"Of course I thought you were brave," Adam said, confused that Alec had doubted that part of what he'd said.

He thought quietly over Alec's explanations, meeting Alec's eyes calmly whenever he looked up. It was strange how safe he felt, with Alec this close to him, touching him, and it brought a tiny smile to his lips. He studied the curve of Alec's eyebrows, admiring how handsome he was.

"Is there anything in the Codex about Shadowhunter courtship traditions?" Adam asked, practical-minded about his crush even though he was also curious as to whether Alec would assume they were talking about him or if he would try to dismiss it. "If there's someone I want to ask out."