Author's Note: How Long was originally a one shot. Someone then asked about an actual plot. So when this came, I thought to tack it on. How Long is not a story, but a collage that may or may not be added to. Also, I do not own Labyrinth. But sometimes it seems to own me.
"If you don't enjoy my Labyrinth, you're under no compulsion to stay."
"No, it's just…"
"Just what?" Slow but firm interjection slinked through his sensual lips. That characteristic smirk. Piercing through all of Sarah's excuses in a fatal instant, leaving her breathless once more.
"I mean," a glance to the side in the vain attempt to gain ground…
"What do you mean, Sarah, tell me…" cocking his head, letting his feather flyaways quiver inches away from her cheeks.
Yes, he'd come to stare her down.
Oh stare he did with those seductively caustic eyes—foible of foibles, distraction of distractions! The Goblin King had undone her again, despite everything.
And still she wanted more.
"Madness…" she gasped under her breath.
"You say that so often…" teasing with the familiar refrain, "if you don't enjoy yourself go back to your little flat and play with your phone and your computer. I won't trouble your addled little brain a hair. Say the word, and I am no more than a figment of your imagination…"
"But that's what stings the most!" At last Sarah huffed, in full possession of her indignation once more.
"What? What is it that stings…" he trailed—baiting her. Let his hips open casually, showcasing those slender spandex legs.
Temporarily losing her focus, Sarah couldn't help noticing the way his body shifted at the question.
"That you can just flip a switch," she uttered with sudden resignation, "make reality a dream in a matter of moments, leaving my heart as its only witness."
The Lord of the Labyrinth appeared mildly moved by her soliloquy. But the look of fleeting concern which crossed his features was precisely that—fleeting.
"Grow up, Sarah."
And he was gone.