Magnus rolled over to look at the sleeping shadowhunter. It had been days since his breakdown and Alec's cheeks were still stained with fresh tears. Magnus brushed them away with his thumb, his heart aching to see Alec so distraught. Alec still occasionally cried out in his sleep and Magnus would comfort him until the sun peaked through the window. He hadn't done it in days which was a good sign.
He got up to get dressed, even though he wasn't going out that day. He had to stay with Alec, who refused to leave the apartment. He slipped out of his pajamas and tugged on a pair of black sweatpants that hung low on his hips. He put on a grey t-shirt and a red shrug. He mussed up his hair in front of his mirror, not bothering with hair products.
He jumped when a voice surprised him. "You aren't very sparkly today." Magnus whipped around to face Alec who was sitting up in bed, rubbing his eyes. Magnus gave a failed attempt at a smile. "Not really in the mood for sparkles." Alec didn't acknowledge his response except for a slight nod while yawning. "Coffee?" Magnus suggested. Alec nodded again. Magnus went into the kitchen to make some.
It was a strenuous system; Magnus making coffee, Alec not getting out of bed. Magnus suggesting that he do some training to cheer up, Alec arguing that he doesn't have a partner. So on and so forth. It was mentally exhausting for Magnus but every day Alec seemed the tiniest bit more lively.
The next morning, Magnus woke to arms wrapped around his midsection, Alec's head resting against his chest. Magnus noticed he was sleeping. He smiled to himself and brushed his fingers through Alec's ebony hair. He did this for a while, too pleased to fall back asleep, until Alec stirred.
"Magnus?" Alec murmured.
Magnus could have cried out of happiness. Finally Max was not the first name on Alec's lips. It was music to his ears.
"Yes, love?" He responded.
"Stay with me?" Alec mumbled, holding on tighter.
"Of course, darling. Of course."
And suddenly, all of Magnus's work was worth it.