Disclaimer: The labyrinth characters do not belong to me, this piece of fiction is written purely for fun, not profit. This story is rated NC-17.

Tempting Fate or Autumn
By: Jester

Chapter 1: Home again

The scent of dried leaves and chrysanthemums filled Sarah’s nose as she walked out the front door of the town library. The cool wind whipped her dark hair about her shoulders as she crossed the street and headed home. She smiled as she trekked through the freshly fallen leaves and admired the expertly carved Jack O’ Lanterns that sat in silent vigil in the doorways of the cozy New England homes that she passed.

She pressed her books to her chest as she walked home, a walk she’d taken a million times before. She shivered in the cool autumn air, glad that she had worn her sweater. It was a lovely fall day and she couldn’t remember more perfect weather for Halloween.

She had been overjoyed that her father had asked her to come watch the house while he, Karen, and Toby were away. She had just graduated from college a few months before and found a little apartment for herself in the city. She hadn’t made many friends in her new place yet, so two weeks at home would be a nice comforting change and give her the perfect chance to spend some time thinking about what she wanted to do with her life.

She had landed a part time job doing some writing for a women’s magazine, which also gave her the time to be involved with a local theatre company where she volunteered her help in the wardrobe department. Occasionally she was lucky enough to land a small role. As much as she liked living in the city she had to admit that so far it was a bit lonely. She was thankful that between her job and the theatre she was able to keep herself busy.

Sarah rounded the corner and turned down her street, thinking how nice it was going to be to see her old friends from high school. She hoped the Halloween party she’d been invited to would be just the thing to lift her spirits and give her the chance to get back in touch with old friends.

Speaking of old friends… she thought to herself. She wondered how her friends from the underground were faring. She hadn’t seen them in several years. She had started to drift apart from them as she went through high school and made new friends, and soon after she went off to college her friends had become little more than a memory. It hadn’t been intentional, she had tried to stay in touch.

She had tried many times to contact them, but once she left home, it never worked, in fact she remembered the last time she had spoken to Hoggle was as she was getting ready for her high school graduation. He had appeared in the mirror and told her that he was so proud of her and that he wanted her to enjoy college, and that they would never forget her and with that he was gone. That was the last time she had seen anyone from the underground.

As Sarah walked through the front yard enjoying the sound of the dried leaves crunching under her feet she remembered the large pumpkin she had left on the porch. She’d have plenty of time to carve and it and get ready for Trina’s party. Quickly letting herself in, she dumped her books on the coffee table. She grabbed a large knife, a trash bag, and the pumpkin carving kit from the kitchen and headed back out to the porch.

Sarah sat on the steps and got to work on her Jack O’ Lantern. She removed the top piece and started scooping out the insides when she heard an owl softly hooting in the tree above her. She thought nothing of it, and ignored the persistent sound. As she finished the pumpkin she set it down to admire her handiwork. The Jack O’ lantern smiled back with a stupid toothy grin, and she couldn’t help but think that the jagged smile had a somewhat goblin-like quality about it.

It was then she heard the owl again, this time its call was louder and more persistent. Sarah looked up at the tree and after a few seconds she spotted it. A striking white barn owl. Rather odd for an owl like that to be active this time of day.

It hooted again and she remarked, “Well, what do you want?” With that the owl swooped down and landed on the railing of the porch about two feet from her. Sarah stared wide-eyed as the white owl stared back at her. She felt her throat tighten in panic as a name she had never dared to utter out loud, echoed in her mind.

Jareth.

Could it be?

Sarah swallowed and the owl held it’s ground. Her mind was reeling in about a hundred different directions, What if it is him, what does he want, is he trapped in that form or is he just trying to torment me, or is it simply just an owl?

She didn’t know what to think. Feeling more than a little silly she addressed the bird “Is…is it you?” The owl simply blinked twice and took off. Sarah sighed in relief, “Now, I’m talking to owls…I must be losing it...”


Darkness wasn’t far off, so she brought the pumpkin inside and set it on the mantle. She glanced at the time and decided she’d take a hot bath before she got into her costume.

Sarah lovingly looked around her room. It was still the safe haven and escape from reality that it had been all those years ago when she had encountered the labyrinth. Most of her childish belongings had been carefully put into storage, and posters of rock bands now adorned her walls instead of her stuffed toys, but it still was a magic place all her own.

She carefully removed the black skirt and blouse from the closet and laid out a pair of back tights and a headband with two furry cat ears. Last she found the tail and got a safety pin to attach it to her skirt. It was a simple costume but it was cute and she’d be able to dance while wearing it. She pulled off her sweater, tossed it on the bed and headed to the bathroom.


As she was soaking in the steaming tub she pondered whom she might run into at the party. It would be nice to see all her old friends; no doubt many of them would come with dates. She wondered how she had managed to stay single. Sure she had dated a few guys but it never turned into anything serious. Somehow none of them seemed to really do anything for her, and it wasn’t like her to string people along.

She finally came to the conclusion that maybe she was just too picky. No, she corrected, I just know what I want. He needs to be someone intelligent and wise, mature but fun, confident…and please let him have a sharp wit. Mmmm and handsome would be a plus. Platinum blonde maybe?

She let out a ragged sigh as her mind ran away with the thought, A certain position of authority perhaps…Ughhhh I have to stop, it’s definitely not healthy. She banished the thought before it went any further. Forget it…thinking like that could only get me in trouble.

She couldn’t help recalling how the arrogant king had made her feel, small, terrified but strangely alive at the same time. She distinctly remembered how she lost her breath every time he appeared, and that no one since had ever made her feel quite that nervous. She silently cursed herself for dwelling on such thoughts, but she couldn’t help but be curious about what had happened to the goblin king.

Had she destroyed him? Deep down she hoped not, her anger at him had been very real, but at the same time there was some truth to what he had said. She did after all ask that Toby be taken away. She also wondered if what he had said in the end had been true or some kind of trick to stall her. Well sadly she realized she’d never know because if even the Goblin King still existed, there was no doubt in her mind that he wouldn’t be very pleased to ever hear from her again, and somehow she couldn’t really blame him. She had been spoiled, selfish, and cruel if what he had told her had been the truth. Thankfully she had gotten Toby back, but still she couldn’t help wonder if he had meant any of what he said. Never know now…will I?


Sarah shook her head and realized she’d been in the tub far too long, her skin was getting wrinkled and the water was getting cold. She got out and dried off, threw on her terrycloth bathrobe and headed to her room. She dressed quickly in her costume and checked herself in the mirror. The black blouse and short back skirt complimented her figure and the ears added the right amount of cuteness, but something was missing.

As Sarah reached for her cosmetic bag she realized what she had forgotten. With her black eyeliner pencil she drew a small triangle at the tip of her nose and added three whiskers to each cheek, and just for effect she applied some dark eye shadow, a little liner and mascara. A hint of glossy lipstick, and she was ready.

Suddenly she heard the doorbell, “Oh damn...the candy, I almost forgot”, and with that she made a dash for the kitchen to get the bowl of mini candy bars and peanut butter cups. As she left her room she didn’t notice that the white owl was perched in the tree just outside her window.

She opened the door to reveal a small witch, a tiny slasher in a hockey mask, and a couple of assorted Pokemon. She offered them the candy as they shouted “Trick or Treat”, and she wished them a happy Halloween. She handed out the candy until eight and then placed what was left of the candy on the porch beside the glowing Jack O’ Lantern.

She decided to walk to Trina’s house in case she decided to get a bit tipsy; why not after all? It was less than a half a mile’s walk and it was a relatively safe neighborhood. She grabbed a bottle of merlot and was out the door.

Chapter 2: Let’s Party

A few hours later Sarah was peeling the label off the empty bottle of wine and was drinking cheap beer from one of those large plastic cups that are always found at a keg party. Trina was living in her grand mother’s old house and she had done a great job of adorning the basement with all sorts of goulish decor for the party.

Sarah couldn’t believe how many of her classmates had shown up. The place was packed. The music was pretty loud but the four best high school friends were laughing at one of the tables. Sarah was having fun, it truly seemed just like old times, most of her friends had boyfriends but had opted to come by themselves so they could have a great time with old pals instead of entertaining their guys who would not be familiar with the crowd.

Suddenly a new song started and Trina grabbed Sarah and Kim, before either one could protest they were all dancing singing along with “Come on Eileen” at the top of their lungs. They danced and laughed and drank and danced and laughed and drank some more.

In the middle of the Macarena, it occurred to Sarah that she really had to use the bathroom. As she trekked up the stairs she noticed that she was really starting to feel the effects of the alcohol. Sarah waited in line for the bathroom and just as she was certain her bladder would explode, it was her turn.

As Sarah relieved herself she finally had a moment to think. She noted that most of her friends now had serious boyfriends and many of them were engaged already. Her mind wandered,
What’s wrong with me? A voice in the back of her mind chided, You had a chance once, but you let him slip through your fingers. Where did that come from? Who am I talking about? You know very well that you are referring to a certain goblin king! Frustrated she bit her lip and mused, I really have to stop thinking about this.

She suddenly realized, Oh my! I can’t even feel my lips….good and drunk now. She quickly washed her hands and silently prayed she wouldn’t make a fool of herself or let any mention of Jareth fall from her lips, as drinking did tend to loosen her tongue a bit.

As she stumbled back down the stairs she started laughing as she mused, I wonder what Mr. High and mighty goblin king would think of me now, the one who beat his ass at his own little game being so pathetically drunk that I can barely manage these stairs. I wonder if he knows that I was the loser. I gave up on my dreams, there’s no magic in my life now, no love...

She stopped herself there for fear of where her musings might take her. After a couple more beers Sarah decided she had better head home since she would probably be laying on the bathroom floor soon. Kim lived only two blocks from her and agreed to walk with Sarah most of the way home.

As the two of them stumbled out of the house, arms around each other’s shoulders to keep from falling, Kim broke into hysterical laughter. “Shit Sarah...I’ve never seen you like this. This was sooo fun. We have to go out to a club together before you go back to the city.” Sarah nodded and slurred, Ok…sure, just give me a call, you know where I live.”

Kim nearly tripped, and giggled, “So Sarah babe, are you seeing anybody these days?”

Sarah laughed at the use of the old high school nickname, “No Kimmie...I’m not.”

Kim looked puzzled, “Well why not? Honestly I don’t get it, you are the prettiest nicest girl I know, and that’s saying a lot…cuz…I know a lot of people.”

Sarah gave her a wry smile, “Yeah okay…you’ve definitely had too much to drink.”

Kim nodded, “Well, that may be true. God I hope Brian is home because I get really horney when I am drunk.”

Sarah’s jaw dropped, “Kim! I really don’t need to know…”

Kim interrupted, “I’m sorry but it’s so true, you can’t tell me that you don’t get easily turned on when you’ve had too much to drink?”

Sarah shook her head, “I don’t know…I don’t do this very often you know.”

Kim giggled and squeezed he arm, “Well maybe you should...You might have some real fun...”

Sarah just laughed as Kim backed away from her heading to the front door of her house. “See you later Sarah, I’ll call you later in the week about going out.

Sarah nodded and waved “Night.”

Sarah let out a long sigh, it was a good thing they had gotten to Kim’s house so fast because Kim was a skillful interrogator and she might have let something slip about someone she wasn’t supposed to mention…or think about, she added, scolding herself as her thoughts kept drifting back to the Goblin King. Damn, what is wrong with me? Why can’t I stop thinking about him?


Chapter 3: A Halloween Surprise

As Sarah unlocked the front door and stepped into the dark hall of her parent’s home, she noticed several candles burning on the mantle above the fireplace. T

That's odd, I don't remember leaving any candles burning.

Her thoughts were hazy from drinking, and she had already stepped into the house and closed the door behind her before she thought better of it. Had she been clear headed, the possibility of an intruder being in the house would have been obvious.

She didn't notice the dark figure lounging in the armchair by the fireplace as she ventured further into the dark living room. When she neared the shadowy corner of the room by the chair, a voice cut through the darkness, knocking the very air from her lungs.

"Hello Sarah."

She froze. There was something hauntingly familiar about that voice. She saw his shadow grow longer on the floor as he stood. Swallowing the lump in her throat, she realized he was directly behind her.

She felt the warmth of his breath on her neck as he drawled from close behind her, “Did you miss me?"

She closed her eyes for half a second, wondering if this was just a drunken hallucination, but even in her intoxicated state she knew it wasn’t. Someone was there, so close to her, that she could feel the warmth of his solid body. Every hair on the back of her neck stood up in warning and her heart suddenly felt as though it was going to pound right out of her chest.

She was frightened out of her mind but she had to be sure. She had to see him with her own eyes in order to believe it.

She spun to face him, her eyes frantically searching the darkness. She could make out his silhouette; His tall lean frame, his wild hair. There was no mistaking him. It was the Goblin King, really standing there in her dark living room.

His posture was sure and confident, as though his presence in her house was the most natural thing in the world.

It took a moment before she was able to force the words from her dry throat, "It…It’s you."

There was a sudden spark of light as he struck a match and lit the candle he was holding.

Sarah looked up and found herself looking into the same magic eyes that had mesmerized her years ago.

His mouth curved into the same self-satisfied smirk that was permanently burned into her memory, as he arrogantly replied, "Were you expecting someone else?"

Sarah tried to calm herself down.

Breathe...just breathe.
He is really here…I’m not imagining this.
What’s he doing here?
He doesn't look angry, but he can't be happy to see me after everything that happened...
Oh God why now?
Why does this have to happen right now?
I can't think straight…

She did her best to keep from noticeably trembling as she answered, "Wha…What are you doing here?"

He looked thoughtful for a moment as he placed the candle he had been holding with the others on the mantle. Slowly he turned, his eyes locking with hers as he leaned closer to her. "Perhaps you should answer that question."

Sarah tried to steady her voice and was careful not to slur her words as she countered rather defensively, “I…I haven't the slightest idea...I haven't wished anyone away lately."

He was now slowly circling her, his eyes seemingly scrutinizing her from every angle.

Suddenly he stopped, standing just behind her, leaning close to her ear, "I think I am here, dear Sarah, because you wished to see me."

She nearly jumped out of her skin at his invasion of her space, and the way he said her name totally shattered her concentration. Quickly, she reminded herself that this was her home and he had no business being here.

She whirled around to face him, her apprehension turning to irritation at his audacity. Her eyes had finally adjusted to the darkness and now she could see him clearly, outfitted in his grey breeches and white poet's shirt.

She couldn't help but notice that in his more casual attire he looked even more enticing than she remembered.

God why does he have to look that that? This is sooo not fair.

He didn’t miss her sudden appraisal and the corners of his mouth curved into a knowing smirk.

Remembering her annoyance, she hotly quipped, "What are you talking about? I haven’t wished for anything. I’d have to be out of my mind…” She paused suddenly, thinking back.

Maybe I was thinking about him…so what? I sure as hell didn’t wish for him to show up here.

She shook her head and narrowing her eyes at him she finished, “No. I have nothing to do with this. Enough with the games…tell me why you are here!"

He cocked his head to the side and said, "It is Halloween, perhaps this is just a nightmare." He stepped closer his eyes sparkling with sinister mirth, “…then again, if this is the product of your imagination, perhaps it is another kind of dream altogether…”

Sarah shook her head, taking a step back. He was toying with her and quite frankly she was getting annoyed, "You know as well as I do, that this is no dream. I'm serious...what do you want?"

He smiled and leaned forward, his face inches from hers, "I think we both know the answer to that."

Her breath caught in her throat, and it was a moment before she could answer. "No way...You can't have Toby! I got him back fair and square, besides he's not even here."

Jareth laughed, "Oh come now Sarah, you mean to tell me that you haven't figured out that this was about more than your baby brother?"

Now she was really shaken.
If he doesn't want Toby then what does he want? Oh god he can't mean me…

She felt terribly afraid and highly elated at the same time, and the combination was becoming too much for her already queasy stomach.

She needed to hear the truth no matter how scary, "I'm getting tired of playing guessing games, why don't you just enlighten me."

His eyes burned into hers for a moment as he replied, "Very well."

Before Sarah could see it coming, he lowered his mouth to hers. Sarah didn't even have time to gasp in surprise. Her lips had been slightly parted when their lips met. She was so taken aback, that she didn’t even think to pull away. So, she stood there, frozen, like a stunned animal.

His lips were soft as they gently moved over hers. Every move was slow and deliberate. She was overcome by sweet longing, as her mind gave in to the sensation.

What is he doing to me? God he smells so nice…


Then it happened, he artfully slipped his tongue past her lips, deepening the kiss. The surprise pang of desire that struck her was like a bolt of electricity right to the stomach. Everything suddenly grew delectably warm.

Lost in the euphoria, she allowed him to continue. Like a growing fire, the feelings only intensified and before she knew what she was doing she was kissing him back.

His hands were suddenly grasping her hips, as his kiss grew greedy, communicating a thousand unspoken desires.

The passion of it startled her and she gasped quietly against his mouth, as the realization dawned on her.

Oh God, he wants me.



She was lost. She couldn’t think straight with him kissing her like that. She knew she should stop him. She would. Any minute now…

Her heart was beating so fast she was sure he could feel it and her knees had suddenly gone weak. What am I doing? I shouldn’t be doing this…But it’s just a kiss. She knew that was probably the alcohol taking control of the rational side of her brain, but any excuse to let the feeling continue was good enough.
His mouth felt so good on hers, she felt as though a wave crashed over her head and threatened to drown her.

Defeated, she wrapped her arms about his neck, sinking deeper into euphoria. She kissed him back fiercely, letting her tongue explore his mouth. She felt his arms wrap around her waist tightly, urging her nearer to him. She could feel the whole length of his body pressed tightly against her. She heard him murmur her name as one hand began traveling up her side to brush against the side of her breast.

Liquid fire surged through her body, settling in her nether region.

In the next second her only thought was how much she wanted him and she knew she was in trouble. With all the self-control and willpower she could muster, she jerked her face to the side and pushed him away, gasping "Stop...we can’t.”

Chapter 4: Breathe Sarah. Breathe.

She barely made it to the couch before she plopped down, thoroughly out of breath. She ran a shaky hand over her forehead, trying to compose herself. She noticed that he hadn’t said anything yet, though he looked a little stunned himself.

He glanced down at her, his eyes still dark with desire as he leaned back casually against the mantle, determined to still appear in control.

Sarah let out a ragged breath and began, "Look, I don't know what just happened, but I've obviously had too much to drink so maybe we should just start again...and just forget…that…whatever that was."

He smirked, noting how shaken she was. Her cheeks were crimson and she couldn't quite look him in the eye. He knew she was desperately trying to hide just how badly she wanted him. Too bad for her it was already too late. Her kiss had given everything away.

He taunted, "Well, I don't think I could ever forget that if I tried...but very well, let's begin again."

Sarah nodded thankfully, "Now please, just give me a straight answer…and stay over there...What are you doing here?"

Jareth cocked his head to the side, smirking as he answered, "Truthfully, I don't really know. For the past few years I've been stuck in my alternate form. It was only just a little while ago that I became myself again, and I found myself sitting in your house with the distinct notion that you wanted to see me."

Sarah looked surprised, "You mean, you’ve been an owl all this time?"

Jareth shrugged "So far as I can recall, the last memory I have being myself, was the moment you said those six little magic words."

Sarah was intrigued, "So you didn't come here of your own free will?"

Jareth looked solemn for a moment, "No, I merely just appeared here. I tried to conjure a crystal several times and it hasn't worked...I think my magic has left me."

Sarah looked more than a little worried, "So let me get this straight...You ended up here, you don't know why, and you have no magic to send yourself home?"

Jareth removed his gloves and replied, "Well I'm glad you've been paying attention, I'm not even sure where home is anymore, I haven't set foot in my kingdom since you defeated the labyrinth."

Sarah got up and started to pace nervously, "Well I don't see how I fit into this..."

Jareth continued, "Well, I’m not entirely sure either. The only thing I am sure of is that since the moment I saw you, I knew we'd have a part to play in each other's destiny. Tonight I was overcome by the feeling that there is unfinished business between us."

Sarah looked more confused, "What are you talking about?"

Jareth was getting impatient, "Come now Sarah, you don’t recall how you couldn’t help but feel drawn into the story of the labyrinth? Why, you performed the part with such conviction…such enthusiasm, I’d even go so far as to say that added a few of your own embellishments. You even managed to get the words right and actually invoke my goblins."

Sarah’s face flushed as it all came back to her. She wondered how much he actually knew. Had he heard when she had made up the line…
"...and the king of the Goblins had fallen in love with the girl, and he had given her certain powers.”

Her mind reeled. Oh my God did I do this? Is he here because of me?

Cautiously she replied, “I admit, the story was a favorite of mine…but never in a million years did I really think it was real.”

He frowned but said nothing. Finally she ventured a bit apprehensively, “What makes you think…we have any business…unfinished or otherwise?”

Jareth sighed, "I can't really explain it. Just the way everything happened, it all felt as though it was meant to happen…at least up until the end. I hadn’t thought that you would discover the power in those words. I expected you to accept my offer. Toby would have been sent home, safe and sound…and you would have your dreams. But, as you know that wasn’t what happened, and like I said everything feels unfinished to me…incomplete.”

He looked for thoughtful for a moment, his frown deepened and he suddenly seemed irritated, “Did you honestly believe that I would have turned your brother into a goblin if you had accepted what I was offering?”

She gave him a blank look and he remarked, “You weren’t even listening at that point, were you?”

Sarah shrugged, stammering, “Well, not really…I was kind of concentrating on the lines. It was all I could think of. Toby was all that mattered.”

Rather agitated, he sneered, “You refused to even look at what I was offering you. And before I could do anything about it, you declared that I had no power over you. My world came crashing down. You refused to believe in me, or even give me a chance and I lost. I lost everything. My Kingdom, my power; gone. Everything gone."

Suddenly he looked very tired. His voice came softer as if he were no longer angry but weary, “Why didn’t you even consider that I might be telling the truth? Never once did I lie to you Sarah. You asked that the child be taken, so I took him. When you changed your mind, I gave you the option to win him back. All along, I played my part, being exactly what you expected…what you wanted me to be. All along the way, you were told not to take anything for granted…that nothing was what it seemed. But in the end, you took me for granted. You never questioned if I was what I seemed.”

Sarah was stunned. She felt like the wind had been knocked out of her. He was right. He had been telling her the truth the entire time. He wasn’t the villain. He had simply been playing that part for her.

She swallowed, realizing her error, "Oh my God, this is all my fault...everything you said, it was all true...You...did all those things for me..."

Vaguely from the back of her mind his words drifted back, Fear me, love me, do as I say and I will be your slave. Had she been so selfish? Had she actually made him have feelings for her, and then banish him?

Suddenly she felt sick to her stomach. Getting to her feet she groaned, "Oh Jareth...I...I am so sorry."

He was astounded to see her so upset and it pained him, "Do not apologize, it's not your fault. You didn't realize."

He suddenly seemed hopeful, "Maybe this is our second chance. Maybe I'm here so that you can get to know me and I can really get to know you, so we don’t have to take anything for granted."

Sarah was starting to feel dizzy and the nausea at what she had learned was still threatening to overwhelm her. "Alright, I tell you what, I don't know how long you'll be here, but I can let the past be the past, if you can. You can stay here as long as you want, er, well until my parents come home. Then I have to go back to the city...but I guess we'll deal with that when the time comes."

Jareth nodded and softly replied, "Thank you, Sarah. I'd welcome the chance to prove myself as a friend, I think you'll find that I'm not quite the villain that you have made me out to be." It was obvious that he was attempting to tease her.

Sarah smiled even though she still felt wretched and as she took another step dizziness and nausea overwhelmed her. Apparently her hangover was not going to wait until morning.

Covering her mouth, she managed, "OK, hold that thought, my hangover has just caught up with me...I need to go pray to the porcelain god."

Jareth was confused but he got the idea as Sarah ran into the bathroom. She didn't even have time to shut the door. She barely made it to the toilet before she wretched. Once, Twice...

Chapter 5: Some Civil Conversation.

Jareth winced, and silently followed. By the time he reached the bathroom door, she flushed and was rinsing her mouth. She wiped the tears from her eyes and sniffed miserably before she squirted toothpaste on her toothbrush.

He leaned against the doorframe, “Are you alright?”

Sarah replied, “Yeah, I’ll be fine now. I’m just paying the price for having a little too much fun. I shouldn’t of had that last beer.”

He stood in the doorway and continued to watch her brush her teeth. In the short time he had been at her house she already fascinated him.

She looked the same as he remembered except she was a bit taller and she now had the curves of a woman. He noted this as he admired her in the bathroom light. She was wearing a short skirt that revealed long shapely legs; he could see her knees for heaven’s sake. The dark silky material that was covering her legs was entirely fascinating.

He further studied her, working his way up. The black skirt hugged her shapely hips. The blouse was a silky material and she had left the top button opened revealing her pale throat. It was low cut enough to reveal a bit of the swell of her breasts but it left him wanting to see more, much more. Her hair was still a beautiful cascade of dark silk that seemed to beckon for his touch.

Her eyes were the same bewitching shade of hazel that he remembered. He smiled as he gazed at her face, admiring the little cat nose she had added and the neat whiskers. She was quite a sight to behold, still innocent, yet she radiated a sexual quality. The symbol of the feline could not have been a more perfect analogy to describe her.

For him, seeing her again was like being given pure water after thirsting in the dry desert heat for centuries. He could barely contain the relief and hope that he felt. She finished brushing her teeth and glanced up at him, no doubt realizing that he had been staring at her.

He smiled and gestured to her outfit, “Is this some human attempt to transform yourself into a cat?”

She glanced down realizing she was still dressed in her Halloween costume. “It’s Halloween, I was at a costume party…I thought you knew?”

He shook his head, “I saw the sign on the door and that poor orange vegetable you’ve hacked up, and I’ve heard about the ancient festivals of Samhain, when people used to dress like demons to deceive evil spirits…but I’d never heard anything about cats.”

She smiled feeling slightly better now that she had gotten rid of the excess alcohol. “It’s just a silly holiday, for kids mostly. People dress in all sorts of costumes and children go from house to house to collect candy.”

He looked puzzled, “Candy?”

She laughed as she exited the bathroom and grabbed a chocolate from the candy dish in the hall. “Here…try one.”

She unwrapped the candy and handed it to him. He put it in his mouth not knowing what to expect. He was pleasantly surprised at the sweet smooth taste. He nodded “It’s quite good.”

Sarah led him back to the living room and turned on a light, “Yes they are good, wouldn’t have gotten through my teenage years without them.”

He plopped into the chair as she sat across from him on the couch, “So you went out collecting these treats?” Sarah sighed and shook her head, “No I went to a party to meet up with my friends from school.”

He smirked at her, “And you and your friends enjoy getting intoxicated?”

She felt her face flush, “Well, sometimes it’s fun, but not when you overdo it.”

He seemed intrigued, “And what in blazes were you drinking?”

She ran her hands through her hair, “Cheap wine, then I made the mistake of moving on to even cheaper beer.”

She noted a hint of recognition on his face, “Do you drink wine?”

He smiled, “Occasionally, although I doubt it’s anything like what you are used to. The wine the goblins make is enchanted, so one must be cautious about how much they drink.”

She sighed, “Well that’s a good rule, no matter what kind of wine it is.”

He continued, “They are also fond of beer and ale, but that’s not my style.”

She rose an eyebrow at him, “No, I guess it wouldn’t be.” You are far too pretentious for that, she thought to herself.

Jareth noticed a framed picture of Toby on the end table, next to the chair he was sitting in. He picked it up and asked wistfully, “How is your baby brother?”

Sarah tried to quell the feeling of alarm that tensed through her. “Well, he’s none of your concern, but if you must know, he’s fine. I don’t think he even remembers what happened.”

Jareth grinned at her knowingly “Oh Sarah, still so convinced that I would do your innocent brother harm? I assure you your brother was never what I was truly after.” His eyes devoured her hungrily.

She tried desperately to ignore the implications of what he was saying and the desire in his gaze. She swallowed, nervousness washing over her again. She looked away and replied, “You already mentioned that...”

He was quickly out of the chair, and before she could react he was sitting beside her on the couch. She shifted uncomfortably, crossing her legs, frantically trying to think of a way to change the subject.

Jareth’s gaze fell to her lap noticing the way she had shifted. He stifled a self-satisfied smirk. She was nervous.

After what seemed like an eternity of silence she stammered, “How long will you be staying above ground?” He turned to meet her gaze, “I can’t say for certain, I’ve lost all my magical abilities.” His eyes darted to her lips. “You’re the one with the power remember?”

Sarah inhaled and focused on the same clock that chimed when she had beaten him all those years ago. Gaining a small amount of nerve she replied, “Don’t take this the wrong way, but I feel a lot better knowing that you can’t use your magic.”

He lounged back comfortably against the sofa with his arm stretching out behind her as she uneasily leaned further forward on the edge of her seat. “There’s that sharp wit I remember. Well, you may be more at ease, but I have a great deal to be concerned about. There’s no telling what type of mischief my goblins may be getting into.”

Sarah had to agree, “Good point… they’ve probably torn the place apart by now.”

Remembering his subjects Sarah had to wonder how it had come to be that he became their ruler, “If you don’t mind my asking, how did you come to be the King of the Goblins?”

Jareth chuckled, “Well that’s a bit of a long story.”

Sarah shrugged. She was intrigued, “Well I have lots of time…”

Jareth nodded and said “Very well… when I was a small child my mother wished me away to the goblins. I have very little memory of her and no memory of my real father. All I know of them is pure legend, rumors, and speculation. It was said that my mother was a mortal from above ground and that my father was Fae. How they came to be together, I have no idea. I was told that my father was killed but no one could tell me how it happened. At that time the goblins had no ruler, but a powerful sorceress happened to be visiting the goblin city the moment I appeared. The Goblins were about to turn me into one of them but she stopped them, noticing that I had the gift for magic. She must have recognized that I was half Fae. She implored the goblins to spare me and promised them that if they raised me I would become their King and build them a great city and a labyrinth that would keep them protected. They listened to her. She taught me how to use the magic of the crystals and then she disappeared without a word of explanation. The rest is history. I created the labyrinth and I sent my goblins to take away children who were wished away, and the only way they could be retrieved was if the person who wished them away could solve my labyrinth.”

Sarah’s eyes were wide, “Has any one ever beaten it, I mean besides me?”

He shook his head solemnly, “You are the only one.”

“So How many children have you turned into goblins?”

He noticed the acidity of her tone and looked intently at her, “I’m not that cruel Sarah. I sent them all to new homes, good homes where they would always be loved.”

He sighed and continued, “That’s how I became the goblin king…I too was from the aboveground, maybe that’s why I’ve always felt compelled to come back.”

Sarah looked thoughtful and a little sad, “It must have been sort of lonely…being the only one of your kind.”

Jareth simply stated, “It was. That is, until I found you.”

Sarah’s stomach suddenly fluttered and she hoped her face wasn’t red again, “What do you mean?”

Jareth looked into her eyes for a moment and gently replied, “The first time I saw you was not the night you wished Toby away.”

Sarah’s eyes grew wide, “It wasn’t?”

Jareth continued, “No. I first saw you in the park. I used to fly there sometimes to watch the moon rise. On one of my trips there I saw you. You were sitting up against a tree and you were crying. I wondered what could have made you so sad. Whenever I came there I would see you, rehearsing your plays, or playing with your dog. I felt as though there was something familiar about you and when I heard you speak of the labyrinth and of me I knew our meeting was not pure chance. Sometimes I would follow you home, and once I saw how things were for you here, I knew it would only be a matter of time before you called upon me.”

Sarah was stunned. She wasn’t sure how she should react to this, “So you watched over me? But why?”

Jareth eyes caught hers, “You fascinate me Sarah. Your sadness, and your imagination and…your dreams, they drew me to you. I’ve been haunted by you from the moment I saw you.”

Sarah was breathless; no one had ever said such things to her before. He continued, “I wanted to offer you your dreams, I wanted to make you happy. I thought I could do that by making your fantasy come true, but I was wrong. I went about it the wrong way, and I lost you.”

Sarah closed her eyes as if his very words were breaking her heart. She swallowed the lump in her throat and then carefully replied, “But why me? I’m…I’m nobody.”

Jareth looked at her his expression was a bit sad, “You are mistaken. You solved my labyrinth. That is something no one else could do. You don’t realize how special you are.”

He brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face. Sarah felt like she was in a dream. There was no way this could really be happening. “This is so strange, all this time I thought you were my enemy and that you hated me. I should have realized that just like everything else in the labyrinth nothing is what it seems.”

He let his hand fall away from her face, “I wanted to be everything that you expected. You expected a rival, someone who would challenge you. So that was what I had to be. I thought I could change your perception, I should have seen that Toby was too important to you. That although you acted as though he was a burden, you truly loved him, and you’d beat me no matter what the cost. I thought at the end I could convince you. Just as I was about to fully explain, you said the words.”

Sarah felt the pangs of regret stab at her heart. Then his eyes met hers, “But it looks as though I’ve been given another chance, a chance to let you see the real me, a chance for us to be something I’ve wanted since I first saw you...”

Sarah was nearly breathless, “What’s that?”

Jareth’s intense stare met hers, “Friends.”

Sarah felt all the tension in her body melt away as she smiled brightly and nodded, “Alright then friends it is.” She extended her hand and he accepted it and they shook hands.


Chapter 6: Goodnight


The mention of the word “friends” made Sarah think of Hoggle. Wrinkling her brow, she remarked, “I have an idea.”

Jareth watched with curiosity as she jumped up and headed for the stairs.

She motioned for him to follow, “Come with me, I think I know a way that we can find out what’s going on in the Underground.”

Jareth followed her up the stairs, “Where are we going?”

Sarah reached the top and turned to face him, “My bedroom.”

He arched a fine eyebrow and before he could comment she supplied, “You’ll see…I just hope this works.”

His eyes scanned his surroundings as he entered her room. Her things fascinated him. Her vanity was still there, where he had often seen her brushing her hair, reciting lines to her reflection. Her toys and stuffed animals were gone. He looked at the posters of various rock bands with mild interest. He noted that her bed was the same, small, obviously meant for a young girl. He scanned the photos covering the edges of her mirror. Some were of Sarah, with various other girls her age, some with her Dad and Karen. Several of Toby. One displayed a woman he didn’t recognize, but he assumed it was her mother.

Sarah hurriedly removed some of the photos so she could clearly see herself in the mirror. Jareth watched in silence, not sure what she was going to do. Finally she turned to him and said, “Maybe you’d better stand over there.” She pointed to seat below her window.

Once he moved, she made sure she couldn’t see him in the mirror.
Sarah concentrated on her reflection and quietly said, “I need you Hoggle.” Jareth stood, watching in silence as he slowly realized what she was trying to do. At first nothing happened, and Sarah repeated, “Please Hoggle, I need to see you.”

Suddenly the dwarf’s image appeared in the mirror. “Hello Missy, Is everything all right?” Sarah quickly nodded. She was overjoyed to see her friend again. Hoggle popped up from behind the bed and ran to Sarah.

She hugged him tightly and it was then that he noticed The Goblin King silently watching from the corner.

He backed away from Sarah, his eyes wide, “Your…Your majesty…what are you doing here?”

Hoggle looked to Sarah, astonishment and worry evident in his face as he whispered, “He hasn’t done nuthin to you has he?”

Sarah quickly shook her head, “No. It’s alright, Hoggle. I’ve made peace with him…you don’t have to be afraid.”

Jareth crossed his arms over his chest and impatiently drawled, “Hello Higgle.”

Hoggle gaped, “Made peace…with him?”

Sarah kneeled down to his height. “Yes, Jareth and I are friends now.”

Hoggle eyed the king suspiciously but replied, “Right Sarah, if you says so.”

She turned Hoggle’s chin to face her so he would stop gawking at the Goblin King, “I haven’t seen you in such a long time Hoggle. How is everything in the underground?”

His wide blue eyes finally met hers as he shrugged, “Fine, I guess.”

She quickly continued, “What of the Goblins? How are they faring?”

Hoggle looked down. “Well after you left, everything was fine…more than fine, actually. The goblins…they don’t drink no more and they have picked up the goblin city, you ought to see it, it’s real nice. Been nuthin’ but peace and quiet since you beat the labyrinth.”

Jareth listened with great interest, but he let Sarah do the talking. He figured Hoggle would be more likely to speak the truth if Sarah was asking the questions.

Sarah was puzzled, “Goblins behaving? Why is everything so quiet?”

Hoggle sighed, “Well, When his majesty disappeared, they were scared and went into hiding. They didn’t know if Jareth would be coming back. Then one day, shortly after you went home, a lady came to the goblin city, a sorceress, I think.”

Sarah nodded, “Go on.”

Hoggle thought a moment. “She told us all that Jareth had gone away for a while, but she said we shouldn’t be afraid. She promised ‘em that if they behaved, and rebuilt the city, that Jareth may come back with a Queen, and that everything would be fine. Since then everyone has worked together to clean everything up.”

Sarah looked at Jareth but it was apparent that this was all news to him as well. Hoggle looked at Sarah, “I couldn’t really believe it, but one thing was true…His majesty was nowhere to be found. I should have told you before missy. I was afraid he might come looking for you. I was scared for you, but I didn’t want to say anything, in case it would make something happen…”

Sarah put her hand on his shoulder, “It’s alright Hoggle, Jareth is here to make peace.”

Hoggle looked at Jareth and then to Sarah, “Well…does that mean…are…are you going to be his queen then?”

Sarah’s eyes went wide and her cheeks flushed bright red, “I don’t know anything about that Hoggle, and by the looks of it, neither does Jareth.”

Jareth stepped forward, and crouched in front of the dwarf, “Hoggle, I can’t be sure what I’m doing here, but I assure you I mean Sarah no harm.”

Hoggle was speechless. Had the King actually gotten his name right?

Sarah explained, “Jareth has lost his powers…at least for now, so here’s what I need you to do. Go back to the labyrinth and try to find this sorceress. Tell her we’d like to speak with her. I think she has some answers that both of us would like to hear. And secondly, go to the castle and get some of Jareth belongings, clothes and whatever else you can think of that he may need. He may be staying with me for a while. Can you do that for us?”

Hoggle nodded, “Anything for you missy.”

Jareth nodded in appreciation. “Hoggle, ask for the goblin called Snark, he knows where to find my belongings. In the meantime I’d like for you to keep an eye on my subjects for me. Bring them this, to show them that I am alright.” With that he removed his talisman and hung it around the dwarf’s neck.

Hoggle stared wide eyed, at the amulet and managed, “Right. Uh… thank you, your majesty.” Sarah gave him a quick hug and bide him farewell. With that he was through the mirror back to the Underground.

Sarah stood and sighed, “Wow, I’m really surprised that that even worked.”

Jareth smiled at her, “You never cease to amaze me Sarah.”

She looked at him quizzically and asked, “Did you understand anything he was talking about?”

Jareth shook his head, “Not really, but I have a feeling that this sorceress he spoke of is the very one that convinced the goblins to make me their King. Hopefully he’ll be able to find her.”

Sarah nodded and tiredly ran her hands through her hair and glanced at her watch. It was almost two in the morning. Well, it had certainly turned out to be an interesting evening.

Jareth leaned against the door-frame, dwelling on the thought that this was the first time he had actually been in Sarah’s bedroom in person. His eyes fell on Sarah’s bed and then on her. Surely she would want to sleep soon. She looked tired and he was curious to see what she would propose for sleeping arrangements.

She pushed a piece of hair behind her ear as she brushed past him. Being alone with him in her bedroom made the air feel thick and suffocating. As she came into the hall she asked “So, does the King of the Goblins sleep?”

He smirked and replied “Yes, when I am tired.”

Sarah bit her lip nervously and continued, “Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty tired. I think I’ve had more than enough excitement for one day, so I’ll show you where you can sleep…oh unless you are hungry that is…”

He shook his head, “I can wait until morning, and you need rest.”

She smiled, “Well that’s good because the last thing I want right now is food, but I’ll probably be ravenous by morning.”

He flashed her a smile as she led him to a room down the hall from her own. “You can sleep here in the guest room, not the most luxurious I know, but It’ll have to suffice. I’d let you stay in my parents room, but Karen would find out for sure, and that’s an argument I’d rather avoid.”

He nodded, “Understandable. I assure you, this is fine.”

She headed back out to the hall, “Well, the bathroom is right here, and if you need anything my room is just at the end of the hall. If I’m up before you, I’ll let you sleep, and I’ll prepare some breakfast. If you are up first you can wake me as soon as you are up.

He smiled warmly and nodded in appreciation. “Good night Sarah”

She couldn’t help but smile back at him, “Good night Jareth.”

As Sarah threw her cotton pajama bottoms on she had no idea how she was ever going to get to sleep. She put on her grey tank top and filled her cup up with water for a second time. She downed the water and hoped the worst of her hangover was over. She could hardly believe what had happened, but it was all way too real to be a dream.

She had always had a feeling that she hadn’t seen the last of the Goblin King. As she tossed and turned in bed she couldn’t stop thinking about all that had happened. The voice in her head repeatedly taunted;

The Goblin King is sleeping down the hall…
And he kissed me…

She could almost still feel his lips against hers. After what seemed like an eternity she drifted off in a restless sleep.

Chapter 7: Breakfast Fit for a King


The next morning, Sarah’s eyes snapped open and she lay frozen in bed. She had slept restlessly and now she felt quite hot. She had forgotten how the heat always kicked on in the morning; making her room like a sauna. As she changed into a cooler pair of cotton workout shorts, she frantically wondered, Had last night actually happened?


It seemed as though it had all been very real, and she remembered everything in vivid detail. But then, she had heard of drunken hallucinations…and she had been rather drunk.

I wasn’t that drunk. I couldn’t have been…

Sarah was fairly certain that it had been real, which meant, that the Goblin King was sleeping in the guest room. She jumped out of bed she opened her door a crack. The door to the guest bedroom was closed. She was tempted to just go and see if he was in there but she had said she would let him sleep.

But if she was really quiet…
No that’s ridiculous! Besides what if he’s not wearing any…

She stopped herself before she finished the thought, instead she nervously paced her bedroom.

Finally she conceded that freaking out was not going help, so she decided to start cooking breakfast. Sarah peered out into the hall. The door was still closed. She crept down stairs trying not to make any noise.

She went into the kitchen and started to ransack the fridge. What does one make a Goblin King for breakfast? She grabbed some bacon out of the freezer and threw it in the microwave to thaw. She then headed to the downstairs bathroom and brushed her teeth and threw her unruly hair into a ponytail. She decided to get dressed before Jareth emerged. For some reason the thought of him seeing her at her hung-over morning best horrified her.

She quickly retrieved the bacon from the microwave and tossed some into a frying pan. She covered it as she set the heat to medium. She started a pot of boiling water and dropped a few eggs in.

Jareth awoke to the smell of simmering meat. He wasn’t sure what it was but it smelled really good. He was very hungry and had been pretty exhausted the night before. He got out of bed and threw his tunic on. Just as he was about to open the door he heard footsteps on the stairs.

Sarah tried to be silent as she went back up the stairs, but the house was old and squeaked quite a bit. Just as she reached the top, she heard the guest room door open. Sarah nervously continued forward, walking into her room. She saw Jareth approach from the corner of her eye, so she left the bedroom door open as she started rummaging through her bureau for clothes.

Jareth slid into the doorway leaning against the frame in his casually arrogant way. He gave her a cursory glance and immediately noticed that she barely had any clothes on.

She was wearing what to him resembled some sort of undergarments. Her top had only thin straps at the shoulders, and didn’t quite come to the top of her very short pink shorts. He noticed her feet were bare and allowed his gaze to travel upward. His gaze drifted over her long legs, and his eyes traveled higher still as he noticed that she wasn’t wearing anything under her top.

His lips curved into a satisfied grin as he greeted her. “Good Morning Sarah.”

Sarah froze as she sensed his eyes on her. Her cheeks grew instantly hot. Hearing the heat in his voice as he said her name didn’t help her composure any. Still, she swallowed her embarrassment and managed to meet his steady gaze.

Maybe if she acted as if this was the most natural situation in the world she wouldn’t feel so self-conscious. She decided to ignore the fact that she was barely dressed; as if him seeing her so didn’t phase her one bit.

“Good Morning Jareth. Did you sleep well?”

He glanced down at her figure again, before he answered, “Yes, and you?”

Sarah nodded, feigning a comfortable smile. Then she remembered that she wasn’t wearing a bra. Obviously he had noticed as well.

He cocked his head to the side and remarked, “That is rather interesting sleeping attire Sarah, or is that your ensemble for the day.”

That’s it.

She couldn’t continue conversing with him like this. She grabbed an old faded sweatshirt from the opened drawer, quickly pulling it over her head as she replied, “No, when I woke up this morning I was hot.”

He smirked, “Indeed.”

She irritably replied, “Well for your information, I just about to change. I thought you were still asleep.”

His eyes danced with amusement, “I was asleep, that is, until that intriguing smell woke me.”

Sarah could smell the bacon as well. She grabbed her pile of clothes and darted back into the hall, “That’s breakfast. It should be done.”

She momentarily forgot her irritation as she lead him downstairs, tossing her clothes into the bathroom on the way to the kitchen.

She motioned for him to sit at the table as she prodded the bacon and turned off the burners. She dropped four slices of bread into the toaster before opening a cupboard to reach for the plates and glasses.

Jareth welcomed the opportunity to admire the back of her legs as she stretched to get the glasses down. She strode over to the refrigerator and pulled out a carton of orange juice.

Sarah set the glass in front of him. Her eyes met his for a moment before she poured him some juice.

“Thank you.”

It was almost odd that he was being so polite. It was becoming obvious that she had a lot to learn about the real Jareth.

She fixed their plates and filled her own glass with juice. Setting his plate down in front of him, she murmured, “I hope you like bacon and eggs.”

Jareth checked out his plate and after a few bites he remarked, “This is quite good, I wouldn’t have guessed that you would know how to cook.”

Sarah smiled as she put down her juice, “Well, maybe you have goblin servants or something to prepare your meals, but up here in middleclass America we cook for ourselves or get take out.”

Jareth furrowed his brow, ”Take out?”

Sarah smiled, “Oh don’t worry. If you plan on spending any length of time with me, you’ll find out all about it.”

Chapter 8: A Crystal

Just as Sarah and Jareth finished eating breakfast, a large crash sounded overhead; as if something got knocked over in Sarah’s room.

Sarah and Jareth looked at each other and simultaneously fled from the table. Jareth was in front of Sarah as they raced up the stairs. Just as they neared the top, Sarah’s bedroom door opened, and Hoggle limped out carrying a large satchel.

Upon seeing that it was just her friend, Sarah stepped forward. She knew that Jareth made him uneasy. “Are you alright Hoggle?” she asked breathlessly.

Hoggle dropped the sack at her feet, “I’m fine. I knocked over your box o’jewels as I was comin’ through the mirror. Sorry I’m so clumsy.”


Sarah hugged her friend, “Don’t worry about that. I’m just glad you made it back.”

Jareth approached Hoggle and asked, “Tell us…what did you find?”

Hoggle tried to catch his breath, “Well your majesty, I went to your castle and asked for Snark. He took me to your chamber and got some of yer things together for you. Then something strange happened.”

Jareth furrowed his brow, “What?”

Hoggle continued, “Well we went into the wardrobe for a moment and when we turned around, there was a crystal, just lying on the bed. I coulda swore it hadn’t been there before. I just appeared there, for us to find. There was a note too. Anyway, I brought em ‘ere for you to see.”

Hoggle rummaged through the sack and pulled out the crystal and the piece of parchment, which he handed to the king without further explanation.

Jareth read the note aloud, “To the King of the Goblins. Accept this crystal, You will understand at the right time. –Lachesis”

Jareth stared into the crystal, but it revealed nothing. “Very curious.”

Sarah looked incredulously over his shoulder at the parchment containing the note. “Lachesis? Do you know someone with that name?”

Jareth shook his head before he asked Hoggle, “What else did you find?”

Hoggle replied, “Not much your majesty, I searched the Goblin city and the labyrinth all night. There was no trace of the sorceress and I asked everyone that I met if they knew anything about the note. No one could help. All anyone could tell me was that she disappeared as quickly as she had appeared and no one knew her name. No body heard of Lachesis either.”

Hoggle sighed and looked down, waiting for the King to express his displeasure with what he had found. Jareth thought silently for a moment. Hoggle held up the sack, “Well anyways I was able to collect some of yer things, some clothes and a few other things that might come in handy.”

Jareth took the bag, giving the contents a cursory glance. “Thank you Hoggle. There is something else you’ll need to do. Go back to the castle and go to the library. There’s a book I’ll need you to find.”

Hoggle nodded quickly, “Which book your majesty?”

Jareth looked at Sarah, “Do you have something I can write with.”

Sarah grabbed a pen and a post it off her desk and handed it to Jareth. He looked at the pen curiously for a second then started writing the title of the book. Sarah watched in wonderment as he scribbled various unrecognizable symbols. “What language is that?”

He handed the paper to Hoggle and replied, “It’s an ancient goblin script. “If you have any trouble finding it, just ask one of the servants to help you. As long as you wear that amulet, the goblins should give you no trouble.”

Hoggle looked at the paper and replied, “Thank you your majesty. Well, I guess I’ll be on my way then…go’bye Sarah.”

Sarah smiled, “See you later Hoggle.”

With that Hoggle went back through the mirror, which rippled for a second then all was as it was before.

Sarah repeated the name, “Lachesis…Lachesis. Why do I feel like I’ve heard that name before?”

Jareth regarded her as she sank into deep thought. “Did you hear it in the underground?”

Sarah shook her head “I don’t think so, I think it may have been at school, during one of my lessons. I’m not positive where I’ve heard it, but I’m certain I have heard it somewhere before. I think maybe we should take a trip to the public library.”

Sarah watched Jareth as he carefully put the crystal and the parchment back into the sack that Hoggle had brought. She looked at him thoughtfully and asked, “Do you think that book will help you get some answers?”

Jareth ran his hand through his unruly hair and sighed, “I’m not sure. I think that we are going to be in the dark until that crystal shows us something. We can go to your library if you think it will help, but other than that, I’m afraid I’m out of ideas.” He glanced at her. Her face was full of genuine concern.

He still could barely believe that he had ended up as a guest in her home. His gaze drifted slowly over her features as if committing them to memory.

Sarah looked up and stammered, “I guess I’ll have to keep you entertained until we find out what’s going on.”

Jareth smirked at her, “What do you have in mind?” His tone was full of amusement and implied a double meaning. Sarah blushed a brilliant shade of crimson as she replied, “I’m not really sure. Well aside from going to the library, maybe I can show you around later. For now I’d settle for a shower.”

The delighted smirk was still planted on his face as he waited for her to continue. “I’ll use the bathroom downstairs. You are welcome to use this one.” She led him into the small upstairs bathroom and explained the intricacies of the shower.

Wrapping up her demonstration, she informed him, “I’ll be back in my room in a little while. As soon as you are ready we’ll head to the library.” He nodded and she left him alone in the bathroom.

Sarah sighed as she ran her hands through her wet hair. She let her head fall back enjoying the feel of the hot water cascading down her back and shoulders. She was already feeling considerably better now that she had eaten and was under the hot water. She would be relieved to be properly dressed around Jareth the next time. It was like there was a hunger in his gaze whenever he looked at her. Although she was quickly realizing that he was not the enemy that she first thought, there was still something about his presence that made her uneasy.

As Sarah shampooed her hair, she thought of Jareth and how he looked when he reappeared the night before, lounging in the shadows. He was full of casual self-assuredness and seemed to radiate sensual energy. There was no denying that she found him attractive. Hell, it was eerily coincidental that he seemed to be the epitome of everything that she found enticing. That was just it. He was too enticing. Even the slightest whisper of her name on his lips, just the way he said it, was enough to send goose-bumps crawling over her skin. During her brave moment of confrontation after she had solved the labyrinth she had said that he had no power over her, but what scared her more than anything was the slow realization that her words were not entirely true.

The very idea that he desired her was almost enough to make her do something entirely foolish, like kiss him again. However as appealing as that sounded, she knew she was walking a thin line with the Goblin King. One false move and she could easily lose herself. If she left her heart unguarded and he took advantage than he really would have absolute power over her. Sarah had never been in love before, not romantically anyway. The thought of falling in love scared her to death, since the only people she had ever truly cared for, had hurt her in one way or another.

Her mother abandoned her, choosing her damned career over her only child, and her father had grown distant since he remarried. He didn’t seem to really notice her like he had when she was young, before her parents had divorced. The only one who hadn’t disappointed her was Toby. In fact, her ordeal in the labyrinth had only brought them closer. Still, Toby was just a child. Sarah was sure that there would eventually come a point in his life when he would no longer have time for her either.

So far Jareth had been the only person to show real interest. He seemed to notice her in a way no one ever had, and she couldn’t deny that she liked the idea of someone giving her attention for a change. However, she simply could not allow herself to fall in love with the Goblin King.

There were simply too many variables. First he was Fae, and he was from the Underground…no doubt that that little fact would complicate things. Second, he was a King, which would definitely complicate things further. Third, from what she could tell, he was arrogant, spoiled, bossy, and at times a bit of a bully. He almost reminded her of a child in the way he did as he pleased. It was highly likely that if she did give in to him he very well could discard her and move on.

Jareth did have his good qualities too, which unnerved her even more. He could be genuinely charming and he made her feel extremely alive, and he certainly was attentive when it came to her. At times just being around him was like getting the fierce rush of adrenaline that one experiences on a thrill ride. Just the way he looked at her, and the things he said made her very breath catch in her throat. Sarah knew one thing for certain. She had to be careful. She had no idea at the moment who this Lachesis was, or what she had planned for the Goblin King, but Sarah would be on her guard until she found out.

Chapter 9: Lachesis

Sarah got out of the shower, dried off and dressed herself. It looked chilly outside so she decided to wear a long-sleeved shirt and her comfortable pair of overalls. She knew she’d feel more comfortable around Jareth if she wore more concealing clothes. She grabbed a hair dryer and headed upstairs to her room. Grabbing a pair of socks from her bureau, she sat on the bed.

As she was putting on her socks, Jareth appeared in the doorway to her bedroom. She looked up at him, noting he had changed his clothing. He wore black breeches and a white shirt that hung slightly open in the front. Sarah caught herself before she blatantly looked him over. She was careful to keep her gaze focused on his face. “I think we are going to have to find something else for you to wear out.”

Jareth looked down at his clothing and coolly demanded, “And what is wrong with my attire?”

Sarah shrugged, trying to put it somewhat delicately, “Well, nothing. Except that it’s a bit extravagant for where we are going. People dress a bit differently here, and I think it’ll be best if we don’t stand out.”

Jareth paced the length of the room, stopping to lean against her dresser. “What do you suggest then?”

Sarah nodded to her closet, “I’ll find something as soon as I finish drying my hair.”

Jareth regarded her as she tied her sneakers and plugged in the hairdryer. He watched with interest as she dried her hair with the loud machine. As her hair got drier he noticed that it became shinier and silkier as she combed through it. He stopped watching when the desire to remove his gloves and run his hands through her hair became compelling. He was certain that Sarah would not respond kindly to such and intrusion so he focused his attention elsewhere.

As Sarah finished and unplugged the dryer she noticed that Jareth was looking quizzically at her stereo. She smiled as she walked over to him. Without a word she hit a button and the room was filled with classical music. He turned to her with a look of amazement on his face, “Impressive, How do you do it?”

She laughed and replied “I didn’t do anything, It’s just one of the benefits of modern technology.” She started rummaging through her closet as he toyed with the radio. He found a rock station as she tossed a shoebox out of the closet.

The top fell off the box and Jareth noticed the red bound book on top. He picked it up and laid it aside, as he sat on her bed. Inside the box he noticed the lipstick that she had used to mark the way while she ran the labyrinth. As he opened a sketchbook that was also in the box he realized what this box was. Sarah had stored all her memories from the labyrinth here. In the sketchpad were drawings done by Sarah to document her journey through the Underground.

Jareth looked appreciatively at each charcoal image as he too remembered. They were all so realistic. Him, towering over her, when he took Toby. Her and Hoggle, standing in the entrance to the labyrinth. The worm. The guardians of the two doors, the helping hands, Hoggle leading her out of the oubliette. Their second meeting, the cleaners, Ludo, the knockers, the Fireys, The Bog and Sir Didymis, the ballroom, the two of them dancing, the gates of the goblin city, and him offering her the crystal in the Escher room. He didn’t notice that Sarah had stopped searching the closet and was silently watching him look through her drawings.

He suddenly noticed she was watching and he waited for her reaction. He expected her to be angry for prying, but she stood there silently with the same wistful expression on her face. He handed the drawings back to her, “They are wonderful.” She blushed red for a moment. “I…I drew them so that I would remember…so that I would always know that it hadn’t been a dream.”

Jareth was about to speak when she held up a sweatshirt and a pair of warm up pants. “I found what I was looking for. You can put these on, I think they should fit.”

Jareth looked at the garments she was holding out when the realization struck him, “You aren’t suggesting that I wear your clothes?”

Sarah sighed. She had a feeling he was going to be difficult about this. “Jareth, just put them on. This is all that I have in this house that’s likely to fit you. We can go find some clothes that will suit you better later, but before we can leave this house you have to blend in.”

He shook his head and took the clothes from her and held them up to inspect them. There was a large worn out black college sweatshirt and a pair of black wind pants that looked like they had never been worn. He sighed, “You can’t be serious.”

Sarah protested, “Look, I know they’re not the greatest, but they are just for now. After we go to the library I’ll take you to get some aboveground clothes of your own. Now stop being difficult and just change into them.”

Without another word he threw up his hands in defeat and started to undo his shirt and took it off.

Suddenly noticing what he was doing, she whipped around, her cheeks aflame, “Whoa…wait for me to leave first.”

She kept her back to him as she stepped out of the room, blindly reaching behind her for the doorknob she muttered, “Jeez, change right in front of me why don’t you.”

Jareth, who had heard her comment, chuckled replying, “Just doing as I am told.”

Sarah waited outside as he finished dressing. When he opened the door it took all of her willpower to not burst out laughing. There he was, the Goblin King, in all his splendor, wearing her old college sweatshirt and warm up pants that had been too large for her. It was a quite a sight, and Sarah decided then and there, that if she had still been angry at him for taking Toby, this was all the revenge she would ever need.

His glare was deadly as she fought the urge to smile. She quickly turned to her vanity and grabbed an elastic band. He waited, with a look of absolute disdain on his face as she lied, “It’s not so bad.”

She motioned for him to sit, “Just one other thing, I’ll have to tie your hair back. This may have been fine like ten years ago but now it’s a little out of the ordinary. I think if I just tie it back…”

Jareth shot her another deadly glare as she gathered his hair in her hands.

He was about to make a biting comment but he was quickly silenced as he felt Sarah’s fingers running through his hair. His breath nearly caught in his throat as he realized that Sarah was voluntarily touching him. Her touch was a bit tentative and very gentle as she gathered his hair in one hand and bound it with the elastic with the other. She quickly finished, and as she pulled her hands away, he instantly missed her touch.

He inspected her work in the mirror. Not bad, he thought to himself. Sarah fetched a pair of her Dad’s old sneakers, which were a bit big but generally fit Jareth. They would do for one day anyhow. Sarah grabbed her keys along with her wallet and cell phone as she lead Jareth back downstairs. “Alright let’s go. I’ll drive us to the library first then I’ll take you to get some clothes.”

Jareth was about to ask her what she meant by drive when she opened the door to the garage.

“What is that?” Jareth exclaimed as she unlocked the doors.

Sarah smiled and opened the passenger door for him. “A Honda Civic. Its my car.” Jareth warily got inside.

Sarah got in and started the engine, smiling as she noticed the worried look on Jareth’s face. “Are you sure this is safe?”

She smirked and buckled her safety belt and put on a pair of sunglasses. “Buckle up and you’ll find out.”

Jareth frantically buckled his safety belt as she backed the car out of the driveway. Sarah looked around. The streets were deserted so she decided to have a bit of fun with his highness. She smirked at him again and slammed the car into first, peeling out as she headed down the street. It was priceless to watch him grip the door handle with white knuckles.

She only went really fast down the few streets in her neighborhood before she started to drive normally. After a little while Jareth noticed that Sarah was in complete control of the car. He realized that she was apparently just having some fun with him and then he started to relax and even started to enjoy the ride a bit.

Before long they arrived at the library and as they headed for the large brick building Sarah whispered, “Don’t talk to anyone and stay with me, if there’s any talking that needs to be done, I’ll handle it.” Jareth nodded even though he hated the idea of someone else telling him what to do.

Jareth peered at the screen from behind Sarah as she searched the Library data base for Lachesis. As a list of sources came up she whispered, “These are all Greek mythology books. Of course! Now I remember. Lachesis is the name of one of the Fates.”

Jareth was puzzled, “The Fates?”

Sarah pointed to the screen. Let’s go and get this book I think it should tell us what we need to know.

A few moments later Jareth and Sarah were sitting across from each other in a private study room. Sarah was reading from a Greek mythology book, “The Fates, or Moirae, were the goddesses who controlled the destiny of everyone from the time they were born to the time they died. There are three Fates; Clotho, the spinner, who spun the thread of a person’s life, Lachesis, the apportioner, who decided how much time was to be allowed each person and determined their destiny, and Atropos, the inevitable, who cut the thread when you were supposed to die. The Fates are old and predate the gods. It is not entirely clear how far their power extends. It is possible that they determine the fate of the gods as well. In any case, not even the most powerful is willing to trifle with them.”

Sarah looked up from the book at Jareth. His face had become an expressionless mask.

“Jareth, this might not be good. If this Lachesis who sent you the crystal, is indeed one of the Fates, she may have your destiny already decided.” Sarah licked her lips nervously and continued, “I had no idea that this stuff could be real. I don’t know what Lachesis wants with you Jareth, but I’ll admit I’m more than a little worried.”

Jareth looked into her eyes for a moment seeing genuine concern there. He closed the book and leaned back in his chair. He thought for a moment before he softly said, “Sarah, It won’t do us any good to worry. We’ll just have to wait for Lachesis to make her intentions known. I’ll deal with that when the time comes. Trust me, I don’t like not knowing what to expect anymore than you do, but I’m not going to let it stop me from living.”

His eyes darted over her face as his expression softened, “All I can say is that I was given another chance, and I’m not going to take it for granted. I meant what I said about wanting to be friends. I think we should just enjoy each others company while we still can.”

Sarah looked at him in astonishment. How could he, in one heartbeat, cause her fears to simply melt away. As she looked into his mismatched eyes she felt a sense of relief, as if everything would be alright, no matter what happened.

Chapter 10: New Threads and Tiny Crystals

Soon after leaving the library, Jareth and Sarah arrived at the local shopping mall. As Sarah turned off the car she looked at Jareth and asked, “Did you bring that crystal with you?”

Jareth pulled the clear round object out of the pocket of the sweatshirt, “You mean this?”

Sarah nodded and replied, “Can you see anything in it?”

Jareth held it up to the sunlight streaming through the window and looked into it, “No…nothing.”

Sarah looked a bit disappointed. “Hmmm. Alright, let’s go then.”

Jareth looked about as he got out of the car, “What is this place?”

Sarah pointed towards the entrance, “It’s a shopping mall. I thought you’d like to pick out some appropriate clothing.” Jareth nodded as Sarah continued, “Remember, stay with me and don’t talk to anyone…” Jareth gave an exasperated sigh, “Sarah, I’m not a child, thank you.”

Sarah smiled, “I know. I just think it could be dangerous if anyone found out who you are or that the Underground exists. Besides, even if I tried to explain to anyone who you really are they’d probably think I was crazy and lock me away.”

As they neared the entrance Jareth muttered, “Don’t worry I don’t intend on talking to anyone, I want to get this over with as much as you do.”

As they walked inside Sarah scowled, noticing that the mall was a bit crowded. She sighed, and lead Jareth out into the mall, “Ok let’s go.”

Sarah had been to this mall many times so she didn’t need a directory to tell here where the stores were. She thought for a moment and led him upstairs to where she knew there was a men’s clothing store that might be to his taste.

Sarah was relieved that the store was nearly empty as they walked in. She whispered to Jareth, “All this stuff is fair game so pick out something you like and we’ll be on our way.” After rejecting several of the racks Jareth lead Sarah over to the wall and looked at some black pants. “These would do.” He simply stated and motioned to the pants.

Sarah shrugged and replied, “Ok, what size are you?”

Jareth looked at her blankly, “Size? What do you mean?”

Sarah sighed impatiently as she rummaged through the different sizes, “You mean you don’t know your measurements? How on earth do you come by clothes at home? No wait, don’t tell me…You magically make them appear.”

Jareth snickered, “No I don’t make them appear. They are tailored for me.”

Sarah let out an exasperated breath, “Well since you don’t know your size, you are going to have to try on a few pairs until we find out what fits.”

Just as she was saying this a short salesmen sauntered up behind her and enquired, “Can I help you with something?” Sarah nearly dropped the pants as she was startled, but quickly stammered, “Uh… No thanks, just looking thank you.”

The salesman smiled and replied “Ok I’ll be at the register if you need help with something.”

Sarah glared at Jareth who was nearly laughing at her startled reaction. She shoved several pairs of pants at the Goblin King as she pointed to the fitting room, “Just go in there and try these on.” On the way to the fitting room Jareth spotted a black button down shirt that he found agreeable so Sarah added it the pile of pants. Sarah waited for Jareth outside the fitting room as he tried on the clothing.

After what seemed like an eternity she whispered, “Well, does anything fit?” Jareth sounded rather irritated as he whispered through the door, “Well, how should I know? I’ve never worn garments like these before. I’m going to need your opinion.”

Sarah sighed, “Well come out here then and let me see.”

Jareth quickly responded, “No, you come here.”

Sarah was about to protest, but decided it wasn’t worth arguing with him. Sarah glanced about, no one was looking, so she quickly slipped into the fitting room. The changing room was tiny so she had to press herself into the corner to see the whole outfit on him.

Her jaw dropped. He was drop dead gorgeous in black. The tight black slacks fit him perfectly and the silk shirt hung slightly open exposing his alabaster chest. He had let his hair back down and it was in it’s natural wild state. He looked as though he had stepped out of her dreams…and not the innocent fairy tale dreams that she dwelled on in her childhood, but the sort of dreams that woke her out of sound sleep, and left her sweaty and breathing heavy.

If Sarah had to describe in words what her perfect lover would be like, she would have come up with the exact sight before her very eyes. She blinked and stared, at the moments all words had failed her, so she simply stared some more. Jareth impatiently smoothed the front of the shirt, “Well…Is this suitable?”

Sarah’s lips parted, but still no words came. She looked him up and down forcing her head to nod. She waited to speak to be sure that her voice wouldn’t betray her. She’d be damned if she was going to let him know just how good he looked. She simply stated, “Yeah…that…that looks good.”

She was still nodding.

As Jareth waited for her answer he noticed her eyes dart up and down his frame more than once. Her eyes had darkened…he had seen that look on her face twice now. Once when they had danced at the masquerade and once after he had just kissed her. A slow smirk spread across his face as he replied, “Just good?”

Sarah looked away and sighed, “I refuse to contribute to your already over inflated ego…It looks fine. Put the other clothes back on, and lets get out of here already.” Jareth smiled wickedly and reached for the buttons on his shirt. Sarah threw up her hands and cried, “After! After I get out…”

She rushed out of the dressing room, taking a moment to take a deep breath and compose herself before she dug her credit card out of her wallet. Shortly after Sarah and Jareth had made the purchase, and were on their way back to Sarah’s house.

Sarah opened the front door and was surprised to find Hoggle sitting on the couch with a tiny goblin as naturally as if they were simply visiting for tea. Jareth followed Sarah into the house as she hugged her friend hello. He couldn’t help being jealous that Sarah had never greeted him with that much affection.

Hoggle stepped back as Jareth appeared at Sarah’s side. He took in the King’s attire but thought better of saying anything, since a trip to the bog was not on his to do list. “Your Majesty, ‘ere is the book you sent me to find.” He held out the heavy book and Jareth took it from him just as he noticed the small furry goblin that scrambled to his feet.

“Your majesty is it really you?” The little goblin squeaked.

Jareth looked down at his small subject with a wry grin, “Yes, Beezle it is really me.”

The little goblin gave a toothy grin and hugged the King’s leg. “I is so glad to be seein’ you alive your greatness. I thought maybe you had gone away forevers… til Hoggle here, showed me you amulet.”

Jareth smiled, it was nice to know that his goblins did miss him. The goblin climbed up on the nearby armchair as Jareth crouched down to talk with him. “I had to come and see you your majesty. When I helped Hoggle get the big book, I begged him to let me come too.” The small goblin spoke very fast as if out of breath.

Jareth looked at his subject, “Why the urgency to see me?”

Beezle pointed to a green glass bottle on the coffee table, “When Hoggle said you weres aboveground, I be thinking that you would be having no Goblin wine, so I thought I’d bring you some, seeing how much you like wine…and then I could see for me’self that you are alright.”

Jareth looked at the bottle and then back at the goblin, “How…thoughtful. You may tell the others that I will be staying aboveground for a while as a guest of Lady Sarah.”

The goblin looked up at Sarah. She smiled politely to Beezle, which made his fuzzy face turn scarlet. He looked down and then pulled out a small sack from his pocket containing three marble sized crystals and handed it to Jareth. “I also give you these your majesty…just in case you be needing a wee bit of magic.”

Jareth held out his hand and accepted the sack of crystals. “Ah very well Beezle, these may come in handy…thank you.” At this Beezle went bright red again. Jareth continued, “Hoggle, you have done well, keep an ear out for Sarah’s call should we need you again.”

Hoggle nodded and offered the king his amulet back, “I don’t think I’ll be needing this anymore your majesty, the goblins seem to believe me and now that Beezle’s seen for imself that you’re in one piece, the rest should be satisfied.” Jareth accepted the amulet and dismissed them both.

Once again Sarah and Jareth found themselves alone in the house. Jareth made himself comfortable on the couch, searching the goblin text for any more information that may be relevant. Sarah sat on the couch beside him. He noticed that she didn’t sit right beside him, instead she left a bit of room.

She studied the bottle on the table. “What kind of wine is this?”

Jareth barely looked up from the book, “It’s enchanted goblin wine. Causes a general feeling of relaxation and slight euphoria…which gets stronger with the age of the wine.”

Sarah nodded “How old is this one?”

Jareth glanced at the bottle, “Don’t know, the label has been removed. You seem rather interested, Do you want to try it?”

Sarah sat back abruptly, “Er… No, not right now…maybe tomorrow…I had enough to drink last night remember?”

Jareth attention went back to the book as he muttered, “How could I forget…”

Sarah felt a surge of adrenaline rush through her veins and she quickly put the wine back on the table and instead picked up the bag of crystals. She opened it and fingered the clear orbs, “What do these do?”

Jareth thought a moment, his eyes never leaving the pages of the book. He grinned as he stated in a very matter of fact tone, “When they are touched, they emit a powerful spell. The person touching them falls hopelessly in love with the first person they see.”

Sarah dropped them on the floor as if she had been burned. Her breath caught in her throat, as she was afraid to breathe. Her eyes grew wide as he lowered the book and leaned closer.

At seeing her reaction Jareth started to laugh. It was more of a chuckle at first, but then he laughed heartily as he saw the furious look on her face. He managed to catch his breath and add, “Actually No…I made that up…”

It was impossible for Sarah to remain angry, seeing him laughing like that, it was really wonderful to hear him laugh so effortlessly. But she had to get back at him for scaring her like that. “You ass…”

She couldn’t keep from laughing, and quick as lightning without even thinking, she lunged at him the way a good friend pounces on another. However Jareth was just as quick, and he caught her by the arms, quickly turning her as he pulled her into his lap.

Suddenly she stilled in his arms. She found herself looking up into his face, and his smile quickly faded, as his expression grew serious. They both fell silent as their eyes locked. He broke their eye contact, his gaze darting to her lips, and those annoying bells went off in Sarah’s head again.

With the instant feeling of panic at the realization that he might kiss her, Sarah quickly shifted, managing to sit up and move away.

Jareth smirked and was quick to recover, “Actually those are weak crystals that are only capable of performing small charms such as glamour spells…noting too powerful, no where near strong enough to transport myself back to the castle.”

Sarah nodded and picked up the crystals from the floor and put them back into the bag. She thought to herself, That was really close…How on earth am I going to resist him if that happens again?

Sarah knew it was his eyes that did her in. It was like every time she looked into them she would get lost and had a hard time finding her way back.

Chapter 11: Cards Anyone?

Sarah decided that preparing lunch would be the perfect opportunity to slip away for a little while and collect herself. Before long, she had made them some sandwiches and iced tea. As she set their lunch on the coffee table, she noticed Jareth was once again immersed in the book that Hoggle had brought.

Quietly she stated, “I brought some lunch, sandwiches and iced tea. I thought you might be hungry.”

Jareth replied, “Thank you…” as he sipped some of the iced tea.

Sarah sat next to him and started nibbling on a sandwich, “Did you find something?”

He nodded, “There are a few references here, but not much more than what we found in your library. However this symbol is rather interesting.” He pointed to a marking that was inscribed on the page of the book. “The symbol of the Fates. Strange, how this looks oddly familiar. I have the feeling that I’ve seen this marking somewhere before.”

Sarah looked over his shoulder. The script was very strange and the marking was unlike anything she had ever seen. Jareth picked up his sandwich and shut the book, “Well, that wasn’t much help.” He pulled the crystal from his pocket and looked into it.

Sarah replied, “I guess it’s up to her to make the next move.”

After lunch Sarah dragged Jareth to a thrift store in town so they could pick up some more casual clothes for him to wear. Sarah managed to find a few pairs of jeans that were his size that were in good condition. She also found some dark colored shirts, and a pair of versatile black shoes.

Jareth didn’t like that she was buying him clothes, but she assured him that they were inexpensive and there weren’t really any other alternatives. On the way back home Sarah noticed that Jareth seemed to be carefully watching the way she drove. His eyes drifted from her hands on the wheel to her feet as they eased on and off the pedals.

When she looked over at him he mused, “You make it look so easy.”

Sarah smiled, “What driving? It is easy. Once you learn how and have had practice.”

Jareth smirked at her, a beguiling gleam in his eye, “Sarah, will you teach me?”

Sarah chuckled, “Teach you? To drive? What for?”

Jareth shrugged, “Might be fun.”

Sarah shook her head, “Not right now Jareth. There is too much traffic, and you have to have a permit or a license…” She noticed the look of disdain on his face and went on “We could get in real trouble...”

Jareth licked his lips, raising an eyebrow provocatively, “Only if we get caught.”

Sarah sighed, finding it nearly impossible to resist, “Alright, I’ll let you…but not until after dark. I know a place that’ll be deserted.”

Jareth simply grinned.

When they got back to the house Sarah investigated the contents of the fridge to see what she could find for dinner. Meanwhile, Jareth changed back into his signature Underground attire. When he reappeared in the kitchen, Sarah was surveying the contents of the fridge with dismay.

“Well, there’s not much in here, and I didn’t thaw anything…” She feigned disappointment and added, “Looks like we’ll have to settle for take out.”

Jareth watched with curiosity as she pulled a paper flyer off the fridge and picked up the phone. Bewildered, Jareth asked, “What are you doing?”

Sarah spun around, letting the cord twist around her body, “Calling for Chinese food. Since I don’t know what you’ll like, I’ll just order a bunch of dishes.” Jareth still didn’t understand, but watched silently as she pushed some buttons and spoke into the phone.

“Ah yes, order for delivery. I’ll have a number six, a number twelve, and an eighteen, and a number twenty. Steamed rice. Uh huh. Two forty four West Street. Thanks, Bye.” She hung up the phone and smiled, “Dinner will be here in thirty minutes.”

Jareth was impressed, “That’s it?”

“Yep.”

Sarah led him into the living room and picked up the local newspaper from the coffee table. As she plopped down on the sofa, Jareth sat down next to her, checking out the paper over her shoulder.

Sarah tried to ignore that he was sitting so close, Of all the places to sit in here… she thought, Why must he sit so close?

She turned to the local section of the paper and perused through the weekly calendar. “Hmmm there’s a fair going on. You might like to see that. We could go tomorrow…”

Jareth shrugged, “We have fairs in the underground…not much different then the markets, except for the tournaments.”

Sarah looked at him, her mouth curving into a wry grin, “Jareth, I don’t think this fair will be quite like anything you’ve seen, but I’ll let you decide for yourself.” Sarah folded the paper in half and dropped it back on the coffee table.

“Now that we’ve figured out dinner, what would you like to do for the rest evening?”

He furrowed his brow, his eyes locking with hers, “I can think of a few ways to pass the time.” His gaze was full of heat and mischief.

Just then, his eyes darted to her lips. Sarah felt her breath catch in her throat, and she jumped up, stammering, “Uh…wha…what if we play a game?”

Jareth sat up straight looking intrigued. “Very well…what sort of game?”

Sarah’s eyes flitted frantically about the room “How about something simple…I know…a game of cards.” She hurried to the draw on the end table and pulled out a deck of cards. She sat next to him on the sofa and started shuffling the deck. “Let’s try a game of Poker.”

Soon she had dealt the cards and was explaining the rules. Jareth was a fast learner so they were playing a real hand in no time. Sarah conversed with him as she examined her hand “I haven’t played cards in a long time. I kind of miss it. We used to play a lot in college.”

Jareth discarded two of his cards and took two fresh cards, “What kind of card games did you play?”

Sarah smiled, “We’d play this game sometimes…although it can be more interesting when you bet money.” Jareth nodded. He could see her point. She had already won the first two hands.

Sarah went on, “Sometimes the students in my dorm played drinking games. A bad hand meant you’d have to drink. There was this one game they used to play called circle of death. It never lasted very long since everyone would be drunk in no time. Next thing you know, they’d start a game of strip poker.”

Jareth looked up, “Isn’t that what you said we were playing?”

Sarah looked up in surprise, “No we are playing five card stud Poker.”

Jareth quipped, “What is the difference?”

He didn’t miss the fact that Sarah’s cheeks had turned bright red. She quickly looked at her cards, “What do you think? Strip poker…”

Jareth had a pretty good idea, but it was fun making her squirm. “I don’t know. You brought it up. Tell me.”

Sarah sighed, “Well…when someone loses a hand they…have to remove…an…article of clothing.”

Jareth pretended to be shocked, “How scandalous…” Then a thought struck him, “Had she been a participant in such games?” It occurred to him that ever since she had beaten his labyrinth, he hadn’t been able to always watch over her. Sure he had checked on her from time to time, but he couldn’t watch her all the time.

Suddenly an awful thought struck him, “Did she have affections for another man, or worse? Had she been intimate with anyone?” The thought of someone else even kissing her was enough to make his blood boil.

Sarah noticed that Jareth’s face paled considerably, becoming an expressionless mask.

After a moment he had reined in enough self-control to speak evenly. “Sarah did you part- “

She quickly cut him off, “No! What do you think I am?! I was just saying that I knew people who would play that! I didn’t mean me.”

Jareth let out a breath he didn’t realize he had been holding. How was he going to find out the answers to questions he didn’t dare ask?

Sarah noticed that despite his seeming relief to her answer, that something was still bothering him. She bit her lip and ventured, “Jareth is something wrong?”

He weighed his options. On one hand he could just ask her, she said they were friends, so maybe she would welcome the chance to be honest with him, but then again, he remembered all too well how fiery Sarah’s temper could be. She very well might take such a personal inquiry as an insult.

He was about to speak, when he felt Sarah’s hand gently touch his own. Softly and hesitantly she insisted, “Jareth, if we are to be friends we should be able to talk…”

His eyes swiftly met hers, and he spoke evenly so as not to let too much emotion show, “Sarah, there is something I’d like to know but if you cannot answer me honestly, I’d rather not ask.”

Sarah swallowed and quietly answered, “Dishonesty is hardly the way to start a friendship, wouldn’t you say?”

He noticed she looked a bit apprehensive but he could also tell she was sincere. There was one thing about Sarah, her eyes didn’t lie. Jareth nodded slowly, “Alright then…Sarah have you…”

Sarah held her breath. What if he asked if she had feelings for him? She hadn’t even honestly answered herself about that one. There was no doubt that she was attracted to him. She was also well aware of the fact that she was beginning to like him. But did she love him? She wasn’t sure. What she was sure of was that she hadn’t been able to stop thinking about him after she’d said those six awful words, and that scared her. Obviously she did have feelings for hum, but she sure as hell wasn’t ready to admit it. Panic surged within her. She needed to intercept him.

She took a deep breath and blurted the first thing that came to mind.

“I haven’t had a serious relationship.” She hadn’t known what he was really going to ask, but if he had been about to ask if she felt something for him, perhaps the admission might change the subject.

Jareth wasn’t sure whether to be relieved or horrified. Quickly he countered, “What do you mean?”

Sarah breathed a tad easier, “I mean I’ve gone out with a few guys, but it never turned into anything.”

Jareth could only repeat her last words with confusion, “Never turned into anything?”

Sarah figured it was worth spilling her guts to him about her pathetic social life, so long as it kept him from asking her how she felt about him. Sarah swallowed, finding strength in her decision. “I went on a few dates but I never harbored any real interest the guys I dated.”

He was starting to understand, but it would take more to placate him. He suddenly looked exhausted, “Well then, does that mean you weren’t intimate…”

Sarah nearly laughed. “No! Of course not. Jareth…I think that is reserved for special occasions. I would never sleep with someone I didn’t love.”

Jareth suddenly seemed himself again, “So what you are telling me is that you…”

Sarah finished the sentence for him, “…are a virgin? Yeah.”

She was mortified. She hadn’t meant for it to come out like that. God, did I really just say that…

She felt her cheeks grow hot, and ducked her head and added, “That doesn’t mean I’m a prude though.”

Jareth knew that already firsthand. But what exactly did she mean by that? She had gone back to looking at her cards.

By the Underground, he had to know.

Without further thought he slipped his gloved hand under her chin, tipping her face up so she would be forced to look at him. He inhaled sharply, as if clearing his head. His cold eyes bored into hers as he demanded, “Exactly how far did they get…these, men?” He asked matter-of-factly, annunciating the words with sarcasm.

Sarah’s eyes burned with insolence as she replied, “No further than you.”

As much as he fumed at the thought of another man kissing her, at least it was obvious that she never had any real feelings for any of them. Of course, how she really felt about him was still to be determined. He was tempted to elicit a confession from her, but there was no need. Her eyes didn’t lie, and he had seen desire in them. But still, what she had just said angered him, and Jareth took her defiant statement as a challenge.

Baiting the Goblin king had seemed like a good idea at the time, but Sarah was now painfully aware that his fingers still lingered beneath her chin, keeping her from looking away. She was slowly drowning in the blue and hazel pools of his eyes.

Without warning, his gloved hand slid back, and his deft fingers trailed along her jaw line before burying themselves in her hair. She tried to look away, but he wouldn’t allow it. His eyes never left her face as his fist closed, tugging her hair so that she was forced to look up at him. Something awakened in his eyes as his expression suddenly seemed strained. Nothing could have prepared her for what followed.

In the next heartbeat his mouth claimed hers.

Sarah closed her eyes. She was lost. Her head fell back as her muscles went slack. She was so taken aback, it was as if her body was stunned by the contact of his lips against hers. She knew she should move; react in some way, but she was too dumbstruck to respond. She didn’t move, she couldn’t.

Jareth was in control, and he used his weight to force her back against the cushions of the sofa as he kissed her. With a single fluid motion of his hand, he brushed the cards off the couch so that he could get closer.

His open mouth felt achingly delicious upon hers. Though every neuron in her brain screamed for her to stop him…she couldn’t bring herself to push him off.

She felt him shift so he was hovering over her, as his tongue slowly began to explore her mouth. She remained frozen in place, her lips parted, not rejecting him, yet not kissing him back. He slowly continued to kiss her, letting his mouth slowly open and close over hers, again and again.

Oh God, he’s not stopping…

The feel of his hand roughly entangled in her hair felt surprisingly erotic. The slow deliberate ministrations of his mouth were relentless. It was pure torture. She felt her resolve start to weaken, her self control beginning to slip. She needed to end this now or her will was going to break.

She weakly pushed against his chest, but he swiftly caught her hand, and forced it back down on the sofa. The powerful grip of his leather clad fingers on her wrist only excited her more. Just the thought of the strength he possessed made her knees weak.

She was thankful she was still sitting with her feet planted on the floor, otherwise, she was sure he would have already been completely on top of her. His kisses grew slower, more agonizing. His lips venturing to the corner of her mouth, teasing her, daring her to kiss him back. Sarah wondered where he had learned to kiss like this…it was maddening.

The withdrawal of his mouth and then its passionate return was the most electrifying thing she had ever experienced and it was seriously impairing her ability to remain in control. The next kiss was so slow and deep that it shattered her restraint. Finally, she desperately kissed him back with reckless abandon as the voice in her head sighed, I don’t even care anymore...

His mouth melded longingly with hers. And then it deepened, turning rough and insistent.

As their mouths explored each other, Sarah suddenly realized how badly she wanted him. The thought of where this was heading terrified her. She had seen enough movies and had read enough romance novels to know that people didn’t just kiss like this and then walk away from each other. If she let the situation progress any farther she was going to regret it later.

How had this even happened in the first place? One minute they were playing cards and now she was kissing him. Jareth must have taken her last comment as a challenge, and now he was engaged. He was testing her, he had to be. Well, he certainly knew how to push her buttons. But she wasn’t throwing in the towel just yet. Why should she make it easy on him? He wanted to see what he could get away with. Why shouldn’t she question just how far he would go.

Two can play at this game.

Her hand strayed up the length of his arms, coming to rest at the back of his neck as she kissed him back with an astonishing ferocity. Instead of retreating, she moved her body closer to his. He released her other wrist and she quickly entwined both arms about his neck.

It was time to call his bluff. She lifted her feet off the floor, settling back against the cushions. Just as she suspected, Jareth moved to hover over her. Their scorching kisses continued as Sarah deliberately tipped her hips upward, making contact with his lower body. She felt the evidence of his arousal digging into her thigh, and she reeled at the sudden persistent ache that filled her.

Jareth inhaled sharply at the contact, burned by the overwhelming fire of his yearning. The feel of her body pressed against his was maddening. His breath caught in his throat as his restraint wavered.

Sarah immediately repeated her advance and this time Jareth reciprocated with force, murmuring her name as he kissed her.

This wasn’t exactly the reaction she expected. She had thought that he had been bluffing, and that her playing along would make him pull back. It would have been the perfect time to stop him.

Instead she kissed him back with years of pent up longing, pressing against him even harder.

Jareth was taken by surprise by Sarah’s sudden boldness and he silently prayed she would retreat before he tore off her clothes. For he was sure that if she didn’t stop him, he would take her sweet virginity, and ravish her right on the sofa.

Her passionate kiss was full of raw desire and it consumed him. In an act of self-defense he tore his mouth from hers, trailing searing kisses over her jaw and down her throat.

He heard her sharp intake of breath. The feel of his warm lips on her bare throat was more than she could stand. She breathlessly whispered, “Jareth…” Not sure if she was pleading for him to stop or begging for him to continue.

Hearing her call out his name so breathlessly only amplified his need of her. He wanted to give her so much pleasure that she would scream it over and over again.

Sarah grabbed the fabric of his shirt tightly in her fists and tried again, “Jareth…” His hips came in contact with hers again and she felt the aching pleasure wash over her, stronger this time. Without meaning to, she moaned aloud. Frantically she pulled on the collar of his shirt.

She had to stop this right now even though it was the last thing she wanted to do, “Oh…Jareth. No…we have to stop.”

Just then the loud doorbell sounded.

Jareth quickly looked up as if trying to figure out where the sound had come from.

Sarah’s first thought was panic as she thought of her Dad and Karen coming through the door. No they are a thousand miles away on a cruise. What the…the food!

Her mind felt hazy as she slid out from under Jareth, muttering, “Food’s here.” Her hands were shaking as she took the money from her wallet. Jareth sat back on the couch as Sarah answered the door.

As Sarah opened the door, she was practically panting, as she tried to catch her breath. No doubt her hair was all messed up as well. This caused her already flushed face to blush even redder. Despite being mortified, she was half glad that the food had arrived when it did. She gave the delivery boy a hefty tip, as she figured he deserved it for interrupting whatever was about to happen on her parents couch.

She shut the door, setting the bag of food down on the table. She couldn’t bring herself to look Jareth in the eyes, but she had to say something after what had just happened. She was still trembling as she smoothed out her hair. She took a deep breath, concentrating on Jareth’s boots. “Okay, you’ve proved you are entirely in another league than the other guys I went out with. Are you satisfied now?”

He shook his head taking a step towards her, “A vague question like that doesn’t deserve a straight forward answer. In one sense I am infinitely satisfied, but in another I am thoroughly un-sated.”

She glanced up at him in surprise, and he raised his brow, confirming that his statement was to be taken as an innuendo. She clamped her mouth shut as he ventured, “Tell me Sarah, are you satisfied?”

Her face grew even redder, if that was even possible. Totally flustered, she stammered, “I...uh…Jareth, I…don’t know if…”

He held up his hand in a patient gesture, “Sarah you don’t have to explain.”

Sarah swallowed and finally met his eyes. How can he be so beautiful?

“I don’t?”

He shook his head slowly, as his mouth turned upward in an amused smirk.

God, how can he be so charming.

She took a sobering deep breath and protested, “No, there is something I need to say.” His eyes remained fixed on her as he listened intently. “Look Jareth, I know that before, I didn’t really know you…and that we’ve only just started getting to know each other. But so far I…like you, and I really would like for us to be friends. I’m just not sure that it’s a good idea for things to get…physical between us er…just yet. I don’t know what’s going on or why you are here any more than you do, and I think it would be wisest for us not to…complicate things.”

She was disheartened to find that she couldn’t read his expression. Rather than showing any disappointment or relief, he simply seemed calm. Nervously she continued, “I mean, you are from the Underground, you are Fae, King of the Goblins. I’m mortal, just human, and I live aboveground, surly you can see how any relationship between us, is bound to be riddled with complications. I mean, what if in a couple days this Lachesis shows up, and sends you back underground, and what if it isn’t possible for us to ever see each other?”

He hated to admit it, but she did have a point. He had had been so obsessed with winning her heart, that he never stopped to think of what the consequences might be. The only time he had ever heard of a mortal and a Fae being together was the case of his parents and things did not end too well for them. Be that as it may, he was not about to give up on Sarah. Maybe she was right though, at least for now, maybe the best thing to do was keep things on a platonic level. There was only one problem, How on earth was he supposed to restrain himself, especially now that it was apparent that the attraction was mutual.

Jareth’s face had become the expressionless mask again and his lips were drawn into a thin line as he pondered what she was saying. When he finally spoke, his voice was once again the cold even tone of the Goblin King, “You raise a valid point. I tend to agree.”

That was not what Sarah had expected. She had been mentally preparing herself for a heated argument. So, he could be reasonable. She was almost disappointed.

Sarah shifted her attention to the bags on the table. “Well, since we agree…let’s eat.” She pulled out the cartons of Chinese food and grabbed some plates from the kitchen.

Chapter 12: The Sarah Williams School of Driving

Sarah handed a plate to Jareth and started opening the cartons. She offered each of them to him and he put a little of each on his plate. Sarah helped herself to some lo mein and chicken fingers. She dumped the remainder of the bags contents on the table. There were a few fortune cookies and some chop sticks.

Jareth picked up a pair of sticks from the table, “What are these?”

Sarah replied, “Chop sticks. Some people prefer to eat this type of food with them. I’m not very good at using them, but you can try them if you like.”

Jareth looked at the sticks and then at the food.

He started to spear some chicken with them but Sarah quickly stopped him with her laughter, “No, not like that. Here…you are supposed to hold them like this, I think.”

Jareth watched as she demonstrated. She was just barely able to pick up some rice. When she handed them back to him he replied, “Surely you cannot be serious.”

Sarah was once again using a fork and right before she took a bite she replied, “Seriously, that is what they are for, but if it’s too difficult for you just use the fork.”

Of course he was not about to admit to her that he couldn’t do something, so he struggled with the chop sticks as Sarah fought to keep a straight face.

Just as they were almost finished eating, the inevitable happened and Jareth dropped some food on his shirt. He sighed in annoyance, and Sarah could no longer contain the laughter that had been trying to surface.

Jareth slammed the chop sticks down on the table before he stood up and angrily began to unbutton his shirt.

Sarah quickly exclaimed, “Wait. I have something that can get that out. Hang on a sec.” With that she ran into the kitchen and reemerged with a little wipe.

She tore open the paper pouch as she strode over to where Jareth was standing. She held the bottom of his shirt and started wiping the fabric with the damp paper cloth. Jareth watched silently as she cleaned the stain and soon it was starting to disappear. “These things are the coolest. I always bring one with me when I have get dressed up to go somewhere.”

Jareth was suddenly aware of how close she was standing and he caught the scent of her hair. She smelled like flowers and springtime.

As Sarah finished she let go of the material and looked up. “See, piece of cake.” Her green eyes sparkled with mirth as he recalled she had said that same phrase to him once before. Sarah quickly broke their eye contact and started to pack up the cartons of left over food.

As Jareth helped her clean up she noticed the fortune cookies still sitting on the coffee table. “Oh Hey, I almost forgot about these.”

She handed one to Jareth as he approached. He opened the wrapper as she continued, “Break it open before you eat it. There is a fortune inside.” Jareth watched as she broke open her own cookie and then he did the same.

Jareth glanced at the paper and read his fortune. “Fate will present you with an important choice.” He looked at Sarah as she read her own fortune, her face turning serious. The paper in her hand read, “You won’t stray from the path of your destiny if you follow your heart.”

“Sarah, What does it say?” Sarah swallowed hard, the fortune seemed a little too appropriate. She didn’t want to worry Jareth so she replied, “Nothing important…What does yours say?”

He looked at it again and crumpled it in his hand, “Fate will present you with an important choice.”

Sarah blinked as she felt goose bumps inching across her skin. She couldn’t shake the eerie feeling that perhaps their destinies were no longer in their own hands. But then again who was to say that they ever were in the first place.

Sarah laughed nervously, “Right well…I don’t know about you but getting out of the house doesn’t seem like a bad idea. How about I take you for a ride in the car.” Wanting to give him some incentive, she added, “I’ll let you drive…After, I teach you the basics.”

Jareth nodded, “I’d like that.”

A few minutes later Sarah was flying down the back roads of her town. The area was heavily wooded and Sarah figured the parking lot of the gun club would be the perfect deserted location to show Jareth how to drive.

She parked in the middle of the lot and started to explain the basics. She showed him the pedals and demonstrated how to shift gears. After a couple times around the lot, she decided to let him have a go.

She switched seats with him and talked him through starting the car. He managed to do it on the first try and he successfully got the car in first. It was a bit jerky but Sarah had to admit that for a Goblin King who had never even been in a car before today, he was doing quite well.

Soon he was going pretty fast around the parking lot and was successfully changing gears. As he momentarily braked Sarah asked, “So what do you think?”

Jareth looked over at her, smirking arrogantly, “Piece of cake.” With that he quickly shifted gears and peeled out of the stop.

Sarah couldn’t help but laugh out loud. It was so like him to be gloating over the fact that he had learned to control the car. Sarah gave him the satisfaction of letting him maneuver down some of the adjoining streets before having him go back to the lot so they could switch places.

As Jareth put the car in park Sarah showed him the rest of the controls like the automatic door locks, windshield wipers, and the radio. He was especially impressed with the windshield washers and the rock music.

Suddenly, Sarah caught sight of a flashlight coming toward the car. Her first thought was panic as she thought maybe it was a police officer. The fogged windows prevented her from seeing who was out there.

“Shit! Switch! Quick!”

Jareth didn’t question her, and immediately shifted under her to the right as she slid over him to get behind the wheel. Sarah looked through the windshield and realized there was no sign of a police car, or any other car for that matter.

The flashlight was now at the window as she heard a tap on the glass. Sarah tried to catch her breath as she lowered the window a tad.

A familiar female voice cut through the cold outside air. “Hey Sarah! I thought that was your car.”

Sarah brought the window all the way down as she recognized the voice, “Jesus, Trina! You scared the daylights out of me. I thought you were the cops.”

“Cops?” Trina lowered her head and looked in the car, “Why? What’re you doing out here?” It was then that she noticed Jareth sitting in the passengers seat. At the same moment she also noticed the fogged windows and Sarah’s rattled state.

Sarah opened her mouth, about to say something but quickly thought better of it as she suddenly realized how it must look to her friend.

Trina’s eyes had widened, “Hey Sarah, who’s your friend?”

Sarah’s face turned scarlet as her friend burst into a fit of giggles. Sarah sighed heavily, wishing she could disappear. There was no way this was going to end well.

“Ah…Trina this is Jareth, Jareth this is my friend Trina.”

Trina nodded to Jareth and dropped her voice low so only Sarah could hear her, “Where’ve you been hiding him? You said you weren’t seeing anyone?”

Sarah gave her friend a look that shot daggers and hissed, “I’m not. This isn’t what it looks like…” At that Trina just giggled more. Sarah was flustered but she continued. “Jareth is a friend from…ah college, he’s just visiting from… London.”

Trina smiled smugly, “Ah that’s right, your Dad and step mum are away. Nice timing.” Trina looked at Jareth again, a hint of mischief in her eyes as she asked, “Nice to meet you Jareth. Is Sarah here showing you a good time?”

Sarah rested her forehead on her hand as her mortification was complete. She heard Jareth say something like yes, and then she heard Trina’s laughter again, “Yeah, I’ll bet she is…”

Sarah widened her eyes at her friend, giving her the silent, “You’d better shut the hell up” look. Trina finally got the hint as Sarah changed the subject.

“What are you doing out here, Trina?”

Trina held up an almost empty beer bottle, “Well, I heard there was a party out there in the woods, so I thought I’d check it out.”

Sarah shook her head as Trina continued, “It sucked though. Nothing but a bunch of drunk seventeen year olds.”

Sarah faked a sympathetic tone, “Oh sorry, I thought drunk seventeen year olds were your favorite?”

Trina laughed, “Well, maybe when I was seventeen, besides there wasn’t a cute one in the whole lot. I’ve got to draw the line somewhere. I was just leaving when I saw your car.”

Sarah nodded, “Do you need a ride home?”

Trina waved her hand, “No, I borrowed my brother’s dirt bike. He lives right behind those woods. I only had one beer, so I’ll be fine.” Sarah nodded, noticing the dirt bike parked behind her. “Well, be careful, and wear you helmet.”

Trina gave her a mock salute and replied in a saccharine tone, “Likewise. Well, goodnight. Have fun, and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” With that she pulled on the helmet and gave Sarah a wink as she started the bike and sped off.

Sarah heaved a sigh of relief as she started the car and headed toward home. She glanced at Jareth who seemed quite amused by the whole situation. “Interesting company you keep, Sarah.”

Sarah was still blushing at her friend’s attempt to embarrass her. “Yeah well, subtle is one thing that Trina is not. I’m just glad it turned out to be her and not the police. That would have been a nightmare to explain. I can just hear myself now. Oh, I’m sorry officer. I was just showing my friend here, the Goblin King, how to drive. No, he doesn’t have a license but he’s from the Underground, a land full of goblins and dwarves. Yeah, we’d get put away for sure.”

Jareth could see how her explanation wouldn’t have made much sense to anyone from Aboveground.

Sarah continued, “That was a close call. I hope you don’t object to going home. I’ve hade more than enough excitement for one night.”

Jareth smiled and shook his head, “By all means.”

Sarah suddenly looked worried and whined, “Oh No. Trina has got a big mouth, I hope she doesn’t tell anyone.”

Jareth looked thoughtful, “Well if she does you’ll just have to stand by what you told her, that I’m a friend from...London was it?”

Sarah had insisted that they get some rest when they arrived back home, and Jareth had to admit that he was tired. Sarah wearily got into her bed, trying to silence her buzzing mind.

To her dismay, she couldn’t stop thinking about him. She had already slept poorly the night before, and it was looking as though tonight was not going to be any better. What she didn’t know, was that Jareth was having an equally difficult time falling asleep down the hall.

Chapter 13: Corn Dogs and Thrill Rides

Sarah slept very late. When she opened her eyes she noticed the clock read 11:34. Well, it didn’t surprise her, considering how tired she had been. What did surprise her was that the Goblin King didn’t drag himself out of bed until shortly after Sarah had showered. By the time they were dressed it was getting on into the afternoon.

Jareth examined the crystal again, and to his dismay it showed him nothing. At least he could look forward to spending the rest of the day with Sarah at the fair.

They walked to the local fair, which wasn’t too far from Sarah’s house. As they walked, Sarah kept the conversation light and told Jareth about what they could expect to see at the fair. It was strange to see Jareth wearing faded jeans and a black sweater, but as different as it was, it suited him. As they neared the fair Jareth stared in wonder at the tall thrill rides.

Soon they were standing at the entrance. Sarah paid for their tickets and lead Jareth through the gate. “Well, What do you want to see first?” Jareth pointed in the general direction of the rides.

As they neared the rides, they passed several food vendors. Delicious smells of carnival food permeated the air and Sarah realized that she was rather hungry. She dragged Jareth over to a nearby cart and asked, “You hungry?”

He nodded and replied, “A little.”

Sarah smiled and whispered, “Well you can’t go to a fair and not try a corn dog.”

She politely asked the vendor for two, and handed one to Jareth. He simply looked at it for a second and replied, “Sarah, I don’t eat dogs.”

Sarah laughed and nearly choked, “It’s just a name for the meat in the middle. We call them hot dogs, but they aren’t dog meat.”

Jareth took a tentative bite and found it was actually really good. “Well, what kind of meat is it?”

Sarah shrugged, “Good question. Beef. Pork. Who knows? Personally, I don’t really want to know exactly what’s in them, all that matters us that they taste good.”

Jareth suddenly laughed, “Why do you call them dogs then?”

Sarah thought a minute, “I don’t know, but it’s better then some of the other things people call them.”

Jareth looked at her curiously, “What do you mean?” Sarah scrunched up her nose, “Oh let’s see, names like wiener, or weenie, franks, frankfurter, or tube steak…that’s what my dad calls them.”

After they had finished their corn dogs Sarah led Jareth over to the rides and for a moment they just watched. Jareth stared in amazement as the great machines tossed and spun the human riders around in the most unnatural ways.

Sarah smiled up at him as she leaned forward on the rail in front of them, teasing, “Well, What do you think Goblin King? Are you brave enough to try one?”

Jareth was apprehensive, but he wasn’t about to let Sarah know that. “Certainly, which shall we try first?”

Sarah pretended to think for a moment and then pointed to a nearby ride that was blasting loud rock music. It had seats that were flying around a circular track with metal ramps. “How about that one? The music express.” There were much worse rides, but she figured she could at least start off easy on him.

There wasn’t much of a line and Sarah figured that they would easily make it on the next turn. Jareth simply nodded as Sarah lead the way into the line. When the ride stopped and the passengers got off Sarah gave a few tickets to the attendant. Jareth looked down in surprise as she grabbed his hand and pulled him towards an empty car.

Jareth looked at her and pointed to the seat, “Do you want the inside or outside?” Sarah smiled. She had been on this ride before so she quickly replied, “Inside.” They got in and Sarah pulled the bar down.

In a moment everyone was seated and a new song started. Sarah couldn’t help but notice that Jareth was already gripping the bar as if his life depended on it. As Sarah recognized the blasting music as Motley Crue’s “Kickstart my Heart” the ride started to move.

She flashed Jareth a demonic grin as he gripped the bar tighter. In a moment the ride had picked up speed. So far, Sarah had managed to hold onto the side, to keep from sliding into Jareth. But as the ride sped up to maximum speed she could no longer hold herself.

When she finally let go, she crashed full force into Jareth, managing to surprise him and knock the wind out of him at the same time. She couldn’t keep from laughing, and when she looked over at him she found that he was laughing too.

Blasting music assaulted them as they continued over the bumpy track at breakneck speed.

As the ride finally slowed and stopped both Sarah and Jareth were laughing aloud. Sarah ignored the dizziness as she struggled to walk straight to exit the ride. Jareth was walking next to her as they headed away from the music express.

She smiled and turned to him, “Well what did you think?”

Jareth was still smiling, “That was fun.”

Sarah eyed the large rollercoaster behind him, “Are you ready for something a bit scarier?”

Jareth had not yet glimpsed what she was looking at and prematurely replied, “Very well. After you.”

Sarah grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the roller coaster. When he finally looked to see where Sarah was leading him he visibly paled. Sarah clutched his hand tighter and teased, “C’mon it’s not that bad…”

Jareth clenched his jaw and followed, he wasn’t going let her know that he was nervous about it.

As they stood in line Jareth decided not to look up at the track above him. As they were about to get on the coaster Sarah pulled him towards the head car, “Let’s sit up front, It’ll be more fun.”

Jareth thought she had to be out of her mind, but he was determined to remain calm. Sarah would taunt him endlessly if she knew he was hesistant.

As the car ascended the huge hill Jareth fought the urge to close his eyes. Sarah was looking at him. There was no way that he was going to let her know that he, King of the Goblins, who could touch the sky in his owl form, was afraid of being so high up in the rickety contraption.

As he looked over at Sarah he realized that she was no longer smiling. In fact, her eyes were screwed shut and she seemed to be swallowing with dread. So, this scared her too. Suddenly, she opened her eyes and looked at him. Their eyes met for a moment before he felt her hand clutch his tightly. For a second he forgot his fear. That was until they had reached the top and he found himself looking down the almost vertical track they were about to careen down.

As they made the first and farthest drop, his hand grasped Sarah’s tighter, and he was overcome by the feeling of weightlessness. He heard Sarah scream. Suddenly they had reached the bottom of the drop and the car swiftly changed direction and climbed another hill. The rest of the ride was curvy and fast, but none of the drops were nearly as bad as the first. It did not escape his attention that Sarah was still holding his hand. She didn’t let go until the ride stopped.

As they descended the steps, Jareth leaned in close to Sarah’s ear and remarked, “Why Sarah, I do believe you were frightened.” Sarah brushed a stand of hair behind her ear, averting her eyes, “Maybe just a little…”

After a ride on the bumper cars, Sarah decided to get some fried dough. She convinced Jareth to try one as she loaded hers with powdered sugar. He put some cinnamon on his, remarking that the powdered sugar would be too messy. She would have expected as much from him.

As they headed back over toward the rides, Sarah heard her cell phone ringing. She stopped, and moved over to the side of the midway where it was quieter, just in case it was her parents.

Jareth stood silently as she answered her phone.

“Hello?”

“Hey Sarah, it’s Kim.”

“Oh hey Kim, What’s up?”

“Not much…out shopping. Where are you?”

“At the fair.”

“Oh…Are you with Jareth?”

“What? How do you know about him?”

“Trina called me last night and told me that she caught you parking
with a British guy, and that he’s shacking up with you while your Dad is out of town.”

“Do you believe everything she tells you?”

“No, That’s why I was calling to get the real story. So tell me Sarah, who is this guy? Trina said he’s a hottie.”

Sarah tried not to look at Jareth, the amused expression on his face was too unnerving.

“Kim, first off, he’s just a friend…visiting from London, and I was not out parking. I was letting him drive my car.”

Kim sounded hurt, “So you are with a guy…why didn’t you tell me the other night?”

“There wasn’t time, he just sort of dropped in after the party. I didn’t know he was coming to visit.”

“Uh-huh sure…always an excuse. How long is he staying with you?”

“I don’t know for sure, few more days maybe…”

“Well in that case, I want to meet him. What are you doing tonight?”

“Ah…I don’t know…nothing, I guess.”

“Great, then why don’t you bring this mystery guy to meet Trina, Brian and I at the Inferno.”


“What? The inferno? You guys are going clubbing?”
“I thought you’d be game. Excellent! Oops, I gotta go. I’m about to get a parking ticket. We’ll meet you out front at ten. See you then. Bye Sarah!”


Sarah looked at the display. Kim had already hung up. “Shit. I hate it when she does that.”

Jareth was still wearing an amused grin, “I take it that was another friend of yours?”

Sarah angrily nodded and put her phone back in her pocket. She sighed as she turned to face Jareth, “Yeah my friend Kim. Apparently Trina has already opened her big mouth, and now Kim thinks I was out parking with my mysterious foreign boyfriend and insists on meeting you.”

Jareth was confused, “Parking?”

Sarah kept forgetting that he was unused to slang. She tried to keep a straight face as she attempted to explain, “Fooling around in a parked car…Ugh, you know what I mean…”

Jareth’s smirk was intolerable, “So, she thinks we are lovers?”

Sarah suddenly found the dirt on the ground very interesting as she weakly replied, “Yeah, something like that.”

Jareth continued, “And they insist on meeting me?”

Sarah simply nodded as he replied, “I’d be delighted to meet your friends.”

Sarah shook her head in frustration, “Well it’s not like she even gave me a choice in the matter. She’s expecting us to meet her tonight, and if we don’t show up, the rumors will just get bigger. Maybe we’d better go and set the story straight. I hope you are up for some serious acting, because there is no way my friends are going to believe the truth.”

Jareth quickly retorted, “Well, would you believe the truth, if you were in their situation?”

Sarah bit her lip, “No I guess not.”

Jareth crossed his arms over his chest and regarded her, “It’s settled then. We’ll adhere to the story you gave Trina, and hopefully meeting me will satisfy your friends’ curiosity.”

Sarah snorted and muttered under her breath, “You obviously don’t know my friends…”

Jareth ignored her last comment and asked, “Where exactly are we meeting them?”

Sarah threw up her hands, “Yeah, well that’s the best part,” She began sarcastically, “They want us to go with them to a dance club!”

Jareth thought a moment, “So. I don’t see why that worries you. I’m an excellent dancer.”

Sarah rolled her eyes then looked at him as if he had three heads, “Well I’m sure you are. Forgive me if I don’t exactly recall…that peach made my memory a bit hazy.” Her tone had a touch of acidity and Jareth suddenly realized that she must’ve harbored some anger over the incident.

His smirk vanished and he quietly stated, “Sarah, I admit my intention was to make you forget about the task at hand. But in my defense, it was your fantasy, not mine…” His eyes darted over her form and he continued, “That’s not to say that I didn’t enjoy it.”

Sarah had suddenly seemed to lost her breath, “I really don’t want to talk about this now. We have more pressing things to be concerned about. For one thing, I can guarantee that you are not going to see that type of dancing at this place tonight, in fact I doubt you’ve ever seen anything like what we will encounter tonight.”

Jareth noticed the worry in her voice. He gently tipped her face up, so he could look in her eyes, “Don’t worry. I’m a fast learner. I’ll follow your lead and all will be well.” He grinned at her and added, “You taught me to drive, this should be a piece of cake.”

Sarah couldn’t help but smile. “Alright, how about one more ride before we head home?”

Jareth stepped aside and gave a slight bow, “After you…” Sarah was already feeling a bit better about meeting with her friends.

As Sarah lead Jareth to the Skydiver she continued to mentally tell herself that everything would work out. Jareth glanced up at the large ferris-wheel-like ride and decided it didn’t look so bad. It wasn’t moving terribly fast so he felt no apprehension when he and Sarah boarded the ride.

He was slightly puzzled as he looked at the wheel in front of them as they strapped themselves in. As soon as the ride began to move Jareth immediately began to regret getting on. Sarah had taken hold of the wheel and started to turn it, causing their whole car to spin on its axis as the large wheel brought them up and around.

Jareth tried to stay calm, but the motion was making him terribly dizzy. He leaned forward and held on, hating the feeling as the car was dropping as it was spinning. Sarah seemed to be enjoying herself, laughing and spinning the wheel furiously.

Suddenly Jareth lunged forward and grabbed hold of the wheel tightly, “I think that’s enough…” Sarah noticed that his face had paled and suppressed her laughter, “What? You’re not having fun?” Jareth tried to keep the wheel straight. The spinning motion of the car had stopped, but Jareth felt as though his head was still spinning and he started to feel a bit nauseas.

Sarah was about to tease him but then thought better of it. He didn’t look so good. When the ride finally stopped moving, the man opened the car to let them out. Jareth didn’t take his time getting out. As she hurried to his side she asked, “Are you alright?”

Jareth, looking quite pale shook his head.

“Do you feel sick?”

Jareth nodded and replied, “a little.”

Sarah replied, “Well, lets go home so you can rest. It’s just motion sickness it will go away in a little while.”

Jareth was feeling a little better by the time they had walked back to the house. Sarah insisted that he rest, even though he assured her that he was fine. He finally gave in deciding that some sleep may not be a bad idea since Sarah was pretty certain that they’d be out late.


Chapter 14: A Steamy Interlude

It was late afternoon as Jareth drifted off to sleep in the guest room.
Sarah took a short nap herself. She woke in the early evening and made some soup for dinner and took some up to Jareth. She quietly opened the door and left the tray on the nightstand. He was sound asleep.

She smiled, noticing how peaceful he looked, and soon she was admiring his handsome features. As her eyes trailed down his lithe form she quickly decided to leave. She wasn’t t sure how light of a sleeper he was and she didn’t want to be caught gawking.

Sarah went back to her room and rummaged through her closet. After going through every single outfit she owned, she found something suitable to wear to the club. She kept telling herself that it was just a coincidence that it happened to be the most seductive thing she owned. It was a form fitting black camisole top with a matching sheer button down blouse. She found some low rise jeans that would go great with the top and would also go nicely with the new belt she had bought last week.

Sarah figured that since her guest was comatose in the guest room, she might as well have a nice hot bath. She could use a little tension relief after all. Sarah turned on her shower radio to a jazz station and as she filled the tub with hot water and jasmine scented bubble bath.

She went back to her room and removed her clothes before wrapping her white bathrobe snugly around herself. As she headed back to the bathroom she stopped to listen at the guest room door. There was no sound nor movement, so she silently went into the bathroom and closed the door behind her.

Sarah slid into the warm water and sighed. There really was nothing like a hot bath. After soaking for a while, chest deep in the sudsy water, she went through her normal routine of bathing herself. The water was so hot it caused the air in the bathroom to become thick with steam.

Meanwhile Jareth had managed to drag himself out of bed and eat the soup Sarah had left for him. He was feeling much better and dinner was just the thing to restore his energy and wake him up. Once he had finished, he left the room in search of Sarah.

He looked downstairs first. There was no sign of her in the kitchen or living room. As he went back upstairs, he noticed that her bedroom door was closed. He was about to knock and enter when he realized that she may be asleep. He decided he’d wait awhile before he disturbed her. He figured he might as well use the opportunity to visit the bathroom.

The house was old and the upstairs bathroom did not have a working lock. Jareth opened the bathroom door and walked in. To say he was surprised at what he found was an understatement. There was Sarah in the tub, covered in bubbles, well sort of covered. One long slender leg was out of the water, her knee bent with her foot resting on the rim of the tub. She was running something along her calf when he strode in.

Sarah gasped and looked up with wide eyes. At the same moment she nicked herself with the blade and clumsily dropped her razor into the tub.

Jareth was so taken aback that all he could do was stare through the steamy air at the wet and sudsy beauty before him.

Sarah expected him to quickly turn, around or do something besides just gawk at her. In a moment of panic she frantically glanced down at herself. All the important parts were still covered…sort of.

As Jareth stood aghast, he noticed that the warm air had made Sarah’s skin moist and dark tendrils of hair clung to her neck. The heat of the bath had flushed her skin a deep shade of pink. He couldn’t help but notice how shapely and smooth her naked leg was. He forced a sharp intake of breath as he tried to orchestrate the appropriate reaction.

Sarah beat him to it. Once she made sure she wasn’t exposed, she heatedly asked, “Ever hear of knocking?”

Jareth had finally managed to composed himself and blurted, “I…didn’t realize you were in here, I thought you were sleeping.” Just then, he noticed droplets of blood appearing on Sarah’s ankle.

Just as Sarah was going to tell him to get out, Jareth exclaimed, “Sarah you’re bleeding…” Sarah picked up on the concern in his voice as he strode toward her.

Sarah saw the nick and realized the bubbles were getting rather thin. “Jareth, I’m fine. For heaven’s sake, turn around!”

Jareth stopped, abruptly turning his back to her, “Oh sorry…I saw that you’re hurt, what happened?”

Sarah retrieved her razor from the water. “I’m not hurt. I was just shaving, and when you startled me, I nicked myself with the blade. It doesn’t hurt…happens all the time actually…now will you please go and let me bathe in peace?”

Jareth looked at her over his shoulder, noticing that the bubbles had receded enough so he could see the swell of her breasts. His eyes slowly devoured her as his lips curved into a dangerous smirk, “But I was just starting to enjoy the view.”

Sarah groped the floor near the tub and grabbed the first thing she found, the empty bubble bath bottle. He raised his eyebrows teasingly as his gaze followed her lounging form. Horrified, she pelted him with the empty bottle and shouted, “Get out!”

Jareth glanced at her once more as he left the room, closing the door behind him. Shaking his head, he murmured, “Such a pity.”

Tormenting Sarah was so much fun that he decided to wait for her in her room. He paced about her bedroom perusing her belongings. When he grew tired of snooping, he turned on her radio and took a seat on her bed.

As he sat down he noticed the outfit that she had laid out. He ran his fingers over the sheer material of the blouse before he noticed the undergarments that she had neatly placed beside her clothes.

He observed that instead of a corset there was a garment made out of black satin that looked as though it would barely cover her breasts. He couldn’t resist touching the silky fabric.

As intriguing as this article of clothing was, it was not nearly as interesting as the tiny black satin panties that were folded underneath it. He pondered that such underpants wouldn’t cover very much. The thought made him smile. At hearing the bathroom door open he quickly replaced her garments and stretched himself out on the bed.

Sarah was towel drying her hair as she entered her bedroom wearing her white bathrobe. She was surprised to find the Goblin King lounging seductively on her bed. He was laying on his side in his usual Underground attire, his signature skin-tight riding breeches, a half open poet’s shirt and the knee high black boots. He leaned his cheek against a black-gloved hand, propped up by his elbow. His other arm was draped casually over his hip.

Her breath caught in her throat at the sight. How many times had she fantasized about walking in her room and seeing him exactly like that? She felt her cheeks grow hot.

Damn.

The little voice of reason in her head warned. Just ignore him…go about your business as if his presence doesn’t affect you at all. Another voice quickly retorted, Yeah, as if you could ignore him when he’s lying there like that. Good God, he’s practically daring you to jump his bones.

Sarah felt her cheeks grow even hotter. She swallowed, knowing she was in trouble.

She concentrated on his boots, forbidding her eyes to stray anywhere else. It didn’t last long. Her curious gaze disobeyed, traveling upwards, over his long legs, then drifting over his narrow hips, Dear Lord in heaven, Why does he have to wear pants like that? Her gaze traveled up his abdomen, to the partially exposed pale chest. Finally her appraisal ended at his face where his mismatched eyes held hers.

They were full of heat and amusement.

Oh how he must be enjoying this. The more she got to know him, the more she realized that he took great pleasure in making her uncomfortable. As they locked eyes, Sarah found that she was unable to look away. Finally he drawled, “Did you enjoy your bath?”

Sarah shrugged as she managed to tear her eyes away. The voice of reason echoed through her head again, He doesn’t affect you. Act as though he doesn’t exist.

Sarah grabbed a tube of moisturizer off her vanity and a small smile tugged at her lips. It was high time she made him uncomfaortable for a change. She pulled out the chair to her vanity, resting her foot on the seat as she lifted the robe to expose her bare leg up to the middle of her thigh. She put a generous amount of moisturizer in her hands and rubbed them together before she used both hands to rub it all over her leg.

Jareth was a bit surprised at Sarah’s boldness and watched in silence, fascinated by her actions. As Sarah repeated the ritual with the other leg he noticed the tiny bandage on her ankle covering the small cut. He also noticed that her legs looked incredibly smooth.
She returned the lotion to her vanity.

Now came the hard part…getting dressed with him in the room.

Sarah reminded herself, You can do this…just don’t look him in the eye.

Sarah turned towards him, grabbing her underwear and bra off the bed. She slung the bra over her shoulder as she bent down to slide the panties over her feet. She proceeded to slowly pull them up her legs, careful not to let Jareth get an eyeful. She managed to get them all the way up beneath the robe with a little shimmy of her hips.

As she straightened, she accidentally met his eyes.

As the tension sparked between them, he let out a breath that he didn’t know he had been holding. Slowly, he shifted so that he was sitting back against the headboard, but he made no move to leave the room.

Sarah held her ground. If he wasn’t going to voluntarily leave, she’d just change right in front of him. It would be a testament to her self-control, and it would show him once and for all that she was not to be intimidated.

Their eyes locked in anticipation as she lowered her hands to the tie of her robe. His gaze followed her movements, dropping to the knot as her hands started to untie it.

Jareth was spellbound. He wondered, “Did she really have the gall?” She slowly untied her robe, turning away at the last second, as she opened it. She quickly grabbed the bra from her shoulder and deftly cinched it around her chest. Finally she brought the straps over her shoulders, careful to keep the robe from dropping. She loosely re-cinched the robe around herself, and when she turned back around to face him, it was obvious that he was struggling with his self-control.

She walked to the other side of the bed, where her jeans and top were lying on the bed. Her eyes again met those of the Goblin King. She kept her eyes locked with his as she untied the robe, and this time, to his amazement, she let it completely fall off her shoulders and drop to the floor. Sarah watched his expression as his eyes darted over her nearly naked body. The amusement that had been there before, had turned to something far more intense.

As Jareth looked over Sarah’s form he was entirely grateful that he was sitting down. For the first time in his life, his knees actually felt weak and there was a violent trembling feeling in his stomach. She was disarmingly beautiful. He wanted her so badly that it was frightening. He felt powerless at that moment, but strangely, he didn’t despise it. Quite the contrary, he was captivated by the idea of her being in control. She had such strength in her eyes.

He couldn’t help looking over her body again as she reached for her jeans. Her breasts were ample, and her soft skin was smooth and fair. He noticed the freckles on her shoulders, and immediately adored them. His eyes trailed down her flat abdomen and his breath caught in his throat.

Did he dare look at the rest? He simply couldn’t resist.

The delicate undergarments were even more enticing on her, than they had been in his own imagination. The way the lacy material hugged her hips was enough to drive any man mad. Then he noticed the jewel on her belly. A ring pierced the flesh below her navel and it had a glittering blue gem on it.

Finally he took in her long smooth legs. He was completely intoxicated by the mere sight of her. At this point he was fighting with every fiber of his will to restrain himself. The urge to grab her, throw her on the bed, and have his way with her was nearly overwhelming.

As Sarah pulled her jeans up, she noticed that he was staring at her belly button ring. When he finally looked up at her, she could see the lust reflected in his eyes. Not to mention, the way his hands had clenched into tight fists at his side.

She hadn’t meant to look at his hips. That was when it dawned on her. He was aroused. She would have had to have been dead to not notice while he was wearing those damned breeches.

Sarah allowed herself a small smile as pulled her tank top over her head. “Good, serves him right.” She thought to herself. She secretly hoped that the Fae were also susceptible to the pain caused by vasocongestion, since a painful case of blue balls was exactly what he deserved.

Sarah finished dressing by buttoning up the sheer blouse. She matter-of-factly stated, “We are meeting my friends pretty soon, so if you want to know what to expect, now would be the time to ask.”

Jareth was mentally counting to ten when her voice broke his concentration. Without thinking he pointed to her slightly exposed mid-rift. “What is that?”

Sarah looked down, pointing to the navel ring “This?”

She watched Jareth dumbly nod his head as she nonchalantly replied “Oh, I got it pierced when I was away at school.”

Jareth replied, “Why would you do such a thing? Didn’t it hurt?”

Sarah quickly responded, “Hurt like hell actually, but I like it. Besides, this is nothing compared to the things people pierce now a days.”

Jareth wasn’t sure if he wanted to know.

Sarah smiled and added, “Oh you are going to see lots of strange things tonight. Especially where we are going.”

Chapter 15: Inferno

Jareth still couldn’t tear his eyes away from Sarah even as she put on her belt and socks. Now that he was with her again there was no way he was going to give up on her. He felt certain that, as strange as the circumstances may have been, their destinies were somehow intertwined.

Sarah was the only person that had ever made him feel whole and truly alive. As she had said before; her will was as strong as his. She beat his labyrinth, and now he saw her as an equal. She would be a perfect companion. It was becoming clearer and clearer that Sarah was made from the same metal as himself. Jareth could only hope that Fate saw things the same way. He couldn’t even imagine a future that somehow didn’t include her. To even think that he may have to return Underground, and never see her again…was too unbearable to even think about.

As Sarah emerged from her closet she was clutching a pair of boots in one hand and a ragged teddy bear in the other. She tossed the bear on the bed next to Jareth. “Look what I found. Lancelot.” Jareth absently glanced at the bear as she continued, “You know it’s all because of that bear…”

Jareth finally looked at Sarah, apparently he had missed something.

Sarah pointed at the bear, “If I hadn’t gone looking for that bear, none of it would have ever happened.”

Jareth looked at her, “What wouldn’t have happened?”

Sarah continued softly, her voice uncharacteristically solemn, “I wouldn’t have wished Toby away. I wouldn’t have met you.”

Jareth looked at the bear and then back at Sarah. He was thoughtful for a moment before he replied, “Sarah, I think it would have happened regardless. I think it was meant to happen. Just as I think that my being here now was meant to happen. I think it was our destiny from the very beginning.”

Sarah sat on the edge of the bed and put on her ankle high black boots, “Maybe you’re right. I mean, you did get a nice little calling card from one of the Fates right after you mysteriously ended up here. Maybe someone wanted us to set aside our differences. I just wish we had some more concrete answers.”

Jareth nodded and murmured to himself, “I have a feeling that we’ll be getting our answers soon enough.”

As Sarah started to dry her hair she looked at the clock. It was getting late. She told Jareth that he might want to start getting ready. Jareth agreed and went back to the guest room where he got changed.

Sarah put on her earrings and silver necklace before she started to apply her make-up. As she put on her lipstick, she didn’t notice the Goblin King slip into her room. As he stood in the doorway and admired her, he felt his heart pounding in his chest. She was exquisitely beautiful, even dressed in her modern clothing.

Sarah put down her lipstick, and turned to see Jareth leaning against the alcove wall of her bedroom with his arms crossed in front of his chest. He was wearing his new black slacks and silk shirt. As her eyes roamed over his frame, she thought her heart might stop.

His hair was wild, and unruly as ever, and his beautiful mismatched eyes were set resolutely upon her. One icy blue, and the other a warm hazel. The shirt hung partially open, and she could see his amulet hanging in its rightful place against his chest. As her eyes traveled down the rest of his body she noted that dark colors certainly complimented him.

His mouth, which had previously been set in a thin line, was now a satisfied smirk.

At that moment she wanted nothing more than to feel his mouth against hers again. Sarah felt as though she had turned to water and would splash all over the floor. Suddenly being alone with him in her bedroom didn’t seem like such a smart idea. Now would be a good time get going.

As she stepped closer to the door she realized he was blocking the exit. She looked down as she brushed past him, “We should get going…” His hand caught her wrist, and she was forced to look up at him.

His eyes bore into hers and for a moment she was terrified that he might kiss her again. Jareth smiled and softly remarked, “Sarah, you look lovely.”

She felt herself blush as she looked away and nervously stammered, “Thanks. You look really nice too.”

Jareth made a gesture for her to lead the way, “Shall we?”

Sarah and Jareth walked a few blocks downtown and caught a cab from there. The Inferno was a dance club complex on the edge of the next city. There were several colleges in the area, so it would no doubt be crowded.

As they sat in the back of the cab Sarah started to explain to Jareth what they could expect, “Now there’s a few different types of dance floors at this place, so just watch how the other people are dancing, until you feel comfortable enough to try.”

Sarah took a breath as she tried to think of everything he might need to know, “Just so we have the same story…if they ask what you do, tell them that you are a musician. You sing in a rock band. I think we can get away with that. Oh, and if they ask where you are from, say London. My friends will probably ask a lot of other questions, so just follow my lead, and agree with whatever I tell them. And try not to get into a position where you are alone with any of them, because they will give you the third degree…”

Jareth shook his head, “What?”

Sarah sighed, “The third degree. Interrogation. They are going to try and weasel every detail out of you. Another thing, be careful of what and how much you drink. It’s probably not a good idea to get drunk, so just be careful. Remember just about everything has alcohol in it. If anyone offers you anything called a shot, say no.”

Sarah dug into her pockets and pulled out some cash, “Here, put this money in your pocket. It will look weird if you don’t have any cash. There’s a bunch of five dollar bills, the drinks at this place shouldn’t be more than 4 dollars each, so just leave the change on the bar as a tip for the bartender.”

Jareth nodded, feeling like a child getting a lecture from an overprotective mother, “Sarah, relax. Everything will be fine.”

As the cab pulled up outside the club Sarah was relieved there wasn’t a very long line outside. The faster they got in, the better. No doubt the music inside would be loud, so hopefully talking would be minimized, and interrogations would be short.

As Jareth helped Sarah out of the cab she whispered, “Whatever happens, just stay close to me. Remember, we want them to think we are friends and that’s all.”

Sarah stopped and thought for a second before she added, “I want you to promise me that you won’t do anything to make them believe otherwise.”

Jareth smirked and replied, “Alright I promise. Now relax.”

Sarah quickly spotted Kim and Brian waiting near the back of the line. She noticed Trina was also there as well as a couple other acquaintances from high school. Sarah and Jareth made their way over to Sarah’s friends and they all promptly got in line.

Sarah decided it would be best to just get the introductions out of the way as Trina and Kim hugged her at the same time. “Hey guys. Kim, this is Jareth, Jareth this is Kim and her boyfriend Brian. I’m sure you remember Trina.” Jareth carefully shook hands with Sarah’s friends as she introduced them.

After all the introductions were out of the way, Kim started with the questions almost immediately. “So Jareth how do you and Sarah know each other?” Jareth was about to say something when Sarah interjected, “Oh he was taking some classes at the college while I was there. He happened to be in a class with me and we had to work together…on a project.”

Kim nodded, noticing that Sarah hadn’t let him answer the question. She tried again, “So Jareth, Where are you from?”

Sarah looked at Jareth as if giving him permission to speak. “London, actually.”

Kim was now looking him up and down. Trina then cut in, “Mmmm nice accent. What do you do for a living Jareth?”

Jareth smiled politely and stated, “I am a singer…in a rock band.”

Trina gave Kim a sly glance just as Brian piped up, “Cool man, What kinds of songs does your band play?” Sarah immediately jumped in, “Oh you know, British rock, mostly original songs, nothing we would have heard over here.” Brian seemed satisfied, and to Sarah’s relief the bouncer started to let then in.

Sarah had a moment of panic as the guy asked for her ID, seeing that Jareth obviously didn’t have one, but she was quickly relived as the guy just waved him through, and another bouncer stamped his hand. Well, he definitely did look a lot older than twenty-one. Sarah wasn’t sure how old he was, but based on human standards she would have guessed mid to late thirties.

She’d have to remember to ask him his true age later on, when they were alone. As Sarah and Jareth walked in, Jareth leaned over and whispered to her, “Why did they ask to see that card you carry?”

Sarah quickly explained in a whisper, “You have to be at least twenty-one years old to drink here. That card is proof of my age. Oh and if anyone asks how old you are, say you are thirty five.”

Jareth didn’t have time to reply, as they had entered a large room where the pounding music was near deafening. Jareth scanned the room in wonder. It was rather dark, and bouncing lights of every color were swirling in time with the chaotic music. The dance floor was crowded and the area surrounding the bar was even more crowded.

Trina made her way over to Sarah and suggested, “Bar looks crowded. I’ll try and squeeze my way in. What’ll you guys have to drink?”

Sarah replied, “I dunno, what are you having?”

Trina smiled, “Oh my usual, rum and coke.”

Sarah thought a second, “That sounds good, I’ll have one too.”

Trina nodded and asked, “What does Jareth drink?”

Sarah thought to herself, “good question.” before she answered, “Just get him a beer, any kind will do.” Just then, Sarah remembered that Jareth had previously mentioned that he wasn’t fond of goblin ale, but she didn’t want to get him something too strong, and this wasn’t really the type of place that you ordered wine.

Sarah tried to give Trina some money, but she wouldn’t take it saying, “Don’t worry first round is on me.” Sarah noticed that Brian had made his way around to the other side of the bar and was dancing with Kim. Sarah took a deep breath, so far so good. Based on the volume of the music there wasn’t going to be too much chit-chat going on at this place.

Sarah turned to Jareth who was staring in amazement at the dance floor. Sarah recognized the pounding techno music, and knew immediately what it was. “Sandstorm” she thought to herself, Typical. Jareth was totally intrigued by the strange music, the heavy bass making his chest vibrate.

As the music built and built the crowd steadily moved along with it and the dancers finally exploded into a frenzy of energy as the music reached its crescendo. The people on the dance-floor danced in a manner that was totally alien to Jareth. They seemed to move without thought in a frantic repetitive way, almost as if they were possessed by the music itself. Jareth noticed there were several platforms like round pedestals with both male and female dancers on them.

Jareth leaned close to Sarah’s ear and asked in amusement, “What sort of music is this?” Sarah replied, “Techno. Do you like it?” Jareth started to bob his head to the music, “It’s different. I think I do like it.”

Just then Trina appeared with their drinks. She handed a bottle of Bass to Jareth and gave a cup of rum and Coke to Sarah. Jareth thanked her for the drink and took a sip. It wasn’t nearly as good as the enchanted wine he sometimes enjoyed, but it wasn’t all that bad either. Just then Brian appeared. He was also drinking a Bass and clinked his bottle against Trina’s cup and did the same to Jareth’s and Sarah’s.

Kim appeared from behind Sarah and she swallowed a shot of some kind and dragged Brian back out onto the dance floor. Trina was laughing at them as they started to dance frantically around one another.

Before long Kim was trying to pull Trina and Sarah out onto the dance floor, but Trina insisted that she was still perusing her options, which was code for, checking out the guys. Kim then focused her energy on getting Sarah to dance.

Sarah started to protest, but a new song had started and it was quite good. She downed the rest of her drink and let her friend drag her on the dance floor. Sarah made sure that they stayed on the edge of the dance floor so that she could keep Jareth in sight.

Kim danced close to Sarah and whispered, “Damn Sarah, Jareth is really cute…Are you sure that you are just friends?”

Sarah nodded, “Just friends.”

Trina suddenly appeared, dancing on Sarah’s opposite side, “Not that it’s any of my business, but Jesus Sarah, if I were you…I’d be hittin’ it with him in a heartbeat. The accent alone would do it for me.”

Sarah tried to ignore the comment but there was nothing she could do about the fact that her face had gone bright red.

To Sarah’s relief, Kim changed the subject, “Hey someone should really go drag them out here.” She pointed to Jareth and Brian who were at the edge of the dance-floor watching. Trina smiled wickedly, “Don’t worry I’ll get them.” Kim and Sarah both laughed.

Then Sarah quickly admitted, “I feel sort of bad. I don’t think Jareth really knows how to dance to this stuff, I don’t think it’s what he’s used to.” Kim just smiled and replied, “I’m sure you’ll be able to help him out…”


Jareth watched Sarah in amazement as she danced. She had very good rhythm and the way she swayed her hips was quite intoxicating to watch. Her other female friends were also quite good, but as a visual distraction they all paled in comparison to Sarah.

Just then Trina emerged from the sea of people grabbing both Brian and Jareth by their shirts, “Come on you two! You’re missing out!” Jareth had been watching the dancers and was confident enough to follow willingly.

The song was nearing its climax and Sarah was just starting to enjoy herself. She closed her eyes and danced energetically but gracefully to the music. When she opened her eyes during that moment of clarity, she saw Jareth standing right in front of her, keenly watching her movements, as if formulating an appropriate response. Sarah couldn’t help but savor the sight in front of her. Damn, Why does he have to look so good?

He walked up to her with purpose, and as the song exploded into it’s frantic climax, he grabbed her firmly around her waist. As he pulled her close to him, he started to mimic her movements. Sarah felt a rush of adrenaline as she felt her body being swiftly pulled against his. She attempted to clear the euphoria from her head and started to move in unison with him. Suddenly she realized, Oh my God…he’s really good.

Jareth was surprised at how easy it was to move with the music. He had watched the other dancers for a few moments to get the general idea, but when he had taken hold of Sarah it was if their movements were designed to perfectly compliment each other.

Sarah found herself looking into the intense mismatched eyes of the Goblin King and she was suddenly keenly aware of everything about him. His strong hands gently held her hips. She could feel the smooth fabric of his shirt as her arms went in place about his shoulders. His scent sort of reminded her of that time of year when the last flowers of summer faded, and the leaves started to fall. She felt a rush every time her body made contact with his no matter how subtle or instantaneous.

His lips had formed a small teasing smile and his eyes were aflame with mischief. Sarah had to break eye-contact, for the temptation to plant a kiss on his lips was becoming dangerously overwhelming. She let her eyes drop and she slid her arms off his shoulders and deftly turned the whole maneuver into what looked like a planned move as she spun herself around and was now facing the other direction.

She noticed that all of her friends had managed to pair off already. Kim was with Brian of course, and Trina had somehow managed to insert herself between two very good-looking guys.

Without warning, Sarah felt Jareth’s arms encircle her waist and she was suddenly aware that he was dancing very close behind her. She did her best to keep her composure, but there was nothing she could do about the pounding of her heart and the nervous anticipation in the pit of her stomach.

She managed to keep moving to the music as she felt the Jareth getting closer and closer. Suddenly she felt one of his hands leave her waist, and suddenly she felt him brush her hair away from the right side of her neck. As his arm went back around her waist she felt him pull her firmly against him. She felt the heat from under his clothes as he danced up against her from behind. As she continued to sway her hips in a circular fashion she felt his lower body press against her backside, moving with her. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t enjoying it. In truth, she was totally engrossed in the pleasurable euphoria caused by his body being pressed against hers.

He dipped his head low and for a second she felt his lips lightly brush over the side of her neck to her nape. She had to bite her lower lip to prevent herself from whimpering at the sheer pleasure of it. Without meaning to, she closed her eyes. She felt his warm breath near her ear as he whispered huskily, “You are making it very hard for me to keep my promise.”

Chapter 16: A Confession

Sarah’s eyes shot open and to her relief she noticed that none of her friends were watching. She quickly pulled out of Jareth’s grasp and headed back toward the bar.

Jareth was about to go after Sarah when he felt a hand grasp his arm, “I think she could use a drink.” Jareth turned to see Trina’s self-satisfied smile. His eyes seemed to question her meaning as she added, “I’d need a drink too if someone was dancing with me like that.”

Jareth was about to protest when she started to walk with him toward the bar and continued, “You’re quite a dancer. Did you see those guys trying to dance with me…man what a couple of tools.” Jareth smiled as he spotted Sarah by bar. She still hadn’t been served.

Trina noticed as well, “She’s never going to get served over there. Girl bartender, she ought to know better.” Trina held up a twenty and smiled devilishly at a male bartender as he strode past. He did a double take and said, “What’ll you have, gorgeous?” Trina retorted, “Long island iced tea please… “ She gave Jareth a quick wink and asked what he’d like. Remembering that he really did enjoy that iced tea Sarah had made he asked for the same.

As Trina and Jareth made their way to Sarah she was just getting served and seeing that Jareth had a drink in his hand she just ordered another rum and coke for herself. The group had reorganized at the edge of the dance floor where there were some red velvet couches around small tables.

A couch had opened up, so Kim and Brian quickly claimed it for the group. The music wasn’t quite so loud at this end of the room. Sarah was a bit leery about sitting around with her friends, but it was either that, or continue dancing with Jareth. Interrogation seemed a little less dangerous than trying to survive relentless seduction.

As they all shoved onto the rounded couch around the table, Sarah found herself in the middle sitting next to Jareth with Trina on her left.

As Jareth tasted his drink, he noticed that Sarah was trying to keep from looking at him. It was obvious she was struggling with her feelings. No matter, she’d come to accept them in time. Jareth tore his eyes away from Sarah as he swallowed the liquid in his cup. For a second he thought he had picked up the wrong drink. It tasted nothing like the iced tea he had at Sarah’s house. It was really strong, and it tasted terrible, but it was giving him a pleasant warm feeling.

Trina suddenly broke the ice, “So how long is your Dad gone for Sarah?”

Sarah tried to remember what day it was and replied “End of next week.”

Trina’s eyebrow rose, “So you guys have that whole house to yourselves? Sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me.”

Sarah rolled her eyes and replied, “Trina, my Dad and Karen are on a cruise, they took Toby, so that left only one person to look after the house.”

Trina held up her hand, “This is one sob story I’ve heard way too many times. In high school you would hardly ever come out with us because you always had to babysit, now you are complaining because you get to stay home and babysit that huge house with no parental units nagging you. Oh and you have a hot guy staying with you as well. Boo-hoo, forgive me if I don’t offer you my sympathy.” Jareth pretended to ignore the comment as he finished his drink.

Trina got up from the table and marched over to the bar. Everyone was silent for a minute as Sarah prayed no one noticed that Trina’s comment had made her go bright red. As Trina leaned over the bar it was obvious that she was flirting with the male bartender again.

Brian shook his head and muttered, “I think Trina really needs to get laid…” Jareth chuckled, getting the gist of Brian’s remark just as Kim slapped Brian hard on the arm. Brian defensively retorted, “What? Am I wrong? Christ, even Jareth here sees it.” Sarah just shook her head but she couldn’t help smirking.

Trina returned from the bar with an armful of drinks. She set down another Long island iced tea in front of Jareth. She flamboyantly plopped herself down on the couch and handed the beer to Brian just before she took a shot of something, “So…what did I miss?”

Sarah sighed in exasperation just as Kim piped up, “So Jareth is staying with you for how long?”

Sarah didn’t exactly know what she should say, and before she could answer Jareth spoke up, “I will be staying with Sarah for a few days. My return home was unexpectedly delayed and Sarah was good enough to let me stay with her.”

Trina pinched Sarah’s cheek, “Ohhh, isn’t she sweet?” Sarah slapped her hand away, “You are so immature.”

Trina swirled her drink and replied, “Yeah, maybe…but at least I know how to have fun.” Brian had been staring out on the dance-floor and suddenly commented, “Speaking of having fun…Hey Jareth man, check that out.”

Jareth looked over to the platform that Brian was staring at. He was very puzzled by what he saw. There were two young girls dancing together and at the moment their lips were locked in a very passionate kiss. As Jareth stared, his eyes widened, as if he was trying to decide if what he saw was real or not.

At the same time the rest of the girls at the table had looked over to see what Brian was carrying on about. Sarah looked for a second but quickly turned away. Kim immediately slugged Brian and called him a perv. Trina however continued to stare, “Damn…look at them go.” Trina was a very open minded person and very little bothered her.

She saw that Sarah had looked away, and decided she might have a bit more fun at Sarah’s expense. “Hey Sarah…I think we can take them.” Before Sarah could even stare dumbly at her friend, Trina had grabbed Sarah’s face in her hands and acted as if she was going to start making out with her.

Sarah quickly shoved Trina off before she actually kissed her and replied, “Ugh, get off me…you are such an ass.” Jareth watched the whole scene and could not repress his laughter. Sarah quickly shot him a “Do not encourage her” look just as Trina fired back, “Oh sorry. You must be holding out for Jareth, don’t let me stop you…”

Just as Sarah dug her fingernails into Trina’s leg causing Trina to jump and shriek with laughter, Kim spoke up, “Ugh, they are still at it. Get a room already.” Brian pulled Kim onto his lap, “You are just jealous, because someone is getting more action than you.” Kim planted a quick peck on his lips and replied, “Then why don’t you do something about it?” At that Brian dragged Kim out on the dance-floor.

Trina sighed and turned to Jareth, “Well, I’ll leave you two alone for now, I’ve given Sarah enough grief for at least an hour.” Trina quickly followed Kim and Brian and joined them in the middle of the dance-floor.

Sarah finally looked at Jareth who had just polished off his second drink. She took a deep breath and was about to say something when Jareth spoke first, “Your friends are interesting.”

Sarah sighed, “Yeah I know.”

Jareth was smiling again, “Sarah, what was that all about?” As he said it, his eyes flicked over towards the platform where the two girls had stopped kissing, but were still dancing.

Sarah immediately understood what he was getting at. “Jareth, here things aren’t always simple, or black and white. Around here it’s not so uncommon for women to be attracted to other women or men to other men…or for someone to be attracted to both sexes.”

Jareth rose his eyebrows as if he had a hard time processing what she was saying. Sarah smiled and shot back, “I warned you. I told you we were going to see a lot of strange things here.”

Jareth looked as though he was still mulling over what she had said. He finally asked, “What about your friend Trina, is she attracted to women?” Sarah was about to say something but then she suddenly looked thoughtful. “Well let me put it this way. Trina is very into men, but she is also very comfortable with herself and she believes in having a good time, so if the right kind of person came along I’m not sure Trina would disqualify them due to their gender, or any other characteristic.”

Jareth’s eyes met hers. He was feeling very relaxed as he whispered, “I see. And what about you Sarah Williams? What would you do if you found yourself attracted to someone who was a bit… out of the ordinary?”

Sarah suddenly felt as if the air had grown very warm and thick.

She made a feeble attempt to throw him off, “I…I’m not attracted to women if that’s what...”

The corner of Jareth’s mouth tugged into a knowing smirk, “That’s not what I asked.”

Sarah’s eyes narrowed, “Well then, what are you asking?” Jareth looked down at the way her hand held her cup in place. It was clearly trembling. His mismatched eyes darted back up to meet her fierce green ones, “Sarah, do I frighten you?”

Sarah held his gaze although it was making her feel light-headed. She lifted her chin defiantly as she withdrew her hand under the table and placed it on her knee to stop her leg from shaking. “No.”

Jareth lightly smirked again and leaned forward so that his face was closer to hers. His eyes were set on hers as he probed further, “Then why do you deny your attraction towards me?”

Sarah inhaled sharply, thinking, “My God is he relentless.” She tried to speak, but no words came. She was trying to throw out a smart come-back but all she managed was a very weak “What?”

Apparently the Goblin King’s patience was wearing thin, “Come now Sarah, your attraction to me is hardly a mystery. You may not want to accept it, but you can no longer deny it. I felt it when I kissed you, and I feel it every time I touch you.”

Sarah was nearly breathless as she pleaded, “Enough Jareth, I don’t want to talk about this, not here…not now.” Sarah raised her drink to her lips and took a badly needed swig.

Jareth waited for to put down her drink before he continued, “Sarah, you are not fooling anyone, not your friends, and not me. Why are you so bent on fighting your feelings? You may be worried that our time together may be short, and at first I agreed, but if indeed our time is limited, then shouldn’t we make the very most of it?”

Sarah was feeling as though she had stumbled dangerously close to the edge of an abyss from which there would be no return. “Jareth, I…I can’t…” Her voice was barely audible as Sarah started to feel the horrible sting of tears behind her eyes. She’d be damned if she was going to let herself cry. She grabbed her cup, tilted her head back and downed the rest of her rum and coke.

Jareth was aware of her distress and gently replied, “I’m not going to force you to admit what you feel. You’ve been generous enough to offer me your friendship, and I for that I will be eternally grateful, but I can no longer keep my feelings buried inside, especially when I know that every time I look at you, it may well be the last time.”

His voice was solemn, suddenly holding a tinge of regret, “I had to do it once. I will not do it again. I cannot bear the thought of leaving you for eternity without having told you what I truly feel. If our time together ends tonight at least you will know the truth.”

For the second time ever, Jareth seemed vulnerable to Sarah. The first time was when he tried to stop her from saying the words when she had conquered his labyrinth. Back then, she hadn’t been absolutely certain that he was sincere. This time however, there was no doubt in her mind.

Jareth gently cupped her face, letting his thumb brush over her soft lips. “Sarah…I love you.”

Sarah could only stare in amazement, before her own emotions threatened to drown her.

She tried to remember to keep breathing, as her vision went blurry. She managed to hold it together quite well, considering that he had just told her that he loved her, and she was beginning to realize that she quite desperately loved him back. However, she was too dazed and much too confused to respond.

Jareth gently withdrew his hand. No matter what the outcome, he still had this moment of relief. Even if she didn’t say anything, he knew she cared for him, just by the way she was looking at him right now.

Suddenly Sarah saw two drinks being set down in front of her and the Goblin King.

Sarah looked up as Kim was sliding onto the couch beside her, “You two looked as though you could use another drink.”

Jareth accepted the drink, which to his dismay, was another long island iced tea.

Sarah would be lying if she said she wasn’t in some way relieved. She gratefully took the drink in her hands and took a long draught.

Chapter 17: Rap Music and Long Islands

Kim asked, “So why aren’t you guys dancing?” Sarah shrugged and tried to keep her voice from shaking, “Just building up the energy.”

Sarah’s rattled state did not go unnoticed by Kim. However, Sarah’s friend knew better than to bring it up, since most likely something had just happened between her and Jareth, and she didn’t like sticking her nose in other people’s affairs.

Instead Kim pointed to the others who were heading off the dance-floor towards the doorway to another room, “Just thought I’d let you know we are going to check out the room next door, supposed to be R&B, hip hop and house I think. You guys up for it?”

Sarah nodded, already starting to get up. As they made their way through the crowd, Sarah felt Jareth’s hand close around hers as he followed the others into the next room.

As soon as they entered the room, the blaring hip hop music drowned out the techno from the room next door. As they stopped near the dance floor, Sarah noticed that Jareth had yet to let go of her hand. Then she felt him gently caress the side of her hand with his thumb.

Instinctively she looked over at Jareth who had leaned down to whisper in her ear, “Are you alright?”

Sarah mentally cursed herself thinking, “Well that was good Sarah… He tells you he loves you and you fall to pieces…”

She nodded her head. She still had no idea what to say to him. She gave his hand a gentle squeeze, “Yes, I’m fine.” As she looked down she noticed the drink in his hands.

She saw that it wasn’t beer, and that it was almost gone. “Jareth what are you drinking?”

He held up his drink for her to see and replied, “Iced tea.”

Sarah’s jaw dropped as she grabbed the drink from him and tasted it, “This isn’t iced tea!”

Jareth corrected, “Yes it is. It’s a Long Island iced tea.”

She widened her eyes and replied, “Jareth, it’s not really iced tea…they just call it that. This drink is almost all alcohol. How many of these have you had?”

Jareth shrugged. He hadn’t really been keeping track, “Three.”

Sarah shook her head, “And you had a beer when you came in. We haven’t even been here that long! You’d better cool it.”

Jareth shrugged and drawled, “I feel fine. You need to relax Sarah Williams.”

Jareth was just starting to notice that he was feeling really good actually. He felt warm, but relaxed at the same time. He wasn’t sure if it was because of the drink, or if telling Sarah how he felt had lifted a huge load off his shoulders.

As he glanced over the people on the dance-floor he found that this room had a very different kind of atmosphere. The most obvious was that the music was of another style all together. It still had a strong bass but there were vocals. As he kept listening he realized that much of the lyrics were rather suggestive and the phrases were uttered in a very quick manner.

The way that the crowd responded to the music was also different. There were mostly coupled pairs of male and female dancers and many of them were dancing so close it bordered on obscene. Some of the women dancing were facing their partner, and others faced away as their partner danced closely behind them. He even saw a couple of women who were dancing with two men at once. There were a few groups of female dancers as well and their movements were no less suggestive.

As he watched Sarah’s friends pull her out onto the dance-floor he couldn’t help but smile. He could already tell he was going to enjoy this. He fought the urge to follow and start dancing with Sarah right away. It was rewarding enough just to watch her from a distance.

Sarah, Kim, and Trina had found a little spot for themselves, which to Jareth’s delight, gave him a clear line of sight. At first the girls started dancing subtly, forming a small circle, until they felt comfortable with the music.

Sarah started to sway her hips in a very alluring manner, making his breath catch in his throat. Just as he was sure the sight in front of him couldn’t get any more enticing, Trina moved up so that she was in front of Sarah and in one deft movement they were dancing up close. A split second later Kim gently placed her hand on Sarah’s shoulder and danced up against Sarah’s back and the three of them started to move together with Sarah in the middle.

Jareth couldn’t take his eyes off her. She was more tempting than any siren. He was content to just watch for a little while. That was until he saw Sarah glance in his direction.

As he started towards them, Jareth noticed a warm numbness in his limbs. He wasn’t sure if it was some magic spell that Sarah had cast upon him or if it was that damned tea. He saw Brian following out of the corner of his eye.

As he started towards them, the girls broke apart and reformed their semicircle. Just as Jareth was nearly in arms reach of Sarah, some strange guy had come up and grabbed her from behind. The intruder began to dance with her. Kim made it to Brian before anyone else was able to get to her.

Sarah’s eyes shot up in alarm as she felt the stranger grab her from behind.

She had seen Jareth approaching and although she knew she shouldn’t allow herself to, she had felt quite elated and eager to feel his arms around her again. Now some dolt had interfered by grabbing her.

Trina immediately saw the fierce look in Jareth eyes as the stranger grabbed Sarah. Since she was the closest to him she deliberately slid in front of him and started dancing with him, so that he wasn’t the only one standing there without a partner.

Jareth was having a very hard time moving to the music. His mind was raging in protest, but he couldn’t just stand there. He moved with Trina and she immediately brought her mouth close to tell him something. “Looks like you were a tad late. Listen, I know Sarah would rather be dancing with you, so here’s what we are going to do.”

Jareth was having difficulty concentrating on what she was saying since Sarah’s pursuer was starting to get a bit liberal with his hands, and Sarah had a look of pure discomfort on her face.

Trina saw what was going on and she realized that if she didn’t do something, that poor idiot dancing with Sarah would be missing a few teeth in another second. For lack of a better way to get Jareth’s attention, she pinched his arm, “Are you listening to me? Look just move with me until we get over there. I’ll distract the guy, and you can catch Sarah when she bolts. Got it?” Jareth nodded and did as Trina suggested.

As they got closer to Sarah, Trina let go of Jareth and shamelessly slid herself between Sarah and the stranger. Suddenly a new song started as Sarah realized she had been released.


What’s it gonna be? Cause I can’t pretend
Don’t you want to be more than friends?
Hold me tight and don’t let go, don’t let go
You have the right to lose control.
Don’t let go.


Sarah looked up and found herself face to face with the Goblin King. He didn’t waste any time in wrapping his arms about her waist and pulling her roughly to him. Their lips almost met before she started to move with him to the music.

I often tell myself that we could be more than just friends.
I know you think that if we move too soon it would all end.
I live in misery when you’re not around.
I won’t be satisfied till we take it further.
There’ll be some love-making, heart breaking, soul-shaking love.

His eyes were dark with desire as he looked down at her face. As he leaned in to whisper to her he allowed his lips to brush against her cheek and then her ear, “You can’t escape me that easily.” Sarah entwined her arms about his neck reveling in the feeling of his body pressed against hers. She clung to him desperately, tired of the exhausting battle she was waging against her feelings.

I often fantasize the stars above are watching.
They know my heart and speak to yours like only lovers do.
If I could wear your clothes,
I’d pretend I was you and lose control.


It was as if something had come over her. Maybe it was knowing that he loved her, or maybe it was seeing him with Trina in his arms, she wasn’t sure, but she couldn’t deny the aching possessiveness that she felt toward him. Now that she was back in his arms she was reluctant to let go, and this made her a bit bolder than usual.

She pressed her mouth to his ear and breathlessly whispered, “I have no intention of running away this time.” Sarah arched herself against him teasingly before she withdrew her mouth and continued dancing.

Running in and out my life, has got me so confused.
You’ve got to make a sacrifice.
Somebody’s got to choose.
We can make it if we try.
For the sake of you and I,
Together we can make it right.


Jareth nearly came out of his skin. He felt dangerously reckless, which was probably due to the amount of alcohol he had consumed. He knew if Sarah continued to tempt him like this, there was no chance that he’d be able to control himself.

As Sarah ground her body against his, she unmistakably felt the evidence of his desire pressing against her thigh. Her mind reeled, Oh…my…God.

The situation had abruptly become very real. She suddenly remembered they’d be going home together to a very empty house. She was torn. Part of her was absolutely terrified, the other part was just begging for an opportunity to be alone with him.

As the next song started Sarah shook her head as she realized it was Nelly’s “Hot in Here” She almost laughed at the appropriateness.

Jareth glanced to his right to see how Brian and Kim were dancing. Without missing a beat, he started dancing with Sarah in a similar fashion. Never in a million years would Sarah have imagined that she would be at a club grinding to a rap song with the Goblin King. The pure absurdity of it nearly made her burst out laughing.

Sarah turned, facing away from Jareth and noticed that Trina was grinding with a very cute guy. Trina smiled as she saw Sarah and Jareth dancing together and having a good time. When Sarah and Trina had looked at each other they both started to laugh as Trina started to sing the words.

Jareth had some difficulty understanding many of the words to the song, due to all the slang, but the chorus was clear. What he could understand he found rather amusing. The song was so crass, yet the crowd seemed to love it regardless. As he kept dancing he started to feel very loose and rather uninhibited. He slowly slid his hands from Sarah’s hips to her stomach. The shirt she was wearing just barely reached the top of her jeans so he was pleased when he felt her skin against his hands.

Sarah suppressed a gasp as she felt Jareth’s hands snake across her abdomen. He wasn’t wearing gloves and the contact of his hands on her bare skin was pleasantly shocking. Goosebumps began to rise all over her skin.

Sarah turned her head slightly, to look at Jareth. He wore a genuine grin. His face was close to her ear, and there was amusement in his voice as he whispered, “Sarah, What kind of devilry is this?”

Sarah smiled seductively as she writhed against him to the music. She bent her knees, sliding down his frame as she teased, “Why you don’t like it?”

Jareth replied, a bit drunkenly, “On the contrary…” just before he nipped at her earlobe.

Sarah whirled around to face him, trying not to let the tingling feeling overwhelm her as she wrapped her arms about his neck. Their eyes locked, their lips almost touching.

Sarah breathed, “You’d better be careful Goblin King…”

His mouth curved into a devastating smirk, “Why?”

Sarah grinned mischievously as she leaned her forehead against his, looking deeply into his eyes, “Because you are intoxicated.”

Jareth huskily replied, “That may be true, but I don’t think it’s due to the three drinks I had.”

Sarah spoke as though captivated, “Oh no?”

He shook his head as his mouth moved ever so slightly closer to hers, his voice a barely audible whisper “No, I’m quite certain this is all your doing.”

His mouth just barely brushed against her slightly parted lips. Sarah felt her body scream in protest as he slowly and deliberately withdrew enough so that they were no longer touching. Sarah’s eyes hastily scanned the crowd, No one was watching…what if she just…

Before her sensible side could do a thing to intervene Sarah leaned forward and captured his mouth in a quick kiss. She broke the contact before he really had a chance to respond. The she quickly turned around in his arms so he was behind her again.

She would be less tempted to kiss him that way, although dancing against him whether facing him or not still made her want to do very naughty things to him.

Sarah managed to barely hold it together for a few more songs before she got dangerously close to her breaking point. Grinding with him only made her think of all the other intimate activities they could engage in. She knew if it went on for a second longer she’d be forced to drag him into the rest room and attack him, that was the affect he was having on her.

Grabbing his hand, she made for the far end of the club where her friends had reconvened. “That’s funny…” she thought, “I hadn’t realized that they had stopped dancing.”

She let go of Jareth’s hand as she neared her friends. Kim and Brian were talking intimately against the wall. And Trina…well Trina was still on the dance floor and she was making out with some guy who had flaming red hair and a nose-ring.

Sarah looked away, noticing that Jareth was no longer right behind her. “Oh no, where had he gotten off to?” Then she spotted him. He was on his way over from the bar with yet another long island iced tea. Sarah shook her head. That was like four now. Well, he’d learn his lesson when he got a hangover.

Kim waved them over and as they joined up Jareth handed Sarah a drink. Kim asked Sarah if she was having a good time. Sarah nodded thinking, “You have no idea…”

It was actually true, that aside from the general scariness of the implications of what was developing between her and Jareth she was having a great time with him. Now that she thought about it she couldn’t think of a time over the past few days with him that hadn’t been fun. As Sarah joined in the conversation she learned that they were planning to go upstairs to the pool hall.


As Brian racked the balls, Sarah dragged Jareth over to the wall to get their que sticks. She quickly explained, “Alright, use the stick to hit the white ball. The object is to make the white ball hit the other balls and knock them into the pockets. One team tries to get all the solid colored balls in, while the other goes for stripes. Oh and don’t knock in the black eight ball until it’s the last one, because when that ball goes in, the game is over. When it’s our turn I’ll go first so you can get the idea. Just act like you know what you are doing.”

This was all Sarah had time to say before they were in earshot of Kim and Brian. Brian asked Sarah if she wanted to go first but she shook her head and replied, “Let Kim go first.”

Kim broke the balls apart nicely, but she didn’t get any in. Then it was Sarah’s turn. Jareth watched how she held the stick and lined up the shot, carefully taking aim. It was a good shot. She nailed the solid orange ball into the corner pocket with a satisfying smack. Sarah took her second turn and missed.

Brian lined up his shot, bounced the green striped ball off the side and it went into the opposite pocket. His next shot resulted in another ball in a corner pocket. His third shot he missed.

It was Jareth’s turn. As he approached the table, Sarah whispered, “Try for the yellow one.”

Jareth tried to clear his head and bent over to line up the shot. The pool stick felt awkward in his grasp, but he tried to aim the stick the way Sarah had demonstrated. He took the shot, the collision was a bit harder than he intended, and yellow ball bounced off the side.

Jareth stood up, a bit dismayed, but it didn’t surprise him. His senses weren’t at their best at the moment. As He headed back to the wall to nurse his drink Sarah smiled, “Nice try.”

As he waited for his next turn he noticed that there was music playing in this room as well, but it was not very loud. Kim took her second turn and missed.

A soft rock tune was playing softly in the background as Sarah walked purposefully up to the pool table. She let her eyes carefully roam over the balls on the table, as she sought her shot. When she found it, she walked around the table, opposite of Jareth. She slowly leaned over, her soft hair almost touching the table. Jareth silently regarded her, noticing he could see down the front of her top when she bent down like that.

When his eyes darted up to her face he saw that she was looking right at him with purpose in her eyes. The contact lasted only a moment but it seemed to cause electricity to spark throughout the room. Sarah made her shot and it went right in.

When she straightened she felt Jareth’s eyes on her again. She moved to another position and leaned down again. Her eyes flashed up at him right as she took the shot.

The ball missed its mark. But at that moment the game was the last thing on Sarah’s mind. Jareth’s declaration of love reverberated through her mind. Every time she looked at him she was reminded of how he had haunted her for so long, but now…now he was here, warm and alive, and no longer her adversary.

The game went on. Heated glances were repeatedly exchanged between the two of them. Jareth didn’t prove to be very good at pool, but it wasn’t bad for a first game.

The group gathered by the bar at the end of the game to pay their tab and Sarah noticed the clock behind the bar. It was getting really late. As much as she was terrified of going home to that empty house with him, she accepted that she didn’t have much choice. The club would be closing soon and her friends looked as though they were ready to leave. Sarah waited at the bar as Jareth and Brian went to fetch their coats.

As Brian and Jareth waited in the coat check line Brian spoke up, “Not a bad game of pool Jareth. Do you play much back in England?”

Jareth shrugged, “Not really.” Brian kept making small talk, trying to avoid awkward silences.

Finally he breached the subject everyone had been wondering about all evening, “So are you going to ask Sarah out or what?”

Jareth was a bit caught off guard and Brian noticed, adding, “Well, I think it’s pretty obvious that she’s interested…”

Jareth quickly countered, “What makes you so sure?”

Brian shook his head, “Jeez man. C’mon, you must have noticed those looks she was giving you all night, besides I think it was pretty clear by the way she was dancing with you. I think you’d be a fool not to make a move.”

Jareth seemed to be thinking over what Brian had said. Brian asked the attendant for their coats and asked, “Well, you do like her right?”

Jareth nodded.

Brian replied, “Well, I don’t blame you. Sarah is a great girl. She’s
smart as a whip and she’s one hell of a tight little package. Well, good luck man, I hope you get her.” Jareth wasn’t sure what Brian had just said but he shook his outstretched hand and replied, “Thank you. It was a pleasure to meet you and the rest of Sarah’s friends.”

Brian nodded, “Yeah this was fun. Take care man.”

Jareth found Sarah by the bar, as she and her friends were saying goodbye. They walked silently out of the club and Sarah hailed a cab to take them home. As they climbed in Jareth noticed Sarah was seated closer to him than before.

Sarah told the driver where to go before she turned to Jareth and said, “I had a really good time tonight Jareth, thanks for coming out with me and my friends.”

Jareth smiled at her a bit drunkenly, “It was my pleasure, I’m glad you had a nice time.”

Sarah then smiled wider and pointed a finger at him, “You’re drunk.”

Jareth just smiled. There was no point in denying it.

Sarah tried to sound authoritative but she found the whole situation so funny she couldn’t keep the smile off her face, “Well, I warned you…so if you aren’t feeling well later I’m just going to say I told you so.”

Jareth waved his hand and protested, “I’m fine.”

Sarah eyed him suspiciously, “Yeah, right now I’d wager you feel pretty good, but you’ll be sorry when it wears off.”

The cab dropped them off in front of the house and Sarah handed some cash to Jareth so he could pay the driver while she went ahead to unlock the door.

Sarah watched with a smile on her face as Jareth stumbled up the walkway. She had just found the right key when Jareth came up behind her.

She felt his arms envelop her waist tightly, before she felt his hot breath against her ear, “Sarah, it’s very cold out here.” Sarah finally managed to open the door. She quickly stepped inside and nearly toppled over as Jareth lost his balance as he leaned against her. She steadied herself and pulled him inside.

He winced as she turned the lights on. She threw their coats on the rack as she kicked off her boots. She then turned to Jareth, grabbing his hand and lead him into the living room. He noticed that she was dragging him towards the stairs and for a second he thought she was about to lead him up to her room. As she passed the stairs he grudgingly realized she was taking him into the kitchen instead.

He leaned his back against the counter and watched as she grabbed a large plastic cup and filled it up with something from a container from the fridge. “Here, Jareth drink this.”

He took the cup from her and took a drink. He stopped almost immediately and replied, “Sarah this is water…”

Sarah crossed her arms over her chest, a slight smile playing on her lips. “Yes, I know that, I’d like you to drink it.”

He looked at her curiously and slurred, “What for?”

Sarah rolled her eyes, “Jareth you are drunk. If you don’t drink water, you are going to be very hung over.”

He looked at her for a moment before he replied, “Very well then...” With that he tipped the cup to his lips and drained it.

When he was finished he flashed her a smile and handed it back to her, “Satisfied?”

Her eyes held his as she wordlessly filled it again and thrust it back at him. He shook his head and drained the second cup. When he finished Sarah walked back into the living room and he followed.

He immediately went to the stereo and turned it on. Sarah just watched in wonder as he fiddled with the dial for a few seconds before soft music filled the room.

She laughed and plopped down on the couch, “What…you want to hear more music? Aren’t you tired?”

Jareth shook his head in protest, “Not at all...you?”

Sarah shook her head, “No, actually I feel wide awake.”

Jareth stretched out his hand to her, “Dance with me.” It wasn’t a question. Sarah placed her hand in his as he pulled her up from the sofa.

Sarah felt a fluttering in her stomach as he pulled her to him and he carefully placed one hand on her waist. She placed one hand on his shoulder as he caught her other hand in his and they started to move slowly to the soft music.

Sarah tried to slow down her breathing, which had suddenly become erratic and her heart was beating furiously again. Jareth held her gently as they danced. She was grateful that he was holding her so that their cheeks were nearly touching, at least this way she didn’t have to look into those hauntingly beautiful eyes of his.

Sarah suddenly felt that she should say something about all that had transpired that evening, but she simply couldn’t find the right words and when she finally opened to her mouth to say something, her voice failed her.

Jareth broke the silence, whispering gently into her hair, “So, how shall we spend the rest of our evening since we are both still so wide awake?”

Sarah closed her eyes. She knew what she wanted to do…but that didn’t mean that she should. She desperately tried to think of an answer, any answer that wouldn’t lead to what her traitorous heart was really hoping for. Her mouth was speaking before she even knew what she was saying, “I ah…I could use a drink.”

Jareth smiled and stepped back releasing her, “Certainly. As I recall we have that goblin wine that you were so curious about.”

Sarah tried to hide her relief and hastily agreed, “Ok, sure”.

Sarah breathed a sigh of relief as he disappeared in the kitchen. He quickly reappeared with two wine glasses. He expertly uncorked the bottle and poured them each a glass of wine. He handed one to Sarah and sat beside her on the couch. Sarah raised the glass to her lips and took a small sip.

The wine was a rich burgundy color and had a very full-bodied taste. It was quite dry, but to her amazement there was no overwhelming or unpleasant aftertaste. As soon as she swallowed she felt a tingling warm sensation flood her body. The next thing she felt was a relaxing sense of euphoria, almost like when someone expertly massages your shoulders, but better and much more intense.

Meanwhile back in the underground…

A young woman with hair the color of a raven’s feathered coat and sparkling blue eyes that shamed the most perfect sapphire was looking into a stone basin, filled with dark water. At this time the reflection on the surface of the water was not her own face, but the scene that was currently playing out in Sarah’s living room.

As the woman watched Sarah bring the glass to her lips, a slow deliberate grin spread across her soft features. Her laughter was rich like the tinkling of a bell. Her voice was velvety and young, but possessed the wisdom of eternity, “Yes Sarah. That’s it…drink dearest. With every sip, you further drown your baseless fears. Drink your fill and you will no longer care to hide from your destiny. Drink until the only thing that remains is your heart’s desire.”

Her glittering eyes then darted over the image of the Goblin King. “Ah Jareth, you poor fool. You are so haunted by this young mortal. You didn’t realize how far you’d strayed from your destiny when you let this girl slip through your fingers. Pride is a damnable thing, and she will humble you, Goblin King.” The woman rested her head on her hands and sighed, “I’ve put this off for far too long. Tonight fate will bring you together.”



Chapter 18: A Fated Enchantment


Back in Sarah’s Living room…

Sarah could hardly believe that wine could have such an effect. She slowly sipped at the burgundy liquid, savoring it this time.

Jareth watched her, intrigued, “What do you think?”

Sarah’s eyes closed for a second as the warm pleasurable sensation rippled through her. When she opened them she failed to stifle a giggle, “Whoa…this is incredible.” Jareth sipped at his own glassful and regarded her as she breathlessly asked, “Does the feeling increase with how much you drink?”

He smiled, “Yes. Try some more.”

Sarah lifted the glass to her lips and drained the rest. She shuddered and sighed as her head fell back against the cushions of the couch.

Jareth held his breath as he watched the pleasure wash over her face. It was agonizing for him…watching her like this. He refilled her glass and continued to sip slowly from his own.

Sarah took another long drought, letting the sensation overcome her. When the feeling waned, she teased , “It’s a good thing I don’t live in the Underground, because I’d be a lush for sure with this stuff around.”


Jareth chuckled warmly, “Indeed, I’d wager you would….”

As Sarah finished her second glass, the warm feeling lingered even longer. She set the glass on the table, noticing that while she’d sucked down two glasses, Jareth was only halfway through his first.

He offered to pour her a third but she waved her hand, “No…I’d better not. I’m still reeling from the the last one.”

As she lounged back on the couch she lazily regarded him. God he’s so handsome. She unintentionally found herself looking into his eyes again. It wasn’t long before that familiar ache returned. Before she could stop herself she openly admiring him. His shirt was slightly open, leaving his pale flesh exposed. How she longed to kiss him there and taste his skin.

His shirt was tucked into his tight black slacks. As she casually perused his lower body, heat crept into her cheeks as all sorts of wicked possibilities seeped into her thoughts. She wanted to feel his mouth against hers again, wanted to feel his arms around her, it had felt so…right.

As she sat there, lost in the desire to just grab him and lay such a kiss on him, the thought occurred to her, Why the hell not? He already admitted how he feels, and God knows you want him. You are all alone. There is no one to interfere…nothing to be afraid of.”

Oh how she wished that were true, but she was afraid. So afraid that if she made a move she would get so caught up in his kiss that she’d never be able to turn back. That was how she’d been feeling since he suddenly appeared back in her life. She searched her feelings...something was different now. Something had shifted. Fully expecting to find that gut wrenching fear, she was astounded to find that it had vanished. Newfound courage swelled dangerously within her, drowning out the debilitating terror. The impulse grew, and suddenly she was aware that was very…unafraid.

It was so odd. She had no idea what had come over her but she suddenly felt incredibly bold and strong, as if nothing could extinguish her desires. The strange feeling spread through her like wild fire. It started at her core and pulsed outward to her very fingertips. It was a warm and powerful deluge, and in its wake it left throbbing desire, raw and uncontainable.

As the feeling overcame her, she nearly cried out at the force and strength of it, but she bit down on her lower lip as her eyes darted hungrily over the Goblin King.

This is not normal…

Jareth must have noticed because a look of concern washed over his features. “Sarah? What is it? Are you alright?”

Sarah took a small breath as she forced a strained smile, blushing furiously. She tensed, trying desperately to keep her body locked in place. For she was sure it was about to act out in defiance against her. She felt restraint over the intense desire slipping quickly away. She barely managed the words through clenched teeth “I’m fine, I think perhaps that I should go to bed.”

Jareth regarded her curiously, “Are you sure?” Sarah was already standing, realizing that if she didn’t walk away right now, something drastic was going to happen, “Yeah, I think I should…”

She turned away, making a mad dash for the stairs. A terrible dizziness swept over her, and every step was a great effort, and felt as though it were in slow motion. The desire that sliced through her was now a hundred fold what it had been. The more she fought it, the worse it grew. She felt Jareth tearing up the stairs behind her. She heard his concerned voice as though it were very far away, “Sarah what’s wrong?”

She halted abruptly at her bedroom door. She felt him come up close behind. Through gritted teeth she hissed, “Nothing, I just want to be alone! Goodnight Jareth.”

Jareth backed away as if he’d been burned. She heard the disappointment in his distant reply, “Alright…Goodnight Sarah.”

She heard him turn away and then suddenly everything came to a grinding halt. When she opened her eyes, everything was suddenly clear. She no longer cared about the consequences. None of it mattered. At that moment only one thing was real; her heart’s most secret and deepest desire. There was only one thing she wanted; only one thing that could quell the desire that was burning her alive...

She turned, “Jareth!”

His name was a breathless cry uttered from her trembling lips as her hand shot out and grabbed his. He turned, still stunned, a look of utter confusion on his face.

In an instant Sarah had grabbed him by his shirt, pulling him roughly to her. Their collision was violent. Sarah’s mouth met his in a kiss so smoldering that it would have melted the hardest metal imaginable.

The heart of the Goblin King didn’t stand a chance.

Suddenly she felt his arms crushing her to him as he groaned against her mouth and returned her hungry kisses.

Her mouth was relentless, her hands insistent as they pulled him forward. Wordlessly, she backed into her bedroom door pulling him with her. She gripped the fabric of his shirt tightly in one hand as the other hand felt for the doorknob.

A moment later they burst into her bedroom. She didn’t bother to turn on the light as they moved as one into the darkness of her room.

None too gently, she shoved him against the alcove wall, feverishly deepening their kiss as she breathlessly murmured, “Oh God, Jareth.”

His hands wandered over her hips, silently urging her nearer. He was surprised by her boldness as she forcefully tugged the bottom of his silk shirt out of his trousers. Suddenly her hands were trailing impatiently over his chest.

She tore her mouth from his and he could only stare in amazement. The hunger reflected in her eyes was ravenous and insatiable. She had certainly taken him by surprise.

Then her hot mouth was upon his throat as her hands had snaked up under his shirt. Her delicate hands were warm, her palms blazing a trail up his abdomen to his chest. She may as well have been reaching inside him…as his heart was now completely in her hands.

He whispered her name, silently praying that this was no dream.

In response, she trailed her tongue up the side of his neck and he ground his mouth into hers. Sarah started to back up, walking blindly, pulling him with her, until her backside collided with something.

Jareth could not believe what was happening; and more remarkably, that Sarah had been the one to initiate it. Her desire was plain. She wanted him, quite possibly just as desperately as he wanted her.

What was more amazing, was that she seemed to be having no second thoughts as their actions were gaining more momentum than a speeding freight train.

Jareth wrapped one arm tightly about Sarah’s waist as he felt her collide with something. His other hand reached out to determine what they had bumped into.

Was it her bed?

He was so dazed by what was happening, he didn’t have a clue whereabouts in her room they had ended up. As he tipped over a bottle of hairspray, he realized it was her vanity.

With one deliberate gesture of his arm, he had swept aside everything on top. Her nail polish, hair clips, hair products, and makeup, all went flying and clattered noisily to the floor.

In the next instant Sarah felt Jareth’s strong hands lifting her as he set her atop the vanity. His kisses grew rougher and more insistent as she was pushed back against the mirror. Her knees were slightly parted and she felt him advance. When his body made contact with hers she felt as though she was going to combust. She felt the hard evidence of his desire pressing against her thigh.

His hands seemed to be everywhere at once, making her dizzy with euphoria. They ran over her arms, across her back, up and down her sides, and then they were cupping her breasts. She was still kissing him as her fingers, shaky with anticipation, began to fumble with the buttons of his shirt. The only light was the dim illumination caused by the moon, which peeped through her window.

She managed to blindly tackle a few buttons before Jareth fumbled for an object in his pocket. He pulled out one of the marble sized crystals that Beezle had given him. He held up the orb and Sarah watched in amazement as it disappeared with a poof of glittery smoke. At the same time a few strategically placed candles appeared and flickered to life, casting a warm yellow glow about the room.

As he shrugged out of his shirt, Sarah pulled back and regarded him with eyes glazed over with desire. His eyes were also dark as he looked at her beautifully flushed skin. He rasped, “Are you sure you want this?”

He lowered his mouth to hers as she breathlessly whispered, “Yes, I want you. No more games.”


His hands grasped her hips, gently urging her forward so that he was between her thighs. As she slid forward and their bodies made contact, Sarah felt his hands clench in response on her hips. It was absolutely maddening to feel him between her legs.

She took one of his hands in hers and brought it to her breast, as she moaned into his mouth, “Jareth, touch me…”

He didn’t have to be told twice. His hand roughly massaged her breast through her shirt. He groaned against her lips. Forcefully, he grabbed the front of her sheet blouse and tore it open. Buttons flew everywhere. To his dismay there was another tight shirt beneath the blouse, and his hands immediately slid up underneath.

Sarah moved closer to the edge of the vanity, savoring the feeling as she slid herself down against the Goblin King. As soon as her feet hit the floor she started walking, pushing him backwards. He stopped as he felt the back of his legs come in contact with the bed. Sarah didn’t need to see where she was going. She knew where they would end up.

She removed what was left of her torn blouse and then she crossed her arms and pulled her tank top over her head, tossing it to the floor. Now clad in just her jeans and bra she looked up mischievously at the Goblin King. Biting her lip in anticipation she shoved him back onto her bed. Jareth, now on his back, gazed up at her hungrily, his eyes pleading for her to continue. She leaned down placing a gentle kiss on his lips before she crawled on top of him.

His lips moved to her neck and he breathed against her skin, “Sarah, do you know how long I’ve wanted this…wanted you?”

She stopped his words with a gentle kiss. His mouth found her neck as she huskily whispered “No…show me.” She lowered herself onto him, straddling his hips, and he gasped at the contact.

His lips worshipped her neck, dipping lower, to her collarbone and then to the swell of her breasts. As she rubbed her lower body against his she was assaulted by shocking aching pleasure. He groaned, his hands frantically gliding over her back as he attempted to unclasp her bra.

Sarah leaned back, and skillfully removed her bra. As it fell gracefully from her shoulders, he watched with spellbound attention. She blushed at the sound of his ragged sigh. He breathlessly watched her, afraid to move, for fear it was all some glorious dream.

Sarah smiled teasingly, taking his hand in her own, “Jareth…” Her words were soft and pleading, “Touch me, here.” She brought his hand to her breast and he caressed it gently. She whimpered and writhed against him, imploring, ‘Please…”

She wasn’t entirely certain what she was begging for but Jareth seemed to know exactly what she wanted. His nuzzled her breast with his mouth before swirled his tongue over the rosy peak. Sarah cried out in startled pleasure.

She pushed him back on the bed and ground her hips into his. He groaned and his arms went around her, firmly grasping her backside as he pressed her harder against him. Sarah thought she would die from wanting. The contact and the friction felt so good that Sarah was stunned. How could he make her feel like this while they both were still dressed from the waist down?

Jareth clenched his jaw shut. The repeated contact was driving him mad. He couldn’t remember ever feeling so aroused. He wanted her so badly, it bordered on painful. His mouth found her ear and he raggedly sighed, “Sarah, love, what are you doing to me?”

Sarah’s eyes drifted closed as her lips kissed his in the same agonizing manner that he had done to her the other night. Her voice was but a husky whisper, “Seducing you.”

His arms closed around her and he rolled so that he was on top of her. Before she could react, he had both her hands pinned to the bed. His eyes burned into hers as he rasped, “This is no game Sarah. You’d better be sure of what you want.”

His aggressiveness only managed to excite her more. She raised her head off the bed, his lips just beyond her reach, but she strained to reach them anyway. When she realized he wasn’t coming any closer until she answered, she sighed, “Jareth, I’m sure. Please…please don’t stop”

At her words, his eyes closed, and he was kissing her again as his weight came down on her.

Sarah winced, “Owww, what the hell…” as she felt something digging into her spine. His hands left her wrists, as he pulled back, startled. Sarah reached beneath her and pulled Lancelot out from under her. She tossed the bear to the floor, “Stupid bear...”

She heard Jareth’s throaty chuckle as she pulled him back to her. His hands covered her breasts impatiently stroking her. Sarah watched helplessly as his mouth closed over her nipple and he trailed hot kisses down her belly. He managed to unclasp her belt when she reached down and undid the fastening of her jeans.

Before he could react she had rolled out from underneath him and was now standing beside the bed. She wordlessly unzipped her jeans and slid them down her legs before she tossed them aside.

Jareth wasn’t breathing as he looked up to see Sarah wearing nothing but black satin panties staring down at him expectantly.

She hesitated, standing still for a moment. He quickly stood and moved to kiss her. She stopped him, catching his face in her hands. She looked into his eyes, and for the first time she did not feel the pressure to look away.

Her hazel green eyes focused on his and he found them fascinating. Her pupils were large and black due to the dim lighting and her heightened desire. He bent his head and his mouth found her throat as his hand closed over her breast.

Sarah’s voice was thick with desire as it cut though the darkness, “Jareth, I should have told you before…but I was too afraid until now…”

Jareth froze as she continued, “I…I do love you…and I think I have for quite some time.”

His eyes closed as relief of unfathomable proportions washed over him.

He released a shuddering breath and raised his head. His eyes were full of longing. She clung to him and placed soft kisses on his face, and down his neck, as if reassuring him. Her kisses slowly grew more ardent and soon he had lowered his head to claim her mouth and her love in a searing kiss.

Sarah’s hands played across his bare chest abdomen, and before she could stop herself, she had reached down between them and boldly cupped the hardness straining against his pants. A ragged sigh escaped his lips as she ran her hand over him. She teasingly fingered the top of his trousers.

Sarah bit her bottom lip in silent deliberation, before she swiftly dropped to her knees in front of him. Jareth stared down in wonder as her hands furiously tackled the fastening of his pants. Sarah swiftly undid his trousers and before his hand could drop down to still her, she closed her fingers around his taut flesh. It was rock hard but surprisingly silky to the touch.

Jareth inhaled sharply at the raw pleasure.

She gently started to move her hand back and forth, experimenting. She was pleased when she noticed that he had closed his eyes and his breathing had grown shallow and irregular. She continued the rhythmic motion and he moaned, “Sarah…”

He looked down at her to see a wicked grin spread across her face.

She lowered one hand to the base of his flesh, still gripping him tightly as she touched the tip to her lips. Jareth felt as though his sanity was hanging by a thread. Her dark eyes focused on his as he breathed, “Sarah what are you doing…?”

He was cut off mid sentence as Sarah took him into her mouth and teasingly circled the tip with her tongue. She felt and heard his sharp exhale as she took him deeper into her mouth.

As she started to move her mouth along his shaft, Jareth thought the intense pleasure might kill him. His hands buried themselves in her rich dark hair as she worshipped him with her mouth. After few moments Jareth breathlessly protested, “Sarah…please, you have to...stop.” Sarah could tell that he was nearing release, but she didn’t want to stop. It gave her a euphoric sense of power to be able to do this to him, and it positively drove her wild.

Upon realizing that she had no intention of stopping, Jareth pulled back and lifted Sarah from her kneeling position. He dropped her on the bed and loomed over her.


He lowered his face so that it was inches from hers, “You’ll pay for that, love.”

Sarah grinned seductively and bit her lower lip teasingly, “Really? What are you going to do to me?”

His lips found her neck and he nudged away her soft hair. His kisses were light and teasing at first but as his mouth plunged lower to her collarbone and then to her breasts, they became more passionate. Sarah closed her eyes relishing the feel of his hot mouth on her naked skin. She whimpered and writhed beneath him as his mouth closed around her breast.

His mouth blazed a burning trail as it ventured lower still. He tasted the skin of her flat stomach. He paused for a moment noting that Sarah’s breathing had deepened and she continued to shift restlessly. She was now feeling the same desperate desire that she had stirred in him, and he found it very enticing.

His torturous journey did not stop there. He ran his fingertips gently down her sides, hooking them under the fabric of her panties. He slowly drew them over her hips and slid them off her. Sarah squeezed her eyes shut, drawing a shaky breath as he removed the last stitch of her clothing.

She had never been naked in the presence of a man before and she couldn’t help but feel insecure. She knew very little of his past. She could only assume that he had taken a great many lovers in his life. She was worried that she may not be entirely pleasing to him; that she might not compare to the others. She felt his gaze heavily on her body, but she didn’t dare open her eyes.


Jareth saw how her body had tensed and her eyes were screwed shut. He tenderly breathed, “Sarah love, look at me.” Sarah shook her head, refusing to open her eyes. He lifted himself onto his hands, looking down at her form as he hovered over her. “You have no idea how beautiful you are do you? By the underground…don’t you see what you do to me?” His voice broke slightly as his self control faltered. Sarah opened her eyes, amazed by the intense look on his face.

He was trying to go slow with her, knowing that this was all very new to her, but it was so difficult. Jareth reached down between them and Sarah felt his hand gently caress the inside of her thigh. His hand trailed slowly over her skin and it seemed that he was touching her everywhere except where she most desperately wanted him to.

Her eyes locked with his as her breathless plea reached his ears, “Jareth please…”

Jareth was breathless himself as his hand slid up between her thighs to touch her where no one else ever had. As his fingertips grazed the sensitive bud of her longing, Sarah closed her eyes and arched against him.

Her reaction only encouraged him to continue toying with her. Sarah’s face flushed as she cried aloud, “Oh dear god, what are you doing to me?” He ceased the maddening action, grinning wickedly as he purred, “Do you want me to stop?”

She cried out in protest, “No, Don’t you dare!” His throaty chuckle rippled over her as fingers returned. Sarah thought she would explode from the shockwave of pleasure that tore through her. Jareth lowered his mouth and began to place tender love bites down her stomach.

Sarah closed her eyes, feeling him venture lower still. Suddenly his warm breath was upon her inner thigh. She demanded in a wavering voice, “Jareth? What are you…”

“Ohhhh…”

This had to be heaven. Or was it hell?

She gasped. Her body shuddered in response to the delightfully wicked sensation. He had to be a force more formidable than the devil himself to make her feel such gratuitous rapture. Never in all her daydreams, nor in her wildest fantasies had she ever imagined anything as incredible as this exquisite torture. She didn’t care if she would burn in hell for all eternity. All that existed was the unrelenting spell he was casting upon her.

She blindly reached one hand down, her fingers tangling in his platinum hair as she tipped her hips up, inviting him nearer…deeper.

Jareth felt his lust rising to dangerous levels. Oh she definitely liked this. The way that she was responding alone was enough to drive him to wretched insanity.

Sarah fitfully tossed her head from side to side, murmuring senseless pleas, “Jareth…Oh God! Please…don’t stop!” Sarah held his shoulders in a death grip as he mercilessly pleasured her with his mouth.

Sarah felt the pleasure build and build until it suddenly was likened to a pinpoint of light that collapsed and exploded brilliantly. With a desperate cry, she found her release, raking her nails over his shoulders and back as she climbed to the heavens and back again.

When her cries had ceased and her body finally sagged in relief, Jareth pulled away and drew a shaky breath. He frantically kept reminding himself that she was a virgin, as he drew back to a safe distance. At the moment he didn’t trust himself to be near her.

She had admitted that she loved him, but the suddenness of all that had transpired unnerved him. He recalled that Sarah had admitted that she felt that sex was a special thing. He wanted nothing more than to make love to her, but he’d never forgive himself if she wasn’t completely ready and willing when he took her virginity.

His thoughts strayed back to before all this had happened, before Sarah had suddenly become so bold. Back to when they were innocently sitting on the sofa drinking wine.

The wine!!!!

His mind was given a jolt as the possibility presented itself. What if her actions had been the result of the enchanted wine. Sarah was mortal, after all, and now that he thought on it, he couldn’t say that he was totally certain that the wine’s enchantment might affect her differently. Not to mention the wine hadn’t been properly labeled, so there was no telling what collection it might have come from. There were some vintages that he hadn’t even sampled yet.

Damn.

Why hadn’t he thought of that before?

Before he could dwell any further on the matter, Sarah had reached for him, and was pulling him down on the bed with her. He gathered her in his arms and placed a kiss on her forehead. How was he going to tell her that what had just happened may have been due to the wine that he had given her?

She was going to be furious.

Sarah was planting loving kisses across his chest and neck as he began in a serious tone, “Sarah, I have to tell you…”

Sarah was now covering his abdomen with kisses when she boldly reached down and stroked him intimately.

He gasped, his train of thought, shattered to pieces.

He tried again as Sarah wiggled down on the bed, “I’m not sure, but that wine might have…Ohhh.”

He didn’t have a chance to finish the thought, as Sarah without hesitation had taken him deep into her mouth.

He closed his eyes and sighed, “Sarah…what are you…?”

Sarah looked up and withdrew just long enough to reply, “I want to make you to feel what I felt. Now hush will you…”

With that she took him deep into her mouth and started the rhythmic movement, applying just the right amount of pressure.

Jareth groaned as she hungrily pleasured him. He was already so aroused that he was dangerously close to release. He gave in for one moment and the pleasure shook him to his core. As the waves of ecstacy started to increase, he tried to protest, “Sarah you must stop…”

She breathlessly refused, “No…it’s alright, I want you to.” She unrelentingly continued to stimulate him while she held his hips in a vice grip, so that he could not pull away.

He tried to fight it, but the sensation of her mouth on him was too overwhelming, and for one reckless moment he lost himself in the pleasure. That was all it took. His head fell back and he fiercely cried out her name as he climaxed. Sarah’s hands tightened about his waist as she took him deep into her mouth and swallowed the evidence of his release.

She smiled and breathlessly curled up beside him as they collapsed; both overcome with exhaustion. Jareth closed his eyes as he wrapped his arms about her protectively. She felt his rapid breath on the side of her neck as she whispered, “I love you, Jareth.” Had she not instantly fallen asleep in his arms she would have heard his reply, “And I will love you, Sarah, for all eternity.”

Chapter 19: Enter the Apportioner.

“Twist ye, twine ye! even so,
Mingle shades of joy and woe,
Hope, and fear, and peace, and strife,
In the thread of human life.”
Scott.


Sarah slowly came to consciousness, feeling warm and comfortable. She opened her eyes and stared at the clock that read 12:17. Apparently she had slept very late again. Suddenly it occurred to her that she had been shoved over onto the very edge of her bed, and she was not alone.

Someone was in the bed with her, and she was still in that person’s warm embrace. Sarah’s snapped to full attention as she turned her head to see the Goblin king stirring beside her. He pulled her more snugly into his warm grasp and that’s when it registered that she felt skin to skin contact.

She quickly twisted out of his grasp, rolling on her back. During the same moment Jareth had opened his eyes and grinned wolfishly at her, “Good Morning Sarah.”

She wriggled to a sitting position, flattening her back against the headboard, realizing to her horror, that she was stark naked. She grabbed at the covers and frantically clutched the sheet to herself.

Jareth was lying on his side and the sheet only covered him to his waist. From what Sarah could tell, he wasn’t clothed either. Sarah scanned the room, frantically trying to remember how she had ended up in bed with the Goblin King.

Nothing came to mind.

She noticed that the things from her vanity were scattered all over the floor. Clothing, both hers and Jareth’s were discarded about the room. There were several candles that had been burned down to nubs. That’s funny she thought, I don’t even have candles that look like that.

Her normally neat room looked as though it had seen a battle. Based on what she saw and the fact that she was naked in her bed with a certain Underground ruler suggested that she must have had a rather erratic evening. There was just one problem…She couldn’t remember it.

Her wide eyes glanced about the room and her mouth hung open in shock as she struggled to exclaim, “Oh. My. God!”

Jareth frowned as he realized his concerns about that wine appeared to be legitimate.

Sarah was suddenly off the bed and the sheet was coming with her. She wrapped the sheet tightly around herself as she stood and noticed as she pulled the sheet further off the bed that Jareth was just as naked as she. She hadn’t actually considered that by running off with the sheet that she would simultaneously uncover him. She had just woken up after all.

She let out a startled, “Oh! Oops!” and immediately averted her eyes just barely missing what she had to admit must have been a delectable sight. She gave herself a mental slap across the face. This was hardly the time to be admiring him, not when there was still the details of why she was naked to be sorted out.

She stooped to retrieve her torn blouse, and after seeing its shredded state she let it drop back to the floor. The growing feeling of dread crept further over her. Jareth was facing the other side of the bed tugging on his trousers as though it were the most natural thing in the world.

Sarah put a shaky hand to her forehead and demanded, “What the hell is going on?”

Jareth could tell she was less than pleased and readied himself for the onslaught of her fiery wrath, “You don’t remember?”

Her eyes were furious as they met his, “No, Remember what!? I remember coming home from the club, we danced and then we had some wine.”

She stopped there, her voice turning caustic, “You gave me that wine!” She looked away and admitted accusingly, “I don’t remember anything after that…”

Jareth knew he had to tread carefully.

She was now pacing nervously. She gestured to the vanity and the bed as she asked suspiciously, “What the hell happened?”

Jareth carefully began, “Sarah, that wine had an affect on you that I didn’t anticipate. You must try to understand…”

She interrupted, shouting, “Understand!? What the hell am I to understand?”

Jareth lowered his head as if he was exhausted, “Just calm down and…”

“Calm down? How can you tell me to calm down?”

Jareth put his hands up and tried again, “Sarah if you’d just give me a second to explain…”

Her eyes flashed with anger as she heatedly demanded, “What did you do? Did…Did you sleep with me?”

He looked at the now empty bed, “I slept with you, yes.”

Sarah put a hand to her mouth, “Oh my god. We had sex?”

Jareth shook his head, “Well, no. Not exactly.”

She took a deep breath, well that was a huge relief but it still didn’t explain why she woke up with no clothes on, “Are you telling me that nothing physical happened between us last night?”

Jareth arched and eyebrow as he sat on the bed, “Well, I wouldn’t say that.”

Sarah was now staring at his back and could see red scratches on his shoulder that looked like they were inflicted by fingernails, “What happened to your shoulder?”

He glanced over his shoulder at the red marks before his eyes darted back to hers accusingly. She stammered “I…I didn’t do that did I?”

Jareth smirked slightly, despite the tension in the air, “Well, I didn’t inflict them upon myself.”

Sarah suddenly felt ill. Although she had no memory of what occurred, she had the distinct feeling that Jareth was telling the truth. Maybe they hadn’t gone all the way, but something pretty significant must have happened for them to wind up in bed in the buff.

Oh, this was not good.

As much as it would have been easier to pin all the blame on him, she couldn’t deny that all the signs indicated that they engaged in something mutual, and very passionate. The room was trashed, clothes strewn about, and the candles...

Not to mention that there wasn’t a mark on her, and Jareth had pleasure scratches.

God that damn fucking wine. Not being able to remember! It was pure madness.

Sarah wanted nothing more than to have a hot shower and a good cry. She couldn’t deal with him right now. Jareth could see the crisis playing out behind her eyes and asked, “Do you want to know what happened or not?”

Sarah took a deep breath, steadying herself against the doorway. “Damn right I do, right after I take a shower.”

Sarah stormed out of the room in her sheet. She turned on the shower and waited for the water to heat up. I’m never going to drink ever again.

Jareth was very unsettled at Sarah’s reaction. She truly didn’t remember. He had expected a heated exchange, but he never expected that she would forget everything. He had not wanted things to end up this way, and he cursed himself for not being more in control. He picked up his clothes off Sarah’s floor and returned to the guestroom. Jareth was putting on his usual goblin king attire when the forgotten crystal fell out of the bag and rolled across the floor, and came to rest at his feet.

Jareth picked it up, noticing that it seemed to be filling with a reddish fog. It grew hot to the touch and he dropped it in surprise. It smashed as it hit the floor, the red smoke billowing out.

He waited for the smoke to clear and saw…nothing. He expected that something would happen, but for a few moments nothing occurred.

Suddenly he heard a feminine voice behind him, “Well, Well…if it isn’t the Goblin King.”

Jareth spun around to see a young woman with midnight black hair that fell to her waist and glittering midnight blue eyes that seemed to read his every thought.

Jareth crossed his arms over his chest in his usual indifferent stance as he studied her. She stood nearly as tall as he and she was dressed in a crimson gown that appeared to made of a fine gauzy material. She had one hand on her hip as she leaned casually with one arm against the door frame. Jareth noticed a large bronze pendant hanging around her neck, molded into the same symbol that he’d seen in the book.

Jareth sounded unimpressed as he simply stated, “Oh it’s you. I might have known.”

The woman straightened and replied, “Yes well, I failed to introduce myself properly last time we met, but you were just a child then. Forgive my rudeness. I am Lachesis the Apportioner, middle sister of the Fates.”

She was now slowly circling him as she continued, “My, My, Jareth, how you have grown…and how strange that you are to be found in the mortal world. But it seems that you are getting along fine here. Sarah is doing a sufficient job playing hostess to you…” A mischievous grin tugged at her lips as she added, “I trust you had a pleasant evening last night.”

Jareth clenched his jaw, but he held his tongue. He wasn’t about to give any information away until he knew what this creature was up to. Lachesis merely laughed at his discomfort before she added, “Yes, well I do hope Sarah enjoyed the wine.”

Jareth lost his temper and accused rather venomously, “That was you! Why would you do such a thing?”

She feigned surprise at his accusation, “Oh come now Jareth, that was hardly a potent spell. All my wine did was cause Sarah to let go of a few tiny inhibitions. I assure you that the young lady only did what she wanted to do.”

Jareth shook his head and hissed, “What about her memory? She has no recollection of what happened. She’s blaming me.”

Lachesis shook her head and stepped closer, peering right into his eyes as she sweetly replied, “Really Jareth, do you consider me that cruel? Sarah’s memory will return in no time, for the spell is so weak that water will undo it.”

She suddenly looked thoughtful as she brought her finger to her chin, “Isn’t the lady taking a shower? I’d wager she is going over all the details in her pretty little head right at this very moment.”

Jareth was getting impatient, “Why don’t we drop this whole facade right now. I want the truth, what is it that you want with Sarah and I?”

* * *

Sarah stepped into the shower and at the very moment that the water cascaded over her head and down her back, memories of the night before came rushing back with crystal clarity. She recalled every kiss, each caress, and every word that had been spoken between them.

Sarah gasped at the intensity of the memory. For a few moments she just stood there letting the water crash upon her head and wash over her body. She could barely believe that those things had actually happened.

She recalled how Jareth had seemed surprised by her actions. He must not of anticipated her reaction to the wine. The breath was knocked out of her as she recalled the feelings he had awakened within her.

She couldn’t be angry with him; not now, not after knowing what had transpired between them. She had initiated it and, he repeatedly asked if she was sure of what she wanted.

As she replayed everything in her head, she was rather surprised that they hadn’t gone all the way. Surly he had been restraining himself. Then the idea came to her, “He was holding back. He must have felt that it was too soon. Maybe he wants to be sure that I am ready.”

That had to be it, and she admired him that much more for it. She realized that if the tables were turned and she was in his position, she probably would not have lasted the night with him, but then she had never been very adept at controlling her emotions.

She had told him the truth…that she loved him. A small relief but a a burden at the same time, in that she had no idea what the future would hold for them. She further examined her feelings and discovered that she did not regret anything that had happened. While it was true that now that their feelings had been laid upon the table, their relationship would be no less complex as they didn’t know if or when they would be torn out of each others lives. Complications, would no doubt, arise, but Sarah could not blame herself nor Jareth for that. At the very least she found comfort in knowing that she’d rather have a short amount of time with him, than none at all.

* * *

Back in the guest room, Lachesis smiled sweetly, “Ah Jareth right to the point you always are. Very well, as the apportioner, it is my duty to dole out your destiny, so without further ado…I’m offering you a choice. You and I both know that you are in love with Sarah, and after last night it is quite clear that the girl is rather taken with you too. As I’m sure you’ve both considered, there are certain circumstances that complicate things. The most obvious being that you come from vastly different places. You the King of the goblins, an immortal and she, very human, and very mortal. In addition to these happy little facts, as sovereign over the labyrinth, you have a responsibility to your kingdom and your subjects, just as Sarah has a life of her own here.”

Jareth nodded impatiently, “I’m aware of our predicament.” Lachesis looked at her nails for a moment before she continued, “Well, this is where the choice comes in, and if you two love each other as much as I believe that you do, you should be able to come to some agreement. I’ve arranged with my sisters to allow one of two things to happen. Either Sarah will choose to give up her life aboveground and return with you to your kingdom to rule by your side as Queen for the rest of eternity, or you may choose to forfeit your kingdom and your immortality to remain here, living a human life, spending the rest of your days with the woman you love. Now I realize that such a decision must be well thought upon, so I’m giving you and Sarah ten days to decide.”

Lachesis paused for a moment before she continued, “Here’s the catch. In the meantime you will remain as you are, powerless…just like a human. Sarah must learn to love you truly for the person that you are, and I don’t want her dazzled by your magic. Secondly, whatever your decision, the two of you must wholeheartedly agree. If there is a glimmer of doubt in your hearts, I will know. Lastly, you cannot try and persuade Sarah one way, or the other. You can tell Sarah nothing of what I have told you.”

Jareth frowned at this and was about to protest before she added, “I will personally speak to the girl and tell her what she needs to know. By midnight on the last day, my sisters and I will know your minds and if your hearts desire the same thing you shall be together. But if at that time you and Sarah are not in agreement you shall return to the underground and resume your duties as sovereign and Sarah will remain here. And don’t think I don’t understand you Goblin King, I will ensure that if this happens, you will not be able to lure the girl to you, nor will you be able to pop in and visit her at will. The boundary between the Underground and Aboveground exists for a reason and the fates will not tolerate abuse of the gateway. Is that understood?”

Jareth nodded, “Yes, but I have one question.”

Lachesis smiled, “Only one? Very well then, ask me your question.”

Jareth looked genuinely curious as he asked, “Why are you giving me this chance? This is the second time you’ve helped me. You stayed the goblins from transforming me, and because of you they made me their king. In addition, you taught me to control my magic. And now, now you are giving me the opportunity to be with the woman I love even though it was through my own error that I had already lost her once.”

Lachesis looked thoughtful. When she spoke a touch of sadness and regret was apparent in her usually melodic voice, “I…don’t like to see people who love each other get torn apart due to the harsh realities of life. It is one of the aspects of my duties that I will never grow accustomed to.”

Seriously he added, “Are you sure that’s the only reason?”

She stared at him for a moment before she shook her head, “No. There is another reason. I knew your father. He showed me a kindness once, and I was never able to return the favor. He and your mother were cruelly separated, and at the time there was nothing I could do to prevent it. If I can help you, than in some small way I’ve repaid your father.”

Jareth inhaled sharply, “You know of my parents? Can you tell me about them?” Lachesis sadly replied, “I can tell you what I know. Your mother was a mortal, and your father was Fae. When he fell in love with your mother, she was already betrothed to another. She was nobility you see, and even at her young age, her marriage had already been arranged.”

Jareth listened in wonder. Lachesis paced about the room gracefully as she continued, “Your father, being the stubborn rogue that he was, decided that he’d rather court your mother in secret than give her up to another. He planned to steal her away to the Underground, but something happened that he did not intend. Your mother’s betrothed found out about their secret affair and challenged your father to a duel. They battled over your mother and although your father defeated his foe, he was mortally wounded on the tip of his adversary’s iron sword.”

Jareth nodded in understanding, he had heard about the toxic effects of iron. He himself was not much affected by it, since he was half human. Lachesis paused as she saw the words sinking in, and then she continued, “He lived in a great deal of pain for a few days before he died. I wish I could have prevented his death but there was nothing I could do. Your mother, who was still but a girl, learned she was carrying his child and couldn’t face the hardships of being a single mother of an illegitimate child. She would have been cast out of her house for sure. In a moment of desperation she begged for me to take you to the Underground where at least you’d have a chance at life. So I did what I thought best for you. The goblins needed leadership, and though they were a rowdy lot, they took to you right away, so I arranged for them to make you their leader.”

Jareth was speechless. He had so many questions; he didn’t even know where to begin. Lachesis, on the other hand, was quick to explain. “Jareth, it may hurt to know that your parents were not married, but I assure you that you were conceived in love. Your mother was heartbroken when I took you away.” She added softly, “She loved you very much.” Jareth’s face was pale and cold as he asked, “Did my father know?”

Lachesis nodded, “Yes, your mother informed him before he died. Jareth, he died, relieved to know that some part of his love for your mother would live on, and it was he that named you.”

Lachesis stopped her pacing and came to stand behind the Goblin King. A warm hand closed on his arm as her tone became wistful. “There was nothing I could do to help your father. There was some bad blood between my eldest sister and I. Atropos was furious with me, so she cut the thread of your father’s life. As much as I wished it wasn’t so; there was nothing to be done, for Atropos is the keeper of the shears of life and she alone can decide when to cut a life short.”

Lachesis sighed and took a deep breath before she continued, “But in the years since then I have made peace with my sister and in order to right the wrongs she did then, she has agreed to aid me in helping you and Sarah to be together.”

Jareth could only listen in silent wonder. It was easy to forget that this woman was one of the three most powerful beings in existence when she chose to appear as a lovely and sweet youth. He wanted to know more, for her tale was intriguing and he could learn so much from a being of such wisdom, but he felt as though he’d be asking too much to push for any more.

He had been given a chance at a life with Sarah and that was all he truly wanted. Lachesis nodded towards the bathroom, “I think it’s time I left you…I shall give your Sarah some answers ere I take my leave.” Jareth nodded reverently as Lachesis placed a chaste kiss upon his cheek. Her lips were cold and Jareth shivered. She smiled and breathed, “Farewell, Goblin King.”

Chapter 20: Smiled Upon by Fate

Sarah turned off the shower and stepped out, quickly wrapping a towel around herself. She brushed her teeth at the sink, just like she did every morning.. When she raised her green eyes to the foggy mirror they met a laughing pair of midnight blue ones.

Startled Sarah jumped back and dropped her toothbrush. Then she turned around to see if the stranger was actually in the room with her, or if she just existed as a reflection. As she turned, Sarah found herself face to face with a young woman of fair complexion, with long ebony hair and eyes of such a deep blue it almost seemed unnatural.

Sarah’s first observation was that the young woman was strikingly beautiful. Sarah hugged the towel tighter to herself as she noticed the stranger was dressed in fine crimson colored robes. She was so pale that her ruby lips and blue eyes stood out in stark contrast to her fair complexion. If Sarah hadn’t known better she might have assumed the woman was a vampire, for her sultry beauty possessed an almost dark otherworldly quality. However, Sarah knew instantly that this was one of the Moriae.

Fate, in the flesh.

Lachesis smirked knowingly as she examined the mortal standing before her. Her eyes shamelessly darted over the girl’s form. She was very curious to see for herself what it was about this girl that had clearly turned the Goblin King’s head. The first thing that Lachesis noticed about Sarah Williams was her piercing eyes. They were a brilliant hazel-green and held a fierceness that was seldom found in one so young. The girl’s silky hair was the color of dark chocolate. Sarah’s face possessed a natural beauty that was extremely rare. Her nose and pouting lips were delicate and feminine, yet child-like at the same time. She was an extraordinary specimen for a human being.

For a few moments both women regarded each other in silence. The stranger’s eyes were so enchanting that Sarah found it hard to tear her gaze away from them. Her pupils were unnaturally dilated and Sarah wondered if this gave her enhanced eyesight in the dark. Her skin was so pale it reminded Sarah of a marble statue of Venus that she had seen in a museum once. Sarah let her eyes drift over her lithe form. She noticed the bronze medallion that hung around her neck and recognized the symbol from Jareth’s book.

Her scarlet robes were made from a fabric that Sarah had never seen before. It was gauzy and clung to her frame, accentuating her graceful movements. The lovely creature finally spoke, and her voice was rich and full of mirth as she teased, ”You must be Sarah. Well, well, such a pretty thing. It’s no wonder you’ve turned the Goblin King’s world upside down.”

Sarah was speechless and flushed at the remark. Lachesis gracefully stepped closer to the girl and added, “It’s a pleasure to meet you Sarah. I believe you have been expecting me. I am Lachesis.”

Sarah was totally flustered, and being draped in only a towel didn’t help her confidence. Should she shake hands, or bow? She really had no idea. Before she could decide on an appropriate response, Lachesis brought a pale hand to her face and gently caressed her cheek. Her hand was cold but her smile was warm and comforting.

Sarah stared in wonder at the being before her. Lachesis flashed another brilliant smile and chuckled, “So warm and alive. No wonder you’ve ensnared him so thoroughly.”

Sarah blushed again at her words and finally managed “Lachesis, I’m glad you’ve come. Have you already spoken with Jareth?”

The fate nodded and replied, “Yes my dear, I’ve said my piece to him. Now it’s you I crave a word with.”

Sarah nodded and fidgeted with her towel. Lachesis noticed her discomfort and smirked before she added, “How about we talk somewhere a bit more…appropriate?” Sarah didn’t have time to respond as the fate snapped her pale fingers. She suddenly looked around and discovered that they were outside at the park near her parent’s house.

She looked down and was relieved to find that she was dressed in her jeans, a turtleneck and a comfortable pale blue sweater. Even her hair was dry. Sarah looked at the Fate in amazement, “Wow…ah thanks.” Lachesis nodded, “Don’t mention it.”

Lachesis was also dressed differently. She was now sporting black jeans and a red sweater. Her dark hair was swept back in a tight ponytail. Sarah took in the outfit and figured that she probably reasoned that the red robes were a bit conspicuous.

Lachesis walked with Sarah along the edge of the pond and began, “First, I’d like to apologize for the wine. It must have been bothersome to wake up and have no memory of what had transpired…”

Sarah’s mouth hung open as she stammered, “That…that was you?”

Lachesis smiled, “Yes, the wine was my idea…but I take it your memory has been restored?”

Sarah’s face went scarlet as she replied, “Yeah…so does that mean you know about what happened…last night I mean…?”

Lachesis nodded, “Fraid so.”

Sarah carefully fired her next question, “Jareth didn’t tell you, did he?”

Lachesis laughed, “Oh no, of course not Sarah. I just know these things. I am Fate after all, so knowing even the most intimate details of people’s lives is sort of in my job description.” Sarah couldn’t help but smile at the analogy, although it didn’t make her any less embarrassed.

Lachesis suddenly looked serious as she remarked, “You don’t regret anything, do you?”

Sarah looked thoughtful for a moment then shook her head, “No I don’t. I guess there’s no point in denying anything at this point, especially to you.” She hesitated a moment before she admitted, “I love Jareth, and I think I’ve been in love with him for some time. I just wasn’t brave enough to admit it...until last night.”

Lachesis suddenly stopped walking and caught Sarah by the shoulders. Her voice was wistful, “You are a very brave girl Sarah. I’ve always known this about you, and I know in my heart that you and Jareth couldn’t be better suited for each other. It was quite obvious to me from the start, but when you beat his labyrinth, there was not one bit of doubt in my mind. I don’t think you realized it at the time, for you were so young. You not only won the game, you won his heart as well. And that is a rare thing. It is by no means an easy task to melt the heart of one so cold as the Goblin King. In truth, I think not a better thing could have happened. Jareth grew up alone, with the luxury of having free reign over the labyrinth and the lands beyond. It was unavoidable for him to become spoiled, arrogant, and proud. I think before you, there was never a time when he didn’t have everything go quite to his liking. He grew cold out of being alone, for there was really no one in his kingdom that he ever could really identify with.”

Lachesis let her arms fall by her sides and laughed, “I mean have you ever tried having a conversation with a goblin?” Sarah shook her head. “It’s maddening, they are such impossible creatures. Anyway, Jareth inevitably had to taste the bitterness of defeat. No doubt he was angry at first, but I gave him plenty of time to cool off. I needed to be sure that he would have ample time to really think about all that had happened and I sincerely believe that you have humbled him.” She laughed and added “…even if only slightly.”

Sarah laughed as well at the remark. Apparently the Fate did know the Goblin King quite well.

The Fate was suddenly serious as she continued, “Sarah, it is precisely your relationship with the Goblin King that I must speak to you about.”

Sarah nodded as if imploring her to go on.

Lachesis explained, “I know that you are concerned about the future. As you know, you and Jareth are from two different worlds and it is not customary for beings of these worlds to encounter each other regularly. You are also aware that Jareth is sovereign over the labyrinth.”

Sarah nodded and tried to keep her anguish internalized, for this did not look very promising.

Lachesis crossed her arms over her chest and regarded Sarah for a moment before she pensively added, “While I cannot guarantee that you will find yourselves together for the remainder of your lives, I can offer you a chance.”

Sarah felt a slight tinge of hope and she desperately clung to it.

Lachesis continued, “One of you will have to make a sacrifice and forfeit your life as you know it. I think the two options are rather obvious, so I won’t waste your time with details. There is no more that I can tell you other than that you have ten days to decide. A verbal agreement is not sufficient. You must, in your hearts, both want the same thing, and want it equally, in order for me to allow you to be together. If you are not in agreement then I’m afraid there is nothing I can do, you will be forced to return to your separate lives. I will know your minds by midnight on the tenth day.”

Sarah lowered her head as her eyes closed, she might have known this was not going to be easy. Still she had to believe that there was a chance. She couldn’t imagine having to live out the rest of her life without seeing Jareth ever again. The thought alone made her eyes sting and made her breath catch in her throat. As she looked up, her hands were clenched at her sides. She was determined to stay hopeful.

Lachesis was standing in front of her. She tentatively reached out and smoothed Sarah’s dark hair away from her face. “Ah, there is the strong willed girl who braved the labyrinth.” The Fate locked eyes with the mortal and offered, “May I give you a valuable piece of advice?”

Sarah nodded, it was the slightest movement of her head as the Fate suggested, “Use the time you have. Live every moment to its fullest. Even if your time ends up being brief, you will have at least savored it, and you’ll have no regrets. Make your time count and don’t ignore your heart, for it will never lead you astray.”

Sarah had been hanging on every wistful word. After Lachesis finished, she smiled warmly and said, “I must leave you now Sarah, but know this; I hold you in my favor, and I’ll be watching.” With that the Fate placed a tender kiss on her forehead. Sarah closed her eyes and felt a shiver run down her spine cool lips pressed against her brow. When she opened her eyes she was standing alone by the pond.

Sarah felt a chill as the wind whipped at her back. She hugged herself for warmth as she turned her eyes to the sky. It was powder blue with a few well-placed white fluffy clouds. As she stood there admiring the perfect sky she pondered everything she had just learned. She refused to let the dark grievous thoughts of living a life without Jareth overtake her. Instead she chose to think only of one thing.

Jareth loved her.

She wasn’t sure how long she had been at the park. She walked around the pond for a while, just thinking about the night before, and about how much of a relief it was that she had finally told him the truth about her feelings.

After a while she sat on a bench by the water. She felt…happy. Even if she only had Jareth for ten more days, ten days were better than no days. She was just about to head home to make peace with Jareth when a purple chrysanthemum was thrust into her field of view.

She smiled, seeing that a black-gloved hand was holding the flower. She gently took the flower and shyly bit her lip. She slowly turned, her eyes lifting to greet the Goblin King who was standing behind her.

Chapter 21: Just When Things Get Cozy…

“I was beginning to worry.”

Sarah smiled up at him and replied, “Sorry. I must have lost track of time. I was just sitting here thinking about this really handsome Goblin King that offered me my dreams once…”

Jareth’s mouth twisted into a satisfied smirk, “I take it that means you are no longer angry?”

Sarah coyly looked away before she answered, “What can I say, I’m a sucker for flowers.” He chuckled at her jest and she added, “No, I’m not angry. I was just…surprised, and I couldn’t remember anything.”

Jareth nodded slowly, “But you remember now?”

She suddenly seemed to find the ground rather interesting, “Mmm-hmm.”

He was now sliding onto the bench, sitting beside her. “Sarah…” He began, his gloved hand gently turning her cheek to face him, “Do you regret what happened?”

Her face had turned a lovely crimson shade as she batted his hand away and muttered under her breath, “Not really.”

His condescending tone was back, “I’m sorry…I didn’t quite catch that.”

Sarah let out an exasperated sigh before her eyes locked with his. Her voice was unwavering, “No. Do you?”

He studied her face for a second, “No, providing that you don’t think I acted too impulsively.”

Sarah thought for a moment as she recalled the way that he had made her feel. She looked at him seriously, before she admitted, “If anything, I was the impulsive one, not you.”

She took a deep breath and added, “Jareth, I…I want you to know…I meant everything that I said last night.”

He pushed a strand of hair out of her face with his gloved index finger and replied, “So did I.”

Before he could further elaborate, she looked away and murmured, “Lachesis was here. She wanted to talk about…us.”

Jareth nodded, “Yes, I know. She came to me too and she told me that she would tell you what you needed to know.”

Sarah sighed, “Well she told me alright. She didn’t go into detail but she made it clear that we both have to want the same thing if we are to have a chance together. She said that one of us would have to make a sacrifice. She didn’t really spell it out for me, but I think I understand what she meant. Either I must leave behind my life and go back to the underground with you, or you will have to give up your kingdom to remain here with me.”

Jareth nodded and replied, “Is that all she told you?”

Sarah shook her head, “No, she also told me that we have ten days to make up our minds, and that a verbal agreement is useless, since she will know our hearts.”

Jareth was quiet for a second before he answered, “I’m glad you know, because I’m not supposed to tell you anything, and I cannot try and persuade you one way or another.”

Sarah nodded and quietly watched the blazing orange sun as it made its descent. Jareth watched the reddish light reflecting off her eyes as the blazing light started to vanish behind the treetops. He silently pondered the woman before him as he softly asked, “Sarah, if you had to choose right now would you come with me to the underground or would you want to stay here?”

Sarah stood up wrapping her arms around herself as the light began to fade. She was thoughtful for a moment and when she spoke her voice was weary and a bit sad, “I…I honestly don’t know. Everything has happened so fast. I think we both need some time to seriously think about this. The only thing I’m sure of right now is how confusing all this seems. I mean it’s all very sudden. We’ve only just begun getting to know each other.”

Jareth stood up and Sarah could tell he was right behind her. She continued, “I’m sure that as I think about all this, I’m going to have questions. You will be able to answer my questions right? I mean Lachesis didn’t forbid that did she?”

Jareth was now so close that he was almost touching her. She could feel the warmth of him through her clothes and when he spoke his breath was warm on her cheek. “No, she said nothing about that. No doubt I will have a few questions of my own to ask you as well. You are right, I think we still have much to learn about each other.”
Sarah could sense rather than see the smile on his face at his words.

He wrapped his arms around her and breathed in her scent. It was like oxygen to someone who was suffocating. Sarah too was affected by the closeness and softly whispered, “Come on let’s go back. Since I may only have the pleasure of your company for a few days, I think we should take advantage of every minute.”

He tightened his embrace and teased, “Certainly. What do you have in mind?”

Sarah freed herself by twisting out of his grasp before she taunted, “Oh I don’t know…but it involves us and…a blazing fire…” Her grin turned wicked as she turned away and bolted, “But you’ll have to catch me first!”

Jareth immediately tore off after her. Sarah had a bit of a head start but Jareth caught her as they neared the porch of her parent’s house. They burst into the house, both out of breath and laughing.

Sarah recalled that they hadn’t eaten anything all day and decided that she would fix them a quick supper. Jareth offered to bring in some firewood so Sarah took him to the back yard to show him where to find some dry wood. She roasted some chicken and made a salad while Jareth worked on starting a fire in the fireplace.

Less than an hour later Sarah and Jareth had finished eating in the kitchen and headed to the living room where a warm fire was blazing in the fireplace. Jareth sat on the couch and lounged comfortably with one leg over the arm of the sofa. Sarah added a log to the fire and turned around to find the labyrinth’s monarch lounging on her parent’s sofa as if he owned the place.

Sarah couldn’t help but smirk as she asked, “ Comfortable are we?”

Jareth nodded, “Of course, this was your idea after all.”

Sarah feigned surprise, “My idea?”.

He nodded and replied, “You said you wanted to relax by a blazing fire, so I’m relaxing.”

Sarah crossed her arms over her chest mimicking his usual imposing stance and replied, “Actually, I said maybe, if you caught me.”

Jareth interrupted, “And I did. Now sit.”

Sarah considered the command and remarked, “Well, I actually have an idea that you may find agreeable.”

Now he was staring at her directly, his brow rising in amusement. He looked at her and questioned, “And what, pray tell, is your idea?”

It was then he noticed that Sarah had reached for something behind her and was now holding it behind her back.

Slowly she replied, “What if we…” She pulled a videocassette out from behind her back and held it up, “Watch a movie together?”

Jareth looked blankly at the tape, “A what?”

Sarah handed the tape to him, “You know, a film, moving pictures recorded for entertainment.”

Before he could answer, she snatched the tape back and added, “I can see that I’m going to have to show you. I was going to show you the television earlier, but I didn’t want to turn you into a TV junkie too soon.” She held up the remote and turned the power on. Jareth watched in amazement as the wooden box suddenly showed people talking about current events.

Sarah started flipping through the channels and Jareth was captivated. He was impressed how all the different moving images were controlled by the small rectangular object that Sarah was holding. He looked at her and demanded, “Let me see that.”

Sarah shrugged and handed it to him. Jareth flipped from channel to channel, stopping only if something piqued his interest. He stopped on a football game. He squinted at the screen, trying to decipher the object of the game.

He looked to Sarah and asked, “What sort of game is this?”

Sarah groaned “Oh no, not you too! It’s football.”

He looked at her pained expression, “I take it you don’t like this game?”

She shook her head, “Not really, but it seems the only thing men around here think about.”

Jareth watched as several of the players crashed into each other with brute force and brought down the player holding the ball. Jareth shrugged, changing the channel “Looks like something my minions would engage in.”

He stopped at another channel to watch as a beautiful woman was arguing with a man. Their argument turned violent and suddenly the couple started kissing as the man started tugging at the woman’s clothing.

Jareth smirked and remarked, “Now that just got a bit more interesting.” Sarah made a grab for the remote but Jareth effortlessly held it out of her reach. The man on the TV tore the woman’s blouse off and Sarah looked on, horrified at how the couple’s escapades were slightly reminiscent of the evening that she and Jareth had shared the night before.

The woman on TV pushed the man onto a bed and was on top of him in a moment, passionately kissing him. Jareth laughed, “Now that looks slightly familiar…”

Sarah lunged and wrestled the remote out of his hands. When she finally pried it from his grasp she announced, somewhat triumphantly, “That’s about enough of that…I’m putting this movie on.”

With the push of a button the screen went black and she pushed the cassette into the VCR. Noticing that it needed to rewind she turned to the Jareth, “Well since you want to get comfortable…I’m going to go upstairs and put my pajamas on.” She smirked playfully and added, “And maybe if you behave yourself I’ll make you some popcorn.”

Jareth regarded her with amusement and drawled, “You question my behavior? You are the one who acts like a child.” Sarah rolled her eyes, “Puh-lease. Look, I’ll be right back. Get comfortable or whatever, just don’t mess with the TV. I’ll be right down and I’ll make some popcorn.”

Jareth nodded, “Very well, although I haven’t the faintest idea what popcorn is.”

Sarah dashed up the stairs and called down to him, “You’ll see.” She rushed about her room looking for suitable pajamas. She found her cotton shorts and a small tee shirt but thought better of it. She tossed the skimpy clothes to the floor and instead pulled a pair of purple flannel pajamas out of her suitcase. “Not exactly breathtaking, but not scandalous either.”

She shut her bedroom door as she tugged off her clothes and quickly changed before she hurried to the bathroom and brushed her teeth. She went downstairs into the kitchen and tossed a bag of popcorn into the microwave.

A few minutes later Sarah appeared in the living room wearing her purple PJs, holding a large bowl of popcorn. As she set the bowl down on the coffee table she noticed that Jareth looked more comfortable. He was no longer wearing the leather vest he had on earlier. He was dressed simply in his usual breeches and poet’s shirt. He had removed his boots as well as his gloves. As Sarah looked him over she noticed that he was wearing stockings on his feet and to her surprise they were rather dainty. “That’s sort of weird” she mused to herself, “I would have thought he’d have larger feet considering…” She mentally cursed herself for her bawdy thoughts. She couldn’t help but smile as the thought had crossed her mind.

Jareth watched Sarah set the bowl down before he remarked, “Is that what you plan to sleep in?”

She shot him an exasperated look and replied, “Yeah, why?”

A small smile tugged at his lips, “It just wasn’t what I expected. As I recall, last night…”

Sarah cut him off, “Yes, I know, but last night was…different.”

Relentlessly he pressed, “And then there was the other morning…”

Sarah grabbed a blanket off the back of the armchair and interrupted, “I told you. I was warm, so I changed.” She started the movie, and sitting beside him on the couch, she motioned to his outfit, “So, is that what you sleep in?”

His smirk was dangerous, “When I’m too tired to get undressed.”

Sarah rolled her eyes as she covered her lap with the blanket.

The movie started and as it did Sarah and Jareth occupied two separate sides of the couch, with a large expanse of empty space between them. Sarah munched on the popcorn and offered some to Jareth, who after much persuasion finally tried some. Sarah explained, “You have to eat popcorn while you watch a movie.”

Jareth smiled and debated, “Oh? Why is that?”

Sarah shrugged, “You just do. Popcorn and movies just go together. They are kind of…inseparable.”

He nodded slowly, angling himself a bit more towards her as settled deeper into the couch. The movie progressed and Jareth kept asking Sarah questions about the plot. Even though they continued to watch, it was obvious that they were both distracted by the other.

As time passed, the space between Sarah and Jareth diminished. Finally the Goblin King snatched one end of Sarah’s blanket. Sarah sensed his intense gaze, and turned to look at him. As their eyes met, he asked softly, “Do you mind if I share this with you?”

Sarah smiled and shook her head, “Not at all. It is a little chilly in here.”

Sarah turned her attention back to the movie as Jareth shifted, drawing half the blanket over his lap. Sarah’s breath caught in her throat as she felt his leg against her own. It felt warm, making her long to snuggle up next to him. She fought the urge and stayed put.

Sarah eventually grew accustomed to his closeness and felt him stretch out a bit. He looked very comfortable and sure of himself reclining back against the sofa, unlike Sarah, who couldn’t have been more unsure of herself. Her body tensed at his closeness which made her very comfortable. It would be easier for her if she could just relax. She wrestled with the idea for a long time before she got up the nerve to recline back a bit on her end of the couch. In the process, she inadvertently rubbed her knee against Jareth’s thigh and he looked at her.

Looking her over, he decreed, “Sarah, you don’t look very comfortable. Here put your feet up.”

Before she could voice her protest, he gently scooped up her legs and placed them over his lap.

Sarah smiled nervously before she went back to watching the movie. She tried to ignore how nice and warm his lap felt under her calves.

It wasn’t very long before she felt Jareth’s hand come to rest on her ankle, ungloved and under the blanket. She froze. Her state of calm relaxation had been shattered. Still, she resolved to keep her eyes on the screen. She had just managed to convince herself that it wasn’t so distracting, when she felt his fingertips graze the bone of her ankle. They drifted higher, stopping at the hem of her pajama bottoms. That was when she realized she had been holding her breath.

She began to talk herself through a mental concentration exercise as his fingertips delved beneath the fabric. When she felt his touch on her bare skin, she swallowed and firmly told herself that the movie was indeed very interesting.

Jareth could no longer keep his hands to himself. It was maddening being this close to her. Every time he breathed in, her clean scent surrounded him. Her legs were so warm over his lap, and now he felt how perfectly smooth her leg was. His fingers played over her soft skin, tracing slow circular patterns that slowly and tantalizingly ventured higher each time.

Sarah was barely breathing as she could see him watching her out of the corner of her eye. She kept her gaze fixed on the screen, but her senses were completely focused on what he was doing to her. As his deft fingers stealthily ventured higher, her thoughts strayed to the night before. She couldn’t help thinking how his hands had felt on her thighs and in between. The train of thought was consuming, and before she could stop herself, she was reminiscing about what it had felt like when he pleasured her. For a moment she was lost in the thought of on how good his mouth had felt. Her eyes fluttered closed as she drew a shaky breath. She was suddenly very aware the sensation of liquid fire, flooding her sex. God, she had aroused herself, just by thinking about it.

When she finally opened her eyes she found herself looking right into the smoldering eyes of the Goblin King. She hadn’t even realized that she had shifted her position. One foot was now on the floor, the other curled under her, and she was sitting up straight, staring intently at him. His hands rested gently on her thighs, as if waiting for some unspoken invitation.

His gaze spoke a thousand words as she clearly saw desperate need written plainly across his face. God, it was enough to make her swoon, when he looked at her like that. Jareth remained stone still, letting his eyes devoured her.

She slowly inched forward, her eyes darting from his eyes to his mouth. Slowly and tentatively, she leaned in and pressed her lips to his in a chaste kiss. He went rigid as she opened her mouth, her tongue timidly testing the seam of his lips. Slowly, he opened his mouth, letting her be the aggressor.

He felt her tongue slip past his lips, sliding along his, teasing and exploring. He remained perfectly still, savoring the experience, content to let Sarah set the pace. She continued her achingly sweet kiss, running her tongue along his lips, before she grew bolder and delved deeper. Her teasing kisses were an enticing game of advance and withdraw, driving him to madness.

Finally, Jareth could stand it no longer, and he groaned inwardly as his own tongue forced its way into her mouth. Sarah felt a surge of erotic desire and she shifted restlessly, wanting to be rid of the ache that thrummed between her legs. She shifted to kneel on the couch. Jareth firmly grasped her waist with one hand while the other instinctively found her breast. The fabric of her pajama top was soft and yielding as her nipple hardened under his touch. He roughly caressed her breast through her shirt as he felt her insistent hand on his shoulder, forcing him back against the back of the couch.

His eyes were closed and he assumed that he would hear her voice telling him to stop any moment now. He was astounded when instead, he felt her straddle his lap. He moaned into her mouth as she rubbed her body against him. His hands skimmed over her hips and thighs, urging her to press her weight down on him again.

Sarah gasped as she came down on his lap and felt his hard erection against her. Her flannel pajama bottoms were thin, allowing her to feel the warmth and hardness of him. Their kisses became possessive and chaotic as she continued to grind herself against him. The feel of his hardness rubbing her own clothing against her slick sex was enough to drive her out of her mind.


Meanwhile, in the Underground…

Hoggle raced through the castle corridors, all thought bent on one thing; getting to Sarah. He had been in the castle gardens, tending to the roses when Beezle had shown up and they had got to talking.

Their last visit to Sarah’s house had come up in conversation and Hoggle had asked Beezle where he had gotten the wine that he had given to Jareth. The goblin had haphazardly explained that a beautiful lady had given it to him and suggested that the Goblin King might enjoy it.

Hoggle naturally inquired further, and when the goblin mentioned that the woman had told him to call her Lachesis, and that the wine was to be their secret, he had nearly fallen into the fountain.

It hadn’t surprised him that Beezle failed to mention any of this to his majesty, since goblin’s weren’t terribly bright creatures. Hoggle, however, knew well enough that he should be extremely concerned, and he had immediately taken off towards one of the enchanted mirrors in the castle that would take him to Sarah.

He had to warn her about the wine.

As he ran down the hall, his muscles screaming in agony, he swore he would never forgive himself if he was too late and something bad had happened to her. In fact, although he would be hard pressed to admit it, he would be rather upset if anything horrible had happened to his irritating King either.

Hoggle ran into the great hall and in a very out of breath voice, he requested that the huge gilded mirror show him Sarah’s room. He looked in to find Sarah’s bedroom dark and empty. Without hesitation he went through the portal and hurried out of Sarah’s room. The upstairs hallway was also dark but he could hear noise coming from the downstairs living room.

Without hesistation, Hoggle bounded down the stairs and ran right into the living room. That’s when he saw her…

…er them.

His dear friend Sarah was, to his horror, on top of the Goblin King. What was worse was that she appeared to be kissing him. Even though their position appeared incriminatingly suggestive, it could have, though unlikely, been accidental. Perhaps, Sarah had tripped, and inadvertently fallen on top of him. But the kissing…there was no logical explanation for that. Unless…

Jareth and Sarah, although distracted, had heard the clumsy dwarf’s less than graceful entrance, and they looked up just as Hoggle witnessed what was going on.

From where he was standing, Hoggle had a side view of the couch. As much as he had tried to reason that what he saw had to be a mistake, in reality it all looked very intentional. Sarah was most definitely sitting astride Jareth’s lap and had been, most definitely, kissing his monarch, rather emphatically, on the mouth. To say that he was speechless was a gross understatement. The dwarf cast his wide eyes immediately aside as his mouth dropped open in surprise.

It was obvious that both Sarah and his King were already aware of his presence, since he could see Sarah hastily sliding off Jareth’s lap out of the corner of his eye. Hoggle’s embarrassment was overwhelming. His need to warn Sarah suddenly seemed less urgent, and he decided it could wait ‘til later. Much, much later. Hoggle fumbled for words…anywords, that could dismiss him from such and awkward situation. Finally, nearly tripping over his own feet, he stammered, “Uhhhh…Go’bye.” as he turned back to the stairs, practically running.

Chapter 22: Revelations and Invitations

Sarah however, was much faster, and far less clumsy. She reached him before he made it up more than a few steps when her hand clamped down on his shoulder. “Hoggle, please wait.”

Reluctantly Hoggle froze. It was hard for him to deny her anything. Although Sarah sounded pleading, rather than angry, he had a sneaking suspicion that a certain Goblin King wouldn’t mind dropping his disruptive behind in a certain, very smelly bog.

Sarah was out of breath as she protested, “Wait, don’t go!” Hoggle slowly turned around, finding it impossible to look his friend in the eye, after what he had just witnessed. Sarah was red-faced but her voice was full of concern, “What is it Hoggle? Do you have some news?”

Hoggle still hadn’t regained his composure as he babbled, “Uhhhh…”

To make matters worse, Jareth suddenly appeared behind the girl’s shoulder and eyed the dwarf expectantly. Hoggle’s voice failed him and Jareth demanded impatiently, “Come now Hoghead, you must have something very pressing to tell us after the way you barged in. Hoggle merely stood gaping, as he sputtered “Uhhhh…”

Losing patience, Jareth barked, “Come Come Higgle, Out with it!”

Hoggle shook his head as if trying to rid himself of the previous mental image. He finally managed, “I uhhh, well, I wanted to uhhh…speak with Sarah.” Although Hoggle avoided looking at their faces, he could tell by his posture that the king wasn’t amused.

Sarah took a deep breath as she looked down at her friend, it was obvious that he was terribly embarrassed, and for a moment she felt a tinge of guilt. Sarah bit her lip and softly asked, “Jareth would you mind excusing us for a minute?” Jareth was frowning as he made a gesture for them to proceed before he disappeared back into the living room.

Sarah led Hoggle into the kitchen. She leaned against the kitchen counter as the dwarf continued to uncomfortably glance at everything but her. He wasn’t sure how to handle the situation. Was he supposed to just act like he hadn’t just seen what he had seen? He finally decided to leave it up to Sarah to breach the subject; for now he’d get straight to the point.

He took a deep breath and began, “Uh Sarah, about that wine Beezle gave to Jareth.” Sarah looked intrigued as she crossed her arms over her chest as he went on. “It might not be…safe. I was uh talking to Beezle, and he told me where it came from. Seems it was given to him by Lachesis.”

Sarah nodded in understanding, “So you wanted to warn me?”

Hoggle nodded and finally looked her in the face, “Yeah. I was concerned that maybe you might drink it…”

Sarah interrupted, “Hoggle, I did drink it.”

He looked up at her in alarm, a sudden sinking feeling in his stomach. What if the wine made Sarah love Jareth against her will and, what if that was why she had been kissing him?

Hoggle shook his head and started groveling at her feet, “I’m sorry Sarah that I didn’t tell you sooner! This is all my fault!”

Sarah was suddenly at his side pulling him off the floor, “Hoggle, What are you talking about? What’s all your fault? Did you know that the wine would make me pursue my heart’s desire?”

Hoggle sniffed miserably, “Well, I only just found out where it had come from but I should have asked that stupid gob… Wait. Er, what did you just say?”

Sarah smiled, “It’s alright Hoggle. The wine just helped me lose my inhibitions. It didn’t harm me in any way. Jareth and I met Lachesis today, and she seems to have honorable intentions.”

Hoggle was stunned, “She does? You mean you actually saw her?”

Sarah nodded as Hoggle sighed in relief. The wine hadn’t made Sarah lose her sense.

But wait…that meant…

Hoggle shook his head in confusion and stammered, “You mean It’s not because of the wine that you and Jareth…?”

Before he could say another word Sarah laughed nervously. “Yeah, about that, er Hoggle, there’s something I ought to tell you.”

Hoggle looked at her, bracing himself, “What?”

Sarah was twisted her hands anxiously, “Hoggle, I…er…am in love with Jareth.”

His eyes went wide, his jaw dropping unnaturally wide. For a few moments he just stared at her in dazed silence. Finally the dwarf blinked and squeaked, “You, you are?”

Sarah nervously shoved a lock of hair behind her ear and explained, “I guess I’ve had feelings for him since my first encounter with the labyrinth, I just never wanted to admit it to myself. I’ve tried to ignore my feelings for a long time.”

Hoggle looked at his friend with a look of complete puzzlement, “But, but I thought you were enemies. I mean after all you went through…”

Sarah sighed, “Actually Hoggle, there were some things that I realized during my journey through the labyrinth that I kept to myself, and there were some things I didn’t realize until much later. Jareth is not the villain I made him out to be. I mean yes, he did take Toby, but only because I asked him to. In the end, when I faced him by myself, he offered me my dreams and I refused him because I thought it was some sort of trick to distract me. It never really occurred to me that he could have feelings for me, or that the offer might have been genuine.”

Hoggle shook his head and replied, “You mean you, you didn’t know?”

Sarah was suddenly very serious, “No, I didn’t know. Why did you?”

Hoggle nodded and apologetically admitted, “Sarah I thought you knew. I mean it was sorta obvious.”

Hoggle glanced back and forth to make sure that Jareth wasn’t lurking nearby and lowered his voice, “Jareth may have a strange way a showin’ it, but even I noticed. I mean the cleaners, turning back time, even the bog. Clearer than crystal to me that you sure had his attention. Then, then…he made me give you that present. Stupid peach.”

Hoggle glanced about again and continued in a whisper, “Don’t tell me you hadn’t guessed why we ended up in the bog in the first place?”

Sarah looked at him blankly and whispered, “Well, I don’t really remember.”

He shook his head and replied, “Jareth told me that if you ever kissed me he’d turn me into the prince of the land of stench. He wasn’t crazy ‘bout us bein friends. Sarah, I may not be the brightest person in the underground, and everyone knows I’m a coward, but even I can see that Jareth lost ‘is head over you the minute you got mixed up in the Underground.”

Sarah couldn’t keep the small grin off her face as she muttered, “It hadn’t occurred to me then…”

Hoggle sighed and replied, “Honestly Sarah, I thought you knew. I ‘sumed you had no interest. I thought Jareth irritated you, I mean he irritates everyone else, and I’d be angry too if he stole my brother away.”

Sarah nodded, “I wasn’t really angry at him…well maybe a little. But like I said, he only did what I asked him to. I don’t believe that he’s really such a bad guy. I admit, yeah I was a little scared of him, but that’s because I didn’t know what he was capable of. I feared his power but more than that I was afraid of how he made me feel. I think I was just too young to really understand that what I was feeling was attraction. I’ve been trying to get to know Jareth and I’m realizing that he isn’t at all the cold unfeeling King that I thought he was. I think that maybe he acts the way he does because he’s lonely.”

Hoggle absorbed every word that she said. He couldn’t believe that Sarah was confiding in him like this, it made him feel…needed. It made up for all the years that she hadn’t called. Sarah’s face flushed as she admitted, “I know it’s strange, but I think we might actually be friends. He can be so warm, and he makes me feel so…wanted.” Her mind drifted back to what had happened on the couch and her face went crimson as she meekly added, “Hoggle, I’m so sorry that you walked into that awkward situation. I should have told you about all this sooner.”

Hoggle had a bit of color in his cheeks too as he shrugged, “Aw forget it Sarah, so long as he wasn’t takin’ advantage of you…I don’t mind.”

Sarah laughed and retorted, “Well, it was more like the other way around…so don’t worry.”

Hoggle’s face went bright red as he held up his hand and replied, “Uh Sarah, you don’t have to explain…its none of my business.”

Sarah tipped his chin up so that he was staring up at her. “Hoggle, you are my friend and I want to be honest with you, I don’t want there to be secrets between us.” She smiled solemnly and he smiled back.

Finally Sarah giggled, “Honestly, you scared the hell out of me, when I heard you come running in. My first thought was that it was my father. You nearly gave me a damn heart attack.”

Hoggle swallowed and asked, “Why? Would you father not understand?”

Sarah’s brows shot up, “Are you kidding? If my Dad saw what you just saw, there would be no words to describe the kind of trouble I’d be in.” Sarah sighed, “At any rate I’m glad that it was you, I knew you’d understand, and I know I can trust you to keep this between us, at least until I know how all this is going to end.”

Hoggle furrowed his brow, “Whadd’ya mean, how it’s gonna end?”

Sarah sighed, “Jareth and I have ten days to be together and after that, if one of us doesn’t willingly sacrifice our way of life we’ll be parted for good.” Hoggle nodded “You mean you’ll have to come to the Underground and be Queen, or he’ll give up his kingdom and stay here with you.”

Sarah’s voice was distant, “Something like that.”

Hoggle patted her on the shoulder, “Aww don’t you worry bout nothing missy, I’m sure it’ll work out.” Sarah smiled sadly at her friend’s attempt to cheer her up. Hoggle sighed and replied, “Well, I guess I’ll be off then, before Jareth turns green out there. Just try and keep his majesty out of trouble and call me if you need something”

“I will Hoggle.” She gathered her friend into a tight hug.

Hoggle limped his way out of the kitchen and back up the stairs. Before he disappeared in her bedroom she called, “Hoggle?”

He turned, “Yeah Sarah?”

She smiled warmly, “Thanks.”

The dwarf grinned and nodded before he disappeared behind the mirror.

Sarah returned to the living room where Jareth was lounging on the sofa. His arms were crossed over his chest and his indifferent gaze was focused elsewhere in the room. Sarah silently sat beside him as he casually asked, “Is everything all right.”

Sarah nodded as her eyes darted over his profile, “Yup.” Jareth didn’t question her any further but Sarah could tell that he must have been burning to know what they had talked about. Sarah eyed him suspiciously for a moment and finally asked, “Well, don’t you want to know what we talked about?”

His cold gaze settled on her, “Why, should I?” Sarah smiled at his attempt to retain his manner of cool indifference, when she knew he was envious as all hell when it came to her friendship with Hoggle.

Sarah saw no reason not to be honest so she replied, “Hoggle wanted to warn me.”

Jareth looked at her, the cold mask of indifference dissolving as his eyes flooded with concern, “Warn you? About what?”

Sarah licked her lips and replied, “The wine. He found out that it came from Lachesis.”

Jareth nodded and sarcasm was evident in his tone, “Ah, how considerate of him…pity his warning came too late.”

Sarah looked at her lap as her lips twisted into a coy smile, “Oh I don’t know…I mean, had it not been for her enchanted wine…well you know.”

Jareth finally smiled, taking her hand in his as he replied, “Ah yes, I do know, and since you’ve brought it up…there’s something I’ve been meaning to discuss with you.”

Sarah was anxious at his words and she held her breath in anticipation. Jareth’s expression softened as he began, “Sarah, I can’t help but feel responsible for what transpired last night.”

Sarah shook her head and interrupted, “No, Jareth. I was equally responsible.”

He shook his head and gently replied, “Please Sarah, let me just say what I need to say. I realize that the wine had an affect on you and that although you were not doing anything that you didn’t want to do, I can’t help but feel that I wasn’t in control. There were things I wanted to make abundantly clear before we became intimate.”

Sarah frowned, “Like what?”

His eyes locked with hers, “Sarah I wanted to ask if you would permit me to court you?”

Sarah’s brow creased and her mouth suddenly felt dry. She thoughtfully sipped from her glass of water and replied, “Court me? Is that like asking me to be your girlfriend?”

Jareth smiled at the expression, “Well, I’d like to think that courtship is a bit more formal than that.”

Pursing her lips she innocently remarked, “Oh, well, um, just how formal is it?”

A wolfish smirk graced his face, making Sarah’s hands tremble as she brought the glass to her lips. He waited for her to take a sip before he confessed, “Very formal as, if you grant me your permission, I have every intention of making you my wife.”

Sarah choked on the water.

Jareth chuckled, “Well, that’s not exactly the reaction I had hoped for.”

Sarah forced the rest of the water down, and coughed before she shook her head, “Sorry…I just, well I didn’t realize how serious you were.”

Jareth cupped her face in his hands forcing her to look into his eyes. “Sarah I truly meant every word that I said last night. I’ve loved you for a long time. I don’t know what the future holds for us but I’ll say this; My past mistakes have cost us dearly and I won’t repeat them by being vague now. If there’s even a shred of hope that we can be together, I want you to know that I’m more than willing to spend the rest of my life pleasing you. Please say you will give me chance, even if we only have ten days. Please allow me to court you.”

Sarah was utterly breathless. She was infinitely grateful that she had been sitting down because his words made her light headed. His eyes searched hers expectantly and once she finally managed to catch her breath she replied, “Yes. Of course you may court me.”

Relief swept over his features and he quickly added, “Sarah I’m not expecting anything, other than for you to give me a chance to prove my love. I know this must all seem terribly sudden, but unfortunately time is one thing that we have no guarantee of right now. If we only have ten days I want to be sure that I spent them making sure that you have no doubts about my feelings for you.”

Sarah found it difficult to catch her breath as she whispered, “Jareth, I have no doubts when it comes to you.” Jareth stopped her words with a gentle kiss. It was no more than a mere brushing of his lips against hers. Still as light and innocent as it was she felt as though her heart was about to burst.

She wrapped her arms about his neck and moved to deepen the kiss. He pulled back as if burned. Their faces were still close and his eyes seemed to melt her heart. His voice wavered as he spoke indicating that his control was faltering. “Sarah, you told me before that you’ve never been intimate with anyone.”

She nodded holding his gaze. She felt an intense fluttering in her stomach, “Oh god…if he asks me to…it’s all over, I don’t think I could say no.” As nervous as she was, she wanted nothing more than for him to make love to her.

He was out of breath as he added, “I could never forgive myself if I made you do something that you weren’t ready to do. Therefore, I won’t kiss you again until you ask me to, and I don’t think we should do anything else unless you are absolutely certain that you are ready to.

Sarah took a deep breath. Oh God, he was going to make her call all the shots. She wasn’t sure if this was what she wanted, or what she dreaded. She was still so unsure of herself, but she couldn’t deny that she wanted him more than anything in the world. It would make things easier if he would just shut up and ravish her.

He pulled back and regarded her from his end of the couch. “Is that agreeable to you?” Sarah nodded, since she didn’t trust herself to speak, for fear that she might order him to carry her off to her bed that instant.

She picked up her water and took a long drink trying to think of mundane things, boring nonsexual things like the coffee table, chairs, the drapes. Yes, those were all good things. The carpet, nothing exciting there. She brought her gaze back to the couch, And throw pillows, yes those were good, nothing stimulating about those dull throw pillows, except perhaps that one resting on his lap. Her thoughts drifted to what lay just under that innocent throw pillow. Now she’d done it. She gave herself a rather hard mental slap across the face as she realized that Jareth had just said something and she hadn’t even been listening.

Her face flushed as she replied, “Hmm?” Jareth looked as though he was fighting an internal battle as well, “I asked if you are going to turn in for the night.”

Sarah swallowed, going up to her empty bed was actually the last place she wanted to be. She made a decision, “No, I think I might watch TV for a while longer.” Jareth nodded as Sarah found another movie on television.

Before she knew it, it was midnight and another movie had ended. She had slowly inched closer to Jareth. She was now extremely tired but she didn’t want to go up to bed. In her sleepy haze she leaned her head against his shoulder. Another movie was showing on the late night movie channel, so she left the TV on relieved that she could justify remaining here with him. She let her eyes drift closed as she rested against his strong warm frame.

Finally she heard him whisper into her hair, “Sarah are you awake?” She murmured, “Yeah.” He took a deep breath and asked, “Don’t you want to go to bed?” Had she been more awake she may have just conceded to go up to her room but instead she adamantly insisted, “No, I want to stay here.”

Jareth smiled, it was obvious she didn’t want to leave his side and the discovery pleased him, but it was hardly wise to let her stay up all night just to be near him. “Sarah you are tired, you should go to bed.”

Sarah sighed, “How about we just sleep right here on the couch.”

He might have known that she wouldn’t give up that easily, this was Sarah after all. As much as the idea appealed to him, he was unsure if he would be capable of restraining himself while lying with Sarah all night.

He began, “I’m not sure if that’s such a good idea.” Sarah cut him off as she sat up so that he could lay behind her on the couch, “Come on. I promise I won’t bite…” He hesitated although he knew that ultimately it would be impossible to resist her. She giggled, “You’re not afraid are you?” That was it; with a challenge like that how could he refuse?

As their eyes met he remarked, “Don’t be ridiculous.” With that he settled onto the couch, lying on his side. Sarah snuggled up beside him with her back to him as she snapped the light off and pulled the blanket up over them. Sarah closed her eyes and relished the feel of his body molded against hers and the weight of his arm draped protectively over her. She had been tired, the keyword being “had”. Now that the goblin king was lying against her, her mind was reeling with all sorts of delicious ideas. She quickly decided that perhaps she had better keep her attention focused on the TV before her straying thoughts got her into trouble.

Sarah concentrated on the program that had just started on the late night movie channel. She could feel the rise and fall of Jareth’s chest against her and she felt his warm breath on the side of her neck. As Sarah watched the program she relaxed in his embrace and discovered that she had never felt more comfortable and protected than she did at that moment.

As the program progressed Sarah suddenly realized that the program was a late night series that was known to be rather risqué. Unlucky for her she realized it only as the film cut away to show a couple who were making love rather uninhibitedly against a chain-link fence. Sarah shut her eyes and swallowed. Why did this have to be happening to her when she was so desperately trying to keep her thoughts non-sexual.

She heard Jareth’s throaty whisper, “My my, is this what you wanted to stay up for?” Sarah fumbled for the remote and thought, “Shit.” That wasn’t exactly the type of impression she had wanted to give him. As she changed the channel to a harmless biography show she replied, “No.” Lucky for her the newly chosen program was intensely boring so it wasn’t long before she started to drift off to sleep.

Jareth lay awake for what seemed like an eternity. It was so surreal holding Sarah in his arms as she slept. He was painfully aware of the soft curves of her body as she lay curled up against him. He breathed in her scent and closed his eyes. She had agreed to let him court her. This thought kept swirling around his head intoxicating him. How could he ever accept a life without her now that he had experienced the pleasure of being so close to her. He was certain that even if Fate pulled them apart he would spend the rest of his life pining for her, trying to reach her. He silently vowed that there was no such soul in either of their worlds that would be able to hold him back and keep him from her. It was much later when Jareth finally fell into a restless sleep.

Sarah awoke to the pleasant sensation of warm sunlight bathing her face and a strong pair of arms holding her close. As her mind slipped back into consciousness, one thing was prominent in her mind.

Jareth.

He had actually asked permission to court her. She smiled as she recalled that they had fallen asleep together on the couch. She turned her head slowly and opened her eyes to gaze upon his face. Her breath caught in her throat as she looked upon him. His face was so peaceful and his pale skin gave an ethereal look to him. His platinum hair was a bit unruly but to her he looked absolutely perfect. Sarah could scarcely believe this was the same man who had terrified her years ago when he had appeared in her parent’s bedroom to take away Toby.

She further studied him for a few moments. She wanted to remember him like this. She placed a soft kiss on forehead and cautiously got up so that she wouldn’t wake him.

Sarah went to her room and grabbed a pair or workout shorts and a tank top. It felt like ages since she had last gotten some exercise, so she decided she’d go down to the basement and run through her kickboxing workout. She was not tired and she felt a surge of adrenaline from waking up in Jareth’s arms so she might as well make use of her energy and get a good workout in, while he was still sleeping.

Sarah changed into her workout clothes and jogged down the basement stairs. She had taken kickboxing classes during college for exercise. A friend had suggested she try it and Sarah was pleasantly surprised to find that she really rather enjoyed the workouts. Sarah’s father had hung up the punching bag for her when she returned home during her first summer off from college. He had been delighted that she had taken an interest in an athletic activity.

Sarah put a cassette in the junky boom box that she kept in the basement and started her warm up routine. After she had stretched adequately she tugged on her small red leather gloves and started her relentless assault on the heavy bag to the tune of an old rap mix tape that she had put together for working out. Remarkably, kickboxing did wonders for working out one’s sexual frustrations.

Jareth opened his eyes, realizing that the warm girl he had been holding in his arms was no longer sharing the couch with him. He sat up, squinting in the sunlight. He smiled as he was reminded that he had slept on the couch with her. Speaking of Sarah; where had that girl gotten off to?

As Jareth explored the first floor, he noticed music coming from the doorway that led down to the basement. He quietly opened the door and looked down the stairs. He couldn’t see her, but the lights were on, and there was definitely music playing. Jareth crept quietly down the stairs to see what she was doing.

He reached the bottom of the stairs and peered around the corner. There was Sarah, wearing very short blue pants and a black tank top, her hair was pulled back into a tight pony tail. Her body glistened with sweat and at the moment she was very thoroughly pummeling a heavy bag that was suspended from the rafters. Her body was in very good shape and the sight of her engaging in such strenuous physical activity was rather enticing.

A delighted grin spread across his face as he witnessed the scene before him. Sarah kicked her foot up very high, striking the bag, then in a swift completion of the movement her fist made harsh contact with the bag. She was in the middle of executing a complex string of attacks when she saw Jareth lurking by the stairs.

She halted and steadied the bag with her hands as she turned to face Jareth. “How long have you been standing there?” Jareth smirked, “Long enough to see that you are not a woman to be trifled with.”

Sarah smiled and tugged her gloves off with her teeth.

Jareth noticed that she was out of breath and a few stray locks of hair were clinging to her face and neck. He looked her over, finding this hobby of Sarah’s rather intriguing. His eyes danced with amusement as he remarked, “You’ve learned to engage in combat?”

Sarah laughed, “I wouldn’t say that. It is more of a workout really. Just good exercise.”

Jareth nodded toward the bag, “Quite the damage you were inflicting on that bag for just a workout.”

Sarah grinned and replied teasingly, “Oh, do I scare you Goblin King?” Jareth chuckled, “On the contrary, I think there’s something charming about a woman who can defend herself.”

He sighed with an amused air and added, “Besides…you are still no match for me.” Sarah arched an eyebrow, “Is that a challenge? Remember you’ve lost your ability to do magic.” Jareth laughed. It was a very rich and pleasing sound, “Sarah, you really have not lost your sense of humor. I’m sure you’d find that I am still a formidable opponent even without a trace of magic.”

Sarah strode up to him and him and boldly asked, “Is that so? And what sort of fighting style are you so adept at.” She stopped with her face mere inches from his and regarded him from a seductive stance. Jareth’s eyes dropped to her lips and then ventured lower to peruse the rest of her body as he answered, “I’ll say this; I can handle a sword.”

Sarah’s eyes sparkled with merriment as she thought to herself, “Yeah, I bet you can…” She reprimanded herself as her thoughts turned obscene. She took a breath, “Well Jareth I’d love to stay down here and kick your royal ass but I really should go take a shower.” He was still wearing that arrogant smirk as he replied, “Very well…another time perhaps.”

Sarah looked over her shoulder and teased, “Bring it.”

A short while later Sarah stepped out of the shower and dried her self off. She put on her robe and went back to her room. Jareth had opted to shower downstairs, so she knew he wouldn’t be hanging around her room.

Sarah dried her hair and was taking her time deciding what to wear. She finally settled on a pair of jeans and white blouse when she heard the phone ring. She bounded out of her room and downstairs to get it. Still dressed in only her robe she pressed the receiver to her ear.

“Hello?”

“Hey Sarah babe.”


Jareth had heard the phone ring as he was drying himself off. He wrapped a towel around his hips and opened the bathroom door. He figured Sarah was still up in her room so he stepped into the hall debating whether he should answer the phone, when he realized that Sarah had beaten him to it.

“Oh, Hey Trina.”

Sarah held the phone to her ear and turned around to see; Jareth, wearing nothing but a towel. She stifled a gasp and reminded herself to keep breathing as she averted her eyes. Jareth was equally surprised; he had thought she was upstairs. Well, no matter, nothing she hadn’t seen before. He was curious to find out what Trina was calling about, so he stood there leaning against the frame of the bathroom, eavesdropping, and enjoying the reddening hue of Sarah’s face.

Sarah gave herself a mental shake, just barely catching Trina’s question.

“So…how’d it go the other night?”

Sarah mumbled dumbly, “How’d what go?”

Trina sounded slightly peeved, “Well duh…your big night with Jareth.”

Sarah sounded distant as she answered, “Oh. Fine I guess.” Sarah found it hard to keep her mind on the conversation, knowing that an almost naked Goblin King was right behind her, hanging on her every word.

Trina quickly asked, “So what happened?”
Sarah was a little too slow in her answer to the question.

Trina sensed Sarah’s distraction and replied, “Sarah did you hear what I said? What’s with you? Oh, I get it…He’s still there isn’t he?”

Sarah shook her head realizing she had missed something, “Who?”

Trina giggled, “Jareth, you idiot. He’s still there with you isn’t he?”

Sarah knew that at this point she wasn’t capable of lying convincingly, so she sighed and stated, “Yeah he is.”

Trina erupted into a fit of squealing laughter and Sarah had to hold the phone away from her ear while she shot Jareth an exasperated look. Finally Trina calmed down and asked, “So, what happened? Did you sleep with him?”

Sarah’s voice held a warning tone, “Trina…”

Trina laughed and countered, “You’re right, I’m sorry, that was out of line. Just tell me one thing?”

Sarah’s patience was wearing thin, “What?”

Tina voice was husky, “How good was he?”

Sarah let her head drop into her hands, “Ok, I’m hanging up now.”

“Wait!”

“What is it Trina?”

“I just wanted to tell you that I had fun the other night. I’m glad that you came out with us.”

“Aw, that’s sweet…but Trina I really should…”

“Wait Sarah babe, what are you and Jareth doing tonight…I mean besides each other?”

“Ugh, for God’s sake! I don’t know? Why?”

“Well My brother Ray is away on business and he’s letting me stay at his place on the shore. Kim and Brian are coming over to hang out, you and Jareth should come too.”

Sarah sighed, “Oh I don’t know if that’s such a good…”

Trina cut her off, “Oh come on Sarah, it’s gonna be the bomb. This place is great, it’s on the edge of the state park and it’s right on the water. There’s a hot tub out back for Christ sakes. Ray even said we could use the dirt bikes if we wanted, and I’m planning on having a bonfire out here.

“Trina, I’m supposed to be watching the house for my parents…”

“Sarah…” Trina whined, “It’s one town over. C’mon it’s just one night. It’ll be so much fun.”

Sarah sighed admitting defeat, “Fine, I’ll ask Jareth if he wants to go.”

Trina squealed with delight and begged, “Put him on the phone Sar, I want to ask him.”

Sarah rolled her eyes and held the phone out to Jareth, “She wants to talk to you.” Sarah covered the mouthpiece before she handed him the phone and whispered, “Don’t tell her a thing.”

Jareth nodded and held the phone to his ear with one hand, while the other hand tightly gripped the towel, holding it in place.

Sarah leaned against the wall waiting to hear if Jareth would agree to this madness. Sarah only had his end of the conversation to go by, “Hello Trina. Yes, I had a wonderful time. No, Sarah’s treating me just fine. Yes. Sure, I’d be delighted. Certainly. We’ll see you then. Goodbye Trina.”

He handed the phone back to Sarah, “She wants you.”

Sarah sighed as Trina was again squealing into the phone, “I’m so glad you guys are coming. Oh and before I forget, you guys should bring bathing suits, for the hot tub.”

Sarah banged her head against the wall. How did she always let her friends drag her into these things. She sighed, “Alright Trina I guess I’ll be seeing you tonight then.”

Before she could hang up Trina quickly replied, “Sarah you can’t keep me in suspense! Tell me you kissed the guy at least.”

Sarah rolled her eyes and snorted, “Bye Trina.”

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