Jackson Wang : Dopamine

chapter 4

Jackson took a deep breath as he stepped out of the car in front of Jia's building. Everything seemed perfectly in place for the evening, but the thought of seeing her again made his heart beat a little faster. He enjoyed that feeling, a blend of excitement and nerves that didn't happen to him often. He pressed the button on the intercom, and her voice came through, slightly amused.

"Right on time, I see," she said with a teasing tone.

Jackson smirked, entertained by her tone. "Of course. It's not every day I get to meet someone like you."

A few moments later, the door opened, and Jia appeared. She wore a black dress that highlighted her natural elegance without trying too hard. Her hair was loose, slightly wavy, and she had that look, both confident and mysterious. Jackson felt his heart skip a beat; she exuded a rare confidence, a magnetic charm that almost left him vulnerable.

"Caught you staring, Jackson?" she asked with a smile, visibly amused by his gaze.

When Jia said his name for the first time, Jackson felt a slight shiver. He loved the way her French accent slid over the syllables, making his name sound softer, almost intimate.

"Just impressed," he replied, quickly recovering his charming smile. "I was right to say you'd be hard to forget."

She shrugged with a sly smile, as if she found it only natural to have that effect. "Alright, show me what you've got planned. I hope it's as unique as you promised."

Jackson opened the car door for her, and once they were both settled, they drove toward the secret rooftop he'd chosen. The drive was filled with light teasing, smiles, and a few quiet moments where they found themselves stealing glances, as if each was trying to read the other.

When they arrived at the rooftop, Jia seemed impressed. The view over illuminated Seoul was spectacular, the dim lighting and intimate atmosphere gave the place a unique vibe.

"Well, you weren't lying," she said, taking in the setting, clearly pleased. She turned her gaze to him, a playful smile on her lips. "I'm starting to think you might have a romantic side, Jackson Wang."

Jackson laughed, a bit embarrassed. "Let's just say I made an effort. But there's more here than meets the eye."

He guided her to a table discreetly set up in a corner of the rooftop, with a perfect view of the city. The table was adorned with delicate roses, adding a touch of sophistication. The candlelight accentuated the cityscape, making the atmosphere even more intimate. Jackson paused for a moment, then gently pulled out the chair for Jia to sit. She thanked him with a subtle smile, her hands gracefully poised, her every move so naturally elegant it captivated him.

Once he'd sat down, Jackson ordered some snacks and, with a smile, asked, "Champagne to celebrate?"

Jia politely declined, with a slight smile. "Not for me, thanks. I don't drink."

Slightly surprised, Jackson raised his eyebrows but respected her choice. "Well, that makes you rare, especially here in Korea."

She laughed softly. "Maybe, or maybe just someone who wants to live a bit longer than 50 years."

Jackson stared at her for a moment, surprised, then burst into laughter, amused by her quick wit. his warm deep laugh, resonated within her.

"Touché!" he said, shaking his head. As a big drinker himself, he couldn't help but feel called out. His gaze sparkled with a blend of amusement and respect. He admired her sharpness, her direct honesty. She wasn't afraid to challenge him gently, and it was refreshing.

"But you know what?" he continued, smiling. "I'll skip it tonight, too."

He raised a glass of water instead. "Cheers. To us, and to our next fifty years!"