Epilogue

Sarah and Jareth walked along one of the Goblin City's rivers, holding hands and talking quietly. Neither of them had ever been in love before and they were suddenly shy with each other as they walked.

"I never asked you what you do in your world, when you aren't drinking too much at clubs and dancing provocatively for Goblin Kings." Jareth stole a glance at her and smiled.

"I've been painting, I've even had a few showings. Nothing big, just a few small galleries." She blushed a little and he smirked.

"What do you paint that makes you color such a lovely shade of red, my darling girl?" His eyes danced at her nervousness.

"This place, the Goblin City and - um - a lot of portraits of you," she admitted, watching his grin spread wickedly across his face. He grabbed her and gave her a passionate kiss, leaving her breathless.

"I would like to see these paintings," he said brightly. "I may even pose for you. How would you have me?" He struck an aristocratic pose and she laughed. He arched a brow and tickled her, delighting in her laughter. They continued to walk, admiring the way the water birds swam gracefully over the river.

"So, what happens now?" Sarah asked, staring out at the clear blue waters. Jareth's hand tightened over hers for a moment then he stopped to look at her. She was so young and had an entire life ahead of her. How could he ask her to stay? He couldn't ask, but he couldn't let her leave him either. It was - complicated.

"I suppose you'll want to go back and live your life, perhaps visit me on occasion."

"Is that what you want? For me to go back?" Sarah seemed angry and he looked at her in confusion.

"I want you to be happy, it's all I've ever wanted," he said helplessly.

"I am happy," she shouted. His eyebrow lifted and she looked around, embarrassed. "I am happy," she said again, in a gentle voice. "I thought you were too."

"I've never felt like this before, Sarah. Like I should lock you away from the world, yet be proud as you soar above me with your independence and spirit. I ache for you even as you stand here before me and I fear that ache will only grow in time. You are so young and I have no right," he said haltingly and she hugged him tightly.

"You have every right, Jareth. How often do you go Above Ground?"

"A few times a year, when I meet with other Fae royals, why?"

"And when you go, I can go with you?" she asked, tilting her head to smile at him.

"Of course, you can go wherever you like, Sarah. You're always free to do so." He looked at her, a question in his eyes and she reached up to kiss him gently.

"Then I'd like to stay here and work at my art. You can pose for me," she said, smiling. "I can still have a few shows each year and we can be together."

"Together? You would stay here, with me?" His face seemed set in stone, as if he were afraid this was all a dream.

"Well you haven't asked me or anything. I suppose I could get a place of my own here, maybe with a studio -" her thoughts were cut off as his mouth came down upon hers and blocked out every thought she'd had. She held onto him as if she'd fall to the ground if she didn't. After long moments he let her breathe and she laughed.

"The queen belongs with her king. In the king's castle." Jareth looked at her wickedly. "In the king's bed."

"I think we should celebrate," Sarah said wickedly. "How about a drink?"

She had never run so fast from him or laughed so hard as he chased her, threatening more of his special punishments.

Life was good.