Actors

03. Momentary thoughts

The hospital had been surrounded by paparazzi when we arrived, it was impossible to get in without getting noticed. Apparently, news had gotten out that the famous CEO of Jeon Industries had been in a car accident and everyone wanted the first shot of his equally famous son arriving on the scene. It was unnecessary for them to be there trying to get a snapshot of Jungkook. The hospital we went to was supposed to be private with only people of certain status could attend. Yet, there was no regard for safety. They didn't seem to be doing much, or perhaps the police were too far away to drive these people away.

What if the media detained these doctors, nurses, and staff from entering and exiting the place, making it impossible for them to perform their jobs properly. This kind of media circus should be illegal in every damn country. I found myself to be angry that not even in a hospital could one obtain privacy. Even celebrities should be able to attend without being concerned if they'll be photographed and ambushed by paparazzi. It's hectic, even with years of experience dealing with them.

I'm left with admiration for the man I disliked, Jungkook, by the way he walked in with his head held high without acknowledging those hogging around him; they had been invading his personal space. I followed behind him without caring if I was seen or not. This wasn't about being pictured together, it was about someone's life. The media didn't care to take pictures of the people trailing behind Jungkook. It was only after articles and pictures had been released, that fans noticed I was with Jungkook.

This had drawn some attention but I didn't care for the publicity or the act. I just wanted to be the guy I normally am. As strange as it sounds, Jungkook needed someone there and I wanted to be someone he could lean on but he's not easy to get along with. He doesn't trust me and I can't say I blame him. I had motives to be there but I didn't want to seem fame hungry. I'd be there when he needed me. There was no point in pushing.

Jungkook has the tough guy act down but I'm sure I saw it break. It was clear to see his expression change when he looked at the door that stood between his father and him— it was only momentary but he gathered himself quickly. It was weird to see him with uncertainty but it made me aware he truly cared for those close to him.

"Why didn't you tell us, it was Jeon Jungkook?!" My manager and his assistant shouted when they arrived at my home.

I had been keeping down low for the last few days. Jungkook hadn't called me to meet up and I wasn't sure what was going to happen. We had talked briefly after the hospital visit but that was two days ago. I really shouldn't worry because two days was nothing, he needed time to adjust to the new situation. His father would be okay thankfully but I'm sure it's stressful that he's there.

"I hadn't spoken to him in days, and I'm sure you know he's particular about what's said about him. You know how he is." They don't. "He's really private about his personal life and right now he's busy. I don't know what you want me to say and it's not like I can come out and say it."

"Let's confirm he's the man you were pictured with. People will love this! They loved when you two hosted the award show three months ago, the people have been asking for you two to collaborate in a drama. Now, it's possible! Can you imagine all the views, the press, and the budget that could give you two?" My manager's eyes light up when he thinks of all the benefits new roles, contracts, opportunities pop up. I guess, it's because we had been dirt poor before my career launched into what it was.

"No, I don't think it's appropriate. I just told you it's not the time to say anything. He's going through some family issues and I don't want to announce anything. He's having a lot of people follow him around now. And it's more than before." It's sad and I actually feel bad for him.

My manager looks at me as if I said the craziest thing he's ever heard. It's unimportant, in the end, he'll do what I asked. He may be interested in money but this he's still has some morals. He'll keep quiet until further notice.

"The speculation should be enough," Jimin, my assistant, backs me up. He's always been supportive and works harder than anyone I know.

"Yeah, and if possible get me some variety shows to appear on. I know it's been hard with the scandal but I'm hoping to show the public I'm the man they all know."

If I couldn't get booked in one of those variety shows or day time television, then I'm a dead man. All that I worked for had been for nothing. A short lived career which would be outweighed by a scandal which I was willing to put behind me. How pathetic would this end be?

"I'm going to work out. Please, make sure that you give me at least two weeks off in two months," I say standing up from my couch.

"What? Why? I don't know if they'll hire you again for the period drama that was scheduled to film at that time."

"Turn them down or ask for a delay, I'm going to get married." I say walking out without another word. It's probable that he's shocked and many people will be but Jungkook and I agreed that it's better sooner than later.

"Wait! Are you serious?" He runs behind me. I can hear the panic in his voice, he's starting to worry. I'd be worried too, if I were him. I'm putting my career on the line again but this time to keep it. If someone finds about this strange arrangement, I'm done. There's nothing to put back together or fix. People won't trust me anymore.

"You heard what I said. Two weeks. If we can get married sooner I'll let you know." I smile teasing him. That is enough to get him to sweat. He stops and screams for Jimin.

There's a lot to do before we actually get married. I know it won't be anything small because that won't be believable on his behalf. He's a star in every sense of the word. It's a go big or go home. Whether the wedding is covered by the media or not is up in the air. I'm not sure but I'm sure it will be televised. I'm dreading it but I know that leaves no room for faults.

We still have to come out to our fans and announce our wedding. I'm not sure if we'll by married by then or not but it seemed unlikely because every moment is no longer private in this world. That's something I didn't think to ask. All I know is of possibilities, outcomes and such. There's so many "ifs" here. It seems like my time with Jungkook will be filled with quick paced thinking. And for now, I'm okay with that. This is what an improvisational actor is trained for. It will be a challenge that I'm ready to take on.

I just hope that we don't end up clashing too much. So far we've had an unsteady start but I hope it won't affect our new roles as possibly the new "it" couple. And maybe I'm a little selfish to want to maintain my career but I know I'll be supportive if something happens, no matter if he thinks it's all an act or not. Yet, we can't predict the events to come; we'll have to wait and see what's in store for us.

April 23, 2019