Rookie Talent Agent Knows It All-Chapter 844: Bong Tae-Sik (2)

Drip, drip.

Tears began streaming from Yoo-Jin's wide eyes without warning.

"Huh? What—?"

Bong Tae-Sik, who had been confidently immersed in his role, faltered as Yoo-Jin suddenly burst into tears without any buildup. Even while staring straight at Bong Tae-Sik, Yoo-Jin showed no fear. Instead, she dove deeper into her role and continued her performance undeterred.

Bong Tae-Sik's startled reaction was irritating, but Yoo-Jin pressed on, fully absorbed in her part.

『I'm the one who wants to be on stage more than anyone! And yet you want me to go out in front of people with this face? This face that scares me even in the mirror, that haunts my dreams? I'm barely surviving, and now you show up to rip open everything inside me?!』

The searing sorrow in Yoo-Jin's voice filled the audition room. Her despair as if she had lost everything hit hard enough to weigh on everyone's chest.

According to the script, the characters were speaking through a door, so they couldn't see each other. Only their voices connected them. Therefore, Yoo-Jin kept her eyes fixed away from Bong Tae-Sik and acted as if he wasn't even in front of her.

Her precision, her emotional delivery, and her steadiness regardless of her partner's choices all stood out. Yoo-Jin's acting honed through countless scenes with actors like Choi Ji-Yung in Hwaranjeon had reached a level far beyond Bong Tae-Sik's grasp.

As Yoo-Jin continued, Wang Mi-In leaned toward me and whispered, "Mr. Jung. Miss Yoo-Jin is adjusting her line of sight for the scene, right? Isn't she?"

"Yes. They're speaking through a door in the script."

"Wow, the detail is unreal."

I nodded with a grin. "She's Jung Yoo-Jin."

Yoo-Jin's performances always stunned me, but the answer was always the same. She was Jung Yoo-Jin. And now, everyone else was starting to understand that too.

Wang Mi-In nodded, clearly convinced.

Then Yoo-Jin picked up her lines again, her tone now tinged with quiet devastation.

『Han Bit-Na... is dead. So please, Ill-Seung oppa. Just... don't come looking for me again.』

Each breathless line hit like a dagger to the chest. Her voice, softening as her tears flowed, carried an even deeper sense of despair.

At that moment, every judge and staff member in the audition room had their eyes on Yoo-Jin. Not a single one was looking at Bong Tae-Sik. If there were ever a time to use the phrase "she devoured her scene partner," it was now. Yoo-Jin had erased Bong Tae-Sik from everyone's mind.

Even Bong Tae-Sik forgot his next line and was frozen as he stood, captivated by Yoo-Jin's performance.

After a moment, Yoo-Jin sighed softly and turned toward Bong Tae-Sik. "What are you doing? Aren't you acting?"

Snapping out of it, Bong Tae-Sik stammered. "Ah, no, I just—"

"You should continue. We're still in the middle of the audition."

"Y-Yes, right."

Bong Tae-Sik took a deep breath and resumed his role as Baek Ill-Seung, but the spell had been broken. His earlier confidence, which had dared to provoke Yoo-Jin, had crumbled. And when Yoo-Jin slipped effortlessly back into character, Bong Tae-Sik could only follow with a hesitant voice and uncertain expression.

The judges, who had held high hopes at the start, now watched with growing disappointment.

Just like that, Bong Tae-Sik's audition fizzled into a pitiful end.

***

"Okay, that's enough. Thank you for your work."

Bong Tae-Sik panted heavily after finishing his performance. The relaxed and confident man from the beginning was nowhere to be seen, now drenched in sweat.

The Jung Yoo-Jin he had known at Hoop Entertainment had been a clueless rookie. She was awkward, prone to dozens of mistakes on set. But now she stood so far above him that he couldn't even meet her eyes. It was no wonder he was shaken. Having experienced the new Yoo-Jin firsthand, Bong Tae-Sik still looked half in a daze.

"Mr. Bong Tae-Sik?"

When Lee Eun-Joo shot him a sharp look, he finally snapped out of it and bowed. "Ah, th-thank you. I'm number 30, Bong Tae-Sik."

Still catching his breath, Bong Tae-Sik announced his audition number to the judges.

"Great effort, Mr. Tae-Sik." Yeo Ik-Hwan began giving his feedback. "Smashing the table felt a bit excessive, but your facial expressions, projection, and emotional delivery were stronger than many of the others. I assume you're aware of where you slipped up. I'll chalk that up to nerves."

Wang Mi-In spoke next. "This interpretation of Baek Ill-Seung was a lot more aggressive than I imagined. I respect the actor's approach, but please stay within the boundaries of what the director allows. That said... one thing bothered me. Your profile says you've worked as a talent agent before. Is that right?"

"Yes, that's correct."

"Hmm. Maybe it's been a while, but I didn't see any signs of someone who's actually worked in the field."

I had expected Bong Tae-Sik to bring an extra layer of realism to the role, given his past as a talent agent. Yet when the performance started, it was clear he had forgotten that world entirely. He didn't bring out any of the qualities or nuances of a real talent agent.

Lee Eun-Joo continued her assessment. "You'll need much more training if you want to stand up against someone like Miss Yoo-Jin. The beginning was promising, but the latter half really fell short."

His performance had started strong, but it crumbled after that reckless provocation toward Yoo-Jin. His early momentum wasn't enough to save his score.

Shin Jong-Ki nodded and addressed the group. "Alright, let's start scoring."

At that, everyone quickly began assigning marks on their tablets.

That's when I noticed Bong Tae-Sik staring directly at me. His look said it all—if I gave him a low score, he wasn't going to let it slide. Nevertheless, I ignored him completely and started my evaluation.

'I don't play dirty like you.'

[Jung Yoon-Ho, Casting Director: 85 points]

[Delivery: 35 / 40]

[Expression: 26 / 30]

[Movement: 24 / 30]

I scored fairly, exactly as I saw it. I deducted points for mistakes, but gave him credit where it was due.

Once the scores were submitted, the tablet automatically calculated the total.

[Judges' Average: 85.5 points]

For the first time today, someone had broken the 85-point mark. Despite the slip-ups later on, Bong Tae-Sik's strong start earned him solid scores. Weaknesses could be trained, but impact came from something innate.

Lee Eun-Joo nodded and spoke to Bong Tae-Sik. "Mr. Tae-Sik, please return for now. We'll notify you of the final results by tomorrow."

Wang Mi-In and Yeo Ik-Hwan also gave small nods as if to say he could be molded into something usable.

Bong Tae-Sik, perceptive enough to read the room, could tell his performance had at least made some impact. But perhaps because of his later mistakes, his paranoid nature began to act up. Though he bowed politely, he subtly signaled to Yang Sung-Taek.

That's when it happened. From the side of the audition room, Yang Sung-Taek turned to Lee Eun-Joo and spoke up.

"Ms. Lee, the next candidate is that Choi Deok-Bae fellow, right?"

"Yes, that's right. Why?"

"Apologies, but would it be possible for us to observe that audition?"

At that, Lee Eun-Joo's face instantly hardened. "Mr. Yang, what exactly are you trying to pull? Why would you want to observe another actor's audition?"

Yang Sung-Taek scratched his head and replied, "I know it sounds a bit off, but Chief Jung here is Choi Deok-Bae's talent agent. He may claim he's evaluating fairly, but from my position, it's hard not to worry."

In other words, Yang Sung-Taek was openly declaring he didn't trust the judges. The moment those words left his mouth, the expressions of the judges twisted in unison.

'You've got to be kidding me.'

I immediately saw through Bong Tae-Sik's ploy. In a few moments, he would probably step in and pretend to stop Yang Sung-Taek. Yang Sung-Taek would then issue an apology and back down. However, the real purpose of this staged act was already accomplished: planting doubt in the judges' minds. When it came time to score Deok-Bae, they would subconsciously question my influence on the process.

It was a cheap trick, but effective. It could easily result in slightly lower scores, maybe even affect the final decision.

But not on my watch.

'Bong Tae-Sik, I'm not letting this go your way.'

Before Bong Tae-Sik could take his next step, I jumped in to provoke the judges even more, weaponizing their sense of integrity.

"Everyone, I'm fine with it. It seems Mr. Bong Tae-Sik and Mr. Yang Sung-Taek have concerns about the judges' fairness, so let's go ahead and allow them to observe Deok-Bae's audition. That way, all suspicions will be put to rest."

With that, I lumped Bong Tae-Sik and Yang Sung-Taek together as co-conspirators. Caught off guard, Bong Tae-Sik's brow furrowed. His plan to slip away unscathed had just crumbled.

"That's not what I—"

I cut him off without a second thought. "Mr. Bong Tae-Sik. To ensure fairness, I'll refrain from scoring Deok-Bae's audition myself."

With those words, I set down my tablet and stood up. Their surprise was obvious. Both Bong Tae-Sik and Yang Sung-Taek looked shaken.

What's more, my action had triggered the fury of the most powerful person in the room.

"If you don't trust the fairness of this process, Bong Tae-Sik, why audition at all?" Shin Jong-Ki didn't even glance at Yang Sung-Taek. His icy rebuke was aimed squarely at Bong Tae-Sik.

Flustered, Bong Tae-Sik rushed to respond. "N-no, sir. That's not what I meant..."

"Then what did you mean?"

Everything had spiraled out of control, and Bong Tae-Sik could only bow his head in defeat. "What Chief Yang said was just a moment of impulse! I trust the judges completely!"

Shin Jong-Ki scoffed with disdain. "Do you take me for a fool? Look at you two playing games like that. How pathetic."

Realizing he had been completely exposed, Bong Tae-Sik clenched his jaw and shot a glare my way.

I ignored him and stoked Shin Jong-Ki's anger further. "Sir, I understand your frustration. Mr. Bong Tae-Sik's actions are infuriating, but to be fair, he's not entirely wrong. It's odd for me to judge my own actor. The right thing is for me to step back during this audition."

"Chief Jung, the only reason I trust you with casting is because you've always acted fairly. Sit back down."

"I'm sorry, but I can't allow my presence to jeopardize the integrity of this project," I bowed deeply and stepped aside.

Shin Jong-Ki fumed, then turned his glare to Bong Tae-Sik. "Fine, Bong Tae-Sik. We'll do it your way. You and Chief Yang can watch the next audition as closely as you like."

Still seething, Shin Jong-Ki issued the order. The other judges followed his lead, now casting cold looks at Bong Tae-Sik.

Realizing excuses would no longer work, Bong Tae-Sik lowered his head and moved away. As he came to stand near me, he whispered low.

-So this is it, Yoon-Ho? You really want to go to war?

I smiled at Bong Tae-Sik.

-You're the one who started it, you sneaky bastard. And I don't play dirty like you. Whether it's Deok-Bae or anyone else, I score them fairly.

-Cut the bullshit. Fair? Don't give me that crap. If I walk away, you'll rig the score to boost your guy. You think I don't know how your head works?

Bong Tae-Sik kept muttering threats beside me, but I shut my ears. I wasn't here to spar with him. Right now, what mattered more was seeing how far Deok-Bae had come.

"Bring in Mr. Deok-Bae."

"Yes, ma'am."

Click.

The door opened, and Team Lead Yeon So-Hee entered with Deok-Bae by her side.

Deok-Bae held the script tightly in one hand, walking toward the audition floor. When he noticed I wasn't seated at the judges' table, he looked momentarily confused but quickly gathered himself and bowed to the panel.

"Hello. I'm Number 31, Choi Deok-Bae. I look forward to your consideration."

The moment the breakout actor of Hwaranjeon and The Omniscient Viewpoint lifted his head, the judges' eyes sparkled with keen interest. Deok-Bae had a natural presence, but it was his deep and rich voice that really made people smile just by hearing it.

"I've been enjoying your drama lately, Mr. Deok-Bae. Your acting keeps improving. So—did you prepare a lot for today?"

Deok-Bae took a small breath and replied, "Yes. I believe I've prepared enough. Luckily, the role model for Baek Ill-Seung was nearby."

At Deok-Bae's words, everyone on the judges' panel turned to look at me. Then, with expressions of realization, they all nodded.

A moment later, Lee Eun-Joo smiled softly. "Well then, shall we begin the audition?"

"Yes, Ms. Lee."

When Deok-Bae answered with bright energy, Lee Eun-Joo glanced at Yeo Ik-Hwan to lead the session.

Yeo Ik-Hwan nodded and said to Deok-Bae, "Even if it's uncomfortable having Mr. Bong Tae-Sik watching, I hope you'll understand."

It could've been a sensitive issue, but Deok-Bae simply nodded without a trace of concern. "Just because there's one more person watching, nothing really changes. I'll have to perform in front of sunbae-nims on set anyway."

Yeo Ik-Hwan gave a satisfied nod at Deok-Bae's nonchalant attitude. "Looks like I spoke too soon. Hahaha! You're right. If a few extra staff members make you nervous, you're not cut out for the job."

Meanwhile, Bong Tae-Sik, watching Deok-Bae's calm demeanor, couldn't hide his discontent.

'He's not bothered that a rival's watching him? Hah! Acting all composed, that cocky little brat.'

Bong Tae-Sik's envy and resentment had now shifted entirely from me to Deok-Bae. I smirked at his petty bitterness and turned to focus on Deok-Bae as he readied himself.

When Deok-Bae first auditioned for Hwaranjeon, I had paired him with the veteran actress Choi Ji-Yung and had him undergo intensive prep. His physical expressiveness had stood out, which was why I recommended him for the role of Kim Beop-Min. Plus, his competition back then had been peers his own age, making him the clear favorite in that casting battle.

However, this opponent was a different beast. Bong Tae-Sik was fresh off The Infinite Job Hunt Era, which he had starred in alongside our own actress Oh Sung-Yeon. The drama had hit a 25% viewership ratings.

Rumor had it he was the front-runner for this year's MBS Best Actor award, and his reputation for both impact and skill was formidable. Even with some mistakes today, he had still delivered a memorable performance and scored the highest mark yet of 85.5 points.

Still, I didn't think Deok-Bae would lose. That didn't stop me from silently cheering him on with both fists clenched.

'Let's go, Choi Deok-Bae!'

Then Yeo Ik-Hwan nodded and signaled. "Alright. Shall we begin?"

At that moment, Deok-Bae spoke up. "One moment, please."

Deok-Bae set his script on the floor and started doing something unexpected. And that instantly made Bong Tae-Sik visibly anxious beside me.

'How the hell... does that kid know about talent agents' habits?'