Bridges Of Time

Chapter 9

Summary:

Magnus and Alec ace physics, but fail at communicating.

2004
Idris High, Cooperstown

Alec is nestled in his favorite corner of the library, with his laptop open, surrounded by piles of papers, brochures, and planning materials for the upcoming cancer awareness gala. He is currently in the middle of drafting thank-you emails to sponsors who have recently confirmed their contributions, when an email notification pops up. "Please be good news," the boy mutters to himself and logs into his account.

He opens the email and scans the content:

Dear Mr Lightwood

We are pleased to inform you that we will be sponsoring the high school gala for Idris High. We are excited to support the cause and look forward to seeing the event come to life.

A smile spreads across Alec's face. He quickly types a response expressing his gratitude to the organization and updates the list of confirmed sponsors in his planner. "This is really happening." He leans back in the chair, letting out a sigh of relief.

Just then, Jace walks in, carrying a stack of envelopes and a clipboard. He's followed by Maia, who is holding a box of invitation cards, both of them looking exhausted but enthusiastic and ready to help. "Got the last batch of invites," Maia places the box of cards next to Alec on the carpeted floor, wiping sweat off her forehead. "Let's get these finalized?"

Alec smiles, "Perfect timing. We just got another sponsor confirmed." He re-opens the email and shows it to Maia and Jace. "I think this gala might finally turn out to be half-decent," he adds, with a hint of humility that is very unlike him.

"Half-decent!" Jace sniggers. "Cut it, Alec. Humility doesn't become you."

Alec rolls his eyes. The three of them settle down, spreading out the invitation cards. Alec starts addressing the envelops while Jace and Maia organize the cards by recipient.

"How many hospitals have confirmed so far?" Jace curiously asks.

"Two—St Jude's and New York Presbyterian. Their pediatric oncology wards have expressed their desire to join forces with us." Alec excitedly tells him.

"Hmm," Jace mumbles, sorting through the invites that have been finalized.

"I am expecting another confirmation today," Alec glances at his planner and makes a note to check in with the hospitals that haven't acknowledged or responded to his emails. Just then, a email notification pops up. It's from the hospital he's been waiting to hear from.

Dear Mr Lightwood

Thank you for reaching out to us.

We would love to be included in your fundraiser. The support will go a long way in helping our pediatric oncology ward. Thank you for your efforts.

Alec's eyes shine up, "The third hospital confirmed." He shows the email to Jace and Maia, and Maia jumps in excitement. "Oh by the way, did I tell you guys? The DJ said he's in. Isabelle told me in the morning."

"Awesome, so what's left?" Maia asks.

Alec writes the name on the last invite, "Catering and decorations. I delegated decorations to Sophie and Archie, but can you please check if they are on track or if they need something? Anything. Both of them really don't reach out even if they are stuck."