Chapter 60: A Night to Remember

Jin Shang had fought gods, demons, and ancient monstrosities.

But sitting across from Lia in a high-end restaurant, he realized—he was completely out of his depth.

Lia, on the other hand, looked absolutely thrilled. She had ordered enough food to feed a small army, her excitement shining in her eyes. Jin watched as she practically sparkled while looking at the menu.

"I can't believe you brought me here," she said, grinning. "This place is super expensive!"

Jin leaned back, sighing. "I did say I'd make it up to you."

Lia smirked. "You're lucky I'm nice. I could've picked a fancier place."

Jin raised an eyebrow. "There's a fancier place than this?"

Lia nodded sagely. "Oh, there are places where even rich people cry while looking at the bill."

Jin scoffed. "If they cry over money, they're not really rich."

Lia giggled. "True."

The waiter arrived, setting down an impressive spread of dishes. Steaks, pasta, exotic seafood—Lia had definitely taken advantage of Jin's offer. She clasped her hands together in excitement.

"Let's eat!"

Jin watched as she eagerly dug in, a small smile tugging at his lips. She was so carefree. So full of life.

It was… refreshing.

Jin picked up his fork, about to eat—

When he suddenly noticed something.

People in the restaurant were staring at them.

Some were whispering, while others were straight-up taking photos.

Jin's eyes twitched. So much for his disguise.

Lia followed his gaze and blinked. "Uh… Jin?"

He sighed. "Yeah, I know."

A group of young women at the next table were giggling, sneaking glances at him. One of them boldly walked up.

"U-Um, excuse me…" The girl blushed. "Are you Jin Shang?"

Jin kept his face blank. "No."

The girl hesitated. "But… you look just like him."

Jin deadpanned. "I get that a lot."

The girl wasn't convinced. "Can I still get a picture?"

Lia burst out laughing.

Jin sighed. "No pictures."

The girl looked disappointed but nodded. As she walked away, Lia wiped a tear from her eye. "Oh my god. You're actually famous."

Jin grumbled. "This is exactly why I wore a disguise."

Lia smirked. "I dunno, Jin. Maybe you should embrace your celebrity status. Become an idol."

Jin gave her a flat look. "Lia."

"Yes?"

"If you ever suggest that again, I will leave you with the bill."

Lia gasped dramatically. "You wouldn't dare."

Jin picked up his glass of wine, taking a slow sip. "Try me."

Lia pouted. "You're evil."

Jin shrugged. "I've been called worse."

—

After dinner, they took a walk through the city.

The night air was cool, the streets glowing with neon lights. Lia walked beside him, occasionally pointing out random things.

"Oh! Look at that street performer!"

Jin glanced at the musician playing the violin. "He's good."

Lia grinned. "You should give him money."

Jin sighed and pulled out some cash, tossing it into the musician's case. The man instantly recognized him. His eyes widened.

"W-Wait… are you—"

Jin walked away faster.

Lia burst out laughing. "You can't escape your fans, Jin!"

Jin grumbled. "This is a nightmare."

Lia shook her head, still giggling. "You're so dramatic."

They kept walking, and Jin found himself… relaxed. He wasn't thinking about enemies, wars, or power.

He was just here. With Lia.

And for once, he didn't hate it.

—

They ended up on a rooftop, overlooking the city.

Lia leaned against the railing, staring at the skyline. "It's beautiful."

Jin stood beside her. "Yeah."

She glanced at him. "You weren't even looking."

Jin smirked. "I was thinking about something else."

Lia's face turned red.

"W-What?"

Jin chuckled. "Nothing."

Lia pouted. "You're such a tease."

Jin leaned closer, his voice dropping slightly. "You like it, though."

Lia froze.

Her face turned even redder, and Jin had to hold back a laugh.

"Y-You're doing this on purpose!" she accused.

Jin shrugged. "Maybe."

Lia huffed, turning away. But he could see the small smile on her lips.

The night wind blew softly, and for the first time in a long time—Jin Shang felt at peace.

Lia turned back to him, her expression shifting into something more serious. "Jin."

He met her gaze. "Yeah?"

She hesitated for a moment before stepping closer. "Thank you… for today."

Jin tilted his head. "It's just a date."

Lia smiled softly. "Not to me."

She took a deep breath, then stood on her toes, pressing a soft kiss against his cheek.

Jin froze.

Lia pulled back slightly, looking up at him. "Was that okay?"

Jin stared at her for a long moment before sighing. "You really don't listen, do you?"

Lia blinked. "Huh?"

Before she could react, Jin tilted her chin up and kissed her.

It was slow, gentle—yet undeniably possessive.

Lia's eyes widened in shock before she melted into it, gripping the front of his coat. The warmth of his lips sent a shiver down her spine.

When Jin finally pulled away, he smirked at her dazed expression.

"…Now we're even," he murmured.

Lia blinked, then hid her face in his chest.

Jin chuckled, wrapping an arm around her. "Embarrassed?"

"Shut up," she mumbled.

Jin looked up at the sky.

For the first time in a long time… he didn't feel so alone.