A/N: Hello, friends! It's been a long time, I know. Forgive me! I have good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first? Okay, let's go with bad… THIS IS THE LAST CHAPTER OF WAR OF HEARTS! *tears* And it's NOT because (good news) I started writing a new story (it's called What I Did For Love, check it out when you can). I always intended to end the story here. I believe we got to a resolution to the problem that has been the war in Alec's and Magnus' hearts… even if it's a partial resolution. And now I really need your attention, because….

...I WANT TO KNOW IF YOU'D LIKE TO READ MORE!

And I mean like in a SEQUEL to this story! Because I know other stuff like when and where Magnus gets his magic back…. more of Valentine… and more Malec fluff and angst…. And if you have any suggestions I could include them too! So what I need is for you guys to tell me if you'd be interested in reading a sequel. I don't want to continue the story as War of Hearts, because it wouldn't feel right… It's a writer thing… I apologize if this is confusing… The point is: let me know if you want to read more about Malec's journey in this story. I'M ANXIOUSLY WAITING FOR YOUR FEEDBACK.

Oh and when you get a chance, feel free to check out my new Malec story! It's called "What I Did For Love". Pretty much at the beginning so far, but it's going to be longer than War of Hearts for sure… And angstier! Here's the link:

s/12124433/1/What-I-Did-For-Love

Special thanks for the betas who helped me make this story happen: Sabiduria, soccergurl382 and ellerose77.

ENJOY!

Chapter 19 - The War Is Over

When Alec announced he wasn't going back to the Institute he could feel Izzy's curious look on him, but he didn't care. He walked away before she had a chance to ask anything and headed straight to Magnus' place.

He had decided to visit Magnus when he woke up that morning after some painfully short sleep. He couldn't sleep last night; his couldn't stop thinking about Magnus and how much he'd missed him. It had been two days since their first shaky date and they had only texted each other a few time since then. The non-stop hunt for Valentine had made Alec and all of his friends so busy that they barely had time to sleep. Despite their tiring missions, Alec only became more determined. He knew that the sooner they caught Valentine, the sooner Magnus would be out of danger and Alec would finally have a decent amount of time to spend with him. But that was only one of the reasons behind Alec's determination to find Valentine. Alec's hatred towards Valentine was another. Alec was so angry at him, first for taking Jace and decieving his brother, then for taking and hurting Magnus. Alec's anger fueled his quest to find Valentine not only to get justice for the Shadow World, but also to get his own revenge. He couldn't wait to get his hands on Valentine and teach him a lesson or two about the consequences of hurting the people he loved.

He loved Magnus. Alec didn't know why or how it happened, it just did. And he knew it was crazy, because they've only been out on one date, if one could even call that a date, and they only shared a few kisses. And he had no clue whether Magnus felt the same way or not. But those kisses and just being around Magnus have been the best moments of Alec's life so far. Besides all that, Magnus wasn't the only thing that's been growing on him; Alec was starting to like himself more too. Ever since he met Magnus, Alec was starting to figure out what he wanted in his life and could finally stand up to himself. He was more confident and motivated to go after what he wanted, and he had decided that people who couldn't accept who he was had no place in his life. And when he tried to think about what what have happened if Magnus hadn't made it back safely from Valentine… Well, the thought of it made him absolutely terrified. That was when he knew he was in love with Magnus Bane. It was clear now.

Alec knew he should be trying to get some sleep before the long day ahead, but he'd had enough of waiting. He didn't care that Valentine had not yet been caught. He didn't just want to see Magnus, he needed it. He needed to settle the battles in his heart and he couldn't do that without seeing Magnus.

Alec's thoughts about Magnus were multiplying in his mind until he realized he'd been staring at his door for the Angel knew how long. He suddenly realized how late it was, almost three in the morning and Alec wondered if he'd just made an unwise decision. He didn't want to disturb Magnus' sleep, but Alec also remembered him complaining about not being able to sleep since he had escaped Valentine, so instead of ringing the bell he risked a quiet knock on the door and hoped for the best.

To Alec's surprise, the door was answered almost immediately and a startled Magnus was facing him. Alec was caught off guard by his beautiful features immediately and breathing was becoming hard.

"Alexander?" Magnus asked hesitantly.

"Hey," Alec muttered. "I know it's late… I hope I didn't wake you." Alec swallowed his nervousness back to his stomach, hoping it would stay there and looked at Magnus waiting for some sign that said he was welcome.

"Are you hurt?" Magnus asked and scanned Alec's body with his eyes, which made Alec self-conscious about the way he must be looking. He didn't go to the Institute to change, but came here right after an intense demon battle, so he imagined he must look awful right now.

"No," Alec said quietly and looked away shyly.

"Are you okay?" Magnus seemed like he didn't catch Alec's previous answer.

"I'm fine," Alec said and glanced back at Magnus.

"Do you need anything?" Magnus completely disregarded Alec's answers and continued to examine him with his eyes.

"Magnus, I'm fine," Alec said reassuringly. "I just wanted to see you."

Magnus finally looked him in the eye and Alec sensed his surprise; Magnus was definitely not expecting to see him. What if showing up like this was a bad idea after all? Alec felt his insecurity creep up on him once again, but he didn't get a chance to put it into words, because Magnus took Alec's hand and pulled him inside. Alec heard the door close behind him, but everything else went undetected by him; his senses were completely lost from Magnus' hands encircling his waist and his intense gaze. Alec looked deeply into Magnus' burning golden eyes wondering if his own eyes or even brain would set alight if this eye contact went on for much longer.

But Alec's eyes and brain were spared from such a tragic end when Magnus pulled him close and pressed their lips together for an impassioned kiss, taking Alec's breath away instantly. Alec brushed Magnus's lower lip with his tongue and took the opportunity Magnus presented him when he moaned; Alec slipped his tongue in Magnus' mouth and felt both himself and Magnus shiver as he explored the interior of his mouth. Alec was now holding Magnus close to his body while Magnus' hands went on a slow trail from Alec's waist, through his arms and shoulders, up to his face. Magnus tasted subtly of alcohol and something sweet and Alec kissed him so passionately as if he wanted to get intoxicated himself.

Alec felt Magnus' strong embrace around his neck and pulled him so close that their upper bodies were practically glued together. He loved the heat that radiated off Magnus' strong body. He loved the way Magnus responded to his kiss, but he also knew he couldn't keep this up for much longer; he really didn't want to faint, so he broke the kiss to get some air.

"Alexander…" Magnus was panting heavily too. "You certainly know how to… sweep a man... off his feet."

Alec just noticed that Magnus had leaned on the couch as he was recovering his breath. Alec felt guilty; he'd forgotten that Magnus didn't have the runes he did, or even his magic anymore. It was a strange feeling, being stronger than Magnus, and one he found rather uncomfortable.

"Sorry…" Alec mumbled and felt himself blush.

"Nonesense! It was a compliment, dear," Magnus said and then placed a soft lingering kiss on Alec's lips.

When they parted again Magnus smiled at Alec and brushed the back of his hand across Alec's burning cheek. Alec let out a deep breath and smiled back. He was so happy in this moment, he wished he could wrap himself and Magnus in a bubble and stay in there forever.

"I was just about to make tea. Would you like some?" Magnus purred to Alec.

"Tea?" Alec asked skeptically. "Since when do we drink tea here?" He added and couldn't stop himself from smirking at Magnus' utterly shocked expression.

"Alexander!" He exclaimed. "Tea is one of the most wonderful beverages in the world!"

Alec crossed his arms and nodded while trying to keep up a serious face.

"But if you want something stronger I can provide that too," Magnus said after regaining some of his composure.

"No, tea is fine," Alec said with a casual nod and watched Magnus head to the kitchen. Magnus stopped just before reaching the kitchen doorway and turned back to Alec.

"Please, make yourself at home," he said then disappeared into the kitchen.

Alec walked around the couch and sat on it's right end. He leaned on his knees, folding his hands together, and replayed the image of Magnus' startled face. Alec had no idea Magnus was so protective of his tea. There was still so much he didn't know about Magnus, but Alec was looking very much forward to getting to know him better. He also made a mental note to tease him more about his love for tea in the future.

It was a calm dawn in Brooklyn. Alec heard Magnus preparing the tea and concluded that coming here tonight was the best decision he'd ever made - aside from calling off the wedding with Lydia and kissing Magnus in front of all the guests. That moment still held the award of the boldest and craziest thing Alec had ever done. Alec knew there were plenty of obstacles he still had to face with Magnus, - Magnus' immortality was one of them - but he felt stronger with Magnus, like he was capable of facing anything. He loved this new feeling and loved Magnus for bringing him so much happiness. Alec noticed some birds chirping and his heart wanted to join them in their joyful song.

A couple of minutes later, Magnus walked back holding a tray, that contained what looked like an ancient black iron kettle with two matching tea cups. They looked like pieces someone would find in an antique shop. Magnus placed the tray on the center table, the same one they had dinner on two days ago on their first attempt at a date, then poured some tea in the mugs. He handed one of them to Alec and their fingers touched only momentarily, but that was enough to send a wave of electric excitement through Alec's body.

Magnus took his own mug and sat next to Alec but not too close to him. As Alec sipped his tea he had to admit it was really good. He'd never tasted such a unique blend before, but then again he wasn't much of a tea drinker, so he had no idea about what could be in it. He considered asking Magnus, but the quietness was nice and Alec didn't want to disturb their peace. So they enjoyed their tea in silence, enjoying the calmness that the other's presence brought them.

Soon enough, Alec's eyelids started to feel heavy. Despite his weariness, Alec could feel Magnus' eyes on him, so he shook his head a little to keep himself awake. He didn't want Magnus to have the wrong impression that he was bored.

"Long night?" Magnus asked quietly.

"Yeah," Alec said without looking at Magnus. Turning his head seemed like too much effort in that moment. He was surprised at how sleepy he sounded and could still feel Magnus' gaze on him.

A moment later Magnus leaned forward and took Alec's empty mug out of his hand and placed it back on the tray, beside his own. Then he gently took Alec's hands.

"Come here," Magnus said softly and pulled Alec close to him.

Alec followed Magnus's guidance and leaned in, resting his head on Magnus' chest and curled his feet up on the couch beside him. Magnus wrapped his arms around him and Alec let out a sigh at his warm embrace, deciding that he loved being in Magnus' safe arms. He couldn't think much as he inhaled the comforting smell of Magnus. But as he slowly drifted into sleep he was certain of one thing.

Alec's heart was finally at peace.

The single tear slowly trailed its way down on Magnus' cheek. Magnus had no words to describe what he was feeling, he just immersed himself in it. Alec showing up there was unexpected, but it was nothing compared to Alec showing him how much he cared about him. As Magnus gently caressed Alec's back, he realized that he hadn't felt this happy in a very long time. And he had this beautiful Angel in his arms to thank for it.

Magnus placed a soft kiss on the top of Alec's head when he noticed he had fallen asleep. I love you so much, Alexander, he thought as he rested his chin on Alec's head. Magnus loved having Alexander in his arms; that nice warm weight brought him the peace his soul so desperately needed. Maybe things would start getting better now; maybe he could finally move on. Perhaps Magnus could start forgiving himself for all his terrible acts. It wouldn't be an easy process for sure, but at least now he had help; if Alec thought he wasn't a monster and was worthy of being happy then maybe he should start believing it too.

Magnus closed his eyes and before he fell into the very much needed sleep, he assured himself that everything would be okay with Alec by his side. He fell into a serene sleep, holding onto Alec, with a smile on his face.

All was well for now.

TO BE CONTINUED

A/N: THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING! I REALLY HOPE YOU ENJOYED THE STORY. LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU LIKED THE MOST AND WHAT YOU DIDN'T LIKE OR HATED, I REALLY WANT TO KNOW YOUR OPINION ABOUT THE STORY.

PLEASE REVIEW AND LET ME KNOW IF YOU WANT A SEQUEL! YOUR OPINION IS REALLY IMPORTANT TO ME. AND IF YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR THE SEQUEL DON'T HESITATE TO TELL ME THROUGH REVIEW OR PM.

YES I'M YELLING, BECAUSE THIS IS IT. THANK YOU FOR EVERY SINGLE REVIEW, FOLLOW AND FAVORITE, IT MEANS THE WORLD TO ME. YOUR SUPPORT MADE THIS STORY EVEN MORE SPECIAL, YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST.

AND NOW I'M ANXIOUSLY WAITING TO HEAR FROM YOU. SEE YOU SOON!