"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 fix