Fake Love : K-Pop romance [ English ]

Chapter 1.4

Ms. Han spoke again before I had time to collect my thoughts. Lost in some sort of fourth dimension, I listened to them without really understanding what I was doing there.

"The public will be suspicious, and the fans will be ready to scrutinize your every move. You must remain flawless at all times—during your public appearances, on social media, or even at private dinners orchestrated by the agency."

She straightened her shoulders and continued in the same tone:

"This is a delicate role, and it is essential that you show nothing but what we will define together. Your feelings will have no place here. It goes without saying that you cannot fall in love with this artist. If you succeed in this mission, you will not only save Eliel's career, which is highly at risk within the group, but also prove that you can handle the pressure, which could open doors for your future acting career. But be warned, Miss Choi, there is no room for error!"

The silence fell as heavy as my thoughts. From their expressions, I understood that they were now waiting for an answer. I remained stunned for a few seconds before managing to shake off my daze.

"I... I don't know," I stammered. "How long do I have to think about your proposal?"

Of course, the answer was no. I just needed to find the courage to say it. By email or text message, it would be easier. If Ms. Lee and Ms. Han had revolvers instead of eyes, I would be dead by now. Apparently, my question didn't please them. Finally, it was Mr. Park who answered me:

"We need an answer now! I know it's sudden, rushed, but every minute counts..."

Ms. Han interrupted him in an irrefutable tone:

"Let's talk about remuneration. For this role, you will receive a salary of 120 million Won for the duration of your mission. This amount includes your full availability for all public appearances, interviews, and events needed to make this relationship believable. We understand that this role requires total involvement and that the emotional and professional risks are significant."

I opened my mouth. 120 million. Damn! That was a lot.

"But that's not all," Ms. Lee added. "In addition to this salary, you will receive a series of exclusive benefits. We've arranged a job for you on the side to perfectly fit the image we want to create for you. All your travel expenses, shopping costs, will be covered by the agency. If you manage to maintain this cover flawlessly for the stipulated duration, an additional bonus of 30 million Won will be awarded to you as a reward for your professionalism and dedication. In summary, this project could provide you with substantial compensation, as well as benefits that will not only enhance your quality of life but also your career. It's a unique opportunity."

I was in a real dilemma. My conscience was screaming:

"Money can't buy happiness!"

"It doesn't buy misery either!" I answered inwardly.

"And your integrity, Bora?"

I silenced it by reminding myself of the bills and rent I had to pay by the end of the week.

"Your answer, Miss Choi?"

Mr. Park emphasized each word, giving me a sideways look, as if warning me not to refuse. If he was this insistent, it meant he was hoping to sign this big contract today with this company. The commission must have been substantial. A sharp, deep grip drew closer to me until it hovered over my entire being. Gradually, I felt it penetrate me slowly. At that moment, each second seemed heavier than the last. What should I do? I thought of all the hardships I had overcome so far. Losing my parents at the age of ten, my grandmother's death two years ago. I had no one left.

Disappointed, Ms. Lee began gathering her scattered documents from the table, her face closed. Annoyed, her colleague did the same, adding:

"We've just wasted a precious morning!"

Her tone had risen, and now her words cracked like a whip. She continued:

"We take your silence as a no! Mr. Park, cross Ms. Choi off our list. The next candidate must absolutely be the right one, or we'll look elsewhere..."

"I accept!" I blurted out abruptly. "I accept this mission, this role."

All three turned to me, then exchanged a quick glance. Ms. Lee crossed her arms over her chest before asking cautiously:

"Are you sure you won't back out? We need an actress with strong nerves!"

And I need money!

"If my contract is ready for this role, I'm ready to sign it with you."

Ms. Han let out a sigh of relief before declaring in a satisfied tone:

"Do you have time right now?"

I straightened up and nodded.

"Perfect! Because our meeting will take several hours."

Ms. Lee stood up and walked around the table to bring me a folder. As she set it down in front of me, I realized there was no turning back. Life is surprising—one morning you wake up without imagining that your fate could change an hour later. You're making a deal with the devil, my sulking conscience whispered. And it was probably true.