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Chapter Text

It's been a while since Magnus visited London, but he's sober enough to know that this place is not it. He was visiting his dear old friend Ragnor for Samhain. He kicked Magnus out after a few minutes of his company, claiming that Magnus can spend his energy elsewhere. More preferably on the vast number of parties downworlders and even mundanes are throwing.

And he did. It was the night of Samhain or as the mundanes call it Halloween. Magnus was a bit miffed at first when the celebration was changed into something so mundane. But he now appreciates all the raving parties that followed, the skimpy outfits, and all the costumes allowed Magnus to feel a bit more comfortable with his cat eyes. Getting thrown out of Ragnor's place, Magnus went to the loudest and brightest club and partied the night away. It was around 4 am, and he was very smashed. Creating a portal when you've consumed horrific amounts of alcohol is not a very smart move. Instead of popping in the middle of London as Magnus planned, he was transported to the south, a few kilometers off from his destination.

"This is why we don't drink and portal. Honestly." He snapped his fingers and magicked himself sober. He looked at the street of similar posh houses in white picket fences and arched an eyebrow.

'How boring.' He scanned the area to look for anything out of place. There must be a reason why his magic decided to take him here instead. He closed his eyes and breath in the winter air. He walked down the street and expanded his magic to feel his surroundings. He felt the ley lines reach out to him, calling him. He walked further down the road and stopped in front of one of the houses. He heard a whimper that got his full attention. It was dark, and some of the streetlights are flickering, and some just went dead, probably due to the magic emitting from the house. He assumed that he was just hearing things, but there was another whimper and peeked over the hedges, and he realized it was coming from a basket left at the doorstep.

With a wave of his hand, he rendered himself invisible to mundane prying eyes if there was any and entered the yard. He crossed the yard in hurried steps and peeked inside the basket.

It was a baby. Magnus reached out and gently touched the baby's forehead with his finger. He brushed the baby's fringe off its forehead, and he felt dark magic touch his finger, and he jerked away from the basket.

"What is that abomination doing inside a child?" He examined the child again, and it opened its big green eyes. The baby stretched out its chubby arms and let out a whimper when Magnus just stared.
The baby started to kick out his arms, and the whimpers turned into soft cries and water pooled in the emerald eyes. Magnus immediately pulled the baby to his chest and realized that the poor baby was cold to the touch.

"It's the 21st century, I didn't realize mundanes still leave children in other mundane's doorsteps. Sweetie, you'll be fine now. I've got you." He examined the basket and saw a letter tucked in the thin blanket inside it. Holding the baby with one arm, he opened the letter.

Dear Petunia,

I'm afraid that I am writing to you as the bearer of bad news. Your sister and her husband are dead. They were killed by a dark wizard. Lily sacrificed herself for young Harry to live, and that sacrifice will keep young Harry safe as long as he stays with blood relatives. You being Lily's sister means that the blood wards will keep Harry safe from that dark wizard's followers, and it will keep your family safe as well. I believe that your connections to the Potter family may leave you to target those who will want revenge for their fallen master. Harry was marked by the dark lord, and he survived the killing curse that rebounded and killed Voldemort. It's in my knowledge that you and your husband detest magic, but I assure you that you do not need to exert much effort in caring for young Harry here. He'll be treated like a celebrity if he were to grow up in the wizarding community, and we do not want a child to grow up, so sure of himself and overly confident. I'll be sending you money and instructions on how to make sure the boy will grow up and be loyal to me as my soldier for the wizarding war that is to come.

Albus Dumbledore

He couldn't find the right words to describe the horror he felt as he read the letter. So the child was a mundane wizard. He knows of that secret society, but he always thinks so horrible about the one in London. Ragnor often complains how backward that wizarding society is and how some downworlders tainted the mundane wizards in the early centuries. That created vampires and werewolves that are no longer distinguished as downworlder with how diluted their demon ancestry was. They also think so highly of themselves despite their barely functioning society, so the shadow world made it a point to not associate themselves with them.

"So you lost your parents huh," he mumbled to the babe who was now sleeping in his arms. He looked so peaceful now. He caressed the babe's forehead and felt his heart ache for this child who just lost his parents and is now thrown to someone who clearly wouldn't love him.

Magnus decides there and then that he'll take Harry away from them. "You'll be much safer with a high warlock than with a flimsy blood ward." He took the basket along with a letter and transported it to Ragnor's flat.

"My darling green cabbage, please wake up. I need your help." He set the basket aside and conjured a cot and gently laid down Harry, making sure that he was warm. The boy was exposed to cold November air and who knows how long he was left there.

He opened his friend's cabinet in search of the ingredients rushing around, searching for a particular spellbook on how to extract malicious souls from a living host.

Ragnor opened his bedroom door and rubbed the sleep from his eyes and eyed Magnus wearily as he draws a magic circle in his living room.

"What in the bloody hell are you doing?"

"I need your help in taking out some trash." Magnus looked back at his friend with a solemn look. "I found someone messing with the ley lines in Surrey. "

"A warlock wreaking havoc during Samhain?" Ragnor asked.

"No, a baby actually, if you can believe it, was accidentally using his mundane magic to call out to me."

Ragnor then noticed the cot at the side with a solar system mobile twirling above it. "Did you kidnap a mundane wizard's child?" Magnus scoffed at the question.

"Of course not. Some idiot left a child on somebody's doorstep with a letter saying that the boy's parents are dead and that they can do whatever they want with the child." Magnus finished the magic circle and moved to the table to mix the necessary ingredients.

"That doesn't explain why you are performing the purification ritual at four in the morning." Ragnor, despite his questions and complaints, walked towards the table and started preparing the rest.

"I don't think babies come with extra souls attached to curse scars when they are born."
He gestured to Ragnor to look at the baby to see just what he is talking about, and Ragnor let out a gasp when he realizes what is on the baby's forehead.

"What monster creates a Horcrux using a baby." He took the child and laid it in the middle of the magic circle and wave away its small overall and shirt to turn into a soft white robe fastened in the center. He also magicked the boy into white booties and gently wiped Harry's forehead with a damp cloth. Harry whimpered but did not wake.

"What's a Horcrux?" Magnus asked.

"Let's talk about it later. First, we must rid the baby of this parasite, then I can explain to you more about it." Ragnor grabbed the silver cup and gently poured it over the lines of the magic circle surrounding Harry. He muttered some spells, and the lines started to glow. Magnus grabbed the other concoction and gently spread it on Harry's curse scar.

They held hands and chanted, and the wind blew strongly. They felt the incredibly powerful dark magic that was being sucked out of Harry. The baby was now awake and crying, and Magnus tried hard to concentrate and not break the circle. He wanted to comfort the baby so badly, but stopping now would only put all of them in danger with the presence of this dark magic. The black mist that came from the baby's forehead was forming into the shape of a man. It looked mad and demented, and it screeched and tried to grasp something in thin air. They pushed more magic to open the veil that would suck the soul out of this dimension into the spirit world, and slowly the soul was being sucked into the opened portal. It trashed around, not allowing the two warlocks to remove it easily from its host. It even tried to escape, but the magic circle pulsed, and it was pushed back in.

The ritual took an hour, and both warlocks were left exhausted. The soul now is gone, and the scar still remained but barely noticeable. Baby Harry was comforted as soon as it was over. Magnus grabbed him and changed his clothes and soiled diaper. He laid down in the guest room and laid Harry on his chest to sleep. He rubbed the babe's back till he was fast asleep, and Magnus just stared at Harry and his curse free forehead.

"I'll take care of you little one from now on." And with that, Magnus fell in a deep sleep, the best one he had in years.

Chapter Text

Magnus was only asleep for a few hours when Harry woke up and fussed against his hold on him. He felt tiny hands smacking his chest lightly and a foot rubbing in his side. His hands must have relaxed its clutch to the baby because Harry wiggled and sat on his chest only to bounce on it.

Magnus let out a huff and groan, "I'm up! I'm up!" Magnus grabs hold of the child's back as he sat up. He props up his legs and settles Harry against them.

"Good morning Harry." He brushes Harry's hair away from his face and pinches his cheeks lightly. "Feeling better?"

Harry just tilted his head and put his fist in his mouth. "Nam nam" he said while still gnawing on his fist. Magnus chuckle and remove the fist from his mouth. He held out his arms, and Magnus obliged and picked him up. They went out of the room to see Ragnor preparing a late breakfast for the three of them.

Magnus conjured a high chair for Harry and deposited him in it, waving a toy to manifest and land on the table for him to play with as he waits for the food.

"Magnus, what are you going to do now?" Ragnor asks as he passes a plate of pancakes with fruits to Magnus.

Magnus sighs. "I'm raising him. I think I'm the best candidate for that considering the competition are magic-hating relatives and some guy who wants to use him as a pawn." He gave Ragnor the letter Harry came with and saw his friend's green complexion look a bit red with anger.

Magnus grabs the bowl with cut bananas and berries. He also took out a small plastic plate to cut bite-size pieces of pancakes for the baby. He sat next to Harry and laid the bowl and plate in front of him and watched as Harry immediately grabbed the banana and screamed, "Nana!" in delight.

It seems like there was no lingering effect from the ritual, and Harry was now alright.

Magnus smiled as Harry tried to feed himself and half the table. Conjuring a cloth, he gently cleaned the red bits of food smeared near Harry's ear.

"About the Horcrux Magnus..."Ragnor looked more serious and gave the child a pitying glance. "It's a dark spell that requires sacrifice and a container. It splits a person's soul to make them immortal."

"So...this dark wizard who killed his parents might also be the one who owns that piece of a soul?" Magnus asked.

"Yes. I've been keeping tabs on the mundane wizards, and from what I've gathered, Voldemort was the name of the dark wizard who had several followers. Their main propaganda was about blood purity."

They discussed some more about the mundane wizards when Magnus felt a hand tug on his sleeves. He looked back and laugh at Harry's messy face and took note of his almost empty plates. Harry grabbed his last piece of banana and held it in front of Magnus.

"Is that for me?' He said with a glint in his eyes. "Are you sharing your Nanas with me, Harry?"

"Nanas nam nam!" Harry proclaimed and waved his hand in front of Magnus. Magnus accepted the banana with a smile and ate it.

Who could tell that the sad orphan boy he saw on someone's doorstep is such a happy child? So young but suffered so much already. Magnus knew he's adopting him when he saw that bright green eyes full of joy. So innocent. He didn't want to leave the boy to anyone who would hate him just because he's different. Mundanes never did like those who are even the slightest different from them.

"Since I know you're adopting Harry, when will you tell Raphael about him?" Ragnor asked as he finishes his breakfast.

"Soon...once I get everything settled, my dear."

Magnus began cutting more pancakes when Harry finished his and was starting to bang his fist on the empty plates. "Dada more!"

Magnus stopped. He didn't know how to react to that. He doesn't even know if children at his age are already capable of recognizing and remembering people's faces.

"Harry, how old are you?" Ragnor snickered at Magnus' question.

"I doubt the kid knows how to answer that." He laughed some more. Harry just looked pleased that everyone's attention is him and raise both his hands.

"Ha! I doubt you're that old already, or else I'll be asking you for your beauty regime. However, did you achieve such a youthful glow." Magnus jokes at Harry and then blew raspberries on the boy's tummy as he pulled Harry out of the chair and went to the bathroom to bathe the child.

Harry loves the bath. He also adores all the colorful bubbles Magnus would conjure and all the ducks floating around him in the tub. He also likes water so much he practically drowned Magnus' clothes in it. One clean baby later and a soaked to the bone Magnus emerge from the bathroom. With a snap, both Magnus and Harry are dry.

Magnus transfigured some of his sleepwear to something that fits Harry, and they both went to the living room. He placed Harry on the sofa with a toy. Magnus conjured a barrier to prevent Harry from falling off the couch. He then proceeded to talk about the documents he'd need to make sure that Harry will be officially his son.

"Magnus, I tried contacting some of my contacts in the Ministry of Magic, and it appears that that baby is now considered the boy-who-lived. He's Voldemort's conqueror. His parents are considered war heroes. He doesn't have any other relatives on the Potter side, so we might need to see his parent's will and their assigned guardians."

Magnus hummed in thought. "Can you summon here one of your goblin friends. Perhaps they can help us identify who is the next candidate to be his guardian."

It took a while before the goblin arrived. While waiting, Harry was fed lunch and was now sleeping in his crib in the guest room.

"Greetings, my name is Griphook. You must be Magnus." Griphook extends his arm.

Magnus smiled and shook his hand. "Pleasure to meet you. Now, you see, last night, the ley lines were disturbed, and a child's magic reached out to me. I'm sure you are aware we are talking about Harry, and we want to know if his parents left a will or instructions on who will be his guardian."

"Well, the boy's magic has indeed chosen you to ask for magical assistance. Since the magic cannot be disputed after being examined, then we'd be willing to show you the Potter's will. For a price, of course," Griphook smiled wickedly.

"That won't be a problem. I just want what is best for the child because I have evidence that he was wrongly placed." He gave the letter to Griphook.

"Yes, Dumbledore is in no position to place the child anywhere. It's the family's barrister's job." He pulled an envelope out of his vest and tossed it in the air. Gold dust surrounded the letter as it floats and quickly unfolded itself.

The reading of the Potter's will confirmed his assumptions that this Dumbledore is using the child. He was never supposed to give the child to Lily Potter's relatives, and that the remaining listed guardians were now unsuitable in caring for the child. Sirius Black, according to the goblins, was incarcerated for killing 13 muggles (or mundanes). He's also said to be guilty for the betrayal of his friends as the Secret Keeper. Remus Lupin, according to Griphook, cannot be Harry's guardian because of his Lycanthropy, which Magnus scoffed at.

'Werewolves should be able to raise children, how ridiculous.'

The goblin - after assessing Magnus's capability - deemed him powerful and responsible enough to be able to care for Harry. After some paperwork and a diaper change, Magnus was now Harry's legal guardian. He also changed Harry's name. Something the goblin suggested to make finding such document and Harry himself harder to find by people from the Ministry and that Dumbledore.

It was time for dinner, and Magnus went to the guest room to see an awake Harry jumping up and down inside the crib, pointing out the stuffed dog that he tossed out of it. "paddy!"

Magnus grabbed the dog and handed it to Harry before carrying him to the kitchen. "After dinner, we'll be coming home." He gently rubs Harry's back as his mind went to his Brooklyn apartment and of all the changes he needed to do. He felt Harry lay his head on his shoulder, and his smile widen. He placed Harry back to his chair and stared at the child's big green eyes. "So, Henry Jacob Bane, I'm your new daddy." Harry grinned. "Dada!" Harry continued to ramble along with some words that sound oddly familiar but cannot really be distinguished with all of the baby talks.

Ragnor looked at him and ask. "Why did you go with Henry anyway? Harry is a common name, and it would have been fine."

"I used to know someone named Henry, and he was a good man. I can still use Harry as a nickname, but the name Henry Jacob Bane was a nice ring to it. Especially if I'm gonna have to use it when he's in trouble." Magnus smiled at his friend. He thought back to the events that led to him discovering Harry. 'Who knew getting drunk and a mistaken portal would change my life this greatly.' He smiled at the thought.

Chapter Text

After dinner at Ragnor's place, Magnus opened a portal right away after saying goodbye and making Harry presentable. Harry looked in awe as they enter the apartment and wasn't fazed about the sudden change of environment. They had dinner past 6 in the evening, and he mentally slapped himself when he noticed the noon sky in his apartment windows. It was still afternoon in Brooklyn.

"You know what, I need a nap anyway. I'm sorry for the jet lag, but we'll work through it somehow." He rocked Harry a bit in his arms as he conjures a crib in his living room.

He closed the shades and curtains and settled the boy who's now growing tired but still trying his best to fight the sleep.

Magnus used the time Harry slept to expand the apartment, creating extensions and a new room connected to his. He looked at the sleeping baby and decided to go paint Harry's new room; with dark forest green and ivory colors. Magnus completed the basic furniture needed for the room; a crib, a dresser, a nice plush chair, shelves, and a toy chest were added to the room. He even included a changing table that he probably won't need in a few months since - according to Griphook - Harry's already a year and a half. He'll need to be potty trained soon.

It took them two weeks to get settled with a routine, and the reason why it took them that long was that it took Harry two days in Brooklyn to realize that some people are missing. He started crying for his mother several times during the day and would tire himself to sleep. It was difficult to comfort the poor child, and so Magnus contacted the goblins if he could acquire some things that used to belong to the boy's parents.

They went to Harry's old house.
They opened a portal right outside the property, and Magnus surveyed the area surrounding the property. The whole place - according to the goblins - are under special wardings to ward off thieves and dark wizards who would desecrate the property. Some wizards did not appreciate the involvement of the Potter family during the war. With permission from the goblins, Magnus and Harry were able to enter the wards without any problem. As soon as he opened the door, he saw that the mess that the tragedy left. Everything was untouched, and Harry babbled in excitement. He clearly remembered the place.

They entered the nursery. Not much survived the blast of magic created by the killing curse.

He took some toys, books, and pictures that survived the tragedy. Some things that will not be amiss in case someone who knew the Potters decides to come by.

Magnus carried Harry to another room. The master bedroom. He took some articles of clothing from the closet and left the house. The Potters were buried in the cemetery near their home, and Magnus decided to at least pay his respect to the boy's parents.

Magnus laid some white lilies and white roses on their graves. Harry somewhat felt the sudden change in the atmosphere. As if he realizes that they're standing in front of his dead mother and father, he started to whimper, hands rubbing his eyes.

Magnus made a stuffed animal for Harry using his mother's old clothes as well as his father's.

"Harry dear, please no more tears. You'll only tire yourself out," Magnus bounced Harry around and rubbed his back.

"Mama?" Harry said quietly in between sniffles.

Magnus sat on the big chair he placed in Harry's room and grabbed the toy he made.

"I don't know if you'd understand this well, but Harry...your mama and dada are in heaven now looking after you for sure." He tried to explain as he patted the child's hair, and Harry just stared at him with his tear-stained cheeks and with the occasional hiccups. Magnus sighed. "They went bye-bye Harry." He said. Using familiar words to try and help the boy understand. Death shouldn't be something a boy his age should be familiar with.

"Bye-bye?" Harry hiccup.

"Yes. I made this toy just for you if you ever miss your mama and dada." He handed the toy that contains his parent's scents preserved by Magnus' magic. "But I'm here now, so you won't ever be alone."

"I'll protect him with my heart," Magnus said out loud. Saying silent vows to the boy's parents that he will raise Harry well in their stead.

Harry gripped the toy with one hand and his other holding onto Magnus' shirt. Magnus and Harry returned to Brooklyn, and for the first time in a while, both Harry and Magnus had a restful sleep.

Chapter Text

Raphael knocks on Magnus's door. He's having some trouble with Camille's newly turned vampire, and it has been a while since he visited Magnus' place. Going to see Magnus in his home means you need to prepare yourself for anything unusual because Magnus loves to be different. But it's beyond Magnus' apartment's usual weirdness to be welcomed by a bear cub pushing down a shiny red toy trolley that has silver glitters on its wheels. As soon as he steps inside, the bear picked up its speed with the trolley, ramming it to his shins.

"Dear God!" He said upon impact. "Magnus! Why is there a bear in your apartment?"

The bear looked up and giggled.

It wasn't a bear at all. It was a child. He felt his fangs prick against his mouth, smelling the blood pumping in the child's veins. He closed his eyes and clenched his fists. Controlling his bloodthirst before opening them again.

A small mundane dressed in a bear costume. "Grrrr!" The kid said with his hands on his face.

"Raphael! What a pleasant surprise!" Magnus came to view, and the small mundane left his cart to dash and slam himself against Magnus' legs. Magnus laughed at the boy's antics and picked him up.

"I - I need your help on something. A book." Raphael looked around and saw that the usual meticulous apartment messy. Toys scattered on the floor, books left open and small pieces of clothes left on the couch. "I just saw you a month ago. What happened?"

"I swear this wasn't how I planned on telling you this, but..." Magnus smiled at the small child in his arms, who started playing with his hair. "I got distracted by this little cutie."

Magnus led Raphael to the couch, clearing the mess with a snap. He placed the child on the floor, and it immediately crawled around, pretending to be a bear and trying to growl at the other teddy bears placed at the foot of the table.

Raphael stared at the kid. It stared back, tilting his head in a totally not so adorable way. He raised his eyebrow and bared his fangs.

"Dada rawr!" The kid pointed at him, and speed crawled towards him.

Raphael cannot remember the last time a child willingly approached him. He looked at the small toddler worriedly.

"Magnus, so why is there a child in your apartment?"

Magnus glanced at Harry and back to Raphael.

"Raphael, meet Harry. Harry, meet your brother Raphael." Harry babbled something that Raphael thinks is supposed to be a greeting of some sort.

"Brother? A vampire and a mundane?" Raphael scoffs.

"I practically raised you, Raphael. I'm sure you'll get along." Magnus placed his hands on Raphael's thigh. "I know what you're thinking. You're not a monster to hurt a child like Harry."

"Aren't you too old to be minding small children?" Raphael gave Magnus a smirk and moved closer to Magnus when Harry reached the sofa and is now using it as a leverage to hold himself up.

"I rescued him from a cruel fate with mundanes. He has magic, but he's not a warlock. He doesn't have any demon blood."

Harry continued his shuffling towards Raphael. "What do you want?" Raphael asked Harry when the toddler placed his hands on his lap and stared at him. Harry babbled some words and then said, "Up!" Raphael looked at Magnus, and Magnus laughed at his confused expression.

"I'm sure you understand what that means, my dear Raphael. Harry would sit on your lap himself if he could, but he doesn't have the strength to pull himself that high yet." Magnus stood up and tapped Raphael's cheek endearingly and walked towards the kitchen.

Raphael slowly picked him up from the floor and gingerly placed him on his lap.

Harry wiggled around to find the most comfortable position and rested his back against Raphael's chest a bit aggressively. Raphael raised his eyebrow.

"Eres un chico valiente, ¿no?" (You're a brave boy, aren't you) He said in a low voice.

Harry laughed and bounced on Raphael's lap and placed his ears against the man's chest. Harry babbled with a few - distinctive - words that don't make much sense for the vampire. Harry looked at him as if expecting a reply, and the vampire did. "I'm not sure I get that but are you asking me to play with you?"

Harry shrieked with joy and bounced so hard he almost fell out of Raphael's lap. The vampire's fast reflexes caught him just in time.

Magnus came back with a book that reminded Raphael why he visited Magnus that day.

"I know you vampires have so much time on your hands, but it won't kill you to personally return my stuff. You hardly visit anymore." Magnus placed the book on the table, giving Raphael a knowing smirk. "So many things happen during the times you don't."

Harry, after a bit shuffling and help from Magnus, is now on the floor, tugging Raphael's pants.

"Yeah, like suddenly being a father? Where are you taking me?" Raphael asked the second question to the boy who still holds his pants.

Harry grunts as he pulls and then points towards a door, frustration is seen in his face.

Raphael sighs. "Alright." Magnus laughed at Raphael being bossed by someone who's barely two years old and followed them to the playroom Magnus set up for Harry.

People would say Magnus spoils the kid if they see his room full of toys, books, and other stuff. Raphael helped Harry as they walk to the room. Harry, plopping down the middle. He gives Raphael a book looking at him expectantly. "Lions! They go roar!" Harry clapped his hands as Raphael reluctantly sat on the bean bag chair next to the toddler.

"He met you less than an hour, and he already got you whipped," Magnus whispered to Raphael. The vampire recalled his attempts earlier at intimidating the kid into submission. It was like he was immune to Raphael's - and what Magnus loves to call his expression - grumpy face.

"Do I just read it to him?" Raphael asked.

"Harry, what do we say when we want something?" Magnus stared at the baby.

"Yes!"

Magnus laughs. "Do you know the magic word?"

"Isn't he a bit too young...for that?" Raphael said as the boy scrunched up his face in thought.

"Peasss," Harry said, dragging the s and drooling a bit.

"Yes! We say, please!" Magnus held Harry and blew raspberries on his tummy, turning him to fits of giggles. "Ok, let's listen to Raphael's story." Harry cheered with several shouts of "fel" only to stop when Magnus shushed him. Harry gave Raphael a toothy grin and got distracted by his tie. Harry grabbed the end of it and looked up. "Pretty tie, afel!"

Feeling embarrassed at the attention, Raphael removed his tie and cleared his throat.

"Once upon a time..."

Harry fell asleep after the first chapter, one hand holding Raphael's shirt. Raphael gently tugged the shirt free from his tight grasp, and the boy mumbled a happy sigh, "hmm...fel..."

If his heart was still beating, it would have skipped a beat at the endearing child. He tried his embarrassment with a cough.

"Should we move him to a bed?"

Magnus smiled at the two of them and carried the child to his room to sleep.

"Will you tell me how you got Harry?" Raphael asked as Magnus emerge from the other room.

Magnus snapped two cocktails, and the two talked about Harry's origin.

"I found him in London. He's a war orphan. Parents died in an attack, and he was left at a mundane relative's doorstep."

"Did you adopt him?"

"I did. So Harry is your younger brother now." Magnus winked as he took a sip of his drink.

"I'm glad you found him. We're both lucky because you found us."

"Well, a lonely immortal warlock needs a bit of company every now and then. I'm glad that you and Harry got along. Makes it easier for me." Magnus stared at his drink.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, he clearly liked your storytelling skills. I might need someone to watch Harry every now and then. You never know when the institute might need my help with their wards." Magnus gave Raphael a sly smirk and laugh at Raphael's expression with his eyes wider and his mouth falling open.

"You don't really think about making me a sitter?" He said at the ridiculous notion of getting a vampire babysit a mundane child.

"You're his older brother. It's your duty." Magnus laughed and ducked from the throw pillow thrown in his direction.

Raphael likes Harry, but he would deny that to anyone who asks, although nobody will ever believe him.

Chapter Text

Its the middle of December and Harry is suffering from a cold.
 
It started with a small sneeze yesterday that Magnus took note of, but since nothing much happened after a few hours, he thought it was probably nothing.
 
He should have known that that sneeze was already a sign. Harry cried in the middle of the night, waking Magnus up, and when he checked the boy, he was a bit hot to touch. He also took note that his nose was running.
 
"Aww, baby, are you feeling unwell?" He cuddled the boy closer, and Harry just squirmed in his discomfort. Harry cried louder, and that alarmed Magnus. He didn't know what is ailing his son. He carried Harry to the living room and browse his books. Harry grabbed his shirt. "Daddy...hurts."
 
"Shh, don't cry, my love. Tell daddy where it hurts, and I'll fix it," Magnus brushed the hair sticking to Harry's sweaty forehead.
 
Harry just pressed his head to Magnus's chest and continued to cry, tears, and snot mixing on his shirt.
 
Magnus's head was slowly spinning with all the possible sickness Harry could have.
 
He tried calling Catarina, but she's currently on duty and couldn't answer her phone. He didn't try contacting Ragnor since the man is away in some business.
 
Its Magnus's first time caring for a child Harry's age, and all common sense was thrown out the window. He was panicking and not thinking clearly. He tried to comfort the baby. Rocking him in his arms, changing his clothes, and trying to wipe his small body with a cool cloth. He didn't even think of using his magic.
 
What he did do was call Luke. He knows Luke helped Jocelyn raise Clary, so perhaps Luke knows how to deal with sick babies.
 
"Luke, I need your help."
 
"What seems to be the problem, Magnus?" Luke sounded hoarse from sleep.
 
"You've taken care of Clarissa before when she was just a baby, correct?"
 
He heard a muffled yes from the other line.
 
"I have a 17-month-old baby that is sick, and I don't know what to do. I'm not sure if it's serious enough to need emergency care."
 
He heard shuffling and a body hitting something along with a muffled curse, "I'll be there in a few minutes."
 
Luke came over with some medicines and gave instructions for Magnus to follow.
 
"Harry's asleep now, so you should rest as well while you can." Luke patted Magnus's shoulder and gave him a pat on his shoulder.
 
"Thank you, Luke. This is the first time Harry felt ill in my care, and I wasn't prepared for something like that. I feel like I somehow failed Harry."
 
"Don't be so hard on yourself. Parenting is never easy." Luke gave Magnus a reassuring smile and then inhaled deeply. "You said the boy is a mundane, but even though he's sick, I can still smell that he's part of a pack." Luke gave him a questioning look.
 
"I believe his parents were friends with a werewolf. Come to think of it, he was supposed to be Harry's guardian, but their wizarding laws prevent him from taking care of the boy." Magnus said thoughtfully. "I'm sure the man hasn't seen his friends' child since their deaths."
 
"I suggest you try and contact the man. Their laws are unfair. Just because he's a werewolf, that doesn't mean he's a savage animal."
 
"I'll look into it. Thanks again for helping me out." Magnus led Luke to the door, and once he's gone, Magnus went back to Harry's room again. He sat on the chair and staring at the child. Soon Magnus was asleep as well.
 
It took two more days for Harry to recover from his cold, and he was soon back to his energetic self.
 
"Harry, would you like to go to London with me? Let's go look for Mr. Lupin?"
 
Harry sitting on his high chair, banged his spoons on the table chanting. "Yes, yes, yes," Magnus smiled and took the boy for a bath.
 
He let Harry pick out the clothes he wants to wear, which was a bright yellow shirt with a bee on it, red pants, and a bright blue jacket.
 
They used a portal right outside the leaky cauldron. Magnus pulled a small sunglasses from Harry's diaper bag and placed it on Harry. Harry was fascinated by the sunglasses and was content to wear it. Magnus enchanted the glasses to switch colors to whatever color Harry says. They entered the pub, and everyone turned their attention to them.
 
Magnus knows his presence just has that effect on mundanes and is glad that it's not because they recognize the boy. He walked as confidently as he could pull off with a toddler in his arms and went straight to the entrance of Diagon Alley.
 
They went straight to Gringotts to ask Griphook on the whereabouts of one Remus Lupin. They gave him his address and the nearest floo near the area.
 
Using the Floo is certainly not better than just using a portal, its dirty and undignified.
 
Magnus brushed the soot of his dress shirt, and Harry giggled as he let out a sneeze.
 
Magnus was just about to knock on the small apartment when it opened.
 
"Harry!" A man looking worse for wear opened the door, eyes looking a bit crazed and manic.
 
Magnus took a step back, but the boy in his arms just screamed in joy and bounced in his arms. "Moony!" Harry made a grabbing motion towards the man, and the man now has tears in his eyes.
 
"Oh, Harry."
 
Harry struggled in Magnus hold. "Daddy..."
 
That seemed to snap the other man to reality, and he realized that Harry was with a stranger.
 
"Who are you." He said with a bit of growl.
 
"Can I step inside? For privacy, we don't want any nosy nobodies to know about Harry now do we."
 
Remus steps aside, still staring at Harry.
 
They sat on Remus' old couch, and Magnus allowed Harry to be carried by the other man. Remus hugged Harry tight, tears flowing freely now.
 
"I'm Magnus Bane. I'm a warlock. I found Harry on his relatives' footsteps last November."
 
"Don't you mean wizard?"
 
"I mean warlock. I'm far different from your kind. I adopted Harry here, and forgive me because it slipped my mind to notify you. I'm still not sure if it was right for you to know about Harry here being in my care."
 
"What do you mean? I'm one of James and Lily's friends. I know I'm a werewolf -" Magnus cut Remus off.
 
"It's not about you being a werewolf, but I'm just not sure who to trust in your community. You see, An Albus Dumbledore left Harry to his relatives with intentions to turn the child into his own pawn."
 
Remus' looked confused. "Dumbledore will never...wait, relatives? Lily's sister?" Remus looked livid. "That bi-" Remus stopped himself and took a deep breath. "That woman hates Lily and everything magic. Dumbledore knows that, why would he -"
 
"If you're willing to hide this fact from that Dumbledore, I would allow you to visit Harry as much as you like. Although we don't live on this continent, I'm sure we can make arrangements."
 
"I would do anything for Harry. He's all I got left."
 
Magnus observed the small apartment Remus is living in.
 
"What if you move to the States? I mean, I could help you find a better place than this. It might make avoiding an old coot easier."
 
"So, you're an American?"
 
Magnus hummed an agreement and smirked when Harry climbed down Remus' lap and walked back to sit with him. "For a couple of decades, I've been around for a long time, you see."
 
Harry decided that its tiresome to just sit while the adults talk and so he pulled himself up, standing on the couch next to Magnus. "Daddy..." Harry patted Magnus cheek to get his attention. Magnus pressed his cheek on Harry's small palm and smiled at the boy. "Yes, sweetheart? What is it?"
 
"Pongs peassss," he said, slightly bouncing on his heels impatiently.
 
Magnus retrieved the stuffed deer that he made out of the bag and gave it to Harry.
 
"That's..." Remus stopped, and more tears fell from his eyes.
 
Magnus realized what caused the reaction and apologized. "I'm sorry, but I took some of their things from their house to help Harry adjust. Just some of his favorite toys, books, and some clothes."
 
Remus wiped his tears with his sleeves and held out his hand, "Could I hold him again?"
 
Harry was once again in Remus's arms, and he held him tight. Grieving once more for his departed friends. Harry felt a bit sensitive to Remus's emotions cried as well. They stayed like that for a few minutes, and Magnus felt a bit left out but gave the two a bit of privacy. 

Magnus walked and observed the few pictures on the wall. He saw pictures of Harry's parents with Remus and some a younger Harry. What took his attention the most was a group photo that was folded and only showing Harry's parents, Remus, and a small rat looking man.
 
"You said you can help me move?" Remus said, looking more composed.
 
"Yes, I live in New York, and I know a few friendly werewolves who might allow you to be part of their pack?"
 
"But aren't werewolves dangerous? How could they be friendly?" Remus said with fear in his tone.
 
"You're a werewolf. Aren't you friendly?"
 
"No! I'm dangerous and... And I don't want to hurt anyone, but during a full moon, I need to be restrained and..." Magnus retrieved Harry from the panicking man.
 
"Since when have you been a werewolf?" Magnus asked.
 
Remus took a few gulps of air. "I was bitten when I was a child."
 
"And you've never had a pack before?"
 
Remus just looked confused.
 
"You need help to control your wolf, and I'm sure my friend could help you. He even works in the police force in the um muggle world as you call it."
 
With a bit more convincing, Magnus was able to convince Remus to move to an apartment near them in Brooklyn.
 
In a week, everything was ready for the werewolf to move. Magnus used his magic to help Remus transfer all of his belongings - not that there was much of them - to his new apartment. 
 
"I never knew warlocks like you could ever exist. You don't use wands and..." Remus stared at Magnus with wonder as he set everything up in the apartment.
 
"and I have demon blood. Yes, we've already talked about this, but I guess the wonder - that is Magnus Bane - never ceased." Magnus gave him an exaggerated twirl with a bit of a bow at the end, which in turn made Harry clapped. 

Remus shakes his head, laughing at the two of them.
 
"Since I totally helped you out and we're neighbors, and you're Uncle Moony, I guess it only means you're automatically invited to my Christmas Party." Magnus followed Harry's slow pace as Remus walk them back to their apartment.
 
"I'd like that. I thought I'd spend Yule all on my own, but..." Remus looked away and brushed a tear that escaped his eye. "Thank you."
 
  
 
A few days later, Remus knocked on Magnus's door, gifts on hand, and he brushed away invisible specks of dust from his new Christmas sweater. It was ugly with a reindeer that has a blinking nose on it, but Harry picked it for him when they went shopping two days ago.
 
Honestly, he was expecting Magnus to throw a very lavish party with lots of guests but it doesn't look like thats the case here. When Magnus opened the door, he saw that there were only a few guests with soft Christmas songs being played in the background. They were all wearing a Christmas sweater.
 
"I didn't know you made Christmas sweaters as your theme for the party."
 
Magnus laughed as he straightens his sweater to show him his.
 
Magnus is wearing a simple green sweater that says I'm on the naughty list. It doesn't look that bad.
 
Magnus then grinned at him and chased Harry to show Remus the tiny sweater the boy is wearing.
 
It's a red one that matches Magnus, but instead, it says, "I'm on the nice list."
 
"I'm thinking of making it a tradition. Its Harry's first Christmas with me, and I want to make everything perfect. C'mon, I'll introduce you to everyone."
 
When they reach the center of the living room, Magnus clapped his hands to get everyone's attention.
 
"Let me introduce you guys to Harry's uncle." Magnus pointed to a pale young man who was also wearing a Christmas sweater was brooding by the wall glaring down at his drink. "That young man wearing the Christmas tree sweater is Harry's big brother Raphael." The young man just glared at Magnus and gave a brief nod towards Remus before Harry came to him and dragged him to another room. "He might be a grumpy cat, but Harry got him wrapped tight between his small fingers."
 
He introduced Remus to Catarina next.
 
"Hi, I'm Catarina Loss. I've been Magnus' friend for a long time and if he ever gives you trouble, come to me, and I'll set him straight. He gets clingy to his newer friends."
 
"Thank you."
 
Remus noticed that Raphael came back to the living room with Harry in his arms. Raphael walked next to Magnus and said, "Maybe let's continue the introductions in the dining room? Harry told me to tell you that he's hungry." Harry pulled on Raphael's collar and whispered loudly, "dino...fel...dino." Raphael sighs and says in a deadpan tone, "that's he's a hungry dinosaur. Did I say it right?" He asked the boy who just grinned and played with the stuffed dinosaur in his hand.
 
"For someone who claims they don't like kids, you sure do know how to translate Harry Talk." Magnus gave Raphael a knowing look.
 
Raphael just grumbled but didn't let Harry go.
 
Magnus ushered them towards the dining room where an incredible Christmas spread is.
 
While eating, Magnus introduced him to Jocelyn and Clarissa.
 
"These are Jocelyn and Clarissa. Jocelyn used to be a shadowhunter, but she decided to go mundane instead, and that's her daughter Clarissa."
 
"Its Clary, um... nice to meet you, Remus. I heard you're also a werewolf?" Josephine lightly tapped her leg and gave her a look. "I'm sorry, is it supposed to be a secret?"
 
"No, it's fine. I'm just not used to people knowing. People in Britain were never accepting of creatures like me."
 
Clarissa let out a small gasp. "Oh! I'm sorry. It's just that my stepdad is also a werewolf."
 
Luke decided to intervene and introduced himself. "I'm Luke. I'm the Alpha of the pack here in Brooklyn. I'm also Clary's stepdad."
 
Remus felt conflicted. He looked at Magnus, and Magnus just gave him a reassuring smile. He shook Luke's hand.
 
Remus felt an itch under his skin as another werewolf stare at him. Luke grabbed him by the shoulders, and with a commanding voice, he said, "Relax. It's ok. You need to calm yourself."
 
Remus didn't realize that he got disassociated with his surroundings and was breathing heavily. He's never been in another wolf's presence before, and he never did learn how to control his instincts.
 
"I'm...sorry. You just feel too much...very intimidating?" Remus tried to piece together the thoughts swimming in his head along with the complicated nature he's feeling through his wolf. 

"I'm sure. Just take deep breaths. Concentrate on your surroundings and ground yourself to Harry since your instincts know he's pack," Luke gave him a reassuring smile. 

After that, dinner went smoothly, and they all gathered back to the living room to pass the gifts. 

Since its Chrismas Eve, Magnus gave Harry a few of his presents to open. 

He sat Harry in the middle and placed a box as big as him for him to wreck open. "Daddy! Help peasss," Harry struggled to open the gift. Magnus took pity and ripped a corner, which Harry proceeded to pull until he was able to understand that the paper was meant to be ripped away. It was a broom. A small wizard's baby broom that was meant to hover a foot off the ground with a small seat that fastens the child on the broom. 

Remus brushed a tear from his eyes as he watched Harry zoom around Magnus's legs as the man help him fly with his broom. 

"He's not even two yet, but he clearly got his father's flying skills," Remus said.

The boy tire himself soon enough, and the guests soon left Magnus's apartment. The night might have ended too early compared to Magnus's old parties but he thinks this one might be the best one yet.

Magnus placed one of the many photos of that night with everyone wearing ridiculous Chrismas sweaters on the mantle. It was the start of their very own family traditions, and many more will be added as time goes by.

Chapter Text

"Good morning, darling!"
 
The toddler is currently eagle spread on his bed, clutching his favorite toy as he sleeps. Harry's blankets are kicked at the edge of the bed, along with the other toys Harry insists on sleeping with.
 
Harry slowly roused from sleep and stretched his small arms. "Daddy," he whined and rolled on his stomach.
 
Magnus started tickling the sleepy toddler. "Daddy!" Harry laughed and wiggled to get away from his hands.
 
"Did you forget?" Magnus let out an exaggerated gasp. "It's your birthday!"
 
Harry sat up and looked at Magnus with huge twinkling eyes. "Birthday!"
 
"Let's go eat your birthday pancakes, darling. It has blueberries in it!" Harry cheered and rushed to get out of the room.
 
After a birthday breakfast, Magnus treated Harry to a morning walk to the park.
 
"Duckies!" Harry suddenly leaped and ran towards the pond where the ducks are.
 
"Harry!" Magnus ran after the boy, but then Harry stopped abruptly and pointed, "Daddy, look!"
 
Harry pointed at the man at a distance. The man was being chased by the mother duck and her ducklings across the edge of the pond. He was screaming at the top of his lungs, trying to get away from the fierce creatures. He was brandishing a weapon carelessly in the air as he jumped over benches and circled around the trees. Magnus and Harry clearly can hear the man screaming in terror, but no else noticed the loud commotion.
 
"I bet that's a shadowhunter, Harry," Magnus whispered, smirking at the direction of the man being chased by the ducks.
 
"Hunter?" Harry looked confused.
 
"Yes, they're like those mundane superheroes, but they can't see them."
 
"Ironman!"
 
Magnus laughed, "Sure, Harry darling, just like Ironman." Magnus led Harry towards another group of ducklings. "Daddy! Bread?" Harry asked pointedly at Magnus.
 
Magnus conjured a small bag of corn. "They like corn more than bread hare-bear." Magnus crouched next to Harry, and the two spent the morning feeding and chasing ducks around the park. Magnus took Harry for an early lunch at their favorite restaurant, and soon Harry was dozing off in Magnus' arms as they use a portal back home.
 
"Let's change you into your jammies, my darling. When you wake up, everything will be ready for your birthday party." The boy was already asleep as soon as he hit the bed.
 
Magnus started to decorate the apartment when he heard the door rang. He waved absently to its direction, and Raphael entered the room.
 
"Raphael, can you pass me that bag." Magnus pointed out a paper bag filled with Magnus's presents for Harry on the floor next to the couch.
 
"Harry would hardly remember this party. Why are you stressing yourself in making everything perfect?" Raphael asked as he passes the bag to Magnus. Magnus arranges all the presents manually on the table, and he snaps his fingers again to change the colors of the streamers from red to green.
 
Magnus has been driving Raphael and Catarina mad with the preparations and the planning of Harry's second birthday. Now that the day has come, Raphael came earlier to make sure Magnus doesn't go crazy on every little detail of the party.
 
"Raphael, its Harry's first birthday with us. This birthday party is a special moment in his life."
 
"Yes, but you're not inviting the whole downworld here. Harry will love the party not because of how pretty the decorations are but because he'll get to play all day... with all the wrapping papers." Raphael said as he pointed out all the gifts Magnus wrapped in colorful and sparkling gift wraps.
 
Magnus sighs and change the colors back to red and sat on the couch. He looked around to check the place once more.
 
Magnus's apartment is covered with balloons at every corner, a big banner on the wall that says "Happy Birthday Harry!" in sparkling gold, and food on the table that looks like animals. The cake takes all of the attention because Magnus really went all out on the cake. Harry's current favorite movie is the Lion King. And he made Magnus - and Raphael whenever he's around - watch it with him so many times that they know all the lines by heart.
 
He got Harry two lion king themed birthday cakes. Magnus reasoned that Harry needs to have a small lion king cake that he can have on his high chair and can smash it to oblivion if he wishes to. Harry is still a very messy eater, and Magnus sometimes encourages Harry's high energy during mealtime. Raphael sometimes feels like he's looking after two children whenever he visits.
 
Since lions are at the top of Harry's favorite animals at the moment, Magnus even has a lion headdress that is sitting on the couch for later. 
 
"Luke said they'll be here in a few minutes, maybe you should get Harry ready. He's already waking up from his nap." Raphael said, staring at his watch while keeping an ear out for signs of Harry waking up.
 
Magnus stood up and went to the nursery. "Hey, Hare-bear." Harry looked up at him and let out a small yawn. "Daddy," he raised his arms and let Magnus pull him to a hug and carried him to his room. "It's my birthday..." he mumbled against Magnus's neck.
 
Magnus laughed and set him down. "I know, and Uncle Luke and Uncle Moony are coming, so let's get dressed up."
 
Harry looked down at his bright green pajamas with puppies on them. "I'm not...but I gots my jammies on, daddy."
 
Magnus tried to brush Harry's hair, but he already knows its a lost cause. Even with his magic, the boy's hair never manages to stay neat. "I got your special birthday clothes. It because you're two now."
 
"Lion jammies, daddy?" Harry looked excited now and more awake.
 
Magnus smiled and pulled out a lion onesie they picked out the other day.
 
Harry eagerly changed into the lion onesie when the doorbell rings, and Harry yelled, "door!" and ran outside the room, his onesie half on.
 
Not very coordinated yet, Harry almost collided with Raphael, who was on his way towards the door as well.
 
"Harry," Raphael steadied the boy and carried him to the door. "We don't run inside, remember?" He quietly admonished the boy, and Harry just gave him a toothy grin, "It's my birthday, 'fel!"
 
Raphael fixed the onesie on Harry and gave the boy a brief squeeze.
 
"Feliz cumpleaños Harry"
 
"Gracias!" Harry replied.
 
They opened the door, and Luke, Clary, and Jocelyn were on the other side. "Hey, lil' guy! Happy Birthday!" Luke said.
 
"Luke!" Harry jumped from Raphael's hold to Luke, and he immediately grabbed him. "Ohh, you're getting heavier, Harry. What did you eat? Rocks?" Luke said, teasing the boy as they entered the apartment.
 
"No rocks!" Harry sees the cake on the table. "Cake!"
 
"Let's wait for your guests first before cake," Harry grumbled but behaved as Luke placed him down. Harry went to the table with the gifts and stared at the small pile. "Mine?" he looked over to Clary and Josephine, who placed their presents on the table.
 
"Yeah, Harry. We all got you some presents." Clary ruffled Harry's hair some more.
 
 A portal opened next to the balcony windows. Catarina and Ragnor came inside and greeted the birthday boy as well. Clary gave Ragnor a brief smile, and she waved at Catarina. Both returned her greeting and went closer to her and Harry. Clary went back to where Luke was currently seated. She wasn't that familiar with Magnus's warlock friends since her mother only kept a few acquaintances that are downworlders.
 
"Rina!" Harry gasped and ran, and his little body slammed Catarina's legs.
 
"Happy birthday, mini warlock!" Catarina gave Harry a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Harry then went to Ragnor and squeezed the older gentleman's legs. Ragnor let out a sigh and briefly patted the boy's head. "Happy Birthday Henry."
 
"Is Harry!" Harry pouted and sat on the ground only to be lifted up high by his Uncle Remus.
 
"Moony!"
 
Its been months for Remus since he moved to America, and his life drastically changed for the better now that he's part of a pack and has better control of his instincts.

Its been hard at first, trying to adjust in the fast-paced muggle world, but Luke and Clary helped teach him how to get around.
 
"Cub! Happy Birthday!" He lifted Harry around the living room like an airplane. The apartment was soon filled with laughter from the boy and his guests.
 
"How about you set down my child before he vomits on you." Magnus jokingly said across the room. "Who's up for some parlor games?"
 
They all played silly games with Harry like Musical Chairs, where Magnus, Luke, Clary, Remus, and Catarina take turns in carrying Harry as they sat on the chairs. Raphael also got roped in playing a game called Andy's coming, and for all the games they played, they declare Harry as the winner. Harry was bouncing around singing his own version of We Are The Champion.  He changed the word We into Harry with the rest of the lyrics into a bunch of gibberish no one really understands.
 
Soon it was time for cake, and they all took pictures to commemorate the celebration. Harry ended up leaving a heavy handprint on the cake and wiping his dirty hand on Magnus's cheeks. Soon everyone was wearing cake.
 
It was time to open presents when Magnus's phone rings.
 
"Harry, baby, wait for Daddy before we open the present, ok?" Magnus waited for Harry to reply, but the toddler just pouted and looked at his gifts sadly.
 
Magnus went out to the balcony to answer the call.
 
"Hello?"
 
"Mr. Bane, there have been several demon attacks on mundane lately. But from what our sources are saying, Shadowhunters are having a hard time killing these demons. They prey on mundanes, but no one has died yet."
 
"Why don't you describe to me these creatures." Magnus leaned against the sliding door, not seeing Harry, who was slowly working himself up to a tantrum.
 
The call is taking longer, and the longer it gets, the more impatient the toddler got. Raphael notices that Harry started to tap the box in front of him repeatedly while looking at the balcony door.
 
"Harry, would you like some more hotdogs?" Raphael said, trying to distract the boy.
 
Harry look at Raphael. "I want daddy." Harry's eyes now are pooling tears in them. Harry was never really one to throw major tantrums, but when he does, it's more or less because he's tired. And he usually gets clingy when he's starting to get tired, and Magnus would usually just let Harry stick by his side until its time for bed.
 
"His call will end soon. Do you want to open the gift now?" Raphael asked.
 
Clary sat next to Harry and handed him her gift. "Let's open my gift first. How about that, Harry?" Harry just shook his head, and then suddenly, he disappeared from the couch. Raphael stood up, and everyone else was shocked by Harry's disappearance. "Magnus!" Raphael went to the balcony when he heard a peal of small laughter.
 
"Daddy!" Harry said from Magnus's lap.
 
Magnus dropped his phone and fell to his ass when he lost his footing as he catches his son, who suddenly pops in front of him. Magnus looked shocked and proud at the same time. "Oh! This is amazing!"
 
Raphael opened the door and looked at the two of them. "Harry!"
 
Magnus looked up and gave Raphael a cheeky grin, "Harry's doing magic now!"
 
"He can teleport!" Raphael looked amazed.
 
"Oh my goodness, he can teleport now." Magnus now just looked alarmed.

Chapter Text

"Alec!" Jace ran after his brother, trying to avoid the early commuters on the street.

Alec ignored him and continued walking.

Jace saw Alec cross the street, and he decided its time to end his sulking and jumped on the cars and pushed some of the mundane out of his way. He left several mundanes looking confused at the invisible force that moved them away.

"Alec, stop!" Jace pulled Alec back and faced him. "I know I screw up, but you can't be serious. You can't stop me from my patrols. I'm the best shadowhunter our Institute has, and you're putting me on the bench?"

Alec shrugged Jace's hand off his shoulder. "You should have thought of that when you got yourself distracted with those students at the club."

Alec continued his way towards the nearest park.

"I said, I'm sorry!"

Jace jogged next to Alec and gave him his winning smile. "How can you say no to this face?"

Alec paused, "I can and I will. I know that the demon doesn't seem dangerous to you, but we can't let it roam around the city." Alec grabbed his phone and called their sister.

"Izzy, meet me at the park in 20 minutes. I'm sending Jace back."

"Hey!"

Alec ignored Jace's complaints, and soon they arrived at the park. Alec sat at one of the empty benches and closed his eyes with his arms folded. Its been a long night and morning for Alec. He's been patrolling with Jace since last night. There have been some reports of peculiar demon attacks that leave mundanes in a weak state. Some of them pass out immediately, and others are left in an anxious mess. They saw the demon just before dawn. They were on their way back to the Institute when the temperature dropped.

Alec was the first to see the creature. It seems like its wearing tattered black cloth and floating in mid-air. There's a bit of a distance between them, but Alec slowly grabbed his weapon and aimed. He tried to kill it, but the arrow just passed through its body.

The only thing it did was make the demon aware of Alec.

It twisted its body, and Alec briefly saw a bony feature that was quickly obscured by its hood.

Alec is a skilled fighter. He's not one to freeze when facing demons, but he felt glued to the ground. His heart pounded as the air grew colder. Alec tried to call Jace.

Jace made the mistake of being distracted at that time. Some college girls coming out of the club grabbed his attention for a second, and he didn't realize that Alec already went to apprehend the demon. He wasn't able to warn Alec of the second demon that came from above.

Alec has never felt cold like that before.

He didn't pass out, but whatever that creature did, it seems to feed off his energy. He's been irritable since. Using his stamina rune to get him through the next hours searching for the demon.

Alec heard a shriek, and he was snapped out of his thoughts.

He opened his eyes, and his hand immediately took his bow, and he scanned the area.

He didn't feel a similar chill as he did earlier. He stopped as he saw where the scream came from.

He slowly put down his weapon and stared at the scene in front of him.

Its Jace, and he's being chased by ducks.

"Alec!" Jace screamed. "Help me!"

Jace knocked over a trash bin, and he even circled around several trees to shake them off. The mother duck got a bit closer and snapped its bill at Jace's leg, and the ducklings just followed them around.

"Is that Jace?" a voice from behind said. "Should we help him?"

"Yeah, no way." Alec gave his sister a brief smile. "He deserves it."

"I wonder what he did to those ducks." Izzy gave her brother a brief hug and sat next to him.

"Maybe they can just smell fear."

"I thought you were coming back hours ago?" Izzy looked at her big brother. "What happened?"

"After that encounter with the demon, we just lost track of it." Alec sighed. " Jace and I went back to check all the areas where there were some sightings of that creature. We couldn't find any connection between -" Alec stopped and stared at Izzy's face. He tried to focus his eyes, but black dots started to appear in his vision.

"Alec!"

When Alec woke up, he was back in his room at the Institute.

"What?" Alec looked around, trying to get his bearings back. His body felt like lead, and he sat up, scanning the room for his siblings.

"Alec!" a young boy cried.

"Max?" Alec saw his youngest brother enter his room and tackled him to a hug. "Max! What are you doing here!" Alec returned his brother's hug.

"Max! I told you Alec needs to rest!" Izzy came running into Alec's room. She stopped by the doorway as she saw the two brother's sweet reunion.

"Izzy! Can I tell Alec now?" Max was bouncing on his heels.

"Tell me what?"

"I get to stay with you guys!" Max climbed Alec's bed and sat next to Alec. "They said I could stay for a month or two this time!"

Alec tilted his head. "Mother is letting you stay here? What about your studies?" Alec narrowed his eyes at his troublesome brother.

"You can train me, Alec!" Max proceeded to tell his many adventures in Alicante and how he tried his best not to get on his teachers' nerves this time.

"Hey, are you ok now? Izzy said you passed out earlier."

Alec gave Max a reassuring smile, "I'm alright. I probably just overused my stamina rune."

Max grabbed Alec's hand and pulled Alec out of the room. "Maybe you need some chocolates. They always make me feel better when I get tired."

"More like every time. C'mon, let's find Jace and see if he survived all those ducks."

"Jace got chased by ducks?"

Alec hummed in agreement.

"He got stuck in a tree. I had to help him out so we can get you back here." Izzy added with a laugh.

"You have to take me to the park next time, Alec, cause Jace definitely won't take me there now." Alec just agreed.

A few months earlier on the other side of the pond. A young man in his early twenties sat on the cold hard floor of his cell. It's been months since he got incarcerated. Remus has yet to try and visit him. Why would he when the man believes that his friend betrayed them? Sirius sat closer to the wall facing the door of his cell when he heard footsteps.

He heard muffled voices just a few cells from his. He needed news on the wizarding world, and so he changed into his animagus form. In this form, his hearing is magnified. He recognized the voice. It was Cornelius Fudge, and Sirius knows him from his brief interactions with the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, where Fudge is a junior minister. The man was terribly greedy and had been eyeing the spot for Minister for Magic when Millicent Bagnold was appointed minister almost 2 years ago.

"In a month, the boy-who-lived will be celebrating his birthday. How is the boy Albus?" Sirius heard Cornelius say.

Sirius froze from his crouching position, hidden by the shadows. Cornelius was with Albus. He wondered why the two of them are visiting Azkaban this late in the evening.

'Is Albus here to help me?' he thought with a sliver of hope.

"The boy is with his mother's muggle relatives. I assure you that he's being taken care of. I've been sending money and instructions to his family, and I have yet to hear any complaints from them." Albus said.

"You haven't seen the boy since?" Fudge whispered to Albus.

"I have more important business to attend to, my boy. Where did you say the cells of the Lestranges are?"

"This way."

Sirius heard a bit shuffling of feet, and then they were gone. He changed back to his human form.

"Harry's living with Petunia?" Sirius mumbled to himself. Sirius knows that the horse-faced woman hates Lily with a passion. Harry was supposed to live with him, but he screws that one up. Right at that moment, Sirius made up his mind.

"I need to get out of here."

Two weeks later, Sirius was able to escape Azkaban with the use of his animagus form. He hid in one of the Black houses for a few days. He figured that they won't try to look for him in his ancestral home because of his strained relationship with his family after he was blasted off the tapestry.

"Where is that bloody wand," Sirius muttered as he turns the house upside down looking for his mother's collection of dark artifacts.

Included in those artifacts are some rare wands that his family collected. They came from those who were defeated by the House of Black centuries ago when holding duels is the way to settle pureblood disputes.

He found one of them inside one of the boxes spelled shut against those who are not blood. He pricked his finger on the sharp edges of the lock, and it opened, showing several wands and magical artifacts. He chose one that works relatively well enough for him and spelled it shut.

It was time to glamour himself and find the Dursleys.

To Sirius's relief and disappointment, Harry was not with the Dursleys. He changed into his animagus form and scouted the area for three days. But there was no other child in there except that horrifyingly fat son they have. After his third day, he was forced to vacate Privet Drive with all the Dementors that are roaming around. A few muggles already have fallen victim to these creatures, and he knows that he can't take any chances even if he was in his animagus form.

He doesn't know where to start his search.

'Why would Dumbledore lie? Where is Harry?'

Sirius decided that his next step would be to look for Remus. He's taking this risk of exposing himself to his old friend, but Harry is more important.

He set on disguising himself with a bit more glamour. His hair changing into silky blonde hair, his face was now more pointy and angular. He was going for familiar Malfoy family traits. This way, he could obscure his face and make it seems like he's just a distant relative to anyone who would remember his face. They also have this reputation that makes people stay distant from them, which is perfect if he wants to avoid mingling with others.

He set to find the local bookstore Remus used to work at.

"Excuse me, I'm looking for Remus Lupin?" he said in a very posh voice.

The man at the counter gave him a side-eye and glared at him, "that man left this place months ago!" He gave Sirius a more calculating look, "Are you a customer or not? Because if you're not, then you're not welcome in my shop!" Sirius gave the man a glare and said nothing and just left.

He decided to go to his friend's flat. So, he changed his outfit to muggle clothing. His friend lives in an old muggle town because it is hard for a werewolf in the wizarding world to find something so basic like lodging.

He was a bit suspicious as to why there were no dementors in the town where Remus lives. They must have thought that Remus would be one of the first people he'll look for. As soon as he reached Remus's place, he realized why there were no dementors. Remus wasn't there. He left his flat months ago.

Sirius knocked on the door next door. An old lady opened the door. "What is it?" She narrows her eyes as she looks at Sirius.

***

"Excuse me, do you know a Mr. Lupin? He used to be your neighbor?"

"Remus?" the old woman furrowed her brows in deep thought. "He left, months ago. And I'm glad he did. I didn't even know that I was living next door to a shirt lifter." She said in disgust.

"How did you know he was a ... a shirt lifter?" Sirius tried to hide his annoyance to this homophobic woman.

"Why I saw one of his guests! They were talking outside, and the other man was wearing such absurd clothes! He's even wearing make-up! Men are not supposed to wear make-up and such revealing clothes. How horrid, he even brought a child. I would have called the police on them, but I didn't hear anything, and these walls are thin. I would have known if they were doing inexplicable things with a child present as well!"

***

Sirius had enough of this woman's talk. He took out his wand and used legilimency.

He searched the woman's memories and saw the memory where she saw Lupin and his guest outside his flat. The man was indeed wearing flattering clothes, and he recognized the child. That's Harry. The only thing that Sirius found worth noting in that memory was that the woman heard the man speak; he has an American accent. He let go of the spell and obliviated the muggle. He took her memory of Remus and the man along with Harry. He also removed this interaction from her memory as he removed any other traces of magic within the area and apparated to the small muggle flat he was renting. It was time to move his search. Maybe Harry and Remus are in America.

Chapter Text

"I thought you love spending time with Raphael?" Magnus wiped the tears from Harry's cheeks. Harry just continued to squeeze the life out of Magnus, afraid to let him go.

"I love 'fel," Harry continued to cry his eyes out. "Daddy, don't go!"

Magnus let out a weak laugh and sighed. He gently patted Harry's back and caressed his hair. "Harry darling, I need to help out at the Institute. I'll be back tonight."

Magnus carried Harry out of his bedroom to the living room. "You know, you're getting too big for this." Magnus joked as he kissed Harry's head and sat him on the couch. He crouched on the floor and faced Harry.

"You get to spend the whole day with your brother. Is that so bad?"

Harry just placed his fists over his eyes.

"What if you go bye bye like dada and mama?"

Magnus looked shocked. "What do you mean, Harry?"

"Scary dream Daddy, I saw mama and dada. Then big green light, and then they go away." Harry tried his best to explain while trying to get ahold of his emotions.

"Was it that bad dream last night?" Harry nodded and placed his thumb in his mouth. Magnus then sat next to Harry and cuddled him. "I won't go away, Harry. I'm just going to work. I do it sometimes, remember?"

There was a knock on the door. And with a wave of a hand, the door opened and revealed a tired-looking Raphael.

"What happened?" He saw Harry's puffy eyes and sad expression, and Magnus's shirt was wet with tears.

"Daddy's going away!" Harry yelled and cried again.

Raphael, sensing that Magnus is also on the verge of distress seeing his son so miserable, decided to intervene.

"How about you let Magnus go now so he can come back soon?"

Harry just hugged Magnus's arms.

"I'll let you borrow my phone, and we'll call Magnus every hour so you can see him." Harry slowly let go of Magnus.

Magnus gave Harry another kiss on the forehead. "Darling, I'll always come home to you."

Magnus changed his shirt and fixed his hair.

"I'm going to work now, Harry. I love you lots."

Harry looked at him and softly said, "cuddle....."

"What?"

"Cuddle me...."

Magnus walked back to the couch and gave Harry a big hug.

"See you later, Daddy,"

Magnus opened a portal and was soon gone.

"Raphael..." Harry walked to Raphael, who was sitting across the couch. "Please play?"

They silently played with Harry's legos, and after an hour, Harry asked if he can see Magnus. Raphael called Magnus, but Magnus told Harry that the Institute is very dark, and he can't open the lights, so he'll have to settle to talking to him instead.

That was a lie, of course. Magnus didn't like lying to his son. But he knows he couldn't afford other people to know about Harry -especially shadowhunters like Robert Lightwood. It doesn't matter if Harry is a wizard or not since Harry is still a mundane, and they are very strict when it comes to downworlders and mundanes. Not many downworlders knows that he's adopted a child, and he plans to keep it that way. Only until he can teach Harry how to protect himself.

After lunchtime and several calls to check on Magnus, Harry started to feel restless in the apartment.

"Raphael... Let's go to the park!" Harry grabbed his large duck doll and pushed it into Raphael's arms.

"No, Harry. We can't. Maybe when Magnus comes home?" Raphael returned the doll to the couch and continued picking up some of the discarded legos they left earlier.

"But...the duckies! And... And we hafta give them popcorn!" Harry said, waving his arms around as he talks.

"Popcorn?"

"Hmmm.." Harry hummed in agreement and ran around in circles. "No bread for duckies! Daddy said so! Let's go! My duckies are hungry!" Harry stopped and pulled Raphael's pants.

Raphael was starting to feel the exhaustion from last night. The meetings in their clan last night dragged for hours, and patrolling around took longer than he wanted to. He doesn't really want to argue with a toddler right now.

"Harry, why don't we take a nap? I'm sure you're tired from making all those castles." Raphael gestured to the three castles they built together the whole morning. Harry wanted to show it to Magnus when he comes home, and so they are now sitting on the dining table.

"Nope!" As if showing that he is really not tired, Harry started to jump around together with his duck doll.

"Harry, I need you to calm down for me for a minute." Raphael placed his hand on Harry's shoulder to stop him from jumping.

"I wanna go to the park!"

"I can't take you there, remember? It's too sunny outside." Raphael knew his exhaustion is slowly taking all of his patience in him, so he tried to reason out with the almost three years old. "How about we take a nap and then have ice cream and watch some cartoons after? How about that?"

"But my duckies!" Harry nearly screamed at his face, clearly working himself into a tantrum.

"And I said no, we can't."

"But...Daddy always takes me there." Harry is crying now.

"Magnus is not here, so he can't take you."

Raphael knew that both of them are already at the end of their wits. Harry is already cranky, and a nap for both of them is what is recommended. Harry clearly is not in an agreeable mood.

Harry threw the toy nearest to him at Raphael, and Raphael snapped.

"Got to your room!" He yelled and bared his fangs, eyes red, and it scared the boy. Harry ran to his room, and it shut with a loud bang.

Raphael was in shock for a few moments. He couldn't shake off the image of Harry looking so scared at him. He dropped to his knees and calmed himself down.

A few minutes have passed, and he stood up and gently knocked on the door.

"I'm sorry, Harry. I didn't mean to scare you."

There was no response. Raphael was scared that Harry is afraid of him now. He knocked again, and this time, Raphael tried to listen to Harry's breathing, if perhaps the boy cried himself to sleep.

There was no sound.

Not one heartbeat as well.

Raphael immediately opened the door.

Harry's missing.

Chapter Text

Instead of a month or two, Max's stay at the Institute has been extended indefinitely.

Their parents have been too busy to oversee Max's studies, and so the responsibility was left on Alec's shoulders.

He's been juggling his time at the Institute, along with training Max and his patrols. It's been several months and the mysterious demon has been seen several times since their first encounter. They reported the incident back to Idris. But since there was no lasting damage and no other solution to prevent such attacks, they deemed the case unimportant. His mother ordered them to use their time on other matters.

Alec just finished his training when Max entered the training room.

"Alec!" Max ran towards his big brother. "Mom and dad are here."

"Hey buddy," Alec gave Max a one-armed hug and set down his weapon on the table. "What are they doing here?"

"I don't know, but I heard that a warlock is coming to the Institute to help strengthen the wards." Max pulled his brother out of the room and proceeded to tell Alec what he overheard. "I think Mom and Dad don't like that warlock. They gave this look," Max tried to copy Maryse's expression when she mentioned about the warlock. "It's funny."

"I don't think Mom and Dad would want you to be here when that warlock gets here. How about we go to the park?"

"Why?"

"Why what?" Alec turned and looked at his brother, who was tilting his head in confusion.

"I'm not saying no to the park, but why wouldn't they want me to see the warlock?"

Alec sighs. "They don't really like downworlders much. I'd rather avoid a situation altogether."

"Um..fine. Let's just go. I wanna see those ducks again. They remind me of Jace." Max laughs, and Alec laughs along with him.

They had lunch first before they went to the park. Max ran immediately to the edge of the pond to look at the ducks after Alec's warning not to stray far from his sight, and Alec sat on one of the benches. By now, Alec is already a familiar face in the park. He and Max have been regularly visiting this park every time Max felt restless in the Institute. Max never plays with any of the kids here. He knows he can't have mundane friends. Although Max likes to sometimes climb one of the trees and watch the other kids play. They also stopped asking him to play since he rejects them every time. Alec knows he wants to, but they were raised to be shadowhunters. There was no time for playing in the parks and making friends who can't come over to their house because their lives are so different from theirs.

Even though the mothers here know that Alec here is not some creeper who stares at kids.

Alec doesn't know why they still stare at him. He can feel their intense stare at the back of his head. Alec would sometimes catch them looking at him, and they'd wave or look at each other and giggle. He doesn't understand why they do that, and so he just bowed his head and stared at the ground like he always did.

"Alec!" He snapped his head up immediately and scanned the area for his brother. He saw Max running to him, carrying something large in his arms.

"Alec, look!" Max held up a toddler in front of his face.

"Max!" Alec looked alarmed. He saw a toddler who's probably 2 or 3 years old. The toddler was wearing light clothing, which was definitely not appropriate for a day at the park. The boy has bright green eyes, a bit puffy as if the boy had cried just moments before, and he smiled at Alec.

"Duckies!" The boy pointed at the side.

"Max, you can't just take a toddler. What if its parents look for him. They're gonna think you take him." Alec stood up and carried the toddler. Alec started to look around and see if he can find anyone who matches the kid with messy, jet, black hair, and bright green eyes.

"But Alec!" Max grabbed his jacket, "I didn't take him!"

Alec stared at his brother.

"I swear!" Max yelled, which startled the young boy in Alec's arms. Tears started forming in his eyes, and Alec immediately said, "Ducks! Let's go see the ducks! Max, come here." Alec bounced the child in one arm and held Max's hand with the other. They went to the side of the pond, and the toddler bounced happily in Alec's arms.

"Spill. What happened." Alec gave Max a reprimanding look.

"I was just sitting at the ground looking up at this weird looking tree when he suddenly appeared out of nowhere. It's like magic! Bam! A baby! Right in front of me! I had to catch him, so he doesn't fall on my face!"

Alec stared at the toddler in front of him. "Hey, little one. I'm Alec, this is Max. What's your name?"

"I'm Harry!" the toddler, Harry, gave Alec a toothy smile, and he felt his heart melt at the adorable kid. "Alec!" the kid pointed at him and then pointed at Max. "Mak!".

"It's Max, not Mak." Max giggled. He stared at the baby and then at Alec.

"Alec, how do we return him? He's obviously not mundane!" Max staged whispered to Alec.

"It's going to be hard finding his parents. Are you sure he wasn't carrying anything else on his person?" Alec checked the boy's collar for anything that could help them identify and locate his parents.

"Maybe we can check the spot for any clues and - " Max stopped midsentence when he saw Harry was staring at him. Max stuck out his tongue and made a funny face. This made Harry laugh. "You know, Alec, I've never been around babies this small. It sucks being the youngest."

Alec brushed Harry's hair as the wind blew in their direction. "But we're lucky that we have you. I was already older than you when you were born, and babies are a lot of work."

Some of the ducks decided it was time to leave, and when they turned to swim on the other side of the pond, Harry let out a frustrated cry. "No! Come back!"

Alec and Max's eyes widened when one of the ducklings that were nearest to Harry started to levitate. "Harry! That is so cool!" Max exclaimed. Harry lost concentration on the duckling, and it was dropped back to the water with a disgruntled quack.

"He's definitely a warlock." Alec looked around if anyone else saw the duckling hover on the water for more than an inch or two.

"Let's call Izzy and ask her if she knows the address of the High warlock here in Brooklyn. We're not telling mom about this, Max. You have to promise me."

"But why?" Max grabbed one of Harry's hands and played with it. Harry laughed and asked to be let down.

"I can't really explain why. Just know that until we find the boy's parents, they can't know about Harry being a warlock."

Alec let Harry down, and he walked towards Max. "Play! With duckies! Le's go!"

Alec let Max distract the kid as he calls Izzy. She wasn't responding. He sent her a text asking to meet at the park.

A few moments later, Izzy replied that she'll be there in half an hour.

Alec stared at Max as he saw his younger brother play with the toddler. Max was careful with Harry. He sat the boy down in the sandbox, and Max patiently teaches the younger boy how to stack the sand and that sand is not meant for eating.

They got tired of the sandbox soon enough. Max held Harry's hand as he walked around the park. "Was dat!" Harry kept on pointing and asking things around the park. A few minutes passed, and the boy was starting to get tired. He asked to get carried again, and Alec did.

Izzy arrived at the park and saw her brothers by the swing. She saw Alec pushing both Max and a toddler, both children laughing and Max screaming at Alec, "Higher Alec! Higher!"

"Alec?"

"Izzy!" Alec stopped both swings, and Max got off the swing while Harry was still stuck at his chair.

"I need your help here."

Izzy gave Alec a raised eyebrow. "Clearly."

"Hello there, I'm Izzy. What's your name?" Izzy held back from pinching the boy's chubby cheeks.

"Harry!" Harry stretched out his arms and grabbed Izzy's hair, his eyes shining with amazement. "Pwetty"

Izzy gently released her hair from Harry's grip. "Thank you, oh my gosh, you are so adorable."

"Izzy, can you take us to Magnus Bane?" Alec asked her sister.

"Hm? Why do you need to see Magnus? I thought he was at - " Izzy was cut off by Harry's sudden loud cry.

Alec cradled the boy and held him close to his chest. Harry just struggled against his hold and cried loudly. Izzy stared at her brother in confusion.

"Harry's a warlock, and he just appeared out of thin air. Maybe the high warlock of Brooklyn knows his parents."

Izzy rubbed Harry's back as the boy stopped wiggling out of Alec's arm and settled to silently cry in the crook of his neck. "Want Daddy."

Alec gently rubbed Harry's back. "I guess he didn't realize he's lost because he got distracted by the ducks and Max.

"Let's go to his apartment before these mundanes call the police or something." Izzy grabbed Max, and they went on their way to Magnus Bane's apartment.

Meanwhile, back in Magnus's apartment, Raphael has been calling Magnus, but he wasn't answering.

"Dios mio, Harry, where did you go?" Raphael paced around the apartment when his phone rang.

"Magnus!"

"Raphael? What's wrong?"

"Go home, Magnus."

"What happened?"

"I need you to come back here immediately."

Magnus didn't hesitate. He dropped the call and faced Maryse. "There has been a disturbance that needs my immediate attention. I need to go now."

"What about the wards. We're paying you to do your job. You can't just leave the Institute without finishing it."

Magnus walked towards the exit with Maryse on his heels.

"If you've been paying attention to my work, you'd know that there is not much left to do." Magnus's heart is beating so fast, his mind going over all the possible emergencies that need him home as soon as possible.

"Magnus!" Maryse shouted.

"I'll be back as soon as I can if your shadowhunters can't defend your precious Institute against demonic attacks for a day."

Magnus left via portal and step inside his apartment as fast as he could manage.

"Raphael!"

"Dear God, Magnus!" Raphael stopped his pacing. "I've been calling you for several minutes already!"

Magnus looked around frantically, searching for any threats or signs of an attack. He expanded his magic around the whole apartment, and his heart stopped for a second when he realizes that Harry's not here.

"Where's my son?" Magnus's cat eyes were revealed through his fury. "Raphael, where is Harry?"

"He vanished!" Raphael threw a pillow - he randomly picked - at the wall with much frustration and anger as well.

And then Raphael sank to his knees. His voice was breaking as he explains, "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, Papa. I don't know what happened. We were both doing fine, and then after lunch, he started asking me to take him to the park, but I can't take him there. He was throwing a tantrum, and I snapped at him."

"Did he vanished right after that?"

Raphael weakly shook his head. "He ran to his room and closed it. I had to collect myself for a moment. I didn't want to accidentally hurt him, and now I've scared him. When I knocked at his room, that's when I realized he's gone."

Magnus guided Raphael to the couch. "We'll find him." He held Raphael's hand in his own and patted it to calm the vampire down. "It was no one's fault. He's recently having these random bouts of magic. You couldn't have predicted that he would teleport." He tried to sound convincing to reassure his adopted son. But he's worried that Harry's accidental magic could have taken him anywhere.

"Where else would a barely three-year-old go?"

"The last time he did that was on his birthday, and he did that to find me. Maybe he tried to get to the Institute?" Magnus ran his hand through his hair. "But I would know if a boy suddenly appeared in the Institute."

"Dios mio, what if he went to the park?" Raphael clasped his hands together and looked at Magnus a bit more hopeful. "He's very insistent he go there to feed his ducks."

"But I've taken Harry into so many parks, where do we even start." Magnus went towards his office with Raphael following him.

Magnus took out ingredients from his shelf and cleared the table. "I'll start a scrying spell. Let's just hope that wherever Harry is, he's safe." Magnus tried to focus and crush any horrible scenarios playing in his head. He started the spell. A few moments passed, and the scrying spell pointed him right outside his apartment.

The doorbell rang, and Magnus stared at Raphael. Magnus and Raphael both moved towards the door so fast, and Magnus grabbed the doorknob very tight. He tried to take a deep breath.

Harry's home.

He opened the door, and his eyes widened.

Harry is at home now.

But he's not alone. He brought along with him two shadowhunters and a kid.

"Daddy!"

Chapter Text

All Magnus could see was his son looking so miserable, and cheeks still have evidence that he has been crying. Magnus tried to check if there was any visible wound the boy could have.
 
"Harry," Magnus opened the door wider.
 
Raphael saw the tears pooling in Harry's eyes.
 
"Daddy..."
 
"What did you to Harry." Raphael made his presence known to the shadowhunters. His eyes, red, and his fangs showing.
 
The three shadowhunters took a defensive stance. The tension was thick in the air, especially with a vampire looking at the three as if he wants to rip them to shreds. No one was moving.
 
Magnus saw the older man holding his son so protectively. "We didn't do anything to Harry. We...we're just looking for Magnus Bane."
 
Magnus held Raphael back. "I'm Magnus Bane."
 
The young kid relaxes. He looked at Harry and saw one of Harry's free arm outstretched towards the warlock.
 
The youngest of the three grabbed the older shadowhunter's attention. "Alec, I think that that's Harry's dad." The kid faced Magnus. "Right?"
 
"Yes...I'm Harry's dad." Magnus said slowly.  
 
Harry watched them. He started to get restless. He did not understand why his daddy is still not giving him the hugs and kisses he usually gets when his daddy comes home. "Daddy." Harry squirmed against Alec's hold. Harry pouted and let out a whine.
 
"Daddy... Harry missed Daddy!"
 
Harry lunged out of Alec's arms, small arms reaching out to his father, and Alec swiftly transferred the toddler towards Magnus's waiting arms.
 
Raphael took a step back and took a moment to calm himself down. He stared at Harry, who was now back home and safe in their father's arms.
 
"Oh, darling!" The older warlock held the boy close to his chest, burying his face at the boy's thick hair. The child started to cry.
 
"Umm..." the other kid started.
 
Magnus moved Harry to settle at his hips, freeing his other hand while Harry continued to bury his face on Magnus's shirt. He looked up to his other guests. "My apologies, I've been rude." Magnus stepped aside and invited the three inside. "Raphael, would you like to hold Harry as I tend to the guests for a moment?"
 
Raphael looked uncertain, but when he stepped forward, Harry didn't even look at him and just tighten his small arms around Magnus's neck.
 
"I should go. Call me if you need any help." Raphael eyes the three shadowhunters who enters the room. "Know this, if any of you hurt Magnus or Harry, you'll answer to me and all of the vampires here in Brooklyn." Raphael slammed his shoulder against the older shadowhunter on his way out.
 
Alec grabbed his shoulder and looked back at his sister.
 
"Is that Raphael from the vampire clan here?" Isabelle asked for confirmation. Alec nodded and looked back outside with a frown on his face.
 
Izzy, Alec, and Max sat side by side while Magnus and Harry sat on the couch across. Harry was still sobbing quietly.
 
Magnus was finally able to relax. He closed his eyes and hugged Harry back. He rubbed the boy's back to calm him down. "Now, Mr. Henry Jacob Bane, what do you have to say for yourself?" He made Harry let go of his neck and meet his eyes. Harry bowed his head. "Sowie"
 
"Sweetheart, you gave us all quite the scare. Raphael didn't like being left all alone by himself." He whispered to the boy. The shadowhunters sat quietly across Magnus, and that was the time Magnus was actually able to check his guests.
 
The oldest of the three looked like a very strong shadowhunter. Magnus thinks that he might have seen him around the Institute, but they never met formally. The man was gorgeous if he was being honest here. Magnus felt like he could get lost in his eyes. If only they meet in better circumstances.
 
"Ehem. Hi Magnus, I'm Isabelle Lightwood." Isabelle introduced herself first.
 
Magnus looked at her, and he finally saw the striking resemblance of these three. "Ah, yes. You're Maryse's kid."
 
Isabelle gave him a smile. "Yes, we all are." She elbowed the other shadowhunter, who awkwardly sat straighter. "I'm...um...I'm... Alexander...I mean, my name's Alexander but... I prefer Alec."
 
"Alexander...what a fitting name. I'm Magnus, and you are?" Magnus addresses the youngest of the three. He held out his hand to shake the boy's hand.
 
"I'm Max. Nice to meet you, Magnus." He grinned and shook Magnus's hand. Harry then took that as a signal to stop hiding his face. Harry shyly looked back at Max and held out his hand. Max smiled and shook the tiny hand as well. Harry giggled but did not put his arm down. "Hugs..?"
 
"Would you like to carry Harry for a while?" Magnus asked the young shadowhunter.
 
"Yes!" It was a bit awkward at first, but Max managed to hold Harry.
 
"Hey Magnus, how old is Harry?"
 
"He's -" Magnus was cut off by Harry.
 
"Number three!"
 
Magnus laughs. "Not yet, darling. He's two, but yes, you'll be three in a couple of months, my darling."
 
Alec cleared his throat to get their attention, "So you're his father?"
 
"Yes! Harry's Daddy!"
 
Magnus tuts and tapped Harry's nose playfully. "It's rude to speak when it's not your turn Harry, it was Daddy's turn."
 
Harry just slipped his thumb in his mouth and pouted. He then quietly asked, "Daddy le's play d'agons with Alec?... And...and - "Harry looked up at Max. His forehead wrinkled in thought. Harry tapped Max's chest and bounced up and down. "Ma...mak!" Max laughs. "My name is Max, silly baby." Max squished Harry's cheeks in adoration.
 
"I'm sorry, Harry, but you need your nap. Maybe you can play with..." Magnus looks straight at Alec. "Alexander later."
 
Alec felt his face heats up when Magnus stared right at him. Magnus moved to take Harry from Max, but Harry protested.
 
"But.. Daddy, I don't wanna nap! Alec gets to be knight daddy! He has big sword like Harry!"
 
Magnus stopped and straightened his back. He narrowed his eyes at the three guests. "He saw your seraph blade?"
 
"Maybe, we can talk about what happened earlier after you put Harry for his nap?" Izzy suggested.
 
Magnus nods. "I'll be back soon."
 
The three didn't need to hear the unsaid warning for them. Alec and his siblings weren't foolish to try anything inside the home of Brooklyn's High Warlock.
 
 Magnus carried a protesting Harry to his room.
 
"Daddy...wanna play dragons, daddy." Harry pouted as Magnus placed him in his bed. Magnus changed Harry out of his dirtied clothes. 
 
"Harry, do you remember what happened earlier? We're you a good boy for Raphael when Daddy went to work?" Magnus was kneeling in front of Harry as Magnus made him sit on his bed and face him.
 
"I was...I'm good, daddy."
 
"You didn't shout at Raphael?"
 
Harry looked away and fidgeted and tried to lay down on his stomach, but Magnus's prevented him from moving away.
 
"Harry, do you remember why Raphael can't go to the park?"
 
Harry looked down at his hands that were being held by Magnus. Harry pouted. "Um..'fel get ouchie outside."
 
Magnus gently held Harry's small hands, rubbing his thumb on the tiny palms. "Yes, that's right. Did you want your brother to get an ouchie? Because if Raphael took you to the park, he would have gotten hurt, darling."
 
Harry looked shocked. "No! I don't want 'fel get ouchie." His lips wobbled, and tears started to collect in his eyes. "Oh no, I was bad, daddy. Harry shout at 'fel and 'fel got angry at Harry." Harry was crying now. " 'fel hates Harry."
 
Magnus sat on Harry's bed and pulled Harry to a hug. He rubbed Harry's back, "Oh my darling, it's ok. You just forgot that Raphael doesn't like the sun, he was upset, but he doesn't hate you. You didn't want your older brother to get hurt, right?" He felt Harry nod against his shirt that was soaking up all of Harry's tears and snot.
 
He gently moved Harry so he could look him in the eye. "Harry." Magnus brushed Harry's fringes away from his forehead. "You need to say sorry to Raphael when he gets home later, ok?" Harry let out a hiccup and nods his head fervently, and then he stilled and looked at Magnus, guilt is visible on his face. "Is there something else that you want to tell me?"
 
"Daddy, Harry went to the park without Daddy or 'fel.." Harry confesses. "I got mad, and then I was with Max."
 
"Thank you, darling, for being honest with me." Magnus wiped away Harry's tears. "Daddy is not mad with Harry. It wasn't your fault. You couldn't control your magic yet." Harry just looked confused. "But you can't have dessert tonight because you weren't very nice at all to Raphael. "
 
"No chocolate?" Harry pouted.
 
Magnus shook his head no. "I know you wanted to go to the park, but we don't throw tantrums just because someone says no."
 
Harry sadly let go and laid down on his bed. "Sowie..." Harry looked up at Magnus. "Can...can I play with Alec and max?" He asked quietly. "After I nap?" Magnus fixed his blankets. "Yes. If they stay until after your nap and only if they want to. Is that clear?"
 
Harry nods, "Daddy still love Harry even if I... bad?"
 
Magnus sighs and kissed Harry's forehead. "Forever and ever. We all learn from our mistakes. No more throwing tantrums at Raphael, ok?"
 
Harry sleepily nods and hugs one of his pillows tighter and mumbled a soft, "No more...." Magnus couldn't understand what was said after that. But he clearly heard what Harry said last. It was a whisper of  "love you, daddy," before he finally fell asleep.
 
Magnus rarely scolds Harry. There have been a few moments where he forgets his manners or got too excited, but Harry is usually a well-behaved toddler. Today just seems like a terribly trying day for all of them. And the day's event clearly worn Harry out that he fell asleep so quickly. Magnus closed the lights and left the door slightly ajar.
 
"I'm sorry it took me a while." Magnus sat back on the couch. "I've been a terrible host." He snaps his fingers, and a spread of snacks and different drinks were on the table. "What would you like Max, I can get you anything you want."
 
Max looks at his sister. "Go, Max, it's fine."
 
"Um, I'll have some cookies then. Thanks, Magnus."
 
"Now, maybe you can tell me how you got my son? All I know is that he accidentally teleported himself away."
 
Alec made no move to grab anything from the table. "Max found him."
 
"Um, I actually caught him," Max interjected.
 
"Yes. Max caught him, and he went to get me. I didn't know how to find his parents, so I called Izzy to get your address."
 
Magnus took a sip of his drink. "Why take him to me?" He asked curiously.
 
"I didn't really think we would find his parents. I just know that he'd be better with another warlock, but I didn't think he'd be your son."
 
"Why didn't you take him back to The Institute? If you thought he's a warlock." Magnus pressed.
 
"I know how warlocks came to be, and the Institute is not safe for a - " Alec stopped. He looked down and then steeled his gaze at Magnus. "How did Harry became your son? Did you adopt him? Or - "
 
"By the Angel, Alec!" Izzy realizing what her brother was trying to say, grabbed Alec's arm and stopped him from further offending the warlock.
 
Magnus looked at them coldly. "Whatever you're insinuating, it's definitely not that. Harry is not a warlock but a mundane, or does that make it worse? You shadowhunters are, all the same, you assume the worse of us downworlders. Are we also not allowed to care for mundanes? Even those with magic?"
 
"I'm...That's not what I meant. It's just that...the Institute would have taken Harry as soon as we bring him there, and they would assume that he's a product of..." Alec trailed off, not really knowing how to explain himself. "And I don't think of downworlders like that."
 
"You don't have to worry about The Institute, Magnus. Alec and I won't report anything about Harry." Izzy tries to reassure the warlock, giving him a sincere smile. "Harry is a great kid, and I can see that you care for him, but what we really need to talk about is what happened on our way here."  
 
"What do you mean? What happened?"
 
Alec recalled what happened on their way to Magnus's apartment.
 
They just got out a block or two from the park, and Alec was holding a tired but happy Harry, who was busy pointing out the colors of each car he saw. Max and Izzy were at his side, trying to point out the other vehicles for Harry to see. Harry just pointed out his seventh yellow car when a strange man rushed towards them.
 
"Harry!" the blond man yelled and made a move to grabbed the boy. Alec, with his fast reflexes, moved out of the way and was soon in a defensive stance.
 
"Who are you?" Alec yelled at the man.
 
"I should be the one asking you that question! Harry, you're alive. You're ok." The man had this wild, desperate look in his eyes.
 
Harry looked at the man and got scared. He buried his face at the crook of Alec's neck.
 
"Scary. Want daddy." Harry clutched Alec's shirt in his tiny fist.
 
The man pulled a stick from his sleeves and pointed it at Alec. "Give him to me!"
 
Alec pulled out his seraph blade. "I'm not going to ask again. Who are you?"
 
The man muttered something similar to Latin, and Alec moved away when a jet of red light burst out of the stick.
 
Izzy activated her glamour and pulled out her whip. "Alec, Max, go! I'll hold him off!"
 
Alec didn't hesitate and grabbed Max. He knows he had to leave Izzy behind. Izzy knows that they had two children to protect, and they maneuvered against the traffic and pedestrians to put some distance between them and the attacker. Even with Max's training, he's still not ready.
 
Izzy told him as soon as she caught up to them that she managed to grabbed the man's wooden stick with her whip. She tossed the whip to the other side of the street and bolted.
 
"I wasn't sure what that thing could do if I touched it, so I just tossed it across. The man seemed defenseless without it anyway."
 
Alec checked on Max and Harry for any injuries that he might have missed. He let out a relieved sigh when he saw that they were both ok. A bit shocked but unscathed. Harry just grinned. "Sword!" He pointed at the Angel blade still in Alec's other hand.
 
Alec gave Harry a small grin. "It's a seraph blade." The blade glowed, and then Alec stowed it away.
 
 "Let's get Harry to Magnus fast," Izzy said.
 
Alec nods, and soon they reached the apartment.
 
 
Magnus finished his drink right at the same time Alec was done recalling the earlier event. He doesn't know if those men who followed that Voldemort guy has tracked Harry. It seems impossible since he's been careful with hiding Harry's presence and magic from others but perhaps this bout of accidental magic enabled them to track him. Magnus made a mental note to discuss the matter with Remus later.
 
"This blond man, what did he looked like?"
 
"He looked a little older than Alec. For some reason, he kinda seems like he could be Jason Isaacs's younger blond brother." Izzy grabbed a drink. "He's wearing odd clothes too. Mismatched clothes that don't really stand out but odd for a mundane. He's mundane, right? I've never heard of warlocks who used sticks."
 
"Jason Isaacs?" Alec looked back at Izzy, confusion visible on his face.
 
"Honestly, Alec, you live under a rock. He's a British actor. I'm sure Magnus knows him too, don't you?" Izzy raised her eyebrow, smirking.
 
"Yes, quite dashing in his early years as well." Magnus turned his eyes towards Alec and raised his eyebrow. "You can give him a run for his money, though."
 
Alec felt his face heats up a bit, uncomfortable with much attention being given to him. He cleared his throat,
"You mentioned that Harry is not a warlock? Is he similar to that man?" Alec felt the tension in the air thicken as Magnus's mood changed.
 
"Yes, there are mundanes who could perform magic."
 
"There's nothing written in The Institute about them. How can they be mundane with magic?"
 
"It's a long history that is probably hidden by the Clave, but the Clave still thinks of them as mundanes. And we all know what the Clave thinks of downworlders who associate themselves with mundanes." Magnus gave Alec a knowing look.
 
"Um...I'm sorry about earlier. I wasn't trying to... I don't think of downworlders that way."
 
"Then, I guess I should also apologize for assuming that you're just like your parents, who are terribly prejudiced."
 
Alec stared down, looking uncomfortable. He knows how his parents think of downworlders and how most shadowhunters do, but Alec never felt it was right to judge someone because of what they are.
 
Alec stood up. "Since that's that, we best get going."
 
"If you need our help in tracking that man, you can ask for us anytime." Izzy nudges her elbow to Alec's side.
 
"Can I come back to see Harry?" Max said.
 
Magnus remembered Harry's request.
 
"If you're not at all busy, maybe you can join us for dinner? To thank you three for keeping Harry safe and for getting him back home. He said he wanted to play with Alec and Max after his nap if that's ok. He's been into knights and dragons, and since he saw your sword, I'm sure you're his designated knight now, Alexander."
 
"Oh, he's so adorable, Magnus. We can stay for a while longer, right? Alec?" Izzy looked at Alec, almost pleading with her eyes.
 
"Yeah, Alec! We can't leave until we say goodbye to Harry, so let's stay, please?" Max pulled at Alec's sleeves. Alec sighs and agrees to stay.
 
Harry woke up an hour later, just in time for dinner.
 
"Alec!" Harry happily showed Alec his toy dragon and a small lightsaber. "Rawr!"
 
Alec smiled at the boy and allowed him to drag him around his room. Harry, talking up a storm, narrating about each toy he shows to Alec. Alec, who was sitting on one of the bean bags, crossed-legged, just nods and smiles.
 
Alec pretended to be Harry's knight while Harry got Max to play as the damsel in distress.
 
"Oh no, princess needs help!" Harry pretended to wrestle with his toy dragon and made Alec poke it with his fake sword. Harry pulled a crown from his toy chest and placed it on Max's head. "Forgot your crown!" Harry tried to put the crown on Max's head. He also dragged a blanket around like a cape.
 
Max, who has never played dress-up or play pretend knights, blushes at the embarrassment of needing to act like some damsel in distress. He felt embarrassed not because Harry made him princess but because he's never played with Alec or anyone like this before. He doesn't know how things go. "Um... I don't really like crowns Harry, maybe you can wear it instead?"
 
"I take it to Daddy!" Harry dashed outside the room and went to his father, who was busy making dinner with Izzy, who volunteered to help him.
 
Alec looked at his brother, who was now staring at the ground. "Something wrong, Max?"

"It's nothing. It's stupid."

 "What is it?" Alec asked his brother patiently. Max sighs. 

"It's just a game. I don't even know how to do it right." 

"I don't think there's a right or wrong way to play this, Max." Alec placed his hand on Max's shoulder. "Harry's two. I doubt he'd judge you for your acting skills." Alec said teasingly. 

"Hey!" 

Max took some of the toys back to the chest and then sat back down. "Did... You ever wished something like this?" Max lifted one of the toy horses discarded at the side.
 
"Like what?" Alec sat closer to his brother.
 
"I don't know. To be normal?" Max looked passively at the toy. He then gave Alec a small smile. "It's not that I don't want to be a shadowhunter, but it would have been nice to not always move or if I could have stayed with you guys instead."
 
Before Alec could reply, Magnus entered the room with Harry on his hips, and the crown fixed on his head. "Dinner's ready."
 
Alec stood up and helped Max up. "Maybe this time, you can stay." He messed Max's hair, but Max just playfully pushed Alec away.
 
Magnus certainly prepared a lot for them.
 
"I asked Isabelle here what your preferences are. I hope you liked it."
 
They all sat down, Harry in his chair next to Magnus and Alec sitting across him.
 
"This is so good, Magnus. You have to teach me the recipe." Izzy said after trying his steak.
 
"No!" Max exclaimed. "You'll kill us!" Max's eyes narrowed at his sister. 
 
Magnus raised an eyebrow. "I don't think steak could ever kill anyone."
 
"She can't cook," Max whispered to Magnus.
 
"Hey!" Izzy yelled in protest.
 
Alec shook his head and sighed.
 
"I don't think dinner is enough as payment for what you did. Tell me if there's anything else I can do for you. " Magnus sincerely asked the shadowhunters.
 
"It's nothing." Alec looked down. "It was the right thing to do. You don't need to repay us."
 
Dinner was almost over, and Magnus was just about to serve dessert when Alec's phone alerted him of a call.
 
"Excuse me." Alec stood up and went a few feet away from the table and then returned with a neutral expression. "We have to go." He said to his brother and sister. Max's shoulder slumped, and he looked at Izzy. "Sorry, Max. Guess Alec's needed back at the Institute. Thank you for having us for dinner, Magnus."
 
"No!" Harry wailed from his chair. Magnus reasoned out with the child as Izzy and Max stood up and collected their things and thanked Magnus for the meal.  
 
"No.... don't go!" Harry protested in Magnus's arms as they watched the three walked to the door.
 
They lingered a bit in the hallway. Max looked at his brother. "Can I come over again?"
 
Alec looked at Magnus. "Only if Magnus is ok with it."
 
"You're always welcome here, Max. Thank you for watching Harry today."
 
"Bye, Harry! I'll be back soon, so don't cry!" Max waved goodbye to the small child.
 
"Alec too?" Harry shyly asks.
 
"Yeah, Max, feel free to bring your brother as well," Magnus smirked at the older man.
 
Alec coughs, and Izzy laughs at her brother. "I'm sure we can arrange something when my brother is free. It was nice meeting you, Magnus,"
 
Once they were gone, Magnus got Harry ready for bed. After a quick bath, he changed Harry into his onesies, and the child soon was sprawled at his bed.
 
"Oh darling, you gave all of us a scare today. You're becoming quite the troublemaker, aren't you? "
 
Harry just smiled at Magnus.
 
"Story?"
 
"Just one, and then it's night-night for Harry."
 
Magnus only needs to read the first two pages of the book to get Harry to sleep, but he read the rest of the chapter, staying a bit longer next to Harry.
 
"I could have lost you today, my darling. I'll do better in making sure you're safe." He kissed Harry's forehead and left the room.
 
He sat in the living room, nursing a drink when his phone rang. He stood up and grabbed his phone by the counter to answer it.
 
"Remus?" Magnus said as soon as the man picked up his call.
 
"Magnus, I'm coming over. I've received news about something. It concerns Harry."
 
"You're free to come here any time, Remus. Also, something happened today as well. I need to ask you about those death eaters."
 
Remus was at Magnus's apartment right after the call.
 
"What happened?"
 
Magnus recalled the day's event and Remus paled.
 
"That can't be, by the description, I could only think of one man, but I doubt he would have recognized Harry that easily."
 
"Was that man a death eater? A follower of that vile man?" Magnus
 
"Yes. I'm not sure, but that could have been Malfoy. I'm actually here to talk to you about the paper I received this morning from back home."
 
Remus showed him the newspaper. It was dated a few months ago. Magnus read the front page and his brows furrowed, and eyes narrowed.

 
"Why did you only received it now?"
 
"I'm not sure. I've been careful in making myself untraceable. I'm not subscribed to the Prophet, so I'm not sure who sent it."
 
"If he's escaped, do you think he'll come after Harry?"
 
"I don't know, Magnus. I trusted him. We all did, and I don't know why he betrayed us, how he could betray James."
 
"We need to be more careful from now on."

Chapter Text

It was a lazy morning for both Magnus and Harry.

It was already late in the morning when Harry woke up. He blinked several times before he realized something magical must have happened last night. He rolled to his left and saw his father asleep next to him. Magnus has his hands on Harry to keep him from rolling off the bed.

Harry grinned. "Daddy!"

Magnus groaned and squinted at the harsh morning light that escaped the curtains. "Harry...good morning, darling."

"Daddy, I magic again?" Harry holding on to Magnus's shirt and repeatedly tried to rock Magnus back and forth.

"What do you mean, Harry?"

"I'm in Daddy's bed!" Harry stretched out his arms and bounced on the bed for more emphasis.

Magnus smirked. "Hmm...maybe it was magic." Magnus gasped in exaggeration.

After Magnus and Remus checked the wards last night and made additional security to ensure Harry's safety, it was already early in the morning. Magnus couldn't sleep without worrying too much, so he transferred a sleeping Harry to his room. Having Harry near him calmed him down and allowed him to at least get a bit of rest.

Harry stopped bouncing and then looked serious. "Daddy work?"

Magnus shakes his head. "Nope. I don't have work today. You get Daddy for the whole day, and we'll practice magic today too."

Harry's eye glowed with delight and cheered loudly.

They had sandwiches on the bed for their late breakfast. Harry made sure Magnus removed the crust and place the peanut butter first before the jelly, not that it would make a difference. But according to the toddler, he knows when Magnus puts jelly first and then the peanut butter. After their breakfast, Harry requested Magnus if he could watch some of his shows.

"What do you want, darling?"

Harry shrugs and snuggled next to his father as they watched together. A few minutes into watching some kids program, one of the characters reminded Harry of yesterday's event.

"Oh, no... Daddy! 'fel!" Harry pointed at the muppet on the screen. "Is 'fel!"

"That's Count von Count, Harry." Magnus tried not to laugh at the thought of Raphael being compared to the vampire muppet.

"Vampire! Like 'fel!" Harry continued. "I wanna see 'fel, daddy." Harry tugs at Magnus's sleeves. "I say sowie..."

Harry then plops his head on Magnus's lap and just stared sadly at the screen. Magnus ran his fingers in Harry's thick hair.

"He's probably still sleeping. Maybe later."

"Promise?" Harry almost poked Magnus in the eye as he jabbed his pinky finger at Magnus's face.

Magnus linked their pinkies together, "Promise. Now, I think someone needs to take a bath." Magnus tickled Harry, and the boy tried to escape Magnus's grasp. Kicking his feet to Magnus's face only for Magnus to hold his foot and is tickling him there as well.

"Nooooo...." Harry laughs.

"I'm going to eat your toes," Magnus said in a much deeper voice and pretended to eat Harry's toes.

"Daddy!" Harry squirmed and squealed in laughter.

Magnus lifted Harry up, and he stood up from the bed. "Stinky boys need to take their baths."

"'m not stinky boy!" Harry protested.

"Oh," Magnus's eyes glinted with mischief as he laid Harry in his arms and proceeded to blow raspberries at the boy's stomach.

Magnus stopped soon, and they eventually made it to the bathroom.

"Duck," Harry said as he sat at the half-filled bathtub with his hands outstretched. Magnus raised his eyebrow at the child.

"Duck..." Magnus trailed off.

"Duck, please?" Harry tilted his head and gave his father his medium best puppy dog eyes.

"Alright," Magnus called for the toy duck from its storage with his magic, and it came sailing towards the bath. Harry clapped his hands at the display of magic.

"Harry too?"

"What do you want, Harry?"

"I magic too?"

Magnus just hummed in agreement and started to wash him up.

After a bath and lunch, Magnus made Harry take a nap, which the boy didn't protest to. It was indeed a lazy day for the two. When he woke up, Magnus and Harry played and practiced for a while in the playroom.

"Daddy make magic?" Harry asked as he watched Magnus move some of the toys to the side.

"Yes, look, Harry," Magnus used his magic to make one of his blocks float. "It's magic."

"I do that too!"

"Oh, darling, you can try, but it's alright if you can't."

Harry stared at the blocks in front of him. He picked one up and copied Magnus's movement. He twisted the toy with his hands, but when the piece of block wouldn't float, he tossed it up. The toy flew a few feet in the air before falling down.

"Magic!" Harry clapped his hands with glee.

Magnus tried not to laugh at Harry's attempt. He smiled and encouraged the boy to further attempt and make it float.

After several attempts, Harry finally realized that the block was not floating but was just falling. He started to get frustrated.

"No!" Harry crossed his arm and picked up the toy and tossed it in his fit, almost hitting Magnus's leg.

Magnus crouched next to Harry and comforted the frustrated child. "Oh love, it's alright. We'll try again next time. But don't throw your blocks, please." Magnus conjured a wispy image of a dragon to cheer the boy up, and it did. Harry was chasing it around the room, and when Magnus stopped, he looked at his father and said, "My dragon's better daddy."

Magnus looked around the room check where the toy was. Usually, the toy was carried to wherever Harry goes, but it seems like it got left in Harry's room.

"Where's your dragon, Harry? Is he missing?" Magnus pretends to look for the dragon in the room.

"Oh, no!" Harry fell on his butt and looked at Magnus. "Where is he, daddy?"

Magnus thought of an idea to try with Harry. "Why don't you call him?"

"Call him?" Harry tilted his head. "How?"

"Close your eyes and imagine you're holding him. And then call him. You need to wish very hard that you want to find him."

"Ok." Harry closed his eyes.

Magnus didn't think it would work, but it did. Harry opened his eyes, and in his amazement, the toy was there on his lap. Harry squeezed the toy in a hug, and Magnus lifted Harry along with the toy in celebration.

"You did it, Harry! That was amazing!" Magnus peppered the boy's cheek with kisses. "You are so wonderful. Oh, you're growing up so fast." Harry just giggled and then, "Can I have a chocolate daddy?"

Magnus laughs. He and Harry both ate some treats as a reward for a successful practice.

While Harry was watching his afternoon show, Magnus called Raphael to come over for dinner.

"I don't think Harry would..." Raphael trailed off.

"Harry's not afraid of you, Raphael. He thinks you hate him. That you're mad at him. Do you really want him to think that?" Magnus knows that Raphael cannot decline after that, and he didn't. Raphael will be at their place for dinner, and Magnus knows just how to help the two fix things up.

"Let's make a blanket fort."

Harry dashed to his room and dragged all the blankets he could get, although he did stop after pulling two blankets. He was almost in the living room when he got tired and asked his father to help him instead.

By the time Raphael came by, Magnus and Harry have already finished setting up a blanket fort that is so large, it took up the whole living room.

"Um..." Raphael hesitated to enter the room.

When Harry saw him, Harry ran and rammed him at his legs, hugging it tightly. "Harry..."

"'fel!"

Raphael stood frozen on the spot as Harry hug his legs, and he soon felt his pants damp with Harry's tears.

"Por qué estás llorando?*" Raphael whispered mostly to himself as he pried Harry from his legs and lifted him to set him on his hips. Raphael gave Harry a small smile. "Why are you crying, Harry?" He wiped the tears on Harry's cheek with his scarf.

"Sowie 'fel," Harry said, his eyes looking so miserable. "Harry shouted at 'fel and...and..." Harry started to hiccup, and with his free arm, Raphael soothes the boy's back.

"I'm not angry, Harry."

"But.." Harry pointed at Raphael's eyes. "Red."

"I... I wasn't mad at you, Harry." Raphael carried Harry to the fort and set him down.

"Stay here?" Harry pulled Raphael into the fort, and Raphael looked like he wanted to protest against it. But one look at Harry's puppy dog eyes, and he allowed the boy to pull him inside. Magnus went to the kitchen to give Raphael some privacy and set the table for their dinner.

Harry laid on Raphael's chest and hugged the man with all the strength a small toddler could muster. "I don't want 'fel to get an ouchie..."

Raphael finally let out a sigh of relief. It was good that Harry didn't actually fear him. He doesn't know if he could take it if his only brother would hate him.

"I forgive you, Harry. It's alright, as long as it doesn't happen again." Raphael returned Harry's embrace. "We got so worried when you suddenly disappeared." Harry just nodded against his chest, and then there was a muffled sound.

"What was that?"

"Love, Harry?" The boy looked up at him.

"Of course."

They stayed for that for a few more minutes until Harry got antsy and crawled out of the fort and went to find Magnus.

"Dinner's ready, Raphael," Magnus called out from the kitchen.

Raphael saw Harry already sitting in his chair. He sat on the chair across Magnus, and Magnus flicked a wrist to conjure Raphael his dinner, and Harry stared at it with wonder.

"Wats that." He pointed at Raphael's drink.

Magnus smirked. "It's vampire food, Harry."

"Like Count von Count?" Magnus nodded and tried to stifle a laugh.

"Am I missing something? Who's Count von count?" Raphael asked.

"You should stay for the night. Or until Harry's bedtime. Let's watch some movies and maybe see an episode that has Count von Count in it." Magnus offered.

Raphael nods.

"Can I try it?" Harry looked at Raphael and his drink.

"Um... You should ask Magnus." Raphael hid his smirk in his glass.

"Daddy?" Harry asked eagerly. "Please?" He added for good measure.

Magnus conjured a plastic cup with red liquid inside. "Here, Harry,"

Raphael raised his eyebrow at Magnus.

"How do you like it, Harry?" Magnus asked the boy as he took a sip.

"Strawberry! With jellies!" Harry looked at Raphael with amazement clear in his eyes. "Is yummy!"

They all laughed, and dinner was over soon enough. After dinner, Magnus changed Harry into his sleepwear, and they all went into the blanket fort. All three of them watched sesame streets that made Raphael want to crawl under a rock, especially when Harry called the vampire muppet 'fel.

"I don't look like him, Harry."

"But teeth!"

Raphael shakes his head in exasperation at that comment. After finishing one episode of that, they decide to watch a kid's film all about robots. Not even half-way into the movie and Harry was already sleeping like a log on Raphael's stomach, his shirt is grasped tightly by the boy.

"Um...Magnus?"

He tried to move Harry to transfer him to the bed, but Harry just whined and continued to sleep. They stayed like that the whole evening, Magnus also sleeping in the blanket fort with Raphael watching over both of them.

Chapter Text

When the three siblings head back to the Institute, they were greeted by their mother, annoyance, and a bit of anger clearly seen in her face.
 
"Alec, where were you?" An angry Maryse was what greeted the three when they got back from Magnus's place.
 
"Something came up." Alec walked past his mother and gently pulled Max away. Maryse followed the three as they walked towards Max's room.
 
"Didn't Jace call you? We need more men here, and you were out there doing whatever you just felt like doing."
 
"I'm sorry. It's my fault. I lost track of time." Alec, with his head bowed, just accepted his mother's following words.
 
"You're supposed to be the responsible one here, Alec. You know your duties. You weren't supposed to go anywhere but to your patrol today. Jace has to cover for you as well. Tell me, where did you take your brother and sister?"
 
Alec looked at Izzy with her eyes narrowing. She slightly shook her head and gave Alec a sharp look.
 
"We just went to the park," Alec said quietly.
 
"The park? You're shadowhunters. You don't need to go to the park. I don't want you putting any ideas in your brother's head that the future head of this Institute thinks that it's alright to take a stroll in the park whenever he likes."
 
Maryse pulled Max to her side. "No more parks Max or we're taking you back to Idris with us."
 
Max silently nodded and shook off his mother's grip on his shoulder. He then moved closer to Alec.
 
Alec placed a hand on Max's head to comfort the boy. "It won't happen again."
 
"You disappoint me, Alec. We raised you better than that." Maryse stormed out of the room.
 
Max pulled on his brother's sleeves.
 
"I'm sorry."
 
Alec gave his brother a forced smile. "It wasn't your fault."
 
"Why can't we tell mom that we did something important today?" Max sat on his bed and kicked out his shoes.
 
"She wasn't being fair," Isabelle sat next to their youngest brother. "She's probably taking out her frustrations on you, Alec."
 
Alec looked back at his sister with a frown. "What do you mean?"
 
"We'll Magnus came here to update the wards, and he did mention during dinner that he abruptly left when he learned that Harry was missing. You know how mother gets when it comes to downworlders." Isabelle let out a sigh and gave Alec a frown. "Are you alright?"
 
"I... I think I'm gonna go and train for a bit." Alec left after that.
 
Alec spent a good part of the evening mutilating the dummies in the training room. His mother's words, echoing inside his head as well as the memory of this afternoon.
 
Alec couldn't shake off the memory of Magnus's dark brown eyes. Magnus's expression when he saw Harry again, his smile, and how he looked great in that shirt. He also thought of how Harry is a secret from the Institute. His head, forming different scenarios of what could happen if the Institute learned about Magnus' secret.
 
"Magic is real?" he mumbled to himself.
 
Alec shakes his head at that thought. He knew magic was real, there are the warlocks and the seelies, but Alec couldn't help but think if those pulling a rabbit out of a hat could possibly be real. He grabbed another arrow and sent it flying through the dummy's head.
 
"Alec."
 
He pointed his arrow at the person who interrupted him, his hand not letting go of it.
 
"Woah!"
 
Jace raised his hand and leaned at the rack beside him. "What got you so worked up?"
 
Jace pulled Alec's bow and placed it on the table. "I didn't know how to describe how you're feeling through the bond earlier. It was weird. Did something happen?" Jace raised his eyebrow at his brother.
 
"I don't know what you're talking about."
 
Jace stood closer to him, their faces only a couple of inches away as Jace then inspects Alec's face. Jace's eyes narrow. "Did you met someone you like?"
 
"N-no!" Alec pushes Jace away. Alec usually feels flustered when Jace gets very near him but instead of feeling that, he was just annoyed with Jace and his lack of personal space. "You got it all wrong. There was just this kid..."
 
"Didn't know you go for the young ones, but..." Jace gave Alec a cheshire grin.
 
"Jace."
 
Jace heard the warning in Alec's voice. "A joke!" He raised his hand. "So...what happened?"
 
Alec was silent for a second before speaking, "Do you think mundanes can do magic?"
 
Jace snorted. "Of course not. That's why they got us to protect them from demons."
 
"I saw a mundane kid pop into thin air."
 
Jace's eyes widen. "What the..."
 
"Only Izzy and Max knows this, but the Clave might be hiding this from us. It just got me thinking about what else is out there."
 
"Magic is real?"
 
Alec just pats Jace on the shoulder. "Say that louder for the whole Institute to hear."
 
"But Alec! Magic!" Jace whispered loudly.
 
"Clearly, you need a lot more time to process this." Alec snickers and left a baffled Jace.
 
 
The next day.
 
"Alec," Izzy called for Alec's attention, who has just entered the room. "Look at this."
 
Isabelle showed Alec the footage of the demon that has been spotted several times the past few months. "We were able to get clear footage this time."
 
"That's the demon that Jace and I encountered months ago." He stared at the skull-like head of the floating demon. "How did you get that surveillance?
 
"I asked some of the newbies to check from time to time if he sees a floating ghost-like demon, and he did. There you go, big brother." Izzy printed out a copy of the image and gave it to Alec. Alec stared at the photo.
 
"Maybe we can compare this with some of the demon lores. The attacks don't seem intentional. They just passed by, and these mundanes fainted just by going near its presence."

 "Weren't you attacked by these creatures?" Izzy asked.
 
"Yeah, but I attacked first. Now that you've mentioned it, I don't think it attacked me directly."
 
Isabelle nodded and stared at the screen, deep in thought. When she faced Alec again, a sly smirk was plastered to her face. "You should ask Magnus for help."
 
Alec's eyebrows furrowed. "Why?"
 
"I'm sure he knows more about these than we do. I mean, before yesterday, I didn't even know wizards exist. Maybe these creatures are also hidden from us by the Clave."
 
Alec sat close to her. "Until we know why the Clave hid such information from us, we shouldn't discuss them here. You never know who might be listening."
 
Izzy nodded, "Yes, I'm sorry. But you should totally go see Magnus about it."
 
"I...We were just there yesterday..."
 
"And so?" Izzy raised her eyebrows at her brother.
 
"I'll take Jace or Max tomorrow."
 
"Why tomorrow?" Izzy gave Alec a questioning look.
 
Alec sighs. "Mother wants me to stay in the Institute today. She's making me supervise Max's training as well."
 
"Oh, well, then you have to make sure you wear those jeans I bought you last Christmas tomorrow," Izzy added.
 
"Why?"
 
"Trust me on this."
 
Alec shakes his head and left Izzy to go search for Max.
 
"Alec!"
 
Alec saw his brother ran to him. "What's the matter?"
 
Max hid his face. "Mom said I'm grounded, Alec." He mumbled against Alec's shirt.
 
Alec smiled sadly at his brother and patted his head. "I'm sorry."
 
Max shook his head, still pressed against Alec's chest. "Not your fault."
 
"C'mon, Max. I'll let you borrow my bow, and I'll teach you this really cool trick."
 
Max looked up at his brother and smiled. "Sure."

Meanwhile, in the other part of the town, Remus is making his way towards the precinct.

Remus has been working with Luke for a while now as a private investigator. There are just so many cases that muggles or the mundanes are not supposed to know of, and Luke decided that Remus could do with a job that has a more flexible time schedule.

Remus is working on a case, trying to track down a feral werewolf that attacked a muggle student a few nights ago. He's walking down the street, the precinct, just around the corner. He's on his way to meet with Luke when he suddenly got dragged into an obscure alleyway.

"Hey!" Remus struggled against the man holding his arm to his back. The man pushed him down until he is kneeling to the floor. He reached with his other arm for his wand when he felt his limbs lock. He's familiar with the spell. The man was a wizard.

"Moony, it's me." The man moved in front of Remus and crouched down.

Having no control with his limbs, the man cupped his face, and they were now facing each other.

Remus stared at the blond man in front of him. He doesn't recognize the face, but he knows who this person is.

Remus recalled the paper he received yesterday. The news of Sirius' escape was on the front page. He doesn't know how it got there, but now, he thinks it's Sirius who actually sent it.

Sirius sat down, and relief is seen on his face, "Moony, you have no idea how long I have been looking for you."

Thinking that everything is settled, Sirius cancels the spell.

As soon as Remus felt his limbs loosen, he immediately went for his wand and sent a stunning spell.

Sirius is being the ex-Auror that he was, manages to dodge the spell, despite his shock. "Remus!"

Remus felt his instinct resurfacing. Anger bubbles underneath his skin. "How could you?" He sent another stupefy to Sirius's direction.

Sirius put up a protego and tried to maneuver in the small alley.

"How could you betray your friends?" Remus's eyes are starting to fill with tears. It's been more than a year but the pain of losing his friends still hurts. Their brief fight ended with Sirius managing to get the upper hand and was able to hit Remus with Incarcerous. With his Auror training, Sirius is more skillful in a wand fight compared to him.

"I'm sorry," Sirius mumbled. He grabbed Remus and soon the world spun around them.

They apparated into a small apartment. Sirius sat Remus on an old-looking couch. He sat on the opposite in front of him. He removed all the glamour, revealing his long black hair, thin frame, and pale skin.

"I did not betray James." He said with his head down. He ran his hand through his hair, his other hand tight in a fist as he let out a sigh.

"You were their secret keeper!" Remus struggled against the invisible ropes. "How...you were like a brother to James! Lily...and James..." Remus's breath started to pick up, his eyesight getting blurry with the tears streaming down his face. "Are you here to kill me too? Like Peter?"

"It was Peter!" Sirius screamed. They were both crying now. "It wasn't me. I'm not lying. Please Moony, you have to believe me." He was on his knees now, his hands on Remus's shoulders. "I shouldn't have...I thought I was making the right decision."

Remus controlled his breathing and stared at Sirius. "Peter? Peter's dead."

"I didn't kill those muggles. Peter was the secret keeper. I swear," Sirius said, sounding more desperate to his friend. "I was an obvious choice for their secret keeper. I made the switch because...because I was afraid they'd know I'm the secret keeper and," he took a deep breath. "I thought I'd break easily and would reveal their location if they ever capture me."

"You're a coward!" Remus felt the ropes dig deeper into his skin as he struggled. "Of all people, you trusted Peter?!"

"I tried to catch him Moony, but the bastard set me up. He blew up those muggles."

"Dumbledore would have vouched for you if you were innocent! You wouldn't have ended up in Azkaban. How do you explain that?"

Sirius felt anger rise in him. "There was never a trial! I was in Azkaban for months!"

Remus was then reminded that Sirius is indeed a Black. His eyes showing a bit of that familiar Black family madness. Sirius pulled his wand and blasted a chair into pieces.

"Dumbledore is a bloody liar, and I'm sure he's hiding something."

"Let me see your memory."

Sirius almost missed what Remus said.

"We've been friends since our first year. Why do you doubt me? Why would I ever betray my brother?"

Remus looked at him with a hard gaze. "You're telling me Peter did it, and he was also our friend. Peter, who was always quiet. Why would he betray James and Lily?"

"I'll show you. You can even use veritaserum if you want. But I'm telling the truth." Sirius gritted his teeth. He cancels the spell, and Remus didn't move right away.

Remus stared at Sirius and used legilimens.

It took a while, but Remus was soon retching on the floor. He stopped the memory after seeing all those bodies were blown up and the finger that was left of Peter.

"Siri..." Remus said, his voice full of regret. "I'm...I'm sorry."

Sirius pulled Remus into a hug and for the first time in months, they were both able to fully grieve now that the truth is revealed.

After a few moments, Sirius awkwardly patted Remus back. "So...Harry?" He coughed. "I mean, where's Harry? I've been trying to track both of you down but I was only able to track you down and even that was a bit hard."

Remus's eyes grew larger. "Harry! Oh, you missed so much. You have to see him. Do you have a phone number? I'll take you to Magnus tomorrow. Right now..." he stared at his watch. "Bloody hell, I gotta go. There's a case I'm working on and..."

Sirius looked at Remus as he cleaned himself up. "You have work?"

"Yes."

"And it's not in some dingy bookshop?"

"Yes, I'm a private investigator now."

Sirius took his time in assessing Remus. Gone was the man who used to wear second-hand clothes that has patches and he no longer looked ill. This Remus was wearing a smart-looking suit in a trench coat. It was a wonder how he still recognizes the man. The hair was still the same, so there's that.

"I have a mobile phone that I seldom use. Don't make me track you done again. I'm still technically a fugitive on the run." Sirius grabbed a piece of paper and scribbled down his number.

"I'm sorry I'm cutting our reunion short."

"It's ok."

Sirius stared at the spot Remus was standing on as the man apparated away.

"Wait... Who's Magnus?"

The day after.

Alec entered Jace's room. 

"Hey."

Jace groaned. "Alec.."

"I told Izzy yesterday that I'm asking Magnus's help for the demon case we got, but..." Alec fidgeted.

"You should go instead," Alec said.
 
"I don't understand. What's wrong with this Magnus guy? Why won't you go there instead?" Jace asked as he rolled around in his bed. "Why do you have to be such a morning person? It's like 7 am!" Jace continues to groan to his pillow.
 
"I...I just don't want to go back there so soon."
 
"Dude, it's not like a first date where you have to wait out before meeting that person again so you won't look clingy or something."
 
Jace didn't see it, but Alec blushed at his brother's words. 'It wasn't like that at all!' Alec screamed in his head. Alec grabbed a pillow and threw it at Jace's head.
 
"Hey!" his scream muffled.
 
"You could say it's an official visit from the Institute."
 
Jace sat up. "You said....you returned his kid and that the guy owes you. You also said that his kid is a mundane who can do magic. Imagine if some random shadowhunter shows up at his doorstep saying that it's an official visit from the Institute. The guy's going to murder you."
 
Alec moved Jace's feet and sat at the foot of the bed. "You're right." He sighed. "I just said something rashly, and I'm a bit...." Alec mumbled the next words.
 
"What was that?"
 
Alec sighs again. "Embarrassed, okay? It was embarrassing and stupid of me to even insinuate such horrible stuff just because he's a downworlder. He didn't deserve that."
 
Jace stared at him. "Guess I have no choice. Fine. I'll go with you instead. You sure Max can't come?"
 
"Mother forbid him from leaving the Institute for the next two weeks."
 
Jace grimaced. "Poor kid."
 
"Let's just go. The sooner we get there, the sooner we can finish this case."
 
"This Magnus guy, is he handsome? Izzy mentioned the guy was hot and that you were tripping over your words like a dork when you stayed there." Jace gave Alec a cheshire grin.
 
Alec paled. He stood abruptly, "I don't know what you mean. Its...Izzy is just messing with me." He left after that.
 
"Hey! I was just kidding!" Jace's scream was heard outside the hallway. Jace's phone notified him of a text.
 
"We're leaving in an hour. A."
 
Jace groaned and plopped back to his bed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Remus met with Sirius the day after their first meeting, outside his and Magnus’s apartment building.

It took longer for Sirius to find the building, spending most of the morning trying to locate the area Remus texted him.

“I’m not sure if we should do this today," Remus said as he let Sirius into the building.

"What do you mean? I am Harry’s godfather! I have a right to see my godson." Sirius was starting to get impatient with his friend.

Remus hesitated.

"Let's go! I need to see Harry. It has been more than a year since…" Sirius gave Remus his best puppy dog eyes. He’s an expert with that, what with his animagus form being a large black dog. He got away with a lot of things during their Hogwarts years because of that.

Remus melted at the gaze. They entered the elevator.

Chapter Text

The next day, Magnus woke up to loud noises in the kitchen.

"'fel! I help!"

Raphael is making churros with Harry for breakfast. Harry was already eating one long piece, his mouth covered in chocolate. He was also sitting up from his chair, observing Raphael cook.

"Chocolate for breakfast?" Magnus grabbed a chair and sat next to Harry.

"Darling, sit down. You'll fall if you're not careful." Magnus conjured a cloth and cleaned the bit of chocolate that somehow reached Harry's forehead.

"Daddy! Me and 'fel read books!"

"Did you?" He smiled at the two and ruffled Harry's untamable locks.

"He woke up early, and I thought I could get him back to sleep with some light reading, but he wanted to read that book." Raphael pointed at a large tome about different plants and herbs that can be used for many rituals.

"My little genius." Harry just smiled at Magnus as he continued eating. "You couldn't make a toddler go back to sleep, so you decided to read and then feed him chocolate at 8 in the morning?" Magnus asked Raphael.

Raphael only gave Magnus a cheeky grin.

"Please tell me you're staying for a while longer."

"Sorry, I need to finish some business with the clan, so I'll leave after breakfast."

Magnus dramatically grasp his chest and laid across the table in front of Harry and loudly sighing, "you're leaving me behind with a sugar-induced monster? You wound me, Raphael." Magnus took a bite out of the churros Harry was waving around.

"Daddy!" Harry giggled. "..'m no monster." Harry continued to laugh at his father's antics.

Raphael just let out a soft laugh. He placed the plate full of churros on the table and sat across Magnus. Harry ate a couple more before Raphael decided that its time to head back. Magnus picked Harry up from his chair. "It's time to take a bath."

Magnus carried Harry off his seat when he heard a knock on the door.

"fel?" Harry asked.

"Did he left something? He wouldn't knock if that was the case." Magnus said mostly to himself. He put Harry back in his chair and securing him there with magic. Harry let out a whine when he realized he couldn't move around as much. "Daddy.." Harry reached for Magnus, but Magnus just gave him a brief kiss on the forehead. "I'll be right back, darling."

Magnus slowly approached the door. He checked himself for any stray chocolate handprints that Harry might have left on him. He opened the door and saw Alexander and another shadowhunter with him.

Magnus's thoughts immediately thought of the worse. He took a tentative step back. "Why are you here?" He glared at the blond man Alexander came with.

The blond man rolled his eyes. "I told you it wasn't a good idea to bring me with you." The man said to Alexander.

"Magnus! I...We need your help. That's why we're here." Alexander looked uncomfortable, looking anywhere but Magnus.

"Do you want to talk business here outside, or are you letting us in?" The blond one asked with a raised eyebrow.

Magnus stepped aside.

"I'm sorry. I should've known better."

As Alexander and the man with him entered the room, Magnus heard a loud yell. "Shit!"

Magnus joined the two immediately and saw Alexander struggling to maintain a neutral face and contain his laugh. The other man was almost sprawled to the floor if he wasn't holding onto the couch's armrests. The other man glared back and forth at Alexander and at the stuffed toys and blankets that are still left out from the night's blanket fort.

"What happened?" Magnus asked.

"Why do you have a giant duck in your apartment?!" The blond man nearly yelled.

Magnus looked at the toy that was almost as big as Harry and crossed his arm across his chest. "I hardly think it's big enough to be a giant duck, and why wouldn't I have one?"

Magnus then heard an impatient yelling of Daddy coming from the kitchen. He decided Harry is safer next to him, where they can teleport immediately. Should the blond man Alexander came with becomes a threat. "Excuse me for a second."

Magnus walked to the kitchen and held Harry with one arm as he settles him on his hips. He magicked the chocolate and other stains away. "Bath will have to wait."

Harry just giggled at the feeling of Magnus's magic washing over him.

When they returned to the living room, he saw Alexander hiding the duck behind a blanket as the blond man purposely looked anywhere but there.

"A shadowhunter afraid of ducks?"

The blond man looked offended. "Who's afraid of what? No one here is afraid of ducks." The man said in complete denial.

Harry instantly perked up as he heard the word "ducks."

Harry let out a loud "quack!" and giggled.

Magnus sighs and magicked the blankets and other things that cover the couch out of the room. Harry struggled in his hold and reached for the duck that was flying to his room.

The two men gaped at the child as he summoned his toy, and the said toy remarkably flew to his arms.

"Harry, I was cleaning." Magnus admonished the boy lightly and returned the duck as well. Harry pouted for a moment.

"You're telling me that that kind of magic is real?" The blond man was almost in awe if only he wasn't inching closer to Alexander.

"You told him about Harry?" Magnus stared at Alexander.

"He's my brother. We actually came here to ask for your help on a demon case we got." Alexander said with a grim-looking face.

"Why not just summon me to the Institute? I'm sure Maryse is still upset about the unfinished wards." Magnus scoffed at the word unfinished.

"We can't exactly discuss it in the Institute. Alec thinks it might be related to magical mundanes." Jace brushed invisible specks of dust from his shoulder.

"Daddy..." Harry whined in Magnus's arms.

Magnus looked down at Harry, who is squirming in his arms, "What is it, Harry?"

Harry's face scrunched up. "Ughhh...potty." Harry let out a soft grunt, and Magnus sighed.

"Excuse us, gentlemen." Magnus rushed to the toilet. "Sit down, and I'll be back shortly!"

Alec sat rigidly on the couch.

"That Magnus guy doesn't seem like the rumors that you hear about him," Jace said as he settled on the couch and placed his foot on the coffee table.

Alec roughly moves Jace's legs off it. "What do you mean?"

"I heard he owns several clubs, a party animal or something. I thought you were shitting me when you told me he has a kid."

"We're not here to gossip about the high warlock of Brooklyn Jace. Does it not bother you that the Clave probably knows magical mundanes exist, but we're all led to believe that all of them are helpless and weak?"

"They are helpless and weak. Especially against demons. If these magical mundanes are so powerful, why are they not protecting these mundanes instead of us?" Jace narrowed his eyes at his brother.

"I don't know. You know that my duty is to the Institute, and as a shadowhunter, we must protect them. I'm just confused about how this would affect the shadow world."

Jace also doesn't know what this would mean for them. Silence washed over them, and soon enough, Magnus came back with Harry, who was walking behind him.

"I'm sorry about that." Magnus snapped his finger. "I'm placing a ward around us so Harry won't hear us, but I'll still be able to hear him, so don't worry about censorship as we discuss this demon." Magnus led Harry to the side where he sat and played quietly on his own.

Magnus settled on the seat across them. "Let's get to business then, shall we."

Alec took out the photos they were able to collect on the demon and some of the reports over the months that have passed.

"This demon seems familiar." Magnus stared at the photos. "An associate of mine raised a similar concern a few months ago, but I was a bit preoccupied at the time. Since I haven't heard from them about it again, I simply thought the matter was already dealt with."

"Yes, well...we couldn't find any clues that would tie all the attacks. It all seems random and not intentional. We still don't know its full powers. There are also no records of such demons with a similar description that could bring out painful memories to resurface just by being near it." Alec showed Alec the reports from some of the victims and witnesses.

"Wait - Did you also experience that memory stuff from the demon?" Jace's neck would have snapped at the whiplash with how fast he turned his neck towards his brother.

"No. I didn't," was Alec's immediate reply.

Jace narrowed his eyes.

"I didn't have a picture before, so I didn't think it was possible..." Magnus closed his eyes and rubbed his temple. "That's no demon. That's a dark creature that's called a dementor."

"A dementor?"

"Dark creature?"

"Yes, they feed on a person's happiness and hope. They can also suck the soul out of a person, but they only do that to prisoners who are ordered to get the Dementors Kiss."

"Who wouldn't die if a creepy skull head kissed them." Jace let out a small hiss when Alec jabbed him at the side with his elbow.

"You said, prisoners. What do you mean by that?" Alec asked.

"They're guards to...a prison for magical mundanes, but that's in Great Britain. What are they doing here?" Magnus's eyes narrowed.

Both Alec and Jace looked up when Magnus suddenly stood up. "No. It's not possible." Magnus said in an alarmed voice.

"Magnus...?" Alec stared at the man who paled and fell back to his seat.

Magnus's thoughts brought him back to the other night where Remus came and showed him the newspaper about Black's escape.

There was a knock on the door. Magnus's eyebrows furrowed. With a slight movement of his hand, he removed the wards that prevented Harry from hearing them.

"Harry..." Magnus called out to the boy.

Harry looked up at him and grinned.

Magnus looked at the two men then back to Harry. "I'll be right back."

Alec and Jace shared a worried look.

"What was that?" Jace whispered at Alec, but Alec just shrugged his shoulder and looked at the boy that was now walking towards them, a toy car in his hand.

"Play!"

Before Alec could respond, they heard the door opened, and Magnus shouted, "What's the meaning of this!"

Alec immediately grabbed Harry and Jace drew his blade.

They couldn't see from here the view of the doorway, but they heard more shouting.

"What's he doing here!" That was Magnus's voice.

"Magnus! Let me explain!" Another voice said.

"I just want to see Harry!" Another voice - who sounded familiar to Alec - said.

They saw Magnus walking back towards the living room, and Alec tightened his hold on Harry while both he and Jace prepare for any fight that would happen. Harry was startled by all the shouting started to cry. Magnus was raising his arms. And from the looks of it was preventing these men from entering his home. Jace was ready to strike the attacker, but Alec would need him more as back up.

Magnus immediately looked for Harry when he heard Harry's cries. His heart ached as he saw Harry crying in Alexander's arms. Alexander has Harry turned away, so he wasn't seeing anything he's not supposed to see.

Magnus couldn't believe that Remus would betray him like this. He's so confused. Why would Remus take Black to their home? Sirius Black was the reason why Harry became an orphan. All reasoning came flying out the window when Sirius took out his wand and pointed it to him.

"Where's Harry!"

"I'm not letting you near my son." Magnus gritted his teeth as he blocks each spell that comes flying his way.

"You..!"

Magnus saw Remus's eyes grew bigger as Sirius tried to attack him. "Sirius, stop!" Magnus heard Remus yell, but the man didn't stop and just continued to struggle against the werewolf's hold.

"He's not your son! He's James's! How dare you steal Harry from us!"

Sirius started casting spell after spell, and Magnus deflects and returns most of them. Sirius was a skilled Auror, and it shows in his way of fighting with Magnus, and months spent in Azkaban did not change that.

But Magnus has been alive for so long and is the High Warlock of Brooklyn.

"Magnus! Sirius! Stop! Both of you!" Remus tried to stop the two, but he was clearly no match between these two.

"I didn't steal Harry from anybody!"

Magnus was finally able to knock the man out, and then he looked at Remus.

"Why?" Magnus said with his shoulders hunched, his eyes glassy.

"I should have asked first - "

"Yes! You should've asked me first if I wanted a convicted criminal in my home!"

"He's innocent! Let me explain!" Remus said as he helped his stunned friend off the ground. Black was still unconscious.

"Magnus?" Alec, who was still holding a crying Harry, slowly said his name. Magnus turned and saw that the two shadowhunters witness the whole debacle.

Before Magnus could reply, he heard Black groaned, and he immediately binds the man with ropes. Remus looked at him with a pleading gaze. "Let me explain."

Magnus looked down and said, "Alexander, can I ask you to watch over Harry for a while? There are some things I need to settle first. I'm sorry."

"Of course. I'll take Harry to the playroom if that's okay."

Magnus nodded. Harry struggled a bit clearly, still in distress. "Daddy!" Magnus crossed the room and took Harry in his arms, and he made sure that the two wizards won't see Harry and Harry won't see them. "Everything is fine. Why don't you play with Alexander for a while? Daddy needs to...work something out." Harry shook his head against Magnus's chest. "I'll...I'll take you to the park if you behave. Please, Harry?" Magnus's voice was a bit strained.

"Harry...good." was all Harry said as he let Alexander take him to the playroom. The other shadowhunter following after them, "Wait, Alec! You can't possibly - "

Magnus then faced the two wizards and narrowed his eyes.

"Let's pretend that I actually believe that you're all innocent. I'll only hear you out if this man will not cross the line. I'm Harry's father, and he needs to accept that."

Sirius glared at Magnus and then glared at Remus when Remus pulled his hand.

They all sat down on the dining table with Remus and Sirius on one side while Magnus sat across them. Magnus warded the room and crossed his arms.

"Why?"

Remus looked down, "Why..."

"Why did you bring him here without asking me if it's alright?" Magnus asked again. He tried to sound calm, but he can feel his magic bubbling with his anger just beneath the surface.

"I forgot...that things are so different now." Remus was trembling. "When I saw him again, I was so mad, not just at him but at myself." Remus couldn't meet Magnus's eyes. "He found me and showed me his memories. He wasn't the secret keeper. I should have believed him, but..." Remus started to fidget. "I wanted to show him Harry, and I just got ahead of myself without thinking..."

Magnus's eyes left Remus slumped form and steeled his gaze at the other man. "If you were not the Potter's secret keeper...who?"

"It was Peter." Sirius clenched his fist and gritted his teeth. "I...I was the obvious choice, but I thought...no one would think Peter was the Secret Keeper, but the bloody rat scum did not even last long before he squeaked."

"Why should I believe you? How about those mundanes?"

"Mundanes?"

"Muggles." Remus softly said.

"Those mundanes who died from a blast, are you saying you're also not the one behind that?"

"The only sin I committed that night was getting there too late and not killing Peter myself!" Sirius slammed his fists on the table and glared at it as if the table personally offended him.

"Not only are you reckless, but you're also the reason why Harry was left on some magic hating mundane's doorstep that night."

"Dumbledore...he knew. I thought that he'd help me get out of Azkaban, but..."

"Why are you here, then?" Magnus asked.

"To see Harry."

"I'm taking Harry back home."

Remus and Sirius said at the same time. Remus looked at Sirius with wide eyes.

"You said...you wanted to see Harry, why would - ." Remus just looked alarmed as he trailed off.

"Harry's my godson... it's my right -"

"Harry is MY son! You no longer have those rights when you abandoned him." Magnus cut Sirius off.

" I did not abandon him, and he's not your son. He's James's!" Sirius stood up and was about to pull his wand when Magnus slammed him towards the wall.

"You...innocent or not is still a convicted murderer. You're telling me that you're taking my son? When dementors are in New York looking for you!"

Both Sirius and Remus gasped when Magnus completely lost control of his glamour and revealed his cat eyes.

"Harry is safe and loved, and he will not live a life with someone on the run. I'm his father, but that doesn't mean I replaced James. You're arrogant if you think you can just waltz back into his life as if nothing happened. He's much safer with me than with you." Magnus kept Sirius pinned at the wall. "You can try, but you're no match for me."

"Dementors? Here in America?" Remus paled at what that could mean for his friend. "Sirius..."

"You need to accept that Harry is here to stay. The only way I'd allow you to see him is when you're free and not a risk of getting Harry discovered by your kind. I tried so hard to hide his adoption and his existence here to keep him safe from that Dumbledore and those evil followers of that madman."

"You can't keep me from seeing my godson! I'll find a way to get rid of those dementors..."

"If you're really innocent, clear your name, and then we'll discuss it." Magnus glared at the man as he released him from the wall.

"I...I don't know how..." Sirius slumped to the floor and bowed his head between his legs. "If Dumbledore wouldn't testify..."

"I'll help you find a way."

"But...you seemed so convinced that I'm the enemy. Why would you help me?"

"I'll help you if you won't try to take Harry from me. He has a home here, and he needs stability and...I love him. Harry is an amazing child." Magnus felt all the anger drain from his body. Magnus can tell that the man is innocent. There was no real malicious intent when the man came to his home, but the heat of the moment took over both of them.

Magnus conjured a glass of wine and drank all of it at once. He knew that he needs more allies from the magical society, especially if he wants to keep Harry safe from threats from both sides. Sirius was also Harry's godfather. He might not be listed as one now since he adopted Harry, but his connection to Harry's parents would be one that Magnus might need in the future.

"Why don't we start over. If you're willing." Magnus moved next to Sirius and extended his hand. "I'm Magnus Bane, High Warlock of Brooklyn...and Harry's new dad."

Sirius looked at him with eyes filled with regret and sadness. "I'm Sirius Black...of the House of Black?" Sirius let out a bitter laugh. "I'm Harry's godfather, James's....best friend."

"Now, how the hell did you find Remus?"

Sirius scratched the back of his head. "Funny story actually, I tried to track him by an owl, and my owl was very persistent. It took him months, but somehow, the other day, he delivered that paper."

Remus and Magnus stared at each other.

"Harry?"

"Harry."

~~~

"Why are we still here, Alec?" Jace looked weary at the toddler. "We can go back tomorrow."

Jace raised his eyebrow at his brother, whose attention was on the toddler who was quietly sitting on his lap and hugging a toy dragon. "Alec?" He said a little louder.

"You can go if you want, Jace, but...but I can't leave a child unsupervised." Alec gave Harry a tight hug in hopes to comfort the small child.

Jace rubbed his temple and leaned on the closed door, and just looked around the playroom. He saw a group of rubber ducks at the other side of the room, and he let out a groan. "This kid is obsessed with ducks."

Alec looked back at his brother. "You can go if you want."

"And leave you with those crazy stick waving people? No way." Jace sat on a bean bag chair and stared at the kid. "We also still need that information on the dementors, so..."

"I think the other man seemed familiar. Same voice but a different face."

"Is he a threat?"

"Possibly."

"Guess we can't let our guard down."

Alec just nodded his head and looked down at Harry.

"Alec...daddy mad?" Harry let out a small hiccup.

Alec looked back at his brother, who just shrugged his arms.
"Um...he's not. He just needs to...work. How about you tell me what's their name?" He gestured at the toy dragon.

"Dragon!"

Jace snorted.

"That's a good name." Alec ruffled the boy's hair, and the boy gave him a small smile.

"Max? Where, Max?"

"He's at home." Alec accepted Dragon the Dragon, and Harry crawled on his belly and declared he's a snake.

"Can Harry go see Max?" Harry asked.

"I'm sorry, but Max can't go outside."

"Ohh." Harry, then for a moment, looked at Jace and went to the other side of the room. He came back with something hidden in his shirt. He walked closer to Jace, and Alec just watched what the boy was about to do.

"Quack!" Harry said and took out the toy hidden at the hem of his shirt, a rubber duck, and threw it at Jace with a precise aim. Jace, who wasn't paying Harry any attention and was dozing off, let out a curse.

"Fck!"

Chapter Text

"How do you suppose we fix the problem with the dementors?"

"Banish them to hell?"

"They're not demons."

"What are they?"

"Dark creatures...?"

"Do you think that maybe dementors used to be humans that were so sad that they turned into using dark magic? So nobody else could be happy but accidentally turned themselves into dementors?"

"Where did you get that?"

"Heard it from someone a few cells from mine. The man loves conspiracy theories. He said that those we're the only thing that's keeping him sane."

"He's not sane if he's started thinking of theories on bloody dementors. We're thinking of a plan here, so be more serious."

"But I am Sirius. How more Sirius can I be?" Sirius gave his friend a smirk, and Remus's facepalmed.

"I walked into that one, didn't I." Remus sighed.

Magnus watched as the two men bicker in front of him. He cleared his throat. "Excuse me, boys, but I think I have a solution to our problem."

The two men stopped and stared at Magnus. Remus gestured to Magnus to continue and made sure that Sirius was paying attention.

"Let's have MACUSA handle it." Magnus took a sip from his drink.

"What do you mean?" Sirius asked, his eyes narrowing.

"I mean, let the Americans catch you and the dementors."

Sirius stood up from his seat and tried to grabbed Magnus's shirt, but Remus was faster and grabbed the back of Sirius's shirt and pulled him back to his chair.

"Moony!" Sirius glared and his voice, almost growling. "You!" Sirius directed at Magnus. "I thought we're supposed to be civil here."

"Let me explain." Magnus coolly said. "You only need to perform magic in front of an innocent mundane and reveal the wizarding society to them. MACUSA will right away take you to court and will be trialed under the veritaserum."

Sirius's eyes widen. "But how can we make sure that the dementors or Aurors won't catch me first?"

"And how can we prove his innocence with the murders and him not being the secret keeper?" Remus asked.

Magnus smirked. "We just need to lay down a scenario that will make sure they ask the right questions."

Sirius looked down at the table and then back at Magnus. "That won't work. I saw Harry, actually, a few days ago and I thought...I acted foolishly and attacked those muggles Harry was with. MACUSA didn't arrest me then."

Magnus's face deepened. "You could have put Harry in danger with what you did. I admit that it would have been helpful if Harry was taken by those dark wizards. But the reason why it didn't work was that they are not ordinary mundanes or...muggles. Like how I'm a warlock that does magic but is so very different from your kind."

"What do you mean you're different?" Sirius looks at Magnus with a look that reminds Magnus of interrogations.

"Well, sweetie, when you're father is the Prince of Hell, that kinda makes you special." Magnus's emphasis on the word special didn't indicate it meant a good thing. Magnus leaned back at his chair and took a long sip of his drink as he watches Sirius's eyebrows rise towards his hairline in shock.

"Wait...what?" Sirius's eyes bugged out and did a 180 as he stared down at Remus. "He's bloody mental. Remus?" Then, looks back at Magnus, opening his mouth but not finding the words to describe his shock.

"We'll talk more on the subject later. I better get Harry and those two gentlemen." Magnus sat up. "You did come to see Harry."

Magnus turned his back and walked towards the playroom and knocked before entering.

"Daddy!" Harry ran to him and immediately asked to be held. "Work done?"

Magnus raised his eyebrows at the other two occupants of the room when he saw Jace has a red mark on his forehead. Magnus almost didn't notice the small shrug Alexander did and the faint smile on his face as he looked at both Magnus and Harry.

"Did you behave?" He asked the boy as they went out of the room. Harry nodded against his shoulder and asked for snacks. Magnus laughs. "Thank you, Alexander, for looking after Harry. Stay for lunch. It's the least I could do." Magnus wanted to thank the man as well, for being so protective of Harry during that brief fight but couldn't bring himself to mention it.

Jace rubbed his forehead and narrowed his eyes at the small boy. He cleared his throat and looked pointedly at Magnus.

"Erm, yes. Thank you, as well. Well, if you ever need a warlock..." Magnus said dismissively to Jace and then turned back to Alexander. "Anyway, I've discovered the cause of the dementors, and we already have a way to get rid of them."

Alec looked at Magnus and then at the two that were sitting at the dining table. "Who's we?"

"He's the reason why they're here." Magnus tilted his head in Sirius's direction. "It's a long story, and we'll actually need your help to plan it."

"Why do you need Alec's help."

"I need his...aura." Magnus gave the two of them a grin and then turned his back from Jace and set Harry down. Magnus kneeled down and faced Harry. "Darling, I need you to meet someone. He's your Dada's friend."

Harry bounced up and down in delight. "More friends! Can Harry play with Dada's friend?"

Magnus laughs. "If you ask nicely and he says yes."

Magnus tried to tame down some of Harry's hair stuck out, then stood up and held Harry's hand towards the dining table. He hoisted Harry to his booster seat and strap him in, the chair facing Sirius. "I'll give you a few minutes so you can be alone with Harry, but I assure you that if you try anything, those Aurors won't find anything left behind. Not even a finger." Magnus then stared at Remus. Without any words spoken between them, Remus nodded in shame.

Magnus left and the room and talked to the two shadowhunters about his plan.

Sirius was crying now as he looks at Harry so closely.

He couldn't see much of Harry anymore with how much tears are streaming down his eyes. He barely saw Harry the other day, and he didn't actually get a good look at him. He knew that Harry would look so much like James when he was just a baby, but he couldn't imagine it in his head. Harry was a lot bigger now. He was walking and talking, and the boy was looking at Sirius with curious eyes. Bright emerald eyes that seemed to glow under the light and his heart ached for Lily and his best friend.

"Oh, Harry." Sirius reached over the table and caressed the child's cheeks, and Harry's mouth quivered, and his eyes shined with unshed tears.

"No cry," Harry said. "Is okay..." Harry patted the man's arm, and Sirius immediately rubbed both eyes with his other arm.

"No..no...I'm not crying. These are...happy tears." He sniffled.

Harry gave him a smile.

"You look so much like your dad. James should have been here." Sirius said sadly.

Harry perked up when he heard his father's name. "Dada! Daddy said that's Dada's name!"

Sirius gave Harry a weak smile. "Yes, your Dada is James. I'm glad that Magnus told you about him. How about me? Do you remember me, pup? Uncle Padfoot?"

Harry laughed excitedly. "Doggy! I gots a doggy they go bark bark! And..."

Remus laughed at the boy's excited chatter, and Sirius blinked away more tears.

~~~
"About the dementors..." Magnus started as he led the two back to the living room.

"Wait. Magnus, I think that man was the one who attacked us the other day. He looks different but maybe with magic..." Alec interrupted the man.

Magnus tilted his head, "How did you figure it out?"

"Well...he sounded familiar and also..." Alexander paused. "He's wearing the same thing when he attacked us."

"Talk about a horrible fashion sense." Jace quipped.

Magnus looked back and chuckled at himself at the mismatched clothes that stood out. He didn't think that the shadowhunter that mostly wear black clothing knew better. But Magnus thought of maybe helping the poor man at least look decent with regular mundane clothes. "That was him, but I guess now, he's not really much of a threat to us. It was all a big misunderstanding. The dementors are here because they're looking for him." Magnus says.

"That's great. Then I guess you can restrain that man, and Alec and I can look for the dementors, and we'll call you then. " Jace said with an air of finality and stood up to leave.

Magnus stops him. "No."

"What? What do you mean, no?"

"Jace..."

"It's not that easy, and I'll need Alec tomorrow for the plan to work. We can talk more about the plan over lunch." Magnus clapped his hands together and looked at Alec. "Do you like Italian food? Maybe you can lend me a hand in the kitchen..." Magnus gave Alec a sweet smile.

Alec's phone went off before he could react to Magnus's attention on him and saw a message from Izzy.

'Mother wants you back at the Institute. ASAP.' - Izzy.

"I'm sorry, but Jace and I need to go. Something came up at the Institute." Alec knew he felt a bit disappointed at seeing that text. Despite the fight the happened earlier, his morning was going well. Harry is a great kid, and Magnus just somehow gives off this calming presence. Alec doesn't really understand what's happening with him lately. He knows his responsibilities, but right now, he would rather spend his whole afternoon here. It all sounds ridiculous inside Alec's head.

"Alec?" Jace stopped Alec's train of thought. "You there, buddy?"

Alec shook his head and glanced back at the two. "Uh yeah. Let's go." He stood up and made sure to grab all the files they brought.

"Wait!" Magnus said suddenly. "You have to say goodbye to Harry first!" Magnus mentally clapped himself at the back at a successful reason to make Alexander stay for a few more minutes. He really didn't want the shadowhunter to leave, and he didn't want to lose the extra company.

Magnus is still not truly comfortable with the idea of being all alone with a bunch of wizards and Harry. But he can't keep Alexander if there was a problem in the New York Institute.

"Oh...yes. Of course..." Alec brightened a bit at that while Jace just rolls his eyes.

Magnus went back to the kitchen and, Alec and Jace heard him explain to Harry how Alec and his friend has to leave.

"No!" Harry ran towards Alec but tripped midway. Magnus was about to help him out, Alec also took a step forward, but Harry stood up by himself. Magnus called back at the boy to not run, but Harry ran again and grabbed Alec's leg. Harry let out a wail and crocodile tears in his eyes.

Alec's eyes soften, and he knelt down and brushed away some of the tears. "Did it hurt?"

"Hurts," Harry said now with more exaggerated sobs.

Alec tried his best to look serious as he pretends to assess the boy's knees. "You have a strong knee, Harry. You'll recover."

Harry laughs, forgetting that he was crying pitifully to make Alec stay. "Harry strong," he said in agreement. "Alec stay? Wanna play knight, and he can be monster." Harry said, then pointed to Jace. Alec softly laughs at the boy's antics, clearly not fazed by his slip.

"Hey! I'm too pretty to be a monster." Jace brushed his hair and showed Harry his best side.

Harry just giggled and put both his hands on Alec's cheeks.

"Alec pwetty."

Alec blushed, and Magnus mentally cheered his son.

"Sorry, Harry, but Alec needs to go. Anyway, you can write your number here." Magnus hands his phone to Alec.

"Huh?"

"I'll text you the plan with the dementors. I need your help, remember?" Magnus gave Alec a smile along with a wink that made Alec's neck grew red.

"Oh...of course." Alec typed in his number and hands Magnus's phone back.

Harry pulls Alec's leg. "Play!"

Jace noticed a ball on the side and picked it up. "Hey kid, Alec needs to go home. How about you play with this." Harry looked at Jace and the small plastic ball in his hand.

"Catch."

Jace tosses it to the boy, but Harry wasn't able to catch it. Instead, the ball hit Harry's forehead. It wasn't a hard throw, but the boy let out a soft noise.

"Aw...Fuck..."

Magnus froze as Harry rubbed his forehead. Alec's eyes grew as big as saucers.

"Where did you learn that word, Harry? You shouldn't say words like that, okay?" Magnus gently rubbed Harry's forehead and checked for if it hurt the boy and then picked up the ball by Harry's feet, squeezing it a little too tight.

Harry nods and points at Jace, who was trying to quietly sneak out.

"That's an adult's word." The room's temperature seemed to have dropped, and they all shivered at Magnus's glare.

"You!" Before Magnus could cast a spell, Sirius was already next to him, a hand placed on Magnus's shoulder.

"You need to cool it. You know, James accidentally taught Harry his first curse word, and Lily gave him a good beating, but maybe do it when Harry's not present."

Magnus glared at Sirius and shrugged off his hand on his shoulder. "He shouldn't have been cursing around children."

"Harry will get over it. He stopped saying shit after a month." And then Sirius's eyes grew wide and slapped a hand on his mouth.

Magnus immediately looked at Harry, who was having the time of his life climbing all over Alec, not paying any attention to the rest of the adults in the room. Magnus heaved a sigh of relief that the boy didn't hear the word shit.

"Alright, Harry, that's enough. Alexander really needs to go now. He's welcoming anytime but his brother..." Magnus just glared at Jace without continuing his sentence.

Harry was put down and gave Alec one last hug. "See you later, okay?"

Alec nods. Jace mumbled an apology that Magnus hardly heard, but as soon as they were almost at the door, Magnus let out a small stinging spell to his ass that they heard Jace yelped as they closed the door.

"I should wash that mouth of yours with soap Black!" Magnus tries to grab Sirius, but he then transforms into a dog, and then Harry jumped in excitement as they chase a black dog around the apartment.

It was already lunchtime when Harry let go of Padfoot and stopped using him as his stead.

Sirius changed back and stretched his back, and groaned. "It has been a while since I did that. You're a heavy kid."

Harry ignored Sirius's comment and just dashed towards Magnus. "Daddy, hungry."

"I'm sure you are."

Magnus arranged a simple lunch of spaghetti and meatballs. He ends up changing Harry's clothes after he wore his food with how much sauce was on his shirt.

Harry didn't protest to a nap since he thoroughly exhausted himself that morning with all the running and jumping he did with his godfather.

"Remus told me a bit about this shadow world while you took Harry for his nap..." Sirius said with his arms on his knees, sitting way too comfortably on Magnus's couch. "I can't believe there are so many vampires and werewolves in the muggle world. I don't think we ever even encountered real demons during my Auror days."

Magnus crossed his legs and sent his magic into cleaning the mess Harry left with his toys. "Do you have any other questions?"

"Are warlocks more powerful than wizards?"

"I'm the High Warlock of Brooklyn, and I'm also a few hundred years old. I'm a powerful warlock."

Sirius's eyes grew with amazement. " You're probably a lot older than Dumbledore then."

Magnus's eye twitched. He didn't like how he's compared to the old man who wanted to use his son.

"Age...is just a number when you're an immortal."

Sirius rubbed his chin and asked, "Dumbledore's a powerful wizard. Many followed him because he stopped that dark wizard Grindelward a few decades back. You-Know-Who also only feared one man, and it's Dumbledore. Do you plan on taking him on?"

"As much as possible, I would like to hide Harry from this Dumbledore for as long as I could. I would fight him if needed, but it would be best that we avoid it."

Magnus also remembered about the plan they're creating. "If we plan to get you a trial, I would very much like to remove your memory of seeing Harry here in New York."

"You're going to obliviate me?"

"No, I'll just take your memory temporarily to make sure you won't slip. And before we make any more plans, I need to make a phone call. I'll need a few more people into this plan, and I don't trust any other mundane with Harry."

"Harry's part of the plan? I thought you didn't want Harry into this." Sirius was now confused.

Magnus gave Sirius a sly smirk. "You just wait there, and I'll be right back."

Magnus turned away and left the two men in his living room, speculating about what the plan could possibly be.

~~~
"Alec, I've been looking for you." Maryse has her arms cross, sitting at the office.

"I've had some important matters to attend to this morning," Alec replied, standing awkwardly by the door.

"Sit down. We have a lot to discuss. I know we haven't been talking much about how you're taking over the Institute permanently, but Robert and I talked about it last night, and we think that you need more time. Your father and I will handle the Institute for a few more weeks."

"Is there a reason why you're extending your stay here? Are you not satisfied with how I'm handling the Institute?" Alec clenched his fists, and the tension was thick in the room.

Alec didn't want his parents to stay longer. Isabelle and Max are already uneased with their presence. They're also troubled by the many criticisms they are taking from Maryse and Robert. Robert also is not a good influence on the other shadowhunters with his blatant disregard for equality and discrimination against the downworlders.

"I supposed that what you've been doing is adequate, but you seemed to think that you could just spend your time doing nonsensical things. An opportunity has opened up to our family, and I know you will do the sensible thing for your family." Maryse is now smiling widely at Alec, and Alec sat at one of the chairs.

"What do you mean?"

"The Clave is sending an envoy, and I want you to show her around. Her name's Lydia Branwell."

Chapter Text

"I thought you said you wanna hang out? Why are we suddenly babysitting? Do you know how many babies I babysat? Zero. One look and they all go crying for their moms. Maybe they can smell fear. Coz babies are scary! They have no fear, and I swear I saw this kid jump from the top of the slide and stood up like it didn't hurt."

"Simon!" Clary cut off his friends babbling. "I know I said we'd hang out at the coffee shop, and we will. Magnus is just going to run some errands, and we can meet him there with Harry. Harry is a cool kid. Nothing to worry about."

Simon's hands were everywhere as he tried to tell his friend multiple ways this could go wrong. "You've mentioned your mom having a friend named Magnus, but you didn't tell me you were close with his kid."

"Harry is two, and he also likes to talk, so maybe you two can bond over that." Clary laughed as she and Simon walk towards Magnus's apartment.

They reached Magnus's apartment, and Simon gaped.

"He lives on this side of the city? The guys probably loaded."

"Hmmm...well, he owns the building."

"Woah."

They entered the building and rode the elevator. For this visit, Magnus made sure to make his apartment mundane friendly, hiding under a glamour, all of the warlock related stuff, and hiding the expanded rooms. Clary knocked on Magnus's door, and Magnus greeted Clary with a brief kiss on the cheek and a raised eyebrow at Simon's outfit, which was a graphic tee under a plaid shirt and jeans. "I'm so glad you could make it."

"I'll never turn down spending time with Harry." Then Clary pointed Simon to a couch to sit on, and she dragged Magnus to the kitchen.

"So, mom didn't actually tell me why exactly do I need to bring Simon here, but I hope it's not because you ran out of ingredients like mundane hair or something." Clary gave Magnus a pointed look, and Magnus laughs.

"I just need a mundane that my wizard friend could show magic at."

"But I thought that's like a bad thing? That's why Harry can't have mundane babysitters."

"Harry can't have mundane babysitters because it's dangerous for Harry to be left with someone incapable of defending him." Magnus took Clary to Harry's room. "Harry's still sleeping, but I need to leave now. I need you and Simon to go to that cafe near the park for Harry's morning walk, and I'll meet you there."

Clary looked at Harry, who's starting to wake up. "Harry looks a bit different. Sure it's been a while since I last saw him but his hair..."

"Yes, I changed his hair to dark brown and altered some of his features lightly. I wanted him recognizable but not that similar."

"Did they tracked him?" Clary's eyes looked at the small child worriedly. "Should we even take him outside?"

"Just trust me on this Clarissa, I won't be putting my own son in danger if I thought this plan was not gonna work. By the way, did your mother told you about Harry's accidental magic a few days ago? We talked for a bit while she was at her studio."

Clary shook her head, and Magnus lights up as he excitedly recalled Harry's powerful accidental magic display a few days ago. He proudly bragged to the young girl how Harry could create a rift in his ward just because of his intense love for going to the park.

"Mom's a bit busy lately with some of her artworks. But when she told me about babysitting Harry, she was a bit worried that I'm exposing Simon to the Shadow World."

Jocelyn used to be a shadowhunter, but she left when Clary was just a toddler. Clary and her mother - Jocelyn - are some of Magnus's friends who knows about Harry's origin. It helps to have some extra help in keeping an eye out for any sign of trouble. Jocelyn became a good friend after Magnus helped Jocelyn's problem with her husband and his merry band of troublemakers. The circle would have been a more serious problem, in the long run, had Jocelyn and Magnus not interfered.

Clarissa was just a toddler at that time when her father - Valentine - was just beginning to gather followers in his plan to rid the earth of downworlders. Jocelyn tried to reason out with the man, but he wasn't listening. His hate speeches caught the attention of feral werewolves and attacked him. His own followers tried to kill him, and well...Valentine would rather die than become one of those he despised the most, but he didn't want to die alone. It was a bloodbath, and Magnus helped Jocelyn fixed her husband's mistake.

"But I thought that you wanted Simon to know?"

Harry woke up at that and whined for his daddy. Magnus carried Harry, and Harry just settled his head at the crook of his shoulder, trying to get back to sleep as Magnus ran a hand across his back in a soothing manner.

"Yeah, Simon has been my friend forever, and I'm just afraid to lose him if it's too much for him to handle."

"Oh darling, if he can't handle all of this, then I'll personally wipe his memory if you want me to."

Clary smiled at Magnus, and Harry, now much more awake in Magnus's arms, reached for Clary excitedly.

Clary reached and carried Harry as Magnus continued to give directions for Clary to follow, not just for the plan but with taking care of Harry as well.

Simon sat on the couch and looked around. It looked like those penthouse apartments he saw in magazines, except it totally looked lived in. Simon saw toys at random nooks of the shelves and plenty of stuffed toys left on the seats. He noticed how there's not much baby proofing around.

He remembered coming over to a friend's house, and all the cabinets have those locks to prevent small hands from opening them. He saw a big flat screen with a big collection of blu-ray DVDs.

"Dude got all of the classic Disney films. But who use DVDs anymore." Simon said to himself.

"We don't have internet here," Magnus replied as the three of them went out of Harry's room.

Simon flushed in embarrassment and mumbled an apology.

The kid they're babysitting was no in Clary's arms talking up a storm.

"Harry, why don't you say hi to Clary's friend Simon? Simon and Clary are babysitting you today."

Harry's eyes grew big as he saw the new guy. "Hi! Clary down! Please!" Clary let Harry down, and Harry zoomed next to Simon. "What's dat!" He said as he points at Simon's shirt.

"Oh... Um... It's Luke Skywalker." Simon said as he nervously picked up the child who started to climb his legs.

"Luke? Clary's daddy?" Harry asked in confusion and then looked for Clary before screaming, "Clary! Is Luke! Why is Luke smol?"

Simons laughs. "Um...Mr. Garroway is not Luke Skywalker. They're not the same person."

Harry just looked at him with a blank stare.

"Right. Toddlers don't know Star Wars yet. Got it. So...your name's Harry?" Simon let out an awkward laugh.

"My name's Henry Jacob Bane! I'm two!" Harry showed Simon his three fingers, and Simon laughs.

"Um...that's three." Simon helped Harry fold the extra finger. "That's two."

"You is...?" Harry's face got closer to Simon's.

"I'm Simon. Simon Lewis. More than this old." He showed Harry both his hands.

Harry giggled.

"C'mon Harry, let's get you some breakfast. Would you like to join us?" Magnus plucks Harry off Simon's lap. Magnus looked at the other two.

"Oh! No...Um...I'm good. Clary?" Simon looked back at his friend.

"We had a quick breakfast at home Magnus, but thanks for the offer. Do you need any help?"

"Oh, can you put Harry in his chair? I just need to send a text real quick." Magnus passed Harry to Clary and moved towards his bedroom.

"Hey Harry, did you have a nice sleep?" Clary asks as she secures the boy to his chair. She noticed that food was already set up on the table. There were assorted slices of fruits and berries, broccoli, mashed potatoes with chicken nuggets, and some scrambled eggs.

"Hmm! Daddy make poshuns with Harry, Clary! Harry helps daddy! But...poshuns taste icky." Harry told Clary all about his dream last night with his hands all over the place as he tries to describe all of the different colors, the potion Magnus was making.

"Wow! That's a very nice dream, Harry." Clary took Harry's bowl and toddler spork. "Hmmm...Excuse me, Mr. Harry, would you like some bananas?"

"Yes, please! Sawbewwies and bananas!"

Clary took a few slices and placed them in Harry's bowl. She put the bowl in front of Harry and gave him the spork.

Magnus came back to the kitchen and saw that Harry was already eating and smiled at Clarissa. "Wow, darling, are you enjoying your strawberries?" He sat in front of Harry while Clary sat next to the boy.

Harry just smiled and bounced in his seat as he finishes off the fruits.

"Now for the main course, would you like some eggs or nuggets?" Clary asked.

Harry pointed at the nuggets. He immediately grabbed a piece as soon as Clary placed the bowl in front of him.

"Darling, daddy needs to go to work today. Clary and her friend will stay with Harry to play."

Harry looked crestfallen as soon as he heard Magnus utter the word 'work.'

"Daddy go?"

"Daddy will come back soon. You'll go to the park with Clary, and Simon and Daddy will meet you there."

It took a bit more convincing, but soon Harry was alright with being left alone with Clary and Simon. Magnus gave Harry a kiss goodbye and was gone.

Clary fed Harry more of the nuggets, and once Harry deemed himself full, Clary took Harry for a bath.

"Simon, I'll just give Harry a bath. Will you be okay all alone here or...?"

Harry squirmed and slid out of Clary's arms. He ran towards Simon. "No bath! Play with Simon!"

Simon looked at Harry, who was giving him big puppy dog eyes. "How about we play in the bath? Maybe you can show me your toys?" Simon said unconfidently.

Harry's eyes grew bigger - if that was possible - and pulled both Simon and Clary to the bathroom.

Simon removed his plaid shirt and placed it by the sink. Clary gave him a questioning look. "If my shirt got wet, at least I can still have my shirt." Clary bathed Harry while Harry showcases his collection of bath toys to Simon. The whole tub was soon filled with Harry's toys.

Simon took note of the many rubber ducks of different shapes and sizes. There were also submarines and mechanical sharks and fishes that swim around.

"Arrrr!" Harry yelled as he grabbed a pirate boat.

Harry was actually well-behaved despite showing off all of his toys that both Clary and Simon were not terribly wet after such activity.

"Why don't we watch a movie Harry, what do you want?" Clary asked the boy as she bundles him in a large fluffy towel.

"Elsa!" Harry yelled and made a swooshing sound as he copied the main character's actions during "Let it Go."

"You have so many movies to choose, and you choose Frozen?" Simon looked at the child with amazement.

"Harry used to be obsessed with L - I - O - N K - I - N - G. The whole place looked like a safari for a month. I think Frozen is his new thing right now." Clary carried Harry, and they walked towards his room. "How about you set up the film while I dress Harry up?"

"Sure." Simon turned to the living room and browsed the DVD collection. When he found the right one, he then proceeds to set the player and the tv.

Harry sang the lyrics as accurate as he could and danced through each and every song. Once the movie was done, they settled into reading stories.

"So his full name's Henry Jacob?" Simon asked Clary.

"Hmmm." Clary hummed in agreement as she helped Harry match the colors and the toys.

"So why do you call him Harry?"

"Harry is Harry!" Harry replied as he stuck his tongue out in concentration with choosing the color he wanted.

"Do you like Peppa Pig? Is that why he has this British accent?"

"He's a baby. What accent are you talking about?" Clary laughs at Simon.

"I mean...can't you tell?"

"I'm kidding. Yes, Harry's English and maybe Peppa Pig is also to blame, or Magnus who always plays kings and knights with Harry."

After an hour or so, it was time for them to take Harry to the park. Clary got Harry's stroller and his bag, and they walked towards the park Harry always goes to.

"Oh, mcdowald 'ad a farm eyaeyayow. Quack quack quack." Harry started singing parts of the nursery rhyme as soon as he saw the park. "Clary!"

They let Harry tire himself by chasing around the ducks. Harry would sit on his bum as soon as he reaches one and pet it gently, just like how his daddy showed him. Once that duckling had enough pets, it would walk away, and Harry would then find another duckling to pet. It took five ducklings before Harry wobbled towards Clary and grabbed her leg. It was time for a nap and just in time for them to go to the coffee shop as planned.

~~
When Magnus went inside the room during Harry's breakfast, he actually did send a text. He updated Alec about the plan.

'I'm on my way to Black's apartment. I'll see you at the park before noon.' - Magnus.

As soon as Magnus was able to leave the apartment, he opened a portal and entered the apartment that Black was currently staying at.

"Well then, gentlemen, let's start the ritual."

Magnus started collecting Sirius's latest memories of Harry and stored them for safekeeping. The process took a little longer because of specific parts that need to be manipulated to convince Sirius that his memories of the past few days are real. He made Sirius believe that he only found Remus in New York and that the two of them - Remus and Sirius - would be looking for Harry. They made a memory of Sirius planning on meeting Remus today in the coffee shop by the park. All their plan will fall into place by then. As soon as he was done, he and Remus left Sirius's apartment. Remus went to the coffee shop to wait for Sirius. Magnus would be following Sirius and ensuring that Sirius would not be followed by dementors or other wizards.

~~

Alec received Magnus's text message last night after being allowed to being dismissed by his mother for the day.

'Alexander, it's Magnus.' - Magnus.

Alec immediately saved Magnus's number, and his finger hovered over the screen as he thinks of a reply.

'You can call me Alec - ' He typed but soon deleted it.

'Can you brief me about the plan?' - Alec.

He sent that instead.

'Of course. It's actually simple. I will need your help in making sure that the dementors are kept at bay. I'm planning on letting the American wizards deal with Black while we make sure that the dementors and the English wizards won't get to him first.' - Magnus.

'You can easily ask anybody else to help you with the dementors, what makes me special - ' Alec shook his head and deleted it again.

'Why did it have to be me?' - Alec.

It took a few minutes before Magnus was able to reply.

'It's been a while since I trusted a shadowhunter.' - Magnus.

Before Alec could reply, Magnus sent another text.

'You're different, Alexander. I can feel it.' - Magnus.

Alec stared at his phone.

'I'm not different. I'm just doing my duty. It's my job to protect mundanes from demons.' - Alec.

'Being different doesn't have to be a bad thing.' - Magnus.

'Good night Alexander, I'll see send you the address and the time.' Magnus

Magnus then sent Alexander more details about the dementors and the details for tomorrow's plan.

That morning, Maryse was watching Alec like a hawk as he proceeds with his duties. Max was still sulking at not seeing Harry again, that he avoided both his mother and his brother the entire morning. Alec received Magnus's text and was about to reply when his mother interrupted him.

"You seemed distracted, Alec? Is something wrong?"

"It's nothing. Everything's fine." was Alec's automatic reply.

"You do agree with last night's discussion, Alec?" Maryse held Alec's arm and gave him a tight smile. "You're just not ready yet."

Alec wanted to scowl and his mother's words. He's been acting as head of the New York Institute for more than two years now since his parents decided to play politics in Idris, and everything was fine. The problem with the dementors was not a major issue. There was not much damage done, and their lack of information was not their fault. But Alec was sure that played a big part in his parent's decision.

Alec gave his mother a slight nod and stared at the ground.

"I've heard that the envoy will probably arrive later today. Make sure that everything is in order by noon." Maryse turned her back on Alec and left.

Alec stared at his phone and the text Magnus left him. He wasn't sure if he could make it, but sending anyone else would probably compromise Harry's safety.

He gave his phone one last look and proceeded to his office.

~~~

Simon and Clary entered the coffee shop with a sleepy Harry in his stroller. "You know Clary, doesn't this make us look like a family?" Simon gave a nervous laugh as Clary gave him a look.

"One look at you, and they could totally tell that you don't have a kid with the way you awkwardly push Harry's stroller." Clary laughs at Simon as she grabbed a table near the window.

She looked discretely at the side. She saw that Remus was already sitting at one of the tables at the back. Remus gave him a small smile and then went back to his paper.

Simon sat down and parked Harry's stroller at the side of the table. "Do you want me to order?"

"No!" Clary said abruptly. "I'll order us something, and you wait here with Harry. I need to go to the bathroom first."

Clary then proceeded to go to the bathroom and texted Magnus.

'Harry's with Simon now, and I'm away from them. Is Harry's godfather on his way?' - Clary

'That's great. He's almost there.' - Magnus.

Simon looked around and lightly tap at the table as he waits for Clary to return. He looked at Harry, and Harry whined and grabbed Simon, wanting to be held. Simon picked Harry up and bounce him in his lap to try and get him back to sleep. It wasn't time for Harry's lunch yet. He can still nap for a few more minutes, according to Magnus's instructions.

He heard the bell from the door and everything happened so fast. The man who entered the shop immediately went in their direction.

"You!" the man yelled.

Simon tightens his grip on the boy. He didn't know what was going on.

"What have you done to my godson!"

Harry began to cry. He didn't see the man screaming, but now he was too scared to look. The loud noise woke him up, and he was still tired from playing outside.

"Can you...calm down...the kid's..." Simon was beginning to feel nervous. Clary was still in the bathroom, and people were staring. He was also trying to calm down the crying child in his arms.

Simon's eyes grew big when he saw the man pull a stick from his sleeves.

The man chanted something, and a flash of light burst out directed to the kid. Simon reacted quickly and ducked towards the side, holding Harry very tight.

He had his eyes closed and took a peak when he heard a couple of cracking noise, men in robes were suddenly apprehending the man.

A robed woman came in front of him. "I'm so sorry for what happened. We'll now start the cleanup process. If you could just face me, we'll be removing this awful experience immediately. Have a nice day."

A flash of light and Simon blinked his eyes a few times and saw Clary walking towards their table. "Hey, are you alright?"

"Did you order already? That was fast."

"Did anything happen while I was gone?" Clary asked, her voice sounding serious.

"Um...no. Harry's gone back to sleep, so I guess I can put him back to his stroller." Simon stared down at the child. Did Harry cry in his sleep? Simon grabbed a tissue and wiped the tear tracks in Harry's face. Weird.

Chapter Text

'Are you coming?' - Magnus.

Alec stared at the message and then back to the clock on the wall. It was almost time for him to meet with Magnus. He let out a sigh. He could feel a headache coming on. He felt more irritated when his mother followed him around the whole morning, watching Alec's every move like a hawk. She criticized most of his decisions in front of his subordinates, which made matters worst.

"Alec! Can you tell mom that what I'm wearing is fine? By the Angels, Mom! It's not even that short!" Isabelle came storming into the training room where Alec was hiding at.

Alec groaned as the two women invaded his space.

"She needs to make a good impression! I heard Lydia is a very respectable lady. I doubt she wears skin-tight clothes that are too short and too small." Maryse folded her arms and glared at her daughter.

Isabelle was wearing a black halter top that sits on the top of her belly button paired with a skirt that ends mid-thigh. It wasn't even Izzy's most outrageous outfit.

Alec rolled his eyes. "You can all settle this like adults. I need to go out."

Izzy glared at her brother, a bit disappointed that he didn't take her side while Maryse just huffed and scowled at the two.

"I wasn't aware of any problem that requires your presence, Alexander. Your only duty today is to prepare for the visitors."

Alec ground his teeth and stared at his mother, and then glanced at the clock. He wouldn't make it in time even if he leaves now and used an agility rune. He thinks about Magnus. Would the man be disappointed with Alec? Would he not let Alec or Max visit Harry anymore?

Alec was about to agree with his mother and send an apology to Magnus when his phone chirps and he saw another message from the warlock.

'I think I saw some dementors lurking a good kilometer away from the park. The weather is starting to get crazy as well. Where are you?"

As soon as Alec read the text, he knew what he had to do.

He mumbled an apology and ran.

Reaching outside the Institute and outside its wards, he shoots Magnus a quick text saying he just goes out of the Institute and will try to get there as soon as he could.

After sending the message, he activated his agility rune and was about to run when a portal near him opened.

Magnus stepped out, and the two heard a message alert tone. Magnus smiled at Alexander and held up a finger. Magnus took out his phone and smiled, "I had a hunch." He looked at Alexander and gave him a wink before grabbing his arm and pulling him in the still opened portal.

Alec grinned and allowed himself to be pulled along. His grin fell when the cold breeze blew as soon as they stepped out, and there was this ozone smell.

"I don't know what you need me here for. Angel blade and my arrows don't work on these dementors."

"I just need someone to distract them and cover me as I send them back."

Alec nodded and took out his bow and arrow, positioning himself behind Magnus.

They both heard a scream and ran towards the sound. They saw two dementors. One of the dementors paused and started devouring the happiness out of an old lady, her grocery scattered on the road.

Magnus sent a spell towards the dementors catching their attention. The other dementor noticed them as well. The dementors hastily went towards them. Magnus prepared a portal and went in front of it, baiting the dementors to come nearer. Alec kept looking around to make sure that there were no other dementors around. The dementors were still far from the portal, and Magnus felt his legs tremble not just from the cold but from a horrible feeling surfacing in his head. Alec noticed this and made the decision to ran and pulled Magnus to the side. Despite knowing it would do no damage, Alec still fired arrows towards the dementors. It stopped them briefly, and that small pause was enough for Magnus to send a powerful gust of wind towards the dementors that pushed them towards the portal.

"It would be so easy with a Patronus Charm." Magnus huffed and looked at Alexander and then straightened when he realized that he was still in Alexander's arms.

Alec felt his ears burn when he finally let go of Magnus. He cleared his throat. "A what charm? Is that like a spell?" Alec asked.

"Oh, it's just a spell that wizards can do where they used their happiest memory to defeat them. It has to be a special memory, or else it won't work."

"Oh." Alec stared at the ground.

'If demons are like dementors who could only be defeated by happy memories, he's sure that the Institute would lose against them.' Alec frowned at that thought.

They don't exactly have plenty of happy memories since they were all raised and trained to be shadowhunters immediately at a young age.

"Thank you, Alexander. It has been a while since I saw one of them so close." Magnus smiled at Alec, and Alec nodded slowly.

"Let's make sure there's no more near the area."

Magnus mostly took care of the dementors as Alec watched Sirius Black on his way to the shop.

"Black's in the shop." Alec, from a distance, saw the commotion in the shop. "American wizards already showed up."

"The plan works then." Magnus took another look at the park and the roads. "Let's get some chocolate to settle our nerves after so many encounters with those annoying creatures."

"Alright." Alec felt his phone buzz, but he ignored it.

~~~

Sirius struggled against the bindings as he was taken inside a building. "Where are you taking me?"

The wizard holding him just grunted and pulled him inside an elevator.

Sirius passed different rooms, and when they stopped in a large courtroom, he couldn't help but tear up a bit. He didn't want to be locked up again. Two men were sitting in front; one was looking bored as he read several papers in front of him. A woman was sitting at the side with a paper and pen floating next to her.

"Auror Smith, what brings you here?" the woman asked as she eyed Sirius.

"An unregistered wizard with no proper identification has breached the Statute of Secrecy. According to the International Code of Wizarding Secrecy, as applied by the MACUSA, he must be interrogated under the truth serum. His unregistered wand highly suggests that he came through illegal means or no-maj transportation without any proper papers." Auror Smith led Sirius to the chair in the middle of the room.

"You are arrested for the breach of the Statute of Secrecy. For using an anti-glamour spell on a minor and in front of several muggles. We will now administer the truth serum." Another man came inside and gave the potion to the Auror. The Auror looked at the two men in front.

"You may proceed, Auror Smith," the man ahead of them said.

The man opened the potion and gave Sirius the dose that would make him tell the truth for the next twenty minutes.

"What is your name?" the man asked.

Sirius felt the numbness on his tongue and his head feeling lighter. His eyes were glassy, and his voice neutral when he answered. "Sirius Orion Black"

The man looked at him with more suspicion. "When is your birthday?"

"November 3, 20xx" At the corner of Sirius's eyes, he saw the pen and paper next to the woman at the side taking down notes.

"Are you aware of the statute of secrecy?"

"Yes."

A piece of paper flew to the courtroom. The Auror caught it and read it before proceeding with his next question. "Why did you perform magic in front of a no-maj?"

"I was trying to undo a glamour. That man has my godson." Sirius tried to think back at what he saw at the shop.

"Who is your godson Mr. Black?"

"Harry James Potter."

The two men started to talk in hushed tones as they briefly glance at Sirius.

"Did you intend to harm both child and no-maj?"

"No! I just wanted to take my godson back! I'm his godfather!"

"According to our officials, you came here illegally and are convicted for murdering no-majs, correct? " He waved the paper he received.

"No! I came here through muggle transportation, and I'm falsely accused of murdering no-majs. There was never a trial." Sirius struggled against his bind.

The man looked aghast. "No trial? That's outrageous! We will also question you on your intentions with the minor mistaken as Mr. Harry James Potter. That child and no-maj are citizens of this country. We must clear that you are not a threat to security. The second part of the trial will now begin. Mr. Black, did you intend to harm the child thinking he is your godchild?"

"I never hurt Harry! I would never hurt anyone! I've been looking for my godson. Raising him is the least I could do for my best friend." Sirius knew he was crying now.

"Were you or were you not the secret keeper of the Potters on the day of their death?"

One of the two men cleared his throat and asked the man next to him a bit loudly. "Are we in the position to ask such a question? Isn't the man only being tried for breach of the statute of secrecy?"

"I think it's also necessary, sir. We could have been harboring a wanted criminal in our borders. But if what he says is true and that there is serious injustice here, we must extend our help to the heir of the Black Family." Sirius didn't know how his family could be well-known in America. But he's glad that he could still use some of his connections no matter how much he tried to forget his family.

The man-made a 'carry-on' motion and the Auror continued with it.

"According to your international criminal file, you were the secret keeper of the Potter family. Is that true?

"No! I wasn't the secret keeper!" Sirius screamed.

"Who was the secret keeper?"

"It was Peter!"

"Are you a follower of the dark wizard that killed Mr. James Potter and Mrs. Lily Potter?"

"No! I would never follower such a dark wizard!"

"Very well, did you or did you not kill anyone on the night of October 31, 20XX?"

"I didn't kill anyone, but I sure do wish I was the one that killed Peter!"

"It would seem that you're innocent on all charges against you except the one that you broke the statute of secrecy. You would be detained for two days and will only be able to make bail after. We will be contacting a British magical liaison to make sure this trial would be valid. "

Another Auror entered the room and informed them that an officer from the Ministry of Magic in Britain had arrived. They took Sirius to another room. A few moments later, Auror Amelia Bones from the Department of Magical Law Enforcement entered.

Madam Bones addressed the Aurors and Sirius. "I'll be escorting Mr. Black back to Britain. On behalf of the whole ministry of magic, I would like to apologize for this grave mistake the department of magical law enforcement has committed to the heir of the house of Black. I will review the trial made here. I assure you that we will clear all charges as soon as your innocence has been proven. We will also release a public apology for staining the reputation of the great House of Black. You will not be charged for your escape in prison since you were never meant to be imprisoned in the first place had the DMLE given you a trial. You do not need to be punished further because your wrong imprisonment is a far greater mistake."

"Bones, I'm so glad to see you..." Sirius was crying now. He saw his friend Remus, and now he's free.

Sirius wasn't sure how he had mistaken that kid to be his godson, but the similarities were uncanny. He's still glad he made the mistake of showing magic to a muggle.

Sirius didn't know it would be this easy to prove his innocence. He just hopes that the Ministry of Magic would keep their word and pronounce his innocence.

"I'm so sorry, Sirius. You were an incredible Auror, and we failed you."

"Remus came with me, but he wasn't allowed in the courtroom earlier. Can we...can I take him with me back to Britain?"

"If Mr. Lupin agrees, of course, he could accompany you back."

~~~

Clary already ordered food for them, but Simon couldn't shake the feeling that something was still off. Harry was now awake and asking for food.

"Want dat too!" Harry pointed at Simon's coffee.

"Um... You can't have coffee yet. How about some milk instead." Clary reached for Harry's bottle, but Harry just swatted it away.

"Nooooo...."

The bell of the door jiggled. Harry looked at the door and saw his father and Alec at the door.

"Daddy!!!" Harry bounced at his chair.

"Hello pumpkin," Magnus lifted Harry up and kissed his cheeks. Harry gave Magnus a hug, accidentally wiping his dirty hand on Magnus's hair.

Magnus winced and grabbed a napkin and cleaned Harry's hand as he sat at the other chair. He motioned for Alec to come over and sit next to him. Alec sat next to Magnus, and Harry squealed in joy and asked to be transferred to Alec's arms.

Alec sat the boy on his lap, and Harry offered Alec a piece of his lunch.

"Oh, thanks." Alec smiled at the child. He let Harry put a piece of bacon in his mouth and chewed a bit excessively to show the toddler how much he enjoyed the bacon offered.

They all ate lunch in silence except for Harry, who was doing his own little cooking show. The boy kept commenting on how much he liked the "nummy" food.

Magnus ordered Alec a chocolate dessert after eating their lunch. "Chocolate makes everything better." Alec accepted the offer and gave Magnus a shy grin.

Simon just stared at the two and whispered to Clary, "Should we go or..."

"They look just like a family, don't they?" Clary whispered back.

"Woah, that guy has so many weird tattoos..." Simon clamped his mouth shut when the man's eyes met his. He gulped. "Um... Magnus? Do you still need us to look after Harry or..."

Magnus didn't hear Simon because he was still preoccupied with helping Harry clean up.

"Maybe we should all head back now?" Clary asked.

Magnus nodded and packed Harry's stuff back to the stroller.

"Let's go."

As soon they stepped out of the shop, Simon saw a ghastly looking creature floating. It looked like something that came from a horror film, and Simon let out a scream. "Oh my god! What is heck is that!"

Harry started to cry in his stroller.

"Simon, Clary, I need you three to head back to the apartment." Magnus opened a portal pushed the three towards it.

Simon felt planted on the ground. His jaw dropped at seeing a portal came to be, but Clary was able to drag him while pushing Harry's stroller through the portal as well.

When they stepped out, they were all back in Magnus's apartment. Harry was crying his heart out.

"Mama!"

Simon's head was spinning. "Was that a portal? What the heck was that flying ghost? Oh my god, Clary! How are you not freaking out right now?!"

Clary unbuckled Harry from his stroller and held him to her chest, trying to calm Harry. "I know it's a lot to take in right now, but Simon, I need you to calm down. I'll tell you everything, but you have to understand that I couldn't tell you any of this before because it's safer that way." Clary was internally panicking, but Harry needs her right now. Panicking about Simon knowing the truth would only aggravate the situation.

"Magnus did that hand waving thing. Is he a magician? A wizard? Like Merlin? Or Gandalf?" Simon was pacing around the living room.

"I'm taking Harry to his room," Clary continued to rub Harry's back as the child's loud cries slowly turn to silent ones, but tears are still soaking Clary's shirt.

"Mama...don't go," Harry mumbled against Clary's shirt, his tiny fist not letting go of Clary's hair.

"Oh, Harry..." Clary changed Harry's clothes and his soiled diapers and turned off the lights. "Do you miss your mommy?" She caressed his hair and cupped his chubby face.

When Harry was calmed enough, she read him a story and turned on the music box at the corner. It was a little bit early for his afternoon nap, but Harry tired himself out with all the crying.

As soon as Clary left the room, Simon's attention turned to her.

"So..." he started.

"I'm sorry, Simon, for keeping this from you, but I'm not a normal human."

Simon's eyes grew big.

Clary started telling him about the Shadow world. How Luke was a werewolf and that vampires are real, demons exist, and some warlocks and shadowhunters protect them from demonic attacks. She told him about her mom and Luke and how they used to be shadowhunters, her father, who died years ago, and how they came to know Magnus.

"So you're saying that magic is real?"

"In the cafe earlier, someone performed magic in front of you, and they took your memory away."

"What?! How am I the only one who doesn't remember that?"

"I'm not considered a no-maj or someone who doesn't have magic. They don't really care much about our kind, and I guess they try to stay away from us because they don't really advertise their kind to the Shadow world. I'm so sorry, Simon, but the real reason why I asked you to come with me today was that we needed a no-maj to help with our plan."

Clary tried her best to explain to Simon about Harry's past, about the kid's godfather, and the plan they had to get him a trial to prove his innocence.

"Can...can Magnus get my memory back? That seems fair, right? After you all did kind of use me back there. Without my knowing consent." Simon tried to glare at Clary to emphasize how upset he was. But in all honesty, he was more excited about learning all the secrets worlds.

"I'm so sorry, Simon, we couldn't exactly tell you our plan, or it wouldn't have worked."

Simon sighed. "It's not fine, but I might need some time to process all of this, but I'm not really mad. Guess we just need to wait for Magnus to get back."

~~~
As soon as Magnus closed the portal the three had used, he saw Alec frozen as the dementor draw his energy from him.

He blasted the creature with a spell, and this time, it was Alec's turn to fall in Magnus's arms. His breathing was heavy and his eyes a bit glassy. Magnus assisted Alec by wrapping his arm on his shoulder, and Magnus grabbed his waist to steady him.

The creature stared at them. Magnus opened a portal behind it, sending another wave of spell towards the dark creature to tip it off towards the opening. Once that was done, he helped Alec sit on one of the benches.

"Are you alright?"

Alec did not reply. His hand was on his lap, clenched so tight. "I..." He closed his eyes. The dementor drew to the surface all the terrible memories he had while growing up. There was one particular memory where he was very young. His father took him on a mission before he even had his first rune. He was attacked by one of the demons his father was fighting. He tried to shake away the feeling of fear and desperation that surfaced because of the dementor.

Magnus felt his phone buzz and opened the text from Clary telling him that Harry was still upset and that she'll make him take a nap. "I guess you and Harry are a bit like when it comes to dementors." Magnus sadly remarked.

Magnus summoned a chocolate frog. "Try this one. I'm sure you've never had something quite like this."

Alec stared at the packet of chocolate.

"Careful, that one jumps," Magnus said with a knowing smirk.

It was only for Alec's fast reflex that we were able to catch the treat as it jumps out of the package. "What..."

Magnus laughs and motions for Alec to eat it. "That's one of the few things I like from the wizarding world in London."

Alec slowly pushed it to his mouth and immediately closed it. His eyes grew big as he ate the chocolate, but he also felt a lot better.

"What was that?" Alec asked.

"Chocolate frog. It's popular in the wizarding world." He summoned another chocolate frog, but this time he opened it and let the frog jump in the air. He slowed the frog's movement with magic, and Alec stared with wonder at the display. The frog looks like it's swimming in the air. Magnus takes the frog and pops it in his mouth.

"Should you be using your magic out in the open?"

"It's fine Alexander, no one could see us."

"...Thank you," Alexander said softly.

"I should be the one thanking you. You've been very helpful to us. Harry absolutely adores you. Will you still see us?"

"Huh?"

"Well, the dementors are gone, but I would really hate to lose this friendship of ours if we go back to a strictly business-only relationship."

"Well, I'm not the head of the Institute right now, so..."

"What happened?" Magnus stared at the other man.

"My parents are running the Institute while they're here, so you would be working with them for any Institute business that would require the High Warlock of Brooklyn." Alec gritted his teeth. He didn't want to lose his connection with the warlock.

"Oh. Well, that only means more time for you to come over and say hi." Magnus gave Alec a soft smile.

Alec felt his ears burn, and he couldn't help but stare at Magnus's face. He looks so beautiful with his face being framed by the bright sunlight that was slowly coming out. The dark clouds and cold air disappearing as the dementors are now gone. Alec blinked at the thought. He felt his face flush when he realized that he was staring.

Magnus laughs at Alexander's adorable red face. "I should head back home. Harry would want to see me when he wakes up from his nap."

Alec stood up and thanked Magnus again for the chocolate. He stalled for a bit before saying, "I should head back as well." Alec dreads the reaction he'll get when he gets back at the Institute. His mother will not be pleased with him.

Just thinking of that made his insides crawl. He didn't want to meet with the envoy the Clave sent, and if he was being honest with himself, he didn't want to go back just yet.

"Magnus!" Alec called and jogged next to him.

Magnus stopped and looked back at him, waiting for him to reach his side.

Once Alec was beside Magnus. He was lost for words. He didn't know what to tell the warlock. Should he tell him he wanted to spend more time with him than go back? That he didn't get to see much of Harry?

"Would it be okay if I join you?" Alec decided to keep it simple.

Magnus looked at him seriously, "I don't know...."

Alec bit his lips and was beginning to feel embarrassed when Magnus laughed at his face.

"C'mon! You don't really have to ask. You're always welcome in the Bane residence." Magnus winked and grabbed his hand, and opened a portal.

Alec might have held Magnus's hands tighter than he should, but who could tell?

Omake:
Harry wakes up.

Simon: Hey little dude, feeling better?
Harry: Play toys, Simon!"
Simon: Sure, what do you want?
Harry: My baby!
Simon: Who's your baby?
Simon picks up a teddy bear.
Simon: Is this your baby? *shows the teddy bear.
Harry shakes his head and sighs. Harry held out his hand and summoned his Bambi stuff toy.
Simon: Holy shit. Are you baby Yoda?
Harry: Simon said shit!

Chapter Text

Harry woke up an hour later, clinging to Clary when the apartment door opened, and both Magnus and Alec entered the room.

"Magnus!" Clary was so glad Magnus is here already. Harry has been awake for a good five minutes already, and so far, all he wanted was to snuggle in Clary's arms while holding her hair tightly. She tried to pry her hair out of his grasp, but Harry was stubborn and would not let go.

"Daddy!" Harry wailed and finally let go of Clary's hair in favor of reaching out to his father.

"Oh darling, you're already done with your nap?" Magnus reached for his son and settled him in his arms.

Harry nodded tearfully. He laid his head on Magnus's shoulder and bunched his shirt in his tiny fist. Clary smiled at the two and sat next to Simon.

Magnus sidestepped and allowed Alec to walk ahead. The shadow hunter stared at the mundane on the couch. "Um... Magnus...the mundane's still here..." Alec said awkwardly.

Magnus, now seeing that Simon is still in his apartment, let out an "Oh." He maneuvered his hold to Harry to free his other arm and used it to push Alec to sit opposite of Simon.

Harry seeing Alec brightened a bit and shyly waved at the shadowhunter.

Alec gave Harry a small smile in return.

"So you're a wizard, and you're a shadowhunter," Simon addressed Magnus and Alec, respectively. "I can't believe it. Magic is real, and you! You're some badass - " Magnus coughed and gave him a warning glare gesturing at Harry.

"Oops...I mean... a demon-slaying hunter." Simon pointed at Alec. "I'm just so confused right now, did you - " Simon made a throat-slashing motion, "that thing that we saw?".

Magnus released the glamour in his apartment, and Harry and Simon looked around in amazement. "Warlock not wizard, and no, we did not. I simply sent it back."

"Woah." Simon looked around. "Oh. So we're good now? It's not coming back to eat us or lay eggs in our chest, right?"

Magnus rolls his eyes. "This is not Aliens. You don't have to worry about them anymore. I take it that you're alright with all of this information?"

Simon nodded slowly. "I think so. Clary told me you could get my memories fixed?"

Magnus simply nods and passes Harry to Alec, although surprised, reached immediately for the kid.

"Let's get you fixed in my office." Magnus beckons Simon to follow him.

"Um...will you be alright? If I step out for a while? I need to call my mom." Clary told Alec, and Alec just gave a brief nod in turn.

Harry looked up at Alec, "Play wif me? Please."

Alec smiled at Harry. "What do you want to play?"

Harry smiled and wiggled his tiny bum until he got Alec to put him down. He pulled Alec to his playroom and gave him a toy sword.

Alec and Harry played knights for a few minutes and then switched to magical building blocks.

The toy was small enough to fit in Harry's mouth but not small enough to choke him. Magical because Harry tried to put them in his mouth, but the blocks fly out of his hand every time.

"You're not supposed to put them in your mouth." Alec admonished Harry lightly, prying the blocks out of Harry's fist. "They're not very tasty. Let's play with something else."

They took out the larger blocks, a lot bigger than the first one instead. Alec would stack a tower as tall as Harry, and Harry would knock them down.

"Alec...where Max?" Harry asked.

"He's at home."

"He comes to play wif us. I share my toys?" Harry, with both hands, took several toy soldiers out of their bucket.

"I'll tell him that. Thank you."

"Hmmm. Harry is good boy. Daddy said I be nice."

"Yes. You're very nice."

Harry tossed them in the air, and toy soldiers rain down on them. Harry hugged Alec and then wiggled his fingers under Alec's armpits.

"Oh no, you don't. Here comes the tickle monster!" Alec said as he tickled Harry.

~~~
It took only Magnus a few minutes to undo the mind-wiping spell the wizards placed on Simon.

"Their magic is not really something you could compare to warlocks." Magnus looked at invisible specks in his nails. He looked at Simon, and the mundane looked a bit green.

"Oh my." Magnus conjured a bucket, and Simon proceeds to expel the content of his stomach. "Guess mundanes, warlocks, and wizard spells don't mix well." He vanished the bucket and inspected the mundane.

"Well?"

"Oh, God...That man was nuts. He kinda looked a bit crazy back there."

"I wouldn't say that to his face, especially if I were mundane who can't do magic." Magnus laughs as realization dawned on Simon.

"Yup. You're totally right. He could turn me into a guinea pig. Can you turn me into a guinea pig?" Simon looked at Magnus incredulously.

"Offend me, and you'll probably see for yourself."

"Wait! Were those who mind-wiped me like Men in Black...the police equivalent in the magic world?"

"Yes, but I think those mainly work as wizards who...mind wipes mundanes..."

~~~

It took several tickle fights and a horsie ride to tire Harry out.

"Nummies for Alec and Harry. Nummy in my tummy. Nummy nummy..." Harry sang as they went to the kitchen. Magnus was already there talking with Clary and Simon.

"Daddy! Nummy snacks, please!"

"Of course, darling." Magnus grabbed some snacks for all of them, and Harry fed most of his apple sticks to Alec.

"Harry, you have to eat as well," Alec said after another apple stick was pushed into his mouth. He grabbed an apple stick and waited for Harry to open his mouth. Harry shook his head and showed Alec the carrot stick he's holding, almost poking him in the eye. Alec looked at the others, and the three were still absorbed in their conversation. Alec bit his lip before making low airplane noises.

"Oh no, this airplane needs to land. C'mon Harry. Open your mouth." Alec made more airplane noises, and Harry laughed. Alec took the opportunity and fed Harry the apple.

After a while, Harry was more content with playing with the dipping sauce. And they let him be as Magnus asks Alec to tell Simon more about the shadowhunters.

After Alec - although a bit reluctant - shared some things about what it's like to be a shadowhunter, Simon and Clary decided to leave.

Harry wouldn't leave Alec's side the whole time. Magnus watched the two from the entryway. He felt his heart melt into a puddle as he watches Alec give Harry his full attention. Harry's narrating some story about a bunny and a duck going on some epic adventure that includes plenty of fights and flying around because there are more sound effects than narrative.

Alexander has one of his arms around Harry as Harry tries to attach himself to his side. "That's a great story, Harry."

"Bunbun go wif Ducky and...and...Dragon! Bam!" Harry smashed his two toys together and laughed.

Alec picked up the fallen hero and played with Harry. Harry looked around and used his magic to call for his favorite stuffed toy. It was the one made with his dada and mama's clothes. His bright smile became a sad one. Harry hugged the toy in his other arm and hugged Alec with the other.

"I'm sad."

"You're sad?"

Harry nodded against his chest. "Scawy bad man."

"Why is he scary?"

"Mama and Dada left Harry. Bad man took them away."

Alec looked at Harry with sad eyes. He made a silent vow. Harry was too young when his family was taken from him, and he promised that he would try his best to keep New York safe for Harry.

"It's okay. I'll fight the scary bad man for you."

"Really?"

"Really."

"You my bessess fwend" Harry yawned and settled his head on Alec's chest, and Alec felt his breath caught in his throat. He brushed Harry's hair to soothe him more, and Harry yawned again.

"Sleepy?" Alec said softly. Harry just mumbled and rubbed his face on Alec's chest.

Magnus knows Harry's an adorable kid and that people easily fall in love with him. But Harry has never been this good with strangers before since he was introduced to Magnus's friends. It also didn't help that he couldn't allow the shadow world to know that the High Warlock of Brooklyn is raising a mundane child. The only strangers he meets were in parks and in the streets, and it was rare for Harry to make friends at the park.

"I'll take him to his room." Magnus took Harry from Alec, and when their fingers brushed, Magnus just smiled.

When Magnus took Harry to Harry's room, Alec took a deep breath. Alec didn't realize that he was holding his breath. Magnus was so close to his face when Alec transferred Harry to his father, and Alec felt his heart race. He knows Magnus is attractive, but there are so many things he's never even considered before.

Few moments passed, and Magnus came back from Harry's room and conjured some drinks.

"Would you like some?" Magnus offered Alec a drink as they sat in the living room.

Alec stared at the drink, "Isn't it too early to be drinking?" Alec then stared at the view of the sun starting to set.

Magnus just shrugged and winked. "Being a single parent means I need to take advantage of every napping moment." He gestured again to the drink, and Alec accepted it.

"You're doing an amazing job," Alec softly said as he fiddled with his drink.

Magnus paused for a moment. "Thank you." Magnus takes another sip of his drink. "I feel like I owe you too many favors already. I should take you out somewhere nice instead of just lunch or dinner here."

"I..Um...I almost did not come today." Alec confessed.

Magnus snorted, "But you did. That's all that matters."

Alec sighed. "I'm not sure why but the Clave sent an envoy to the Institute today. I was supposed to meet them."

"The Clave?" Magnus crossed his arms, his eyebrows meeting as he thinks of any reason why the Clave would send an envoy here in New York. "What changed your mind?"

"You." Alec's eyes widen at the implication of his word. "I mean...you were... counting on me to be there."

"Alexander, are you interested in men?" Magnus asked bluntly.

Alec stood up like a deer caught in headlights.

Magnus internally winced at his bluntness. He didn't really mean to sound so blunt when he asked the other man about his preferences. He's only known him for a couple of days, but the man is gorgeous and good with children. It also doesn't help that Alec was his type.

"I apologize, Alexander. I didn't mean to offend you or anything." Magnus started fidgeting. "It's just because..." Magnus paused, "I'm interested in you, Alexander." Magnus said hurriedly and honestly.

Alec didn't say anything. He sat back, his thumbs digging through his sleeves. "No one knows. How did you...?" Alec looked alarmed now. If Magnus was able to know, who else did? Alec tried to think hard if he was obvious before when he used to have feelings for Jace.

Magnus placed a hand on his shoulder. "I didn't. It was more of a hopeful hunch."

"Um..."

"Well, I was always prepared to sweep you off your feet." Magnus winked at him, and Alec blushed at that.

"I don't know why you're interested in me in the first place," Alec mumbled.

"What's not to like?" Magnus crossed his legs and leaned back as if assessing Alec's visuals for the first time. "You're beautiful inside and out." He gave a sultry smile.

"I'm...not sure if..." Alec stammered out.

"It's fine. There's no rush." Magnus gave Alec a warm smile to further ease his nerves. "As a single parent, I can't just go on dates without considering Harry in the equation. But Harry already likes you." It's been a while since Magnus dated anyone, even before Harry. When Magnus adopted Harry, things really changed so much. Harry occupied much of his time and his mind to even think about dating.

"I doubt anyone could ever resist Harry's charm," Alec smiled as he took a glance at the closed door of Harry's room. "I don't know Magnus..." Alec took a deep breath. "I've never...so...."

"I understand. I'm sorry for springing this upon you." Magnus bit his lip nervously and then gave Alec a weak smile. "You don't have to decide right away. Take your time."

They both fall into an awkward silence which Alec soon broke away, saying that he has to go back to the Institute.

"I...I have to go back anyway. It's not because...of...that..." Alec rubbed his neck awkwardly as Magnus walks him out to the door.

"I understand, Alexander." Magnus waved him goodbye as he walked out.

When Alec walked out of the building, his phone buzzed. He saw a text message from Magnus.

'I hope I didn't chase you away? Harry would miss his best friend. ;)' - Magnus.

'You didn't.' - Alec.

~~~
Alec didn't go home right away. He took a longer route, and just when he's around the corner, he went to the other direction and took another longer way back. His thoughts kept drifting back to his conversation with Magnus. He walked and walked and used the time to gather his thoughts on what would happen if he accepted Magnus's confession and begin a relationship with him. He also thought about how he could even think of getting into a relationship when he knew it would probably never work out because of his responsibility with the Institute. He got back late. Still confused and with no real solution at hand. He was hoping that his mother decided to give up on waiting for him.

There were only a few shadowhunters working when he entered the Institute. The looks they gave him tells Alec that they were not pleased with him. He's sure that Maryse took out her frustration at them and that only made Alec feel worse.

Alec tried to slip into his room quietly. His mother was still there, reading a book on a chair next to his bed.

She looked at him sharply and the book shut with a loud snap.

"I can't believe you would do this to your family, Alexander," she started. "Did you think I wouldn't know that you went with that warlock?"

Alec remained silent.

"You know how important this Institute is to the family. We were supposed to greet them together and what did you do? You left and came back this late." Maryse

"I'm sorry," Alec said, not really meaning it, his head low and his eyes not meeting his mother's.

"You're the eldest. You were supposed to uphold the family's legacy. It took centuries before our family was recognized by the Clave, and you will not undo all of our hard work to secure its future."

"What are you talking about?"

"We should have been more direct with you about this. You were supposed to be here to meet your betrothed."

Alec froze, and his eyes immediately stared at his mother's with shock. "Wha-" He felt his heart hammering at his chest. "An arranged marriage?"

"Yes, Alec, because an allegiance with their family could gain us more recognition and a higher position in the Clave. Lydia is a very suitable lady, and her family is well-known. She knows her duty to her family just like you. Or I thought you knew until you decided to disregard my wishes and left this afternoon to who knows where with that warlock."

"When did you arrange this? Were you ever going to tell me?" Alec felt his eyes prickle with tears, but he blinked away those tears and clenched his fist, trying his best to contain his emotions.

"It was decided a few months ago. And I told you now, didn't I?"

"Why didn't you ask me?"

Maryse ignored his question. "Do you think that we don't know?" Her eyes narrowed. "That your own mother wouldn't know how you looked at Jace before?"

Alec's felt as if his heart sank. They knew. A lot of people knew. His own mother knew, and she decided to do something about it.

"I don't know what you're talking about." Alec denied and looked away.

"I thought it was just a phase. That you'd even learn from Jace. I would rather have a womanizer for a son than... " Maryse paused and glared at Alec. "That was why I allowed you two to be parabatai because I knew Jace would never be different like you. It's a shame because you're a great soldier and leader. You were almost perfect Alec, you just need to marry Lydia." The way his mother talked was as if she's curing Alec of a disease he's been suffering for so long.

"I..." Alec doesn't know what to say. His mother's words rendered him speechless. This was the reason why he never really acknowledge that part of him. He knew that his parents will never be able to accept him. They detest those who are not like them. They look down on those who are apart from the standard the Clave has set out.

"Think Alec, what would happen to this family, to Isabelle and Max if people find out? They'd be cast aside with no future. You wouldn't do that to your brother and sister, right?" Maryse smiled at Alec as if the two of them came to an understanding, and Maryse rubbed his arm gently before squeezing it lightly. "Tomorrow, apologize to Lydia and take her around New York."

"But-"

"You've been disappointing us lately Alexander, I hope you know what's best for this family is also what's best for you. I'm your mother. I know what's best for us." And with that, she left the room.

Alec felt his knees grew weak, and he fell to the floor, dazed and out of it. He looked for his phone. Alec reached into his jacket pocket and felt an unfamiliar object. He slowly took it out of his pocket and sadly smiled once he saw what it was.

It was one of Harry's toy soldiers. Harry must have smuggled it in his coat when he wasn't looking. He checked his other pocket for toys, and when he reached into it, there was a red crayon that was clearly often used.

Alec stared sadly at the toy and stayed on the floor for a few more minutes when there was a frantic knock on his door. He hastily hid the toy and crayon back in his pocket. He stood up and opened the door slightly, only for Isabelle to push it and pull him to his bed.

"By the Angels, Alec! Where have you been? They all saw you leave with Magnus. What happened?"

"Izzy, what happened when Lydia came to the Institute?"

"They asked for you. The envoy didn't say why they came, they all went inside with our parents and then we all had dinner together. Mostly talking about her achievements."

"Magnus asked for my help. We were able to get rid of those dementors. I'm sorry I left you to deal with them on your own." Alec sighed.

"It's fine. So...did Magnus take you out for dinner or something? Is that why you were gone for so long?" She gave her brother a knowing smile which turned immediately into a frown when she saw that her brother clearly did not have a fun evening with Magnus.

"You also know?" Alec asked softly.

"Know what?"

"Magnus told me...he also knows that I'm..."

"That you're gay? Or that you're into him? Coz it's mutual, Magnus was really into you because I saw him one time, and I swear he was checking out your ass." Izzy asked.

"What?" Alec sputtered.

"I mean, he should see you wear those leather jeans I got you. I bet you that he'll be picking up his jaw from the floor when he sees you wearing it."

Alec sighed and filed away that information. "I...I meant that you knew...I'm not..."

"Oh." Izzy saw the grim look in her brother's eyes. "It's because I'm your sister. You practically raised us by yourself, and I pay attention to what you do as much as you pay attention to us. I was just waiting for you to tell us yourself because nobody else should do that for you." Izzy gave her brother a hug. "Did something happen? You do know that this doesn't change anything, right? You're still the Alec I know and love."

"I'm...getting married, Izzy." Alec only whispered those words. The room was so quiet it was like a bomb that was set off.

Izzy shot up and looked at Alec with wide eyes.

"What do you mean you're getting married?"

"Our parents arranged my marriage with Lydia."

"That doesn't mean you actually need to follow through. Alec!"

Alec stared at her sister. His incredibly talented sister's talent would be wasted should the Lightwood family go down just because he chooses his happiness over his duty.

"Izzy..."

"No, Alec. You can't actually be considering this!"

"I don't know. It's late. Go to bed, Izzy. Let's talk more in the morning." Izzy didn't leave his room that night, but she didn't say anything more. That night, they slept on Alec's bed just like before when they were younger, and Izzy would wake up because she'd hear Alec's night terrors. Her older brother would never admit needing comfort because of his nightmares, so Izzy would pretend that she had a bad dream and would ask to sleep next to Alec. It was an unspoken rule between them, and Alec was able to at least rest that night.

They woke up to a loud banging at the door.

"Alec!!!!!" Max kept on knocking.

Alec grumbled and got up. He opened the door, and Max came rushing in, hugging him and hiding his face at his side. "Alec..." Max mumbled.

"Hey, buddy..." Alec knelt down and looked at his younger brother. "What happened?"

"Mom..." Max bit his lip, and a few tears escaped his eyes. "Mom said they're taking me back to Idris next week. I don't wanna go."

"I'll talk to mom, okay? " He carried Max back to the bed, and Izzy, who was still asleep, groaned as Alec made her move to the side. "Izzy and I will not let mom take you away, promise." Alec tucked Max next to Izzy and the two older siblings snuggled and comforted the boy until he fell back to sleep.

"I'm hurt. You're all hogging Alec's bed without me?" Jace said from the door.

"Your big head won't fit Alec's bed," Izzy mumbled.

"Ha. Ha." Jace said and, with no warning, laid on top of the three.

The three groaned under Jace's weight.

"You're crushing me!" Max said as he laughs at his other brother. "You're so heavy!"

"No, I'm not," Jace said. Jace reached over and tried to tickle Max.

"Nooooo!" Max squirmed and laughed as he tried to avoid Jace but found it difficult with Max being squished in the middle of Izzy and Alec.

"Hey. Get off." Alec said as he freed one of his legs and tried to push Jace's legs off him.

"But I wanna cuddle baby Maxie here," Jace said as if he's talking to a baby and then patted Max's head.

"I'm not a baby, Jace!" And Max accidentally elbowed Jace's stomach as he tried to get away.

"Offt." Jace groaned. "Fine. I admit defeat." Jace stood up and sat at the foot of the bed. "Why are you all here?" He asked the two, then looked at Alec. "Everything okay?"

"They wanted to spend time with the better older brother," Alec said with a smirk.

"What are you talking about. Clearly, I'm the best here because... I brought breakfast." Jace pointed at the food on the table. "I even got your favorite french toast from that shop near the Sports Center," Jace said to Izzy.

"Sorry, Alec. You're a nice pillow...but Jace brought me food." She jokingly said as she sat up.

"Anyway, I saw Maryse left your room last night. What did you say?"

"I'll tell you later. I have other stuff to do." Alec stood up. "Everything's going to be fine, Max. And Izzy..." Alec just gave her sister a knowing look, and Izzy nodded.

Alec left and took a shower, and changed before heading out to look for his mother.

"Mother," Alec said as she entered the room. There was another person there.

"Great timing, Alec. Meet Lydia Branwell. Lydia, my son Alec."

Chapter Text

"Hello Alexander, I've heard all about you. Your mother speaks so much of your achievements, and I'm quite intrigued."

Lydia extended her hands, and Alec hesitated for a second before gripping it tightly.

"I'm sure it's nothing compared to yours if the Clave sends someone like you as an envoy," Alec stiffly replied. "And it's Alec."

"He only lets people call him Alec if he likes them." His mother interjects.

Alec fought hard not to roll his eyes at the blatant lie his mother just told Lydia. Everyone in the Institute calls him Alec, even those he didn't like. It was just because he thinks Alec is much easier than Alexander when he was younger. And he more got used to being called Alec than Alexander. Although he didn't dislike it when it's Magnus that calls him that.

"Oh, well...Alec, we have so much to discuss. The Clave commends you for your work with leading the New York Institute."

Alec nodded. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Lydia. I heard that you need someone to take you around New York?"

"Yes."

"I can take you this afternoon after I finish some of my duties here."

Lydia smiled and nods. "That's great."

"If you could excuse us, there's something I would like to discuss with my mother alone."

Lydia smiles. "In that case, I'll get going. See you later, Alec."

When the door shuts, Alec's body became tenser as Maryse's friendly smile fades.

"What is it now, Alexander?"

"You're not making Max leave."

"I'm his mother. It's my say whether Max stays or not."

"He's our brother. Why does he have to live away from us?"

"You also trained in Idris when you were younger. Why should Max be different?" Maryse turned her back on Alec and sat on her chair, leaving Alec standing.

"Make me Max's sole guardian...and I'll agree to whatever you want." Alec clenched his fists. Alec knows that his mother knew him too well. That what she said last night is enough to make him accept his fate. He is a soldier that knows how to obey orders. It's what he's trained for his entire life. But he's taking a chance in this. If his mother cares more about their family name than the family itself, he thinks that maybe she'll agree.

"There's no reason why I should make you Max's guardian."

"Then make one up. I'll take Max off your hands, then you can fully focus on your work in Idris. I'll train him to be better than me." Alec knew that if he did not take Max now, his father would just groom Max to be more of a soldier than he could ever be. He didn't want to see his brother break under the heavyweight that is the Lightwood name.

"Your father can train Max. You'll be married soon anyway. You couldn't possibly take care of Max on your own." Alec didn't show it, but he was beginning to get more irritated.

"I'm sure if Lydia is such an honorable woman, she wouldn't be opposed to us taking care of Max until he's old enough."

"I'll talk to your father about this, but this would mean that you have to do everything I say until the wedding."

Alec slowly nods.

"Can you lift Max's punishment? It's my fault. If anyone here should be punished for it, it should be me."

"Well then, you can't leave the Institute unless its work or Clave business-related."

"Yes. When will the wedding be?"

"Maybe in a month or two." Maryse phone started to ring, and she frowned as she saw the caller ID. She answered the call and made a dismissing motion with her hand, and Alec slowly backs out to the door and left.

Alec left feeling disoriented. Before going back to his room, he went to find a more secluded place to collect his thoughts. Alec went inside the bathroom and locked it. He stared at his reflection. He closed his eyes and gripped the sink tightly as he thinks of the conversation he had with his mother.

Alec heard a small chime from his phone. He pulled it out of his pocket along with the toy Harry placed there. There was a text message from Magnus.

'good morning alexander. ;)' - Magnus.

Alec smiled faintly at the text message. He took a picture of the toy and sent it to Magnus with a caption.

'Harry smuggled one of these in my jacket last night.' - Alec.

'That's cute. Harry's been leaving those everywhere. Last time, I saw some in the plants. He loves Toy Story.' - Magnus.

'Toy Story?' - Alec

'Don't tell me you don't know that. Has Max seen it?' - Magnus.

'I'm not sure...' - Alec.

'We need to fix that immediately. Max would love that.' - Magnus.

'Are you busy today?' - Alec.

'Harry and I will run some errands this morning, but I'm free in the afternoon. Why?' - Magnus.

Alec apparently stared at the text longer than he intended because Magnus shoots him another text.

'Is everything alright?' - Magnus.

Alec breathes in deeply before typing his reply.

'Maybe Max could come over later? I know he wants to play with Harry, and Harry has also been asking me if Max could see him.' - Alec.

'You could show him that Toy Story.' - Alec.

'That's fine. You two can come over anytime after lunch.' - Magnus.

'Is it ok if Izzy would take him? I can't leave the Institute for a while.' - Alec.

Alec bit his lips as he waits for Magnus's reply. He sends Magnus another text.

'It's because of the people from the Clave. Not because of last night.' - Alec.

'Are you ok?' - Magnus.

Alec pondered over this question for a while. He doesn't know the answer to that.

'I'm fine.' - Alec.

He pressed send and pocketed his phone and the toy. He unlocked the door and went back to his siblings.

~~~

"Hey Max," Alec entered the room where Max and Isabelle were still waiting for him.

"Alec! What did Mom say?" Max stood up and looked at his brother with a worried look. "Can I stay?"

"You can stay, buddy. In fact, you're also not grounded anymore."

Max jumped around and cheered. Alec smiled at his younger brother, but it didn't quite reach his eyes.

"What happened? What did you say that changed mom's mind?" Izzy pressed. "Did you agree -"

"I just made her see reason when it comes to Max." Alec cut her off. "Max, later this afternoon, if Izzy's not busy, she can take you to see Harry. I already asked, and they said you're welcome to come over and play with him."

Max jumped up and down and looked at his sister. "We can go, right? You can take me, right, Izzy?" Max asked.

Izzy looked at Alec then at Max and just smiled and nodded. "Yup, I'll take you there. But why me? Why can't you take him, Alec?"

"I'm busy today," was all Alec said before Jace cleared his throat and made all siblings looked in his way. He was sitting on a chair on the opposite side of the room, clearly looking bored.

"I'm still here in case you forgot. Can you tell us now about what happened last night?" Jace raised an eyebrow at Alec and crossed his arms.

"I'm getting married in a month or two. I'm still not sure about all the details, but you can ask mother about it." Alec schooled his face to show no emotions and sat next to Max.

"What?!" Jace looked at his brother in all but blood in disbelief.

"Why are you getting married? Are you leaving us?" Max pulled on Alec's sleeves, and tears are pooling in his eyes.

"Hey, that's not true. Why would you think that? I would never leave you guys." Alec brushed away the tears on Max's face. Max hugged his brother tight before talking again.

"Mom always tells her friends that you'll live in Idris when you're married. She kept on saying that she's jealous of them coz they have grandbabies, so she's gonna make you have those too."

Alec visibly gulped. "Do mother always talk about me getting married?"

"Sometimes, back there, I'd hear them. How mom wants their pretty daughters to be her daughter-in-law. I asked my mentor what's a daughter-in-law and he said it's when a girl marries into a family. She becomes a daughter because the law says so." Max looked up at his brother. "Tell mom I don't need another sister. Izzy could be scary sometimes, but she's my favorite sister."

"Oh, Max." Izzy hugged her youngest brother squishing him in between the two older siblings. "You're my favorite brother."

"You're his only sister," Jace teasingly said but then turned serious as he faced Alec. "Who is it?"

"Lydia Branwell. I met her today... supposed to show her around later." Alec said in a small voice.

"You're seriously going through this?" Jace frowned.

"Yes."

"You're clearly not happy about it, and don't even try and lie to me. I can tell."

"My duty to our family is above all," Alec said with a tone of finality and stood up. "I need to get some things done. Izzy, Magnus said you can take Max there after lunch."

When Alec left the room, Izzy exploded.

"We need to do something about this, Jace! Alec can't do this!"

"You know there's no changing his mind."

Max looked at the two. "Does Alec really don't want to get married?"

"Of course he doesn't!" Izzy crossed her arms, her frown deepened. "Lydia is definitely not his type."

Max nodded, deep in thought. "Why do people even get married?"

"When you're in love with that person." Izzy immediately replied. "You should always marry for love."

"What if I just like her?" Max asked.

"If you like someone enough to get married -" Izzy was cut off by Jace who stopped her.

Jace gave her a look and ruffled Max's hair. "You're still little punk, don't worry about it."

~~~

"Izzy! Can we get something for Harry and Magnus?" Max was practically bouncing as they went to Magnus's place.

"What do you want to get them?" Izzy asked.

Max stopped and thought hard, and then his shoulders sagged a bit and looked at his sister with dismay. "I don't know."

Max tried to recall if he's ever been over to any the houses of those kids his age back in Idris but there's none. "Mom always bring wine when we visits her friends...?"

Izzy laughs. "Its too early for wine. I think Harry likes ducks. Let's take a detour and shop for a toy and maybe some pastries for Magnus."

Max brightened up at the suggestion. "Yeah!"

After almost an hour of shopping, they finally reached Magnus place.

Max knocked on the door, and a few moments later, Magnus opened the door while holding Harry's hand.

"Max!" Without letting the two in, Harry barreled against the boy and grinned. Max also grinned and patted Harry's head.

"Hey, Harry."

Magnus looks at the two fondly. "Harry, let Max in, please. Hello Isabelle."

"Hi Magnus, thanks for having us." Izzy slowly walked behind the two children who were taking their time getting inside the apartment.

"It's my pleasure, and Harry's been excited the whole morning, so I'm hoping Max will tire him out, and he'll sleep easily tonight." Both Magnus and Izzy laughed as they watch Harry latch on Max's leg like a koala.

Max lightly pulled Harry to his feet. "I got you a present." Harry's eyes looked like they glowed when he heard that.

"Presents!"

Max looked at Izzy expectantly, and she pulled out a small paper bag. "Here you go."

"You didn't have to bring Harry anything, Max," Magnus told the boy as he gives Harry the colorful paper bag.

"Oh...um...but I saw this one, and I know Harry will love it."

Harry shrieked in delight. "Daddy ducky and baby ducky!" It was a wooden pull-along toy with the handle attached to the bigger duck while the smaller duck was attached behind it. "Daddy, look!" Harry showed Magnus the toy, and Magnus chuckled.

"Is that daddy and Harry?"

Harry made an agreeing noise before dragging it around in one hand and Max in the other.

Magnus led Izzy to the living room, offering her drinks as she took out the bag of pastries they bought for Magnus.

"Is everything ok?" Magnus asked.

Izzy leaned at the back of the sofa, "Not really, but it's not my problem to tell." She deeply sighed. "Max was also upset earlier, so some time away from the Institute is what he needs."

"I thought he wasn't allowed to leave?"

"Oh...um...I guess you can say that Alec switched places with Max because Mother wanted Alec to do something for her. And he compromised that Max should be allowed to leave the Institute after his studies and training if he wants to."

"Is he ok? Did Alec told you about what happened last night?"

Izzy can tell that Magnus looks genuinely worried about her brother. "He didn't go into details, but I already knew you had the hots for my brother."

"And here I thought I was being discrete."

"I'm just good with this stuff." Izzy smiled at Magnus.

"Sometimes, it amazes me how different you are from your mother."

"You can thank Alec for that. Despite how stickler he is for the rules and his duties, he always put family first."

"Yes...I can tell." A small smile was on Magnus as he looked at the two children playing in the corner.

"My brother is not very experienced when it comes to relationships, and I think if you really like Alec, you should take the initiative. I know my brother. He just needs someone who knows how to lead when it comes dating." Izzy bit her cheeks. She's taking a chance on Magnus to change her brother's mind. It would not be easy, but if Magnus easily gives up on Alec, then there's that. It would only mean that Alec is not worth the trouble for Magnus, and maybe they shouldn't even try.

"Alec told me that he doesn't know Toy Story. Does Max knows?"

"What's that?" Izzy asked.

"Oh well, I guess we need to remedy that immediately. Harry, darling, you wanna have a movie day? Max hasn't watch woody and buzz yet."

Harry gasped dramatically. "Oh no!" Harry ran to his room.

"No running, please."

Harry came out with two toys in hand. "Woody and Buzz." Harry pushes Buzz to Max's hands and drags him to the sofa to sit as Magnus starts the movie. He conjured some popcorn and sodas for the adults and Max and an apple juice in a sippy cup for Harry.

"Yay!"

~~~
After one film, Harry wanted to play in his room with Max instead and left the two to their own devices.

"What do you want to do, Harry?" Max asked as they entered the room. He saw the bookshelf filled with children's books.

"Harry read wif Max." Harry pulled several books out of the shelf before carefully selecting which one he wanted.

They sat together in the reading corner with Harry pressing next to Max.

"This piggy...piggy hungry look!" Harry pointed at the picture of the pig and the apple.

"One...two...three....three piggy pwaying in...in chocowayt."

"Are you sure that's chocolate?"

Harry nods. "Coz, look! Piggys happy and chocowayt makes me happy too."

Max laughs. "Chocolate makes me happy too. What happened next?"

Harry points out the animals and what he thinks they're doing.

Max smiled at Harry's attempt at reading the book to him, which was adorable. The toddler clearly doesn't know how to read this yet. But for Max, this version was a lot better.

After the first book, Max volunteered to read Harry the next one.

"Once upon a time..."

He was halfway through the story when he realized that Harry was quiet and leaning more against him. "Oh."

He stayed there for a few more minutes when Magnus checked upon them and saw that Harry was already taking his nap.

"Thank you, Max, you could have called me..." Magnus gently moved Harry to his arms.

"It's no big deal."

Magnus settled Harry on the playing mat with some blankets and pillows. "How about you join Harry and sleep for a while?"

"Naps are for babies."

Magnus laughs, "I'm sorry, it's just that I got used to taking naps as well whenever Harry does. If you want, you can join us and have some more of that cake."

Max decided to join the two. Magnus inquired about his training and what Alec teaches him. Max was enthusiastic and willing to share.

After telling Magnus about his training, their topic turned to Alec.

"Magnus, do you like Alec?" Max asked innocently.

"Alexander's a great person. What's not to like?" Magnus immediately answered, not thinking too deeply about the question.

"Oh. Yeah! Alec's the best."

They spend another hour or so after Harry woke. Harry didn't want to leave, but a promise of another visit calmed the boy. And he tearfully said goodbye to Max.

"Hey, Izzy?" Max said as they walked back to the Institute.

"Yeah?" Izzy replied as she texts on her phone.

"Is Magnus married?"

"No. Why?" Izzy mumbled as she replies to a very persistent guy she met a week ago.

"Coz he got a baby...can you still get married even if you already have a kid?"

"MmmHmm"

"What happens to the baby?"

"It becomes both their baby."

"Ohh." Max then nods and then smiled.

~~~
Alec could tell that Lydia is a very respectable shadowhunter, and he knows how advantageous it is for their family. His mother kept reminding him as he tries to work around the Institute until he decides to just take Lydia to the city earlier than planned. He showed her around New York, but their conversation only revolved around Clave business and work in the Institute. He wanted to ask if she knew that magic is real but decided against it. He would not take the risk just to satisfy his curiosity.

When they came back, Max was already bouncing in his seat as he waits for him in his room. He wanted to tell Alec everything.

"To Infinity and Beyond! That was so cool, Alec. Magnus told me there are more movies after that first one. You have to come to see them with us!"

"Slow down. I can't go with you next time, Max, but you can tell me all about it."

Max smiled and told Alec his afternoon.

"I wish I had a younger brother like Harry. Harry followed me around like a baby duck. It was awesome."

"You used to do that to me and Jace as well. You'd sleep on the training room floor waiting for us to finish."

"Really?" Max laughs as he tried to remember anything about that particular memory.

"Yeah. Izzy always gets mad at us because the training room is not a good place for toddlers to sleep in." Alec ruffles Max's hair. "What did you do today?"

"I read him a story, and I played with Harry until he got tired."

"That's great."

"And we saw this movie, Toy Story. I didn't know that they could make drawings move like that!" Max looks at his brother incredulously.

Alec raised an eyebrow. "I didn't know much about those, but I often see them on ads outside."

Max nods sagely. "It's not like we can use mundane phones easily."

"Yeah..." Alec took out his old mobile that is a couple of years old already.

"I think we need to be more careful next time when we talked about Harry. We don't want mother to know about him, and mother might try to have someone listen in on us." Alec said softly.

Max nodded and made a zipping motion over his lips.

Alec hugged his brother and made him go back to his room.

~~~
The next day, Alec woke up to another text from Magnus.

'good morning alexander.' - Magnus.

It was accompanied by a picture of both Magnus and a sleepy Harry. Harry was falling asleep while holding his spoon and a bowl of oats with fruits in front of him.

Alec smiles and sends a reply.

'Good morning Magnus..' - Alec.

'did you have breakfast already?' - Magnus.

'I just woke up.' - Alec. He also sent a picture of his legs still under the covers.

'such a tease. can you send me a lovely picture of your bedhead as well? :D' - Magnus.

'We'll see...' - Alec.

Alec chuckles as he tries to imagine what the warlock and the toddler are doing right now.

Magnus sent him another headshot of Harry, this time more awake, and he looks like he's determined to eat the spoon rather than the food in front of him.

'maybe you could be bribe by cute pictures of Harry? ;)' - Magnus.

'I guess that works too.' - Alec. He took a slightly grainy picture of himself and sent it to Magnus.

'It's unfair how you can look so good when you just woke up.' - Magnus.

Alec felt the heat creep up his face.

'I have to go. Hope you and Harry have a great day.' - Alec.

He jumps up and fixes his bed before getting ready for the day.

For the next few days, Alec would start his morning texting Magnus and receiving pictures of the two. He wouldn't reply when he's working, careful not to catch anyone's attention. As soon as he's in the privacy of his own room, he'd read Magnus's texts and reply to them eagerly.

'Harry's learning how to swim. I took him to Hawaii for a short vacation, and Harry loves it.' - Magnus.

Magnus sent him a picture of the two of them by the beach. Alec noted how fit Magnus was wearing just beach shorts and still soaking wet.

'Harry looks cute.' - Alec.

Alec decided to send another text as well.

'You look good too.' - Alec.

He flops to his bed and turns off his phone in embarrassment. If he couldn't take his mind of how Magnus looks when he genuinely smiles, Alec doesn't know how he'd forget seeing Magnus's half-naked body.

It now two weeks since he saw Magnus, and they still continuously text each other. Although he doesn't text when he's either working or being forced to spend time with Lydia.

Alec found that he didn't mind working with Lydia. He appreciates her professionalism when it comes to working, and she doesn't bother him with anything trivial. He learned more about her and her previous lover and her thoughts on love.

"And then John was killed. Everything was ripped away; my love, my dream job... Piece of advice: in this line of work, the only thing worth falling in love with is the work itself."

After their conversation, Alec locked himself in his room. He contemplated whether he should tell Magnus he's getting married or not. His phone vibrates, indicating a new message.

'Harry's missing you, I know it's not the same, but maybe Max can come over again tomorrow?' - Magnus.

Alec knew that if he continues this, not only would Magnus be hurt, but Harry as well. What if Magnus would not allow Max to come anymore?

Against better judgment, Alec decided to not tell Magnus about the wedding yet.

'I'll ask him, and I'll text you if he's free.' - Alec.

~~~
Magnus stares at Alec's last message to him. Last night, Alec informed him that Max can come over, and Max is now with Harry watching another Toy Story film.

Izzy left Max with Magnus and would come back for him later, saying that there are some things she needs to pick up.

"Max, is everything alright with Alexander?"

Max looked at Magnus and tilted his head. "He's been really busy lately."

"Ohh..." Magnus didn't ask any more questions and just tried to focus on the movie as well.

His phone rang, and he immediately pulled it from his pocket, but his smile fell when he saw who's calling him. He stood up and answered the call in the kitchen after setting a weak silencing charm. Enough to make sure Maryse won't hear Harry and Max playing, but not enough that he wouldn't hear if the children would need his immediate attention.

"Maryse."

"Come to the Institute at once. We need our wards to strengthen."

"Didn't I just fixed it a few weeks ago? Are you doubting my wards?" Magnus was not in the mood to talk with Maryse right now. "Besides, I can't come right now. Tomorrow morning perhaps?"

"Fine. Tomorrow then." Before Magnus could say anything else, Maryse had dropped the call.

He sighed.

He opened his contacts and called Raphael.

"Can you come over tonight? Let's have dinner together. I'm sure Harry misses you."

"What do you need, Magnus?"

"Can't I just call my son to visit his lonely father?"

"You're hardly lonely."

"Well...the Institute is calling me to come over tomorrow, and it's better to have you come over the night and spend some time with us."

"Fine."

Magnus went back to the kids carrying snacks.

~~~

" Ahhhh! You came!!!" Harry, as always, rushes past Magnus to run towards his favorite vampire.

"Yes, it's been a while..." Raphael shifted his feet before deciding to carry Harry in his arms. The boy giggled and bounced.

"you hungwy?" Harry asked as Raphael takes Harry to the kitchen.

"Very." And bared his fangs at Harry as if he'll take a bite of him.

"Noooo! I'm not nummy!" Harry laughs as he squirmed as Raphael tickles him at the sides.

"Stop playing, you two." Magnus playfully raised an eyebrow at Raphael, and Raphael just coughs and sits Harry in his chair.

" 'fel! I played wif Max! And toy story and..." Harry was kicking his legs excitedly as he kept Raphael up to date with his adventures.

"That shadowhunter came over again?" Raphael asked Magnus with much interest.

"Alexander couldn't come, but his brother and sister did." Magnus conjured a glass for Raphael.

"Juice!"

Magnus looks at Harry with mirth in his eyes, as he conjured a sippy cup for Harry with strawberry juice to match Raphael's.

"Boo. I wanna big boy cup too." Harry pouted.

"You want a wine glass like Raphael?" Magnus asked.

"Uh-huh."

"Is Harry a big boy like Raphael?" Magnus leaned in his chair and laughed as Harry crossed his arms the way Raphael does and then shook his head.

"Raphael drank all his milk and ate all his veggies. That's why he's so big. You need to drink more milk and eat more veggies before you become as big as Raphael."

"Eat your peas, Harry." Raphael teases the boy as he drank.

After dinner, the three watched another film, and Harry tuckered out from all the fun for the day slept halfway-in.

In the morning, Magnus left for the New York Institute after waking Harry up and joining him briefly as he ate his breakfast.

He made a portal near the New York Institute, and he was welcomed in by Maryse. Not that he enjoys being welcome by Maryse, who just smiled at him stiffly and then turned her back and walking in.

He tried to search for Alexander, but he's not around.

"I don't know why you need me here Maryse, it seems like everything is in order." He said as he inspects the wards.

"Just do as you're told, warlock."

Magnus rolls his eyes, not bothered by the woman's words. It was nothing new to him. He has lived hundreds of years, and they hardly change. Only a handful of shadowhunters he's met in the past could count as different.

A minute later and a blonde woman enters the room.

"Maryse, I was looking for you. Oh, I didn't know you have company," the blonde woman said as she noticed Magnus.

"Hello Lydia, don't worry. You're not interrupting anything." Maryse said without any consideration for the warlock in the room.

"I'm Magnus Bane, the High Warlock of Brooklyn." He held out his hand, but she just smiled at him.

"I'm Lydia Branwell. I work for the Clave. I've heard about you, Magnus Bane. It's good to put a face to the name."

Magnus took back his outstretched hand and looked at her with intrigue. "Are you related to Henry Branwell?"

"Yes. And you must be the one Henry collaborated with to create the Portal. I'm honored to meet you. I'll leave you two to it. I'll talk to you later, Maryse."

Magnus smiled as Lydia walks out of the room. So she was a descendant of Henry. He hoped she lives up to the Branwell name.

When she left, Maryse smiled at Magnus. "She's so beautiful. I bet if she and my Alexander have children, they'd be beautiful as well."

Magnus tries to ignore the comment. He doesn't want to accidentally out Alexander to his mother in case she doesn't know.

"They'd be powerful shadowhunters as well."

"Oh sure..." Magnus gave Maryse a fake smile and continued working.

"You need to make sure the wards are strong. In a few weeks, more Clave members will arrive for the wedding."

"Must be some important wedding." His smile is more strained.

"Yes, since it's Alexander and Lydia's wedding, everything needs to be perfect."

Magnus felt his indifferent mask slip a bit. Alexander's getting married?

Chapter Text

Magnus steeled his expression and focused on the wards. It took him a minute before he was able to talk. "My …best wishes to the happy couple," Magnus said as he smiled towards Maryse, both words and action lacking in sincerity before clapping his hands together. "Well, there's really nothing more that I can do. Everything seems to be in working order. I'll best be on my way."

"And your payment -"

"I'll send you a bill." Magnus made a sharp turn and left Maryse without looking back.

Magnus did his best not to linger in the halls and look around, afraid to encounter Alexander right after such revelation. He noticed that many shadowhunters are busy running around the Institute, some giving Magnus suspicious stares. They'd look away once they realized they'd been caught staring, but Magnus just brushes them off. It was nothing new to him.

He was almost near the exit when Alexander almost crashed into him, coming out of a room.

"Magnus?!"

Magnus bit his lip and cursed his luck.

Today was just not Magnus's lucky day. He pivoted and faced Alexander with a tight smile, not reaching his eyes.

"Alexander." Magnus gritted his teeth and gave him a nod before turning back and was about to walk away when Alexander grabbed his arm.

"What...What are you doing here?"

Magnus could tell the confusion in his voice. If Magnus wasn't feeling horrible, he would have found Alexander's confused puppy look adorable.

"Oh, just some wards related business." It took a lot out of Magnus to talk to Alexander when all he wants is to flee from this awful place.

"Oh. Um... It's good to see you again..."

It's been weeks. Magnus could count in his one hand how many times he's seen Alexander, but they'd been talking for weeks. And Magnus racked his brain if there was anything that could have been a clue; that the man sending him adorable messages is about to get married. There was none. He knows that as grown men, they should talk it out, but Magnus feels more petty than mature when he said, "You know, I'm sure I won't be invited to the wedding, so I'll congratulate you in advance. Voltaire told me that God created sex and man created marriage. You can tell me which one's better since I only know one of those. Goodbye, Alexander."

Magnus saw Alexander freeze, and he took that as a chance to leave. He felt a bit of satisfaction at the shocked look on Alexander's face.

He opened a portal and went home immediately. Magnus's anger rising, and with a flick of a hand, he conjured a drink and sat at the nearest chair available.

"Magnus?" Raphael, who was in Harry's room, opened the door slightly and peeked outside, where he heard the noise. When Raphael confirmed that it was indeed Magnus, he closed the door and finished dressing a newly bathed Harry. He then sat Harry inside his playpen. "Want to play with the dinosaurs?"

Harry nods and then quietly played with the dinosaurs and blocks surrounding him.

"I'll be back in a sec, ok?"

Harry showed him the stegosaurus and shook it, and then he nods. "kay."

Raphael sat next to Magnus.

"Everything alright?" Raphael asked as he sat in the opposite chair.

"Yeah. Just peachy." He took a sip of his drink before deciding against drinking so early that he vanished it and stood up. "Where's Harry?"

Raphael crossed his arms but said nothing. He gestured towards the room, and Magnus walked past him and entered the room. Raphael heard Harry's excited, "Daddy home!" He made a quick walk back to the room, and Magnus was just there laying on the floor, squeezing Harry in a hug as the boy latch on top of him like a starfish.

"I should have known better than to fall for such a pretty face," Magnus mumbled against Harry's hair.

Harry giggled and said, "Daddy is pretty….Harry pretty?"

"You're the fairest of them all."

"Is it that shadowhunter? Did he said something?" Raphael's eyes were turning red.

"He could have at least told me that he'd rather marry Henry's descendant…." Magnus sighed. "I suppose it's better this way. I should give all my attention to my kids instead." He sent Raphael a playful smirk, and Raphael coughs and avoided looking at the two.

"He's a shadowhunter. They're not trustworthy, to begin with…" He still scolded Magnus and sat on the floor near Magnus's foot.

"You know me, I'm weak in front of a pretty face." Magnus tried to play it off as a joke, but Raphael knew him better than others.

Raphael just leaned back on the heels of his hands and stared at the two. "Harry, nuestro padre está siendo ridículo" (Harry, our father is being ridiculous). Harry looked at Raphael and tilted his head to show his confusion. "qué?" (what?)

"Magnus needs some.... cuddles, Harry. Give him your best one."

Harry sat up on Magnus's chest and looked at Raphael, who nodded at him. Harry practically dived towards Magnus as he gave him a hug, and Magnus let out a groan and then laughed as Harry rubbed his face at the crook of his neck, his wild hair tickling his face.

"You're getting so big, my darling. That was a very good hug. Thank you." Magnus hugged Harry back as tight as the boy had done.

"Like Olaf! Warm hugs!" Harry patted his father's hair and looked back at Raphael. " I give warm hugs."

Raphael nods and says, "Yes, Harry. You give very warm hugs."

"How about we go to the museum, Harry? Let's take Raphael with us?" Harry nods, and Magnus stood up with Harry in his arms.

"See dinos, daddy?" Harry's eyes twinkled.

"Let's see all the dinosaurs. Let's go to the Smithsonian National Museum of natural history than the one in Dorchester. I don't want to push my luck and visit England today. What dinosaur would you like to see, Harry?"

"The ceratops!"

"You want to see the triceratops? Of course, they're your favorite ones. Guess we'll take a trip today, my dear Raphael. You can't escape us."

Raphael tried to look displeased, but Magnus always see right through him, and so he grabbed his coat and waited for the two to get ready for their unplanned trip. A good distraction is just what the warlock needs right now.

~~~
Max just finished his morning lessons and training when we went looking for his brother.

"Alec?" He pushed open Alec's door and saw his brother sitting on his bed with his arms crossed and burning a hole in the wall with his intense stare.

"Alec….?" Max scrunched his face when Alec continued to ignore him. He crossed the room and gently tugged his sleeves.

"Max?"

"Um…Alec, are you okay?"

"It's…nothing."

Max stared at Alec. He glared at his brother at the obvious lie.

"I know I'm just a kid, but you always told me it's not good to lie."

Alec sighed and patted the space next to him. "I made a mistake."

"What kind of mistake? Is it a big one?" Max asked as he sat next to his big brother.

"I...I didn't tell Magnus that I'm getting married, and I think mother told him about it."

"But you're friends with Magnus, right?"

Alec nodded.

"Why did you not tell him then?"

"… I just couldn't tell him."

"Did it make him mad?"

"Maybe. I don't know. He looked like he was mad earlier. I was horrible."

"No, you're not!" Max jumped down the bed and faced Alec. He cupped Alec's face and stared widely at him. "You're Alec. You're amazing. You're the best brother ever. You're also the best shadowhunter, and I want to be just like you when I'm older. Yeah, you made a mistake, but it's not good if you just let Magnus be mad at you. If you want to go and apologize, go out and apologize. If you don't want to get married, you shouldn't get married. If you want to be friends with a warlock, you can be friends with a warlock. If you like girls, then go like girls. If you like boys, then go like boys. If you -"

"Who told you about that stuff?" Alec's eyes widen, and gently removed Max's hands from his face. Max got a little too carried away with his speech. He was shaking Alec's head as he emphasizes his words.

"I heard it from somewhere…" Max trailed off with a sheepish smile. Alec figured it was either because he was embarrassed or because he heard it from eavesdropping on others.

"Where?" Alec looked at his brother with suspicion.

"Doesn't matter! Because if you want to marry to Magnus, you should marry Magnus -"

"Wait! Stop, who said I wanna marry Magnus?"

"I did."

"But...I can't marry Magnus."

"Why not?"

"Because....because Magnus probably hates me now."

"Then just say sorry so he can forgive you."

"It's not that easy."

"Why not? You always forgive me when I mess up."

"You're right that I should apologize. It's not fair to Magnus, and I lied to him. But that doesn't mean he would automatically forgive me and that we should marry each other."

"But…" Max's face fell, and he looked at his brother with big sad eyes.

"Max. I can't marry Magnus…" Alec barely had time to think about his sexual preferences, let alone think of actually marrying another man. He just knew that the option was never on the table for him, so he never hoped. "We barely know each other…"

"You met Lydia once, and you already agreed to marry her." Max pointed out. Alec was rendered silent for a moment there.

"You're right...sorry. But this is different." Alec sighed.

Max crossed his arms and pouted at his brother. He knows that he's too young to win an argument with his brother. "Tell Magnus you're sorry. And then, just so you know, if you and Magnus get married, Harry can be your baby, then I can play with Harry all the time." Max went back to sitting next to Alec and pouted some more. "Harry's more fun to play with. You…Izzy and Jace are always busy." He added but more to himself than to Alec.

"Is that why you want Magnus and I to marry? Who told you any of this?" Alec said, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the whole conversation he's having with his youngest brother.

"Izzy might have told me some of them..." He said with a cheeky grin.

Alec let out another sigh and stared off in space again. "Max...I'm sorry, but that's not going to change my mind. I still have to marry Lydia."

"But why!" Max's eyes were starting to water with unshed tears. "It's not fair that mom is making you do something you don't like. When you always protect me whenever they try to make me go with them, why can't I protect you too? I know I'm just a kid, but-"

Alec cut Max off with a sharp look. "I'm the oldest. It's my job to care for all of you. I can't be selfish, Max. But don't worry about me. I'm sure Lydia and I will still have a solid partnership. We work well together when it comes to handling the Institute. It all for our future."

"But that won't make you happy. You always told me to do things that make me happy, but...you're just a liar!" Max ran off, leaving his brother. He opened the door and slammed it on his way out.

"Hey, Max!" Alec was about to ran after him when another shadowhunter came out of the corner and called for him.

"Hey, Alec! There have been some reports about some disturbance with some downworlders, and the reports came in."

Alec stepped back and contemplated before deciding to let Max cool down before talking to him again.

Alec thanked the other man as he grabbed the reports and made his way to his office. According to the report, there have been rumors of some downworlders missing. No one was actually asking them for help or bringing it up directly. But some shadowhunters make it their business to stick their noses at downworlders' business too much because they're always afraid that the downworlders are up to something. It always creates trouble between shadowhunters and downworlders, Alec tried to reign them in and stop them from making the worse assumptions, but he hasn't been successful.

The report only mentioned two or three vampires missing and a werewolf. The report stated that they need to find the vampires, in case it's wrecking havocs and turning mundanes into vampires and hiding. The same goes for the werewolves.

What's bothering Alec about the report was that there are some speculations of missing Seelies as well, but it's not clear if that's true. The Seelie are good at avoiding any of the shadowhunter's questions. It seems like there's a lot of downworlders going missing for it to be a coincidence. And with no downworlders reporting anyone missing, Alec can't help but feel like something's off about this.

Jace barges into his office, and Alec just sighed. "What is it?"

"I need your help in infiltrating some club."

"If you wanted to drink and party, you can do it on your own." Alec went back to reading the reports when Jace snatched them from his hands and scanned them.

"It's not for that. There's been some talk about people going to this place and went missing the day after."

"I was also curious about this. There's very little that we know, though."

"Let's just check this lead I got." Jace placed the papers back to the table, and Alec put them in the drawer.

"Fine, I'll talk to mother about it."

"Also, did something happened earlier? You felt weird a bit." Jace scrunched up his face.

"Max just gave me the weirdest but almost convincing motivational speech earlier. I might have made him upset after, though."

Jace just nodded his head. "Who knew that kid got that in him. Told you Izzy's a bad influence. It's probably because of her. Anyway, let's get going. Go to Maryse and get your permission or something. I'm gonna get ready to stake out the place."

It took Alec a few short minutes to convince Maryse to let him go with Jace, and the two were off to the club.

Nothing looked out of the ordinary when they reached the place. They scouted the areas surrounding it until people started pouring in.

The club inside looks just what you'd expect in a club, except he could tell that there's plenty of downworlders in the club along with the mundanes. Jace moves towards the bar, sweet-talking a vampire with his usual self. Alec shakes his head and just sits by the bar a few seats from them. He doesn't order anything and just quietly observes the people around him.

"Hey, pretty boy."

Alec felt goosebumps rise from his arms as another man sneaks behind him and tries to whisper to his ear. It was a mistake not coming here invisible to the mundanes. He's just not used to any kind of attention on him. It was always Jace who's better at handling situations like this.

"You wanna dance?" The man brazenly placed his hand on Alec's shoulder.

"No. Go look for someone else," Alec said, gritting his teeth as he saw Jace looking like he's having the time of his life with the girl he's talking to. Jace needs to focus on the mission and not on finding a good lay.

"Tch. Fine. You're not that pretty anyway." The man moved past him, and Alec just ignored him and decided to move away and just turn himself invisible to keep unwanted attention from mundanes. He lost Jace in the crowd for a bit. Alec was not feeling any sign of distress coming from the connection proceeds to just continued his search.

Alec reached the back of the club where some alcoves and people were making out. One particular spot caught his attention, and it was in a dark corner obscure from the view of other people. The mundane was showing off his tattoos with a Seelie. There's nothing wrong with that, but their conversation was something else. The man was talking about how exquisite the young Seelie look. And the Seelie was answering the other honestly without any hesitation. It was against the accords to reveal to the mundanes that they're not mundane. He was about to come in between them when the guy proposed to the girl to come home with him, and the girl agreed, and then suddenly the man whipped out a wand, and they were gone.

"Wizards?" He's only met a couple of wizards, and he doesn't know if the mundane world is just filled with them. How come he never noticed them before?

Alec needs to remind himself that there's no law against magical mundanes and seelies having relations with each other. There simply wasn't anything about them, and he shouldn't act too rashly about it. He went to find Jace instead and decided that they might need to ask some regulars for some answers.

He found Jace a few minutes later, and he finds that he's actually doing much better than him. He was able to ask around about the rumors and got more leads for them to follow.

They got back to the Institute a bit later than usual, and a furious Izzy greeted him in his room.

"I can't believe you!" Izzy furiously pointed at her big brother. "Mother told me everything."

Izzy marched up to his table and placed both hands on the table, eyes burning with anger.

"I can take mother's speech on how I should emulate you or Lydia more. I can take that any time, but tell me that when she told me that you're getting married because you love us so much that you want the best for our future…tell me that she's lying. You can't possibly be this stupid Alec!"

"Izzy, calm down."

"No, big brother. I can't calm down! I don't want you to do this." A few tears escaped from her eyes. "You know that you don't have to do any of this for us. You have to trust us. That we can make a name for ourselves without needing to flaunt our family name. You don't need to create this alliance."

"Izzy…"

"Be honest for once, Alec! Stop sacrificing yourself for others."

"I can't!"

"Why not!"

"Because I always put our family first!"

"Why?"

"You know why!"

"Mother told me that you're doing this because it's right. I don't understand! Nothing about this is right."

"Because...because I'm not normal, and it's the only way!"

Izzy was shocked at Alec's outburst. Clearly, Alec also didn't mean to say that out loud.

"Not normal? What do you mean you're not normal?"

Alec fell back to his seat and closed his eyes. Jace, who was keeping silent against the wall, walked towards the two. "Alec…you have to stop whatever you're thinking right now."

Izzy rushed to her brother's side. "Alec…please."

"You know that they could never accept me. I tried so hard… I just don't want you to suffer because..." Alec practically whispered this.

"Do you think that you'd be happy once our parents accepted you because you married Lydia? Do you think we want our big brother to suffer? No. You won't be happy, and we won't also be happy with this. You'd be miserable. What I'm saying here is that you need to do what makes you happy."

"Izzy…"

Izzy just gave Alec a hug. "We'll convince her. I don't want to lose you, Alec."

"Alec, let's go see Maryse right now. Tell her that she can't control you like this."

"We'll support you. We'll make it work. You know we will always be here for you, big brother."

Izzy grabbed Alec's arm and was about to drag him towards the door when Alec's hand covered hers and pulled it away.

"I don't think..." Alec sighed. "We can't do that right now."

Izzy stared at him. "I thought…"

"We need to think about what would happen to Max. There's still a lot of things to do."

Izzy bit her lips and look at Jace for any helpful suggestions.

"We still have time…" Alec tried to give his sister a hopeful smile, but it came off more of a grimace.

"You better not be stalling Alec." Izzy gave her brother a pointed look, and Alec just ushered them out of his room.

"Thank you, Izzy...you too, Jace."

Chapter Text

Magnus grabbed a small bag that contains all of Harry's essentials, especially his favorite stuffed toy, in case of a meltdown emergency for their short trip. He tossed a black umbrella to Raphael, who rolled his eyes while fixing the sleeves of his coat.

Magnus opened them a portal two blocks away from the museum. Harry was in a pleasant mood that morning. They walked with Harry walking between Magnus and Raphael, holding onto their hands.

They both looked at Harry when he gasped dramatically and said, "Daddy! Is sunny outside!"

Harry let go of Magnus to hug Raphael's legs. "I pwotect 'fel from sun!" Raphael steadied himself and his hold to the umbrella.

The weather was cold despite the sun being out and about. And Magnus smiled at the child's protectiveness of his older brother. He clearly learned his lesson about vampires and sunlight.

Raphael ruffled Harry's hair and said, "It's fine. I have an umbrella, see? And we're not staying under the sun for too long."

Harry pouted and was not convinced by the vampire's excuse.

Raphael carried Harry in one arm and held the umbrella in the other. Harry also grabbed the handle.

"I help!"

And so Magnus cheerfully followed the two, momentarily forgetting the earlier predicament. He laughed when Raphael struggled with the umbrella that is hitting the top of his head because of Harry's hold to it as well.

Magnus, Raphael, and Harry reached the museum soon enough. There were a few visitors that looked their way. Magnus tossed back his hair and smirked. They walked inside the museum like they're models on a runway. Or Magnus did as he walked with the gracefulness of a runway model while Raphael tried to walk as steady as he can with Harry trying to walk between his legs.

Magnus could only wonder what the mundanes are thinking as they see the three of them. Magnus was sure that the three of them looked like they're going to an exclusive art gallery instead of a national museum. Raphael was wearing a Bottega Veneta dark grey trench coat over his suit, a long scarf covering his neck, leather gloves, and tinted glasses. It only took Magnus 10 minutes to coax Raphael into wearing them. It would have taken longer but using Harry's puppy dog eyes to convince him was absolutely not cheating, it was just him taking advantage of his resources. Harry also looks absolutely adorable wearing an emerald sweater with a white shirt underneath it paired with dark jeans. Magnus also wore something from the Bottega Veneta that came out for their spring 2021 line. It was the blue striped boucle jacket with the matching straight-leg pants with a pair of red Valentino Garavani ankle boots. The three of them were definitely standing out. And to avoid Harry's face from leaking into the internet, he put up a charm around them that would make taking photos of them a lot harder.

Harry, once they entered the museum, spin around in amazement. He would have run off if Raphael kept a tight hold of his hand. "Wow!"

Harry pulled them at the centerpiece, and his eyes grew big. "Wow…"

"I'm glad you like it."

Five minutes in the museum and a lady wearing excessive amounts of perfume and the tackiest outfit invaded Magnus's personal space.

"Excuse me." She said as she gives Magnus a once-over. "Is that your kid, or are you babysitting? Because that doesn't look like your kid, and I'm going to call security right now if you stole somebody else's child. Also, this is a museum with kids, and you're setting a bad example with what you're wearing." She eyed Magnus and his shoes with such venom. Raphael and Harry were just a few feet ahead of him, both busy admiring a striking diagram of the earth.

Magnus raised an eyebrow at her and pushed her out of his face with his finger. "I think you're setting up a bad example FOR MY SON with what you're wearing. It’s a crime to wear such ugly pair of kitten heels with those pants." Magnus was about to leave the woman behind, but she blocked him again.

She looked horrified, both hands on her waist. "I think men should not wear heels! Those are made for women! And my shoes are not a crime!" Her voice louder now, which garners the attention of some of the visitors as well as Raphael. Raphael gave him a look as if asking if Magnus needs any help, but Magnus just motioned for him to stay with Harry.

Magnus scowled at the woman. "I don't have the time to waste on a toad-like you. Want me to turn you into one? It would be very educational on your part." His face twisted to a smirked, and he showed his cat eyes for a second. The woman stepped back and blinked several times, her face turning pale.

"How…" She stammered.

He made one of her heels break, and she tripped and fell down. "Are you alright?" He faked and reached out a hand to help her out, but she just swatted it away and awkwardly stood up.

Magnus finally said, "Next time, mind your own business." The woman huffed and walked away. A few seconds passed, and a young woman rushed towards Magnus.

"I'm so sorry. I noticed that she was bothering you and tried to call security, but I guess you were able to handle that lady perfectly well on your own. I'm just really sorry. I've been wanting to get her banned from the museum, but the administration cannot be bothered to handle it. Something about her being a councilor's relative or something. She always does this kind of thing whenever she visits with her son. I'm so sorry."

Magnus smiled at her kindly. "It's no problem."

"Um… By the way... I just wanna say that I love your outfit. Are you a model?" she asked looking a bit embarrassed.

Magnus laughs. "Thank you, but I'm not a model."

"Your son looks lovely by the way. I hope you three have a pleasant tour."

She smiled and gave Magnus a free pass for the three of them for some event coming up as compensation for the trouble the lady gave him and went back to her post.

Raphael looked at Magnus and asked what had happened.

"Oh, just some stupid mundane spouting some gender discrimination and perhaps was a bit racist as well. Now that I think about it, the three of us are all of a different race."

"What? Harry being British -"

Magnus cut Raphael off. "Not that. I meant you're a vampire, I'm a warlock, and he's a mundane wizard. We're such an odd bunch, aren't we." Magnus giggled.

Raphael gave a fond look at Harry and said, "I guess we are," and then they continued the tour.

"Daddy!" Look!" Harry said for what Magnus felt like the hundredth time that day. He looked at another dinosaur that Harry's pointing at. "Yes, darling. Do you know what's that?"

"Dinosawr! Daddy, what dinosawr?" Harry looked at him expectantly and Magnus smiled and carried him next to the nameplate.

"It says, tyrannosaurus rex."

Harry's eyes grew big and wiggled out of Magnus's hold and ran to Raphael, who was a few steps behind them. "fel! Come see rex!" He pulled Raphael closer to the dinosaur fossil and held both Magnus and Raphael's hands as he looked up at the giant fossil.

Raphael stared at the bony exhibit and then stared back down at the toddler, who was gazing at the dinosaur with eyes sparkling with wonder. The child made sure to give each dinosaur in the exhibit a lot of his attention before he would move on to the next one. They have been in the museum for an hour already, and they still have many things to see.

"Harry, do you want to go look at the others now?" Magnus asked.

"Hmmm……" Harry let go of both hands and walked a few feet to the side to examine further the dinosaur. "Ok. Bye-bye rex!" Harry took Magnus's hand and pulled him to the next one.

The next one was a fossil of a saber-tooth cat. Raphael took a step back as soon as he saw the big canines of the tiger and feared for Harry's reaction.

"Daddy! 'fel!" Harry jumped in front of them. "Diego!"

Raphael was confused for a moment and looked around them. He didn't know any Diego that Harry knows. Magnus laughs at his confused look.

"Who is this Diego guy Harry is talking about?"

"Oh, I guess you weren't there when we watched Ice Age. It's this movie with a bunch of animals and a cute baby. Well, my Harry is more adorable. Diego is the Sabertooth tiger. How did you know that it’s a saber-toothed tiger, Harry?" Magnus patted Harry's hair.

"Big teeth Daddy!" Harry bared his teeth and made pointy canines with his fingers.

"I made a genius kid," Magnus said while beaming with pride.

Raphael raised an eyebrow at him.

Magnus scoffs at the look Raphael gave him and waved his hand dismissively. "Oh fine. I won't take all of the credit. Remus did say Lily was a very smart girl."

Harry then decided it was time to move on. He stopped a few feet in front of the screen showing the dinosaurs and explaining each one of them. Harry looked at the two men, planted his butt on the floor, and watched the short documentary.

"Um… Do you want to talk about it?" Raphael whispered.

Magnus almost didn't catch that. He bit his lips and then sighed.

"You know how hard it was after Camille."

Raphael nods.

"And when Harry came, everything changed. I also made the decision that I can't risk Harry by letting some stranger in our lives, and I think I made a mistake."

"You think these shadowhunters will expose Harry?"

"I don't think they will…but Harry will be sad if he won't see Alexander again." Magnus avoided Raphael's gaze.

"Only Harry?" Raphael was giving Magnus a knowing look. He has known Magnus for years, and the man really has a type.

"He's getting married to some girl from Henry Branwell's family anyway."

"Is he even into men?" Raphael said without looking at Magnus, eyes focused on Harry, whose attention is now at another older kid watching the video as well.

"He said no one knows, but I think his siblings always knew about it," Magnus said.

"Could be arranged. It's more common to shadowhunters from well-known families. Maryse seems like the type who would want to be connected to the Branwell's. Oh, wait-" Raphael said before rushing towards Harry after seeing the toddler accept something from the boy and is about to put it in his mouth. Magnus froze for a second before using his magic discretely to stop Harry's small hand from moving. He released it as soon as they were next to Harry.

Raphael tried to open Harry's hand, but Harry was being stubborn and started to whine. Magnus faced the older kid, who is about six years old.

"Hi, I'm Harry's daddy." Magnus smiled as he crouches down to talk to the boy. "Can I ask what you gave Harry? Harry's still a baby, so there are some things he's not allowed to have."

"I'm sorry." The small boy bit his lips. "I saw that he likes dinosaurs too, so I gave him a dino choco egg. Is it bad for babies? Like how doggies can't eat chocolate?"

"Yeah no, Harry can't eat that one because it's small and he might choke, but thank you. Where are your parents?" Magnus asked.

The boy pointed at an older teen who is currently making his way towards them. "Is everything ok?" The teen asked while giving Magnus a suspicious look.

Magnus stood up and faced the teen. "Is he your brother?"

"Yes…" The teen said slowly. Then, they all heard someone yelling a victorious "Ha!". That made the teen peak behind Magnus and confused at seeing another guy holding out candy in his outstretch while the toddler burst into tears.

Magnus sighed and turned his back, and picked Harry up. "Your brother accidentally gave my son some candy, but everything's fine." Magnus turns to Harry, who is now calming down as he sucks his thumb for comfort. "Darling, you can have it later, I promise. Did you thank…" Magnus looked back again to the young boy. "Harry, what do we say when we receive gifts?"

Harry removed the thumb out of his mouth. "Thank you."

The young boy smiled. "You're welcome, and I'm really sorry mister. Next time, I won't give babies small candies anymore."

"C'mon Connor, we still need to find where Travis ran off to. Sorry about that." The teen mumbled and held his brother's hand before whisking him away. "But Luke…"

Magnus continued to soothe Harry. "Let's go back to the dinosaurs, okay?" Magnus asked. Harry nods.

Magnus continued his conversation with Raphael after Harry calmed down and in a better mood.

"You think it could be arranged?"

"Did you not talk to him about it?"

Magnus slowly shakes his head.

"Just ask him, and if he's really getting married and strung you along or something, I'll help you bury his body."

"Thank you, but I guess I should really talk to him first about it."

They ended the tour around the museum to have lunch. Harry enjoyed the dino nuggets they served at the restaurant. He ended up eating all of the nuggets served along with some milkshake and a piece of Magnus's orange tarts.

"Love this, Daddy. Love you, Daddy." Harry said with his words almost slurring. He needed a nap. The museum and the lunch at the restaurant took a lot out of the child.

"What is love for Harry?" Magnus asked suddenly.

Harry lifts his head from Magnus's shoulder and looks at him.

"Dinosawrs!"

Magnus chuckles. "What? How is love dinosaurs, Harry?"

"It's scawy but I still love them…"

Both Magnus and Raphael stared silently at Harry.

"Is daddy scary?" Magnus asked softly.

Harry shakes his head. "Daddy makes scawy monster go away."

Magnus felt the urge to squeeze Harry in a tight hug. How can a tiny child make his heart flutter with so much love?

"You're my tiny genius! Maybe I should ask you what's the secret of the universe."

"Harry's only 2 Magnus." Raphael reminded the man.

"No! Three!" Harry banged a clenched fist against Magnus's shoulder.

"Not yet, darling." Magnus switched Harry to his other arm and took the clenched fist in his hands. "Henry Jacob Bane." Magnus said in a low voice. "We don't use our fists and hit other people. What do we use?"

Harry pouted and then whispered, "...magic."

"Yes, we only use magic. We are not barbarians. And only when Daddy lets you use your magic." Magnus smiled at the small boy, who then laid his head against his chest, his breath slowing down and eyes starting to flutter.

"I know you're training him, but how is his progress?" Raphael asked.

"Just summoning his toys when he felt like it. Harry has so much potential and so much magic in his tiny body. I wonder if I ever made toys fly when I was his age." The thought brought back unwanted memories, and Magnus closed his eyes and focused on Harry's scent. He smelled like baby powder and the lingering smell of citrus from their dessert from lunch.

A chime came from Raphael's pocket and when he read the message, he stood up. "I have to go."

"What happened?" Magnus also stood up from his chair with Harry in his arms. He allowed Raphael to grabbed his bag and Harry's stuff.

"Someone from the clan has been missing, and they were able to find a trace."

"Let's go somewhere I can open a portal." They paid and found an alley down the street. Magnus opened a portal for Raphael.

"Be safe."

Raphael nods.

Magnus opened the portal back home, and as soon as he entered the room, his phone chimes to notify a text message. He ignored that for a moment in favor of putting Harry down in his room. He removed Harry's jacket and shoes and brushed off the fringes of Harry's hair off the child's face.

"Isabelle did tell me that I have to take the first step. Maybe that's her way of telling me that I need to do something about this." Magnus said in a soft voice, talking to the sleeping boy.

"I would never do that to you." Magnus sighed. "I would never force you to do anything you don't want to do, never force you to marry." Magnus continued to stroke Harry's head. "It would be better if you never marry at all and stay with me forever."

Magnus chuckles at himself. Harry was barely out of his diapers. How could he possibly think of his child getting married and leaving the nest so soon? But he knows how fast time flew for a warlock like him.

"How silly of me. I want you to stay little, but you grow up so fast. It's only been a year…" Magnus smiled down at the child and stroke his hair a few more times before tucking him in.

He exited the room and closed the door with a soft click and sat on the sofa and checked his phone. He sees a message from an unknown number.

'Good afternoon, this is Lydia Branwell. I've been meaning to contact you for a while now. I would like to know more about you and about Henry Branwell. This morning's meeting was too short. Let's meet here in the Institute at your earliest convenience.' - unknown number

He stared at the message for a minute or two before typing out a response.

Three days later, Clary and Simon were back to his apartment to look after Harry. Magnus gave his instructions before saying goodbye to Harry and made his way to the Institute.

~~~

"Alec, do you have a minute?" Lydia peeked into Alec's office.

Alec didn't even look up from his reading when he said, "Sure."

Lydia entered the office and closed the door behind her, she sat down in front of Alec and tapped her fingers on the armrest. "Do you know Magnus Bane?"

Alec's elbow slipped as he jerked up and faced her. "Oh um…Magnus? What about…Magnus?"

"Oh, so you know him?" Lydia perked up a bit and looked more interested.

"Yeah…he's…he's magical." Alec straightened and cough. "I mean he's very good with magic, you know…being the High Warlock and all."

"Yes…" Lydia kept grinning. "Actually, I invited him over. If you need his help with the current case, I can send him your way after we talked."

Alec just absently nodded. "Um… yes sure."

"Well, that's the only reason I came by. I'll see you later." Lydia stood up and left without waiting for Alec's reply, not that he did because as soon as Magnus's name came out of her mouth, Alec's mind flew off.

Alec was reminded that he still needs to apologize to Magnus. And that his brother is still not talking to him because he's being a "dunderhead". He's relieved that Magnus is not mad enough to never come back to the Institute. But he could only hope that Magnus would at least listen to him apologize.

His head whipped towards the door when he realized that he forgot to ask when Magnus will arrive and glanced at the clock nervously. He has no idea how much time he has to prepare.

~~~

Magnus crossed his legs as he sat across Lydia. She looks like the poster child of what the Clave represents. Now that he can truly assess her, he can tell why Maryse would think she's a fine match for her child.

"Would you like some tea?" Lydia smiled and placed the tray on her desk. "I'm not sure what you'd like, but I have quite a selection you can choose from."

"I like my drink…spicy," Magnus smirked as conjured a glass of vodka martini.

"Oh um…" Lydia glances at Magnus's drink and tried to give him a half-smile. "I settle with just tea for myself then." She fixed herself some Jasmine tea before she sat in her chair opposite Magnus.

"What exactly did you want to talk about?" Magnus asked immediately as she sat down.

"I'm not really sure. I just thought it would be fascinating to talk to someone who actually met my predecessor."

"Yes, yes. I'm sure you find all warlocks fascinating just because they live long enough to meet their friend's great-grandchildren or something." Magnus leaned back and crossed his arms.

"I also think it's just polite to introduce myself to the High Warlock of Brooklyn, considering…" Lydia did not finish her sentence but Magnus can guess what she wanted to say.

"Right…"

"So…about Henry Branwell…"

"I don't know what you want me to say, it's been a long time."

"Anything you remember is alright."

"Well, Henry was such a great man. I even named my…" Magnus bit his tongue. He can't believe himself. He almost slipped up and revealed Harry's existence.

"you named your?" Lydia now looked more curious and pressed on.

"my cat. I named…my cat after him, because…the cat reminded me of him.…." Magnus waved his hand dismissively.

"Hmm…in what way?"

"Did I ever told you that he was obsessed with eggs? He loves them so much." And Magnus proceeded to tell the story of his old friend and his love for eggs to distract Lydia from his slip up.

"Wow. That's so….interesting." Lydia was starting to look skeptical.

Magnus also told her more stories about Henry and his wife, how he helped to create the portals, and more.

"Don't get me started with how he helped create cosmetics to make me shiny whenever I wanted."

"Yes…that all seems very interesting. I think I should cut our meeting here. I was hoping that you could stop by Alec's office before you go. There seems to be a case of missing downworlders and your input will be greatly appreciated."

Magnus weighed his options. He could easily refuse since he's not sure if he's ready to ask Alec his questions. But if he did that, it would only reflect poorly on his duty as the High Warlock of Brooklyn. "I'll go see then if I could help…" He stood up and Lydia thanked him for his time, and they both left the room.

Magnus knocked on the door three times before hearing Alec permit him to come inside. He opened the door and lingered by the door frame, leaning on one leg. "I heard from Ms. Branwell that you might need my help?" He said coolly.

Alexander looked at Magnus like a deer caught in headlights. He was still in his office chair buried under paperwork. And Magnus, this time around, was able to really look at Alexander.

Magnus could barely remember what Alec looked like when he saw him again three days ago. After hearing the news of his upcoming wedding, Magnus didn't bother to take in Alec's appearance at that time. This time, he realized that Alexander lost some weight. And it was not the "I am not eating to fit in my wedding dress/suit" way. He doesn't know if it’s the stress of wedding planning or something else that was evident on his face. It could also be because of this missing downworlders' case.

Alec stood up and walked to Magnus's side.

"I…I'm sorry I didn't tell you," he said with his head hung low. "I didn't…I didn't know how to tell you, and I guess I was selfish because I didn't want you to stop talking to me."

"Is it arranged?" Magnus asked the question that has been bothering him since he went to the museum with Raphael and Harry.

Alexander fidgeted before straightening his back and finally looking at Magnus in the eye. "Yes. My parents arranged it."

"Since when?"

Alexander took longer before he replied. "I swear I didn't know when you told me liked me. My mother told me that night though." He looked deflated.

Magnus held Alexander's arm and made him sit on the sofa before sitting beside him. "Things are now making sense. Does Lydia know you're batting for the same team?"

Alec shrugged.

"You never told her?"

Alec shook his head. "No, I didn't."

"Are you really marrying her?" Magnus looked straight at Alec's gorgeous eyes.

"I know it’s a bad decision…I just feel hopeless. They might make Max go back to Idris, and I don't want to lose the Institute. I dedicated my whole life to this, and I don't know if I actually have a choice."

"You're the only one who can make your own choices."

"But it would be selfish of me…"

"You know, I could have given Harry to a decent mundane wizard family despite his claim with his magic. They could easily teach him their ways, and he doesn't have to be part of the shadow world by his association with me. I made that selfish decision because I wanted to be the person that would care for him. And every day, I try to make the right choices to make sure that Harry would grow up to become a good man. You can choose to marry her or not. You can choose to free yourself. Being selfish is not bad. You can be selfish as long as you're not harming anybody else."

"But Max…"

"Then tell Lydia about it. Tell your siblings, make plans, or if you want I can help you with some magic if you need it. Just remember that if you don't ask, the answer will always be no, and if you don't go after what you want, you'll never have it."

Magnus stood up and placed a comforting hand on Alec's shoulder before leaving. It was only when he was outside the Institute when he remembered about helping out on the missing downworlders case. It was probably too late to go back for that now. Magnus hoped that Alec would be able to make his choice, whatever that may be.

Magnus arrived back at the apartment and saw Clary laughing as she records Simon and Harry on the couch.

Simon is covering his eyes with one arm and a hand covering his ear, laying down on Harry's legs. Harry was laughing and clapping his hands as he watched a show on the tv.

"What's happening here?" Magnus asked.

"Daddy!" Harry cheered as he saw his daddy now back home.

"Oh, hey Magnus. I swear we won't post it, but we're trying this trend where you have to lay your head down your toddler's lap while they're watching the tv and record their reaction, and it was supposed to be sweet and cute, but when Simon tried it..." Clary tried not to laugh, "It was in the middle of a funny scene, and Harry clapped right on his ear and kinda grabbed his hair." Clary explained, still red from laughing. "Simon's a bit disappointed it wasn't cute."

Magnus shakes his head at the teens' antics and plucked Harry from the couch. He snuggled with Harry, who laughed as he got tickled by Magnus's growing stubble.

"Send the video to me Clarissa."

"Sure."

"No! Clary!" Simon groaned.

Magnus returned Harry to the sofa. "That's enough tv I think. Have you eaten any snacks yet?" He asked the two and they both said no.

"Let's all grab a snack, and maybe you can tell me all about these trendy challenges with toddlers."

~~~

Alec remained seated for about half an hour since Magnus left, still thinking about Magnus's and his siblings' advice. He stood up and went out of his office. It was time he talked with Lydia about his decision.

He knocked twice before he heard a response and entered her temporary office.

"Hey Alec, were you able to ask Magnus's help on the case?" She smiled at him before going back to her computer.

"About that, I wasn't able to ask him about it. We talked about something else. I think I should be honest with you about my secret."

Lydia looked at Alec. "What is it?"

"I think….um….the wedding is a mistake."

Lydia looked a bit shocked. "Why now? When it's so close and…"

"I thought I can go through with it if I can just lock this part of me away so that my parents would be happy, but I can't hide it anymore. I'm gay."

"Oh."

~~~

Magnus, Simon, Clary, and Harry are all seated at the table. Magnus is engrossed with seeing all the videos of the adorable toddlers on the internet.

"I think my Harry would outshine all of them." He said. "Not that I would ever upload his pictures or videos. It's just not safe."

Clary nodded with understanding. "Yeah. If only wizards can't use the internet, right? Harry's magic could easily be passed as mad skills using special effects."

"I should try what Simon did later," Magnus absently said as he scrolls down his phone.

Harry was startled when Magnus's phone suddenly rang.

"Raphael?" Magnus asked when he answered the phone.

"I…I need your help."

Magnus listened some more before jumping from his chair. "Clary, can you stay and look after Harry? There's been an urgent business that came up with Raphael, and I don't know what time I'll be back. I'll try to be back before dinner." Magnus changed his clothes to something more practical with a flick of a wrist, and Simon just stared at the warlock. It was still taking him some time to adjust to the magic and everything. Magnus kneeled in front of Harry to say goodbye.

"I'll be back, okay? I need you to be good for Clary while I'm gone." He kissed Harry's forehead.

"Where are you going, Daddy?"

"Oh um, your big brother Raphael needs some help, so I have to go."

"Harry help!"

"Oh, um…Raphael said you can help by making him a card. He really needs one, so can you draw Raphael a nice picture?"

Harry nods, and Magnus was glad to be able to escape that conversation a lot faster than he thought he would.

"See you later, Darling."

Magnus opened the portal at Raphael's location. What he found was Raphael, and a few other vampires gathered around the body of another vampire.

The body was even paler than what a vampire looked like. He couldn't see from his view if there was any wound, but its fangs were gone. Both arms and legs were tied with thick ropes. Magnus checked the body, and it looked like his blood was drained from his body.

"What the hell."

Chapter Text

"How did you find the body?" Magnus asked as he levitated the body.

Raphael motioned for the other vampires to check the parameter before he replied, "We found the woman he'd been seeing for the past few months. She told us that they were in a club a few days ago, she left early because of work, and she hasn't heard from him since."

"Did you check the club?" Magnus circled the body with interest. He knows how important those vampire fangs are in potion making, blood could also be used for many things, but he's curious as to why leave the body to be found. The area they found the body was in a junkyard near the cemetery. Hidden behind the junked cars and machines.

"I didn't need to. I know the owner. I met with him at the hotel and asked a few questions. All leads were useless. We only found the body by chance."

"Or the suspect wanted you to find it. This area is known for being the frequent place for vampires. Do you think it's another clan moving in your territory?"

"I'm not sure yet. This doesn't look like it was done by a vampire. I certainly won't leave the head attached if I were threatening another clan. Let's move him somewhere else. We can't take him back to the hotel yet. We'll be needing your help with moving him."

"You know I'd do it because you asked so nicely."

Magnus assisted in transporting the vampire into one of his safe houses. They all agreed that the body should be thoroughly examined first before they return it to the hotel.

Magnus has an empty room in this particular safe house that could serve as their makeshift forensics laboratory. Only Raphael and another vampire accompanied him. The rest would go back to the hotel and form a plan to prevent another attack. The others would also probably start their own investigation on how the body ended up there.

Magnus stripped the body to inspect it. A few moments passed when Magnus heard Raphael gasped.

"¡Dios mío!..."

"What?" Magnus asked, looking back at Raphael.

"I don't think that's his head, or…that's not his body."

Magnus's eyebrows shot up, and immediately inspected the neck of the corpse. There was no stitching or even a scratch on the victim's neck. Both head and body are pale as expected from the vampire, so Magnus didn't realize that it's been mutilated and pieced together. "How did you know?"

"…his hair. That's Jack's head but Jack's…Jack's a redhead." Raphael pointed at the man's shaggy red hair.

Magnus roamed his eyes to the rest of the body and agreed with Raphael. "Well…the carpet certainly doesn't match the drapes."

The other vampire looked like he was about to throw up - if his body could - and ran out of the room.

"I'm going to ask a shadowhunter to help me looked into this," Magnus asked as he removed the gloves he put on when he started poking around the body for clues.

"Who?"

"Isabelle Lightwood. She's skilled in forensic pathology, and I can assist her since it also looks like magic is somehow involved." Magnus recalled one of his conversations with Alec's sister, and the siblings are just a talented bunch. He wonders how Maryse was able to make perfect children when she doesn't seem to deserve them.

"Do what you must. Do you think a warlock is involved?"

Magnus couldn't give a straight answer. "I'm not sure. I'll need to test if I can get any magical residue on the body and compare its nature to a warlock's or…"

"Or?"

"It could also be a mundane wizard."

"We need to get to the bottom of this. I will not allow this malicious act to go on further. I need to get back. I need to check if any of the reported missing vampires matches the body's description. I also need to put a search for any corpses that could have Jack's body."

"Be safe, Raphael."

"…You too."

Magnus closed the room and called Isabelle.

"Hello," Magnus said as soon as the call was picked up.

"Oh, hey Magnus. Is everything okay?"

"I need your help. You told me you've studied forensic pathology and I need your expertise."

"You found a dead body? What about it?"

"Yes. It’s a vampire's corpse. One of the missing vampires turned up dead without its fangs, drained of blood, and as I further examined it, the head attached to the body is not his. There's no sign of surgery, so I think magic is involved, but I need an expert's opinion."

"I'll get Jace to brief me more on the missing cases, and I'll join you in a bit. Send me your location."

"Okay. Thank you." After he ended the call, he shoots her a text with the location of his safe house.

~~~

"Good evening, Maryse."

Alec followed Lydia inside, grimacing as Lydia greets his mother sweetly, knowing what would happen next.

He saw his mother's smile grew as she saw Lydia, and then her smile wavered as she saw him.

"Would you like something to drink, Lydia?" she asked as she ushered her to sit next to her. "How's the wedding planning? Oh! I think we should get a spa day soon. I'm sure you've been stressed out with the wedding planning and work with the Clave…"

Lydia smiled and took Maryse's hands in hers. "I'm sorry."

Alec remained standing by the door, arms crossed and his face neutral. They talked the whole afternoon about how they should cancel the wedding. It surprised Alec when Lydia easily accepted him. She did berate him for five minutes for accepting the arranged marriage. Lydia pointed out that she commends him for his loyalty to his family, but she doesn't want to be with someone who can't even be honest with himself. She told him again about her John and how she now realizes that Alec should find his own soulmate.

Alec recalled what Lydia said earlier. She said that she'd be the one to cancel the wedding to at least lessen the blame on Alec.

"What are you sorry for my dear?" Maryse gave her what Alec would call her over the top, mothering smile.

"I'm calling off the wedding." Lydia at least looked the part of a regretful bride.

Alec didn't bother trying to act like a jilted groom. It was no use pretending that he's upset that the wedding is being canceled.

"You can't!" Maryse stood up in surprised anger. Her eyes immediately seek Alec's, fury and blame directed at him. "Alec!"

"It was never going to work. I thought it was logical, but I can't do this. The Clave has already been informed, and I'm going back to Idris in three days." This was also Lydia's part of the plan. Informing the Clave first would be forcing Maryse's hand to accept that there will be no more wedding.

"Alec…" She was seething in anger, her hands in a tight fist but clearly she wouldn't blow up in the presence of Lydia.

"It's not Alec's fault. I still love John and I promised him that the only thing I'd love is the work itself and no one else. Alec doesn't deserve that, and I don't want him to be a replacement for John." Lydia said trying to placate his mother.

"Be honest with me, did Alec do anything bad to you? Did any of my children talked to you?" Maryse pressed on.

"Alec is a great shadowhunter. Izzy and Jace have been nothing but nice to me, they are all great. And I see so much potential in Max as well, he seems to be more flourishing under Alec's care. Alec and I talked about Max before. I hope you won't take him away from his brother because of me. You see, some of my peers in the Clave are looking forward to seeing Max's growth under Alec's mentoring."

Maryse stood defiant against her, "But I'm his mother, I'll decide about Max's future. The Clave -"

"The Clave is already impressed with Alec, Jace, and Isabelle, with Max's upcoming Rune's Ceremony, won't the Clave wonder why you'd disrupt his training?"

Maryse crossed her arms. "Fine. I'm…I'm honored that they think my son has so much potential as an upcoming shadowhunter. And about the wedding, there's really nothing I can do about it. You two have decided on things already." Alec can tell the hidden pained expression on his mother's surrender on the topic.

Lydia stood up in front of his mother and held her hand. "I'm really sorry." She wiped a single tear from her left eye and left without looking at Alec.

Maryse closed the door after Lydia left and grabbed Alec's arm. She pulled him to the center of the room.

"What did you do? Alexander!" She almost yelled, not wanting others outside to hear her. Her anger is like a volcano bursting after keeping a lid on it to act civil with Lydia.

"I talked to her." He calmly said to his mother.

"What did you talked about?"

"I told her that I'm gay."

Maryse's eyes grew big. "You what?!"

"Surprisingly, she's actually more accepting than you ever did."

"You're making a big deal about this Alec. You know that you need to get married. You're my oldest son. I raised you and this is how you give back to your family?"

"I don't want to marry a woman."

Maryse scoffs at him. "Is this about that warlock? Do you think that warlock cares about you? Magnus Bane has been around for centuries, you'd only be one of his toys and once the novelty of dating a shadowhunter wears off, I'm sure you'll be forgotten soon enough."

"This is not about Magnus and nothing is going on between us." Yet. Alec added in his mind.

"I saw you leave the Institute despite my orders to meet with the man, this behavior started when you associated more with that warlock. I'm not stupid, Alec."

Alec remained silent. Meeting Magnus did trigger something inside him. In the short time he spent with Magnus and Harry, he felt more than a shadowhunter.

"Fine. You're acting like when you were a child, testing to see if the sword is sharp despite my warnings. See for yourself. Once he's tired of you, you can set yourself straight and focus on your responsibilities."

She walked past him and slammed the door open and left.

He was able to stop his marriage and Max from leaving the Institute but Alec didn't feel very victorious at the moment. He whipped out his phone and dialed a number.

"Can you get Izzy and Max? I have some news."

"Izzy is still with Magnus, I'll get Max," Jace replied before hanging up.

Alec wondered what Izzy's doing with Magnus, he glanced at the clock, it was almost time for dinner. He left the office and made a stop at the dining hall to grab dinner for the three of them. When he reached his room, Max was already lying on his bed while Jace sat looking bored in his chair. He placed the food on the table. Max noticed him and immediately avoided his gaze.

"Hey, you brought food," Jace said in acknowledgment.

"Where did Izzy go?" Alec asked as he diligently set the table and opened the food containers. "Max…are you still mad at me?"

"Hmph!" was all that was heard from the boy as he turns and had his back face, Alec and Jace.

"I'm sorry." Alec slowly sat next to Max on the bed. "I knew you were only looking out for me." He gently patted Max's leg.

Max kept on ignoring him.

"I also saw Magnus today. I apologized. He also gave me advice, much like yours." Alec continued to coax the boy.

"C'mon, Max, I thought you wanted to hear Alec's news before Izzy does?" Jace said in between bites, not waiting on the two to eat.

Max slowly sat up and faced his big brother. "Is it good news or bad news?"

"Um… there's good news and bad news..?"

Max's eyes widen. "Good news first! I don't want to hear the bad one!"

Jace rolled his eyes. "What's the bad news, Alec?"

"Um…Good news is I am not getting married. The bad news is mother's pissed…?"

Jace was immediately at his side, putting an arm over his shoulder. "That's great Alec! And here I thought we'd be mourning your last few days as a free man."

"Jace…"

"But I'm a bit disappointed you didn't wait until we had your bachelor's before canceling. I know a great place with -" Jave groaned when Alec suddenly elbowed him at his side.

Alec cleared his throat. "Young ears present here Jace."

Jace waved him off. "He'll be entering puberty soon. You can have dibs on the Talk if you like."

Max groaned. "Stop being weird!" He pushed both his brothers who were both beginning to sound ridiculous. When he remembered what the bad news was, he grabbed Alec's face with both his hands.

"Alec! You said mother's mad, does that mean she's…" Max paused. He let go of Alec's face and fidgeted for a moment before looking up again at his big brother. "Does this mean I have to leave?"

Alec gathered his brother in his arms and buried his face in Max's hair. "No. No one is taking you from our home. Lydia helped me with that."

"Good," Max mumbled against Alec's chest. "I don't want to go. Don't make me go far away."

Alec rubbed his back for comfort. "No one will be able to take you anywhere you don't want to go. I'll make sure of that."

After a few minutes, Max mumbled to the two. "You do know that Izzy is going to kill us cause Alec didn't wait for her."

"It's her fault for being out late anyway," Jace said and then gave a nonchalant shrug. "Also, she can't kill us if we're already dead because Maryse will definitely get back to us with more work since Alec pissed her off."

Alec let go of Max and directed him to the food on the table. "So care to fill me in on why Izzy is out with Magnus?" He asked.

Jace then explained how Izzy went to see him earlier this afternoon to ask about the missing downworlders case and that Magnus need someone to do an autopsy on a vampire's corpse found by Raphael Santiago.

"So, a few days ago, we had that report about the missing downworlders case, turns out that it's true. The head of the vampire clan confirmed that two of their vampires are missing. They found a body and called Magnus for help."

"Why did they need Magnus's help?"

"Body was found with a different head attached. There was no laceration wound on the body so they thought magic could be involved. They need Izzy for everything else."

Alec stood up to grab some reports. "Do we have any leads on the missing werewolf?" He asked as he made notes and read the file.

"Garroway said that he'll deal with this on his own and that he'll share any news if it concerns us."

Alec nods. "Did Izzy mentioned anything else?"

"She texted me that the fangs and blood were removed." Jace stretched out his arms. "Wanna check the club? Izzy sent me a photo of the vampire they found. He's one of the vampires who went to that club."

"Let's wait for Izzy to get back before we go."

Another hour of waiting before Izzy opened the door of Alec's room. Alec and Jace were lazing around while Max was reading a book on Alec's bed.

"I got your text. What's the news?" Izzy immediately went to Alec's side, concern clear in her eyes.

"I'm…" Alec started.

"Wedding's off. My man Alec is now free," Jace said.

"By the Angels, Alec!" She yelled before body-slamming Alec and wrapping her arms around him for a bear hug. "I'm so happy for you! You finally made up your mind big brother."

"Yeah, thank you." Alec hugged her back with the same eagerness.

"What changed your mind?" Izzy asked. "How did you tell mother?"

"I talked to Lydia about it. I…I came out to her."

Jace looked at Alec with suspicion. "I think I saw Magnus with Lydia earlier…"

Izzy crossed her arms and pretended to look offended. "Did you change your mind because you talked to Magnus? Not because we were able to convince you?"

"No! It's…It's not just because of Magnus." Alec sputtered. "Of course it's because you all helped me."

"Even me?" Max quipped.

"Yes, especially you." Alec pulled Max next to the two of them and hugged him with his other arm. "Thank you, Max, Izzy." He then looked at Jace, smiled, and silently communicated his thanks.

On Wednesday, two days after the vampire's body was found, Izzy was able to complete all tests. While Alec and Jace focused on doing a cross-reference to their database to check for any similar MO from previous cases and different Institutes.

Izzy barged into Alec's room, hands on her hips. "Big brother, we're supposed to leave in 5. What are you doing?"

Alec froze as he removes another shirt. "Oh… um."

"Your 'shadowhunter clothes' all look the same. Pick one, and let's go." She said with a knowing smirk and a raised eyebrow, eyeing the storm in Alec's room. She picked up the discarded shirts and threw them in his closet. "C'mon."

Alec put the black shirt on and grabbed his bow on the bed. They were meeting Magnus and Raphael today outside the Institute. Raphael wouldn't allow the Institute to take the body, and he only allowed Izzy, Jace, and him to work with them.

It took them half an hour to get there. Once they entered, a few vampires were lingering around the area that looked at them with suspicious glares.

Magnus greeted them with a smile. "Hello Alexander, Isabelle and…." His eyes became unfriendly when it landed on Jace. Jace looked everywhere but Magnus.

Alec figured that Magnus was probably still upset with Jace teaching Harry a bad word.

"How's the wedding planning?" Magnus asked.

Alec wanted to tell Magnus how grateful he is for his advice, but this was not the best place to discuss personal lives. They should all be professional at the moment. "There's no more wedding to plan."

"Wonderful news." Magnus's eyes lit up. He smirked and said, "Oh if only we're not here to do business." He then sends a wink in Alec's direction before turning around and leading the three to the room.

~~~

"Where's Alec?" Maryse asked Raj. She has looked around, but Isabelle, Jace, and Alec were both nowhere to be found.

"They went investigating about the missing downworlders case."

Maryse just dismissed him and went straight to Alec's room.

"Tsk." As she looked around, observing the mess in his closet that was left open. She picked at the clothes and arranged them neatly. He opened one of the drawers to store away Alec's socks when she saw something.

"What's this?" She took out the mysterious object from Alec's drawer.

She held it to the light and inspected it. It was a small toy soldier. "Why would Alec have something like this." Her eyes narrowed. She placed the toy in her pocket and closed the closet.

It took her a few minutes to find Max, who was busy with his training.

"Max, can I talk to you for a minute."

Max didn't approach her immediately. He looked at the instructor then back to her a few times before walking towards her.

"Is this yours?" She asked. Showing the toy to the boy.

"No…" Max said as he shakes his head.

"I saw this in Alec's room. Don't lie to me, Max." She said with a glare.

"That's Ha-" He stopped before biting his lip, his eyes big. "Um…that's…that's mine! Alec and I saw it at the park before. He's…he's keeping it for me." He said as he averted from her eyes.

She raised her eyebrow at the child and walked away. "I'm confiscating this. I don't want you picking up trash again."

When she reached the nearest garbage can, she stared at the toy before throwing it in and left to find Raj.

"Raj, I want you to put my children under surveillance, that includes Jace. I also want to know where they have been these past few weeks."

He just nodded and left.

Her phone rings.

"I told you not to call me. I'll just meet you there. I need your help with something."

~~~

"According to the test, the head belongs to Jack Miller, and the body belongs to a vampire named Mike Brown. We were able to identify the body because we had his record on file, not the best vampire around when he often gets attacked by demons." Izzy took out the medical report she did on the corpse.

"Or extremely unlucky," Jace muttered as he looked at the body.

"Since I can't do any blood test, I searched its skin for any foreign substance, and I found traces of something similar to a plant-based substance on his skin, and there's part of his skin that looks like it's new. Like it healed extremely well."

"I need to check that. It could be a potion or something." Magnus and Izzy went to the body. She pointed out that the skin with the substance she found.

After a few moments of prodding with his magic and Magnus sighed. "There's definitely magic involved, but no warlock could do this spell. A mundane wizard may be behind this. But I don't know why."

Alec looked pensive. "A few days ago, we went to the club to check it out, and I saw a mundane wizard with a Seelie. I only realized he's a wizard when he whipped his wand out, and the two of them vanished."

"Alec! That could have been our guy!" Izzy looked bewildered.

"They were…" Alec stammered, blushing a bit. "I thought they were…just hooking up, and…I didn't think it would be dangerous. There's not much on the reports for us to work on, and we don't have protocols against wizards."

Magnus placed a hand on Alec's thigh. "I'll check in with a few friends of mine and see if any seelies have been missing."

"Thanks, Magnus."

They talked more about the victims when Magnus's phone rings.

"Luke," Magnus greets as he answered. Alec looked at him curiously, but Magnus just signaled him to give him a minute, and Magnus left the room to continue his phone call, and when he returned, his face was grim.

"They found another body, but the police got there first. Luke said he'll stop by the apartment to talk to us about the details."

Jace stood up. "I'll patrol around the club and maybe follow some of the leads we found. Maybe that wizard is also still there. What does he look like?" He asked Alec.

"I'm not sure, dark hair, maybe around your height. The wizard was hanging around the back of the club near the alcoves. And he was keeping his wand in his sleeves."

Jace nods. "See ya."

"Let's go to my apartment," Magnus calls to him and Izzy. He looks at Raphael, who shrugs and told the vampire he's with that he'll be back later.

They all use a portal back to Magnus's place.

"Daddy!" Harry screamed as he ran towards Magnus. He then looked around and saw them. He burst into tears.

"Darling, what’s wrong?" Magnus asked.

"Alec's here!" He cried. "I missed 'im."

Alec's heart hurt at the sight of Harry crying. "Hey, I miss you to buddy."

Harry let Magnus go and went straight to Alec's arms. "Alec."

Alec held the boy tight. It's been a while, and he also missed the kid.

"Aww. That is so adorable." Izzy gushed.

Raphael just shook his head and went straight ahead. "Clarissa, who's this?" He pointed at the teen who was frozen in the middle of his clean-up.

"Hi…I'm Simon?"

Raphael ignored him and went straight to Magnus's kitchen.

"Who was that?" Simon asked Clary.

"That was…Raphael. Harry's very old brother."

"He doesn't look that much older than us," Simon said as he stared at the kitchen entrance.

"He's a vampire. But he's like an old grandpa." Clary smirked when Raphael from the kitchen almost yelling said, "I heard that you brat."

"A what?!" Simon looked scared and very pale.

"Don't mind him, Raphael's a bit grumpy, but he won't bite," Magnus said.

"A vampire? Seriously?" Simon said, still in disbelief.

Magnus just laughs, "Thanks for watching Harry. Do you two need a portal home?"

"Thanks, Magnus."

The two said their goodbyes to Harry and Magnus and entered the portal Magnus opened for them.

"Luke said he'll be here in half an hour. Harry, why don't you play with Alec and Izzy while I make some dinner for all of us?"

Harry pulled the two towards his basket of toys and introduced each dinosaur to them.

Chapter Text

Harry was obviously not planning on letting Alec out of his sight or out of his reach. And Alec found it very endearing. Harry has claimed three of his fingers, not letting them go as he played with dinosaurs with Izzy. Harry would also look at Alec every few minutes. He's making sure that Alec's paying attention to the story the dinosaurs are acting out.

"…and mama rex flies to baby rex…"

Harry lifted the bigger toy towards Izzy's smaller T-Rex. He made a roaring sound before he smashed it to the other smaller dinosaurs. It scattered all of the dinosaurs, Harry, Izzy, and Alec placed around the T-Rex.

"How does the mama T-Rex fly Harry?" Izzy asks.

"bwoom…dada likes flying, but mama…" Harry's face scrunched up in thought and then shook his head. Izzy just smiles and continues playing pretend with Harry.

Harry grabbed a teddy bear and gave it to Alec. "You like bears?" Harry asked.

Alec nods. "Bears are very big animals." He accepted the bear, cleared his voice, held the bear in front of the toddler, and in a gruff voice said, "Hello Harry. I'm Mr. Bear."

Harry laughs and shakes his head. "No… Dat's mama bear!" Harry lets go of Alec's fingers.

"Sorry... I didn't know that was Mama bear. Where's Papa bear?" Alec inquired as he sets the stuffed bear down.

Harry crawled to the other side of the room, where a basket of toys is, and pulled a bear almost as big as him. "Dis is papa bear!" He exclaimed, still giggling while showing Izzy and Alec the big bear.

"That's a very big bear you got there Harry," Izzy helped Harry hold the bear back to Alec's side. "Where's baby bear?"

Magnus got out of the kitchen and sneaked behind Harry.

Harry laughed as Magnus suddenly held him up. Magnus rubbed his face at Harry's neck as he held him close. "Harry is daddy's baby bear, right Harry?" Magnus spun around, and Harry giggled.

Harry just continued to laugh as Magnus continued to tickle him.

Magnus stopped and looked at the two. "Dinner's almost ready, and Luke's coming up." He gestured for the two to follow him. Magnus was about to return to the kitchen with Harry when Harry protested and extended his arms towards Alec.

"Wanna go with Alec!" Harry swings his legs, and Magnus lets out a huff as Harry accidentally hits him.

"Alright, my little striker." Magnus waits for Alec to reach out. Harry's both arms latch to Alec's neck while his little legs tried to wrap around Alec. The toddler resembled a baby koala hugging a tree.

In the kitchen, Izzy sat next to Raphael while Magnus and Alec sat across them. Raphael already finished drinking the blood Magnus conjured for him. He does not feel like drinking it in front of the shadowhunters. He sat there with his arms crossed as he looked at Alec.

Alec felt uncomfortable under the vampire's scrutinizing gaze. He held Harry tighter, and Harry just happily slams his fists on the table.
,
A few moments passed, and the warlock couldn't take the awkward silence anymore. The food and the tableware started to set themselves on the table. The utensils with cartoon cats drawn on them danced and spun in front of Harry. It made the small boy laugh. Harry played a short game with the floating tablewares. The spoon and fork float near the boy and swiftly float away once Harry tries to grab them.

"Alec, is it okay if Harry stays with you?" Magnus asked.

Alec looks down at Harry, who victoriously held the spoon and fork in one hand. Harry also unconsciously grabs Alec's hand that was resting on the table with his free hand. The gesture tugged on Alec's heartstrings. He gave Magnus a small smile. "It's fine. I don't think Harry's going to let me go right now."

Magnus moved his chair closer to Alec. "I need to sit closer to feed Harry," Magnus said, but then Harry grabbed his baby spoon and used it to spoon some rice.

Raphael gave Magnus a raised eyebrow seeing through his excuse, shakes his head in slight amusement. Magnus just smiled at him.

A knock on the front door was heard before it opened, and Luke entered the apartment.

"Magnus?"

"Over here!" Magnus called back. Luke was still in his work clothes when he entered the kitchen.

"Let's have dinner first," Magnus said, and the chair next to him magically pulled itself from underneath.

Luke placed his things on the kitchen counter and sat next to Magnus. "Hey, Harry!" He waved at Harry, who looked at him with a toothy grin, rice all over his face. "Luke!" Harry waved his spoon back and flung the rice on it across the room. Raphael ducked from the projectile and gave Harry a stern look. Harry placed the spoon back in his bowl.

Magnus made a disapproving sound at Harry and tried to help Harry hold his utensils better. Harry tried to move his head away, but Alec held him in place.

"Harry, don't throw food at Raphael," Magnus said.

Raphael looked at the three and said, "God...it's so…domestic," before he crossed his arms.

Izzy beams at Raphael. "They look so good together. Don't you think?"

Raphael didn't react to that and just continued to watch Harry with Alec.

Luke exchanged glances with Raphael before he shakes his head in amusement. He looked at Izzy and eyed her with curiosity. "How's Maryse and Robert doing?"

"We're not exactly on speaking terms right now." Izzy scowls.

"Alright, sorry about that. I was just trying to…" Luke held up his hands and sighed. "Let's just…eat."

Dinner was almost a silent affair, with only Harry making some commentary about his meal. No one wanted to talk about the case with Harry around. And Alec ate as carefully as one would with a toddler on their lap. Not that Harry did not behave with Alec, but an easily distracted toddler did take longer to eat. Magnus decided to help out and has been feeding Harry in between bites of his own meal.

"I'll feed Harry so you could eat too," Alec said as he adjusted Harry to his left side to make it easier to feed the toddler.

"I appreciate that." Magnus smiled at Alec and then started to eat his dinner.

"Alec…choco!" Harry started to reach for the dessert on the table but Alec moved the plate a few more inches away from his grasp.

"You still have some veggies left." Alec decided to feed Harry himself instead of waiting for him to grab his spoon again. "Ah…" He held the spoon with the veggies in front of Harry, but Harry just avoided it.

Harry pouted. "Choco…"

Alec looked at Magnus. He didn't want to cross any lines because he's not that familiar with how Magnus disciplines Harry.

"Harry can have one piece if he finishes his veggies."

Alec looked back at Harry and smiled. "You're almost done. Then you can have some chocolate." He held the spoon up again. "Here comes the…."

"bwoom!" Harry opened his mouth. He ate the remaining veggies, and then once he finished, he made sure to show Alec that he's finished it all. "All done! Choco please?"

Alec gave Harry his prize, and Harry happily ate it, some of the chocolate getting on his face. "Daddy! Save sum choco for Moony?"

Luke laughs at Harry's words. "Your uncle doesn't need any more chocolate. He's like Willy Wonka with how much he loves them."

"Don't worry darling, we'll save some for Moony, and you can give it to him when he gets back. It's so nice of Harry to share with his Uncle, right Luke?" Magnus said.

"Of course." Luke agrees.

"Moony gets home 'morrow?" Harry asked.

"We'll call Uncle Moony later, sweetheart." Magnus held out his hand. "C'mon, let's get you cleaned up?"

Harry shook his head and burrowed deeper in Alec's arms. He looked up at Alec. "Alec…" Harry even rubbed his face on Alec's shirt, which made both Alec and Magnus winced.

"Raphael, you can go over the details first. I need to clean Harry up." Magnus looks at Alec. "And get Alexander some shirt to change into."

"Daddy, Alec needs to…gotta bath too!" Harry pulled on Alec's sleeves.

Magnus took Harry's hand from Alec's sleeves, "You need a bath, not Alec."

"Gotta show Alec my duckies!" Harry whined.

Alec looked at Magnus for guidance. He knows better than to undermine Magnus's parental authority - when it comes to what he can allow Harry to do.

"If Alec wants to, you can show him your duck collection in the bath."

Harry immediately turned his attention to Alec. His lips are pouting, and his eyes are sparkling.

Alec nods, and Harry clapped his hands.

Magnus led Alec and Harry to the bathroom, and Alec was thrown off by the number of toys and ducks scattered around the room. Magnus entered what looks like a connected walk-in closet and rummage around the drawers.

Once Magnus was able to get all of Harry's clothes and towel, he held his hand out, and Alec transferred Harry to his father.

Magnus then held up a blue shirt in front of him. "You can change into this."

Alec accepted the shirt and unconsciously looked around.

Magnus quirks up a smile. "C'mon darling, we have to give Alexander some privacy. Let's get you out of these dirty clothes too." Magnus and Harry both turned their backs on Alec. Alec then slowly turned away before removing his chocolate-smeared shirt and changing into the shirt Magnus provided. The shirt was a bit tight. He didn't complain. But he did wonder why Magnus bothered to give him a change of clothes instead of just using magic to take the stain away.

"I'll throw this into the washer for you, and you can get them back later."

"No, it's fine. You don't have to -" Alec was cut off when Magnus said, "I don't want to use magic on your shadowhunter shirt. And I'm not taking any chances with Maryse questioning you why you have a chocolate stain on your shirt."

All Alec did was nod. Magnus then started to fill the bath with water and bath soap.

"Now darling, how about you show Alec your favorite duck before he goes back to Raphael?"

Harry was already seated in the half-filled tub who just pouted at the notion that Alec doesn't get to stay for the whole bath.

He reached out and grabbed the floating duck that was as big as his fist and showed it to Alec.

"Wainbow duck!" Harry squeezed the duck, and the former yellow duck changed its color to red. Harry squeezed it again, and it again changed its color from red to orange.

After Harry showed the duck, Alec was able to slip out of the bathroom after Magnus negotiated with the boy.

Alec came back to the living room with everyone silently watching the news as they wait for them to finish. He quietly sat next to Izzy.

"Nice shirt. Apparently, something not black looks good on you," Izzy commented.

"Shut it..." Alec mumbled under his breath.

A few minutes passed in silence, and Magnus came back with a freshly bathed Harry. Harry was clad in red onesies covered with animated brooms flying and spinning all over the fabric.

As soon as Magnus let the toddler touch the ground, he zoomed towards Alec and immediately showed him his onesies.

"Wook! Is flying!"

Magnus nudged Harry and pointed at his play corner, which Alec noted was a new addition to the room from his last visit. It has a teepee tent at the corner of the living room decorated with fairy lights, a soft rug, and toys. "You can play in the play corner while we talk, okay?"

"Harry pway with Daddy...?"

"You can play with me as soon as we finished. Promise."

"kay..."

Harry ran to the corner and grabbed his toys.

"Would any of you like some coffee or tea? I'm afraid drinks are only available after bedtime." Magnus said with a wink as he conjured a tea set and coffee on the table.

"I'll have some coffee, Magnus," Luke said.

Magnus then placed a steaming mug of coffee in front of Luke before he seated himself across Alec.

"So..." Magnus started.

"Well..." Luke started. "The police found the body near an abandoned bodega. It was a homeless guy who reported it." Luke accepted the coffee Magnus passed to him. "The body was light, seemed hollowed out. The coroner's report will probably arrive tomorrow noon."

"Did you get to see the body?" Alec asked.

Luke shakes his head no. "I didn't, but they sent me photos of the body, and they mentioned that it was missing both its incisors. They didn't mention if someone drained the blood from the body. I would need to get someone to help out in case they're taking blood samples from the corpse."

Luke passed his phone to Alec and Magnus, and they both scrolled through the photos of the body. Once they finished, they gave the phone to Raphael, and Raphael's eyes narrowed.

"That's Mike." Raphael gave back the phone and looked back at Isabelle for confirmation. She nodded. "Well, we need to check if the body belongs to Jack."

"Why are they attacking the vampires here? Any conflict between clans?" Luke asked.

"None." Raphael sat back and crossed his arms. "If a wizard did do this, I don't know why he's threatening the vampires." Raphael then looked at Magnus and then looked at Harry, who was still watching Frozen with Izzy. "What about those dark wizards?"

Magnus placed a finger on his lips, deep in thought, and scowled. "Why would Harry be related to the missing downworlders? They would have tried to take him already if they knew he's here and not back there."

"About the werewolves, Luke, can you share with us any pieces of information?" Alec asked, stirring the topic away from Harry. "How many are missing? Any leads?"

"We've lost track of their scent, and I tried to trace back the places they all went, but they didn't go to that club. So we're not sure if the missing werewolves are connected to the dead vampires. It's why I haven't brought this case up to the shadowhunters. There's very little data we can analyze. If downworlders are indeed getting kidnapped, we need to warn the Clave and alert all downworlders for the potential danger they are all in." Luke grabbed a drink from the table. "You obviously know about wizards already because of Harry, right?" Izzy and Alec nodded. "This would make things difficult because that information is only available to Clave members. It's a hidden secret that there are creatures not created by demons or angels."

"Well, if it's actually just due to genetics, then the Clave would have a field day on this. Can we get the body and examine it along with the first one?" Izzy asked.

"Yeah, let's plan on how to get the body from the morgue. I have someone relaying updates on the tests they're taking, so maybe you can swap the body after lunch. I'm sure it's easy for you, Magnus."

"Why don't you come with me?" Magnus asked Alec.

Alec thinks for a moment before nodding. "Sure."

"Oh yeah, Magnus, have you heard back from Remus? He sent me a message asking about our pack, and he mentioned that something didn't felt right and that he'll be back tonight or tomorrow morning."

Magnus leaned back, "No... I didn't receive anything from Remus. There's no news yet from Sirius except that he's been acquitted. And that he's now handling problems with his family estate.

"I told him that I can just relay his message if he can't since he's still busy, and he didn't want to risk sending anything from there back here."

Magnus just nodded in understanding and said, "Maybe he can help us with the case."

After a few more minutes of going over the details of the case and the plan to go to the morgue the next day, Jace decided to call Izzy back to the Institute to check something for him.

"I'll go first. How about you, big brother?" Izzy asked Alec.

"Maybe Alec would like to join me for drinks after Harry's bedtime?" Magnus asked with a small hopeful smile. "We still need to celebrate your canceled wedding."

"Uh...um...sure, but I probably can't stay too long?"

"Harry's bedtime is at 7:30 pm, which is only half an hour to go."

"That's great! You need a night out brother. Bye Magnus, bye Harry!" Izzy called, and Harry waved back.

"Bye bye Izzy!"

"I guess I'll also have to leave as well, Magnus. I'll let you two have a bit of privacy." Luke gave Magnus a knowing look which Magnus pretended he didn't see. "See yah, Harry!"

Raphael also stood up. "I'll go back to the hotel and tell them about the new body. I'll see you tomorrow." Instead of going straight to the door, Raphael made a beeline towards Harry. He crouched down and petted Harry's hair. He whispered something only Harry heard, and Harry gave the vampire a big hug before waving goodbye.

Once the shadowhunter, the werewolf, and the vampire walked out, Magnus decided it was time to put Harry to bed.

Magnus carried Harry in his arms, but the tired boy protested, "Daddy...pwomise."

"But you're already tired. How about two stories instead? Alec already promised one."

Harry looked like he was weighing his choices before agreeing to the offer. The one Alec promised was the one they negotiated with Harry so Alec can leave the bathroom.

Magnus carried Harry to his bed, sitting on his left side while Alec shyly sat on the right. He wanted to burn this domestic image in his mind. He wants to scold himself for getting the steps in order, he hasn't even asked Alec out on a date, and here they are playing house with his son.

Magnus asked Harry what story he wants them wanted to read.

"Edward, the bunny daddy." And Harry burrowed more comfortably under the covers.

Magnus summons the book from the shelf - The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo. He and Harry quite enjoy this story. He opened the page to where they left off and handed the book to Alec. "You can read the chapter for tonight."

Alec gulped and looked down on the page and then at Harry, who was looking at him expectantly. "Ahem...Chapter 5. The house on..."

After just one chapter, Harry was already losing his fight against sleep.

"Let's have the extra story tomorrow night." Magnus tucked Harry in and kissed his forehead good night. "Love you, Harry."

"Love you, daddy...." Harry let out a yawn before blearily looked at Alec. "...alec..." And then Harry was out, fast asleep.

The two silently maneuvered out of Harry's room.

Magnus and Alec sat side by side by the couch. "What would you like to start with?"

"What?"

"Drinks. You have a limitless tab here, and I can make you any drinks you'd like. We have to celebrate the reinstatement of your bachelor status."

"The wedding never happened, so I didn't...lose it?"

"Well, you almost did, and I'm glad you didn't. So?" Magnus made some fancy hand movements, and two drinks manifested. "Maybe you can try my Margarita." Magnus passed the drink with a wink.

Alec took a sip and blinked several times. "Oh."

"Not a fan?"

"...Of drinking in general." Despite saying that, Alec still drank it. "Thank you, Magnus. You really helped me realize that..." He sighed. "You made me realized that I deserve to have a choice. Well...not just you, Izzy and Max and even Jace supported me to make a better choice. But somehow, it's different coming from you."

"Alec, you're just beginning to live your life, and there's so much out there that awaits you," Magnus paused. "I await you," Magnus added quietly.

"Oh."

"The timing is not the best, and I did say I wouldn't push you to decide if you're not ready..." Magnus took a sip of his drink and stared at Alexander's eyes. "But I want you, and it's consuming me, and I want to know more about you and spend more time...How about I take you out on a date after this case? It could just be a friendly date if that's all that you want for now."

"I think... I want to do that..." Alec licked his lips as he drank the last of his Margarita. "Um.. go on a date with you...after this case."

Magnus's smile at that was blinding.

They continued drinking some more after that, and Alec left Magnus's place just before midnight struck.

~~~

Alec arrived early in the afternoon the next day. He texted Magnus that he's already downstairs and waited for the warlock.

Alec waited for a couple of minutes before Magnus arrived.

He smiled when the front door opened, and Magnus greeted him with an exasperated smile. "I'm sorry. Harry was up very early, which put him in a bad mood this morning. He threw a tantrum when I was about to leave."

"It's fine."

Magnus stepped out of the building but stopped by the door when the two heard a pitiful wail of "Daddy!"

Remus looked at them with an apologetic face as he carried Harry. Remus was able to get back to Brooklyn this morning, and even his Uncle Moony's return did not lighten up Harry's mood. Harry's tear-stained face looked heartbreaking along with his outstretched hands. Magnus reached over and took Harry from Remus.

"Darling, what's the matter?"

"I didn' say I wuv you, daddy…" Harry said, along with some sniffles as he tried to burrow his face on Magnus's shirt.

Magnus just held Harry closer and looked at Alec, who gave him a sympathetic smile.

"I love you too. We'll be back soon, Harry." He gently rubbed Harry's back, and Harry lifted his head, and once he saw Alec, he started crying again.

"Why Alec not see me?" Harry's cry getting louder.

This time it was Alec's turn to be put on a spot. "Oh…um…I was going to visit you later…When your daddy gets home. So we can play more," he said, making up an excuse to calm the boy.

Harry leaned his head on Magnus's chest as he stared at Alec.

"okay…"

"Can daddy go now?" Magnus asked.

A few seconds passed, and Harry nodded. "I pway with Moony now…bye daddy, bye alec." Harry waved his hands as Remus took him back inside, and Alec waved back, squinting a bit when the light flashed directly in his eyes. He looked around curiously and then shrugged the feeling of uneasiness when Magnus pulled his sleeves lightly. "The morgue is not that far from here."

Magnus and Alec walked side by side with their arms almost touching. The silence was not awkward but comforting, and Alec took the chance to glance at Magnus and saw that Magnus was also glancing back. He was a bit surprised and quickly turned his gaze back to the streets.

"I must confess Alexander, that it’s actually nice to walk for a change instead of just using a portal."

"That's…good."

"Thank you."

"It's not much." Alec felt Magnus squeeze his arm a bit.

"Harry's been my son for a little more than a year now, and I love him, but sometimes I need my peace as well."

Alec laughs at this, "I know the feeling. I was just a teenager when Max came along, and you need a lot of patience to deal with toddlers."

Magnus nodded in agreement, and the two fell into a comfortable silence. Magnus, not wanting to drop the conversation, prompted a new topic. "Hmmm...I'm actually curious about this one. How did your brother become scared of ducks?"

Alec laughed as his brain recalled that particular memory. He looked at Magnus's eyes with glee before he started to narrate that moment and the times Jace got chased by ducks after.

A few minutes passed, and they stopped outside the morgue.

"Let’s go." Magnus pulled Alexander's hand as they entered the morgue. Magnus cloaked himself from the mundanes and while Alexander activated the rune that hides him from the mundanes.

They entered the morgue and identified which one of the bodies was the vampire one. They uncovered the vampire's body, and they were able to confirm that it did look similar to the other body they first found.

Luke has already sent them the coroner's report. And from the initial observation, the police thought of this as a case of organ trafficking. Magnus levitated the body and left a duplicate in its place.

"Raphael would be arriving in an hour to retrieve the dummy."

"Won’t they notice the difference?"

"It's magic, they won't notice," Magnus said nonchalantly. "Also, they're ordered to cremate the body as soon as possible. Luke got the coroner to tweak the report to make it seem as if the body got some contagious disease."

Alexander nods at this, and Magnus opened the portal that opens to the house where they were currently housing the other corpse.

"We're done here."

They stepped into the portal and were gone from the morgue as soon as they came in.

~~~

It was already late in the afternoon when there was a knock on Maryse's office.

"Come in," Maryse called out.

Raj entered the room and placed a small brown envelop on her desk.

"What's this?" She asked as she picked up the envelope and opened its contents.

Several photos fell to her hands as she dumped its contents. Her eyes narrowed as she immediately recognizes the people in the pictures. It was her son Alec and that warlock.

"When was this taken?"

"Just this afternoon."

She looked at the second photo, and her eyes grew big. There was a small child together with her son and that warlock. Another person was holding the child obscured by the door. But the photos clearly showed that the child was very affectionate with the warlock and her son.

"Do we have any information on the child?" Maryse asked the shadowhunter.

"We're currently checking for face recognition for the kid, but I heard the kid call the warlock his father."

Her mind went back to the toy she saw in Alec's closet. Her gripped on the photos tightened. "You may go. Report to me immediately once you find more information about the child." She stood up and left the room.

She stopped a random shadowhunter to ask where her youngest was, and the shadowhunter pointed her to the training room. She strode to the training room and saw Max stopped as soon as she entered the room. He stood still with both arms sticking to his side, posture too stiff.

"Mother." He said promptly.

"Max." She said as an acknowledgment to him before turning to face his instructor. "I'm cutting his session short. I need to talk with my son in my office." She turned and left without even looking back at Max. As if expecting Max to follow her without any more prompting.

Max looked back at his instructor, who just motioned to him to get going, and he scrambled to catch up to his mother. Once he was able to walk directly behind her, his hands started to fidget, and he bit his lips, worrying what he and his mother would talk about.

They reached her office eventually, and Max stood there uncomfortably, his heels digging in the floor.

"Mom…?" He said with a low questioning voice.

"Do you remember the toy I showed you the other day?"

Max didn't reply, but he nodded.

"You said it was yours..."

Max slowly nodded his head.

"Hmmm."

Max could feel his heartbeat going faster.

"Did you know that Alec was meeting up with a warlock? That he's been meeting with Magnus Bane?"

Max didn't know what to say. He was afraid to lie to his mother. He was also scared to tell that truth because he didn't want Alec to get in trouble.

Apparently, he was taking too long to answer. Maryse grabbed both his shoulders in a tight grip and looked at him in the eye. "I am your mother. You will answer me when I ask you a question. Now. I know Alec has been seeing Magnus Bane, but who is this kid?" Maryse showed him a photo of Harry, and his eyes widen before he could stop himself.

Maryse noticed the recognition in his eyes. She stood straighter and sat in her chair.

"Tell me the truth. Alec's training you as well, right? Did Alec also teach you to lie to your superiors? If so, then maybe we should put Alec back on probation. Is he teaching you insubordination?"

Max's eyes started to fill with tears, but he tries his best to hold back. Alec is the best training instructor ever, and he didn't want his brother to get into any more trouble. He tried to think of a reason why his mother would be interested in Harry. Judging by the photos, Alec was under surveillance by other shadowhunters.

"That's Magnus's kid," was all Max said.

"Warlock's can't reproduce. Where did the child come from?"

Max sniffled. "I don't know. They didn't tell me."

"If that child is a warlock, then that would mean that some innocent mundane was -"

"Harry's not a warlock!" Max said, cutting his mother off. Magnus was good. He wouldn't do that to any mundane.

Maryse raised an eyebrow. "What is he? If the child is a mundane…" Her eyes narrowed, and the gears in her head moving quickly as she thinks of many possible reasons a child would be in a warlock's hands. "Go back to your room. You're grounded for a month."

Max immediately run to his room, not wanting to stay a second longer.

Maryse left the office and looked for Raj. Once she found him, she relayed the information about the child. "The kid's name is Harry. Form a team and take Magnus in for interrogation. If he's keeping a mundane child, then he's breaking the accords."

"Yes, ma'am."

Chapter Text

Magnus is livid.

He's sitting in a chair waiting for Maryse Lightwood to enter the room. The room looks just like an interrogation room, except it doesn't have those two-way mirrors.

There was only a desk and two chairs across from each other. Magnus knows this was not shadowhunters' SOP when it comes to consulting with your city's high warlock. He clenched his jaw as he tried his best to relax. Magnus doesn't know if this was really about the missing downworlders case. Or is it because he indirectly ended her plans to be in-laws with the Branwell's. What's actually pissing him off is that he's been here for half an hour already. He's supposed to be home by 6.

The afternoon was going so well. Right after Magnus and Alexander were able to bring the body to the house, things were going smoothly.

Isabelle was already there when they came through the portal and started the testing immediately. As Magnus and Isabelle test the body, Isabelle told them about Jace's encounter with a wizard last night.

"I can't believe Jace was so off his game last night. Is there a spell that makes someone more of an idiot?" Isabelle complained to Magnus as they took DNA samples from the body. "I swear he's got a bald patch in his head. Serves him right. Fighting with his fists."

"He doesn't have a bald spot," Alexander said as he observes quietly in the corner. "But I guess he lost a bit of hair from that scuffle."

Magnus looked at the two siblings and raised his eyebrow. "So this is the same wizard you saw with the Seelie? He fought with a mundane wizard?"

Alexander leaned back and crossed his arms. "From his descriptions, it’s the same guy. We can't know for sure, but now we know that at least one wizard frequented that club."

"Jace is lucky that he was able to come out of that fight with just a slight bruise to his pride and his leg."

"On another note, I would like to place a bet that this body is Jack's," Magnus said as he finished checking the body.

Alexander tilted his head frowning. He asked, "how did you know?"

"His carpet matches Jack's drapes…?" Magnus said in a flirty voice and tilted his head in the direction of the vampire's lower body. Alexander just rolled his eyes.

Magnus removed his gloves and threw them in the trash. "There's no hidden message on the body. The only motive we have so far is we have a mundane wizard collecting rare ingredients."

Isabelle and Alexander both went a bit pale.

"Are they making some rare potion or something?" Isabelle asked.

"Maybe…I should probably ask my friend Ragnor for some help narrowing down the list of rare and most likely banned potions that would need vampire organs."

A few minutes passed as they wait for some of the results when Alexander let out a winced.

"Are you okay, Alexander?" Magnus was at Alexander's side immediately. He let his hand rest on Alexander's shoulder, and his eyes scanned for any reason why Alexander is in pain.

"Something's not right with Jace." Alexander straightened up and held the hand that is resting on his shoulder. "I just need to check if he's alright."

"Alright, are you still coming over later?" Magnus asked Alexander as he walked to the door.

"I don't know..." Alexander looked thoughtfully at the ground before adding, "I'll try to be back before Harry's bedtime."

Magnus just smiled. "Alright."

Magnus and Isabelle settled in the kitchen. He brewed some tea for the two of them as Isabelle writes down some of their findings on the case. His phone notifies him of a message from Raphael.

'We're done. Be there in an hour.' - Raphael.

Magnus replied back that they have confirmed that it's Jack's body.

"Blood, fangs, and some organs only because they didn't take Mike's. Since Jack is the one with the missing organ..." Isabelle tapped her pen on the table. "We know that the organs are taken post mortem, and Jack died first. The decay on the head is different from the body. And they used the same method on severing and sticking the head. This..." Isabelle sighed. "This is just cruel."

"What I'm curious about is why they are making us find the body? It would be easier for them to just dispose of it."

"Maybe they have a bigger agenda." Isabelle stared at the reports. "It would be bad if bodies of werewolves and seelies would turn up next."

"We need to stop these before the news hits the entire shadow world. I'll send a message to Ragnor for his assistance. Remus would have to help out with the investigation as well."

"I'll contact someone about the situation with the Seelies. If there are Seelies are indeed missing as well..."

Magnus nods and checks the time. It was just four in the afternoon. He then felt his phone vibrates in his pocket. "Excuse me."

He checked the caller ID; Remus is calling. He immediately answered it.

"Is everything alright?" he asked.

Magnus then heard a loud "No!" and a wail. "Remus?" He asked again. He heard a sigh from the other line.

"Harry doesn't want to take his nap, and he's getting really cranky," Remus explained. "I thought maybe he just missed you."

"I'll try to talk to him."

There's a bit of shuffling heard from the other side, and he heard Remus tell Harry that Harry's daddy wants to talk to him.

"Daddy..."

Magnus already knew by that tone that Harry was pouting.

"Daddy, go home."

"Darling, did you take your nap?"

Harry didn't reply, but Magnus imagined the little boy shaking his head.

"Why did you not take your nap?"

"Doggie, big doggie outside," Harry replied. From a distance, he heard Remus add, "We were counting cars by the window when he saw one walked by."

"How about a walk? Daddy can't go home yet, but maybe Remus can take you to the park?" Magnus laughed when he heard a thud and a gasp from Remus. Harry most probably dropped the phone.

He waited for a couple of few seconds before Remus picked up the phone again. "Harry ran to his room to grab his coat. I'm guessing we're going to the park?"

"If Harry's going to be just distracted, we might as well just expend his energy so he can take a nap," Magnus said.

"Alright. We'll take a short walk as soon as I get Harry changed. Bye." There was a muffled sound, and then the phone call ends. He checks the time.

"Hey, Magnus?" Isabelle called for him.

He looked back and saw Isabelle frowning as she looks down at her phone.

"What is it?" he asked.

"They want you to come with me to the Institute right now. Something about the case." She looked unsure.

"Why would they care now?" He raised his eyebrow at her.

She raised her arms and shrugged. "I don't know. I'm currently not talking with my mother, and she's the only one other than Alec who has the authority to summon the High Warlock of Brooklyn."

He crossed his arms. "Ask them why."

She nods and types away on her phone. Magnus sat back on the chair by the kitchen island and leaned on the countertop. He stared at the reports covering the entire countertop.

"Doesn't Alexander keep the original reports back in the Institute?" he asked.

"Yeah. But the Institute didn't really show interest in this case until now. They replied, but it just said that there are matters...only a warlock can explain...?"

"Fine. I'll humor them then. I'll send Raphael a message that we're going to the Institute for a moment."

"Alright. I'll send Alec a text, so he'll know we're back at the Institute."

He nods and waits for her to collect her things before stepping forward and creating a portal that would take them a few meters outside the Institute.

Once they entered the Institute, a shadowhunter pulled Isabelle to the side to talk to her. While two other shadowhunters led him to this room. Back to the present, where Magnus is just about to lose his patience and just leaves this place, the door opens.

Maryse entered the room with a determined look on her face. Magnus scowls. He knows something is up if it's Maryse that wants to talk to him.

"To what do I owe this...displeasure?" He crossed his arms.

"I heard that downworlders are missing. Are you really doing your job as High Warlock?" She raised her eyebrow at him and on the other chair across from him.

"Are you shadowhunters doing your job at keeping the shadow world safe?" He countered.

"Alec's been leading the case, is he not?"

"Ah, yes. Alexander has been a great help." He made sure to drag Alexander's name and watched her frown deepen. "But you can't expect only Alexander and your two other children to be enough manpower for this case."

"What are the details about it?"

"I'm sure you are literate and capable of finding the original copies of Alexander's report yourself. You don't need me for that."

"Just answer my questions. It's part of our agreement that you cooperate," was all Maryse's reply.

"Fine." He conceded if only it will make the meeting end faster. He drawls all the details they have so far on the vampire corpses and the possible missing werewolves and seelies. He didn't mention how the suspect might be a mundane wizard. He doesn't know if Maryse knows about them, and he was not that much of a risk-taker.

"If only two vampires are dead, why are you making such a big fuss about this case? This is clearly just an isolated case. Vampires make loads of enemies all the time."

"If you don't care about the case, then I should just go, right?" Magnus gritted. Maryse clearly was not worried about the missing downworlders. He shouldn't have expected that this would be just a regular consulting activity between him and the Institute. He stared at her as she scrutinized him some more, her eyes showing so much disdain.

"Where's Alec?"

"Why are you asking me?"

"Don't play dumb with me. Alec's been seeing you several times already."

"Ah yes, sadly, it's purely business-related as of the moment. Alexander has more time now that he's no longer getting married." He said with a smirk, knowing that it will annoy Maryse. He succeeded because Maryse's frown deepened, stress lines showing on her forehead.

"It's all your fault." She hisses. "My son could have been married by now."

"I just gave him the option you never gave him. Are you really that desperate to become family with the Branwell's? Did you disappoint the Clave somehow and fell from grace?" He's trying to push all her buttons to get back to her keeping him waiting in the almost cell-like room.

"You!" Her hands slammed against the surface of the table. "How dare you. You should be more respectful. Especially since we now know about that child of yours." She sneered.

Magnus's felt the air in the room drop. He felt a sudden tremor in his hands, and his heart might have skipped a beat. Fear started to creep in.

"How??" He stood up angrily.

"Is that boy a warlock? Or a mundane?" Maryse pressed on. "I've heard of those places that create warlock children with charmed mundane women. Are you..." She left the accusation hanging from her lips

"He's neither of those."

He was about to walk away when one of the shadowhunter monitoring them inside step in front of him. He told him that he cannot go until they're done with the supposed consultation.

"Maryse..." Magnus could only glare at her.

"You know the rules, Magnus."

"You can't keep me here." Magnus gave the shadowhunter blocking his way, a challenging look. Magnus gathered his magic around his palm. And he raised it in front of the man who scrambled to get away from his path.

Maryse pulled him back and turned him around. "I will not allow a warlock like you to corrupt my son. And someone like you should not be around children."

Magnus can feel his magic wants to lash out. "Someone like me?"

Maryse stood straighter and more arrogantly. "You're not just going to corrupt Alec, but that child as well. I'm only doing my duty by enforcing the Accords. That child should be taken to a family that is...normal."

Magnus cat eyes glowed as his eyes narrowed at her. He wanted to laugh at her. If only she knew that Harry was beyond normal compared to other children. His son is a wizard. Compared to the two of them, he's clearly more suitable for being a parent. And to think that some outsider who knows nothing about the situation thinks she knows what's best is laughable.

"You have really outdone yourself. You're doing this because you think that I took Alec from you. Not because you believe that I'm actually a danger to a child. You did that all by yourself."

He wasn't planning on staying around and waste more of his time trying to make her see some sense. She's a lost cause, and it's not his job to change her mind. Especially now that they know about Harry, he needs to make sure he's back home safe. She tried to stop him from leaving, but he used his magic to block her, and he started to walk towards the exit.

"Magnus!"

His head snapped back as he heard a young voice call out to him. He saw Max running towards him. What was more noticeable was the clear signs that Max had been crying.

"Are you ok?"

"I'm so sorry, Magnus!" He cries. "It's all my fault!"

"What do you mean?"

"I told them.." he let out a hiccup, "I told them that Harry...Harry's your son."

Seeing Max like this made Magnus want to go back there and smack a bitch.

He conjured a handkerchief and gave it to Max. "It's not your fault."

"They have a picture of Harry!"

"How?"

"I think...mother got someone to follow Alec around..." Max said in a small voice. "But I didn't tell her about Harry's...um gift."

"You did good, Max. Thank you for protecting Harry."

"I couldn't warn you because I'm supposed to be grounded, but I escaped my room by pretending to go the bathroom."

"You know what...you're coming with me. Alec needs to know about this."

The other shadowhunters didn't even try to get in Magnus's way as he takes Max along with him. Maryse wasn't able to catch up to them and stop Magnus from technically kidnapping her son. But is it kidnapping if he's taking the kid away from all that emotional abuse? They used another portal back to his apartment.

He guided Max to sit on the couch and frowned when he noticed that the place was too quiet.

"Remus?"

Magnus entered Harry's room, but no one was there. His heart started hammering in his chest as he checked his room and the bathroom, and still no Harry or Remus.

He checked the time. It was now 5 pm.

"Maybe...maybe they're still on their walk." He said to himself as he tries to be reasonable. He pulled out his phone and checked for any messages. There was none.

He dialed Remus's number. No one was answering.

"Magnus?" Max called out. "Where's Harry?"

He dialed Luke's number.

"Hello?" Luke answered in a gruff voice.

"Luke, do you know where Remus is?" His voice was starting to shake. "I can't contact him, and I just came back from the Institute, and Maryse knows. Maryse knows about Harry..." He was starting to worry that maybe Maryse did something and has already taken Harry away while he was at the Institute. He can't lose Harry. His baby could be anywhere right now.

"Magnus!" Luke snapped. "Focus. Why don't you try and track Harry."

"O-okay," he said. He took a deep breath and focused his magic on locating Harry and Remus. He tried it more several times.

Magnus felt his whole world shattered when it became clear to him.

His son was missing.

Chapter Text

Remus woke up disoriented. He felt an odd pain in his shoulders and pins and needles in his right arm. The werewolf tried to raise his hand, but it wouldn't budge. He couldn't move his arms. Both hands are bound behind his back with some chain.

He slowly sat up from his sprawled position on the floor and blinked several times, trying to look around the pitch-black room. There are other living creatures in the room. He can hear their heartbeats; some are faster than others. He can also hear some pattering of feet and chains being dragged around. There were windows but are near the ceiling. And he can tell from the light coming from outside that it's already in the evening. He tries to remember what happened, but his memory was unreliable at the moment. He felt a sharp pain at the back of his head, and he lets out a groan.

"Hello?"

Remus's head snapped to the left from where he heard the noise come from. "Hello?" He asked back. "Who's there?"

There was no reply. It took Remus another minute before his vision was able to adjust in the darkroom. He couldn't make out the other things in the room, but he's sure that several animals are in cages with them. His heightened senses were also assaulted by the smell of formalin and blood. He looked to his left and recognized the man.

"…Alec?" Remus asked.

"Uh, yeah. And you are?"

Remus noticed how Alec was trying to squint and figure out the things in the dark. "It's me, Remus, Magnus's friend?"

"What? Aren't you supposed to be babysitting Harry?"

Remus's eyes looked like it was about to pop out of its sockets.

"Harry!" The chains dig deeper into his skin. He grunted as he tried to pull on the chains.

"I was with Harry….." His heart was now pounding in his chest as he tried to recall the events before waking up. "Merlin's beard! We were on a walk and….." His head started hurting again. "Gah! Bloody hell!" He growled at the chains that are keeping him bound to the floor. He wasn't in a cage, which is good because that means less stuff to break out of but still not good because he's now pretty sure that the chain is made of silver.

"Harry? But I didn't see him with you when the wizard chained you here. He probably took him somewhere else?"

"Wizard?" Remus asked.

"Yeah, he said something, and then suddenly ropes started tying themselves around me."

"Did you notice anything? A tattoo? A black hood? Maybe a mask?"

"No, but he kinda looks like my brother Jace."

Remus's face scrunched up both in pain and confusion. "What do you mean?"

"The hair looks off….and his runes look almost faded. And maybe the skin? He looks sick. I thought maybe it was a poor disguise, but my connection to Jace feels multiplied. It was more intense earlier."

Remus tried to recall anything that could cause something like that. "What connection?"

"He's my parabatai. I've been trying to make sense of our connection, but it was never liked this before," Alec replied.

"I think Luke mentioned something like that. Our best bet would be that he used the polyjuice potion to copy your brother, but he would need his hair or any DNA sample for that." Remus doubted that some wizard could have gotten access to the shadowhunter's DNA, but using glamour doesn't make sense. But it doesn't rule out that the kidnapper could be a death eater. Harry's scar was no longer there, but there's a chance that he could still be recognized. Fear started to creep into Remus's mind. It's probably been hours since they were abducted.

There was a moment of silence before Alec swore. "That idiot."

"Why?"

"I think I know who our kidnapper is," Alec mumbled.

Remus asked who.

"Jace got into a fight last night with a wizard while he was on a stakeout. He identified it as the wizard I saw several days ago, and they got too physical that they were able to grab Jace's hair. The kidnapper could possibly be the one that kidnaps downworlders."

"A polyjuice potion then, but since we know that it's not a complete transformation, our kidnapper would still look like Jace. Jace being a Nephilim would not make the drinker revert back automatically."

Remus wanted to believe that the chance that their kidnapper is a death eater is lower than before. The wizarding world in Great Britain is in the dark when it comes to anything about the shadow world. Because if they knew warlocks exists, laws against them and regulations would have been put up immediately years ago.

"Great, just what we need. Another Jace."

"If we're lucky, maybe it affected his magic as well." Remus wiggled and tried to loosen the chains. It would not budge. "We need to find Harry. If only I can remove these bloody silver chains."

"They know you're a werewolf? Do they also know you're a wizard?"

Remus's eyes widened. He slapped himself mentally in the face for his stupidity. He immediately assumed that his magic was also bound. He moved to a more comfortable position and flicked his wrist to reach his wand.

In one swift motion, his wand is now in his dominant hand. "Lumos."

Light emerged from the tip of his wand. Remus let out a sigh of relief. It will be easier now to escape and look for Harry. He can now clearly see Alec's bewildered look. And when he moved his wand towards the rest of the room, his stomach flipped.

Rows of jars of different sizes were filled with questionable liquid with floating body parts, placed on multiple shelves. Remus also saw magical creatures and other beasts he's not familiar with were in cages stacked on top of each other. A lot of them have a muzzle on their faces. Several containers of unknown substances were pushed against the wall next to them.

"By the Angels..." Alec muttered.

The room was also larger than he thought it would be. A medical examiner's table was in the middle of the room. The floor had several plastic sheets on them, and there was a lot of dried blood. Next to it is a table with trays of different surgical equipment and tools.

"We need to get out of here." Remus was about to mutter the counter curse when they heard footsteps outsides.

~~~
The man stared at the child crying for how many minutes already since he woke up.

"Your lungs are quite big for such a small body," he mumbled and let out a sigh. It has been several days since he's been imprisoned in this cage. The shame of being bested by a mere magic user has not yet faded. And now, another torture made by this loud noise coming from a young mundane is forced upon him.

The young child was already unconscious when he was forced into a birdcage large enough to fit at least one more kid next to him earlier. The magic user tossed in the cage a small blanket and a stuffed toy. It calmed the boy for a bit, but he started to cry when the room got darker due to the setting sun.

"Daddy...moony..."

He tried not to look at the pitiful look on the child. But even he must admit that it's unfortunate that such an adorable child got abducted as well.

Being bound in an iron cage for several days while his limbs are bounded by steel chains is starting to take a toll on his body. The magic user kept him in this cage while he collects the other ingredients he would need to summon a greater demon. The noise was starting to create a headache.

He stood up. The birdcage allowed him to talk to the child at his eye level.

"What's your name?"

The boy blinked twice and tilted his head.

"Do you not know your name?"

The child looked at him and stared for a moment before he said, "Hawwy!"

"Alright, Harry, can you please...shut the hell up?"

The kid's lower lips wobbled and inhaled.

The man was frozen on his feet. He didn't know if the kid was going to wail or not.

He braced himself for the loud noise that was going to happen, but it never came. The kid pouted instead.

"Bad!" the kid declared.

He just raised an eyebrow at that. The kid then tried to stand up, holding into one of the bars of his cage, but his legs wobble as the birdcage sways. Harry whined and looked at the other and pouted. Getting closer to the child allowed him to inspect his features better. He took a sharp intake of breath as he stared directly at the toddler's eyes. He smiled sadly at the boy.

"Do you want to hear a story?" He decided that entertaining the toddler would probably be best for his ears and his sanity.

Harry's eyes glowed, and he nodded his head.

"Once upon a time, there were...two fairies who love each other very much. One of the fairies had bright green eyes. Green eyes loved to dance under the moonlight, and the fairy's partner indulged him every night. They would dance until their feet ache. They were happy. For a very long time, it was only the two of them. They spent many summers and winters in their home within the woods. And then, one day, green eyes asked for a child. He really wanted to have a family. His partner would argue that the two fairies are already a family, but his green-eyed fairy would always disagree. He dreamed of raising a child. It didn't matter if the child is not really his own. He loved kids so much that it sometimes hurt. Because being with the other fairy made having kids difficult for green eyes. Green eyes wanted to have kids so much that he wished for one. He would wish every night until one day, the heavens granted him a child. The child needed a parent, and green eyes felt complete. But the other fairy, he wasn't as good as green eyes. He did terrible things. And the heavens punished him. They took back the child because of him, and the green-eyed fairy was so devasted that he decided to join the child."

The seelie ended the story without removing his eye contact with the child. Although Harry did not really understand what the story was about, he felt the emotions of the storyteller.

He saw a tear slide down the toddler's plump cheeks. And this broke through his barriers, and he fell to his knees and broke down. He heard the birdcage slam to his iron cage as the boy move around, and he closed his eyes as he pressed his hands on them. There was another commotion, and he just passed it as the kid moving about in his hanging prison. But then his heart lurched as he felt something touch his knee, and he jerked back, falling on his behind as he stared at the kid who is now outside of the birdcage but inside his iron one.

"H-how?" he exclaimed.

"Oh no! You is crying!" Big green eyes stared at him. "Is okay." And then, the toddler walked to his side and started patting his back. "Is okay to cry." Harry continued to pat him, and he just stared at the small boy. Harry then moved to his front and hugged him as best as he could.

"You shouldn't be hugging strangers."

"Name?" the boy asked.

"My name is Florian." He stared suspiciously at the child. He must be a warlock or a magic user. As much as he despises their kind, this was just a defenseless child who probably has no control over his magic. His heart clenched as he looks at the small child in front of him.

Harry lets him go and then stares at him.

"What is it?" he asked. The toddler then patted his hair.

"Pwetty," stars were shining in his green eyes. "Mama...mama has red hair..."

"Your mother must be worried now..."

"mama and dada went bye-bye..."

As strange as it was, he felt compelled to pat the child's hair, and so he did. It was soft. His eyes darkened as it reminded him of the past. "I'm sorry..."

"Harry wanna go now..." the toddler whined after a few minutes has passed. "outside please?"

Florian pointed at the iron door of the cage. "We can't go out. The door's locked."

"No, no, no!" Harry stamped his feet.

"The door is locked. We can't go out."

The toddler was becoming more restless. Florian guessed that Harry was beginning to feel tired and hungry already.

"If the door's gone, we can go out." He pointed again at the door, and this time Harry just bawled.

"Open door!"

"I can't. It's locked. It's made of iron."

"No!"

There was a loud bang, and the hinges of the door vanished. A loud sound echoed in the room as the door fell down. He was shocked for a moment at the display of such powerful magic. Raw. Full of potential, especially someone as young as him. He tries to imagine how much power this child could tap into if he gets a chance to control the power of the ley lines.

The Seelie raised an eyebrow at the crying child. He patted the kid's back a few times to get his attention. "Harry..."

Harry looked up.

"We can leave now." He motioned in the direction of the door, and Harry beamed.

"Outside!" the toddler cheered.

Florian stared at the chains on his wrists and decided that it would be best to just leave the chains on and escape first. He placed Harry in his arms and stood up. The steel chain wrapped around his wrist dug into his flesh as he finds a more comfortable position to carry the child.

"Let's get out of here."

As soon as he stepped out of the cage, he slowly felt a surge of power course through him. And now to get out of this warded place. The heavens gave him back. His eyes glowed in the dark, and they walked outside. The waning moon shines brightly that night.

'Perhaps it's time to bring new blood into the faeries' line.

Chapter Text

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY'RE MISSING?!?"

Magnus clenched his fists and stood up to face Sirius Black. "How is that not any clear to you? Do you want me to explain to you what missing means?" He said, almost shouting as well. His temper was slowly getting ahead of himself.

As soon as he realized that Remus and Harry were missing, he took out all the books that might contain any archaic ways of tracking someone. He knew it wouldn't work. In the beginning, Magnus placed charms on Harry and all of his things so that no death eater could trace him here in America. He made Harry wear 24/7 this charmed anklet that acts as a GPS, but Harry got tired of them and would remove them sometimes.

Magnus got Raphael and the other vampires searching on foot for Harry and Remus. Since the kidnappers could be death eaters, Magnus even decided to call Sirius back, and the mutt dropped everything. He portkeyed to Paris before calling Magnus to open a portal from his hotel to Magnus's apartment.

An hour has already passed since Magnus realized that they're missing.

Harry and Remus could be anywhere by now.

It was upsetting to think of what they could be doing to his son. Magnus tried to stop himself from thinking whether Harry ate or is scared or if he's crying. He attempted to comfort himself that his son has Remus with him, and Remus will do his best to keep his son safe. It wouldn't help to be distracted right now. Harry and Remus need him right now.

"Let me lead the operation. An ex-Auror would have more idea on how to handle a kidnapping." Sirius said as he looked over the books Magnus left open on the table.

"You also spent months in Azkaban. Your health is not the best yet," Magnus retorted.

"I find Harry faster if you'd just let me..."

"You'd risk exposing Harry's identity to the world!"

"Harry's my godson!"

Magnus grabbed Sirius's collar.

"I'm his father!"

"James is his-"

"Stop acting like children!" Luke ordered and brought his laptop to the table. Magnus lets his closed fist aiming at Sirius's face down and slowly lets go of his collar. Sirius fixed his shirt and reluctantly joined the two. "I finally got the traffic surveillance of the route from Magnus's place to the park. Let's look over them and see if it captured the kidnapping."

It took them several minutes of looking through each CCTVS that had captured Remus and Harry. They found one footage when they were just about to leave the park. There was a blonde man who approached them from behind. The movement of the man gained Remus's attention. He proceeded to move closer to the two. He patted Harry's head, and his hand settled on the pushchair while his other hand grabs Remus's arm. And then, in a blink of an eye, they were gone. There was no struggle. Remus even nodded to the man when he saw him. The man looked to the side before they vanished, and Magnus asked Luke to pause it at that moment.

"That man looks familiar." Magnus stared at the side profile of the blond man. They zoomed in on the photo as best as they could. His eyes squinted at the image. He stood up and entered Harry's room where Max is. Max was huddled at the corner of the bed, looking worried and scared.

"Max."

"Magnus! Did you find Harry?" Max jumped and started rambling. "I know you said that I shouldn't help, but the more people helping out, the better right? I promise I won't get in the way!"

Magnus gently grabbed him by the shoulders. "Max. Slow down. I won't let you go because it's dangerous. I know you're a capable young man, but I wouldn't risk you getting hurt." He summoned some tissue and gave it to the boy.

Max sniffled. "It's all my fault. As soon as I told our mother about Harry, he goes missing! What if we don't ever find him?!"

"It's not your fault." Magnus hugged the boy. "The only one at fault is that kidnapper. I know I said I won't let you help look for Harry, but that doesn't mean you won't be able to help even when you're not out there yourself. C'mon, I need you to confirm something for me."

He held Max's hand as they left the room. Magnus showed him the picture of the kidnapper. "Does that look like Jace to you?"

"Um…I think so. But…but Jace would never do that! He's also wearing weird clothes…" he pointed at the bright yellow long coat the man is wearing. "That's very impractical to wear for shadowhunters."

"I also think it's not Jace. That man vanished along with Remus and Harry, and Jace has no talent when it comes to magic. Do you know where Jace is? Alexander left earlier because of Jace."

Max shakes his head no. "I wouldn't know. I was training all day, and then mother grounded me."

"I need to call your brother."

He reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He dialed Alexander's number, and it only rang. No one was answering the phone. He called again, and after the second ring, someone answered. A woman.

"Hello?"

"Who is this?" Magnus's head was swimming with theories as to why a woman would answer Alexander's phone.

"Oh! Are you the owner of this phone? I found it on the sidewalk outside our restaurant."

Magnus was confused. "I'm not the owner of the phone. I'm his friend. Can you tell me what time did you find the phone?"

The woman was silent for a few seconds and then, "It was before the dinner rush...so maybe before 5pm?"

Magnus looked at Luke. "I'll have one of his family pick up the phone. Thank you so much. What's the name of the restaurant and the address?"

After the woman told Magnus the address of the restaurant, Magnus looked at Max. "Apparently, Alexander dropped his phone. Do you know how to unlock your brother's phone?"

"Not really, but Izzy does."

Magnus nods. "I'll call your sister and update her. Hopefully, she can leave the Institute to pick up Alexander's phone."

Max tugs at Magnus's shirt. He looked confused and worried. "But Magnus…what if something happened to Alec too? He always takes good care of his things."

That was what's worrying Magnus more. Another person could also be missing. If only he could track Alexander.

"We're not sure if Alexander is missing, but-"

"Maybe we can find Jace! Have him track Alec down!" Max said helpfully.

Luke coughs. "We can check the surveillance camera of the restaurant? See if Alec just accidentally left his phone."

Magnus nods. "Can you go with Isabelle? A cop would have better chances in getting access to their CCTVs." Luke nods. Sirius stood up and started pacing around.

"I'm going to the park. Maybe I can sniff something out." He transformed into a dog and left the room.

Magnus called Isabelle. He told her about the kidnapping and Alec's situation. She then informed him that Jace apparently was in the Institute the whole day. Stuck in his bed because of some cold that even the iratze is having trouble fighting off. She also told him that the tension was too thick in the Institute, but Maryse does not know Max left yet. The other shadowhunters were too afraid to talk to her when she's in such a terrible mood. Izzy agreed to sneak out with Jace to help out.

Luke immediately departed with Isabelle as soon as they came to Magnus's apartment. Jace looked pale and fell to the couch like a heavy sack of potato.

"Jace!" Max sat next to his older brother. "You look horrible."

Jace winced and massaged his temple with one hand.

Magnus took one look at him and gave him a tonic. "There's no regular cold that the iratze can't fix. If that wizard you fought yesterday cursed you, this should help with that. If it's not a curse...well, it's relatively harmless."

Jace slowly reached for the tonic and stared at the thick, murky liquid inside the cup. He held his breath and drank it.

"Eugh." Jace fought off the urge to vomit all over Magnus's expensive carpet.

A few minutes passed, and Sirius returned.

"I couldn't find any other clue." He sat at a chair and heavily sighed. "We need something that can clue us in on that blond man. Let's review the other videos. Maybe we can get a better look at that man." Sirius then noticed Jace. "You looked like you got ran over by a truck."

Jace rolls his eyes. "Piss off."

Magnus gave the two an admonishing glare.

Magnus and Sirius were about to return to the dining table with Luke's laptop when Magnus's phone rang.

"He's been kidnapped." That was what Luke said as soon as Magnus answered the phone. "The same man took Alec."

Magnus then looks at Jace. "We need to track Alec using your connection."

Jace nods, feeling a lot better already. "Let's start."

~~~
Remus muttered, "Nox." And the light from his wand was gone. He quietly vanished the silver chains and quietly moved to Alec's side.

"Finite incantatem."

The ropes around Alec's hands, feet loosened and vanished.

Alec rubbed his wrists and pulled out his stele. He activated his runes.

They waited for the sounds to get closer, and then the doors opened with a loud bang.

"Alexander!" "Remus!"

Bright light engulfed the room that got both Remus and Alec squinting at the brightness. They blinked several times and were shocked to see everyone.

Magnus, Sirius, Luke, Raphael, and Jace were standing right at the entrance looking worried or worried AND murderous in Magnus's case.

They all looked around with horror as they now see the whole place with better lighting. It was like a setting in a horror film with a mad scientist.

Sirius rushed towards his best friend. "Moony! Are you ok?"

"Sirius! Why?... How did you find us? What are you doing here?" Remus asked as Sirius checked him over for any injuries. "I'm fine." Remus bats away Sirius's wandering hands and grabs Magnus's attention.

"I'm so sorry, Magnus." He lowered his head in shame. "I got Harry in danger..."

"Where's Harry? Why is he not here?" Magnus looks around. Tries to reach Harry with his magic, but there was nothing he could find.

"Let's get out of here. Maybe Harry's in another warehouse of some sort." Alec said.

The rest nods and leaves the area. "Can we do anything for the trapped creatures there?" Luke asked as they walk around the small compound.

"We'll come back later. We need to find our pup first." Remus said. They passed another similar warehouse and blasted open the doors.

Their senses were then overwhelmed by the stench of rotting flesh and excrement. Luke, Remus, and Raphael eventually realize that among the horrible smell of flesh assaulting their heightened senses was the smell of blood and werewolves.

"Help! Luke!"

Luke and Remus moved swiftly inside and found one of the missing werewolves.

"Jude!"

They found the werewolf tied by his wrists and feet on the wall, a few inches from the ground. The chains were made of silver. Blood was dripping from the wounds from the tight chains.

Luke growled at the sight, and it made his wolf surface just beneath his subconscious, wanting him to transform and kill whoever did this to his pack.

They vanished the chains, and Luke caught the man as he fell. He supported him to stand. "Jude, where's -" Before Luke could finish his words, the newly freed werewolf sobbed and howled. He pointed somewhere, and Luke and Remus followed it and saw the bloody animal's pelt hanging by the corner. Luke and Remus's eyes glowed dangerously. They were about to inspect it some more when they heard a loud banging next door.

They all rushed to the other side, and Magnus shot a powerful spell towards the door.

It was the wizard scrambling around a summoning circle. "You! You're all too late!" He poured the blood before anyone realizes what he was about to do. Magnus pushed the others behind him as black smoke hissed from the circle.

"You meddling fools! You've ruined my collection!" The wizard screamed, his eyes looking crazier by the second when he saw the wounded werewolf freed from his chains. He then gazed at the empty iron cage. "Where is my Seelie!"

"Why does he look like me?" Jace asked no one in particular.

"Polyjuice potion gone very wrong," Sirius answered.

"I should have killed you instead! Your impurity cursed me!" He sent out a spell that Sirius and Magnus immediately blocked.

Magnus stared at the black mist slowly surrounding the circle. "Who did you summon?" He tried to identify what kind it was, but the black fog coming out of it is not helping. He then saw a particular sign, and his eyes widened when he recognized it as a summoning circle for a greater demon. "What did you do to my son?" He sent an offensive spell towards the wizard, but the wizard's fast reflexes dodged it.

"I don't know who your son is, but since I'm missing a sacrifice, and you all will do just fine!" The wizard screamed and raised his arm. He was about to cast another spell when there was a bright flash of light, and then the smoke slowly dissipates. He looked at the circle, and his smirk widens.

Alec and Jace both went forward and went on defense mode, taking out their angel blades. This was clearly the greater demon summoned by the crazy wizard. Alec hoped that a team with two shadowhunters, one wizard, one werewolf wizard, an alpha, a vampire, and a high warlock would be enough.

"Magnus! Finally, decided to invite me to the party? Well, that took you long enough. Has been it been a century yet?" The tone is a bit cheerful and sarcastic.

Magnus froze as the smoke covering the face of the demon vanished. A tall man wearing a well-tailored suit emerged. His hair slicked back, and he was leaning on one leg with his arms crossed.

"Great demon Asmodeus!" The wizard quickly went on his knees. "It is a great honor to be in your presence!"

The demon raised his eyebrow at the wizard next to him. Instead of acknowledging the summoner, he gave all his attention to the rest of the occupants of the room. "Well, isn't this lovely, although you could do better with the venue next time. Torture chambers are so old."

"You know him?" Sirius asked.

Asmodeus arched an eyebrow at Sirius and boasted, "Know me? I'm his father!"

The wizard scambled of the floor. He stared at the demon and then stared at Magnus. "Y-you..."

The greater demon sighed. "Explain yourself." He said towards the wizard.

The wizard was frozen in place.

"He took my son," Magnus confessed. "I want my son back."

The greater demon's slacked posture became rigid. Asmodeus's aura was becoming more menacing. "You did what?"

The wizard probably was slowly gaining common sense stepped back. "I-I...I did no such t-thing..."

"You totally ruined my evening, you know that? First, I thought my son missed his dear old dad...that was why I was summoned. I even wore a new suit for this. And now you're telling me that you've taken my grandson? My son hasn't even told me he has a partner yet, let alone a grandson." Asmodeus ranted as he moves slowly towards the wizard. "Where is he?"

The rest of the occupants of the room were shocked.

"I thought you were kidding when you said your dad was a demon," Sirius commented.

Jace and Alec did not let go of their angel blades, but both were bothered by the demon's current attitude.

Remus and Luke are still on their guard while supporting Jude, who passed out after seeing the greater demon.

Asmodeus grabbed the wizard by the neck. He stepped over the circle that was never meant to keep him inside.

"You will answer when asked."

Dazed and afraid, the wizard started talking.

"I swear I did not know who you're talking about. The only kid I took was that werewolf's kid! He was just supposed to be my sacrifice to you, Lord Asmodeus!"

"That's my son!" Magnus's cat eyes flared, and magic swirled around him. "You wanted to sacrifice my son?! Where's Harry?!!!"

"I didn't do anything to him! He was gone when I came back! The birdcage was still locked, but the Seelie's cage was open!" He rushed as sweat ran down his temple. He didn't even attempt to remove Asmodeus's hands from his neck.

Magnus immediately left Alec's side and went over the cages. Magnus saw the stuffed toy left inside the birdcage. It was Harry's.

He broke the lock and held the toy to his chest. He stared at the open iron cage next to it. Seelie's are weak against pure iron. How did it escape?

"Why? Why did you kidnap these downworlders?"

"Because you're all just stupid muggles compared to wizards, and the world doesn't need you! You are oddities that should be displayed instead! In my collection! You!" He gestured to Alec. "You should thank your mother for exposing your world to me! I would have never known about this impurity, and your mother feels the same way about them. She doesn't like how they taint this perfect world. And I figured since she hates you so much, she wouldn't mind me taking you as part of my collection! Because being part angels make you so special." He sneered.

Asmodeus hold on to his neck tighten, and he screamed in pain. "I think you'd fit perfectly in MY collection in Edom. To think that you'd try and sacrifice my own grandson to me. This party is over." He looks at Magnus. "Magnus, I'll take this man to Edom, and you can go look for my grandson."

"You can't just take him away -" Alec argued but was cut off by the greater demon.

"I'm letting you all go, and I'm going back without a fuss. The least you can do is let me take this poor chap for my entertainment. We should have dinner next time, son. And don't forget to tell Harry his grandpa said hi. Ciao." Asmodeus smirked and, without waiting for a reply, vanished back to Edom along with the wizard.

Chapter Text

Florian walked them back to his cottage. "What's that?" He would often ask and then point to something to distract the young child in his arms.

"A tree!"

"What's that?" He points at a flying butterfly.

"Bufferfwy!"

"What's that color?"

"Red."

Harry enjoyed the game for a few minutes until he looked up at Florian with tears threatening to fall from his eyes. "Hungwy…" He pulled the Seelie's collar and sucked on his right thumb.

"How about you tell me your favorite food?"

"I...I like nanas wif pancakes."

The seelie nods. "What's your favorite color?"

"Yellow."

"Why yellow?"

"Daddy's eyes...pwetty."

The seelie hums in agreement. "What's your favorite toy?"

"I love all my toys!"

The Seelie was still drained from his days as a prisoner in that iron cage, so his magic was still low. Their walk was slow, and the moon is already high above their heads. He tried to soothe the boy's back with a promise that they'll eat as soon as they get home.

"Too long…" Harry mumbled.

"We're almost there."

They reached a clearing surrounded by many bushes, and in the middle is a modest cottage. The two entered inside. The room felt stuffy, and the child let out a cough when he accidentally inhaled some of the dust that accumulated while he was away.

Florian set Harry on the dining table and turned back to start making dinner with the produce that stays fresh in his cupboard. Harry stared at wooden cabinets with vines creeping on them and the glowing lights that surround them. The boy knew that this was an unfamiliar place. "Not home…" He banged his fist on the table. "Want…want -" The boy stopped when Florian faced him again and set down a plate of various berries.

"I promised we'd eat."

Harry looked at the berries and grabbed a fistful of them. Berries were something Harry was familiar with. "Wow."

While Harry eats some berries, Florian set to making a stew made of vegetables and some bread. He even cut the vegetables into small cubes that won't become a choking hazard. He stared longer at some of the carrots that he sliced into star shapes.

His mind went back to a time of peace where this very cottage would always be filled with a child's laughter and a man singing a fine tune. He thought back to the times when Sorrel would cook for them often. Every food he makes was made with his utmost care, and each detail mattered to him. Their son loved his star-shaped carrots, his rose tomatoes, and bunny apples. If only Sorrel waited for this day. Coming back to the present, he quickly finished the food.

When he was finished, he set the table and placed a bowl of stew in front of Harry.

He gave Harry a small wooden spoon. "Let's eat?"

Without any complaint, Harry ate a few spoonfuls of the stew and allowed Florian to feed him a piece of bread.

"Are you done?" he asked.

Harry nodded and lifted his arms.

"sleepy...wanna go sweep wif daddy..." the boy said in between yawns.

Florian lifted him, and they went inside his room with only a small bed and dresser on the side. He laid the boy on the bed, but Harry kicked the sheets as frustration filled the child.

"Nooo... I want daddy!" A few tears fell to the boy's cheeks.

Florian felt magic swell around the boy, and he waves his hand in front of Harry's face. He gathered and willed the magic from him to ease the tension. And with the seelie's magic, slowly, the child calmed down and fell asleep.

He quietly left the room and closed the door with a soft thud.

He took out a thick blanket from the cupboard and laid it down on the floor. As he sat cross legs on the laid blanket, he gathered the energy around him and healed himself back to optimum health.

It was really a mistake on his part on how the wizard was able to abduct him. A seelie as old as him should have known better. Especially one with his ability when it comes to battles.

He looked back at the closed door of his room. The child sleeping peacefully inside is not an ordinary child. It's not a warlock, and aside from the wizard that imprisoned them, it's been a while since he encountered a magical folk like him.

Sorrel was better when it comes to teaching magic than him. He was only competent in battles, and he's been in many wars throughout his lifetime. His disposition and past experiences caused each disaster in his life.

***
He and Sorrel spent so many years together, but they only spent two summers with their child when the boy was killed by vampires who had a grudge against him. Sorrel's heart broke that day. Sorrel mourned for several days before he decided to die with the child. Florian would have joined them as well, but he's punishing himself for his crimes by staying alive. It turns out that there was a reason for that. He would raise this child to become the best seelie out there, just like Sorrel's dream for their own son. A child with so much magic can achieve that in no time.
***

~~~

"And I thought my mum was evil incarnate..." Alec heard Sirius mumbled. He then saw Remus elbow Sirius at the rib.

"Knock it off, Padfoot,"

The wizard coughed and asked, "So...where do we go next? I'm glad it's not the death eaters that took him, but we still don't know where my pup is."

"Maybe the seelie escaped with Harry." Magnus has already checked every bit of the cages for any signs of magic performed. "I need to talk to the seelie queen. Ask her about the seelie that went missing."

"I'm coming with you."

"I'll come -"

Sirius and Alec said at the same time. Alec felt his vein throbbing in his temple when Sirius easily grabs Magnus's arm in one hand and pulls Remus's hand with the other.

"Alec, I'll stay behind and check out the whole place," Jace pulled out his phone and dialed a number. "I'll call for a few shadowhunters to clean up and collect evidence."

Alec nods. "Be careful. Don't touch them directly. There might be spells on those things."

"I'm not an idiot." Jace rolled his eyes.

"No, but you're stupid enough to get a knock-off Jace look-alike," Alec retorted.

"Doesn't matter. The original is still better looking than that poser," Jace replied and gave Alec a winning smile.

"I think you're still sick, sick in the head." Alec quickly walked away, and he heard Jace called him back.

He moved to catch up with Magnus and the two wizards. Seeing Magnus so close to the wizards left a bitter taste in his mouth. The black-haired wizard always sounds too outgoing for Alec. And the fact that he looks like those nobles from paintings with distinguished features despite spending some time in prison irritates him a bit. It also doesn't help that he just touches Magnus as easily as that.

"Magnus," Alec called the warlock.

Magnus looked at him, and Alec saw under the moonlight and several street lights, his face without the facade that nothing could faze the high warlock of Brooklyn. Right now, all Alec saw was a father distraught because of his missing son. They all probably looked like a huge mess as well.

"How will we get an invitation to the seelie court?" Alec asked.

"We'll think of something...I'll talk to some of my connections and ask around."

"I can try to send word that the head of the Institute would like to have an audience with the queen."

"Thank you," Magnus said, and Alec grabbed Magnus's hand and squeezed it tight, and he was about to let go, but Magnus's holding Alec's hand just as hard as he did.

Alec really felt terrible knowing that he wasn't able to be of much help to Magnus. He could only comfort the man and hope they find Harry soon. And that whoever took Harry to escape the wizard is a good one. He looked down at their joined hands and noticed that his wrist are still a bit raw from the magical ropes. He pulled out his stele with his other hand and healed his own wrists.

"Did that wizard do anything else?" Magnus inquired. "I'm sorry, I didn't even notice-"

"No, Magnus," Alec cut him off. "I'm fine. You don't have to worry about me."

Magnus just nods.

They returned to the apartment while they're waiting on their correspondence with the seelies. Isabelle was glad that her brothers are now okay, but Alec was confused why Max was sleeping in Harry's room.

They updated Alec with what transpired in the Institute earlier.

"I'm so sorry, Magnus. It's my fault that they found out about Harry..."

Alec stopped talking when Magnus held up his hand and glared at him.

"You're a bad influence to your brother. It's not your fault, but I swear that if Maryse is also in on the kidnapping, I can't spare her just because she's your mother."

"I know. And I wouldn't want you to do that. My mother is clearly the one in the wrong here, and if she's really working with that wizard..." Alec was still processing everything. He didn't know if he would have been able to escape on his own if Remus and the others were not there to help him. His own mother even told a stranger that she hates him feels like he's been sucker-punched in the gut.

It took them a while, but Isabelle helped them gain an invitation to see the queen, although she would not mention who helped her.

It was already past midnight when they were able to leave the apartment and see the queen.

After walking for several minutes through the woods, they all entered the seelie's court.

They were received by several seelies who took Alec's weapons and stele. They even took Remus's and Sirius's wands. "Welcome."

"Hey, they just took our wands..." Sirius whispered to Magnus's ears.

Alec subtlely pulled Magnus away from Sirius and went in between them. "Please remember what we told you about seelies." Magnus and Alec tried their best to inform the two as much as they could about seelies earlier.

"It's not often that we have wizards in our court. You'll get them back when you leave," the queen appeared in front of them.

"Your majesty..." Both Alec and Magnus bowed down and urged Remus and Sirius to follow.

"In any other circumstances, I would not allow this werewolf to enter my court, but you are also a man of magic, correct?" The queen, who looks like half of Remus's age, looked at him with much superiority.

"...Yes, your majesty."

"My knight have told me that you have sent the wizard who kidnapped one of ours to Edom."

"Yes, my lady. The wizard summoned a greater demon, but his plan did not go well, and we were able to send him along with the greater demon back to Edom."

"To repay your action and show gratitude, I will allow your request to meet with the seelie that has escaped."

"You are as generous as you are as lovely, my lady," Alec said and ignored Sirius's smirk that is directed to him.

The queen walked in front of Sirius. "You have this dark aura around you; madness surely runs in your veins." She held out her hand in front of him, and Sirius, even though he was taken back by her statement, took her hand.

"You should have met my cousin and my mother then, your majesty. It's a famous family trait."

"How interesting," was all the queen said before she took them to her dining table.

"I'm sorry, but it might take some time before I can collect and bring you the seelie you are looking for," the queen says.

"We are willing to wait for as long as it would take, your majesty, but I hope you do keep in mind that the real reason we're here is that they're the only one who knows where my son is. Time is of the essence, your majesty."

"You could have just asked me that, warlock. I hear everything. There have been whispers from the birds and the bees. They are all under my service. You of all should know that."

"You're right. My apologies, it has been a difficult day, and I did not think of that."

"Your son is safe. It was your son who helped one of my best knights escape. And for that, I am grateful."

A sob escaped Magnus, and he covered his mouth as he blinked away the tears that gathered in his eyes. "I just want my son back."

"The child is not of your blood, correct?"

Magnus didn't answer.

"You will only meet with my knight at daybreak. As you said, it's been a difficult day, more so for my knight who went missing days ago." And with that, the queen left them without even waiting for any response.

A few minutes after the queen left, Magnus looked at Alec and softly asked, "Alec...have you heard about the changelings?"

"You don't think...?" Alec looked at Magnus with horror. Magnus just clasped his hands together and looked straight, masking the fear and anger that's trying to escape him.

"I hope not." Magnus bit his lips as he stared at the trees where the queen disappeared to.

"What do you mean?" Remus asked. "What are changelings?"

Alec felt his hands tremble, and he settled them on the table. He sat closer to Remus.

"It's said that some fair folks would create changelings by taking mundane children and replacing them with their sickly faerie children. That they'd somehow mysteriously adapt and become one of them. Their kind has always had trouble reproducing..." Alec said in a whisper.

Remus's eyes grew big. "Harry..."

"We don't know for sure..."

Magnus grabbed Alec's hand. "I won't let them take Harry," he whispered. "Harry chose me that night. I'm his father and..." Magnus choked and closed his eyes. "I am prepared to do everything and anything." His cat eyes shown brightly in the night when he opened them.

~~~

Florian woke up due to the soft cries coming from his room. As if in a trance, he moved quickly to the origin of the sound.

"Daddy..." the boy's voice muffled by the corner of the blanket he's chewing on. He saw tears running down the boy's face.

He sat on the bed and gave the boy a tight hug. He rubbed his back and said, "Damian, it's okay. Did you have a bad dream?"

"Not Damian..."

"What?" And just like that, Florian was brought back to reality, and he finally recognizes the boy as the one he escaped with last night.

"My name is Henry Jacob Bane," Harry recited in between sniffles and tilted his head at Florian and then asked, "Who is Damian?"

"Damian...was my son."

"Where is he? Can I play wif Damian?"

Florian slowly shakes his head. "He went far away with his Papa."

"Where?"

"You won't understand."

"Far away...like mama and dada? Daddy said they went bye bye and go far, far away."

"Your name is Henry Bane?..." the seelie slowly asked the toddler.

Harry nods, the edge of the blanket still hanging at the corner of his mouth.

"What's your daddy's name?"

"hmmm...daddy is daddy."

"Is your daddy's name, Magnus Bane?"

The way Harry's eyes brightened and glowed with joy just by hearing the name is an indication already.

Florian did not know that the magical child he brought home was the high warlock's son.

A knock from outside made him jumped. "Excuse me," he mumbled and then stood up to see who it was.

Another seelie knight was on the other side. He opened it and allowed the seelie to enter his home.

"You are asked by the queen to meet with our guests. They have been waiting in our queen's court since before the break of dawn."

"Who are these guests?"

"The high warlock of Brooklyn, a shadowhunter, and two magical mundanes. Although one of them is also a werewolf."

Florian stared at the closed door of his room.

"The queen also asked you to bring the child, but it is your decision if you want to keep him to become your changeling. The queen will support any of your decision." The knight bowed and left.

The seelie sighed and went back to the room. The guests could probably wait for another hour. He'd feed the child first some breakfast before anything else.

~~~

Remus, Alec, and Magnus patiently wait for the seelie and Harry to arrive, while Sirius takes a nap on the table. Sirius complained that his body was still jet-lagged from traveling from London to New York.

Magnus stood straighter when he heard familiar laughter coming from the trees.

"Harry."

Harry was in the arms of a tall seelie when they both entered the court. "Daddy!" Harry screamed and wiggled trying to loosen the seelie's hold on him, as soon as he saw Magnus. The seelie tightened his grip on the boy.

"Give me back, my son."

"Why should I? Whose fault was it that got him taken away?"

Magnus stood up. "I don't care if you're a simple seelie or even the queen's most precious knight. I will not let you keep my son from me," the temperature dropped around them at the coldness of Magnus's voice.

"Florian nooo...." Harry pulled at the seelie's tunic. "Harry, go home now." Tears started to pool in his eyes. "Pwease..." Harry added as he tried to remove Florian's hold of him.

Emerald green eyes stared at Florian and it took him back to a time where similar green eyes stared at him in a similar way. Eyes filled with tears, distraught and pleading at him.

He suddenly broke down in the middle of the court. Memories of the past kept resurfacing. Falling to his knees and hugging the boy in a tight embrace as tears silently fall from his eyes. How could he face Sorrel after putting such a small child in such a distressing situation? How dare he try and take the high warlock's child? How dare he try to replace Damian...

"Don't cry...it makes me cwy too..." Harry's lips trembled and the poor boy also cried along with him.

Magnus, Alec, and Remus were stunned by the sudden turn of events.

"I'm..." Florian took a deep breath, "Forgive me. Thank you for helping me escape, it's now time for you to return home." He slowly let go of the child and Harry looked at him with a pensive look before hearing his name called by his father and running to Magnus's waiting arms.

Seeing his father crying set him off again as well.

"Oh, Harry..." Magnus kissed the boy's cheek and hugged him tightly. Magnus peppered Harry's face with kisses which made Harry laugh. "Alec! Help!" Harry said as he finally felt like the death grip and kisses were already enough. "Helpppp..." Harry giggled as Magnus rubbed his face against Harry.

Alec taps Magnus in the arm. "Let's take Harry home."

Magnus stops and switched Harry to one arm and stared at the seelie who is still sitting on the floor. The seelie looked up and said, "Taking Harry as a replacement for my son who is long gone is a mistake. Forgive me for upsetting him so much."

Magnus didn't say anything to the seelie and turned to Harry instead. "Let's go home, darling."

"Can I see F'orian again?" Harry asked.

"Why would you want to see him again?" Magnus looked suspiciously at the seelie.

"He likes bees, and trees and..." Harry trailed off pointing at the fascinating things he saw in the seelie kingdom.

"As long as I'm with you when we visit...your new friend...perhaps," Magnus said deciding that perhaps it's best to agree for now before Harry has another meltdown.

The seelie gave Harry a very small smile when the boy waved at him goodbye.

They started to walk back out of the entrance and Magnus opened a portal to the apartment where they all collapsed to the floor. Harry seeing the adults drop due to exhaustion copied them and flopped down right on top of Alec who felt the air got knock out of his lungs.

In all honesty, they're not at all physically tired despite the lack of sleep but the emotional rollercoaster the whole night has really left them exhausted.

Max cried in joy as he saw Harry. Isabelle ushered the four to eat some breakfast while she takes Harry for a bath which Max gladly volunteered to help with.

The rest of the morning was spent sleeping. Even Harry took a nap with Magnus in Magnus's room while Remus and Sirius slept in the guest bedroom. Alec stayed in the living room and took a nap on the couch instead.

During lunch, Raphael came over to check on Harry and they spent the rest of the afternoon calling Luke and Jace about the creatures and updating everyone else that they found Harry; including Simon - because Clary told him that Harry was missing.

Dinner was also a loud affair since almost everyone who knew about Harry, came over to check on him.

After dinner, it was only Alec and Max left in Magnus's apartment. Remus took Sirius to his apartment next door and Raphael still has business to take care of. The others also left after dinner since they were able to see Harry returned safely.

When Alec was about to stand to leave, Harry rushed towards him. Harry held to his legs and sat on his feet.

"Stay."

"Harry..."

Magnus gently touches Harry's head. "Darling, Alec needs to rest..."

"Want Alec to stay. Pwease."

Harry pouted and directed his big green eyes at Alec.

Alec tried to avoid them, but it was too late. If he was being honest, Alec just wants to go back to his bed and rest. But he knows that going back to the Institute will be the opposite of that. Isabelle left after dinner to meet with a friend and Max is already staying while they find a solution to his current housing problem. He trusts Magnus with his brother. And the only reason why he's reluctant to stay was that he felt compelled to return to the Institute tonight and confront his mother about everything that has happened.

"Daddy's bed is big," Harry said as he tries to convince Alec to stay. "Daddy, Alec, and Harry can sleep....in Daddy's bed."

"Harry!" Magnus then felt a bit embarrassed about thinking deeply about Harry's innocent suggestion.

"Um..." Alec lifted Harry and supported him with one arm. "I'll stay the night." He smiled at Magnus and then smirked, "Besides, who will save Harry if his daddy can't stop kissing and hugging him again, right?"

Magnus swats him at the shoulder.

"Hey!"

They all laughed.

Chapter Text

Author's Note

Hello everyone. There's a few things that I want to announce today since today is Aug. 31 for me which is the first anniversary of this story. I'm sorry for the delay with the update, I totally had things planned out but things rarely do as planned. I got sick. Still in recovery so I wasn't able to finish the chapter in time. Also, since the supposed chapter 27 feels a bit angst heavy, its a bit difficult to write for me right now. I'll delete this author's note as soon as I am able to upload the next chapters. Another announcement is that I'm turning this into a series!!! I really want to add more short stories to add to this one so I hope you'll stick with me through all of that. lol. Thank you for all your kind comments to this story, I can't believe it's been a year already.

As a treat I'm posting a short fic for you guys to celebrate this fic's 1st anniversary. I've written this one a few weeks ago XD. Thank you to all the comments and kudos, I'll respond to all of them as soon as I am well.

Thank you everyone and hope you all stay safe.

Chapter Text

Alec doesn't know what warrants a movie night, but apparently, a very stressful past few days calls for one. Max beamed when Magnus announced that they were having a movie night and that Harry was allowed to stay up for a while. Magnus got Harry ready for the night, and Max helped him set up a bunch of pillows on the couch.

"So, what are we watching?" Alec asked as he settled to the other side of the couch. Max and Harry squeezed between him and Magnus. He passed the other bowl with chips to Magnus and placed the bowl of popcorn on his lap.

"Tangled."

"What's it about?"

"Oh, it's about a rebellious teen who snuck out without permission and ran away with a thief."

"Are you serious?" Alec asked. He searched for signs of whether Magnus was playing with him or there's actually a movie like that.

"Rapasel!! Let down hair!" Harry giggled and stood up to bounce on the sofa while attempting to grab Magnus's hair.

"Ow! Harry, darling. Ow ow ow..." Magnus said as Harry was able to grab a few strands. "Daddy's hair is not as long and magical as Rapunzel. Please sit down."

"No!" Harry accidentally stepped on Magnus's thigh and messed up his hair some more.

Magnus let out an exaggerated "Ouchie." Which made Max giggle, but Harry was alarmed.

"Sowie daddy. I kiss ouchie?"

"You're forgiven, darling. And my ouchie is gone now." Magnus grabbed Harry's hand and blew raspberries on the child's palm, making Harry laugh.

Once Harry settled, they started the movie.

It was an experience watching a children's film with his brother along with Magnus and Harry. The two sang along the songs, Harry humming and tripping over the big words but still continued to sing, and Max was just fascinated by the whole thing.

Alec got a little bit too attached to the story. And if there was a tear or two that escaped during the scene with Mother Gothel and Rapunzel, well, only Alec would know, and maybe Magnus. But only because Magnus spent half the movie staring at Alec instead.

Magnus crossed his arm across the couch to squeeze Alec's shoulder. "I'm sorry, should we change the movie?" Mother Gothel did kind of remind Magnus of Maryse. How she made Alec feel so dependent on family since he grew up into this person who would sacrifice everything for the sake of family, even if it's at the expense of his own happiness.

Alec shakes his head. "It's fine."

Magnus nods and squeezes his shoulder one last time before he summoned a thick blanket to cover their legs and tossed Alec an extra throw pillow to hold onto.

By the end of it, both boys fell asleep. Max half sprawled across Alec's lap, and Harry was sleeping on Magnus's lap, curled into a ball while clutching his father's shirt and his thumb in his mouth.

Magnus carefully stood up. "Max sleeps in Harry's room. I'll take Harry to mine."

Alec nodded and gently gathered Max in his arms. Max just huffed and tucked his face against Alec's neck and continued to sleep.

He laid Max on the enlarged bed and sat next to him. "What are we going to do now?" He mumbled as he fixed the blanket on Max. He silently left the room, and as he closed the door behind him, Magnus walked up to him. "Everything alright?"

"Yeah," Alec avoided his gaze and stared at the floor. "Um...Magnus?"

"Hmm?"

"I know we agreed...to go on that date after we finished the missing downworlders' case, but..."

Magnus gently held his hand and guided him to the couch. "Take your time Alexander. Let's deal with Maryse and the Clave first."

"I'm sorry. I haven't really been thinking about it...I haven't really thought much about this...this thing between us." Alec sighed.

Magnus leaned back and looked at Alexander, hand still holding his. "I have to admit that I've been wanting to take you out on a date ever since you showed up on my doorsteps with my son. But I also know that there will be hurdles on the way since you're a shadowhunter and I'm a warlock with a wizard kid. What're a few more days? And since we're still taking it slow, I guess it's only me and Harry who'll sleep in the bed then?" Magnus said the last bit in a teasing tone.

Alec felt his face heat up a bit.

"You should sleep in the guest room. The couch is not good for your back." Magnus squeezes his hand. "Good night, Alexander...and thank you." Magnus was about to leave when Alexander pulled his hand and squeezed it back. Magnus stared at Alexander's beautiful eyes in question. "Alexander?"

"Thank you, Magnus." He said in a soft voice, and Magnus just smiled and pulled him into a short hug which Alexander returned.

And then, Alec watched Magnus's back as he walked back to his room.

~~~

"Max, how do you like your eggs? Do you want a sunny-side-up? Or a scrambled egg?"

"Um…Anything is okay."

"Alright," Magnus said as he set to work on their breakfast.

Alec slowly walked to the kitchen and took in the sight that greeted him. His brother is sitting at the dining table next to Harry. The toddler is busy coloring on some piece of paper, crayons scattered on the table. Magnus's back is facing him as he cooks breakfast. He was the last to the table because he was up all night. He slept for only a bit when slept finally caught up with him.

"Good morning." Alec greets them.

Harry looked up and grinned. "Alec! Alec here!?" He said in excitement and shock.

Magnus laughs, "Alexander stayed last night, remember?"

"Yeah! Watched Punsel wif Alec and and poppycorn!"

Alec ruffled Harry's hair, messing it further. "Hey, Magnus?"

"Yeah?"

"How do you deal with Harry's bed hair? I've never seen it so..."

"Wild?" Magnus laughs, "Apparently, he inherited the famous untameable potter hair. It has a mind of its own, and sometimes it's just the way it is."

"Alec sometimes cut my hair. It doesn't look like Harry's ever gotten one..." Max interjected.

"I think it was before his 2nd birthday. Raphael held Harry while I tried to trim his hair, but it grew back the next day."

"How about using magic?" Max asked.

"Harry's magic is unpredictable, and it does whatever Harry desires the most, and I guess Harry likes his hair just the way it is." Magnus placed the plate of eggs on the table. "Harry, darling, do you want me to tie your hair? It's blocking your view, sweetie."

Harry's hair bounced around as he nodded, still concentrating on coloring the stick figures on his paper.

Magnus smiles and summons some hair tie and put Harry's bangs into two pigtails.

"Let's draw later and eat first." Magnus gathered Harry's crayons and levitated them back to Harry's room.

Harry showed the picture of the four of them, and Magnus pins it on the fridge filled with Harry's drawings.

"Let's eat."

After breakfast, there was a knock on the door. It was Jace with Isabelle.

Getting Alec out of the door was a struggle. Harry's magic burst out and made a barricade of stuffed animals at the opened door, not allowing Jace or Isabelle to enter. Jace took a step back from the door as soon as he saw the floating duck in his direction.

"Henry Jacob Bane," Magnus said cooly. "Alec will be back. He promised you that you'd play knights later. If you don't remove your toys, I will."

"Daddy..." Harry sniffled, and the toys dropped.

"There we go, say goodbye to Alec, and then I have to clean you up."

"...bye-bye..." Harry said, and then he burrowed his head against Magnus's shoulder.

Once the shadowhunters were gone, only a few minutes passed when Raphael came over to play with Harry.

He had a free morning, and Raphael came over to check again on Harry. Max feeling anxious for his brother, stayed only for a bit with Magnus, Harry and Raphael before retreating into Harry's room.

It was soon time for Harry's morning nap which did not turn out into an ordeal because Harry convinced Raphael to take a nap with him in their father's bed. Raphael would argue that he was merely humoring the kid, but Magnus knows he's full of shit. He was asleep before Harry was.

"How cute." Magnus summoned his camera and took a picture of his toddler and a very old vampire dozing off.

A few hours passed since Alec left, and an hour after Raphael went back to the hotel, Magnus was starting to worry. It would probably need a bit more convincing on Alec's part to prove that wizards exist to his fellow shadowhunters.

As if summoned by Magnus's thoughts, his wards alarmed him that Alec had entered the building and that he was now on his way here.

Magnus opened the door and waited for Alec to enter. He heard the footsteps stop at the front door.

"Alec?" He called out from where Magnus was sitting. He couldn't see Alec from where he was.

A slow, tentative step and then a few more.

They all tried to prepare themselves for the aftermath of the confrontation about Maryse and the wizard. But nothing could prepare Magnus to see Alec with a blank look on his face.

"I'm an idiot, Magnus."

"What? What happened?"

"How could I be the head of an Institute when I let all this happen?" Alec's voice was small and barely audible, but Magnus heard him.

Magnus took Alec's hands and pulled Alec next to him. "Do you want to talk about it?"

"Mother...mother was not the only person at fault..."

And Alec started to tell Magnus what had happened earlier.

~~~

Alec and Jace soon reached the Institute, and as soon as they were within its wards, shadowhunters went out and escorted them inside. Jace asked about the treatment they were receiving, but the shadowhunters remained silent.

They reached their mother's office, where their escorts opened the door and pushed them in. Maryse stood up at the sight of the two and immediately asked, "Where is Max?"

"You know where he is," Alec answered.

"Take him back now." She sat back and continued to work, typing on the computer and disregarding the two occupying the room with her.

"Why don't you do it yourself? You have the resources, the time, the manpower. If you really wanted Max back, you would have had him back yesterday."

"You should know the sacrifices I've done for this family. The work comes first. You never complained before. Why now?" Maryse glared. "And you were the one that kept defending how Magnus was good."

"What did you do then? During the time Max was gone? What was so important that you could risk your son's life?"

"I thought for sure you'd be vouching for that warlock's virtue, but you're implying that Max's life could be in danger?"

"Don't twist my words. You're the one who doesn't think Magnus is a good person. It's been two days. Do you even care about what happened to us during that time?"

"What are you talking about? You're capable enough to take care of your own. Isn't that why you decided to set the family aside? Because you care too much of your own desires?" She scoffed.

"But at least I never went out of my way just to harm others."

"What are you implying? How dare you talk to your mother like that?! Are you questioning my authority?"

"Wizards! You...working with a wizard? How could you expose the shadow world like that?!" Alec finally said in his anger.

"I...I - "

"You told that wizard about the Shadow World!" Alec's voice was getting louder. "Something that was kept hidden from the majority of the shadowhunters. The Clave had buried that secret, but you exposed our world to that man. A clear violation of our laws."

"So what if that wizard knew?" Maryse said dismissively.

"He was kidnapping downworlders!" Alec was gritting his teeth.

"And they deserve it! I'm certain that they all had it coming. That wizard would not have taken them otherwise."

"Maryse," Jace interjected, "Those downworlders were innocent, and even if they weren't, there's a justice system that we have to follow. You can't just let a wizard do as he pleases with the downworlders."

"The Clave will be notified of your violation, mother." Alec saw his mother's eyes grow wider, her anger much visible.

"It's not my fault! Blame your cheating father for...for...ARGHHH!" Maryse let out a wail and swiped the things off her desk. She slowly sank down to the floor, and Alec couldn't see her from behind the desk, but he heard her sobs.

Alec slowly walked towards the side of the desk, and she looked up at him with crazed eyes.

"I would have never gone to that...that awful mundane place had your father remained faithful to this family. And then I would have never met that lying magic... beast of a mundane!"

"What are you talking about? You're not making sense!" Alec looks back at Jace, who remains quiet as he watches the two. "Do you know anything..."

Jace shakes his head.

"Why is it father's fault?"

"I looked for a place to drink because I couldn't bear staying with a cheating bastard inside our room. I met this mundane, who I thought was a warlock. Even I was not privy to the information about magical mundanes, how was I supposed to know that the vampires and werewolves he knew were different from downworlders? Who knew there were more of them out there." Maryse said with disgust.

~~~

"What happened after that? Did you even tell her that the crazy wizard kidnapped you?" Magnus stared at Alec's glossy eyes, shimmering with unshed tears.

"She told me that she found the man as an ally. She claimed that it was not her intention; that being around the mundane just gives her anger a better outlet."

"I doubt that committing crimes against the downworlders is a better way of relieving anger." Magnus glared at the wall. He was glad that they had rescued the surviving victims and put an end to the crazy mundane's plan. And it was only by luck that it was his father that was summoned. And Harry was the only reason they were not currently running after a crazy greater demon on the streets of New York.

"We'll hold a trial for her," Alec said with a cold tone. "She claims that she only provided information and was never part of the actual operation. She'll be deruned if they find her guilty. I don't know if I believe her," Alec confesses.

Magnus took Alec's hand to comfort the shadowhunter. "Her actions put a lot of downworlders in potential danger. It doesn't matter if she held the sword or not."

"Can mundane wizards coerce someone into telling the truth?"

"There are multiple ways to do that, a potion, or that curse where they can control other mundane's mind. But Maryse's reputation and her discrimination against us don't really help her case," Magnus reasoned.

Alec shrugged and bit his lips. His mother claimed that she didn't order the mundane to kidnap him or that she'd be glad if Alec died. She just pointed out that he didn't die, so there was no point in arguing. Alec's knuckle - the one that Magnus wasn't holding - is white from clenching his thigh.

"My father cheated, my mother betrayed the Clave, and I failed not just the Institute but my family." Alec looked up at him. "Why do I feel like it's all my fault?" He said in a soft deprecating tone.

"It's not," Magnus reassures him. "It's natural for a mundane to make mistakes in their lifetime. Shadowhunters are no different. I've lived long enough to know that there will always be people who will fail you and people you'll let down at least once. The saddest thing about betrayals is that it never comes from your enemies."

It will take time before Alec fully unlearned some of the concepts that his mother taught him. And it will take some time before he can move past this incident that is driving their family apart.

But Alec is glad that he's not alone. He still has his siblings and Magnus for support. He gained more allies and friends since meeting Harry.

Magnus and Alec sat there for a few more minutes before they heard a door slam open.

"Alec!" Max rushed towards him.

Why didn't you tell me he was back?" Max asked Magnus before sitting next to his big brother. "What happened? Where's Jace and Izzy?"

"They're on their way to Idris. They're escorting mother to her trial."

"What?"

"I know you're young, but you still deserve to know what is happening to our family, but give me a bit of time. I still need to talk to our father about some issues."

Max nodded. He fully trusts his older brother to be honest with him in time.

"But since you all beat that crazy kidnapper, that means we're all safe, right?" Max asked.

"Yes. No more crazy kidnappers. At least for now." Magnus said, and then Alec jabbed him at his side. "Ow."

"So, what did you do today?" Alec asked his brother, moving the topic away from the issue.

"I played with Harry. Magnus lent me a book to read while Harry napped. I couldn't focus much on the book since I was worried about you and Jace and Izzy."

"Wait, is Harry alone in his room?" Alec looked back, and as if summoned, Harry soon walked out of the room. His arms were full of toys that he dragged from his playroom.

"Ah ah ah," Magnus tutted at the boy. "It's time for dinner soon. No more playing."

Harry's lips jutted out in a pout. He picked up a sword and placed it on Alec's lap.

"How about we make a puppy pile with Alec instead?" He then turned to Alec, who asked, "What's a puppy pile?"

"Puppies!" Harry pulled himself up to the couch as he bodily slammed against Alec. Harry also pulled Magnus's shirt to get him closer. Alec pulled Max closer and basked in the warmth that enveloped him.

'Everything will be alright,' Alec thinks. He closed his eyes as he felt Magnus's hand on his hair. Harry's knee might be bruising his side, and that he can feel his face heating up, being near the High-Warlock, but Alec doesn't care.

Chapter Text

Chapter 28: Five times Harry third wheeled and one time he didn't

~First Date~

Alec was half disappointed and half thankful for the surprising addition to his supposedly first date with Magnus.

"Are you sure you're okay with taking Harry with us for our first date? We can totally not consider it as our first one if..."

Alec looked at Magnus and smiled. He's never seen Magnus pout like this. Their plans might have changed, but Alec was a bit glad that Harry was joining them. He's been so nervous about going on a date with just him and Magnus that he thinks it's just his luck that this happened today of all days. "It's okay. I've never been to a magical animal sanctuary before."

"You've also never been to the movies." Magnus pointed out.

"There's always next time, right?"

"Planning the second date already?" Magnus teased Alec.

"Oh sure, I have a sitter reserved already along with a back-up sitter."

"Oh, hush!" Magnus shoves him a bit, "I would have liked it better if only things went according to plan," Magnus pouted. "And they said idiots don't catch colds."

The plan was supposed to be a simple movie then dinner kind of date. Alec mentioned to Magnus that he had never been on a date before. So Magnus decided that even though it was a little late, Alec should experience the most common slash cliche date ever.

Magnus picked the movie and made dinner reservations when Remus called Magnus earlier this morning to inform Magnus that Sirius was sick.

It's been two weeks since Harry got kidnapped, but Harry's separation anxiety has been an issue for Magnus. They've been working on it and today was the day that Sirius volunteered to take Harry to the magical sanctuary. Remus would be there to make sure the two would behave themselves.

Magnus wanted to reschedule their date since he's taking Harry instead. But Harry invited Alec to go with them.

Or more like Harry heard Alec on the phone and demanded that he come over and play.

Alec leaned closer and peered into the stroller where Harry was currently napping. He smiled. "It's too bad that Sirius got sick on the day he promised to take Harry to the zoo. But I'm glad I get to come with you."

Magnus smiled back at Alec and adjusted his grip on Harry's stroller. He freed one hand and looked at Alec expectantly.

Alec hesitated, and the tips of his ears redded a bit.

He glanced around to check if anyone was looking at the three of them, and he felt a bit better when he didn't see any judging stares, just an old lady that gave him a smile and a small wave.

Alec realized that he might have stared at Magnus's offered hand a bit longer than he should have that Magnus started to pull it back to his side.

Alec stopped worrying about it and caught back Magnus's hand. Magnus smiled at him, and they walked closer together.

They walked for a good 10 minutes when Magnus opened a portal to the outside of the city where the famous magical sanctuary is.

Only an hour had passed later, and the two adults had already made the same conclusion. The magical sanctuary might not be the best place to take Harry to. Maybe not for another 2 years or so. It was not a place for a troublemaking toddler who had a penchant for sudden apparations.

When they arrived at the sanctuary, things were relatively normal. Harry woke up and started pulling at the straps that kept him in his stroller.

"Daddy, walk, please!" Harry asked his father sweetly after trying several times to break free from his seat. "You can walk for only a little bit, and then Daddy will carry you, okay?" Magnus said as he unclasped the buckles that he magicked so that only adults could remove them. He pulled Harry up and transferred Harry to Alec's arms and then, in a grand gesture, tosses the stroller in the air where it shrunk and popped out of existence. The other visitors stared at Magnus with mouths hanging open before looking away.

Alec placed Harry down, and Magnus allowed Harry to walk one step ahead. They first saw the magical creatures with wings.

"We should have taken Max with us..." Alec mumbled as he looked at the tremendous display of magic in the sanctuary. It was mind-blowing for him to see sections of different habitats that suit each animal.

"I'm sure we can take Max next time," Magnus said with a grin.

"Birdies!" Harry exclaimed as he escaped Magnus's grasp and ran to the Golden Snidget's habitat. Harry's face lit up when he reached the viewing deck. Magnus and Alec ran after him, which they did for almost an hour. Harry never ran too far from Magnus, constantly stopping and checking if his dad ran after him. Like it was a game between them. When Magnus had enough, he snapped his fingers and made a toddler carrier appear out of thin air. He swiftly put it on and secured Harry in it. Before he could protest, Magnus pulled out a snitch from his pocket and made it fly around Harry to distract him.

A while later and then they heard a loud announcement.

"Lost child apparated in the dragon hatchlings enclosure. Congratulations on such astounding accidental magic performed. But parents of a lost child named Harry, please collect your child. Again, lost child apparated in the dragon -"

Magnus laughs at the announcement. "The parents must be having a hard time with such a powerful kid. I can't imagine what it's like -" Magnus stops mid-sentence. "Wait."

Alec saw Magnus's eyes widen before Magnus stopped and moved to check on Harry.

"That's our Harry!" Magnus exclaims and looks around. The dragon hatchling enclosure was just up ahead. The outside had a large poster of adorable dragons. One of them looks exactly like Harry's favorite toy.

The two looked at each other before sprinting towards the enclosure.

After collecting a very reluctant Harry who was enjoying his visit with the baby dragons, Magnus decided that Harry should be in his arms for the rest of their visit.

"Where to next?" Magnus asked after visiting the other habitats.

"How about we get some lunch?" Alec replied. Magnus agreed, and they walked towards the exit, hands still clasped.

'It wasn't so bad for a first date.' Alec thought. Because despite having a toddler as a third wheel to their date, they still had a fun time at the sanctuary. They also had a nice lunch at this floating restaurant, and when they got back, Magnus, with a sleeping Harry in his arms, gave him a soft kiss on the cheeks.

~~~

~First kiss~

They were doing movie night at Magnus's place.

Harry was already asleep in his room, and the two adults were watching a movie that wasn't Disney for once. Under one blanket, Magnus snuggled up closer to Alec.

"You forgot to tell me how Max is doing under Jace's training," Magnus said.

"Max is doing fine. Jace...on the other hand, sympathizes with Max's old teachers."

Alec made a motion to grab some more popcorn from the bowl on Magnus's lap when Magnus snatched his hand and intertwined their hands together.

"I'm glad that Max keeps Jace on his toes. I'm still not over him teaching Harry to curse," Magnus grumbled, his head resting on Alec's shoulder.

"I haven't heard Harry repeat it since that first time," Alec moved them a bit, and now Magnus was facing Alec.

"Harry repeated it again while playing with Max. Your brother found it funny that it was Jace who taught Harry that word," Magnus said with mild irritation visibly on his face.

Alec chuckles and caresses Magnus's face with his other free hand. "Let's not talk about Jace or Max..." Feeling brave due to the several glasses of alcohol they had consumed, Alec decided he couldn't wait until the weekend. Magnus didn't want to count this as their second date because Alec only came to Magnus's place after his patrol.

But Alec doesn't understand why this wasn't a date. What matters is that he's with Magnus. And he has been staring at Magnus's face for the most part of the film, thinking of kissing him.

"Can I..." he asked, and Magnus didn't answer and just kissed him. Alec felt sparks fly, and when he opened his eyes - he didn't know when he closed them - there were literal sparks around them, and he felt Magnus smirked against his lips before pulling away.

"Really?" Alec raised his eyebrows at the sparks around them.

"It's even better than I imagined," purred Magnus, and he placed his hands on Alec's chest and slowly pushed him down the sofa. Their lips were about to meet again... when there was a soft sob followed by a call of "daddy..." was heard from Harry's room.

Magnus pushed himself of Alec's lap. "Wait for me, darling," he said it too soft for Harry to hear, and so Alec flushed redder, as he thinks it was directed more to him than to Harry.

Magnus got back with Harry in his arms and a sheepish look at his face. Harry's face was red and covered in tears as he tried to bury his face in Magnus's neck.

"Hey, Harry...you okay?" Alec asked as Magnus sat next to him. He reached over and gently massaged one of Harry's socked feet.

"No..." Harry cried again, and Magnus whispered words of comfort to the child.

Alec picked up the blanket and covered Magnus and Harry with it. He also picked up the remote and turned off the movie that was on pause. He saw Magnus mouth a 'thank you.'

"I should go," Alec said softly, but Harry's hand managed to grab the hem of Alec's shirt. Tight in a fist and not letting go, Alec sat back and looked back at Magnus, who just shrugged his shoulders and smirked.

"Magnus..."

"Stay." Magnus moved the coffee table away, and in an impressive show of magic, he extended the couch to the length of a bed. "It's late, and Harry doesn't want you to go." Harry was still lightly sobbing. "I also don't want you to go yet," Magnus added.

"Alright." Alec settled down next to the two. Magnus conjured more pillows, and Alec helped him arrange them around their magicked bed. It was awkward at first, but they soon enough, pick a comfortable arrangement; Alec spooned the two.

Magnus conjured more pillows, and Alec helped him arrange them around their magicked bed.

When Harry finally stopped crying and calmed down, Magnus asked, "Darling, would you like to tell Daddy why you were crying? Did you have a bad dream?"

Harry nodded. "Scawy monster, daddy..."

"Aww...Darling. Daddy will always catch all the scary monsters. Even when you're older. I promise."

Harry just sniffled.

Magnus floated a napkin towards him and used it to wipe Harry's nose. "It's okay to be afraid, Harry. We all get scared."

"Alec scawed?"

Alec reached over and ruffled Harry's hair. "Of course."

"Good night Harry, Magnus kissed Harry's forehead and then looked at Alec. "Good night, Alexander."

"Good night Magnus, good night Harry."

~~~

~First "boyfriend"~

Harry was not having a great day. He woke up in his room feeling very uncomfortable.

"Daddy..." Harry looked around and whimpered. He wanted his daddy to come and make the icky feeling go away.

His mind then got distracted by the sound of the bird that landed by his window.

"Duck? No duck! Is birdie?" Harry's eyes narrowed at the fake duck that flew away. "Aww..birdie fwy away..."

He picked up his favorite dragon and played with it. The toy did not hold Harry's attention long. He wanted to go out. He felt like he waited for an eternity, and yet his daddy was still not here. "Daddy!"

The door opened.

It wasn't Harry's daddy that entered his room. It was his best friend.

"Alec!" He raised his hands which Harry knows is the way to get people to carry him.

Harry smiled as Alec pulled him to his arms.

"Let's get ready for the day, and then we'll eat breakfast. Does that sound okay?" Alec asked Harry.

"Yeah!" Harry cheered and then peered behind his best friend's back. "Daddy too? I wan' cake."

"Magnus..." Alec tilted his head in thought and chuckled at Harry tilting his head as well. "Daddy is not here right now... And cakes are for dessert. Not breakfast."

"Where daddy go?"

"Where did daddy go?" Alec corrected Harry, "He went to work for a bit, but he'll be back soon."

"Why?" Harry knows all about work. His daddy goes away whenever he works. It takes him forever to get back. Work was not a good word.

"Because he was summoned for warlock-related business," Alec said as he carried Harry to the bathroom.

"Why..."

"Because...because he's really great...he's great with magic."

While Alec got Harry ready, they had long conversations about the bird earlier in Harry's room that wasn't a duck. Because it flew away, and a confusing story about a potato riding a red car. Harry was usually not a morning toddler, but Alec was glad that Harry woke up in a good mood today.

Alec stayed the night here at Magnus's place because Magnus needed to leave early to meet with some downworlders for warlock business. The plan was to get Harry ready for the day and spend the morning at the park. They'll meet with Magnus at the cafe for lunch.

Breakfast consisted of oatmeal with fruits.

"Alec! I finish!" Harry said as he held up his bowl, still with half of the oatmeal. "I go work now! I find daddy...make pwetty lights...and...and..." the rest were muffled by the cloth Alec used to clean Harry's face. "mmrphh...no!" Harry tried to push away Alec's hand and leaned to the other side.

"Let's get you cleaned up."

"No! I clean...en.... 'nough..."

"But we're going to the park? We're gonna watch some ducks. The real ones that don't fly. And then we'll meet daddy outside."

With that, the young boy allowed himself to be carried to the bathroom for another cleanup.

When they arrived at the park, Alec laid down a blanket and took out a children's snitch that Magnus got Harry. Magnus modified the toy to hover not higher than Harry's height and a 20-meter parameter to prevent Harry from wandering away.

Alec was still confused about what quidditch was. But Harry is apparently a natural in catching the flying golden ball.

He could play with that snitch for hours on land or mid-air with his baby broom.

They watched the ducks after Harry got tired of playing with a puppy Harry befriended. The puppy, in Harry's opinion, was superior to the snitch. He left the snitch immediately when he saw the puppy. The owner was cool enough to let Harry pet their dog, and Harry was more than happy to pat the doggy's head.

After the ducks, they went straight to the cafe. Magnus texted Alec that he was done with his work and that he'd be on his way to the shop.

They reached the cafe first, and Alec texted Magnus that they had arrived. He placed a piece of paper and some crayons to occupy Harry's time, and he ordered himself a cup of coffee as he waited for Magnus.

A few minutes passed, and the door chimed, and Alec saw Magnus come in with a woman.

"Alexander!"

"Magnus." Alec stood up and pulled out a chair for Magnus.

"Thank you." Magnus gave him a small peck to the cheek and held his hand. Magnus then gestured to the woman he came with. "Alexander, this is Catarina Loss, she's a very good friend of mine. Catarina, this is Alexander, my boyfriend."

Alec stared at Magnus. It was the first time Magnus referred to Alec as his anything. They haven't talked about labels before. And hearing Magnus call him his boyfriend is surprising. But he liked it.

Before Alec could extend his hand to greet Magnus's friend, Harry decided to let everyone know that he was there as well.

"No boyfwend! Alec, my best fwend!" Harry banged his fist - still holding the crayon - on the table for emphasis.

"Aww...Hey Harry, I missed you too." Catarina chuckled, "I think Harry might steal your boyfriend, Magnus."

"best fwend!"

Magnus looks at his son with amusement. "He likes being the third wheel too. Are you stealing my Alexander?"

"Mine," Harry muttered and then looked at his Magnus. "Daddy... Me is hungwy..."

"We're learning more about sharing when we get home, mister."

Harry just continued his drawing.

~~~

~First Fight~

They've been together for two months now. And just when Alec was starting to get used to being in a relationship, they had their first-ever fight as a couple.

A real one. Magnus kicked him out via portal and had been giving him the cold shoulder for the past two days.

The fight might have been two days ago, but it was all because of something that happened four nights ago. During a patrol, Alec got injured badly enough that even the iratze couldn't take all the pain away or heal it all.

It didn't look too bad. Just bruised. Alec wasn't sure why the iratze didn't heal it, but he thought it would go away on its own after a while. He didn't mention it to Magnus when he called that night. The probability of getting hurt was always part of his job, and Alec didn't want Magnus to worry. He figured that they were both busy this week that Magnus would never know anyway.

But now he knows that keeping secrets like an injury is not good. He got used to keeping it all to himself, and he didn't realize that perhaps Magnus would want to know. Magnus got more offended that he forgot that his boyfriend was a warlock. A powerful warlock who could use magic to heal him instantly.

Two days ago was their movie date night at Magnus's apartment. Alec came over and knew that he could rest at Magnus's place instead of the Institute since they'd just watch a movie. It was all going smoothly. Alec felt calmer here with Magnus next to him. His sides still ache. And was still looking like a purple yam. He was careful not to move around much.

Things were going fine. Suddenly a rambunctious Harry got bored and decided it was better to move next to Alec. Alec knew it wasn't Harry's fault. The toddler has short unsteady legs sometimes, and although Alec was holding Harry's hand, the kid still slipped and fell directly to his side.

Alec let out a groan. His sides flared up, and he closed his eyes and breathed through his nose.

"Sowie!" Harry said immediately and hugged Alec.

Harry's little body pressed on the bruised, and Alec bit his lips as he hugged Harry back.

"Its...Its..." Alec held his tongue and didn't curse out loud. He sighed when Harry's weight was lifted off him. He opened his eyes and saw Magnus standing with Harry in his arms and looking down at him with a frown on his lips. Magnus put Harry down. Alec tried to find his words, but he remained silent under Magnus's intense gaze.

Magnus pinned him down to the couch and used his free hand to lift Alexander's shirt.

Magnus's eyes narrowed. "You told me you were fine."

"I am!"

"This does not look fine at all. It looks like you took a beating from a troll. When was this?"

"...two...two days ago?" Alec mumbled.

"Why didn't you use your steele to cure it?"

"It doesn't work."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"I didn't want you to worry..."

"I'm a warlock Alexander, I could have fixed this already."

"I...I forgot.....I'm...I'm sorry."

Magnus's face was blank. "You forgot? You forgot that your boyfriend is that High warlock of Brooklyn? Okay. I'm taking Harry to bed. You...you stay here."

Alec just nodded.

Magnus was visibly annoyed at him as he cured Alec's injury. Apparently, he wasn't healed by the iratze because of a curse on the demon's weapon.

"You could have died if you decided to wait for this to heal on his own."

"But I didn't."

"Only because Harry stepped on it. You weren't planning on telling me about this at all."

"Yeah, because it's just a bruise..."

Magnus cut him off, "But it's not."

"I'm sorry."

Magnus was still mad.

"I'm sorry. Why are you still mad?"

Magnus didn't talk to him again that night. Just made his bruise go away, and then he opened a portal a few meters from the Institute.

Alec did realize his mistake and made up with the warlock with dinner and a promise that he would be more careful next time. He was part of what Magnus considers his family. And family should hide things from each other, especially life-threatening injuries.

~~~

~First, "I love you."~

Alec spends more time in Magnus's place than in his room back at the Institute. It's easy when your boyfriend is a powerful warlock that warded the Institute. He can just call Magnus to open up a portal for him. And he can stay and spend the night without worrying that there might be some emergency that would need his immediate attention.

Magnus was just outside - in the living room - talking with Remus about some new developments with Sirius's case. But Harry wanted to play instead of sticking around with the grownups talking.

Sitting on the floor of Harry's playroom, Alec catches each ball Harry throws.

"Blue..." Alec says as he catches the blue rubber ball.

"Blue!" Harry repeats and then throws the red ball.

"That's red."

Harry nods and then grabs two green balls and tosses them at Alec. He laughs when Alec catches the balls. "Is that all you've got?" Alec says as he challenges the toddler to throw more balls.

"New book, read please?" They were now apparently moving on from throwing balls to reading now. Harry pulled a book from his shelf and plopped down on Alec's lap.

The book was thick compared to the other books on the shelf. Alec read the title, "The Little Prince." Alec opened the part that was marked by a bookmark.

Harry cuddled closer to Alec and waited for him to start reading. Alec was not familiar with the story. He skims to the other pages checking the illustrations. After that, he started reading about a prince and a red rose and a fox.

After finishing two chapters, Harry was sleeping soundly in his arms.

"You and your Daddy are two roses that are unlike any other roses. I'm so happy I met you two." Alec whispered as he rocked the kid in his arms.

He wasn't sure before, but Alec is now confident that he finally realizes that he loves Magnus. They've been dating for a while now, and even if Magnus agreed they'd take things slow, Alec thinks that he fell for the warlock hard. There was no telling when his feelings change into something more, but he doesn't know if Magnus feels that same level as he did because his warlock hasn't said those words yet too.

"I think I love your daddy, Harry. And I love you too." Alec then squeezed the sleeping boy in a tight hug.

"Me too." A voice behind Alec says. Alec, feeling caught, jumps when he sees that it's Magnus.

"Hey..."

Magnus walks towards the two. He kneels down and embraces the shadowhunter and the magical toddler.

"I love you too, Alexander," Magnus whispered to Alec's ear before he captured him in a kiss.

They kissed for several seconds before Harry squirms between them, feeling uncomfortable being squished by the two men. "No kissing!" Harry then pushes them off each other. "Let's go sleep, please..." And the two men laugh.

~~~

~One time Harry didn't. ~

One night, Jocelyn took Harry to her own place for the night. They painted the whole time. Harry even brought home a picture.

This was the opportunity for the couple to have a "firsts" that wasn't interrupted by an excitable toddler.

Alec's and Magnus's first time making love - Magnus thoroughly explained the difference between casual sex and making love through demonstrations - would be another story for next time.

Chapter Text

The other shadowhunters were not privy to the exact details of what happened to Maryse Lightwood. All they know is that the Clave is trying to hush the details of the accomplice who did the dirty work. They didn't know that they'd learn about magic due to a very smart and playful toddler.

It was a very normal day at the Institute. Fighting demons, protecting mundanes and downworlders, and doing paperwork in between. Alec was in the main room where everyone was busy doing their own thing and is debriefing other shadowhunters on their next assignment when his phone rings.

He smiled. And everyone knew who it was without needing to see the caller ID. Magnus Bane, the High Warlock Brooklyn, has been dating their head for a few months now and while a lot of them was against the idea of him dating a downworlder, they realized that an Alec in a relationship is a lot better than Alec, who was single and was so uptight every single time.

Alec was still uptight and all about following the rules and making sure that nobody crossed a line, but everyone could tell that he's softened up a bit. Some would dare say that it's because someone finally pulled out that stick up his ass, but nobody would ever say that out loud. Because Jace did, and Alec made sure to beat the crap out of him during their sparring session where everyone watched and made bets.

They saw Alec wave goodbye as his video call ended and went back to debriefing the others.

Five minutes later and all the lights flickered so fast that everyone was on their feet, angel blades out in a second, thinking they were under attack. It was like the beginning of some horror movie. Some of the lights burst, and then there was suddenly a loud pop, and the lights stopped flickering.

"Harry?!?"

In front of their head of the institute was a toddler wearing bright orange pajamas and holding a toy sword.

"Alec!"

~~~
A few minutes earlier in the Magnus Bane household.

"Come on, Magnus. I just want to take Harry to London for a bit." Sirius did a lot of things to make sure that his freedom would not make Dumbledore suspicious of him and check on Harry. He was not in any way obligated to tell the Ministry of Magic of his motivations to escape aside from the fact that he's innocent and that he wanted to leave. Sirius played the role of a very aggrieved pureblood who has been thoroughly offended by the injustice that was done to him. He did what his thinks his batshit crazy mother would do and everyone believed him. Dumbledore was immediately at his side giving him platitudes and making excuses and telling him how regretful he was that they wronged him so. So Sirius Black then asked Dumbledore where Harry was, and Dumbledore just answered that Harry was safe with the blood wards created due to Lily's sacrifice. He didn't know if they were lucky that Dumbledore was a fool who decided that checking on a kid once in a while to make sure he's alright is a waste of time or scared that a man like him runs a school.

Sirius agreed with Dumbledore that Harry is better off far away from the wizarding world - which he is - and that contacting the child before he enters Hogwarts will only endanger him. He wanted to take Harry to London even if it was only to the muggle London. He'd make sure that Harry coming back with him will not alert their enemies, but Magnus will not budge.

"No."

"But Magnus - "

"Harry wants to go to the park for his birthday. I've already started planning it." Magnus looks back at Harry, who was playing by himself in his corner. "And let's be real Black, a 3-year-old will not appreciate just going sightseeing in London."

"Daddy...let's color, please?" Harry realized that his Daddy was staring at him took the opportunity to finally get his attention.

Magnus smiles and beckons Harry to join them at the table. The art materials flying to the table already.

Magnus helped Harry sit in his chair and laid the materials in front of him.

"I can take Harry to the London eye."

"Maybe someday you can take Harry there, but we're not celebrating his birthday in London."

The two continued discussing, and Harry was a bit disappointed that his Daddy didn't color with him. So he pulled at Magnus's shirt to get his attention. "Daddy, borrow phone, please?"

Magnus held a finger in front of Sirius, and then he turned his attention to Harry. "Yes, Darling?"

"Phone please?"

"You can't play games on Daddy's phone."

"Call Alec?" Because Harry knows that Alec is someone who will gladly play with him if he ask.

"Alright, I'll call Alexander, and if he's not busy with work, I'll give you the phone. Is that a deal?"

Harry nods and waits for his Daddy to make the call.

Magnus greets Alec as soon as it connects.

"Hey."

"Hi."

"Are you busy? Harry wants to talk to you," Magnus said.

"I'm about to wrap up this meeting, but maybe I can say hi."

Magnus gives Harry the phone, who smiles brightly at his best friend. "Alec!" Harry yelled.

"Hey, Harry."

"Hi!"

"Um...I have to finish something first, kiddo. But I can see you again in five minutes. Can you be a good boy and wait a bit for me?" Alec asked.

"Harry wait?"

"Yup. Give me five minutes, and then you can see me again."

"Where are you?" Harry asked trying to look behind Alec.

"I'm working at the Institute."

Harry looked at the screen as Alec showed him a bit of the background.

"Oh. How long's five mints?"

"How long are five minutes? Maybe Magnus can show you the clock? I gotta go, Harry, bye."

Harry waved goodbye as Alec waved back, and the screen turned black.

Harry gives Magnus the phone. "Daddy, how long's five min'ts?"

Magnus summons an alarm clock and points at the long hand pointing at six. "See the long hand? What number is it pointing at?"

"Ummm...one..two...three...four.......five....six. Um, six?" Harry asked as he counted each number until six.

"That's right, darling, now five minutes is when the long hand points at seven."

"I see Alec in...seven?"

Magnus nods.

Harry stared intensely at the clock in his hands. "Okay. Daddy, I go down, please...help?"

Magnus helped Harry get down, and Sirius started back his argument.

~~~
Back to the present in the Institute.

"What just happened?!" some random shadowhunter screamed as they all stared in shock at the kid who is now in Alec's arms.

Some started to hide their angel blades, but the boy started pouting.

"You might need to call down your boyfriend here to pick up his kid," Jace said as he entered the room. "I thought he already put a cap on his teleporting after the dragon accident?"

"He did. Harry, why did you go here?" Alec asked the kid.

"I see Alec after five min'ts!" He pointed at the clock. "Seven!"

"I was just going to call -" Alec sighed. "Did you ask your Dad if you can come here?"

"I tell Daddy...I see you when long hand is on seven."

Alec called Magnus to tell him about Harry's latest teleporting accident, and while waiting for the warlock, some of the shadowhunters were all eager to play with the kid. Putting away all the sharp, pointy weapons out of reach, they were all happy to show him around the room.

And when Magnus came, he had no choice but to reveal what Harry was.

The Clave will not be happy that everyone now knows about the magical mundanes. And the shadowhunters are not to happy to know that there are mundanes that can use magic against them.

~~~
Magnus returned to their home with Alec.

"Henry Jacob Bane. What am I going to with you?" Magnus said in exasperation.

"What happened to the anti-apparition wards?"

"Harry's magic is still tricky right now because it's just raw magic and purely instinctual. Do you think it was wrong to train him too early?" Magnus passes his son to Sirius Black, totally blaming him for the incident. "You get Harry ready for his nap. I'll need to strengthen the wards again."

"What were you discussing with Sirius earlier?" Alec asked as he pulled Magnus to the living room.

"Harry's upcoming birthday."

"What does he want?" Alec sat down on the couch and pulled Magnus down to his lap.

Magnus smirks as he crosses his arms around Alec's neck. He lays his head below Alec's. "London. But of course, it's never going to happen. Not until Harry is older. Besides, Simon helped me plan the perfect party."

Alec's eyebrow raised. "Simon? He did?"

"Hmm. Harry loved it when Simon took him to that indoor playground at the mall, and a few weeks ago, he suggested that maybe Harry could have the party at the park. With a bouncy castle and everything. Harry has more friends compared to last year. And I think this is the best time to start giving him a children's party."

Alec tightened his hold on Magnus, "You do know that a children's party would need children, right?"

"What are you talking about? Of course, there will be children."

"Harry and Max only?"

Magnus pushes himself off Alec, and Alec can almost see the gears working inside his head.

"Well damn...Harry needs friends that are his age. What am I going to do, Alexander? I can't have a bunch of adults in the party with only two children in a big bouncy castle!"

"Who did Harry wants to be in his party?"

"Um...when I asked him who he wants to see at the park, that he can invite all his friends...he just said all. He wants all of them."

"Don't you know anyone with kids? Any warlocks or other downworlders that you like?"

"Am I the only one in my circle with a child?" Magnus's asked no one in particular. "You know what? Maybe I'll put in the invite to bring a kid as a plus one."

"And if they don't?"

"I can just turn them into one." Magnus said with a grin.

Alec laughs and just shakes his head.

~~~
It was the day of Harry's birthday, and due to some delays, he couldn't get there early.

He asked Izzy to help Magnus out in his place, and she was more than happy to assist the warlock with decorating.

Magnus actually asked the guests to bring kids in the invite.

Some of Luke's pack members were happy enough to bring their kids and a few of the shadowhunters that has kids were also invited.

When he and Max reached the park, their eyes widened as they saw a shrunken Jace running after Harry.

Alec approached his boyfriend and snaked his arm across his waist before whispering to his ear, "Did you turn my brother into a kid?"

"He practically asked me to, don't worry it won't last the whole day and the mundanes won't notice all the magical stuff going on. Sirius set up a notice-me-not-charm all around the area."

A few feet from them was Raphael sitting under a big umbrella. Simon pestering around him.

~~~

"The bouncy castle IS a good idea." Simon defended himself from the brooding vampire. "And even if there was only a few children and mostly adults, who said we're not allowed to have fun?"

"A bouncy castle is fun?"

"Of course!"

Raphael rolls his eyes to the mundane. "If your idea of fun is bouncing on an inflated kid prison in the middle of the park under the sun, then I wouldn't want to know what your idea of torture is."

Simon reddened at that and stuttered an apology. "Oops. Umm.. R-right. Sorry. Vampire. How could I forget." He lefts the vampire's side and attaches himself next to Clary.

The vampire just shakes his head in amusement as he watch the mundane.
~~~

The party was in full swing, the kids were having fun playing and the adults - excluding the vampire - were enjoying the weather and the food.

"Let's cut the cake?" Alec asks. Magnus stood up and calls for the children.

Alec caught Harry who was about to ran to the other direction. Harry just giggled and allowed Alec to sat him in front of his cake.

"Happy birthday, Harry."

"Happy birthday, sweetheart."

Magnus kissed Harry's cheek and lit the candle. Everyone was singing Harry the birthday song when Florian who they thought was not going to come came to view.

"Florian!" Harry waved.

The seelie waved back. It wasn't really Florian that caught everyone's attention. It was the child holding his hand.

Magnus moved closer to Alexander and whispered, "Is that...the Seelie Queen?"

The some of the guest looked confused while the others awkwardly bowed down as the two seelies went near the table.

"Happy Birthday, Harry." Florian greets the boy and hands him a small brown packaging.

"Thank you!" Harry grinned.

The child that was the Seelie Queen stepped forward. "I wanted to meet you but I didn't want to come uninvited. Your warlock here says that children are welcomed." She looks at Magnus with a cold stare and then stared back at the child.

"Your majesty," Magnus bowed.

"Did you know that your son is a child of prophesy? He's destined to do great things."

Magnus just remained quiet.

"I think the coming years will certainly be interesting," she smirked. "He is as adorable as the animals under my service has told me. My court will keep a close eye on you, Harry. Florian, thank you for bringing me here but I must now leave. Goodbye chosen one." And in a burst of wind and nature all around them, the Seelie Queen was gone.

"What just happened?" Simon asked out loud.

"Pretty," was all Harry said and then planted a finger to his cake.

Chapter Text

Birthdays are very significant and always eventful in the Lightwood-Bane Household.

Harry's birthday, to be specific. His Dad doesn't really celebrate his birthday as they do on his. On his first birthday with his Dad, he teleported for the first time or apparated if you ask Padfoot. His Dad still brings it up, and his favorite incident would be teleporting at the magical sanctuary. He doesn't remember it, but it was probably cool to be with the dragon hatchlings.

The year after that was also eventful. Not many downloaders could brag that they had the Seelie Queen attend their 3rd birthday. She wasn't in the pictures, but it's the truth. The Seelie Queen went to all of his birthdays after that. But she never stayed long enough for cake.

For his 4th one, they all traveled to Romania. Everyone. His parents got engaged while flying on a dragon. His four-year-old self thought that getting to keep Alec - his Papa - was better than seeing the dragons. This was a big deal because he loves dragons, but he loves his Papa more.

His fifth birthday was by far the most normal birthday he had. It was overshadowed by the wedding preparations. But the trip to Disney Land a month after had completely made up for it.

On his sixth birthday, he got a hellhound from his grandpa and a cat from his parents. He gave the hellhound to his Dad, but Captain Jack is the family's pet, so he was also technically his. Having a hellhound for a dog meant that his parents allowed Harry to walk it to the park on his own, and they won't have to worry about him getting kidnapped again. It was a good thing that his Dad started his magical training early. He prefers to vanish the poop somewhere else than pick it up during their walk. Hellhound poop was the worst.

On his seventh birthday, he got kidnapped. Again. It wasn't Harry's fault. The hellhound was also at home. He was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. The hostage-taking happened in the mall. They were all thankful that Luke and his team diffused the situation before his parents got too crazy and exposed them all to the mundanes.

On his eighth birthday, he got Harry Potter books as a gift. Some crazy lady in the British Wizarding World was selling history books with stories about the boy who lived. It also included a fake retelling of the night his parents died. She used his name to gain profit. Made wild stories about how he lived after the death of his parents. Sirius bought the books on a whim and then sued the lady when they read them.

On his ninth birthday, his Papa finally agreed to start his formal training. Jace and Izzy had been teaching him bits here and there. Preparing him for whatever it was he was destined for. While his Dad had been training him to control his magic better. He'd still need a wand for the more advanced spells, but his control was better than other mundanes with magic.

On his tenth birthday, he got blood adopted. His Dad got his other warlock friends studying whether he could get blood adopted by his Papa. It was a risk. They didn't know what Nephilim blood could do to a magical mundane. They studied the blood rituals from the wizarding side and warlock spells. It was an old record about a shadowhunter who married a mundane who had magical ancestry that helped them. It was proof that Nephilim blood and wizard blood could mix. And Nephilim blood was always dominant. There was a chance that he could be an official shadowhunter someday if he wanted to. They're putting off his Rune Ceremony until after he spends some years in Hogwarts. On the other hand, his Dad didn't want to give him demon blood, but their magic is linked. There is a bond that only the two of them get.

Today is his 11th birthday, the most special and dreaded one. He's supposed to get his Hogwarts letter today. And it might just be the one thing that would expose Harry's location to Dumbledore. He wasn't sure how since they live in Alicante most of the time. But Hogwarts letters have a way of finding people. Today, they are spending his birthday in their apartment in New York. His Dad complains about too much paperwork involved to have their whole family visit them in Alicante. The apartment is heavily warded. And so most celebrations are usually done here. It also means that it would be easier for the letter to find here than in Alicante.

It was late in the morning already, and he supposed that his Dad would come up and get him if he stayed longer in bed. Getting dressed and ready for the day, he left his room and went down to see his parents.

"Good morning, sweetheart," Magnus greeted him as he walked into the kitchen. "Happy birthday."

"Thanks, Dad." Harry beamed. He sat next to his Dad and smiled at the birthday pancakes on the table.

His Dad squeezed him into a bear hug. "I can't believe you're already 11, Harry."

Harry groaned. "Dad..."

"Oh...it felt like it was just yesterday...when you were still calling me daddy and crying whenever I leave for work. I can't believe it. I'm so old." Magnus groaned and then finally released Harry from his hold.

"But you are old. Practically ancient."

"Oh really?" Magnus raised an eyebrow before tickling him.

A few breathless laughter and their hellhound bounded next to them, tongue out and tail wagging. The hellhound heard Harry's plea for help in between laughs. Harry patted Captain Jack's head, and a thought came to him.

"Dad, what if I go to Hogwarts and they won't let Jack come with me? Moony said only owls, cats, and toads are allowed as pets." Harry held the hellhound closer when it whimpered and whined. "Jack's gonna miss me, Dad."

Hogwarts. His Dad often told him that he had many options. That Hogwarts was not the only school out there that could teach him all about the wizarding world and their magic. His Papa, on the other hand, had no opinions on schools. What Dad likes, his Papa also likes. But it was still his choice. When he told them that he wanted to go to Hogwarts because his biological parents went there, they just supported him.

"Let's wait for that letter first before thinking of what pet you'd bring. We can try turning Jack into a toad," Magnus joked, but the hellhound snarled. There was a knock at the door. Magnus stood up to greet their early guests.

"Hey Magnus, where's Harry?... Pup?!" Sirius exclaimed as he quickly entered and looked for the birthday boy.

"Padfoot!" Harry ran to his godfather and gave him a quick hug before immediately reaching for the package Sirius was holding. "Is that for me?"

"Of course, pup."

"Where's Moony?" Harry looked behind Sirius for the other.

"He's just helping Alec with something."

Harry eyed his godfather. And then Harry became even more excited and more curious as Sirius squirmed under his gaze. "With what?"

"It's a surprise."

Harry tried to go around Sirius to check outside, but his godfather quickly caught the back of his shirt. "Not so fast, pup."

"You just had to spill it, didn't you?" Magnus complained, and then he decided to send a spark to sting Sirius's side.

"Ow!"

"Come here, Harry. Let's wait at the table. Alexander and Remus will finish soon." Magnus ushered the two and sat them back down at the dining table.

True to his words, Harry's other father and Remus soon came in carrying a large box.

"Hey, buddy. Happy Birthday!" Alec wrapped Harry in a tight hug.

"Thanks," Harry mumbled as he hugged his Papa tighter. He looked up and then grinned, "So... what's the surprise?"

"It won't be a surprise if I tell you." His Papa ruffled his hair, slung an arm across his shoulder, and ushered him back to the dining room. He sat Harry back in his chair and went to his Dad.

"Everything good?" Magnus asked.

"Yup." And his Papa kissed his Dad.

"Hey! Stop that!" Harry whined.

"Nope," Magnus smirked and wrapped both arms on Alexander's waist.

"Stop being so gross."

His dads shared a look, and Harry knows that look. That was the 'let's team up against Harry and embarrass him' look. They stopped hugging and walked towards Harry's opposite side. He wasn't able to escape. The two sandwiched Harry in a hug and kissed him on the cheeks.

"Daddy, no!" Harry laughs as Magnus's facial hair tickles his face.

"Alright," Magnus stopped but gave his son one last hug. "I guess you're too old for hugs and kisses now. Are you also too old for presents?"

"Dad..." Harry pouted.

"Maybe Raphael would like Alexander's gift."

"Okayyy...I'm sorry for saying you two were gross."

His Papa smiled at him and squeezed his hand. "The sooner we finish breakfast, the sooner you can open presents."

Once everyone was seated, the adults sang Harry the birthday song once and made him blow out the candles on his birthday pancakes.

"Is Amara coming?" Harry asked, almost done with his pancakes.

"Can you at least address her properly? I still can't get used to my son being on a first-name basis with the Seelie Queen." Magnus complained.

"Her Highness, Amara, then?"

Magnus rolled his eyes at Harry. Harry being friends with the Seelie Queen did not change the Seelie's relationship with shadowhunters and downworlders. It was still complicated, and they are still not very cooperative if it's not in their best interest. In fact, Magnus thinks that the only reason the queen is friends with his son is because of his magic and Harry's fate amuses her. "She hasn't missed your birthday yet, darling. Maybe, she'll come over this afternoon. Florian sent a message that he's coming late."

"Are the Seelie's currently good guys or bad guys right now? I forgot." Sirius said.

"With that incident last month, I believe that they are currently neutral."

"Right..." Sirius mumbled and continued eating.

Harry quickly finished the rest and pushed his plate, "I'm done! Can I open my presents now?"

His Papa just gestures to his Dad and Remus, still eating, and Harry slumps back in his chair.

Harry stared at his Dad while wishing he had the Force to make him eat faster. His Dad, in retaliation, slowed his eating, cutting the pancakes into even smaller pieces.

"Magnus." One word from his Papa and his Dad sighed in defeat and finished the pancake quickly instead.

"You can open your presents now."

They all sat in the living room. Magnus moved Harry's presents to the coffee table.

"Start with Alec's first," Magnus said as he levitated the large box to Harry.

Harry gasped when he opened his present.

"Thank you!" He cried and ran towards Alec. Alec just let Harry hug him like a koala for a minute before pulling away and wiping the tears off Harry's face.

"I told you I'd get you your own, remember?"

Harry nods, arms wiping away the tears. He shyly got off his Papa's lap.

"What got you so emotional, pup?" Sirius asked and took a peek inside the box. "Oh wow."

"I can't believe I have my own bow and arrow," Harry hugs Alec again. "And it looks just like yours!"

"Well, I did promise you that I'd give you a bow and arrow just like mine."

"That was years ago."

"Well, a promise is a promise. Your Dad said, since you're probably going to Hogwarts, you can have this to protect yourself."

Harry smiles and goes back to pick a gift.

"Open mine next," Magnus said and handed Harry a small box.

Harry slowly opened the box, and inside was a necklace.

It was the Lightwood family necklace that was owned first by his Dad.

"I thought Aunt Izzy had these?"

"It's more of a family gift. Isabelle wanted you to have the necklace. I asked the others, and they agreed. I added some charms on it as well."

"Thank you." Harry hugged his Dad. "You're all being too overprotective, but I understand."

"If I can keep you here by my side forever, I would," Magnus said softly. "But I won't because you'll just annoy me all the time." He joked and then asked for the necklace so he could put it on, Harry. With the charms placed on it, Harry could hardly feel like he was wearing it at all and that it was well-hidden beneath his clothes.

Harry just laughs and leans on his Dad.

"It's my turn, kiddo." Sirius hands him the package. "This is actually from both Remus and me."

"What's this?" Harry held up the several bottles he found inside the package.

"It's a copy of our memories of our first year at Hogwarts. With James and a bit of Lily as well."

Harry's eyes widened. "Seriously?"

Sirius nods. "As serious as I am. Anyway, you can only look at them after your first day at Hogwarts, don't want to spoil the whole experience."

Harry could feel his magic surging beneath his skin. His emotions brought them to the surface as his tears fell freely. His godfather and Moony always told him stories about his parents. To honor them. To remember them. It was not fair that they were gone too soon before Harry could form any solid memories with them. And Harry knows that's why Sirius and Remus gave him copies of theirs. He felt his Dad's hand lightly tap his arm. "Harry."

He looked around and noticed that the lights were flickering, and Harry blinked. "Sorry."

Magnus waved a hand to check the wards and then frowned.

An owl flew into the window and dropped a letter down Harry's lap.

Everyone can all guess what that is. Harry picked it up and read what was written on the envelope loudly.

"Mr. Henry Jacob Lightwood-Bane, The second bedroom. Lightwood-Bane apartment, New York."

His parents shared a look before sitting closer to him. They gestured him to open the letter, and he took a deep breath before he opened it.

"How did that owl find me?" He asked as he unfolded the letter.

"Perhaps that owl has been lost and was only able to find you when you had another magical outburst. But forget about that for now and read the letter, darling." His Dad said.

"Dear Mr. Lightwood-Bane,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardy.

Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.

Yours sincerely, Minerva McGonagall."

"Well, it's official..." Magnus said sadly.

"Yeah..." Harry said softly and leaned to his Dad, who wrapped an arm around him. "We have to reply back..."

"We can do that later," Alec then looks at the owl who perched on one of Magnus's chairs, asleep. "That owl probably tires itself out on his way here. The others will be here soon."

And so, they forgot about the letter for a while. Guests started coming before lunchtime, and Harry enjoyed being with his little cousins and friends.

In the evening, they had a huge family dinner where presents for Harry were passed to him, and news of his Hogwarts letter was announced. The younger children crowded him after dessert. Some are crying that's he's going away to a boarding school. He tried to explain that it would be like him living in Alicante and only visiting during the holidays. This time, though, his parents will not be with him. It took several promises of chocolate frogs to calm them.

After a while, his Dad started opening portals for the guests going home. There was then a knock on the door.

Harry looked at his Dad, who stiffened when he checked the wards to identify who was outside.

"Who's at the door?" Harry asked.

"A wizard."

Sirius presented to open the door. And they all were tensed, wondering as to how and why there was a wizard at their door.

"Hagrid?" Sirius exclaimed as he opened the door.

"Mr. Black? Wha' yeh doin' here?"

"What are you doing here?" Sirius asked back.

"I'm here to give Mr. Potter his letter. Professor Dumbledore sent me." Hagrid pulled several things from his pocket, dropping each of them onto the floor. He waved the letter he finally retrieved from his deep pocket and showed it to Sirius.

Sirius could tell that the letter was different. It was not the standard Hogwarts letter and more personalized. On the envelope was the headmaster's own writing.

Harry was out of the large man's view, and it seemed like the man had yet to realize that Sirius was not alone in the room. Magnus moved a bit more to hide Harry further behind him.

"I'm sorry, Hagrid, but Harry Potter's not here," Sirius said

"That can't be righ'. The letter wen' here." The large man looked at Harry's godfather with a confused look.

"I thought you brought Harry to Lily's sister?"

"I did. Deliver himself to Professor Dumbledore myself. When I visited earlier to deliver his letter, he wasn't there."

"Well, he's not here either. So please leave." Sirius said as he ushered him out.

"But Professor Dumbledore said -"

"He told me that my godson is safe with the Dursleys. And now you're telling me he's not there? You need to go. I need to go find my godson."

The man protested a bit before leaving the building. Harry was quite amazed by his godfather's acting skills.

Harry saw both his parents sigh in relief and then place their hands on his shoulder.

"Who was that?" Magnus asked Sirius.

"Well...that, that is Hagrid. Hogwart's gamekeeper. He was holding a different Hogwart's letter. Unlike the ones Professor McGonagall writes," Sirius said.

"Does this mean Dumbledore knows that Harry's not at his mother's aunt?"

Sirius fidgeted. " I haven't got a clue. I guess we just need to wait."

The party was officially over, and his dads sent him to his room. His parents were still up talking about Dumbledore with Remus and Sirius. He fell into an uneasy sleep, dreaming of an old man with a long white beard like Gandalf screaming at him, "You shall not live!"

He woke up to the sound of his Dad's and Sirius's loud voice. Harry quickly got up and saw the two arguing over papers. They were both looking at the screen that showed an old man right outside their building.

"Who's that?"

His Papa, who was staring intensely at the screen, answered, "Apparently, that's Dumbledore."

"Is he wearing a purple suit with stars on them?" Harry squinted and focused on the image.

"I think it's time we face him. The necklace is charmed to send you to Alicante if that old man tries anything."

"It is?" Harry asked and looked down at the necklace. "How about you?"

"It's not your job to worry about us." Magnus hugs Harry. "Let's get this over with, shall we?" Magnus made sure that he was safe in his room before he wrote down a simple instruction.

'Enter.'

And sent it down outside the building. A few moments and there was a knock at the door. Magnus checked himself in the mirror to make sure that he looked just very intimidating. Alec was by his side, Sirius and Remus only a few steps behind.

Magnus opened the door.

No one said anything. Magnus just stared at the man.

"Good morning. My name is Albus Dumbledore." the man said in his best grandfatherly voice. "I'm here to see Harry Potter."

Chapter Text

Alec stared at the crowd and silently wished he could be invisible right now. The party Sirius prepared despite being rushed was still extravagant. A late birthday celebration for Harry and Sirius invited everyone. Everyone that mattered in the Wizengamot and Ministry along with some of Sirius's friends. He smiled at the wizards and witches that looked at him with curious glances and moved closer to Magnus.

Magnus took his hand and squeezed it. "You can still go back if you feel uncomfortable exposing yourself to these wizards. You don't have to force yourself." Magnus looked at Alec and gave him a reassuring smile.

Alec shook his head, "I'll be fine." And they continued to walk towards the front of the crowd where Sirius was. Their friend cast a charm to increase the volume of his voice and introduce them to their guests. "I would like everyone to meet two good friends of mine, Alec and Magnus Lightwood-Bane."

They smiled and shook hands as people introduced themselves to them as well. Magnus loves parties, but after becoming a parent, his party scene changed from raves and loud music to children's parties with face painting and clowns. And with Harry being the oldest among his cousins, the number of kids' parties Magnus attended increased every year. This party was strictly strategical. Sirius had invited his old friends from when he was an Auror. As well as some family friends who claimed that they were forced by the dark lord. Some families who were neutral during the war and people from the ministry were also invited. It wasn't every day that the head of the Black Family would throw a party. Especially with such a varied guest list. The guest list also includes those who are certainly interested in the Blacks and the Potters. The Potter and the Slytherin seat that Harry will inherit held weight in the Wizengamot. The purebloods have been hounding Sirius about the Potter and Slytherin seat he's proxying for. Some didn't think it was fair that Sirius held several seats, his family's included. And since Harry was never seen in the wizarding world after that fateful night, everyone was suspicious about Sirius Black being his proxy. Many didn't believe that Sirius had the right to hold those seats because everyone knew that the savior was not living with him or anyone else in the wizarding world. There were even rumors that muggles had raised the boy. And they tried several times to remove those seats from him because those seats have prevented them from passing the more extreme creature laws, which Sirius strongly opposes. Those crowds will be able to accept now that Sirius has permission to hold those seats. And soon enough, Magnus will become the proxy of those seats when he secures his reputation in the wizarding world. It was one of the ways they realized that could help protect Harry from death eaters.

Magnus gazed around the crowd. He knew these were some of the purebloods who have been appealing to the ministry to get Harry's custody for the past decade. Almost all purebloods are related in some way was their excuse. Even the Malfoys tried to get Harry's guardianship at some point in the past, but it didn't matter that Narcissa Malfoy was a bit related to the Potters through the Black family. Their appeals did not move an inch because Harry's guardianship has already been secured and cannot be contested. No one knew Harry got adopted - until now. The party was the perfect excuse to introduce them to the wizarding world. It was necessary if they wanted to prevent Dumbledore from kicking up a fuss about Harry and his living arrangements.

Magnus still gets annoyed whenever he remembers what happened two weeks ago when Dumbledore came for a visit.

~~~

Magnus knew that this day would come. How can he forget that his son is supposed to be the savior because of some prophecy when you have the Seelie Queen reminding you about it almost every year as Harry approaches his eleventh birthday. And because of that, he's been making some plans. Between his husband and Magnus, Alec was better at making plans. But this time, it was Magnus who had been making contingency plans just for this moment since Harry became his son. Just in case, Harry's past comes knocking at their door and tries to take him back.

He forced a polite smile. Magnus's Contingency Plan A is to bluff. At first, the plan was to bluff that he didn't know any Harry Potter or a Boy-Who-Lived, but that plan flew out of the window when that giant wizard came, and Sirius Black was the one that opened the door. No one would believe Magnus doesn't know because Sirius Black AND Remus Lupin are acquainted with him.

"Good morning. I'm sorry, I think you've got the wrong address." Magnus blocked the way when Dumbledore tried to take a step forward inside. "No Harry Potter here," he said and tried to close the door, but the old wizard raised his hand and stopped him. Magnus side-eyed his son, who was standing at his room's doorway, fidgeting with worry. He pushed Harry back inside his room and magically closed the door.

"Are you quite sure, my boy? I sent someone last night to deliver this letter, and since they failed to do so, I came here myself to bring it to the boy. And explain to him his parentage." Dumbledore said with eyes twinkling and hands to his back.

"I'm sure you are. You're obviously lost, and there is no Harry Potter here. You can find your way out."

"I'm afraid I cannot go just yet. I believe a student of Hogwarts is registered here. How can you explain that, my dear boy?" The wizard looked to the side and noticed Sirius and Remus. Both wizards were on their guard and looked uncomfortable seeing their former headmaster. "Sirius? Remus? What are you two doing here?" The headmaster looked confused and then showed a face full of disappointment. "I told you that you are not allowed to look for Harry. You could have endangered the boy."

Magnus didn't want to use force yet. And so he relented when the wizard forced his way to Black.

"I didn't know I was supposed to tell you where I spend my time. But for your information, I never went to Lily's
sister's house." Sirius crossed his arms.

"Yes, but it appears that there have been some complications when I tried to visit Petunia. The family left Surrey, and I have yet to locate them. Why are you here, Remus?" Dumbledore asked.

Remus looked disappointed at his old headmaster. After all these years, he never thought of checking up on Harry.
"I've been living here for almost a decade now. You see, I am welcome here, unlike back there."

The silence was awkward, and a slow tension had built around them. Dumbledore did not reply to his old students. He only looked contemplative and curious.

Alexander stepped forward, cutting through the silence and tension, "I need to ask you to leave. Our son just registered for Hogwarts, but we've been fully informed of what he needs for his school, so there's no need for you to come."

Alexander is part of Magnus's Plan Z, called Let Magnus's badass husband deal with the wizard if his other plans related to magic fail.

His Plan B was to erase the wizard's memory should he learn about Harry's existence and do something about it. Plan C was to send him to limbo. But so far, the wizard is harmless, and Alexander frowns upon undeserving and excessive violence. Setting a good example for their son has become one of their top priority from the start of their relationship. So no memory erasing or sending the wizard to limbo yet. Plan D is to send him to Edom and let his father deal with him, but his husband will not agree with this plan unless they become desperate. His father might take Harry as his heir as payment, which is something they want to avoid. Plan F is to go and stay in Alicante instead, but only if Harry agrees. Magnus is sure that somewhere around the apartment, there were still some of the plans beyond Plan F written down on random sheets of paper. He'll retrieve them when needed or improvise.

"Oh..." Dumbledore's side glanced at Sirius and Remus. "Let me re-introduce myself. My name is Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry." He held out his hand, which both Magnus and Alexander both ignored.

"Ah. Yes, well, while I think it's great to meet our son's future headmaster, I'm sure you're a busy man. We don't know any Harry Potter in this neighborhood, and I know every resident here. Maybe try finding him in Vermont. Lots of Potters there." Magnus tried to give the wizard a wide grin that faltered a bit when he felt someone prodding in his head. Magnus's demeanor changed. "Now...Did your parents teach you to attack your elders like that? Consent is a thing headmasters should know, right?" This now changes a lot of things. Magnus tensed and was readying himself for whatever the old man may throw at them.

Sirius let out a bark of laughter as he saw Dumbledore's smile become smaller, and confusion became apparent on his face. It was ridiculous for him to think that Magnus was older than Dumbledore. And yet Dumbledore looked like he could be Magnus's grandfather instead.

"Pardon?"

Magnus scoffs. "I'm at least thrice your age. Show a bit of respect. And as someone older than you, let me give you some advice. Stop reading people's minds. Now please leave. While we're still asking nicely ."

"I'm sorry… I might have forgotten my manners due to my age. I'm sure you understand." Dumbledore still didn't understand that the man before him was older than him by a few centuries.

"No. I don't. My memory has always been crystal clear, you see. And if you don't have any other business here, please go." Magnus heard Sirius try to cover his laugh with a cough.

"Well, you surely don't mean that. You have a Hogwarts student here. Maybe it would be nice to meet the future first year. I can also answer any of your questions as headmaster of Hogwarts. And perhaps you can also answer some of mine. Like how an American child is in Hogwarts's registry. I'm quite curious, you see." The man just ignored Magnus's comment and multiple pleas to leave. "Maybe we can talk over tea?"

"No, I'm more of a day drinker than a tea drinker." If the man was fine with reading his mind, then maybe he'd be fine with Magnus altering his memory and sending him forcefully on his way. It was unfortunate that despite his age, Dumbledore's mind shields are still a bit stronger than anticipated. Alarmed at the sudden mental attack, Dumbledore whipped out his wand and sent a spell towards Magnus, which he dodged easily. Sirius and Remus immediately went into the fray and sent out spells to take his wand, which the old wizard managed to avoid. Alec is on defense and avoiding any stray spells. It wasn't time for him to join in the fight.

The spells suddenly stopped when the wizards and warlock were interrupted by Chairman Meow. The old cat suddenly jumped down in the middle of the fight from his perch at the top of the window. This startled the old wizard, which Magnus took as an opportunity to restrain him with the strongest spell he knew. Dumbledore fell like a chopped-down tree.

Chairman Meow licked his paws lazily, undisturbed by what just happened, and then walked to Magnus. The cat looked up at him straight in the eye and complained loudly.

"How did you jump from up there?" Magnus asked as he picked up the old cat. The old cat barely did much these days, and it's been years since he's been a part of their family. "You must be starving. Thank you for the assistance." Magnus stared with a raised eyebrow at the headmaster on his floor and then turned to his husband. "Let's have breakfast first, alter his memory after." And then he carefully walked over the headmaster's body and went to the kitchen.

Alec nodded and went to retrieve Harry.

"Blimey, Chairman was such a Gryffindor there," Sirius remarked as he gave the headmaster's still body a once over. "Old cat got some nerve of steel entering the middle of a fight."

"This is why you should never underestimate old cats," Remus chastised.

"Is this why you never want me to try chasing Professor McGonagall as a dog whenever she's in her cat form?" Sirius asked his friend as they also went to the kitchen for some well-deserved breakfast. "Maybe."

After breakfast, they sent Harry back first to their home in Alicante with Alec's siblings. Jace, who was always trying to be the best uncle to Harry - not that he'd ever beat Remus - decided to have an impromptu post-birthday party in Alicante to let Harry relax after the stressful event.

Magnus, Sirius, and Remus proceeded to alter Dumbledore's memory. And since Dumbledore alone in a portal will send him to limbo, they decided that Remus would take Dumbledore back to Britain and awaken him in one of the many rooms in Leaky Cauldron a few hours later. His memory of that day would only be him returning to Britain and staying at Leaky Cauldron after drinking something funny in a muggle pub. Sirius also went back to his old family home. He needed to check if there were any new rumors about his godson spread by the gossip rag that is The Prophet. The upcoming term was just around the corner, and everyone had been waiting for the news about Harry Potter's attendance at Hogwarts.

That night in bed at their home in Alicante, Magnus voiced his worries to Alec. "I don't want to send Harry to Hogwarts anymore," Magnus said to Alec as they both lay down on their bed. "That Dumbledore is crazy."

"I agree. But Harry can take of himself. We've prepared him for this day, and he has dreamt of going to Hogwarts forever." Alec, as always, was the most reasonable between them.

"How can these wizards easily send their eleven-year-old kids to a boarding school? What if he gets sick? What if he gets homesick? Or what if the headmaster tries to send him back to his relatives?"

Alec could see the intense worry in his husband's eyes. He pulled Magnus into a hug. "I know it's going to be hard, but we can do it. If we ever miss him, we'll send him letters. Or visit. And the headmaster won't be able to do anything if we proceed with Sirius's plan."

Magnus pulled Alec closer. "If Sirius's plan fails, I'll quit being the high warlock and teach him myself instead." Magnus paused and softly added, "But I wish we don't have to send him away."

"Harry likes learning magic from you, but he needs to be with kids his age. Harry has been excited to go to Hogwarts for years. James and Lily went there, and Harry wanted that kind of connection with them. At the first sign of trouble, we'll pull him out of that school," Alec reassures him.

Magnus still didn't look convinced.

Alec let out a long breath. "I'll even let Jack come with him if you want."

Magnus stared at his husband disbelievingly. He did not expect that from Alec. Allowing Harry to take his hellhound to Hogwarts seems like a disaster waiting to happen. The two best friends tend to get in trouble a lot when they're left unsupervised. But they both know that Jack will protect Harry with his life if necessary. "I'll start looking for a spell to make him look like a cat then. They allow owls, cats, and toads, right?" Magnus then smirked. He wrote down on his mental list to look for a spell to make Jack into a toad. It would be funny if Asmodeus came over and saw his hellhound reduced into a toad.

~~~

Magnus did find a spell to make the hellhound into a toad, but Harry was against it. He lightly laughed at Harry's face when he told him about it and then remembered where he was. Magnus turned back to the party as Sirius Black finally announced Harry. With a dramatic flair, all the lights except the ones in front went out. Harry stood nervously there and smiled at them. Magnus extended his arm, to which Harry rushed forward. Magnus gave his son a side hug to reassure him and continued to listen to Sirius's ramblings to his guests.

" - we all know how important a wizard's eleventh birthday is. And since you're all already here, I might as well announce it officially. I've chosen Harry as my heir. Dinner will be served shortly, so I suggest let us all get back to our tables."

Sirius avoided looking at Alec's steel gaze and smiled at his godson, who gave him a small smile back. With his signal, the music turned up. The guests returned slowly to their tables. Each of them gave the family some curious stares. Sirius ushered his friends to their table.

Alec pulled up a seat for Magnus and Harry, which they both accepted. "Harry, you okay?" Alec asked as he sat next to him. Harry nodded as he looked at the other wizards taking their seats or mingling with others. Alec looked at his husband as Magnus listened intently to Sirius, who then pointed out the approaching guest.

"Alexander, you should stay here with Harry. I'll go talk to some guests with Sirius," Magnus said as he stood up and took Sirius with him to talk to the blonde woman walking towards their table.

"Hello, my name is Narcissa Malfoy. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Bane." She offered her hand to Magnus. But instead of kissing the offered hand, he lightly touched her fingers and shook her hand. Magnus then smiled and said, "the pleasure is all mine. I've heard that you're related to Sirius?" The woman looked a bit displeased at that and then tightly smiled. "We're cousins. I'm sure Sirius has told you what he thinks of our family. The House of Black has been a prominent family in our community and has been for years. It's a pity that Sirius never followed the family tradition. Sadly, we cannot choose our family. But I'm not here to talk about that. I'm curious about your family Mr. Bane. I'm not familiar with any Lightwoods or Banes."

Sirius just looked at his cousin with a boring look. "You won't be familiar with any of them because there are some requirements needed to be included in their circle that I'm afraid you won't be able to reach, I'm afraid," he said with a smirk towards his cousin.

"Like what? There's hardly any society that does not welcome a Malfoy," she said arrogantly. Her comment made Sirius bark in laughter.

"It takes a certain bloodline. Theirs are purer than any blood I've known." And Sirius snickered at his concealed joke. Alec's angelic blood makes them purer but hardly pure when it comes to some of the shadowhunter's characters. And Magnus's demonic blood surely outmatches the diluted blood of wizards.

Narcissa gave his cousin a cold stare and turned to Magnus. "My husband's family originated from France. Where are you and your husband from? Your accent tells me that you're from America? But..."

Magnus internally rolled his eyes. "I have many citizenships, but my family is from somewhere down below." Magnus enjoyed the look of confusion visible on her face. "Well, we do occasionally live in the States."

A tall blonde man approached Narcissa, then introduced himself as her husband, Lucius Malfoy. "You do realize that you've all captured the attention of the whole wizarding world? You don't seem like you're new to this kind of social, and yet you made such a grave mistake?"

Magnus materialized a glass of daiquiri and hid his smirk as he took a sip. "And that is...?"

"Inviting the wrong sorts," Lucius glanced at the redhead sitting at a table at his far left. "I'm disappointed at you, Black. I thought you had finally grown in the role of the head of the House of Black. Your mother would be proud to have you as her son if only you never sullied your reputation mingling with the half-breeds and mudbloods."

Magnus pulled Sirius back as he took a step forward in anger, almost pulling out his wand. Magnus handed his drink to Sirius. He then snapped up a pina colada with a slice of pineapple and gave it to Lucius. "You might need to cool down a bit. It's just a simple birthday party, after all. And acting like that to someone you don't know might put you at a disadvantage."

Lucius was about to reply when he stopped because he noticed that the headmaster of Hogwarts started to walk over to them. Upon the sight of the old wizard approaching, the Malfoys had decided to retreat to their table. "We'll talk again later," the patriarch said as they turned and left.

"What is the meaning of this?" The headmaster asked his former student. By now, the headmaster already knew what's the word on the street. A few days ago, they ran an article in the Quibbler about the boy-who-lived spotted at the Diagon alley with his adopted parents. They allowed a reporter to discretely follow them as they shopped for Harry's school requirements. Only a few recognized Harry as James Potter's son. Harry's "adoring fans" did not recognize the boy without the scar on his forehead.

The tabloid first enticed the public with several speculations as to who was accompanying the savior of the wizarding world. When the public's interest started to pick up, the tabloid released the article containing Sirius's interview. They gained the public's sympathy as he told them Harry's sob story. It was still truthful with only a few exaggerations. Sirius said that his godson was truly lucky to be cared for by such a talented and caring wizard. That the man found his godson almost freezing his lil toes off outside in the middle of a cold November night. How dangerous it was for a child of Harry's age to be left alone in just some basket. He emphasized that Harry was already at the age that he could crawl fast and stand on his own. The public ate it all up. Despite his poor reputation growing up, Sirius managed to make a clean image for himself since he got cleared of his charges. With his dashing looks and wealth, everyone easily believes him. It also didn't hurt that they sent invites after the release of the articles. The party is for the boy-who-lived and his family; to welcome their return to the wizarding world.

Sirius simply smiled and introduced Albus to Magnus. There was no chance for him to retrieve his missing memories unless he could get them from the demon who ate them. "Magnus, this is Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts. Albus, this is Harry's Dad, Magnus Lightwood-Bane."

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Magnus said and offered a hand to shake, which the old wizard ignored. This time, Magnus has prepared for any mental attacks. Albus tried, but as soon as he reached Magnus's mind, he only accessed the surface memories of the party and a bit of Harry, which Magnus handpicked. And so, instead of accepting the offered hand, Albus placed a hand on his shoulder.

"My boy, can I have a moment of your time? This matter concerns the safety of your son and your family."

Magnus's eyebrows furrowed for a moment. "Maybe we can talk after the party? Sirius and I still have to greet some guests."

Dumbledore looked conflicted before agreeing. "Yes, of course. If it's alright with you, I might introduce myself to young Harry and your...um...partner over there."

Magnus nodded, and they parted ways as Sirius introduced Magnus to others. Magnus was not worried about the headmaster meeting with his son. After the incident, he made sure to teach Harry some tricks to strengthen his mind against those kinds of attacks and provided charms for his son and husband for extra protection.

Dumbledore tried to gain Harry's favor by mentioning his parents and how he has many stories to tell about them. Harry politely replied that his parent's friends had told him most of them already. Dumbledore was then swept away by some people from the ministry who wanted his opinion on something. They greeted Harry briefly but left them soon enough when the house elves started serving dinner.

They introduced Harry after dinner to some of Sirius's friends, a few people from the ministry, and even the Minister himself.

When Magnus returned to the table, Alexander and Harry were seated back and showing some early signs of social fatigue.

"How was it?" Magnus asked.

Harry shrugged. "I saw a boy my age."

"Oh really...? What happened?"

"I complimented his looks, but I think he was embarrassed. He turned pink! And then he got mad and left." Harry then eyed his father sharply, "You told me it's not wrong to tell someone they're pretty. Why did he get mad then?"

Magnus looked at his husband to explain further what happened.

"He met Draco?" Alexander looked at Harry for confirmation, and Harry nodded. "He met Draco Malfoy, and they talked for a bit. We also met his father. And he is as arrogant as his father. Harry told him he's pretty, but the kid didn't accept it as a compliment."

"Maybe he thinks boys can't be pretty. The wizarding world is not as progressive as others," Magnus said to Harry.

"Ugh. I just thought his hair was pretty...and his eyes too. Nothing wrong with saying the truth, right? And you call Papa pretty all the time."

"Yes, but you know how some people think about that. And your father is very pretty. You look dashing in those robes, Alexander."

"I've heard some whispering about you and Papa and it wasn't very nice. I might be underage, but I don't need a wand to use magic." Harry huffed as he leaned closer to his Papa. "Sirius showed me that Bat Bogey Hex the other day, and I think I can do it wandless, Dad. I'm not afraid to use it to defend your honor."

Magnus just chuckled. "Oh, darling. You are my savior." He joked. "I bet Hogwarts is not going to be ready to have you within its walls."