Watching Jace, Alec felt completely lost. He wasn't sure what he could say or do to help his parabatai. The last time that Jace had been this hurt emotionally, he'd practically shoved Alec into Magnus' arms and refused to let anyone near him. Except Simon.

He had been grateful that someone had been there for his parabatai but later the knowledge had stung. Maybe Jace hadn't wanted to ruin the fragile happiness that Alec had been building despite their parents' disapproval. Maybe he needed to talk to someone who had no expectations for him. Or maybe that was what happened with parabatai.

Knowing that he was getting too lost in his own head, Alec focused on Jace, surprised when he was hugged instead of pushed away. Closing his eyes, he rested his head against Jace's shoulder, letting those thoughts drift way temporarily. "It is. We'll find a way to be happy here."