List
Chapter 61
“A contract?”
Minho asked with a confused look.
“Writer Ha, have you… made management company?”
“No, I have no skill to do such a thing.”
“But then…?”
“It’s a contract with me.”
Jaegun answered while putting Rika on the ground.
Looking at Rika who was walking to the window, he continued.
“I want to help you so you can make better novels.”
“Of, of course. I do, but you’re so busy that how could I ask for help…”
“No.”
Jaegun cut him off.
“It’s a contract. With me helping you write better, I have a condition.”
“Condition?”
“Do you know Laugh Books?”
“No, I’ve never heard of it.”
“It’s a very new management. There’s only one project it’s servicing as well. And the condition is that you contract with Laugh Books.”
“Ah… yes.”
Minho answered awkwardly.
He wondered why Jaegun would want to him to join Laugh Books.
There was risk in signing with a new management with only one project. It would be hard to give something that he put in a lot of work to a new management that is yet tested.,
Jaegun answered first.
“Laugh Books is a management that the editor I admire the most created after he resigned in a company. I’ve gotten help from him and I still do. This is going to be a good thing for both you and Laugh Books.”
“Ahah, yes… hm? Then, does that mean?!”
Minho was nodding as he understood. He lifted his head in surprise.
“Then is the one project… the Breathe?”
“Yes.”
Jaegun answered embarrassingly.
Then Minho opened his mouth.
Then, 3 seconds later.
He nodded crazily and answered.
“I’ll do it. I’ll do the contract.”
“You don’t have to decide now. The contract is…”
“No, it’s fine. I know I’ll do fine. It’s amazing that I’m just eating with Writer Ha.”
Minho was being truthful and not just overreacting.
His trusted in the management that contracted the Breathe. It had given him unlimited faith,.
Jaegun added.
“The representative is great too. You won’t have any regrets.”
“Of course. I know. I trust you. No, I don’t even have to say trust. I will follow you no matter what.”
“Ring!
The doorbell rang.
“Ah, I think the food came.”
Minho quickly ran out to the door.
It was the delivery man.
“This is the right place, right?”
“Yes, right. 9 dollars and 50 cents?”
Minho froze when he checked his wallet. He had no money.
He asked while pulling out a credit card.
“Does this work?”
“You should have said it earlier. I didn’t bring the swiper.”
“Uh, I forgot I had no cash…”
“Well bring it when you order later or when I come back. It’s not once or twice you ordered.”
The man said nicely and turned around.
As he was about to leave, Jaegun was holding out the money.
“Here it is.”
“Ah, yes, thank you. Here’s the change.”
The man went out.
Minho was so embarrassed and put his head down to Jaegun.
“I’m really sorry. I forget to get money. I’ll return it when my brother comes.”
“No, it’s fine. Think of it as a contract money.”
“Yes?”
“You contracted with me. I’m trying to count that money as your contract money.”
“Hahahah…”
“Let’s eat. It’s going to cool.”
“Yes, writer.”
The two people started to eat.
Jaegun started to eat quickly as he was hungry. Minho was eating slowly.
“Uh, Writer Ha?”
Jaegun already finished and was cleaning his lips with a tissue.
As he looked at Minho’s bowl, it was barely half eaten.
“Say it.”
“I’m not sure what to say but…”
Minho continued after a pause.
“I know you want to help the Laugh Book’s representative. But why me… there’s so many writers better than me. Do you think I have potential?”
Then, Jaegun finally understood.
This Minho didn’t have confidence. He was afraid that his work would harm someone instead of sell.
“There’s definitely potential.”
Jaegun answered with focus.
“I said earlier at the writer’s meeting. I finished your previous series. You write well. You have the basics. But…”
Jaegun went to get some water.
He continued to the nervous Minho.
“My opinion is that you don’t have a great end. The story falls apart at the end. It was a shame at the weak ending.”
“Hm… I do get criticized for that a lot. I think that, too.”
“If you change that, I believe you will have a great career. I will help you.”
“Yes…”
Minho answered and put his head down.
Jaegun’s words were making him feel emotional. There were few people in his entire writer’s life who had said something so nice.
“It was luck that I was at that writer’s meeting.”
Minho muttered. He could see the writer’s meeting in front of him.
It was a meeting that he had swallowed his pride to go to. He wanted to meet writers, get opinions and advice, and become a better writer.
And then he met Jaegun there.
And now it came here. To Minho, that was one of the best things that had happened all year.
“I will try my hardest.”
Minho answered with determination.
He had no shame in learning from a younger writer like Jaegun. He was 34, 7 years younger than Jaegun. Learning had no age, he thought.
“I understood the difference while reading your comments. I want to learn more.”
“You’re lifting me up too much. Hm… then I want to see what the story will be after book 2.”
“Ah, yes. I’ll show you. Come over here.”
Jaegun read the outline of The King Fallen on Earth very carefully. And he commented on the parts that he disliked a bit.
Minho memoed diligently.
“…I think this is good. You’re good at writing. Just don’t make a story like that. I think you should write like book 1.”
“Wow, since you said that, I just have so much confidence now. I’m going to have to start writing after my job.”
“Job?”
“Ah, yes. I have a part time job at a nearby convenience store. I need to earn my living fees.”
Minho bitterly smiled and scratched his cheek.
He had to do anything to earn a living.
Jaegun smiled faded as he recalled his life.
“I worked at a convenience store just last year too.”
Minho looked at Jaegun in disbelief.
“Really? No, but you have previous sellers than the Breathe?”
“All of them came out this year. I had trouble last year. I couldn’t even take a hot shower to save money.”
“Ah, I didn’t know.”
Jaegun turned his glance to the monitor.
He said as he looked at the outline of Minho’s story.
“You will be able to stop your job as well. Write with confidence. You’ll do well.”
“Thank you. I will write hard.”
Jaegun stood up and took his coat.
Rika sitting on the window edge saw him and jumped off.
“Are you leaving?”
“I should. Send me Book 2 when you’re done.”
Jaegun went to the door.
Minho went out first and opened the door.
“Don’t come out please.”
“It’s up there anyway.”
Jaegun said goodbye to Minho, who went out to greet him out, and got in the car.
The car slowly marched forward.
Minho was staring the car. To that, a teenager came behind him.
“Who is that?”
“Ah, don’t surprise me. I told you not to come up behind me.”
It was his brother living in the same office.
“Who is that? Is there a person who would come with a car to our office?”
“A writer.”
“Writer? Who?”
“If I say it, you’re gonna die. An amazing writer.”
His brother laughed at that.
“Oh really? What kind of a great writer? I guess Pyung Cheon Yu, the writer who wrote the Breathe, came over?”
“Hahahahaha.”
Minho looked up at the sky and laughed loudly
His brother, who thought Minho was laughing at his joke, also started to laugh.
The sky was looking very bright.
Chapter 62
“Again, very suspicious.”
Assistant Lee said as she stood behind the girl.
It was the girl’s restroom at the StarBook’s office.
Somii who was tying her hair carefully shivered slightly.
“You’re tying your hair very carefully? You always tighten it, but what’s with the hair today? I guess you have a person you want to look cute too?”
“N,no. Nothing like that. I just wanted to change it.”
Somii answered looking at Lee’s glance in the mirror.
Lee smiled and pulled out her hands.
“Here, let me do it.”
“Ah, thank you.”
“This is nothing. You’re going to meet a boy you like.”
“Really…! It’s not like that, Assistant Manager.”
“Ok, Ok. It’s funny seeing your reactions.”
Lee laughed as she made Somii’s hair professional. And then she pulled out some makeup from her bag.
“Look here.”
“N, no. I’m not very good with makeup…”
“I’ll just do a bit of it. Look here.”
Somii looked.
She knew Lee’s fashion sense. And her makeup skills.
“How is it? Look at the mirror.”
As she looked, a sigh came out.
“Wow, this is really different. There’s no mark or anything.”
“There’s nothing. Now go do well.”
Lee said as she put away her makeup.
Somii reddened as she answered back.
“If you say that, it’s weird.”
“No, I’m saying to go do the contract well?”
“Yes?”
“Hahaha, so simple.”
Lee tapped her shoulder and went out first.
Somii started to look at the mirror once again. She felt she was prettier than usual.
Her heart started to beat quickly as she thought of the person that she would meet today.
“I’ll be leaving then.”
Somii greeted the employee as she packed up. The Editor Gyunguk asked as he looked at her.
“What is it Somii?”
“Yes? What is it?”
“It’s only 5, why are you leaving already.”
“Ah, I said it yesterday. Today is the day with the contract with Writer. I have to go to Comic Kt and finished it. And I’ll leave there.”
“Hm, did you?”
Gyunguk muttered.
He continued as he leaned back on his chair and folded his legs.
“Don’t use the company card on him, ok?”
“Yes…”
Somii nodded, a bit down.
Lee’s face was wrinkled at that. Her lips were mouthing Cheapo.
“It’s not only to Somii. Listen up. The business now is all about going to writers and buying food and stuff. Give me that result. Are we a food truck? I don’t know how the previous editor did it, but I don’t do that. Get it?”
There was no answer.
Gyunguk stood up, a bit furious, and raised his voice.
“Get it?!”
“Yes, yes”
“I get it.”
A few voices came back.
Gyunguk sighed and sat back down. His face was filled with discomfort.
He looked around for someone to push his anger on and continued looking at Somii
“Come back to the office after you finish.”
“Yes? Today?”
“Come back and leave after giving me the contract.”
Lee lifted her head at this.
Even she didn’t know that he would be this mean.
“….Yes.”
Somii answered gloomily.
Comic KT was in Gangnam. It was about an hour and 30 minutes from there to the office.
Today was the day that she was about to eat dinner with Jaegun…
Did she have to give up that?
“Why’s your face like that? Am I requiring too much? Let’s finish the work today. Not tomorrow.”
“Ok, I will come back then.”
Somii put her head down and turned around.
Lee hesitated for a second, stood up, and followed Somii
“Are you ok?”
“I’m fine.”
“Why is he like that. It’s going to be 8 when you come back. What happened to him that he’s being angry at you? He’s making me angry.”
Somii could only bitterly smile.
She felt glad at Lee’s defense of her.
“Be good, Somii. You look pretty.”
Lee smiled as she fixed Somii’s hair. The elevator was opening.
Somii got on.
“See you tomorrow, Assistant Manager.”
“You too.”
Somii headed quickly to the subway station.
As she got to the subway station, she luckily got on the subway right away. There weren’t too many people. Somii stood with a glum face.
‘I guess I’ll have to move it.’
Somii looked at her dim reflection in the window.
She wore her coat for the first time. She didn’t wear jeans and wore a skirt after much thought.
Lee was right.
She did put attention to herself.
But it was fine whatever now. The dinner plan was over anyway.
She arrived at the station as she was blankly staring at the air.
Somii woke up and was surprised.
“I’m sorry. I’m leaving. Sorry.”
Somii finally pushed away the people and left.
“Phew, I barely got off.”
As she sighed, she looked at the clock. There were 20 minutes left to her meeting time.
‘When will I get used to subways.;
As Somii went to the place, she looked up the background at her rural home. It was her Seoul life that she was surrounded by people but was also lonely.
She wanted to see her family and the ocean.
The Comic Kt office wasn’t that far away from the station.
Somii arrived and quickly sat down on a chair on the first floor. She was going to meet Jaegun here.
‘I guess I’ll draw.”
Somii pulled out a pen and a notebook to draw on.
She thought about what to draw and started to draw the 2 characters of the novel that she was reading, the Breathe. A cute knight and a dragon were quickly coming up on the paper.
‘Ahaha, maybe the dragon looks a bit too childishly for such a fierce creature ?’
Somii laughed to herself.
She liked drawing since middle school. She got so into drawing that she didn’t even notice the presence of Jaegun.
“Ah, you draw really well.”
“Ah, Wr, writer Ha?!”
Somii turned around quickly, very shocked.
Jaegun was slowly looking at her drawings.
“You have talent. How much do you have to draw to draw this well?”
“N, no, i was just scribbling. Writer.”
Somii reddened and tried to close her book.
But Jaegun grabbed the book first.
“Ah? Isn’t this my novel’s characters?”
“Uhhhh…!”
“Right? It’s the Breathe?”
Jaegun smiled and asked.
Somii was so embarrassed that she couldn’t answer. To that, Jaegun asked a favor.
“Give this drawing to me.”
“Yes? Wh, where are you gonna use it?”
“I’m writing the Breathe, I’ll put it in.”
“N, noooo….. It’s terrible.”
“It’s not. You will, right? Right?
She couldn’t refuse Jaegun’s two eyes.
Then Somii answered reluctantly.
“Then when I finish it…”
“This is great.”
“This is not great. I’ll finish it. I’ll do it as fast as I can so just wait.”
Jaegun nodded as he smiled.
It was as if the roles of them changed, she as the writer and he as the editor.
Somii stood up as she put away the notebook and the pen.
“Th, then let’s go?”
“Yes, let’s go.”
Somii went first.
She walked fast as out of embarrassment.
Jaegun followed her quickly and asked her.
“Did you draw?”
“Ahjhhhh, writer. It’s embarrassing so don’t ask.”
“What’s embarrassing? You draw really well.”
Jaegun was truthful. He never learned professionally to draw, but he could see it was good.
He was also a bit roused at learning a talent of Somii.
“Just a … hobby.”
“I don’t think it’s just a hobby?”
The two people went on the elevator.
She pressed the 8th floor, then turned away from Jaegun and answered
“I glad you compliment me but… I have no skill. I don’t have enough creativity for illustrating, I can’t direct mangas either. I gave up during college.
“Hm, I see…”
So that’s why she became an editor. Jaegun thought to not press any further, as it might be a sensitive topic.
Chapter 63
The contract ended quickly.
The terms and conditions were done beforehand so they just had to see the finished contract and sign it.
So Jaegun and Somii finished in 10 minutes and stood up.
“Then I hope you do well.”
“Of course writer. The original is just that good that there’s no problem getting a drawer. I’ll send it when we get something to show you.”
“Yes. The good work.”
Jaegun and Somii left Comic Kt. Jaegun pulled out his phone as they walked.
“It’s only 6:30. We have time.”
“Ahhh…”
Somii opened her mouth nonplussed.
She had forgotten because of her picture being shown to Jaegun.
“Where do you want to go? Anywhere in Seoul is fine.”
“Uh, Writer Ha, I’m sorry.”
Somii put her hands together in front of her and looked at Jaegun. Jaegun was looking down with curious eyes.
“I’m really sorry, but I need to go back to the office. I need to put the contract in today. I wanted to tell you but I forgot.”
Somii continued, fearful of what Jaegun would say.
“I mean, if, I’m sorry, but if you could wait, I could come back, but you will have to wait here, and that’s a bit too impolite…! And I don’t want to miss your appointment…”
Somii didn’t know what she was saying.
Then the elevator opened.
Jaegun was pressing the B2 button.
“Let’s go together.”
Somii looked surprised.
“I thought you only had to put the contract up? I’ll wait.”
“Ah… writer. Then I’m…”
“Gangnam is a bit too loud to eat anyway. Your house is over there and we can go near the company, right?”
Somii left the elevator, following Jaegun with a confused face.
“Over there.”
Jaegun said as he pointed.
A black car was showing up.
“Writer Ha, you have a car?”
“I bought one because I need one for Rika and my family.”
“Ah yes. The car if clean and pretty.”
“Thank you. Get in.”
Jaegun opened the door for her.
“Just wait, the heater is coming on.”
“No, writer. It’s fine.”
Somii pulled on the seat belt.
Jaegun grabbed the handle and accelerated. He started to drive the road as he left the parking lot.
“I’m really sorry, writer. That something like this happened.”
“What is it. Work is more important . And it’s about to end anyway. Just think of it as a drive.”
“Yes…”
Somii looked outside at the window.
It was a completely different feeling from Tewon’s car.
The background was always amazing. The darkness of the city was beautiful
They arrived at StarBook’s parking lot a while later.
Somii opened the door and left.
“I’ll be back quickly, writer.”
“Take your time.”
Somii was about to jump up and down as she was going up to the office. Now with the work done, she was able to eat with Jaegun comfortably.
“You’re coming now?”
“Ah? Editor? You were here?”
Somii’s face slightly hardened.
Assistant Manager Go wasn’t here for overtime. Gyunguk who usually left at 6 was still sitting in his chair.
“I brought it.”
“Hm,ok. Here.”
Somii offered the contact with two hands politely.
Gyunguk said as he lifted himself up.
“You didn’t eat, right? Let’s eat together.”
Somii suddenly lost what to say.
But she answered quickly.
“Ah, Editor… I’m sorry, but I already have plans.”
Usually, this was enough to get people away.
And Somii thought too.
But Gyunguk asked once more.
“Oh really? I thought that it was time for you to come, and I was waiting for you to eat together. Is it important?”
“Yes, a bit….”
Gyunguk sighed and sat back down.
“I guess not. Then let’s do that for later. Where are you going? I can drive you there.”
“No, it’s fine. I’ll be leaving now. You go safely.”
Gyunguk looked at Somii leaving.
It was a glance like a hunter looking at a bird who was out of his reach
‘Does she have a man? Nah, probably just a friend.’
Gyunguk sighed and turned off his game.
It would have been better if he had asked her before.
But it was too late as he was packing his jacket, getting ready to leave.
‘She’s perfectly my style, though. Cute and cheerful. Her skin is great because she’s so young too.’
Gyunguk got up. There would be a lot of times because they were in the same office.
And now he called his friend.
“Hello, Is it Jungkek? It’s Gyunguk and how’s today for a drink? I’ll buy. Ah? That room? I could remember the girls’ faces. Hey, there’s another place, yea. I’m about to leave so I’ll see you in 30 minutes.”
He whistled and left.
As he came by at the elevator, there were a few people there.
‘She must have left already. She’s fast.’
Gyunguk got on the elevator.
And just then, Somii came out from the restroom.
‘It would be awkward if we met.;
Somii knew where he put his car. Therefore, she guided him to the opposite side of his car. It wouldn’t be good if they met again.
Somii took another elevator and went down. Jaegun was waiting with the music on.
“I’m sorry I was late. Did you wait a while?”
“It’s only been about 15 minutes. Are you done?”
“Yes, I’m completely done.”
Somii smiled and got on. The car was warm and made her feel good.
“Now, what do you want to eat?”
“Hm…”
Somii opened after a thought.
“How’s Spicy Seafood Stew. That’s good and hot. I know a place and it’s not far. We can go there.”
“Sure. Let’s go then.”
Jaegun accepted her offer and pressed the accelerator.
It would only be a 5-minute ride.
Chapter 64
As they went into the restaurant, there were many people as this was a famous place.
“Welcome, how many people?”
“Two.”
“Come here.”
The two people got escorted to a table in the corner. Jaegun took off his jacket and said to the employee.
“Get us a large Spicy Seafood Stew.”
“Writer Ha, we can’t eat that all with only 2 people.”
Somii tried to stop him but Jaegun didn’t listen
“We can. If we order big, there will be good sides too, right?”
“Hahaha, yes, we’ll do well.”
The seafood came onto the table.
There were so much seafood, shrimp, mussels, etc. The employee put the seafood inside the stew and cut it for them.
“Eat first, Writer Ha.”
“Ah, this is good.”
“Here. I’ll cut it for you. Here.”
Somii busily pulled out the food onto Jaegun’s plate. Then Jaegun started to return the favor as well.
“You too. You’re eating nothing.”
“I am. How is this place?”
“It’s good. I think I’ll come here more often. Are you frequent here?”
Somii smiled and shook her head.
“It’s a bit too expensive here to be frequent. We came here with my office employees. The food is good and the seafood is really fresh.”
“Yea, it really is. Thank you for telling me this place.”
“I’m thankful. I get food from such an expensive place.”
“Do you want a drink? I can get a ride.”
“You don’t have to for me. I don’t have to drink.”
“Then let’s just go for a coke.”
Jaegun and Somii talked as they ate.
There was no awkwardness between them.
It was already winter, and they met in the summer. They faced a lot together.
The two people were already very close without the help of a drink.
“Somii, couldn’t you show me your pictures?”
Jaegun asked as they were about to be full.
He was going to ask, but he was holding in the question. But it was getting to be hard.
“Mine?”
“You’re really good. I know. Because you have that profile that drawers have. I feel like there’s going to be a lot of things on that tablet you carry around everywhere.”
Jaegun smiled as he pointed at the laptop that was sticking out of the bag.
Somii immediately turned horrified, showing Jaegun’s guess was right.
“Ah, it’s really embarrassing. And there’s nothing that’s complete yet.”
“I want to see it. Yes? Please?”
“Hm, then just a little.”
Somii turned on the laptop and gave it to Jaegun.
As Jaegun got the laptop, Somii immediately put her head down on her hands.
“Wow!”
Jaegun complimented as he looked at the first picture.
He thought there would be girly cute pictures, but no. The beginning was filled with a knight in armor on a horse. The ferocity of the knight seemed to break out of the monitor.
“Wow! This is great. How do you draw these characters so well? This is crazy!”
Jaegun turned the page, spouting compliments.
It wasn’t about all cute female characters either.
There were great female characters that male readers would love to see.
“You’re this good and you have no talent? Aren’t you too modest?”
“Don’t say that. I can’t even lift my head.”
Just then
A young woman came over to the talking Jaegun and stood next to him.
“Um, excuse me.”
“Hm… yes?”
Jaegun and Somii both looked at her.
It was a female customer sitting just a few feet away from here. The group of 3-4 was looking at Jaegun and whispering.
“What is it?”
“Um, are you Writer Ha Jaegun?”
“Ahah, yes. It’s right.”
It wasn’t the first time that he faced this, so Jaegun answered her calmly. The girl covered her mouth and gestured to the group.
“Wow, it’s right.”
The group all came to Jaegun.
They were all girls in their 30s. And they all fought to speak to Writer Ha.
“Wow. This is really Writer Ha Jaegun.”
“I’ve read your book A Dumb Woman. Writer. We’re the reader group in our company. You have no idea how emotional it was to us. We must have read it about 3 times at least.”
“You’re so much more handsome than your Navin picture.”
“What are you writing now? Is it going to be a drama? I love those.”
Questions came like a bullet that Jaegun couldn’t answer them as quickly.
But Jaegun tried his best to answer them
“Why did they all go that way? Is he a famous person?”
“I don’t know. I know a lot of programs but I’ve never seen him before.”
The customers and even the employee started to glance at them
If they could hear the conversation, they would know that Jaegun was a writer, but the restaurant was pretty loud.
‘He really grown.’
The opposite side of Jaegun.
Somii was looking at Jaegun with a slight smile.
The two eyes were bright.
They were the light that was reflecting the growth of Jaegun in just half a year.
“Writer, I’m sorry but could you take a picture?”
Jaegun looked at Somii and nodded.
“Yes, of course.”
“I’ll take it, here give it to me.”
Somii took the phone from the girl.
The girls took place behind Jaegun and fixed their clothes and hair.
“I’ll take it. 1, 2, 3…”
The flash came and a picture stored on the phone.
The girl asked as she took her phone back.
“But… your girlfriend?”
Somii almost spilled her water at that.
Her face turned red as she tried to wave it off.
“No, no. I’m an editor.”
“Ahah, you’re really pretty.”
“Yeah, your skin is white and the hair fits really great.”
“How did you guys meet?”
“Hey, she’s an editor. Did you forget? Let’s clear out. They’re eating.”
A girl that was a little less drunk than the rest pulled out the group. Even as they went back to their seats, they nodded their heads at Jaegun/
Therefore, Jaegun had to do the same out of politeness.
“Sigh, Sorry Somii.”
“No, I felt good, too. Being with a famous writer.”
“Don’t tease me. Ah, let me see the pictures again.”
Jaegun picked up the laptop.
And he continued on his compliments.
Somii was having fun on the opposite side, yet she was also very nervous.
‘When this ends…’
When would she be able to see Jaegun again?
That was Somii’s only thoughts.
There was no work reason to meet Jaegun again.
‘It will be hard to meet just an editor like me.’
Jaegun would pull out books after books. Therefore, he would obviously go higher up in the rankings.
This was Somii’s belief. There was no another path.
“I saw them well, Somii.”
Somii didn’t even hear Jaegun call her name.
Jaegun pulled out his hand in front of Somii and then she finally looked at him.
“Yes, Writer, say it.
“I saw the pictures well.”
Jaegun continued as he handed over the pictures.
“You have the skill to do outside work.”
“Ah, yes. I guess…”
“There’s no rule that you can’t. If the company people say something, you can use a different name.”
“Not that, but I don’t have confidence.
Beep!
Jaegun’s phone vibrated.
It was a message from Minho.
Jaegun laughed as he checked it and said to Somii.
“It’s a writer I know. He wants to me to introduce a good illustrator if I know any. He’s preparing for a pay per chapter book.”
“Ah… yes.”
“The management would do it for him, but there’s a possibility that he might not like it. How is it? Don’t you have any ideas on sending your portfolio?”
Chapter 65
It was true that she had no confidence
It was something which could not be solved even with compliments and praises from Jaegun. Therefore, it was the kind of work that should’ve been turned down.
However, right now, Somii couldn’t do that.
Because if she accepted this job, she would form a closer relationship with Jaegun
To be able to see his face one more time.
In the busy crowded restaurant, there was a silence between the two people.
Looking downwards, Somii had a serious expression cast upon her face.
In the end, there was a smile on his face as Jaegun spoke.
“I’m sorry. I think I was in too much of a hurry so I don’t mind if you slowly think things through if you find it uncomfortable…”
“-I’ll do it!”
Somii said with her head raised and a determined glint in her eyes.
She spoke to him with a clear tone.
“Although I don’t have any confidence, I will try. On the way home, I’ll gather up a portfolio of art and drawings and send it to your mailbox”
He smiled brightly in happiness and stuck out his thumb.
“That’s good. Talent shouldn’t be sitting around collecting dust after all. Make me a cover, too.”
He poured some coke in a drinking glass and held up the drink in the air.
“A toast. By day, a sarcastic and witty editor but by night, an illustrator with talent. A toast to Jung Somii. Cheers!”
“What was that for Writer Ha, Saying it so weirdly.”
“Nevermind. Drink it up. One shot.”
“What? Um… I’m not very good at these.”
“If you can’t, then you’re paying.l”
Jaegun began to chug down on his coke first.
Making a face, Somii followed and brought the cup to her lips and began to drink.
Neither of them could even manage to finish half of the cup without choking. Seeing that, they both stared at each other and laughed.
“My mood is getting better. After eating, do you want to go to the karaoke bar?”
“Karaoke? Well, I’m fine with it but will you be okay? Don’t you still have to write as well?”
“You know that I write at the speed of light. So, after this, karaoke?”
“…cool.”
Somii made circles with her fingers and bashfully replied.
There were no longer any feelings of nervousness or restlessness. Right now, this moment was priceless. Resolving herself to no longer be foolish and silly from now on, Somii finished off drinking the rest of her cola.
“Finally it’s pay day.”
After Christmas, the morning of December 27th.
With a clean, washed face, Dongmi pulled out the chair and sat in front of the computer.
Today, she had to work balancing accounts on Munpia. Munpia’s calculation period was between the last month of 28th to this month of 27th.
Tewon in fatigue was still sleeping soundly in the other room.
Dongmi, listening to Tewon’s snoring, accessed the munpia page. After entering in username and password, she checked the results for the novel ‘The Breathe’.
Project: The Breathe
Paid web novel purchases: 2, 681, 448
Paid web novel total sales: 268, 144, 800 won
Paid web novel sales (adjusted amount): 168, 931, 224 won
Tax: 5, 574, 730 won
Final amount paid: 163, 356, 494 won( About 160,000 dollars)
“Wow…!”
Even though she checked every day, it was still amazing.
Today’s was greater than yesterday’s and it made Dongmi shudder in excitement. And that final amount probably wasn’t even 3% of the profits of the books
This was all because of Jaegun’s writing speed
Because he was releasing 5 chapters a day, he could pull off such a wonderful result.
“This is a real record setter. And it hasn’t even been a month yet.”
‘The Breathe’ began to publish itself serially from the beginning of the month of December. If he had filled the entire month, there would be more profits.
And this was only from the munpia sales.
‘The Breathe,’ would now enter Navin Store, Cocoa page, and Yuto Books
There was no way to know how much profits those would make yet.
“Since Tewon is sleeping right now, I should make the call.”
Without delay, Dongmin took Tewon’s cellphone in her hands.
Dongmin had worried a lot about paying their bills. She felt that she needed to call the person who helped them get away from this worry.
After the phone rang a couple times, the line finally connected.
-Yes, representative.
“Writer Ha Jaegun. Hello. I am Representative Tewon’s wife Shin Dongmin.”
-Ahh, yes. Hello.
On the receiver end, Jaegun sounded slightly confused.
Dongmin laughed as she continued
“You’ve written such marvelous pieces of work so I wanted to say thanks. I’m sure you know that today is where we calculate the balance accounts on munpia? Writer Ha’s earning are very good.”
-Thank you. But really it’s all because of Representative Tewon.
“I really want to invite you over to our house. Ever since I saw you, I’ve wanted to treat you out to a feast. Talk with my husband and I hope you will come by.”
-Yes. Thank you. Of course, if you’re inviting, I’ll be there.
“Yes, Yes, if you could come, I’ll be thankful. Also, Writer Ha, if I were to send a package, where would I have to address it to?”
It was a question asked even though she knew that Jaegun lived alone by himself in Seoul. It was an important thing to send a present to a writer on the holidays.
Jaegun was Laugh Book’s sole author. Obviously, she couldn’t just forget it.
-Ah, I think it’d be good if you were to send it to Suwon.
“Ok. Then have a Happy New Year and I’ll contact you in the next year.”
-Yes, thank you for all your hard work and happy new year.
Beep!
Jaegun stretched
Rika, who was sitting on the bed, saw Jaegun and began to copy, performing her own stretch with her front paws being outreached in front of her.
“One hundred thousand dollars”
Jaegun mumbled to himself while staring at Rika. Even half a year ago, that was something that wouldn’t have even been thought of. Now the day where he could buy his family a house wasn’t so far off.
‘The Breathe, which was being updated 5 times a day, would reach over 400 chapters by the end of next February. Jaegun wanted to get profit fast so he didn’t rest at all.
“Including some of the other works, this month’s profit should be…I can’t seem to calculate it. Rika, calculate it for me, please. How much is it?”
Rika didn’t even pretend as though if she were listening.
Jaegun ran, scooping Rika into his arms and repeatedly nipped at her.
“Hurry up and calculate for me, I’m asking you how much is my income this month”
“Meow.”
Instead, Rika simply licked at Jaegun’s nose.
Ticklish, Jaegun began to giggle but kept rubbing his nose against Rika’s.
The delicate smell of shampoo was felt clearly as he held her.
“if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be able to write this way”
“Meow?”
“You’re not a normal cat. I know. You and master saved me.
Jaegun sat up straight and began scratching Rika at the nape of her neck.
Rika moved her body and made herself comfortable to adjust to the hands that were scratching her.
Her eyes slowly began to slant and droop.
“I have to do my best. Every day I’m learning something new. Master Se Gunwoo is an amazing person. Even a single word or sentence, when I did it the way he taught me, it adds a whole new different flavor. I wonder just what kind of person he was”
Jaegun who had been muttering to himself while all of a sudden the Modern Teen Literary award came up.
For a long time, he had completely forgotten about it.
He was lying if he said he wasn’t anticipating a good result.
He wanted to be an author that was deserving of his professor’s encouragement. He wanted to be someone that could make his professor proud.
“Rika, wanna go out for a bit? To clean up the master’s house a bit, then maybe going to offer him a cup of wine at his grave.”
“Meow”
Rika jumped off the bed.
Jaegun grabbed his coat and stepped out of the door with Rika.
A cold gust of winter air blew their way. But with Rika close to him, Jaegun didn’t feel cold at all.
Chapter 66
“It’s funny, you see.”
Professor Gu placed down his cup of coffee. He decided to try his luck.
Around a luxurious looking table, there were 7-8 people sitting all around.
There was a single common factor amongst all these people.
Professor, novelist, critic. They were all famous people in the circle of the literary world.
They were also all committee members on the Modern Teen Literary contest.
“Isn’t it quite funny how the award will be going to an author who writes such low standard writing.
Immediately, the professor next to him spoke.
“I think so too. In literature, there should be something like dignity. For someone that writes fantasy martial arts web novels online to win such an award. How? It’s just not proper. I may even be considering a ghost writer.”( a writer who is hired to write.)
A neat looking female professor of around the age of fifty seemed to be the same
“I am of the same opinion as well. This is awkward, but it’s just not up to the standard. Just terrible project. Oh, so sorry. I apologize, it shouldn’t even be a project. After reading, it leaves your brain vacant. There’s no message. Are we really going to present the award to an author that writes such things?”
“That’s right. Although I’d rather not say this but, there are many bright young brilliant minds like my students who have also entered this year’s contest whom I believe to be far more deserving of this award. I don’t think it makes sense for us to award some writer who writes these trashy web novel over submissions of actual literary work.”
After the last professor’s words, a silence hung over the table.
On the opposite side, the other four people who were on the council had not spoken.
These were part of the party who supported the author that they were currently discussing.
They thought that it had been an overwhelmingly well-written piece.
“huhuhu.”
Among the four people, a female professor began to quietly laugh.
The other female professor from before that gave off an air of order furrowed her eyebrows and asked.
“What’s so funny?”
“Nothing much. I just found it so funny how agreeable you all seemed to be with each other when it came to this topic. You’re all saying the same thing.”
Upon giving her reply, the female professor pushed back her chair and stood up.
Since there was no reason for her to be sitting at this table anymore.
“Where are you going all of a sudden?”
“It looks like there’s nothing to talk about anymore. And I just thought of a critique to write on my monthly article.
At her words, the expressions on everyone’s faces became stiff for a moment.
It was because this particular female professor had influence in the literary world that could not be ignored
“What-what topic are you planning to write?”
Professor Jung asked stiffly.
She stared at the ceiling for a bit before replying.
“A mark of an author? Just because of the genre he chooses to write. no matter how good and well written his work might be, he’ll never receive acknowledgment for it. A truly disgusting stigma. I’m going write if this is the mistake of the author or the literary world.”
“Look here! Professor Han Hesun!”
Professor Gu shouted in anger and stood up.
“Are you taking sides because it’s your student?”
She finally lowered her gaze from the ceiling and back on downwards.
And she stared at him.
“Are you saying that while already knowing what kind of person I am?”
A single phrase.
Professor Gu harrumphed and turned his head.
Although he hated to admit it, that was the truth.
The professor in front of him had never said something unfair.
“T-that may be so but you’re being too protective of this one? You haven’t criticized the novel once.”
Professor Gu argued without looking at her.
The female professor burst out into laughter and said this.
“How are you supposed to criticize a novel that has no faults?
It became suddenly quiet
Taking a book out of her bag, she placed it down on the table.
“it’s the author’s previous work. It seems as if those of you on Mr. Gu’s side haven’t read it yet. Especially you, Professor Jung. Seeing that you thought of a possibility of a ghost writer, I’m curious if those thoughts will be the same after you’re done with this book.
“Ughhh….!”
“I’ll be leaving first. Good work.”
She turned and left.
Everyone’s attention went towards the book that she had left behind.
The name of the book was ‘A Dumb Woman’ And the author’s name was Ha Jaegun.
“I’ve eaten well.”
It was the time when they were eating fruit after dinner.
Jaegun picked up an apple and lifted his head. His two ears were surprised. His dad Sukjae was continuing with his head down
“It’s great eating with the family together with my son as well.”
His mom Myungja and Jaeyn was the same. They were all looking at Sukjae with disbelief.
“A, ah… Why are you saying that?”
“It’s good. You ate well too.”
Myungja turned red as she smiled. Jaeyn also smiled. The feeling of happiness was great once in awhile.
Jaegun choked up. He wasn’t thinking that he would hear any compliments as they were shopping for ingredients. He had just thought that it would be good if he didn’t complain.
But he ate well.
And it was great because his son was here.
It wasn’t his dad who said false words. It made him happy.
“I should go.”
Sukjae put down his fork and stood up. Myungja asked to Sukjae with sorry eyes.
“Can’t you rest on the holidays.”
“I can only rest when they tell me to. I’m the only person who can work. And I’ve rested before on the previous holiday.”
Jaegun stood up as well. Rika also went to him.
“I’ll take you there.”
“No. Stay here.”
“I have to go anyway.”
Jaeyn said too as Jaegun said that.
“Where are you going? You should say during the holidays. I have to go somewhere. I’ll be back. Suwon isn’t that far anyway.
The two family members went out.
The car was already on by remote control. Jaegun opened the passenger seat and Sukjae went in grumbling.
“It’s close by walking.”
“It’s cold. Let’s go by car.”
It was barely a few minutes. Jaegun derived and Sukjae only stared outside the window. There were no words.
“Father.”
Jaegun said as they arrived.
Sukjae was turning around as he opened the door.
“Resign from this job.”
He didn’t say anything else.
Sukjae opened his eyes in surprise. But he quickly turned unemotional and answered.
“Thank you for taking me.”
“Father…”
“Go ahead. And come again.”
Sukjae closed the door and went away.
Jaegun looked at his father walking away. His figure slowly disappeared from view. But he still sat there.
“Meow.”
Rika went over to the passenger seat and meowed.
Then Jaegun realized and shook his head.
“Sorry, Rika. I was thinking.”
Jaegun slapped his cheeks in self-encouragement as he accelerated.
He was going to write harder tomorrow. His will was strong.
Until that day when his usually unemotional father was not going to stop laughing.
Chapter 67
“Wow. Minho already has 3000 views?”
The office next to Guro station.
Yang Hyeongyung was surprised as he sipped some coffee.
Minho’s new novel, The King Fallen on Earth, with 20 chapters was showing decent results.
“Awesome… this way, he’s already going to be ready for paid chapters? Ah, I need to write a draft too.”
There were only sighs coming out
His age was 25. He left his hometown after the military and it was a month since he got here.
It was obvious why he did. To write something great and fun and get profit and live as a writer.
That was his dream. But he didn’t even get to write a novel yet. Nothing he wrote was fun. He wrote something down, but he erased it later.
He continued that about 10 times every day. And now today, the end of the year, he couldn’t do anything either.
“Ah, fricking loser. Editor of me! Idiot! What do I write? Just someone, give me a good story! Ah, I want to go out. I don’t have money or a girl, what is this in the new year!
Hyeongyung shouted like a madman.
Just then, the door opened with the password beeping sounds. Hyeongyung didn’t look thinking it was Minho.
“Excuse me.”
“…hm?!”
Hyeongyung was surprised at that and looked up. It was Jaegun who came in. In his hands, he had chicken and pizza. Rika was walking around him.
“I’m a person who knows Writer Kang Minho. I called him, but he said he had something to do. And then he gave me the password.”
Jaegun explained quickly
Hyeongyung nodded in surprise and stood up. It was the first time they had met.
“Come in. My brother will come in soon.”
“Yes, thank you.”
Jaegun put down the food on a table.
Hyeongyung’s mouth was watering. He was poor and he really wanted to eat those luxury foods.
‘Come quickly…’
He could eat when Minho came back.
Hyeongyung wanted to just break the seal and start eating. But he suppressed that and sat down. And he clicked on the Munpia site link.
“Sigh…”
A sigh that came out of habit.
It was the Breathe with 1st place on the monitor screen. He was envious of the writers who were successful. He thought he was dumb.
“He must have gotten 200 thousand dollars just this month.”
Jaegun looked at Hyeongyung’s monitor. When he saw him looking at his project, Jaegun looked back down with a bitter smile.
“He must be living the life, right?”
Jaegun lifted his head up again. Since it was a question, he had to respond to it.
“Who…?”
“Pyung Cheon Yu. Minho says he’s in his 20s, he must be living the life? He might be around somewhere living the nights of his days. Ah, I’m writing like this trying to get just 1000 dollars in one month. In the holidays.
Hyeongyung started word as he complained. And the draft that he had started showed up on the screen.
“Ah, this is really bleak.”
“Your novel?”
Hyeongyung turned around as if expecting it.
“Yes, it’s fantasy, do you like it?”
“Of course.”
“Then could you read it? I don’t’ know if it’s fun or not.”
“Ok.”
Jaegun sat down on the seat. Hyeongyung added.
“It’s about 15000 words. Just an intro.”
“Hm.”
He didn’t need the glasses because it wasn’t long.
Jaegun scrolled down and looked carefully.
‘A mess.’
Jaegun knew before the end.
It was a story of hunters in the world of monsters. Too many plot deviations, too many characters. Who was the main?”
‘Kang Minho’s draft was good compared to this.’
Jaegun stood up as he finished. Hyeongyung immediately asked nervously.
“How was it?”
“Hm, I think there are too many characters.”
“Yeah? I’m writing a story with their different point of views. Like the story where many characters talk from their POV.”
“Ah, yes. I think there’s a tendency for the novel to be too dragged because everyone says their POV from the beginning. There’s no real connection to the actual current story.”
Hyeongyung froze.
Jaegun continued.
“I don’t think there’s a reason to introduce all the characters from the beginning. Isn’t it good to just introduce when they are needed? And just say a man for a man and a girl for a girl. I think that’s good for the story.”
“Hm, do you? It’s a bit different from me.”
Hyeongyung frowned. It was the critique that he had gotten from Minho. He was hoping for some good reviews, but Hyeongyung was sort of irritated with the combined stress.”
“Are you a writer too?”
“Ah, yes.”
“If it’s not too much, can I ask what you wrote?”
Hyeongyung asked as a challenge. He wanted to see what sort of great projects the other person wrote.
Jaegun opened his mouth, sort of embarrassed, when the door opened and Minho came in.
“Ah, Writer Ha Jaegun? Ah, Rika too.”
“You’re here? I brought pizza and chicken, let’s eat.”
“A? What is this?”
Hyeongyung was looking at the two of them. He didn’t remember any writer called Ha Jaegun. Maybe he had a pen name. Or a writer like him who didn’t debut yet?”
“Hyeongyung, what are you doing? Let’s eat.”
Minho said as he took open the bag. Hyeongyung stopped and sat down on the chair.
“Thank you, writer.”
“I’ll eat too.”
“Yes, eat before it cools.”
Hyeongyung was already eating before Jaegun said that. He was waiting so long for this.
Jaegun poured cups of coke and gave it to them.
“Aren’t you eating?”
“I’ve eaten. Don’t worry. But, your novel, it’s doing good.”
“Ahaha, what. It’s all because of you.”
“I’ll call the representative. I don’t think there’s going to be anything changed. Maybe the title.”
“I can change that easily. Ah, I hope it goes well. If I can just do one tenth of yours, no that’s too big. Just for me to quit the convenience store job.”
“It’s going to be good.”
Minho’s words intensified Hyeongyung’s curiosity. What kind of writer was he talking about if saying that even one tenth was a good thing?
Hyeongyung didn’t have time to ask.
Because Minho’s next words were saying the answer
“When is the Breathe coming to Navin and Cocoa?”
“Probably about late January?”
Hyeongyung’s face turned pale. And his hand lost the grip on the cup. The coke splashed on the floor.
“Ah, I, I’m sorry.”
Hyeongyung’s quickly tried to pick it up. He lost his cup again with his shivering hands.
“Ah, ah, no… Minho… why didn’t you tell me…!”
Hyeongyung was looking at Minho with horror and regret. After laughing, Minho nodded his head to Jaegun.
“Sorry, I wanted to surprise my brother. Now I think it worked.
“Ahah… yes..aha ha.”
Jaegun answered with an embarrassed laugh.
Hyeongyung wasn’t alright yet. He opened his mouth.
“Ah, ah I’m really sorry about before…I’m sorry….. I didn’t think you would be Writer Pyung Cheon Yu. I only know the pen name. Ahaha, even if I did, I shouldn’t have said that.”
“No, it’s nothing anyway.”
“Hey, what did you do to Writer Ha?”
“No, it’s nothing. Really it was nothing, Writer Kang.”
Hyeongyung lifted his head. His hunger disappeared. Surprised by his determination from his eyes, Jaegun slightly shivered at that.
“I beg you, Writer.”
“Yes? What…?”
“Please help me. I’ll take anything. If you could tell me how to write, I will never forget this. Please.”
Hyeongyung stood up and gave a 90 degrees bow. Jaegun who was horrified also stood up.
“Don’t do this. Ok. I’ll help you as much as you can. I can help you with the basic guideline.”
“Re, really?”
“Yes, so just sit down.”
“Ah, Thank you. Thank you! Thank you! Really, Thank you! Writer!”
Hyeongyung kept bowing. Jaegun couldn’t stop him.
“Just eat first. I might change my mind if you don’t.”
“Of, of course. I’ll eat everything.”
He was sitting in his office with no one to meet until the end of the year. As with Minho, Jaegun was a great figure to Hyeongyung as well.
‘Thank you, Writer..’
Minho repeated his praise. Jaegun was smiling with Rika in his arms.
In the office with only a few hours until the new year, the group with Writer Jaegun as the boss was slowing taking place.
Chapter 68
“Yes, Writer Kang, it’s Kwon Tewon. The Demon King’s Second Coming is doing pretty well. Just keep doing it. Don’t move away from the plot. Just make the main character like this.”
“Hello. Writer Yang, It’s Laugh Book’s Shin Dongmi. Yes. Congrats on making your novel views going over 6000. We’re going to be releasing paid chapters next Friday.”
The two employees of Laugh Book’s were getting busy.
2 new projects came in. Kang Minho’s Demon King’s Second Coming and Yang Hyeongyung’s Slaughter.
Two projects were doing above average. The tips by Jaegun once a week was doing great.
A day in January.
Today, Jaegun was also in the office with the two. He wasn’t here to look over their writing solely either. He wrote his own paper in a leftover computer.
‘This is good once in a week to change the mood up for a while?’
Jaegun thought.
He had never written with other writers until Minho and Hyeongyung. It was a new feeling. New ideas came up in conversations.
“It’s already been 5, Writer Ha. Aren’t you hungry? Would you like to eat?”
“Yes, I’m fine. You order what you want to order.
Jaegun answered with his hands on the keyboard.
Today was a good writing day. He was going to stay for a bit longer and eat dinner and leave. It was slow because it wasn’t Se Gunwoo’s laptop, but it didn’t matter.
Beep!
A call came from an unknown number.
“Hello.”
Jaegun answered. The words on the screen were still continuing.
-Hello, Writer Ha Jaegun?
“Yes, Who is this?”
-This is Modern Teen Literary manager Jo Segyung.
The hand stopped.
Jaegun grabbed the phone with one hand
-Hello? Writer Ha Jaegun?
“Yes, yes go ahead. I’m listening.
His voice was shivering.
His heart was pounding hard. His head was heating up.
-Congratulations. Your project for the Modern Teen Literary Contest won the award.
Jaegun sighed
He already knew since he heard the name manager.
Only one person would get the call anyway.
‘Me….!’
One person per year.
The Modern Teen Literary Contest that was so competitive. The contest that was honored by the literary world. It was the fact that he won made him silent.
“Why is Writer Ha like that? Is it bad news?”
“Shush. Quiet.”
Minho and Hyeongyung moved to another room. Jaegun didn’t realize their movements at all.
-There’s time since the actual release date. So I hope you can stay quiet until then. You’ll have to write a speech, the amount is…
The manager was talking. Jaegun tried to listen, but the words just didn’t go in his ear.
-Then I’ll call you back again.
“Yes, yes, thank you.”
Jaegun looked up at the ceiling blankly. He had no thoughts for a while. And then one girl’s face started to show up on the ceiling’s pattern.
‘I have to meet her…!’
Jaegun stood up immediately and picked up his coat. He had to give this information to that one person. If it weren’t for this person, he couldn’t have even written this novel.
“Writer Kang, Writer Yang. I’m sorry, but I have to go.”
“Is there, is there something bad?”
“No, nothing like that. Then I’ll contact you later.”
Jaegun picked up Rika and started the car. And then he searched up Dasul and called.
-The phone is turned off so …
‘Dang it!’
Jaegun dropped his phone.
Why now, why at this important time is the phone off.
Maybe she was changing the battery. Thinking that, Jaegun waited a few minutes and called again. But the phone was still off.
‘If this was right, I should have asked where she lived.’
Jaegun pressed the accelerator. He thought that she was still working there.
It wasn’t a long distance so he got off. The karaoke bar was still shiny.
He didn’t go to the elevator and went up the stairs.
He called again, but another beep came with no answer.
“Hello.”
The owner with the heavy makeup greeted Jaegun. Jaegun nodded and asked her,
“Hello. Do you remember me?”
“Hm? Um… Ah!”
The owner clapped her hands together.
“The person who writes?”
“Yes, that’s right. It’s nothing, but I wanted to find that girl from last time again, Dasul. Her phone is off so I don’t know how to meet her. It’s important.”
“I haven’t seen her in a while?”
“Yes? Why?”
“I don’t know. If she’s not here, she’s not. Why? Is the phone off? Did she borrow money?”
The owner asked with suspicious eyes. Jaegun shook his head with his hand on his forehead.
“How long has it been?”
“Hm, about a week?”
“Um… is there any way I can go through the office?
Jaegun asked hopefully. But the owner shook her head.
“I can’t go that. It might be complicated later on. You know?”
“…yes, I know.”
“Just wait. The phone might be broken.”
The owner comforted him, looking at Jaegun’s worried face. Jaegun nodded weakly and went out of the bar.
“Sigh…Rika. Where do I find her?”
Jaegun stood there, looking at the crowd going by. And with that, he was asking to Rika.
“It’s kind of sad actually. She called many times to get dinner, but I never answered. I said I would contact her, but I didn’t.”
The regret was coming through him in waves. Dasul’s face was still in his mind clearly.
“Meow. Meow.”
Rika turned herself in his grasp. And then, she jumped off. Jaegun was worried because there were many people so he turned around.
“Rika, don’t go away and come here.”
Rika was walking towards a building with grace.
And then she stopped in front of a girl’s shoes.
“Oh hey~ you’re cute. What’s your name?”
Jaegun widened his two eyes.
The girl’s face was stuck in his eyes.
Chapter 69
“Are you a Russian Blue? Are you a female? Where’s your owner?”
The girl who was crouching down and winking at Rika was Dasul.
Jaegun walked toward as if pulled. And seeing the shadow, Dasul slowly looked up.
“Ah? Writer?”
Dasul smiled happily.
It was a face that didn’t have any makeup. Looking at the pretty and cheerful face, Jaegun smiled as well.
“What are you doing? How was it?”
“I got it.”
“Yes? Got what?”
“The novel that I wrote about you got the award.”
Dasul’s smile froze.
The surroundings around them were loud. However, through the loudness, the two people were exchanging glances silently.
“Meow.”
Rika broke the silence and went in between them. Both people’s glance went towards Rika.
“Why was your phone off?”
“Ah, the frame broke.”
Dasul stood up and answered.
“There was a bit of a rough customer. I said a message and I put it on the table, but he pushed the table so it fell. Well, I got the fees, so.”
“I see.”
Dasul smiled and came closer to him. And she looked up at Jaegun and tilted her head.
“So? Did you come to see me? To tell me that?”
“I wrote it because of you.”
“What is that. You’re just good.”
“Aren’t you working?”
Dasul answered with a horrified face and looked around herself wearing a jumper and jeans.
“How can I work with this? And I haven’t gone in a week. It’s the new year’s too.”
“Yes… so do you have anything to do?”
“I don’t so I’m here out to buy beer.”
“That’s good.”
“What”
“I’m keeping my promise of buying you something”
Dasul laughed with a phew. Jaegun also smiled a bit.
“How long has that been? There’s way too much interest?”
“I’m fine with anything.”
“I’m gonna eat till the bone?”
“It’s fine.”
Dasul went to Jaegun and crossed her arms with him.
She was reckless like they were old friends or in a relationship. Jaegun wasn’t that horrified, knowing her,
“But what about the cat? There are places where the cat can’t go.”
“There should be. Or I can bring her home and come back. It’s not that far. Just get on first.”
Jaegun and Dasul walked over to Jaegun’s car. Dasul widened her eyes in surprise.
“You must be having some money? You have a car.”
“It’s not that expensive. Get in.”
The car with the two and Rika slowly drove away. Rika was in between the two. Without both of them knowing, her eyes were shining brightly.
“Are you going to use Writer Oh Myunghun again?”
Nexon office.
There were two people. One was the planning team leader and one was the development team leader.
“It came out like that. Go discuss it with Representative Park when he comes.”
Suhee closed her mouth and looked down.
Nexon was creating another mobile game.
A genre with a free-roaming RPG game. It was about a writer to write for this story that was 60 percent done.
“I have no other words. Go ask the representative. But tomorrow, I’ll get a meeting with Writer Oh. Then, bye.”
The development team leader went out quickly.Suhee sat down in despair and didn’t know how to get up.
‘How…? There is no reason why Jaegun isn’t good enough for Myunghoon? Jaegun got many hit works and the Digital Literary Award as well?
Maybe there was another force at work.
Suhee was about to make Jaegun the writer for this. The story for Jaegun’s scenario for the mobile racing game was already over. But the writing was left. The entire team read it and understood his skill.
But now it was Myunghoon.
Suhee knew that Myunghoon’s personality wasn’t good enough for this job. He was good at writing. But it was different from writing alone and writing with others. She couldn’t understand Myunghoon who bragged and didn’t listen to others.
“Sigh, my head hurts.”
Suhee stood up holding her forehead. She needed a cup of coffee.
She went to the resting room with her slippers. Without knowing that there would be a visitor that she had no idea would be there.
“Are you gonna drink coffee?”
Suhee was surprised as she almost lost her balance.
Myunghoon was sitting alone in a chair near the window.
In his hand, there was a mug with coffee in it.
“Why are you here?”
She heard that there would be a meeting about tomorrow or so.
But there was no reason to see Myunghoon here today.
“Let’s drink coffee together.”
Myunghoon said that as he went to the coffee machine and picked up a capsule.
Suhee asked with sharp and cold eyes.
“What did you do?”
“Do?”
“Jaegun is here, but the game got scrapped and for the new project, how could you, with no meeting or anything, be the new scenario writer? What connection is it now?’
Myunghoon stayed quiet, looking at the coffee stream.
He opened his mouth as the coffee stopped.
“It might be because of the news. The drama for my novel is right ahead.”
Myunghoon was saying the words very unemotional.
“There might have been words between Nexon and Content Jinhyungwon. I don’t know what you’re thinking of, but there was nothing special that I did.”
Myunghoon turned around and pulled out the mug to Suhee.
Suhee just looked at Myunghoon’s face without taking the mug.
‘What is it?’
Suhee was curious.
Myunghoon was unlike his usual self. This new calm self of him seemed very different compared to the impulse, easy to get mad Myunghoon.
“Take it, drink it when it’s hot.”
Myunghoon gave it to him, shaking the coffee a bit.
Suhee took the cup and sat down in the nearest chair.
Myunghoon took it and sat down opposite of her.
Suhee avoided Myunghoon’s glance and sipped coffee looking at outside the window.
She had no intention of talking with him. She was only here because she thought it was annoying to move seats.
“The representative told me to get a meeting.”
Suhee said when she drank about half of the coffee. It was probably good to talk about business while they were there. Her glance was still looking at the airplane flying across the night.
“Tell me when it’s a good day for you and I’ll make it.”
“Anytime is fine. You make it.”
“Ok, I will.”
Suhee put the cup to her lips again, with talks about business over.
She wanted to drink it quickly but she couldn’t because the coffee was hot. She didn’t have the feeling to rest and enjoy coffee.
‘I have to say this to Jaegun.’
Suhee’s shoulders were drooping.
She wanted to make a game with Jaegun as the writer. He gave a great scenario that was above average. There was nothing bad at all about him. But even with all that, he was just gone.
“Suhee.”
Myunghoon said.
Suhee looked at Myunghoon
“Say it.”
Suhee’s voice was on the tip.
Myunghoon looked down at the table. And with a small sigh, his voice continued.
“I’m sorry.”
Chapter 70
Suhee’s two eyes shined in surprise.
She didn’t mistakenly hear it.
Myunghoon was wrinkling his face. It was a facial expression that matched with the words that he said.
“I apologize for all the things that I’ve done like an idiot. I came here to say that.”
Suhee couldn’t believe it.
Myunghoon, that was so stubborn, was asking for forgiveness. She had no idea how to take in this situation.
“I know it’s not an issue that’s going to be fixed like a simple word like this. I can tell that I was such a bad guy. I wish you could forgive me.”
Myunghoon lifted his head and looked at Suhee.
He added, looking at the surprised and shocked Suhee.
“I won’t say anything more. I’ll try until you can see me as a good person. I’ll fix it one by one.
Suhee couldn’t say anything.
Myunghoon drank the last remains of coffee in one sip and stood up. He added as he went to the exit.
“I won’t let you down.”
Myunghoon’s figure left the resting room.
Suhee’s two eyes were still blank, looking at the door.
‘What happened?’
Was he really asking for forgiveness? Suhee wasn’t sure yet. She had faced way too much of Myunghoon’s bad side to just trust him with one word.
“Team Leader, what’s wrong?”
“Ah? Hemii?”
Suhee lifted her back quickly.
She didn’t even realize that Hemii was standing in front of her.
“I came in here early and you didn’t realize? You must be tired. You should go in early.”
“I think so. I’ll go after one call.”
“Yes, I’m going, too.”
Hemii left the room.
Suhee picked up her phone. Her fingers stopped as she was going to press the last number of Jaegun’s phone number. She had no confidence anymore to talk with a calm voice.
She put her two arms on the table and laid her head down
The restaurant was loud.
Sushi was moving across the conveyor belt in a row. Jaegun and Dasul were just getting escorted in.
“Wow, This is great! I haven’t eaten sushi in such a long time.”
“Eat well today.”
“I eat really well, you know. Your wallet is going to suffer. Ah, it’s shrimp.”
Dasul quickly picked up a shrimp sushi and put it in front of her. And she put wasabi in.
“Isn’t shrimp really good? Everything I get tired of, but not shrimp.
“Yeah. That’s why I eat that the best, too.”
“You’re a real eater. Here’s ginger too.”
“Thank you. Now let’s eat?”
The two people started to eat and talk. Small talk was going between them
Dasul was smiling and laughing. Jaegun felt happy looking at her.
“Ah, I’m full.”
Dasul moved back as she finished about 10 plates. Jaegun was at his limit. As he looked, Dasul’s cheeks were soaked with sweat.
“Take off your jacket. I think it’s a bit hot here.”
Dasul shook her head.
“I can’t.”
“Why?”
“I told you I came to buy beer. I just wore something randomly.”
Jaegun smiled.
“What does that matter. These are people you’re never going to see again. If it’s not rags, just wear it.”
Dasul narrowed her eyes and laughed. And she whispered to Jaegun’s ear.
“I didn’t even do a bra?”
Flustered, Jaegun turned his head and coughed
Dasul immediately clapped her hands and laughed. It was so loud that a few people looked at her.
“It’s a joke. Joke. You think I wouldn’t have one.”
Dasul took off the jumper.
It was just a simple plain black t-shirt.
Her white neck and the black shirt was combining very well. Her neckline was really beautiful, he thought
‘Maybe because her face is pretty, everything is pretty.’
Jaegun thought of Suhee’s face. Suhee was still the prettiest girl he knew. Jaegun thought for a long time that Suhee could be held with the world’s beauties and not lose.
“What do we do now?”
Jaegun lifted his head.
Dasul was smiling like a child. And like before, her two legs were on Jaegun’s thigh.
“You’re not gonna just buy me this, right? You got an award.”
“I get it, what now?” Just first, take off your legs.”
“Why? Are you embarrassed? I like this.”
“That’s a bar. And this has a bar shape, so customers might see. Take it off.”
“No, I won’t.”
Dasul held back.
Jaegun forced her legs off.
“Wow, really. Why do you care so much about other?”
“It’s not caring, but etiquette.”
“It’s fine. If you’re done eating, let’s go. Let’s drink.”
Dasul left first. Jaegun shook his head and stood up with the receipt,
“Thank you. Come again.”
“Yes, thank you.”
The two people walked. Jaegun walked slowly.
“But why don’t you do a necklace?”
“What. So random?”
“You have an earring. Don’t girls do jewelry before leaving home?”
“Then buy me one before I answer that.”
“Hm…?”
Jaegun walked slowly.
And he stopped and looked at a place. There was a store selling jewelry.
“What are you doing?”
Dasul turned around and asked.
She turned her glance to the store as well. And she ran over and slapped her shoulder lightly.
“Come on~ I was joking.”
“No, I’ll buy you one.”
“Ah, it’s fine. I don’t do necklaces. What now?”
“I’m not going to just buy you sushi. That’s good. I was about to give you a present anyway. Let’s go.”
“Uh, Uh, Hey!”
Jaegun walked to the store.
Dasul was embarrassed as she walked towards him.
“Come in.”
The store was shining with jewelry. Jaegun gestured to the Dasul who was standing near the entrance.
“Come on. There’s a lot of good ones.”
“Ah… It’s really fine. I can’t really…”
Dasul put her head down and stood next to Jaegun.
Jaegun pointed to all kinds of jewelry and asked her preference.
“How’s this? Flower-shaped.”
“It looks expensive.”
“Don’t worry. What about this?”
“It looks more expensive.”
Jaegun looked at her.
“I told you to not care about price. You helped me as much as to deserve this. And I have the power to gift you this.”
“I got all the money for the interview.”
“That’s that, and this is this. It’s my mind, so I would like if you didn’t care. Just look. Come on.”
Jaegun repeated.
Dasul lifted her head slowly.
“How’s that?”
“It’s too big…”
“Finally no talks about the price. Good. This one?”
“Hm… I want to try it on.”
“Hello, could you take this out for me?”
“Yes,”
Dasul was concentrating now, and so was Jaegun.
He didn’t realize that the phone in his pocket was vibrating.
List
Chapter 61
“A contract?”
Minho asked with a confused look.
“Writer Ha, have you… made management company?”
“No, I have no skill to do such a thing.”
“But then…?”
“It’s a contract with me.”
Jaegun answered while putting Rika on the ground.
Looking at Rika who was walking to the window, he continued.
“I want to help you so you can make better novels.”
“Of, of course. I do, but you’re so busy that how could I ask for help…”
“No.”
Jaegun cut him off.
“It’s a contract. With me helping you write better, I have a condition.”
“Condition?”
“Do you know Laugh Books?”
“No, I’ve never heard of it.”
“It’s a very new management. There’s only one project it’s servicing as well. And the condition is that you contract with Laugh Books.”
“Ah… yes.”
Minho answered awkwardly.
He wondered why Jaegun would want to him to join Laugh Books.
There was risk in signing with a new management with only one project. It would be hard to give something that he put in a lot of work to a new management that is yet tested.,
Jaegun answered first.
“Laugh Books is a management that the editor I admire the most created after he resigned in a company. I’ve gotten help from him and I still do. This is going to be a good thing for both you and Laugh Books.”
“Ahah, yes… hm? Then, does that mean?!”
Minho was nodding as he understood. He lifted his head in surprise.
“Then is the one project… the Breathe?”
“Yes.”
Jaegun answered embarrassingly.
Then Minho opened his mouth.
Then, 3 seconds later.
He nodded crazily and answered.
“I’ll do it. I’ll do the contract.”
“You don’t have to decide now. The contract is…”
“No, it’s fine. I know I’ll do fine. It’s amazing that I’m just eating with Writer Ha.”
Minho was being truthful and not just overreacting.
His trusted in the management that contracted the Breathe. It had given him unlimited faith,.
Jaegun added.
“The representative is great too. You won’t have any regrets.”
“Of course. I know. I trust you. No, I don’t even have to say trust. I will follow you no matter what.”
“Ring!
The doorbell rang.
“Ah, I think the food came.”
Minho quickly ran out to the door.
It was the delivery man.
“This is the right place, right?”
“Yes, right. 9 dollars and 50 cents?”
Minho froze when he checked his wallet. He had no money.
He asked while pulling out a credit card.
“Does this work?”
“You should have said it earlier. I didn’t bring the swiper.”
“Uh, I forgot I had no cash…”
“Well bring it when you order later or when I come back. It’s not once or twice you ordered.”
The man said nicely and turned around.
As he was about to leave, Jaegun was holding out the money.
“Here it is.”
“Ah, yes, thank you. Here’s the change.”
The man went out.
Minho was so embarrassed and put his head down to Jaegun.
“I’m really sorry. I forget to get money. I’ll return it when my brother comes.”
“No, it’s fine. Think of it as a contract money.”
“Yes?”
“You contracted with me. I’m trying to count that money as your contract money.”
“Hahahah…”
“Let’s eat. It’s going to cool.”
“Yes, writer.”
The two people started to eat.
Jaegun started to eat quickly as he was hungry. Minho was eating slowly.
“Uh, Writer Ha?”
Jaegun already finished and was cleaning his lips with a tissue.
As he looked at Minho’s bowl, it was barely half eaten.
“Say it.”
“I’m not sure what to say but…”
Minho continued after a pause.
“I know you want to help the Laugh Book’s representative. But why me… there’s so many writers better than me. Do you think I have potential?”
Then, Jaegun finally understood.
This Minho didn’t have confidence. He was afraid that his work would harm someone instead of sell.
“There’s definitely potential.”
Jaegun answered with focus.
“I said earlier at the writer’s meeting. I finished your previous series. You write well. You have the basics. But…”
Jaegun went to get some water.
He continued to the nervous Minho.
“My opinion is that you don’t have a great end. The story falls apart at the end. It was a shame at the weak ending.”
“Hm… I do get criticized for that a lot. I think that, too.”
“If you change that, I believe you will have a great career. I will help you.”
“Yes…”
Minho answered and put his head down.
Jaegun’s words were making him feel emotional. There were few people in his entire writer’s life who had said something so nice.
“It was luck that I was at that writer’s meeting.”
Minho muttered. He could see the writer’s meeting in front of him.
It was a meeting that he had swallowed his pride to go to. He wanted to meet writers, get opinions and advice, and become a better writer.
And then he met Jaegun there.
And now it came here. To Minho, that was one of the best things that had happened all year.
“I will try my hardest.”
Minho answered with determination.
He had no shame in learning from a younger writer like Jaegun. He was 34, 7 years younger than Jaegun. Learning had no age, he thought.
“I understood the difference while reading your comments. I want to learn more.”
“You’re lifting me up too much. Hm… then I want to see what the story will be after book 2.”
“Ah, yes. I’ll show you. Come over here.”
Jaegun read the outline of The King Fallen on Earth very carefully. And he commented on the parts that he disliked a bit.
Minho memoed diligently.
“…I think this is good. You’re good at writing. Just don’t make a story like that. I think you should write like book 1.”
“Wow, since you said that, I just have so much confidence now. I’m going to have to start writing after my job.”
“Job?”
“Ah, yes. I have a part time job at a nearby convenience store. I need to earn my living fees.”
Minho bitterly smiled and scratched his cheek.
He had to do anything to earn a living.
Jaegun smiled faded as he recalled his life.
“I worked at a convenience store just last year too.”
Minho looked at Jaegun in disbelief.
“Really? No, but you have previous sellers than the Breathe?”
“All of them came out this year. I had trouble last year. I couldn’t even take a hot shower to save money.”
“Ah, I didn’t know.”
Jaegun turned his glance to the monitor.
He said as he looked at the outline of Minho’s story.
“You will be able to stop your job as well. Write with confidence. You’ll do well.”
“Thank you. I will write hard.”
Jaegun stood up and took his coat.
Rika sitting on the window edge saw him and jumped off.
“Are you leaving?”
“I should. Send me Book 2 when you’re done.”
Jaegun went to the door.
Minho went out first and opened the door.
“Don’t come out please.”
“It’s up there anyway.”
Jaegun said goodbye to Minho, who went out to greet him out, and got in the car.
The car slowly marched forward.
Minho was staring the car. To that, a teenager came behind him.
“Who is that?”
“Ah, don’t surprise me. I told you not to come up behind me.”
It was his brother living in the same office.
“Who is that? Is there a person who would come with a car to our office?”
“A writer.”
“Writer? Who?”
“If I say it, you’re gonna die. An amazing writer.”
His brother laughed at that.
“Oh really? What kind of a great writer? I guess Pyung Cheon Yu, the writer who wrote the Breathe, came over?”
“Hahahahaha.”
Minho looked up at the sky and laughed loudly
His brother, who thought Minho was laughing at his joke, also started to laugh.
The sky was looking very bright.
Chapter 62
“Again, very suspicious.”
Assistant Lee said as she stood behind the girl.
It was the girl’s restroom at the StarBook’s office.
Somii who was tying her hair carefully shivered slightly.
“You’re tying your hair very carefully? You always tighten it, but what’s with the hair today? I guess you have a person you want to look cute too?”
“N,no. Nothing like that. I just wanted to change it.”
Somii answered looking at Lee’s glance in the mirror.
Lee smiled and pulled out her hands.
“Here, let me do it.”
“Ah, thank you.”
“This is nothing. You’re going to meet a boy you like.”
“Really…! It’s not like that, Assistant Manager.”
“Ok, Ok. It’s funny seeing your reactions.”
Lee laughed as she made Somii’s hair professional. And then she pulled out some makeup from her bag.
“Look here.”
“N, no. I’m not very good with makeup…”
“I’ll just do a bit of it. Look here.”
Somii looked.
She knew Lee’s fashion sense. And her makeup skills.
“How is it? Look at the mirror.”
As she looked, a sigh came out.
“Wow, this is really different. There’s no mark or anything.”
“There’s nothing. Now go do well.”
Lee said as she put away her makeup.
Somii reddened as she answered back.
“If you say that, it’s weird.”
“No, I’m saying to go do the contract well?”
“Yes?”
“Hahaha, so simple.”
Lee tapped her shoulder and went out first.
Somii started to look at the mirror once again. She felt she was prettier than usual.
Her heart started to beat quickly as she thought of the person that she would meet today.
“I’ll be leaving then.”
Somii greeted the employee as she packed up. The Editor Gyunguk asked as he looked at her.
“What is it Somii?”
“Yes? What is it?”
“It’s only 5, why are you leaving already.”
“Ah, I said it yesterday. Today is the day with the contract with Writer. I have to go to Comic Kt and finished it. And I’ll leave there.”
“Hm, did you?”
Gyunguk muttered.
He continued as he leaned back on his chair and folded his legs.
“Don’t use the company card on him, ok?”
“Yes…”
Somii nodded, a bit down.
Lee’s face was wrinkled at that. Her lips were mouthing Cheapo.
“It’s not only to Somii. Listen up. The business now is all about going to writers and buying food and stuff. Give me that result. Are we a food truck? I don’t know how the previous editor did it, but I don’t do that. Get it?”
There was no answer.
Gyunguk stood up, a bit furious, and raised his voice.
“Get it?!”
“Yes, yes”
“I get it.”
A few voices came back.
Gyunguk sighed and sat back down. His face was filled with discomfort.
He looked around for someone to push his anger on and continued looking at Somii
“Come back to the office after you finish.”
“Yes? Today?”
“Come back and leave after giving me the contract.”
Lee lifted her head at this.
Even she didn’t know that he would be this mean.
“….Yes.”
Somii answered gloomily.
Comic KT was in Gangnam. It was about an hour and 30 minutes from there to the office.
Today was the day that she was about to eat dinner with Jaegun…
Did she have to give up that?
“Why’s your face like that? Am I requiring too much? Let’s finish the work today. Not tomorrow.”
“Ok, I will come back then.”
Somii put her head down and turned around.
Lee hesitated for a second, stood up, and followed Somii
“Are you ok?”
“I’m fine.”
“Why is he like that. It’s going to be 8 when you come back. What happened to him that he’s being angry at you? He’s making me angry.”
Somii could only bitterly smile.
She felt glad at Lee’s defense of her.
“Be good, Somii. You look pretty.”
Lee smiled as she fixed Somii’s hair. The elevator was opening.
Somii got on.
“See you tomorrow, Assistant Manager.”
“You too.”
Somii headed quickly to the subway station.
As she got to the subway station, she luckily got on the subway right away. There weren’t too many people. Somii stood with a glum face.
‘I guess I’ll have to move it.’
Somii looked at her dim reflection in the window.
She wore her coat for the first time. She didn’t wear jeans and wore a skirt after much thought.
Lee was right.
She did put attention to herself.
But it was fine whatever now. The dinner plan was over anyway.
She arrived at the station as she was blankly staring at the air.
Somii woke up and was surprised.
“I’m sorry. I’m leaving. Sorry.”
Somii finally pushed away the people and left.
“Phew, I barely got off.”
As she sighed, she looked at the clock. There were 20 minutes left to her meeting time.
‘When will I get used to subways.;
As Somii went to the place, she looked up the background at her rural home. It was her Seoul life that she was surrounded by people but was also lonely.
She wanted to see her family and the ocean.
The Comic Kt office wasn’t that far away from the station.
Somii arrived and quickly sat down on a chair on the first floor. She was going to meet Jaegun here.
‘I guess I’ll draw.”
Somii pulled out a pen and a notebook to draw on.
She thought about what to draw and started to draw the 2 characters of the novel that she was reading, the Breathe. A cute knight and a dragon were quickly coming up on the paper.
‘Ahaha, maybe the dragon looks a bit too childishly for such a fierce creature ?’
Somii laughed to herself.
She liked drawing since middle school. She got so into drawing that she didn’t even notice the presence of Jaegun.
“Ah, you draw really well.”
“Ah, Wr, writer Ha?!”
Somii turned around quickly, very shocked.
Jaegun was slowly looking at her drawings.
“You have talent. How much do you have to draw to draw this well?”
“N, no, i was just scribbling. Writer.”
Somii reddened and tried to close her book.
But Jaegun grabbed the book first.
“Ah? Isn’t this my novel’s characters?”
“Uhhhh…!”
“Right? It’s the Breathe?”
Jaegun smiled and asked.
Somii was so embarrassed that she couldn’t answer. To that, Jaegun asked a favor.
“Give this drawing to me.”
“Yes? Wh, where are you gonna use it?”
“I’m writing the Breathe, I’ll put it in.”
“N, noooo….. It’s terrible.”
“It’s not. You will, right? Right?
She couldn’t refuse Jaegun’s two eyes.
Then Somii answered reluctantly.
“Then when I finish it…”
“This is great.”
“This is not great. I’ll finish it. I’ll do it as fast as I can so just wait.”
Jaegun nodded as he smiled.
It was as if the roles of them changed, she as the writer and he as the editor.
Somii stood up as she put away the notebook and the pen.
“Th, then let’s go?”
“Yes, let’s go.”
Somii went first.
She walked fast as out of embarrassment.
Jaegun followed her quickly and asked her.
“Did you draw?”
“Ahjhhhh, writer. It’s embarrassing so don’t ask.”
“What’s embarrassing? You draw really well.”
Jaegun was truthful. He never learned professionally to draw, but he could see it was good.
He was also a bit roused at learning a talent of Somii.
“Just a … hobby.”
“I don’t think it’s just a hobby?”
The two people went on the elevator.
She pressed the 8th floor, then turned away from Jaegun and answered
“I glad you compliment me but… I have no skill. I don’t have enough creativity for illustrating, I can’t direct mangas either. I gave up during college.
“Hm, I see…”
So that’s why she became an editor. Jaegun thought to not press any further, as it might be a sensitive topic.
Chapter 63
The contract ended quickly.
The terms and conditions were done beforehand so they just had to see the finished contract and sign it.
So Jaegun and Somii finished in 10 minutes and stood up.
“Then I hope you do well.”
“Of course writer. The original is just that good that there’s no problem getting a drawer. I’ll send it when we get something to show you.”
“Yes. The good work.”
Jaegun and Somii left Comic Kt. Jaegun pulled out his phone as they walked.
“It’s only 6:30. We have time.”
“Ahhh…”
Somii opened her mouth nonplussed.
She had forgotten because of her picture being shown to Jaegun.
“Where do you want to go? Anywhere in Seoul is fine.”
“Uh, Writer Ha, I’m sorry.”
Somii put her hands together in front of her and looked at Jaegun. Jaegun was looking down with curious eyes.
“I’m really sorry, but I need to go back to the office. I need to put the contract in today. I wanted to tell you but I forgot.”
Somii continued, fearful of what Jaegun would say.
“I mean, if, I’m sorry, but if you could wait, I could come back, but you will have to wait here, and that’s a bit too impolite…! And I don’t want to miss your appointment…”
Somii didn’t know what she was saying.
Then the elevator opened.
Jaegun was pressing the B2 button.
“Let’s go together.”
Somii looked surprised.
“I thought you only had to put the contract up? I’ll wait.”
“Ah… writer. Then I’m…”
“Gangnam is a bit too loud to eat anyway. Your house is over there and we can go near the company, right?”
Somii left the elevator, following Jaegun with a confused face.
“Over there.”
Jaegun said as he pointed.
A black car was showing up.
“Writer Ha, you have a car?”
“I bought one because I need one for Rika and my family.”
“Ah yes. The car if clean and pretty.”
“Thank you. Get in.”
Jaegun opened the door for her.
“Just wait, the heater is coming on.”
“No, writer. It’s fine.”
Somii pulled on the seat belt.
Jaegun grabbed the handle and accelerated. He started to drive the road as he left the parking lot.
“I’m really sorry, writer. That something like this happened.”
“What is it. Work is more important . And it’s about to end anyway. Just think of it as a drive.”
“Yes…”
Somii looked outside at the window.
It was a completely different feeling from Tewon’s car.
The background was always amazing. The darkness of the city was beautiful
They arrived at StarBook’s parking lot a while later.
Somii opened the door and left.
“I’ll be back quickly, writer.”
“Take your time.”
Somii was about to jump up and down as she was going up to the office. Now with the work done, she was able to eat with Jaegun comfortably.
“You’re coming now?”
“Ah? Editor? You were here?”
Somii’s face slightly hardened.
Assistant Manager Go wasn’t here for overtime. Gyunguk who usually left at 6 was still sitting in his chair.
“I brought it.”
“Hm,ok. Here.”
Somii offered the contact with two hands politely.
Gyunguk said as he lifted himself up.
“You didn’t eat, right? Let’s eat together.”
Somii suddenly lost what to say.
But she answered quickly.
“Ah, Editor… I’m sorry, but I already have plans.”
Usually, this was enough to get people away.
And Somii thought too.
But Gyunguk asked once more.
“Oh really? I thought that it was time for you to come, and I was waiting for you to eat together. Is it important?”
“Yes, a bit….”
Gyunguk sighed and sat back down.
“I guess not. Then let’s do that for later. Where are you going? I can drive you there.”
“No, it’s fine. I’ll be leaving now. You go safely.”
Gyunguk looked at Somii leaving.
It was a glance like a hunter looking at a bird who was out of his reach
‘Does she have a man? Nah, probably just a friend.’
Gyunguk sighed and turned off his game.
It would have been better if he had asked her before.
But it was too late as he was packing his jacket, getting ready to leave.
‘She’s perfectly my style, though. Cute and cheerful. Her skin is great because she’s so young too.’
Gyunguk got up. There would be a lot of times because they were in the same office.
And now he called his friend.
“Hello, Is it Jungkek? It’s Gyunguk and how’s today for a drink? I’ll buy. Ah? That room? I could remember the girls’ faces. Hey, there’s another place, yea. I’m about to leave so I’ll see you in 30 minutes.”
He whistled and left.
As he came by at the elevator, there were a few people there.
‘She must have left already. She’s fast.’
Gyunguk got on the elevator.
And just then, Somii came out from the restroom.
‘It would be awkward if we met.;
Somii knew where he put his car. Therefore, she guided him to the opposite side of his car. It wouldn’t be good if they met again.
Somii took another elevator and went down. Jaegun was waiting with the music on.
“I’m sorry I was late. Did you wait a while?”
“It’s only been about 15 minutes. Are you done?”
“Yes, I’m completely done.”
Somii smiled and got on. The car was warm and made her feel good.
“Now, what do you want to eat?”
“Hm…”
Somii opened after a thought.
“How’s Spicy Seafood Stew. That’s good and hot. I know a place and it’s not far. We can go there.”
“Sure. Let’s go then.”
Jaegun accepted her offer and pressed the accelerator.
It would only be a 5-minute ride.
Chapter 64
As they went into the restaurant, there were many people as this was a famous place.
“Welcome, how many people?”
“Two.”
“Come here.”
The two people got escorted to a table in the corner. Jaegun took off his jacket and said to the employee.
“Get us a large Spicy Seafood Stew.”
“Writer Ha, we can’t eat that all with only 2 people.”
Somii tried to stop him but Jaegun didn’t listen
“We can. If we order big, there will be good sides too, right?”
“Hahaha, yes, we’ll do well.”
The seafood came onto the table.
There were so much seafood, shrimp, mussels, etc. The employee put the seafood inside the stew and cut it for them.
“Eat first, Writer Ha.”
“Ah, this is good.”
“Here. I’ll cut it for you. Here.”
Somii busily pulled out the food onto Jaegun’s plate. Then Jaegun started to return the favor as well.
“You too. You’re eating nothing.”
“I am. How is this place?”
“It’s good. I think I’ll come here more often. Are you frequent here?”
Somii smiled and shook her head.
“It’s a bit too expensive here to be frequent. We came here with my office employees. The food is good and the seafood is really fresh.”
“Yea, it really is. Thank you for telling me this place.”
“I’m thankful. I get food from such an expensive place.”
“Do you want a drink? I can get a ride.”
“You don’t have to for me. I don’t have to drink.”
“Then let’s just go for a coke.”
Jaegun and Somii talked as they ate.
There was no awkwardness between them.
It was already winter, and they met in the summer. They faced a lot together.
The two people were already very close without the help of a drink.
“Somii, couldn’t you show me your pictures?”
Jaegun asked as they were about to be full.
He was going to ask, but he was holding in the question. But it was getting to be hard.
“Mine?”
“You’re really good. I know. Because you have that profile that drawers have. I feel like there’s going to be a lot of things on that tablet you carry around everywhere.”
Jaegun smiled as he pointed at the laptop that was sticking out of the bag.
Somii immediately turned horrified, showing Jaegun’s guess was right.
“Ah, it’s really embarrassing. And there’s nothing that’s complete yet.”
“I want to see it. Yes? Please?”
“Hm, then just a little.”
Somii turned on the laptop and gave it to Jaegun.
As Jaegun got the laptop, Somii immediately put her head down on her hands.
“Wow!”
Jaegun complimented as he looked at the first picture.
He thought there would be girly cute pictures, but no. The beginning was filled with a knight in armor on a horse. The ferocity of the knight seemed to break out of the monitor.
“Wow! This is great. How do you draw these characters so well? This is crazy!”
Jaegun turned the page, spouting compliments.
It wasn’t about all cute female characters either.
There were great female characters that male readers would love to see.
“You’re this good and you have no talent? Aren’t you too modest?”
“Don’t say that. I can’t even lift my head.”
Just then
A young woman came over to the talking Jaegun and stood next to him.
“Um, excuse me.”
“Hm… yes?”
Jaegun and Somii both looked at her.
It was a female customer sitting just a few feet away from here. The group of 3-4 was looking at Jaegun and whispering.
“What is it?”
“Um, are you Writer Ha Jaegun?”
“Ahah, yes. It’s right.”
It wasn’t the first time that he faced this, so Jaegun answered her calmly. The girl covered her mouth and gestured to the group.
“Wow, it’s right.”
The group all came to Jaegun.
They were all girls in their 30s. And they all fought to speak to Writer Ha.
“Wow. This is really Writer Ha Jaegun.”
“I’ve read your book A Dumb Woman. Writer. We’re the reader group in our company. You have no idea how emotional it was to us. We must have read it about 3 times at least.”
“You’re so much more handsome than your Navin picture.”
“What are you writing now? Is it going to be a drama? I love those.”
Questions came like a bullet that Jaegun couldn’t answer them as quickly.
But Jaegun tried his best to answer them
“Why did they all go that way? Is he a famous person?”
“I don’t know. I know a lot of programs but I’ve never seen him before.”
The customers and even the employee started to glance at them
If they could hear the conversation, they would know that Jaegun was a writer, but the restaurant was pretty loud.
‘He really grown.’
The opposite side of Jaegun.
Somii was looking at Jaegun with a slight smile.
The two eyes were bright.
They were the light that was reflecting the growth of Jaegun in just half a year.
“Writer, I’m sorry but could you take a picture?”
Jaegun looked at Somii and nodded.
“Yes, of course.”
“I’ll take it, here give it to me.”
Somii took the phone from the girl.
The girls took place behind Jaegun and fixed their clothes and hair.
“I’ll take it. 1, 2, 3…”
The flash came and a picture stored on the phone.
The girl asked as she took her phone back.
“But… your girlfriend?”
Somii almost spilled her water at that.
Her face turned red as she tried to wave it off.
“No, no. I’m an editor.”
“Ahah, you’re really pretty.”
“Yeah, your skin is white and the hair fits really great.”
“How did you guys meet?”
“Hey, she’s an editor. Did you forget? Let’s clear out. They’re eating.”
A girl that was a little less drunk than the rest pulled out the group. Even as they went back to their seats, they nodded their heads at Jaegun/
Therefore, Jaegun had to do the same out of politeness.
“Sigh, Sorry Somii.”
“No, I felt good, too. Being with a famous writer.”
“Don’t tease me. Ah, let me see the pictures again.”
Jaegun picked up the laptop.
And he continued on his compliments.
Somii was having fun on the opposite side, yet she was also very nervous.
‘When this ends…’
When would she be able to see Jaegun again?
That was Somii’s only thoughts.
There was no work reason to meet Jaegun again.
‘It will be hard to meet just an editor like me.’
Jaegun would pull out books after books. Therefore, he would obviously go higher up in the rankings.
This was Somii’s belief. There was no another path.
“I saw them well, Somii.”
Somii didn’t even hear Jaegun call her name.
Jaegun pulled out his hand in front of Somii and then she finally looked at him.
“Yes, Writer, say it.
“I saw the pictures well.”
Jaegun continued as he handed over the pictures.
“You have the skill to do outside work.”
“Ah, yes. I guess…”
“There’s no rule that you can’t. If the company people say something, you can use a different name.”
“Not that, but I don’t have confidence.
Beep!
Jaegun’s phone vibrated.
It was a message from Minho.
Jaegun laughed as he checked it and said to Somii.
“It’s a writer I know. He wants to me to introduce a good illustrator if I know any. He’s preparing for a pay per chapter book.”
“Ah… yes.”
“The management would do it for him, but there’s a possibility that he might not like it. How is it? Don’t you have any ideas on sending your portfolio?”
Chapter 65
It was true that she had no confidence
It was something which could not be solved even with compliments and praises from Jaegun. Therefore, it was the kind of work that should’ve been turned down.
However, right now, Somii couldn’t do that.
Because if she accepted this job, she would form a closer relationship with Jaegun
To be able to see his face one more time.
In the busy crowded restaurant, there was a silence between the two people.
Looking downwards, Somii had a serious expression cast upon her face.
In the end, there was a smile on his face as Jaegun spoke.
“I’m sorry. I think I was in too much of a hurry so I don’t mind if you slowly think things through if you find it uncomfortable…”
“-I’ll do it!”
Somii said with her head raised and a determined glint in her eyes.
She spoke to him with a clear tone.
“Although I don’t have any confidence, I will try. On the way home, I’ll gather up a portfolio of art and drawings and send it to your mailbox”
He smiled brightly in happiness and stuck out his thumb.
“That’s good. Talent shouldn’t be sitting around collecting dust after all. Make me a cover, too.”
He poured some coke in a drinking glass and held up the drink in the air.
“A toast. By day, a sarcastic and witty editor but by night, an illustrator with talent. A toast to Jung Somii. Cheers!”
“What was that for Writer Ha, Saying it so weirdly.”
“Nevermind. Drink it up. One shot.”
“What? Um… I’m not very good at these.”
“If you can’t, then you’re paying.l”
Jaegun began to chug down on his coke first.
Making a face, Somii followed and brought the cup to her lips and began to drink.
Neither of them could even manage to finish half of the cup without choking. Seeing that, they both stared at each other and laughed.
“My mood is getting better. After eating, do you want to go to the karaoke bar?”
“Karaoke? Well, I’m fine with it but will you be okay? Don’t you still have to write as well?”
“You know that I write at the speed of light. So, after this, karaoke?”
“…cool.”
Somii made circles with her fingers and bashfully replied.
There were no longer any feelings of nervousness or restlessness. Right now, this moment was priceless. Resolving herself to no longer be foolish and silly from now on, Somii finished off drinking the rest of her cola.
“Finally it’s pay day.”
After Christmas, the morning of December 27th.
With a clean, washed face, Dongmi pulled out the chair and sat in front of the computer.
Today, she had to work balancing accounts on Munpia. Munpia’s calculation period was between the last month of 28th to this month of 27th.
Tewon in fatigue was still sleeping soundly in the other room.
Dongmi, listening to Tewon’s snoring, accessed the munpia page. After entering in username and password, she checked the results for the novel ‘The Breathe’.
Project: The Breathe
Paid web novel purchases: 2, 681, 448
Paid web novel total sales: 268, 144, 800 won
Paid web novel sales (adjusted amount): 168, 931, 224 won
Tax: 5, 574, 730 won
Final amount paid: 163, 356, 494 won( About 160,000 dollars)
“Wow…!”
Even though she checked every day, it was still amazing.
Today’s was greater than yesterday’s and it made Dongmi shudder in excitement. And that final amount probably wasn’t even 3% of the profits of the books
This was all because of Jaegun’s writing speed
Because he was releasing 5 chapters a day, he could pull off such a wonderful result.
“This is a real record setter. And it hasn’t even been a month yet.”
‘The Breathe’ began to publish itself serially from the beginning of the month of December. If he had filled the entire month, there would be more profits.
And this was only from the munpia sales.
‘The Breathe,’ would now enter Navin Store, Cocoa page, and Yuto Books
There was no way to know how much profits those would make yet.
“Since Tewon is sleeping right now, I should make the call.”
Without delay, Dongmin took Tewon’s cellphone in her hands.
Dongmin had worried a lot about paying their bills. She felt that she needed to call the person who helped them get away from this worry.
After the phone rang a couple times, the line finally connected.
-Yes, representative.
“Writer Ha Jaegun. Hello. I am Representative Tewon’s wife Shin Dongmin.”
-Ahh, yes. Hello.
On the receiver end, Jaegun sounded slightly confused.
Dongmin laughed as she continued
“You’ve written such marvelous pieces of work so I wanted to say thanks. I’m sure you know that today is where we calculate the balance accounts on munpia? Writer Ha’s earning are very good.”
-Thank you. But really it’s all because of Representative Tewon.
“I really want to invite you over to our house. Ever since I saw you, I’ve wanted to treat you out to a feast. Talk with my husband and I hope you will come by.”
-Yes. Thank you. Of course, if you’re inviting, I’ll be there.
“Yes, Yes, if you could come, I’ll be thankful. Also, Writer Ha, if I were to send a package, where would I have to address it to?”
It was a question asked even though she knew that Jaegun lived alone by himself in Seoul. It was an important thing to send a present to a writer on the holidays.
Jaegun was Laugh Book’s sole author. Obviously, she couldn’t just forget it.
-Ah, I think it’d be good if you were to send it to Suwon.
“Ok. Then have a Happy New Year and I’ll contact you in the next year.”
-Yes, thank you for all your hard work and happy new year.
Beep!
Jaegun stretched
Rika, who was sitting on the bed, saw Jaegun and began to copy, performing her own stretch with her front paws being outreached in front of her.
“One hundred thousand dollars”
Jaegun mumbled to himself while staring at Rika. Even half a year ago, that was something that wouldn’t have even been thought of. Now the day where he could buy his family a house wasn’t so far off.
‘The Breathe, which was being updated 5 times a day, would reach over 400 chapters by the end of next February. Jaegun wanted to get profit fast so he didn’t rest at all.
“Including some of the other works, this month’s profit should be…I can’t seem to calculate it. Rika, calculate it for me, please. How much is it?”
Rika didn’t even pretend as though if she were listening.
Jaegun ran, scooping Rika into his arms and repeatedly nipped at her.
“Hurry up and calculate for me, I’m asking you how much is my income this month”
“Meow.”
Instead, Rika simply licked at Jaegun’s nose.
Ticklish, Jaegun began to giggle but kept rubbing his nose against Rika’s.
The delicate smell of shampoo was felt clearly as he held her.
“if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be able to write this way”
“Meow?”
“You’re not a normal cat. I know. You and master saved me.
Jaegun sat up straight and began scratching Rika at the nape of her neck.
Rika moved her body and made herself comfortable to adjust to the hands that were scratching her.
Her eyes slowly began to slant and droop.
“I have to do my best. Every day I’m learning something new. Master Se Gunwoo is an amazing person. Even a single word or sentence, when I did it the way he taught me, it adds a whole new different flavor. I wonder just what kind of person he was”
Jaegun who had been muttering to himself while all of a sudden the Modern Teen Literary award came up.
For a long time, he had completely forgotten about it.
He was lying if he said he wasn’t anticipating a good result.
He wanted to be an author that was deserving of his professor’s encouragement. He wanted to be someone that could make his professor proud.
“Rika, wanna go out for a bit? To clean up the master’s house a bit, then maybe going to offer him a cup of wine at his grave.”
“Meow”
Rika jumped off the bed.
Jaegun grabbed his coat and stepped out of the door with Rika.
A cold gust of winter air blew their way. But with Rika close to him, Jaegun didn’t feel cold at all.
Chapter 66
“It’s funny, you see.”
Professor Gu placed down his cup of coffee. He decided to try his luck.
Around a luxurious looking table, there were 7-8 people sitting all around.
There was a single common factor amongst all these people.
Professor, novelist, critic. They were all famous people in the circle of the literary world.
They were also all committee members on the Modern Teen Literary contest.
“Isn’t it quite funny how the award will be going to an author who writes such low standard writing.
Immediately, the professor next to him spoke.
“I think so too. In literature, there should be something like dignity. For someone that writes fantasy martial arts web novels online to win such an award. How? It’s just not proper. I may even be considering a ghost writer.”( a writer who is hired to write.)
A neat looking female professor of around the age of fifty seemed to be the same
“I am of the same opinion as well. This is awkward, but it’s just not up to the standard. Just terrible project. Oh, so sorry. I apologize, it shouldn’t even be a project. After reading, it leaves your brain vacant. There’s no message. Are we really going to present the award to an author that writes such things?”
“That’s right. Although I’d rather not say this but, there are many bright young brilliant minds like my students who have also entered this year’s contest whom I believe to be far more deserving of this award. I don’t think it makes sense for us to award some writer who writes these trashy web novel over submissions of actual literary work.”
After the last professor’s words, a silence hung over the table.
On the opposite side, the other four people who were on the council had not spoken.
These were part of the party who supported the author that they were currently discussing.
They thought that it had been an overwhelmingly well-written piece.
“huhuhu.”
Among the four people, a female professor began to quietly laugh.
The other female professor from before that gave off an air of order furrowed her eyebrows and asked.
“What’s so funny?”
“Nothing much. I just found it so funny how agreeable you all seemed to be with each other when it came to this topic. You’re all saying the same thing.”
Upon giving her reply, the female professor pushed back her chair and stood up.
Since there was no reason for her to be sitting at this table anymore.
“Where are you going all of a sudden?”
“It looks like there’s nothing to talk about anymore. And I just thought of a critique to write on my monthly article.
At her words, the expressions on everyone’s faces became stiff for a moment.
It was because this particular female professor had influence in the literary world that could not be ignored
“What-what topic are you planning to write?”
Professor Jung asked stiffly.
She stared at the ceiling for a bit before replying.
“A mark of an author? Just because of the genre he chooses to write. no matter how good and well written his work might be, he’ll never receive acknowledgment for it. A truly disgusting stigma. I’m going write if this is the mistake of the author or the literary world.”
“Look here! Professor Han Hesun!”
Professor Gu shouted in anger and stood up.
“Are you taking sides because it’s your student?”
She finally lowered her gaze from the ceiling and back on downwards.
And she stared at him.
“Are you saying that while already knowing what kind of person I am?”
A single phrase.
Professor Gu harrumphed and turned his head.
Although he hated to admit it, that was the truth.
The professor in front of him had never said something unfair.
“T-that may be so but you’re being too protective of this one? You haven’t criticized the novel once.”
Professor Gu argued without looking at her.
The female professor burst out into laughter and said this.
“How are you supposed to criticize a novel that has no faults?
It became suddenly quiet
Taking a book out of her bag, she placed it down on the table.
“it’s the author’s previous work. It seems as if those of you on Mr. Gu’s side haven’t read it yet. Especially you, Professor Jung. Seeing that you thought of a possibility of a ghost writer, I’m curious if those thoughts will be the same after you’re done with this book.
“Ughhh….!”
“I’ll be leaving first. Good work.”
She turned and left.
Everyone’s attention went towards the book that she had left behind.
The name of the book was ‘A Dumb Woman’ And the author’s name was Ha Jaegun.
“I’ve eaten well.”
It was the time when they were eating fruit after dinner.
Jaegun picked up an apple and lifted his head. His two ears were surprised. His dad Sukjae was continuing with his head down
“It’s great eating with the family together with my son as well.”
His mom Myungja and Jaeyn was the same. They were all looking at Sukjae with disbelief.
“A, ah… Why are you saying that?”
“It’s good. You ate well too.”
Myungja turned red as she smiled. Jaeyn also smiled. The feeling of happiness was great once in awhile.
Jaegun choked up. He wasn’t thinking that he would hear any compliments as they were shopping for ingredients. He had just thought that it would be good if he didn’t complain.
But he ate well.
And it was great because his son was here.
It wasn’t his dad who said false words. It made him happy.
“I should go.”
Sukjae put down his fork and stood up. Myungja asked to Sukjae with sorry eyes.
“Can’t you rest on the holidays.”
“I can only rest when they tell me to. I’m the only person who can work. And I’ve rested before on the previous holiday.”
Jaegun stood up as well. Rika also went to him.
“I’ll take you there.”
“No. Stay here.”
“I have to go anyway.”
Jaeyn said too as Jaegun said that.
“Where are you going? You should say during the holidays. I have to go somewhere. I’ll be back. Suwon isn’t that far anyway.
The two family members went out.
The car was already on by remote control. Jaegun opened the passenger seat and Sukjae went in grumbling.
“It’s close by walking.”
“It’s cold. Let’s go by car.”
It was barely a few minutes. Jaegun derived and Sukjae only stared outside the window. There were no words.
“Father.”
Jaegun said as they arrived.
Sukjae was turning around as he opened the door.
“Resign from this job.”
He didn’t say anything else.
Sukjae opened his eyes in surprise. But he quickly turned unemotional and answered.
“Thank you for taking me.”
“Father…”
“Go ahead. And come again.”
Sukjae closed the door and went away.
Jaegun looked at his father walking away. His figure slowly disappeared from view. But he still sat there.
“Meow.”
Rika went over to the passenger seat and meowed.
Then Jaegun realized and shook his head.
“Sorry, Rika. I was thinking.”
Jaegun slapped his cheeks in self-encouragement as he accelerated.
He was going to write harder tomorrow. His will was strong.
Until that day when his usually unemotional father was not going to stop laughing.
Chapter 67
“Wow. Minho already has 3000 views?”
The office next to Guro station.
Yang Hyeongyung was surprised as he sipped some coffee.
Minho’s new novel, The King Fallen on Earth, with 20 chapters was showing decent results.
“Awesome… this way, he’s already going to be ready for paid chapters? Ah, I need to write a draft too.”
There were only sighs coming out
His age was 25. He left his hometown after the military and it was a month since he got here.
It was obvious why he did. To write something great and fun and get profit and live as a writer.
That was his dream. But he didn’t even get to write a novel yet. Nothing he wrote was fun. He wrote something down, but he erased it later.
He continued that about 10 times every day. And now today, the end of the year, he couldn’t do anything either.
“Ah, fricking loser. Editor of me! Idiot! What do I write? Just someone, give me a good story! Ah, I want to go out. I don’t have money or a girl, what is this in the new year!
Hyeongyung shouted like a madman.
Just then, the door opened with the password beeping sounds. Hyeongyung didn’t look thinking it was Minho.
“Excuse me.”
“…hm?!”
Hyeongyung was surprised at that and looked up. It was Jaegun who came in. In his hands, he had chicken and pizza. Rika was walking around him.
“I’m a person who knows Writer Kang Minho. I called him, but he said he had something to do. And then he gave me the password.”
Jaegun explained quickly
Hyeongyung nodded in surprise and stood up. It was the first time they had met.
“Come in. My brother will come in soon.”
“Yes, thank you.”
Jaegun put down the food on a table.
Hyeongyung’s mouth was watering. He was poor and he really wanted to eat those luxury foods.
‘Come quickly…’
He could eat when Minho came back.
Hyeongyung wanted to just break the seal and start eating. But he suppressed that and sat down. And he clicked on the Munpia site link.
“Sigh…”
A sigh that came out of habit.
It was the Breathe with 1st place on the monitor screen. He was envious of the writers who were successful. He thought he was dumb.
“He must have gotten 200 thousand dollars just this month.”
Jaegun looked at Hyeongyung’s monitor. When he saw him looking at his project, Jaegun looked back down with a bitter smile.
“He must be living the life, right?”
Jaegun lifted his head up again. Since it was a question, he had to respond to it.
“Who…?”
“Pyung Cheon Yu. Minho says he’s in his 20s, he must be living the life? He might be around somewhere living the nights of his days. Ah, I’m writing like this trying to get just 1000 dollars in one month. In the holidays.
Hyeongyung started word as he complained. And the draft that he had started showed up on the screen.
“Ah, this is really bleak.”
“Your novel?”
Hyeongyung turned around as if expecting it.
“Yes, it’s fantasy, do you like it?”
“Of course.”
“Then could you read it? I don’t’ know if it’s fun or not.”
“Ok.”
Jaegun sat down on the seat. Hyeongyung added.
“It’s about 15000 words. Just an intro.”
“Hm.”
He didn’t need the glasses because it wasn’t long.
Jaegun scrolled down and looked carefully.
‘A mess.’
Jaegun knew before the end.
It was a story of hunters in the world of monsters. Too many plot deviations, too many characters. Who was the main?”
‘Kang Minho’s draft was good compared to this.’
Jaegun stood up as he finished. Hyeongyung immediately asked nervously.
“How was it?”
“Hm, I think there are too many characters.”
“Yeah? I’m writing a story with their different point of views. Like the story where many characters talk from their POV.”
“Ah, yes. I think there’s a tendency for the novel to be too dragged because everyone says their POV from the beginning. There’s no real connection to the actual current story.”
Hyeongyung froze.
Jaegun continued.
“I don’t think there’s a reason to introduce all the characters from the beginning. Isn’t it good to just introduce when they are needed? And just say a man for a man and a girl for a girl. I think that’s good for the story.”
“Hm, do you? It’s a bit different from me.”
Hyeongyung frowned. It was the critique that he had gotten from Minho. He was hoping for some good reviews, but Hyeongyung was sort of irritated with the combined stress.”
“Are you a writer too?”
“Ah, yes.”
“If it’s not too much, can I ask what you wrote?”
Hyeongyung asked as a challenge. He wanted to see what sort of great projects the other person wrote.
Jaegun opened his mouth, sort of embarrassed, when the door opened and Minho came in.
“Ah, Writer Ha Jaegun? Ah, Rika too.”
“You’re here? I brought pizza and chicken, let’s eat.”
“A? What is this?”
Hyeongyung was looking at the two of them. He didn’t remember any writer called Ha Jaegun. Maybe he had a pen name. Or a writer like him who didn’t debut yet?”
“Hyeongyung, what are you doing? Let’s eat.”
Minho said as he took open the bag. Hyeongyung stopped and sat down on the chair.
“Thank you, writer.”
“I’ll eat too.”
“Yes, eat before it cools.”
Hyeongyung was already eating before Jaegun said that. He was waiting so long for this.
Jaegun poured cups of coke and gave it to them.
“Aren’t you eating?”
“I’ve eaten. Don’t worry. But, your novel, it’s doing good.”
“Ahaha, what. It’s all because of you.”
“I’ll call the representative. I don’t think there’s going to be anything changed. Maybe the title.”
“I can change that easily. Ah, I hope it goes well. If I can just do one tenth of yours, no that’s too big. Just for me to quit the convenience store job.”
“It’s going to be good.”
Minho’s words intensified Hyeongyung’s curiosity. What kind of writer was he talking about if saying that even one tenth was a good thing?
Hyeongyung didn’t have time to ask.
Because Minho’s next words were saying the answer
“When is the Breathe coming to Navin and Cocoa?”
“Probably about late January?”
Hyeongyung’s face turned pale. And his hand lost the grip on the cup. The coke splashed on the floor.
“Ah, I, I’m sorry.”
Hyeongyung’s quickly tried to pick it up. He lost his cup again with his shivering hands.
“Ah, ah, no… Minho… why didn’t you tell me…!”
Hyeongyung was looking at Minho with horror and regret. After laughing, Minho nodded his head to Jaegun.
“Sorry, I wanted to surprise my brother. Now I think it worked.
“Ahah… yes..aha ha.”
Jaegun answered with an embarrassed laugh.
Hyeongyung wasn’t alright yet. He opened his mouth.
“Ah, ah I’m really sorry about before…I’m sorry….. I didn’t think you would be Writer Pyung Cheon Yu. I only know the pen name. Ahaha, even if I did, I shouldn’t have said that.”
“No, it’s nothing anyway.”
“Hey, what did you do to Writer Ha?”
“No, it’s nothing. Really it was nothing, Writer Kang.”
Hyeongyung lifted his head. His hunger disappeared. Surprised by his determination from his eyes, Jaegun slightly shivered at that.
“I beg you, Writer.”
“Yes? What…?”
“Please help me. I’ll take anything. If you could tell me how to write, I will never forget this. Please.”
Hyeongyung stood up and gave a 90 degrees bow. Jaegun who was horrified also stood up.
“Don’t do this. Ok. I’ll help you as much as you can. I can help you with the basic guideline.”
“Re, really?”
“Yes, so just sit down.”
“Ah, Thank you. Thank you! Thank you! Really, Thank you! Writer!”
Hyeongyung kept bowing. Jaegun couldn’t stop him.
“Just eat first. I might change my mind if you don’t.”
“Of, of course. I’ll eat everything.”
He was sitting in his office with no one to meet until the end of the year. As with Minho, Jaegun was a great figure to Hyeongyung as well.
‘Thank you, Writer..’
Minho repeated his praise. Jaegun was smiling with Rika in his arms.
In the office with only a few hours until the new year, the group with Writer Jaegun as the boss was slowing taking place.
Chapter 68
“Yes, Writer Kang, it’s Kwon Tewon. The Demon King’s Second Coming is doing pretty well. Just keep doing it. Don’t move away from the plot. Just make the main character like this.”
“Hello. Writer Yang, It’s Laugh Book’s Shin Dongmi. Yes. Congrats on making your novel views going over 6000. We’re going to be releasing paid chapters next Friday.”
The two employees of Laugh Book’s were getting busy.
2 new projects came in. Kang Minho’s Demon King’s Second Coming and Yang Hyeongyung’s Slaughter.
Two projects were doing above average. The tips by Jaegun once a week was doing great.
A day in January.
Today, Jaegun was also in the office with the two. He wasn’t here to look over their writing solely either. He wrote his own paper in a leftover computer.
‘This is good once in a week to change the mood up for a while?’
Jaegun thought.
He had never written with other writers until Minho and Hyeongyung. It was a new feeling. New ideas came up in conversations.
“It’s already been 5, Writer Ha. Aren’t you hungry? Would you like to eat?”
“Yes, I’m fine. You order what you want to order.
Jaegun answered with his hands on the keyboard.
Today was a good writing day. He was going to stay for a bit longer and eat dinner and leave. It was slow because it wasn’t Se Gunwoo’s laptop, but it didn’t matter.
Beep!
A call came from an unknown number.
“Hello.”
Jaegun answered. The words on the screen were still continuing.
-Hello, Writer Ha Jaegun?
“Yes, Who is this?”
-This is Modern Teen Literary manager Jo Segyung.
The hand stopped.
Jaegun grabbed the phone with one hand
-Hello? Writer Ha Jaegun?
“Yes, yes go ahead. I’m listening.
His voice was shivering.
His heart was pounding hard. His head was heating up.
-Congratulations. Your project for the Modern Teen Literary Contest won the award.
Jaegun sighed
He already knew since he heard the name manager.
Only one person would get the call anyway.
‘Me….!’
One person per year.
The Modern Teen Literary Contest that was so competitive. The contest that was honored by the literary world. It was the fact that he won made him silent.
“Why is Writer Ha like that? Is it bad news?”
“Shush. Quiet.”
Minho and Hyeongyung moved to another room. Jaegun didn’t realize their movements at all.
-There’s time since the actual release date. So I hope you can stay quiet until then. You’ll have to write a speech, the amount is…
The manager was talking. Jaegun tried to listen, but the words just didn’t go in his ear.
-Then I’ll call you back again.
“Yes, yes, thank you.”
Jaegun looked up at the ceiling blankly. He had no thoughts for a while. And then one girl’s face started to show up on the ceiling’s pattern.
‘I have to meet her…!’
Jaegun stood up immediately and picked up his coat. He had to give this information to that one person. If it weren’t for this person, he couldn’t have even written this novel.
“Writer Kang, Writer Yang. I’m sorry, but I have to go.”
“Is there, is there something bad?”
“No, nothing like that. Then I’ll contact you later.”
Jaegun picked up Rika and started the car. And then he searched up Dasul and called.
-The phone is turned off so …
‘Dang it!’
Jaegun dropped his phone.
Why now, why at this important time is the phone off.
Maybe she was changing the battery. Thinking that, Jaegun waited a few minutes and called again. But the phone was still off.
‘If this was right, I should have asked where she lived.’
Jaegun pressed the accelerator. He thought that she was still working there.
It wasn’t a long distance so he got off. The karaoke bar was still shiny.
He didn’t go to the elevator and went up the stairs.
He called again, but another beep came with no answer.
“Hello.”
The owner with the heavy makeup greeted Jaegun. Jaegun nodded and asked her,
“Hello. Do you remember me?”
“Hm? Um… Ah!”
The owner clapped her hands together.
“The person who writes?”
“Yes, that’s right. It’s nothing, but I wanted to find that girl from last time again, Dasul. Her phone is off so I don’t know how to meet her. It’s important.”
“I haven’t seen her in a while?”
“Yes? Why?”
“I don’t know. If she’s not here, she’s not. Why? Is the phone off? Did she borrow money?”
The owner asked with suspicious eyes. Jaegun shook his head with his hand on his forehead.
“How long has it been?”
“Hm, about a week?”
“Um… is there any way I can go through the office?
Jaegun asked hopefully. But the owner shook her head.
“I can’t go that. It might be complicated later on. You know?”
“…yes, I know.”
“Just wait. The phone might be broken.”
The owner comforted him, looking at Jaegun’s worried face. Jaegun nodded weakly and went out of the bar.
“Sigh…Rika. Where do I find her?”
Jaegun stood there, looking at the crowd going by. And with that, he was asking to Rika.
“It’s kind of sad actually. She called many times to get dinner, but I never answered. I said I would contact her, but I didn’t.”
The regret was coming through him in waves. Dasul’s face was still in his mind clearly.
“Meow. Meow.”
Rika turned herself in his grasp. And then, she jumped off. Jaegun was worried because there were many people so he turned around.
“Rika, don’t go away and come here.”
Rika was walking towards a building with grace.
And then she stopped in front of a girl’s shoes.
“Oh hey~ you’re cute. What’s your name?”
Jaegun widened his two eyes.
The girl’s face was stuck in his eyes.
Chapter 69
“Are you a Russian Blue? Are you a female? Where’s your owner?”
The girl who was crouching down and winking at Rika was Dasul.
Jaegun walked toward as if pulled. And seeing the shadow, Dasul slowly looked up.
“Ah? Writer?”
Dasul smiled happily.
It was a face that didn’t have any makeup. Looking at the pretty and cheerful face, Jaegun smiled as well.
“What are you doing? How was it?”
“I got it.”
“Yes? Got what?”
“The novel that I wrote about you got the award.”
Dasul’s smile froze.
The surroundings around them were loud. However, through the loudness, the two people were exchanging glances silently.
“Meow.”
Rika broke the silence and went in between them. Both people’s glance went towards Rika.
“Why was your phone off?”
“Ah, the frame broke.”
Dasul stood up and answered.
“There was a bit of a rough customer. I said a message and I put it on the table, but he pushed the table so it fell. Well, I got the fees, so.”
“I see.”
Dasul smiled and came closer to him. And she looked up at Jaegun and tilted her head.
“So? Did you come to see me? To tell me that?”
“I wrote it because of you.”
“What is that. You’re just good.”
“Aren’t you working?”
Dasul answered with a horrified face and looked around herself wearing a jumper and jeans.
“How can I work with this? And I haven’t gone in a week. It’s the new year’s too.”
“Yes… so do you have anything to do?”
“I don’t so I’m here out to buy beer.”
“That’s good.”
“What”
“I’m keeping my promise of buying you something”
Dasul laughed with a phew. Jaegun also smiled a bit.
“How long has that been? There’s way too much interest?”
“I’m fine with anything.”
“I’m gonna eat till the bone?”
“It’s fine.”
Dasul went to Jaegun and crossed her arms with him.
She was reckless like they were old friends or in a relationship. Jaegun wasn’t that horrified, knowing her,
“But what about the cat? There are places where the cat can’t go.”
“There should be. Or I can bring her home and come back. It’s not that far. Just get on first.”
Jaegun and Dasul walked over to Jaegun’s car. Dasul widened her eyes in surprise.
“You must be having some money? You have a car.”
“It’s not that expensive. Get in.”
The car with the two and Rika slowly drove away. Rika was in between the two. Without both of them knowing, her eyes were shining brightly.
“Are you going to use Writer Oh Myunghun again?”
Nexon office.
There were two people. One was the planning team leader and one was the development team leader.
“It came out like that. Go discuss it with Representative Park when he comes.”
Suhee closed her mouth and looked down.
Nexon was creating another mobile game.
A genre with a free-roaming RPG game. It was about a writer to write for this story that was 60 percent done.
“I have no other words. Go ask the representative. But tomorrow, I’ll get a meeting with Writer Oh. Then, bye.”
The development team leader went out quickly.Suhee sat down in despair and didn’t know how to get up.
‘How…? There is no reason why Jaegun isn’t good enough for Myunghoon? Jaegun got many hit works and the Digital Literary Award as well?
Maybe there was another force at work.
Suhee was about to make Jaegun the writer for this. The story for Jaegun’s scenario for the mobile racing game was already over. But the writing was left. The entire team read it and understood his skill.
But now it was Myunghoon.
Suhee knew that Myunghoon’s personality wasn’t good enough for this job. He was good at writing. But it was different from writing alone and writing with others. She couldn’t understand Myunghoon who bragged and didn’t listen to others.
“Sigh, my head hurts.”
Suhee stood up holding her forehead. She needed a cup of coffee.
She went to the resting room with her slippers. Without knowing that there would be a visitor that she had no idea would be there.
“Are you gonna drink coffee?”
Suhee was surprised as she almost lost her balance.
Myunghoon was sitting alone in a chair near the window.
In his hand, there was a mug with coffee in it.
“Why are you here?”
She heard that there would be a meeting about tomorrow or so.
But there was no reason to see Myunghoon here today.
“Let’s drink coffee together.”
Myunghoon said that as he went to the coffee machine and picked up a capsule.
Suhee asked with sharp and cold eyes.
“What did you do?”
“Do?”
“Jaegun is here, but the game got scrapped and for the new project, how could you, with no meeting or anything, be the new scenario writer? What connection is it now?’
Myunghoon stayed quiet, looking at the coffee stream.
He opened his mouth as the coffee stopped.
“It might be because of the news. The drama for my novel is right ahead.”
Myunghoon was saying the words very unemotional.
“There might have been words between Nexon and Content Jinhyungwon. I don’t know what you’re thinking of, but there was nothing special that I did.”
Myunghoon turned around and pulled out the mug to Suhee.
Suhee just looked at Myunghoon’s face without taking the mug.
‘What is it?’
Suhee was curious.
Myunghoon was unlike his usual self. This new calm self of him seemed very different compared to the impulse, easy to get mad Myunghoon.
“Take it, drink it when it’s hot.”
Myunghoon gave it to him, shaking the coffee a bit.
Suhee took the cup and sat down in the nearest chair.
Myunghoon took it and sat down opposite of her.
Suhee avoided Myunghoon’s glance and sipped coffee looking at outside the window.
She had no intention of talking with him. She was only here because she thought it was annoying to move seats.
“The representative told me to get a meeting.”
Suhee said when she drank about half of the coffee. It was probably good to talk about business while they were there. Her glance was still looking at the airplane flying across the night.
“Tell me when it’s a good day for you and I’ll make it.”
“Anytime is fine. You make it.”
“Ok, I will.”
Suhee put the cup to her lips again, with talks about business over.
She wanted to drink it quickly but she couldn’t because the coffee was hot. She didn’t have the feeling to rest and enjoy coffee.
‘I have to say this to Jaegun.’
Suhee’s shoulders were drooping.
She wanted to make a game with Jaegun as the writer. He gave a great scenario that was above average. There was nothing bad at all about him. But even with all that, he was just gone.
“Suhee.”
Myunghoon said.
Suhee looked at Myunghoon
“Say it.”
Suhee’s voice was on the tip.
Myunghoon looked down at the table. And with a small sigh, his voice continued.
“I’m sorry.”
Chapter 70
Suhee’s two eyes shined in surprise.
She didn’t mistakenly hear it.
Myunghoon was wrinkling his face. It was a facial expression that matched with the words that he said.
“I apologize for all the things that I’ve done like an idiot. I came here to say that.”
Suhee couldn’t believe it.
Myunghoon, that was so stubborn, was asking for forgiveness. She had no idea how to take in this situation.
“I know it’s not an issue that’s going to be fixed like a simple word like this. I can tell that I was such a bad guy. I wish you could forgive me.”
Myunghoon lifted his head and looked at Suhee.
He added, looking at the surprised and shocked Suhee.
“I won’t say anything more. I’ll try until you can see me as a good person. I’ll fix it one by one.
Suhee couldn’t say anything.
Myunghoon drank the last remains of coffee in one sip and stood up. He added as he went to the exit.
“I won’t let you down.”
Myunghoon’s figure left the resting room.
Suhee’s two eyes were still blank, looking at the door.
‘What happened?’
Was he really asking for forgiveness? Suhee wasn’t sure yet. She had faced way too much of Myunghoon’s bad side to just trust him with one word.
“Team Leader, what’s wrong?”
“Ah? Hemii?”
Suhee lifted her back quickly.
She didn’t even realize that Hemii was standing in front of her.
“I came in here early and you didn’t realize? You must be tired. You should go in early.”
“I think so. I’ll go after one call.”
“Yes, I’m going, too.”
Hemii left the room.
Suhee picked up her phone. Her fingers stopped as she was going to press the last number of Jaegun’s phone number. She had no confidence anymore to talk with a calm voice.
She put her two arms on the table and laid her head down
The restaurant was loud.
Sushi was moving across the conveyor belt in a row. Jaegun and Dasul were just getting escorted in.
“Wow, This is great! I haven’t eaten sushi in such a long time.”
“Eat well today.”
“I eat really well, you know. Your wallet is going to suffer. Ah, it’s shrimp.”
Dasul quickly picked up a shrimp sushi and put it in front of her. And she put wasabi in.
“Isn’t shrimp really good? Everything I get tired of, but not shrimp.
“Yeah. That’s why I eat that the best, too.”
“You’re a real eater. Here’s ginger too.”
“Thank you. Now let’s eat?”
The two people started to eat and talk. Small talk was going between them
Dasul was smiling and laughing. Jaegun felt happy looking at her.
“Ah, I’m full.”
Dasul moved back as she finished about 10 plates. Jaegun was at his limit. As he looked, Dasul’s cheeks were soaked with sweat.
“Take off your jacket. I think it’s a bit hot here.”
Dasul shook her head.
“I can’t.”
“Why?”
“I told you I came to buy beer. I just wore something randomly.”
Jaegun smiled.
“What does that matter. These are people you’re never going to see again. If it’s not rags, just wear it.”
Dasul narrowed her eyes and laughed. And she whispered to Jaegun’s ear.
“I didn’t even do a bra?”
Flustered, Jaegun turned his head and coughed
Dasul immediately clapped her hands and laughed. It was so loud that a few people looked at her.
“It’s a joke. Joke. You think I wouldn’t have one.”
Dasul took off the jumper.
It was just a simple plain black t-shirt.
Her white neck and the black shirt was combining very well. Her neckline was really beautiful, he thought
‘Maybe because her face is pretty, everything is pretty.’
Jaegun thought of Suhee’s face. Suhee was still the prettiest girl he knew. Jaegun thought for a long time that Suhee could be held with the world’s beauties and not lose.
“What do we do now?”
Jaegun lifted his head.
Dasul was smiling like a child. And like before, her two legs were on Jaegun’s thigh.
“You’re not gonna just buy me this, right? You got an award.”
“I get it, what now?” Just first, take off your legs.”
“Why? Are you embarrassed? I like this.”
“That’s a bar. And this has a bar shape, so customers might see. Take it off.”
“No, I won’t.”
Dasul held back.
Jaegun forced her legs off.
“Wow, really. Why do you care so much about other?”
“It’s not caring, but etiquette.”
“It’s fine. If you’re done eating, let’s go. Let’s drink.”
Dasul left first. Jaegun shook his head and stood up with the receipt,
“Thank you. Come again.”
“Yes, thank you.”
The two people walked. Jaegun walked slowly.
“But why don’t you do a necklace?”
“What. So random?”
“You have an earring. Don’t girls do jewelry before leaving home?”
“Then buy me one before I answer that.”
“Hm…?”
Jaegun walked slowly.
And he stopped and looked at a place. There was a store selling jewelry.
“What are you doing?”
Dasul turned around and asked.
She turned her glance to the store as well. And she ran over and slapped her shoulder lightly.
“Come on~ I was joking.”
“No, I’ll buy you one.”
“Ah, it’s fine. I don’t do necklaces. What now?”
“I’m not going to just buy you sushi. That’s good. I was about to give you a present anyway. Let’s go.”
“Uh, Uh, Hey!”
Jaegun walked to the store.
Dasul was embarrassed as she walked towards him.
“Come in.”
The store was shining with jewelry. Jaegun gestured to the Dasul who was standing near the entrance.
“Come on. There’s a lot of good ones.”
“Ah… It’s really fine. I can’t really…”
Dasul put her head down and stood next to Jaegun.
Jaegun pointed to all kinds of jewelry and asked her preference.
“How’s this? Flower-shaped.”
“It looks expensive.”
“Don’t worry. What about this?”
“It looks more expensive.”
Jaegun looked at her.
“I told you to not care about price. You helped me as much as to deserve this. And I have the power to gift you this.”
“I got all the money for the interview.”
“That’s that, and this is this. It’s my mind, so I would like if you didn’t care. Just look. Come on.”
Jaegun repeated.
Dasul lifted her head slowly.
“How’s that?”
“It’s too big…”
“Finally no talks about the price. Good. This one?”
“Hm… I want to try it on.”
“Hello, could you take this out for me?”
“Yes,”
Dasul was concentrating now, and so was Jaegun.
He didn’t realize that the phone in his pocket was vibrating.
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