Let's Make It Official

The talk with Chanhyuk went on for an hour. Multiple questions about Minjae's life were asked, and he answered them to the best of his ability.

Minjae knew right now that he'd have no way into the industry without a backup. Signing an agency meant that he would have to share a portion of his income and adhere to rules.

Even though it doesn't seem appealing to starting actors like him, he knew the resources and connections they'd provide were much more beneficial than money. 

"So Minjae, after knowing all that information about you, I have a final question." Chanhyuk placed his hands together, eager to know what Minjae would answer to his upcoming question. 

"What is it, Sir?" 

"Do you have any acting experience?" Chanhyuk asked the big question, curiosity lacing his voice. It was a question he had been meaning to ask since earlier if he didn't only need to get to know Minjae first.

"…" Minjae became silent

The question was something he had never expected he'd received his entire life.

For a second, he had an identity crisis. 

He, for sure, had a lot of experience related to acting.

Heck, he couldn't even count how many movie titles and dramas were under his name. However, that wasn't the case with the Original Minjae.

"A little…" After giving it some thought, Minjae answered. "I've worked as an extra for a few years. But it's all a small role. There's nothing really major to be proud of."

"Ohhh!" Chanhyuk's eyes sparkled. He was looking at Minjae as if he was some angel. He didn't know if Minjae was good or bad, but having an experience was already enough for him.

"That's good. At least you've had a taste of the industry. Do you have any ongoing projects?" Clearing his throat, Chanhyuk tried to keep his composure calm. He wanted to ask more details to see what was in for them.

"I actually landed a role as a robber in a film a few days ago," Minjae answered. 

"Who's the director? Maybe I know him?"

Minjae pressed his lips together. For sure, Chanhyuk knew who it was. 

"It's Director Lee Suwoon." 

Chanhyuk's eyes immediately widened, his jaw falling to the ground.

"Director Lee Suwoon? As in Lee Suwoon?"

"Yes. I auditioned for the role and was lucky enough to get it. I was informed that the shooting will start in 2 weeks. Maybe a week if we'll consider how many days have passed already." Minjae nodded. 

Chanhyuk leaned forward, clearly impressed. The fact that Minjae had secured a role spoke volumes. Lee Suwoon was known for being strict on talents so it would be impossible for Minjae to have it just by luck.

"That's incredible," Chanhyuk voiced out in disbelief. "Suwoon doesn't just cast anyone. You must've made quite an impression."

"I hope so. I'll do my best to meet his expectations." Minjae smiled modestly. 

Chanhyuk sat back, his mind already made up. He was more than determined to have Minjae under their company.

"Well, Minjae, how about we move our topic to the real reason why I asked for you today?" Chanhyuk raised a brow. "I think we'd be lucky to have you in our company. We want to sign you." 

Minjae smiled successfully. The progress of their talk was faster than he expected. He was more than willing to answer a few more questions or talk about his unfortunate life.

He didn't expect that talking about Lee Suwoon would seal the deal right off the bat. 

"You mean, sign me as an official talent for Flex Entertainment?" Minjae clarified,

Chanhyuk smiled warmly and nodded.

"That's right. We're confident in you. Even if you have an unfortunate background, your potential speaks for itself. It's clear you're someone who can make a mark in this industry and we'd like to help you do that."

The corner of Minjae's lips curved upwards, forming a smile. It seemed like it was his turn now to ask the questions, wasn't it?

"I'm honored by the offer, Sir. But before I decide, could you tell me more about what this would entail? It's my first time, after all."

"Absolutely." Chanhyuk chuckled, clearly pleased with Minjae's thoughtful approach. The guy was more amusing than he thought.

"Joining Flex Entertainment means you'll have access to our full resources, be it training, workshops, branding assistance, and, of course, connections to high-profile projects. We will take care of everything you need." Chanhyuk paused for a moment. 

"Of course, it's a two-way street. We can't just feed you with all those things without getting anything back. A standard agreement would mean we get a percentage of your earnings."

"Our company's standard is 70-30. That means we'll get 30% of your income. But rest assured, we're transparent, and our goal is to see you thrive because your success is ours, too."

Minjae nodded repeatedly.

At least, they were clear about it.

He has known a lot of small agencies, scamming their artists by only stating the flowery words and not the consequences. The 70-30 income share also seemed just average with today's standard. 

"Your role with Lee Suwoon is just the start. With our help, we can position you for bigger opportunities. Who knows, by next year you might have a lead role. "Chanhyuk continued

"A lead role?" Minjae raised a brow. Wasn't that too soon? 

Chanhyuk nodded.

"I'll be honest with you, Minjae. The reason we're extending this offer to you so quickly is that we're in need of an artist to debut next year. I know you've heard about the movie festival, right?" 

"Yeah."

"We've been scouting for a while, but no one has really stood out—until now. With your potential, we believe you could be the face of our next big project."

"Next year? You're serious?" Minjae's forehead creased. Even though he was confident, it was still too early for his body.

Right now, his talent was only of average. 

"Completely," Chanhyuk said, his tone firm. "It's ambitious, I know, but we believe you're capable. With our support, we can refine your talent and turn you into a leading name in the industry."

Minjae sat back, the weight of the opportunity sinking in.

A debut within just months meant an accelerated path to success. It was something he never imagined would come so quickly. 

"But still, we could never be sure." Chanhyuk's face turned serious once again. "Right now, we are still looking for more talent. If we found someone better than you in the long run, it might not happen." 

"It's fine," Minjae said, his voice filled with confidence. "I'll make sure that won't happen.

Chanhyuk's smile widened, relief and satisfaction washing over his face. "So, does that mean you're ready to take the leap and join us?"

"Yes. I'll do it. I'll sign with Flex Entertainment." Minjae nodded, determination gleaming in his eyes. 

"Fantastic!" Chanhyuk said, clapping his hands together excitedly. He rose from his seat, extending a hand to Minjae. "Welcome to Flex Entertainment, Minjae. We're going to make great things happen together."

Minjae shook Chanhyuk's hand firmly.

"Thank you for this chance too."

Chanhyuk chuckled before nodding. 

"Let's make it official, shall we?"