Publicity

Chapter 16:

The buzz around Breaking Tides grew louder with every passing day. Social media, blogs, and entertainment news channels flooded with speculation about the film's release and its standout performers. While Jaehyun remained the face of the project, more and more headlines whispered a name no one had expected: Hyunjae.

In a sleek office overlooking downtown Seoul, a team of PR strategists for Jaehyun's agency gathered around a conference table. Screens displayed articles and trending hashtags—

#BreakingTides, #HyunjaeRising, and, much to their discomfort, #MoveOverJaehyun.

Jaehyun's manager, a composed woman with sharp eyes, tapped her pen against the table. "This narrative is getting out of hand. We need to refocus public attention."

"How do you plan to do that?" a junior strategist asked. "Hyunjae's performance is already a topic. Fans are comparing him to Jaehyun, and some think he's better."

Jaehyun, seated at the head of the table, clenched his jaw. "Hyunjae is nothing without this film. He's a passing sensation."

The manager raised a brow. "Passing sensations can become permanent if we aren't careful. We'll need a stronger PR strategy—and perhaps, a scandal wouldn't hurt."

Minho sat by the window of his apartment, the city sprawling below him. His phone buzzed relentlessly—messages from Eunwoo, Yuna, and a few unfamiliar numbers offering interviews and endorsements.

"Fame comes fast," he muttered.

"Fame is a tool. Use it wisely," the system intoned.

Minho rubbed his temples. "How am I supposed to stay grounded? I'm barely holding it together as it is."

"Grounded or not, you are in motion. Adaptation is survival."

The system's words offered little comfort. He thought of his past life, of the spotlight that had both warmed and burned him. This time, he vowed, he wouldn't let it consume him.

Yuna sat in her agency's lounge, scrolling through her phone as her manager approached.

"Hyunjae's buzz is good for the film," her manager began, "but it's also a chance for you to ride the wave. Public appearances, joint interviews—it's what the audience wants."

Yuna's eyes narrowed. "You want me to be his shadow?"

"Not his shadow. His counterpart. The press already loves your chemistry."

She sighed, placing her phone down. "I want recognition for my talent, not just for standing next to someone."

"You're talented," the manager said, leaning closer, "but talent isn't enough. Public perception is a game. Play it well."

The next day, a press event for Breaking Tides brought the cast together in a sea of flashing cameras. Jaehyun wore his polished smile, Yuna dazzled in a sleek dress, and Minho… Minho's presence felt magnetic.

Reporters clamored with questions:

"Hyunjae! Your first major film—how does it feel to be called a breakout star?"

Minho forced a smile, carefully choosing his words. "I'm grateful for the opportunity. The real credit goes to the incredible cast and crew."

A reporter turned to Jaehyun. "What's it like sharing the spotlight with a rising newcomer?"

Jaehyun's smile tightened. "Hyunjae's performance adds depth to the film. It's always exciting to work with fresh talent."

The tension was palpable. Minho kept his composure, but his mind raced with the implications.

After the press event, Jaehyun cornered his manager. "Enough is enough. Hyunjae's rise stops now."

His manager's eyes flickered with calculation. "I have a plan. But remember—every move comes with consequences."

Jaehyun smirked. "I'm ready."

As the cameras packed away and the lights dimmed, Minho felt a chill run down his spine. He knew the game was far from over.

And every victory came with a cost.