All About Eve 'Uncut' -- A Spring Apart
by AAEfanatic
Episode 18A
SCENE: Outside the Jin home, night
SCENE: Gwi-Sung's living room, night
SCENE: Children's Charity Gala, night
SERIES OF SCENES: Seoul Performing Arts Center, night
SCENE: Gangnam club exterior, night
SCENE: Seoul penthouse club, night
SCENE: Seoul penthouse club, night
Act 4 - Part 2A
SCENE: Outside the Jin home, night
SCENE: Gwi-Sung's living room, night
Kui-Sung and Jin-Suk are watching the Gala on TV.
Announcer........ The curtain is down on tonight's record fund-raising Children's Charity Gala.
....................... Hosted by MBS' Director Yoon Hyung-Chul and Announcer Jin Sun-Mi,
....................... from the celebrity red carpet to the children's musical program, it was a memorable night
....................... of spectacle, entertainment, and heart-warming stories of the needy children in our midst.
Announcer........ To close our coverage, we'll return live to the Gala and MBS Reporter Lee Seung-Kui.
....................... Reporter Lee?
SCENE: Children's Charity Gala, night
Reporter Lee..... This is MBS Reporter Lee Seung-Ku, live at the Children's Charity Gala.
....................... After tonight's record breaking fundraiser, it's a celebratory mood here,
....................... as the crowd slowly clears out of the Seoul Performing Arts Center.
....................... With me is MBS Announcer Jin Sun-Mi, co-emcee of tonight's program.
....................... Announcer Jin, is there anything you'd like to say to our TV audience?
Sun-Mi.............. I want to thank everyone who contributed with your donations and pledges.
....................... Your generosity will bring needed care, and hope, to thousands of disadvantaged children.
Reporter Lee..... How did you feel when you announced that donations had surpassed last year's record?
Sun-Mi.............. It was an amazing moment when that happened, and more so when the pledges kept coming in!
Reporter Lee..... Tonight's Gala had the highest TV viewing audience ever.
....................... Do you think that your being one of MBS' most popular celebrities boosted the ratings?
Sun-Mi.............. It was only last night the emcee was changed, so how could that be?
....................... The Gala's success was due to hard work by all the people behind the scenes that made it happen.
....................... They deserve the credit for making this the most successful Gala ever.
Reporter Lee..... You've been labeled the "Queen of Love" for your evening radio program.
....................... And the "Queen of 'Arts" for your top rated cultural program.
....................... The recent national People's Choice poll has ranked you in the top ten female celebrities.
....................... Will you be "Queen of the News" next?
Modestly lowering her eyes and covering her mouth with her hand, Sun-Mi laughs uneasily.
Sun-Mi.............. Er ... That's not something I'm considering right now, as I'm fully invested in my current work.
....................... Is there another question, please?
Announcer........ That was Reporter Lee Seung-Kui interviewing MBS Announcer Jin Sun-Mi.
....................... This ends our coverage of the Seoul Children's Charity Gala.
Announcer........ Thank you for watching this special broadcast of MBS Entertainment News. Good night.
The announcer bows her head.
[ program theme music ]
Cho-Jeh points the remote control at the TV and turns it off.
Cho-Jeh............ Wasn't Sun-Mi gorgeous tonight? She was like a Princess next to Director Yoon.
Jin-Soo............. I thought Young-Mi was hilarious as Buzzy, wagging her fat bee-hind at the camera!
....................... I'm just glad it wasn't me! I hope I'm done with Buzzy for good!
Cho-Jeh............ You better be! I won't be tied to a chubby insect for the rest of my life!
Jin-Soo............. Are you saying if I had to play Buzzy permanently, you'd break off our engagement?
Cho-Jeh............ What self-respecting woman wouldn't? The embarrassment of it all! My family would insist!
Jin-Soo............. You'd side with your family, against your husband?
Cho-Jeh............ We're not married yet, so you're not my husband!
Jin-Soo............. We'd be married already, if your family would compromise on the wedding date!
Cho-Jeh............ My family? It's your family that won't come to an agreement!
Jin-Soo............. I've told you, they're only holding onto their traditions.
....................... The way your family is acting is an embarrassment to be related to them!
She stares at him, astounded by his attitude.
Cho-Jeh............ If that's how you're going to be, I can cancel the wedding any time I want!
Jin-Soo............. No, you won't! I'll cancel the wedding first!
The factious couple glare at each other, neither willing to give ground.
[ mobile phone ringtone ]
She picks up her phone and flips it open, holding it up to her ear.
Cho-Jeh............ Hello? ... Sun-Mi?
SERIES OF SCENES: Seoul Performing Arts Center, night
Main Floor
Sun-Mi.............. Sorry I can't come to the hospital tonight. I'm still at the Gala.
....................... Tell Jin-Soo I hope he's feeling better ... See you tomorrow at the station.
Sun-Mi.............. I've gotta go now. ... Bye.
She closes her phone and looks toward the auditorium stage.
Sun-Mi.............. I hope it's not too late!
Rear Entrance
Hyung-Chul is backstage, at the place where he had agreed to meet up with Sun-Mi.
As he waits, he recalls their conversation in the limousine on the way to the Gala ...
Hyung-Chul....... (V.O.) Can we meet after the program?
Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) Sorry, I have a date afterward ... but I can give you ten minutes ....
Checking his watch, he exhales a disappointed sigh.
Hyung-Chul....... Jin Sun-Mi, what happened this time?
[ mobile phone rings ]
He takes his phone from his jacket, flips it open, and holds it up to his ear.
Hyung-Chul....... Yes?
Male voice........ (V.O.) Director Yoon, I'm outside the main entrance.
Hyung-Chul....... Bring the car around to the rear doors ... I'll meet you there in ten minutes ...
Backstage Corridor
Meanwhile, Sun-Mi is hurrying to meet up with Hyung-Chul.
[ heel taps echoing ]
She recalls what Hyung-Chul said previously ...
Hyung-Chul....... (V.O.) There's something I wanted to tell you ... Can we meet afterward?
Sun-Mi.............. What was so important, that he had to tell me tonight?
Then she thinks back to what they were discussing when interrupted by her "wardrobe failure" ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Previous scene from this Episode ]
Hyung-Chul....... I don't know what I did to make you break up with me.
Sun-Mi.............. ME break up with YOU?! ... Hah! ... You were the one who broke up with me first!
Hyung-Chul....... It seems we have a misunderstanding ...
|
Sun-Mi.............. Could it be, that Senior never intended to break up with me?
....................... That I've been wrong about him all along?
Buoyed by the possibility, she accelerates her pace into a quick trot.
Rear Entrance
Hyung-Chul is walking toward the exit doors, having given up on Sun-Mi coming.
[ high heels clattering rapidly, becoming louder ]
He turns around expectantly, hoping it is her.
Sun-Mi stops, panting hard from her rush.
Seeing her, he grins, relieved.
Hyung-Chul....... What happened? I thought you weren't going to come.
She steps closer.
Sun-Mi.............. Sorry. I was held back by the reporters.
Hyung-Chul....... Do you still have time to talk? What about your date?
She smiles uneasily.
Sun-Mi.............. Er ... What was it you wanted to tell me before?
Sensing an opportunity, he responds eagerly ...
Hyung-Chul....... Are you hungry? My car is waiting. We can change at the office, then get something to eat.
But before she can accept, looking over Hyung-Chul's shoulder, Sun-Mi sees Young-Mi approaching.
Sun-Mi.............. Um ...
Young-Mi walks up to join Sun-Mi and Hyung-Chul.
She smiles as she greets him keenly.
Young-Mi.......... Director Yoon? I'm glad I found you!
Hyung-Chul....... Young-Mi, good job tonight! You worked hard.
Young-Mi.......... You worked hard, too.
Hyung-Chul....... It's late. I'm surprised you're still here.
Young-Mi.......... It took longer to send the children off safely, so I missed the Company limos.
....................... Someone said they'd seen you back stage, so I came to ask for a ride ...
She briefly eyes Sun-Mi, before continuing.
Young-Mi.......... That is, if it's not inconveniencing you too much.
Desiring to talk with Sun-Mi, but feeling responsible to help Young-Mi, Hyung-Chul equivocates ...
Hyung-Chul....... Umm ... Actually, the situation is ...
Seizing on his ambiguity, she twists it into an affirmative.
Young-Mi.......... (gushing) Thank you so much! I knew I could count on you!
Belatedly, Sun-Mi glances sternly at Hyung-Chul, silently conveying her displeasure at the imposition.
Too late, Hyung-Chul realizes he has been hoodwinked.
Hyung-Chul....... But ...
Young-Mi.......... Actually, it's only because I feel a bit foolish taking a taxi, dressed like this.
She turns toward Sun-Mi, finally acknowledging her presence ...
Young-Mi.......... Oh ... Sun-Mi ... What about you? Did you need a ride, too?
After her incident with Young-Mi's dress, there is no way Sun-Mi would ride in the same car!
Sun-Mi.............. I'll catch a cab instead.
With a self-satisfied smirk, Young-Mi seals her coup.
Young-Mi.......... Looks like it's just the two of us, Director. After changing at the station, we can go to eat together.
....................... I'm hungry, and I heard you say you were, too. Right?
Caught between the rival women, he tries to thread the needle.
Hyung-Chul....... Uh, sure ... A reward for a job well done.
....................... Sun-Mi? You'll come, too?
But she is having none of it.
Sun-Mi.............. (icily) Actually, there's another date that I'm late for, so I'll leave first.
She gives Hyung-Chul a perfunctory nod.
Sun-Mi.............. (sarcastically) Have a good night, Director Yoon!
Turning abruptly on her heels, Sun-Mi strides off in a huff, headed back in the direction she had come.
[ high heels clacking harshly ]
Young-Mi looks at Hyung-Chul with a quizzical shrug.
Young-Mi.......... Then, shall we go?
They start off walking toward the exit.
She slips her hand around his arm.
Hyung-Chul glances her way, but doesn't say anything.
Young-Mi.......... Last time, I really enjoyed the club you took me to.
Hyung-Chul....... Once in a Blue Moon?
Young-Mi.......... Yes. Can we go there again tonight?
Hyung-Chul....... If you prefer.
Young-Mi.......... About Sun-Mi -- I'm sorry if I caused a problem just now.
Hyung-Chul....... It's nothing. Don't be concerned.
Young-Mi.......... Thanks. And thanks again for the ride ...
Riding in a cab after leaving the performance center, Sun-Mi reflects on the day's critical events ...
Sun-Mi.............. (V.O) What if I'd listened to Su-Jin, and not my own instincts?
|
FLASHBACK [Previous scene from this Episode ]
Sun-Mi.............. This dress isn't right ...
Su-Jin............... But you look gorgeous!
Sun-Mi.............. I know, but it's just not who I really am.
|
Sun-Mi.............. Instead of just being embarrassed in front of Hyung-Chul ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Previous scene from this Episode ]
Sun-Mi.............. Senior! ... Don't Look!
|
Sun-Mi.............. I'd be the laughingstock of the Gala, and everyone in Seoul, too!
Eyes flashing with outrage at the shame and humiliation that Young-Mi had intended for her, she seethes ...
Sun-Mi.............. That witch would've gotten away with it like she did with hiding my mobile in the News Center.
....................... How can Senior ditch me, and just go off with her as if nothing happened?
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from this Episode ]
Young-Mi.......... Last time, I really enjoyed that club.
Hyung-Chul....... Once in a Blue Moon?
Young-Mi.......... Yes. Can we go there again tonight?
|
Sun-Mi.............. Maybe, instead, I WAS right all along about him! ... Well, two can play at that game!
She takes out her mobile and makes a call ...
Sun-Mi.............. Hi, it's me ... It's been a long time ...
She listens briefly, then continues ...
Sun-Mi.............. Yes, I'm fine. Er ... I'm calling to see if -- that is -- what are you doing later tonight?
Act 4 - Part 2B
[ live instrumental jazz music playing ]
Sun-Mi sits at the bar, holding a cocktail.
Taking a tentative swallow, she prepares her palate for the strong alcohol.
Then, tipping the glass up, she quickly finishes off the remainder of the drink.
Sun-Mi.............. Sir? I'll have another, like this.
She sets the empty glass on the bar.
Bartender.......... Just a minute.
Resting an elbow on the bar, Sun-Mi cups her chin with her hand.
Her brow wrinkles and she presses her mouth into a thin line as she recalls Young-Mi's unwelcome interruption ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from this Episode ]
Young-Mi.......... I came to ask for a ride ... I knew I could count on you!
Young-Mi.......... Looks like it's just the two of us ... Where do you want to eat?
|
Eye's sparking, she promises herself ...
Sun-Mi.............. I'll show Senior that I can be happy, too, without him!
The bartender comes with another cocktail.
Bartender.......... Miss?
He sets her drink on the counter.
From the far end of the bar, a man motions for attention.
Bartender.......... Coming!
Sun-Mi.............. He'll regret, after he sees me with another man!
She picks up her drink and sips.
Sun-Mi.............. Where is Ki-Young anyway? He should be here by now!
A squat, heavyset man in a rumpled light gray suit with an open shirt, saunters up.
Man................. You look lonely, Miss. Mind if I join you?
Looking the man over, she realizes he is drunk.
Sun-Mi.............. Sorry, but I'm waiting for someone.
Man................. What a coincidence! I've been waiting for someone, too, all my life. It must be Fate, then ...
Stepping closer, he grabs Sun-Mi's wrist.
Man................. Let's go somewhere quiet and have some fun.
As Sun-Mi stares at the hand clutching her, the traumatic memory of a horrific incident in a dark back alley floods back ...
|
FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 2 ]
Man 1......... I like it! Two girls. One for each of us ...
Man 2......... We'll just go to a quiet place and have some fun.
Sun-Mi........ Please! Don't kill me!
|
Frozen in place, Sun-Mi's face blanches with fright.
Taking her silence as an affirmative, the man tugs on her arm.
Man................. Come on, sweetheart. I'll show you how to have a good time.
But before he can act further, a hand reaching in grabs the man's wrist.
With a sharp twist, the man's grip on Sun-Mi's arm is broken.
Man................. Hey!
Ki-Young........... (menacingly) Move on, jerk, before I move you myself!
Grumbling to himself, the man staggers away.
[ incoherent words ]
Ki-Young looks into Sun-Mi's eyes, dilated with fright.
Ki-Young........... Are you all right?
She nods.
Sun-Mi.............. Y-yes. I think so.
Reaching for her drink, Sun-Mi raises the glass to her lips and drains it in one long gulp.
She waves the empty in her hand.
Sun-Mi.............. Sir? ... Another, please!
Bartender.......... Yes.
Ki-Young........... I'll have the same.
He sits down on the bar stool next to Sun-Mi.
Ki-Young........... Sorry I'm late -- then this wouldn't have occurred.
Sun-Mi.............. Things happen. It's not your fault. I can handle myself, too, you know.
The bartender slides two fresh drinks across the bar.
Sun-Mi picks hers up and quickly puts down another long swallow.
Ki-Young........... Hey! Ease off a little! You have to watch your limit!
....................... How much have you had to drink already?
She frowns at his scolding.
Sun-Mi.............. Only three. But who's counting?
He exhales sharply, expressing his exasperation with her imprudent behavior.
Ki-Young........... Three?! You're sure you're okay?
Sun-Mi.............. (irritated) I said I'm fine!
Ki-Young........... You look like you've seen a ghost.
Sun-Mi.............. It was just something from long ago. It's not a big deal.
Eyeing her dubiously, he decides to let it go.
Ki-Young........... If you say so.
She smiles to alleviate his concern.
Sun-Mi.............. But thank you. For helping me out of a spot.
Ki-Young........... Any time. Sun-Mi, I've missed you.
Sun-Mi.............. Me, too. How have you been?
SCENE: Gangnam club exterior, night
Hyung-Chul's BMW pulls into the club's small car park and stops.
He gets out and circles the car, opening the passenger side door for Young-Mi.
Young-Mi.......... Thank you.
She alights and they walk toward the club entrance.
[ live instrumental jazz music playing ]
Hyung-Chul enters the club with Young-Mi at his side.
He speaks briefly with the doorman, who motions for the dining room captain.
The captain leads them to a table for two on the edge of the dance floor, across the room from the bar.
Waiting until they sit down, he then hands menus to them.
Captain............. A waiter will be with you momentarily.
Young-Mi scans through the selection.
Young-Mi.......... Shall we order an appetizer first?
But Hyung-Chul's attention is focused across the room, on a familiar-looking couple seated at the bar.
Hyung-Chul....... Sure ... Whatever you like ...
At the same time, Sun-Mi is surreptitiously watching Hyung-Chul and Young-Mi.
Turning to look, Ki-Young follows her gaze.
Ki-Young........... You know them?
Sun-Mi.............. Some colleagues from the office.
Her smile is strained.
Sun-Mi.............. I was just surprised to see them here.
Ki-Young is skeptical, but drops the matter, changing the subject.
Ki-Young........... Have you eaten? We could get a table.
Sun-Mi finishes her drink, then slips off the bar stool, keeping a hand on the bar to steady herself.
Sun-Mi.............. Okay. But let's dance first.
Ki-Young........... You're sure? A bite to eat would help with those drinks.
Sun-Mi.............. I know what you're thinking, but I'm not too drunk to dance!
Leaving his drink half-finished, Ki-Young gets up, offering his arm.
Ki-Young........... Then, let's go.
Their path to the dance floor passes directly in front of the table where Hyung-Chul and Young-Mi are seated.
Hyung-Chul quickly averts his gaze, staring into his menu, trying to make it look as if he hadn't seen them.
Young-Mi, puzzled at Hyung-Chul's suddenly odd behavior, is surprised when sees Sun-Mi with Ki-Young.
On the dance floor, Ki-Young takes Sun-Mi in ballroom position and they start a slow two-step.
She leans into him, resting her head against his shoulder.
Sun-Mi.............. Hold me tighter, please.
Ki-Young encircles her with his arms.
Sun-Mi.............. That's better.
Ki-Young........... Sun-Mi, what's going on?
Sun-Mi.............. What do you mean?
Ki-Young........... You haven't called me since that night, and now you're acting like we're more than friends.
She smiles coquettishly.
Sun-Mi.............. Do you mind?
Ki-Young........... Of course not. But this isn't like you.
Sun-Mi.............. I'll tell you later. But right now, I just need someone to hold me.
SCENE: Seoul penthouse club, night
Meanwhile, elsewhere in Seoul ...
[ classical music playing softly ]
Director Kim Eun-Ki is at his exclusive club with Su-Jin.
Su-Jin............... I was surprised by your invitation.
Eun-Ki.............. I thought congratulations were in order.
Su-Jin............... (smiling) That explains the bubbly. But for what?
Eun-Ki.............. Transforming an 'ugly ducking' into a 'swan' -- what else?
Su-Jin............... You mean, Jin Sun-Mi?
Eun-Ki.............. How does it feel to be eclipsed by your own protégé?
Su-Jin............... Gratifying, in a way.
Eun-Ki picks up his champagne flute and holds it until Su-Jin raises hers.
Eun-Ki.............. To this and future successes.
Su-Jin............... You're too kind.
He leans forward bringing his glass to hers.
[ clink of fine crystal ]
They both take a sip.
Eun-Ki.............. The performance at tonight's Gala was at a new level for Announcer Jin.
....................... It was well above my expectations for this early in her career.
....................... Breaking the 'A-list' significantly raises her market value to MBS as a celebrity face.
....................... That's all thanks to you, and your hard work.
His remarks, meant to be complimentary, instead set Su-Jin on edge.
Su-Jin............... Do you only see women as commodities to exploit until they're used up,
....................... to then be spat out like a wad of gum that's lost it's flavor?!
Eun-Ki.............. Isn't that a bit harsh? MBS is a broadcasting company, not a social club.
....................... That means maximizing our return on the investments that pay the highest dividends.
....................... It's nothing personal regarding Announcer Jin, just business.
Su-Jin............... Is it? Do those 'dividends' include taking some for yourself, too?
Eun-Ki.............. What are you insinuating?
Su-Jin............... I understand you intend to bring Jin Sun-Mi under your wing after Art Club.
....................... To 'polish a diamond in the rough' and 'turn dreams into reality' among other enticements.
He clears his throat ...
Eun-Ki.............. How did you learn that?
Su-Jin............... (scoffing) Do you think women only talk about shoes and handbags when they get together?
Eun-Ki.............. You disapprove?
Su-Jin............... Taking advantage of an idealistic and trusting naïf to corrupt her? Yes, I disapprove!
Eun-Ki.............. First, let me clarify that I'm not interested in that kind of relationship with Jin Sun-Mi.
....................... I honestly intend to only act as a mentor and guide for her career path.
....................... But your remarks surprise me, being a seasoned veteran. When did you suddenly find religion?
Su-Jin............... I haven't -- I'm no saint. And I've played the game, better than most ...
She chuckles self-deprecatingly.
Su-Jin............... But perhaps spending so much time together with Jin Sun-Mi has infected me.
....................... All the chatter about dreams, and the media as a means for spreading hope and joy to people.
A wistful smile briefly crosses her face.
Su-Jin............... After a while, listening to her, you almost want to believe, too ...
Eun-Ki.............. Humph! ... Surely, though, you're not persuaded by all that clap-trap!
....................... Everything you've achieved, would you so easily give it up for some Pollyannaish dream?
She sighs reflectively.
Su-Jin............... You're all too correct. Whatever idealism I once had is long buried by cynicism and hypocrisy.
....................... Even if I wanted to, I can't go back. Does that answer your question?
[ live instrumental jazz music ]
While Sun-Mi is dancing with Ki-Young, Hyung-Chul keeps a watchful eye on them.
Observing Hyung-Chul's dismay, Young-Mi schemes for a way to take advantage of the situation ...
Young-Mi.......... I didn't know Sun-Mi frequented clubs like this. She must not be so "old-fashioned" after all.
Hyung-Chul....... (blithely) So it seems.
Young-Mi.......... I've heard that he's a Korean-American M&A banker, who just moved to Seoul.
....................... Rumor has it that he's a chaebol scion, his mother is related to the Shins of Lotte.
....................... I'll give it to her, she certainly knows how to choose good men.
Hyung-Chul....... Why do you think I care? Sun-Mi can date whomever she wants.
Young-Mi.......... I just thought it would ease your mind to know she's found someone to take care of her.
....................... Sun-Mi said that day on Eve's Morning that she'd never been lucky in love.
....................... Maybe her luck has finally turned, and she's found "True Love" after all.
Hyung-Chul gives her a tired "let's drop it and move on" expression.
Hyung-Chul....... I think I'll have the steak. You?
Young-Mi.......... I'm considering the pasta primavera.
She smiles engagingly.
Young-Mi.......... But shall we order champagne first, to celebrate tonight's success?
Hyung-Chul....... If it suits you.
SCENE: Seoul penthouse club, night
[ classical music playing softly ]
Meanwhile, Eun-Ki and Su-Jin continue their conversations at the club ...
Eun-Ki.............. It's good to know we're both on the same page, because I have another proposition for you.
Su-Jin............... Sounds intriguing. What does it entail?
Eun-Ki.............. A different sort of contract. One I hope you'll seriously consider.
Su-Jin............... So is this an unofficial notice that you won't be extending our current one?
His nod confirms her thought.
Eun-Ki.............. Art Club, from the beginning, was only envisioned as a single season.
....................... A vehicle to see if Jin Sun-Mi had the mettle for celebrity I thought she was capable of.
....................... Since that has been proven, the program has served it's purpose.
Su-Jin............... Then, we won't be seeing each other, going forward?
Eun-Ki.............. Professionally, no. But personally, I hope it is possible.
....................... You're an exquisite woman, Su-Jin. Talented, intelligent, charming, and beautiful.
....................... The chance to know you has been one of the greatest gifts I've ever received.
....................... Life is short and hard, so it is a blessing to experience the best it has to offer.
....................... Were it my preference, I would indulge myself with your companionship as long as you allowed.
He takes a small jeweler's box from his suit coat and places it on the table.
Eun-Ki.............. For you. At the time, I thought it might be suitable when I picked it out.
....................... But in retrospect, I'm afraid that it's sparkle will pale in your presence.
Su-Jin............... You flatter me ...
She reaches for the box and picks it up.
Su-Jin............... It's not necessary, but thank you.
Eun-Ki.............. Go on, open it.
Removing the ribbon first, Su-Jin then opens the box.
She gasps in surprise as she sees the sparkling diamond ring inside.
Su-Jin............... It's beautiful! ... But it's too much! I can't accept this, Eun-Ki.
Eun-Ki.............. Please do. Whether as a pledge for the future, or as a memento of our time together,
....................... either way, it's yours to keep.
Stunned, Su-Jin finally grasps his intent.
Su-Jin............... Eun-Ki, are you asking me to marry you?
He looks down sheepishly.
Eun-Ki.............. For a man of my age and experience, you'd think it would be easy to say things like this.
....................... But it's not.
He looks up at her again.
Eun-Ki.............. After the first time we met, I realized you were someone unique.
....................... Since then you've become even more special to me. Very special.
He clears his throat nervously.
Eun-Ki.............. It's ... um ... hard to find the words to express it ...
....................... But I've never felt this way about a woman before. If that isn't love, what is?
Su-Jin............... It's such a surprise, hearing this from you. I had no idea how your felt.
Eun-Ki.............. I suspected that, so I don't want to pressure you. Take your time, think it over before you answer.
....................... As an old man, I've little to offer a woman like yourself. Just my promise to love and cherish you.
....................... Whatever your decision, please believe that I'm sincere. That's all I ask.
[live instrumental jazz music playing ]
From the dance floor, Sun-Mi is watching Hyung-Chul and Young-Mi.
A waiter arrives at their table with a bottle of champagne and uncorks it with a pop, then pours two flutes.
Young-Mi picks up her glass and speaks to Hyung-Chul.
[ inaudible voice ]
Hyung-Chul nods, picks up his glass, and they bring the glasses together.
Ki-Young feels Sun-Mi tense as she tightens her jaw.
Ki-Young........... I think it's time you told me what's going on. Is he really just a colleague?
Sun-Mi.............. No, he's Director Yoon Hyung-Chul, the President's son ... and my former boyfriend.
Ki-Young........... And the woman?
Sun-Mi.............. Huh Young-Mi. She's my rival in work, and now it also seems, again, in love.
Ki-Young........... Again?
Sun-Mi.............. It's a long story. Love triangles and all that. It'd make a good TV drama.
Ki-Young........... So you invited me here, for what part in this "drama"?
Sun-Mi.............. I knew they'd be here, and hoped that seeing me with the "other man" would make him jealous.
Ki-Young........... And if it doesn't work?
Sun-Mi.............. At least I want him to think I'm not hurt by being dumped. That I can be happy without him.
Ki-Young........... If you want him to think that, you need to make it look believable.
Sun-Mi.............. Like, how?
Ki-Young........... Let me show you.
He stops dancing, but keeps his arms around Sun-Mi.
She looks at him, wondering what his intentions are.
Ki-Young leans closer, and before she realizes what he is about to do, kisses her on the lips.
Shocked by the intimate act, Sun-Mi stares wide-eyed at Ki-Young.
His bold move did not go unnoticed ...
Young-Mi smirks, content that Sun-Mi is digging her own grave.
Hyung-Chul expresses no emotion, long resigned to accept whatever Sun-Mi does, however he feels about it.
After their kiss, Ki-Young holds Sun-Mi close, whispering in her ear ...
Ki-Young........... I did my part. Now the rest is up to you. Remember, whatever it is, make it look believable.
As Sun-Mi ponders what to do, the long litany of Young-Mi's schemes inflames her alcohol-soaked mind ...
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FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 05 ]
Sun-Mi.............. You put the acetone in my makeup, didn't you?
....................... You were jealous because I won the emcee, and tried to ruin my face!
Young-Mi.......... Do you have any proof?
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FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 05 ]
Sun-Mi.............. You know my father means everything to me! How could you lie to me like that?
....................... Was it that important to steal the emcee role away from me?
Young-Mi.......... Can you prove I lied?
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FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 12 ]
Sun-Mi.............. You put my mobile under the news desk, didn't you? I saw you in the news center!
....................... Then you called during the newscast and made me a laughingstock in front of everyone!
....................... Were you that desperate to take back the News from me!
Young-Mi.......... Blaming me again for your mistakes? Do you have any evidence?
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FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 17 ]
Young-Mi.......... You broke up with him? Is that true?
Sun-Mi.............. Director Yoon said that?
Young-Mi.......... What do you think? You're such an idiot! A laughingstock to the world!
....................... You didn't even know he dumped you? How pitiful can a person be?
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FLASHBACK [ Scene from Episode 18 ]
Sun-Mi.............. It's not right! You're letting Young-Mi get away with murder!
Hyung-Chul....... Do you have any evidence to prove that? Even if true, it was no more than a childish prank.
Sun-Mi.............. How can you put it so lightly? She tried to make me a laughingstock in front of the whole world!
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That Young-Mi is now flaunting her relationship with Hyung-Chul adds insult to injury.
Pushed to the edge, the reticence of "old-fashioned" Jin Sun-Mi evaporates in the simmering heat of her outrage.
Fueled by a heady buzz, the new, adventurous version of herself is ready -- and itching -- to break the mold ...
Sun-Mi.............. (V.O.) I'm doing this, Senior, because it's you.
Reaching up, Sun-Mi encircles Ki-Young's neck with her arms.
Then, rising on tiptoe, she enthusiastically kisses him back ...
