"In the best ways." Smiling at the teasing, Alec managed not to shiver when Magnus' fingers brushed along the deflect rune on his neck. It had never been sensitive before he'd met Magnus, at least not like this. He was lucky that it hadn't been or he never would have been able to have it placed there. "And you make me stronger in the ways that I need."

Alec wasn't sure if he'd said the right thing until he was silenced by the kiss. For a moment he forgot that they were in the middle of the tea shop, possibly being watched by their neighbors and friends. Cupping Magnus' jaw, he brushed his thumb along his husband's cheek when they moved apart. "Magnus, you've already given me that. You are more than I deserve." He believed that completely, sometimes still awed by the idea that someone as brilliant as Magnus had chosen the boy who had spent his life hiding in shadows. "The ring I have is special because it's yours." Dropping his hand, he started toying with one of Magnus' necklaces. "And we both know that if it's shiny and yours, I'll love it."

Fingers still tangled in the chain, he arched an eyebrow at his husband. He knew that Magnus' reassurance wasn't exactly true. He was upset, but not at Alec. There were other things he could say, but they weren't subjects that should be discussed in public. Nodding to show that he accepted the explanation temporarily, Alec let go of the necklace and took Magnus' hand before standing. "I'll recite more poetry when we're back home, Karissima."