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Alec sighs, running a hand over his face. Keeping up his facade is getting more and more difficult as he gets older. The shadowhunter can’t help but allow his mind to wander back to THAT day. The day he was classified.

~FLASHBACK: Alec-Age 15~

Alec paces in his room, his mother trying to help him calm down.

“Alexander, deep breath. It won’t help for you to be so riled up before your classification.” “Sorry, mother. It’s just aggravating knowing how much this will determine in my life...” “I understand. Come sit with me a moment.” Alec takes a deep breath and sits beside Maryse, allowing his mother to rub small circles into the back of his neck. Alec NEEDS to be a Dominant! All Lightwood men are Dominants. Even Jace was classified as a Dominant and Alec refuses to be ordered around by his parabatai. He needed to be classified as a Dominant in order for his father to still respect him. Maryse didn’t care as much as Robert did.

Though she would prefer her son to be a Dominant simply because his life will be easier, she wouldn’t mind if he was a Submissive. Not to mention that male Shadowhunters are discriminated against if they’re Submissive and that’s the last thing that she wants for her boy. Maryse had a feeling that Alec would be classified as a Submissive anyways which is why she took him instead of Robert. Hell, she believes be would be the lowest Sub Classification. Maryse can tell from not only his submissive tendencies, but also his childish and innocent ones that her son will be a Little Sub.

“What if I’m a Sub? Or a Little? What’s going to happen to me?” “No ‘what ifs’. Let’s first see how you classify them we will take it from there.” “Yes, Mother.” “Good boy.” Alec slightly melts at the praise from his mother, further confirming her suspicions. Maryse was a Switch, a classification that was extremely rare. She was Dominant with everyone but her husband since he was a Dominant as well and would only accept her if she was a Submissive to him. She knew the signs of a Sub very well and knew her first born was one, and a Little Sub at that. She just hoped Robert could accept him, or at least go a little easy.

Not even a minute later, the door opens to reveal a Silent Brother walking in. Silent Brothers handle all classifications done in the Shadowworld, the mundanes have their government for that. Maryse smiles before making Alec stand with her.

“Brother Enoch, so good to see you.” “Shall we get started, Maryse?” “Yes, sir.” “Alexander Gideon Lightwood, expose your right forearm so the Classification Rune may be placed.” “Y-yes, sir.” “You will be entirely unaware of what is going on as the Classification Rune takes over. You will be informed of your classification once the testing is complete. Do you understand?” “Yes, Brother Enoch. I understand.” Alec rolls up his sleeve and gives the Silent Brother access to his arm. Brother Enoch drew the Classification Rune onto the boy’s skin and allowed it to settle. Alec looks up at the Silent Brother with vacant eyes. Maryse watches everything tensely, making sure to keep the proper distance. Before Brother Enoch can even say another word, Alec is kneeling in front of him in a prime Submissive position. There are even some tears in his eyes like a scolded child. Maryse can immediately see that her son is submitting to the Silent Brother and herself as he lowers his head and a single tear falls.

E: “What is wrong? Why do you cry?”
A: “I don’t know, sir. I’m sorry.”
E: “No need to apologize for emotions. Why do you lower your head and kneel before us, Alexander?”
A: “To show you the utmost respect, sir.”
E: “If I instructed you to stand, would you listen?”
A: “Of course, sir.”
E: “Why?”
A: “Because you instructed me to, sir.”
E: “If you are in a situation where a Dom accuses you of doing something you did not do, how do you continue?”
A: “Accept my punishment. If the Dom believes i did it, i should not doubt him or question his authority.”
E: “Even if you and the Dom both know that you are innocent?”
A: “Yes, sir. It is not my place to question a Dom.”
E: “This is not a question always asked but I feel it’s necessary for your classification. What is your first instinct when you are told you are being punished?”
A: “Not to cry and accept my punishment because I need to do it, even if I don’t want to.”
E: “What would be the ideal aftercare for you?”
A: “Cuddling, a blanket or a stuffed animal maybe, just something to show me that I’m still cared for and not hated because I messed up.”
E: “I don’t think we need to question him further. I will deactivate the Rune and he will be told his Classification. Alexander, show me your arm with the Rune and stand.”

Alec stands slowly and shows his arm, not looking up. Brother Enoch deactivates the Classification Rune and watches it fade off of the boy’s arm. The teenager blinks as focus returns to his eyes. The first person Alec looks at is his mom, and fear is in his eyes. Maryse offers a comforting smile and opens her arms to her son. He responds by running into her arms and pushing his face into her body. Alec tries his best not to start crying, but he sure as hell wants to. Maryse strokes his hair and gives small kisses to Alec’s forehead. The Lightwood boy then turns to face the Silent Brother, who has his head tilted in sympathy.

“W-what am i...?” “Alexander Gideon Lightwood, your Classification is Little Submissive.” “I-I... What...?! B-but i can’t be...” Alec bursts into tears and pushes his face back into his mom’s chest. Maryse immediately starts comforting her son. Alec is practically trembling as sobs wrack his frame.

“Shhh, sweetheart. It’s alright. Don’t cry, my little angel.” “B-but dad won’t love me anymore! He’ll hurt me!” “I won’t let him lay a finger on you. This can stay our secret, i can teach you how to present as a Dom. I will always protect you, my sweet baby.” Alec only nods and he cuddles further into his mom. Maryse feels her heart break hearing her son’s fear. The Silent Brother gives the family some privacy, leaving a bag with things to help Alec settle down. Well, to help Littles in general settle down. Maryse spots the bag and activates a strength Rune, hoisting Alec into her hip and grabbing the bag. She made sure that the room was locked before she looked in the bag. She silently thanks Brother Enoch before smiling at her son sweetly.

“Sweetheart? You wanna try some Little stuff so you can calm down? This can be our secret, and we can do this whenever you need to. No one needs to know.” Alec nods and looks up at Maryse, thumb between his lips and tears in his eyes. The fear in those hazel eyes is what kickstarts Maryse into action. She pulls out a pacifier from the bag and gently pushes it between Alec’s lips. The teenager gives it an experimental suck and melts into his mother. Maryse smiles a bit and cradles Alec to her chest. The boy manages to calm down as he sucks on his new object. Alec’s arms wrap around his mother’s torso and he spits out the pacifier.

“That... That felt good...” “I’m glad I could help you. Now, there’s one part that I’m afraid you’ll need to learn how to hide immediately.” “What do you mean...?” “Well... Little Submissives tend to have... Specific issues, so to speak. While you’re presenting as a Dom and will not be in your little headspace, you’ll need to wear one of these.” Alec’s eyebrows shoot up to his hairline as he sees a black pull-up with an angelic rune on the front of it. The Teen shakes his head and takes a step back.

“No way! I’m not wearing that!” “Alec, it’s just until your body is fully under control and you present as a Dom. Once you can go one week without needing one changed, you never have to wear one again.” Alec pouts but strips from the waist down, allowing his mom to slide the padded garment up his legs and secure it around his waist. The boy shifts his weight and finds the pull-up actually quite comfortable. Maryse helps him put his pants on and Alec is relieved to see that they aren’t visible at all. The mother breathes out in relief and kisses the top of her son’s head.

“There, all good. I’ll help you hide them in your room so that you can change yourself when you need it. We can also find a place for the other items to help you. We should head back soon, people may be suspicious why your classification is taking so long. Stand up straight and school your features into a stern scowl when someone stares at you. That helps people see that you are a Dominant who won’t be bothered. Take one of these too, it’s to help switches and submissives with dominant parabatais not allow their submissive feelings and tendencies seep into the bond.” Alec nods and tries after taking the pill, succeeding easily. Maryse gives him a proud grin before grabbing the Little bag, guiding the teenager to his room to hide the items before taking him to see his family. Alec takes a deep breath before approaching his father and siblings. Robert raises an eyebrow and Alec glares him down, making a proud smile grace his features.

“Well done, my son.” “Thank you, Father.” “Come, we have to celebrate your classifications.” Alec and his parabatai nod, Jace grinning at the darker haired boy.

~END OF FLASHBACK~

Alec sighs and leans back in his chair, groaning under his breath at the familiar feeling of a wet pull-up. Even after all these years, he never could get out of them. The shadowhunter locks the door and changes as quickly as possible, making sure to take the masking drug as he feels his submissive nature peeking through. After all these years, the only people who know are Brother Enoch and Maryse. Alec’s mom won’t be over to visit again for a while so the oldest Lightwood child is on his own until then. Alec can manage. He has for this long. He just needs nothing to go wro-

Jace brought mundanes with him into the institute...

FUCK!!!

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Alec walks towards the small group and represses a tantrum that’s bubbling up.

“Why is there a mundane in the institute?” “Don’t start with me!” “Snap at me again and the next thing that gets snapped is your neck, little girl.” “Easy, hermano. This is my older brother, Alec. Excuse his statement and attitude, he’s stressed and all this is stressing us out too. He lashes out when people try to yell at him or demand things from him, he’s quite the Dom. Dad’s pride.” Alec takes a deep breath and accepts the hand Izzy offers him, using her to ground him. The shorter Lightwood smiles at her brother and stays close to his side to ease his agitation. All other nosy shadowhunters who were watching the interaction went back to work once they saw Alec calm down, grateful that none of them were on the receiving end.

“Alec, this is Clary. We gotta help her.” “Why? What’s so important about some mundane?” “She’s not a mundane, she’s a born shadowhunter. Daughter of Jocelyn Fairchild and Valentine Morgenstern.” “Morgenstern? As in the leader of the Circle who murdered other Shadowhunters? The fucking traitor? No way in Edom. We’re not helping someone who’s related to that monster.” “Alec, her mother is missing! What if this was Maryse?” “Don’t you dare bring her into this!” Alec is in Jace’s face in seconds. It’s no secret to anyone from New York to Alicante that Alec and Maryse are extremely close. The blond male flinches back and his eyes hold slight regret, knowing he crossed a line. Alec glares at Clary and her friend before stomping off to his room, locking it completely and even barricading the door. He needs Little time. Desperately.

Alec uses a quick rune to reenforce the pull-up he’s wearing, knowing he should really switch to a diaper but doesn’t want to run the risk of being caught while also not trusting himself to do it right. After the rune is activated and a rune is applied to the door and walls to prevent any sound from leaving the room, Alec sits on the floor of his room and lets the damn break. He starts crying hard, nearly sobbing and borderline wailing. He crawls to where his Little supplies are hidden and takes out a pacifier, sucking on it to help him self-soothe. Alec ends up on his back on the floor as he cries, closed fists rubbing his eyes. After a moment, a portal begins to open in the room. Alec crawls quickly and hides on the other side of his bed as he tries to muffle his cries. The portal vanishes after the person leaves it and heels can be heard clicking across the floor.

“Alec? Baby? It’s mommy, it’s okay.” The Little immediately breaks back down, crying loudly while reaching for his mom. Maryse coos sympathetically and hugs her first born on the floor. He cries against her shoulder and sucks on his pacifier sporadically. Maryse gently rubs the back of her son, kissing the side of his head as she comforts him and rocks slightly. Alec starts to calm down as Maryse comforts him and cuddles further into her. She rubs his back and pats him on the padded bottom gently.

“We should switch that out, huh?” “No know how...” “Mommy can do it. Lie on your back, baby.” Alec reluctantly obeys. Maryse smiles at her son and gets him changed, cradling him close to her afterwards. The two shadow hunters are lost in their own little world as Alec is nearly asleep in his mother’s arms.

A knock at the door shocks the duo into reality. Maryse looks in the direction while Alec whimpers into her chest. A soft voice comes from the other side.

“Alec? It’s Izzy, you okay? I just... Something’s telling me that I need to check on you.” Maryse looks at Alec and he looks back at her, seeming to be slightly out of headspace.

On one hand, Izzy might laugh at her big brother for being such a baby and not accept him.

But that’s immensely unlikely given how much she loves him.

The other scenario, and the one they’re more hopeful for, is that Izzy helps Alec when he needs to be cared for and Maryse can’t be there. She can be the extra support he craves.

Maryse looks at her son one last time before opening the door a crack. Isabelle looks at her mother in shock and confusion.

“Mother? What are you doing in New York?” “I had a feeling that Alec needed me and I was right.” “Is he okay?” “Yes, but I need to say one thing first. You are not to speak a word of what you are about to see to anyone. Understood?” “Yes. I promise I won’t say anything. What’s going on?” Maryse only takes Izzy’s hand and pulls her into the room, shutting and locking the door quickly. Alec is hiding on the side of his bed while his family looks around.

“Alec, baby, it’s okay. Izzy is here to help out. Can you come say hi to your sister?” “Alec isn’t a Dom, is he?” “Nope. Soft voice, kneel down. There we go.” Once both women are sitting on the floor, Alec peeks his head out. The second Izzy sees a pacifier along with red-rimmed wet eyes, she melts and gets a bit closer. Alec looks at his sister before crawling slowly to her, ending up with his head on her thigh. Isabelle strokes his hair with one hand and rubs his belly with the other. The Little melts and hums happily.

“Aww, sweet boy. Is this comfy for you? What a little cutie.” “Isn’t he? An absolute sweetheart.” “You’ve been helping him all this time?” “I was there when he was classified and I helped him every time he needed it since then. I gave him a medication that helps so that Jace can’t feel his submissive energies and I taught him how to act like a Dom. Poor baby is so little though.” Alec rolls over and pushes his reddening face into Izzy’s thigh, making both women coo at him. The Dom of the three smiles at her brother and continues to stroke his hair. She starts to lightly scratch his back with her other hand and her smile grows when his body relaxes further. Maryse watches her two children as a warmth blooms in her chest, knowing now that her baby is in good hands if she can’t be there. Alec’s breathing evens out a bit and Isabelle looks down to see that he fell asleep.

“Aww, poor sleepy baby. Mom, what are we going to do? Don’t Little Subs drop more frequently when they’re stressed?” “They do, why?” “Clary Fray is here.” “Fray... Jocelyn and Valentine’s girl... No wonder the sudden drop. Keep an eye on your brother, Isabelle. He needs you.” “Don’t have to ask me twice. I love my brother more than anything, of course I’ll look after him. You both can count on me.” “That’s my girl. Now, help me get your brother on his bed. I’ll show you how to put the guardrails up and just stay close while he naps so you can help him when he needs it.” “I will.” Maryse and Izzy move the sleeping Little to his bed and the matriarch of the Lightwood family shows her daughter how to put the rails up on the bed. The baby doesn’t even stir once. The women smile at Alec before Maryse kisses his head, leaving shortly after. Izzy pulls a chair up beside the bed and pulls her phone out, looking up how to properly care for a little. She looks up for a moment and sees Alec trying to reach in her direction in his sleep, prompting her to slip one arm between the bars and hold his larger hand in hers.

Izzy smiles at her sleeping brother with an expression that holds an immense amount of love while imagining ways to spoil him in her head.

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Alec wakes up about an hour later, whining once and pushing his face into his pillow. He doesn’t wake up Little after naps often so when he does, he is instantly upset and never understands why. He feels a gentle hand petting his hair and listens to the quiet voice of someone in the room as they soothe him. He starts to relax, still whining a bit.

“Shh, it’s okay. Everything’s okay, mi hermano.” Alec registers Izzy’s voice and his brain is conflicted. On one hand, he doesn’t like that his little sister knows he’s a baby and that she’s coddling him. On the other, he loves that she knows and is there for him. Alec finds himself melting under her touch and his whining slowly stops, leading him to peek out at his sister. Izzy gives her brother a comforting smile and kisses his nose, eliciting a giggle from the Little.

“Aww, sweet boy. How was your nap, huh? Feel rested?” “Mmm.” “Aww.” Izzy puts down the guardrail on the side she’s on and sits on the edge of the bed, tickling Alec. The Little erupts into giggles and it only encourages the Dom to continue. The tickle and giggle fest continues for a few minutes before Izzy lets her brother breathe, kissing his flushed cheek as he slowly regains his breath. Alec then stretches out on the bed and reaches a hand toward Izzy. The female Lightwood puts her own small hand in her brother’s larger one and allows him to just move it around how he wants it. Alec starts to babble a bit, fabric of his shirt entering his mouth. Izzy notices this and switches the fabric for a pacifier she found by his bed, cooing at how he relaxes as the small plastic object bobs between his lips.

A half hour of silence passes before Alec gets fussy. He whines and lets go of Izzy’s hand, rolling onto his belly. The Dom looks at her brother in concern and starts rubbing his back, hoping to soothe him. Alec gets a bit quieter but is still fussing some, causing Izzy to grow more concerned.

“Alec, honey, what’s wrong? Can you use your big boy words for me?” “Nnn...” “No? Okay, anything I can do to help?” Alec pushes his face into his pillow and whines again. Izzy takes in his body language and distressed sounds, trying to figure out what’s wrong.

Discomfort.

Embarrassment.

Oh.

“Oh, Alec. It’s okay, baby boy. Let’s get you cleaned up. Sound good?” Alec lifts his head and only sniffles, letting his sister take the lead. Izzy gently rolls Alec over so he’s on his back and changes him, letting the Little hide his face in a nearby stuffed bear that she found. The Dom redresses her brother and pulls him into her arms, cuddling him close to her chest. Alec melts in his sister’s hold and cuddles his bear too, happy that Izzy is taking care of him. Isabelle kisses the top of his head and rocks them slightly, which proves to be a bit of a challenge given that he’s almost a foot taller than her but she’s determined to make him feel small and cared about regardless.

It takes about an hour for Alec to emerge from headspace, face turning as red as his sister’s lipstick as he uncurls his body in her lap. As he tries to get off her lap, Izzy pulls him right back.

“Oh no you don’t! You don’t get to run away without explaining, hermano. You’re a little sub?” “SHHH!” “No one can hear us, Alec. How often do you drop into little space?” “I... Once every other week...” “What?! Alec, that’s not enough.” “I know.” “We need to make a schedule.” “What?” “Alec, your body can’t handle you continuing to fight your submissive nature! If you’re going to continue to pretend you’re a dominant, you need to schedule more drops into little space or you could drop into subspace with the wrong dominant without your consent or control. It’s dangerous.” Alec bows his head and slides off his sister’s lap, kneeling in front of her. He can’t help it, his submissive side took over as he was scolded by a dominant. Izzy sighs, that’s not what she was trying to accomplish.

“Alec, lift your chin and stand up please. C’mon.” “B-“ “Nope, I’m not your Dom. You don’t submit to anyone unless they’re your dom, understand?” “I...” “Alec.” “I understand.” Izzy kisses her brother on the forehead before making him stand up, hugging him tightly. Alec gently strokes Izzy’s hair as he returns the hug, everything in his brain telling him he’s not behaving properly and adding to the confusion he’s feeling. Isabelle sees the confusion all over her brother’s face and strokes his cheek.

“You’ve suppressed this for too long. You need to start presenting as your true classification. Your brain doesn’t even know how to function as it should! You can’t keep this up.” “No! I agreed to you scheduling drops for me but that’s it! I need to present as Dom, I can’t let anyone know I’m a Sub and especially a little!” “Alec, you’ve left no other option! You’ve never truly embraced your classification and it has you confused on how you should behave! I’m talking to mom, this can’t continue how it has been.” Izzy turns around to grab her phone when a large hand grabs her arm harshly, forcing the woman to turn and face her brother. Alec glares down at his sister, eyes unforgiving and brow heavily furrowed.

“I. Said. No.” “Alec-“ “End of discussion. Now, go back to helping Jace with the Fairchild girl and her mundane. Get out of my room and do your job. Now.” “Alec, you can’t-!“ “GO!” Izzy flinches back a bit, ripping her arm out of her brother’s grasp and leaving the room. She’s not afraid of him, quite the opposite. Alec is spiraling, and the last thing she needs to do is sit there to aggravate him. Isabelle closes the door behind her and heads to her bedroom, writing a fire message to her mother about what transpired so it gets read as quickly as possible.

Alec groans under his breath and changes his clothing, diaper replaced with pull-up and comfortable onesie replaced by his regular black tactical attire. He sighs once before hiding his Little stuff, grabbing his stele and fiddling with it as he walks to his office. The glare fixed on his face wards away any and all Shadowhunters that look in his direction, making sure he won’t be bothered until everything settles back down.

He can last a few more days without any unnecessary interruptions.

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Alec exhales slowly as he listens to the new girl ramble on.

Emotional little girl.

His own thoughts catch him up at the phrase ‘little girl’, like he shouldn’t say that.

Sure, she’s shorter than him and reminds him of himself when his brain demands a tantrum and she’s quick to get upset and can’t keep her knuckle out of her mouth for long and oooohhhhhhhhh.

She’s like him, that’s why he doesn’t like it.

He won’t call her out in front of anyone, and he definitely won’t tell her his classification, but he’ll try to be sympathetic.

Try being the key word.

Alec realizes he hasn’t been paying attention when he feels a hand touch his right tricep. He looks down to see Izzy beside him with a smile on her face. It takes him a few seconds to register the information that she wasn’t here until just now. Alec raises an eyebrow as Izzy winks, she doesn’t plan to say a word until things fall into place. Alec isn’t a fan of his sister not telling him what she’s been up to and drags her away from the group for a minute. He takes her outside and raises an eyebrow.

“What were you doing?” “Just on the phone with mom, giving her a recap.” “You’re hiding something, Isabelle.” “What makes you think I’m hiding something?” “I know you. Tell me. Now.” “Alec, sweetie, your fake Dom voice doesn’t work on me. I know you’re not a Dom, don’t waste it on me.” “What did you and mom talk about?” “You’ll find out soon.” Alec groans loudly, teeth clenched as he maintains composure. He sends his sister one last glare and heads back inside. Izzy smiles a bit, hoping her mom isn’t struggling through plan.

Maryse exhales slowly before sending her fire message, hoping to hear back as soon as possible. She knows Alec will never forgive her for seeking aide from someone he didn’t know, but Maryse knows she made the right decision. It’s about twenty minutes later when a portal opens near her. Maryse gets out of her chair and walks towards it, greeting the stone-faced warlock that comes through.

“Magnus Bane, thank you for agreeing to meet with me.” “Well, you claimed it was urgent so I won’t just ignore it. What do you need from me?” “It’s my son, his classification is-“ “Not one that you or your husband approve of so you want me to change it? I don’t do that anymore.” “No! I don’t care what his classification is! My eldest son is a Little Sub and he’s been hiding it for years. According to my daughter, his idea of who to submit to and how to behave is skewed so we want him to stop hiding but we’re stuck! Alec is as stubborn as his Dominant father and refuses to reveal how he truly is and I worry about him. He even became a bit violent and was threatening his Dominant sister. We need help.” Magnus nods and takes a few steps away from the shadowhunter, thinking of what he could even do.

He’s not exactly one to aide a shadowhunter, let alone a Lightwood, but the idea of a Little Sub struggling always strikes him at his core. He pictures a Little boy with teary brown eyes like his mother’s, extremely confused in such a complex world and crying out for help without realizing how bad he really is. Magnus exhales slowly and pinches the bridge of his nose before turning his attention back to the concerned mother anxiously biting her knuckles as she stares at her shoes. Magnus closes the gap he previously created, prompting Maryse to look up and drop her hand back to her side. Magnus notices that Maryse won’t look him in the eye and fixes her gaze on his eyebrows, tense body language reading as a submissive expecting a scolding to Magnus.

Strange, he’d always known her as a dominant that was quite the force to be reckoned with. He’d never seen her bow her head to anyone or ever back down and show a level of vulnerability.

“Breathe, Maryse Lightwood. There’s no need for you to work yourself up with me. I’ve never seen this side of you, as if you see me as a threat.” “Not a threat, no. Your energy is very dominant, more dominant than I’ve ever witnessed. Your reputation precedes you.” “Yours as well, a ruthless dominant woman who doesn’t allow anyone to tell her what to do.” “Except I’m a Switch. I’m only submissive to my husband, however I find it hard to keep the same face here.” “I’m afraid your sense may be skewed as well. Not like your son, but skewed nonetheless. I need to meet him. The sooner the better. I’m not agreeing to help just yet, I need to see what I’m getting myself into first.” “Understood. I’ll arrange a meeting between you and Alec without him knowing the reason for it.” “Alec?” “Short for Alexander, my boy.” “Alexander. I quite like that name. Very well, I expect to be informed of when I’m meeting him.” “As soon as I know, so will you.” Magnus extends his hand, receiving a firm shake without any hesitation. Magnus then portals back to his loft, leaving Maryse to deflate and sink to the floor.

Magnus stands in the living room of his loft, taking a deep breath before walking straight to his liquor cart. As he mixes his cocktail to help unwind, Magnus feels a shift in his wards. The warlock groans and adds a bit more alcohol to his drink before grabbing another glass, finding himself unable to resist smirking at the horned man that trudges into the room.

“Scotch?” “Just a bit, Mag. Technically, I’m working. Need to be at least partially coherent.” “What did you need?” “Vampire hair, I’m too low to finish.” “Take whatever you need, my little cabbage.” “By the Angel, Bane. What’s going on with you? I can smell the liver failure from here.” “Have a seat, it’s definitely something.” Ragnor Fell laughs and takes his glass from Magnus’ outstretched ringed hand. Both dominant warlocks walk over to the nearest couch and practically fall onto it with matching groans.

“What’s got you in such a twist?” “A potential client.” “Potential? Why so stressed about someone you might not even help?” “You’ll understand, trust me. Where do I even begin with this?” “With a sip?” Magnus laughs and knocks back half of his drink before looking at his friend, ready to tell every detail he has.

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“You act like you’re aiding a shadowhunter.” “I am.” “You what?!” “Well, I plan to try and help.” “Wait a moment. Magnus.” “This isn’t the first time I’ve assisted a shadowhunter, you know. There’s no need to be this shocked.” “Valentine’s ex who paid you quite handsomely was a strange set of circumstances that I still cannot fathom. This is a perspective client, right? How much are you being paid for this?” “We didn’t discuss payment. I don’t even know if I can do what she asked of me. I’ve never had this type of request before.” “She must be a Penhallow, requesting something absurd.” “No. Someone else you may not want to hear about.” Ragnor raises an eyebrow, lowering his glass from his lips. Magnus knocks back the rest of his own drink and clears his throat, licking his lips before looking at his best friend.

“Maryse Lightwood.” “MARYSE FUCKING LIGHTWOOD?! YOU’VE GONE DAFT! Bending over backwards for the bloody Clave now?!” “Maryse isn’t our enemy, her husband is. I actually like what she’s asking for help with, I want to be able to help. I just don’t know if I can.” “You really seem invested in this. What are you doing for her?” “Not for her per say. It’s about her eldest son.” “The archer who runs the New York Institute? What’s the kid’s name? Allen?” “Alec, she said it was short for Alexander. He runs the Institute?” “Yeah. Apparently, he’s pretty good. What’s wrong with him?” “It has to do with his classification. He’s hidden that he’s a Little Sub since day 1. He’s turned aggressive and violent, threatening his dominant sister even. He doesn’t understand how submission works, thinking he needs to submit to any Dom who scolds him while simultaneously nearly attacking them. He refuses to reveal his classification and Maryse is desperate.” “Poor boy. Can’t even imagine.”

Magnus nods and stands as Ragnor finishes his drink, rubbing a hand over his face after biting down on a piece of ice. Magnus takes his friend’s glass and taps it with a ringed finger.

“Want another?” “No thanks, I won’t want to leave then and I promised I’d have this potion finished within two days.” “Help yourself to the ingredients you needed.” “Much appreciated! What’s your next step in this plan?” “Meeting him, seeing who I’ll be working with and what I could even do.” “Good man. Alright, grabbed the much needed vampire hair and snagged a couple werewolf fangs.” “For you or the client?” “None of your business.” Magnus laughs and Ragnor joins in before portaling home. Once the portal closes, the high warlock of Brooklyn deflates into his couch. Even just thinking about helping the Lightwoods exhausts him.

Alec finds the blunt end of his stele between his teeth again as he looks through some mission reports in his office, anxious because of whatever his sister is plotting. He removes the object from his mouth and wipes it clean, pocketing it to prevent him from using it as a teething toy again. Alec exhales slowly as he deflates against his chair, wanting to flip his desk so badly. A knock breaks his train of thought, prompting him to look up as Jace lets himself in.

“Hey, two things.” “What, Jace?” “One, wanted to properly apologize for bringing up Maryse like that. I know better and shouldn’t rile you up for nothing.” “Accepted. Second thing?” “Maryse is here looking for you, says she needs you for something and won’t clue us in. I asked her for a minute to talk to you.” “Oh. Her and Izzy were talking about something earlier so it’s probably about that. What’s your plan with Clary and her mundie?” “She wants to find the warlock that worked with her mother so we were going to try to find her. Was gonna ask if you’d tag along but figured you’d say no plus Maryse wants you.” “You’re right, I would’ve said no. Be safe.” “Always, parababro. I’ll send Maryse in.” “Thanks.” Jace and Alec fist bump with hints of smiles on each of their faces before the blond leaves, the Lightwood matriarch entering in his place. Alec smiles at his mother and gestures to the chair in front of him.

“Wanted to discuss something with me?” “Yes. It’s about the report I got from your sister.” “What did she tell you?” “About your struggles with behavior linked to your classification. Alec, we can’t ignore this.” “Well we’re going to for now. If that’s all, I need to get back to these reports.” “I’m not finished. I need a favor of you.” “Why me?” “Because you’re acting head of Institute and a Lightwood needs to do this. Are you familiar with the warlock who established the wards in the institute?” “High Warlock of Brooklyn Magnus Bane, correct?” “Yes. I need you to meet with him. I’ll give you the folder, all you need is to hand it to him. It’s the new ward standards from Idris.” “Why can’t you go?” “Because I’m not acting head.” “Fine. I’ll stop by tomorrow afternoon. I’ll contact him when I have a moment to set up the appointment.” “Sounds like a plan. I’ll leave you to your work then and send the file as soon as I can.” Maryse smiles at her son and leaves the room, taking a deep breath as she walks away to portal back to Idris. As she steps through, a folder with all of Alec’s information regarding his classification and documented behavior is placed on Alec’s desk. Given that Maryse told him to only deliver it, she knows her son won’t open the file.

Alec glances at the purple folder on the corner of his desk and sighs, running a hand through his hair before grabbing his phone. He has Magnus’ number saved in his phone for moments like this, but he’s never used it. He takes a deep breath before hitting ‘call’.

?: “Magnus Bane.”

A: “Mr. Bane, how are you? I’m Alec Lightwood with the New York Institute. I’ve received a folder from Idris addressed to you with new standards for the wards. When is a good time tomorrow to bring them to you and go over any other possible details?”

M: “Oh my, how professional! I appreciate the call ahead of time, very respectful. I am available to meet with you tomorrow at 1 o’clock. I’ll send you my address momentarily.”

A: “1 o’clock in the afternoon it is. I will see you then, Mr. Bane.”

M: “Magnus is just fine. I’ll see you then.”

Magnus hangs up the phone and grins at it, unaware that the man on the other end of that call is struggling to keep composure. Alec could hear the dominant energy in his relaxed tone, able to tell he probably won’t be able to save face around him.

God

Fucking

Damnit

Chapter Text

Alec adjusts his jacket, entering the building where he told Magnus he’d meet him in. His fingers gently rub against the outside of the purple folder, anxious to meet with the high warlock in person. Alec did a bit of his own research to see what he was getting into meeting Magnus and he’s a bit terrified, he won’t lie. He’s notoriously powerful and a dominant who has had other dominants SUBMIT TO HIM! Alec takes a few deep breaths as he approaches the room he was told to go to, resisting the urge to teethe on his stele to self-soothe. He scans the room slowly, not yet seeing the warlock. Gentle footsteps approach the shadowhunter from behind, prompting Alec to turn quickly to see the man he was waiting for.

Magnus Bane adjusts his silk vest, smoothing out the fabric as his heeled boots gently clack against the hardwood floor. The warlock smirks as he comes to a halt, raising an eyebrow when he makes eye contact with the shadowhunter in front of him. Alec attempts to maintain his gaze before finding it near impossible, choosing instead to study the kohl highlighting the eyeliner framing the dominant’s warm eyes.

“Mr. Bane.” “I believe I told you to call me Magnus, did I not?” “Y-you did. You’re right, I’m sorry.” “Don’t be, darling. You have something for me? Hand it over.” Before he could even blink, Alec is handing Magnus the purple folder in his hands. The warlock smiles in a silent praise and takes it in his ringed hands, opening the folder and skimming through the paperwork within. Alec stands in silence, unsure if he should excuse himself at this time. When he goes to open his mouth, Magnus’ voice rings through the room.

“Have a seat. Care for a drink?” “N-no, I don’t drink.” “Really? Ever?” “No, sir. The taste doesn’t appeal to me and the after effects aren’t something I seek out.” “Understandable. And, Alec?” “Y-yes?” “You are aware that there is no need to titles such as ‘sir’ when the conversation is between two dominants, correct? I’m not above you and you are not above me.” “R-right, my apologies.” Alec turns towards the door but the click of Magnus’ tongue stops him in his tracks. Those same heeled footsteps approach the shadowhunter from behind and a hand grasps his shoulder.

“I believe I asked you to have a seat. If you don’t want a cocktail, that’s fine. I still want to have a discussion with you regarding the contents of the folder.” “O-of course, I’m sorry. I assumed our business was finished and my decline in the drink was a signal for me to leave.” “No, it wasn’t. You don’t have to drink. Now, have a seat.” Magnus lets a bit more of a stern tone seep into his voice, taking note how Alec nearly runs to the couch and takes a seat. The warlock smiles and sits on the chair across from the shadowhunter, feeling slight guilt for swinging his classification around like that but feeling it necessary for this one. Alec feels the strong urge to kneel beside the couch, chewing the inside of his cheek to try and alleviate the need to teethe on his stele. Magnus grabs the folder again and reads the pages more thoroughly, taking note of the body language of the Little Sub in front of him simultaneously. Alec finds himself unable to suppress the urge to fidget in his seat, shifting his weight on each thigh. The slight rustle of different fabrics from this movement causes Magnus to look up and keep his gaze on the man across from him.

“Perhaps I should cut to the chase. I apologize for the deception, but this folder doesn’t contain any new ward standards from Idris.” “W-… What?” “This is a report from your mother regarding your classification and detailed accounts of your behavior from both her and your sister. Maryse reached out to me in hopes I could aide you with your classification and help get your behavior on the right track. From what I’ve read, I have to say I’m very concerned about you. This violence that comes to you against other dominants is very dangerous, one of these days you’ll find a dominant who isn’t afraid to match that threat level. I’d like to get to know you and your classification headspaces better personally so let’s start there.” “All due respect, I didn’t consent to this. I’m leaving, thank you for your time.” “Alexander, I was not making a suggestion.” Rage builds up in Alec’s chest, how dare he use his full name. How dare he use his classification against him. How dare his mother betray him to someone he doesn’t even know! Alec stands from the couch and storms towards the door, not turning around when his name is called. Magnus uses his magic to turn Alec around and make him stop in his tracks, not restraining him but halting his movement.

“Alec, you need to calm down. Take a seat and breathe for a minute. You’re not leaving until I know you’re calm enough.” “Who are you to try and control me?” “Alexander, I know your classification and I don’t take kindly to anyone trying to force me into submission.” “And?! What are you going to do? You have no right to treat me like a submissive.” “You ARE a submissive.” Alec shocks them both by lunging forward, grabbing Magnus by his throat and pinning him to the nearest wall. He forces their faces as close as possible, touching their foreheads together as he clenches his teeth. The warlock doesn’t want to react yet, worried about what Alec might do. He’s not afraid of being hurt, he can easily defend himself.

But in order to do what he needs to, they need some level of trust and respect and he doesn’t want to scare him off right away by shifting their dynamic.

“You have no right to try and fucking dominate me. Understand? I don’t care if my mom put you up to this, it’s not fucking happening. Try this bullshit with me again and there will be hell to pay.” “Enough.” Magnus forces Alec back with his magic, getting the taller man into a kneeling position as a pacifier gag wraps around his head. The latch does itself and panic sets into the hazel eyes that were just filled with anger. Magnus coughs once and rubs his neck, Alec wasn’t holding back much. The little sub on the floor doesn’t struggle in his new position, looking down as tears fall from his face. Magnus kneels down in front of the other man, sitting on his heels as he guides Alec’s chin upwards so their eyes meet.

“I really hoped I didn’t have to do that to you. You poor confused baby. Your sense is more skewed than I feared. If I remove this gag, will you promise to listen to me and not speak unless I ask you to?” With a semi-frantic nod, Magnus removes the strap and leaves the pacifier between Alec’s lips so he can use it to self-soothe while he talks. The shadowhunter immediately puts it to use, getting into a rhythm as his cheeks get wiped free of tears.

“Can we move this discussion to the couch? I’d like us to be comfortable while we talk about these things.” Alec nods and allows Magnus to take his hands, guiding him to stand up. The two walk over to the couch and sit beside each other, Magnus still holding both hands in his own. Alec sniffles once and remains slouched in his seat, not able to really look Magnus in the eye out of shame. Instead, the shadowhunter focuses on the slight bruising he left on the warlock’s neck. The older of the two changes his shirt to a turtleneck so nothing is visible and moves one hand to stroke Alec’s cheek.

“Such a good boy, there we go. You can relax, darling. You’re not in trouble, no need to be upset. Would a hug help?” Alec leans forward slightly, afraid his voice may betray him. Magnus takes it as a yes and pulls him into his arms, giving him a good squeeze before returning to joining their hands. Alec’s posture straightens slightly, choosing to look Magnus in the eyes but looking away when he sees the tender gaze.

“Let’s try this again, okay? Maryse reached out to me because she’s incredibly worried about you. Again, I do apologize for the deception on my part. It wasn’t fair of us to hide our true intentions from you, but it was the only way we could get you the help you need. I want to spend time with you in your headspaces as well as in your adult mindset outside of your classifications, we can take it as slow as you would like and we can invite your family over to ensure that you’re comfortable enough to be that vulnerable. What are you thinking at this time?” Alec removes the pacifier from his mouth and takes a deep breath, attempting to gather his thoughts and get out of the fog from being between headspaces. He straightens his posture fully and looks Magnus in the eye.

“I’m willing to try. I’m afraid I may be close to a drop in this moment but I’m not sure about showing you that side of me yet. This is our first time meeting.” “I agree. Today wouldn’t be appropriate to begin. Why don’t you come back tonight for dinner if you’re in a more clear mindset so we can at least get to know each other on a general level? That way we can build a familiarity between us and get started on this process.” “I’d like that. I’ll head home for the time being and give you a call within the next couple of hours. How’s that sound?” “Sounds perfect. I promise I won’t keep you from leaving this time.” “Much appreciated.” Alec offers Magnus the first smile he’s seen from the shadowhunter, prompting one in response. Magnus walks Alec to the door and closes it behind him, mixing himself a drink to unwind from that interaction.

He may be biting off more than he can chew this time.

But he loves a challenge.