As I exit the elevator and start the long long walk down the hall to my office a smile stretches across my face. A smile I'm unable to contain. All the while oblivious to the hustle and bustle of people performing their various work tasks around me. Tasks that are important in some way to making my show work.

I'm usually focused, however, today, I am not. I know every one of the 50 plus staff members on my team. I make an effort to take a sincere interest in them.

I know who's expecting a child; who lost someone important to them recently and more. It gives me a sense of being part of a team and I hope it does the same for them. It's a rare occurrence to lose my temper as I did yesterday when I stormed in the control room.

Before leaving last night, I found Jin Li and apologized for my demand to upload an unscheduled commercial break. As staff member after staff member greets me, I just smile and keep walking. Ever since I ended my call with Taehyung, I've been floating.

I chuckle as I think how shaky it started, but I did it. I initiated a conversation and enjoyed it. I look down briefly, as my smile grows wider.

I was gleeful talking to Jimin this morning. He cheered me on and encouraged me to go for setting a date since the call went so well. Once I settled my nerves the conversation felt easy.

The thought of him expands my smile even more as an added chuckle bubbles out of me. He left me wanting more. I really believe for the first time that I can have it.

I can have more with Tae. Oh God, I want more with this man that I met 24 hours ago. This is insane, yet I can't seem to think about anything else.

I've never had this experience with another. I pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming. Oh my goodness, that deep sexy laugh.

I feel a tingling sensation run through me as I imagine the sound of him moaning and letting me know how good my tongue feels on his flesh. I sigh and slowly shake my head lost in my thoughts. I have 90 minutes before show time, which is plenty of time to relax and get into my snug pants.

God, I hate those pants but for some reason, today, I'm okay with them. I hope Tae likes me in them. I'm excited about seeing him after the show.

I have the urge to call him as my finger lingers over my phone's screen. Not a good idea. I don't want to overdo it, I just want to see him.

I want to look in his eyes when we talk. I'll know if he's sincere. Does he feel like me, giddy, happy and insanely infatuated?

He is a normal guy and I'm going for him today. I'm going to ask him out. That thought send a chill down my spine.

I'm scared but willing to take the risk. I have to. We're just getting to know each other. Nothing more. Who the hell am I kidding, God I want more.

I can't stop smiling. This is not good. I sigh and float forward as I turn the knob and enter my office. Maybe I'll send Tae a text message, I consider as I pull my phone out.

"Hey Beautiful."

Oh my God, fucking buzz kill. I know that voice and I immediately feel nauseated. My smile drops as does my dream state high when I see Tommie Chen stretched out on my couch with his fucking grimy boots on. Shit!

I forgot he was today's guest. I hadn't thought about the show at all today. I'd been focused on Tae and operating on auto pilot.

"Tommie, what are you doing in my office? And get your feet off my couch!" I snap as he slowly stands and moves forward to greet me.

What an arrogant buffoon. He is so entitled and believes the world is here to serve him. In the few times I've been in his presence, his conversation is all about him. This asshole is so self-indulged that he doesn't even pretend that there others in the room.

"Now is that anyway to talk to your man," he says with silly grin as he starts to invade my personal space.

"My man?" I repeat narrowing my eyes and drawing back. He comes towards me and leans in as if to hug me and I raise my hand to stop him.

"Now why you got to be such a mean bitch when I'm here as a guest to help your little show," he says followed with a small chuckle.

You fucking condescending prick. I grit my teeth and bite down on my lip to hold back my tongue. This is classic Tommie Chen.

"There's nothing little about my show Tommie," I say defensively backing away from him. How dare he! His rudeness knows no bounds. As if I didn't need more reasons to hate this bastard.

"Well," he says returning to the couch and sitting, "I heard that you have rating problems. But don't worry, I'm here to help my man out with his little show," he says again followed by a disgusting chuckle. I feel my rage build as the back of neck and cheeks heat up.

"Tommie, you can get the fuck out!" I say deepening my tone as I feel my body tense.

"Now, Kookie that's a bit much don't you think?" He say with a sickening smile. A smile I'd like to forget that millions of people around the world love.

He's one of the biggest action hero stars in Asia. And a bad actor on top of it. His success is definitely due to his face and muscular body.

He sit's there with a relaxed smile as if I'm an insignificant matter to be dealt with before talking about more important things, like him of course.

"What is this I hear about your people telling my people that we're ending our relationship? A relationship that's worked for us for almost a year. It's perfect," He says picking up his phone and repeatedly swiping the screen.

This asshole is unbelievable. He's talking yet he is not looking at me. I shake my head and cross my arms tightly over my chest as I sit at my desk. I swivel my chair and face him.

"You mean that phony relationship or should I say arrangement." He's is arrogant as fuck and that annoys me. I feel my blood start to boil as I tighten my hands into fists and then release them only to repeat this again. He then looks up at me as he tucks his phone into his pocket.

"Kookie, this is not a good time," he says combing his fingers through his hair and leans forward. "My new movie comes out in a few weeks. I have to get my audience worked up a bit. You know how it works. Don't play this game with me. This is what we'll do; we go out there and we play it up some. You know, like I grab your ass and kiss your neck," he says staring at me as if I'm seriously considering his proposition. He lost me the moment he started talking.

"First, this is a family friendly show and there will be no ass grabbing. Nor will you be putting your lips on me, on set or off," I say leaning forward in my chair as I tightly grip the armrest.

"Okay, look, how about I take you out on a date," he says with a long sigh. "We have dinner at a trendy restaurant. The press gets some photos and afterwards, you get to spend some private time with me." He is beyond outrageous and obviously thinks he's doing me a favor. Little me and my little show. Fuckin slimy bastard. I bite down on my lip as he continues.

"You're kind of hot, I wouldn't mind spending a bit of time with you later, if you know what I mean," he says with a smug smile raising his eyebrows up and down quickly. He then adds a wink, as if I need more information about his thinly veiled proposal to fuck me.

Not only does he disgust me but he offends me too. I feel my body cringe as I lean away pressing my back into my chair. He talks to me like I'm some desperate groupie that wants to jump on his dick.

I move my hand towards my People's Choice award from last year and seriously consider slamming it up against his head. I take a deep breath in, slowly releases it and return my hand to the armrest. I tell myself to settle down and speak calmly yet affirming my position. I just want his ass out of here.

"Sorry, Tommie. But, I'm not interested. This arrangement is done and I'd like you to leave my office," I say in a measured tone as I feel my jaw tightly clenching.

His mouth falls open and he slightly leans back as disbelief overtakes his face. I'm certain that the word "no" is alien to him.

"You're kidding right? How could you not be interested in me?" He looks as if I just crushed his world. "I'm the hottest star in all Asia and this movie is going be dubbed in English! How could you not be interested in Tommie Chen?" His stare is vacant and his shoulders slightly slump.

What the hell! Did this bitch just speak about himself in third the person? All of a sudden, I find him funny.

I struggle to hold back a smile while pressing my lips tightly together. Evidently, he's concerned about his career. Am I like that? I wonder for a moment.

Am I willing to do things for the sake of my career? Desperate? I guess so.

I certainly went along with this charade for nearly a year and others like it, "to stay relevant" as Jin says. To be successful. I feel my stomach turn with disgust for this industry and myself.

"I owe you an apology, alright?" he says flexing his fingers repeatedly. "A few months ago, I went on a radio show and said some things that were a little off script," he says in a calm voice. "Apparently you're upset. That was not my intention."

What? He brings up the incident where he starts easily taking the bait of that gossip talk show host and shared the intimate details of our nonexistent sex life. He even hinted at sexual positions and toys I enjoy in bed. It was all to benefit his career at my expense. Now that this selfish asshole's career is threatened his tone becomes pacifying.

I narrow my eyes and bite down on my lip feeling a tightness in my chest. "By off script do you mean lies!" I say raising my voice. He loudly sighs as if I'm a mere annoyance. As if I'm a tiny, bothersome insect.

"Was that supposed to be an apology?"

"Yes, Kookie, I apologize," he says with a loud and quick sigh as if he's irritated by my questions.

Mother fucker! "Well thank you Tommie," I says with a sappy tone and fake smile. My smile fades as does my tone. "Now get the fuck out of my office or I'll have security show you out. I don't think that would be good for your image, bitch!" I say through gritted teeth.

He slides to the edge of the sofa and places the palms of his hand on his knees as he leans towards me. His eyes are menacing as he stares at me. He bites down hard on his lip as if he's trying to hold something back. I suspect his rage. His arms then rest at his side and his hands slowly clench.

My tone is sharp and direct in an attempt to cover my fear. I move back a bit as I feel fear moves throughout my body. I'm no alpha male, but I'll be damn sure I won't be silenced or bullied by this asshole.

He stands and hovers over me for a few seconds as his eyes go dark and cold. He is muscular and bigger than me. I see something in his eyes.

It's predatory. I can feel my lower lip and chin tremble as he moves closer to me. I feel intimidated as I fight my inner feelings to not show my physical reaction. I hate my body's reaction to his threat, however, my brain screams fight.

Suddenly, there's a knock at my door. I struggle to find my voice. It is loud but shaky.

"Come in," I say with relief for the interruption. Jin slowly opens the door and comes in. He glances at Tommie and then me with a questioning look.

"You ok, Kookie?" He says slowly with a concern tone as he focuses closer on me.

"We're fucking talking! Get out!" Tommie shouts. I flinch at the loud abrasiveness in his voice.

Jin steps in and walks forward ignoring Tommie and showing no reaction except a slight biting down on his lips. "Kookie, are you okay?" He repeats but this time his voice is lower with added emphasis on the word "okay".

"I'm f-fine, Jin. Tommie was just leaving," I stammer as I swallow hard.

"Wait, we're not finish with our conversation," Tommie says with slightly gritted teeth peering at me with those dark and cold eyes.

"Tommie, you're needed in make-up," Jin says turning towards him with a flat expression.

"Kookie and I are having a conversation," Tommie says as Jin focuses on me. I can see concern in his eyes as an eyebrow rises.

"Tommie, you'll see Kookie on the set. Good luck with your opening day," Jin says. Although softly said Jin is firm, direct and final.

"Goodbye," Jin adds coldly dismissing Tommie.

Tommie looks at me and then storms out slamming the door behind him.

"Something tells me that did not go well,"Jin says as he slowly eases himself down onto the couch. He sits on the edge at attention and leans towards me. He waits for my response as he searches my face.

Above all the talents that Jin has, he is also intuitive. He's good at reading people and situations. He's also pretty damn fearless.

I lick my lips and grab a water bottle off my desk. I twist the cap off and then take big gulps of water, "No Jin that did not go well. He is not happy about ending our arrangement and I don't give a fuck," I say angrily, as my hand holding my water bottle trembles. Jin looks at my hand and then focus' on my face.

"Kookie, did he threaten you?" Jin asks in a voice just above a whisper, as he searches my eyes.

"He didn't verbally or physically but his anger was escalating and I felt intimidated," I say as a flush creeps across my cheeks and I dip my chin down. I slowly shake my head disappointed that my reaction was fear.

"Jin, he wanted me to get all touchy feely with him on set to sell his image and get people excited about his new shitty movie. I refused and he got upset," I say as I grimace in disgust.

"Oh, he's out of here!" Jin's lips flatten as he starts to make a call on his phone.

"No, Jin. He's been put in his place. Let's just get the show done," I say wanting to move forward and dismiss the incident.

"Kookie, we can't stand for that. Fuck him and his people. I won't have you intimidated by that bad-acting piece of shit." Jin says as his nostrils flare. I'm moved by his concern and him placing my safety above the show.

"Kookie, are you sure?" Jin says softly while placing a hand on my forearm.

"Did you forget I'm an actor? I certainly can deal with the likes of that fucking dick in front of the camera. We've had worse." I say with a chuckle thinking about a few bad guest we've had over the last three years.

Jin settles back into the sofa and sighs. However, he is not finding any humor in the situation.

"Kookie, I don't like this and I don't feel comfortable with you out there with him," Jin says picking up his phone again.

I lean forward and lightly touch his knee as my heart beats rapidly.

"Kookie, I'm just going to tell Joonie."

"Jin don't. I-I don't want him to know," I stutter. He stops looking at his phone and slowly lowers it and focuses on me.

"Why, Kookie?" He says tilting his head to the side. I don't want to tell Jin that I feel embarrassed.

I also fear Namjoon will make too much of a mere incident. I should be able to handle a douche bag like Tommie Chen. Unlike Jin, I don't have a strong Alpha type to protect me.

I've always prided myself on being able to fight my own battles. However, I must admit that it would be nice to have a strong Alpha type. An Alpha to protect me and make me feel safe.

A loving partner. During college, Namjoon always handled guys that got out of hand with me. I don't want him to feel the need to come to my rescue.

"C'mon, Jin. It was nothing. Like I said, we've had worse." I flash a smile and follow it with a chuckle. Jin relaxes his posture as his shoulders lower.

"Oh God, we've had some fuck ups and some close calls," Jin says returning my smile. We both laugh which helps me to get grounded.

"Kookie, we always pulled it off because you're a professional and a damn good actor," Jin say with a soft smile.

"Jin, we're a team. You've always been there in my earpiece supporting and directing me through." I reach out and touch his hand giving it a light squeeze while maintaining steady eye contact. Jin's eyes become soft and there appears to be an inner glow.

"Thanks, Kookie," he says as we both sigh simultaneously.

"Earlier Kookie, I spoke with Tommie's manager. He really needs this movie to be big. He's at the end of his contract and his last two movies did not do well. He needs big numbers and this show could make the difference. As such, his ass better behave; and he knows it. Just be friendly and we'll get through it."

I nod and marvel at Jin's ability to always be able to pull things together. I feel my body calm down as I listen to Jin's confident voice. I know that together we'll get through this. It's just one show taping out of hundreds. How hard could it be.

"Look Kookie, we finish this show and then we're done with Tommie's ass. You leave it up to me and I'll find a way to get out of the second commitment with his company. Don't worry. I'll be in your ear. If it gets too uncomfortable you know the signal.

"I sure do," I say tugging on my left ear.

Jin smiles softly and winks as he rises and starts to walk towards the door. A question rises in my mind and I stop him before he reaches the door. I sigh and look downward.

"Jin, have we all become whores for our career? Selling our souls for fame and fortune. This feels really shitty."

Jin turns and takes a few seconds to process my question. "I'd like to say no Kookie, but, I'm not sure anymore. It's part of the game."

"Much of it is smoke and mirrors. However, the audience is not as naive as we'd like to think they are. They know you are selling a ton of Kookie merch and sex in those tight-ass pants but they love it and want it because they come back and they buy it all. You add value to their lives and that is a good thing. Why do you ask Kookie?"

"I'm just seeing things different. Seeing what's important. That's all."

"You didn't forget Taehyung is coming." Jin says with a wide grin.

I actually did forget while battling with that asshole. My inner smile returns and then spreads uncontrollably to my face. Jin is looking down at his clipboard and fortunately does not see it.

"He's uh, left his basket and will stop in to get it after he meets with you." I says as if I have low interest.

Jin then quickly look up as I conceal my smile. "When did you talk to him?"

"Oh, last night. I-I called him. I-I know he really likes the basket and I uh, just wanted him to know it was safe and waiting."

"I see. We didn't want him to worry that someone might steal it. It's good you kept it safe for him." Jin grins wide knowing I'm full of shit.

"I'll give it to him. I know after the show you're tired." Jin says pulling the basket on the table in front of him closer.

"No, Jin!" I nearly lunge placing my hand on the basket.

"Okay, Kookie. I've got to run. You need to get ready. We'll talk later," Jin says with a smug smile knowing all too well I'm crushing hard on Kim Taehyung.

I nod as he walks to the door. He then turns and looks back at me. "Hey Kookie," he says.

"Yeah Jin?"

"I hope you go after what you want. You deserve it."

"Thanks Jin."