“I don’t understand because you’re not making any sense.” Alec’s voice is a snarl, and that combined with his proximity might allow him to serve as a threat, if Richard were anyone else, and if Alec were anything other than a too-skinny boy. Still, he raises his hand, as if he might lash out with it, before he allows it to lift, sharp nails scratching over his own chin and neck.

And then Alec is turning, making a mad dash towards the portal.