Kim Sooyun

Inside one of the meeting rooms in Global studios, a meeting with the production team for the upcoming thriller drama "The Only Way" was going underway. 

The room was filled with positive energy as Producer Sean, Director Lee Suwoon, and Director Choi Yejun led the talk. The main agenda for today was the additional scenes of the drama. 

"I've already adjusted the script for the robbery scene. We can proceed to shoot it in a week just like planned," The main writer of the drama, Yun Insuk, announced in a solemn voice. A serious aura radiated from her. 

Yun Insuk was a respected figure in the industry. She was known for writing dramas that had not only dominated the domestic market, but also gained international recognition. She was one of the important figures in today's time, especially in the thriller genre. 

"Good. I'll have my assistant forward the updated script to the actor as soon as possible." Suwoon gave a firm nod. His tone was calm but commanding as he said those words. 

Producer Sean leaned back in his chair. Despite the seriousness of the situation, he couldn't help but sheepishly smile. 

"Speaking of the actor, I still can't get over his audition for this role. The man was phenomenal. His delivery, his expressions, even the intonation of his voice. It was like the character was made for him." Producer Sean suddenly expressed his admiration, catching the attention of everyone.

'Did Producer Sean really just commend someone?'

"Minjae? Is that the name of the actor who got the role?" 

"I think so. I don't think he's an actor yet. As far as I know, he's just a random guy."

'Woah. But if Producer Sean is complimenting him, then he must be good."

"Can't wait to see the guy."

Multiple low whispers from the staff memers echoed. Their curiosity was deeply piqued by this Minjae.

Even Suwoon and Yejun exchanged knowing looks, both nodding in agreement. Even if a few days had already passed, they still consistently mentioned the audition. 

Yun Insuk, however, remained unimpressed by the praise. She adjusted her glasses and leaned forward. She has heard these words a few times already, and was left disappointed every time.

"That's all well and good, but I hope you're not exaggerating things," Insuk uttered as she visibly shook her head. 

"Don't worry, Insuk," Despite the words, the smile on Sean's face didn't falter. He was already used to Insuk's personality.

It must be menopause that was making her react this way. 

The room fell into silence as the two exchanged a few more words. Other employees just continued scrolling through their laptops to see more updates regarding the drama, while Yejun sat back in his chair, finding the situation a little funny. 

He hasn't seen Sean defending someone this eagerly. 

On the other side of the table, the main actor in the drama, Kim Sooyun was leaning against the back of his chair. His arms were casually crossed as his dark brown eyes watched the exchange of talks in silence. 

Kim Sooyun has black hair that was neatly styled. He was also tall in height and had a good face and body. The sharp features of his face were calm, but beneath his composed expression, a slight irritation simmered inside him. 

'Minjae this, Minjae that. They're talking about him like he's the second coming of acting itself when I'm here?' Sooyun thought in disbelief, his pride was a little hurt. 

Sooyun had been the lead in countless successful dramas, and yet here they were, showering a rookie with praise instead of him.

Sooyun cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. His tone was measured as the faintest trace of a smirk tugged at his lips. 

"Even though I haven't seen the audition, it's impressive that Minjae made such an impact during his audition, PD Sean. I'm just a little bit worried if he can handle the pressure on set. Auditions are one thing, but actually doing it while filming is another." Sooyun uttered, the concern evident in his voice.

"Oh well, we're not sure. Though I can't wait to see what he prepared for us. Talent like his doesn't come along often." 

"Of course. That's what I hope too, PD. I just know that working alongside seasoned actors can be…" Sooyun's expression didn't change, but his fingers drummed lightly on the armrest of his chair. 

"You know, daunting."

Suwoon narrowed his eyes slightly, catching the subtle shade in Sooyun's words. However, his concern was understandable, so he decided to let it go. 

"Let's just make sure this man does justice to the script. That's all that I want..." Yun Insuk adjusted her glasses again, clearly unimpressed by the conversation. 

"After all, an actor's role is to breathe life into the words I've written on the paper. Without that, the script is just a collection of sentences. It will be lifeless and meaningless. That's why finding a good actor is important." she continued in a sharp tone.

Sooyun's jaw tightened imperceptibly. 

'Was that aimed at me?' he wondered, though he quickly dismissed the thought.

'Why would I even think of that? I'm one of the best actor in today's time."

Knowing that he couldn't afford to let his irritation show, he instead, leaned forward slightly, showing concern. 

"I couldn't agree more, Writer Insuk. Let's just hope Minjae can bring that kind of depth. After all, this is a high-grade project, and the audience will expect perfection. I'd hate for anyone to fall short."

The room went quiet for a moment, the tension suddenly becoming thick in the air. Sean broke it with a chuckle, though it was more forced than genuine.

"Let's keep the focus on the team effort, shall we? I have faith in everyone involved."

Sooyun's lips curved into a polite smile, though his thoughts remained the same. 

'Team effort? Sure. Let's see if this rookie can keep up with me.'

Sooyun maintained his calm composure, but inside, he was already curious about this Minjae. He won't just allow a newcomer to steal the spotlight he had worked so hard to claim. Especially not now, when everything's going well already.

With the death of his 'friend', Juwon, he has been getting more projects than before. Now, if he wanted to surpass Juwon's popularity, then he had to be the spotlight of every drama he'd be working on. 

'One week was it? I have more than enough time to memorize my script. I'm sure Writer Insuk and the rest would forget about Minjae once I show my godly act."