Jackson Wang : Dopamine

chapter 3

The next day, Jackson woke up feeling as if the previous night had been a dream. The arrival of Bambam and Jinyoung, the laughter shared with fans and the crew, and, above all, his encounter with Jia. Jia exuded something magnetic, hard to forget.

After a good shower, Jackson slips into an oversized, clean-lined suit, pairing it with bright orange sneakers for a playful edge and a minimalist pair of glasses. Since leaving GOT7, he's opted not to hire a stylist, choosing instead to embrace a look that feels more authentic and true to himself. Gone are the meticulously curated outfits-now he explores a simpler, personal style with a touch of creativity that reflects his newfound freedom and growth. Honestly, if he could, Jackson would've just worn joggers, but he knew that even as a solo artist, these appearances were part of his image.

Around noon, he headed to the studio to record new tracks. These creative moments allowed him to perfect his art and explore different styles. But no matter what, his mind kept drifting back to Jia and their conversation. Why does she keep lingering in my head like this ? he wondered, torn between wanting to know more and fearing he'd get attached too quickly.

Later that day, Jackson arrived at the promotional event, where he knew he'd meet familiar faces in the industry. As soon as he walked in, he saw artists he respected and appreciated. He quickly exchanged greetings with Taeyong, a close friend from NCT, known for his unique style and incredible dance skills.

"Jackson! Still looking sharp, as always!" Taeyong complimented with a smile.

Jackson shook his hand warmly. "Thanks, bro! You're not exactly low-profile yourself. How's the group doing?"

"Working hard as always," Taeyong replied. "But you, going solo, it really suits you. You get to do whatever you want, right?"

Jackson laughed, shrugging. "Yeah, the freedom is great, but it's a lot of pressure too. There's no one to catch you if you fall."

Jackson and Taeyong continued to discuss Taeyong's desire to go solo. Jackson offered him some advice, encouraging him to listen to his instincts.

A little while later, Jackson spotted Chaeyoung from Twice, and his heart tightened slightly. She approached him with a shy smile, her eyes sparkling with a gentle warmth, and he felt how much he was touched by her presence, so natural and unpretentious. Even under the event lights drawing everyone's attention, she seemed to exist in her own universe, like a bubble of calm. He recalled all the times he'd found her sincerity refreshing and all the moments he'd wanted a bit more closeness with this friend.

"Hi, Jackson! How have you been?" she asked, a warm smile on her lips, almost hesitant, as if she never quite felt at ease at big events.

"I'm good, thanks! Still busy with rehearsals," he replied, trying to stay focused. He genuinely valued these moments with her.

Chaeyoung looked at him with an admiring gaze.

"It's amazing to see you on stage now that you're solo. You still have that energy that's so you."

Jackson smiled, a little flattered.

"Thanks. I try to stay on top, even though it takes a lot of work."

He noticed that she was fiddling with the hem of her dress, a little habit of hers when she was nervous. He found the small gesture so endearing. She had a touching sincerity, a simplicity that contrasted with the complexities of the industry, and every time she smiled, he felt an urge to protect that part of her that seemed almost fragile. It stirred a sincere tenderness in him.

Chaeyoung, as if sensing his mind wandering, asked softly, "And, are you doing okay, being solo? Is it very different from GOT7?"

Jackson nodded, taking a moment to think.