Seongbuk-dong District
Han Yuri (curious)
What are you talking about? What plan?
Lee Tae Joon (smiling)
Replacing one rumor with another...
That's pretty clever.
A heavy silence settles between them for a few minutes. They exchange glances. Lee Tae Joon stares at her intensely, and she doesn't look away. Then Han Yuri finally breaks the silence.
Han Yuri (calm voice)
As you already knew…
Lee Tae Joon
You had just left after our meeting when I saw your bracelet on the ground. I called you to let you know, but you didn't answer. So I decided to look for you, thinking you couldn't be far. And indeed, you were still there.
Flashback – After the arranged meeting
Lee Tae Joon
So this marriage... is that a yes?
Han Yuri
Yes. I'll take my leave.
As soon as she walks away, Lee Tae Joon's phone rings. Surprised, he drops it on the ground.
Lee Tae Joon
Damn it...
As he bends down to pick it up, something catches his eye — a sparkling bracelet.
Lee Tae Joon
What's this? A bracelet? It must belong to Han Yuri...
He picks up his phone and tries calling her, but there's no answer.
Lee Tae Joon
She must still be nearby. I'll go find her.
Relieved, he sees her a few meters away. He's about to call out to her, but notices she's already on the phone with someone.
Han Yuri (on the phone)
Yes, post that photo tomorrow, with a caption that really grabs attention.
Unknown voice
(??? indistinct ???)
Han Yuri
No, not yet. I don't want to reveal Lee Tae Joon's identity for now. I want to start with a photo that sparks public curiosity. Like in a drama — a kind of teaser. Then, I'll confirm our relationship tomorrow.
I have a press conference. I want you to be there and ask me questions about the photo. It's really important to me.
The call ends. Yuri remains silent for a moment, as if deep in thought. Then she murmurs:
Han Yuri
Yes… this is better. Kim Min Hee is right. Replace one rumor with another.
Hearing those words, Lee Tae Joon freezes in shock. Then, a sarcastic smile appears on his face.
Lee Tae Joon
Woah… This is fun.
End of flashback.
Han Yuri (calm, almost indifferent)
So... what are you planning to do now, Lee Tae Joon-ssi?
(brief silence)
Alright. I get it... You want to break off the engagement.
Lee Tae Joon (staring at her, eyes sharp)
Why me? Why did you choose me?
Han Yuri (calmly, not looking away)
I was desperate... and you were there.
Lee Tae Joon
Do you really think a marriage will make your scandal disappear?
Han Yuri (still calm)
No... but at least it would give me a little time to manage it.
Lee Tae Joon stares at her for a few seconds, as if intrigued by her.
Lee Tae Joon
Fine. Let's announce our marriage.
Han Yuri (a bit surprised)
Why would you do that?
Lee Tae Joon looks her straight in the eyes, a slight smirk on his lips.
It's fun. I want to see how far you'll go to protect your reputation. Pretending to love someone, marrying them... I really want to see that. And I also want to see how good of an actress you really are.
They stare at each other for several minutes. A heavy silence fills the room.
Suddenly, Han Yuri's phone starts ringing. She calmly looks at it.
She checks the screen: Kim Min Hee.
Han Yuri
Hello, Min Hee?
Min Hee (on the phone, crying)
Can I sleep at your place? I'm outside your house...
Han Yuri (worried voice)
Why are you crying? Hold on, I'm coming.
(to Lee Tae Joon)
I have to go, my friend needs me. We'll talk later.
She grabs her bag and rushes out.
30 minutes later
Yuri's car pulls up in front of her house. She sees Min Hee crying by the door. She quickly gets out and runs toward her.
Han Yuri (concerned)
Min Hee, why are you crying? What happened?
Min Hee throws herself into Yuri's arms, sobbing.
Kim Min Hee
Don't leave me, Yuri. You're the only person I have...
Han Yuri
Min Hee... what's going on? Why are you like this?
Suddenly, Min Hee pulls away and smiles like nothing happened.
Kim Min Hee
Yuri, I brought some kimchi. The neighbor gave it to me—she just made it fresh.
Yuri stays silent, watching her, clearly worried.
Kim Min Hee (still smiling)
Why are you looking at me like that? Let's go inside, I'm cold.
Han Yuri (still worried)
Alright, let's go in.
Inside the house
Kim Min Hee (eyes sparkling)
Yuri, your house is so pretty. Every time I come here, I'm always impressed. I really wish I could live in a place like this.
Han Ye Reum comes out of a room.
Han Ye Reum
Unnie, you're home?
(then she sees Kim Min Hee)
Oh, I see you brought someone...
Kim Min Hee (with a big smile, walks toward Ye Reum)
Ye Reum-ah! When did you get back? Wow, you're still just as pretty.
She reaches out to touch Ye Reum's arm, but Ye Reum pulls back.
Han Ye Reum (cold)
What are you doing here?
Han Yuri (calm tone)
She's staying over tonight.
Kim Min Hee (still smiling)
Hey girls, what if we have a pajama party? Come on, it'd be fun.
Han Ye Reum
Count me out.
(She walks into her room without another word.)
Kim Min Hee
Wow... looks like your sister still doesn't like me.
Han Yuri
Don't mind her.
A maid walks up to them, smiling.
Maid
Miss, dinner is ready.
Han Yuri
Alright.
A few minutes later, during dinner
Silence reigns around the table.
Yuri's Father
Min Hee! It's been a while.
Kim Min Hee
Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. Han. Your daughter gives me so much work, you know. I haven't even been on a date since... uh... I don't even remember!
Yuri's father laughs.
Yuri's Father
Ah! Are you staying the night?
Kim Min Hee
Of course.
Yuri's Father (to a maid)
Prepare the guest room for Min Hee.
Kim Min Hee
Oh no, I can sleep in Yuri's room.
Yuri's Father
Really? You sure?
Kim Min Hee
Yeah, Yuri and I still have so much to talk about.
Han Ye Reum
Talk about what?
Kim Min Hee (laughing)
Grown-up stuff. Just kidding! Don't be mad, Ye Reum.
Dinner ends. A few minutes later, everyone goes to bed.
Kim Min Hee
Ah... I'm exhausted. So, where were you?
Han Yuri
At Lee Tae Joon's place. He found out everything.
Kim Min Hee (shocked)
What?! How?! No way... Wait—so he's not going to marry you anymore? Damn... he was the best candidate.
Han Yuri (with a small smile)
No, he still wants to marry me. He said he wants to see how good of an actress I am. Funny, right?
Kim Min Hee
Uh... I don't get it.
Han Yuri looks at her.
Never mind. Let's talk about something else.
Kim Min Hee
Ah, Jae Hyun called me. He told me to keep an eye on you. He's really worried about you...
(hesitates a bit)
– Uhm... Yuri, I have a question... You and Jae Hyun oppa, you've really never dated?
Han Yuri
No. Why?
Kim Min Hee
No reason. I was just curious.
(short silence)
– But you know he has feelings for you, right?
Han Yuri
Yeah, I know.
Kim Min Hee sits up slightly.
Kim Min Hee
Then why don't you tell him how you really feel?
Han Yuri (hesitates slightly)
Because he's too precious to me. I don't want to hurt him.
(she turns to Min Hee)
– I'm tired... What if we sleep now?
Kim Min Hee
Alright. You sleep first, I'll finish this book.
Han Yuri
Okay. Good night.
The next morning, 9 a.m. – At the agency
Yuri and Min Hee arrive at the agency and enter the director's office.
The director turns slightly, holding a tablet, as he hears the door open.
Director
Girls, you're here.
(looks at Yuri)
Yuri, come look at the fans' comments. They're still debating who your boyfriend is.
They both approach and look at the screen.
Kim Min Hee (turning to Yuri)
When will you reveal him to the public?
Plus, it'll make a huge buzz when people find out you're dating one of the richest men in Korea.
Han Yuri
I'll talk to him about it again...
(then turns to the director)
Any updates? Did we find the name or address of the person who posted the photo?
Director
Yes, we found an address, but...
Han Yuri (curious)
Really? Who was it?
Director
We had an address, even a name. I sent someone to check... but it turned out to be an old man living there.
Han Yuri
So we've got nothing.
Director
I know, but we're still searching. The police are on it too.
Han Yuri was about to respond when her phone started ringing. She sees Lee Tae Joon's name on the screen.
Han Yuri
Excuse me.
(She answers)
– Hello?
Lee Tae Joon (on the phone)
How's my future wife doing?
Han Yuri (tired voice)
I'm busy. What do you want?
Lee Tae Joon
Woah... is that how you talk to your future husband?
(brief silence)
Anyway, my father wants to see you.
Han Yuri
Why?
Lee Tae Joon
For our wedding, of course.
Han Yuri
Our wedding?
Lee Tae Joon
You thought I was joking last time? I'm a man of my word.
If you're free today, I'll come pick you up.
Han Yuri (hesitates a little)
Alright, I'll come.
But no need to pick me up. Just send me the address, I'll go myself.
She hangs up, then turns to Min Hee and the director.
Han Yuri
I have to go, I've got an appointment.
Kim Min Hee
Wait, I'll come with you. I need to buy something outside.
Han Yuri
Alright, let's go.
They walk out of the agency together. A few minutes later, outside the building, Han Yuri is about to get into her car when a red car slowly approaches.
Kim Min Hee
Who's that?
Han Yuri
No idea...
The car stops right next to them. A man steps out. He's wearing sunglasses, a white jacket with matching pants. Straight out of a fashion magazine.
Han Yuri
Lee Tae Joon-ssi? What are you doing here?
Lee Tae Joon
I told you I'd come pick you up.
Han Yuri
And I told you it wasn't necessary...
Kim Min Hee (with a big smile)
You're Lee Tae Joon? Hello! I'm Kim Min Hee, Yuri's best friend.
Lee Tae Joon
Ah, nice to meet you. I'm Lee Tae Joon. But please excuse us, we're in a bit of a hurry.
Kim Min Hee (still smiling)
No worries, I understand.
Han Yuri
Min Hee, I'll leave you here.
(to her driver)
– You can go back.
Driver
Alright, Miss.
Yuri gets into Lee Tae Joon's car. He gives Min Hee a polite nod.
Lee Tae Joon
See you soon, Min Hee-ssi.
Kim Min Hee (bowing slightly)
See you.
He gets behind the wheel and drives off.
Han Yuri
Wasn't the lunch supposed to be at noon?
Lee Tae Joon
Before that, we're making a quick stop.
Han Yuri
Where?
Lee Tae Joon
...
He doesn't answer. After a while, they arrive in a quiet place: a cemetery. Han Yuri looks around, confused, not understanding why they're there.
Lee Tae Joon gets out of the car, walks a few steps, and stops in front of a grave adorned with a photo. It's a beautiful woman.
Lee Tae Joon
This is my mother. Before you meet my father, I want you to meet her.
Mom, I'm here. Sorry I haven't come more often lately. This is Han Yuri. She's an actress. Dad arranged a meeting with her, so I'm getting married soon.
While he speaks, Yuri stays silent, her eyes fixed on him. But as soon as he turns toward her, she looks away, distant.
Lee Tae Joon
What are you doing? Introduce yourself to my mother.
Han Yuri (cold, not looking at him)
We're running late. We should go.
She turns on her heels. Lee Tae Joon stays in front of the grave for a moment, then sighs and follows her.
In the car, a few minutes later
A heavy silence hangs in the air.
Han Yuri (softly, not looking at him)
Your mother was very beautiful.
Lee Tae Joon (smiling slightly, stealing a glance at her)
Of course. How do you think I turned out this handsome?
Itaewon Hill – The Lee Residence
30 minutes later, the car slows as they approach a highly secured neighborhood. A gate opens automatically, revealing the understated elegance of Itaewon Hill.
The car glides up a private lane, lined with perfectly trimmed hedges and ground-level lights. At the end stands a dazzling white villa, all glass and clean lines.
As soon as they park, a butler approaches to open the car door.
Yuri steps out, her eyes immediately drawn to the front garden: a white stone path winds through neatly arranged flower beds, ending in a small, serene fountain.
They walk through a glass door into the entrance hall. Just beside it, a luxurious welcome lounge is set up: backlit mirrors, cream velvet armchairs, and a vanity table covered in luxury products. A space clearly designed for female guests...
The moment they enter, Lee Tae Joon's father calmly descends the marble staircase. He's wearing a perfectly tailored three-piece suit, exuding warmth and power like any good chaebol chairman.
Lee Tae Joon's Father (smiling warmly)
Ah, you're here. Han Yuri, welcome.
Han Yuri (slightly bowing, polite)
Hello, sir. Thank you very much for having me.
Lee Tae Joon's Father (eyeing her approvingly)
No, the pleasure's mine.
You're even more beautiful than in the photos.
Han Yuri (with a discreet smile)
Thank you very much.
Lee Tae Joon's Father
Come, let's talk in the living room. We have a lot to discuss...
Han Yuri
Yes, sir.
Lee Tae Joon's Father (with a hint of mischief in his smile)
You can call me "Father" now… since you're going to marry my son.
A few minutes later
The maids begin serving the meal. The table is impeccably set, in a setting worthy of Korea's most prestigious families.
Lee Tae Joon's Father (turning to Yuri as his plate is being served)
You know, I watch all your dramas.
Han Yuri (surprised but flattered)
Really?
Lee Tae Joon's Father (with a proud look)
Yes, I've even seen several of your commercials. I'm a true fan, I admit it.
Han Yuri (with a polite smile)
That's really nice to hear...
But apparently, your son hasn't seen a single one.
Lee Tae Joon (without looking up from his plate)
Maybe because your acting sucks.
A brief silence falls over the table.
Lee Tae Joon (shrugs, smirking)
I'm joking. Why so serious?
Lee Tae Joon's Father (chuckling)
Yuri, please excuse him. He can be… like that. You understand.
Han Yuri (calmly)
Yes, I understand. Don't worry.
Lee Tae Joon (raises an eyebrow)
Understand what?
Han Yuri (looks away)
Nothing.
Tae Joon's father bursts out laughing, amused by their strange chemistry.
7 PM
After dinner, the staff clears the table. The atmosphere calms down.
Lee Tae Joon's Father
Take her home.
Lee Tae Joon (getting up lazily)
Alright, Father.
Han Yuri (politely bows)
Thank you very much for the dinner.
Lee Tae Joon's Father
Get home safe. Next time, we'll have a family dinner.
Han Yuri
Of course. I'll talk to my father about it. (bows again)
See you soon.
They walk slowly through the villa's perfectly manicured garden. Yuri walks quietly, taking in the surroundings.
Han Yuri (looking around, puzzled)
– This is strange... I feel like I've been here before.
Lee Tae Joon
Maybe in a past life.
Han Yuri
You believe in that kind of thing?
Lee Tae Joon
Yes. Maybe we were already married before. Two souls, madly in love, finding each other again… Sounds like a drama plot, right?
Yuri stops and looks at him. Silence.
Han Yuri
Why did you agree to this marriage, exactly?
Lee Tae Joon (half-smiling)
For lifetime access to free pizza.
And you? Why are you always so cold and uptight?
Since we met, I've never seen you smile genuinely. You're like ice. No one ever knows what's going on in your head.
Yuri stares at him for a second. She seems about to say something... but nothing comes out. She turns and walks away in silence.
Lee Tae Joon (raising his hands, exasperated)
See? I ask you one question, and you just walk off without answering. Always so predictable.
One week later – After the dinner at the Lee family house
LYRA Entertainment Agency – Director's Office, 9:30 AM
Director (relieved)
Things seem to be settling down a bit… Since the press conference, the situation's not fully over, but the fact that the person who spread the rumors hasn't resurfaced is already good news. But let's stay cautious… Who knows what they're planning next.
Kim Min Hee (turning to Yuri)
Yuri, people are starting to figure out who you're dating. A fan posted a picture of you with Lee Tae Joon. Everyone's wondering if it's him...
So, when are you going to confirm it?
Han Yuri (calm voice)
Really? Then… let's confirm it.
The director and Kim Min Hee look at her, slightly surprised.
Kim Min Hee
You mean you're going to reveal Lee Tae Joon's identity?
Han Yuri (turning to her)
They'll find out sooner or later anyway.
Kim Min Hee
So, what do you want to do?
Han Yuri
Log into my social media account. I'll make a statement now.
Director (curious)
A statement? What kind?
Han Yuri doesn't reply. Meanwhile, Kim Min Hee logs into Yuri's account, which had been inactive for a few days.
Kim Min Hee
Okay, I'm in. Want to type it yourself or should I? Just tell me what to write.
Han Yuri (crossing her arms, calm tone)
– Alright, let's begin.
Director (hesitant)
Wait… Shouldn't we check with Master Jung first?
Han Yuri
This is my personal life. Why ask his opinion?
Kim Min Hee
We can start.
Han Yuri
Alright. Type:
> Hello everyone,
This is Han Yuri.
It's been a while, my dear fans. As you know, I was recently involved in a rather sensitive scandal. That's why my account has been inactive lately.
I want to apologize again for the worry this may have caused to all those who have always supported me. I'm truly grateful to you.
I'm writing today about a rumor that's still going around about me. This rumor gained momentum after my press conference, where I revealed that I was in a relationship.
At the time, I chose not to reveal his identity, mostly for safety reasons due to the difficult situation.
But recently, a fan posted a picture of me with my boyfriend.
Yes, it is Lee Tae Joon, the son of CEO Lee Tae Kwang.
So today, I want to officially confirm that yes, I'm dating Lee Tae Joon.
After going through a hard time, I met Tae Joon at a moment when I needed comfort and support. And he was there for me.
After a few days of getting to know each other, we started to develop sincere feelings.
Today, we've decided to move forward together, toward a calmer and warmer future.
Thank you to everyone supporting us, and thank you for understanding me.
Kim Min Hee (clicking one last time on the screen)
Alright, it's done. Now we just need to share it.
Director
I'll have to write a statement too. I'll post it right after yours.
Kim Min Hee hits "publish." Just seconds later, the notifications explode.
Kim Min Hee (eyes wide in surprise)
Yuri, come look at the comments!
Han Yuri walks over, while the director returns to his desk, looking thoughtful.
Comments:
– Wooow congrats unnie I hope you're happy
– I support her, but this relationship seems way too fast…
– I can't believe it. Two stunning visuals in one couple
– I really wanted a Han Yuri x Lee Jae Hyun couple… but still, congrats
– I'm gonna need a moment to process this… but congrats.
– I'm happy for you Yuri, you deserve to be loved
– I was Team Jae Hyun x Yuri too, but as long as you're happy, I'm with you
– Hope this won't end like some other celebrity couples…
– They just started dating and already talking about a future? Hmm
– I don't know… I have a weird feeling about this couple.
– I know that scandal must have been really hard… but Yuri, you've shown incredible strength. We can tell it's not easy, yet you keep moving forward. Just know that many of us are still behind you, no matter what the rumors say. Take care of yourself. If this relationship makes you happy, then I'm happy for you too
Kim Min Hee (turning to Yuri)
Overall, the comments are positive. Some people still haven't digested the previous scandal, but generally, it's going well.
Han Yuri (gets up, grabbing her bag)
My father wants me home for dinner tonight.
Kim Min Hee (getting up too)
Wait, I'll drive you.
Director (looking up at her, a bit rushed)
No, Min Hee, you need to stay here to manage the socials. I'll be posting my statement soon and I need your help.
Kim Min Hee
Alright… but I'll walk Yuri to the entrance. I'll grab a drink on the way.
Director
That's fine.
Kim Min Hee
Let's go.
They walk out together. A few minutes later, while walking through the corridor, Min Hee gently grabs Yuri's arm. Yuri turns to her, slightly surprised.
Han Yuri (curious)
What is it?
Kim Min Hee
You told me you didn't plan on continuing things with Lee Tae Joon… not after he found out the truth.
Han Yuri (calmly)
Yeah… I had planned to end it.
Kim Min Hee
But?
Han Yuri doesn't respond right away. She just looks at her for a few seconds in silence.
Kim Min Hee (insistently)
But what?
Han Yuri (cracks a small smile)
You know what? I'm kind of in a rush… I think I'll go ahead.
She walks off calmly, leaving Min Hee without an answer, slightly frustrated.
Kim Min Hee (murmuring to herself)
Yuri… why doesn't she ever finish her sentences?
A few minutes later – In the car
Han Yuri, sitting in the backseat, scrolls through the comments. A notification pops up. A message from Lee Tae Joon.
Lee Tae Joon – text:
My father wants you to talk to your family about the dinner date we were supposed to arrange between both sides."
Han Yuri – reply (typing quickly):
We have a family dinner tonight. I'll bring it up."
She gently sets the phone on her lap, then gazes out the window, deep in thought.
FLASHBACK — One week earlier, right after the dinner at the Lees'
Lee Tae Joon had just dropped her off. Yuri walked slowly to her front door, quickly glancing around. No one in sight.
She went straight to her room, tossed her bag on the bed, and sat down at the edge, unmoving. She stayed like that for a few seconds, completely still.
Her phone rang from deep inside her bag.
It was Kim Min Hee.
Kim Min Hee (on the phone, teasing)
Sooo, where did your future husband take you?
Han Yuri
To his father's house.
Kim Min Hee
Wow… things are getting serious! I think I should start looking for a stylish dress that shows off my curves
Han Yuri (calm, almost cold)
There's not going to be a wedding.
Kim Min Hee (shocked)
What?! You're calling off the engagement again? Yuri, seriously…
Han Yuri (sighing)
You know, at first, I was really planning to go through with this marriage. I figured sooner or later, my dad would marry me off to a man I didn't love, so I thought… why not now? He'd get what he wants, and I'd polish up my image.
But now that he knows everything—that I was just using him… Do you really think it can work?
Kim Min Hee (after a pause)
You're right. Okay. You know what? I'll find you another candidate. Tell your dad I'm taking over matchmaking now
Han Yuri
Min Hee, I'm really tired… Can we talk tomorrow?
Kim Min Hee
Sure. Get some rest.
Yuri hangs up, puts her phone down, and stands.
She heads to the bathroom. A few minutes later, she comes back out, dressed in a robe.
She switches on her phone. The screen lights up.
A news article pops up. The headline grabs her attention.
News Article – Excerpt
Han Yuri: A New Romance in the Midst of Chaos?"
The beloved actress—recently at the center of controversy—has just made an unexpected announcement: she's officially in a relationship.
Yes, you read that right! For the first time since her debut, Han Yuri confirms she's dating someone. Known for past romance rumors but never confirming anything, the actress is finally breaking the silence.
Though the identity of the lucky man hasn't been officially revealed, a fan photo suggests he may belong to a highly influential family.
Just days ago, during a widely watched press conference, Han Yuri briefly addressed the scandal that shook her reputation. But what truly caught everyone's attention was her candid revelation about her private life. She confirmed—discreetly but confidently—that she's currently dating someone she deeply respects and appreciates.
Since the announcement, reactions have poured in. For many, this could be the beginning of a calmer new chapter for the actress.
Still staring at the article, Han Yuri sits slowly on her bed. She looks into the void, expression unreadable.
The next morning – 8:30 AM, Seongbuk-dong District
Lee Tae Joon was quietly sipping his morning coffee when the doorbell rang.
Curious, he walked over and checked the screen.
To his surprise—it was Han Yuri.
He opened the gate immediately.
A few minutes later, she stepped into the house.
Lee Tae Joon
To what do I owe this surprise visit… this early?
Han Yuri
I need to talk to you about something.
Lee Tae Joon (raising an eyebrow)
If it's about the dinner date, you didn't have to come in person. A text would've worked.
Han Yuri (looking around, sighs, then calmly sits in the living room and sets down her bag)
Let's make a contract.
Lee Tae Joon (sits opposite her, intrigued, with a sly grin)
A contract? What kind?
Ah, let me guess. One of those prenups where couples don't split assets if they break up?
Han Yuri (calm voice)
No, but we can talk about that later. You know this marriage was arranged by our fathers. That means there was no love involved. No feelings either—and I doubt that will change.
Sometimes arranged marriages work… but it's not real. They pretend in front of the family, even with each other. Pretend to love, have kids, then divorce. Isn't that sad?
Lee Tae Joon (curious)
What are you getting at?
Han Yuri doesn't answer right away. She takes a breath and continues in a calm tone:
Han Yuri
At first, I was ready to go along with it. Be "Mrs. Lee Tae Joon," do what's expected.
But fate is strange… You had to find out the truth.
So I figured, maybe it's better to stop here.
Lee Tae Joon
And why are you telling me all this now?
Han Yuri (serious, cold tone)
I need you. I need you to help fix my image. But I don't want us to pretend to love each other. And I don't think you do either.
Lee Tae Joon
So what are you proposing?
Han Yuri
A contract: you give me what I want, and I'll give you what you want.
I'm sure you want something, right? You agreed to marry me even after knowing my intentions. Am I wrong?
So let's make it a win-win situation. Deal?
Lee Tae Joon stares at her for a few seconds. Then:
Lee Tae Joon
Okay. I like that. It's always nice to get something out of a deal.
Han Yuri (smiling)
Good. I already wrote one. Here are my terms—you can write yours at the bottom. Then we'll both sign.
She hands him the paper. He reads it.
Lee Tae Joon
Wow, you really thought this through.
Marriage Contract between Han Yuri and Lee Tae Joon
I, Han Yuri, will give Lee Tae Joon whatever he wants. In return, he must also give me what I want most. If either fails to fulfill their duty, a penalty will apply.
Han Yuri's rules:
1. He must always accompany me to public events.
2. He must always act like he's madly in love with me—only in public.
3. He must always take my side, no matter what.
4. We must always have breakfast and dinner together, so if there's a surprise visit, we won't need to fake it.
5. Although this is a marriage of convenience, neither of us is allowed to date anyone else.
Lee Tae Joon's rules:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The marriage will end when both parties have achieved their goal. Neither can file for divorce until that happens. At home, there's no need to pretend, talk, or anything else.
To make the marriage look natural in public, I, Han Yuri, give Lee Tae Joon permission to act however he needs to make us look like a real couple.
Signatures
Han Yuri (you can add what you want to the contract)
Lee Tae Joon (looking at Yuri)
Why are you looking at me like that? Is there something in the contract you don't like?
Lee Tae Joon
No, it's just… do you realize this sounds a lot like a real marriage?
Han Yuri
What do you mean?
Lee Tae Joon
I mean, we're pretending to love each other in public—like most married couples. We eat together, etc.
Han Yuri
I know. But unlike others who fake it and end up divorced, we're not pretending.
We'll just live our lives with a few changes.
I'm not doing this just to fix my image. I also want my dad off my back. That way, I can focus on my career.
Lee Tae Joon
You're really ready to do anything for your career…
How long do you think this fake marriage—sorry, "platonic marriage"—will last?
Han Yuri
Don't worry. I'll win my fans back quickly. I think it won't last long. Two or three months after the wedding, I'll land a new role and make my big comeback.
And you—tell me what you want and I'll give it to you.
So let's say… it lasts a year or two. Three, max—just until I'm back on top.
Lee Tae Joon
And you think a divorced actress still has a good image?
Han Yuri (smiling)
Of course not. But I'll be the best actress.
I mean—even better than before. People won't be able to watch a drama without me.
Lee Tae Joon
Alright, since you seem so confident… but one question: what reason will you give for our separation?
Han Yuri
Busy schedules… or "incompatible personalities." That way, no one will judge us.
So, are you adding your rules? Then we can sign.
Lee Tae Joon (hesitates)
I think I'll wait until after the wedding. I'll fill mine in then.
Han Yuri
We can't sign if you don't write yours. Add what you want—I'll give it to you.
Lee Tae Joon
I'll think about it. I'm very picky when it comes to what I want.
Han Yuri
Okay. You know what? Let's sign anyway. I can give you anything—even build you a castle if you ask.
Lee Tae Joon grabs a pen and signs. Then hands the pen to Yuri.
Han Yuri
I already have one.
She pulls out her marker.
Lee Tae Joon
That's not a pen.
Han Yuri
It's what I use for autographs. Feels like it's been ages since I signed something…
She smiles, then signs the contract.
Han Yuri
There. You'll keep it, fill it out later, and give it back to me.
Lee Tae Joon
Alright. So… do we have a deal?
He holds out his hand for a handshake.
Han Yuri
We already signed. No need for a handshake.
Lee Tae Joon
Come on, it's cooler this way… you know, like in the movies.
Han Yuri hesitates for a second.
Han Yuri
Alright.
They shake hands. Lee Tae Joon smiles.
Lee Tae Joon
This is fun.
End of flashback.
TO BE CONTINUED…