Title: Perhaps Love

Fandom: Labyrinth

Parts: 4

Rating: NC-17

Disclaimer: I don't own labyrinth, don't own andrew lloyd weber, don't own

the song lyrics this fic is based around. Perhaps Love is a brilliant song

by John Denver.

Summary: Sarah is a prostitute and Jareth comes back to try and put her on

the right path.

Notes: One of my first adult fics if I remember right, when I was still

trying to figure out how everything worked, heh. Also plays around with

character stereotypes and such. I'd say this is my most requested fic by

other labyrinth archives

******

            Sarah felt her breath rush out in a sigh that sounded too old for

her years. True, she was only in her early twenties, but she felt

ancient.

 Maybe it was her situation; maybe she was just tired. The young woman

hurried to her aparment's bathroom to get herself ready for that

evening. If she wanted to earn money she would have to get her

"uniform" on. As she concentrated on applying her makeup the reflection

of a photo in the bathroom mirror caught her eye. Turning, she pursed

her lips as she realized who it was. Even though she didn’t have time

to waste, she paused to walk over to her bedside table and look at the

images. Her father, stepmother, and brother smiled at her from the

frame. Pity they couldn’t act like that all the time. After high

school her father had insisted she go to college so she could get a

real job. The fact that her real mother was having trouble finding

theatre work at the moment didn’t help her case one bit. Karen was

always trying to set her up with someone, but it was futile. She had

her own life and she would live it her own way. She really only missed

her brother. She wondered what seven-year-old was up to, but she was

not about to go back home to find out. They would not take well to how

she was handling herself... not at all.

            After high school, she had been vehement that she would be

discovered. Sarah had raided her account and traveled to New York,

thinking

that she would finally have it easy. She should have known better. Day

after day she was turned down, and she finally had to find her own

place because her mother couldn’t afford to support them both. She

supposed that’s how it was when you’re really in "the business." Now,

she was in a tiny apartment, getting by at least. She still auditioned,

but didn’t expect anything. That had once been her dream, being an

actress. But everyone knows that dreams aren’t real.

            The girl frowned at the slightest figment of a memory... something

that she had never been able to figure out... something that seemed both

reality and a dream. -Enough wasting time, Sarah! You’ve got to get

going!- she chided herself. Now she did have a "real job;" one that

kept her afloat, at least. Even though it was far from the best job,

everyone had to do what they could to survive. Her job was very real,

indeed. She had found her way into a different sort of business.

Giving herself the once-over, she nodded with satisfaction at her

outfit: tight blouse with a plunging neckline and a velour mini. True,

it wasn’t a dream job, but she had to eat and she wasn’t about to go

whimpering back to her parents for help. She would survive. She had

managed to remove all excess thoughts of dreams, fantasy, or love from

her mind. She didn’t need them; all she needed was herself. Checking

the time she rushed out the door and started towards her street,

wanting to get started while the night was still young.

---------------

            Jareth was bored. Extremely bored. After all, if you’re alive for

centuries on end, time seems to drag more than a little. The king

sighed as he glanced at his clock and saw that it was only five minutes

after he had last checked the time. He had already kicked his minions

enough for one day and there hadn’t been any calls for the longest

time. At that glimmer of a thought, a memory was suddenly triggered.

One he hadn’t thought about for the longest time, mainly because it

didn’t matter much. A girl... almost a woman, but still a girl. Ah, yes,

the one that had beaten him the last time around. He hadn’t been too

terribly surprised. After all, that was his job: to prove to the young

that they must grow up, but can still hang onto their dreams. He had

only partially succeeded with the girl... Sarah. She had indeed grown up,

but pushed all her dreams as far away from her heart as she could, even

her desire for acting. He smiled at the memory of how willful she’d

been, not trusting at all. She would never know that he really had done

everything for her own good, as he always did. The only real downside

to the job was the boredom and the loneliness. He sobered as it

occurred to him just how much reminiscing he was doing... he hardly ever

gave a second thought to his challengers... why now, why her?

             "Well, haven’t got anything better to do," he muttered, raising

off the throne with a surprising amount of grace. He briefly wondered what

she was up to, how much she must have changed, and why he even cared

before conjuring a crystal to check up on his former opponent.

            "LEAVE ME ALONE!!!" a female voice protested. In a run-down motel

room a Bible flies. The woman ducks, but in the process receives a blow

from

his fist. Angered beyond belief, she storms toward the door.

            "Now wait a minute! I’m payin’ good money for you-"

            "SHUT UP!!!" Sarah didn’t even think before racing out of the motel

room and high-tailing it back to her apartment. She might not have the

most respectable job, but no one raised a fist to her. No one. She

mentally cursed herself at the money she had left behind, but her

personal safety was more important. She knew she should probably call

the police, but then she could be arrested, as well. After all, her job

wasn’t exactly legal in New York. But you’d be surprised how easy it

was to get away with it, if you knew how.

            True, there was very little satisfaction in it, but there was money.

Occasionally she would wonder if any of her customers actually cared at

all, but soon the thought would fade. There was no need for love in

this business. She had never had that kind of love, so she obviously

didn’t need it now.

            As heavy raindrops began to fall, the woman’s pace increased, trying

to get home as fast as possible. Sarah blinked in surprise as a drop

of water that wasn’t a raindrop hit her face. –I don’t cry... - she

reminded herself. Yes, she had felt empty, ever since sometime back

when she was fifteen... she really didn’t remember why, but her current

situation didn’t help to jog her memory. As she reached her door a

sigh of relief escaped her trembling lips. Upon entering, the first

thing she did was peel off her blouse so as to examine the damage. A

large, ugly bruise was already forming on her shoulder and upper chest.

–It could have been a lot worse,- she reminded herself silently, trying

not to shed any more unnecessary tears. –It could have been worse.-

******************** 

            "Could it, Sarah? Could anything be worse than neglecting your

dreams? Your life? Some dreams were meant to be forgotten, but not yours,

Sarah. Where has forgetting them lead you? To nothing. No life, but

not death. You are merely a hollow shell, my dear.... " Jareth paused in

his commentary of what had happened when a realization hit him. Was he

any different? Yes he had his job... but what else was he? He, who

supposedly was so important to mortals. Maybe he should do something...

he certainly felt pity for the woman, and sitting in his throne watching

her wasn’t going to change anything. And she certainly wouldn’t change

on her own.

            "I’ve never done this before... normally once they return to their

homes they forget and never need me again... would it be wrong to help her

now?" A second glance at her bruised form and empty eyes gave him his

answer. Sighing, the Goblin King went to prepare for the following

evening... he hadn’t been to earth in a while, and if he was going to pay

a visit, he was going to do it right.

---------------

            Sarah bit her lip as she returned to her corner the next night.

She knew she should probably rest, but she needed to get by. Luckily she

had found a blouse that would suit her needs but not show the bruise.

Like it mattered... someone was bound to find out, anyway. She raised her

chin pridefully... no way was she going to back down... her integrity

mattered to her, and if it didn’t matter to anyone else, then screw

them. She was like Sonia in Crime and Punishment... that girl was in the

same business as Sarah, but did it for the sake of her family. To get

by. –Just like I’m doing,- she thought. True, she wasn’t exactly a

martyr, but she wouldn’t be in this position if she didn’t need to.

She supposed she could always go back, but the thought of what her

family would say banished any further thought of a return from her

head. No, she would make it her way, and her way alone.

            A stretch limo pulled up to the curb and Sarah immediately turned

on the charm. -At least the drama classes in high school count for

something,- she thought wryly. Plastering a seductive pout on her face,

she sauntered towards the vehicle and waited for the window to roll

down. Her face remained the same, but inside she was extremely pleased

with the way this one looked. He was extremely handsome and his

features seemed sculpted into his face. His eyes burned with an inner

fire, yet she couldn’t guess his purpose no matter how hard she looked.

Blond hair added to his feline likeness, a mane that gracefully framed

his face. Plus he was obviously well off.

            "You look a little lonely out there by yourself, love. Care for

some company?" he asked, smiling ever-so-slightly. His voice sounded so

familiar... almost like living music. This would definitely be better

than the night before.

            "You’re in luck... keeping people company is what I’m best at,"

she answered, lust oozing from her voice. In actuality it was more of her

acting than actual feeling... she seldom felt anything anymore. Still, it

always worked. The man’s smile broadened and he opened the door. Sarah

had been through this routine many, many times before. So many times

that she had become numb to the whole process. She knew how to make

money, and she was doing it her way. Not thinking, not caring, she climbed

into the limo, and sat beside her next customer. The door shut with a

thump

that screamed finality before the car drove off into the night.

*******************

            Jareth glanced sideways at the woman who sat beside him. It had

been quite awhile back when they had parted, and the years had been good

to

her. She was indeed quite beautiful, but would probably be more so

under different circumstances. Underneath her shell, though, he could

tell there was nothing left. No heart, no soul, not even a mind... only a

need to prove herself to the world... a need which could easily get her

killed. He knew he had only that one night to convince her to change

and he couldn’t waste one minute doing otherwise.

            "I know a motel down the road... it’s not much, but it’s suitable,"

she said, and the words came out as if she was reciting them. He smiled

slightly as he watched her eyes eating up the interior of the car... she

wasn’t used to such luxuries, obviously.

            "Actually, I had something different in mind-"

            "What?" Her voice trembled slightly.

            "It’s all right... you don’t have to be afraid... nothing like

that... you can trust me." He was quite surprised when she snorted in

disgust.

            "You can’t trust anyone in this world." The strong will was still

there. If the situation wasn’t so serious it would have been amusing

            "Maybe not in this world... " he murmured so that she couldn’t hear.

----------------------

            Sarah looked in awe at the room she had been led to. It was huge...

she had never seen a hotel room that large. And everything was so

eloquent... and here she was. She mentally kicked herself for her

appearance, but hey, ya gotta make a living some way, right? She was

far more curious about what was going on, though. The man had led her

to this room and told her to dress in the clothes provided. Something

about being his escort at some party for the evening. Why would he

choose someone like her? If it was pity, he would wake up with a black

eye in the morning...

            A glimmer of material caught her eye and she turned towards the bed.

That dress surely hadn’t been there a few moments ago, had it? It was

stunning... a long, floor-length, sleeveless evening gown of pure white

that sparkled with irridescent bits. Simple yet eloquent. Sarah

hesitated at first, not knowing if she should try it on. Finally, her

curiosity won and she carefully slipped off her outfit and let the soft

fabric of the dress cover her skin. Licking her lips with

apprehension, she moved towards a mirror.

"That couldn’t possibly be my reflection, could it?" she whispered,

floored

at the regal figure she was facing. "Maybe just for tonight I can live my

dream... maybe it wouldn’t hurt too much... ." It wouldn’t hurt at all.

She just wouldn’t let herself get spoiled. Sarah would have her

fun, make a little money, be happy for a few hours, and then...

And then...

Well, she’d just decide what she would do when the time arrived.

Hurrying, her eye on the clock, she began to brush her long raven hair

and apply makeup more suitable to this role. In the bathroom was a

diamond necklace and earrings... she put them on with trembling hands,

grateful for how incredibly lucky she was to go out to her post that

night.

2

His fist knocking on the door sounded a lot calmer than how he felt.

Jareth hoped he could pull this off... he hoped he could save this mortal

that for some reason had captured his attention after all these years.

He had considered giving her the ballgown from her fantasy, but she

wouldn’t have accepted it. She considered herself much too old for that

sort of thing now, and anyway, she wasn’t supposed to remember anything

from her adventure. There was no rule against letting a mortal

remember his or her journey, but it had never been done. Tradition was

stronger than any law. The king noted with disapproval that his mouth

had actually gone dry. Had that ever happened before? Was he actually

nervous? And if so, why? She was just a mortal... there were many more

where she came from, so what was so special about this one? He

considered transforming into the owl and abandoning the plan right then

and there when the door opened.

His gaze was transfixed by her... he hadn't realized just how much she had

grown up. At the back of his mind he wondered what in the world he was

thinking... when had he started to feel this way. But most of him was too

stunned to do anything but stare. He managed to notice that Sarah had

also found the gauze-like shawl he had left for her when he had

realized that her bruises would be exposed by the dress. Thankfully,

she didn't seem too upset.

            "You... you look beautiful," he said, although it came out an awed

whisper. Her reaction was quite amusing... and looking back on it he

supposed no one had really told her that too often. The astonishment

that was clearly on her face at his words vanished almost as fast as it

had come. "Shall we?" he asked, collecting himself quickly. After

all, it was unreasonable for a monarch to be taken off guard by a

mortal. He was there to help her get her act together, nothing more.

The woman in the doorway nodded, reluctantly taking his offered hand,

and let him lead her down to the ballroom in the hotel.

*********************************************************

The room she was in was amazing. Elegant people dressed to the nines

mingled and sipped champagne, occasionally dancing to the music coming

from the band. It was where she should be, where she belonged. Well,

where she would if she where a performer. Now... she didn't belong

anywhere, really. Pushing the thought from her mind, Sarah put on her

actress-front. -Tonight I am someone... I'm important, if only for now,-

she reminded herself, feeling more than a little like Eliza Doolittle.

Briefly she wondered how the evening would progress, what exactly was

expected of her. Heaven knew that she wouldn't mind taking him as a

customer, but he obviously had breeding. Pressing back a sigh she

looked at the man next to her out of the corner of her eye. He had

finally told her that his name was Jareth... a strange name, but much more

interesting than Sarah. It was also somewhat familiar, but she had had

a lot of customers... maybe she knew another by the same name and just

couldn't remember.

"Sarah, I'd like you to meet some of my friends... " he was saying. The

woman pulled herself out of her trance and turned to where Jareth was

standing by a few men and women. Her mouth almost fell open and she

had to restrain her muscles from obeying her mind. The man standing in

the middle... it couldn't be...

"Ah, so I see you recognize Mr. Webber... I've told him how impressed you

are with his work," Jareth added, smiling slightly at her attempt to

collect herself. Here she was, standing before a genius in the Broadway

world. She had hoped if this were to happen she would be in one of his

shows or be auditioning for one. It was funny how old dreams came back

to haunt you.

            "Mr. Webber... it's an honor to meet you," she said, sounding a lot

calmer than she felt. He nodded and returned the greeting.

            "So, Jareth here tells me you are a performer, yourself?"

            The burning sensation at her cheeks was definitely not the way she

had hoped to respond to the question. Sarah glanced at her customer and

wondered what had possessed him to say that... and how had he known?

            "I used to be... I-"

            "She has been taking time off of work to get herself ready for more

auditions... after all, her health is just as important as her career,"

the man with the brilliant eyes cut in. What was Jareth doing? Why was

he covering for her? She was only a night's entertainment, after all,

if even that. Sarah wondered what exactly would be expected of her in

return. There had to be a catch; there always was.

            "I can understand that... maybe I should take a break, but I can't

help doing what I enjoy," Webber replied, oblivious to the mental chess

game

Sarah was playing. "Do you sing?"

            "Well, yes... "

            "Sarah, dear, why don't you show these folks what real singing is,

hmm? Go on," he urged, gesturing to the stage where the band was

performing with a head tilt. Almost as if she wasn't in control of her

own actions, she walked towards the band, barely noticing that Jareth

was only a step behind her. He had a few words with the conductor and

suddenly she was next to a microphone.

            "What song, miss?" the conductor asked her, his smile genuine.

            "Uh... 'Perhaps Love?'" she said, startled that it was the first

melody that sprung to mind. She thought she had banished all unnecessary

feelings long ago. And she especially didn't feel that way about

customers... if they had to use her for some attention, then they were not

worthy of love. The introduction she was given barely even registered

and suddenly she was singing.

            Perhaps love is like a resting place, a shelter from the storm

            It exists to give you comfort, it is there to keep you warm

            And in those times of trouble when you are most alone

            The memory of love will bring you home

            Perhaps love is like a window, perhaps an open door

            It invites you to come closer, it wants to show you more

            And even if you lose yourself and don't know what to do

            The memory of love will bring you thru

            Oh, love to some is like a cloud, to some as strong as steel

            For some a way of living, for some a way to feel

            And some say love is holding on and some say letting go

            Some say love is ev'rything, Some say they don't know

            Perhaps love is like the ocean, full of conflict, full of pain

            Like a fire when it's cold outside, thunder when it rains

            If I should live forever, and all my dreams come true

            My memory of love will be of you...

            It was over all too soon... she had actually sounded decent, maybe

even better. The crowd definitely seemed to like it. Sarah gratefully

acknowledged the applause and returned to Jareth's side, wondering why

she even enjoyed herself. That dream had faded, hadn't it? Why was it

so important to her all of a sudden? 

3

     She was amazing. After being away from any theatre setting for at

least a year, she still had it. The voice, the presence, everything was

still in tact. Jareth knew he was definitely doing the right thing.

He had felt a little uncomfortable breaking in on the party, but some

well-placed magic ensured that no one would be overly curious. Jareth

wondered why she had chosen that song, though. He didn't think Sarah

could feel anything or even pretend to feel, let alone experience that

emotion.

       The uncomfortable realization that he had never really

experienced it, himself, surfaced in his mind. What did he need love

for, anyway? He was a goblin king, destined to rule over numbskulls for

eternity, his only contact with mortals for purposes of teaching. He

didn't need love. And he certainly didn't feel anything for Sarah; not

like that. Pity, admiration, maybe friendship, but not love... maybe

something close, perhaps, but not love.

            "You're going to pay for that!" she hissed. He hadn't even known

she'd left the stage.

            "Whatever for? Everyone seems to approve... you were fantastic,

dear." He smiled at the redness that rose to her cheeks and gently took

her hand, leading the woman to the dance floor.

            "I'm not really good at this... " she mumbled as he wrapped an arm

about her waist, swaying gently to the music.

            "Nonsense, I'm sure you'll do fine... the last-" he winced as he

cut himself off. He had been about to say "the last time you did quite

well!" What was he thinking!? That would be breaking tradition, and

could possibly encourage her to sink deeper into despair. She couldn't

remember. Not now, not ever. He didn't need to deal with that. -Maybe I

should have just stayed away... - he thought, but when he looked into her

sparkling eyes he changed his mind. At least he knew she was still

alive.

            "The last what?" she asked, smiling slightly as she managed to keep

up with him.

            "Oh, nothing. Nothing." He bit his tongue when the sarcastic "Tra

la la," line threatened to pop out. It was hard not to go by his "script"

at times.

            "How did you know... about my acting? I've never seen you before in

my life... how did you know?"

            Jareth swallowed hard, taking up time so that he could think of a

decent reply. He spoke quickly, letting charm ooze from his lips.

"Please, I know an actress when I see one... and I know that you're worth

more than what your current job offers-"

            That was definitely not thought out right. "So that's it? You

brought me here out of PITY? How dare you! I might not be some wealthy,

stuck-up excuse of a person, but I get by! Some of us do what we can!"

she bit back, taking back her hand with a harsh yank. The fire in her

eyes burned with a fury he hadn't seen in many years. She still had

her pride... and with a start he realized that he had his, as well. And

now it was getting in the way. For the greater good, for her good, he

needed to help. And there was only one way now.

            "Look, I didn't mean to insult you... can we talk?" Her breathing

calmed as she regarded him warily.

            "I suppose... you've got me until morning... you'd just better be a

heavy tipper." Jareth was glad none of the others around them had heard

-that-... that wouldn't do her any good at all.

            "Trust me, I'm good for the money... come on, I know a nice

restaurant across the street; you must be starved." Before she could utter

a response he gently grasped her arm and led her out of the room, leaving

the other guests to their discussions on who was in what, politics, and

other things he could have cared less about.

***************

            "So what is this all about?" Sarah asked the man seated across the

table. She crossed her arms over her chest, clearly not interested in

small talk or pleasantries. The restaurant was beautiful, as everything

else had been, and they were waited on hand-and-foot. But she wasn't

interested in that at the moment. She didn't want fine wine, or gourmet

dishes, or even another pat of butter for her bread... all she wanted was

some answers.

            Jareth sighed and took a moment to take a sip from his water glass.

He quickly set it down, though, as she narrowed her eyes, clearly not in

the mood to be yanked around any longer. "I thought I'd help you out-"

            "Why? Why am I different from any other member of my profession?

There are a lot of girls like me out there... why me? Another thing, you

look so familiar, and you obviously know enough about me, so Who. Are.

You?"

            "Sarah... this isn't going to be easy for you to accept... " he

paused momentarily, clearly not sure whether to continue.

            "Come on and tell me... why me? I've been in a bad situation, so

what? Life's not fair."

            "Well, I see you at least learned one lesson," he murmured, the

corners of his mouth tugging into a very slight smile.

            That only infuriated her even more. "Don't laugh at me! I've done

well with what I have... I can't take anything for granted anymore!"

            "So you have learned your lessons well... very good. Very good,

indeed. What else do you remember?"

            "What?"

            "Think Sarah. When you were only fifteen. Break the barrier...

remember." Slowly he raised a hand that had been behind the table. He

seemed

very hesitant to continue, but he probably knew Sarah was not going to

accept silence. Her jaw went slack as a beautiful crystal globe formed

in his hand, and began to dance along his fingertips. Slowly, her murky

thoughts about her adolescence cleared.

            "I told you once I can't do everything for you... you have to take

responsibility sometime... and you have, but you don't have to forget your

dreams, Sarah. You can let them motivate you, let them teach you, just as

I once did... I can't rescue you every time you need help... I cannot live

your life for you, Sarah. I can't live within you... " Her eyes shot up

from the vanishing crystal and met his, and suddenly she knew him.

Instantly she panicked.

            "Jareth... .Oh my God... .I... I... You have no p-" she very nearly

kicked him under the table as he quickly leaned across and pressed a

finger

to her lips.

            "Hear me out, Sarah! I never meant to hurt you... it's my job, my

duty, just as ruling the goblins is my duty! When someone like yourself

needs to learn a lesson, I must teach it. I never mean to hurt anyone,

but

I have no choice. For once I pushed aside my pride and decided to do

something... why can't you do the same?.". I'm sorry... I shouldn't have

come, but I couldn't let you live like this. She stopped struggling at

his gentle tone, but her pride threatened to overtake her at that last

comment. He clasped her hand tightly with his and shook his head. "I

know it's what you thought was best... but you have a choice... you can

make

something of yourself, you can live again! Forget about what others

might say and reach for your dreams! Sarah, please... don't do this to

yourself." His tone was almost pleading.

            "Why... what will happen to you if I stay the same?" Her voice was

cool and almost bitter. She wanted to trust him, but after years of being

taken advantage of, she wasn't going to be walked on now. Especially

not by him.

            He closed his eyes and sighed, squeezing her hand even more. She

glanced down and suddenly realized that he wasn't wearing gloves. Come

to think of it, he was dressed in a normal tux, just like any other

man. The only thing out-of-the ordinary was if one looked at his tie

clip closely, they would make out the same symbol as his pendant. She

flushed slightly as she realized she was taking inventory on him and

immediately returned her gaze to his own. "There's no catch, Sarah... I'll

keep on living like I always do, but you might not be so lucky. I only

wanted you to realize what was happening... "

            "But I don't have that kind of money to go to college or keep

auditioning or-" she let her voice fade as his gaze intensified. -Oh,

lord, he's so beautiful... why didn't I see it before?- Shaking her head,

she managed to focus on what he was saying.

            "I'll give you the money... just say you'll change. That you won't

ignore your dreams anymore. Please. They are important, Sarah, just as

your

life is important." Slowly he released her and settled back into his

chair. She looked at him carefully for a long moment before replying.

            "No."

            "Sarah!-"

            "Let me finish! I've worked hard to live my life for a long time

now... I'm sorry, I would love to accept your gift, but you've done so

much for me this evening... I want to change, I really do... you've

managed

to break through all my walls and defenses... but I don't take hand-outs."

            "So you're refusing?" His voice was quiet and resigned and he

absently began smoothing the fabric of the tablecloth with a pale finger.

            "I didn't say that... " she replied, giving him a knowing look over

the top of her wine glass as she took a sip.

            "Then what do you mean?"

            "I'll take your money... only if you'll let me earn it." That sure

got his attention. She fought a chuckle at his stunned expression. Slowly,

he set the fork that he had just begun to pick up down on his plate.

***************

            "Are you saying what I think you're saying?" the king managed to

stammer, totally taken by surprise.

            "Yes... it's not like it would be that different from what I usually

do, Jareth." She seemed so calm about it... but there was a hint of hunger

in her eyes. He suddenly realized that it was a very tempting offer,

indeed.

            "I can't." The words seemed to do to her what "You have no power

over me," had done to him. Her expression was almost identical to the one

he had worn when she had defeated him during their last encounter.

            "Why not?!" Anger and hurt seeped into her voice once more.

            "Calm down! No one in my position has ever had any dealings with a

mortal besides what we are required. It just isn't done."

            "And you're the one telling me I should take a chance?" she asked,

raising an eyebrow.

            He couldn't help but smile. She was right... but still...

"Sarah... I just don't know... ."

            "Jareth... I'm giving in to your demands... now for once give in

to mine. Think of it as a business deal, if that helps."

            He exhaled slowly, knowing what his answer would be, but that

didn't make giving it any easier. "Fine, then. As a business deal, I

accept." He reached a hand across the table and gripped hers lightly.

Nodding, she went back to finishing her meal, the topic closed. He

followed

suit, pushing the topic from his mind until later. He had made many

bargains and "business deals" with mortals in all his years, but this

was the only one he had ever looked forward to.

*******************************************************

       I told you this was different! Wait till you read the next

part...oh, I KNOW I'm gonna get a lot of comments on that one!

<secretive grin> Let's just say that you'll be more than a little

surprised, or at least I hope you will!

4

******

   Sarah remained silent throughout the rest of the meal. She didn’t

want to ruin what peace they had made, but she was incredibly curious

as to why he almost refused her. She wasn’t blind; she had seen his

interest. As good as he was at masking emotions, he hadn’t been able to

hide that. The woman managed to calm her pulse as their food slowly

disappeared. After doing this job for such a long time... she might

finally get a client she really wanted to be with. Sure, there were

suitable prospects all the time, but they all had one thing in common:

they didn’t appreciate her at all. She was a thing to them; a

plaything, a role which she had learned to play quite well. But now

there was someone who at least appreciated her enough to want to help.

Who cared enough to lend a hand. At least she could do was say thank

you the best way she knew how.

            The couple quietly exited the restaurant and began to make their way

back to the hotel, the impending transaction looming ahead in the quiet

night. She managed to push her anticipation down, but a question still

nagged at the front of her mind.

            "Jareth... why did you almost say no? If you really have no

interest... " A little blatant, maybe, but how else was she to get an

answer?

            He gave a slight, embarrassed smile before replying. "It’s not

that... it’s just... I’ll tell you in a moment." She smiled as he opened

the hotel door for her, motioning her to the elevator. Jareth seemed to

forget about the question as he punched a button, watching the doors

close with annoying fascination.

            "Well? Are you going to answer me?" Sarah finally blurted out,

curiosity getting the better of her.

            "It’s nothing much... merely that... .Sarah, you have to remember

that I live in a completely secluded world with goblins and the occasional

mortal as my only company. The mortals I teach and the goblins I rule,

nothing more." Her mouth fell open as she realized what he was alluding

to and an uncharacteristic blush spread across his handsome features.

            "Are you saying that... that you’re a-" The very idea was impossible

for her to grasp.

            "Inexperienced?" he finally supplied. "Yes. Oh, don’t look at me

that way.... you have to remember that I’ve really have never had the

opportunity until now... "

            He had to be joking. He had been so seductive, so incredibly amazing

during her adventure in the labyrinth. It couldn’t be true. "You’re

kidding, right?" He shook his head.

            "No... you will be my first." The thought would have seemed

extremely funny to her had it not been so appealing.

            "Funny... I would’ve thought it would have been more proper the

other way around... "

            "Interesting how life throws out its little surprises, hmm?"

            "Definitely... although I’d rather be... like you instead of in my

position," she confessed, looking away. "I only did this because I was

too damn stubborn to ask for help... "

            "I know," he said softly, leaning down to brush a stray hair from

her face. She looked up at him, her eyes softer than they had been in

years. Slowly, he bent down towards her. She leaned in towards him and

slowly the two former opponents came together, almost as if they were

magnetized. As his lips brushed against hers she trembled, somewhat

surprised by her reaction. None of her former transactions had moved

her in the longest time... nothing had affected her at all. Her body, like

her spirit, had been devoid of all feeling. But now... .

            She pulled back as the elevator doors opened, and silently Jareth

took her hand and led her to their room, his eyes never leaving hers. It

seemed like an eternity to walk, although it was only just down the

hall. Finally, finally they reached the door and without a word Jareth

gestured, not bothering to search his pockets for the key, and it

opened. Sarah resisted the urge to run in, knowing that really wouldn’t

be ladylike... for she was a lady this time. A real lady, too, not just a

lady of the evening. She glanced around the living area as he quietly

closed and locked the door. She hoped she could do this... she didn’t like

to admit it, but Jareth still intimidated her a little. Besides, if he

was going to finally take the plunge, it should be with someone more

his style, not someone of her status. She almost backed out right then

and there when gentle hands grasped her shoulders, kneading them

tenderly and brushing through her hair. With a start she turned

slightly, and gazed into his face... his handsome face with those blazing

eyes. Eyes as cold as ice, but as intense as flames. He raised a hand

and ran his palm along her face lightly, almost as if to reassure her.

That did strike her as slightly amusing... she was the experienced one and

–he- had to reassure –her.-

            There was no more time for hesitations as he closed the distance

between them, covering her mouth with his in a way that was both

incredibly tender, yet amazingly passionate. Sarah shivered at his

kiss, amazed at how she was able to suddenly be affected by a man

again. But he wasn’t just any man. She sighed inwardly as his hands

made their way over her back, both relaxing and encouraging her. She

slowly raised a hand and buried it in his golden mane, running her

fingers against the back of his neck lightly. Jareth moved his mouth to

her neck, letting his lips slide down to her dress strap and shawl.

Sarah suddenly backed away and lowered her head in shame as the shawl

floated to the floor, her bruises now exposed. A hand slipped under

chin and forced her gaze back up to meet his and he leaned down to

brush his lips against the black-and-blue mark, taking any evidence of

pain away with his kisses. She inhaled sharply as he reached the hollow

of her throat, letting his tongue lightly brush her skin. Slowly,

purposefully she pulled him towards the waiting bedroom and he followed

without resistance.

            Once inside, she immediately plunged into her career mode, busying

herself with ridding him of his clothes. She stepped back slightly to

study him and suddenly felt a wave of nervousness sweep over her... her,

who had gone through the routine so many times, now completely in awe

of one man. Smiling slightly, Jareth pulled her to him, fitting his

mouth over hers in a way that removed any hesitations she had. Sarah

slowly kissed down his neck, all the while letting her hands explore

the new territory, testing the waters. Placing her hands on his

shoulders, she lightly pushed him down onto the bed, continuing with

her affections. She inwardly smiled as she reached his chest, feeling

him tremble as she teased his nipples lightly with her tongue. This was

her chance to make things up to him, to thank him for all he had

done... to do everything for him, for once.

            "Sarah... " he managed to whisper, his voice a raspy breath as she

slid an open-mouthed kiss down his body to his waist, his fingers twining

through her hair, trying to press her face lower. She allowed her hands

to walk down to meet her face, all the while tormenting the king with

having to wait, knowing what was coming. Sarah wasn't through, though.

The woman ran a hand over his inner thigh, barely touching him, before

running her tongue along the crease where leg met abdomen. Finally,

sensing he had had enough of her sweet torture, she ran her fingers

over his manhood, glad that it was much more impressive than most of

her customers. Pressing her mouth against him lightly, she gently

kissed down his organ until she reached his tip, starting to take him

in. She was glad she knew how to be the dominant one... she doubted she

had ever been anything else. Besides, it was good to be in control.

Suddenly, though, he pulled away, leaving her to wonder just what was

going on. Standing, Sarah turned to look to the monarch, who had now

crossed to the other side of the room.

            "What... what's wrong?" Dread welled up inside her, the fear that

he might not find her all that attractive and had decided to terminate the

deal. Something that she felt she very much needed and wanted to

complete.

      "It's your moment, too, Sarah... " he whispered, his eyes taking on

a devilish gleam, the very same look that had scared her to death in

the tunnel beyond the oubliette. She suddenly realized that he was

coming towards her, his emotions a mix of tender understanding and

mischievious intention. Even though she hated to back down, she began

to back up, unsure as to what he might do. He could very well take any

sort of revenge on her that he pleased... but something in his eyes earned

her trust.

    "Wha-?" she gasped as she tripped over the edge of the bed, falling

back onto the soft mattress. Looking up, she saw only intense eyes.

Carefully he leaned over her, pressing his mouth to hers again,

drinking in her presence. Slowly he ran a hand down her side and she

was very much amazed as the fabric that had clothed her disappeared.

She barely had time to comprehend that action when he reached out a

hand and slowly began running his fingertips over her neck, arm,

shoulders... .when he reached her breast she gave a startled moan at the

emotions he was able to ignite. He came closer, bringing his mouth down

to help his hands, sucking on her lightly, flicking her nipples with

fingertips and tongue. He was eager and yet refrained, new yet

knowledgeable all at the same time... he didn't miss a single part of

her... her entire being was important to him, and she knew she wouldn't be

disappointed. As his hand reached between her legs her eyes flew open

and she moaned softly with pleasure. His eyes smiled at her astonished

expression, and he began to kiss toward his circling fingers when he

veered off to lick down her legs. Sarah mentally kicked herself for

making him wait earlier... it was coming back to haunt her in spades.

After what seemed an eternity he allowed her relief, bringing his mouth

to her femininity and paying her clit homage with his tongue. Sarah

briefly wondered if his magic made up for his inexperience, but she

didn't really care. Leaning her head back, she let fire flow through

her veins, relishing the feelings that she was sure had left her a long

time ago. He continued his attentions, running his hands over her hips

and down her legs, enough to send warm energy through her entire being

as he nipped and sucked at her tender flesh, never stopping. Not that

she wanted him to. Finally, he drew back, parting her legs even more

and kissing back up to meet her mouth. As he entered she gave a sharp

cry... What was going on? It was almost as if...

            "You said you'd rather be in my position, dear... consider it part

of your second chance," he whispered, nuzzling her neck. So that's why

everything felt so new. That realization left her quickly, and any

other clear thought left her mind as he moved within her, releasing his

inner fire, his spirit, his body truly within her now... then came

euphoria and she gave herself completely to him.

**************************************************

            Jareth smiled slightly as he awoke... it wasn't morning yet, but

that didn't matter. He was pleased with how things had gone... he hadn't

expected to have that much of an impact on her, and he himself was

quite amazed with how much a mortal could do. He turned slightly to

where she lay beside him, sound asleep. Running a hand through her

tresses the king wondered if he should stay. If maybe they were meant

for each other. It could have its benefits... but no. She had her destiny

and he had his... he really doubted there was any true love between them,

anyway. Admiration, yes. Respect, yes. Friendship even, definitely.

Feelings of desire? Most definitely... but not love. Not really. If there

was some feeling that he could call it... perhaps love. But not truly.

*******************

            "Mmmm... " Sarah sighed, blinking her eyes open as she stretched

out across the bed. As the cobwebs left her brain she thought back to the

night before... where she had been granted a fleeting moment of purity,

appreciation, and a second chance at life. A glimmer on the bedside

table caught her eye and she rolled over to look at a note and two

objects. She hadn't expected him to stay... they had come to terms with

each other and now they had to move on. There was no real love

there... and even if there had been, she doubted neither one would have

been ready to handle it just yet. Sitting up, she began to read the

flowery writing that graced the single piece of stationary.

            My dear Sarah...

                         We both know I cannot stay, and you cannot return to my

realm. I know you will understand this and remember that I will always

have feelings for you, but we both need to continue our lives. Thank you,

dear, for opening my mind as well as introducing me to a whole new part of

life... I'll never forget you. As promised, your payment waits on the

table, along with a present... a safe way to fall back on in case you run

into trouble again... but with your genuine talent, I doubt you will.

Please, do as you said... go to school, audition, and go back to your

family. No matter what, please don't forget me. Perhaps we will meet

again someday, perhaps we will find love. No matter who or what happens

to you, I wish you only the best of luck.

- Jareth

    She smiled softly... they had developed a whole new understanding of

each other, and they had only been together for one night. Out of all

her nights at her job, that one would always be her favorite, for many

different reasons. She glanced over at the check lying beside the

crystal and her mouth fell open. Two million dollars. Briefly, she read

over a part of the note she had missed.

- I hope the amount is to your satisfaction... you are worth far more. If

anyone questions the amount or its origin, tell them it is from an

anonymous benefactor.

   Shaking her head, she began to collect her things and get dressed,

eager to start anew.

******************************

Ten years later...

   "Karen, Dad... Toby!" she laughed as fifteen-year-old came running

towards her and grabbed her in a bear hug. "Look, I've got to take get

ready... enjoy the show all right?" The reunited family exchanged a few

comments, compliments, and other words before the star of Andrew Lloyd

Webber's newest show went off to prepare. Things were so much

better... she had a degree, had a family that she had learned to

appreciate, and had a career. She really wasn't depressed by the fact

that she was still single... her past occupation had made her think twice

about relationships. She had plenty of friends, though, and she knew

she had experienced a brief night of love that many couldn't find in a

lifetime.

   Soon, she was onstage, singing her heart out, letting the spotlight

warm her. She had done it... with a little help. -Thank you, Jareth,- she

thought as she acknowledged her applause at the end of the show. Coming

up from her bow, she smiled as her eyes focused on a soul person in a

balcony seat. A person dressed in an impressive tuxedo with hair like a

lion's mane. Smiling with pride, he blew her a kiss before fading away.

They had shared many things... a challenge, harsh words, kind words, a

night of emotions... and something that bordered on love. She wasn't

regretting her new life, though. No, she knew better than to take

things for granted... .

  That night she was being chauffered to a cast party when she saw a

lone figure on a corner. Shivering slightly, she spoke. "Stop the car."

Stepping out onto the street, Sarah silently approached the young girl

and handed her one thousand dollars.

  "Go back to your family... go back to your life... or start over... you

can do it." The girl nodded at her with astonishment as she turned and got

back into her car. Sarah knew what the child did with the money was up

to her... but as she noticed an owl lighting on the streetlight above her,

she couldn't help but think that the girl would get some needed

guidance.

*******************************************