Sebastian wanted to hide. He wasn't used to anyone noticing and he was usually more careful not to show too much of what he was feeling or thinking. Jack had somehow always known, but had been more subtle about it. He should have expected Alec to notice. Not just notice, but also say something.

It had caught him off guard. The sudden idea that Alec wouldn't be around. His mind had latched onto those words and twisted them, misunderstood, gave him his worst fears, all at once. Even worse. Alec had noticed.

"I didn't...I'm sorry. I didn't mean..." Sebastian looked down at Chairman Meow, the cat looking up at him as if it understood his panic. He took a breath and tried again. "I'm sorry. I'd like to learn if you don't mind teaching me."

Jace was examining something far away, his back to Alec, pretending to not be eavesdropping. "I promise not to break any bones. And I'll help if Alec doesn't get insanely jealous."