Meeting.

She hopped into the car and settled in the passenger seat, strapping her seatbelt as Jackson ignited the engine. The image of Natasha standing Jn the same spot was visible from the rearview mirror, her shoulder slumped and her face impossibly pale, she looked delicate, as though one touch would cause her to shatter.

"That was brutal," Maria said slowly, owning the part of her that felt pity for Natasha, "she looks really broken, will you be okay making a movie with her?"

Jackson shrugged with his eyes still glued to the road, his face held no shade of pity or remorse, it was the exact opposite, he looked accomplished. "I don't know, and frankly, I do not care."

She tapped his arms lightly, " I feel bad about what happened, you're so going to be in trouble, what did you do that for?" Her brows drew together.

"Because I like you."

Oh wow.

Compared to what he had said, his expression remained calm, he didn't waver, and neither was he nervous. On the other hand, she was praying