Where did we go wrong?

Part 38

It was a delightful evening, and Magnus finally had some time for himself after a long while. Over the past few weeks, he had been spending almost all his evenings with his family and friends. Particularly, since reconnecting with his childhood friend Catarina after 20 years, Magnus had been spending more and more time with her and her family. Magnus had been thoroughly enjoying Catarina's and her daughter Madzie's company, and he was also very impressed with Catarina's husband, Johan.

When he finally found some time to read the book he had been intending to read for a while as he cuddled Chairman, Magnus was quite pleased. He took a long, relaxing bath that afternoon, immersed in sandalwood essential oil and some Himalayan salt to aid his relaxation. After nearly an hour in the bath, he slipped into one of his most beloved bohemian-style robes and pants. It always made him feel luxurious and slightly dramatic. He was tousling his slightly damp hair when he heard the knock at the door. Magnus smiled to himself as he recognized whose knock it was. Yes, he was quite ready to go to bed and turn on the nightstand light as he read the book with Chairman resting on his chest, but all that came second compared to Alexander Lightwood's presence near him.

"Alexander!" Magnus greeted Alec with a warm smile as he opened the door.

"To what do I owe this delightful visit?" Magnus inquired, though Alec's smile did not match his own enthusiasm.

"Hey," Alec replied instead. His smile was small enough that it could easily be mistaken for a frown.

"Come in. Tea or coffee?" Ever the host, Magnus asked even before Alec stepped into the house.

"Um, no. I'm just here to ask for a favor."

"Hmm?" Magnus left the door open so Alec could walk in to the flat.

"What can I help you with? And where is my Rafe?"Magnus asked. It was unusual for Alec to visit his loft without Rafe. Magnus glanced back at Alec to observe him running his hand over his neck, displaying one of his nervous habits.

"He is with Mom today, and I, um... the favor is about Rafe, actually."

He took a seat on one of the chairs as he patiently waited for Alec to continue speaking. He had assumed that Alec would follow him, but seeing Alec standing nervously in the middle of the loft left Magnus feeling puzzled.

"Could you, uhm... pick him up from the daycare tomorrow afternoon by any chance and keep him until the day after tomorrow? I wouldn't have asked you if I had any other options, but he refuses to stay with anyone else." Alec said with a sigh.

"Of course, you know I'm always happy to have my Rafe over." Magnus observed Alec for a moment. Alec was clearly nervous and appeared to be in a hurry to go away. He seemed to be quite uncomfortable in Magnus' presence. As hurtful as it was, Magnus wondered why Alec had come over in the first place. He could have easily sent a message or made a phone call.

"Did you come all the way here so you can ask me that question?" Magnus asked as he didn't take his eyes off Alec's face.

"Yeah... yeah, it's only a few blocks," Alec replied, refusing to meet Magnus's eye contact.

"Hmm..." Magnus was aware that Alec was not being truthful. Did he have the intention of gently pressing Alec to obtain a response? Possibly. Additionally, why did Alec request Magnus to take care of Rafe for the night? Was Alec attempting to show off that he had a date? Did he desire Magnus to experience jealousy? Magnus had dated numerous individuals during the past few years, and he had been quite open about it. He had never intended to flaunt his partners in front of Alec or make him feel bad. After all, Magnus had established boundaries between them. However, given the subtle changes that had occurred over the past few months, Magnus was prepared to explore a more significant relationship with Alec. However, it was possible that he was being naive. Magnus wasn't really sure what to make of the situation. Should he get angry or wait for Alec to explain himself? Regardless, it was a bit difficult not to feel a bit annoyed and frustrated about the whole situation.