Oh, I have been waiting for this chapter. This was the first chapter that I wrote for this story before it turned into what it is today, so I am excited to see how much it has changed. I am also writing this little note before actually writing it, so who knows how I will feel afterwards, lol.
Okay. I hope you enjoy. I hope that I enjoy it, too. XD
O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o
"Toby, are you ready?" Sarah calls from the foyer of their parents home. She stands in the hallway looking into the mirror, mounted by the front door, as she puts her earrings in. "Come on, twerp, we should have left five minutes ago!"
"Oh, Sarah," Toby's mother, Karen walks in from the kitchen to see the kids leave, "you- oh-" Karen pauses to see Sarah in her gorgeous slim fit, spaghetti-strap, tea length silk dress. The top of the dress is a dark plum that fades into a light lavender as it gently flows just below her knees, with tresses that fall like delicate flower petals. Her long bangs are braided behind her head as the rest of her lightly curled hair falls naturally along her shoulders. Her look is complete with a dark plum shall, earrings, and dainty bracelet to match her simple black heels. "You look beautiful." she smiles to her step daughter, as she welcomes Sarah for a hug and kiss on the cheek.
Sarah chuckles at her sentimental step mother as her grin reaches her ears. "Thank you, Karen, but just wait until you see Toby. He is the man of the hour."
"Not without this," Sarah's father's voice chimes in, as he comes out of the living room with a Polaroid camera at hand.
"Oh, Robert, how many rolls of film do we have?" Karen asks as she grabs the camera from his hands.
"We're fine, we have, at least, 3 rolls,"
"That's it?" her eyes grow large at the amount as she starts to frantically look for more.
"Oh goodness," Sarah grins at the two as she turns around to grab her dark plum colored handbag. "Toby! Let's go, we don't have all night! I swear he's worse than me," she mumbles to her parents as they await at the edge of the staircase.
As soon, as Karen rushes a brand new roll of film into the camera, they hear the door open from upstairs. Slowly but surely, a blonde head appears at the top of the stairs, and, sure enough, there is a tuxedo attached to it.
"Ta da," Toby opens his arms as Karen shoots the first picture. He stands in a simple, yet elegant three-piece suit, thin collar, buttoned up all nice and sleek, and complete with a light blue bow-tie. His hair is trimmed a bit, but still wild and boyish. He gently stretches the collar of his shirt as she tries to straighten his tie, right before he straightens the cuffs at his wrists, and smiles to his mother as she takes, at least, five more pictures of him. "What do you think?" he slowly turns to show them all his nice suit.
"My baby!" is all Karen says as she snaps more photos. "I can't believe that my baby's going to prom. What is a mama to do?" she says as she starts to sniff, backing up to let him walk on down.
"Mom-"
"I need a tissue-" their dad holds a complete box for her to use before she can finish her statement.
"Oh geez," Toby scratches his head in awkwardness, as he makes his way all the way down the stairs.
"Wow... Toby," Sarah says walking up to the boy that is now past her height, even with her heels. "You-" she gasps with a smile. She has never seen him this grown up. "So you do know how to use a comb," she says as she straitens his bow-tie, that is already straight. Karen takes a picture.
He complies with a chuckle of his own, "And you own a dress?" he says popping her dress strap with the teasing comment. "Who knew you owned anything other than fifty pant-suits." they both chuckle at one another. Karen takes a picture.
"Wow," Sarah finally says looking at him up and down. "You-" Karen takes a picture.
"Are you..." Toby looks to his big sister. Karen takes a picture. "Are you... about to cry-"
"No!" Sarah turns around to avoid everyone. It takes her a moment to add. "I got this... stupid glitter in my eye from this damn dress-" Karen takes a picture.
"You're... about to cryyyyy," Toby starts teasing her. Karen takes a picture.
"Shut up!"
"You're about to cryyyyy,"
"Why aren't you picking on your mother?" Sarah turns to playfully hit him with her purse. Karen takes a picture. "She started crying this morning and hasn't stopped."
"Well, I expect mom to cry. She's my mom." Toby can't stop chuckling. "But you... you're-"
"You be nice to your big sister," Sarah reprimands him as she pulls him in for a hug. Karen takes, like, 5 pictures. "I'm just so proud of you," the snapping from the camera doesn't stop.
Toby takes a moment to realize that he had been pulled into a hug. After looking to his parents in confusion, he shrugs and is more than happy to oblige with a hug back, happy that she is so happy for him. "Thank you, Sarah." he whispers. Karen takes a picture.
"Aah," Sarah lets go of him with a smile as she wipes her small little tear. "Like I'm gonna cry after just finishing this make-up job." she points to her face. "I look too good for that!"
"You do look really pretty, Sarah." he takes a moment to look to her dress. "Like, really pretty." he eyes her, knowingly. "Trying to impress anyone tonight?" he elbows her extremely playfully.
"Ugh," she heavily rolls her eyes. "Let's go,"
"My, you're in such a hurry, I wonder why." Toby rises his eyebrows, smile never quitting.
"Tell me, Casanova," Sarah leans in on one hip, "Since you are smart enough to know how to match Ms. Francesca's dress with your goofy colored bow-tie, do you, also have the corsage ready for your date tonight?" she asks knowing the answer.
His faces changes from humor to horror as his eyes bulge. "Oh no- oh shit- I didn't even get one. What am I going to do-" Sarah holds up an index finger to him as she turns to pull out a corsage from behind. She had gotten it for him, knowing that he would forget. Toby can't find the words. "Wha- you- I-"
"Toby, language," Karen sternly says as she takes a picture.
"It's the little things that matter, I know." Sarah stops him. "I don't even think that she knows she is supposed to get one of these, I don't think they have proms where they... come from..." she looks confusedly into the distance. "But, anyhow..." she lingers as she glances at the clock in the living room. "Oh God, we have to go! We're late!"
"I can't believe that you won't even let me drive to my own senior prom," Toby shakes his head in shame.
"Hey. I'm sorry that I don't have a car," Sarah holds a hand to her chest. "You can have it if you want. I don't need to go-"
"Oooohhhh no no no no no no," Toby says as he starts shoving Sarah to the door. "You are not getting out of this one. I need you for this... And you have a date tonight,"
"Excuse me?" Karen asks taking a picture.
"Toby, look what you started." she waves a hand at Karen.
"You, Sarah, have a date? And I was not informed?" Karen, dares to lower her camera. "You, Sarah Williams, who swore never to date men again, after college? The same Sarah Williams who swore to become a nun before going on another date as long as she lived?"
"Toby, I am going to pound you..."
"I mean, I almost believed it, but-"
"Karen. It's really not a big deal-"
"Big deal?! When are we meeting him?"
Sarah's eyes bulge. "Umm... uh..." Sarah can't speak. "You aren't!" she suddenly shouts. "It's... he's... he's just a chaperone. That's it!"
"I don't think so, we are setting up a meeting. What's his name?" Karen says as she grabs a pen and pad from the foyer.
"He doesn't-"
"It's Francesca's Uncle. His name is..." Toby sits for a moment, "What is his name, Sarah?"
"He doesn't have one," Sarah hisses through her teeth.
"Well, It's Mr. Kingsley, I'll get his name from Francesca tonight."
"Do it, and I'll leave you there, and they can take you home." Sarah's evil eyes pierce his in hatred.
"And why isn't your date picking you up?" Karen crosses her arms.
"Because he's NOT my date!"
"Yeah, totally not your date." Toby says, factually. "I did not specifically hear him ask you, and I did not hear you say yes. You keep telling yourself that, Sarah," Toby pats her shoulder.
"So, you ARE going to prom WITH a date. And you thought you could fool me, Sarah? I know you. If you weren't trying to impress anyone, you'd be wearing a pant-suit." Karen says picking up her camera again.
"Toby, you are, officially, dead!" she starts chasing him around the foyer.
"It's so worth it!" he laughs as he runs.
"You can borrow my car," Robert says out of the blue.
"What?" Sarah turns her head in confusion at the sudden change in subject.
"You, or Toby can use my car for tonight. I really don't feel right with either of you being car-less, tonight, and it is Prom..." Robert offers.
Toby and Sarah look to one another as they both think of the clunker of a car that their dad have which is a really old, '71 Pinto. It's so bad, it's good. They both shake their head in rejection and speak in unison. "No thanks,"
"Hey," Robert sounds offended. "Just remember, you had a choice."
"Okay, Sarah, don't we have to leave?" he lifts his brow. "Let's go-"
"Wait a minute!" Karen protests. "I need a picture before you go off and grow up!"
"Another picture?" Sarah says.
"Are you kidding me? Be happy that I'm not following you to prom to get pictures there."
"Was she this bad for you?" Toby whispers to Sarah.
"Just wait for graduation." she whispers back.
"Now, come on. Sarah, you know the drill. Go stand in front of the staircase and hug each other and smile. I want a good picture of the siblings going to prom together."
"Karen I'm chaperoning, so I don't think I am qualified to say that I am going to this thing-"
"I think we just established this conversation a few minutes ago, honey." Karen says backing up to try to get a good shot. "Now act like you like each other, scoot in, scoot in-"
"Oh geez,"
"The quicker we appease, the quicker we can leave." Sarah says with a photogenic smile.
"Point taken." Toby does the same.
"Okay, okay, 1... 2... 3... Say Prom!"
Toby and Sarah smile. "...Prom..."
Karen takes a picture.
As the image oozes out, both Sarah and Toby pick up all of the other Polaroid pictures that were left on the floor from the earlier candid photo shoot. And as they do so, Karen puts her camera down as she goes into the living room to grab something special.
"Look at this," Karen says coming back into the foyer with a picture frame at hand. She brings up the newest picture, she just took, alongside the image in the picture frame, from years ago, to show Toby and Sarah. "This is Sarah's prom picture, about 15 years ago, when Toby was only 3 years old," she starts to cry as she sees how much each of them have grown.
Toby looks in awe, as Sarah starts to enter the crying boat right along right Karen. In the picture, Sarah is holding a well dressed toddler-Toby on her hip as they smile. She is wearing bright, teal, strapless, tight-fitted dress, long dark hair primed to perfection, thick makeup, and teal pumps to finish the look. Sarah cringes as Toby laughs. "Wow, Sarah. You thought that looked good?"
Sarah points to a baby Toby, "What about you with that little butt hanging out of the little tux. I remember you guys were going to some banquet that night..." Sarah leans her head to the side. "Oh, Toby."
"I can still show my butt, if you want. A couple of the guys were talking about mooning later on tonight, anyway" Sarah elbows him with a smile.
"Okay, okay, I have kept you guys long enough." Karen says as she shakes her head. "You guys get out of here and go have a good time."
"Alright, let's party!" Toby says as he and Robert start to walk out the door. But Sarah is feeling a little more sentemintal.
"Hey, Karen?" Sarah catches her right before leaving,
"Yes, dear?"
"Do you mind if I... borrow these pictures?" she looks down to them, "I want to copy them. I promise that I'll give them back this weekend."
"Absolutely dear!" Karen says pulling the old image out of the picture frame to give to her. "Hold on to it as long as you need." she smiles to her daughter as she pats her shoulder.
"Thanks," she smiles back as she slips both the old and new pictures in her purse.
"Wait-" Toby says bursting through the front door to speed back up the stairs.
"What are you doing?" Sarah calls with no answer. After a few moments, he runs back down,
"I forgot my mask!" is all he says as he rushes out the door.
Sarah sighs, "Damn, I thought I burned that stupid thing..."
Karen chuckles. "You'll be fine, they're just paper faces."
"Ugh,"
"Alright, alright, now, get going!" Karen leads her out the door. "You've got a prom to get to!"
O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o
"I should not let you leave this house, not after everything that you have already done." Jareth says with a low and serious tone. He is done being angry. He is done being unforgiving. He is done punishing.
"I know," Francesca's voice is small and weak. She hangs her head low, holing both hands in front of her face, as she awaits endless reprimands from her Uncle.
"In fact, I should use this opportunity to take you home."
"I know..." her head never moves. She can't look at him, as she starts to tear up.
"Your father is going to find out, and I will let him do with you what he will."
"I know," she starts to cry.
Jareth looks to his sorry niece, trying so, very hard to keep in all of her emotions. The room remains silent as her aura darkens and churns within her. She is usually bubbly and annoyingly arrogant as she boasts her strength and knowledge of what she has learned, thus far. She is usually trying everything she can to get under her uncle's skin, and she is usually not sorry about anything she does. But after what she has done, she has transformed into a completely new creature. She stays silent, she doesn't boast, or laugh, or try to get under his skin. She knows her place. She knows the punishment that she deserves, and she expects to get it. She knows she deserves it. She is surprised that she is still here.
She honestly doesn't know why they are still here, on the night of prom, no less. She expected to be transported home that day she granted Toby's silly little wish- the day she used magic in the human realm, something that is vastly dangerous. She endangered the lives of many people- she injured a human senseless. She continues to dwell on that moment in time. She tried so hard. She tried not to, and she failed. She couldn't believe that she failed. Her gentle cry grows into a silent sob as she pulls her knees close to her.
He won't stop her from crying. What she has done, what she has been through, Jareth knows that she needs to relieve these emotions in some way.
She granted a wish. She broke the one rule that was given to her. She did the one thing that was required that she not do.
She fell in love.
She grated a wish.
Jareth sits looking to her.
"What do you think I should do with you?" he asks.
She sniffs peaking a look to him among her long tresses, "Huh?"
His voice doesn't raise, he doesn't grow in any anger, he just asks in a gentle manner, "What should your punishment be?"
She slowly rises her head, yet she still refuses to look to him in the eyes. She sniffs again, trying to stay calm. "We're supposed to leave... right?" she shrugs at her answer.
He nods, "That we are," he says standing. "But that's not all." he gently sighs, knowing how she will react. "When you grant a wish prematurely, not only are you forced to leave, you go home, are severely punished, as you well know, and you will not be allowed to return," her eyes expectedly grow. "never again."
She heavily exhales and inhales. "I... umm..." she isn't allowed to refuse.
He further ensures this so he knows that she understands. "You may not step foot in this realm anymore. You may, no longer, have any contact with human life, not until you enter your Matriarch stage of your Fae life cycle." he looks to her.
"But... But that's at least a thousand years, in human physiology-"
He nods. "You will never see him again, Francesca."
'Never see Toby again?'
She continue her hurried breathing. "I... I under..." she starts to hyperventilate, "I-I underst..."
'Never... see him again?'
"I..."
'I'll die. I'll just die!'
"I-I..." the feeling in the back of her head starts to return at the thought of never being able to see him again. "I..." the pain starts to pierce her mind. She holds her head in terrible pain. The magic in her is refusing this. It yearns to be with Toby. "I... Can't!" she starts to sob.
"Francesca," he kneels to his niece. She starts rocking back and forth, "Francesca breathe," he remains calm, as he kindly commands.
She slowly obeys as she starts to calm down a little. "Uncle Jareth, I-" she frivolously shakes her head no.
"I know," he nods, "Which is why I am willing to make a deal with you,"
...
She stops everything as she looks up to his eyes, hands continuing to hold her head in excruciating pain. She doesn't ask, she just lets him continue.
"Tonight, I will let you go to this event so you can see young Tobias," he stands expecting her to follow suit.
She slowly stands, not believing this, at all, "But... B-but-"
"But," Jareth continues looking to her, "If you want this to work- if you want to go to this thing tonight, then I will let you," he turns to her, "but you need to know that is this a risky ordeal for the both of us,"
She shakes her head refusing this to be true, "What's the catch, here?" she bravely asks, "This sounds too good to be true..."
"You're right," he nods with stern features. "because if you agree to this," Jareth pauses to look out the window of their living room, "then that means that you will agree to forfeit your powers." he takes a moment for this to sink in, "After that, I will have to let your father to take matters from there."
Francesca's eyes start to water at the proposition, "Forfeit my..." she can't believe that he is giving her this chance. "You..." she manages a whisper. "You would... do that for me? How... is that possible?" she doesn't even think twice.
"You will not get them back, not for a while. I will have to transport your power back to your father and he will have to do as he sees fit after he hears what you've done,"
Francesca starts to become concerned, "But, if he makes a wish and I can't grant it, then what will happen?"
He sighs, "That is the risk that you will need to be willing to take," Jareth replies. "In all honesty, the headaches and the pain you feel will be the least of your worries." he turns to her, "Your mind is at one with your magic. If you hear him make a wish, and you are unable to make it happen, then there could be dire consequences for you."
Francesca knows better than to take his warning lightly. "So, you're saying that I am putting myself in danger?"
"Unfortunately, people tend to do these kinds of things for love," he muses at her comment.
"And if I agree,"
"You will have until sunrise tomorrow to say your goodbyes. After that, you and I will both go home, and we will not return." Jareth's voice turns dry and stoic.
"And if I say no,"
"Then we will leave now, and you would still have your power, at least for a time,"
"You are making it really hard to say no, Uncle Jareth,"
"I do recommend that you say yes, Francesca," he says walking away from her. "But do not, for one moment, think that I am agreeing to do this out of the goodness out of my heart. I am willing to let you risk your life for my own selfish desires. You aren't the only Fae here that would leave with unfinished business." he keeps his back to her.
Smiling, Francesca can barely contain her thanks to her generous uncle. No matter how he tries to hide it, she knows that he understands her position. No matter how selfish he tries to seem, she knows that not everything is as it seems with him. She immediately runs to hug him from behind. He stays still, letting her hug his torso. "Thank you, Uncle Jareth. Thank you!"
"You better start moving, you only have until Sunrise."
O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o
It's Saturday evening, 8:00 p.m., the sun is setting, the city is busy. There is a line of limos and cars trailing the round-a-bout of the entrance of The Hilton Hotel. It's P.S 113's Prom of 2003 and the hotel's rented ballroom is slowly being filled with teenagers and adults of all shapes and sizes. Right as guests enter the foyer of the building, they are greeted with a ticket-man, and just beyond that is the bust of a lovely fairytale backdrop for each couple, or group, to take a picture, just before entering the festivities in the grand hall. The room is darkly illuminated for a romantic feel, full of bright lights and loud music. The walls are covered in black silhouettes of hearts, masks, and roses, and in the main wall, right behind the Live Band that had been booked, a large black silhouette of a couple in Victorian clothing, dancing. There are tables outlining the walls, covered in white cloth, and full of endless of food and drink for every guest to enjoy. Everyone is dressed in their brightest and most lovely dresses and tuxes as the band plays an array of well- known songs, like the Kelly Clarkson one they blaze in the speakers on the walls.
Sarah and Toby have just entered through the front doors of the fancy hotel. Seeing the ticket-man, which is one of the teachers from the school. He guards the entrance of the ballroom to make sure that everyone that enters is, indeed either a student from the school, or a chaperone of sorts. The siblings stand in line as they see everyone is in their respective masks, as each one has to take them off to prove their identity.
"You look stupid," Sarah says flicking Toby's red, long beaked mask.
"Hey, I like this mask. It is a masquerade, remember?"
"Yeah," Sarah murmurs. "I remember," she scowls.
"Why didn't you bring a mask?"
"They're... not my thing," she dismisses.
"Why?" Toby asks with surprise. "They're awesome. And wasn't it your idea, since you're in charge of this?"
"It was not my idea and it's none of your business." Sarah says, a little annoyed.
"Geez... Don't yell at me," Toby guards himself with his hands. "It was just a question."
"I'm just..." she sighs, "I'm just not very fond of them. It was the kids' idea. And that's fine." the conversation fades as they hear a popular song being played in the ballroom.
The line is quite long, and they try to keep themselves entertained. Sarah, regardless on how she feels about this whole ordeal, can't help but see how interesting it is on the inside. The darkness, the strobe lights, the loud laughing and music she hears- prom sure has changed since her days in high school, and it's become more like a rave than anything else. She is actually starting to get a little hyped, herself. She thinks that she may have even the tiniest hint of fun, after all. She does have Sheena to keep up with.
Well... Sheena and-
"God, how long is this stupid line going to take?" Toby asks, body endlessly fidgeting.
Sarah shakes her thoughts away to see Toby practically shaking his whole body. "Toby, calm down," Sarah rests a hand on his shoulder.
"I just want to get in there, already,"
"Gee, I wonder why," Sarah raises her eyebrows.
Toby rolls his eyes. "I wanna see my friends. I wanna have fun. I mean, it's a seniors pastime. I wanna enjoy my last big party before I graduate." Toby says anything to steer clear of the real reason why he wants to get in already.
Sarah does not like his choice in words. "Hm," Sarah purses her lips. "well, that makes one of us." Sarah stands straight as she starts to feel a bit uncomfortable.
"You aren't even a little excited for tonight?" Toby asks with concern in his face, something that can be seen, even with his mask on.
"Look," she starts, "I know that this is a special night for you, and I'm glad that I get to share it with you." Sarah grins. "For you, it is an awesome night to enjoy and remember with your friends and party hard in one of your last days in school. But to me, it's another night of teacher duty." she shrugs, "even more so, since we are in a hotel and you hooligans of teenagers want to marinade everything in booze." they both chuckle. "But, the worst part is, this isn't just another milestone that is coming to pass before your graduate, it's THE milestone. After this, you're gone. Poof. Forever. And I don't want to think about you leaving me forever, right now, so let's change the subject." her smile starts to scare Toby.
Toby throws his head back in arrogance. "Ugh! This again. Sarah I'm not-"
"Toby," she stops him. "New subject."
He sighs as he starts to think of another topic to discuss as they get closer to the door. "What about your prom night?" Toby asks as they near the entrance. "Do you have any memories of it?"
Sarah continues to chuckle, "Oh yeah. We, as a society, were still going through a lot of changes in a lot of things, sex, race, fashion, you name it. That night was a huge blur, but it was an interesting blur. That's the night that I actually became friends with Sheena-er Mrs. Jones."
"That's cool," Toby nods. "Who was your date?"
Sarah hunches over in distaste. "I didn't have one,"
"Oh," Toby instantly regrets the question. "Sorry,"
"Eeh, I lived, right?-" she shrugs it off.
"Next,"
"-Yeah, so you're officially cooler than I ever was. Good job." she grins as she pats his back.
"Oh, please! You had to get the date for me," Toby eyeballs her. "If my big sister had to ask out a girl FOR me, then how cool can I be?"
"You're the coolest," Sarah says pulling her little brother in for a side hug.
"Next,"
"That's us," Sarah says as they show themselves before nearing the backdrop for their prom picture.
"Great. More cameras," Toby says as they see the photographer motion them for their prom picture.
"It's just routine, smile and count to three," she says as the flash comes and goes.
"Oh yeah, getting my prom picture taken with my big sister, slash teacher. I'm so cool," he rolls his eyes walking off.
"Hey, you can re-take it when Francesca get's here," Sarah pats his chest, as they finally enter in the ballroom.
It takes them a moment to take in their tremendous surroundings, room dark, lights bright, and music blasting their ears. They can hear a new song switch in the speakers as the bass thumps the walls right into their hearts. Toby motions a hand to his sister as he leaves to find a few of his friends, leaving Sarah to herself. She is stuck in speechlessness wondering how everything ended up turning out so well. The decor looks amazing, the live band is freaking awesome, the lights are fabulous- Sheena did one hell of a job in such a short amount of time.
"Yay, you're finally here!" Sarah barely hears her friend scream in hear ear among the loud music. She can feel someone tugging at her arm to get her attention as she turns to see Sheena in a lovely dark midnight blue strapless dress.
"Hey!" Sarah shouts back before they steer clear from the loud music into a smaller hallway that leads to a few restrooms to talk.
"I can't believe that you actually showed up, tonight," Sheena says with the most wide smile.
"I needed to see how much of my hard work you managed to screw up," Sarah teases as she nudges her friends shoulder. "But you far exceeded my expectations. It's awesome."
"Turning off the lights made all of your decorations look so much better," Sheena teases right back.
Sarah sticks out her tongue as she touches the fabric of her friends dress. "You look stunning, Sheena."
"Girl, speak for yourself," Sheena says doing the same with Sarah's dress. "You are slaying this dress! I didn't know you owned a dress!"
"Why is everyone saying that?" Sarah exclaims smacking her friends shoulder.
Sheena continues to giggle. "So, where's your date?"
"Where's yours?"
"Guarding the punch bowl, you?"
Sarah shrugs. "I dunno," she says without a care.
"What, didn't you show up here with him?"
"If by date, you mean Toby, then yes I did- ow!" Sheena slaps her back.
"You didn't!" Sheena says, surprised at her friend.
"What?"
"You made him ride with you here?"
"So?"
"That's embarrassing and terrible!"
"I don't have a choice. My car has turned into shit."
"Toby should have picked up his date, and your date should have picked YOU up!"
"Okay, we all live in the same place, though. It wouldn't have made sense if he picked her up and then my... "date"... pick me up, if me and Toby live together, and they live together. It's a waste of gas."
"Don't act stupid, Sarah! You don't live with Toby. Your date easily could have picked you up at your apartment." Sheena is extremely disappointed in Sarah.
"I just walked in the door, and you're already giving me the third degree?"
"I'm just catching you on your bullshit," Sheena dismisses. "You better not embarrass Toby tonight. You better let him have a good time."
"Excuse you, I had no intentions of doing so! One mother is enough for him, thank you." Sarah crosses her arms.
"Mmhmm," Sheena hums at her ridiculous friend. "Come on, we are stuck at punch duty." she adds as she pulls Sarah back into the ballroom.
O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o
"Ugh," Sarah scoffs as every teen comes up for a glass of punch. "I hate masks. Why does this thing have to involve masks?" she turns to speak to her friend after the music had died down after a time.
"It's a masq-"
"It's a masquerade, yeah, yeah," Sarah mimics Sheena's answer as she takes a drink of her own glass of punch.
"Even the band has gotten into the spirit. Man, the lead singer is such a hunk!" Sheena flutters her eyelashes as she observes the young boy band up on stage singing the pop favorites.
"Well of course they're in the spirit." Sarah shakes her head with a grin. "They're kids from the school, you creep- pretty sure they're theatre kids. Only a theatre kid can pull of a vocal range like that."
"What was their name again?"
"I dunno," Sarah says as she sits in a chair, "something about a disco and freaking out... or something?"
Both teachers sigh as they sit back to watch how the evening had unfolded until now. The music has died down a bit, some of the students sit back with a plate or two while watching the live band play. There are few dancers out now, but just enough to keep the dancing energy alive and kicking. Sarah and Sheena murmur to themselves for a time, until Sheena starts to remember something.
"Hey, Sarah."
"Yeah?"
"How long have we been here?"
Sarah looks to her phone for a time, "About... almost two hours- wow." she perks up. "The time went by really fast,"
"But... Weren't you supposed to have a date tonight?"
Sarah shrugs, "I guess he's not showing up,"
Sheena take this into account as she severely eyeballs her friend from the other side of the punch table. Sarah can feel Sheena's eyes lighting her head on fire. Turning, she sees Sheena fuming in anger. "What?!" Sarah shouts.
"There never was a date was there?" Sheena whispers.
"What do you mean?"
Sheena stands up straight as straight as a pin needle. "I mean, there never was a date was there? You planned this whole thing so I could take your place at being in charge of the tear-down of this thing!" Sheena says, playful anger at her friends brilliant plan.
Sarah hears her friends anger and takes his opportunity to have her own fun, "Oh, looks like you got me, Sheena. Can't pull the wool over your eyes, can I?" she stands with a grin growing, "There never was a date. I'm so ashamed." Sarah over-acts with a hand over her forehead. "But a deal's a deal. You're stuck here," Sarah's evil little grin shines brightly.
"You pretty little liar." Sheena shakes her head in disappointment. "But now that you've fessed up, I am charging you with criminal offence and your punishment will be to help me clean afterwards!"
"And what was my crime?" Sarah's jaw drops.
Sheena turns up her chin, "Lying to your best friend."
"Sarah!" Toby's voice suddenly calls from the side as he pulls her arm to grab her attention.
She turns to see a panicking little brother fidgeting and growing more nervous with every moment he stands there. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know what's wrong. "Has she arrived?" she turns to the crowd.
"Sarah, she's over there-" he points to her looking a little timid as she sits down next to a friend. "and everyone is about to get up and dance to a slow song and I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO."
Sarah looks to him with confusion at his blatant stupidity. "Just so up and ask her to dance, you goofball." she points a hand to the crowd.
"What?!" his eyes grow in terror. "I- I just can't do that!"
Sarah's face scrunches in confusion as she looks to Sheena, "Toby, just... go up to her and ask her to dance. That's it. It's not rocket science."
Sheena adds, "It's not like she's gonna say no, you did invite her, right?"
"Y-yeah," he starts to calm down a little.
"You're guaranteed a yes, Toby. Trust me. She is just waiting for you to ask. So stop making her wait."
"But how do I do this without fumbling everywhere and making a fool out of myself?" he pleas for any help he can get.
"Well, first you need to breathe. If you hold your breath too long, you'll pass out, and I don't think you want that. Secondly, just go to her and say, "Hey Francesca, would you like to dance?" - Really, Toby, if you can juggle seven flaming batons, you can ask a girl to dance." Sarah crosses her arms.
"But... b-but..."
"Hey, why don't you use your mask?" Sheena chimes in.
"What do you mean?"
"If you feel uncomfortable talking, then just don't say anything. just put on your mask." she says and she points to the red thing on his head. "It would be a cute little moment, you know? A mysterious being coming to ask her to dance?"
Sarah's eyes bulge, this time, "Say what?" Sarah's word bite the air.
"Think about it, Sarah, it would be cute. Toby, just go up to her, but don't say anything. Just take her hand and dance with her. Don't ask, just take a gentle initiative. If she pulls away, then just leave her be and she wouldn't even know who you were. If she accepts, then you're in! Easy peasy." Sheena smiles, so proud of her idea.
"You... You think that could work?" Toby asks lowering his mask. Sarah steps back, still not used to that thing.
"Geez Toby, I are you compensating for something with that beak?" Sarah tries to lighten his energy a bit.
He turns to her, mask full on, "You tell me," he grins, "you had to change my diapers for three years.
Sarah grows in disgust, "God, you're such a pig," she slaps his shoulder as he laughs.
"Go get her Romeo!" Sheena says brushing him off to do what he needs to do.
"Are you sure this is gonna work, you sure she wouldn't recognize me?"
"If she grew up on a farm, she definitely will- ow-" she gets punched in the arm by Sheena.
"No need to worry Toby, this is just the thing that all girls fantasize over, all the time, right Sarah?" Sheena winks as she elbows Sarah to help build his moral.
Sarah's eyes never shrink, she just continues to look to Sheena with eyes that are about to pop out of her sockets. 'She doesn't know, she doesn't know, she doesn't know-' "Toby, you'll be fine- Sheena, I have to pee - Toby, break a leg," she throws a thumbs up as she starts to walk away "... literally," she sticks out her tongue.
Toby, rolls his eyes with a grin, "Gee, thanks,"
Sheena chirps, "Oh, I'll go with you-"
"No!" Sarah quickly replaces her terror with a light chuckle. "No, no, someone needs to watch the punch, remember? I'll be back in a minute," she says as she leaves the conversation before it gets worse.
O.o
Sarah really did have to pee, she just happened to find the perfect window to leave and be on her own for a while. Exiting the bathroom, she sees that just about every student has gotten back on the dance floor to start dancing again. Hearing a slow song start, the lead of the band announces everyone to find a partner, guy or girl and have a nice, slower dance with a classic favorite. Sarah knows that this is her cue to start to find her little brother, discretely, of course. She wouldn't miss this for the world, observing this classic prom memory in the making. She is his sister, damn it!
Sarah stands on the side lines to finally find Francesca sitting to herself, and looking to be a little intimidated by everything around her. Sarah wants to go over and talk to her, but she decides against it, since Toby should be finding her soon. Biting her lip, she starts to wonder here Toby is, hoping that the little twerp didn't chicken out of this. Sheena's plan, no matter how STUPID it may be, should work on a little school dance. Lord knows that Sarah just wants something to go right for Toby, for once, this week.
She starts to fidget a little as she sees that she can't seem to see him anywhere, though that probably doesn't mean anything. She sees Sheena on the other side of the room, and uses charades to ask her if she's seen Toby. Sheena shrugs and shakes her head no, as Sarah keeps looking.
And looking...
...
"Looking for someone?"
Sarah hears a voice call out just as the new song begins. Sarah's inhales and keeps her breath hidden. She stands up straight with her head held high, as she feels someone close the space around her. She turns around to see The Goblin King, head tilted in the slightest in a warm greet. In the dimly lit room, she can see the outline of his simple dark colored suit, in a modern style, that fits comfortably to his form, but not excessively so. He has dark sleeves, and a dark tie to match. His whole being is edgy, yet elegantly simple. The only thing remotely wild about him is the long tresses in his lightly trimmed hair flowing with the natural breeze of life's movement.
She takes a moment to look at him, thoroughly impressed by how toned down his look is.
"Who knew you could dress so simple," she says gently crossing her arms. "I figured you would relish an event like this to look like..." she struggles to think of the best word, "You." she grins.
He rises a brow at the thought, "Humans are such simple beings. Naturally, I had to match." his grin grows as hers shrinks. He takes this moment to see her lovely ensemble. "But, you never do follow the rules. Do you?"
"Excuse you?" she becomes a tad bit offended. He continues to smile.
"You always have to be the most beautiful creature in the room. You must not be human, at all." he finishes as he catches her sudden blush.
She looks to him, not buying whatever he's trying to do here, "I suppose you do catch more flies with manure than with vinegar, Mr. Kingsley,"
"And here I thought we were past formalities," he sighs, "I'd much rather be on a first name basis, Sarah," Her heart skips a beat. She tries, her very best, to hide it. "Such a pity."
"What do you want?"
"Pardon?"
"You only act this... charming when there is something in it for you," she grows her nerve.
He, indeed, smiles wickedly at her comment, as he starts to see something from across the room, "All in good time, Ms. Williams, but for now, you might want to turn around. I think there is something you ought to see," he looks past her as she slowly spins to finally see Toby.
She holds her hands close to her heart to see the scene. He stands idle in the vast group of his friends dancing together as Francesca slowly stands from her seat. Sarah is anxious for them to finally start dancing. His mask is still on as he slowly advances her. Francesca sees the mysterious person slowly approach her, and she doesn't move. She is shy as he grows ever so closer to her.
He holds out his hand.
She holds out hers.
"Young Tobias is quite the charmer, himself, hm?" Jareth's voice echos in her ears as they both see Francesca reach for his hand.
"He has been a hot mess all day. Lord knows where he got this, all the sudden," she says leaning her face in on her palm, thoroughly enjoying the sight before her.
"They say that influence can be consumed at a young age," says the tall blonde next to her. "some, as young as infancy." she shoots a side glare towards him. He, however rises a gloved hand at his puzzled features. "Though, this curious site to behold, does seem a tad bit familiar, wouldn't you think?"
"Oh, here we go," she rubs her face in the palm of her hand. "You know I really should-" she starts to point in Sheena's direction only to see Sheena jumping in the air at the site of Sarah and her date.
"Just imagine," he stops her as they both gaze at the two young love birds. He points to Francesca, "A lost girl wondering helplessly around a sea of people in a party, completely oblivious as to what to do, or how to act, not really knowing what she is in for," he switches to Toby, "Then, all of the sudden, someone catches her eye," they both observe as Toby starts to take his mask off. Sarah's jaw drops. That wasn't the plan... "he removes the paper face to show who he really is, hoping that she would oblige him in a dance," they see Francesca accept his hand and close the distance between them, "In that instance, he takes her heart away as he can feel it beating within the palm of his hand," Toby holds her close as they start to move, "And they dance." he narrates what both he and Sarah had just witnessed from afar.
"How..." she whispers, "How did you know that was going to happen?" she looks to him, with eyes of a different nature.
He meets her eyes, as her heart skips a beat, again, "Sometimes history tends to repeat itself,"
She loses any words left in her repertoire. They hold their gaze with one another, mentally battling with who would look away first. Sarah loses, lowering her gaze as she deeply inhales looking back to her post. She can't help but give the tiniest smile with the trip they just made down memory lane. "You have quite the... distinctive memory. I don't know how you do it."
"It's a curse," he muses. "I don't have many pleasant ones,"
"Oh," he meekly mutters. She can't look up to him, now. "Well, I hope you are, one day, blessed with something nice, for a change." she sheepishly says, not wanting to face his eyes with such weak ones of her own.
His smile lightens in mood, "Would you care to enlighten me," he asks as he holds out a hand. "and help me make a few new ones?"
She sees his hand in the distance, but continues to look away, hoping to find Toby and Francesca, only see that they have been lost in the sea of people dancing. She refuses to look in any direction that will have her in visual contact with Sheena. She has no choice but to grow some courage and finally look back up to him.
"Wouldn't divulging in this, rather... enigmatic relationship, just hinder you further?"
His smile never leaves, "Are you afraid to acquiesce in my request, my dear?"
She looks deep into his eyes, with words that carry nothing but truth. "I am never frightened."
"Neither am I,"
She accepts his hand.
He can feel her heart pulse through his touch.
O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o.O.o
You know, I think that I am going to stop here. I planned on, at least 2,000 more words, but I think I have found a good break to rest for a while.
Man, this is getting exceedingly interesting, isn't it? There is a lot going on, and even more is about to come.
I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I can't believe that it has been a year since I started this story- and this was the origional chapter I wrote for the story as a whole. My how stories change. Stories have a life of their own, don't they?
I will see you extremely soon, I can't let this night drag on for too long, can I?
See you soon!
I.L.C