AN: Well, here it is, the final chapter. I really have enjoyed writing this story, but now, sadly, it must come to an end. I hope you all have enjoyed it this far. Now, without further a due, I present the final chapter.

Chapter 30: Happy Endings

December 31…

(Will's POV)

I walked up the stairs to the apartment, my feet practically howling in protest. It had been a long day at work. So many after-Christmas specials which meant special discounts at the craft store, meaning working more hours. Hey, I love the extra cash but the holiday rush is a bit much. All I wanted to do was curl up in my bed and sleep through the next two weeks. Sadly, this was not happening. I sighed as I opened the door and locked it behind me when I was quickly, and eagerly, greeted by Mogwai and Crepe with a loud welcome home.

Will! Will! I missed you! Mogwai yipped, his little rear wiggling to make up for his tail unable to wag.

Hello human… Crepe added, her own tail twitching. Ah, I see the assassins were unsuccessful again.

Ignoring her comment, I patted Mogwai on the head and gave Crepe a couple strokes before both got bored and took off to sleep on the couch. After our adventure Christmas Eve, I discovered that my DNA was premaritally altered to a bat-hybrid creature. I had hoped during my recovery that I might have been restored back to my human self, but upon hearing Mogwai and Crepe arguing over a sunny spot on the couch — and the fact I still had pointed ears and fangs — I knew I'd never be the same. Though, at least now I could help out the pets instead of stressing like other owners. Well, almost all other owners. Al had gotten her requested cat potion when Helga and Zelda dropped off another container of Spring Water for my wounds. So at least there was someone else like me. Now it was only the matter of keeping Al and Crepe from arguing when we were out in public.

Laughing to myself, I looked up and saw it was five o'clock. Only two hours until the party, and I still had to make my special raspberry filled, double chocolate cupcakes. That, and make extra for when Al got home and wanted to "help" with the baking. I set my keys on the rack and shuffled into my room. After a shower and changing into some sweatpants and a plain T-shirt, I made my way into the kitchen to prepare for a cupcake typhoon.

Twenty minutes later, I had two cupcake trays in the oven, while I prepared the filling and the icing. I did that in the dinette because the heat from the oven would melt everything. I had just finished making the icing when I heard a key turning in the doorway. Mogwai and Crepe reanimated and rushed to the door as a very exhausted Al made her way inside, practically slamming the door behind her.

"Why so many parties? Why?!" she asked to no one, trudging into the living room and flopping down face-first onto the couch.

"Well, buck up and go shower, missy. We also got a party to go to."

"That is a new word that must never be spoken in my presence ever again," she groaned.

"Well, I locked away the weapons so you better just bring your earplugs." I couldn't help but chuckle as Al hissed low and long, reminding me of a Xenomorph. It must have been a really bad day at the bowling alley. "We're going to the New Years party in Halloween Town. And don't forget, Zack is coming at eight, so you better get busy unless you want him waiting in the living room while your panicking over what shoes to wear."

"Bite me." I smirked as Al pulled herself off the couch and trudged her way to her room. By the time the cupcakes finished baking and cooling, I had filled the cupcakes and was getting ready to frost. Not even started on the first when the doorbell rang.

"Damn, it's him! Willy, will you get the door?!" Al called from the shower.

"Yeah, I got it!" I yelled before answering the door. "Well hello, handsome. Ready to party the year away?"

"That's the plan," Zack replied with a smile. He had a dark grey button down shirt under a black casual suit jacket, dark wash jeans and working man's boots. He was about to take a seat on the couch when I grabbed his wrist and dragged him into the kitchen.

"Not so fast, Zack-Attack," I scolded. "I already did the filling, so you are gonna help frost cupcakes."

"Do what?"

"Frost the cupcakes." I handed him a bag and showed him a simple swirl technique, and then we began frosting. We managed to finish all but five when Al graced us with her presence.

"Hey scrumptious!" Al said, emerging from her bedroom in black skinny jeans, a vibrant red shirt, a blue jean vest, and knee high boots. Her hair was tousled and she had on some light make up. Glancing over at Zack, I knew she had made the desired impression.

"Bout time, I thought the closet ate you again," I joked, closing Zack's hanging jaw.

"It almost did." Al laughed as Zack stood to embrace her. "You got some frosting right there," she said, standing on her tip toes to lick the icing off his face.

"Thanks for getting that," Zack said, smirking slightly and pecking her nose.

While those two got mushy, I decided it was my turn to change. I slipped from the kitchen — smacking Al's hand away from the cupcakes — and went into my room. I chose a pair of distressed denim jeans with a crinkle and crease wash, a black striped tank with scoop neckline and racerback, and bronze rope sandals. I decided to keep my hair natural, and combed my fingers through it. After applying a little mascara and a bit of lipgloss, I joined the lovebirds back in the living room.

"Okay, I just need to pack up the cupcakes, and then we…" I looked up and groaned as I witnessed a very heated kiss between Al and Zack. I rolled my eyes. "Hey, this ain't Make Out Point, you two," I scolded, hands on my hips.

Al pulled back and gave me a look. "You are just jealous."

"Whatever. Just save it for the New Year, okay? I need both of you to help carry these things to the party," I replied, pointing to the cupcakes. "Oh, Zack, could you grab that stereo for me? I promised Jack I'd bring it."

Zack nodded, gave Al one last smoldering kiss and went to get the stereo. "Party pooper, no cake for you…" Al muttered, glaring darkly at me.

"Just pack up the cupcakes, Juliet. You'll have plenty of time to smooch your boy at midnight, okay?"

With a grumble, we got the cupcakes packed up and readied to head to Halloween Town. I handed my tray to Zack to pull out my key when Al suddenly asked, "Hey wait, what about Kat?"

"Oh crap, I almost forgot!" I panicked and fumbled for my phone. It had gone off earlier but I had been in the cupcake zone, so I had only now just remembered someone tried to text me. I scanned my messages and found one from Kat.

"Well?"

"Looks like Kat got invited to a New Years party with a couple of coworkers," I repeated, looking over Kat's message. "Seems it was last minute, and she apologizes for bailing. Apparently that cute guy she's been crushing on will be there." I shut my phone with a sigh. "Guess she's looking for a little midnight kiss too."

"A little? So you think…" Al said with a chuckle, winking over at Zack.

He leaned down and kissed her cheek. "Anything you want, sweetheart," he commented. "Though, come to think of it, sometimes it feels like Kat doesn't exist."

Both Al and I laughed. "Yeah, we don't really see her much but I guess that's the life of a socialite for you," I commented. "I was hoping she would come to Halloween Town with us, but going to this party might land her in good with the boss for that promotion."

"Yapyapyap! Let's PARTY!" Al cheered.

"Haha, okay Ally, just let me get the key."

Taking my new key, I inserted it into the lock and turned the handle.

XXX

(Narrator's POV)

Halloween Town…

The moment they entered the room, the three friends were surrounded by darkness. Al shrieked, clinging to Zack as he quickly grabbed the tray of cupcakes she dropped. Will just laughed as she whipped out her phone, flipping on the built-in flashlight. She then led the group down a long tunnel made of cobblestone. Al clung to Zack's arm like a life line while Zack acted as her brave protector, though unease was evident in his eyes. Finally, Will alerted her friends to stop when they reached a stone door at the end of the tunnel. Handing her phone off to Al, Will reached over and pushed the door opened. On the other side was a starry night that looked over a graveyard. As the three walked out, Al noticed they were walking out of the very Burial Chamber where they had rescued Sally.

Al shivered at the memory. "If I see one spider here, I may loose whatever part of my brain I have left, " she said, eyes darting around.

"Oh come on, Ally Cat," Will joked. "It wasn't that bad. Now come on, we're still a ways from the party."

"Joy! More walking."

"I'd carry you if I could, but Will's got my playing pack mule," Zack apologized.

"Stupid Will and her stupid pack mule-ing…" Al muttered, glaring at Will as they continued walking.

They continued walking down the path until the reached the Old Graveyard. Unlike the last time the girls were here, the large tree — still covered in moss and cobwebs — was decorated with large glowing jack-o-lanterns, and black and orange streamers. The surrounding tombstones also sported some fresh spiderwebs that seemed to shine in the surrounding light fixtures. There were tables set up with all types of food, and a large area had been cleared to make room for a dance floor. And all around the place was filled with all their friends from Halloween Town. Each one has dressed up for the night, though the costumes mostly consisted of silver and black party hats.

"You sure this is a New Years party?" Zack asked.

"Halloween Town, remember?" Will chuckled. "They may celebrate the other holidays now, but they still add their own holiday flair to the occasion."

"It'd be interesting to see their take on Valentine's Day…" Zack muttered slightly.

"Oh, we are so coming back on that day," Al cheered, smiling widely.

"Willa, Alice. Welcome!"

The three friends looked up to see Jack walking towards them. He was dressed in his usual suit and bat bow tie, with the exception that his suit was solid black instead of the iconic pinstripe. Jack also now sported a long midnight cape with a royal purple lining and a high collar. It gave him a regal look. And on his arm was Sally, looking drop dead gorgeous in a new outfit.

The couple approached three young humans. "I'm glad you were all able to make it, my friends," Jack greeted. He then turned to Zack and extend his free hand. "And you must be the young man courting Alice. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"The name's Zack. It's an honor to meet the Pumpkin King," Zack said, a bit star-struck. It was also a little intimidating as Zack had to look up to match Jack's seven foot tall height.

"And I thought I was the NBC fan," Will whispered to Al.

"You still are the Queen. Zack…he's more like the knight," Al said, winking with a chuckle.

"Hey, I'm just glad we got the time off," Will said, turning back to address Jack and Sally. "This party looks wicked. You did a frightful job."

"Thank you, Will," Sally replied with a blush.

"And I love your outfit. Did you make that?" Will asked.

Sally looked down. She wore a strapless black and silver stripped taffeta bustle gown. The neckline of the gown went straight across her chest and was centered with a small silver bat brooch, but featured off-the-shoulder sleeves made of spiderwebs. The same webs also draped in a netting along the skirt that seemed to reflect the lighting of the moon. On her feet she wore black pumps with rounded toes, and small heels. As if the dress weren't enough, Sally had also wore midnight black crystal drop earrings with pretty, vintage-inspired swirl and delicate teardrop finish. The earrings popped against her autumn hair, which was down and flowed around her in semi layered, tumbling waves.

Sally smiled back at her friends. "Oh, it's nothing really," she replied modestly. "The designs you and Al showed me from your witches glass did help."

"Oh, you are so innocent…" Al muttered before her smile widened. "It does look really good."

"Yes, all of you ladies look lovely this evening," Jack commented. His eye sockets then fell on the stereo in Zack's hand. A small smile formed on his mouth. "Oh, Will, is this the musical device you were telling me about?" he asked, getting excited.

"Yeah, it's an old karaoke player my parents gave me a while back," she explained. "I have some songs on my old iPod that I think everybody's gonna love."

"Splendid! Though, I'm puzzled by this contraption." Jack released his arm from Sally and walked to Zack's side to inspect the stereo. "How are you to play records on this device?" he asked. "I see no needle, let alone anywhere for a record to be placed."

"You just plug it in," Zack explained.

"Actually, this one takes batteries," Will interjected. She swapped her cupcake tray for the stereo and then turned back to Jack. "Say, where do you want me to set this thing up?"

"The band is playing right over there," Jack directed. He pointed to a small stage by the old tree where the Zombie Band was playing. Behind them was a small table big enough to hold Will's stereo.

"Thanks Jack." She started walking away before looking over her shoulder at Zack. "Hey Zack-Attack, mind taking these over to the treat table while I set up the music?"

"Aye aye, moi capitan!" Zack tried to salute, though the task proved difficult while carrying cupcake trays.

"I thought I was the captain!" Al stated. She pouted before saying, "…I'll help." She then handed her tray and followed after her friend. By the time she caught up, Will was already talking with the band members.

"Well, lookie here, boys," Jimmy said, nodding to Al. "Jane Saw came to play."

"Y'all certainly know how to flatter a girl," Al said with a laugh.

"You got to admit, they know just the right nickname for everybody," Will said before turning back to the band. "Hey thanks for letting me play DJ, guys. I just wanted to make sure you enjoy the party too."

"No problem, Baby Bat," James replied, setting his saxophone to the side. Jimmy and Jim also set their instruments aside as well, and then the band left the stage while Will set up her stereo. She hooked up her iPod Nano and selected the first song, "Sing, Sing, Sing" by Benny Goodman. Smooth and fast jazz began to pour from the speakers, catching everyone's attention. Once they listened a few minutes, the beat seemed to take over them and soon, everyone was dancing.

However, Al was not so fond of the music. She grabbed the iPod and began scanning through the prerecorded songs. She slowly narrowed her eyes at the old school jazz songs that made up the list: "Hey Pachuco," "Come Fly With Me," "Mr. Bojangles," and a few others caught her eye.

"Blah! I mean, I love me some of Sinatra songs but jazz? For real? What made you think of this junk?" Al asked.

"Oh right, I forgot you're not a jazz fan," Will said, knowing her friend would've preferred something with a little more beat. "I had a little trouble figuring out the playlist, so I decided to get a second opinion. Do you remember my friend in Florida, the one we had that Skype chat with?"

"I think I met her once or twice. What was that name?" Al answered, trying to remember. "… Her name was Elena, right?"

"Yeah, the one with the cute mini schnauzer," Will answered, stepping down from the stage. "She's a NBC fan like me so I bounced ideas off her. We thought using the actual movie songs would cause too many questions, so Elena thought swing and jazz would fit better, especially since Jack is a huge Sinatra fan."

"Kudos for him," Al said with a snort. "Bad for me who only likes a few of his songs."

"Well, good thing I included some of your favorites," Will added with a smile. She took the iPod and scrolled down to reveal some of the other songs: "Johnny B. Goode," "I'm Still Here," "We Got The Beat," "Dancing In The Street," and "You'll Be in My Heart" just to name a few.

"Oh, hellz yes! 'We Got the Beat!' That song is my jam!" Al replied. "Though why not go with something more Halloweenish, like 'Monster Mash' and 'Thriller?'"

"Too obvious," Will stated, turning up the volume. "I mean, I even tried a few Disney songs, but it all just seemed to generic."

"She has a point," Zack said, coming up from behind and wrapping his arms around Al. "Say little lady, I know you're not fond of jazz music, but would please give this poor boy a swing on the dance floor?"

Al smiled. "I'm a sucker for the pity cases," she said, taking his and and letting him sweep her to the dance floor.

Will shook her head as the two ran off. Meanwhile, the party was headed off to a great start. Everyone was enjoying the music, and out dancing or enjoying treats off the snack table. As the night drew on, some of the other Holiday Leaders showed up. Saint Patrick and Santa Claus came together, wearing their finest looking robes, while Uncle Sam brought along a couple fireworks to launch at midnight. Sadly, the representatives of Thanksgiving and Easter had declined, as their past experiences in Halloween Town had a bad effect on the two animal leaders. Aside from that, the other Leaders did take time to converse with each other, but eventually everyone was off enjoying the party. At one moment, Jack was watching the dance floor as Sally was dancing along to "Do You Dream About Me." He smiled dreamily as he watched her move to the music, finding himself unable to keep his gaze off her.

"So, nervous?"

Jack jumped before turning to find Will chuckling while his nonexistent pulse slowed. "Must you always do that?" he asked, trying to compose himself.

"Not my fault your easy to 'surprise' when you take a trip to Fantasy Land," Will teased, leaning against the old tree. "Come on, we practiced this for two days straight. You got this, Jack."

"I just…" He sighed, drawing his gaze back to Sally as someone spun her around. "I don't know if I can."

"Come on, everything will be fine," Will encouraged. "Here, I have the song set on my phone. Just press this button and then tap the arrow on the screen." She handed him her iPhone and stepped back, a smile of encouragement on her face. However, at the sight of Jack's doubtful look, she frowned a little.

"Though I see your point," she noted, looking around at the crowd. "If we could just distract everyone so you could get away…"

"Is that my favorite princess!"

"Oh for bog sake, no…" Will eyes widened in horror as suddenly she was caught up in a pair of strong arms and twirled around. She didn't need to open her eyes to know she had once again been caught in a death grip by the winged-archer of Valentine's Town. And he wasn't letting her go any time soon.

"PUT ME DOWN!"

"Oh, sweet little Willa, I've missed you so," Eros replied, continuing to spin. His wings fluttered and lifted the two of them off the ground. Meanwhile, Jack looked on with a mixture of shock and slight humor.

"Hello, Eros," the Halloween leader greeted, offering a slight bow. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sir."

Eros finally stopped spinning and landed long enough to shake Jack's hand, though he kept one arm around Will as she struggled to free herself. "The pleasure is mine, your highness," he greeted with poise. "Tis an honor to meet another monarch among the Holiday Leadership."

"Oh, I did not realize you were given a royal title."

"He's not." All three heads turned to see a man in his mid thirties approach them. His hair was chestnut brown that extended into a full beard. The man wore a modern style grey tux with pink vest, and around his right wrist hung an amethyst colored rosary beads with a silver metal cross. He also wore a pair of silver glasses with rose-tinted lenses over his dark gray eyes.

"My boy, I thought we had discussed this behavior of yours. I'm still baffled how Psyche manages to put up with it."

"My thoughts exactly…" Will muttered.

"Ah, Miss Willa," Valentine addressed, taking her hand and shaking it professionally. "Forgive me for lack of proper introduction, my dear. My name is Valentine."

"Hey, nice to meet the man in charge. At least someone has manners." As she watched Eros and Valentine, she couldn't help a small chuckle. Oh my gosh, she thought, it's like watching a real like Kyoya and Tamaki.

Noting Will's half-hearted smile, Jack decided to interject. He smiled and held out his hand to introduce himself. "Hello, sir. I'm Jack Skellington, Leader of Halloween Town."

The man turned to Jack with a smile. "Saint Valentine, Leader of Valentine's Town," he introduced, shaking Jack's hands. "I do apologize, Mr. Skellington, for Eros' behavior. My associate tends to let his flamboyant nature overtake him around eligible young ladies."

"Oh, not at all," Jack replied.

"Well I do mind!" Will shouted. She was still struggling against the surprisingly strong grip the Valentine Angel had on her. "Does anyone have a cattle prod?"

"Now, why so hostile, my dear girl? I would think my sweet princess would be singing and dancing," Eros crooned, giving her a pouting look.

"Maybe because your here…" Will muttered under her breath. Finally having enough, she shifted into her bat form and flew from his grasp, transforming back at Jack's side. "Did I not make it clear last time that you bug me?"

"Oh my, what a cute little trick." Eros laughed coyly, looking at Will with a particularly mischievous gleam. "Now your match is absolutely perfect."

"What are you talking about?" Will asked, her tone grave as she glared at Eros.

"I can explain," Valentine interjected. He removed his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I must apologies to you, Miss Willa, but I'm afraid there's been a…complication. It would seem Eros used one of his arrows during his last visit, and from my records, he shot a young male bat with a love arrow."

"WHAT?! You mean that was you!" Will shouted. Jack quickly took ahold of her shoulders as the girl charged. "You idiotic birdbrain! What the hell made you think I'd want a Twilight romance?"

"Well, of course I knew he was a vampire, sweet princess," Eros commented, flipping his chocolate hair. "After all, Vally did get very cross the last time I shot a human and animal pairing."

"I'm gonna deck you!"

"Rest assured, Miss Willa," Valentine interjected, clamping a firm hand on Eros' shoulder. "The effects for the arrow should have worn off by now. Though, if there's anything I can do to make up for this endeavor, just let me know."

"Oh, count on it, sir." Will was still fuming, but eventually she began to calm. Then, Jack began to notice the wheels turning in her head. She turned to Jack, a cruel smile on her face.

"I do believe I found your distraction, but you're gonna owe me big time for this."

"What do you mean?" he asked, not sure he wanted to know what plot had formed in the human girl's head.

"Just be ready to go when everyone's distracted." With that, Will quickly made her way to the stage. As the current song came to an end, Will stepped up and hit the pause on her iPod. With everything silent, all eyes turned to the stage. Once she was sure she had everyone's attention, she began to speak.

"Hey everyone! Hope you're all having a good time." The crowd cheered, and Will waited for them to settle before continuing. "Okay, since it's clear everyone's enjoying the music, I thought we'd shake things up with a little karaoke."

"Karaoke? Really?" Zack shouted, making Al laugh loudly.

"Put on 'Be Prepared' and I'll mop the floor with everyone!" she shouted

"Don't worry, everyone will get their turn," Will said as a catlike smile curled on her lips. "But first, I'd like to dedicate this song to a few people. It's a special song written about the infamous Cupid–" She paused as Eros took a bow while the crowd sheered for him. "–And… I'm singing this for my two best friends, Zack and Al. Zack, you should know that Al couldn't stop singing this bad boy the first week you two were dating."

Al's wide and playful smile suddenly dropped to a blood curdling glare. "You promised you would never speak of that!" she yelled, rage clear in her voice.

"Sorry girlie, but he had to learn sometime." Will then set the stereo to the karaoke setting before shifting through her iPod for the song. Once found, she hit the play button and waited as nervous butterflies fluttered in her stomach. She had only ever sung in public back in a high school choir, and more often kept her voice for the car radio and shower. Now, as the music began to play, she summoned all her courage, and a bit of her inner drama performer, and began to sing.

Stupid Cupid, you're a real mean guy
(Stupid Cupid)
I'd like to clip your wings so you can't fly
(Stupid Cupid)
I am in love and it's a crying shame
(Stupid Cupid)
And I know that you're the one to blame
(Stupid Cupid)
Hey hey, set me free
Stupid Cupid, stop picking on me

The crowd cheered her on as Will sang along to the song. Zack kept staring at his girlfriend while Al hung her head in defeat. Meanwhile, the Holiday Leaders were getting in a good laugh at the look on Eros' face. Clearly he had not been expecting that.

As Will continued singing, Jack made his way silently through the crowds. With everyone's focus on Will, he could easily pick his way until he spotted the object of his desire. Sally was standing toward the back of the crowd, clapping as she watched her friend perform on stage. Jack choose that moment to sneak his way behind her. He lightly set his hand on her shoulder, causing her to startle.

"Jack, it's you," she said. Then she smiled and looked back toward the stage. "I'm surprised Will is singing. She told me she hates performing alone."

"Well, she's doing me a bit of a favor," Jack replied. Taking her hand, he began to move away from the crowd. When she was about to ask what he meant, Jack placed a finger to his lips and pointed to the gate.

Seeing he was up to something, though not sure what exactly he had in mind, Sally nodded. She let him lead her from the crowd and out the back without anyone noticing as they slipped into the night.

They walked along hand-in-hand, enjoying the quiet of the graveyard as the music from the party faded into the background. Sally smiled at being able to be alone with Jack. Since Oogie Boogie had been defeated, Jack did everything he could to spend as much time with her as possible. Sure he spent at least an hour a day with the Mayor to plan tonight's party, and the past couple of days he slipped into the Human World to check on Will and Al. Other than that, it seemed every spare moment he had was devoted to her. Not that she didn't mind, though it was quiet moments like this that Sally enjoyed most.

With a sigh, she leaned in closer to his side and laid her head on Jack's shoulder.

Meanwhile, the Pumpkin King was about as nervous as could be. He was lucky Sally had her eyes closed, or she would have seen the near terror in her beloved's eye sockets. Jack had hoped their walk would help clear his head, but he could not stop the doubts creeping into his mind. How was it she could lean so close to him and not feel his bones practically trembling?

Just stay calm, he mentally assured himself. Finally, they reached the bottom of Spiral Hill. Jack gulped, knowing his time was drawing closer. Though, at the sight of their spot — oh, how he adored calling this place theirs — he turned to his ladylove, a nervous smile on his face.

But that all melted as he looked into Sally's eyes. His smile grew more confident as Jack led them up the hillside. They stood alone at the top, letting the moonlight fall on them. Neither of them spoke, just taking in the other's presence. It was Jack who spoke first.

"Amazing how much has happened this past year, huh Sally?"

"Yes, it certainly has," she replied. She began twiddling her fingers, her mind going back to Christmas Eve and all that had happened. "I was so scared, Jack."

"I'm so sorry I left," he added, noting the change in her mood. Jack took her hands in his, squeezing them tight. "I never wanted to put anyone in danger, especially you."

Sally smiled up at him, squeezing his hand back in assurance. "Please don't worry about it," she told him. Seeing the troubled look in his eyes, Sally raised their hands and kissed the backs of his knuckles, hoping it would comfort him. "Jack, no one blames you for what happened."

"But…"

"No," Sally shushed him, making him listen. "You were only trying to find new things to make Halloween scarier."

"You know, it's strange. Whenever I set out to find something new, my eyes are opened to a larger world," he added, taking one hand from hers and waving up at the night sky. Countless stars, so far and yet full of boundless possibilities. Perhaps there were other worlds to explore, and maybe one day he might see them.

Seeing that far off look, Sally felt her heart sink. What if he was going off on another adventure? It would break her heart to see him go again, but with Oogie Boogie gone for good, the town would no longer be in danger. Still, she could not bear the thought of being away from him.

With sad eyes, she looked down, not wanting to see his reaction. "You're not leaving again, are you?" Sally asked, dreading the response.

Jack looked down and smiled. "No." Sally rose her head, hope shimmering in her luminescent eyes. "Something tells me the most wonderful discoveries are a little closer to home," he said before drawing her into his gentle embrace. Chuckling at the surprised look in her eyes, Jack smiled before leaning down to capture her lips.

Caught off guard at first, Sally all but melted into the kiss. Her arms came around his neck, holding him tightly. A tender kiss quickly became more passionate as she tightened her hold. She was just so happy; Jack was not leaving! It was possibly the best news she had heard in a long time. Little did she know this evening had one more surprise in store for her.

Reluctantly, Jack pulled away from her. There was still one more thing he had to do, no matter how much he wanted to continue kissing those temptingly soft lips.

"You know, Sally," Jack began, looking lovingly into her eyes. "Speaking of closer to home, there is one more discovery I've yet to uncover, but I need your help."

"Oh, what's that?" she asked, quite curious now.

"Well, as you know, tonight is New Years Eve, and there's something I wanted to do… Now don't give me that look." Jack chuckled as he caught the skepticism in Sally's eye. "I promised I wouldn't take over any other holidays, and I'm keeping my word."

"Well, that's good news." Sally sighed before asking, "But then, what is it that you wanted to do?"

Jack cleared his throat. He had to make sure he did this right, or all his planning would be ruined.

"Well, before we planned this party, I wanted to know a bit more about this holiday. According to Will, people throw parties and like to count down before the New Year begins. They also like to make something called a New Years Resolution."

"Resolution? What's that?" Sally asked, unfamiliar with the word.

"It's a list of things a person wishes to complete that they've yet to accomplish in the past years," Jack explained. "It's like a chance to start over. After all that's happened, I thought I might give this holiday tradition a try."

"Jack, I know you like trying new things, and this idea sounds very interesting," Sally commented, "but I still don't understand. What can I do to help you?"

Now his grin grew bigger. "You see Sally, there's only one resolution I have for the new year," he began, pulling one hand from her waist to take ahold of Sally's hand. "But before I can even think about getting started, there is something I need to do before this year is over. That's where I need your help, my Sally."

Sally's heart fluttered a bit at his pet name for her. Still, she kept silent as she waited for Jack to finish what he had to say. She was still curious as to what she could do to help him.

"You see…" Jack continued, his thumb tracing small circles on her hand. "I've still yet to give you a proper Christmas gift, my spooky beloved."

"Oh Jack, I already told you that you don't have to do that," Sally replied. She was about to remind him again, but Jack placed a boney finger to her lips.

"Ah, but my clever Sally, I must insist," he suavely interjected. "You do so much for me. How can I not repay that kindness by giving you something that will make you happy. And seeing the woman I love happy brings me happiness too." He then took a step back, hating to not be near her. It's only for a few moments, he assured himself.

"However… Before I can give you this gift, I need something from you."

"And what would that be?" Now her curiosity was becoming nearly unbearable. Perhaps this is how Jack felt during his Christmas obsession, Sally thought to herself, making her giggle.

"Well, it's not much," he said softly, hoping he would not give anything away just yet. "I just need to know if you will accept this gift I have for you. You can say you don't want it, of course. I will completely understand."

Sally was shocked. Not want it? Whatever he wanted to give her, she would happily accept. Jack honestly believed she would refuse a gift from him. Him, of all people. Any gift from him, no matter if it was extravagant or the most humble thing, Sally knew these little trinkets were his way of saying he loved her, just as she loved him.

"Jack, I don't understand," Sally said. She was starting to get concerned. "Why would you think I wouldn't like your gift?"

Jack paused for a second. This was not how he wanted this moment to be. Not with his beloved Sally frowning and feeling concerned. He had to fix this.

"It's not that I don't think you won't like it, Sally. Only that… Well, this is a very, what I mean to say is, I…" Oh, he was botching this badly. After all his reviewing and rehearsing, only for him to muck it all up. It was then he remembered Will had given him her odd little phone. She had thought of this idea should his plan fail, and boy, had he gone and made of mess of things. Taking the device from his pocket, Jack fiddled with the buttons like Will had told him. He was not sure what would happen next, but he only hoped it might aide in the mess he had made of things.

Sally watched as Jack fumbled with the odd little contraption. She was about to ask what it was when soft music began to play. The melody was slow and beautiful.

Jack was surprised but wasted no time. He slipped the phone into his pocket, and then turned back to Sally. He bowed and offered his hand. "May I have this dance?"

"Why, of course," Sally giggled before taking his hand. Jack pulled her into his arms and slowly they began to sway as the words began to play.

You're in my arms
And all the world is calm
The music playing on for only two
So close together
And when I'm with you
So close to feeling alive

Sally gasped at the lyrics. They were so, so… Oh, she could not describe the feeling. As she let the song wrap itself around her, she turned to rest her head on Jack chest. "It's beautiful…" she whispered.

A life goes by
Romantic dreams must die
So I bid mine goodbye and never knew
So close was waiting, waiting here with you
And now forever I know
All that I want is to hold you
So close

So close to reaching that famous happy end
Almost believing this one's not pretend
And now you're beside me and look how far we've come
So far we are so close

Jack just could not contain himself. He had not known what song Will had picked, but the music and lyrics fit perfectly. And now that he was dancing with Sally, he could feel his confidence returning. As the music carried on, he leaned down to whisper in her ear.

"Sally, my dearest friend. I wish to give you your gift now. May I?"

"Of course, Jack," Sally murmured, her eyes still closed as she swayed with him.

Jack gulped. This was it. Slowly he pulled back from her, bringing their small dance to a halt. Before Sally could lift her head, Jack quickly said, "Wait! First, you have to close your eyes."

Nodding, Sally did as she was told. She waited in darkness as she felt Jack take both her hands in his again. The only sound she could hear were the soft notes of the music and Jack's steady breathing.

"Sally," Jack began. "Ever since I first met you, I have always felt close to you. You are the only one who sees me, not for the frightful Pumpkin King, but for simply me. Though, I doubt I could be half of who I am today if not for all the love and support you have given me. You continue to stand with me, even when my choices have lead to uncertainty, or I end up making a fool of myself. My love, I cannot even begin to tell you in mere words all that you do for me."

Sally could feel the tears brimming under her eyes. She tried to hold them back, but at the touch of Jack's finger softly brushing her left eye, she knew a tear or two had managed to be seen.

Jack smiled, taking Sally's hands back in his own before he continued. "Sally… There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about you. And recently, I've come to realize something, especially while I was away," he confessed, putting all he had into his words. "And that is that I-I don't want to spend another moment of my life without you there with me."

"Jack, I…"

"Please, Sally, let me finish or I might not be able to do this," Jack pleaded. When she was silent once more, he let go of her hands and reached into his pocket.

"I told you I had a gift for you." He brought out his hand and, taking hold of her, Jack placed his gift on her and whispered, "Open your eyes."

Oh how could I face the faceless days
If I should lose you now?
We're so close
To reaching that famous happy end
Almost believing this one's not pretend
Let's go on dreaming for we know we are
So close
So close
And still so far

As the song came to an end, Sally opened her eyes and gasped. Jack was down on one knee before her, holding onto her left hand and placed on the third finger of her hand was a simple, yet beautiful ring. The band was about two millimeters wide and made of pure gold, while at the center sat an oval cut diamond the color of pumpkin orange. Too shocked for words, Sally could only stare down at the ring before looking back at Jack.

"Sally, I know this may seem fast. After all, I have only been courting you for less than a year, but I have to say what's in my heart." Jack smiled as he spoke, though he practically trembled as she looked at him. "I love you more than anything. You deserve everything, and while I would gladly give you the world, all I can offer is myself. That is my gift to you, Sally. And, if you will have me, I would be forever a happy man if you would be my wife."

Jack watched her for a moment, letting it all sink in, before finally asking her, "Sally, will you marry me?"

Sally was…she was just… There were not enough ways to count all the emotions building inside of her. He had asked her to marry him! She waited for the morning sun to wake her up any moment so the dream would end, but nothing happened. This moment was very real. She smiled, eyes brimming with tears. She nodded her head, too chocked up to answer.

Before Jack could ask if she was all right, Sally flung her arms around his neck. He was shocked but then he wrapped his own long arms around her, and held her close.

"Oh yes, Jack! Of course I'll marry you!" Sally exclaimed, holding him tighter.

All his doubts were for nothing. How could he have ever thought she would say no? Oh, part of him thought she might, or even wanted to wait a little while longer, but she had said yes. Yes! It was possibly the most wonderful day of Jack's entire afterlife. He couldn't think of a single moment when he had been as happy as he was right then, holding Sally in his embrace. Though he would always cherish the night they had confessed to one another and started their courtship, he felt that tonight seemed extra special.

Holding her just a few minutes longer, Jack pulled back to take Sally face between his hands, just like he had that first Christmas Eve, looking lovingly into her eyes. Sally looked up at him, tears making her beautiful eyes shine in the moonlight as her hands came down to rest on his shoulders.

Without another word, Jack and Sally leaned in until their lips met in a loving kiss.