"I fear getting used to this," Serenity said, somewhat embarrassed. "If it happens more often, it'll become a habit. When it's all gone, I'll fall into despair again."

"Why? Have you been hopeless before?" Jackson said casually.

Serenity took a deep breath and stopped avoiding his gaze. "Yes. Once."

Jackson froze, and his slight smile soon faded from his face.

"Can you please leave? I want to get changed," Serenity said, almost pleading.

Jackson did not back off. His dark eyes remained fixed on her, his fingers stroking her cheeks, and he seemed to be lost in his thoughts.

A few moments later, he murmured, "What if I say nothing will change even if it becomes a habit? Will you still be afraid?"

Jackson's face was so close. Her heart thundered in her chest as she stared blankly at him, not knowing how to answer.

***

In the meantime, in the changing room, Serenity changed her clothes, blushing. Jackson had left the room earlier, but even so, the touch of his fingers on her fac