Chapter 31

Undrawn

Alright, please don't be angry. I know this took almost a month to update, and I feel terrible, but life was crazy with school starting. Also, my charger for my laptop died and the new one I got died too and so, two weeks later I'm finally able to use my computer with my third charger. So I had to access to the chapter for two weeks and so was unable to write. But all is good now, so I hope you can forgive me for taking so long. Life was just crazy, to say the least. Anyway, I won't keep you waiting any longer. Thank you all for reading and I hope you like it.

Songs: Exit Wounds-The Script

The sun rose beyond the window, shining it's blinding golden rays down on the cold land below. He watched, his eyes unfaltering as the celestial orb broke over the horizon. He let the warmth wash over him, the gold and fiery tendrils reaching deep down into his soul. He lived within the warmth, letting everything fall away and letting nothing matter but that moment, that feeling. It was beautiful. After so many days -years- of darkness it was nice to just feel the light once in a while. It pushed at all the corners, washing away the demons and all that resided in the very depths of his being. He closed his eyes, sighing into the warmth as a pair of strong arms wrapped around his waist. He melted into them, just as he melted into the warmth, giving himself over completely to all of his surroundings.

"How are you doing?"

"Better than I thought I'd be doing." Magnus had expected to be a wreck. He had expected everything at the hospital to tear him apart inch by inch, yet here he was standing strong and full. He had made it out alive, more than he could say for his father. Watching his father, knowing he was drawing his last breaths, had been a confusing moment for Magnus. Part of him felt triumphant and ready to take on anything while the other part of him felt so numb. He would never miss his father but the thought that he was actually dead was foreign and hard to understand. Even though his father had spent the last part of Magnus' life in jail, he'd always been as big a part of Magnus' life just as if he was actually there. Magnus had lived every day with his father in his shadow, his hands holding tight to Magnus like an anchor, holding him down with each step he tried to take away from him. Now that his father was gone, that anchor had fallen. Magnus felt weightless, almost empty. But not in the empty kind of way where you've got nothing to look forward to, nothing to live for, and nothing at all. It was the kind of empty where you felt whole, relieved, and at peace. It was the kind of empty that you wanted to feel because it was beautiful and you could feel everything in that emptiness like you were feeling it for the first time. It was like being born again, like the life ahead of you was just waiting to fill that emptiness with amazing things. Magnus felt empty like that and he was ready to take on the world now. There was nothing inside his soul but himself and there was nothing pulling him down but a couple pounds of glitter. He was free to be himself now, to live his life his way. There was no one out there now to stop him from moving forward. His father was dead, and so was his demon that had haunted Magnus when his father couldn't.

"Are you sure?" Alec asked, worried.

"I'm sure." Magnus smiled, turning around in Alec's arms, He wrapped his own arms around Alec's frame, pulling him closer to him, letting their bodies connect and mould into one. The sun reflected in Alec's eyes, giving the vibrant blue a golden cast that made them all the more beautiful. Magnus didn't look away from them as he brought a hand up to brush a strand of Alec's hair behind his ear. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For making me go."

"I didn't make you go. I just said that you should."

"I know. But you gave me the courage to do it. If it wasn't for you I don't think I could have done it."

Alec blushed a deep red that contrasted with his now golden skin. "You know you had the strength all along. You didn't need me."

"But..."

"But, you faced him in there all alone, without me. That was all you. I had nothing to do with it." Alec smiled softly, warming Magnus' soul more. "So don't thank me. Thank yourself."

"I know. But, just, thank you, for everything in general; for putting up with me and everything that came with me. You never had to do that." Magnus looked down, losing sight of those beautiful blue eyes that kept him holding on.

Alec's fingers came to Magnus' chin, pulling it up so that their eyes met again. "No, but I chose to. I wanted to. So thank me all you want, but it's the things we do for love." Alec smiled, pulling a smile from Magnus' lips. A few seconds passed between them, their hearts sharing beats as their eyes kept perfect contact.

The things we do for love. Yeah, Magnus never forgot those few words. And speaking of love and the things we do, there was something he'd been wanting to ask Alec about, something that had been nagging at him and that he knew only Alec would be able to give him an answer to. Magnus unwrapped his arms from Alec, pulling back a bit, much to Alec's visible disappointment. He placed a hand in his back pocket, pulling out a piece of paper. "Alec, I want to ask you about something."

"Sure. What is it?"

Magnus looked down at the crumpled piece of paper, before unfolding it to show Alec. It was a poster advertising a University art show showcasing the best painters, sculptors, drawers, and more from Idris. Magnus' teachers had asked him to present some of his work in the show but he wasn't really sure he wanted to. The thing was that, to be honest, Magnus was nervous as all hell about people seeing his work. Sure, people had seen his work before, but not on a large scale like the art show would be. His work had been examined by the School Board for admittance, his teachers for critique, and by his mother and Alec, but his work had never been viewed by complete strangers in a mass crowd. He'd never been in an art show before, despite plenty of opportunities, because he'd never wanted anyone to see his work. Magnus knew he was a good artist but it was all too personal for him to want to share it like that.

Magnus knew he was a bit of a contradiction. He couldn't care less what people thought about his sexuality or the way he looked, but when it came to his artwork, he cared a lot. That was where he was vulnerable. The glitter and make-up and fancy clothes were a part of him, but they were superficial, his mask. His artwork didn't have the luxury of glitter and make-up and tight clothing. His artwork was his body, laid bare for the whole world to see, scars and all. The only people who knew that part of him were his mother and Alec. No one else had ever known and Magnus had liked it that way. It had been easy that way and Magnus never had to worry about other people. But now, now he could be subjecting himself to the type of judgment he had feared his whole life. The judgment of his soul, of the pieces of his heart, of the things he held most dear. Of the real him.

"Magnus, are you in this?" Alec asked, taking the poster from Magnus' hands.

"Yes... No... Not yet," Magnus said, his words jumbled in his mouth. "My teachers asked me to present some work in the show. But I don't know. I mean it's not really that big of a deal," he said quickly, running a hand through his hair nervously, stopping the movement at the nape of his neck.

"Not that big of a deal? Magnus. This is the biggest art show put on at Idris. This is an honour. Some of the greatest artists of our time have been showcased here."

"I know."

"So then how is it not a big deal?"

A few quick beats passed between them as Magnus dropped his hand, sighing. No point trying to hide anything; that beautiful voice would pull it out of him eventually. "I just... I've never had my work in a show before, and I don't know if I'm ready for it. It makes me nervous."

"Why?"

"About what they'll think. What if they don't like it?"

Alec laughed softly. "Magnus, they'd have to be blind to not like your work." Alec took a step toward Magnus, taking his hands in his. "You're amazing."

"And you're my boyfriend. You have to say that."

Alec just rolled his eyes, squeezing Magnus' hands softly. "I thought you were an amazing artist before I was your boyfriend, just as I think you are now. And since when have you ever been one to care what other people think? What happened to the whole 'I'm awesome and that's all that matters, the rest of you can fuck off' attitude?"

Magnus laughed, letting the laughter and the feel of Alec against his skin take him over. "It's still here."

"Alright, then I want to see it. Put your work in that show Magnus, and show them how amazing you are. The only thing they won't like is how jealous they are because they're not as good as you," Alec said, smiling up at Magnus.

"You think?"

"Baby." Alec leaned in to whisper in Magnus' ear. "I know," he said softly, nipping lightly at Magnus' earlobe before pulling away to look at Magnus, a grin on his face.

Magnus grinned back, liking this quick change in Alec and fully embracing it. There was a mischievous glint in Alec's eyes, a glint that said Alec was thinking about something, something Magnus knew he'd like.

"Really?" Magnus wrapped his arms around Alec's waist, pulling him flush against him, not an inch of space separating their needy bodies. "You know, do you?"

Alec nodded, his bottom lip between his teeth as that sparkle danced in the river of his eyes.

"You've got a lot a faith in that statement Alexander."

"No. I've got a lot of faith in you."

Their eyes just met, their bodies sending electrical waves between them. Magnus attempted to pull Alec closer against him, wanting more of him. His hands slipped lower, his fingers playing with the hem of Alec's shirt, sliding softly over Alec's cold skin. He felt Alec shiver beneath him, the vibration moving to every part of Magnus' body.

Magnus leaned forward, capturing Alec's lips with his. He pulled Alec's lower lip between his teeth, eliciting a soft moan from Alec. Magnus smiled, as he let the lip go, Alec's tongue slipping past Magnus' lips, delving into his mouth to take over. Magnus gave himself over to it, letting Alec control him like a puppet on a string. It was always so easy with Alec. Magnus didn't need to explain much more to Alec then that he was nervous for Alec to get it. Alec just understood and there was nothing more to it. It was comforting having someone know you that well and understand you before you act or speak. When Magnus didn't even understand himself sometimes, it made it easier that Alec did. And it was nice right now. Magnus didn't need to go into a rant about showing his artwork to the public and Alec didn't need to say anything more than that it would be okay, for everything to work out. They just understood each other that well that a few simple words could mean more than an hour of conversation.

Alec's hands snaked through Magnus' loose locks, sending a shiver through Magnus' already electrified body. They stopped at the base of Magnus' neck, fingers intertwining in his hair, pulling him down deeper into the kiss. If Magnus could stay like that forever, wrapped up in the feel and scent of Alec, he would. He'd give himself over to eternity for it and no matter how much time passed, he'd never be sick of what Alec did to him. It was so easy for Magnus now to realize that everything he'd ever feared was pointless. When he had something like Alec to hold on to and to come home to and love, he knew that nothing else mattered, and all those demons were nothing, just a piece of dust in the wind. Alec was the sun, rising high above everything else, blinding and warm and perfect.

Magnus' hands moved to explore more of Alec's skin, his long fingers tracing over the lines of Alec's hips, and slipping slightly past the band of Alec's jeans. His hands followed the curve of Alec's back and Magnus could feel Alec arch into him, his body calling out in wanting. And now really, what kind of boyfriend would Magnus be if he didn't answer the call of Alec's body?

Magnus went to slip Alec's shirt over his head when a knock sounded at the door; two quick raps that vibrated through the room. Magnus ignored it, and so did Alec, their lips continuing to touch in perfect harmony as Magnus' hands went back to the job at hand. But before he could do anything the knock came again, this time quicker, louder, and more impatient.

Alec was the first to pull away, and Magnus used his hands to pull Alec back to him. Alec put his hands up to Magnus' chest, stopping him from meeting Alec's lips again. Magnus pouted as Alec just looked at him. "We should get it."

"Do we have to?" Magnus pouted.

"Yes."

"Alexander Gideon Lightwood, you open that door right this instant. I know you're in there. I don't care if you're having hot sex with Magnus, you put some clothes on and answer this door."

Alec laughed despite the deep flush that coloured his skin. He pulled away from Magnus again, Magnus' arms falling to his sides defeated. Magnus watched as Alec walked over to the door. He opened it slowly and on the other side stood his sister, hand poised, ready to knock. When the door opened, her impatient frown turned into an ecstatic smile within a split second. She dropped her hand, instead throwing her arms around her brother. Magnus watched the big smile that crossed Alec's face as Isabelle's arms sucked the breath from his lungs.

"Izzy, I can't breathe."

Isabelle pulled away. "Sorry. I missed you."

"I noticed." But despite the fact his sister had just nearly suffocated him, Magnus could see the happiness on his face that his sister was there. A part of Magnus had always wished he'd had a sibling. He'd never had anyone his own age to hang out with when he was younger, and he'd always been alone. He'd never wish his childhood on another child, but if things were different, he'd have prayed for a sibling. He'd always wanted that sibling bond, where no matter what happened, you always had each other's backs, forever and always.

"And I missed you." Isabelle crossed the length of the room in a second, throwing her arms around Magnus. Magnus responded, hugging Isabelle back. Well, he may not have a sibling, but he had Isabelle, and that was about the closest he'd ever get. And Magnus wasn't complaining that Isabelle was like the female version of him in many aspects.

Magnus smiled. "You too babe."

Isabelle pulled away, leaving a kiss on Magnus' cheek before dropping her arms.

"Izzy, you said you weren't coming until 4," Alec said, a little irritation coating his voice as Alec hadn't planned on his sister interrupting them.

"I caught the morning train. I thought I'd surprise you guys. But, I interrupted something didn't I? You two were having sex."

"Of course not," Alec said quickly, blushing fiercely even though he was telling the truth.

"Yep," Magnus said at the same time, a mischievous grin painted across his face.

Alec's cheeks went an even deeper shade of red at Magnus' comment as Isabelle just laughed, looking from her embarrassed brother to his grinning boyfriend. "What a shame. Should I leave, give you two some privacy?"

"No Izzy, stay." Magnus knew Alec was glaring at him, but Magnus refused to acknowledge him, instead admiring how Izzy had managed a four hour train ride while still looking as beautiful as she always did. He made a mental note to ask her later.

Izzy smiled. "Okay. So, I'm starving. Where's the best place to eat?"

"It's beautiful here."

"I know."

Isabelle and Alec walked through one of the many courtyards of Idris, the sun shining warmly on their backs. Magnus had had a late afternoon class so Alec and Isabelle had been left alone. Isabelle had come down that weekend since Idris had always been her number one school for their Fashion Design program and she'd been dreaming about it since she was 5.

"I could really see myself here Alec. And their program is perfect. Some of New York's best came out of here." Yeah, Alec knew that. Isabelle had made sure to recite off all of their names for him when they were in the department building.

"Just as another one soon will. If you choose to come."

Isabelle smiled, throwing her arm around Alec's shoulders, pulling him closer to her. "I might. But do you think you can handle me for another three years?"

"I've handled you for seventeen; I think I can handle you for another three." They both laughed, Isabelle bumping her brother's hip softly as they continued to walk. Last time he'd walked through this courtyard he'd been alone after class and he'd been on edge, just waiting for someone to say something or do something. That guy, who he still didn't know the name of, hadn't backed off. He'd called him a few things, pushed him once or twice in the hallway after class, and made it clear to Alec that he didn't like that he was gay. Alec was grateful Magnus wasn't there to see any of it because he didn't know what Magnus would do. He knew Magnus was the protective type and had been all over him about whether he was okay and if anything had happened. Magnus was glued to Alec's hip outside any chance he got and in those moments, that guy, if he was anywhere around, didn't do anything. Magnus had asked Alec to point the man out, and Alec had promised to, but he'd yet to see him whenever he was with Magnus. Alec had told Magnus that Magnus had to tell him everything that was going on, so as much as Alec would have preferred to keep the whole ordeal to himself, he told Magnus everything. It was only fair that he knew and at the same time, it was a bit of a relief to voice the pain and let it be heard. Magnus understood and that really meant a lot to Alec.

"So, where to next? Anywhere I can find some hot guys around here?"

"Izzy."

"What Alec? Were you really expecting any less from me?" Isabelle said, stopping to sit gracefully on one of the many benches.

"Well, what about Simon? You know, your boyfriend?" Alec asked.

Isabelle's gaze fell, her face falling into sadness. "Yeah, about that."

Alec moved quickly to sit next to his sister. "Izzy, what happened?"

"Nothing bad. I mean, we're still together. It's just, he got accepted to Cal Tech."

"Izzy, that's amaz... Oh." The pieces quickly fell into place and Alec understood just why that sad look was painted across his sister's face.

"Yeah," Isabelle said defeated. "And if I go here... do you know how many miles there are between California and New York?"

"Uh... no."

"2 413," she said softly. "We'll never be able to make it work with that distance between us. But it's been his dream school since before he could remember, and... he said he could always go to MIT to be closer to me." Isabelle looked up at Alec, her face clouded with sadness. "I don't want him to give up his dream for me. So I was looking at schools down there. I thought..."

"Izzy," Alec interrupted, taking Isabelle's hand softly in his. "Idris is your dream too."

"I know but I think I love him and I don't want him to give up Cal Tech for me. There are good schools down there too, and the fashion business is still good. I can make it work." She paused, looking down at her and Alec's clasped hands. She smiled softly before looking back up at her brother. "Alec, can I ask you something?"

"Sure Izzy."

"Say Magnus' art dreams took him to California too, would you give up your dreams here to be a writer and go with him?"

"Of course I would," Alec answered quickly, not even needing to give it a second thought. He'd travel to the end of the world with Magnus if that was what he needed to do. "I can write anywhere, and they teach English and History at pretty much every school."

"Exactly. I can design there too Alec. I don't need to go here." She paused, thinking. "It's sort of like, you do the things you do for love. You know what I mean?"

"I know exactly what you mean." That short little phrase had molded itself into Magnus and Alec's relationship from day one, becoming a large part of them and the things they did for each other.

"So then you understand if I go to California?"

"I'll understand wherever you choose to go Izzy. Just, make sure he's worth it. I don't want to see you get hurt."

"I'm not going to get hurt Alec. I know he's special. He's worth it." Isabelle smiled inwardly, reflecting on Simon, and Alec could see in her eyes just how much that dorky band geek meant to his sister. It warmed Alec's heart to know that his baby sister, who had floated from boy to boy for years, had finally found someone to hold her down and love her as she deserved. Alec might not have exactly warmed to Simon at first, but as long as he made his sister happy, he considered Simon a good guy in his books.

"That's good." Alec smiled. "Just make sure he knows that if he hurts you, he better put more than 2 413 miles between him and New York."

Isabelle laughed. "I'll tell him." She slid her arms around Alec's neck, pulling him close into a tight hug. "Thank you for listening to my problems."

"Yeah, cause you don't listen to mine on a daily basis." They both laughed holding each other close for a few seconds. "I'm always here if you need me sis."

Isabelle pulled away, her previously sad face now the one he was used to seeing on his sister. "I know. Now, let's guy watch."

"Izzy, boyfriend," Alec pointed out forcefully. "Both of us, I might add."

"So, your point?"

Alec just continued to look at his sister in disbelief.

"Oh come on Alec. Don't tell me you don't look once in a while. There is absolutely no crime in looking just so long as you don't touch. Now come on, what about him?" Izzy pointed out into the late afternoon crowd.

Alec followed her finger, his eyes laying upon a black haired, hazel eyed jock. He had his shirt off, as he was tossing a football back and forth with a couple other guys. He had a toned muscular stomach, his skin a dark smooth tan.

"He's not ugly, but not really my type. Too built. Plus, he has no ass."

Isabelle laughed, her laughter a smooth silky sound.

Alec looked at Isabelle alarmed. "What, did I say something wrong?"

"No, I just didn't expect you to actually say something. Okay, how about him? Now that's a fine ass."

That it was. The man was blond, his hair long and curly around his angular face. His eyes were a deep blue, almost like the sea after a storm. He held a black Fender in his hands, his back up against the tree as he strummed a few chords, his voice a soft sound on the wind, reaching the wanting ears of the girls around him. Despite the eyes, he kind of reminded Alec of Jace. It was there in the face. They held their jaw the same and had the same quick, heart melting grin that painted their whole face.

"He's nice."

"Nice? Alec, that man's damn near fuckable."

Alec just laughed at his sister's abrupt use of language, but couldn't help but agree.

"Alright, hmm... him."

Alec followed her gaze, his heart stopping as he saw who she was looking at. It was him. The one who remained nameless in Alec's brain but whose face he would never forget. He had dark, jet black hair and even blacker eyes. He reeked of confidence, each step he took a 'Fuck you' to the world saying he was the best. The grin that crossed his face was evil, just as dark as his eyes, the corners curling up like he had a plan that would take over the world and he was the only one privy to it. He was talking with his friends as he walked, the two guys around him nodding and smiling, two chess pieces in the black knight's game.

"Hey Alec! Yeah, I'll take that as a yes."

"No. No. Izzy, let's just go. Please." Alec took Isabelle's hand, pulling her up off the bench. He started walking away but Isabelle pulled back, stopping Alec.

"Alec, what's going on? Do you know him?"

"Izzy, please, can we just go?"

"Fine."

Alec pulled at Isabelle's hand again, hurrying off in the other direction of the man, taking a detour to his dorm that took them an extra five minutes. Isabelle didn't say anything as they walked but Alec knew she was close to bursting. He knew his actions created a lot of questions and he'd answer them when they were safe in his dorm. Right now, he just wanted to get away. If he stayed and that man said anything he didn't know if he'd be able to handle it around Isabelle and if he'd be able to answer the questions it created.

Alec opened the door, welcoming the comfort of the dorm and the protection that the closed door gave him. Alec took a deep breath, his back to his sister. But he knew that one breath was all he was going to get before the questions started.

"Are you going to tell me what the hell is going on? Why'd you just flip like that? Sure the guy looked like a cocky asshole, but he was gorgeous."

Alec turned around to look at his sister and he could see the sincerity in her face and that the happiness from their game had drained away to seriousness.

"Izzy..."Alec didn't know how to say it. Magnus just sort of guessed when things were going on but Isabelle had no idea, so he actually had to put all of it in words. Isabelle just looked at Alec expectantly, waiting. "I don't know his name, but he's in one of my classes."

"And?"

"And, ever since I came out with Magnus, he's made it clear to me he doesn't like it."

Isabelle's face shifted from one of concern to one of complete anger. "I'm going to kill him." Isabelle moved to leave, but Alec caught her hands, pulling her back to him. He could feel her shaking beneath his hands. Bless her soul, really. But sometimes Alec just wished she wasn't so protective. But then again, he'd do the same thing if it was her.

"Izzy stop. Don't."

"Don't? Alec, does Magnus know?"

"Yes."

"And he hasn't done anything?" Isabelle tried to pull away from Alec, but Alec held her there.

"No Isabelle, you cannot kill him either."

"Then who can I kill?"

"No one."

Isabelle's shoulders fell, defeated as she realized Alec wasn't going to let her do anything. "Fine. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine."

"Yeah, but has he hurt you? Has he hit you?"

"He's pushed me in the hall a couple times, called me a couple names, nothing major."

"Nothing major? Alec, this man is bullying you because you love somebody. He's a homophobic arrogant asshole who's probably got a dick the size of my pinky. I won't let him get away with this." Fire lit in her eyes, dancing in the dark irises.

"Izzy, there's nothing we can do. I knew this was going to happen. Unfortunately, it's a part of being who I am. There's always going to be ignorant bigots out there."

"Yeah, but..."

"Yeah, Izzy, it hurts, like you don't even know. But I'll make it through. He's not going to tear me down, no matter how hard he tries. He can hate me, call me what he wants, but it won't change the fact that I love Magnus and for once in my life I'm truly happy. I know that he's exactly what I've feared my whole life, but I've realized that there's bigger things. I'll be okay Izzy." Okay, so that was a bit of a lie, a way to calm Isabelle down. He did mean the part about loving Magnus and nothing was going to change that, but he was still afraid. This was what he'd been afraid of his whole life, people like him. It was like seeing his old nightmares come to life and Alec couldn't wake up from them this time around. He knew he had Magnus and Isabelle to protect him but they couldn't take away the pain of his words or the feel of his hands against Alec's skin when he pushed him. They couldn't take away that pain, even Magnus who knew it far better that Alec ever would.

Isabelle smiled softly, relaxing a bit. But depsite her relazed look Alec knew she didn't really believe him. And he also knew that if Isabelle ever saw that guy again she'd probably rip him to shreds. That was his sister, always being protective when it was supposed to be Alec's job to protect her. But he guessed it went both ways with siblings. "You promise?"

"I promise." Alec stuck out his pinky finger and Isabelle repeated the gesture, hooking hers around Alec's. They both bit their thumbs, sealing the promise. They smiled, pulling away from each other. "I love you Alec."

"And I love you sis." They hugged, Alec holding Izzy closer than he normally did. God, he didn't know what he'd do without her. He knew a lot of people who had siblings and they fought just like Alec did with his, but that was all they did. They hated each other. Alec was thankful he didn't have that. His parents hadn't been home much when they were younger so they had had to rely on each other, and that was how they'd formed their bond. It was nice that the three of them were so close in age too because they really did grow up together. Max was a little left out there but he was still as close to them as they were to each other. Alec really wouldn't change his relationship with any of them for the world. Next to Magnus, they were the best thing he had and he was going to hold on as tight as he could for as long as he could.

"Oh yeah, that's gorgeous. Alec won't be able to resist you."

"You think?"

"Well I'd fuck you."

They both laughed, their laughter mixing as it settled around them peacefully. Isabelle lay on her side on Magnus' bed, flipping lazily through the newest issue of Cosmo. Magnus was coming in and out of the bathroom, a new outfit on each time. He was having issues deciding what to wear for his art show and had asked for Isabelle's expertise. This process had gone on for a few hours now, and it had been a really nice few hours. Magnus liked being able to bond with Isabelle and he felt that with every passing second he was growing closer with her. She was like his female counterpart, fitting him differently but just as well as her brother did. Magnus had never really had friends. Yeah he had a few through his art classes now and had had maybe one or two in his life, but he'd never had any that stuck around or really knew and understood him. Isabelle did. She got him, and it was so nice to have a friend like that, who was nothing more than just a friend. Alec was his best friend too, but it was different with him since he was also his boyfriend.

"Why thanks Izzy. I'm glad to know that. Just don't let Alec hear you." Magnus smiled.

"Yeah, I won't. He wouldn't like me taking away his responsibilities," she grinned, pausing. "Now seriously, wear that. It's perfect."

Magnus wasn't dressed as brightly and eccentrically as he sometimes was, given the occasion he was dressing for, but it was still him. He had on tight black pants, although not as tight as he normally preferred, leaving a little to the imagination. He adorned a black vest over a shiny silver dress shirt to which he also wore a slim, sleek purple tie. He also wore simple black leather fingerless gloves and had already planned out his hair and makeup in his head. It would be elegant but simple, a nice contrast to the quiet but bold outfit.

"It is isn't it?" Magnus smiled before walking back into the bathroom to change back into his outfit of the day. He changed quickly, his mind thinking about Alec now that Isabelle had brought him up. Magnus had been thinking about something for a while now, ever since Alec had let it slip in a conversation that he was thinking about it. Magnus wanted to surprise him, but he wanted Isabelle's opinion on it first.

Magnus left the bathroom to see Isabelle closing the magazine, moving it aside as she looked up at Magnus. "You're aware your room now looks like a glitter bomb went off in it right?"

Magnus looked around. His clothes were everywhere, draped over the couch, the beds, the desks, everything. When Magnus said he had gone through his whole wardrobe, he meant everything. And everything was a lot. What could he say, he liked clothes, even if there were some pieces he didn't really wear and had only bought on impulse because he really liked them.

"I think it looks fine."

"Can't say my brother would agree."

"Ah well, he could use a little glitter in his wardrobe anyway."

"Still none?"

"Nope," Magnus said defeated, as he sat down next to Isabelle on the bed. He looked down at her, marveling at how beautiful she was without even really trying. Magnus knew Isabelle wouldn't agree with him, but it was true. She was just like her brother. Alec could roll out of bed looking damn near edible and still look that way all day, and he did absolutely nothing. Isabelle had only worn a thin layer of make-up today and had ended up throwing her hair up in a tight ponytail, and yet she was still gorgeous. The Lightwood siblings really were a beautiful set of people.

"Izzy, do you mind if I pick your brain a little bit longer?"

"Yeah, sure."

"Okay, so a couple weeks ago your brother mentioned that he was tired of the dorm lifestyle and that he wanted out, and he's been bitching about it continuously since, and, well, you know how fiercely your brother can bitch. So I started looking around for apartments." He caught Isabelle stifle an excited squeal beside him and he smiled in reply. "And I can't say that was an easy task. I know Alec doesn't want anything big. He likes simple, concrete, nothing too extravagant."

"The exact opposite of you."

"Exactly." He paused. "But I think I found a place that'll fit us both." He took his phone out of his pocket, opening the pictures and handing it over to Isabelle. "What do you think? It'll obviously need some work first."

She sat there, scrolling through the pictures for a few seconds, her smile getting bigger as she went from one to the next. Magnus took that as a good sign as he sat there nervously. He wanted to surprise Alec, but then he didn't want it to be a bad surprise where Alec didn't like it. Magnus liked to think he could judge Alec's style pretty well by now so he thought the place he had a found, just a 10 minute walk from the school campus would be perfect for Alec. And although smaller than Magnus might have liked, he still really liked it, and the view from the roof was beautiful. Also, it wasn't like he was taking some big step in their relationship alone. They already lived together, so Magnus surprising him like this wasn't anything major. They would just be moving living quarters and nothing else would change. He knew that Alec wanted it but Alec wasn't exactly willing to act on it yet, so Magnus was doing it for him. And if Alec didn't like the apartment, they could always get a new one. Magnus wasn't going to put any money down on it until Alec had seen it.

"Magnus, it's perfect. For both of you. Alec'll love it."

"You think?"

"I know." Isabelle handed Magnus back his phone, smiling. "Go for it."

"Thanks."

Magnus took his phone, pocketing it. He looked back at Isabelle whose smile had faded and it looked like she was thinking, a blank shadow passing over her face.

"Magnus, can I talk to you about something now? On a more serious note?"

"Of course." Magnus turned on the bed to look at Isabelle, pulling his legs up, crossing them as he looked at Isabelle, waiting.

"It's about Alec."

"Yeah?"

"And the man who's been bullying him."

Magnus' face fell. Hearing that sent knives into his heart. He hated hearing about the fact someone was bullying Alec and he had no idea who it was and couldn't do a damn thing about it except try and protect Alec as much as he could. He hated knowing Alec was hurting and it tore him apart. Magnus knew what it felt like and Alec put on a good front, just as Magnus did for years, but Magnus understood what was really going on underneath it all. Alec was scared and hurting and he needed somebody. So Magnus had been there, doing what Alec asked and holding him through it all. He swore to God if he ever found out who was doing it he was going to kill them.

"I know who it is."

Magnus' attention snapped up to meet Isabelle's gaze. Magnus could see the same protective nature for Alec reflected in Isabelle's gaze that he knew was in his own. "Who?"

"His name's Sebastian. Alec and I were out walking and we saw him. His friends said his name. But when Alec saw him he just freaked and ran."

Sebastian. Sebastian. Why did Magnus have a feeling he knew who Isabelle was talking about? Alec had described the man to Magnus as best he could but Magnus had never been able to figure out who Alec was talking about. It was a big school. But not too many people had the name Sebastian. Black eyes, Alec had said, and black hair. He was tall, built, popular. Magnus continued to think about it, and then it clicked.

"Son of a bitch!"

"What?"

"Sebastian Verlac."

"You know him?"

"He's in more than a few of my art classes. He's good, and he'll be in the show." Magnus threw his head in his hands, taking a deep breath, trying to let it fill him up. It was so different to finally put a name to the face and to know who it was. Magnus clenched his fingers in his hair, pulling it in his frustration.

"I'm going to kill him," Magnus said through clenched teeth.

He relaxed a bit when he felt Isabelle's hands on his, pulling them out of his hair. Magnus looked up at Isabelle, dropping his hands to his sides.

"Alec already told me I can't. And I think that order applies to you too."

"But..." Magnus protested.

"We can't. But, that still doesn't mean we can't do something. We can stand up for Alec, even if he doesn't want us to. But he can put away his pride away for a few minutes and let us try and protect him. I won't sit back and let my brother get hurt, just as I know you won't. So we can do something about it. We can confront this Sebastian about it."

"Alec'll kill us for it."

"Hey, if we're not allowed to kill Sebastian, Alec sure as hell ain't allowed to kill us. Now come on. What do you say Magnus?"

Magnus searched Isabelle's eyes and determined she was serious. She was ready to confront Sebastian for her brother, no matter what the consequences. She really wasn't going to let her big brother get hurt. And Magnus was with her. Now that Magnus knew, he wasn't going to pretend to ignore it anymore. He was going to do something about it. He'd spent too many years of his life in Alec's position to let Alec experience what he did. He wasn't able to stop his own pain, but maybe he could stop Alec's.

"Alright. I'm in."

Isabelle smiled. "Alright, let's go. I think I know exactly where to find him."

Magnus' eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Where?"

"Wherever Alec is," Isabelle said softly, sadness and anger both fueling her words and painting her face.

Magnus knew where Alec was, some class he had on Shakespeare. But Magnus knew the building and he knew how to get there. He knew Alec would be getting out soon, and if anything happened, Magnus was going to be there to pick him back up and protect him. He was going to be there to say everything to Sebastian he knew Alec was too afraid to say. He was going to give Alec what he never had and that was someone who would hold him up through it all and protect him from the pain. He wasn't going to watch Alec hurt anymore. He just wasn't.

But he wasn't going to hurt Sebastian either. Two wrongs didn't make a right. Violence did not solve violence. And Magnus had dealt with enough violence in his life to last him a lifetime. Words were what he would use. Magnus had realized too that words could hold just as much power as someone's closed fist or steel toe. Words hurt too, and Magnus had been at the sharp end of those just as much as he'd been at the sharp end of hard knuckles and leather belts. He was going to stand up to Sebastian as he had never stood up to his father, his many foster parents, the homophobic teachers, and his own Sebastians of his childhood. He was going to stand and not fall. This time, it would be them hurting and getting pushed down, not him. It was their turn to hurt, their turn to suffer. Magnus was done, and he was going to make sure Alec was too.

Alright there you go. Please review and let me know what you think. Thank you so much for reading. And also I don't know when the next update will be. October is already starting to look a little crazy for me. I just got asked to help finish writing the play for my school production and the director wants to start casting at the end of October, which means we need a finished script by then. So I'm going to have to focus a lot of my writing time on that. Also, I'm extremely busy with extra curriculars, school, work, applying for scholarships and everything else that comes with applying to University. So I hope you can all bare with me. Updates probably won't be as often as I would like, but they will happen. The story is coming to an end. I've got about 7 more chapters planned. Again, thank you all for reading and I'll try to get the next chapter up as soon as I can, but it'll depend how life works out. Anyway, love you guys. Thanks.

Be the change,
Amber