MIA

"Ahem."

Someone cleared their throat, jolting me back to reality. I had been staring at Jackson like some lovesick fool-and yeah, I definitely was one right now.

I mean, he's literally wearing a plain white tee under a black button-up, nothing special. Just simple, casual clothes. But somehow, he pulls it off effortlessly. The way it fits him, how it hangs just right on his shoulders and drapes over his frame-it's hard not to stare. The contrast of the black against his skin makes him look sharper, more put together, without even trying.

And his neck-God, my eyes keep going back to it. There's just something about how the collar opens up and frames the length of it. Long, strong, and I can't stop staring. I try to look away, but it's impossible not to notice how graceful it is, how much I want to trace my fingers along that line. He's just standing there, wearing something so normal, but it's like he knows exactly what he's doing, pulling me in without even trying.

"Jackson, what are you doing here?" Ariel asked, casually slinging her arm over my shoulders before leaning in to whisper in my ear. "Mia, stop drooling. I know he looks hot, but you're embarrassing me."

I blinked, feeling the heat rush to my face. Clearing my throat, I forced out, "Yeah, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at your mom's vet clinic?"

Jackson nodded casually, holding up a small, cute bag of cookies. "I was, but Mom decided she wanted something sweet, so I grabbed these for her."

"Oh, those look delicious." I force a smile, trying to steady my voice.

"Oh, those look delicious," I said, trying to sound normal even though my heart was racing.

"They better be. Mom's been talking about them nonstop," he grinned. "And I figured since Maddy called me about them, I couldn't resist the craving."

I rolled my eyes playfully, feeling a smile tug at my lips. "Such a good son," I teased.

"Oh he's definitely a good son," Ariel adds then continues, "and for that you'd make an excellent boyfriend for my girl Mi-"

"Ariel!" I interrupted, glaring at her. "I think you better find them before they run out."

She shrugs, releasing me from her grip and walks off with a mischievous smile. I sigh in relief.

"Don't mind her," I say quickly, feeling my cheeks burn as I focus back on him. "She's just-"

"Ariel, I know," Jackson replies with a grin, and I nod, trying to recover from my embarrassment.

"Exactly and she can be a lot sometimes." I smiled awkwardly, feeling the tension bubble up between us. " well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow then?"

Before he could respond, Miles shouted over and casually suggested, "Or you could walk him to the vet. It's not far from here."

I shot Miles a look, but Jackson's eyes lit up as he turned to me. "You cool with that, Mia?"

I swallowed hard, feeling the nerves knot in my stomach, but nodded. "Sure, why not. You always walk me home, so I guess it's only fair."

"Such a gentlelady," he teased, moving toward the door. I opened it for him, laughing nervously.

"At your service," I said, gesturing for him to pass,and before I know it, he grabs my hand-just like that. His fingers intertwine with mine, and I feel my breath catch in my throat. His hand is warm and firm, and I'm suddenly hyper-aware of everything. My heart thuds against my ribs, and I silently pray my hand isn't sweating.

Behind us, I could hear the gang snickering, definitely teasing me, but surprisingly, Miles didn't say anything. He just smirked, continuing his search for snacks like it was no big deal.

"Umm... Jackson?" I manage to squeak out, feeling the heat rise to my face. Don't panic, just breathe.

"What?" He looked at me, then down at our hands. "Oh, sorry," he said, though he didn't sound sorry at all-and he certainly didn't let go.

"Is it weird? Should I let go?" he asked, tilting his head, but we both knew the answer was no.

"Nope," I managed to say, trying to steady my breathing. When he smiled-that smile he only gave me-I thought my heart might explode.

My poor heart can't take this much.

He squeezed my hand gently as we walked down the street. "So..."

"So..."

"How's the project going?" he asked, but it felt like he wanted to ask something else.

"It's off to a terrible start," I laughed.

"How come?"

"Well, for starters, I have no idea where to begin. Projects are stressful, and Miles keeps telling me it only gets worse in college. I'm not sure I'm ready for that."

Jackson slowed his pace, walking even closer to me. "Have you thought about where you want to study?"

I rubbed the back of my neck with my free hand, avoiding his gaze. "Honestly... no idea," I admitted, feeling embarrassed.

Everyone in school mostly talk about it and they seem so sure of their plans, and I'm just... floating

He was quiet for a second, just watching me. It reminded me of the time when we were younger, sitting in class, talking about our future plans, and I had no clue what to say. Back then, I blurted out something ridiculous like wanting to be a makeup artist, and now... well, I could barely put on mascara without poking my eye.

And that's why I stuck with light makeup while secretly feeling jealous when Rachel would look so stunning with the perfect makeup on her face.

"Mia," Jackson said suddenly, snapping me out of my thoughts, and flicked my cheek with his fingers.

"Hey!" I yanked my hand from his and rubbed my cheek dramatically. It didn't actually hurt, but I pouted anyway. "That hurt, you know."

"No, it didn't," he laughed.

"Yes, it did."

"Want me to kiss it better?" he teased, his grin widening.

"W"W-What?" I stammered, feeling my face heat up. I couldn't believe he was actually saying that. My brain was short-circuiting.

He shrugged like it was nothing. "I asked if you wanted me to kiss it better."

My eyes widened, trying to process how blunt he was being. He always teased, but this was on a whole new level. "Jackson, you can't just-"

I froze, my heart nearly stopping as he leans down and his soft, warm lips pressed gently against my cheek, sending a shiver down my spine and making it impossible to remember how to breathe.

I could feel blood raising in my ears and kept wondering; how does one breathe after this?

"See?" he says, grinning as he straightens up. "Much better. It'll heal in no time."

I'm barely functioning as he takes my hand again, tugging me along. "C'mon, I forgot Mum gets impatient when she doesn't have her snack."

I nod, barely able to form a response. "O-okay." My voice is barely a whisper, and my face is burning with a blush I can't control.

But honestly? A kiss on the lips would've been way better-

Oh my God, what was he turning me into?!

It's like I've turned into some kiss-starved monster, my eyes betraying me as they keep flicking to his lips.

"Don't stare at me like that, Mia," Jackson grins, still looking straight ahead, his voice teasing but calm. "It's tempting."

I tilt my head, confused. "Tempting you to do what?"

He stops walking, and I barely have time to react before he turns to me, his face lighting up with this sudden, excited energy. "Would you wanna know?"

His eyes flicker to my lips for just a second, and my heart jumps into my throat. Oh God, is he thinking about kissing me? Outside? Right now?

My mind races, and I feel my face heating up, wondering if I'm actually ready for this. Are we really about to kiss? Here, with people walking by, with the animals' noises drifting from the vet shop? Do I want this? The answer is probably a panicked, girly scream-because what if my lips do something weird, like twitch or something?

"Jackson! Is that you, love?!"

His mom's voice cuts through the moment, and relief floods over me. I'm not ready to tackle that level of heart failure. Not yet, anyway.

We were just a few feet from the vet, and now I can hear the faint sounds of barking and other animal noises. Had those always been there? How had I not noticed until now? Oh, right. Maybe because the ridiculously attractive guy in front of me was making my brain short-circuit.

I force a smile and slowly slip my hand out of his. The warmth of his touch fades, replaced by the cool bite of the weather, and I immediately miss it. "Well, I guess I better head back, then."

"No." The word comes out too quickly, and I think he realizes it because a faint blush spreads across his cheeks. "I mean, you should come say hi to my mom. It'd be weird if you didn't."

His eyes are pleading, but not in the usual way. There's something deeper, almost urgent, like he doesn't want me to leave just yet. Like he needs me to stay.

I swallow, nerves tangling in my stomach. "Okay, then."

I followed Jackson inside the vet clinic, immediately hit by the distinct smell of animals, medicine, and something clean, like antiseptic. The space was bustling, and I couldn't help but notice how full it was-dogs mostly, of every breed imaginable. There were fluffy little poodles, massive German Shepherds, and a pair of scruffy mutts waiting patiently near the front desk. The sound of barking and whining filled the room, blending into a kind of chaotic melody.

Before I could take in more, Jackson's mom appeared from behind a counter, her smile lighting up when she saw me.

"Oh, Mia!" she greeted, walking over with open arms. "What a surprise!" She threw a knowing glance at Jackson, who sheepishly raised the cookie pack he was holding for her to see.

"Took you long enough," she teased, taking the cookies from him before gesturing for us to follow her inside.

"Sorry, Mum," Jackson began, rubbing the back of his neck. "I was busy-"

"Oh, I know." Her grin widened as she gave me a sly look that made my cheeks burn. "Just don't get too distracted. This place is full, and we need to treat them before their owners arrive."

Suddenly, I felt like maybe I was intruding. "Oh, I guess it's time I leave," I mumbled, awkwardly glancing between them.

Jackson's mom shook her head quickly. "Oh, don't be silly, Mia. You can stay a little longer."

"Umm, I don't know," I stammered, shifting on my feet. "Won't I be a bother?"

Before she could reply, Jackson jumped in, his voice smooth and reassuring. "No, you won't," he said, giving me a warm look that made me feel a little more at ease. "It'll be fun, and you can pet most of them."

My eyes widened with hope. "Really?" I asked, my excitement bubbling up.

He nodded, his smile growing. "Yeah, but only after they've been treated."

"Deal," I grinned, unable to look away from him. And maybe I stared a little longer than I should have, because his mom coughed, breaking the moment.

Jackson chuckled softly, but I couldn't help feeling the heat rise in my face again. We followed his mom further into the clinic, weaving between animals and their owners. The place was lively, with staff moving around, checking on patients, and the occasional bark echoing off the walls. It was kind of comforting, in a weird way.

"So, Mia," Jackson's mom said as we stopped by one of the exam rooms. "Ever thought about working in a place like this?"

I blinked, caught off guard. "Oh, um, not really. I love animals, but..." I trailed off, glancing at Jackson, who was watching me with a soft smile. His mom raised an eyebrow, clearly amused.

"Well, you never know," she said, chuckling as she grabbed a clipboard. "Maybe by the end of today, you'll change your mind." She winked and then disappeared into another room, leaving Jackson and me alone in the hallway.

"So..." I started, nervously playing with the hem of my shirt. "What now?"

Jackson leaned casually against the wall, his gaze soft but intent. "Now we wait until she's done, and then I can show you the best dogs to pet."

I smiled, trying to ignore the way my heart seemed to skip a beat whenever he looked at me like that. "Okay," I said softly, already looking forward to spending a little more time with him-animals and all.

As Jackson's mom disappeared into the exam room, I suddenly remembered something important. "Oh shoot, I need to text Miles," I said, mostly to myself.

"Oh, sure. Lemme check on Mum as you do that." He says.

"Sure," he nods and then leaves.

I quickly pulled out my phone and typed, "Hey Miles, can I stay a bit longer with Jackson?"

His reply was almost instant, accompanied by a smirking emoji: Sure, I'll drop Ariel and Sydney at their houses, then come back. I need to buy more sugar here anyway.

I chuckled softly, shaking my head at his message. Sure, and don't forget to buy some for Maddy. I promised her I would, I added.

His reply was equally quick: Not a problem.

Satisfied, I slid my phone back into my pocket, just as Jackson reappeared with the cutest little dog in his arms. The pup's tail wagged furiously as he cradled her.

"It's so adorable!" I didn't care if I shouted. It was hard to resist seeing the cute puppy.

Plus seeing Jackson with a dog is so hot.

"Mum's done with her," Jackson said, a playful glint in his eyes. "So you can play with her for a while."

My heart melted as he placed the dog gently into my arms. Her fur was soft and she snuggled against me immediately, her big brown eyes peeking up at me.

"She's so cute," I say, staring at Jackson who just chuckles.

"More than me?"

"huh?" I couldn't hear what he said since I was having to much fun staring at the puppy.

He folds his hand," I said if the dog is cuter than me,"

Oh.

"You don't expect me to know that." I chuckle.

He shrugged. "What? It's just a question,"

I rolled my eyes at him. "Well since I'm only here for the dogs, that should answer your question." I teased, trying to hide my grin.

Jackson gasped dramatically, clutching his chest. "Ouch, Mia. That hurts. I thought we were having a moment here."

I laughed, raising an eyebrow. "Oh? Should I kiss it better?"

The second those words left my mouth, I regretted them. Jackson's face turned a deep shade of red, and he stared at me wide-eyed, clearly caught off guard. My own cheeks flamed as I realized what I'd just said.

"I'm joking!" I quickly added, giggling awkwardly to diffuse the tension. "Just kidding. No kisses."

Jackson rubbed the back of his neck, a shy smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, yeah, you're hilarious," he muttered, but I could see he was still blushing.

We stood there for a second, the air between us filled with a mix of flirty tension and awkwardness. My heart was still racing from the slip-up, but I couldn't deny the warmth in my chest.

I glanced around, trying to focus on anything but the way Jackson was looking at me. "So... um," I started, trying to change the subject. "School's almost over. Are you... uh, doing anything for prom?" My voice came out more nervous than I intended, but I hoped he didn't notice.

Before he could answer, his phone rang. The sound broke through the moment like a cold breeze, and Jackson's face immediately shifted, his expression turning serious as he glanced at the caller ID.

"Sorry, Mia, can you give me a minute?" he asked, his tone suddenly distant.

"Yeah, sure," I said, watching as he walked away a few steps to answer the call.

I couldn't help but overhear as he said, "Dad, why are you calling?" His voice sounded strained, and the single word sent a wave of confusion crashing through me. I watched as he walked further out of the room, disappearing around the corner.

I stood there, holding the little dog in my arms, suddenly feeling like an outsider to whatever was going on. Jackson's dad? I'd never heard him talk about his dad before. The way his face had fallen when he saw the call made me feel uneasy, like there was something heavy happening just beyond the surface.

The little dog whined softly in my arms, sensing the shift in my mood. I absentmindedly stroked her fur, my thoughts racing.

"I see you're having fun," Jackson's mum steps in, holding a cute white rabbit in her hands.

I press my lips together, nodding. "For sure, she's so adorable and soft." I snuggle the dog closer, its warmth and the rhythmic rise and fall of its tiny breaths calming me. Jackson's mum smiles at the sight, but then her expression falters, the laughter fading from her eyes as she looks at me with a sadness I can't quite place.

"Thank you, Mia."

"For?" I ask, curious. She sighs, pulling up a stool and sitting down, gently stroking the rabbit's back.

"For spending time with Jackson."

"Oh," my cheeks burn, a sudden rush of embarrassment making me feel shy. "It's not a big deal... I'm just happy we can be like we used to."

She nods slowly, her gaze thoughtful. "I'm happy about that too. But, if I'm being honest... it's been hard on him since the divorce."

Her words hit me like a stone sinking in water, a heaviness forming in my chest. Jackson had never opened up about it, not once.

"You know, since we went back to Korea last year, school's been tough on him."

That catches my attention. "Tough?" I raise an eyebrow. Jackson's the smartest guy I know-school had never been a problem for him.

"Oh, I don't mean academically. He's brilliant, and as his mother, I couldn't be prouder of that."

"So... what's been the problem, then?"

She pauses, her eyes following the rabbit's soft fur before meeting mine again. "You know how in Korea, every child is considered a year old when they're born, right? So, technically, yes, Jackson is 18 here, but back home... he's-"

"Nineteen," I finish for her, the realization sinking in. Jackson had already finished high school in Korea. The thought of him repeating high school here, just to be with us, makes my stomach twist in confusion. "But why did he start high school again here?"

She looks at the rabbit, then back at me with a knowing look. "Because of you, Mia."

My heart stumbles, an ache I hadn't expected tightening my chest. *Because of me?* I'm not sure how to process that.

"Me?" I repeat, my voice barely above a whisper. She nods, and I feel like the air's been sucked out of the room. This was a lot-like a bombshell I never saw coming. I have no words, no clear thoughts, just a rush of emotions crashing over me. His mum continues, her voice softer now.

"He didn't just want to visit you while we were here. He felt that if he only came for a short while, he wouldn't really be a part of your world."

I swallow hard, my heart pounding. "He... he said that?"

"No, but I'm his mother. I know when he's sad. And now that we're going back to Seoul, I don't know..."

My chest tightens as her words sink in. "What?" The word comes out strangled, my voice barely steady. My bones go cold, a sharp chill spreading through me. "What did you say?"

Her expression falters, a mix of pain and confusion crossing her face. "I thought he told you. I thought that's why you're..."

"I'm confused," I interrupt, my voice trembling. "Could you... could you say that again?" I need to hear it one more time, just to be sure that my mind isn't playing tricks on me. That what I heard was real.

She takes a breath, and then her words fall like a hammer. "Mia, Jackson and I... we'll be going back to Seoul next week. We've been packing for a while now."

The room spins, my breath caught in my throat. *Next week?* The warmth of the dog in my hands suddenly feels distant, like everything I've held onto is slipping away. Jackson's leaving. Leaving me. And I didn't even know.

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