Big Life Chapter 51-60

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Chapter 51

‘This is good….!’

Somii smiled when she flipped to page 30.

This was a completely different style than Jaegun’s previous novels. It had a fast-paced story and others, so even though it was a heavy read, the book was great.

‘So that’s why it’s Dragon Rider. The main character rides a dragon. But really. Writer Ha… doesn’t make great titles… Maybe it’s just me?’

Only when she had to open the door with her fingerprint, did she stop reading

And then she sat down and started reading on the computer.

A bigger screen was better.

“Somii, you’re early?”

Assistant Manager Lee said to her.

Somii answered while glancing away from the monitor.

“Ah, good morning.”

Lee was the person that she was most acquainted with in this company.

She had a friendly personality and didn’t do anything impolite.

Therefore, even with the 10-year gap, she was great friends with her.

“But Assistant Manager Lee is here early too?”

“I have to come early until I understand the new work environment.”

Lee yawned and went to her seat.

She wanted to find the style of the new editor that was going to replace Tewon.

“Yeah, wasn’t Assistant Manager Go really funny?”

Lee faced towards Somii and asked.

“He was really oily. He might be a personal assistant at this rate. If he could just work half as well as he can flatter. Why is he like that.”

“Haha.”

“StarBooks is on the decline. I don’t know why the representative is like this. His son, daughter, and son in law… Now it’s going to be the grandchildren too.”

“Assistant Manager, your voice is a bit loud.

“What do I say? There’s only us. Ah, I don’t know.”

Lee went to get a cup of coffee.

Somii started reading the novel again. Lee asked as she pulled a cup of coffee next to Somii.

“What are you reading?”

“Ah, thank you. This is Writer Ha Jaegun’s new novel.”

“Writer Ha? A new novel?”

Lee blew her cheeks as she was surprised.

“The end of the 3rd book isn’t even close to being released? How did he write one with that short of time since the newest one?”

“Yes. It’s amazing. He wrote 3 books too.”

“Completely amazing. I’ve worked in different places for 7 years, but I’ve never seen a writer like him who writes this fast.”

“Yeah?”

“This isn’t personal, but is it a group? He might have a writing factory with 10 people at the same time?”

“I’ve been to his office, and it’s not like that. He types on his keyboard alone.”

Somii smiled and sipped a cup. The hot coffee and the aroma was amazing.

“So how is it?”

“This one is good too. By my personal tastes, this one is his best.”

“That much? Then show me it too.”

“He sent it to the group email so you can check too.”

“OK.”

With Somii, Lee also started reading Jaegun’s novel.

“Ah!”

Only in about 20 minutes, did she mutter

“This spells success.”

“Yes? It’s amazing?”

“The representative will be very happy. He completely criticized Editor Tewon for missing out on 1-2 of his works. He’ll get his wish now.”

Lee said sarcastically.

Somii bitterly smiled and thought of Tewon. He was probably somewhere struggling.

“Sigh, sigh.”

Assistant Manager Go came up at the office at about 8:30

He was happy as he came here quickly.

He went to Somii and asked randomly.

“Somii, what are you doing?”

“I’m reading Ha Jaegun’s new novel, do you want to read?”

“Writer Ha Jaegun? No that’s not the problem…! Somii, do you know any good plants?”

“Plants?” Why?”

Somii asked.

Go answered as he put down his bag.

The editor gave me a message. “The office is a bit dry so it would be good to put some flowers here. Somii, where is the nearest place?”

Somii shut her mouth as she understood what was going on.

Lee was laughing quietly at her place.

“Can you come with me? I don’t know flowers, so can you help me?”

“But it’s almost work time.”

As Somii answered negatively, Go straightened his body and looked at her seriously.

“Somii, this is the new editor’s flowers. This is work. Now come here.”

Lee came out to save Somii.

“Assistant Manager Go, how is buying flowers a job? And now, I think it’s not like you have to buy the flowers before the editor comes here.”

“Yes, Ah it’s not that…”

Go looked away from her glance.

Assistant Manager Lee was the one person that he had trouble with. She came with arguments that were often right, so he had no way to refute them.

“Somii is busy. There’s a new novel from Writer Ha. The flower store is on the next store’s 1st floor if you’re urgent. Why is the store owner there for? She will help you.”

“Hmm. Hm… that makes sense….. Then I’ll go alone…”

Go went out of the office because he had nothing to say.

Lee winked at Somii and went back to her monitor.

‘What do I do…?’

Maybe it was because of Lee’s words.

But Tewon didn’t leave her thoughts.

Jaegun’s novel was entertaining, but reality’s issues were blocking her.

‘Why didn’t he tell Writer Ha yet? I thought he would tell him directly? If Writer Ha knew, then he would go to the editor’s side…’

It wasn’t a thought as a StarBooks employee.

Tewon already left the company.

This was an issue for the company’s profit. These thoughts were unacceptable.

“Writer Ha Jaegun’s novel?”

A voice came from behind her.

Somii turned around quickly, waking up from her thoughts surprised.

It was the new editor, Park Kyunguk

He was looking at Somii’s monitor.

“Editor, y.. you came.”

“How good was it that you didn’t even realize I was here? I’ve been here for a while.”

Kyunguk was completely like his father Park Jeguk.

Age was in the mid-30s. He had a masculine feeling to him.

“I’m sorry…. I was thinking.”

Somii answered straightly in response to Kyunguk’s joking manner.

She was uncomfortable with the new editor.

The two eyes that didn’t laugh even with the laugh on his lips. The different feeling in his face and inside. It made her feel weird.

“This is the new novel, right? How is it?”

“Ah, yes, It’s good. I’ve read about 2 books and the story is good.”

“Really? Then contact him. Today is good so arrange a meeting. I want to talk to him about things too. I’ll have to go personally to meet Ha Jaegun.”

“Yes… OK”

He called someone as he was leaving the office.

“If he’s going personally, I guess it’s a writer contract?”

“Yes, I don’t know. He even rejected Editor Tewon’s offer.”

“He probably doesn’t want to hear that he just came flying in. He wants points. If he can get Ha Jaegun. He’ll be set.”

Lee pointed towards Somii’s legs.

“Somii, your stocking is ripped.”

“Yes? Oh.”

It was as she said.

Her black stocking had a rip from her left thigh to her knees.

“It’s a new one, but how did it get ripped?”

“I’ll give you one.”

“Thank you. I’ll buy you one just like it.”

“Just go get lunch and buy ice cream. Go change.”

As Somii went to the restroom, she became more and more nervous.

A stocking getting ripped from this morning.

She wasn’t the superstitious type, but she had a strange feeling.

In the restroom, Somii locked the door and sat on the toilet.

And after a thought, she pulled out her phone and called Jaegun.

“Yes, Somii.”

“I’ve read up to book 2. This one’s amazing.”

“If you say so, then this one would be good too.”

“My thoughts don’t matter. Your projects are good so you get good success. And sir, do you have time this evening?”

“Yes, I’m fine with today. Where should we meet? Guro? Is Tewon also coming? He must be busy. It’s been a long time since I’ve met him. I’m going to forget his face.”

Jaegun’s laughter could be heard. But Somii couldn’t laugh.

She had no idea why Tewon didn’t tell Jaegun this.

But she needed to tell Jaegun this before it was too late.

Waiting until Jaegun’s laughs ended, Somii continued in a small voice.

“Writer Ha, I need to tell you something.”

“Yes,”

“Editor Tewon…. He resigned.”

“Hahaha. It’s great to finally meet you. I’m Park Kyunguk.”

“Yes, thank you.”

It was an expensive Japanese restaurant.

The new editor and Assistant Go on one side, Jaegun and Somii was on the other side.

“This place’s sashimi is good. If you eat the special sashimi, you’ll think of it again. It’s expensive, though.”

The course was 150 dollars per person

Kyunguk chose this place thoughtfully.

It was also a praise for the best-selling writer in StarBooks.

If it was a regular writer, the meeting wouldn’t be here.

No, he wouldn’t even come to meet.

“Excuse me.”

Two girl employees wearing kimonos went and set the table first.

Assistant Go picked up a bottle of beer.

Kyunguk stopped him with his glance and took the bottle.

“Do you want a drink?” Kyunguk asked.

It wasn’t a place to drink laxly, but he was about to drink a bit just for politeness.

“I don’t have much experience with work as an editor. So I asked Assistant Go and Somii to follow me. I hope you understand even if it’s uncomfortable.”

It was an arrogant response that had no respect for Somii and Go.

‘I can tell he’s very inexperienced. as he said.’ Jaegun thought.

“I’ve read your new novel. The story is really good. It’s wonderful to see your relationship with StarBooks blossoming.”

“Would you say my previous works are good too?”

“Hahaha. Of course.”

“What was good about it?”

Chapter 52

“Yes?”

Kyunguk’s smile froze in place.

Jaegun sipped his drink and added.

“I’m wondering what you liked about the new novel.”

“Hm, yes, Well first, there was a good flow… hm, and the writing is clear and… really amazing. Yes, that’s right.”

“I see.”

Jaegun smiled slightly and nodded his head.

He had already known from Kyunguk’s expression that he hadn’t read Jaegun’s novel.

Kyunguk coughed purposely once or twice and opened his mouth.

“Yes, but about Writer Ha’s new novel. I want to say something before the contract.”

“Could you talk to me about the webtoon first?”

“Webtoon…?”

“The webtoon that is going to be made by Comic KT. That’s first so I wish to talk about that.”

“Ahah, yes. That’s going great. Right, Somii?”

Kyunguk, slightly surprised, passed the baton to Somii.

He had no idea about anything going on at work or at the job, so Somii had to repeat the news that she gave Jaegun already.

“They are recruiting the drawer and the writer. It’ll take about a week or so.”

Jaegun nodded his head as if he understood. Somii looked at Jaegun in her peripheral vision and wondered.

What would be the reason to ask about the Webtoon in a place like this.

‘What are you thinking, Writer Ha…’

Somii wondered why Jaegun was even here in the first place.

She said that Tewon had resigned.

She also knew that Jaegun would push back the appointment with StarBooks and contact Tewon first.

But that’s all Somii knew.

The question about the webtoons was meaningless.

The real reason was not because of himself, but for Jung Somii.

This was Jaegun’s last favor that he could do to Somii, a StarBooks employee.

He came out here to directly say to the editor that Somii, his personal editor, could not be damaged in any way.

Silence continued.

Kyunguk opened his mouth to try and earn some points with Jaegun.

“I personally support any of your projects. I will do anything to make sure you can continue your writing career. Not even with a writer contract. The previous editor was a bit strict right? You must have struggled. Uh, what was his name, Go?”

“It was Kwon Tewon.”

“Yes, Kwon Tewon. He worked under my dad… I mean, a representative, for a long time. He intervened with many writers, I’ve heard? So how could writers like him? He didn’t have the skills. Now with me, your writing process will be a lot better. I will support you. Obviously, I will support you.”

Somii was so embarrassed that she felt like she wanted to make a fist.

It was a foolish attempt to gain points that he lost.

She didn’t understand the representative’s mind to put this person as the editor.

She worried for StarBook’s future, and dropped her head.

Jaegun was sipping water stolidly.

And then

He lifted his head and said calmly.

“It was because of Editor Tewon.”

“…yes?”

Kyunguk tilted his head.

Jaegun continued as he pulled out his hand for his jacket.

“It was because of Kwan Tewon’s feedback that I’d got here. It wasn’t just because of me.”

Assistant Go’s face became pale.

Then Kyunguk’s face also became pale. Jaegun stood up from his seat.

“I don’t think I can eat anymore. I’m sorry but I’ll excuse myself.”

“W, writer? Writer Ha? Wait.”

Kyunguk and Go stood up after waking up from their shock.

Jaegun had already put on his shoes and left.

‘Writer Ha?’

Somii couldn’t be here now either.

She put on her shoes.

There was no reason for her to be stopped because StarBooks was a frequent visitor.

“What, where did he go?”

“He’s not picking up either, sir.”

Kyunguk and Go was in the front of the building looking for him.

It wasn’t an easy thing to find Jaegun in the darkness.

“Go, did I do something wrong?”

“No, no. What could you have done. Writer Ha must have been in a bad mood today. You know how writers get irritated.”

Somii stood in front of them.

She said to the two men.

“I’ll go to the subway.”

“Yes, Somii, if you see him, persuade him to come back. What is this? Go, let’s go this way.”

Kyunguk pulled off his tie and walked with Go.

When they were far way, Somii’s phone started vibrating.

“Writer Ha!”

“I’m sorry, you were a little surprised, right?”

“Not a little, but a lot. Where are you?”

“I’m on a taxi. I’m in a hurry.”

Somii couldn’t say anything

She knew why he was in a hurry and where the taxi was going.

“Somii?”

“I’m listening writer, go ahead.”

“Did I stress you?”

“No, nothing like that. And why are you worrying about me. You should worry about your work and yourself.”

“I don’t need to. If you’re fine, I’m ok with that.”

“What does that…?”

Somii stopped.

A thought in her head becoming clear.

‘Because of me…?’

A puzzle piece was finding its spot.

Jaegun’s actions made sense now.

And a new question came up.

Why would he be worrying about a simple regular editor.

“You were busy being my personal editor. Thank you. I’ll buy you dinner sometime.”

Somii pushed the emotions away and smiled.

She did nothing to Jaegun. She never had any trouble with Jaegun. He was a good writer, and his works were almost perfect.

Now her work relationship with the writer named Jaegun closed.

Unless she stopped working at StarBooks, she would never edit his work again.

Somii lifted her head.

She breathed a few times and her energy came back. She said in her usual cheerful and energetic voice.

“I’m gonna eat a lot, so you have to do good.”

“Of course. I’ll do better than the entire 3 Ranking series.”

“I’ll be here. Be careful.”

“You too.”

Somii turned around as she hung up.

Her figure disappeared in the darkness.

Only then did Jaegun leave his hiding place near the building and catch a taxi.

***

– I’m sorry, Representative Tewon. The pay by part is a bit different from paper books so I don’t really have confidence. I’ll stop here.

–  I really wanted to sign with the management you’re doing, but I have a relationship with my last company, I can’t. If I have another opportunity, I’ll call again. I’m sorry.

– I can’t. I said yesterday, but I don’t have the confidence in your management. I know your skill but it’s only beginning and I don’t have data to work with, so it’s kind of risky. I’ll have to pass the first start to another writer.”

“Sigh….!”

A sigh came out

Tewon who had slept for over 12 hours woke up and had no idea what to do.

He got rejected from 3 writers he trusted.

His body was completely fatigued as well.

“Is it not good?”

A girl who was sitting on a computer next to his asked.

It was his wife, Sin Dongmi.

“I think everyone’s afraid. I have no previous work so.”

“Really though. You did so much for them.”

“If you think like that, it’s harder. Forget the past.”

Tewon comforted her.

She looked around her house with a complicated expression.. The two kids should be looked after by their mother.

“You know.”

“Hm?”

“What about Writer Ha?”

Dongmi knew her husband’s personality so she had waited this long. But she couldn’t wait any longer and finally asked.

“You said he’s good? He’s good at writing and you complimented him so much. You said you wanted to go to the end with him.”

Tewon’s couldn’t answer her.

The words that representative Jeguk said was still in his head.

-Don’t think about taking away any of our writers. Especially Ha Jaegun. I’m gonna find out if he uses a pen name and we need to earn too. I gave you 3 months of money with your resignation fee. Use it well and I hope you do well.

This was why he couldn’t ask Jaegun.

If Jaegun knew he resigned, he might not work for StarBooks anymore.

And this was a huge problem as well.

StarBook’s influence was huge for every subject. If Tewon did something to hurt them, there was no knowing what harm that they could do to him.

A management had to sell the writer’s works to the biggest market that it could.

This was what Tewon had to know from now. But if he lost his market before he could sell anything?

That was the end.

“Where are you going?”

Dongmi asked seeing Tewon taking his coat.

“I’m going to take a walk.”

Tewon went down to the first floor with the elevator..

He was holding a cigarette.

He was about to smoke one without his wife knowing.

Beep!

Then his phone vibrated in his pocket.

Tewon pulled in quickly hoping that one writer had changed his mind.

He froze when he saw the name Ha Jaegun.

Beep! Beep! Beep!

The vibration continued in his phone

But Tewon couldn’t answer.

What could he say to Jaegun at this time?

He had nothing to say and he couldn’t think of anything to say.

Just then…

“I guess it’s a vibrating machine instead of a phone.”

Tewon froze.

The voice behind him was so familiar.

Chapter 53

“Ah, I guess it’s not the editor. I must be mistaken. I’m sorry. I apologize. So should I just leave now?”

Tewon slowly turned around.

It was Jaegun

He was smiling with his phone on his ear.

“Writer Ha…? How… did you get here?”

Tewon was completely surprised at his sudden appearance.

Jaegun put his phone away and answered.

“You said you bought a house here. I remembered the apartment building. I thought you weren’t about to answer, so the timing was great right? If I was unlucky, I may have left without meeting you.”

“Ah, writer don’t take it the wrong way. I was going to answer. I was just thinking. My head is really…”

Jaegun waved it off.

“What are you saying? I’m fine. But before that, you should check your email.”

“Mail?”

“Yes, your personal email.”

Jaegun’s finger was pointing towards Tewon’s phone.

Tewon with a dazed look pulled up his email. In his email, three books of a novel called Dragon Rider was there.

“Writer Ha, this…?”

Tewon had to ask even if he knew.

It was hard to continue with his overflowing emotions.

Recently, he had looked hard for a writer, struggling to even find one.

He pleaded with them to just trust him once so many times.

But no one answered.

A good selling writer, a bad selling writer, everyone rejected him with different reasons. No one trusted Tewon enough to follow him yet.

But…

Now a writer came here without him even asking.

A writer who wasn’t the bottom anymore, a writer who had lifted himself up to the highest ceiling. A person like that came to his house with his own works.

“It’s my new novel, read it and give me feedback.”

“Writer Ha…”

Tewon sighed.

Tewon knew Jaegun’s personality, so he had shut his mouth about resigning. He didn’t want Jaegun to lose money because of him.

“I came here, so I can’t leave just now.”

Jaegun said as he tied his shoes.

“I’ll go back with your feedback. If you want to sleep early, you’re going to have to be compliant.”

Tewon’s two eyes went back to his phone.

He answered quietly.

“If you say that, I must read it quickly. And you did write it really quickly.”

“I think I’m great this year.”

Jaegun pointed towards the opposite side of the street.

“Editor, I didn’t eat yet. If you didn’t either, then let’s go over there. There’s HOF on the 1st floor.”

“Yes, writer. Let’s go.”

He put his phone away. He needed a place to concentrate anyway.

“What do you want? You pick.”

“How’s chicken. It’s good.”

“I’m fine.”

“Here, one fried. Hm..”

Tewon looked around and asked.

“How about a drink?”

“Yes.”

“Give us two drinks.”

The two beers came out before the chicken.

Jaegun sipped his drink while Tewon started reading – his two eyes showing off his long-stayed editing skills.

“Here it is.”

The chicken came as Jaegun drank about a half of his beer.

Tewon didn’t lift his head once. His beer was losing steam quickly.

“Give us another drink.”

Jaegun got another drink.

And then Tewon started on Book 2.

30 minutes, then an hour.

There were no words between the two.

About 2 hours.

“I finished.”

Tewon smiled as he looked up.

Jaegun immediately asked, half-expectant half-worried.

“How is it? Is it good?”

“First, It’s entertaining.”

Tewon’s first sentence made Jaegun nervous. He knew this was the only compliment.

Tewon never made any useless compliments.

‘First? Then the negatives will come out now.’

In martial arts and fantasy, Jaegun trusted Tewon the most.

Tewon lifted up 3 fingers.

“There are 3 problems.”

“Ha, that’s a lot.”

“I’ll start with the light one. First, the title of Dragon Rider isn’t very good. There are a lot of books with that name.”

Jaegun laughed with Tewon.

That wasn’t a serious problem. He could change it.

Jaegun asked for the other problems.

“Second…. Writer, do you know that my management is pay by chapter service?”

“Yes, of course.”

“It releases about 5500 characters repeatedly. And so it’s completely different from paper books. You need an outline for every chapter and you need to make the end very interesting so readers would want to know more like a drama. “

“Hm yes. I know.”

Jaegun answered.

He could change that. He read a lot of drama, so he had the confidence to change it.

“What’s the last one?”

Tewon couldn’t answer immediately.

It was a really serious one.

Tewon first drank about half his drink before he answered.

“I got a warning to not take away any writers.”

Tewon said truthfully.

It wasn’t something to hide.

It was Jaegun who trusted him to come here.

He needed to be truthful about this. So Tewon continued.

“StarBooks doesn’t want to lose you. If you sign with me, it might cause you harm.”

“What harm?”

“They might harm your marketing.”

Tewon cut him off.

“Like Munpia or Zoayo, they don’t need marketing. The system is fair. If it’s fun, readers will read it.”

“Hm, yes…”

“But in other places, it’s a lot different. There are places where profits won’t come without marketing. The real money’s in those places…”

Tewon spoke really quickly without even stopping to breathe and finished his entire drink.

Jaegun ordered another.

“There’s no place to put banners… Or the other manager’s project promotion schedule is strict so they have no time… All the excuses they might make. In this place, it’s a job with people and connections have a lot of power. Last week, I faced other companies and I just lost hard.”

At this, Tewon bitterly smiled.

They stopped talking and drank quickly.

“Haa, I’m sorry. I’ve only put a burden on you.”

“No, it’s not.”

Jaegun answered as he put his cup down

Now Tewon was done and it was Jaegun’s turn.

“What about you?”

“Me?”

“As you said, it’s not my problem only. It’s your problem as well. Your management will be taking a hit but can you still sign with me?”

“Yes.”

There was no hesitation.

“I want to have you even if the management fails. Although I don’t think it will happen. Because…”

Tewon continued after a pause.

“Your writing is entertaining. Entertaining works always work. That’s for sure.”

Tewon smiled and cheered.

Jaegun smiled as well.

“I guess the pay per chapter I wanted to do with the 3rd Ranking series will be done here. Thank you.”

“No, thank you. I’ll do really well.”

“I’ll help you, editor, no representative now. It’s kind of weird.”

“Just call me anything.”

“By the way,what’s the management name?”

“Laugh Books. So only good things work. It’s better than Smile, right?”

“No, Editor, You shouldn’t be the one saying my titles are bad. How about KalKal Books” (KalKal is another way of saying laugh.”

“Why? It’s a good name. My wife made it.”

“Hm, then it’s really good.”

“Wow, that reaction. Well, there’s a reason why pay per chapter is the new thing. If it works, the profits will be amazing.”

“Yes, I’ll do well. So where should I start?”

“Navin Store or Munpia probably”

“I get it, representative, Cheers.”

“Yes, Writer.”

The cold food and drinks weren’t the issue. The night was getting darker and darker and the two people didn’t care, as their conversation didn’t know when to stop.

Chapter 54

“What are you doing?!?”

The StarBook’s representative room.

Jeguk was screaming when he saw the report.

On the sofa in front of him was his son and Kyunguk, the new editor, with a frown. And then Assistant Manager Go was shivering behind him.

“I’ve called him 10 times and sent Go to his house, so there’s nothing I can do, father.”

“What? You called a couple of times and you sent an employee and that’s it?! Kwon Tewon never said anything even in situations with hundredfold difficulty! And you’re insulted because of just this? You need this much patience to be an editor in a company!”

Kyunguk lost his patience and fought back.

“Then why didn’t you keep him? Why did you let him resign and put me here?”

“You!! What age are you?! It was expensive to put you in college and you say stupid stuff like that?!”

“Ah, really! Why is the talk about college coming out now!”

“HMMM?!”

Jeguk lifted one hand.

Kyunguk was standing up from his seat with rebellious eyes.

“If you have nothing to say, I’m leaving.”

“Y, y, y, YOU! COME BACK HERE?!”

But Kyunguk left without even acknowledging him.

Jeguk plopped onto the sofa. Go was shivering, clueless as to knowing what to do.

“If you have a cigarette, give me one.”

“Ah, yes, representative, he, here.”

Jeguk took the cigarette and put it in his mouth.

Go’s hand, which was lighting the cigarette, shivered.

Irritatedly, Jeguk took the lighter and lit it himself.

“So the two will band together. Hmpf. Let’s see them do well.”

Go just put his head down.

He couldn’t know he was talking about Jaegun and Tewon.

Jeguk added as he burned off one cigarette.

“Don’t make a mess.”

“Yes?”

“Don’t try and catch the late bus. Don’t try and break the wheels or anything. They’re done. Let them leave and do their own thing.”

“I get it, sir.”

“Say that to that idiot too. Leave.”

“Yes, representative.”

Go left quietly

“Sigh…”

Jeguk lied on the sofa and looked up at the ceiling.

Finally, the sense of loss was coming clear to him and pressed against his chest.

Munpia

A place where over 9000 writers work with over 36,000 stories. A pay per chapter site.

There was a 120 percent growth compared to last year. It was the forerunner of the Korean web novel market.

About December, in the cold.

Today, there were new novels coming up at Munpia.

Writer Pyung Cheon Yu’s new novel, the Breathe, was one of them

‘Phew, till that for today.”

Dongmi finished the update for ‘The Breathe,’ and yawned.

It was the first day, so she updated 10 books consecutively. In terms of a paper series, it was a little below half of a book.

‘The title is good, everything’s good…’

‘The Breathe,’ was the new title of Dragon Rider. It meant the breath and the powerful weapon of the dragon in the story.

The title creator was Dongmi.

She thought it was a good title to fit the mood and the story. Thankfully, her husband and Jaegun agreed.

‘Hope this goes well.’

She knew everything about Jaegun’s previous works.

She had analyzed them before. All 3 of the Rankings and the 2 Pegelon series.

Her reaction was simple.

They were impossible books to not sell well. The fast pacing and the good writing made the story just that interesting to read.

‘It should be good. A regular fantasy is a bit away from the popular side, but it still is Writer Ha,’

Dongmi’s nervous glance never left her monitor.

There were so many places that they needed money.

The rent was also a worry. She had to have big expectations for this new title.

‘It’s because it’s quiet. Why do I think such stupid thoughts.’

The house was silent.

Tewon went to meet other business partners so it was empty.

Dongmi drank a cup of hot coffee.

Now that she thought about it, there was nothing else to do.

There was only one writer in Laugh Books, and it was Writer Ha.

She had gotten about 100 chapters from him and she organized them neatly.

‘Maybe I should go clean the house for a bit.’

Dongmi, to clear her thoughts, started to clean the house.

“Phew, done…”

It took about 2 hours.

Dongmi put up the cleaning tools. She felt tired and yawned, but she went straight to her computer instead of the bed.

‘I wonder how many views it got?’

She was curious how many views the Breathe got.

She didn’t have a lot expectations because of the short time.

Dongmi poured herself another cup of coffee and hit the refresh button.

“Hm…?”

Dongmi widened her eyes at the monitor.

Her lips were shivering.

“It’s already at 3000?”

Dongmi was completely shocked. Two hours ago, it was 0. Now it was just going over 3000.

And the comments were in the hundreds already.

Hyunseung: Ah, Amazing. (Crying of happiness)

Deserter: Ah but, the Pegelon and the Ranking series aren’t even out, when did he make this?

Han Jehi: Probably not solo, but a company????

Mister H: I saw you during a writer’s meeting, but I don’t think you know. I’ll see well. Thanks.

Pamo: Dragon are def fantasy.

Eun Eun Seo: Of course it’s Pyung Cheon Yu.

Lee Mehwa: I worried after seeing Pyung Cheon Yu, I thought it wouldn’t fit, but man, amazing afterward. Sorry, I can only recommend once.

Horse: AHAHAHA. AMAZING. CHEERS

Sapchi: First for a pay per chapter! I got surprised after seeing the name! Pyeon Cheon Yu! Follow till the end!

Invader: IT’s too short tttttt.

Orange Back: Ackkk, more pleaseeee.

Pdel: Hopefully 10 more chapters again.

Yeong: Wow, this is really interesting.

The screen was filled with comments.

Dongmi was reading with a fast breath. She couldn’t control her emotions.

‘It’s already 20?’

Dongmi couldn’t stop. In the today’s best, ‘The Breathe’ was already in 20th.

From 20, the project gets on the main page. Then, more readers will be able to come.

‘It’s the first day, and it’s 20!’

Dongmi quickly pulled out her phone.

She wanted to share this happy news.

From a short ringtone, Tewon picked up.

“What is it?”

“Tewon! It’s already the 20th! The Breathe!”

“20? Already?”

Tewon repeated as if he couldn’t believe it.

Dongmi refreshed again and answered.

“Of course. Why would I joke about this? I cleaned up for a while and it’s like this. And it got up a bit more as I’m talking. The last book has over 3500 views. This is crazy?”

“Of course it’s Writer Ha’s brand name. We can put money from probably the 30 now. I want to check but I’m driving. I’m so curious.”

“You’re driving. Ok. Then let’s hang up. Come early? Let’s celebrate?”

“Ok, I’ll go early.”

“Hm.”

Dongmi breathed hard to get her composure back.

But her happy heart couldn’t be composed very well.

“Please go like this. Please… Don’t slow. And the next books too. Ah, Writer Ha, thank you so much!”

Dongmi’s eyes were wet from her tears. She thought of the rejections from the writers that they had faced.

The Breathe’ success was taking all the pain and suffering straight from her.

Please let this continue until the start of the paid chapters.

Dongmi clasped her hands as if to pray.

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Chapter 55

Dongmi’s prayer worked.

The success didn’t stop after a day or two.

Finally, after the attention of the readers, the novel entered the top 10. It became a success not even a week into the release.

The readers of ‘The Breathe’ also included employees from Jongjin’s company.

“Manager, aren’t you gonna eat?”

Jongjin asked Manager Lee. It was 12 o’clock.

Lee didn’t move from his monitor and answered.

“Yeah, you go eat. I’m gonna read a novel so I brought food.”

“Novel? Another martial arts one?”

Jongjin asked and moved closer.

Lee was removing the wrappers from his lunch but didn’t change his attention from the monitor.

“What is this? The Breathe? Fantasy?”

Jongjin tilted his head after seeing the title.

“You don’t read fantasy, though?”

“Yeah, but I read Pyung Cheon Yu no matter what.”

“What? Who?”

“Pyung Cheon Yu. You know, the Ranking series writer. The new novel isn’t a paper book but a pay per chapter. I like paper, but oh well.”

Jongjin’s face couldn’t hide his surprise.

Many thoughts flowed into his mind.

A new novel as a fantasy. Jongjin thought he was writing a short story about a karaoke bar. Maybe he gave up, he thought.

“Anyways, sorry. Go eat.”

“Ah, yes… ok.”

Jongjin immediately called Jaegun after he left.

The ringtone continued for a while, and finally, Jaegun picked up.

“…. Ah, Jongjin.”

“Were you sleeping? Sorry. Go sleep. I’ll call later.”

“No it’s fine, I had to get up anyway. What’s up?”

“Yeah? But anyway, you released a fantasy? ‘The Breathe’?”

“That was quick. Yes, you probably didn’t read it. Is it that manager again/”

“Wow, straight on. Yes. The manager was reading your story while eating lunch. How did you manage to capture a guy who only reads martial arts?”

“I simply write. I’m thankful that your manager reads my stories.”

“But what happened to that story with the karaoke helper. Did you quit?”

“Oh, I finished and entered it already.”

“Ah really? What’s the competition?”

“I’ll tell you when I win. If I don’t say anything, you’ll know I lost so just be quiet.”

“I get it, but you write too fast. How much did you write this year? Are you taking care of yourself? I’m worried.”

“It’s fine.”

“Alright then. Go eat.”

“Thanks, you too. Talk later.”

Beep!

Jaegun put down his phone and turned to sleep.

Rika was lying down in front of him. She turned to him with tired eyes.

“You sleep well? I slept without knowing. Maybe the weather.”

The weather was cloudy.

Jaegun pulled away from his blanket and stood up. Rika stood up, too.

“Maybe I should rest. I finished about 100 chapters. About 4 books.”

Jaegun lifted Rika and asked. Rika tried to pull away, but Jaegun pulled her closer.

“No, it’s fine. I’ll write. I can do whatever I want because it’s a pay per chapter. It’s better to end quickly, right?”

“Meow..!”

“You hate me that much? Go away.”

Ring!

He put Rika down on the floor and the bell rung.

Jaegun asked as he went to the front door.

“Who is it?”

“Open, you idiot.”

“Sister?”

Jaegun opened it immediately. Jaeyn was standing there. In her two hands, there were food ingredients.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were coming? What is it?”

Jaegun took the bags and moved away.

Jaeyn started to pull her boots off as she went inside.

“I wanted to surprise you. You didn’t eat since you woke up, right? I know it..”

“I woke up 10 minutes ago?”

“Is that a brag? The sun’s already about to set?”

“It’s cloudy, what sun.”

Even with his attitude, Jaegun was secretly happy. He was glad to see his sister coming from far away.

“I’ll give you some Shabu-shabu, ok?”

Jaeyn asked as she took off her coat.

There were definitely no complaints.

Her sister was a great cook. No restaurant could match her amazing cooking.

“It’ll take about 20 minutes. You clean up.”

“OK.”

“And shave that beard. Don’t be a pirate. You need to be clean.”

“Ok. I get it.”

Jaegun went into the bathroom. Jaeyn started to cook.

When Jaegun came out of the shower, the kitchen was filled with ingredients.

“Should I clean the floor?”

“Hm, yeah. There’s nothing to prepare other than the broth. It’s good.”

The food was laid down. And around it were vegetables and meat.

“I’ll eat as well. I’ll see how much you eat. Don’t you dare leave any.”

Jaegun tried some.

It was his sister. The food was amazing.

“It’s amazing.”

“Eat the meat. A Lot of it. And a lot of vegetables.”

Jaegun ate a lot as to not disappoint her.

Jaeyn who looked satisfied gave him meat and vegetables on his plate.

“What’s up with father and mom?”

Jaegun asked.

The name was obviously different. Dad became father while mom was still mom.

“Not much. But mom is still worried. She’s not sure if you’re eating well. So I came to check.”

Jaeyn pinched his cheek and laughed.

“You’re funny. Well now. It’s close to the holidays. You should come home sometimes”

“I can’t.”

“Why?”

Jaegun didn’t answer and chewed.

Jaeyn didn’t ask again.

She knew Jaegun and dad had a difficult relationship. She had no persuasion power either to talk to dad about it.

“Wait, until I get the money to buy a house.”

“House?”

Jaeyn looked with a surprised face

“What house?”

“I said before. Don’t continue to rent and go buy a house and move out. Not an apartment but a house. Why are you surprised?”

Jaeyn couldn’t answer and only blinked.

She knew that a house was very expensive and so did everyone else.

Jaegun continued nonchalantly

“Take the money out of the current villa, and you have the money I’ve given before. If I get the money of the new book, I can buy a house right now. Something’s that’s big and has about 4-5 rooms.”

“That big?”

Jaeyn was shocked.

For a house like that, Jaegun needed about 500,000 dollars

This was cheap compared to Seoul’s houses.

“You know. The house next to the barber of mom’s and the one next to the park.”

“Yeah I know.”

There was no way not to know. She went there a lot. It was a 2-floor house. It had only been about 5 years since it was built.

“I was searching and it came up. I think it will be good. Hopefully, it doesn’t sell.”

Jaegun thought of his parents living in that house.

Mom was gardening while dad was studying alone.

“How… how much does it cost?”

Jaeyn asked quietly

Jaegun immediately answered.

“I don’t know. About 500,000 dollars?”

“That’s expensive!”

“Don’t worry. I’ll get that in one year.”

“One year?!”

She couldn’t understand her brother’s confidence.

The money from Jaegun and the villa money combined only added up to 150,000 dollars. He’s gonna get 400,000 dollars in a year.

It wasn’t baseless confidence.

Jaegun gave a lot of money to his family with his books.

But this was too much.

She worried how much he would hurt himself over this money.

“I’ll take care of you after the house.”

“What. What now.”

“I’m going to get an academy for you built.”

Jaeyn widened her eyes at that. Her current job was a tutor. She had to visit people’s houses to tutor them. And she had no driver’s license or a car. It made it worse.

“Just watch. I’ll make you the principal. What, you seem very disbelieving?”

Jaeyn shook her hand, with a crying look.

“No, I believe you. You’re amazing. It’s just, I’m worried.”

Jaeyn’s hands held Jaegun’s two cheeks.

“Don’t try too much. The disappointment is big if the goal is too big. Don’t be too fast.”

“I know.”

“And your health. It’s more important than money. How are you gonna write if you’re dead.”

“Ah, the stress. I shouldn’t have said it.”

“Promise me. Take care of yourself.”

Jaeyn stuck her pinky finger at him. Jaegun pulled himself away.

“Don’t do this. I’m 27.”

“I don’t care. Come on.”

Jaeyn frowned.

Jaegun finally stuck his finger out.

“Promise.”

“Phew….”

“Copy.”

“AH, come on….!

“Do it.”

“Fine?”

“Ok.”

“Yes yes, I get it. Obviously.

Jaegun finally got freed.

Jaeyn smiled after and filled up the broth.

“Ok! What about that Suhee girl?”

Jaegun stayed silent. He knew she would ask something like this.

“Hm? Are you meeting her.”

“Sometimes.”

“Yeah?”

“I saw her before. I have work too.”

“Go meet her. She’s good.”

“Don’t worry about me, worry about yourself.”

“Bring her home sometimes? Hm?”

Beep!

Jaegun’s phone vibrated.

It was a call from Tewon.

Jaegun brightened and took the call.

“Yes, editor. No representative.”

“Just call me whatever. Did you eat?”

“Yes, I ate. You?”

“I ate. I wanted to talk to you about the paid chapters.”

“Paid chapters? Already? It’s only been about 20 books.”

“Not now but next week Friday. It’s going up 2 chapters per day so then it will be about 30 chapters. The likes will go over 10,000. And on the main site, there’s a banner promotion. Go there.”

“Yes. Thank you.”

“No, It’s the first Laugh Book’s project. You should be our priority. It’ll be good. Trust me.”

“If you say so, that relieves me.”

Jaeyn was searching her brother. She asked as he hung up.

“It’s the new novel? What’s pay per chapter?”

“Ah, I didn’t say it. The new novel is a pay per chapter style.”

Jaegun explained it to her basically. Jaeyn nodded her head.

“It’ll be good. I say it a lot, but I trust Tewon. He has great skills so he can do very well.”

“I think so too. Now let’s just eat. You have so much.”

“Ok. Let’s do it. I’m gonna eat for real now.”

Chapter 56

“Phew….!”

It was Friday afternoon, one week later.

Dongmi was drinking coffee. She went out on vandera to calm herself.

The Breathe’s paid chapters were up today.

“I’m not gonna look. I’ll check tomorrow.”

Dongmi muttered and tried to calm herself.

1-25 was free then from 26-100, it was going to be 10 cents per chapter.

It was the first day so she updated 5 chapters.

It was now 37 chapters and the book was now up to the market.

“Ahah is there nothing to do? I finished cleaning. I ate.”

Dongmi started to look for things to do. But there was nothing.

So she turned on the TV and started to watch a hero movie from Hollywood.

“Not funny…”

The movie wasn’t fun for her. Usually it would be but not now. She turned off the TV and sat at the computer. She was just about to kill time.

“Ohew, only an hour passed?”

Donmi sighed as she looked at the time. The time went by very slowly.

“AH no. It’s not gonna not go up if I look at it.”

She couldn’t wait anymore

She opened up the page where the Breathe was showing up.

And she opened her eyes.

“How….!”

Dongmi put her hands to her mouth. Her two eyes were holding the page in surprised eyes.

“One hour… 3000?!”

All of them were over 3000 already. The chapters that were free and became paid were over 1000 too.

‘This rate… it’s about to be 10,000 in a day!’

10,000 was amazing. Even if the market was better, it was still the market that had many books that stayed in the tens instead of the hundreds in paid numbers.

If money was given to Munpia, there were about 630 dollars of money. It was 5 chapters, so it was about 3150 dollars of money. This was 3:7 with LaughBooks and Jaegun.

“Amazing! This is going to be amazing!”

There were talks about releasing two chapters per day. The increased chapters will lead to increased profit.

Dongmi’s didn’t stop smiling.

‘Is this going to be on the top list soon?’

It seemed very likely.

The best novels were determined by the sales in 24 hours. It took 3000 views in just an hour so there were plenty of chances to be first.

“Ah, Writer Ha. Thank you so much. I’ll make you a feast sometime soon.”

Dongmi looked at the monitor and muttered to herself. Her husband who had made such a close connection with such a great writer suddenly seemed great.

At the same time

Tewon stopped the car and went out.

It was an old building in front of him. A middle-aged man standing near the entrance came over.

“Long time no see, editor. No, Representative Kwon?”

“Yes, you did well too? President Park?”

The two people shook hands.

This person was the storage’s owner.

It was Tewon’s purpose to visit here.

“Thank you for doing it for 5 cents. I’ll pay this back.”

5 cents for one book. Tewon was planning to release some paper books along with online.

It was a promotional decision more than a profit. This is due to the paper books and the online books not overlapping.

This was also the case for Jaegun. Jaegun always liked paper books so he rushed. It was nice to see this as such a good price.

Beep!

Tewon’s phone vibrated.

He immediately answered with apologizing to the man.

“Yes, Kwon Tewon.”

“Hello. This is Team Leader Park Hyojun.”

“Ah, yes. I didn’t know because it didn’t show the same phone number.”

“An office change. But… sorry.”

“Yes? What?”

Tewon’s face was already shaded.

He knew that this couldn’t be good.

“I don’t think we can do the promotion for 3 months anymore. I’m sorry.”

It didn’t go against his instinct.

Tewon’s hand was already crashing on his forehead.

“Are you listening?”

“Yes, I am.”

Tewon answered with his hand on his forehand.

Team Leader Park’s sigh could be heard.

There was silence.

No one said anything or asked.

It was obvious. Business did this.

“How is Laugh Books?”

The question broke the silence.

Tewon sighed a while and answered quickly.

“It’s beginning. I can’t tell you if it’s good or not.”

“But….”

Park slurred his words.

Tewon was waiting.

“If you are getting bothered like this, don’t you have a lot of writers so far. Weren’t you starting to promote big?”

Park’s’ question continued.

Tewon bitterly smiled.

“We only have one writer.”

“One?”

“Yes.”

“But…. then, what can they achieve. What’s the point?”

“I don’t know.”

“Ahhh, but this. That person wouldn’t do business like this?”

Tewon sighed to acknowledge that he was listening.

He knew Park was talking about StarBook’s Jeguk.

Another face came up.

But he wasn’t about to share it to Park.

“What were you going to do?”

“Me?”

“Yes, you. You only have one writer. And if they do this…. Carefully, how are you going to make this work?”

“I’ll try.”

He thought of Jaegun and opened his mind.

“Thank you. I’ll see you soon.”

“Yes, I get it. Phew. You too.”

Tewon started to rub his hands.

It was because he wanted to stop himself from smoking.

The temptation of smoking appealed to him.

It was bad.

‘But let’s go work first.’

Tewon finished the contract quickly.

He left and as he went to the car, a message came through.

-This is Note Team Leader Yu. I don’t think we can do the big banner until February. I’m sorry.

‘Is it the start.”

He muttered and closed his eyes.

After about 10 minutes passed. A lot of messages came through.

‘This Note, Booking 24, Bookkeeping, Open Culture, Book Sale, Yuto Books… All out.’

A bitter smile was on his face.

All of them rejected Tewon’s offer for different reasons.

He was expecting this, but the shock was still big.

‘Navin and Cocoa Page is still working…’

Tewon thought.

StarBooks couldn’t touch them.

Those places were completely different from the other smaller companies.

Munpia and Navin Store, and Cocoa page would give him profits. But Tewon couldn’t stop there.

He immediately searched up Yuto Book’s Team Leader’s number. He couldn’t lose Yuto no matter what.

‘Please… please!!!’

The loyalty of Yuto Books was incredible with its stable system and long history.

Yuto was one he couldn’t leave. Jaegun trusted him. Now he had to make him to a bit higher.

Tewon was determined to put the Breathe on the main page.

“Yes, Representative Kwon.”

The marketing Team Leader took up

It was a tired voice, but he was human too.

The beer that he had gotten from Tewon was over his one month salary.

But Tewon didn’t show anything. He tried to act bright and continued.

“Hello. This is Kwon Tewon. If you’re not busy, would you like to have dinner?”

“Um, really I…”

Tewon answered cheerfully, cutting him off.

“I told you when we met before right? I know a good place. Let’s go there. There will be nothing to worry about.”

“Hm, yes, I know. But…”

The person didn’t know how to respond.

Tewon definitely knew.

It wasn’t because he was sorry, but because he couldn’t move off the temptation of such a good place.

The opponent was such person. He knew his personality and what bait he would take.

“Don’t worry. We’ve met once or twice. I’m just trying to keep my promise. So just come out.”

“Then… about 8?”

“Yes, that’s good. I’ll see you soon.”

Tewon opened the drawer and took some medicine and ate it.

It was going to be another long fight, with drinks going in at every second.

Chapter 57

“Phew, I’m done”

A cold winter’s night.

Jaegun finished a chapter of The Breathe and closed his laptop.

No worries anymore till chapter 125.

“Let’s see. Rika. About 2 chapters per day. No worries for about a month and a half. Good?”

“Meow.”

Rika lifted herself onto Jaegun’s knees.

Rika didn’t bother Jaegun when he was working. But when work was done, Rika always helped Jaegun gain his energy back.

Jaegun was always surprised even with the times they had been together.

“It’s already 12. 7 hours since the paid chapters.”

Jaegun said comfortably

“How is it? Let’s see?”

Jaegun didn’t go into Munpia just yet.

He didn’t want it to be bad and ruin his confidence in writing.

Many of his previous works got good sales, but he couldn’t help it.

The fear of getting reviews on a new novel would probably never disappear.

“There are no calls. That’s weird.”

Jaegun searched up Munpia and pulled it up on the screen

He put the mouse on the link but stopped at looked at Rika.

“Maybe I should wait? What if it’s not good?”

“Meow.”

“Yeah, it’s weird. I don’t know. Let’s just check. I’ll know when I get a call from the representative anyway.”

Jaegun muttered and clicked the link.

The main screen filled the monitor.

He was about to enter his ID when something caught his eyes.

‘The Breathe….?”

The Breathe was twice as big as the other books on the left side of the screen.

He took it as a banner.

He thought Tewon paid money to put it as a promotion.

Jaegun didn’t know because he didn’t use Munpia as much.

‘Web novel…. 1st place?!’

Jaegun widened his eyes.

He finally figured out why the Breathe was twice as big.

It was the number 1 on the site.

“It’s only been 7 hours, but how am I first?

The today best for paid web novels, new today best, today best, all taken 1st.

Jaegun clicked on his web novel with shocked eyes.

And got surprised even more.

The books entered were all over 6000 views.

The books that were free and turned into paid were all over 2000 views as well.

“WOWWWWW…! Rika, I got 30,000 views already. 30 thousand.”

Rika turned his head.

Jaegun explained with a rush.

“It’s been 7 hours, but it’s 6000 views. In 24 hours, it might go up even more. It’s gonna be great, I know it.”

Jaegun pulled Rika away.

Today, Rika didn’t resist and welcomed his embrace.

“It’s gonna be good. I’ll buy father a study, mom a garden, Jaeyn a car and an academy. I’ll repay everything.”

It wasn’t only because of him that he was here.

“Then it’s Rika, you and me. After you, I didn’t know anything about cats. Let’s go move. The master is here so not far, but let’s go to a larger house. I’ll give you a place.”

Rika licked Jaegun’s neck.

He thought of Tewon and thought.

His hand went straight to his phone.

He wanted to call, but he messaged because of the late time.

Beep!

The message shook his body.

But Tewon didn’t have the strength to pull it out.

He was throwing up on the toilet continuously

“Ughh, ughhhhh….!”

There was just liquid coming out of his throat.

It was because of the drinks that kept coming in because of the team leader. On an empty stomach as well.

“Ahhh…. Hahaa!”

Finally, Tewon sighed as he threw everything up.

Then he went to the sink. His two eyes were slurred.

‘This is good.;

Tewon cleaned his face with cold water.

The team leader poured his 5 strong ones.

What could he do when he said he would forget everything if Tewon refused.

His head hurt.

But Tewon didn’t care.

Because of this. He had finally gotten the banner on the site and the event schedule in his hand. Just then.

Finally, Tewon pulled out his phone and looked at the message.

It was from Jaegun.

Representative, I finally checked Munpia after now. The 1st place is all because of you. I was about to rest but I guess not. I’m gonna stay up the night. I thought it too late so I messaged instead of calling. I feel like you’re working through.^^^

Tewon forgot his pain and smiled for a bit. And immediately sent a reply

I told you it would be good. Don’t try to write too much and take care of yourself. Good work Writer Ha^^

Tewon put his phone away. His face was wrinkled in the mirror. He muttered softly

“It’s not just gonna be good, Writer Ha….”

He couldn’t say that to Jaegun

A huge expectation brings a huge disappointment.

He knew that by working his life as an editor. There were many writers who got destroyed because of less than expected results. Therefore, he wasn’t the type to compliment much.

But not now.

Once in a few years, there was this instinct, an editor instinct coming out alive. If it was wrong, it wouldn’t be an instinct. The faith to The Breathe was huge. It was the first time he had gotten such faith in a work.

“Pheww….

Tewon cleaned himself up with water and straightened his clothes. He had gotten the motivation that the only writer in Laugh Books was going to work the night. As a representative, he was going to have to, too.

“Let’s go.”

He was very close to going home to his loving wife. Just a bit more of time and the day was over.

Tewon went outside. He took the loud singing into his ear positively.

He took it as it was praise for the Breathe’s achievements.

Chapter 58

“This is good, right?”

Assistant Manager Lee asked as she left. Somii put away the cash and nodded.

“Yes, I haven’t eaten fish in a long time. Thanks to Assistant Manager Lee, I got lunch.”

“Just call me informally, ahh it’s so cold.”

Lee straightened her clothes. Unlike her, Somii didn’t show that she was cold.

“I guess you’re not cold?”

“I’m from Donghae. This is nothing.”

“It’s cold there?”

“No, the wind is strong. The temperature is greater though. Ah, do you want to go into a cafe?”

“Sure, there’s a lot of time.”

The two people got something to drink. Instead of Lee who was preparing to take her card out, Somii gave her card to the employee.

“Why? Let’s pay separately.”

“It’s the stocking repayment.”

“You remember that?”

“Of course. I borrowed it, so I have to repay it.”

“Ok, I get it, thanks.”

The two people went inside, instead of sitting near the windows. Lee said as she rubbed her fingers on the hot drink.

“It’s already been one year since you came.”

“It’s been fast.”

“How is it? Editor.”

“It’s good, It’s fun.”

“What? Fun? Ahahaha.”

Lee did a throwing gesture and Somii laughed.

“Not fun to you?”

“Is that a joke? It’s definitely not fun. It just hurts when you say stuff and the work is unlimited. There’s nothing that shows you did good.”

Lee continued with a little sad face.

“Maybe if I get a boyfriend. Why is there no one good around me. I don’t even want much.”

“You want to marry?”

“I’ll have to see. I’m not in a hurry. The world is like that. I’m only 32 so it’s not that late. Right?”

“I think so too.”

“But my family is in a hurry. So get a date. I feel I’m gonna die when I go there.”

“Hahaha.”

“Funny? This is a pain. If you don’t have a boy, they say go meet one, and then when you get a boy, they say get married. And then when you get married, they say get a child.”

Lee poured out the stories in her heart as she looked outside.

“Really, I got a bit hurt by my last boyfriend.”

“Last… boyfriend?”

“About 2 years ago. It was good. He was humorous and romantic. Generous too. But it wasn’t good enough.”

Lee asked with a wink

“Guess his job.”

“Hm, I don’t know… I’m not good at these.”

Somii rubbed her hand together. Lee laughed and told her.

“Writer.”

“Writer?”

“Why are you surprised when you’re an editor? It’s the people we meet the most after our employees.”

“I didn’t know. StarBooks?”

“Secret. When you get one, you’ll know how they are. There are a lot of good writers, but there’s also a lot of bad ones. There’s also something weird every time.”

As she was listening.

Somii was thinking about Jaegun. Then his smile of the summer came up as well. And to that, she smiled happily.

“Ah? Somii, what is it?”

“…what?”

Somii asked as she woke up. Lee was tilting her head.

“You were smiling on your own. You have a person you like? Right?”

“N, nooo. Nothing like that…”

“What is it. Who? Tell me, hm?”

Beeep!

The phone rang at that time

Somii got the phone and asked for apologies.

“It’s Writer Ha. I asked him to call me for the Modern Ranking contract.”

“Go ahead.”

Somii took the call.

“Yes, hello Writer Ha.”

“Hello, did you eat?”

“I just ate. What about you, Writer Ha?”

“I just woke up. I called as soon as I saw your message. About the contract. I’m fine with whenever so you make the time.”

“Ok, then how’s between next Monday and Wednesday.”

“Ok, that’s good.”

Somii didn’t have anything to say and she felt a bit sad. It was a while since she had talked to him. She didn’t want to end without asking how he was so she continued.

“Writer Ha, has anything happened?”

“No, it’s the same. I just wrote and ate. What about you?”

“The same. Except the fact that I couldn’t read your writing as soon as it came out.”

“Thank you even though that’s not true. Oh, but I didn’t tell you about my new book. It’s for Munpia.”

“New book?!”

Somii’s eyes widened. She continued after seeing Lee’s glance of curiosity.

“Is it Dragon Rider?”

“Yes, but the title is changed. It’s called the Breathe. Search it up. I thought you knew. Don’t you go to Munpia to get new writer?”

“Ahaha… yes. But I was in romance for now so. There’s not many people here so I’m sorry.”

“What is there to be sorry about. Just give me feedback later. Your feedback is very important to me as well.”

“Yes, I’m do so. I’ll read it today.

“Thank you, and Somii, would you like to have dinner next week? I want to buy you something great.”

“Ah, really?”

Somii smiled widely. She nodded to the nonexistent Jaegun and answered cheerfully.

“Of course, Writer. I’ll get the schedule and call you back. Eat well.”

“You too.”

Somii hung up with a smiling face.

Lee asked immediately.

“What? A new novel?”

“Yes, pay per chapter. It’s the Dragon Rider. But a different title.”

“Yeah? But is it that bad? Why did nobody say anything?”

Lee went into Munpia.

“What’s the title?”

“The Breathe.”

“The Breathe? Let’s see… Hm?!”

Lee pulled her phone closer to her face. It was a face that was in disbelief.

It brought curiosity to Somii.

“What is it? Assistant Manager Lee?”

“No, no, there’s nothing to search for. Look.”

Somii got the phone from her. And like her, she lost her breath as soon as she saw the screen.

‘It’s … first?!’

Her glance couldn’t move away from Pyung Cheon Yu’s new novel, ‘The Breathe,’ It had twice as big of a size as the other novels. It was the power of the number 1 novel.

“If it’s number 1 on Munpia, that’s amazing. How many views?”

“Wait, wait, let’s look together.”

Somii put down the phone so Lee could see it and touched the screen. When the page came out, the two people opened their mouth and looked at each other.

“That’s amazing… Somii….!”

It wasn’t an over exaggeration.

A chapter’s payment values were almost up to 15,000. There were 41 books as well.

“Looking at the date, it’s 2 books per day? Wait, then let’s see. 30 dollars per day. If you include Munpia, it’s 63 dollars per 10,000 views? And then multiply by 30 is 1890, takeoff 30 percent and 1330 dollars! In one day!”

Lee couldn’t contain herself.

“I told you. This was going for success as soon as I read it. How could the new editor and Go miss something like this?”

“It’s amazing, Writer Ha.”

“Not just amazing! This is only Munpia. A month with 40,000 dollars. And then there’s the other companies. Navin and Cocoa come in and we have no idea how much it is. Wow, Writer Ha must be happy. So happy!”

Somii was just nodding her head.

She knew it would be good, but to be this good.

It was 3 times the 2nd rated book.

“You can see this kind of writer, right?”

“Yes?”

Lee laughed at the surprised Somii

“As we say it, he’s perfect? He’s a good person when I saw him at the writer’s meeting. He gets money. And finally …”

Lee pointed at Somii’s chest.

“You have Writer Ha inside of you.”

“Wh, what? No.”

With a red face, Somii refuted back. But Lee didn’t budge.

“I know. Your call. You were smiling all over the place?”

“No, no. You’re not right. Just Writer Ha was my personal writer and I met him a couple of times. We had stuff together so we are a bit closer than other writers. That’s only it.”

“Ok, ok I get it. Now just drink coffee. It’s gonna cool.”

Lee smiled and took a sip.

Somii fanned her face to cool her rising temperature.

It was going to be a while to get her heart back to its regular beating speed.

Chapter 59

“Phew, I’m alive!”

Jaegun sighed.

He was about to die of exhaustion. He had just recovered his strength by drinking from Se Gunwoo’s mug.

“Now I have 150 chapters of the Breathe. Let’s rest and write 25 chapters more to 175.”

Jaegun lied down on the bed. Rika went on top of him. She started to lick Jaegun with her tongue.

“I’ll have to call him and say I’m gonna release 5 chapters per day.”

Jaegun asked as he shook Rika.

He had enough. Because of Se Gunwoo’s notebook, his speed was still fast and there was no problem if he released 5 per day.

“I’ll end it about 400 chapters. About 15 books per paper book. That’s good, right? The Representative should like it too?”

Beep!

“Ah, Representative?”

Jaegun pulled his phone to his face. A message came. It wasn’t Tewon. A name called Kang Minho popped up on the screen,

“Kang Minho? Ah, Writer Kang?”

Jaegun thought of the writer that he met during the writer’s meeting. It was that person that he sat next to. The politeness of the writer who took care of him was the first thing that came up to his mind.

“What is it?”

He gave out phone numbers with Minho and a couple of other writers. But till now, there was no contact between each other. Jaegun pulled up the message on the screen with curious eyes.

Hello Writer Ha, it’s Kang Minho. I congratulate you for the 1st place on the Breathe. I’m really into it as well. It’s giving me some good studying. I hope you write more like this.

It was a polite reply like the person that he was.

Jaegun replied back smiling.

Yes, Writer Kang, Thank you for the contact. I’m glad you’re enjoying it. How are you?

Jaegun didn’t mention writing and asked a common question.

Every writer was different. He might be struggling to write because of some issues.

Minho replied soon.

I’m sort of ok. I got an office with a few of my writer friends. I’ve been writing fantasy but it’s not going very well. I feel like I’m trying too hard to write like the popular novels. And I’m been struggling for half a year.

He could imagine Minho’s face being sad.

Jaegun knew how bad it was when writing wasn’t going well. Minho was probably struggling from stress every day.

Jaegun wanted to help somewhat.

He gave a reply to Minho after a thought

I’ll so could you send it to me by email?

Ah really? Aren’t you busy? I’ll be honored.

It’s fine. I’ll give it back soon.

Yes, Writer. I hope you can give me good feedback.

Jaegun went outside to get some ramen.

He was starving because he didn’t eat anything. Minho’s message came when the ramen was readying to be eaten.

I’ve sent it. Thank you. I’ll be waiting.

Jaegun went to his phone.

Minho’s fantasy draft was on the first page.

The King Fallen on Earth

“Hm, the title…”

Jaegun clicked on it.

It was about 13,000 characters, good for a book.

Jaegun brought Se Gunwoo’s glasses to read faster.

“Hm, it’s fusion again.”

The character was a king that was mighty in his fantasy world.

And then a knight came and cast a spell on him and the king got pushed out of his world. His arriving place was none other than modern Korea.

‘Isn’t it the same flow as the previous series that Writer Kang wrote? Hm…’

Jaegun read quickly.

In the middle, Jaegun started to wrinkle his face.

‘This is a serious issue!’

There was no problem with the plot. It was common and safe as well.

But the problem was….

It was boring.

It was so boring that it almost make him sleep.

There were too many extra details and the plot lacked realism.

It didn’t make him want to read more.

If it wasn’t for Minho, he would have thrown it away a long time ago.

“Ah, ramen…!”

He had completely forgotten.

Jaegun quickly started to eat. It wasn’t too cold yet.

“Hm, how do I fix this.”

Jaegun carefully wrote a reply back on his computer.

When he wrote, he worried that it felt too direct.

There was nothing about complimenting.

90 percent was criticizing the negatives and the things that needed to be fixed.

Jaegun turned around and asked Rika.

“Rika, is this good? What if Writer Kang feels discouraged and can’t write? ”

Rika only looked at him

Jaegun sighed and turned back. Yeah. I think it’s polite to send a direct reply. It’s the best way.”

Jaegun sent the feedback and started to write on his own novel.

Rika stared at Jaegun. Rika’s two eyes were blinking as if tired.

The next day.

Jaegun showered in hot water and put the rice in the rice cooker. He was thinking about his menu when Minho gave a message.

Thank you for the long feedback. I stayed up all night to fix the problems that you mentioned. I’m sorry but could you read it once more. And if it’s not too much, I would like to take you out for lunch sometime.

Jaegun’s face brought a smile. He stayed up all night to fix his writing. Maybe it was stupid to be worried that Minho would be discouraged.

Jaegun started to read while drinking coffee. And he felt surprised. The feedback that he sent was all in the new draft. And in just one day, it was so much better.

“Writer Kang has sense. It’s not easy to just fix with just feedback.”

He felt that this would be good enough for the market.

There were a few negatives, but it was a vast improvement from yesterday.

But…

Jaegun was worried.

It was only the first book.

He had no idea how it would be after the 2nd book.

‘Writer Kang fell off after the 3rd book of his previous series.’

He said that it was good during the writer’s meeting, but it really wasn’t. The good plot got destroyed by the 3 book. He forced himself to read more but it was bad.

‘Isn’t there anyone who can help him?’

Thinking about it more, he had to do something.

Jaegun pulled out his phone and called.

It was probably better to call than to message.

Hello? Writer Ha?

Yes, hello. Are you good to call?”

Yes, yes. Of course. I’m surprised that you would call though.

It’s nothing, but your writing has really gotten better than yesterday. Seriously.

Really? I don’t know but you think so?

I don’t say something that’s not true. But Writer Ha. Do you have this work on contract yet?

Not yet. And I think I want to put this on pay per chapter as well. I want to see if a management contacts me after I release free chapters

I see.

Jaegun thought the things that he wanted to say. He was thinking of Laugh Book’s and the one writer it had.

The conclusion was quick

Writer Kang Minho needed to be guided.

Tewon needed a writer.

Since he was helping, he would go to the end.

Minho wouldn’t forget this. There might be a time when he would need help too. And with this, Jaegun continued.

You said you were buying lunch. Is today good?”

Yes? Today?

Minho’s voice seemed surprised.

Of course. Where? I’m fine. You can decide.

Jaegun continued while looking at Rika

You said your place was near Guro Station right? I have a cat so I kind of want to bring and go to your office.

Yes? My, my place? Re, really?

If it’s not a bother.

A bother. Yes, yes. Of course. All the writers here like animals. And there’s no one here other than me.

Then please send me your address. I’ll be there in a short while.

Yes yes. Writer. Then I’ll see you later.

Jaegun hung up and changed clothes.

Then with Rika, he opened the door and left.

Chapter 60

As Jaegun was getting on the car, he got a call from Tewon.

“Yes, Representative.”

“Did you eat?”

“No, you?”

“Not yet either. Oh, and the Breathe is still number 1 by a huge amount. And with Navin Store and Cocoa Page, this might be the best sales ever. You’re gonna be rich.”

“I’m surprised. It’s a fantasy so I didn’t think it would do this well. Ah, Representative. I wanted to ask something. Can I do 5 chapters a day?”

“Yes? 5 chapters?”

“Yes, I have a lot saved up so I think it’ll be possible.”

Jaegun wanted to do this for the money.

He wanted to buy the house for the family. If he could write more chapters. It was obvious that he could get more money.

“Writer Ha. One month is 150 chapters. About 5-6 books. How much do you have?”

“About 350 chapters.”

He actually only had about 175 but he lied

If he answered honestly, he would get rejected.

And besides, he had Se Gunwoo’s mug and laptop so he had confidence that he could write about 25 chapters a day.

“That much? How? When?”

Tewon’s voice was in surprise.

Jaegun answered with a smile.

“You know I’m hard-working. So 5 chapter per day, ok?”

“Are you fine?”

“Yes. Don’t worry. I have to drive, so I’m sorry Representative.”

“Ahah, Ok. Be careful and call me later.”

“Yes, Representative.”

Jaegun didn’t say anything about Minho and hung up. It would be better if the thing was real first.

“We’re going Rika.”

Jaegun started to go.

Rika yawned.

It was a short distance.

It didn’t take him any time at all to get here.

There weren’t many cars so he got here in about 20 minutes.

“Hm? What? Isn’t this just a villa?”

The residence was a broken down villa. It looked to be about 20 years old.

Jaegun called Minho.

“Yes, Writer, Where are you?”

“I’m here. Is it the orange villa?”

“Ah, yes. Wait.”

The door opened.

In just 5 seconds, Minho flew out of the villa.

Jaegun came off with a surprised face.

“You’re fast. Writer Ha.”

“There weren’t any cars.”

“Come in. It’s old, but I hope you understand.”

Jaegun followed Minho inside,

B01 was Minho’s office.

The villa was about 12 acres. A big room and a small room and a small kitchen and a bathroom.

There was dust all over the place. It didn’t look like an office at all.

On an old table, there were a few computers. This at least looked sort of like a writer’s office.

“Hahah, I’m sorry. It’s bad, right?”

Minho embarrassedly laughed.

“Writers put the money together to get the villa. I was alone but with this, I save money as well.”

“Ah, yes.”

“What do you want? I have a yellow pages book, so pick whatever.”

Minho was saying with enthusiasm.

Truthfully he was out of his mind. His mind was completely aroused by the presence of Jaegun.

A writer like Ha Jaegun who was rushing towards the top was coming to a no name writer like him directly.

“How is fish stew? Or seafood. Or sushi is good too. Only 30 minutes.”

“Uh, I want jajangmyun.”

“Ja Jang…mian?”

“Yes, I’ve wanted to eat it since coming here.”

Jaegun said while smiling.

He knew that Minho’s situation wasn’t great. It wasn’t good to ask for an expensive meal from Minho. It was hard to say that he would pay for it with Minho’s pride as well.

“Are you… sure?”

Minho asked again. It didn’t feel right to give Jaegun just a bowl of jajangmyeon. It didn’t seem polite.

“Do you not like it?”

“No, I love it, but shouldn’t we eat something better.”

“Something that’s delicious is good. Just give me that. I just like regular jajangmyun.”

“Ah, ok…. Then I’ll order. This place’s food is good. Ah, this doesn’t feel right, though…”

Minho ordered the food with a slightly embarrassed face.

As he hung up, Jaegun immediately asked the question.

“Writer Kang Minho, would you like to sign a contract with me?”

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