Min-Ji's words lingered in Ji-Hoon's mind. "Questionable business practices?"
Determined to uncover the truth, Ji-Hoon approached Director Min-Soo.
"Director, what do you know about Sophia's business practices?" Ji-Hoon asked.
Director Min-Soo hesitated. "Rumors, Ji-Hoon. Nothing concrete. But I'll investigate."
Jae-Hyun joined the conversation. "I'll dig into Sophia's past deals."
Just then, Sophia arrived, her smile charming.
"Ji-Hoon, I've sent over the contract. Review it carefully," Sophia said.
Ji-Hoon's unease grew. "Sophia, I need to know more about your investment strategy."
Sophia's eyes narrowed. "My methods are unconventional, but effective. Trust me."
As Sophia departed, a sleek black car pulled up.
A suave-looking man stepped out, introducing himself.
"Hello, I'm Eric Kim, Sophia's business partner," he said.
Eric's gaze locked onto Ji-Hoon. "You're the talented Ji-Hoon I've heard about."
Ji-Hoon sensed a hidden agenda. "What brings you here, Eric?"
Eric smiled. "Sophia's investments often require... creative solutions. I ensure those solutions are implemented."
Jae-Hyun's instincts flared. "Eric, what kind of solutions?"
Eric's smile grew wider. "Let's just say, we're willing to take risks."
As Eric departed, Ji-Hoon turned to Jae-Hyun.
"Jae-Hyun, I don't trust Eric," Ji-Hoon said.
Jae-Hyun nodded. "Me neither. We need to dig deeper."
Yoon-Ah approached, her expression concerned.
"Guys, I overheard Eric talking to Sophia," Yoon-Ah said.
"What did you hear?" Ji-Hoon asked.
Yoon-Ah hesitated. "They mentioned something about 'controlling the narrative'."
Jae-Hyun's eyes narrowed. "That sounds ominous."
Just then, Director Min-Soo called out.
"Alright, everyone! Let's get back to filming."
As filming resumed, Ji-Hoon's unease grew.
During a break, Ji-Hoon approached Min-Ji.
"Min-Ji, can you research Sophia's past investments?" Ji-Hoon asked.
Min-Ji nodded. "Already on it, Ji-Hoon."
Min-Ji's eyes sparkled. "I found something interesting."
"What is it?" Ji-Hoon asked.
Min-Ji leaned in. "Sophia's linked to a talent agency with a shady reputation."
Ji-Hoon's eyes widened. "That's troubling."
Jae-Hyun joined the conversation.
"We need to confront Sophia," Jae-Hyun said.
Ji-Hoon nodded. "Let's do it."
As they prepared to confront Sophia, Eric reappeared.
"Sophia wants to meet with you, Ji-Hoon," Eric said.
Ji-Hoon's heart sank. What did Sophia have planned?