"You're awake!" He chirped, pushing a plate of eggs and bacon towards Alec. Alec sat at the table and picked at his food. "Did you sleep?" Alec asked concerned. Magnus nodded, hoping Alec wouldn't question him further. "Good." Alec took a bite of the eggs. "I'm coming to the institute today." Alec frowned.

"Why?" He swallowed the bite, analyzing Magnus's face. "To check the wards." Magnus spoke like it was obvious. Alec nodded as he finished his meal. Magnus took the plate, but Alec stopped him. "I'm not going to try to get you to open up to me. But when you're ready to speak, I'm here." Alec said firmly.

"Alexander." Magnus began, his voice hitching. Alec was feeling so confused. He knew something was off with Magnus, but he had no way of knowing what. He didn't understand why Magnus could talk to him. Magnus didn't say anything, making Alec even more frustrated. "Fine. Whatever. Can you make a portal for us?" Magnus froze.

"How about we walk?" He asked Alec softly. Alec looked at him like he was crazy. Magnus never chose walking when he could portal there. "Um. Sure." And with that, they walked to the institute in silence. Magnus nervously played around with his rings. Alec looked over at the institute. "I'll be in my office if you need anything."

Magnus leaned in for a kiss, but Alec didn't wait for it and left promptly. The warlock looked down at the pavement, took a deep breath, and walked into the institute. Alec had every right to be angry. Magnus knew better than to keep a secret from Alec. But this was different. His. Magic. Was. Gone.

Magnus needed some time to process it himself before he could tell anyone else. He scanned his ID into the monitor. Alec had allowed him access to all the parts of the institute by giving him a spare key. Magnus clicked on the button for the lower cells. He walked down the hallway and stood in front of Drew's cell.