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[12:34am – 24h Diner The Portal]
“Here you go.”
A steamy cup of coffee is placed in front of Magnus, and he frowns in confusion. Glancing up, he sees the nice old lady who owns the diner and smiles sheepishly at her.
“Thank you.” He takes it to warm his hands, not minding the welcomed burn on his tongue alongside the bitter taste. Usually, he would go for something sweeter, but at the moment he really needs the shock in his system.
Charlotte, the owner, hums and sits in front of him at the booth.
“Tough night?” She points out his disheveled appearance, but there is no judgment on her voice – only kindness and a hint of motherly tone.
“I guess,” Magnus chuckles, a bit conscious of how he looks, but truly, it could be worse. His makeup is a bit smudged due to sweat, his hair pointing out in different directions because of the wind, his black tux is all wrinkled and he lost his tie somewhere. Not that he minds – the bloody red shade was a bit uncomfortable anyway.
But it was his fiancée’s choice, so…
Yes, it’s his wedding day.
And he ditched it.
No regrets, though.
“I’ve just run away from my wedding. I thought I’d be sadder, but I’m strangely okay with it? Calm? Happy?”
“If those are questions, there are still doubts. What’s on your mind? Or is it just cold feet?”
Magnus shakes his head, but before he can reply, a plate full of Nutella pop tarts with rainbow sprinkles on top appears before him. Magnus’ lips curl up and he feels an odd sense of warmth. This town continues surprising him in the best ways.
Henry sits next to his wife after giving the plate to Magnus.
“You must be hungry.” His hoarse voice is also full of kindness. “I know we are just strangers to you, but you can talk to us. We’re used to giving our ears to the grown-up kids around here.”
“Better than getting advice from some seedy bar’s bartender. We don’t have drinks, but we do have ages and ages of experience to share.” Charlotte winks at him, accepting the comforting side hug from her husband.
Magnus’ eyes crinkle at the corners at seeing the display of affection.
Something he always wished for himself but hasn’t experienced much. Or any.
He looks around briefly. For some reason, he chose this place to hide instead of going back to the inn. Perhaps it’s because it’s not crowded and the background music is actually soothing. Perhaps it’s because the diner’s decor matches all Magnus’ personal tastes. It’s a rainbow of colors that doesn’t hurt the eyes, but actually makes you giddy. The floor has a white and pastel yellow checkered pattern, while the walls are a blast of sky blue and mint green. The booths and stools vary from red to orange to pink. The counter is purple and silver, and the dishware has an interesting rose gold color. Everything is chaotic and messy and beautiful.
Like Magnus himself.
“Very well. Let me tell you the story of how I met a tall, dark and handsome man one afternoon.”
~*~
“The sacrifices I make for you, love.” Camille gives an insufferable sigh, but Magnus isn’t really paying attention to her. He’s ecstatic for finally arriving in Alicante, so he takes his time to breathe the fresh air and watch the scenery.
It’s beautiful.
Alicante is a very small town in the middle of Europe. It’s a peaceful, eco-friendly place that not many people know about. Its mayor started some initiative to bring more art and music to it, and this is why Magnus is here now.
Magnus Bane is one of the main dancers from the Royal Edom Academy of Dance, a famous worldwide school of ballet and other dance modalities. It was founded and co-owned by his father, Asmodeus Bane, and his aunt, Lilith Talto. The pressure to uphold his position as the heir of this huge empire of dance sometimes gets too much, so Magnus focuses on his favorite activity.
His Magical Steps Project – a chain of dance schools that not only have free classes for those who cannot pay for expensive ones, but also offer dance therapy for physical, mental, cognitive, and social issues. Magnus personally visits the places where a new school will be built – often small towns, villages, or poor neighborhoods of big cities.
Since his newest one will be inaugurated in Alicante in ten days, it was an easy decision to come to watch the progress of it. Everything is almost ready, so he’s very positive about the outcome.
The only small detail is that the inauguration coincided with his wedding. Which he has postponed four times already. It’s not his fault, really. As a dancer herself, Camille has her own performances. They both go on international tours, interviews, and events. Marriage can wait.
However, Camille has been antsy about that. She was never one to really care about marital life, but lately, she has been pressuring Magnus to marry her soon. If they postpone the ceremony again, with another worldwide tour soon, they will have to wait for another year, so they settled to marry in Alicante two days before Magnus’ dance school’s inauguration.
It’s okay, Magnus doesn’t really mind the location.
His friends, otherwise, have a lot of opinions.
Not of the location, but of the bride.
They still insist that Magnus is making a mistake, but…
But he wants to believe that he is making the correct choice. He loves Camille. Camille loves him.
Everything is going to be alright.
Right?
Right?
“Magnus!”
“Sorry, love. Did you say something?” He turns to her with bright eyes and a big smile, but dims a bit at seeing her upset expression.
She is practically seething.
“I don’t know why you chose this decadent place for your pet project. There are cows on the street, Magnus. Cows! If I get my brand-new shoes dirty, I’ll make you buy three new pairs for me as soon as we leave this end of the world.”
Magnus rolls his eyes. “Whatever you want, Camille. I take that you won’t accompany me to the Fair that is happening now at the town’s square, then? The inn’s owner just told me about it and I’m certain it’ll be lovely.”
“Ew, no. I bet they have pigs out there, and I can’t take the smell. You know I only agreed to come with you today so I can make sure our wedding’s arrangements will be perfect, and not something from the previous century like this place. I’ll be surprised if they even know what Internet is,” she snickers, then pecks Magnus’ lips. “Go have your peasant fun, my love.”
“Fine…” Magnus sighs and leaves alone. He adores Camille, but sometimes she’s so…
No, he is not letting his mind go there. It’s bad enough that sometimes his conscience has Ragnor’s voice.
Instead, he tries to tune the Fair’s music. It’s some folk song accompanied by live singing and instruments. A lot of people are chatting, the food court is full, and there are games everywhere. It’s so… mundane.
Magnus is a bit in love.
Some barks catch his attention, and amidst them, the loud laugh of a man. Looking around, it doesn’t take much time to find the source of the sounds. There is an area for dogs and cats’ adoption, held by a local shelter, and in the middle of it, there is a man happily playing with the animals.
But really, the only thing going through Magnus’ brain now is a single phrase.
Holy shit.
The man is gorgeous . Tall, muscular, sinful arms, nice ass. His hair is dark and messy, his eyes shine in earthy shades of brown, dark green, and a bit of gold. He has a very delightful tattoo covering the entire left side of his neck. Pink lips, sharp cheekbones, a shadow of a beard.
And above all else… His smile.
It’s the most beautiful smile Magnus has ever seen in his entire life.
The man glances up and, for a brief moment, they lock eyes.
His lopsided smile turns into something shy for a moment, but there is still a lot of warmth and brightness that Magnus can’t look away. Then, some puppies demand the man’s attention and he gets back to play with them.
Magnus realizes he is holding his breath, and finally exhales – even if a bit shakily. Gingerly, he touches his chest, near his heart.
What… has just happened?
~*~
Magnus loves his cats. They are his kids, his life, and he would give them the world if he could. He first adopted one when he was still a child, trying to cope after his mother’s death. She was taken away from him by a cruel illness that was already in its last stage when it was diagnosed. It was during the first anniversary of her death, when Magnus was visiting her grave, that he saw a very small, trembling kitten trying to sleep under a jasmine bouquet.
Mary Pawppins lived a long, happy life, dying of old age on Magnus’ lap.
Now, his family consists of Chairman Meow, an orange tabby; The Great Catsby, a gray and white munchkin; and Mr. Pawcy, a black korat. They are always traveling with Magnus, even having their own lounge area inside the Bane’s private jet. And this time is no different – he had to pay extra for Mrs. Fairchild to let them stay with him at the inn, but it’s alright. They are worth every cent.
Sitting on a bench at the nearby park, Magnus scrolls through his phone as he looks at a variety of mini suits designed for cats. He wants so badly to buy them for his babies, but Camille is adamant about not letting them attend their wedding.
“You know they always yowl when I’m near them. I fear that you won’t hear my beautiful vows for you if you bring them, my love.” Camille always insists, and well… Magnus couldn’t say no to her, right?
Suddenly, he feels a tug on his trousers and looks down in time to see a miniature schnauzer sniffing and trying to chew a loose leather strip from his customized pants.
“Hello there,” Magnus blinks slowly, a small smile curling up his lips. But before he could reach down to pet the small dog, a voice calls out, drawing his attention up.
“Raziel, stop! You know you can’t damage other people’s clothes!” The man chastises the dog, stopping for a moment to catch his breath.
Magnus’ thoughts halt for a moment.
It’s the same gorgeous man from the Fair.
But this time, he has a big blue persian longhair cat on his shoulder.
Not only that, but also five dogs trailing behind him with different levels of excitement by the wagging of their tails.
Uh, what a curious scene.
“I-I’m so sorry,” the stranger hurries to say. “I promise Raziel is a good boy, but he has a strange taste for leather, and I think he liked your clothes.”
Magnus snickers. “I think this is the first time that I see a fashionista dog, although his owner could help himself with some tips.” Because that washed green sweater full of holes isn’t doing him any good.
The man’s cheeks quickly redden, and he almost pouts defensively, mumbling. “It’s comfortable.” Then, he crouches for a moment to take Raziel in his arms and gets up again. “And he is not mine. I’m just walking him and the others.” He nods towards the group of dogs that are waiting patiently.
“Without a leash?” Magnus tilts his head, cocking one eyebrow.
“They are well-trained and well-behaved,” the man grins proudly, then chuckles when his feline companion’s whiskers tickle his cheek. “This big grumpy one is Church, by the way. I am his.”
Magnus grins back, comprehending it perfectly. You never own a cat.
They own you.
“Well, I have to go. These guys still need to take a bath before going back to their respective owners.”
At that, one of the dogs – a white shepherd if Magnus isn’t mistaken – barks in a way akin to indignance. The guy snorts, turning to the dog. “Don’t be dramatic, Kuzko. I know you hate baths, but I got watermelon shampoo! I’m sure you’re going to change your mind.”
The dog huffs, making the guy’s grin widen.
Magnus blinks, a bit dumbfounded. Not because of that odd interaction, but because really… This man has a nice smile, and he can’t get tired of it. And a weird, bubbly sensation is somehow possessing his insides again. He almost purrs, feeling like his own cats when he gives them a really expensive, fresh salmon, or a new customized and out-of-charts toy.
Sue him, he likes to spoil his cats rotten.
“C’mon, guys!” Tall, dark and handsome begins to jog and whistles once, making all the dogs run after him. He turns only once to look at Magnus and waves a bit shyly, mouthing a ‘bye’ to him. Magnus waves too and can’t help but smile back.
If later, when talking to his friends through video chat, he still has a dumb smile on his face…
Well, at least none of them comment on it.
~*~
Magnus adjusts the hold of the cat carrier before looking up to the big sign that reads ‘As of Alicante’ in a beautiful cobalt blue light. Through the glass door, it’s easy to see that it’s indeed a pet store as stated in the address. Taking a deep breath, Magnus plasters a smile on his face and opens the door with his free hand.
Instead of the usual and loud door chime bell, the soft sound of a bird singing announces his presence inside. He blinks in surprise at first, but then his eyes fall on the teenager sitting at the cashier desk in the corner. The boy wears big glasses and seems engrossed in some comic book.
“Hello?” Magnus calls and walks to the boy since it doesn’t seem to have another adult around. “Mrs. Fairchild from the Heavenly Inn recommended this place to bring my cat. She said you have a veterinarian here?”
The boy nods without taking his eyes from the comic book. “Yeah, my brother is the best vet in town.” He turns to a back door and opens his mouth, clearly about to call out loud this brother, when he suddenly stops himself and tilts his head to the side. Magnus follows his gaze and his heart clenches for a second.
Sleeping inside a dog bed there is a pitbull puppy, and the poor thing has bandages everywhere.
Thoughtful, the boy mutters a “be right back” and disappears through the back door.
Magnus decides to look around while he waits. The store is well equipped with a variety of toys, clothes for pets, food, medicine, and many accessories. However, what really catches Magnus’ attention is a sign saying ‘NO DUCKS ALLOWED’. And as if that isn’t enough, there is also a scribble under it with the equal threatening warning of ‘OR SPIDERS’.
“Riiiight…” He frowns, feeling a bit out of his depth – which is a novelty for someone with his kind of eccentrics. As soon as the boy comes back, telling him that his brother will be with them in a few moments, Magnus can’t help but ask. “What does the A mean? As of Alicante?”
“Whatever you want. Some read as ‘Animals of Alicante’ and some as ‘Angels of Alicante’. Two of my siblings like to joke and say that the A actually stands for Ale–”
“Max?” A deep voice calls when the back door opens and oh.
It’s tall, dark and handsome.
He smiles upon seeing Magnus, and fuck.
That strange fluttering in his belly once more.
“Are you the local vet?” Magnus asks dumbly, his throat suddenly dry. “I thought you were just a dog walker.”
“Dog walker, dog trainer, dog whisperer. My brother has many jobs and no social life.”
“Max!” Tall, dark and handsome hisses, an adorable blush coloring his cheeks. “You’re spending too much time with Jace and Izzy.”
The boy shrugs and goes back to his reading. The man mutters something about ‘cursed siblings’ and then turns his attention to Magnus, clearing his throat. “What can I help you with?”
“Oh, right!” Magnus puts the carrier on the desk and opens it, revealing a tabby cat. “This is my son, Chairman Meow, and since arriving here, he–”
“You named your cat after some pun?” Max asks suddenly, but his tone is of curiosity.
“Of course. Puns are healthy. I also have The Great Catsby and Mr. Pawcy. And I’m the godfather of Whiskers Shakespeare and Cat Curie.”
“Oh my God.” Max snorts, but tall, dark and handsome chuckles softly.
“I think it’s smart. Let me see him.” Without hesitation, the man goes to pick Chairman Meow up, but Magnus tries to stop him with a warning.
“Be careful, Chairman doesn’t like…” The cat nibbles at the man’s fingers, then starts purring when he receives a gentle scratch between his ears. “…anyone.”
Magnus’ jaw drops a bit. The fuck.
“How? He never lets anyone touch him, except for me. Not even my best friends can get near him. He turns into a little monster if someone tries to.”
“He seems very calm to me.” The man states, holding Chairman against his chest. “Come with me, we will see what is happening with this little guy.” He guides Magnus to the back, where he makes checkups.
In the end, it’s just a simple case of stress and dehydration caused by the trip to Alicante. Tall, dark and handsome is kind and professional all the time, giving recommendations to Magnus and offering alternative options of snacks for his cats.
“My brother Jace runs this greenhouse from where they produce organic and fresh snacks. We sell them here, so if you’re interested, Max can show them to you.” He explains when they go back to the front, Chairman Meow once again inside his carrier. “You can also check the bill with him.”
“Thank you, doctor…”
“Oh, my name is A–” A whimper interrupts him, and he immediately snaps his head to the source of it.
The puppy.
“Hey, it’s fine. You’re fine, my brave girl.” With the utmost care, he takes the puppy and cradles her the same way he did with Chairman. “Let’s change these bandages, hm?”
“What happened?” Magnus asks, feeling sorry for her.
“Some asshole used her as a soccer ball.”
“Max, language!”
“I don’t care, it’s true!”
Tall, dark and handsome sighs loudly, but doesn’t deny.
“Sorry, I have to take care of her now. If you need anything else, feel free to come back.” He gives his trademark lopsided grin and leaves after throwing a “welcome to Alicante, Magnus”.
Which… It’s a surprise. Magnus knows he is famous, but mostly in the dance circle, so he is not easily recognizable.
Also, it’s a bit unfair that the pretty boy knows his name, but Magnus doesn’t know who the man is.
Max seems to read his thoughts because he promptly explains.
“Our sister is also a dancer. She is going to work at your dance school as an instructor.”
Magnus is about to ask this sister’s name, since many people were hired, when his phone goes off. Looking at the ID caller, he winces.
Right. Camille is waiting for him, so they can choose their wedding cake together.
And he is already late.
Great. She will give him hell again. And knowing her, she is going to ignore whatever opinion he has about flavors and ultimately pick the one she likes the most. It wouldn’t be the first time, and he is kind of used to it already.
Magnus always gives.
Bracing himself for the rest of the day, he pays Max – for his brother’s services and a big bag of cat’s treats – before leaving As of Alicante.
~*~
“I expected better from you, son. I haven’t raised you to think so small.”
Magnus grits his teeth, trying to not snarl at Asmodeus.
“Really, father? I only wanted to know if you were coming to my wedding, and all you did was emphasize how your business deal in Hong Kong is much more profitable and worth your time.”
“It is. I don’t see why you need to waste money and time with something that would be quickly solved by a couple of signatures on any city hall.”
Jesus. If he didn’t know that his parents’ wedding was an arranged one, he would look for a spiritual session just to ask his mama’s ghost what the hell she saw on that man.
“Because it’s a special event. The union of two people celebrated with those they love. I’ve never asked anything else from you. I just want you to be here on my wedding day.”
“I’ll check if I can slot some time on my schedule. If not, I’ll ask Elias to send you a flower wreath for congratulations. I heard that white lilies are lovely.”
Magnus gasps, mortified. “White lilies are for a funeral!”
“Same thing,” Asmodeus drawls. “Look, I have a meeting now. Call me after you have finished with this wedding thing and your little useless project of charity.” Then, he disconnects the call.
Magnus looks at his cellphone until the screen turns dark, showing his dumbstruck expression.
Well… He can always expect daddy dearest to put him into a foul mood.
Loosing the lavender bow tie around his neck, he gingerly sits on a low stone wall still warm from the afternoon sun. Perks of a small town without tall buildings, he supposes. Behind him, there is a beautiful red gardenia garden, and all around, the town folks are enjoying the fresh evening air at the town’s square – chatting with friends, hanging out with family, dating, eating, laughing.
It’s nice.
Also, very lonely. Camille didn’t want to walk with him, choosing to spend more time at some spa. He wanted to breathe some fresh air, but now he feels like suffocating.
While fiddling with a button from his purple corset and considering going back to his room at the inn, Magnus hears a familiar laugh.
Looking up, he sees across the street tall, dark and handsome with Max, a brunette girl who resembles a lot those two, a blond guy, a redheaded girl, and a guy with glasses and a Star Wars shirt. They are all laughing, having fun with a claw machine. The machine might be broken or something, because everyone knows how rigged and impossible they are, but all of them are holding at least one stuffed toy.
Somehow, it feels so simple. He can’t deny that he likes the luxury he has lived in since he was born, who doesn’t? But it can also be very lonely. After his mama’s death, his father barely stayed at home. He feels goosebumps from the worst kind every time he is alone in the same room as his aunt Lilith. His uncle Azazel creeps the hell out of him. And his friends… He absolutely loves his friends and misses them, but they also lead busy lives.
They will come to the town only the night before the wedding, but who knows when they will get the chance to see each other again? Catarina has crazy shifts in the hospital. Ragnor is always traveling around the world for his English Literature seminars. Raphael barely sleeps having to deal with a chain of hotels and also helping at charity works. Tessa is always on the move with Will and Jem whilst they perform their piano-violin duo worldwide. His only hope was Camille since she is from the same company as him, but Camille hates those kinds of mundane activities. She prefers high society parties, operas, and closed-door events. If Magnus as much as suggests a simple stroll around the block, she frowns in distaste and tries to distract him with a ‘better’ activity.
It usually works, but sometimes he wishes he could just… be.
Not the famous dancer Magnus Bane.
Only Magnus.
He wants to leap. He wants to be free.
He wants to know what it's like to walk holding hands. To kiss in the rain. To watch bad rom-coms and throw popcorn at each other. To share dreams and fears.
Instead, the only thing he does now is sighing tiredly.
He thinks he might’ve dazed for some time because when he blinks back, there is a very cute, small stuffed dog right in front of his face.
“What?” Magnus asks dumbly, following the arm of the person who is holding it until he locks eyes with tall, dark and handsome. “Oh, hi.”
The man smiles and pushes the toy into Magnus’ hands.
“For you.”
“What?” Magnus repeats, this time utterly confused. “Why?”
The man just shrugs.
“You look sad, and I have on good authority that dogs are perfect to cheer anyone up.”
“But… But you don’t even know me!” Magnus splutters, trying to contain an inevitable blush – and, well, making him blush isn’t an easy affair. “I-I can’t accept this.” He tries to give the stuffed dog back, but the man just looks at him with soft eyes.
“It’s okay. I already got one. My siblings and friends too. I think you could also do it with a cute companion.”
Magnus frowns, lost for words. Then, he exhales a bit shakily but gives a small smile.
“With one condition, then. You know how all my pets have puns as names. If you can think of one for this little guy, I will keep him.”
Now, it’s the man’s turn to frown, but he looks at the stuffed toy with a determinate glint on his hazel eyes. The toy is a very round, fluffy version of a corgi with short legs and a heart-shaped bum. Magnus hugs it a bit against his chest. He has never gained such a gift from someone, not even from ex-lovers, much less from Camille.
He is the one who always gives, gives, gives.
“Make a choreography for me, Magnus.”
“Book this venue for us, Magnus.”
“Replace me at the dinner event, Magnus.”
“Give me that ruby necklace, Magnus.”
It’s nice to receive something for once.
“Hey, bro!”
“Big brother!”
Both men turn to the voices and they see the guy’s group of friends waving and calling him over so they can leave. Tall, dark and handsome looks one last time to the stuffed dog, then approaches Magnus’ ear to whisper something.
Magnus’ eyes widen, and he throws his head back, laughing out loud in delight.
The guy smiles brightly like the sun itself, proud of making Magnus’ mood finally improve. He bids Magnus goodnight and walks back to the teasing remarks of his little group of family and friends.
Also smiling, Magnus looks down at his gift and beams.
“Nice to meet you, Hairy Bum.”
~*~
Magnus hates being wet. Not only his makeup, hair, and clothes are ruined, but his mood also sours terribly. Sometimes he wonders when he has become this bitter version of himself. As a child, he loved to run in the rain with his mama. To jump puddles and catch the raindrops with his tongue.
Now he’s lost in a town he still doesn’t know well, his phone has died, there is no living soul around and he has no umbrella.
While it’s pouring down.
Hard.
He sighs.
Well, figures. It’s his fault for having a fight with Camille and storming out of the inn without paying attention to where he was going. He doesn’t understand why Camille has such power over him, strong enough to shake him out of his axis, just like his dad has always done. Perhaps this is why Asmodeus accepts her so well. She’s his only lover to be in his graces. Even Lilith likes her.
His friends don’t.
They only agreed to be at his wedding for him, to give their support, but they don’t trust Camille.
Sometimes Magnus wonders if he’s too desperate, trying too hard.
Soaked wet by the rain, he knows he is in this moment.
He’s so immersed in self-hate, that he doesn’t hear the sound of steps and hooves behind him, and suddenly the rain stops.
“Uh?” He looks up and a gray umbrella with printed little cows hovers above him. Following the arm of the person holding it, he meets tall, dark and handsome.
Damn, this town is really small.
The most impressive, though, it’s the cow behind Pretty Boy.
Yes, a true cow.
“Are you Dr. Dolittle or something?” Magnus blurts out and the guy snorts, rolling his eyes fondly.
“No, but I do admit that you always catch me during some odd times. The wind forced open a fence from the Blackthorn farm, and this big girl took the opportunity to stroll around. They called me before she caused some accident and hurt herself and someone else.”
Magnus hums, looking between the cow and the umbrella.
“Are you more of a dog person or a cow person?”
“Don’t people usually mean ‘cat person’?” Tall, dark and handsome cocks an eyebrow.
“I’m not most people,” Magnus grins. “And you have too much black and white, especially in your wardrobe.”
The guy smiles bigger now. “Cows are cute. And honestly the superior animals. But I do admit I’m more of a dog person. I have three in my home.”
“Would you accept cats too?” Magnus blurts again, this time mentally slapping himself. The hell?! Why did he ask that?
“Yeah, sure. I’m comfortable with any animal, and Church is there.”
Oh, okay. Pretty guy might’ve not noticed Magnus’ chaotic behavior.
You’re a one-soul-at-a-time kind of guy. You already love someone. You love Camille.
The cow moos suddenly.
You… love her, right?
“Are you okay?” The guy asks, and his eyes are so soft and earnest, Magnus almost feels like crying upon seeing the genuine worry in them. What is it about this guy that keeps tearing apart his carefully crafted armor? The one he always wears to deal with the world.
To deal with his father.
To deal with… Camille.
“Oh God…” Magnus feels sick. He mutters an apology and darts out, back to the rain and away from the beautiful stranger.
Perhaps even from his own messy life.
~*~
Magnus should be happy. It’s his wedding day. It’s supposed to be the happiest day of his life. So, why does he feel so miserable? It’s the seventh time that he’s trying to knot his necktie, and the only thing that he wishes is to throw the damn thing far away. He doesn’t even like that color! But every time he finishes knotting it, he feels like he is suffocating.
Maybe he just needs some fresh air.
He leaves the room where he has been finishing to get ready and goes through a side door that leads to a garden at the back of the church. He can’t go to the front yet. Even if all his friends are already there – and what a relief to know that they really came – Magnus doesn’t feel strong enough to deal with any of them.
Walking for a bit, he ends up arriving at a small cabin. A familiar laugh draws his attention, and he remembers that Camille is using that cabin with her bridesmaids – that Ragnor likes to point out is more like a coven of vampires with Camille as their leader – to get ready for the ceremony. He is almost turning around to get back and leave them alone, when he hears his name being said by one of the girls.
“I can’t believe you really got Magnus Bane. You’ll be the next queen of the Edom empire.”
“Not to mention the main face of the female dancers.”
“At least Magnus is known to be good in bed. It would be a pity if he wasn’t after the experience you had with that Russian dancer.”
“Oh sweetie, who said I still can't have a bit of fun? Monogamy is so overrated.”
Magnus’ blood freezes.
What?
“You should learn how to share, Cam!”
“I do. The ménage with the Russian and the French pianist is proof enough.”
“Wasn’t that two weeks ago?”
“Yes, the best bachelorette party you arranged for me.”
They all laugh, and Magnus honestly feels like throwing up.
“Are you going to live in the Bane mansion in Bali?”
“I want to. It’s the biggest one, and one I can put those furballs the furthest away from me as possible.”
“Why don’t you throw them at a shelter? Or just pay someone to disappear with them?”
“It wouldn’t help me. Magnus is too attached to those little monsters. But I already have a plan. As soon as I get pregnant, he won’t even pay attention to them.”
More laughs until one of the girls tries to shush them all.
“We should stop, someone could hear us.”
“Don’t worry, my caramel. Everyone is waiting in the church. Magnus’ little group of idiotic friends hate me, so they always try to be the furthest from me as possible, and Magnus himself might be busy with all the makeup he likes so much to fumble with. I wouldn’t be surprised if he takes more time to get ready than me, the bride.”
Magnus backs away. He can’t listen to that anymore.
He really has to throw up.
The melody playing while Camille makes her grand entrance is lovely. Like her outer appearance. A beautiful white dress, a diamond tiara adorning her ebony hair. Her lips are so red, it’s like she painted them with pure blood. She is gorgeous.
And yet.
From where Magnus is, he can see all his friends. Ragnor is frowning hard. Catarina and Tessa seem worried. Raphael has his trademark scowl. Will is very serious and Jem looks uncomfortable.
Magnus can also see his colleagues from the dance company. Some of his father’s business partners’ representatives. People he doesn’t even know.
He wishes he could see his mother too.
“Mama, how do you know someone loves you?”
Camille arrives at the altar and the ceremony begins.
“There are some signals, my little prince. Most of the time, we’re blind to them, even when others try to tell us. But there is one we can’t miss.”
“Camille Belcourt, do you take Magnus Bane as your wedded husband?”
“I do.”
“What is it?”
“Magnus Bane, do you take Camille Belcourt as your wedded wife?”
Magnus opens his mouth to answer, but no sound comes out. He feels his chest constricted, all his thoughts screeched to a halt. He’s almost in a trance-like state when a sudden bark snaps him out of it.
Everyone turns to the restless chihuahua on the lap of an old lady. Camille glares at it but doesn't comment out loud. No wonder, though. Magnus recognizes the lady as one of Edom’s shareholders. Camille wouldn’t want to get on her bad side.
The dog barks again, wagging his little tail.
“Someone who is capable of loving animals, the purest beings on this planet, is someone you can trust to love you with their heart and soul.”
The priest clears his throat and repeats the question.
“Magnus Bane, do you take Camille Belcourt as your wedded wife?”
“No.”
A pin could drop in the sudden silence of the church.
Camille gasps in outrage.
“What?”
“I don’t and I never will.” Magnus retreats a step and glares at Camille. “I can’t take someone who my cats don’t like. I have been ignoring their aversion all this time, but no more.”
Not only theirs, his mind supplies unhelpfully.
“You can keep your Russian and French friends. Goodbye, Camille.” Magnus turns around and walks down the aisle, not once looking back to leave the church and that joke of a wedding behind.
The last thing he hears is Raphael’s clear voice saying in big relief, “Finally!”
~*~
[01:27am – 24h Diner The Portal]
“So, in summary, you fled from your own wedding after realizing that your fiancée cheated on you.”
“Well, I’m fairly sure my friends are elated right now. They hate Camille and have been trying to stop me from marrying her at least eighteen times since last month.” Magnus bites at the last pastry, sighing in contentment. He’s barely eaten the entire day, and after throwing up hours ago, his stomach was more than empty. After finally doing the right thing, he could eat with gusto.
“Marriage is a big step indeed, but it’s worth it when you find the right person.” Henry pats his wife’s forearm affectionately, earning from her a kiss on his cheek. Smiling, the love in his eyes is clear as a sunny day – and equally bright.
“I hope to find a love like yours one day,” Magnus says kindly, watching Charlotte and Henry exchanging adorable gazes.
Charlotte suddenly hums. “Maybe you have already. Haven’t you been crushing on the tall, dark and handsome boy all this time?”
Magnus opens his mouth to try and deny, but Charlotte adds.
“I can’t believe that you’ve felt attracted to him since your first encounter, but never asked for his name.”
“I got distracted!” Magnus says defensively, fiddling with his ear cuff, but he could see Charlotte’s point. “It’s not my fault that he is charming. I don’t even know if he’s not straight, but I’d like to know him better if given the chance.”
“Good to know. I’ve been wishing to know you better since the first time I saw you.”
Magnus freezes, turning slowly towards the voice. Sitting on one of the high stools at the counter, there is the tall, dark and handsome man.
“Oh, so it’s him!” Charlotte says in delight. “Magnus, this is Alec. He comes here every night for dinner.”
“Well, your food is delicious. And it’s a safe option since Izzy took upon her the holy task of cooking all the time now. I can’t get a third food poisoning.”
“Since… Since when are you there?” Magnus asks faintly.
“Uh… I arrived at eleven?” Alec shrugs.
At eleven? His wedding was at midnight since, for some reason, Camille was adamant to have a midnight wedding on a full moon. Again, Ragnor reinforced that she is a secret vampire. Magnus is beginning to agree with him.
“So, you’ve heard…”
“Everything?” Alec grins. “Yas!”
“Oh my God, someone please kill me.”
Alec laughs, and damn. Can he record that laugh and put it as his ringtone? If Alec’s smile is the sun, his laugh is a summer day.
Warm, happy.
Easier to be without clothes.
Alec hops off the stool and approaches Magnus, a hand stretched in front of him. “Since we’re clearly terrible at introductions, let’s start again. Hi, I’m Alexander Lightwood, but everyone calls me Alec. I’m Alicante’s local veterinarian.”
“Hello, I’m Magnus Bane.” Magnus holds his hand, smiling brightly. “I’m a professional dancer, but currently I’m Alicante’s runaway groom.”
Alec snorts, but quickly sobers up.
“After what she did to you, I’m not surprised. I’d have done the same.”
“You have done the same, Alec dear,” Charlotte pipes up. “Three years ago. Henry’s granddaughter Lydia, remember?”
He scrunches his nose in a cute way and Magnus almost coos. “It was an arranged marriage, and I was too deep in the closet to say no before the ceremony.”
“What happened then?” Magnus asks, curious.
“I got so anxious during the ‘I do’ part that I decided to blow up the closet. I backed away, grabbed the first guy I saw – which was this blond man from my father’s IT team – and kissed him in front of everyone. After coming out, I apologized a lot to Lydia and to the guy, for kissing him without consent. But in the end, he also liked it and asked me out. We dated for two months, but now we’re just good friends. Lydia is also one of my best friends now.”
Magnus nods, impressed. At least he now knows that Alexander is, definitely, not straight.
There is hope.
“We’re idiots.” Magnus blurts out instead.
“We are,” Alec agrees, and there is mirth in his bright eyes.
“Well, I think I’ll head back now. This day was exhausting enough and I have to gather enough energy to deal with a lot of people tomorrow.” Magnus turns to the Branwells with a grateful smile. “Thank you for letting me hide here a bit and for hearing me out.”
“Of course, dear. We’re here for that.” Charlotte smiles, and Henry adds. “And to also fill your stomachs. You kids nowadays eat too much junkie, I swear.”
Both Alec and Magnus giggle, and then the vet glances at the dancer.
“May I walk you to the inn?”
Magnus nods almost shyly, smiling.
As soon as they leave, Alec whistles. A blue-eyed lilac border collie with a checkered navy and black bandana around her neck comes running from her spot across the street and trots next to them.
“This is Willow, she is one of my dogs. I also have a biscuit-colored samoyed called Katniss, and a red gold Tibetan mastiff called Mulan. They are all little shits like my siblings, but I love them with all my heart.”
Alec’s eyes shine with pride while describing his dogs, and Magnus’ heart melts more. It’s the same fondness that Magnus uses when talking about his cats.
It’s always special to talk about the pets you love more than anything else in the world.
“You’re really a dog whisperer, aren’t you?”
“Some call me the pied piper of Alicante.”
“Because you use a whistle?”
"I guess." Alec hums, then smirks. “But between us, I am good at blowing.”
“Jesus.” Magnus almost chokes on his spit, but can't help a little giggle. Everything seems so... natural with Alexander.
Alec smiles so broadly, eyes crinkling with joy, that Magnus feels all over again that swarm of butterflies in his belly. Why did he keep wishing for the moonless nights with Camille when Alec is giving him the sun, bright and warm and lovely?
“Since your wedding is off, what do you plan to do now? Are you… leaving Alicante?”
“No. I still have to be here anyway for the Dance School’s inauguration. But perhaps I could enjoy a vacation after? I haven’t taken some for years, and I think I deserve to rest a bit.”
“Oh… And where do you plan to go? America? Asia? Africa?”
“I was thinking about this charming, small town in Europe called Alicante. Have you heard of it?”
Alec throws his head back and laughs.
“I may have, yes.”
“Wonderful! I heard it’s very peaceful and pretty. The town folks love flowers and animals. Oh, they even go for a walk with cows!”
“Don’t tell me!”
“But as much as I want to appreciate the view, my true goal is to know better their local vet. Maybe go on a date with him if he is free.”
“He absolutely is. I heard he loves cats, especially those with puns as names. Do you maybe know someone who could introduce them to him?”
“I think that a play date is in order, Alexander. We have four cats and three dogs. Their owners must spend some time together so they all can get acquainted with each other.”
“It’s a date then.”
“It is,” Magnus says softly and his heart skips a beat. Tentatively, he reaches for Alec’s hand and entwines their fingers.
For the first time in a long while, Magnus doesn’t feel so afraid to leap.