Sarah looked across at Jareth. He was sitting against the base of a tree, his chin resting in his hand, his eyes fixed on a particular patch of grass. The tent nearest to him cast a long shadow over him from the dying light of the sun. Terra was out gathering firewood. Since that day when they had discovered her secret, she had been uncharacteristically quiet and distant, always volunteering to gather the wood for their campfire at night and often lagging behind on their long treks during the day. Jareth had also been a lot more quiet and thoughtful. Sarah could tell he was upset and she had done her best to comfort him but she wasn't sure if she was really making any difference. They were now well into their journey to the sacred pool, with only about a third of the distance remaining to go. Sarah wished it would be over.

"It's a pity you had to get dragged into this," Jareth said apologetically, almost startling Sarah.

Sarah shook her head, "It's alright. Terra's safety is what's important."

Jareth returned to staring at his patch of grass and Sarah started twiddling her thumbs. She thought desperately for something that might lighten the mood. Then it hit her.

This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

"Jareth?" she said, causing him to look up, "Would you...would you sing for me? To pass the time?"

A slow smile spread over the Goblin King's face and he obliged immediately, starting out softly before building in volume.

There's such a sad love deep in your eyes

A kind of pale jewel open and closed within your eyes

I'll place the sky within your eyes

He stood, not once faltering in his song, and offered Sarah his hand. She hesitated before standing and taking it.

There's such a fooled heart beating so fast

In search of new dreams

A love that will last within your heart

I'll place the moon within your heart

Sarah began to get a strong feeling of déjà vu as she and Jareth waltzed.

As the pain sweeps through,

Makes no sense for you

Every thrill is gone

Wasn't too much fun at all

But I'll be there for you as the world falls down

Sarah gazed into Jareth's mismatched eyes, feeling mesmerized.

Falling

The two stopped dancing, but Sarah remained in Jareth's arms.

Falling down

Jareth bent his head down until their noses were brushing. Sarah made no movement.

Falling in love

Then their lips met, and Sarah felt a sudden thrill of euphoria. She closed her eyes and leaned into the kiss, but not before catching a slight movement among the trees out of the corner of her eye.