Enjoying life was essential, but sometimes it was an effort.

Is it poisoning the punch?

I do not ever want another love

Aku cinta kamu,” Magnus read out, gazing at the interior of the ring, andhe smiled at Alec, a brilliant, world-spanning smile. “My love for yours, myheart for yours, my soul for yours, Alexander. Now and for all time".

Magnus said, in a low voice, “And what’s that one?” Alec answered, “Stamina.” Magnus stared. “Are you serious?” Alec began to grin. “Yeah.” “Really, though,” Magnus said. “I want to be clear on this. You’re not just saying that to be sexy?” “No,” Alec answered, his voice husky, and swallowed. “But I’m glad if it is.

Magnus had a hard-won high opinion of himself, and he had an even higher opinion of Alec.

We will have to rough it like mundanes do, and take the fanciest, most luxurious train available on a romantic overnight through the Alps. You see the sacrifices I am willing to make for the sake of safety.

Alec was absolutely sure that in the bright chaos of his long, strange life, Magnus had stayed kind.

Alec’s breath caught. He found he could not stop holding it, as if he could save it for the child Magnus had been.