A/N: A little earlier than billed but I couldn't resist. I hope you all enjoy it. Major fluff overload but its needed prior to what has passed and what is coming.
I should be back to weekly updates now so watch this space.
As usual I own nothing but please read and review.
Possibly Probably
"I know that you're sad, hurt in the past, gotcha believing love won't last. It's not hard to tell you've lost your faith, don't blame us all for a fool's mistake. Things they advise, I should let go, they're calling you ice but I see you glow. You're making me crazy, what can I say, I'd do anything to take the pain away." –Safe with Me, Billie Piper.
Days came and went without further incident but both Jareth and Sarah remained on their guard, wary for any further attack from Oberon or otherwise. Sarah continued her combat lessons with added vigour whenever they had the house to themselves and Jareth was suitably impressed by her proficiency, slightly more confident in taking her to the Underground now she could handle her blade.
He had gone with her the day she had reported her attack but even with statements from all those who had witnessed it, little was done. The incident however had brought them all closer together and Sarah watched as Jareth became as much part of the group as she was, pleased when it seemed a fast friendship would fuse between him and Danny as they shared a common love of her books. The two of them would often sit separately whenever they visited and Sarah and her parents seemed un-surprised when they both disappeared for several hours one day only for Jareth to return and behave slightly tentatively with his right hand for the rest of the evening. It was the next day when Sarah was walking with him through town that she spotted Brett sporting a rather potent black eye and his arm in a sling as they watched him limp swiftly in the opposite direction when he caught a glimpse of them. Sarah merely raised herself on her tiptoes to place a kiss to the Fae's cheek; the wink she received in return telling her that that was just the tip of the iceberg of what was to come.
The rest of their time was spent fulfilling the list Jareth compiled the day after they had encountered the shadow sprite. Sarah had laughed at some of the simple things he wanted to do but helped him achieve them just the same, having to admit to herself that being with someone in possession of a limitless credit card proved most entertaining. They flew down to New York for a weekend, Jareth determined to use his passport seeing as he had one, along with various other documents that would allow him to do so, Sarah impressed by Kip's knowledge of American immigration to create everything that was necessary for Jareth to be in the country for any length of time. What amazed Sarah more however was Jareth on the aeroplane; for a being to whom flight was second nature he behaved almost like an excitable five year old chatting away excitedly about everything he could see from the window he was all but pressed against. They climbed the Empire State and Lady Liberty together before Sarah took him to the Lincoln Centre where he pretended not to enjoy the ballet she took him to, every other spare hour filled with shopping and bars of which Sarah would never have thought to go into had it not been for his enthusiasm.
His initial cinema request they fulfilled three times over, the pair of them behaving like juveniles as they flicked popcorn at each other in the deserted back row of the theatre, and they both admitted defeat when they tried to take on Toby's fabulously mammoth ice creams. The time Sarah most enjoyed though was when he asked to be taken to a football game to 'see what all the fuss her father made was about'. He'd ended up cheering for the wrong team and staring blankly at Robert, who insisted on accompanying them, as he tried in vain to explain the rules but it had Sarah laughing till her sides hurt.
Whenever they weren't fulfilling the wish list they were in each other's shadow, the whole family knowing that if you couldn't find one you should look for the other. Toby on occasion made up the trio, treating Jareth like an elder brother and loving every second of the attention but Karen kept him at bay whenever she noticed the look pass between Jareth and Sarah that told anyone with half a brain that the only company they needed was each others.
Despite the façade they put on for the day, at night whenever Sarah crept down the hall to Jareth's room or they stayed up late downstairs the threat of their coming battle loomed and they talked quietly of what they might face. Jareth taught her all he could of the Labyrinth, tricks for getting out of certain parts of the maze, how she was never to take anything at face value; so much information that Sarah was sure she'd forget it when it came to it. Despite the constant threat of the thirty-first it was not Halloween that hung foremost in Sarah's mind but a day a little closer, one she had spent every year in quiet recollection of but hoping that she would share the memories with another this year.
"Jareth? You awake?" said Sarah peering round the door and receiving her answer in the pillow muffled snores that echoed from his bed. She snickered to herself as she crossed the room and opened the curtains, spilling the dimming street light onto the covers. Jareth stirred before moaning and pulling the covers up over his head.
"Too early," he groused, "Come back in an hour."
Sarah giggled as she climbed up onto the bed next to him, "Come on grumpy," she said trying to find a gap in the covers to pull them off him, "It's a lovely morning."
"Leave me alone woman! Its too bloody cold and I'm not getting out of this bed until you realise its ungodly to get up at such an early hour," he moaned good naturedly, his voice still ragged from sleep, "Go aggravate your parents."
Sarah grabbed the pillow next to him and hit the pile of quilt that sounded like the Goblin King, "Up!" she demanded.
"Go away!"
"Come on lazy bones," said Sarah sitting astride his legs to better hit him with the pillow, "I'm not leaving until you come out from under there."
"The fact that you're intent on beating me is hardly an incentive for me to emerge," said Jareth, one pale arm appearing as he made a grab for the pillow but missed, "Besides, old man like me needs his beauty sleep or I might end up looking like Higgle!"
"It's Hoggle and don't be mean," said Sarah hitting him again, "Now come on, get up."
"No."
"Oh come on, don't be a grump not today," said Sarah, "Don't you know what today is?"
He finally pulled the covers down far enough to peek over the top, his hair a frantic mess, "Seeing as I have one of the most beautiful women of my acquaintance atop me I'd say it's my lucky day."
Sarah blushed, "You're such a pervert, is that all you think about?" she said, knowing he'd be wearing a thoroughly wicked grin beneath the duvet, "Well then other than your lucky day, what day is it?"
"A Saturday," said Jareth, "Unless you laced that coffee with more than milk and sugar last night and I've skipped a few."
Sarah gave him a pointed look, "And what's the date?"
"Twenty-fifth of October…the day after Friday…six days before all Hell breaks loose," said Jareth receiving a more unimpressed stare with every suggestion, "Over five weeks since I turned up, please feel free to stop me if I get close dear."
Sarah frowned at him, crossing her arms, "Jareth what's special about today?"
Jareth looked horrified, "It's not your birthday is it?" he said, "Oh come on now don't look like that, I didn't know. I only ever remember Anna's birthday because it's the same day as mine."
"It's not my birthday Jareth."
"Well then please enlighten me because I am at a loss," he said before Sarah's face fell, "Oh Fates now I know I'm in trouble."
"You really don't remember do you?" said Sarah sadly, "Its ten years today Jareth."
"Oh no, oh Sarah darling I'm sorry," he said grabbing her arms as she moved to climb off him, "Don't be upset."
"I just thought it would have meant something to you."
"It does it…Sarah please I've had so much on my mind recently, it just slipped my memory," said Jareth, "Besides why mark the day you left me when I am with you every day now? I forgot because I no longer miss you every year. Forgive me?"
Sarah softened at the pleading look in his eyes, "You owe me," she said, grudgingly smiling as he kissed the inside of her wrist, "Those baby blues of yours don't play fair."
Jareth smiled, "I'll make it up to you my sweet, I promise," he said, "Why don't you let me get dressed; I'll meet you for breakfast in a little while."
Sarah leaned down and kissed his cheek, "Don't be too long."
"I won't be," said Jareth as she climbed off the bed, "And Sarah…"
"Yes?"
"Happy Anniversary darling."
Sarah giggled as she reached the door, "Right back at you Your Highness," she said before bounding down the stairs.
She was humming to herself as she entered the kitchen to find Karen fixing breakfast. The older woman greeted her with a smile as she handed her a cup of coffee.
"What's got you singing?"
"Nothing," said Sarah, "Just singing."
"Wouldn't have something to do with a certain young man taking you to England in a week would it?" said Karen with a knowing smile, "Or indeed just a certain young man?"
Sarah couldn't help the blush that came to her, "No," she lied, knowing she didn't fool the other woman, "Maybe…oh Karen!"
Karen laughed as Sarah flopped down next to the kitchen table, "Have you thought maybe of telling him?"
"I'm too scared to," said Sarah, "I want to but…"
"If you're worrying that he doesn't return your feelings Sarah I can assure you that he does, the boy is besotted with you," said Karen setting a plate of toast before her step-daughter.
"I know he does," said Sarah a small smile on her face that Karen still saw the Goblin King as a boy, "He's told me as much but I…oh Karen I'm terrified, I've never felt like this and he's so…so…"
"Perfect for you," said Karen, sitting down at the table next to her, "Sarah I know I'm not your mother…"
"Thank God, I'd never want to live with Linda, I much prefer having you," said Sarah as Karen took her hand.
"And I'm glad her leaving meant I could have you. I might not be your natural mother but you're like a daughter to me and I want you to be happy and I see that whenever you're with Jareth," she said, "After what happened the other day as well, seeing how he's stood by you and how you've found so much comfort in him, I can tell that you were always meant for each other. Tell him Sarah."
"I don't know how."
"Do you love him?"
Sarah nodded.
"Then tell him that, it'll be all he needs to hear," said Karen, "Just take him somewhere quiet when he comes down and tell him."
Sarah was silent as she tore at the toast before her, mulling over the words that terrified her in her mind and every reaction he could have to them, as she waited for Jareth to appear in the kitchen. She looked up a good fifteen minutes later as she heard the front door slam.
"Dad in a snit again?" she asked as no goodbye was shouted out.
Karen shook her head, "Your Dad left half an hour ago, he's playing golf with Simon and Allan from the office. Toby?"
"What?" came the reply from the living room.
"Nothing," Karen called back, turning her attention to Sarah, "Did Jareth say he was going anywhere?"
"No," said Sarah getting to her feet, "He said he'd get dressed and come down for breakfast."
"Well its either him or we've got a ghost," said Karen turning back to the dishes she was washing as Sarah got up from her chair. She headed up the stairs, knowing even before she opened his bedroom door that she would find it empty but not expecting to see the red envelope covered by a single white rose that sat on the pillow of his bed. She went over and picked up the bloom, inhaling its sweet scent before opening the envelope and pulling out a note in Jareth's unmistakable handwriting. She sat on the bed as she read, smiling as she did so.
'My most beloved Sarah,
Forgive the little performance this morning, as if I could forget this day of all days. By the time you read this I will have already set in motion your challenge for today for it is my Royal decree that henceforth all former successful questors must return on their tenth anniversary to try once more the trials of the Goblin King.
So here, dearest friend, is the choice presented to you; accept ten hours and face the challenges I will give you or remain home and admit defeat. The only prize is glory my sweet…or maybe something more.
So Lady Sarah, Grand Duchess of the Labyrinth, at seven in the morning (you quite ungodly creature you!) on this ten year anniversary of your victory do you still have the bravery and resource to best the Goblin King? If you do your first test will await you at the scene of your childhood play, perhaps I shall see you there.
Your quest awaits my lady.
Forever yours, Jx'
Sarah smiled as she read the challenge through once more before hurrying to her room to pull on her shoes and a jacket, grabbing a bag to hold his letter and the single white bloom. She ran down the stairs to find Karen waiting for her, looking far from oblivious to the situation. She paused on the bottom step.
"Did you know?"
"Perhaps," said Karen tossing her her house keys, "Enjoy your day."
"To think you and Jareth plotting against me," said Sarah rolling her eyes at the thought, "I'll see you later."
Sarah raced to the park where she used to act out the scenes from Jareth's book, expecting to find the Fae waiting for her but only finding another note and an equally beautiful rose to the one she carried. She continued to follow the trail that had been left for her, riddles, puzzles and various challenges that had her rushing around the town, the spirit of adventure pumping through her veins as she pitted herself once more against the Goblin King and was rewarded with a delicate white rose each time she succeeded. It didn't escape her notice that some of the challenges Jareth set her directly related to what he had been teaching her about the Labyrinth, testing her knowledge whilst playing the game.
She found herself stood outside a hedge maze just before midday, a note and rose set amongst the leaves. She took the rose and added it to the other seven she carried and read the note.
'Darling,
You've come so far and now perhaps the most obvious challenge but this time you shan't be hunting for a sibling, instead might I suggest champagne and strawberries? All you have to do is find them.
Jx'
Sarah felt her stomach growl as she thought of the treat and then her mind turned more to the company that might come with it. She tucked the note away before stepping into the maze, enjoying every twist and turn. The game soon became one of cat and mouse as she caught unmistakable glimpses of platinum hair or the tail of a long, glittery cape that had been removed from his leather coat and left unnoticed in the closet since he arrived. She had broken into a run as the glimpses became more frequent and his laughter echoed over the hedges to her.
She finally rounded a corner to find herself in the centre of the maze, an elegant sundial set on a stone plinth amongst the paving but it was not that that caught her attention, before her stood a figure she had not truly seen for ten years and her heart stopped at the sight; the Goblin King. She gasped at the image of him, almost identical to how she had seen him in the tunnels; fine black boots over tight blue trousers, his elegant leather coat once more adorned by the cape that had left it. He held a rose between his gloved fingers as he leaned back nonchalantly against the hedge, looking every inch the unapproachable king. The smile he turned to her with though reminded her of the man beneath the façade.
"Found me then," he said stepping over to her and offering her the rose with a small bow, "My lady."
Sarah chose not to stand on ceremony and flung her arms about him, hugging him tightly, "This is so much fun, thank you," she said before pulling back and punching his arm lightly, "You're such a tease though, making me think you'd forgotten like that."
"I wanted to surprise you," said Jareth pressing a kiss to her forehead, "Hungry?"
"Starving," said Sarah as he led her into a small alcove set with a blanket and the treats his note had promised.
They shared the meal, happily going over the challenges she'd already passed, Jareth laughing at some of the initial answers she had come up with to his riddles before finding the right one. She soon found herself resting back against him, content to lie in the sunshine with his cape tucked around her as he gently plaited and unravelled random strands of her hair.
"This would have been a much better way to spend thirteen hours last time," she said closing her eyes, "You, me, champagne and strawberries. You certainly know how to impress a girl Your Highness."
"I'm glad you approve," said Jareth, his lips gently brushing her ear as he spoke and eliciting a small shiver from her, "Cold my sweet?"
"Not at all," said Sarah leaning further into his warmth, "Mmm I want to stay here all day."
"Do you forfeit the challenge then?"
"How can I forfeit? I found you," said Sarah triumphantly, "Solved your little Labyrinth all over again Goblin King."
"You solved a hedge maze Sarah, a Labyrinth is so much more," said Jareth, "And besides, I never said that finding me was the objective."
Sarah got to her feet and stared down at him, frowning at the superior expression on his face, "What was all this then?"
Jareth got up, standing a good head taller than her and looking every inch the Goblin King, "Aboveground version of a peach dream," he said with a smirk, "A distraction."
Sarah fumed, "But we've sat here for over an hour."
"Leaving you three and a half hours to complete your quest. Now if you would permit me," he said before mimicking her fifteen year old voice, "It's not fair!"
Sarah thumped him hard, "You don't play fair Jareth."
"And I thought you'd learnt that a long time ago," he said producing an envelope with a magician's flourish that almost made him look like he had his magic back, "Here's your next clue."
Sarah took the envelope and read the note inside, smiling down at the Fae who had set himself back on the blanket nursing his left over champagne as she read.
'Beloved,
I'm quite the rotten tease I know but humour a tired old man and play along…'
"You're not old," said Sarah, the fun of the game returned to her, "But you are a rotten tease."
"Whatever will you do with me?" said Jareth with a playfully bored sigh, "Tick tock little lady, times running out."
"Want rid of me do you?" said Sarah as she read his next riddle, smiling as the answer came to her right away. She crouched down before him, noticing his wry smile as he realised she'd already cracked it, "How very original."
"Wouldn't want to tax you too much precious," he said, "This time round I do actually want you to win. You'd best get going else you'll run out of time."
"And you're just going to sit here," she said.
Jareth took one of the strawberries and held it out to her lips until she took it from his fingers with a shy smile, "That's the plan for the time being," he said with a wink, "You never know where I might pop up next though."
"Miss me?" asked Sarah.
"Possibly," said Jareth, "Will you miss me?"
Sarah leaned forward to brush a fleeting kiss just at the corner of his lips, "Probably," she said before pulling back and standing, "Bye."
She'd taken off after the next clue before he could react to the word but in her mind's eye she saw the small, slow smile that would come to his face at it and had to pretend it was her pace and not the image that made her heart rate hitch.
xxxx
Sarah spent the rest of the day chasing around after Jareth's riddles, each time rewarded with a white rose. It didn't escape her notice that she received thirteen in total and his final note alluded to the fact, making her smile.
'White roses for forgiveness; ten for the years passed and three for the hours I stole in the tunnels.'
She followed the instructions on the note and returned home, realising it was nearing five o'clock and the end of her ten hours. She found a note pinned to the front door instructing her to go up to her room and dress in whatever she found there, to be ready by seven. She felt a chill run through her as she read, almost hearing his silky tones in her head and realising the intimacy that came with him telling her to go to her room and change. She found herself almost wishing that he would be there to greet her.
She opened the door and hurried up the stairs to her room, not even stopping to shout out her customary greetings. She rushed inside and stopped at the sight of the bouquet sat on her dresser, a dozen perfect red roses. She crossed to them and picked up the card, her heart fluttering at his words.
'White for forgiveness, red for…probably.'
She bent her head to the flowers, inhaling their delicate scent and blushing as she realised that no one had ever sent her flowers with such meaning before. She noticed the thoughtfully placed vase next to the red roses and set her white roses inside, hoping the water would revive the ones that had wilted somewhat during her day. She brushed a hand over the petals one last time before stepping over to her bed and opening the black garment bag that lay there.
She pushed apart the covering only to gasp at the dress inside; fine jade silk, the same colour as her dress in China, that fell in a full skirt with half a dozen black lace petticoats beneath attached to a rigid bodice, strapless and elegant.
"Oh Jareth," she said softly to thin air as she took it out and held it against herself, knowing immediately that it would fit her perfectly. She wondered for a moment how he had known her size but then remembered the look Karen had given her before she left and knew she had had her part to play. She swung the skirts of the dress in front of her, loving the sound of the material. She reluctantly put down the dress and opened the box beside the bag, finding elegant matching shoes with a heel she doubted would allow for much walking. She giggled to herself as an image of him sweeping her into his arms to save her from her shoes came to her mind and wondering what on earth had possessed him to buy such gifts.
She glanced over at the clock, glad to see it was only five fifteen, leaving her plenty of time to get ready before the time he had told her to be ready for and she was determined to look as good as the dress demanded. Grabbing her bathrobe and every lotion and potion she ever owned, she darted into the bathroom, pausing only to snatch up one of her white roses for company.
xxxx
Sarah stared at her reflection, amazed at what she saw before her; her dress fitted perfectly, cinching in her waist and leaving her shoulders elegantly bare. She had found a pair of long black gloves in the bag and had pulled them on, negating the need for much jewellery, a fact that she was glad of as she owned nothing that could compliment the necklace he had given her. The shoes gave her a regal poise and made her feel every inch the princess as she took several measured steps around the room. She had fastened up half her hair, leaving enough loose to flow in ringlets over her shoulders as Jareth had always complained when she pulled her hair up. She tucked a few cosmetics into the purse she had dug out of her closet to match her outfit and glanced at the clock. She considered waiting in her room for the final five minutes but her excitement made every second drag so she picked up her skirts and left the room. She walked as carefully as she could in her heels on the stairs, smiling as she saw her parents waiting at the bottom.
"Oh Sarah, you look beautiful," said Karen, "Jareth certainly has some taste."
Sarah blushed, "I have a feeling you might have had a hand in this here and there."
Karen smiled, "It was all his idea though," she said as Rob took his daughter's hand.
"Quite the young woman now," he said, a familiar fatherly emotion swimming in his eyes, "You make sure you have a wonderful time tonight princess, you deserve it."
"I'd say I will if I knew where I was going," said Sarah.
"You'll see," said Karen as a knock came at the front door. She fussed Sarah into view of it before hurrying to open it, stepping out of the way to allow her step-daughter full view of her partner for the evening.
Sarah smiled in surprise at the sight of Jareth in the doorway. Gone was the Goblin King of the hedge maze but gone to was the loveable scruff that was Jareth off duty, instead before her stood a man in an elegant black suit under and black winter coat, long, wild hair tied back neatly with a thin black ribbon, completely pulled away from his face. Sarah felt her heart flutter at the sight of him but even more so at the look on his face as he took her in.
Not caring for the presence of her family, Jareth crossed to her quickly and took her gloved hands in his bare ones.
"I have pictured you in that dress since I bought it but you…I am unworthy of such a vision on my arm," he said, "You look so beautiful tonight Sarah."
Sarah blushed at the sincerity in his voice, "Thank you," she said softly, "You shouldn't have spent so much on me."
"Believe me when I say that it is worth every penny," said Jareth, "Are you ready?"
"I just need to grab a coat," said Sarah reluctantly loosing his hands.
"No need," said Karen holding open a long, black velvet jacket for her. Sarah slipped her arms into it and fastened the buttons at her waist, the coat the perfect compliment to her dress.
"Perfect," said her step-mother, "Stay there a moment."
"Oh no, photo time," said Sarah as Karen dashed into the living room.
"Indulge her," said Rob looking somewhere between pride and the 'fatherly chat' he wanted to impart to the blond man his only daughter was currently staring at.
Karen soon returned with the camera and Jareth and Sarah obediently posed at her command before they were ushered to the door with instructions to enjoy themselves. Jareth gallantly offered Sarah his arm as she took up her skirts with her free hand and stepped into the night only to be surprised once more. Where she had expected a cab there stood an elegant open black carriage, pulled by two grey horses.
"Oh my God!" she exclaimed, "Jareth!"
"Do you like it?" he asked leading her down the path as the coachmen climbed down to open the low door for them.
"I love it," she said as he handed her up into the coach, climbing in beside her before thanking the driver. As he sat beside her she quickly reached for his hand as the coach pulled away from the house.
"Jareth this is wonderful," she said, colouring as he handed her a single red bloom. She smiled wryly, "Thirteen."
"Ten years," said Jareth with something akin to an embarrassed smile, "Then one for maybe, one for possibly and one for probably."
Sarah leaned up and kissed his cheek, "You didn't have to do all this."
"Yes I did," he said, settling against the back of the coach.
"Why?" said Sarah at the conviction in his tone.
"As a thank you," he said, "For all you've done for me these passed weeks."
"A simple bunch of flowers would have been a thank you," said Sarah, "Or dinner but this…Jareth this is too much, I don't deserve this."
"Yes you do," said Jareth, "This and more. I said I would prove myself worthy of you."
Sarah leaned her head on his shoulder, "You don't have to prove anything to me, not that I'm complaining mind you, most girls don't even get treated like this on their wedding day."
"Most girls aren't being courted by a Faerie-King."
"Courted?" said Sarah with a small smile.
"I'm encouraging probably," said Jareth, "But it is not my main reason; tonight is for us, our final farewell in a way. This coming week will be little more than preparation and when we go away neither of us knows what will happen. I just want us to have a night to treasure, a happy memory. I know as long as I live, be it eternity or another week alone, I will never forget how beautiful you look tonight Sarah."
Sarah smiled up at him as he brushed the loose ringlets of her hair back behind her shoulder, "I know I won't forget tonight, I won't forget a second of having you stay here with me," she said before she choked sadly, "Not ever. I'm really going to miss you."
"Miss me?" said Jareth seeing the tears come to her eyes, "What do you mean?"
"If…when you get your Kingdom back, you'll be gone."
"I'll visit," said Jareth, "I've already told you that."
"But you'll be the Goblin King again; I'll miss you, Jareth Alba, pop corn throwing, puddle jumping Brit with a glam rock fixation," said Sarah sadly, "I'm so scared I'll wake up one day to find my best friend completely gone."
Jareth smiled down at her, fingering the diamond at her throat, "Contrary to popular opinion I am not always the bastard I can be when I'm Goblin King. Of course that side of me will return, it has to, it's my job and what is expected but behind closed doors this is me and for you that'll never change, not now."
"Promise?" said Sarah.
"I promise," said Jareth tugging her closer to him, "You don't get rid of me that easily."
Sarah giggled, "Dammit," she said relaxing back against his shoulder as she watched the town roll by, "Where are we off to anyway?"
"Shift off me a bit," said Jareth pushing her forward so he could reach into his inside coat pocket before pulling her back into his arms, holding two tickets out before her.
Sarah took them incredulously, "But these…they've been sold out for months," she said, "How on Earth did you get hold of these?"
Jareth laughed at the excited squeak to her voice, "Over the years I've learned to identify who's in charge and like you said this morning, these baby blues just don't play fair."
Sarah gave him an arch look over her shoulder, "Been fluttering your eyelashes at other women then?"
"A means to an end my sweet," he said, kissing her cheek for emphasis, "Got you opera tickets didn't it?"
Sarah hummed happily, "La Traviata, it's my favourite."
"I know and I saw how disappointed you were when they told us it was ballet night rather than opera night at the Lincoln Centre," said Jareth stroking the back of her neck, "When I saw the poster in town advertising tonight I was determined to get tickets and the sweetest thing is that they're on the Bank of Avalon so I could absolutely spoil you rotten."
"Just slightly," said Sarah stroking the silk of her skirt, "You really didn't have to do this."
Jareth pressed his face into her hair, "If we had the time darling I would have flown you to London, given you the penthouse at The Dorchester and taken you to sit in the Royal Box at Covent Garden to see the world's greatest divas. If we achieve the impossible and succeed next week I will, or anywhere you'd prefer, just name it, we will have earned a holiday."
Sarah knotted her fingers with his, "Do you know where I'd want to stay if I picked anywhere in the whole world?"
"Where?"
"Little place, I went there when I was young but stupidly didn't stay long," said Sarah closing her eyes as his fingers twisted into her hair, "If I could pick anywhere for a holiday I'd spend two weeks in the Castle beyond the Goblin City; would you show me around?"
Jareth's fingers stilled in her hair before shifting so he could see her face, his pale eyes filled with something akin to hope, "Probably," he said softly as Sarah leaned forward to place a kiss on his cheek, "Definitely?"
The carriage ground to a halt, causing them both to look up to see the theatre lit up and waiting, several people on the steps turning to look at the sound of the horses' hooves. The coachman stepped down and opened the door, standing aside and waiting for them to step out. Jareth reluctantly released Sarah and stepped down onto the pavement, offering her his hand to help her descend. Her gloved hand met his as she smiled down at him, picking up her skirts from her feet. She took his arm as the coachman wished them a good evening and arranged a time to pick them up.
With pride in the envious looks they received from the men and women alike, Jareth led her into the elegant theatre, enjoying the excited expression on her face as she realised how well it had been decorated for the visiting opera. Sarah could barely contain her glee as she passed their tickets to the usher and found that they were taken to a box near the stage, the two of them the only occupants.
The usher left them as Jareth helped Sarah off with her coat before returning with a bottle of champagne and two programs. Sarah was surprised to find Jareth on first name terms with him but knew he'd had to have pulled quite a few strings to get them the service they had. He took their coats with an instruction to call if he was needed before leaving them in private. Jareth poured them both a glass of champagne and carried them over, sitting down as he passed one to Sarah.
"Jareth this is wonderful," she said, "Thank you."
"Knew you'd be impressed with me when I started flashing the cash," he said with a playful wink, "At least I have one redeeming feature."
Sarah laughed, "Well I had to find something I liked about you," she said clinking her glass to his, "How else could I justify probably?"
"You're a wicked woman Sarah Williams."
"Perfect for you then," said Sarah leaning forward to press the softest kiss to his lips, "Definitely perfect for you."
Jareth's eyes widened as she pulled back with a shy smile, "Sarah…" he began as the orchestra started up loudly below, causing Sarah to jump in surprise, inadvertently distancing them. He saw the light blush touch her cheeks as she turned her attention to the stage. He reached across and took her hand, lacing their fingers and glad when she set down her glass beside her chair to cover their joined hands with her free one.
The first act passed quickly, Sarah intrigued by both diva and divo as they performed the passionate arias perfectly but ever aware of the hand in hers and often glancing from the stage to the man beside her. At the interval she was surprised to find their usher wheeling in a table set with plates and they were soon passing supper while chatting over the opera, Jareth impressed with her knowledge of the opera's history and promised to indulge in the black and white film with her before they left for the Labyrinth.
The end of act two Sarah was fighting tears and had to giggle as a handkerchief was pressed into her hand and even more so as he teased her over dessert in the second interval. She found her revenge though in act three as she turned to look at him through her tears to see him brush away one of his own when he thought she wasn't watching. Repeating his action of earlier she reached across to take his hand before pulling back to tug off her glove. He smiled as her warm hand settled in his cool one but reached out his free hand to wipe away a tear that hung on her cheek.
"I hate to see you cry," he whispered, barely audible over the music.
"I'm a sucker for a tragic love story," she whispered back before mimicking his gesture, the remnants of the tear drop on his cheek soaking into the finger of her glove, "Seems I'm not the only one."
Jareth fixed her with a scowl, "Tell no one."
Sarah grinned, "What's it worth?" she said before he pressed a slow kiss to the back of her hand before continuing just as slowly up her bare arm, each kiss punctuating his speech.
"Well my darling, I can continue being your sweet, kind, obliging best friend, or, I can return to being your terrifying, manipulative, wicked, Goblin King," he said, his lips finally reaching her shoulder and suddenly realising how she was reacting to his tease as he all but heard the race of her pulse, "You're trembling precious."
"You're not playing fair," she sighed, shivering as he placed another kiss against her neck, "Oh Jareth."
"Sarah," he whispered, his cheek against hers as he spoke into her ear, "Let me kiss you, please."
She pulled back briefly, searching his face for the final confirmation of the feelings he wanted her to return and knowing that she did so whole heartedly. She leaned into him, almost uncertain of herself as she pressed her lips softly to his. She felt him still a moment before he kissed her back just as gently, allowing her control as he brought her hand up to cover his heart. She smiled against his lips as she felt the race of his heart beat before kissing him once more with more conviction, glad when he responded in kind, his other hand reassuringly strong at her waist as he pulled her closer.
Applause echoed up from below as the music finally ended and Sarah pulled back from him slowly, colour at her cheeks but a smile on her lips as she met his gaze. Before she could speak he leaned into her once more and Sarah almost squeaked in surprise at the passion he met her with. They were both aware of the crowd below and Sarah was glad he pulled back before either of them could loose too much control, knowing how easily they could be seen. He rested his forehead against hers, his expression one of barely concealed joy that Sarah never thought she'd see on him. She couldn't resist pressing one more fleeting kiss to his lips, feeling the hand that held hers tighten as his other left her waist to knot in the loose curls of her hair.
"I think we missed the end," she said, giggling as he tore his gaze from hers to see the curtain call below.
"Lot of old wailing, can't even compare," he said stroking the back of her neck, "Sarah?"
"Mmm?" she all but purred at his touch.
"Tell me you love me."
"I…"
"Sir?"
"The Fates are conspiring against me," he growled making Sarah giggle before turning with as much politeness as he could muster to the young usher, "Yes?"
"Your table is ready, if you would like to come through," said the usher.
"We'll be through in a moment," said Jareth as the usher hurried from the box. Turning to Sarah he sighed dramatically, "Someone up there really doesn't like me."
"Oh I don't know," said Sarah as he helped her to her feet. She took hold of his tie and pulled him to her, snaking her arms around his neck before kissing him, hearing the hitch in his breathing as she touched her tongue to his lips before he granted her access, deepening the kiss. She moaned softly against his lips as his hands came firmly to her waist, pulling her flush against him, her soft curves against his slim, hard planes that made her shiver with want. She was glad for his grip on her as her legs wanted to collapse beneath her as his lips left hers to travel down her throat, nipping at the curve where her neck met her shoulder.
"Ask me again," said Sarah, gripping a little tighter to his as he kissed the site of her pulse as he had in the bar days before.
"Tell me you love me Sarah."
"I love you," she said, "I'm so in love with you."
He pulled back to meet her gaze, "I'll always love you," he said, brushing her lips with his, "I always have."
Sarah hugged him tightly, half wanting to cry and half wanting to laugh like a fool as five weeks of repressed emotion fell into place.
"I'm dreaming," she said softly.
"If you are, please don't wake up," said Jareth before pulling back fully, "Come dancing with me?"
"Dancing?" said Sarah, "Where?"
"They've got a small band in the theatre salon tonight, I reserved us a table if you'd like to go."
"As if I'd pass up the chance to dance with the Goblin King," said Sarah pulling off her remaining glove and putting them both in her purse, "Plus it gives me a chance to show you off to everyone because you are looking utterly charming tonight my love."
Jareth smiled as he offered her his arm, "I could happily get used to you calling me that," he said, "And I think it's only fair I get to show you off too."
Sarah laid her head on his shoulder as he led her from the box and through to the small, elegant salon, seeing the faces of those already present turned to them but Sarah wasn't sure it they were staring at their clothes or the looks on their faces, sure they were both grinning like idiots.
The band had already begun to play as they took their seats and there were already couples happily dancing on the small dance floor before them but Sarah feared her legs would be far from capable of dancing for a good while at least following Jareth's kiss and was happy to sit by and simply listen. It wasn't long until they abandoned their seats from across the table to each other to sit side by side, ignoring the music in favour of talking to one another. What began with soft professions and wishes though soon descended into their familiar banter and Sarah was glad that whatever relationship they pursued from there it would still be grounded in their strong friendship.
"Come on then Prince of Egypt, I want a history lesson," said Sarah as she finally conceded the foot war they'd been waging under the table.
"And what are you wanting to know my sweet?" said Jareth snagging hold of her hand once more, glad when her head came to rest on his shoulder.
"The Sphinx," said Sarah, "Who does it represent?"
"Some great big ugly bugger with no nose," said Jareth causing her to giggle.
"Idiot," she teased, "You can never give a straight answer to anything can you?"
"One of the joys of being a Fae," he said pressing a kiss to the curls atop her head, "On your feet now anyway, I asked you dancing not to a lecture on Egyptology."
He got to his feet and offered her his hand with a showy bow which she happily accepted, letting him lift her to standing before kissing her gloveless hand.
"Might I have this dance Your Grace?" he teased.
Sarah curtseyed playfully, "By all means Your Majesty," she said as he led her to the floor. He turned her under his arm before moving her to the gentle waltz. Not caring for ceremony or the eyes on them, Sarah cuddled close to him, smiling into the shoulder of his jacket as she heard him singing softly along with the woman on stage. They passed several dances oblivious to those around them and Sarah thought nothing of it when his hand left her waist for a moment until she heard the eerily familiar music echoing through the room. She looked up to see his amused grin at her expression as the singer took up the song he had sung to her in the crystal ballroom.
"Jareth…how?"
"Like I said, I know who to talk to…and who to pass a music score onto," he said spinning her out of his arms before turning her back in to him so her back was pressed against his chest. He leaned down to whisper in her ear, "After all, what would tonight be if we didn't have our song."
"Our song," said Sarah as she effortlessly followed his footwork.
"Have we not been there for each other my love," he said turning her back to face him, "As the world has fallen down?"
Sarah giggled, "You're just one walking romantic cliché today aren't you; roses, romantic opera, our song," she said before pressing the lightest kiss to his lips, "I love it."
"Don't get too used to it," he said as he took her round the floor, "This side of me only comes out on very special occasions."
"Well I also love it when you're a bad boy so I'm sure I'll cope, I did fall in love with the Goblin King after all, not Prince Charming," said Sarah snuggling into him, "Sing to me."
Jareth did as he was bidden, singing the song he had written solely for her in her ear as they danced, the female voice on stage fading into nothing in Sarah's mind as she was transported back ten years to her fondest memory of the Labyrinth. As the song came to a close she clung closer to him, letting him know that she had no intention of pulling away this time. His hand left its place at her waist to tilt her head up to his before he covered her lips with his own, kissing her deeply as every emotion he had held back from her came out full force. Sarah gave herself up to him, knowing even without his kiss that he possessed her body and soul.
"Let's go home," she said as he released her.
He took her from the floor and soon the usher was bringing them their coats. The coach was already waiting for them as they left the theatre and Jareth handed her into it before climbing in beside her, standing on no ceremony as he pulled her into his arms. Sarah nuzzled into his neck, loving the smell of him as she placed nervous little kisses against his neck.
"So," she said, feeling him shudder under her touch, "Any more stops on this whirlwind seduction of yours?"
"Seduction?" said Jareth toying with her hair, "You kissed me precious."
"Complaints?"
"Not at all," said Jareth, turning her face to his and kissing her for emphasis, "I've been waiting to do that for eleven years."
"I think I have too, I think I fell in love with you the second I read your book," said Sarah gently unknotting the ribbon that held his hair in place, "Do you mind if we make a slight detour before we go home?"
Jareth smiled down at her, "Whatever you want my love."
Sarah grinned at the endearment before leaving his arms to cross the coach to speak to the driver, "Could you take us to the north end of the park please?"
"Certainly miss," said the driver, "The rate he's paying me I'd take you to Vancouver and back."
"She really doesn't need to know that my friend," said Jareth.
"How much did tonight cost you?" said Sarah as she crossed back over to him.
"That's between me and Khepri's credit card my darling. All you need to know is that seeing you smile is worth every penny and, with a hope that you never come to your senses and realise how utterly unworthy I am of you, just a taster of what I will give you should next week go our way."
"You're going to spoil me," said Sarah cuddling him close in the chill October air.
"Probably," said Jareth into her hair, "Perhaps you'll let me corrupt you sometime too."
Sarah giggled, "Hmm, no doubt there, I've seen that whip of yours."
Jareth groaned, "Please don't put images like that in my head when I'm trying to be a gentleman, I do so hate cold showers!"
Sarah blushed at his words and buried her face in his jacket to hide it. She heard him chuckle as he wrapped his arms around her to protect her from the chilly wind. The rest of the journey passed in silence, the only noise being the rhythmic clack of the horses' hooves on the road that was soon lulling Sarah to sleep. As the coach pulled to a halt Jareth pressed a kiss to her forehead to wake her.
"We're at the park precious," he said softly, "Though you look as if you'd be better going home."
"No I'm fine," said Sarah pulling some money from her purse before Jareth could protest and handing it to the driver, "We'll be fine from here, thank you for tonight."
"Not a problem ma'am, you have a good night now," he said when they both left the coach.
They watched him pull away before Sarah took Jareth's hand and tugged him into the park, the Fae already knowing their destination as he followed behind. As they stepped onto the bridge Sarah turned to him, her face an odd picture of happiness and nerves. Jareth ran a finger down her cheek.
"What is it love?"
"Help me make a crystal again," said Sarah.
"Why?"
"Please," said Sarah catching his hand.
Jareth frowned, "You're tired, it'll exhaust you," he said, "We can make one in the morning, when you're more awake."
"Tomorrow will be too late," she said, "Please darling."
"Oh how I wish I had some magic words to tell you that you have no power over me at times," sighed Jareth as her dark eyes widened in pleading, "Alright I'll help you but the second I feel it's too much for you we'll stop ok?"
Sarah beamed but then frowned at the way he was eyeing her dress, "What's the matter?"
"We seem to have a problem of fashion logistics unless you expect me to go up and under," said Jareth gently tugging on the material of her skirt.
Sarah smirked, "Somehow I don't think the cops would believe any story we could come up with if they found us in the park at twenty to midnight with your hand up my skirt."
Jareth's hands traced up the side of her bodice, his thumbs tracing the silk just beneath the swell of her breasts, "Well I have to reach your tattoo somehow and the alternative is just as likely to raise an eyebrow or two," he said feeling the hitch of her heart beat beneath his right hand, "Plus I may get a little distracted."
He smirked at the colour that touched her pale cheeks as she took one of his hands and laid it over her dress where her tattoo would be.
"We'll be fine like this," she said a little breathlessly, "Help me."
Jareth dropped the bravado, knowing any lapse in concentration could harm her and slowly he helped her form another perfect crystal, loving the elated, if a little tired; look on her face when the sphere came to rest in her hand. Sarah stroked the crystal momentarily with her thumb before looking up at him.
"Can I change it into something?"
Jareth shook his head, "You'll need more lessons to manipulate it and you're too tired."
"You said the other day I was quick to learn to make a crystal," she pleaded, "Please Jareth, let me try."
"What's this all in aid of anyway?"
"I want to give you something, a gift for tonight, to say thank you," said Sarah, placing her free hand over his heart.
Jareth covered her hand with his own, "I need nothing more than your love Sarah, that's all I've ever wanted from you. I don't need any gifts."
Sarah leaned up to kiss him softly, "Please? I promise to stop if I feel too tired, this is important to me."
Jareth took her hand and led her off the bridge and over to the bench, sitting her down beside him. He frowned at the crystal in her hand for a moment before covering it with his own, "A compromise then," he said, "I'll teach you to manipulate it but I'll take some of the work, I'll be a vessel for your wish. I won't know what you're creating until it's complete but I'll help."
Sarah nodded happily and slowly Jareth talked her through the manipulation, Sarah able to feel his skill with magic passing through the crystal and into her own hand. Slowly she began to silently make her wish, the crystal shifting beneath her fingers until in her palm sat a perfect circlet of silver rather than the crystal orb. She closed her hand tightly around the bracelet and brought her fist to cover her heart, her other hand reaching beneath his hair at the back of his neck, "Ask me," she said softly.
"Ask you what?" said Jareth.
Sarah glanced behind her at the clock tower, "You know what to ask me; quickly, it's only a minute till midnight."
Realisation dawned on Jareth and he smiled as he reached out a hand to cup her cheek, "But I don't want the first anymore or the third and I already have the second."
"Yes you do," said Sarah, "So long as it goes both ways. Ask me Jareth, please."
"Fear me?" he said breathlessly.
"Always," murmured Sarah resting her forehead against his.
"Love me?"
"Forever."
"Do as I say?"
Sarah smiled before kissing him softly, "I am and ever will be your slave if you'll be mine?"
"You know I have been," said Jareth, "Since the first day I ever saw you."
"Then this is my forever," said Sarah pulling back and slipping the bracelet around his wrist, "I love you Jareth and if things go our way this means that I will follow you wherever you want me to go and that I'll be whatever you want me to be."
"Just be my Sarah, forever."
Sarah pulled him down into a fierce kiss, her arms tight about his neck as she sealed her pledge to him, "I love you," she said pulling back, "And it feels so good to be able to tell you that."
Jareth smiled as the clock struck midnight behind them, "You know I'm suddenly glad Oberon sent me here, very glad. Poetic really that I had to lose everything to get all I ever wanted," he said, "To think we nearly didn't have this chance."
"It's the past," said Sarah taking his hand, "How about taking me home hey?"
They left the park hand in hand, the path familiar and slow as they enjoyed the silence of each others' company. As they reached two blocks away from Sarah's house though she stopped and leaned on a nearby lamppost to pull off her shoes.
"Beautiful as these are they're killing me," she groused, stockinged feet testing the pavement beneath her, "At least it's not raining."
"Perhaps not but I can't have you walking on a cold pavement with nothing on your feet," said Jareth before sweeping her up into a bridal lift before smiling wryly down at her, "As if this wasn't the plan anyway."
Sarah blushed, knowing she had quite secretly been hoping for the turn of events since she saw the shoes and still often given to the remembrance of his deceptively strong arms cradling her. She said nothing but wrapped her arms around his neck as she laid her head on his shoulder. He carried her the final few blocks to her house, only setting her back on her feet at the top of the porch, bending to kiss her before unlocking the door and letting her step inside.
The house was dark and silent as they quietly crept into the living room, shedding coats and shoes as they went. Sarah reached up to tug off his tie and popped the first few buttons on his shirt before fluffing up his hair.
"There you are," she said, "Handsome as you looked tonight I prefer this look any day."
Jareth gently traced the fall of her necklace with a fingertip, "I would be lying if I said I wasn't hoping to see you dressed in something similar to this sometime soon," he said, "Much as I love however you look, tonight you rival the greatest beauties of Avalon."
Sarah laughed, "That's a fine pair of rose tinted glasses you've got on there," she said toying with the circlet around his wrist.
Jareth took hold of her shoulders, "I speak only the truth my darling, you are by far the loveliest woman I have ever beheld and I will never have you belittle your looks in front of me."
Sarah frowned, "Jareth please don't flatter me in comparison to them; I've seen Titania and her maids and that picture of Anna, they're so unfathomably beautiful and I could never compare," she said, "I know I'm more in your eyes but don't compare me please."
Jareth gave her an amused smile, pulling her into a tight embrace, "As you wish my funny little coquette," he said before burying his face in her hair, "But know I will always think you the most beautiful. Sarah darling, stay with me tonight."
Sarah stiffened in his arms and pulled back quickly, "I…I don't know if I'm…"
"Not like that," said Jareth quickly, "I will not deny that that would be the sweetest pleasure I have ever known but, with you, I have no wish to go from one kiss to a swift night and a forgotten morning, this is worth far more to me than that. Just stay with me, sleep beside me and let me wake tomorrow with you in my arms so that I know tonight wasn't just a dream."
Sarah relaxed but kept her eyes closed as she fiddled with a button on his shirt, "Of course I will," she said before glancing up at him, "Jareth I'm sorry, I promise I won't make you wait long, it's just…well you know my history and with what happened the other day…"
"Hush, I know," said Jareth, "And I will wait as long as necessary for you to be comfortable. This is hardly the best environment anyway, Toby liable to enter without knocking, your parents only just down the hall and able to hear every moan…"
Sarah shuddered as his voice dropped to a level she had never heard even in his playful teasing as he whispered in her ear.
"And I so long to hear you scream as you come fore me precious."
The ground and Sarah Williams would have become suddenly more closely acquainted had it not been for his arms about her as her legs went out at his words.
"Oh that's not fair," she moaned, "You just speak and I…"
"You what love?"
"Bastard!" she hissed beneath a giggle, "You never play fair."
"I'd be no fun if I did," he said pressing a kiss to her forehead, "Now then love, I believe its time I took you to bed."
Sarah smirked up at him, "My feet still hurt to walk," she whined playfully, giggling as he huffed in mock agitation before lifting her up once more.
"What have I gotten myself into?" he said.
"Probably one of the toughest adventures you'll ever go on Goblin King," said Sarah as he effortlessly made for the stairs.
"No doubt there precious," he said shifting her to over his shoulder as she shrieked in surprise, "You'll wake the whole house like that, now stop squirming or I'll hang you by your ankles."
"Cruel old thing."
"Sarah love, I'm the Goblin King, hardly conducive to hearts and flowers twenty-four hours a day. What was that you were saying about an adventure?"
"Bastard."
"Of course."
"Jareth?"
"Yes love."
"Take me to bed."
A/N: Hope you enjoyed it. Please r&r and I'll see you all in a week.
Nova x