All About Eve 'Uncut' -- A Spring Apart

by AAEfanatic

 

Episode 17B

 

Act 3 - Part 3. 1

SCENE: Sun-Mi's bathroom, morning. 1

SERIES OF SCENES: Various locations on Sun-Mi's way to work, morning. 2

SCENE: MBS Studios corridor, morning. 7

SCENE: Outside Hyung-Chul's office, morning. 8

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning. 10

SCENE: MBS conference room, morning. 11

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning. 14

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning. 15

SCENE: MBS training classroom #1, morning. 15

SCENE: MBS training classroom #2, morning. 16

SCENE: MBS training classroom #1, morning. 18

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning. 20

SCENE: Sidewalk outside MBS, afternoon. 21

SCENE: Outside MBS, afternoon. 24

SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, evening. 25

SCENE: MBS Yeouido Studios, afternoon. 26

SCENE: MBS canteen, afternoon. 27

SCENE: MBS outdoor patio, afternoon. 27

SCENE: Director Kim's office, late afternoon. 28

SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, late afternoon. 29

SCENE: MBS corridor, late afternoon. 31

SCENE: MBS cafeteria, late afternoon. 32

SCENE: Director Kim's office, late afternoon. 35

SCENE: Director Kim's office, late afternoon. 36

SCENE: MBS corridor, evening. 37

SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, evening. 38

SCENE: Outside the MBS building, evening. 39

SCENE: Woo-Jin's bedroom, evening. 40

SCENE: Seorae Island, Banpo Han River park, sunset 40

SCENE: Bus Stop, night 41

INTERCUT SCENES: Various locations, night 44

INTERCUT SCENES: Woo-Jin's bedroom and bathroom.. 46

SCENE: outside Sun-Mi's house, late night 48

 

 

 

Act 3 - Part 3

 

 

 

 

SCENE: Sun-Mi's bathroom, morning

 

Finished with applying her makeup, Sun-Mi pauses to reflect.

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Seeing Senior now is too hard ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) That's why I've decided to quit MBS.

 

 

She recalls Woo-Jin's response ...

 

 

FLASHBACK

 

Woo-Jin............ You're running away rather than face up to the situation.

 

 

Woo-Jin............ If you leave like this, you'll always have regrets. Why not try talking to Director Yoon first?

 

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. Idiot! How can I talk to him, if it's already too hard to see him?

 

 

 

SERIES OF SCENES: Various locations on Sun-Mi's way to work, morning

 

Waiting for the bus, Sun-Mi continues to ponder through her quandary ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Actually, Senior isn't the kind of person who'd do something like this behind my back.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) He's too good a person to treat me badly. It must be a misunderstanding, right?

 

 

The bus arrives, and Sun-Mi boards, taking a seat.

 

 

 

Riding the bus, she contemplates on the rest of her conversation with Woo-Jin ...

 

 

FLASHBACK

 

Woo-Jin............ Remember what you once told me?

 

 

Woo-Jin............ "Like the clouds, there are certain things which will disappear with the passing of time.

 

....................... And when it happens, you'll realize that it wasn't any big deal."

 

 

She nods.

 

Sun-Mi.............. I was being overly presumptive, wasn't I? As if I understood what you were going through.

 

Woo-Jin............ Actually, that helped me put things into a better perspective.

 

Sun-Mi.............. So you're saying, that I should listen to my own advice?

 

Woo-Jin............ You can do a lot of good in this world. Don't just throw it all away ...

 

 

 

 

Later, walking from the bus stop, Sun-Mi looks up at the massive MBS tower.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Coming here was the opportunity I'd dreamed of all my life ...

 

 

FLASHBACK [Previous scene from Episode 12 ]

 

Sun-Mi........ Hello, I'm number 1508, Jin Sun-M. ...

 

 

Sun-Mi........ The reason I want to be an announcer is to present happy news to the world ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) What if Woo-Jin's right? Why give up my dream over what may be a simple misunderstanding?

 

 

Entering the main lobby, she queues for the lift.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Maybe I'm overreacting ... Writing dramas in my imagination ...

 

[ lift chime sounds ]

 

The doors open.

 

Sun-Mi enters along with the others, and the doors close.

 

The other passengers silently watch the floor indicator light changing as the lift rises.

 

 

But Sun-Mi is lost in her thoughts ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) I shouldn't make judgements based on rumors ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) At least I owe Senior the chance to explain himself.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Why not find out how he really feels? ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) That can't be too hard, can it?

 

 

She looks up at the floor indicator, immediately making her decision ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. Ten, please.

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS Studios corridor, morning

 

Jin-Soo leans against the corridor wall as he complains to himself.

 

Jin-Soo............. I shouldn't have believed that fat boss. To think I believed that chubby idiot ... That fat ...

 

 

 

Sun-Dal comes by, sees Jin-Soo and bats him on the arm to get his attention.

 

Sun-Dal............ What are you doing?

 

Jin-Soo takes Sun-Dal's hand with his.

 

Jin-Soo............. Manager, I'm aggravated. How in the world could he steal my proposal idea?

 

Sun-Dal looks around.

 

Sun-Dal............ You can let go of my hand.

 

Jin-Soo............. Ok.

 

Jin-Soo drops Sun-Dal's hand.

 

Sun-Dal............ Ki-Jong and Kyung-Hui. Are they going to get married?

 

Jin-Soo............. Yes, Ki-Jong did a parachute proposal. That was my idea you know.

 

Sun-Dal laughs.

 

Sun-Dal............ He said it's cheesy.

 

 

 

Jin-Soo............. What about the doll stuff? Maybe I could do that with a huge board that goes like ...

 

Sun-Dal listens closely.

 

Jin-Soo............. "Cho-Jeh, you're the love of my life", and I'll hold that board up to her.

 

Sun-Dal............ Gosh, I told you it's cheesy.

 

He shakes his head.

 

Jin-Soo............. Yes, you're right.

 

Sun-Dal............ I told you. Women, they don't like scenes.

 

Jin-Soo nods rapidly.

 

Jin-Soo............. You're right. It's too childish.

 

Jin-Soo takes Sun-Dal's hand.

 

Jin-Soo............. Senior, thank you. Thank you for enlightening me.

 

 

Sun-Dal looks around to see if anyone is watching them.

 

Sun-Dal............ Well, you don't have to hold my hand, right? Catch you later.

 

Sun-Dal walks away, down the corridor.

 

Jin-Soo............. Yes, I sure have one hell of a good boss. I want to be like him when I grow up.

 

 

 

SCENE: Outside Hyung-Chul's office, morning

 

Sun-Mi approaches the desk of Hyung-Chul's secretary, Miss Lee.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Good morning.

 

Miss Lee........... Announcer Jin, I'm glad to see you're back.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. Thank you.

 

She glances over Miss Lee's shoulder, at the closed door to Hyung-Chul's office.

 

Sun-Mi.............. I'd like to see Director Yoon.

 

 

Miss Lee........... I'm sorry, but he's unavailable. Do you want to make an appointment?

 

Sun-Mi.............. It's really important that I talk with him. Can't you let him know I'm here?

 

 

Miss Lee deliberates for a moment before answering ...

 

 

FLASHBACK

 

Miss Lee........... I don't mean to intrude, but you seem a bit down recently, Director.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Am I that obvious?

 

 

Miss Lee........... Is there anything I can do?

 

He chuckles.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Can you work miracles? Announcer Jin Sun-Mi is freezing me out again ...

 

 

 

Miss Lee........... Actually ... The Director's not in his office.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Oh ... (sighs) Then ...

 

Miss Lee........... He left early for the program meeting. He should be in the conference room right now.

 

 

Sun-Mi's face lights up with gratitude.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Thanks so much.

 

 

Happy to have facilitated even a small 'miracle', Miss Lee smiles.

 

Miss Lee .......... It's nothing. Good luck.

 

 

Sun-Mi smiles back gratefully before she turns and hurries off ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning

 

 

As Sun-Mi approaches the conference room, second thoughts arise, shaking her confidence ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) When I see him, what should I say? What if it's too hard, and I can't breathe?

 

 

At the conference room door, she stops to take a deep breath and encourage herself ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. Just be calm and act normally. Remember, it's no big deal ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS conference room, morning

 

Sun-Mi opens the door to the conference room, walks in, and closes the door.

 

She pauses when she sees Hyung-Chul seated at the table, writing.

 

 

But she has prepared herself, and the initial moment passes without incident ... She is okay.

 

 

Hyung-Chul hears Sun-Mi enter and glances up.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. You're early.

 

She walks over to sit down at the table as he returns to his papers.

 

 

He replies without looking up.

 

Hyung-Chul....... When did you start coming to work again?

 

Sun-Mi.............. Two days ago.

 

 

She smiles as she writes something.

 

Hyung-Chul....... So, are you OK now?

 

Sun-Mi.............. Yes ... Yes ... I saw you in the magazine ...

 

 

She looks up at Hyung-Chul.

 

Hyung-Chul looks up at Sun-Mi.

 

Sun-Mi.............. When I see you in the media, you don't seem like the Director Yoon I know.

 

She looks down again.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Which is the real you?

 

 

 

He leans back in his chair.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Jin Sun-Mi ...

 

Sun-Mi looks up at him, waiting for him to continue.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Whenever you're mad at me you call me Director Yoon, right?

 

 

Sun-Mi looks down, searching for words.

 

Sun-Mi.............. We ... we're beyond "Director Yoon"...

 

....................... I'm not sure we're close enough to have personal grudges. You said you would let me go.

 

She looks back up at Hyung-Chul, waiting for his response.

 

 

He leans forward.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Sun-Mi ...

 

 

[ sound of door opening ]

 

 

Hyung-Chul glances over at the door, then returns back to his work as Sun-Dal comes into the room.

 

Sun-Dal............ Good morning?

 

 

 

Sun-Mi stands to greet her colleagues.

 

Colleagues........ How are you? Hi, Sun-Mi?

 

Hyung-Chul....... How are you all?

 

Jin-Soo waves at Sun-Mi as he enters.

 

Colleagues........ Good morning! OK let's start. Yes. Have you all been well?

 

 

Sun-Mi sits down, watching Hyung-Chul from the corner of her eyes.

 

Hyung-Chul turns towards Sun-Mi.

 

Their eyes briefly meet ... and in that instant, she sends him a clear message ...

 

 

 

Then they look away before anyone notices.

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning

 

After the meeting, Hyung-Chul leaves the conference room looking for Sun-Mi.

 

She is waiting, as telegraphed to him earlier.

 

 

But he has somewhere else to be, and impatiently shows it ...

 

Hyung-Chul....... What is it NOW?

 

Sun-Mi.............. We need to �talk.

 

 

He impatiently checks the time on his wristwatch.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Sorry, I have an important meeting I'm already late for.

 

 

Sun-Mi senses he is giving her the brush-off. Irritated, she pushes back ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. This is important, too!

 

Hyung-Chul....... How about later? After work?

 

Sun-Mi.............. (sarcastically) Sure. Whenever you can find a spare minute or two!

 

Hyung-Chul....... I'll call you then.

 

 

Irked, she responds tit for tat ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. Don't go out of your way ... I'll call you!

 

Not waiting for his reply, she turns her back on him.

 

 

Hyung-Chul watches, perplexed, as Sun-Mi stomps off indignantly.

 

Wondering what has prompted her mercurial behavior, he turns and walks the other way.

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning

 

Sun-Mi is stalking across the lift lobby, still heated from her misencounter with Hyung-Chul.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Humph! What does he think I am, some underling waiting at his beck and call?

 

[ mobile beeps ]

 

Frowning at the interruption, she takes out her phone and flips it open.

 

The caller ID shows it is her Manager, Kim Sun-Dal.

 

 

She accepts the call, putting the phone to her ear as she speaks ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. Yes, Manager Kim?

 

She listens for a few seconds.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Yes, I'm free ... Where?

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS training classroom #1, morning

 

When Hyung-Chul arrives, Su-Jin is already in the classroom she'd chosen for their rendezvous.

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... Sorry I'm late. Did you wait long?

 

Su-Jin............... No, I just came myself.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Why meet here?

 

Su-Jin............... I wasn't sure if I should be seen by your office, with all the rumors flying.

 

He shrugs off her concern.

 

Hyung-Chul....... There are always rumors ... You said you had something important to tell me?

 

Su-Jin............... Yes. I know who Director Kim intends to take as the emcee for Art Club.

 

Hyung-Chul....... That's no secret. He scouted Announcer Huh Young-Mi. But after I opposed it, she turned him down.

 

Su-Jin............... Actually, that move was just a feint to distract from his real target ... Jin Sun-Mi.

 

Hyung-Chul scoffs ...

 

Hyung-Chul....... Why Sun-Mi? Kim has always denigrated her abilities. What does he suddenly see in her?

 

 

Su-Jin............... His best weapon to use against you, because ...

 

Hyung-Chul....... Because if he has control over Sun-Mi's future, then I can't move against him.

 

 

She nods, confirming his deduction., and elaborates ...

 

Su-Jin............... And if forced to choose bewteen Eve's Morning or Art Club, he's betting you'll choose for Sun-Mi ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS training classroom #2, morning

 

Meanwhile, in an adjacent classroom, Sun-Mi meets up with Sun-Dal ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. Why call me to come here? We were just at the meeting.

 

Sun-Dal............ I have something to say, in private. I tried earlier, but you weren't in the Announcer's office.

 

 

She lowers her eyes apologetically.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Sorry ... I had something to do first when I came in.

 

....................... If this is about my corner, like I said at the meeting, I'll have it ready by the end of the day.

 

 

Sun-Dal............ Don't bother, there's no need ... Because you won't be going back on the program.

 

The news staggers Sun-Mi.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Wh--why? Wh--what did I do wrong this time?

 

Sun-Dal............ Relax, it's nothing you've done.

 

 

Intending to soften the blow, he reaches out and pats Sun-Mi on the shoulder in a fatherly way.

 

Sun-Dal............ It's just that ratings are up since Jin-Soo began playing the 'Buzzy Bumblebee' character.

 

....................... We didn't want to change the program's dynamics by bringing you back right now.

 

 

But his efforts are inadequate to assuage her hurt feelings.

 

Sun-Mi.............. (bitterly) Was it Director Yoon's idea, to let me go from the program?

 

Sun-Dal............ Of course, he made the final decision, but the entire executive committee agreed on it.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Why didn't he say something during the meeting? Because he couldn't face me?!

 

 

Sun-Dal............ It's not like that. We thought you should be informed before the rest of the team.

 

....................... Besides, this is temporary. We'll decide after the Gala whether to continue with 'Buzzy' or not.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. What am I supposed to do in the meantime?

 

Sun-Dal............ Take this as an opportunity to fully recover your health, and focus on training with Yoo Joo-Hee.

 

 

She nods, reluctantly accepting the situation forced on her.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Yes. I understand.

 

 

Sun-Dal............ Good ... I have to go first ...

 

He turns and takes a step to the door, reaching for the handle, then stops and looks back.

 

Sun-Dal............ I'll make the announcement at tomorrow's meeting. You don't need to be there.

 

 

Sun-Dal pulls the door open and leaves the classroom.

 

The door automatically closes behind him.

 

[ sound of door latching ]

 

 

Still in shock, Sun-Mi can't believe the unexpected turn of events against her.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Senior's replaced me with a silly bee? Young-Mi will never let me live this down!

 

A tear rolls down her cheek.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Maybe ... maybe I really should quit ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS training classroom #1, morning

 

After Su-Jin lays out the details of Director Kim's strategy, Hyung-Chul expounds his thoughts ...

 

Hyung-Chul....... The problem with Kim's plan is that Sun-Mi is likely to turn down his offer.

 

....................... And the problem with that, is it's too good an opportunity for Sun-Mi to turn down.

 

 

 

Su-Jin............... Are you saying, that you want Sun-Mi to host Art Club although she likely doesn't?

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... It's an ideal fit for Sun-Mi, and a good opportunity to advance her career.

 

Su-Jin............... Then why won't she take it?

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... First, Sun-Mi lacks the self-confidence to take on such a prominent program.

 

....................... She's also very loyal, and wouldn't want to compete against the Eve's Morning team.

 

 

Su-Jin............... So you're not concerned about Director Kim's intentions?

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... Not personally. But it does complicate the situation. I want Sun-Mi to do this, for her own sake.

 

....................... Yet I don't want to put her into the middle of a fight between Kim and me.

 

 

Su-Jin's brow wrinkles as she ponders the problem, until an assured smile curves her lips.

 

Su-Jin............... I have an idea.

 

Hyung-Chul....... I'm listening.

 

 

Su-Jin............... Why not take advantage of the rumors about you and me? Act like it makes no difference to you.

 

....................... If Director Kim believes you don't care, there's no incentive to use Sun-Mi against you.

 

....................... And if Sun-Mi balks, give her confidence. Tell her clearly that you want her to make the move.

 

 

Hyung-Chul is musing over Su-Jin's idea when she makes another offer ...

 

Su-Jin............... I'll look after Sun-Mi, and keep Director Kim distracted, so he won't give her a second thought.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Thanks, I appreciate that.

 

Su-Jin............... I'll do anything I can to help you.

 

He nods.

 

Hyung-Chul....... It's a good plan. Let's go with it.

 

She smiles at his approval.

 

 

Su-Jin............... Do I get a reward?

 

He chuckles.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Name it.

 

Su-Jin............... Mmm ... Coffee?

 

 

Mentally reviewing his schedule, he checks his watch.

 

Hyung-Chul....... I have some time until my next meeting. Shall we enjoy the nice weather on the rooftop?

 

 

Her smile brightens with the opportunity.

 

Su-Jin............... That sounds refreshing!

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS corridor, morning

 

Leaving the classroom, Su-Jin and Hyung-Chul amble along the glass-walled corridor.

 

[ sounds of footsteps ]

 

They don't notice that behind them, a door opens and Sun-Mi steps out into the corridor.

 

 

Surprised to see Hyung-Chul together with Su-Jin, she stops to observe them, irritated.

 

Sun-Mi.............. (quietly, to herself) What was so important for Senior to meet with Park Su-Jin, instead of me?

 

 

Su-Jin links her arm with Hyung-Chul's.

 

Hyung-Chul glances over at her, and starts to disengage, but she playfully clings tighter.

 

Sun-Mi is aghast at Su-Jin's blatant flirting, but restrains herself.

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... What if someone sees?

 

Su-Jin............... There's already rumors. What does it matter?

 

Hyung-Chul....... You're right.

 

 

 

Su-Jin............... When are you going to speak to Jin Sun-Mi?

 

Hyung-Chul....... Let's wait and see what happens first.

 

Su-Jin............... Right. It's better if you don't say anything.

 

 

 

Sun-Mi watches until they are out of sight.

 

Sun-Mi.............. (aloud to herself) What don't I need to know?

 

 

 

 

SCENE: Sidewalk outside MBS, afternoon

 

Cho-Jeh and Jin-Soo are taking a break from work.

 

 

Jin-Soo............. You know, about the parachute thing. That was honestly ...

 

Cho-Jeh............ That's OK. I understand.

 

 

Ahead of them is a group of people -- adults, some dressed in animal costumes -- and children holding balloons.

 

 

 

Cho-Jeh............ I'll put my hopes into next time ... Anyway ...

 

....................... You know, for one of my bosses, her boyfriend proposed to her by putting himself in a huge box ...

 

She gestures to show the size.

 

Cho-Jeh............ ... and the postman mailed him to her ...

 

She faces Jin-Soo and speaks more excitedly.

 

Cho-Jeh............ ... and he jumped out dressed like a rabbit and proposed. Don't you think that's really something?

 

 

Jin-Soo laughs and pushes his cone against Cho-Jeh's lips, then laughs again.

 

Jin-Soo............. Something as childish as that? Is dressing up with cartoon costumes something a man should do?

 

Cho-Jeh wipes her lips.

 

Jin-Soo............. Cheesy! There's no other word for it.

 

Cho-Jeh............ I think it's fun.

 

Jin-Soo............. Fun? I bet they're divorced now, right? It's obvious. So cheesy.

 

Cho-Jeh............ They didn't get married yet.

 

Jin-Soo............. Anyway, I don't think that's fun.

 

 

Cho-Jeh looks ahead and sees the crowd.

 

Cho-Jeh............ Isn't that Yoo Joo-Hee the announcer?

 

Jin-Soo looks too.

 

 

Joo-Hee is walking towards the group on the sidewalk.

 

When she gets closer, the children run up to her, followed by the people dressed in animal costumes.

 

The person in the cat costume holds up a scroll and lets it unwind.

 

 

[ Words on the scroll read "I love Yoo Joo-Hee" ]

 

 

Joo-Hee looks around, perplexed, then notices the bear scratching its head.

 

She smiles, guessing it is Sun-Dal.

 

 

Cho-Jeh smiles at the scene.

 

Jin-Soo............. Cheesy ...

 

Jin-Soo looks back and forth between the crowd and Cho-Jeh, then bumps Cho-Jeh with his hand.

 

Jin-Soo............. What's the matter, Cho-Jeh?

 

Cho-Jeh turns to look at Jin-Soo.

 

Cho-Jeh............ You think it's cheesy? I think it's very romantic.

 

 

He gestures at the scene.

 

Jin-Soo............. You know, that's my idea too. Sun-Dal ...

 

Cho-Jeh............ Could you come up with some new excuse?

 

Jin-Soo............. No, it's not that ... Sun-Dal picked it up from me.

 

Cho-Jeh............ You're always making excuses and more excuses. You should have a sense of shame.

 

Jin-Soo............. I told you, that was my idea!

 

Cho-Jeh............ Enough, thanks for this nasty ice cream!

 

Cho-Jeh holds the cone up to Jin-Soo and walks away.

 

 

Frustrated, he calls after her to no avail ...

 

Jin-Soo............. Cho-Jeh! Cho-Jeh! Cho-Jeh!

 

 

Looking for revenge, Jin-Soo glares at the person in the bear costume.

 

Jin-Soo............. You bear head!

 

 

The person in the bear costume starts running away.

 

Jin-Soo............. Hey, where are you going?

 

Jin-Soo charges forward.

 

Jin-Soo............. I said stop right there!

 

Stepping into his way, the person in the dog costume blocks Jin-Soo.

 

 

 

 

SCENE: Outside MBS, afternoon

 

Later, the person in the bear costume rests by a fountain.

 

 

When the costume head comes off it reveals Sun-Dal as the wearer.

 

He holds up a card with the words "Sanbaenim, me too" written on it.

 

 

Sun-Dal smiles happily at Joo-Hee's acceptance.

 

 

 

SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, evening

 

Later that day, Joo-Hee goes to see Hyung-Chul ...

 

Hyung-Chul....... Congratulations! I heard it was quite the production.

 

 

 

Joo-Hee............ Yes ... childish, and so cheesy ...

 

She smiles, thinking of the humorous incident.

 

Joo-Hee............ But it was touching how he made a fool of himself, just to impress me.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Who knew that guy was such a romantic?

 

Joo-Hee............ Yes ...

 

Her smile fades.

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... What is it?

 

Joo-Hee............ I should be deliriously happy, but instead I feel sad ...

 

She sighs deeply.

 

Joo-Hee............ Because this means it's finally the end of things for us.

 

 

Hyung-Chul steers the conversation to a less contentious matter.

 

Hyung-Chul....... What about the correspondent position in London?

 

Joo-Hee............ That's a good question ... I wish I had the answer.

 

Hyung-Chul....... You haven't told Sun-Dal?

 

Joo-Hee............ It seems the timing was never right before, and now ... I'm really torn.

 

Hyung-Chul....... There's no reason you can't go.

 

Joo-Hee............ True, but do I want to?

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS Yeouido Studios, afternoon

 

Another day at MBS ...

 

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS canteen, afternoon

 

Young-Mi is waiting in the employee canteen, impatiently looking out the window.

 

 

 

When she hears Woo-Jin approaching, she turns to face him.

 

Young-Mi.......... Oppa?

 

Woo-Jin............ What are you doing?

 

Young-Mi.......... I'm gonna be the cover girl for the company gazette. I still have time so I'm just waiting around.

 

Woo-Jin smiles.

 

Woo-Jin............ Hope they turn out pretty.

 

Young-Mi nods.

 

Young-Mi.......... Are you going to come home tonight?

 

Woo-Jin............ Yeah ... I don't know what to say to my mom and the others.

 

Young-Mi crushes her cup.

 

Woo-Jin............ What should I tell them?

 

Young-Mi laughs uncomfortably.

 

Young-Mi.......... Let's wait a bit. I'll say it nicely to your mother. I'll do it nicely so she accepts me, OK?

 

Woo-Jin nods but says nothing ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS outdoor patio, afternoon

 

A stylist is adjusting Hyung-Chul's hair in preparation for the company magazine photo shoot.

 

Cameraman...... OK, ready to go. Please look over here.

 

Hyung-Chul looks at the camera, as the stylist steps out of the picture.

 

Cameraman...... Please look this way. One, two, three.

 

Young-Mi walks up behind the photographer.

 

 

Cameraman...... Loosen up your body and look this way.

 

Hyung-Chul smiles at Young-Mi, who smiles back briefly, then averts her eyes.

 

Cameraman...... One more to go, look here. One, two, three.

 

With the last picture taken, Young-Mi goes over to Hyung-Chul to talk.

 

 

Young-Mi.......... You didn't know that we'd be pictured together?

 

Hyung-Chul stands.

 

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... No, I'm having an interview here. Are you the cover girl this month?

 

Young-Mi nods.

 

 

 

SCENE: Director Kim's office, late afternoon

 

Eun-Ki and his staff are holding a meeting in his office.

 

 

Eun-Ki.............. OK, let's go with this trend.

 

Assistants......... Yes.

 

 

The intercom buzzes.

 

Eun-Ki.............. What is it?

 

Secretary.......... (V.O. on the intercom) Jin Sun-Mi is here.

 

Eun-Ki.............. Let her in.

 

 

Sun-Mi walks in the door.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. You wanted to see me?

 

Eun-Ki.............. Yes, I've been waiting for you ... Why don't we talk over dinner instead of standing around here?

 

Others nod in agreement.

 

Eun-Ki.............. OK? Let's go.

 

 

 

SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, late afternoon

 

After the photoshoot and interview, Hyung-Chul and Young-Mi return to his office.

 

Hyung-Chul....... I felt uneasy, but you were very natural.

 

Young-Mi.......... Thanks, but that's because I face the camera every day ... But you did quite well.

 

 

 

He laughs and turns toward his desk.

 

Hyung-Chul....... You turned down Kim's proposal? How do you feel?

 

Young-Mi.......... I like the morning show. I like every team member ...

 

Hyung-Chul sits down.

 

 

Young-Mi.......... Most of all, everybody in the TV station knows the relationship between you and him.

 

....................... How can I possibly take his side?

 

 

Hyung-Chul looks up and at Young-Mi, then his eyes move past her, to the door ...

 

[ O.S. running footsteps ]

 

Sun-Dal comes into the office, breathless.

 

 

Sun-Dal............ I'm sorry, something came up.

 

Hyung-Chul....... What do you mean? Maybe Kim was trying to scout you, right?

 

 

Sun-Dal............ Well, if a show as large as that wanted me, I'd run over.

 

....................... But why are they only asking for Young-Mi and not me as well? Are they discriminating?

 

....................... Then who will be the host? You have a tight grasp over all the announcers.

 

 

Hyung-Chul's mouth tightens, but he doesn't answer that question, instead changing the subject ...

 

Hyung-Chul....... Why don't we go out for dinner?

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS corridor, late afternoon

 

Sun-Dal and Hyung-Chul converse as they head for the lifts to go down to the cafeteria.

 

Young-Mi trails a step behind the two men.

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... Actually, my 'grasp' isn't so tight anymore. I had to give Kim carte blanche.

 

....................... It was part of the deal to hold off cancelling Eve's Morning.

 

 

Sun-Dal............ Let me talk to the staff and ...

 

Hyung-Chul shoots a stern glance at Sun-Dal, cutting him off.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Don't do that. I won't hold anyone back.

 

 

As they turn the corner to the 10F lift lobby, Young-Mi speaks up ...

 

Young-Mi.......... There's no need for concern, Manager Kim. All of the announcers support Director Yoon.

 

....................... Everyone knows how he protected us from being retrenched.

 

She looks at Hyung-Chul earnestly.

 

 

Young-Mi.......... No one will betray you ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS cafeteria, late afternoon

 

Sun-Mi is seated at a table in the MBS cafeteria with Eun-Ki and his assistants.

 

Her eyes widen as she listens to Eun-Ki explain the reason he wanted to see her ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. The Art Club? A new program?

 

Eun-Ki.............. Yes, what do you think? It's perfect for you.

 

Sun-Mi.............. I appreciate it, but I can't do such a big program.

 

Eun-Ki.............. We know you can do it. That's why we're asking. You won the first place for the popularity poll, right?

 

Assistant........... Yes.

 

Eun-Ki.............. Here, let's eat.

 

 

Hyung-Chul, Sun-Dal, and Young-Mi walk into the cafeteria and are about to sit down.

 

 

Sun-Dal looks over and sees Sun-Mi and Director Kim, then motions to Hyung-Chul.

 

Sun-Dal............ Sun-Mi's here.

 

Hyung-Chul turns around and sees Eun-Ki.

 

 

Eun-Ki notices Hyung-Chul watching them, and calls over to him ...

 

Eun-Ki.............. Hi there.

 

 

Sun-Mi looks at Hyung-Chul apprehensively.

 

Hyung-Chul walks over to Eun-Ki's table with Sun-Dal.

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... How are you?

 

Eun-Ki.............. I'm OK.

 

Sun-Dal............ What are you doing here, Sun-Mi?

 

Sun-Mi looks back at Hyung-Chul and Sun-Dal uneasily, but doesn't reply.

 

Eun-Ki.............. Mr. Kim, I'm going to make her the host of the new show, Art Club.

 

Sun-Dal............ Jin Sun-Mi hosting the show?

 

Eun-Ki.............. You wouldn't mind, right?

 

 

Seated at a table some distance away, Young-Mi is listening closely.

 

 

Eun-Ki.............. Let's see, Jin Sun-Mi, you were Director Yoon's junior before, right?

 

....................... Oh, maybe I should have asked Yoon about her then.

 

....................... What do you think? ... So, may I take her for my program?

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... Well, I guess, it's totally up to her. You don't need permission from me.

 

Sun-Mi appears troubled when she hears this, but she doesn't speak up.

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... I hope you have a good time here. Well, we're eating over there.

 

Eun-Ki.............. OK. Please enjoy.

 

 

Sun-Mi watches as Hyung-Chul and Sun-Dal walk back to their table and sit down.

 

Sun-Dal............ Why is she here?

 

Hyung-Chul....... It's a great chance for her.

 

Sun-Dal............ What is that supposed to mean?

 

Hyung-Chul looks at Sun-Dal, but says nothing.

 

 

Sun-Dal............ I'd rather have Joo-Hee. Is there any reason for Sun-Mi to take it?

 

....................... Did something happen between the two of you?

 

 

Hyung-Chul declines to respond, looking away from Sun-Dal.

 

Sun-Dal looks over at Young-Mi, then back at Hyung-Chul.

 

Sun-Dal............ (quietly) Did you break up?

 

Once again, Hyung-Chul doesn't reply, showing only a quizzical smile ...

 

 

 

 

SCENE: Director Kim's office, late afternoon

 

After dinner, Director Kim Eun-Ki returns to his office with Sun-Mi.

 

Closing the door, he points her to a chair at the side of the conference table.

 

Eun-Ki.............. Please have a seat, Announcer Jin.

 

As she sits down, he takes his seat at the table's head.

 

Eun-Ki.............. What do you say? Will you be my new host?

 

 

Her response is tepid.

 

Sun-Mi.............. I appreciate the offer, but as I said before, I can't do such a big program.

 

He smiles to alleviate her qualms.

 

Eun-Ki.............. Didn't you say the Arts are your passion?

 

Sun-Mi.............. Yes.

 

Eun-Ki.............. This is the chance to share your passion with the whole of society.

 

Sun-Mi.............. I know, and that's intimidating. It's a big step for someone with my limited experience.

 

Eun-Ki.............. You won't be taking that step alone, but with a team drawn from the top talent in the industry.

 

But Sun-Mi argues back ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. Before you were very critical of my performance, even of my basic intelligence.

 

....................... What's changed, that you're supporting me now?

 

 

Eun-Ki leans back in his chair with a bemused smile.

 

Eun-Ki.............. We appear to have a misunderstanding between us, Announcer Jin.

 

....................... My remarks weren't intended personally, but as a professional critique.

 

....................... A News anchor must be dispassionate, conveying gravitas, but a feature program is different.

 

....................... Art Club needs an emcee with a brightness and verve that conveys her enthusiasm to the audience.

 

 

She is still unconvinced.

 

Sun-Mi.............. You're saying, I�m that kind of person?

 

Eun-Ki.............. Exactly!

 

 

Leaning closer, he presses his case ...

 

Eun-Ki.............. On Musical Postcards �you demonstrated the ability to create a successful media personality.

 

....................... And Art Club offers every announcer's dream ... you can be one of MBS' top celebrities.

 

 

Feeling pressured, Sun-Mi instinctively draws back ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. You know I'm currently on the Eve's Morning team. I don't want to disappoint them.

 

She stands up.

 

Sun-Mi.............. I need some time, to think this over, before I decide what to do.

 

She turns away and starts for the door.

 

 

Eun-Ki.............. I understand your loyalty to Director Yoon, because of your long relationship with him.

 

....................... But before you leave, Announcer Jin, there is something you should know ...

 

 

She stops, waiting to hear what he has to say.

 

 

Eun-Ki.............. After you were fired under the Three Strike Policy, I cast the deciding vote to reinstate you.

 

....................... I was willing to take a chance with you. I hope you can return that favor.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (silence)

 

Eun-Ki.............. Let me know your decision tomorrow.

 

Sun-Mi nods and goes to the door. Opening it, she walks out.

 

 

 

SCENE: Director Kim's office, late afternoon

 

Eun-Ki presses the SPEAKER button on his desk phone and taps in a number on the keypad.

 

[ sounds of dial tones, then ringing ]

 

Young-Mi's answers the call over the speaker phone.

 

Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) Yes?

 

Eun-Ki.............. Announcer Huh, can you talk now?

 

Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) What do we have to talk about? I did my part, but you failed to follow through!

 

 

Eun-Ki.............. I understand your feelings. But there was nothing I could do after Yoo Joo-Hee appeared.

 

....................... However, another opportunity has come up.

 

 

Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) Go on ...

 

Eun-Ki.............. I'm trying to persuade Jin Sun-Mi to accept the Art Club emcee slot.

 

Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) What does that have to do with me?

 

Eun-Ki.............. If Jin Sun-Mi is on Art Club, she'll be out of contention for the News At Nine next season.

 

Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) What's the problem?

 

Eun-Ki.............. Loyalty to Director Yoon is holding her back.

 

Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) Is that all? ... I know exactly what to do ...

 

 

 

SCENE: MBS corridor, evening

 

Later, Sun-Mi comes out of the washroom, toothbrush in hand.

 

She walks past Young-Mi, who was waiting for her in the corridor.

 

 

Sun-Mi sees Young-Mi and frowns, then continues walking.

 

Young-Mi.......... You broke up with him?

 

 

Sun-Mi freezes, turning around slowly.

 

Young-Mi.......... Is that true?

 

Sun-Mi.............. Director Yoon said that?

 

Young-Mi.......... So you broke up.

 

 

Her rival's confident assertion knocks Sun-Mi off-balance.

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. (weakly) Could you excuse me? I'm going home.

 

Shaken, she walks away.

 

 

Watching Sun-Mi, Young-Mi ponders for a moment, then concludes ...

 

Young-Mi.......... They're through.

 

 

 

 

SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, evening

 

Hyung-Chul and Sun-Dal have returnd to his office after eating ...

 

 

Sun-Dal............ You haven't answered my question.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Why assume Sun-Mi and I broke up?

 

Sun-Dal............ What other reason explains her going over to Director Kim's program?

 

Hyung-Chul....... Didn't you talk with Sun-Mi earlier?

 

Sun-Dal............ Yes. She wasn't happy about being dropped, if that's what you're asking.

 

Hyung-Chul....... Couldn't that explain it? Sun-Mi's suddenly without a program, and Kim comes a-courting?

 

Sun-Dal............ You seemed pretty indifferent toward it, though.

 

Hyung-Chul....... As I said, it's a good opportunity for Sun-Mi.

 

Sun-Dal............ You didn't feel that way about losing Huh Young-Mi.

 

Hyung-Chul....... That's because Young-Mi is important for the success of Eve's Morning, but Sun-Mi isn't.

 

 

Sun-Dal............ So it's strictly a business decision?

 

Hyung-Chul....... 100% ... I've learned not to mix business and personal, especially when it involves Sun-Mi.

 

Sun-Dal............ Still, I feel that you may be making a big mistake.

 

Hyung-Chul....... If I lose to Kim, it's due to my own actions, not Sun-Mi's. I won't hold her back.

 

Sun-Dal............ Where are your loyalties? With Sun-Mi, or MBS?

 

Hyung-Chul....... Can't it be both?

 

 

SCENE: Outside the MBS building, evening

 

Outside the MBS main gate, Sun-Mi waits on the curb, waving her arm as she tries to hail a taxi.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Taxi! ... Taxi!

 

 

A cab pulls over and stops.

 

 

Sun-Mi opens the rear door and slides into the back seat.

 

Sun-Mi.............. Sir, take me to Banpo.

 

Driver............... Yes.

 

 

 

SCENE: Woo-Jin's bedroom, evening

 

Woo-Jin has just come out of the shower, hair wet, with a towel draped over his shoulder.

 

[ ringing phone ]

 

Woo-Jin............ Hello?

 

Young-Mi.......... Oppa, it's me.

 

 

Woo-Jin............ Hey, Young-Mi, are you getting off?

 

 

Young-Mi.......... Well, not yet ... Is your mom home? ... No, I'll go to yours ...

 

....................... I thought about what you said earlier ...

 

....................... Though we don't have to meet up, let's not try to avoid each other either.

 

 

Woo-Jin............ OK, I will wait for you.

 

He hangs up and walks towards the door of his room.

 

Then he stops and looks back at the phone, suspicious of Young-Mi's sudden change of mind ...

 

 

 

SCENE: Seorae Island, Banpo Han River park, sunset

 

Sun-Mi stands at the tip of Seorae Island, facing west.

 

Before her, the setting sun paints the cloudless sky with a blaze of orange-yellow.

 

A steady breeze ripples the waters of the Han River, the occasional gust playfully blowing her loose locks into her face.

 

 

Looking around first to confirm that she is alone, Sun-Mi sets her office tote down on the ground.

 

She cups her hands around her mouth, takes a deep breath, then shouts into the wind ...

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. Senior, why are you treating me this way? Are you trying tomake me hate you?

 

....................... If you want to break up, I can understand. It's my fault. I was too much.

 

....................... But couldn't you tell me first? Did you want me to look like an idiot?

 

 

Sun-Mi.............. You're so bad! ... I should curse you ... I should ...

 

....................... But I want you to be happy, even if it is without me ... You have to be happy.

 

 

Her anger and frustration spent, Sun-Mi drops her hands.

 

Gazing steadily into the fading sunset, she watches as the golden orb settles below the horizon.

 

Gradually, twilight sets in, the lights of the city's towers illuminating the skyline.

 

 

 

SCENE: Bus Stop, night

 

After leaving the Han River, Sun-Mi is waiting to take a bus.

 

 

 

She reflects on the events of the past several days ... and how they had affected her life ...

 

 

FLASHBACK [Previous scene from this episode]

 

Sun-Dal............ You won't be going back on Eve's Morning ...

 

 

Sun-Dal............ Director Yoon made the decision to let you go from the program ...

 

 

 

 

 

FLASHBACK [Previous scene from this episode]

 

Su-Jin............... When are you going to speak to Jin Sun-Mi?

 

 

Hyung-Chul....... Let's wait and see what happens first.

 

Su-Jin............... Right. It's better if you don't say anything.

 

 

 

 

FLASHBACK [Previous scene from this episode]

 

Eun-Ki........ Director Yoon, what do you think? ... May I take Announcer Jin for my program?

 

 

Hyung-Chul. It's totally up to her. You don't need permission from me.

 

 

 

 

FLASHBACK [Previous scene from this episode]

 

Eun-Ki.............. This is the chane to share your passion for the Arts with the whole of society.

 

 

Eun-Ki.............. Art Club offers you every announcer's dream ... to be one of MBS' top celebrities.

 

 

 

 

FLASHBACK [Previous scene from this episode]

 

Young-Mi.... You broke up with him? ... Is that true?

 

 

Sun-Mi........ Director Yoon said that?

 

Young-Mi.... So you have broken up.

 

 

 

Regardless of how she looks at her situation, everything points to a conclusion she finds hard to believe ...

 

Sun-Mi.............. Senior has actually let me go -- professionally, and personally -- he's given up on me.

 

 

She sighs, wondering what she should do now that her Cinderella story is finished.

 

Sun-Mi.............. What's the point of holding on any longer? Why keep believing in the impossible?

 

....................... Perhaps its time that I let go of him, too. But can I?

 

 

 

INTERCUT SCENES: Various locations, night

 

 

Outside Sun-Mi's house

 

Meanwhile, Hyung-Chul waits in his car at Sun-Mi's gate.

 

 

 

 

Gangnam Street

 

Pondering her circumstances, Sun-Mi wanders along a busy street, numb to the crowds milling around her.

 

 

 

 

Outside Sun-Mi's house

 

Still waiting for Sun-Mi, Hyung-Chul lights up a cigarette.

 

He checks the time on his watch, puzzled at where she could be so late.

 

 

Resigning himself to what could be a long wait, he gets back into his car.

 

 

 

INTERCUT SCENES: Woo-Jin's bedroom and bathroom

 

Woo-Jin's Bedroom

 

[ muted sounds of running water ]

 

Young-Mi enters Woo-Jin's bedroom.

 

Young-Mi.......... Woo-Jin?

 

 

Woo-Jin............ (O.S.) In a minute, I'm taking a shower.

 

Young-Mi.......... I'll be in your room.

 

 

 

Woo-Jin's Bathroom

 

[ sounds of running water ]

 

Woo-Jin stands at the sink, hand on the open tap ...

 

 

 

Woo-Jin's Bedroom

 

[ muted sounds of running water ]

 

Taking the opportunity, Young-Mi quickly starts searching the room for the security tape.

 

First she goes to the closet, then to Woo-Jin's desk and chests of drawers.

 

She opens a drawer filled with video tapes and starts checking them one at a time.

 

 

Woo-Jin comes into the room and watches her for a few seconds before speaking up ...

 

Woo-Jin............ Young-Mi.

 

 

Startled, she straightens up, guiltily stammering in reply ...

 

Young-Mi.......... O ... Oppa?

 

 

Woo-Jin regards Young-Mi accusingly.

 

Worriedly she averts her eyes, then a smile comes to her face ...

 

 

 

 

SCENE: outside Sun-Mi's house, late night

 

Looking in his car's rearview mirror, Hyung-Chul watches as Sun-Mi slowly walks closer.

 

 

At first, she doesn't appear to have noticed his car parked by her gate.

 

But as she comes near, Sun-Mi looks away, giving him the cold shoulder to display her indifference.

 

 

Hyung-Chul decides to end this incipient "Cold War" before it goes any further.

 

Opening the car door, he gets out and turns to face Sun-Mi.

 

 

Determined to have his say despite her inaudible signaling, he deliberately blocks her path forward.

 

But Sun-Mi is in no mood for talking, obstinately glaring back at Hyung-Chul.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To Be Continued ...