightful giggles as both men grinned triumphantly at each other.
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With only a couple of days left until Christmas, Alec found the space under the tree was filling quickly with presents. He had never wanted to be someone to spoil his children, but then when he was with Magnus, it looked like the man wanted to present them with the entire world if he could.
Its Christmas Alexander. Everyone deserves to experience the joy and magic of the season, like a child does, even for just a few moments. Who was he to argue with that?
And then the energy that seemed to buzz about Magnus, during this festive season was something Alec was glad to witness. It was like his boys and Madzie made him feel like a child again. After all, Magnus did not have a great childhood, not until Catarina came to his rescue so of course the man would want to shower three very adorable children with all the attention, love and presents he had.
However, what had really gotten his attention was the rather large wrapped parcel under the tree with his name on it. He was still truthfully debating what he could get the man himself. After all, what do you get for someone who clearly already had everything he possibly needed?
Alec crouched down, index finger pressing against the wrapping paper for a few seconds. No! He shot to his feet. He was trying to teach his boys not to poke and prod the presents, as they were a surprise and they could wait two more days, and yet he'd done exactly that!
But really, could he totally be blamed when he had that weird conversation with Magnus not long ago?
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Alexander, could I have a look at all those rune drawings?
Why?
I've an idea.
Oh?
And no I'm not telling you about it. You'll find out Christmas day.
You're aren't going to place one on your skin are you?
Oh! Now there is an idea...
Don't.
Why?
You've beautiful skin that shouldn't be tarnished... Alec felt a blush heat his cheeks after he had said that.
Well...thank you. And I wasn't thinking of that. Although Alec was still confused about what Magnus was plotting, he did hand over the pieces of paper with rune drawings on them and scribbled underneath the designs were of course, the meanings that he'd come up with. Alec quietly watched Magnus pull out his phone, snapping pictures here and there and then wordlessly handed the pages back to him. He hated it when the man was being sneaky, and he couldn't very well tackle him to the ground and demand answers when one of Magnus' sweet boys (Raphael) stole his attention.
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His own cellphone going off, knocked Alec from his thoughts, quickly answering it as soon as he saw who was on the other end. He tried not to think about how nervous he was feeling as he quickly wrapped the red blanket (which had been draped over one of Magnus' couches) around his shoulders and then slipped his feet into Magnus' alien slippers (they were conveniently there) and shuffled out onto the balcony to take his call.
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Alec wasn't quite sure how long he was out there for, but once he hung up, feeling like he were in a bit of a daze, he turned around, to head back into the warmth of the apartment and found Magnus standing at the dining table just quietly observing him. He'd returned from his grocery shop, bags all over the glass table.
"Hey," Alec softly voiced, closing the balcony door and removed the blanket from his shoulders, draping it back over the couch nearest to Magnus and promptly kissed the man in greeting. "When did you get back?"
"About twenty minutes ago."
"You could of sent a message, I would have helped with the bags."
"Well, I'm no weakling... And you seemed pretty busy on the phone there anyway."
"Sorry, it was..."
"Your Editor?" There was hope flashing in Magnus' orbs as it had felt like millennia since Alec had originally scanned those twenty pages to her.
"Mm, she said the pages I sent her were not enough."
"Oh?"
"She wanted more." Alec watched the smile grow on Magnus' lips. "Whilst its jumbled just like you said, she wants all 400 pages sent to her as soon as possible."
"Which means...?"
"I've got the green light..." Alec didn't even get any further as Magnus threw his arms around him in congratulations. He wholeheartedly accepted the embrace. "She wants to turn it into a series. A six book deal, with maybe the potential for some other books containing character side stories as well."
"Didn't I tell you it was going to be a hit?"
"Its not on shelves yet..." Alec grinned as Magnus gave him a whack on the arm at his negativity. It was quite cute the way Magnus seemed to be so excited for him, the man looked like he was practically bouncing as he took the grocery bags into his kitchen. "She's scheduled a meeting for mid January and wants me to continue trying to form ideas for the series before then. She's hoping we can get the first book released mid next year if everything goes according to plan.
"I can't wait!" Magnus decided that with all groceries now packed away in his pantry and the fridge, it was time for a celebratory drink. "You'll sign my copy first, won't you Alexander?" Magnus handed him a martini.
"There is still much to work out."
"Like what?"
"Well, my Editor doesn't think I should use the same pen name as my children's books, since I am aiming for an older reading group."
"That makes sense."
"So I've been thinking, with all the help you've given me and the ideas and questions you've placed down on the paper which have also helped me out, like a muse if I'm honest, I definitely need to come up with something else."
"Surely you are not thinking of going by M.A.I.M?" Magnus was pleased when Alec let off a rare boisterous laugh at his joke. "Truthfully, this is just me selfishly suggesting it, but you've already got the perfect name as it is." Bright blue eyes gazed over at him. "Alexander Lightwood." And cheeks flushed instantly.
"Magnus..."
"I'm being serious." Alec snapped his mouth shut. "Don't ever be ashamed of who you are and what you can achieve and what you already have achieved as it is. The boys and I, and my dear Sweet Pea, will always be proud of you." Magnus was a little caught off guard by Alec's sudden lip-lock. Clearly what he said spoke volumes to the handsome author and he was more then glad to respond. When Alec finally pulled away, their foreheads touching, it suddenly dawned on him... "Did you finally work out a name for Jace's parabatai?"
"Um...yeah..."
"And may I ask his name?"
"Alec..." He watched Magnus' grin spread across his moist lips. He'd just taken a gulp of his martini after all, waiting for him to blurt out the name he thought of (well Magnus technically thought of it first).
"I absolutely approve." Magnus leaned closer once more, peaking Alexander on the lips.
"Well, thank goodness for that." Both men gave a slight chuckle as they clinked their glasses together once more.
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Christmas eve had come around far too quickly for Magnus has he proclaimed he had so much to do still.
"You're meant to enjoy Christmas Magnus, not wear yourself out." Alec had softly (and sternly) voiced to the man as they carried their children to their respective rooms, all three having fallen asleep on the couch.
"I know, and I most definitely will, but I still want it to be special...for all four of you..." That had done Alec in, as he took hold of Magnus' hand and dragged him into the bedroom, door closed (and locked – how convenient Magnus had a lock on the door – though Alec decided not to ask why) and then went about striping a very surprised Magnus of his khaki and black ensemble.
"I'll make Christmas Eve special for you..."Alec captured Magnus' laughter within his lips and quickly doused the room into darkness, just as Magnus began to feverishly pull at his black button down shirt.
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Squeals of delight jerked Alec from sleep, pulling him from the warmth where he'd been cocooned before. He felt his lips twitch into a grin as another pair were 'assaulting' him in slumber, lightly pressing against his forehead, closed eyes, cheeks and then finally his lips. Of course he responded. And again, Magnus tasted minty compared to himself.
"Are you getting up today?"
"What time is it?"
"Its just gone 6am."
"So the sun isn't even up yet?"
"Well..."
"And you let the kids get up?"
"Its Christmas Alexander..." The handsome author finally sat up, blankets pooling in his lap (he was naked after all) and lifted his arms to cup Magnus' face.
"So it is." He muttered and accepted another sweet kiss from the man before squeals began to get louder and louder, tiny feet pounding down the hallway. The two men had enough time to break apart as the door (which wasn't properly closed this time) was pushed open.
"Daddy!"
"Magnus!"
Both boys voiced in unison as their sparkling eyes looked up at them, they still sitting on the bed together, but a little bit further apart this time.
"Lets open presents!"
"How about some breakfast first?" Magnus tied his black and red silk dressing gown around his narrow waist and shuffled the whining boys out of the room, giving Alec a slither of peace so he could get dressed at least.
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Alec dressed in black jeans and black singlet and finally made an entrance, greeting his sons and Madzie with massive hugs. He too received shouts of Merry Christmas and cards were thrust into his face from the youngsters, he opening all three with a massive smile on his face. Magnus had already opened his whilst Alec was getting dressed and had already placed them on one of his bookcases, on full display for everyone to see.
"We've got pancakes with honey and ice cream for breakfast." Magnus announced, presents being forgotten (only for a few moments) so bellies could be filled. He was awfully tempted to go the full load of cooking up a massive breakfast, but knowing he was planning to do quite a lot of cooking for lunch, he decided against it.
Instead of sitting at the table, they sat near the Christmas tree, torn wrapping paper all around them and ate with their fingers.
"These are so yummy Magnus!" All three children voiced simultaneously, making the two men laugh.
"Do the three of you want to give Magnus his present?" Magnus had just bitten into his third pancake drizzled in honey, but forgot all about it when Max and Raphael dove under the tree to pull out a package and dropped it into his lap,whilst Madzie game over with an A4 sized envelope for him.
"Oh!" The look of surprise on Magnus' face was priceless to Alec. "May I open this first?" Magnus indicated to Madzie's envelope and the Lightwood boys nodded their head, happy to oblige as Magnus pulled another piece of coloured paper from within. "Oh Sweet Pea, its beautiful!" It was her equivalent of a masterpiece, of her and Magnus and their two cats. Her stick figure self was holding Magnus' stick figure hand. He pulled her into his arms, giving her a hearty squeeze for such a delightful and thoughtful gift.
"I made another one too." She rushed to the couch, pulling out another folded piece of paper from under the cushion and then came back over, handing it to Alec to see first.
"I like this one very much." Alec handed it to Magnus and he watched the man melt even more. She'd drawn an extended drawing of the one before, and had now added in the three Lightwood's. All the stick figures were holding hands, Magnus taking note that Madzie had his other stick figure hand holding onto Alec's. Raphael was on the other side of her and Max was on the other side of Alec. All the stick figures had massive cheesy grins on their faces, but to Magnus it was utterly...
"Perfect." He flipped it around so the boys could also see it. "Don't you think?" They ended up tackling Madzie to the ground with overzealous hugs, bringing forth loud laughter from Magnus. "Be careful not to hurt each other." The kids finally righted themselves and Max and Raphael were once again standing in front of him, picking up the present from his lap and thrusting it into his face now.
"Now ours Magnus." He of course ripped it open with gusto, eyeing off the items within: a pair of leather fingerless gloves, a new set of silk pyjama bottoms and a matching dressing gone which was a beautiful blue colour (pretty much the colour of Alec and Raphael's eyes if Magnus were being honest), a pair of teddy bear slippers, brown and fuzzy (perhaps to remind him of young Max and his warm brown eyes maybe?) and various colours of glitter for his hair (though he had left it natural for quite some time now).
"You boys have truly spoilt me rotten, just like Madzie has." He engulfed the youngsters in his warm embrace, lifting his gaze and mouthing a thank you to Alec who of course would have organised all of this (and in secret too). "Now why don't the three of you get stuck into unwrapping some more presents? I think I still see some with your names on them." One needn't tell excited children that they had free range to rip open more presents, twice.
Magnus rose to his feet, hand out to pull Alec up as well and then promptly drew the man a tiny way away from their excited children so he could present him with the rather bulky present.
"I hope you like it." Magnus couldn't help but be a little nervous, since Alec wasn't really one for any sort of flare in anything he owned and waited with baited breath as the wrapping fell away.
"This is..." Alec was absolutely speechless as he gazed down at his bow. It was now black and silver in colour. The black mainly coming from several of his invented runes being carved into the wood. "How did you even..." Alec was literally lost for words.
"Remember when I asked to see your designs?" He nodded his head. "I've a friend who is an engraver and by pulling some strings, and owing him a favour in the future, he was able to get this done for me in record time." Magnus lifted his left hand to cup Alec's cheek, he finally lifting his gaze to lock with his own. "Your writing frustrates you, I've seen the look in your eyes on a couple of occasions, though that is all about to change now that you have this new project at your fingertips, but when I saw you hold your bow, its like you are in another world, where nothing matters but you and your bow."
"Magnus..."
"It was a truly beautiful sight to witness." Magnus felt himself fidget a little. Why did this man always make him feel nervous? "I picked some of your best runes, well,in my opinion that is." Magnus watched Alec's eyes drop to gaze at his bow held within both of his hands. Intricately woven into the delicate wood were the runes for action, agility, flexibility, endurance, friendship, power, stamina, strength and talent. "Though I also have some personal favourites too. And because of that, I wanted you to have something so much more...wonderful... Well...I hope...you like it..."
Alec's eyes drifted back to his bow where he continuously flipped it over in his hands, capturing other runes like abundance, destined, gift, loyal to, persevere, promise, sharing, trust...and of all things...bind to. Magnus felt a bit nervous (yet again) since he'd gotten his friend to place his initials within the 'bind to' rune and wondered if Alec would even pay attention to it.
The silence ticked on, and it was so agonising for Magnus as he waited with baited breath for the man's response. Would he actually see it, maybe even appreciate his gesture or perhaps even call him on it? Though his frantic questions and thoughts did not matter as he knew Alec's crystal blue eyes had seen it now, for the man drew his finger over the rune.
"Alexander..." He didn't get any further as Alec finally took his eyes away from his bow, gazing over at him and then stepped forward and just kissed him, one arm wrapped possessively around his narrow waist pulling him in even closer, if that were even possible. The lip-lock, which was thoroughly enjoyed, was still surprising to Magnus, in regards to just how passionate Alexander could be at the drop of a hat. Though he wouldn't ever not welcome a kiss from the handsome author.
"Thank you Magnus." All he could do was nod, since he was still catching his breath at the onslaught the man had just bestowed on him. He'd been a little concerned if their children had seen them, but again, they were too engrossed in showing off their presents to each other. "How'd you even sneak this out?"
"I have my ways..." Magnus gave a wink, head tilting when the man suddenly disappeared for a moment. He was back in seconds flat, hands behind his back.
"I've something for you as well. Please tell me honestly if you don't like it."
"Don't like what?" Magnus finally broke eye contact with Alec and lowered his gaze to the framed picture now resting in his hands.
"Oh my..."
"Do you...like it?"
"No..." Worry instantly flooded blue eyes as Magnus lifted his warm brown and amber-gold gaze to the handsome author standing rather anxiously in front of him. "I love it Alexander." Magnus smiled as he watched Alec let out a sigh of relief. Magnus drew his gaze down to the framed drawing and the engraved plague: Magnus Bane – High Warlock of Brooklyn. It was indeed the drawing Alec had done literally after he'd returned home from having met Magnus at Ragnor's Bar. He'd tweaked it here and there over the past few days and finally was now satisfied with his efforts and had gotten a simple black and silver frame for it. "You've made him very beautiful, I'm wondering if I should be offended that you've made him way better then myself." Magnus jokingly voiced, completely in awe at all the tiny intricate details that Alec had done, right down to the snake designed ear cuffs, which totally matched the snaked skin style jacket, which he would love to get a designer friend of his to make for him.
"That isn't possible." Surprised eyes rose at Alec's confession, especially when a large warm hand lifted up and cupped his right cheek too. "There is so much of you in him, because I drew him from the first moment I met you." Alec was sure he felt a blush rise to his cheeks. "You are beautiful Magnus." Alec was pleased with himself when he watched an adorable little smile break across Magnus' face...and...was that a little blush happening too? Alec quickly bent his head a little, drawing his lips to Magnus' in a sweet kiss, the man responding in seconds.
"Daddy, look what Magnus got for me!" Max squealed happily, the two men forgetting for a moment that they were not alone as two pairs of eyes drifted over and down to the bottom of the Christmas tree where Max, Madzie and Raphael still sat in their pyjamas, presents and ripped wrapping paper scattered about them.
"Oh, and what is it?" Alec gave Magnus' hand a tiny squeeze as he went over and sat down.
He quickly stole a gaze over his shoulder to see Magnus removing a framed picture from his wall, it a sunset picture of Paris, and replaced it with his coloured drawing. Any visitors that Magnus would have would be able to see it in an instant as they entered his home and if anyone asked about it, Alec was sure Magnus would confess to all what it was all about, and he wouldn't be able to stop him. But the pleased smile on Magnus' face was all that Alec could have hoped for as the man practically glided over to him and their children, silk dressing gown fluttering open, revealing flawless skin beneath, which quite frankly, he would love to touch, but now wasn't the time as the excitement in Magnus' eyes at watching the children rip open more presents was oh so adorable and he really wanted to witness more of it.
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Magnus had just come out of his bedroom, dressed in his tight black jeans and long sleeved red shirt. He wanted to be a little Christmas-y and with encouragement from the boys, he placed red and gold glitter into his hair, spiking it up with their help of course. It had been such a cute scene that Alec had secretly taken some pictures of the three of them, but had been caught in doing so and, along with Madzie, was dragged into some more adorable and silly group shots together.
"Thank you for my other present." Magnus lifted his gaze as Alec was standing barefoot in his home, dressed in black jeans and a deep blue denim shirt, sleeves rolled up to his elbows. "Though isn't it a little small?"
"Not at all." Magnus sauntered over, hands splayed against Alec's taut chest. "It fits you perfectly."
"Hmm..."
"It accentuates your physique Alexander." Magnus decided to explain.
"Its just a shirt." Alec watched Magnus roll his eyes at him. "And you've seen me shirtless and naked plenty of times already to know what my physique is like."
"That may be true, but I can't very well ask you to parade around here naked or shirtless on a daily basis now can I?" What the hell did you just say? "I like to appreciate clothing on a handsome man." Magnus wanted to make a run for it, feeling his cheeks brighten at his slip of the tongue, but Alec held him there, simply by the wrist, which he could break free of any second, but the two of them were suddenly interrupted by a knock at the door. "Oh, I'm saved..." Magnus voiced rather elatedly.
Alec turned the knob and pulled the door open, eyes focusing on their first guest arriving, a little early, but not unwelcome at all.
"Merry Christmas handsome." Alec gave a tiny grin and bent down, hugging the woman.
"Magnus this is..."
"Beautiful and blonde, why you must be Lydia." Magnus gave a rather dashing smile.
"You've heard about me?"
"Of course, Alexander has spoken lovingly of you." And the wheelchair did give it away too...
"He calls you Alexander..." Lydia swatted the frowning Alec on the arm.
"Is that a problem?" Magnus looked a little perplexed between the two of them.
"Of course not, it makes him very happy." Magnus grinned at the slight tone in her voice. He too was a teasing man and could tell right away when someone else was doing it. "I see that little sparkle in his eyes as he's not just plain Alec to you."
"Lydia..." Alec didn't like where this was going.
"Oh, he's far from plain..." Magnus instantly responded.
"Magnus..." Alec groaned out, not sure if he'd done the right thing now, in having allowed the two of them to meet.
Magnus grinned, just like Lydia did, as he took another step forward, taking hold of Lydia's hand in one of his warm comforting ones. "I'm very pleased to meet you." Her lips had parted in surprise as she watched him bow rather gentlemanly and then gave her delicate hand a kiss.
"Oh my..." Alec frowned as Lydia blushed at Magnus' antics. "I'd totally be Izzy in this situation."
"Lydia!" Alec became a little flustered while Magnus was confused since this appeared to be some sort of in joke for the two of them as the pretty blonde giggled.
"Whilst I'm clueless in what is going on..." Magnus could have sworn Alexander muttered thank goodness and quickly turned his warm gaze back to Lydia. "Merry Christmas...and welcome to my home."
Alec quickly pushed Lydia's wheelchair further inside, so she was more in the centre of Magnus brightly decorated apartment, her blue eyes gazing about the man's home in wonder.
"Oh, this is so much better then the place we shared."
"Lydia..."
"Oh! Sorry..." She gave Magnus a bashful grin and watched him wave it off.
"I won't be jealous, after all, Alec has shared much with me." He watched Lydia tilt his head at his confession. "We are, after all, trying to turn over a new leaf and are trying to be open and honest with each other more."
"With him?" Lydia pointed rather rudely at a now sour faced Alec.
"Its a work in progress." Magnus grinned once more. Whilst their playful attitude was working swimmingly well for them, in breaking the ice, Magnus could tell Alec was becoming rather nervous now, eyes flicking every now and then towards the couch near the TV where the children were watching yet another Christmas movie together.
"I've been thinking a lot...about how to introduce you to the boys and..." Alec shifted his gaze to Magnus who gave him an encouraging nod of the head. "I do want them to know you are their birth mother," They watched Lydia's eyes well up at this news. "B-But I think they are too young to understand everything right now so..."
"I'm happy to be Aunt Lydia." Both men watched Lydia raise her arms and immediately Alec bent over, giving the blonde a much needed hug. "Thank you Alec." When he let go, Magnus raised an eyebrow when he was waved down to Lydia's temporary height in the wheelchair, her arms still out as he finally realised she wanted to grace him with a hug as well!
"Oh! Well I definitely won't refuse a hug from a pretty blonde."
"Oi..." Alec muttered, though he was secretly pleased with watching the mother to his children and his...boyfriend...embrace each other. Could he refer to Magnus as his boyfriend? Even if it were just in his head for now?
"Magnus," Brown and amber-gold eyes dropped down, his smile beaming widely as Madzie had rushed over, winding her arms around his legs (or was trying to) as she had the tiara he bought her (one of many gifts) on her head now. It'd been the one they saw in a store they walked past weeks ago and he'd seen the fond look in her eyes and pencilled it in to purchase at a later date.
"Lydia, I'd like for you to meet my little princess here. This is my dear Sweet Pea." Magnus brushed an affectionate hand through Madzie's frizzy hair, straightening up the tiara since it was a little crooked. "Officially my adoptive daughter, known as Madzie Rouse-Bane."
"Hello Madzie. I like your tiara...and that's a very pretty scarf you have there too."
"Alec gave it to me." Madzie grinned adorably up at Alec, adoration clearly flashing across her features.
"Oh! How lucky." Lydia smiled at the youngster. "He doesn't buy me anything."
"Lydia..." Magnus let off a chuckle at Alec's frowning face.
"Why don't we get you more comfortable and I think there are a couple of presents under the tree with your name on it too."
"Really?" Lydia's blue eyes flashed rather excitedly.
"I'll make some drinks. Alexander, please help Lydia to the couch and Madzie, won't you go find the presents for her?" Everyone was assigned their duties and Magnus trotted off to the kitchen. It was also his ploy to allow Alec a moment alone with Lydia (before everyone else arrived) and to also give the man a moment alone to introduce his sons' to their mother, though at this stage, aunt.
Magnus hummed away, opening up a cupboard to pull out another serving dish as he placed the doughnuts and pastries that Lydia had brought with her onto it and then covered them up with cling wrap to keep them fresh. No one was allowed any form of desserts until they feasted on his roast turkey with all the delicious trimmings of a sumptuous stuffing, several salads and of course roasted vegetables too.
Magnus had just bent over, turning on the light in the oven to see how everything was going when a hand splayed at his lower back, making him rise to his normal height as he lifted his eyes to Alec's.
"I know what you did there." He tilted his head and graciously accepted Alec's kiss. "Thank you..." So he wasn't as sneaky as he thought he was.
"Is that what Magnus got you?" Both men were now at the archway, observing the man's two son's sitting on the couch, with Lydia, and showing off some of their presents. "You'll have to make sure your daddy never lets go of Magnus, he seems like quite a keeper."
"By the angel Lydia, I'm seriously going to..." Magnus watched, as did their children as he went stomping over to Lydia, red faced and even though Lydia was laughing heartily, she was being pinched rather rudely, and maybe a little hard by her dear author friend, on the cheeks. Oh Alexander... You are so cute...
Magnus decided his other Christmas present to Alexander was not to tease him this day and just made his way back over with some drinks and nibbles. And thank goodness for the knock on the front door for Alec almost looked ready to place Lydia into a headlock! The man went off to answer his door while Magnus started removing some of the scattered wrapping paper about his home, beaming thank you smiles to Max, Raphael and Madzie who had come to help him.
"Merry Christmas everyone!" The help was short lived as Magnus was deserted by the children when they heard Catarina's voice. Next to her was Ragnor, his arms filled with gifts as Catarina had unloaded her arms and promptly gave them to him so she could squat down and accept hugs.
Magnus had ushered everyone into his home, introductions to Lydia were done and Magnus was about to offer his services to make drinks for everyone when there were knocks at his door yet again! He was the closest and went to answer, knowing surely these would be his last guests this Christmas afternoon. After all, it was nearly time to cut the turkey and feed everyone's grumbling tummies!
"You must be the famous Magnus Bane I've heard about." Magnus found a breathtakingly beautiful woman, long jet black hair, loosely tied in a braid which hung heavily over her right shoulder standing before him. She was dressed in tight leather pants and a deep red halter top and Christmas themed earrings dangled from her earlobes and of course, bright red shiny lipstick made her lips seem full and plump. Her skin was as pale as Alec's so of course this was none other then,
"Isabelle, I'm so delighted to meet you." Magnus also realised he'd seen her in various fashion magazines and instantly knew she was going to be famous, the world over, very soon.
"Oh please, call me Izzy."
"My, the Lightwood's certainly have amazing genes." Magnus couldn't help but comment, receiving a playful whack from Alec's sister.
"We must make time to chat, but first," Magnus observed as she went dashing past him and straight into her big brother's arms. If only time could take him back, to save young Max Lightwood's life and bring back the beloved little brother for the two older siblings. He watched them break apart for a moment as Izzy squat down when Alec's two boys came racing towards their aunt. "Max, Raphael, look at the both of you looking so handsome! How I've missed you!" Izzy cooed as she engulfed them in her hugs, the boys giggles erupting through his home. He watched as Alec coerced Madzie over, introducing his shy Sweet Pea to his beloved sister.
"Hello Magnus,"
He was proud he didn't flinch since shamefully he hadn't realised the older woman had been behind her daughter all this time! "Maryse, Merry Christmas."
"I heard you like to drink..." The mother held out a bottle of wine to him. Did that make him seem like an alcoholic?
"Why thank you." Magnus politely took the bottle, noticing the brand and age. At least she didn't skimp on it, so maybe there was hope yet. "Please, come in...and welcome to my home." He noticed she was rather stiff as she slowly went over to the couch, greeting Lydia as she did so. Finally she rose her gaze to her son and everyone watched as the two of them greeted each other and then shared a hug.
#
"Magnus, your cooking is amazing." Izzy complimented him wholeheartedly as everyone sat around the table tucking into the mountain of food on offer.
"I absolutely agree." Lydia tilted her glass of wine to Magnus, which in turn got Ragnor lifting his glass as well.
"To Magnus," The chorus went around the table, making him blush a little.
"Oh well, by all means, praise me more." The man jokingly voiced and all the guests (Maryse excluded) erupted into hearty laughter.
"I don't think I can fit anything more in." Catarina voiced, hands splayed on her stomach as she leaned back in the chair.
"But I've not even brought out any of the desserts. I've made an apple crumble which you can have whipped cream or custard with, or both depending on what you feel like. There is also pudding and fruit salad and of course what Lydia brought us too."
"Oh Magnus, you'll make me burst!"
"Nonsense. Its Christmas and by law everyone is allowed to indulge...or overindulge."
"And what law is that?"
"Magnus' law..." He grinned at Alec who was also grinning like an idiot.
"I'll help you clear the table." He waved off Alec's sweet gesture.
"You can give our guests some more drinks, I've got this."
#
In the end Catarina assisted with clearing the table while everyone began to retire to Magnus' couches which he'd manoeuvred around so everyone could congregate in the same area.
"You look quite happy my sweet boy..." They were standing at the archway, watching as Alec helped Lydia back to the couch, even if she was complaining she could do it with her cane, though he was having none of it.
"Yeah, miracles can happen, huh?" Catarina gave him a light whack before reaching up on her tiptoes and gave him a peck on the cheek.
"So Alec, what are your plans for the new year?" Izzy got comfortable, her mother on one side and then her nephews were both in her lap. She hadn't seen them in so long she couldn't bear to let go of them right now.
"Nothing much..."
"Nothing much? Oh Alexander, you must share your wonderful news." Magnus came over, martini in his hand and sat on the arm rest of the couch, right at Alec's side. All eyes were on Alec, who in turn had narrowed his gaze up at the beaming Magnus. "He's just had a new book series green lit."
"Magnus..."
"Really?" Izzy and Lydia beamed him a smile.
"Its going to be a smash hit, so make sure to purchase them when they are published."
"Seriously Magnus..." Alec jolted a little when Magnus pressed a kiss into his hair and partially on his forehead like it were the most natural thing to do, even when mixed company were sitting around them (including his own mother!).
"Oh don't be so shy Lightwood, you're quite excited about it yourself, so there is no need to play it cool in front of family and friends." Damn this man...
"What's it going to be called?" Lydia piped up, thanking Ragnor for the cup of tea as he'd had enough to drink for the moment.
"Well, each book will have its own title, but the main heading will be something like Shadowhunters I think."
"You think?" Izzy arched an eyebrow at that.
"Its early days still."
"Though he's going to be insanely busy as they want the first one to be released mid next year."
"You're awfully excited about it." Ragnor piped up.
"Well, I've had a character named after me."
"Magnus..." Alec was already hating this talk, feeling quite vulnerable right now.
"Oh Alexander, there is no need to be shy. Maxy, Raph, Sweet Pea and myself are very proud of you. Isn't that right?" Alec watched their children nod up at him, massive smiles on their faces. He couldn't help but smile, faulting only for a single second as his mother was silently looking over at him.
"Are you still going by A.I.M?" Lydia queried.
"No, after a conversation with Magnus and also my Editor, I've decided on something else."
"Something way better," Magnus quickly drifted his gaze to Izzy. "No disrespect to you or your brother, my dear." He gave her a wink which she grinned at, before all eyes focused on Alec who was currently taking a sip from his scotch on the rocks.
"Alexander Lightwood." The man voiced, watching as Izzy and Lydia's smiled over at him once more.
"What, so its not going to be M.A.I.M? Now I'm offended!" Magnus winked at Alec and beamed a smile as he cracked up laughing, completely open and at ease for the first time this evening, or at least that is what he felt in any case. He was certain the man was still on guard with his mother in the apartment. Once she called it an evening, Magnus was certain that Alec's guard would drop even more, but for now he was absolutely pleased with the reaction he got from the handsome author.
"M.A.I.M?" Catarina queried.
"With all the help Magnus has been giving me, I seriously contemplated tacking his name onto my usual pen name, which technically was also something that Magnus came up with, but in the end he convinced me to go with my own name."
"Perfection doesn't need to hide behind a pen name."
"Magnus..."
"Oh! Let me show you me!" And the excited man, almost like a child trapped in an adults body pulled the framed drawing off the wall and handed it around. Alec tried with all his might to escape the stares and the comments by chasing the children over to the TV where they could watch some more movies.
#
"Thank you for coming over." Alec was at the front door farewelling his mother and sister. "Are you sure you didn't want to come ice skating with us?"
"No, I'm beat, still getting over the jet lag I think." Alec gave his little sister a hug.
"Mother?"
"No, you go ahead and enjoy yourselves." He gave her a hug too. "Just be careful on the ice, you've not skated in years." He gave a nod, but according to what Magnus said earlier in the day, voicing how much of an excellent skater he was, Alec would be in safe hands.
"Thank you for being respectful to Magnus too." He knew it was going to take his mother some time to get used to him being in a relationship with another man, but with how perfect things had gone today, he couldn't have asked for anything more.
"Isabelle, Maryse, thank you again for your company today. I hope you had a lovely time." Magnus was by Alec's side, smiling up a storm and accepted Izzy's ecstatic hug.
"Take care of my brother." She whispered into his ear, he nodding his head before turning his gaze to the rather uncomfortable mother. Knowing she would not be inclined to give him a hug, Magnus extended his hand as a neutral gesture instead. A few seconds went by and tension seemed to leave Alec's shoulders as his mother shook Magnus' hand.
When the door closed Magnus turned to face Alec, a smile on his lips. "That went rather well." He tapped him on the shoulder and went back towards the last of their guests, it being Catarina and Ragnor as Lydia had been the first to go. Her parents nagged her to come over to them for Christmas dinner, even though it was early, as they had alerted her to the fact that they had invited a "friend" over for her to meet, which she rolled her eyes at whilst explaining it to Alec. All he could do, along with Magnus, was wish her luck.
#
There was a bitter chill in the air as the Bane-Lightwood clan, Catarina and Ragnor were placing on skates as they were down at the ice rink for some extra Christmas cheer. No one felt like anything more to eat, everyone's tummies were at bursting capacity, so Magnus had brought up the option of skating and it was well received.
There were quite a few families out, but at least it wasn't too overly crowded. Alec hated crowds. He was currently leaning against the side railing, eyes glued to Magnus and Catarina who were skating around the rink with his giggling sons and Madzie.
"So you made the choice?" Alec drifted his gaze to Ragnor who was also leaning against the railing, a cup of hot tea between his gloved hands.
"I did."
"So what are you standing over here for?" Alec tilted his head at the older man. "Don't keep my sweet boy waiting." He let off a slight laugh and on hesitant legs (it had been awhile after all) he began to skate on over to Magnus, Catarina and the kids.
"Daddy finally came to join us!" Raphael yelled happily, cheeks rosy red from the wind chill.
"Well..." And just then, Alec lost his balance, feeling himself tilt towards the ground in an instant. He'd watched Magnus' eyes grow slightly wide, arms out to try and save him, but they both went tumbling down, landing with solid thuds, Magnus lying on top of Alec.
"Are you alright Alexander?" Though Magnus asked the question, he was in fact chuckling away, eyes closed, cheeks slightly red from the chill in the air, much like the kids. Just looking up at Magnus, Alec couldn't help but lift his head and kissed him. He felt Magnus stiffen instinctively, for they were right in the open, something the man knew was very out of character for him to show such affection, but right at this moment, nothing mattered to Alec except Magnus.
Magnus deepened the kiss, feeling Alec jolt beneath him at his response and then remembering where they were, they quickly drew apart, scrambling back up onto their skates, faces most definitely flushed now. Of course they had a few onlookers, and several rather close by which turned out to be, most embarrassingly, Catarina, Ragnor, Madzie, Max and Raphael.
Whilst the three kids just stared weirdly at them, it was Catarina who had a massive smile on her face, hands against her chest. "Its about time!"
"E-Eh?" Magnus was utterly shocked at her response.
"I thought Alec would never make a move on you." Magnus shifted his gaze to look at Alec who couldn't help the crooked grin on his lips. Of course Catarina didn't realise (they hoped) that technically they'd already made several moves on each other. "Now I know I can rest easy now that Magnus has a lovely man who will promise me that he'll always love and protect him...go to the ends of the earth for him...right Alec?"
"Wait..."
"Yes."
"WHAT?" Magnus whipped around, eyes large and incredulous as he gazed at Alec. He'd never spoken of such commitment before! Of anything like love before as well! It all seemed to be such a taboo subject (or so Magnus assumed) since he never wanted to rush Alexander into anything with him.
"Yes..." Alec repeated his response and watched Magnus turn his gaze away, teeth digging into his bottom lip as he was thinking everything over in his head and blushing a little adorably in the process too. It all seemed too much. Like it were a dream. Alec skated a little closer to Magnus, taking hold of his hand with one of his, waiting patiently for those brown and amber-gold eyes to reach his blue orbs. "I've been thinking quite a bit lately and...and no matter what anyone thinks, my mother included, I choose you Magnus." Was that moisture in Magnus' eyes right now? "We choose to live a life with you." He watched Magnus suck in some much needed air at his confession. "Do you...not want to?" He watched Magnus shake his head abruptly, skating even more impossibly closer and then Alec felt Magnus thump his head against his chest, the man practically hugging the stuffing out of him.
"Sweet Pea and I belong to you Lightwood's." Magnus muffled into Alec's chest.
"And Max, Raphael and I belong to you Bane's." Alec listened to Magnus laugh aloud, almost like a crazy person as he shot his head up, beaming him a massive smile and then abruptly skated off, arms out wide and head tilted back for a moment.
"I LOVE CHRISTMAS!" The adults and three children began to laugh at Magnus' antics as he skated around the ice rink, people looking at him oddly, and kids waving at him as he was practically jumping for joy.
Alec's intense blue orbs watched Magnus come skating directly towards him as he pretty much skated right into his arms, Alec struggling to keep himself on his feet, as well as Magnus, but this time had succeeded. "This is the best Christmas I've ever had." Magnus confessed and once again, escaped Alec's embrace and did some fancy twirl on the ice, gaining several applauses, but that didn't matter at all as he was once again right in front of Alec, beaming him another hearty smile.
"This is definitely the best Christmas I've ever had too." Alec watched Magnus' gaze drop to his clenched hands, he knowing this was a sign of worry and hesitation from the man. See, he could catch some of Magnus' tells as well. "What is it?" Magnus shifted his gaze back to him and Alec couldn't help but smile. "I know what the clenching of your hands mean..." He watched Magnus shove them into his pockets, giving him a tiny sheepish grin, which was of course, oh so adorable.
"Are you and the boys still going to move out in the New Year?"
"Um...well...not if you don't want us to go."
"I don't want any of you to go." Am I moving to fast?
"Alright then." Thank goodness...
"I LOVE YOU ALEXANDER!" Magnus watched Alec pull a face.
"Did you have to voice that so crazily loud?"
"Too much?"
Alec let out a sigh. "No... No that is just so...you." He couldn't help the grin on his face.
"And you love that...don't you Alexander?" Was that nervousness in Magnus' gaze, waiting anxiously for Alec's response to his blatant question.
"Yeah... I love you too Magnus." He was rewarded with Magnus throwing his arms around him once more.
Alec closed his eyes, knowing he was probably grinning like a fool and yes, people would most definitely have heard their proclamations of love, not only their children and Magnus' family. But on this chilly Christmas evening, once again, Alec couldn't care less. Knowing he was going to share a life with Magnus, nothing more could make this evening perfect.
Both men jolted, chuckling as they did as they dropped down to squat carefully on the ice rink, wrapping their three giggling children into their arms, all the while their foreheads touching and their eyes sparkling at each other, just as snow flurries began to fall around them.
Ok, now it was perfect.
# The End #