Honey
"I don't see why I have to do this, Dongwook Oppa," I told him as I wearily eyed the makeup artist in the mirror as he quietly worked on the 'bruise' on my temple. "I had to wake up at God's knows what hour this morning; I haven't eaten anything, and probably won't for another- " I paused and looked at the clock on my phone, "- four hours! I mean, I was probably only in the drama for 10 seconds. 10 seconds of footage I wasn't even supposed to be in the first place! And look, look what they did to my favourite shirt!" I whined as I gazed at what was left of my shirt. It was the same shirt I had worn the previous time and was instructed to bring it with me along with my jeans.
Yet, the moment I had stepped foot onto the set, my clothing was taken off me. (Luckily, I had worn something different and the clothing they took was in a bag. It would have been incredibly awkward if I had to wait in nothing but a robe with Dongwook Oppa.) When I was given it back, my clothing was filthy and my shirt practically torn to shreds. Thank goodness they were allowing me to wear a bra underneath. Otherwise, there would be much more inappropriate parts on the show other than my stomach.
Dongwook Oppa sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Look, Honey, I will buy you a completely new outfit-" I gave him a hard look and he swallowed, "- and buy you food if you do this. They really need you, Honey. When I told them you would do this, they were over the moon. According to the director, you inspired him to come up with a good ending for this drama."
I tsked at his words and took another gulp of my water, hoping it would ease the hunger I was feeling. I still had not forgiven the director for that scaring experience. Dongwook Oppa seemed to notice my worsened mood for he squeezed my shoulder gently.
"Look, Honey, by doing this you are helping many people, who have probably pulled many all-nighters into making this drama for months come one step closer to completing it. These people, including Bogum-ah, would be extremely grateful if you would do this. Besides, from what I saw earlier, you have a knack for acting." If you call that acting. I was literally being harassed. But, gazing at the makeup artist, who had noticeable bags under his eyes, I decided not to voice my opinion. Instead, I have Dongwook Oppa a small smile and told him I would do it.
He beamed. "Great, well here is the script. Read over it so you can get a feel for the drama. I have taken the liberty of highlighting your lines. Take this time to memorize them. If you have a problem, ask one of the members and they are sure to help you. Other than that, I wise you luck. I will be back to pick you up." The last bit caught my ears and I nearly chocked on the water I was drinking.
"You're not staying?"
He gave me a look. "Honey, did you forget that I am also an actor? I have an interview to go to and then a script reading. I'll be here around 5pm to pick you up. Just wait until then." Giving me one last squeeze on the shoulder, he left.
Sighing, I leaned back into the chair and peered down at the script for today. Flickering through the first few pages, I felt dread wash over me. I could not read a single word. It was all written in Korean, and I haven't had the chance to learn any of it properly with Bogum like he promised, due to his busy schedule. Panicking, I glanced up at the makeup artist, who had paused to look for another colour, for help. He seemed rather perplexed at my situation, but seemed wiling enough to tell me what I needed to know for this scene.
Apparently, I was supposed to be the wife of this man, who I didn't know was an important undercover agent, and was currently being held, hostage. My 'husband' had missile codes that my captives want and were using me to get it. What they and I didn't know was that my 'husband' died in another secret mission and had made his best friend and fellow agent (Bogum), promise to protect me and my 'son'. He had also left clues in which Bogum's character and his sidekick spent most of the drama trying to solve, and falling in love in the process. Today, I was supposed to be 'tortured' by these people and then saved by Bogum. Then, I am supposed to film 'flashback' scenes with my 'husband' and two with my 'daughter' later on.
Getting the gist of the story, I then turned to my lines and frowned. Now, I knew when it came to English speaking scenes in Kdramas, they could be rather stiff and awkward, but at least they made partial sense. These lines, on the other hand, looked as if they were translated by Google translator. If any English speaker heard this, they would make little to no sense of the dialogue. Feeling my writer urges start tingling, I asked the kind man if he had a pen.
"Why?"
"Well, to put it simply, if you want any English-speaking viewers hearing this 'English' as it apparently says here, and understand it, I suggest you get me a pen. I'll make the changes that are urgently needed, and this copy can be sent to those in the scene."
With that, the man dropped his makeup brush and scrambled away in look for a pen. He came back two minutes later, slightly out of breath, with a pen as well as two other people. One of which looked extremely angry. Ignoring the newcomers, I thanked the man and began editing. Yet, half way through the first sentence, a hand gripped my wrist tightly, preventing me from doing anything further.
"Yah. Who are you to decide what should and should not be in my script?"
Ah, so she is the script writer.
"Are you a writer?"
Yes, probably a more known one than you.
"Are you professional qualified to be a script writer, or have any popa experiencer?" I almost winced at her attempt at English. "No, you are just a good for nothing extra who thinks she knows it all. Well, newsflashie for you, you don't. So how dare you insult the great Ji Soo An on her work. I could get you fired, do you know that? I suggest you stop worrying and learn your precious one-liner and let the professionals handle the important stuff. Hmm?" She forcefully smiled as her grip tightened on my wrist. OW. That's it! I was going to ignore it, but this bitch was just too much.
Grabbing onto her hand that was nearly going to pierce an artery, I slowly started to peel her fingers back as I said the following words calmly:
"No, I may not be professionally qualified to be a script writer, nor have the proper experience. But," I paused as I released another finger. "If I know anything, I know how to speak and write English. I have been able to since I was young. Moreover, I can spot Google translation when I see it. So, how dare you insult me," She seemed to cower a little as I released another finger. Yes bitch, come off your high stool. "I was going to do this correction out of the goodness of my heart and not charge anything or speak a word of the great Ji Soo An's fault. However, considering I am a 'good-for-nothing extra', I think I should just leave it and see how much criticism you get from overseas fans. Just like you wanted," I released the last finger and pushed her hand away. She cradled it to her chest and looked at me like a gaping fish. Wanting to get my full point across, I continued.
"Yet, for the success of the drama, I am going to bite back down on my pride and do this correction. But, the real question is, are you?" Ending with the same smile she gave me earlier, I watched as she continued to struggle for words. After a moment, she waved her hand to the other person, probably her assistant, and ordered him to give me all the English-speaking bits to correct. Then, without any thanks (not that I was expecting any), the great Ji Soo An left me with a stunned makeup artist and her assistant who was shuffling through pages from a large folder, probably the entire script.
Flexing my fingers and cracking my neck, I turned to the makeup artist. "How long do I have before I have to be on set? Two hours? Okay then, let's try and get a lot done before then."
..................................................
Two hours had passed by quickly and I soon found myself on set. The set looked like a complete dump. It was made to look like an abandoned warehouse, filled with empty crates and the ground covered in dust. The first shot was supposed to be me being carried unconsciously to a chair which I'd be tied up in. That was relatively easy to do, and the extra who carried me was careful not to hurt me. Yet, when it came to the chair shot, the director had this sudden spark in his eye. Next moment, the chair was gone and a chain was suspended in the air by a small crane. What was this man's plan exactly?
Yet, before I could question him, I was escorted over to the lowered chain and a hidden harness was secured to my back. Suddenly, I was asked to hold out my wrists by a crew member. Next thing I knew, my wrists were bound and I was suspended off the ground by the chain to the point where the tips of my toes where just touching the ground. If it weren't for the harness supporting most of my weight, I would have had severe bruising.
At the time when the director shouted 'action', tape covered my lips and a bag was placed over my head. Hanging my head low, with the bag placed over it, I made it look like I was asleep as footsteps were coming closer to me, along with male saying in English,
"She is this way, Sir."
Suddenly, the bag was off and a hand roughly grabbed my chin. Opening my eyes, they widened in fear as I stared up at one of the men who harassed me that day. I had remembered this one's facial features vividly. He was the one who had forced himself on me and kissed my neck. Absolutely terrified, I stared into his green eyes as his thumb stroked my cheek. "Now, this time you will be a good little girl and the answer the man's questions," He leaned down to my ear and whispered, "Or we will break you so bad that your husband will never want you back." He paused and then pulled off the tape slowly. Then with a smile and another caress on the cheek, he said, "Do not bite this man either, or we will make your precious daughter watch while we do it." My chin was let go harshly and I took a deep breath while the man told the other one that 'I was ready.' The new man stepped forward and asked me about my 'husband's' whereabouts. This guy had a slight accent when it came to English, but pronounced the words correctly.
"For the last time, I do not know where he is," I paused as a tear ran down my cheek. "So please, just let me and my daughter go. Please, we know nothing," I pleaded as more tears ran down and stared at the Korean actor. He did seem familiar. He looked around mid-fifties, hair beginning to go grey and had a prosthetic arm which held a small but blunt blade. I automatically winced as he lightly ran it across my jaw and 'tsked' at me.
"My dear Amy, we know your husband contacted you two months ago," My eyes widened slightly, not but the man's news, but at the caress I felt down the side of my rib cage. "If you tell us where he is, I will let you and your little brat go. And if not," he looked over his shoulder and into the camera, " well I am sure my chief already informed you if you do not comply." I followed his gaze and swallowed. The smell of food coming from somewhere was making me famished. Closing my eyes and trying to ignore the smell, I told him of my 'husband's' whereabouts.
"Well done Amy," He praised me and patted my head before turning to another Korean man and said, "beat her up a little more but don't rape her yet. I want to see if this address works out." With that, the man walked away with the camera while I screamed and shook my chain to let me go.
"YOU LIAR!"
The camera followed the actor who was whistling and twirling his hands to the 'music' as he left the abandon warehouse. At the same time, in the background of the shot, tape was placed back on my lips and I was being 'beaten' by two brutes. It was quite funny actually. If I didn't have the tape over my mouth, I don't think I could stop smiling at these big muscly scary-looking men who tried to land a punch on me. Instead, it was mostly me 'reacting' to their blows which was incredibly hard thing to do for I had to swing in the direction of their punches.
When the director yelled cut, there was a long silence and I was suddenly aware of all the eyes on me. Then, one person clapped and others soon followed while I was lowered down to the ground. The director even personal came over to me as I was getting the chains and harness off and congratulated me on my performance. "Very believable, my dear. You have pure talent." With a pat on the shoulder, he and other people began to make their way towards where lunch was being held.
Massaging my wrist and getting feeling back into my legs, I was about to follow them when I was pulled back into the makeup room where I spent the next hour grumbling while my hair became more of a mess and my faces gained more 'bruises' and 'cuts'.
I was back in the harness and chain before I knew it. "Dongwook Oppa should better buy me something good when he comes, or I'll replace his shampoo with pink hair dye." The hair stylist who was 'styling' my hair too look as if it hadn't been brushed in a century, giggled.
"Just three more scenes to go, and then you are free," She reminded me before hastily leaving the set for the director to start filming. When he cried 'action', I lowered my head, as if asleep, and waited for the footsteps to get louder.
When the head bag was taken off, I 'woke' to my 'name' being softly called and a hand was laid upon my cheek. Opening my eyes to see the handsome looking Oppa in a leather jacket. Immediately, I tried to 'talk' to him and move to him which was literally impossible due to the chains and tape. "Hang in there, Amy. We are going to get you out of here," He promised me before ordering 'Soo-ah' to lower the chains.
Although this was just acting, I couldn't resist the emotions I felt and started to tear up at the sight of him. I had not seen him for days due to filming going overtime. And when he does arrive home, it is late at night and he is gone before the sun rises.
When my chained arms were lowered around his neck to the point where I am 'hugging' Oppa, I couldn't help but leave a small peck on his cheek and whisper 'thank you' in his ear. The ad-lip seemed to stun Oppa, for he went rigid for a second. Yet, before I could tease him, I suddenly remembered my line. I turned to the actress, only to see her glaring at me. Masking the sudden uncomfortable feeling I felt under her gaze with a look of concern, I whispered my 'daughter's' name.
"Anna's here?" Oppa asked in his cute Engrish, and I nodded.
"Please find her," my voice broke slightly as Oppa began 'shhing' me, whispering calming words in my ear and stroked my hair while I 'cried' into his jacket. He should keep the jacket. It really suits him.
After he ordered the actress, his love interest in the drama, to find Anna, he grabbed my legs so that he held me bridal style with my arms still chained around his neck. Trying to ignore the camera that was filming our expressions, I couldn't help but smile when Oppa asked me if I was alright. Looking up from his chest to his warm brown eyes, I could tell that he was genuinely worried. No acting involved. Nodding my head, I rested my head in the area where his neck meets his shoulder.
"Can you-"
GGGRRRRRR!
The loud noise both startled us, and we both looked down at my angry, noisy stomach. Oppa's body began to shake and he tried hard to compose himself by biting his lip. Yet, as my stomach made another appearance, Oppa couldn't help but let a laugh slip through his lips.
"CUT!"
"I'm sorry. I am so sorry. Its just-" Laughter continued to erupt from him as he sat me down. Turning beet red, I couldn't help but whack him with my chained hands. He was so embarrassing! Massaging the place where I hit him, Bogum Oppa flashed me his toothy grin. "Sorry Honey, it was just so unexpected."
"CAN SOMEONE GET HER A SANDWICH?!" The order from the annoyed director set Oppa off again. Yet, this time I couldn't help but join in. My stomach seemed to have a mind of its own.
................................................
While I was munching on the ham sandwich that I was given, the director began talking to us about he liked and things we should work on.
"Honey, your brilliant girl, I loved that kiss you gave Bogum-ah. It was so unexpected - Oh and Jiena-ah, that jealous gaze that you produced was spot on. However, I think we should work on your expression as you leave in your one-on shot. Other than that, the shot was great. It just needs a few edits and its perfect. Now we just need to finish the scene between Bogum-ah and Honey, one-on-one shots, and then we onto the next scene. Gosh, we are getting a lot done today. By this rate, we might finish filming before Christmas! Wouldn't that be a nice thought? Well great work everyone!" He finished with a pat on Oppa's back before heading off back to his chair.
When he left, Oppa turned to me. "Why are you here? I'd thought you would be back home with the others." I rolled my eyes at the disappointment I could hear in his voice. Before Oppa could finish 'mothering,' I began to explain why I was here.
"...Dongwook Oppa thought it was a nice way to get me out of the house. Besides, I have not seen you in ages and was curious to see how you are." I allowed my eyes to scan his face, taking in the slightly visible dark circles and the weight he appeared to have lost. Raising my bound hands to touch his cheek, I ordered him to rest after his scene with me and continue to eat. He nodded and took my hands in his, lightly tracing the place where the chains met my skin. "Does it hurt?" I shook my head.
"No, but what really hurts is well-" I didn't know the word for 'groin' in Korean, so I pointed to it. "- that place. All my weight is going onto the harness. So, if you excuse me, I am going to get this thing off now. I can't stand it." I zoomed off, leaving Bogum chuckling as he watched my fast form leave.
......................................................
After filming the scenes like where I reunite with my 'daughter' and the funeral scene, all I had to do now was to do the flashback scene with my 'husband.' According to the hairstylist, a person I was becoming friends with, this scene was supposed to be all 'lovey dovey' in a field. The direct translation is a lot of physical affection. A fact that Oppa did not particularly like when he read the new part. He expressed this dislike for the entire car ride to the location, in which he insisted on coming. However, Mr Grumpy pants' mood worsened when he saw the outfit I was wearing.
"Oh no, you are not wearing that," was the first thing he said to me when I changed into the outfit I was supposed to where for the shoot. He turned to the stylist, demanding she gets me a different outfit to wear. One that was 'more appropriate' and that I was showing 'too much skin.' Of course, I agreed with him that I was showing a lot. To the point where I felt a bit self-conscious, especially with my legs being bare. However, when I heard I was able to wear cowboy boots, I was okay. (With cowboy boots, I was able to most of the hideous scar I had on my leg. The rest of it I could hide with foundation. )
Anyway, Oppa finally got his way by forcing me to wear a cardigan. At least, with it beginning early spring, it wasn't too hot to wear. In the end, my outfit involved cargo shorts, a white buttoned shirt which was tied in the middle, cowboy boots and a green cardigan that Oppa insisted I wore. (I would push up the sleeves when he wasn't looking!)
(*Honey in her outfit*)
"Don't worry about him. He's just being too over protective," Seohyun Unnie said as she continued to style my hair. "In my opinion, you look hot. Smoking hot. The cameo actor, whoever that maybe, would be lucky to have you. In saying that, I think Bogum-shi might have a slight crush on you. Getting worked up and all. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. He deserves someone like you," I blushed at her words and looked at the mirror to see Oppa fast asleep in the chair that was in the corner.
When she had finished and my makeup was being done, the door to the caravan opened and in came this tall good-looking man wearing sunglasses. After a talking to Seohyun Unnie, who was a nervous wreck in front of him, he was directed to the seat next to me. Taking off his sunglasses when he sat down, we made eye contact through the mirror that we shared. We both smiled shyly at one another. After a minute or two of awkward silence, I decided to introduce myself.
"I'm Honey, and you are?" The moment I spoke Korean, he seemed to relax slightly. Grasping my awkwardly outstretched hand, he told me his name was Park Hae-jin. "Oh, you must be that actor playing Kevin, right? You must be a famous actor like Bogum Oppa, right?" The moment those words left my mouth, Seohyun Unnie face-palmed herself. I frowned. "What's wrong Unnie, did I say something wrong?"
"He is very famous Honey. Everyone knows who he is."
My eyes widened and I started to apologize to the famous actor. He seemed to find it amusing. After that, we talked for a bit. I found out he was 14 years older than me, but of course did not look like it. He also suggested, with help from Unnie, what of his works I should I watch. In return, I told him I was a writer, which he seemed a little surprised. "I thought you were an out-breaking actress? How on earth did you get this part?" I then spent the next while explaining how I got here. Being a part of Roommate, being mistaken for an actress. The whole nine yards. He then asked me if I had any of my works I'd recommend. A part of me was dying to say yes, the other was repeating my boss's warning. So, I told him I was a novice writer and my books weren't that good. But heeding my boss's order, I promoted 'Leo Evans's' new book.
It was in that moment, that I realized I hated being 'Leo Evans' secret identity. I hated the idea of putting down my self-worth for the sake of keeping my identity a secret. I hated the idea that it was this secret, my suffering, that was making my company millions. Above all, I hated lying to those I care about. My eyes glanced at Bogum, who was still asleep. His mouth slightly open. Standing up from my seat, I grabbed the puffer jacket he had me wear earlier and draped it over him.
"I am sorry Oppa for lying to you. I am so sorry," I whispered in his ear and brushed away the locks of hair that went into his eyes. Sitting down next to him, I watched him for a bit before finding myself drifting off to sleep.
......................................................................
"Honey-shi? They need us on set," someone with a deep voice said as I slowly regained consciousness. Opening my eyes to see it was that actor who I was talking to before. Park Hae Jin? Yes, Park Hae Jin. He now had his hair and makeup done, as well as changed clothes.
Stretching, I was about to ask him for the time, when I froze as my hand touched a leg. Looking behind me, I saw Oppa was still asleep. Whoops, I must have fallen asleep next to him. Carefully standing up, I adjusted the puffer that was draped on him. Then, without making a sound, I followed my 'husband' out of the caravan and to the filming site.
"So, are you and Park Bogum-she dating?"
This time, I was not surprised by the question, having heard it many times now. So calmly, I told him that Bogum and I were 'just good friends and nothing more'. He seemed to accept that, for he didn't press any further. Instead, he began talking about the scene and what places he could touch me, and I him, and so forth. I could not help but smile up at him. He was the first actor to ask for my permission. Telling him most things were fine, but nothing too intimate. He agreed and we shook hands - Which I thought was a cute way to accept the deal.
After talking to the director, we went on the field that was filled with these small yellow and blue flowers.
When the director yelled action, Haejin-shi grabbed my hand and we slowly followed the cameraman across the field. Leaning onto his arm, I laughed at his words as instructed in the script and he smiled. Suddenly forgetting my lines, I just smiled warmly at the flowers while Haejin looked at me expectantly. Squeezing my hand as an indicator to say my line, I surprised the actor by humming a random tune. Letting go of his hand, I ran past him and cameraman and began to twirl around in the flowers with my eyes closed. He laughed and told me to be careful, an ad lip to follow my own.
As if he could predict the future, my foot caught on something, and I went tumbling down. Haejin-shi hurried over to where I lay, asking me if I was alright. Feeling ridiculous and embarrassed, I couldn't help but laugh up at the actor who had crouched down beside me with a genuine look of concern. My response caused him to smile and name me an idiot. Leaning down, he brushed a flower out of my hair before laying a longing kiss upon my forehead. The action surprised me, but unlike when Bogum did it, there were no butterflies. Playing it off with a scrunch of my nose, I moved my head to kiss the side of his hand.
"You're so beautiful," He mumbled and played with a strand of my hair. He was leaning on his elbow and he was looking down at me in a thoughtful gaze. Then, his hand stilled and he looked straight into my eyes, "Marry me," he said in Korean. A sudden muffled squeal came from one of the crew members along with a few shots. The sound made my lips quirk upwards. Trying to maintain the character, I placed my hands on either side his face and grumbled that I couldn't understand him. A wicked smile grew on his face and leaned down and placed another kiss on my forehead. "Marry me, Amy," He whispered, moving his lips to the tips of my nose where he placed one more kiss.
"Kevin, I don't understand Korean. Tell me in English," I whined and frowned up at him. He kissed my crease in between my brows and repeated the words. I huffed, crossing my arms and closing my eyes. When he kissed one of my eyelids softly, I opened the other. "You're not calling me fat, are you? Because if you are, I will-"
"Marry me, Amy," Haejin asked me, this time in English. I was immediately going to come back with a snarky comment, when he placed his lips upon my own softly, catching me off guard and I froze. This man had taken my first kiss! When he pulled back and saw my shocked expression, he chuckled and caressed my cheek with the back of his hand. "Hmm? Amy, marry me." Pushing my thoughts about how I was no longer a 'kiss virgin', I blinked up at the actor. Remembering that he had just asked me that question in English, I forced a smile to grow on my face. "Well? What -umph!"
Using the skills I gained from playing rugby for two months, I tackled Haejin-shi. He falls onto his back with me on top of him. In this moment of pause while the cameramen quickly re-organized themselves- except for the one which shot from above- I whispered to the actor, who gave me a 'What the hell are you doing?' look, to play along. When the crew were ready, I pressed my lips hard against the 'stunned Kevin' and said, "Of course I will marry you, you fool. Yes!" He cheered and we began rolling around in the field laughing. When we stopped and he placed a kiss on my cheek, whispering 'I love you' in Korean, the director suddenly yelled cut.
(*Pretend it is 'Kevin' & 'Amy'*)
There was a silence as Haejin-shi pushed himself off me and then helped me up. Yet, as the actor began helping me get bits of flowers out of my hair, the crew erupted in applause. Shocked by their reaction, we both stopped and began thanking them. For the next moment or so, we received compliments and pats on the back from the members of the crew. When it came to the director, he firstly grumbled about how unpredictable we were but ended with the excitement of how the scene is going to turn out. When he asked if we were dating, we both immediately denied it with Haejin-shi explaining to him that we only met today. "Well, you should consider it. You two have such chemistry. Great work. Haejin-shi, why don't you get ready for your next scene. I need to have a moment with Honey-shi." The actor did as he asked, and after wishing good luck for my writing, left.
My hands were then grabbed by the director. "Honey-shi, I want to thank you on the part of everyone here, for your actions today. Thanks to you, we have only got four scenes left to do and it's still light out." He laughed as if it was unbelievable that we got so much done and let go of my hands. "Not to mention, you're brilliant realistic acting skills might get you an award. Are you sure you still want to be a writer not an actor? You have pure talent." I nodded and he sighed. "At least I tried. You can't blame me for that. Well, that's you done-Ah that's right! We will send the money to you by the end of the week. And with the credits, do you want you to name to be? Honey? Or..." I thought for a moment. Did I want my name to be known? One month ago, before this show and drama, I was happy to be a nobody. Now, I want the opposite. I want people to know me. I want them to know them to know me by my name. Firmly looking at the director, I told him I wanted to be known by my name, the one I was born with. The one no one can take away. Honey Milston.
..............................................................................
Back in my own clothes, I found Bogum Oppa where I left him, asleep on the chair in the corner of the caravan. Part of me was glad. He had got to catch up on sleep as well as miss the scene I filmed with Haejin-shi. The other part of me was worried. If he was this tired, what if he gets sick again? He had already lost a lot of weight. "When I get my check, I will buy you lots of food, Oppa. I promise you that," I told him as I brushed his locks away from his eyes and adjusted his blanket.
Then I went to the mirror and started to take the makeup off. Yet after a while of scrubbing, I threw the wipe down and covered my face. The eyeliner will not come off! While cursing the person who invented, a hand pushed my hands away from my face and I found myself in front of a chuckling Bogum Oppa. I crossed my arms and frowned. "What?! Do you know a way of getting eyeliner off, huh?" He just mumbled 'cute' before grabbing a cotton bud and dipped in some solution. Turning to me with it in his hand, I leaned back and eyed it wearily. "You're not going to poke my eyes out with that, are you?" He just rolled his eyes and grabbed the back of my neck, bringing me closer to his face.
"No, now close your eyes and hold still, or I will 'poke your eyes out'." I scanned his face, meeting his eyes in the process, before gulping and nodding. He chuckled. Closing my eyes, I suddenly felt something cool touch my eyelid and flinched. That was when I felt a hand on my cheek. "Don't move Honey," he ordered. The close proximity between us made me on edge. His hand, his breath, raised hairs on the back of my neck. This feeling was different from that I felt with Haejin-shi. With Haejin-shi, it was strictly professional. I was not myself, but the character Amy. Yet, with Bogum, I had no character to play but myself. And that scared me.
......................................................................
"Oppa, why am I here?" I asked him groggily as I stared at the photographer who was taking pictures of the actor who played the baddie in Bogum's drama. After coming home dead tired but with a full belly (Dongwook Oppa kept his promise), I went straight to bed with the intention of using tomorrow to catch up on the lost sleep. That did not happen. Instead, at 4:30 am in the MORNING, I was shaken awake and dragged down to the van by Bogum Oppa with a piece of toast hanging from my mouth. I can't remember if I ate it because I dozed off during the car ride here.
"Because you are now a supporting actress."
I pouted at the fact. "But why?" I grumbled, eyeing a seat which looked like a nice place to sleep. Bogum Oppa, however, had other plans. The actor, cheerful as ever, placed his hands on my shoulders and 'guided' ( more like dragged) me to the place where I spent the next hour changing and getting my makeup and hair done. If it wasn't for Oppa's manager who gave me a tea when I was getting my makeup done, I would've fallen asleep.
When the makeup artist told me I was finally done, I had a big stretch and heard a chuckle.Turning around, I was met with Haejin-shi who was getting his hair done. Apologizing for not noticing him sooner, I asked him how his other scenes went yesterday after I left. He commented that they went okay but mentioned that his death scene was tiring.
"It probably took eight takes until the director and I were completely satisfied. I don't think I want to die anytime soon." We both laughed and started chatting about random stuff.
"So I went to collect my bags and realized they weren't there. So I contacted the company that shipped my language and was informed that my bags had been accidentally sent to London. So for three days, I had to wait in nothing but track pants and a white tee in Japan during the middle of winter."
"Holy cow. But wasn't your trip only for three days?" He nodded and I laughed, clapping my hands."Did you even leave your hotel room?" He then went on telling me that he did once and earned himself strange looks from people.
"It was even worse when I was recognized by fa- Oh hello." He nodded slightly, looking behind me. Following his gaze to spot the silent as ever Roommate camera crew, I refrained from sighing and introduced Haejin-shi to the crew. The actor, in turn, introduced himself to the camera, slightly tensed.
"Hello, I'm actor Park HaeJin and am playing the role of Kevin in the upcoming drama, 'The Visitor,' where Honey-shi plays the role of my wife, Amy. Please watch and support this drama. Yes." He ended with an awkward smile and I couldn't but let a giggle slip, causing the actor to playfully narrow his eyes at me. "I was going to comment that I watched the show after you mentioned it yesterday, but I don't think I will anymore," Haejin 'sulked', crossing his arms and turning his chair away. Laughing, I apologized and pulled his chair back around.
"Good morning Sunbae," We both looked up to see the actress Jiena-shi, who had tucked her short hair behind her ear as she complimented on his performance yesterday. He thanked her and said the same to her as well as to 'keep up the good work'. She smiled brightly at him and then made eye contact with me for a second, her smile slipping slightly, before she greeted the camera crew. I stared at her while she introduced herself, repressing the urge to frown. First that glare from yesterday and now this made it clear that she didn't like me. For what reason, I did not know.
Soon, Haejin and I were called to take couple shots and we bid our farewells. Yet, as Haejin placed a hand on the middle of my back in a gentleman's manner and guided me to the set, I couldn't help but feel the actresses gaze burning holes at the back of my head.
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Bogum
After getting changed for my next shoot, I stayed to watch Honey as she and Haejin Sunbae's shoot. The first of shots were okay and only involved Honey holding onto Sunbae's arm. Ever so often, Honey would look my way and I'd encourage her with thumbs ups and smiles. When, however, the director asked them to be more intimate, my smiled dropped as I watched Sunbae pull her into an embrace. His hand was on her lower back to the camera, while she laid her face upon his chest. I crossed my arms as he bent down and whispered something into her ear, causing her to giggle. My patience wore dangerously thin when he kissed Honey's forehead. If it wasn't for Jiena's hand on my arm, I would've stormed over there and ripped Honey from his grip.
"Oppa, are you okay? You look as if you are in pain." I switched my attention from the two to the actress and reassured her that I was fine, maybe a little tired. This lead us to talk about the drama and how close we were to finish it. "I swear, if the director suddenly announces that there to be more scenes to film, I will collapse and my stunt double will have to take my place." We both laughed at her comment and she placed a hand on my arm. "So Oppa, what are you going to do after this drama is finished?" She squeezed my arm gently and I smiled, telling her that I'd be continuing the Roommate show while resting.
"But how can you rest on that show?! I-"
"Nice Honey, I love that expression!"
I turned my attention back to the couple to find them both facing the camera, Sunbae's arm around her, giving her a loose back hug. Yet, it was not that which shocked me. It was the expression on her face as she stared straight at me. Hurt, betrayal.
My eyes widened at the sight and immediately raised my hands to indicate that it was not what it looked like. Yet, she had already lowered her head and gripped the actor's shirt. The camera went off furiously and then the photographer announced that they were done. The two quickly separated and thanked the photographer and crew. Taking this as my cue, I tried to make my way over to her and explained, yet as I was close to her, Jiena's hand grabbed my arm and informed me that we needed to met the photographer for concept consultation.
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Honey
We quickly thanked the photographer for his time, and he in return wanted to show us some of his shots he took of us both. Politely declining his offer by making up the excuse that I had somewhere I had to be, I left the two of the two and headed in the direction of the exit. I wanted to get out of here.
I needed to escape.
Yet, a few steps in, I made eye contact with the last person I wanted to see right know. And just on time, Jiena had latched onto him, informing Bogum of something. Taking this as my cue to leave, I speed walked passed them, hearing my name being called behind me. Ignoring it, I quickly got changed and headed for the door of the studio. Once outside and onto the street, I hailed a taxi and told him the address back home. Yet, just as I was about to climb into the back seat, I suddenly remembered that I had left my phone on the makeup table. Telling the driver to wait for a moment, I dashed back inside and into the room where I had my makeup done.
Opening the door, I halted when I saw Jiena with my phone in her hand. Noticing my presence, she closed the phone and asked me if it was mine. I nodded and she handed it to me, not stopping herself from commenting on how old it was and how it was about time I get a new one. Quickly thanking her, I went for the door.
"Wait," I gripped on the door handle and plastered on a smile as I turned to the actress. "Oppa and the rest of us are probably going to go for drinks later on if you want to join us." Her use of 'Oppa' when addressing Bogum, irked me. "But," she dragged the word on as she checked herself in the mirror, "considering you look as if you were in a hurry, I would take that as a rain check, right?" She smiled at my and I nearly broke my phone.
She had mentioned that on purpose.
Gritting a 'thank you' through my teeth, I left her, went outside and climbed into the taxi. Glancing back at the studio to see Bogum darting out of its doors, two camera men on his tail, slightly out of breath. He spotted me in the taxi and yelled something at me as the taxi zoomed off.
Turning my head around to the taxi's back window, I watched in amazement as Bogum started running down the street to catch up, yelling my name. But, after a while, he slowed down and stopped, his eyes never leaving mine as people around him began taking pictures and videos.
Turning back in my seat, I put a hand to my mouth to muffle the sound of me crying. The driver, glancing in his revision mirror, sighed as he went to take a right turn.
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When I got home, I grabbed Jieun Unnie, who was talking to Jackson in the living room, and dragged her to the nearest bathroom, where I cried in her arms. She didn't stop me or asked me what it was about, but let me cry until I feel asleep in her arms, sitting on bathroom floor. I suppose she had asked Jackson or someone else to carry me upstairs and to my room for I woke up in my bed to the sound of my cellphone ringing. Blindly reaching for it, I opened it and laid it on the side of my face.
"Hello?"
The person on the other line slurred my name.
"Bogum?" I pushed myself up and held the phone to my ear. "Are you drunk?" There was the sound of glasses being clanked together in the background, followed by exclaim from Bogum as he probably took another shot. Bogum and being drunk never crossed my mind before. Even a couple of days ago when we had drinks with late night snacks, he declined the beer offered to him saying that he doesn't drink. Therefore, the thought of him drinking concerned me slightly.
"Oppa."
I frowned in confusion. "What?"
"Call me Bogum Oppa. I like it when you call me 'Bogum Oppa.'" He mumbled the last part and giggled. Yes, he was definitely drunk. Running a hand down my face, I asked him why he was calling me. "It hurt when you left in that- in that taxi. It hurt in hereee...why did you leave? Wae?!" He yelled the last part, startling me. Telling him I don't want to talk about it (for I absolutely didn't), I told him to stop drinking and to get home safely.
"Oppa, have another glass," Her cheery voice made me clench my fists. Pulling the blankets off me and getting to my to my feet.
"Bogum, do not take that drink. Do not-" I stopped when I heard him down the drink.
"Honey, call me Oppa. Oppa!" He growled. Jeesh, whats his fascination about me calling him that? Running a hand through my hair, I paused when I heard that witch tell him to take another drink. Immediately, yelling at him to not take the drink, I was scolded by him to stop yelling and to call him Oppa, which I forgot to again. Face palming, I tried to calmly tell him to stop drinking when mid sentence I heard her slur.
"Oppaaaa, come with me to my car and we can go back to my place."
(* This is what I had going in the background while writing the following.*)
My eyes widened when he mumbled in agreement. "Bogum Oppa, do not go in that car. Stay at the bar. Please, do not go in the car," I pleaded him as the memory of the incident and that drunk truck driver played in the back of my mind. "Please Oppa, stay there where you are. Please, I don't want to lose you," I murmured the last part, my heart beating in my ears as I waited for his reply, which was delayed.
"You won't lose me Honey. I am only going to Jiena's. Silly Honey."
"NO! Don't go," I ran down the stairs and put my shoes on sloppily. "Where are you, Oppa? Hmm? Where?" He mumbled a name of some placed and I repeated it in my head as I raced out the gate and waited for a taxi. "Please Oppa, stay where you are. Please," I begged him, not wanting him to end up like they did.
"Why should I listen to you? You don't like me," He mumbled, the faint sound of a bell went off and I prayed to God that it wasn't him leaving.
"No, Oppa listen to me!" I frantically waved the incoming taxi, gripping my phone tightly, feeling as if it could disappear. Quickly telling the driver where to go and to step on it. "Oppa, I like you, alright. I like you so much. So please, Oppa, please do not leave."
"Really?" He sounded surprised.
"Yes Oppa," I said the truth as I held onto the seat belt as the driver turned a hard right.. "I like you a lot that-"my voice broke and I looked up to stop the tears that threatened to fall. "-that I don't know how to be around you."
"But what about Haejin Sunbae? You like him too?"
"What? NO! I don't like him. That's cow dung. I like you Oppa. I like you!" I emphasized my words, hoping he'd understand. It seemed to work for he giggled.
"Really? Well I like you too - No, I love you. I love you Honey." He admitted. I felt my heart stop at his words. He meant it. He really meant it. Tears ran down my cheeks as he kept repeating it. I let out a laugh and couldn't help but smile at his giddiness.
"I-" I was cut off by the driver informing me that we had arrived. Ordering him to wait for a moment, I got out of the car with my eyes rapidly searching the street and in the windows of the bar. "Oppa, where are you now?" My heart beat in time with my rapid steps. He mumbled something about cake. Panicking as I didn't see anything that resembled a cake, I ran down the street, begging him to tell me something else.
"I see a bike. Red helmet." My eyes widened at the news. Did he mean a bike shop or a- Suddenly, a man on a bicycle with a red helmet came cycling out of side street on the opposite side of the road. I ran. Narrowly missing incoming cars as they honk their horns furiously and reached the other side. Not wasting any time, I bolted towards the street I had seen the cyclist come out from.
My heart dropped as I looked down hardly lit street. The only light came from the diary which was still open and three street lights. Suddenly, a fifth light came on, just for a second at the end of the street. It was the flash of light from a car that was being unlocked.
I screamed out his name as my feet took off, earning surprised looks from bypasses. Bogum said my name, confused. Adrenaline pumped through my body as I my lungs ached. When I was able to make out them two, Jiena who was unsteadily trying to pull Bogum Oppa into the passenger seat, and Oppa who was on the phone looking down the street I was coming up, I screamed for Jiena to stop.
"Honey?" Bogum exclaimed, able to make me out now. I didn't answer him. Instead, I sprinted into him and wrapped my arms around his neck. Stumbling backwards a bit, he said my name again and wrapped his arms around my waist. Feeling him, his body and everything that told me that he was here, in my arms and alive, I couldn't help but breakdown. "Honey, why are you crying?" He mumbled and I clutched him tighter.
He's alive.
He's safe.
And he loves me.
Pulling back, I placed my trembling hands on either side of his face, and did the only thing that felt right at that time.
I kissed him.
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Well, hello.
Yes, I am finally back with a new chapter. Sorry it took long. I had trouble deciding which draft I should pick. Hopefully, this one is alright. Please don't be shy to comment. I really enjoy reading them. If you have got any questions, I'd be happy to answer them- except for spoilers. That's a big no no.
Thank you for reading this chapter and the book.
Until next time,
Sujubo.