18. Lack of Confidence

In Brad’s luxury car, the journey towards the meeting with CEO Byeol was a moment filled with excitement and tension for Luna. From the car window, the bustling cityscape of London flew by rapidly, seeming to mirror the vibrations and expectations Luna felt in her heart.

Brad drove the car casually, occasionally engaging in light conversation with Luna. They shared joy and admiration for this rare opportunity. The smooth hum of the car engine and the gentle patter of raindrops on the windshield added an intimate and deep silence inside the car.

During this short journey, Luna silently pondered about the upcoming meeting. Her mind was filled with troubling questions: how would she express her admiration for Byeol without seeming overly enthusiastic? What should she say to indicate she was ready to take the next steps in her career? But most hauntingly, how would she handle the growing feelings of love inside her? These feelings made her nervous and uncertain, yet they also gave her courage to face this challenge.

Luna let herself drown in the whirlwind of confusion and excitement. Her heart and mind continued to debate, seeking answers to these sudden questions. However, amidst all the uncertainty, she felt this was a pivotal step in her life that could change everything.

Brad, sitting beside Luna, observed her thoughtful expression. He could sense the waves of emotion swirling within Luna, but he knew he needed to support her without disturbing her thoughts. With a keen glance, Brad started a conversation to divert Luna’s attention from her anxieties.

“Sorry I couldn’t join you in Seoul the other day,” Brad said casually as their car cruised through busy streets.

“No worries, Brad. Besides, it was because your wife gave birth. Family comes before work,” Luna replied with a friendly smile, reminding Brad of priorities.

Brad nodded in agreement with a small laugh. “Yeah, you’re right. But I did miss out on my client’s love story.”

“What?” Luna was surprised and slightly confused by Brad’s comment. Before she could inquire further, Brad burst into laughter. “You sneaky manager! How could you!”

“You like him, don’t you?” Brad shot straight to the point. Luna fell silent, her eyes showing confusion and uncertainty. She didn’t respond immediately, letting Brad’s words echo in the silence of the car.

“Come on, no need to be shy like that. I know, okay, Luna. Don’t lie to yourself,” Brad gently advised, turning towards Luna with an understanding smile. “You’re usually so confident when you like a guy, why not now?”

Luna looked at Brad, silently reflecting. She felt open with this friend who had long been a loyal listener and advisor. As the car continued on, her thoughts drifted to CEO Byeol. She remembered how her feelings had slowly grown, from admiration for his talent and leadership to something deeper, something hard to express.

“I don’t know either, Brad...,” Luna said softly, trying to convey her haunting doubts.

“Lun, you’re a smart, beautiful, talented actress. I’m sure he’ll like you,” Brad said sincerely, trying to reassure his friend who was in doubt.

“Well, maybe you’re right,” Luna finally replied cautiously, her voice low but honest. “I’ve never felt like this before, Brad. It makes me feel... somewhat scared.”

Brad smiled knowingly. “Scared of what, Lun?”

Luna took a deep breath. “Afraid that my feelings won’t be reciprocated. Afraid it might affect my career. And afraid that I won’t know how to act when I meet him later.”

Brad nodded slowly. “Believe me, Luna, these feelings are normal. You’re not alone in feeling this way. And I’m sure he’ll appreciate your honesty and dedication, both as an actress and as someone with personal feelings.”

Luna smiled faintly, feeling somewhat relieved by Brad’s support. “Thank you, Brad. I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me.”

“I mean, I’m not just your manager, Lun. I’m your friend too,” Brad said sincerely. “And friends are always there to listen and support.”

Luna nodded slowly, accepting Brad’s words as encouragement. Though her heart was still filled with uncertainty, she felt a bit calmer hearing his conviction. She hoped everything Brad said was true, that her sincerity and dedication would be well received by CEO Byeol. As they continued their journey towards this crucial meeting, Luna tried to calm herself and focus on positive thoughts.

They proceeded in comfortable silence, though Luna’s mind was still occupied with thoughts about the impending meeting. In her heart, she felt ready to face whatever might come, both professionally and personally. In the slowly setting sun, Luna found peace and courage to express herself, hoping everything would turn out well.

Their journey through the bustling streets of London not only symbolized their physical journey but also Luna’s emotional and spiritual journey towards this important meeting. Every corner of London reminded her of her long journey in the world of arts and entertainment, filled with challenges and achievements.

When the car finally stopped in front of the luxurious restaurant where they would meet, Luna gazed at the building with a mix of enthusiasm and apprehension. Brad glanced at her with a confident smile. “You got this, Lun. Just relax.”

Luna smiled faintly, nodding in response. She felt more at ease now, ready to face whatever may come. With determined steps, she stepped out of the car and prepared to enter the restaurant where she would meet the man. Her heart was filled with hope that this meeting would mark a new chapter in her career and perhaps in her personal life.

“Hi-hello,” Luna greeted with a slightly awkward smile as they reached the table where Kim Min-joon, CEO of Byeol, was calmly waiting.

“How are you, Luna?” Kim Min-joon greeted warmly, extending his hand for Luna to shake. His gaze was warm and enthusiastic, making Luna feel a bit calmer even though her heart was pounding.

“I’m fine, thank you. I’m really glad to meet you,” Luna replied, her voice slightly trembling but trying to maintain her confidence.

During lunch, Kim Min-joon initiated conversation by asking about Luna’s latest projects and her experience in the entertainment industry. Luna enthusiastically responded, sharing about her projects and how she always aimed to give her best in every role she took on. Kim Min-joon listened attentively, occasionally adding comments or questions that boosted Luna’s confidence.

“Oh, by the way, I came here to review a shooting location. Can you accompany me?”

“I came here to review a shooting location. Can you accompany me?” Min-joon asked softly but firmly, seeking support from Luna and Brad.

Luna nodded eagerly. “Of course. We’d be delighted to accompany you.”

Min-joon smiled relieved at Luna’s response. “Alright then. But, I hope it won’t disturb your schedules?”

“Of course not,” Luna quickly replied, emphasizing her readiness to support Min-joon’s decision.

Before Min-joon could respond, Brad interjected with a slightly awkward tone. “Sorry, it seems I can’t make it. I have to accompany my wife to the doctor tomorrow morning.”

Luna glanced at Brad with a hidden expression of annoyance behind a faint smile. She knew Brad’s reason for not joining was to leave her alone with Min-joon tomorrow. While Luna was bothered by this, she also felt challenged to demonstrate her abilities without Brad’s assistance.

“I understand, Brad. Maybe next time we can meet again,” Min-joon said understandingly, though a hint of disappointment was evident in his voice.

Luna woke up in the quiet of the night, contemplating the possibility that Brad might not be able to join them on the trip tomorrow. Her thoughts turned to Min-joon, who would be her sole companion if that were to happen. Suddenly, anxiety crept into her heart, bringing forth uncontrollable worries. How would she face the trip without Brad’s presence? How could she handle a situation where it would just be her and the man she liked?