All About Eve 'Uncut' -- A Spring Apart
by AAEfanatic
Episode 18A
SCENE: MBS classroom, morning.
SCENE: Sun-Mi's garden, morning.
SCENE: MBS conference room, afternoon
SERIES OF SCENES: Sun-Mi's home, afternoon
SCENE: MBS conference room, afternoon
SCENE: Sun-Mi's kitchen, afternoon
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, evening
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bathroom, evening
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
SCENE: Young-Mi's apartment building exterior, night
SCENE: Young-Mi's apartment, night
SCENE: MBS editing room, night
SCENE: MBS building entrance, morningt
SCENE: MBS main lobby, morning
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, morning
Act 1 - Part 4
SCENE: Su-Jin's car, morning
Sun-Mi has accepted Su-Jin's offer for a ride home ... grudgingly ...
Su-Jin looks over at her recalcitrant passenger and attempts conversation ...
Su-Jin............... What I can't grasp is why you don't care about beating Eve's Morning?
Still in a foul mood, Sun-Mi answers sullenly ...
Sun-Mi.............. I came to do Art Club because I love the Arts, not to pick a fight.
....................... Why get involved in a corporate power struggle?
Su-Jin............... So it won't bother you if the program gets cancelled?
Sun-Mi.............. It's not what I want, but if that is management's decision, what can I do?
Su-Jin............... Maybe, whatever is necessary, even if you don't like it, to try and win?
Sensing Su-Jin's drift, Sun-Mi stiffens her back.
Sun-Mi.............. Don't think you'll persuade me. I've no interest in working with a skank!
Su-Jin............... Skank? Isn't that a bit harsh?
Sun-Mi.............. With how you dress, and your behavior with men, is there a better word?
Su-Jin............... So this is about Hyung-Chul, after all.
Sun-Mi.............. As I've said before, Director Yoon and I don't have that kind of relationship.
....................... I just expected that he would have better taste in women.
Su-Jin smiles.
Su-Jin............... Perhaps you're misunderstanding him. If you knew what happened in Jeju ...
The last thing Sun-Mi wants to hear about is Hyung-Chul and Su-Jin's holiday frolicking ...
Sun-Mi.............. (quickly interrupting) We're almost there. Take the second left.
They ride on in silence as the car approaches Sun-Mi's street.
Su-Jin slows to take the turn and drive down the narrow lane.
Sun-Mi.............. It's the house at the end.
The car rolls to a stop outside the gate, but Su-Jin leaves the engine running.
Sun-Mi unfastens her seat belt and opens the car door.
Su-Jin............... I'm not expecting you to invite me in for tea. So, have a nice day off.
But instead of immediately alighting from the car, Sun-Mi stops to think, then turns back to Su-Jin.
Sun-Mi.............. You haven't said why you offered me the ride ...
SCENE: MBS corridor, morning
Walking along the glass-walled corridor, Eun-Ki stops at one of the classroom doors.
SCENE: MBS classroom, morning
Opening the door, Eun-Ki sees Young-Mi waiting inside.
He enters the room, and closes the door before speaking to her.
Eun-Ki.............. What's so important that we need to meet in person?
She approaches him, her face livid ...
Young-Mi.......... What is this? I thought you were backing me, but now Jin Sun-Mi is your favorite!
He scoffs, dismissing her concerns.
Eun-Ki.............. Don't let appearances deceive you. Our agreement still holds. The News At Nine will be yours.
Young-Mi frowns dubiously.
Young-Mi.......... How can that be? We're fighting on different sides.
Eun-Ki.............. It's simple. If I win, I gain control over MBS, so the final decision is mine.
Young-Mi.......... But if you lose?
Eun-Ki.............. Then Announcer Jin loses too, adding one more stigma to a tainted record. Who'd support her?
Young-Mi.......... Director Yoon, of course!
Eun-Ki.............. He's tied his own hands, after that anti-nepotism campaign.
....................... So you see, it's the same result, whether I win or lose.
Still, Young-Mi is suspicious.
Young-Mi.......... But not for you, if Director Yoon wins. Why are you so caviliar about that?
He smiles confidently.
Eun-Ki.............. Because, in that circumstance, I still have an ace-in-the-hole to play.
....................... I can't reveal it right now, but you'll find out if I have to use it.
Young-Mi.......... So losing to Director Yoon doesn't matter to you?
Eun-Ki.............. Other than bragging rights? No. Why?
Her dark eyes narrow with determination.
Young-Mi.......... Then you won't mind if Eve's Morning beats out Art Club?
....................... Because I'm going to do everything in my power to win. I won't lose to Jin Sun-Mi!
SCENE: Sun-Mi's garden, morning
Su-Jin and Sun-Mi face off over the garden table in Sun-Mi's yard.
On one side, Sun-Mi sits tensely, impatiently awaiting Su-Jin's explanation.
On the other side, Su-Jin relaxes, absorbed with the calm ambiance of the garden greenery.
Su-Jin............... Now that I've seen for myself, I understand what it is Oppa saw in you.
Her use of the familiar term irks Sun-Mi ...
Sun-Mi.............. How could you? You hardly know anything about me!
Su-Jin............... But I know a lot about him, and that explains something I've pondered a lot recently.
She regards Sun-Mi contemptuously.
Su-Jin............... If it was because of intelligence, or beauty, or talent, it would be easy to understand.
....................... But because you're an unremarkable woman with no outstanding attributes or achievements --
....................... just a mediocre person -- it really was quite a mystery.
Sun-Mi looks at Su-Jin incredulously.
Sun-Mi.............. You're saying that Senior only liked me because I'm mediocre and clumsy?
Su-Jin............... More or less. What else could it be?
....................... A man like him can have anything he wants, surely you know that!
....................... So why keep you around, except for the occasional good laugh? A jester for the king?
Su-Jin's remark conjures up an old, hurtful demon that Sun-Mi has never been able to completely dismiss ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 9 ]
Hyung-Chul. No matter where I go in this world, I'm asked whose son I am. ................. But to you I was just another person. Do you know how precious knowing you was to me?
Sun-Mi........ Because I was an idiot! You were probably amused that everyone knew except for me.
Sun-Mi........ How much did you laugh at me? ... How amusing was it to you? ... ................. Would a puppet have been as stupid as me? Even mannequins behind windows aren't treated like me.
|
Continuing on, Su-Jin cuts deeper ...
Su-Jin............... Apprise yourself honestly -- what about you is worth a man of his position and abilities?
....................... You can't name one thing, can you? Just one ...
Baited by Su-Jin's disparagements, humiliated and angry, finally Sun-Mi can't take it anymore.
Incensed, she jumps to her feet, wide-eyed, hands clenched, sputtering ...
Sun-Mi.............. Who -- who do you think you are?! ... You -- you ...
Maintaining her air of complacent disdain, Su-Jin slowly stands up, meeting Sun-Mi's bluster with a smug grin.
Su-Jin............... Tsk -- tsk. Can't take the truth? Grow up, Announcer Jin Sun-Mi!
Su-Jin's offhand remark pushes another of Sun-Mi's hot buttons ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 11 ]
Hyung-Chul. You're immature and na�ve. You don't know what reality is ...
|
The accumulation triggers a spontaneous meltdown ...
Sun-Mi sees red.
Intent on wiping away that self-satisfied grin, she draws her right arm back and forcefully swings it forward.
Her open palm strikes Su-Jin's left cheek with a loud, sharp thwak, whipping her head back to the side.
Su-Jin slowly turns to look icily at Sun-Mi. She touches her hand lightly to her reddened cheek.
Su-Jin............... How gauche. But why am I not surprised, as you've had nothing coherent to say?
Raising her hand as if to strike Su-Jin again, Sun-Mi threatens instead.
Sun-Mi.............. You should leave -- now -- while I'm still holding back!
Disregarding the warning, Su-Jin stands her ground, her dark glare threatening escalation.
But a deep, steadying breath helps her maintain control.
Su-Jin............... We'll settle this another time! But what are you going to tell Director Kim?
Sun-Mi.............. What is it to you?! ... See yourself out!
Not waiting for Su-Jin to leave, she stalks off across the yard to the house.
Watching Sun-Mi storm into the house, Su-Jin muses to herself ...
Su-Jin............... Jin Sun-Mi, at least you have some spunk in you.
Su-Jin............... Because you're going to need every bit of it you can muster.
Inside, Sun-Mi fumes ...
Sun-Mi.............. Humph!! -- "An unremarkable woman with no outstanding attributes" -- The nerve!!
She closes her eyes and leans back against the wall, giving herself time to calm.
But she can't shake Su-Jin's words from her mind ...
Su-Jin............... (V.O.) So why keep you around, except for the occasional good laugh? A jester for the king ...
A tear trickles down her cheek, which she irritably brushes off, upset at herself.
Sun-Mi.............. Crying isn't going to make things any better!
She recalls what she'd claimed once on her radio show, considering the irony ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 17 ]
Sun-Mi........ You know, shedding tears could dehydrate your body.
Sun-Mi........ It's bad for your health. That's why I never cry ...
|
Feeling thirsty, she goes into the kitchen for a drink of water.
There, she finds the remains of her father's breakfast cluttering the sink.
The mess turns her thoughts in a new direction ...
Sun-Mi.............. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, why not do something useful?
Determination sets in her eyes.
Sun-Mi.............. It's time for a good Spring cleaning ... and a fresh start ...
SCENE: MBS conference room, afternoon
The Eve's Morning team has gathered for an emergency meeting.
Team Leader Kim Sun-Dal is the focus of attention at the head of the conference table.
Sun-Dal............ Thanks for making time on such short notice. Let's get right to it.
Sun-Dal............ You've heard the rumors? It's true. Our future depends on winning the next sweeps.
....................... The table is open for everyone's ideas, so don't hold back. Anyone?
Ki-Jong............. How can a special interest program with a niche audience, win over a general program like ours?
PD................... Good question. The relative finances available is one factor in their favor.
....................... With Jin Sun-Mi as sole emcee, Art Club has more to spend on PR and production.
Sun-Dal............ They'll also make a big splash at the premiere, using media coverage to pull in a wider audience.
Kyung-Hee........ So we'll have to compete by having better stories that people want to see.
Everyone nods in agreement.
PD................... I'll have Marketing run a new audience interest survey for topics.
Sun-Dal............ Good. Anyone else?
He scans the room for volunteers, stopping at Young-Mi when she raises her hand to get his attention.
Sun-Dal............ Young-Mi?
Young-Mi.......... Could we do something about our cross-chatter to make the transitions more interesting?
Ki-Jong takes the cue to jokingly chime in ...
Ki-Jong............. Ah! -- Finally I'll have the chance to tell some of my jokes, right?
Laughter erupts around the room.
Sun-Dal............ I was thinking more like something scripted by the writers.
All heads turn toward the lead writer for her response.
Writer............... We'll step up and do our part. But we need to arrange work sessions with the announcers.
Sun-Dal............ Okay. Kyung-Hee? Can you coordinate between the announcers and writers?
Kyung-Hee........ Got it.
Sun-Dal............ Anything more?
Young-Mi raises her hand, again.
Young-Mi.......... What about changes to the set? We could add props that draw interest to the day's main stories.
PD................... There's a cost to that.
Kyung-Hee adds her support to the idea ...
Kyung-Hee........ But it could also trigger audience anticipation for seeing something new each day.
PD................... Even so, where would we put them?
Jin-Soo............. There's space on the desk where Sun-Mi used to sit.
PD................... Who's going to take charge of acquiring and organizing this? I don't have the time.
Speaking up, Sun-Dal puts an end to the contention ...
Sun-Dal............ It's worth looking into. We can decide at our next meeting.
Reluctantly, the PD makes a note to follow up.
PD................... I'll have the set designer work up estimates.
Sun-Dal nods his approval.
Sun-Dal............ Good ... Next, anyone?
SERIES OF SCENES: Sun-Mi's home, afternoon
[ All About Eve instrumental theme song -- True Love� -- throughout ]
Changing into work clothes, Sun-Mi embarks on a whole-house cleaning, starting in the kitchen ...
Next she tackles the main living area ...
Then she moves upstairs, to her bedroom ...
And finishes up by giving the bathrooms a thorough scrubbing ...
SCENE: MBS conference room, afternoon
The Eve's Morning team nears the end of their afternoon brain-storming session ...
Sun-Dal............ We've had a lot of great ideas so far. Last call ...
Young-Mi raises her hand.
Sun-Dal............ Yes, Young-Mi? You seem to have a lot to say today.
Young-Mi.......... That's because I want this team to win!
Sun-Dal smiles.
Sun-Dal............ Now that's the attitude I'm hoping everyone here will adopt, too ... Go on ...
She looks at Jin-Soo.
Young-Mi.......... Let's not forget our program has an ace-in-the-hole, Mr. Buzzy Bumblebee.
Young-Mi.......... What if we extend his promo spots for the Charity Gala into a new Children's News corner?
....................... Buzzy could provide humorous reports on education, health, etc, to inform busy moms.
Her idea catches Jin-Soo by surprise.
Jin-Soo............. Huh? You want me to be 'Buzzy' permanently?
Frowning, the PD quickly throws cold water.
PD................... It's a big risk to change any programming at this time. We'll need to get the Director's approval.
Jin-Soo............. He's right. Let's table this ...
Smiling assuredly, Young-Mi cuts in --
Young-Mi.......... I already spoke to Director Yoon. He gave the go-ahead for pilot segments with a PR buildup.
....................... That will give us something to counter Art Club's campaign.
Sun-Dal adds his approval.
Sun-Dal............ Very good, Young-Mi. It seems that you've put a lot of thought into this.
She modestly dips her head.
Young-Mi.......... The credit goes to 'Buzzy', for beating Sun-Mi in the ratings before. Let's see if he can do it again.
Clapping his hands together to get everyone's attention, Ki-Jong speaks up loudly ...
Ki-Jong............. Let's hear it for 'Buzzy' ... everyone!
The entire team starts an enthusiastic round of applause.
Red-faced, Jin-Soo mutters aloud ...
Jin-Soo............. What am I getting myself into?
Next to him, Kyung-Hee jests back.
Kyung-Hee ....... Possibly the start of a new career in comedy ...
SCENE: Sun-Mi's kitchen, afternoon
After a full day of cleaning, Sun-Mi prepares a tasty dinner for herself -- tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)!
Carrying the dish from cooktop to table, she sits down to enjoy her meal.
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, evening
Sun-Dal is in Hyung-Chul's office for a late meeting ...
Hyung-Chul....... It seems Young-Mi has really stepped up in the face of Kim's challenge.
Sun-Dal............ Yes, she's working hard. Finally I'm seeing less of 'Queen Young-Mi' and more of a team player.
Hyung-Chul....... Could she replace Joo-Hee as Team Leader?
Sun-Dal............ Why? Is there something about Joo-Hee I should know?
Hyung-Chul....... I thought you wanted her to resign after getting married.
Sun-Dal............ If it were up to me -- yes -- but she has her own ideas.
Hyung-Chul....... Still, we should plan for all possible options.
Sun-Dal............ Does one of those options include Sun-Mi?
Hyung-Chul looks down at his desk.
In the awkward silence, Sun-Dal quickly comes up with a reasonable escape ...
Sun-Dal............ Sorry, I've gotta go first. Joo-Hee wants to catch a bite before doing the News.
Hyung-Chul looks up again, his mood more subdued than before.
Hyung-Chul....... Let's meet up at the club later, for a drink.
Sun-Dal............ Sure. That�s sounds good.
Hyung-Chul....... It's been a while since I've put one down with my old drinking buddy.
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bathroom, evening
After dinner, Sun-Mi relaxes with a warm bubblebath and a glass of wine.
Soaking in the tub, her thoughts go back to happier times with Hyung-Chul ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 06 ]
Sun-Mi........ I missed you. You have no idea how many times I missed the time I was in London with you.
Hyung-Chul. Smile ... Your smiling face is so pretty.
Hyung-Chul. So I want to take a picture with my eyes and remember it. Come on, smile ...
|
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 09 ]
Sun-Mi........ Actually, although I said we're through, I was just afraid. Life isn't the same without you by my side.
Hyung-Chul. Finally, you smiled.
Sun-Mi........ I don't know why I smile so much.
Hyung-Chul. Yes, I love it when you smile. It's really beautiful.
|
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 12 ]
Hyung-Chul. This is your expression that I like the most.
Hyung-Chul. I'll always make you smile like this. I promise.
|
Sipping her wine, she contemplates ...
Sun-Mi.............. Why is it only my smile he mentions? Is that all he sees me as? A smiling fool?
She sips again, this time with a bitter taste in her mouth, and darker thoughts ...
Sun-Mi.............. Maybe that's why he avoids talking about it.
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 15 ]
Hyung-Chul. Why didn't you tell me the truth?
Sun-Mi........ Sorry. I don't know what I should say to you.
Hyung-Chul. When I think you're coming closer, you take a step backward. It's tiring ... but I can wait for you.
Sun-Mi........ Why are you so good to me?
Hyung-Chul. I'm not so sure why either. If you find out why, tell me.
|
But the sour mood passes swiftly.
Sun-Mi.............. What am I thinking? Senior isn't like that. He always treated me nice, even when I was bad to him ...
....................... He's not that kind of person. So he couldn't be like Su-Jin says he is.
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
After work, Hyung-Chul whiles the time away at his club, smoking and drinking, as he waits for Sun-Dal to arrive.
Seared into memory, his final minutes with Sun-Mi replay in his mind ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 16 ]
Hyung-Chul. Do you want to end things with me?
Sun-Mi........ (nods)
Sun-Mi........ If you have nothing left to ...
Hyung-Chul. I do ... I'd like it if you didn't reject being the Art Club MC because of Eve's Morning.
Sun-Mi........ You act like you're concerned. But you tell everyone that we've broken up behind my back ...
Sun-Mi........ Senior, how do you truly feel?
Hyung-Chul. It's a great opportunity for you.
Sun-Mi........ What does it matter to you? ... See ya. Good bye!
|
He inhales on his cigarette, exhales a plume, and stubs the butt into a nearby ash tray as he wonders ...
Hyung-Chul....... What did I say that set her off? I just don't get it.
Raising his half-full glass of bourbon, he puts it to his lips, tips it up, and drains it with a long swallow.
As he starts to reach for the bottle to pour a refill, his mobile rings.
Taking the phone out he flips it open and checks the caller ID before putting it to his ear.
Hyung-Chul....... You're late.
While listening to the caller's response, he refills his glass, emptying the bottle.
Hyung-Chul....... Sure, I understand. Give my regards to Joo-Hee ... Bye.
Closing the phone, Hyung-Chul sets it on the table, then hears a familiar voice ...
Young-Mi.......... Director Yoon?
Hyung-Chul turns his head and sees Young-Mi standing beside his table.
Young-Mi.......... Do you mind?
He shrugs noncommittally.
Hyung-Chul....... Since you're here, have a seat.
Young-Mi sits down in the adjacent chair.
Young-Mi.......... Thanks.
Hyung-Chul....... Your preference?
Young-Mi.......... What you're having is fine.
Hyung-Chul motions, and an attentive waiter appears.
Waiter.............. Director Yoon?
Hyung-Chul points to the empty bottle.
Hyung-Chul....... Bring another. And a glass for my friend.
Waiter.............. Yes.
After the waiter leaves, Hyung-Chul notices that Young-Mi is smiling happily.
Young-Mi.......... It felt good, hearing that.
Hyung-Chul....... What?
Young-Mi.......... Your saying it -- 'friend' -- sincerely.
He nods, acknowledging his unconscious use of the word.
Hyung-Chul....... What brings you out tonight? You don't usually frequent this place.
Young-Mi.......... Somehow, I felt drawn to come. Then I saw you were here, too.
Hyung-Chul....... Some coincidence, eh?
Young-Mi.......... I don't believe in coincidence, but in fate.
He looks off wistfully.
Hyung-Chul....... Once I did, too, but I'm not so certain anymore.
....................... Still, I'm glad you're here. I've been jilted, and can use a new drinking buddy.
She smiles self-consciously.
Young-Mi.......... I'll take that responsibility seriously. So tell me. What brings YOU here tonight?
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
After her bath, Sun-Mi sits at her desk, looking through the contents of her "memory" box.
She opens the card Hyung-Chul had left on her desk after she'd blurted out a banned word on the news broadcast ...
[To Sun-Mi. you did a great job today. You're one of a kind. Keep up the good work � Y ]
The memory brings a chagrined smile to her lips.
Sun-Mi.............. I'm still as much an fool today as I was then ...
She sighs.
Sun-Mi.............. What if Su-Jin is right? That it's only because I'm a talentless idiot?
She returns the card to the box and puts on the lid.
Then she picks up the wine glass from her desk, swirling the deep red liquid as she dwells on Joo-Hee's advice ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 16 ]
Joo-Hee............ Spare yourself the heartache and regrets, and avoid my fate ...
Joo-Hee............ Don't become like me, drinking away the pain, trying to forget ... ....................... End things with Hyung-Chul -- now -- before it's too late!
|
Sun-Mi sighs.
Sun-Mi.............. Maybe it's too late already ...
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
Drawing on his cigarette, Hyung-Chul lets a curl of smoke drift out, then looks over at Young-Mi.
Hyung-Chul....... So now you've heard, can you understand?
He crushes the butt in the ash tray.
Young-Mi.......... I do. When Woo-Jin dumped me to go back to Sun-Mi, I had those same feelings too.
....................... Reliving memories is the hardest, because your heart breaks all over again.
She sniffs as tears roll in her eyes.
Hyung-Chul holds out his handkerchief to her.
Hyung-Chul....... Here. Dry your eyes, while I pour you another.
Young-Mi.......... Thanks.
She daubs the cloth to her face as he refills her glass, then his.
Their glasses touch with a ring of crystal, then they sip meditatively.
Hyung-Chul....... Once I thought I'd never love someone. Now, it's that I'll never love again. Does the pain ever end?
He takes out his cigarette case to light up another.
Young-Mi.......... They say "Time heals all wounds" but in my experience, only a new love can heal that scar.
....................... It's ironic, isn't it? . Sun-Mi has everything I ever wanted. That why I hate her!
....................... But at the same time, I wish we were like sisters. Love and hate, they're not that far apart, right?
He contemplatively takes a long drag on his cigarette.
Hyung-Chul....... Love and hate. Maybe that explains how Sun-Mi feels, too, and why there's nothing I can do about it.
Young-Mi's eyes perk up.
Young-Mi.......... I know that I should wish him well and move on, for my own well-being. How about you?
Hyung-Chul....... Huh?
Young-Mi.......... Perhaps we could help each other to do ...
She stops as a waiter appears with a plate of finger foods.
Waiter.............. Compliments of the Captain, in appreciation for the other night.
Hyung-Chul....... Oh? Give him my regards.
Waiter.............. I will ... Enjoy.
After the waiter walks off, Young-Mi wonders aloud.
Young-Mi.......... What was that about?
Hyung-Chul....... I played a few songs on the piano at the Captain's request.
Young-Mi pretends ignorance.
Young-Mi.......... Really? You must play very well.
Hyung-Chul....... It's only a hobby.
Young-Mi.......... Can you humor me?
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
Sun-Mi lies in bed, unable to sleep, stewing over the situation with Young-Mi and Hyung-Chul.
Sun-Mi.............. All that useless worry over Park Su-Jin, when the real threat was Young-Mi!
Sun-Mi.............. I'm such an idiot! ... Falling so easily for her tricks -- again! ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 17 ]
Young-Mi.... You broke up with him? Is that true?
|
Sun-Mi.............. I should've taken Young-Mi seriously ... and not taken Senior for granted ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 15 ]
Sun-Mi........ Senior's not na�ve like Woo-Jin.
Young-Mi.... Are you worried about me? Just admit it. Say that you won't lose him to me ...
|
Sun-Mi.............. What if he's starting to fall for Young-Mi? I can't let that happen, like with Woo-Jin ...
She looks over at the bedside phone.
Sun-Mi.............. Maybe it's not too late to warn him ...
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
[ piano music ]
Young-Mi is watching Hyung-Chul play on the club piano, when his mobile rings.
Curious, she picks up the phone.
Caller ID : [ Jin Sun-Mi ]
A devious scheme instantly comes to Young-Mi. She answers with a sleepy voice ...
Young-Mi.......... Umm ... Hello?
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
Sun-Mi is puzzled when she hears Young-Mi voice ...
Sun-Mi.............. Young-Mi? Why are you on Senior's phone? Where are you?
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's club, night
Young-Mi glances towards the piano, making sure Hyung-Chul is unaware of what she is up to.
Young-Mi.......... Where do you think most people are this late at night? Should I rouse him for you?
Sun-Mi.............. (V.O. on the phone) Um ... Er ...
Young-Mi.......... I thought so. Actually, it's awkward, you calling here like this.
Young-Mi.......... If I were you I'd stop clinging, and move on! ... I'm hanging up.
She cuts the call and sets Hyung-Chul's mobile down, pleased with herself.
Young-Mi.......... I think she got the message.
SCENE: Sun-Mi's bedroom, night
Sun-Mi places the handset back onto the phone's cradle.
She sits on her bed, numbed by shock, Young-Mi's admonition ringing in her mind ...
Young-Mi.......... (V.O.) This is awkward ... If I were you, I'd stop clinging and move on.
Outside, a storm pelts the windows of her bedroom with cold, heavy drops.
A chill settles inside Sun-Mi as the numbness spreads, until it feels as if her heart is struggling just to keep beating.
She recalls the advice of Sister Agnes, a nun she'd met on the flight to London ...
Sister Agnes...... (V.O.) You can't force one person to love another. It always takes two to make love work ...
....................... It doesn't matter how hard one side tries, when the other isn't willing, it's useless.
....................... The way I see it, you're clinging to something comfortable for support.
Gradually, reluctantly, acceptance of the reality she has to face sinks in.
Reaching down, Sun-Mi unfastens the clasp of her anklet and removes it, holding it in her hand.
Staring at the anklet, she remembers what Hyung-Chul had said when he put it on her ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 13 ]
Hyung-Chul. If you give it to your sweet-heart, the two of you can meet in the next life ...
Hyung-Chul. Let's see each other in the next life.
|
A wry smile twists her lips as she realizes the bitter portent of his words ...
Sun-Mi.............. Yes, Senior, we'll be together ... but only in the next life.
Going to her bedside stand, Sun-Mi opens the drawer, drops the anklet inside, and closes it.
Sun-Mi.............. What was that Latin word Sister used?
Her brow wrinkles while she searches her memory, then her eyes light up.
Sun-Mi.............. Oh, yes ... 'carpe diem' ... 'seize the day' ...
SCENE: Young-Mi's apartment building exterior, night
The rain has become a torrent when a dark blue BWM stops outside Young-Mi's building.
Hyung-Chul leaves the engine running, as he and Young-Mi talk ...
Young-Mi.......... Thank you for the ride. I had a good time tonight.
Hyung-Chul....... I found it interesting, too.
Young-Mi.......... Then, good night.
She reaches for the door handle.
Hyung-Chul....... Wait. You'll be soaked. I'll get my umbrella.
After shutting off the car, he grabs an umbrella from the back and alights.
He circles around to the passenger side, opens the door for Young-Mi, and holds the umbrella over her.
Young-Mi.......... Thank you.
Together they walk back, around the car, to the street.
Just as they step out from between the parked cars, a speeding van approaches.
Catching the headlights in his peripheral vision, Hyung-Chul shouts a warning ...
Hyung-Chul....... Watch out!
Looking up, Young-Mi freezes when she sees the oncoming van bearing down on her.
But reacting instinctively, Hyung-Chul pulls her back, out of the vehicle's path.
Startled and disoriented, she huddles close to him, trembling.
Hyung-Chul....... Are you okay?
Young-Mi.......... Y--yes.
He waits until her trembling ceases, then gradually eases Young-Mi away.
Hyung-Chul....... I don't think he even saw us. Next time, watch more carefully. You could've been seriously injured.
She looks at him gratefully.
Young-Mi.......... Worse, I could've been killed, if you hadn't ...
Closing the distance between them, she kisses Hyung-Chul lightly on the lips, before he can react.
Young-Mi ......... saved me.
Caught by surprise, Hyung-Chul stares at Young-Mi, speechless.
Lowering her eyes, she acts embarrassed for her forward behavior.
Young-Mi.......... Er ... Sorry ... I don't know what came over me.
Hyung-Chul....... It's the shock. You should go in now.
He escorts Young-Mi safely to the door of her building.
Hyung-Chul....... I'll go from here.
Young-Mi.......... Director Yoon ...
She releases his arm and turns to face him.
Young-Mi ......... Drive safely.
Hyung-Chul....... Rest well. Good night, Announcer Huh Young-Mi.
Young-Mi watches from the door while he crosses the street back to his car and gets in.
As Hyung-Chul drives off, she promises to herself ...
Young-Mi.......... He's like any other man. Soon, I'll take him from Jin Sun-Mi, just as I did Woo-Jin!
SCENE: Young-Mi's apartment, night
Young-Mi enters her apartment, crossing directly to her bed.
Dropping off her purse first, she slips off her jacket and sits on the bed.
On the nearby bedstand, she reaches for a photograph turned face down.
Turning it over, tears well up as she gazes longingly at the photo of herself with Woo-Jin.
Young-Mi.......... Oppa ... I'm sorry, but I can't stop myself.
Grasping the picture, she lies down on the bed, crying.
SCENE: MBS editing room, night
Woo-Jin is watching the incriminating security tape on the editing equipment monitors.
He deletes the evidence showing Young-Mi tampering with Joo-Hee's car.
SCENE: MBS building entrance, morningt
The storm passes, scrubbing the morning sky fresh and clear.
SCENE: MBS main lobby, morning
Sun-Mi arrives at work, coming through the revolving door into the main lobby.
[ aggressive clicking of high heels on the terrazzo floor ]
As she hurries for the lifts, she makes a call on her mobile.
Sun-Mi.............. We need to meet ... Now!
Sun-Mi.............. I'll be waiting in Studio D.
Meanwhile, Sun-Dal is having coffee with Joo-Hee before starting their workday ...
She frowns at him, clearly upset.
Joo-Hee............ Last night, why didn't you tell me Hyung-Chul asked you to join him at the club?
Sun-Dal............ I didn't want you worrying.
Joo-Hee............ We have to do something, to get him out of this funk over Jin Sun-Mi.
Sun-Dal............ Good luck trying. You think you can persuade Hyung-Chul?
Joo-Hee............ I was thinking maybe I can persuade Sun-Mi. Do you know what happened?
Sun-Dal sips from his cup as he considers ...
Sun-Dal............ It's not clear why things became this way.
Joo-Hee............ You believe that Hyung-Chul did something to cause this?
Sun-Dal............ Not purposefully. But there's Park Su-Jin. Also Sun-Mi's removal from Eve's Morning.
....................... Or maybe something else. Sun-Mi's not the type to break up without a reason.
He shrugs.
Sun-Dal............ You know the saying, 'Hell has no fury like a woman scorned' ...
As soon as Su-Jin steps into the studio, she feels the tension in the air, even before she sees Sun-Mi.
Waiting in the center of the space, Sun-Mi's rigid stance matches the steely resolve on her face.
Alert for a repeat of their confrontation in Sun-Mi's garden, Su-Jin approaches warily, stopping out of arm's reach.
Su-Jin............... Why did you call me here? Didn't you say you never wanted to see my face again?
Sun-Mi.............. I did, and I meant it then ... but things are different now.
Su-Jin............... You've changed your mind?
Sun-Mi.............. Yes. I need your help, to beat Young-Mi and Eve's Morning.
Su-Jin............... What do you want from me?
Sun-Mi.............. Yesterday, you said you wanted to settle things between us at a later time, right?
Su-Jin............... Yes ... So?
Sun-Mi's mouth tightens.
Squeezing her hands into tight fists, she takes a step closer.
Su-Jin remains vigilant, poised for a quick response to any provocative moves.
But Sun-Mi just looks Su-Jin straight in the eyes as she speaks ...
Sun-Mi.............. This is that time ...
Sun-Mi.............. Let's settle things -- here and now!
SCENE: Hyung-Chul's office, morning
Hyung-Chul is working at his desk, going through papers.
[ intercom buzzes]
He presses the TALK button
Hyung-Chul....... Yes?
Secretary.......... (V.O. on the intercom) Announcer Huh Young-Mi is here.
Hyung-Chul....... Send her in.
Young-Mi enters the office, waiting by the open door.
Hyung-Chul....... What is it?
Young-Mi.......... I apologize for intruding.
Hyung-Chul....... Not at all.
Young-Mi.......... May I have a few minutes of your time?
Hyung-Chul....... Have a seat.
He motions to the deskside chair.
She walks over and sits down.
Hyung-Chul....... Go on.
Young-Mi.......... Last night I couldn't sleep, thinking about what you did for me, and what I owe you.
Hyung-Chul....... I just did what was necessary. You don't have to feel obligated.
Young-Mi.......... But I am, and I feel we have a bond that's deeper than colleagues, or friends ...
She pauses to look at him intensely.
Young-Mi.......... Or even lovers ...
Young-Mi.......... You're my life's savior. My life -- everything -- now belongs to you ...
Meanwhile, in the studio, Su-Jin scrutinizes Sun-Mi thoughtfully as she considers her challenge ...
Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Let's settle things between us, here and now!
Su-Jin............... Okay. What are you prepared to do?
Sun-Mi.............. I still see you as a skank, but I'm willing to look beyond that, and set the past aside ...
She hesitates, swallowing her distaste.
Sun-Mi.............. At least, for the present time. And you?
Su-Jin smiles, relishing her small, but significant, victory.
Su-Jin............... I won't take back a word, if that's what you were thinking.
....................... But I'll accept your willingness to change your attitude, even if only temporarily.
Sun-Mi.............. Then there's just one more to resolve, but I need your cooperation.
Su-Jin............... What is it?
Sun-Mi.............. Fair turnabout ...
She steps closer, so she is standing within easy reach.
Sun-Mi.............. Go ahead, slap me!
To Be Continued ...