Because of Love Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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Because of Love Synopsis

A single mother, Tan Jing lives with her son, Sun Ping, who suffers from congenital heart disease. In order to save money for her son’s surgery, Tal Jing works hard and lives frugally.

Despite the hardships of life, she is not discontented and remains independent and strong, cherishing her ordinary life and raising Sun Ping to be lovable and understanding.

Nie Yusheng, a cardiac surgeon, was preparing a CM program to help children with precocious heart disease and selected Sun Ping to be the first child to benefit from the program.

During the visit, Nie Yusheng discovered that the mother of the child was his lover, Tal Jing, seven years ago. During the treatment process, Nie Yusheng was still deeply attracted by the accumulated beauty of Taljing’s resilience and bravery and was also impressed by Sun Ping’s lovely understanding.

Life and time gave both of them a test and allowed them to face each other’s love more maturely. In the end, Sun Ping was successfully treated, Tan Jing had her own business, and Nie Yusheng’s CM project was successfully promoted, and they finally ushered in a happy and fulfilling outcome.

Because of Love Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

The autumn day unfolded like any other, green trees swaying outside a sweet shop, sunlight streaming in, and birdsong filling the air. Inside, Nie Yusheng, a man carrying an umbrella, ordered a cake and personally wrote a card. This seemingly ordinary act was deeply intertwined with Tan Jing, the woman working at the cash register. As evening fell, the weather, typical for typhoon season in early September, turned unpredictable with a sudden drop in temperature.

Tan Jing rushed out of the sweet shop, merging with the flow of people heading home. She boarded a bus, finding a small, private space where she could finally exhale, her tense body relaxing after a long day. Ten minutes after getting off the bus, she walked past clusters of old residential buildings, their dim lights reflecting on the street.

Every time peaches were on sale, she would unhesitatingly buy two catties; though her life was financially constrained, she had grown numb to its struggles. Just then, Tan Jing saw Nie Yusheng. His name was etched into her memory as her first love, once the brightest sun of her youth. However, after nearly seven years apart, that sunshine had faded, becoming a mix of surprise, a faint smile, and a brief greeting.

Out of politeness, Tan Jing invited Nie Yusheng upstairs. He glanced at the dilapidated building, his tone calm, yet his words carried a cold, cutting edge. He expressed slight surprise only when she mentioned her husband was home. She offered him the peaches she had just bought, but he declined the invitation, saying he had to leave. After Nie Yusheng departed, Tan Jing, though pretending to be composed, felt a ripple of emotions and cold sweat on her back.

She stood frozen for a long time before finally knocking on her neighbor Ms. Wang’s door to pick up her son, Sun Ping, after thanking Ms. Wang. That night, rain poured, mirroring Nie Yusheng's restless heart. After so many years, he thought his memories of Tan Jing would have faded. But upon recognizing her familiar figure earlier that day, he couldn't help but follow her, even buying a cake and deliberately writing a card.

Yet, he felt no sweetness and assumed Tan Jing felt the same. He had initially gone to pick up a cake, not expecting to see her, but found himself waiting for her to finish work. Indeed, Tan Jing’s life was not easy. The countless lights illuminating other homes offered no comfort; only a cold, dark living room and a mess awaited her. Her husband, Sun Zhijun, was passed out drunk, reeking of alcohol.

Tan Jing, despite her exhaustion, habitually cleaned up the mess and hung laundry. By the time she finished all the arduous household chores, it was well past midnight. Meanwhile, Mr. Quan accompanied Nie Dongyuan to a business dinner, discussing Dongyuan Group's expansion into the medical field through an acquisition. Mr. Quan called Nie Yusheng, hoping to get his professional opinion as a cardiac surgeon. Nie Yusheng expressed no interest, stating he wouldn't get involved in Dongyuan's affairs.

He was only going to the dinner to accompany his father, though he seemed distracted. The next morning, Tan Jing rode the bus to work as usual. After paying her son's medical fees, she noticed her bank account balance diminishing, causing her anxiety. At the cardiac surgery department, Mr. Fang and Nie Yusheng had a disagreement. Mr. Fang advocated for administering diuretics to a patient without fully considering her specific condition.

Nie Yusheng's judgment, however, was soon proven correct when the patient’s condition worsened dramatically after following Mr. Fang's advice. The patient’s heart rate increased further, and her blood pressure continued to drop, with tests revealing a severe lung infection. Nie Yusheng stepped in to manage the critical situation. Thanks to Nie Yusheng’s timely and appropriate intervention, the patient passed the danger period, and her parents were deeply grateful, calling him their daughter's savior.

They decided to take their daughter home after her condition stabilized, as the medical expenses were too high. Later, when Tan Jing returned home, she found Sun Zhijun unusually sober, which filled her with a sense of dread. Sun Zhijun quickly revealed he was short on money for a promising business venture. He wanted to use Sun Ping's surgery funds, but Tan Jing firmly refused.

He then suggested she borrow money from Nie Yusheng, or he would go to Nie Dongyuan, claiming the Nie family owed them money anyway. Later, Pingping woke up and came out, so Sun Zhijun made an excuse about overtime and left hastily, telling Tan Jing to reconsider his suggestion. After Sun Ping finally fell asleep, Tan Jing had some time to herself.

She took out a long-forgotten iron box, filled with mementos that transported her back to high school seven years ago. Her first encounter with Nie Yusheng was when she witnessed a schoolyard brawl. Nie Yusheng, then a rebellious youth, had confronted her, asking if she would tell the teachers about the fight. Despite his rough demeanor, she said nothing. Nie Yusheng also attended the same school. Their unusual connection transformed from initial dislike to a shared understanding.

Tan Jing excelled academically, particularly in English, and her recitations often captured Nie Yusheng’s attention. Tragically, Tan Jing’s father later suffered a heart attack. Their humble yet warm family was shattered. She knew Nie Yusheng had paid a 5,000 yuan deposit for her father's hospital care, but she stubbornly returned the money to him, calling it "hush money" and arguing that it bought too much favor but too little dignity.

Nie Yusheng was playing billiards when she angrily threw the money at him, telling him to learn to be a good person and not solve problems with money. The next morning, the cardiac surgery department lobby was bustling. Nie Yusheng rarely held regular clinics but occasionally spent a few days helping colleagues review medical images. Coincidentally, on this particular day, Tan Jing brought her son to see a doctor.

Dr. Li complained to Nie Yusheng about the child's parents being uncooperative, apparently finding the hospital's angiography too expensive compared to their previous hospital. Nie Yusheng was taken aback to realize that the "difficult parent" Dr. Li mentioned was Tan Jing. Both were momentarily stunned, but Nie Yusheng quickly composed himself, calmly stating that an angiography was necessary before scheduling surgery. Tan Jing, looking flustered, quickly thanked him and left.

Nie Yusheng picked up the diagnostic records and films, hurried after her, and explained that Sun Ping had a congenital heart defect (ventricular septal defect with aortic regurgitation), which could have been diagnosed at birth due to purple lips. He warned her that without timely treatment to repair the valve defect, Pingping would suffer from endless colds, fevers, and pneumonia, facing grave dangers at critical developmental stages.

His explanation was delivered with a cold indifference, and Tan Jing could only watch him walk away, tears welling in her eyes. His last bit of sympathy was gone. That evening, Nie Yusheng received a phone call from Shu Qin, who needed him to pretend to be her boyfriend to get out of a blind date. He arrived and successfully disrupted the awkward gathering. Shu Qin introduced him as her boyfriend, Nie Yusheng, a cardiac surgeon.

She explained to the relatives present that she and Nie Yusheng had a recent fight and almost broke up, which led her aunt to set up the blind date. Now that they had reconciled, she apologized for the misunderstanding, blaming herself, and drank a toast to apologize. As they left, Shu Qin sighed in relief. Nie Yusheng, however, was tired of constantly playing roles to help her.

Shu Qin then playfully suggested that since they were both single, they should consider getting married, but Nie Yusheng scoffed at the idea, stating he would marry a suitable lady, which was clearly not her.

Episode 2 Recap

Shu Qin playfully bantered with Nie Yusheng, teasing him about their long-standing friendship, a bond forged years ago when he was studying medicine abroad. Having been financially cut off by his disapproving father, Nie Yusheng had struggled with illness and debt until Shu Qin entered his life. Now, they were both back in China and still single.

Nie Yusheng, in turn, joked about marrying her, but she responded that even he wouldn't want that, admitting that while she's used to waiting for someone, she can't wait any longer. Her thoughts lingered on a person named Mark, whom she described as "love itself."

Nie Yusheng, however, was consumed by his own lingering feelings for Tan Jing, reflecting internally on how he had envisioned their reunion countless times, expecting a dramatic scene, but it had turned out to be so ordinary. He confessed to himself that he couldn't forgive his own coldness and indifference, admitting it stemmed from jealousy of Tan Jing's son, her current husband, and a life where he was no longer a part.

The next morning, Shu Qin, a sharp department head, went to the airport to pick up Sheng Fangting, the newly appointed Deputy General Manager. Sheng Fangting, a young man with a unique, independent personality, declined her offer to carry his luggage and later informed her by phone that he would handle his own arrangements without her help. Back at the office, Shu Qin’s colleagues speculated about Sheng Fangting’s absence from his welcome party, suggesting he was putting on airs.

Shu Qin, however, noted that he was a "winner" who already had both men and women reacting strongly to his arrival. Later, Shu Qin visited Nie Yusheng at the hospital. Knowing her well, Nie Yusheng anticipated she needed another favor, likely for a company leader's surgery. Shu Qin pleaded for his help, explaining that hospital surgeries required scheduling and that her company's internal strife made it difficult for her to "make a living."

Nie Yusheng initially tried to discourage her, suggesting her company had no future, but eventually agreed, albeit reluctantly, stating it would be the last time. Shu Qin promised to buy him a meal in return. Meanwhile, at Tan Jing's workplace, a woman insisted on handling bread directly from the cold cabinet with her hands, despite Wang Yuling, a store clerk, explaining the hygiene regulations and asking her to use tongs.

The woman became aggressive, claiming she had the right to "pick and choose," and accidentally dropped some bread. She then refused to pay for it, accusing the store of "forcing her to buy" and being "a bunch of robbers." Sheng Fangting and a supervisor arrived during the commotion. Sheng Fangting calmly suggested checking the surveillance footage, and when the duty manager, Zhu Zhaobin, mentioned needing headquarters' approval, Sheng Fangting exercised his authority and granted immediate authorization.

The footage clearly showed the woman’s actions, forcing her to pay for the touched and dropped bread before she left, still muttering complaints. Nie Yusheng had a disagreement with Mr. Fang, a department director, about the CM Program, a new medical project. After work, Nie Yusheng offered Mr. Fang a ride home when his car battery died.

During the ride, Mr. Fang explained that his criticism was for Nie Yusheng’s benefit, advising caution on the new program because, despite foreign subsidies, new materials and procedures required extensive domestic approval and a "long transition period." He warned Nie Yusheng of the responsibility he would bear if problems arose but also acknowledged that "doctors have parental hearts" and that even a small chance of hope for patients should be seized.

He asked Nie Yusheng to prepare a risk assessment for the Vice President of Operations. That evening, Zhu Zhaobin invited his employees, including Tan Jing and Wang Yuling, to dinner to discuss the incident and write a bilingual explanation letter for headquarters. He had asked a colleague to bring Tan Jing's son, Pingping, so she could focus. Wang Yuling’s writing was subpar, and Zhu Zhaobin's own English version was grammatically flawed.

Tan Jing offered suggestions, advising Zhu Zhaobin to frame the letter not as an argument with a customer but as "arguing based on just grounds," and offered to refine the English grammar during translation. Impressed, Zhu Zhaobin tasked her with rewriting the letter and sending the English version from her personal email. As Tan Jing prepared to send the email, she typed in a familiar username, triggering a flood of high school memories.

She recalled a time when Nie Yusheng had mistakenly thought her father was a pervert and physically confronted him, only to realize his error. Following that incident, her father forbade her from seeing Nie Yusheng, leading them to communicate exclusively through emails. These exchanges blossomed into a profound relationship during their high school and college years, creating both "the most beautiful moments" and "the most painful memories."

During a flashback to that high school period, Nie Yusheng was seen intervening in a fight involving school outsiders harassing Tan Jing. When the school director, Mr. Fang, reprimanded them both, Nie Yusheng took full responsibility, sacrificing his own academic recommendation. He passionately declared to Tan Jing that he would "never be indifferent to you all my life." Later, Shu Qin and Nie Yusheng met for a drink, celebrating the successful surgery Nie Yusheng performed on Shu Qin’s superior.

Shu Qin, expressing gratitude, highlighted her struggles in the workplace and how difficult it was for her, a "small woman," to make a living. She praised him for being the only person who never advised her to take the easy path of working for her father. They raised their glasses "to freedom," acknowledging their shared journey of earning their own lives. At home, Wang Yuling asked Tan Jing about her marriage with Sun Zhijun, hinting at recent arguments.

Tan Jing confirmed the occasional arguments but stated it was normal for couples. She confessed that while Sun Zhijun treated her "pretty well," ultimately, it didn't matter as long as he was good to their son. The next morning, Sheng Fangting summoned Shu Qin to his office and asked her to read the English explanation letter that had been submitted.

Shu Qin evaluated it as "coherent and clear, logically flawless, and emotionally neither humble nor arrogant," but deemed its English "average." Sheng Fangting prompted her to reconsider, leading her to realize that for a grassroots store manager, such an English letter was exceptional. He then declared his intention to promote Zhu Zhaobin to his private secretary at headquarters, despite Shu Qin’s objections about company precedent and his already assigned assistant.

Sheng Fangting asserted his authority, stating he would dismiss any assistant she assigned until he got "this person," forcing Shu Qin to agree to his "vision and courage" in promoting talent. Meanwhile, Sun Zhijun, working on a construction site, was mocked by his colleague Feng Hui for ogling female white-collar workers, leading him to punch and break Feng Hui's nose. Tan Jing received a phone call from Officer Zhang at the police station.

Officer Zhang reprimanded her, informing her this was the second time Sun Zhijun had caused trouble while drunk and had broken Feng Hui's nose. He instructed her to visit Feng Hui at the hospital, pay compensation, and apologize to avoid Sun Zhijun's detention. Tan Jing, with fruits and limited cash, went to the hospital. Feng Hui's wife confronted her, verbally abusing her and demanding 50,000 yuan.

Tan Jing offered the cash she had, but Feng Hui’s wife angrily rejected it, pushing her money and fruits away. As Tan Jing left the hospital room, she felt as if she were in a nightmare, telling herself she had to stay strong until she woke up. Lost in her thoughts, she saw Nie Yusheng walk past her without acknowledgment. Overwhelmed, she collapsed.

She later woke up in a hospital bed, where a nurse informed her she had fainted from low blood sugar and was found by a caretaker. At the front desk, she discovered her phone was broken and she had no money. After failed attempts to reach her colleagues, she tearfully called Nie Yusheng, offering the letters and photos from their past in exchange for 50,000 yuan.

Nie Yusheng hung up but called back, provocatively asking if she wouldn't prefer 100,000 yuan for her son's surgery, implying their shared past was worth more. Tan Jing, struggling to hold back tears, agreed to the higher amount. After the call, Nie Yusheng, in his own moment of anguish, dropped his phone. Unbeknownst to Tan Jing, it was Nie Yusheng, not a caretaker, who had found her and brought her to the emergency room, but he had chosen to conceal his involvement.

Episode 3 Recap

Seven years ago, Tan Jing would rather have died than shamelessly beg for money as she does now. However, life's hardships have forced her to abandon her pride, willing to sell her past for 50,000 yuan. In his office on the thirtieth floor, Nie Yusheng angrily smashes his phone, but moments later, he carefully places the SIM card back into his cardholder. Nie Yusheng goes to the hospital and pays Tan Jing's outstanding hospital fees.

He tells her, "It's all paid for. Tell me. When? Where?" Tan Jing suggests, "Can we talk about this at 10 AM at the cafe across from the hospital?" Observing him, Tan Jing notes, "His face gave away nothing. If there used to be hate, not even a trace of that is left now." She realizes, "I know that everything between us is all over."

She recalls seeing a couple getting married and how she wished for that kind of love. Nie Yusheng had proposed to her, vowing to marry only her. He apologized for not being able to afford a beautiful wedding dress or a diamond ring then, but promised to get them for her in the future. Tan Jing had replied, "I don't need any of those. It's enough that I have you."

She recounts going to Belgium during her second year of university to find Nie Yusheng, where they got married without rings, flowers, or family blessings. Nie Yusheng had promised to buy her a real diamond ring one day. At that time, she believed that with him, she had the entire world. She reflects, "How naive I was." Shu Qin is cooking at Nie Yusheng's home when Nie Dongyuan, Nie Yusheng's father, unexpectedly arrives.

Shu Qin introduces herself as Nie Yusheng's university classmate and offers him the braised beef she's making, which Nie Dongyuan praises as his and Nie Yusheng's favorite. Shu Qin shares that she knows Nie Yusheng's preferences from their time in Belgium, where he would rush home for her braised beef even from the library. Nie Dongyuan approves, stating, "They say that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. You've found the way."

When Nie Yusheng returns, his father asks why he never visits. Shu Qin then asks Nie Yusheng to be her companion for their company's annual party. Nie Yusheng claims he's busy, but Nie Dongyuan encourages him to go, saying it's an honor to be invited and that if he were 30 years younger, he would accompany her himself. He advises Nie Yusheng not to act like a "lonely prince" and to be more social.

Shu Qin decides to leave, but Nie Dongyuan urges her to stay and eat. Back at her apartment, Tan Jing asks her neighbor, Zhang, to fix her broken phone. Zhang promises to check for motherboard damage and replace the screen if it's repairable. Tan Jing holds the few remaining items connecting her to Nie Yusheng, each one a cherished memory. Her son, Sun Ping, needs a ventilator every night.

Whenever Sun Ping calls for her, she drops everything to be by his side, comforting him, "I'm here. There's nothing to be afraid of. Close your eyes." The next morning, Sun Ping gently blows on Tan Jing's finger after she burns it while peeling an egg. Sun Ping asks why they aren't having soymilk, and Tan Jing explains the machine is broken. Sun Ping then asks, "Mom, my quality isn't good either. Should I be replaced too?"

Tan Jing lovingly assures him, "Who told you that? You're the greatest gift the heavens gave me." At the café, Nie Yusheng presents 29,641 yuan to Tan Jing, stating that after deducting yesterday's medical expenses, he can only give her 30,000 yuan. Tan Jing hands him the box of their old mementos. Nie Yusheng notices the brooch is missing. Tan Jing explains, "I sold it. There were diamonds on it. They were worth some money. I've already spent that money."

Nie Yusheng asks if she will check the amount, reminding her that she had asked for 50,000 yuan yesterday. He then adds, "This money is too much to buy my future and too little to buy your pride." With a sweep of his hand, he scatters the money on the floor. Tan Jing flashes back to a time when she rejected an expensive pair of Bluetooth earphones Nie Yusheng bought her.

She had explained that her family wasn't well-off, and accepting such a gift felt like "a charity case," making their relationship unequal. " If I accept your money, we won't have an equal relationship. How could we be in love if our relationship is not equal?" Nie Yusheng had countered, suggesting her "sensitivity and pride" were "obsessional" and questioning if she truly loved him, believing that "when you love someone, you should give up your pride."

Back in the present, Tan Jing quietly bends down to pick up the scattered money. Nie Yusheng then leaves the cafe, tossing the metal box into a nearby trash can. Unknown to him, Tan Jing had not sold the brooch; she had secretly hidden it, her last personal keepsake from their shared past. Shu Qin interviews Zhu Zhaohui for a duty manager position.

She notes his vocational degree in chemical engineering, supplemented by part-time university study, but his major was not English. She points out his previous job at Xinglong Restaurant did not require English. Zhu Zhaohui assures her he will improve his English. As Shu Qin works, Sheng Fangting, the Deputy General Manager, walks in, engaged in a heated argument with another manager who feels his recent promotion is merely a way to reduce his authority.

Shu Qin later reports to Sheng Fangting that Zhu Zhaohui is not qualified for the duty manager role. Sheng Fangting, acknowledging his own "surrounded by enemies" situation and lack of trusted personnel, explains he prefers to train a new, loyal individual. He instructs Shu Qin, whose specialty is training newcomers, to proceed with Zhu Zhaohui’s onboarding. However, Shu Qin discretely tells her assistant, Vicky, to "Put it on hold first. Don't work on that yet."

Tan Jing visits Feng Hui in the hospital and informs him that she has paid all his hospital charges, showing him the receipt. She also gives him some money for supplements. Feng Hui admits he was only joking with Sun Zhijun and didn't expect him to react so angrily. Tan Jing then offers him her phone number, subtly conveying her hope that he won't sue Sun Zhijun.

However, Feng Hui's wife arrives, immediately berating her husband for being "weak-willed" and scolding Tan Jing. She demands an additional 30,000 yuan for emotional distress on top of the 50,000 yuan previously requested. Tan Jing counters that making fun of someone's privacy is also wrong and firmly warns them, "The premise of our communication is that everyone has to be reasonable. If you guys are going to continue this behavior, you won't get a single cent."

She gives them her phone number, telling them to call when they've "thought it through." At work, Manager Zhu Zhaohui scolds Tan Jing for being late. Citing three late arrivals this month and her absence yesterday, he deducts her entire monthly bonus and yesterday's salary, assigning her a continuous shift for tomorrow. When Wang Yuling attempts to speak up for Tan Jing, Zhu Zhaohui silences her. Tan Jing quickly apologizes and accepts the punishment.

Later, Zhu Zhaohui privately asks Tan Jing for the account and password to her email, specifically the one she used to send the report to headquarters, claiming he needs to "follow up in time." Tan Jing writes down the details. Zhu Zhaohui then advises her to remain "discreet" and not "bring unnecessary trouble to yourself." That evening, Nie Yusheng retrieves the metal box from the trash can.

Shu Qin calls Nie Yusheng again, playfully complaining about how difficult it is to reach him and insisting he must accompany her to her company's annual party, declaring, "There's no escape for you." Nie Yusheng agrees. At the party, Shu Qin introduces Nie Yusheng to Sheng Fangting. Sheng Fangting recognizes Nie Yusheng as the doctor who performed surgery on Deputy General Manager Wang and expresses his gratitude. On the drive home, Shu Qin senses Nie Yusheng's low mood.

She knows it's his birthday, but he hasn't celebrated it since his breakup with Tan Jing, as they share the same birthday. Shu Qin confides in Nie Yusheng, contemplating whether it's "worth it to spend all of one's passion for life on a single relationship." She reflects on how they both appear "normal" when busy with work, but "our hearts have long been empty. We're two 'heartless' persons. Aren't we?"

Meanwhile, Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan surprise Tan Jing with a birthday celebration. Wang Yuling helps Tan Jing deposit the money she received earlier. Tan Jing initially thinks her friends are celebrating their engagement, but Wang Yuling corrects her, reminding her that it's Tan Jing's own birthday. They celebrate with a cake, and Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan give Tan Jing a silver hairpin that she had long admired.

Sun Ping and Tan Jing make a wish together and blow out the candles. Tan Jing then recalls a past birthday when Nie Yusheng, having earned money from part-time jobs, gifted her a brooch. He told her then that he wanted "the closest thing to your heart to be something I gave you." Nie Yusheng returns home and opens the recovered metal box. Inside, he finds a well-preserved diary, which immediately captivates his attention.

The next morning, Tan Jing makes stir-fried soybean dregs for Sun Ping, telling him that his dad, Sun Zhijun, loves them. Sun Ping asks where his dad is. Tan Jing tells him his dad is "working overtime" and will come home to play after work. She then tells Sun Ping their usual rule: "Your dad will come back once these beans begin to sprout," and places some beans in water. At the same time, Nie Yusheng is shown watering a cup of beans, one of which has already sprouted.

Episode 4 Recap

Nie Yusheng visited the young patient Mengmeng before her surgery. Noticing her low spirits, he performed a "beans sprouting magic trick" to offer her hope. He reassured her that the procedure would be quick and painless. He showed her some soybeans and promised that by the time she woke up after surgery, the beans would have sprouted into white, fat bean sprouts.

He told her she needed to be as strong as the tiny, hard beans that grow with just a little water. Mengmeng said she understood and asked Nie Yusheng to wait for the sprouts with her, to which he agreed. Later, in his office, Nie Yusheng soaked a few soybeans, lost in thought. He was reminded of a time when he was sick and Tan Jing had taken care of him.

As she prepared to leave, citing her father's strictness and calls to her dorm, Nie Yusheng had asked her not to go. She then shared her own childhood "beans sprouting magic trick," explaining that her mother would put a few beans into water before leaving, promising to return when they sprouted, which she always did with breakfast ready.

Nie Yusheng playfully accused her of trying to trick him and wanting to be his mother, to which Tan Jing retorted that there was nothing good about being his mother. He responded that he thought she would be a better mother than a wife, and she joked that she would be envious of her own son. As she finally left, Tan Jing promised Nie Yusheng that she would be back when the beans sprouted, and he would have recovered.

He told her he couldn't bear to part with her. Tan Jing visited Feng Hui and his wife, presenting them with money as compensation. She explained that her son, Sun Ping, had congenital heart disease and desperately needed the money for surgery, stating it was the most she could offer. Feng Hui's wife, initially stern, softened upon hearing about Sun Ping's condition, remarking on Tan Jing's challenging life.

She advised Tan Jing to keep Sun Zhijun in check, recounting how he had hit her husband, but ultimately agreed not to press charges, telling Tan Jing they had agreed to mediation with the police for her sake. Tan Jing expressed her gratitude. As she left the hospital, Nie Yusheng and Tan Jing unknowingly passed each other. Back home, Tan Jing found a disheveled Sun Zhijun sitting outside, smelling foul.

It was a sad reminder of how he had changed from the caring man he was when she was pregnant; a physical and subsequent psychological disorder had soured him, and now he used their son as a pawn to demand money. He immediately demanded to know how much Feng Hui had requested and where she got the money. When she said she borrowed it, he scoffed, claiming she had already borrowed from everyone and questioning who would lend her money.

He then accused her of borrowing from Nie Yusheng, noting she smelled of alcohol and asking if she had been drinking with him. Tan Jing retorted that he had no right to question her, but he insisted he had every right to demand money from the Nie family due to their past. Tan Jing, exasperated, declared she had forsaken her self-esteem and dignity, begging others for money, all for their son.

She pleaded with him to stop causing trouble, wishing only for Pingping's recovery and for them to move past their old issues. Sun Zhijun, however, tried to persuade her to lend him 10,000 yuan for a high-interest investment, claiming a friend had seen success. Tan Jing called him silly, pointing out that if money was so easy to earn, she wouldn't be begging daily.

Pushed to his limit, Sun Zhijun threatened that if he became desperate, he would confront Nie Yusheng and his father, vowing that "none of these jerks will get to escape." At work, the store manager, Zhu Zhaohui, reviewed the transaction history and discovered a missing cake. He questioned Liang Yuanan, the cake decorator, as CCTV showed he had decorated five cakes but only four were accounted for.

Liang Yuanan claimed he had eaten a badly decorated cake, within his monthly allowance for "failure indicators." The manager, however, pointed out that store policy only allowed disposal of expired items, a fresh cake could last three days, and a badly decorated cake required managerial approval for a "loss claim," which he had not given. He accused Liang Yuanan of theft, suggesting he might have sold the cake privately.

To protect Liang Yuanan, Tan Jing intervened, claiming it was her birthday the previous day and she had asked Liang Yuanan to make her a cake, intending to pay for it with her employee discount but forgetting to. Liang Yuanan tried to stop her, but Tan Jing insisted, referencing her personal details in the duty manager's records as proof. Although the manager confirmed her birthday, he was disappointed by her actions and dismissed her, demanding she pay for the cake.

Liang Yuanan and Wang Yuling expressed concern for Tan Jing, but she urged them not to jeopardize their own jobs, stating she was truly fine. Tan Jing later confided in Wang Yuling's mother, who felt that Tan Jing had been unfairly treated by the duty manager. Tan Jing defended Wang Yuling, reiterating that it was her birthday, and emphasized the unexpected benefit of having more time to spend with Pingping.

However, with no degree or special skills, her prospects for finding new work were grim. That evening, Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan visited Tan Jing, revealing they had both resigned and persuaded the store manager to rehire Tan Jing. They then shared their long-standing plan to open their own dessert shop, with Liang Yuanan confident in his skills. They subtly suggested Tan Jing join them, hinting at her role in managing operations.

Tan Jing, observing their sweet interactions, realized the depth of their affection and was touched by their support. Meanwhile, Sheng Fangting's company reforms continued, leading to the dismissal of many long-time employees. As Sheng Fangting walked with Shu Qin, a furious former employee named Zhao attempted to throw a bucket of paint at him. Sheng Fangting instinctively shielded Shu Qin, while Zhao hurled insults at her for siding with Sheng Fangting.

Shu Qin calmly intervened, reminding Zhao that they were in a public space and that maintaining a good reputation was crucial in their industry, which was a small circle. She acknowledged his past contributions and suggested negotiating the severance package in her office. Zhao, lamenting his age and lack of future prospects, eventually conceded. Afterward, Sheng Fangting thanked Shu Qin for her intervention and sought her advice on how to handle Zhao.

Shu Qin recommended offering Zhao more compensation to ensure his departure was amicable, fearing that otherwise, other veteran employees might lose heart. Sheng Fangting, surprised that Shu Qin wasn't angry after Zhao's insults, commented on her newfound maturity and thanked her.

Mr. Fang informed Nie Yusheng that his project had been approved by the hospital, and Sun Ping was selected as the first patient, having been recommended by Dr. Li due to his family's financial difficulties, thus qualifying for a subsidy. Nie Yusheng immediately expressed strong objections.

He argued that the project's high surgical risk made an adult patient more suitable, and that Sun Ping's complex congenital heart condition—a ventricular septal defect combined with aortic regurgitation, located in a rare position and covering a large area—was too severe and complex for the project's inaugural case, especially given Sun Ping's young age. He suggested starting with simpler cases and proceeding gradually.

Nie Yusheng also mentioned that when he had previously met Sun Ping's parent, they seemed hesitant about the treatment. Mr. Fang dismissed Nie Yusheng's concerns, insisting that he contact Sun Ping's family to persuade them. Tan Jing later received a phone call from the hospital while she was at work.

The staff informed her that Sun Ping's medical case had been selected for a new research project, explaining that she had previously signed an agreement allowing public discussion of his case for educational or research purposes. They asked her to visit the hospital for more details. Tan Jing eagerly asked if this meant Sun Ping's illness could finally be cured.

The staff member could not guarantee a cure but advised her to come to the cardiac surgery department and to contact Dr. Nie Yusheng directly upon arrival. Feeling conflicted, Nie Yusheng invited Shu Qin for drinks that evening. Shu Qin remarked on a feeling of déjà vu, reminding him of the first time he invited her for a drink when they were students in Belgium, after she had saved him.

She recounted how she had seen him, a hardworking Chinese medical student, faint while mowing a lawn under the scorching sun. She had climbed a fence to save him, then prevented a costly ambulance ride by treating him herself with ice. Shu Qin then questioned if he truly wanted to be a doctor, given his intense dedication.

Her question sent Nie Yusheng back in time, recalling a past argument with his father, who had wanted him to study finance and inherit the family business. Nie Yusheng had vehemently refused, stating he only wanted to study medicine, primarily to treat Tan Jing's father. His father had threatened to disown him and cut off all financial support.

He then remembered the subsequent, painful conversation with Tan Jing herself, who urged him not to sacrifice his ambition for her and suggested they find another doctor for her father. Nie Yusheng had expressed profound disappointment that Tan Jing, of all people, couldn't understand his choices, ultimately telling her he never wanted to see her again. The next day, Nie Yusheng made a phone call to Tan Jing, maintaining a cold, professional tone.

He identified himself and explained the hospital's new project, stating he would email her the relevant information to spare her a trip to the hospital. He then asked for her email address. Tan Jing provided her old address, "tn4ever@126. com," and he asked her to repeat it to ensure he had it correctly. Unbeknownst to Tan Jing, Zhu Zhaohui, the store manager, who was anxious about his delayed transfer to headquarters, had been secretly accessing her old email account.

He saw the copy of the email Nie Yusheng sent to Tan Jing and later criticized Nie Yusheng for including too many details about potential risks, fearing it might deter the family. Nie Yusheng responded that the surgery was inherently high-risk, and parents needed to consider it carefully. Later, Tan Jing approached Zhu Zhaohui, apologizing for her recent tardiness and frequent calls, offering to work overtime by forfeiting her monthly leave.

Zhu Zhaohui sternly told her to reflect on company policies and prioritize work over personal matters, while also inquiring about Sun Ping's condition. As Tan Jing prepared to print the documents Nie Yusheng had sent, she stumbled upon an email from Zhu Zhaohui to the regional supervisor—a complaint letter explicitly reporting her. It was then that she realized Zhu Zhaohui was the one who had betrayed her.

Episode 5 Recap

Tan Jing discovered an email from Zhu Zhaohui in a company computer, the subject line bearing her name. She learned that Zhu Zhaohui had reported her to headquarters for repeated tardiness, early departures, and embezzlement of public funds, specifically for the cake money she had covered for Liang Yuanan. The email, however, omitted the full details of the cake incident and recommended her termination.

Tan Jing realized Zhu Zhaohui’s actions were a betrayal, especially since he had used her previously written English explanation letter to secure his own promotion. Feeling that he had ungratefully turned against her, she decided to fight back by sending an English email directly to Sheng Fangting, detailing the true circumstances and trusting him to see the truth.

Later that night, after her son, Sun Ping, had fallen asleep, Tan Jing reviewed the professional academic documents Nie Yusheng had sent her regarding Sun Ping's surgery. The documents outlined the surgical conditions and risks, including a partial subsidy from a medical equipment company. However, as she read further, a growing unease settled over her. She realized the surgery would involve a brand new bioprosthetic valve, with unknown biological effects and lifespan, carrying risks different from traditional procedures.

Feeling helpless and alone, she wondered how she could make such a weighty decision without anyone to consult. Unexpectedly, Sheng Fangting contacted Tan Jing by phone, expressing surprise at her email and inviting her to meet him at the company headquarters. She readily agreed, making arrangements for her friend Ling to look after Sun Ping. During their meeting, Sheng Fangting asked Tan Jing why she took full responsibility for the cake incident.

She explained that Liang Yuanan was her friend who had helped her during her most difficult times, and that as a cake decorator, he risked being blacklisted from the industry if fired, whereas her cashier job was easier to replace. Sheng Fangting pointed out that she had committed a significant workplace taboo by shouldering all the blame and using friendship to justify breaking rules. He then asked her to read an English article, impressed by her accurate pronunciation.

Curious, he asked why someone with her English proficiency was working as a cashier, suggesting she was capable of a better position. Tan Jing revealed that she dropped out of foreign language college in her third year due to a family emergency and never received her diploma. She explained that without a degree, most companies required a bachelor's degree even for administrative assistant roles. Thus, she treasured her cashier job and pleaded with Sheng Fangting not to terminate her.

He promised to do his best. Tan Jing reflected that her years of hard work studying English, once inspired by another, had now become her sole means of proving herself. Meanwhile, Nie Dongyuan arrived at the hospital for a check-up, accompanied by Mr. Quan. The nurses, aware of Nie Yusheng's popularity, surrounded Nie Dongyuan until Nie Yusheng himself appeared, at which point they quickly dispersed.

Nie Yusheng maintained his usual cold demeanor towards his father, but became visibly disturbed when Mr. Lin, his superior, informed him of a suspicious shadow in Nie Dongyuan's liver and the need for a biopsy. Later, sitting in his car after work, Nie Yusheng received the pan-fried dumplings his father had specifically sent. A nurse delivered them and explained they had been kept warm at his father's request, making him realize his father’s underlying concern.

After much hesitation, Tan Jing finally gathered the courage to call Nie Yusheng. She explained that she had many questions about the documents he sent and hoped to consult him in person. Nie Yusheng, in a dismissive tone, stated he was busy with surgeries for the next few days and scheduled their meeting for the following Monday afternoon at the cardiac surgery ward. Sheng Fangting had lunch with Shu Qin, telling her he now understood her concerns about candidate qualifications.

Shu Qin, who had initially dressed up for what she thought might be a personal invitation, realized the discussion was purely professional. Sheng Fangting informed her that someone had fraudulently used another person's English explanation letter, which he now understood was Tan Jing's original letter. He then tasked Shu Qin with arranging an immediate interview for Tan Jing at the headquarters and finding a way to address her lack of a bachelor's degree for the administrative assistant position.

At the sweet shop, the regional supervisor, influenced by Zhu Zhaohui's accusations, confronted Tan Jing about her alleged poor work performance, including tardiness, personal phone calls during work hours, and financial irregularities. Tan Jing admitted to being late sometimes due to family matters but vehemently denied any financial misconduct. As the supervisor and Zhu Zhaohui pressed her to resign or face a 50% pay cut, Sheng Fangting suddenly appeared. He instructed Tan Jing to answer her phone, which was ringing.

Putting it on speaker, she learned it was the HR Department of Shengmei Group calling to schedule an interview for her tomorrow morning at 10 AM, specifically mentioning that General Manager Sheng Fangting had personally recommended her for the administrative assistant role. Tan Jing's interview went exceptionally well, and Shu Qin, highly satisfied with her performance, told her to report for work at 9 AM the next morning.

She also mentioned that the situation at the branch would be handled discreetly to avoid unnecessary complications. On her way home, Tan Jing was overjoyed. She had not held much hope for a position at the headquarters, having grown accustomed to disappointment. The unexpected offer brought immense relief, particularly the prospect of a regular 9-to-5 schedule with weekends free to spend with Sun Ping. She envisioned a brighter future for them.

Meanwhile, Zhu Zhaohui, furious that his plan to sabotage Tan Jing had backfired, got drunk at a food stall. He loudly cursed Tan Jing and threatened to make her life difficult even at the headquarters. Unbeknownst to him, Sun Zhijun was at a nearby table and overheard his rant. Later that night, Sun Zhijun ambushed a drunken Zhu Zhaohui, beating him severely and settling the score on Tan Jing's behalf. The next morning, Tan Jing arrived at Shengmei headquarters.

Amy greeted her and showed her to her new workstation in the Marketing Department, providing her with a badge and instructions to register for the company's internal email and new employee training schedule. Shu Qin then formally introduced Tan Jing to the team as Sheng Fangting's new administrative assistant.

Sheng Fangting himself appeared shortly after, introducing her to more colleagues, including Lily (the secretary), Jessica (the planning manager), Gigi (a designer), and Linda (a planning specialist), before excusing himself for another meeting. Lily then helped Tan Jing set up her company email, noting that with her chosen English name, Daisy, she would be the seventh "Daisy" in the company and her email would need a note to differentiate it. While her colleagues welcomed her, whispers circulated among them.

They gossiped about how an administrative assistant was personally brought in by Shu Qin (Vicky) instead of Amy, and even more strangely, personally introduced by Sheng Fangting. They speculated about her background, remembering how Sheng Fangting had "rescued" her at the branch and praised her English skills. Some even gossiped about her late-night meeting with Sheng Fangting in his office. Despite the chatter, Tan Jing remained focused.

When lunchtime arrived, most colleagues left, but Tan Jing stayed at her desk, diligently working to familiarize herself with her new responsibilities. Later, Nie Yusheng called Mr. Quan, informing him that he would be coming home for dinner with his father, much to Nie Dongyuan's surprise. Mr. Quan encouraged Nie Dongyuan to communicate openly with his son, highlighting their lack of communication and Nie Yusheng's honest nature despite his stubbornness.

Episode 6 Recap

A flashback shows Nie Yusheng buying a brooch, then asking the shopkeeper to hold another unique one for him for two years. He eventually buys it but never gets the chance to give it to Tan Jing. At her new job in the head office, Tan Jing works late, carefully reviewing emails. Sheng Fangting offers to help, explaining which emails require replies and instructing her to draft a tactful English response for one from Charles.

He then invites her to dinner, but Tan Jing declines, choosing to stay and continue her work. Later, during a management meeting, Tan Jing mistakenly enters. Jessica, a colleague, informs her that assistants are not required to attend these internal meetings, and the email she received was only for scheduling purposes. Another colleague, Lily, questions why Tan Jing didn't attend and clarifies that only assistants taking minutes are usually present.

Lily then asks Tan Jing to prepare various drinks for the attendees: black coffee for Sheng Fangting, black tea for two directors and Mr. Wang, water for Mr. Zhang and Mr. Zheng, and lattes for herself and Jessica. When Tan Jing brings the drinks, Sheng Fangting asks her to stay and take minutes. While Tan Jing is busy preparing the drinks, Shu Qin checks in, asking how she's adapting.

Shu Qin asks to be called Vicky, and Tan Jing, in turn, asks to be called Daisy. Tan Jing expresses her admiration for Shu Qin, likening her to "Driving Miss Daisy." She mentions her past experience as a cashier, where she had to remember dozens of items, implying she is capable of handling the current tasks. Shu Qin reminds Tan Jing that as Sheng Fangting's personal assistant, she shouldn't have to perform general office duties typically handled by secretaries.

However, Tan Jing insists that as a new employee, it's appropriate for her to do more. After work, Sheng Fangting offers Tan Jing a ride home while she waits for the bus. As they are about to leave, Shu Qin drives past in her red sports car and greets them.

In the car, Tan Jing shares her admiration for Shu Qin, describing her as a competent, beautiful, confident, and sincere woman whom she always aspired to be, failing to notice the meaningful look Sheng Fangting gives Shu Qin as she drives away. Tan Jing then asks Sheng Fangting to stop giving her special treatment at work. She expresses her deep satisfaction and gratitude for simply having a job at such a large company, something she had only dreamed of.

She promises to work diligently and independently, without needing special care. Sheng Fangting acknowledges her request, noting that rumors about them are already circulating in the office, but advises her to ignore them. Meanwhile, Nie Dongyuan and Nie Yusheng share a quiet dinner, with Nie Dongyuan praising the food cooked by their new cook, Ms. Qin. Nie Dongyuan asks Nie Yusheng to change his work shift so they can visit a cemetery in the suburbs the next day.

He explains that the cemetery informed him about new double-plot grave sites available, and he wishes to move his late wife's grave to one so they can be buried together in the future. He recounts a poignant memory from the first Chinese New Year after Nie Yusheng’s mother passed away, when he clumsily tried to make dumplings for a young Nie Yusheng, resulting in flour soup that made his son cry for his mother’s dumplings.

Nie Yusheng is touched by the memory and takes a prawn dumpling. Separately, Wang Yuling expresses her frustration to Tan Jing about an argument with her boyfriend, Liang Yuanan, regarding their search for a cake shop location. She felt he was reluctant to borrow money for a prime spot. Liang Yuanan then arrives, excitedly announcing he's found and signed a contract for a new shop on Shanxi Road.

He explains that although the location is somewhat remote, it’s strategically placed next to a primary school and a kindergarten, ensuring consistent foot traffic. He also highlights that the previous tenant was a milk tea shop, minimizing renovation costs. Wang Yuling’s anger dissipates, and they reconcile, happy with the new development. Back home, after Sun Ping falls asleep, Tan Jing prepares some snacks for Sun Zhijun.

She wants to discuss Sun Ping’s upcoming surgery and informs him that the attending physician wishes to meet with both parents. Tan Jing admits her reluctance to face Nie Yusheng alone. Sun Zhijun agrees to attend, especially after learning that a new program with a medical company subsidy will cover the cost of the heart valve, significantly reducing their expenses.

His mood darkens briefly upon hearing Nie Yusheng’s name, but he then pours a drink and offers a silent prayer to Tan Jing’s deceased parents, thanking them for their grandson’s improved prospects and the financial relief. Elsewhere, Shu Qin is at home when Nie Yusheng returns. She has prepared soup for him, noting that she opted against steak knowing his aversion to grilled meat smells after long hours of surgery using an electric scalpel.

She then confides in Nie Yusheng that she has decided to finally give up on her ex-boyfriend. She explains that she now understands that while she once believed they were deeply connected, they are fundamentally different individuals, and continuing to hold on would only prolong her suffering. The next morning, Nie Dongyuan and Nie Yusheng visit the old cemetery where Nie Yusheng's mother is buried.

Nie Dongyuan observes how crowded the area has become since her burial, prompting his decision to move her to a new, more serene location. After paying their respects, they proceed to view the new double-plot graves higher up the mountain. During their journey, a tired Nie Dongyuan unexpectedly asks Nie Yusheng to call and check on his biopsy results, revealing that he is already aware of his illness.

He explains that he deduced the truth from the unusual location of the blood draw. Nie Dongyuan advises his son to let go of the past, particularly his lingering feelings for Tan Jing, and to seek genuine happiness in his own life, stressing the importance of entering into a meaningful marriage. Nie Yusheng, moved by his father’s words, promises to start dating.

Later that day, Tan Jing goes to the hospital to meet Nie Yusheng regarding Sun Ping’s surgery but is informed that he swapped shifts. She calls him, reminding him of their scheduled discussion, and Nie Yusheng, apologizing for his forgetfulness, suggests they meet at the medical school instead, sending her the location. At the medical school, Tan Jing asks Nie Yusheng to clarify the differences and safety aspects of CM’s biological valve compared to a mechanical valve.

Nie Yusheng explains that both types have advantages and disadvantages. He notes that biological valves are more commonly used, with traditional ones lasting 10-15 years, while CM’s new biological valve offers a longer lifespan of over 25 years and can grow with the organ, though its limited clinical history means there are still inherent risks. Unexpectedly, Sun Zhijun arrives, making a grand entrance and deliberately acting as Tan Jing’s devoted husband and Sun Ping's father.

He places his hand on Tan Jing's shoulder, creating a facade of marital harmony. He bombards Nie Yusheng with questions about the surgery's cost and risks. Nie Yusheng, visibly annoyed by Sun Zhijun’s behavior, calmly reiterates that all surgeries carry risks and all medical consumables have pros and cons, stating he has already explained everything clearly to Tan Jing.

He advises them to discuss the options at home and to either fill out the necessary forms for the subsidy or propose an alternative plan promptly. As they leave the medical school, Tan Jing confronts Sun Zhijun, firmly stating that she will not give him any of the surgery funds, as that money is strictly for their son’s life-saving treatment.

Sun Zhijun attempts to persuade her to sell a brooch to finance a legal case against the Nie family, hoping to secure compensation for past grievances related to her deceased father. He tries to appeal to her sense of duty, invoking her father’s spirit. However, Tan Jing refuses, arguing that they lack the evidence, resources, and financial means to pursue such a fight.

Episode 7 Recap

Nie Yusheng received the biopsy report for his father, Nie Dongyuan, confirming a malignant tumor in his liver. Due to the tumor's proximity to a major artery, surgery was not an option, and only conservative management could be pursued. Overwhelmed by the news, Nie Yusheng reflected on his relationship with his father, admitting his own past faults and realizing his father's enduring patience.

He spoke with Shu Qin, expressing his desire for a serious relationship with her, not merely a pretense for his father's sake, but a genuine attempt to open his heart and move forward. When Shu Qin initially thought he meant a fake relationship, she questioned his sincerity and choice of her after he clarified he was serious.

Shu Qin insightfully suggested that he chose her because she wasn't the woman he truly loved, thus avoiding guilt, and because he still harbored deep feelings for his ex-girlfriend. Nie Yusheng did not deny this and confirmed his desperation, citing their past conversation about settling for each other if they ever lost hope. Shu Qin, grappling with Nie Yusheng's proposition, messaged a friend named Mark to confide in him.

She explained Nie Yusheng's desire to seriously try and fall in love with her, expressing her awkwardness given their long-standing friendship. She also recounted Nie Yusheng's belief that admiration and understanding could sustain a lifelong partnership. Mark's terse reply advised her to make her own decision, leaving Shu Qin to ponder her feelings. Meanwhile, Tan Jing woke up on a public bus to find her silver brooch missing. After a fruitless search and questioning a fellow passenger, she was devastated.

That night, her son, Sun Ping, noticed her distress and offered to sing a lullaby for her, providing a moment of comfort. The next morning, Tan Jing arrived at work still visibly dispirited. Sheng Fangting, observing her, called her to his office. He had her bring him meeting materials and two cans of cold Coca-Cola, which he then suggested she use to soothe her eyes while resting, assuring her he would not disturb her.

During lunchtime, Tan Jing, feeling somewhat better, offered to treat her colleagues, but most declined. Only Gigi accepted, and they headed to a tea restaurant. As they left the office building, they narrowly missed Nie Yusheng, who was waiting for Shu Qin. Sheng Fangting then approached Nie Yusheng and Shu Qin and invited them to lunch as a gesture of gratitude for Nie Yusheng's past assistance.

During their meal, Sheng Fangting remarked on Shu Qin's assertive professional approach and then questioned Nie Yusheng about handling such a clever and eloquent girlfriend, subtly observing their dynamic. Separately, as Tan Jing and Gigi enjoyed their lunch, a colleague named Catherine joined them, and the conversation turned to office gossip about Shu Qin having a new boyfriend.

After their lunch, Nie Yusheng apologized to Shu Qin for his initial, somewhat selfish proposal, offering to retract it if she was uncomfortable. Shu Qin, however, playfully dismissed his apology, stating her preference for him as a close friend rather than an ex-boyfriend, and relished the idea of others envying her for rejecting him. Later, Shu Qin accompanied Nie Yusheng to the hospital to visit Nie Dongyuan.

She quickly charmed Nie Dongyuan with her knowledge of teas like Biluochun and Maojian. Nie Dongyuan, pleased with Shu Qin, then spoke with her privately to ask if Nie Yusheng had proposed. Relieved by her "no," he confessed his fear that Nie Yusheng might hastily marry due to his illness. He expressed profound gratitude for Shu Qin's presence in his son's life, viewing her as a family member and best friend.

He urged her to give Nie Yusheng a chance, believing his son needed a new beginning to truly move on from his past. Shu Qin, in turn, learned about Nie Yusheng's mischievous childhood from his father. Later that evening, while Tan Jing and Sheng Fangting remained late at the office working, Shu Qin pressed Nie Yusheng to divulge the full story of his past relationship.

Nie Yusheng recounted his deep love for his ex-girlfriend since high school, which even inspired him to become a cardiothoracic surgeon to help her father. He shared the painful memory of helping her apply to schools abroad, only to discover she was planning to break up with him.

He then revealed the crushing truth he learned on the day they broke up: she explicitly stated she had never loved him and had only pursued him because his father was wealthy, shattering his belief that Nie Dongyuan had forced their separation with five million yuan.

Nie Yusheng described the experience as a profound betrayal, akin to "Juliet stabbing Romeo in the heart," leaving him with deep insecurity and a cycle of despair, constantly vowing it would be the "last time" he felt such pain. After hearing Nie Yusheng's agonizing confession, Shu Qin recognized the immense depth and humility of his love, feeling her own past heartbreaks paled in comparison.

The following morning, over breakfast she had bought, Shu Qin reaffirmed her serious intention to try dating Nie Yusheng. She emphasized that as two emotionally wounded but otherwise normal individuals, they should not live their lives as "widows" to their past loves, but rather seek mutual healing. She explained her practical reasons for choosing him, citing his good looks, wealth, and their deep understanding, reassuring him that he needn't worry about her never having loved him.

Still processing the previous night's revelations, Nie Yusheng asked for directions to the breakfast spot. Later, the police station called Tan Jing's office, as she had not answered her personal phone, informing her that they had recovered some stolen goods from a recent theft and asked her to come for identification. Sheng Fangting, learning of the call, offered to drive her, explaining he also needed to check on several stores and that it was rush hour.

At the police station, an officer showed Tan Jing recovered items, but her brooch was not among them, leading to the conclusion it had likely been sold. The officer informed her that tracing sold stolen items was complicated but promised to continue investigations. Sheng Fangting waited for her and drove her back to the company. As they entered the building, Sheng Fangting suddenly coughed up blood and collapsed, prompting a terrified Tan Jing to immediately call for an ambulance.

Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng and Shu Qin went on their first official date. They visited a familiar band bar, where Nie Yusheng found the unchanged atmosphere transport him back in time, feeling more relaxed than he had in years. After the performance, Shu Qin presented him with a souvenir to commemorate their "first step." When Nie Yusheng admitted he hadn't prepared a gift, Shu Qin asked for the old watch he had worn for years.

Despite his hesitation and offer to buy her a new one, she insisted, recognizing its sentimental value. Nie Yusheng eventually gave it to her, playfully remarking that its timekeeping might be inaccurate from long wear. Shu Qin gratefully accepted, promising to cherish it, and sealed their first date with a goodbye kiss.

Episode 8 Recap

Shu Qin attempted to share a goodbye kiss with Nie Yusheng, but both found the moment awkward due to their long familiarity. Just then, Tan Jing called Shu Qin, informing her that Sheng Fangting had collapsed at the company entrance and was being rushed to the hospital. Shu Qin immediately told Tan Jing to redirect the ambulance to Changpu Hospital and quickly left with Nie Yusheng.

Upon arriving at the hospital, Shu Qin inquired about Sheng Fangting's condition with Dr. Chang, learning that he was in critical condition with severe bleeding and required a minimally invasive stomach surgery. He was already undergoing pre-operative preparations. Soon after, Tan Jing returned after paying the surgery deposit. She noticed the watch Shu Qin was wearing, a familiar sight. Feigning nonchalance, Tan Jing engaged Shu Qin in conversation.

Nie Yusheng observed them from a distance, acting as a stranger, until Tan Jing finished speaking and departed. Shu Qin later asked Nie Yusheng if the surgery was very risky, expressing her concern. Sheng Fangting's condition stabilized after the surgery. That night, Shu Qin stayed by his bedside, feeling deeply troubled as she watched him lying pale and weak. The next morning, Tan Jing took over the care of Sheng Fangting.

Colleagues from work came to visit, openly praising Shu Qin for using her boyfriend Nie Yusheng's connections to secure the chief surgeon for Sheng Fangting's operation. Some even speculated about Shu Qin and Nie Yusheng's long-term relationship, suggesting it might not end in marriage. Tan Jing listened to the gossip, silently turning her back to them, unable to offer a normal response.

After the colleagues left, Nie Yusheng visited Sheng Fangting and used the opportunity to ask about Tan Jing's relationship with him. Sheng Fangting clarified that Tan Jing was his administrative assistant. Nie Yusheng then deliberately informed Sheng Fangting that Tan Jing was married and had a son, revealing that her son suffered from a congenital heart defect, hoping to deter Sheng Fangting. Later, Shu Qin, feeling distracted, left her watch on a restroom sink.

Tan Jing found it and was instantly flooded with memories. She recalled how she had once saved up to buy that very watch as a token of her affection for Nie Yusheng. She had wanted him to remember her whenever he wore it. Nie Yusheng had known her desire for the watch, noting she’d cut out its advertisement from a magazine and worked extra jobs.

He had bought it himself, playfully stating he would give it to himself on her behalf. On the day he left for overseas studies, Tan Jing had gone to the airport but couldn’t bring herself to say goodbye, instead hiding and watching him leave, wishing he wouldn't go. As he left, Nie Yusheng had set his watch to the foreign time, promising to carry two times in his heart: hers and his.

Now, Tan Jing went to Nie Yusheng’s office to return the watch. Outside his door, she overheard Mr. Fang congratulating Nie Yusheng on his new girlfriend, whom his father admired for her character and appearance. Mr. Fang urged Nie Yusheng to cherish her. After Mr. Fang departed, Tan Jing stepped in and presented the watch.

Nie Yusheng, however, maintained a cold demeanor, stating that the watch now belonged to Shu Qin and should be returned to her, causing Tan Jing to lower her outstretched hand. Shu Qin later thanked Tan Jing for finding and returning the watch to Nie Yusheng, admitting she was too preoccupied to notice losing such an important item.

When Tan Jing asked how she found Nie Yusheng, Shu Qin replied that he was a renowned cardiac surgeon, making him easy to locate. Shu Qin then wondered if having a famous boyfriend was a good thing or a bad thing. In the following days, Tan Jing frequently went to the hospital to care for Sheng Fangting.

This arrangement served as her work, allowing her to leave punctually after the doctors' shift changes, avoid overtime, and pick up Sun Ping on time – a rare benefit. However, one night, Tan Jing discovered Sun Ping secretly drinking some dark, unidentifiable medicine in the bathroom. Despite her questions, Sun Ping remained silent. Tan Jing suspected Sun Zhijun had once again found some dubious folk remedy, a recurring issue. She sternly warned her son not to consume such things again.

Sheng Fangting's hospital room was exceptionally quiet without Tan Jing. Yet, even with her presence, it remained equally serene. The company provided Tan Jing with a computer for her work in the hospital, mostly refurbished second-hand models. However, in Tan Jing's care, it was immaculately maintained, as if everything she touched was cherished. Sheng Fangting recalled how Tan Jing would even save one-sided A4 papers, admiring her conscientious work ethic, which reminded him of his own thrifty mother.

Tan Jing informed Sheng Fangting that she would take a day off to accompany her son to visit some friends. Sheng Fangting was surprised to learn she was married with a child, but encouraged her to spend the weekend with her six-year-old son, Pingping. Tan Jing offered to go to Sheng Fangting's home to fetch some change of clothes for him. By chance, she encountered Shu Qin, who was also heading out.

Shu Qin offered Tan Jing a ride, as they were going in the same direction. Once inside Sheng Fangting's apartment, Shu Qin saw a framed photo of herself and Sheng Fangting on his bedroom nightstand, a stark realization that she was not the only one with lingering feelings. Separately, Chubster called Nie Yusheng, insisting he attend a class reunion. Nie Yusheng agreed. Meanwhile, Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan successfully set up their bakery, "Ling's Bakery."

Liang Yuanan proposed they go to the civil affairs bureau to get married, making Wang Yuling very happy. Liang Yuanan promised to help her convince her mother. Unbeknownst to Tan Jing, Sun Zhijun picked up Sun Ping, taking him to a dubious small clinic for various questionable "treatments." Pingping worried his mother would find out. Tan Jing, however, used Pingping's smartwatch to track their location, soon confronting Sun Zhijun.

She reprimanded him for giving their son a concoction of "twenty-one garlic knobs boiled in brown sugar water" and bringing him to such a place, especially given Pingping's weak heart. Enraged, Tan Jing took Pingping home. At home, Pingping asked if his mother was still angry. Tan Jing explained that leaving without telling her or Ms. Wang made her worry, even if it was with his father.

Nie Yusheng and Shu Qin hosted a dinner for colleagues at their home, presenting themselves as a loving couple, drawing much admiration. Unexpectedly, Nie Dongyuan arrived from the hospital, bringing wine. Seeing the couple's apparent happiness, he was greatly relieved, praising Shu Qin and expressing his hopes for their marriage. After the guests departed, Nie Yusheng and Shu Qin sat in silence, each on their own side of the sofa, lost in their thoughts.

Nie Yusheng was reminded of the simple yet sweet moment when he first cooked for Tan Jing, even if the food was too salty. Shu Qin, too, reminisced about her college days with Sheng Fangting (then known as Mark), when they were inseparable. Shu Qin then questioned Nie Yusheng about their relationship, wondering if what they were doing was right, feeling distracted. Nie Yusheng reminded her of their rule not to say sorry.

The following morning, Tan Jing and Pingping visited Wang Yuling's newly opened bakery. Wang Yuling joyfully announced that she and Liang Yuanan had registered their marriage that morning. Pingping presented Tan Jing with a cake he and Liang Yuanan had made, hoping it would cheer her up. As Liang Yuanan tinkered with an electronic firecracker, trying to make it work, it suddenly emitted a loud burst. The unexpected noise startled Pingping, triggering a heart attack, causing him to gasp for breath as everyone rushed to his aid.

Episode 9 Recap

Tan Jing had a beautiful dream that suggested a good omen for her son, Sun Ping's, illness. However, this hopeful dream was shattered when Sun Ping suddenly fell ill again. He was rushed to the emergency room, with paramedics shouting to clear the way. Despite her own sprained and swollen ankle, Tan Jing ran alongside the stretcher, frantically calling out her son's name. Nie Yusheng was the attending physician.

He quickly assessed Sun Ping's condition, noting his congenital heart disease, ventricular septal defect, and mitral valve defect. He then informed Tan Jing, Sun Ping's mother, that her son's condition was critical and that a nurse would provide her with a notice. He calmly explained that while surgery was an option, the risk was high given Sun Ping's current state, and advised her to be mentally prepared.

Tan Jing, distressed, clutched Nie Yusheng's white coat, begging him to save her son. Other medical staff had to intervene, gently asking her to wait outside. Nie Yusheng observed the scene, internally reflecting on the daily display of blood, hearts, and tears, noting that the tears from families were often more abundant than the blood, and he most feared those who couldn't cry.

Later, he saw Tan Jing struggling with her injured foot and asked if she needed a doctor to examine it. A nurse updated him on Sun Ping's vitals, confirming he was on oxygen and stable for the moment despite chest tightness and shortness of breath. Nie Yusheng called Tan Jing to his office. She limped in, supported by Wang Yuling, who then waited outside. Nie Yusheng wordlessly offered Tan Jing an ice pack for her foot.

He explained that Sun Ping's condition had deteriorated over time, increasing the risk, and that without surgery, it would only worsen. Sun Ping needed immediate hospitalization, and the daily medical costs were substantial. When Nie Yusheng asked how much money she had, Tan Jing tearfully admitted to only having 110,000 yuan, which was insufficient for the surgery. She pleaded with Nie Yusheng to lend her money, but he firmly refused, stating he would not lend her money again.

He instructed her to find the funds herself, emphasizing that both surgery and hospitalization required money. Tan Jing despairingly explained that she had nothing valuable left and had already borrowed from all her friends. As she began to say something more, Shu Qin suddenly entered the office, interrupting their conversation. Nie Yusheng instinctively turned away, avoiding Tan Jing's gaze. Tan Jing then informed Shu Qin that Nie Yusheng was her son's attending physician and that his condition was not positive.

She agreed to handle the hospitalization procedures. As she left, Shu Qin offered assistance, but Tan Jing assured her she could manage. Shu Qin then brought food for Nie Yusheng and asked about Tan Jing's son, noting Tan Jing looked dispirited. Nie Yusheng admitted to being exhausted and suggested Shu Qin visit his father. Shu Qin agreed and went to see Nie Dongyuan, Nie Yusheng's father.

Nie Dongyuan enjoyed the food Shu Qin brought, remarking that it tasted like a mother's cooking. He expressed his fondness for Shu Qin, calling Nie Yusheng lucky, and offered advice on how to handle his son in their relationship. He described Nie Yusheng as having a "poker face" but a soft heart, cautioning Shu Qin not to confront him but instead to "show weakness."

Meanwhile, Tan Jing desperately called various relatives and friends, including a woman named Weiwei, to borrow money for the surgery, only to be met with reminders of past debts or new financial troubles. Reaching a dead end, she called Shu Qin, addressing her as Vicky. Tan Jing humbly requested a salary advance, acknowledging her probationary status and lack of entitlement, but explained her dire situation.

Shu Qin, while sympathetic, stated that the company had no such precedent and that approval from higher-ups was highly unlikely. Shu Qin then offered to lend Tan Jing money privately, asking how much she needed. Tan Jing, however, declined the personal loan, still hoping Shu Qin would try to process the company application. Nie Yusheng, observing from a distance, internally affirmed that he owed Tan Jing nothing and was moving forward with his life.

Wang Yuling and her partner had already contributed all their savings to Sun Ping's medical care. Nie Yusheng, despite his outwardly cold demeanor, also tried to help. He called Mr. Fang, the director, in the middle of an emergency surgery, to inquire about project subsidies for Sun Ping. Nie Yusheng suggested a charity foundation's congenital heart disease subsidy, even though it was meant for rural households and Sun Ping didn't qualify.

Mr. Fang was furious, accusing Nie Yusheng of being out of his mind and spoiled, scolding him for calling the operating room for a patient who didn't meet the criteria. He threatened to settle the score after the surgery. Tan Jing, with limited funds, attempted to pay only a three-day deposit for Sun Ping's hospitalization. To her surprise, the cashier informed her that the deposit had already been paid, and 50,000 yuan remained in the system.

The payee was Sheng Fangting. Overwhelmed with relief and gratitude, Tan Jing quietly wept. She then called Sheng Fangting, who was out for a walk. When she tried to express her thanks for paying her son's hospitalization fees, he quickly cut her off, telling her there was no need to say anything about the money and that her son's health was paramount. As they spoke, Nie Yusheng emerged and witnessed Sheng Fangting gently patting Tan Jing's shoulder.

Nie Yusheng turned and walked away, a pang of jealousy evident despite his composed exterior. Later, Nie Yusheng visited Sun Ping in his room. He asked the nurse about Sun Ping's oxygen saturation index, circulation, and overall status. The nurse reported that while his oxygen saturation was low and hypoxemia severe, he could move all four limbs, had good muscle strength, and could speak, though he remained sleepy.

Nie Yusheng then encouraged Sun Ping to grip his hand, praising his recovering strength, but emphasized that he needed surgical treatment as soon as possible due to the risk of fainting again. Sun Ping, understanding the financial burden, quietly told his mother, "Mom, I want to go home. It costs money to stay here." Tan Jing reassured him that the adults would handle the expenses and encouraged him to focus on recovering, like Superman.

Nie Yusheng, overhearing Sun Ping's words, felt a surge of bitterness. He later confronted Tan Jing in the water room, sarcastically remarking on her capability to find someone willing to pay for her son, reiterating that she no longer owed him anything and vice versa. Chubster, an old classmate, called Nie Yusheng to urge him to attend their high school reunion on Saturday.

Chubster, aware of Nie Yusheng's interest in Tan Jing, teased him about "what he was thinking," even offering to keep Tan Jing away if Nie Yusheng agreed to come. Nie Yusheng feigned disinterest, stating he'd check his schedule, but then subtly invited Chubster to dinner that evening. At dinner, Nie Yusheng tried to discreetly inquire about Tan Jing. Chubster, realizing Nie Yusheng's true intentions, divulged that Tan Jing's father had passed away due to an accident at his construction site.

He added that Tan Jing had sold their house and then lost contact with everyone. Chubster lamented that "beautiful women often suffer from bad luck," leaving Nie Yusheng visibly uncomfortable. Nie Yusheng, without finishing his meal, left abruptly. Back at the hospital, Wang Yuling discussed the remaining medical expenses with Tan Jing, revealing that after Sheng Fangting's payment, they still needed over 100,000 yuan for the CM surgery, and even more for a conventional one.

Wang Yuling suggested asking Sheng Fangting again, but Tan Jing felt she couldn't impose further. Meanwhile, Mr. Liu, the school's registrar, called Tan Jing, inviting her to the reunion. He explained he was moving out of town and might not have another chance to see everyone. Though initially hesitant due to her situation, Tan Jing, encouraged by Wang Yuling and Mr. Liu's heartfelt request, agreed to attend.

Later, Shu Qin expressed her frustration to Nie Yusheng, feeling that being his girlfriend offered less intimacy than being his best friend, lamenting his reticence and her fear of losing a drinking companion. Nie Yusheng confessed to meeting an old classmate to ask about Tan Jing, expressing disappointment in himself for "repeating old mistakes" after trying to move on.

Shu Qin, understanding but firm, reassured him that "relapsing doesn't mean repeating" and that his hope would diminish with each relapse until he could truly let go. Shu Qin then drove to the hospital to see Sheng Fangting. She directly asked him why he had given Tan Jing money and if he had fallen in love with her. Sheng Fangting dismissed her questions, stating it was merely a colleague helping another.

He then clarified that he had a "soft spot" for "orphans and widows" and couldn't bear to see them suffer, but explicitly denied being in love with Tan Jing, or anyone, besides himself. He then pointedly told Shu Qin that she should be more concerned about Nie Yusheng. The next morning, Wang Yuling arrived early at the hospital to care for Sun Ping, allowing Tan Jing to attend the reunion.

She handed Tan Jing a cake made by Liang Yuan'an and some vouchers, asking her to promote their bakery. Sun Ping, still upset with Tan Jing, didn't say goodbye. Tan Jing took a bus to the five-star restaurant chosen for the reunion. As she entered, she immediately spotted Nie Yusheng. They exchanged a brief, awkward smile before she quickly headed upstairs.

During the toast, Chubster remarked on how time flies and how everyone had achieved success, mistakenly congratulating Tan Jing and Nie Yusheng on still being together since university. Tan Jing, embarrassed, quickly corrected him, stating that they had broken up a long time ago.

Episode 10 Recap

At an alumni reunion, Mr. Liu enthusiastically praised both Tan Jing and Nie Yusheng, reminiscing about their academic excellence and their past as the admired "golden couple." However, his words created an awkward atmosphere. Tan Jing quickly clarified that they had broken up a long time ago. Another classmate remarked on Tan Jing having a child now, calling it a "pity." While others discussed their children's activities, Nie Yusheng remained silent, drinking steadily.

Chubster, another classmate, lightened the mood by offering cake and vouchers. After the reunion, Nie Yusheng, quite inebriated, stumbled to the restroom. Tan Jing later found him sitting alone and offered him some water. In the taxi ride home, he leaned his head on her shoulder, finding a moment of shared, quiet comfort. That night, Nie Yusheng sat at home, looking at a photo from the alumni gathering, his thoughts heavy.

Tan Jing, also unable to sleep, heard her son, Sun Ping, murmuring. She went to comfort him, then started braiding red ropes, a custom from her hometown meant for good luck and protection for loved ones who are sick or traveling. The next morning during hospital rounds, Mr. Fang led a large team. When they reached Sun Ping's bed, Mr. Fang's tone became serious.

He criticized Nie Yusheng's illegible handwriting on the doctor's orders, questioning the standard of his prescriptions and the safety of the medication. He also pressed Nie Yusheng on the progress of the "CM Program" project, stating that everything was ready except for Nie Yusheng's final push. For Tan Jing, watching this brought back memories of their high school days, when Nie Yusheng was often scolded by teachers.

A colleague intervened by mentioning another patient on bed seven who was on a ventilator, prompting Mr. Fang to move on. Later, Nie Yusheng found Tan Jing, who formally thanked him for advancing the project and for his care for Sun Ping. She asked for the latest deadline to provide her decision, and he replied, "Latest by tomorrow." Back in his office, Mr. Fang continued to reprimand Nie Yusheng, questioning his focus and his relationship with Sun Ping.

Nie Yusheng clarified he had no personal relationship with Sun Ping, only that the family faced financial difficulties. Mr. Fang brought up Nie Yusheng calling the Critical Emergency Room for the patient. Nie Yusheng admitted he forgot, but Mr. Fang sternly warned him about losing focus and the potential for major problems if he continued like this. Outside the office, colleagues offered Nie Yusheng support, reassuring him that Mr. Fang's criticism stemmed from care.

One colleague offered to switch shifts, taking Nie Yusheng's night shift so he could rest. Suddenly, a nurse rushed in, informing Nie Yusheng about an eight-year-old boy named Fengfeng who had fallen at a construction site, with four concrete irons piercing his body, one of them near his heart. Nie Yusheng immediately rushed to prepare for surgery. News reports had already spread about the accident, and reporters gathered at the hospital.

In the operating room, Nie Yusheng, using a sternal saw and rib spreader, skillfully navigated the complex surgery. He confirmed that a concrete iron had luckily not pierced the heart directly, only causing some bleeding. He meticulously sewed the wound with a 4-0 suture, working tirelessly for over eight hours with his team. Afterwards, he stated that the boy's survival depended on luck, and if he made it through the night, the prognosis would be more optimistic.

Shu Qin visited Tan Jing in the hospital, bringing a donation from the company and some money from herself, apologizing that the company’s donation wasn't more as Tan Jing was still on probation. Tan Jing expressed her gratitude. Shu Qin noticed Tan Jing braiding a red rope, learning it was a hometown custom for good luck for the sick or those traveling far.

She then learned Tan Jing was from Ning'an and had attended Ning'an No.4 High School, a place known for its beautiful royal poinciana flowers. Shu Qin found it a coincidence as Nie Yusheng was also from Ning'an No.4. When Shu Qin later brought Nie Yusheng lunch, she was surprised to learn he had performed Fengfeng's critical surgery. She then noticed Nie Yusheng wearing an identical red rope, making her thoughtful.

Nie Yusheng went to visit his father, Nie Dongyuan, accompanied by Shu Qin. In the hallway, he encountered Wang Yuling returning with food and spontaneously suggested she could find stir-fried tomato and scrambled egg at the canteen. As they walked away, Shu Qin immediately found his comment strange, questioning how he knew about the dish, especially given his strong aversion to tomatoes. Nie Yusheng dismissed it as a surgeon's "professional instinct."

Meanwhile, a perplexed Wang Yuling recounted the incident to Tan Jing, who then revealed that during her pregnancy, when she had no appetite, that specific dish was the only thing she could eat consistently. Meanwhile, Nie Dongyuan, deeply affected by Fengfeng's accident and his own illness, reflected on the meaning of money and life. He decided to cover all of Fengfeng's medical expenses, stating that "money is cold, but humans are warm," and he wanted to accumulate good karma.

He then instructed Nie Yusheng to call Mr. Jiang, the real estate agent, to emphasize strengthening construction site management to prevent similar incidents. He also asked for his secretary, Mr. Quan, to settle Fengfeng's medical bills. When Nie Yusheng mentioned he didn't have Mr. Jiang's number, Nie Dongyuan, with a touch of exasperation, told him to get it from Mr. Quan.

Shu Qin laughed, comparing Nie Yusheng to Sun Wukong, unable to escape his father's grasp, noting that his father was already preparing him as a successor. She urged Nie Yusheng to accept his fate, reminding him he was Nie Dongyuan's "only son." Nie Yusheng immediately corrected her, revealing he was "not an only son" and that his father had another son. He confided in Shu Qin that he had only told one person about this before.

He described his initial belief in his father's love for his mother and himself, and his later shock at discovering his father's other family. Learning that his half-brother was three years older than him made him feel "disgusting," questioning what in his life was truly real. He then recalled Tan Jing reassuring him that even if everything else was fake, her love for him was "real."

Shu Qin comforted him, suggesting that perhaps he was lucky to have met someone whom he could trust so completely. Following this revelation, Shu Qin returned to her office and looked up Tan Jing’s personnel file, confirming that she was indeed the unforgettable first love from Nie Yusheng's past. At the hospital, Tan Jing overheard a nurse discussing patients.

She learned that a child named Yuanyuan, previously on bed six, had undergone surgery but "hasn't come back," implying she did not survive. At the office, an employee brought Shu Qin Daisy's leave report, commenting on how Daisy, "specially hired" by Mr. Sheng, was taking such a long leave despite being on probation, speculating she might get a promotion upon return. Shu Qin advised her to focus on work instead of gossip.

Finally, Sun Zhijun approached Nie Dongyuan's car, demanding compensation for an industrial injury seven years ago that resulted in him becoming infertile. He shouted at Nie Dongyuan, declaring, "Karma will find you!" before security guards pulled him away. Nie Dongyuan was not in the car.

Episode 11 Recap

Nie Yusheng reflected on a dream he had, where he found Tan Jing among a crowd of hundreds, feeling her presence much closer than in reality. Tan Jing visited Sheng Fangting to deliver his X-ray film. When asked about Sun Ping, she revealed that a child in Pingping’s ward had died during surgery that morning, leaving her in a low mood. Sheng Fangting, observing her distress, shared a personal story to comfort her.

He spoke of his own childhood, where he was a weak and sickly child raised by a resilient single mother. She endured societal scorn and hardship but never feared it; her greatest fear was his poor health, something she couldn't control. To remain strong for him, she forced herself to eat and gained weight, believing that if she faltered, he would be lost. Sheng Fangting revealed he was that child, and the single mother was his own mother.

He advised Tan Jing to take care of herself, have confidence in Pingping's future, and told her he would be there if she needed anything. Tan Jing thanked him for his encouragement. Later, in the hospital canteen, Wang Yuling struggled to pay for her meal as mobile payments were not accepted. Nie Yusheng stepped in to pay for her and specifically ordered tomato scrambled eggs for Tan Jing.

Wang Yuling, surprised by his knowledge of Tan Jing’s preference, asked how he knew, and Nie Yusheng claimed he had seen her lunch box before. She then discussed Pingping’s urgent need for surgery and the high costs, including potential ICU expenses. Wang Yuling mentioned that Nie Dongyuan, Nie Yusheng’s father and the Chairman of Dongyuan Group, had recently donated two hundred thousand yuan to another injured child and covered all their medical expenses.

She then tentatively asked if Nie Yusheng could approach his father to lend them money for Pingping’s surgery, promising to pay it back slowly. Nie Yusheng firmly stated that he and his father were separate individuals. He then asked if Tan Jing had sent her to ask for money. Wang Yuling denied it, explaining that Tan Jing’s boss, Sheng Fangting, had already lent her money for Pingping's hospitalization, and Tan Jing was too embarrassed and stressed to ask for more.

Upon hearing that Sheng Fangting had provided financial assistance to Tan Jing, Nie Yusheng became visibly angry and abruptly left the canteen, leaving Wang Yuling bewildered. Back in the ward, Wang Yuling asked Tan Jing if she had known Nie Yusheng previously, pointing out his use of her name "Tan Jing" instead of "Pingping's mom," his knowledge of her favorite dish, and his question about whether Tan Jing had sent her.

Tan Jing denied any prior acquaintance, stating that Nie Yusheng was simply Pingping's attending doctor and that his knowledge was normal. She then chastised Wang Yuling for asking Nie Yusheng for money and told her not to trouble others in the future. That night, Tan Jing had a terrifying nightmare where Sun Ping went into the operating room but never came out. Startled awake, she frantically grabbed Sun Ping and attempted to leave the hospital.

As they rode the elevator down, Pingping woke up, confused. He expressed his desire to undergo the surgery, hoping it would fix him. Overwhelmed with emotion, Tan Jing silently returned to the ward with Pingping. After he fell back asleep, she went into the bathroom and cried quietly, a habit Nie Yusheng recognized, having often mistakenly thought crying women in the hospital were her, and having once sworn to never let her cry again.

Emerging from the bathroom, Tan Jing encountered Nie Yusheng and urgently asked him about his confidence in Pingping’s surgery. He reassured her that the surgery was not as dangerous as she feared, explaining that the CM Project, which utilized new medical materials, had undergone thorough review and was proven safe and mature overseas. He reiterated his confidence in the procedure.

Meanwhile, Sun Zhijun, having returned home, found the house empty and noticed that the soybeans had sprouted, indicating Tan Jing's prolonged absence. After visiting his in-laws, he bought two bottles of wine and learned from Ms. Wang that Sun Ping was hospitalized and Tan Jing was with him. Shu Qin visited Sheng Fangting in the hospital, discussing company affairs. She noted that two employees, Zhao and Lin, whom Sheng Fangting had promoted, were proving to be capable.

As she left, Sheng Fangting gave her a bottle of 2014 red wine, remarking it was her favorite. Shu Qin replied that she no longer drank such potent wine, but Sheng Fangting suggested it suited her, describing it as "Yesterday Once More." Shu Qin then confided in Sheng Fangting about a personal dilemma: she was dating a long-time friend who harbored feelings for a first love, only to discover that this ex-lover was her own colleague, someone she saw daily.

She expressed her frustration not with the past relationship itself, but with her boyfriend's concealment, questioning his intentions. Sheng Fangting apologized for his own past secrets, promising to tell her everything when he was ready. During the weekly hospital meeting, Mr. Fang reviewed patient cases and upcoming surgeries. Nie Yusheng requested a surgery slot for Bed 39, Sun Ping, for the CM Project. Mr. Fang scheduled it for Wednesday, two days later, emphasizing the urgency for children's surgeries.

He then stressed the importance of having both parents present to sign the surgical consent form to prevent doctor-patient conflicts, citing a previous incident in the Neurosurgery Department. Nie Yusheng acknowledged the directive. He then informed Tan Jing about the surgery date and the need for Sun Ping to fast from the next day. He also insisted that her husband must come to the hospital to sign the consent form, stating that both parents' signatures were mandatory.

Tan Jing claimed her husband was too busy with work and asked if she could sign alone. Nie Yusheng sternly questioned what work could be more important than his child's surgery, highlighting that Sun Ping's father had not visited him once since his hospitalization. Tan Jing was left speechless, bearing her unspoken burdens. Later, Nie Yusheng and Shu Qin visited Nie Dongyuan, who was recovering.

Nie Dongyuan was delighted to see them and urged Nie Yusheng to rest, telling him not to overwork himself like a "superman." Shu Qin had brought homemade cordyceps black chicken soup. Nie Dongyuan praised Shu Qin’s cooking, recalling Nie Yusheng’s picky eating habits as a child and remarking on his good fortune to have Shu Qin in his life. Nie Yusheng, however, declined the soup, stating he wasn’t hungry.

Tan Jing, after tending to Sun Ping, received a message from Sun Zhijun and texted him their hospital address. She then explained to Sun Ping that he couldn't eat or drink anymore before the "magic" surgery that would fix his heart, enabling him to play like other children. Pingping eagerly asked if his father would be there, and Tan Jing reassured him that both his parents and Aunt Ling would be present when he woke up.

The following morning, a heavily intoxicated Sun Zhijun arrived at the hospital, causing a chaotic scene. He loudly accused the hospital of treating his son as a "lab rat" for an "experiment" and vehemently demanded a refund for the surgery, implying the hospital was receiving kickbacks. Tan Jing attempted to de-escalate the situation, but he pushed her to the ground. Witnessing this, Nie Yusheng rushed forward and engaged in a physical altercation with Sun Zhijun.

Hospital staff and other family members watched as the fight escalated until the police arrived to intervene. In the director's office, Sun Zhijun, Nie Yusheng, and others involved in the altercation were present. Sun Zhijun, still under the influence and sporting injuries, continued to insist that Pingping's surgery was high-risk and accused the hospital of receiving kickbacks from the project, reiterating his demand for a refund.

Mr. Fang, exasperated, defended the CM Project, stating it had been thoroughly reviewed and approved by the entire hospital, and that all subsidy funds were transparently deposited directly into patients' accounts, with no involvement from the doctors. Frustrated by Sun Zhijun's disruptive behavior and persistent accusations, Mr. Fang declared the CM Project officially halted and announced the cancellation of Sun Ping's scheduled surgery.

Nie Yusheng's colleagues attempted to reason with Mr. Fang, but he was firm in his decision, accusing Nie Yusheng of being irresponsible for getting into a fight. Mr. Fang then ordered Nie Yusheng to go home and rest, stating that he would personally perform Nie Yusheng's scheduled afternoon surgery. As Nie Yusheng left, he reflected on Tan Jing’s clearly unhappy marriage.

Distressed by the turn of events, Tan Jing asked Wang Yuling to look after Sun Ping and rushed to the police station. The officer informed her that due to Sun Zhijun's prior criminal record and the public nature of the incident at the hospital, he would certainly face criminal detention. The severity of the sentence would largely depend on the statement provided by the injured doctor, Nie Yusheng.

From inside his cell, Sun Zhijun shouted at Tan Jing not to sign any documents, warning her again that the surgery was an experiment and that she would regret it if anything went wrong. Overwhelmed, Tan Jing asked the officer what a "heavy sentence" would entail.

Episode 12 Recap

Nie Yusheng reminisced about a time seven years ago when Tan Jing tied a natal year red string on his wrist before he left for Belgium. He initially found it too feminine, fearing others would laugh, but then promised he would never take it off unless she wove him a new one for his next natal year. At that moment, he was certain he would never make her cry.

Back in the present, as Nie Yusheng was lying in bed, he received a phone call from Tan Jing. Recognizing her number, he deduced she was calling to plead for Sun Zhijun, so he immediately hung up. Tan Jing called again, requesting to speak in person. Nie Yusheng agreed, instructing her to come to his apartment.

When she arrived, Tan Jing apologized for Sun Zhijun's actions, explaining that he didn't intend to hurt him and that he wasn't a bad person, asking Nie Yusheng to forgive him. Nie Yusheng, however, insisted that Sun Zhijun apologize himself, saying he didn't want to hear it from her. He then angrily asked if she would have come to see him if it weren't for Sun Zhijun, to which Tan Jing admitted it was true.

Exasperated, Nie Yusheng dragged Tan Jing to a mirror, pointing out the bruises on her face from Sun Zhijun. As old memories surfaced, their heated confrontation dissolved into a tender, passionate kiss, a culmination of years of unspoken longing. Meanwhile, Shu Qin repeatedly called Nie Yusheng, but he didn't answer. Upon arriving at his apartment, she noticed his clothes left in the entryway, immediately understanding the situation. She quietly left, waiting in her car until Tan Jing departed.

Later, Nie Yusheng saw Shu Qin's missed calls and returned her call. Shu Qin, having arrived at his apartment with groceries, decided to break up with him. She asserted that they had both tried their best, and there was no need to force their relationship further; they were better off as friends. Nie Yusheng agreed, admitting that he had always believed only Shu Qin could help him move on, but he realized he still couldn't let go of the past.

Shu Qin confessed she felt the same, acknowledging that two lonely people together sometimes only feel more isolated. They both acknowledged their shared predicament, agreeing to remain friends. At the hospital, Pingping sat by the window, watching the pouring rain and worrying that his mother didn't have an umbrella. Wang Yuling comforted him, assuring him that his mother was an adult and would take care of herself.

Tan Jing, waiting at a bus stop, received a call from the police station asking her to pick up Sun Zhijun. They shared an umbrella and ate a simple meal at a nearby restaurant. Seeing the bruise on Tan Jing’s lip, Sun Zhijun expressed remorse for his actions. He also voiced concerns about the experimental surgery for Pingping. Tan Jing, recalling Pingping's difficult birth and Sun Zhijun's worries, understood his perspective.

However, she emphasized the urgency of Pingping’s condition, and that Nie Yusheng had promised to cure Pingping if he performed the CM surgery. She urged Sun Zhijun to apologize to Nie Yusheng, stressing that he was their only hope. After Nie Yusheng returned from seeing Shu Qin off, Sun Zhijun, accompanied by Tan Jing, knelt before him. He apologized for his past actions and expressed deep gratitude for Nie Yusheng's willingness to perform Pingping's surgery for free.

Nie Yusheng helped him up. As Sun Zhijun embraced Nie Yusheng, he whispered a veiled threat, warning Nie Yusheng that if Pingping was not cured, he would kill him. Separately, Sheng Fangting sent two opera tickets to Shu Qin, subtly probing her relationship status. Shu Qin revealed she had broken up with Nie Yusheng, clarifying that she initiated it. She said she was not heartbroken but just felt lost, and was currently at a bar she used to frequent.

Sheng Fangting advised her to return home, concerned for her safety. He added that he understood her better than anyone else, causing a brief, awkward silence before he ended the call. The next morning, Wang Yuling took Pingping to the hospital's children's activity center while Tan Jing, exhausted, remained asleep. A nurse woke Tan Jing, informing her that Director Fang had decided to cancel the CM experimental surgery, crushing Tan Jing's hopes.

Meanwhile, Nie Dongyuan was distributing toys at the children's activity center. He noticed Pingping quietly reading a storybook and offered him a Bumblebee toy. Pingping politely declined, explaining that his mother taught him not to accept gifts without merit. Nie Dongyuan, charmed by the boy's character, clarified that the toys were for all the children in the hospital, so his mother wouldn't scold him. Pingping then accepted the toy, thanking "Grandpa Fengfeng."

Nie Dongyuan reached out to pat Pingping's head, but the boy repeatedly dodged his hand, reminding Nie Dongyuan of his son, Nie Yusheng, when he was a child. He observed Pingping's large eyes and long eyelashes, noting the resemblance to his own son. Wang Yuling explained that Pingping had a congenital heart defect and that Nie Yusheng was his attending physician. Nie Dongyuan was surprised by the coincidence and promised to tell his son to take good care of Pingping.

Wang Yuling then, somewhat awkwardly, asked Nie Dongyuan for a donation towards Pingping's surgery, mentioning Tan Jing's financial struggles. Nie Dongyuan expressed sympathy, acknowledging that such situations were common in hospitals, but did not agree to donate money. He reiterated his promise to ensure his son took good care of Pingping. Tan Jing, who had been watching from the doorway, did not enter.

Back in the ward, Tan Jing scolded Pingping for accepting the toy, reminding him again not to take things from others. Wang Yuling tried to defend Pingping, suggesting that Nie Dongyuan seemed fond of him and that more interaction might be good. However, Tan Jing vehemently disagreed, stating she didn't trust Nie Dongyuan and didn't want Pingping to have contact with such people. Soon after, Tan Jing felt unwell.

A nurse took her temperature and found she had a high fever of 39°C. The nurse instructed her to go to the emergency room immediately to prevent spreading her cold to the vulnerable children in the ward. Tan Jing asked the nurse to keep an eye on Pingping at Bed 39, as he often woke up at night looking for her, before heading to the ER, where she was spotted by Nie Yusheng.

Episode 13 Recap

Nie Yusheng upheld a promise from two years prior, acquiring a ring from a vintage shop after diligently saving. However, upon receiving the ring, he was met with a devastating breakup call from Tan Jing. Even after all this time, he couldn't comprehend her reasons. Later, he saw Tan Jing at the hospital, where he offered to drive her home after she received emergency treatment for a high fever.

In the car, Nie Yusheng pressed her for an explanation, convinced there was a deeper reason behind her harsh words from years ago. With tears in her eyes, Tan Jing, avoiding his gaze, insisted that she hated him. He questioned if she still felt that way and whether she had ever truly loved him, but she remained silent. Frustrated, he ordered her out of the car, only to quickly return, pull her back in, and drive them to a hotel.

At the hotel, Nie Yusheng booked the only available room—a honeymoon suite—to ensure Tan Jing could get some rest. He tenderly attended to her, wiping her face and checking her temperature. Their intimate proximity led to an uncontrollable embrace and a passionate kiss. However, the atmosphere froze when Tan Jing abruptly stated, "You have your needs. I have mine too," suggesting a transactional exchange. His expression immediately turned cold. He slammed the door and left.

As he waited for the elevator, a sharp pain in his palm brought him back to reality; he had crushed a thermometer in his hand, and blood mixed with mercury spilled onto the floor, a stark reflection of his internal turmoil.

In a flashback, Nie Yusheng remembered Tan Jing's heartbreaking words that she broke up with him for five million yuan from his father, claiming she never loved him and that the money would allow her to live the life she desired. Despite her past cruelty, Nie Yusheng returned to the hotel room. Knowing Tan Jing was desperate for Pingping's surgery fees, he offered to pay, but with the condition that she divorce Sun Zhijun.

Tan Jing refused his money, declaring she would only divorce Sun Zhijun if Nie Yusheng cured Pingping's illness, to which he promised to see Pingping's medical care through to the end. After Nie Yusheng left, Tan Jing lamented her deception; she had never married Sun Zhijun, rendering any talk of divorce meaningless. Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng experienced intense chest pain, numb limbs, and difficulty breathing, realizing that "heartache" was a real, physiological response, not merely a literary exaggeration.

In that moment, he made a firm decision. Separately, Sheng Fangting, concerned for Shu Qin's well-being, took her home from a bar. Shu Qin mentioned she was still going through the "breakup process" after ending her relationship with Nie Yusheng. Sheng Fangting, misunderstanding her sadness, expressed his happiness about her breakup, stating, "I'm happy that you broke up with him," before leaving her apartment. The next morning, Tan Jing returned to the hospital to care for Pingping.

Nie Yusheng, having spent the night in the duty room, was reprimanded by Mr. Fang for injuring his right hand. Mr. Fang accused Nie Yusheng of being careless, especially given the hospital's busy surgery schedule. As a result, Mr. Fang decided to indefinitely postpone the CM Program surgery for Sun Ping and instructed Nie Yusheng to find a new patient candidate.

He told Tan Jing to address any issues regarding Pingping’s surgery directly with him, a decision that left Nie Yusheng deeply frustrated. Nie Dongyuan visited Sun Ping in the activity room. He was struck by the child's maturity when Pingping shared his plan to make money for his surgery by reselling water guns. Pingping explained he needed one hundred thousand yuan for his congenital heart disease surgery, as his mother was struggling to save enough.

Despite Nie Dongyuan's offer to pay for the surgery, Pingping politely refused, citing his mother's teaching that he shouldn't accept gifts and must work hard for what he wants. Touched, Nie Dongyuan secretly promised to help fund Pingping's treatment. Mr. Fang later informed Tan Jing that he would be taking over Pingping's case due to Nie Yusheng's poor performance at the hospital.

Tan Jing, however, expressed her desire for Nie Yusheng to remain Pingping's doctor due to his attentiveness and familiarity with her son's condition. She also stressed her inability to afford the high costs of a regular surgery and hoped for the CM Program. Mr. Fang remained firm, stating that the decision was final and she would need to find other financial solutions.

As Tan Jing left Mr. Fang's office, she saw Shu Qin and Nie Yusheng walking together, feeling a pang of sadness. Shu Qin, advising Nie Yusheng, expressed her envy for his pure and straightforward nature, contrasting it with the suspicion and guardedness common among clever people. Sheng Fangting, learning of Tan Jing's struggles with the surgery fees, offered to pay them.

He explained that her situation reminded him of his own mother and his sickly childhood, feeling that helping Pingping was a way to compensate for his past. After a moment of consideration, Tan Jing accepted his offer. As they proceeded to the hospital cashier to make the payment, they unexpectedly encountered Nie Yusheng. Nie Yusheng, viewing Sheng Fangting's open concern for Tan Jing as a challenge, engaged in a tense exchange with him.

At the cashier, they discovered that Nie Dongyuan had already deposited 300,000 yuan for Pingping's surgery. Tan Jing, however, insisted on using Sheng Fangting's money. She requested a refund for Nie Dongyuan's payment and confronted him directly, placing the refund slip before him and firmly stating that her son did not need his charity. Nie Dongyuan was stunned to learn that Pingping was Tan Jing's son.

Recalling Pingping's striking resemblance to a young Nie Yusheng in both appearance and character, he was convinced that Pingping was his grandson. Despite his long-standing dislike for Tan Jing, he admitted to an immediate affection for Pingping. Tan Jing sternly warned Nie Dongyuan not to approach her son, vowing to protect him as a mother. Determined to confirm Pingping's lineage, Nie Dongyuan urgently sought out Mr. Fang, requesting a DNA test.

Mr. Fang initially refused, citing hospital rules, but Nie Dongyuan passionately appealed to him, describing his deep, instant bond with Pingping. When Mr. Fang still declined, Nie Dongyuan declared he would arrange the test himself.

Episode 14 Recap

A poignant flashback to a past happy birthday celebration for Tan Jing, surrounded by her parents as she made three wishes. In the present, Wang Yuling approaches Tan Jing outside her hospital room. Wang Yuling informs Tan Jing that Nie Yusheng visited that morning and left an envelope for her, asking Wang Yuling to deliver it.

She also reminds Tan Jing that tomorrow marks her father's death anniversary and encourages her to visit his grave, assuring her that Pingping will be well cared for. Wang Yuling gently advises Tan Jing to unburden herself to her father about her recent difficulties, rather than bottling everything up. That same evening, Nie Yusheng encounters Sun Zhijun while buying late-night food.

He learns that Sun Zhijun owes the barbecue stall owner for three months of meals and steps in to cover the debt. Nie Yusheng then directly asks Sun Zhijun to divorce Tan Jing, offering financial compensation. Sun Zhijun, however, demands five million yuan, provocatively questioning if Nie Yusheng intends to marry Tan Jing if he divorces her.

Sun Zhijun further claims that Nie Yusheng's father is responsible for his family's current difficult situation, stating that Nie Dongyuan "changed the rest of my life" and that their family's current state is "thanks to him." Sun Zhijun's remarks deeply trouble Nie Yusheng, leading to a sleepless night. The next morning, he goes to confront his father, Nie Dongyuan. Meanwhile, Nie Dongyuan, while looking for Pingping at the hospital, coincidentally meets Shu Qin, who is discharging her boss, Sheng Fangting.

When Shu Qin introduces them, she refers to Nie Dongyuan as her future father-in-law. Sheng Fangting remains silent but directs a complex gaze at Nie Dongyuan. Nie Dongyuan urges Sheng Fangting to ensure Shu Qin doesn't overwork and has time for romance. After Shu Qin drops Sheng Fangting off at his residence, she leaves without him making any effort to keep her there. Back in his room, Nie Dongyuan is questioned by Nie Yusheng about any secrets.

Nie Yusheng reveals Sun Zhijun's demand for five million, which Nie Dongyuan initially mistakes as coming from Tan Jing. Upon hearing Sun Zhijun's name, Nie Dongyuan expresses anger and disdain for Tan Jing for marrying such a "rascal." He insists he fully compensated Sun Zhijun for an industrial injury and refuses to pay more, warning Nie Yusheng to stay out of the matter.

Seeking clarity, Nie Yusheng speaks to Mr. Quan, his father's secretary, who explains that Sun Zhijun was the project manager at a construction project the company took over where an accident occurred. He was injured, and despite receiving compensation and not being held responsible, he has been relentlessly harassing them. Mr. Quan advises Nie Yusheng to distance himself from Sun Zhijun. Meanwhile, Tan Jing finally accumulates the 300,000 yuan for Pingping's surgery, expecting it to proceed.

However, Dr. Fang informs her that pre-operative tests revealed a lung infection, requiring a four to six-week course of antibiotics to prevent a more serious valve infection, thus delaying the surgery. After entrusting Pingping to Wang Yuling, Tan Jing travels to her hometown, Ning'an. On the bus, memories resurface of a past birthday with her parents when she was pregnant.

She recalls her father receiving a distressed phone call about an accident at a construction site and rushing out, never to return. Nie Yusheng later observes Pingping in the hospital bathroom teaching another child how to sprout soybeans in water, a method Pingping says his mother taught him to make wishes come true, specifically to recover quickly. This simple act deeply affects Nie Yusheng. Soon after, Sun Zhijun visits Pingping, bringing him a bamboo dragonfly and coloring with him.

Sun Zhijun advises Pingping not to believe any negative talk about his father from outsiders, claiming most of it is untrue. He tells Pingping to trust his father and to always listen to his mother and care for her as he grows up. Pingping, innocently, agrees, believing his father is a good person. Nie Yusheng attends the obstetrics and gynecology department to congratulate his colleague Dong on the birth of his son.

Dong proudly asks Nie Yusheng if his newborn resembles him. Nie Yusheng notes a resemblance, which prompts Dong to share how his own mother recognized the baby immediately, saying he looks exactly like Dong did as a child, from his nose and eyes to his chin and single-lidded eyes. These remarks about strong paternal resemblance trigger a sudden, unsettling realization in Nie Yusheng. A chilling thought, like a cold, sharp light, leaves him visibly pale and trembling.

He quickly invents an excuse about an urgent surgery and rushes out, ascending to the cardiac surgery ward. There, he finds Wang Yuling feeding Pingping. Nie Yusheng pauses at the doorway, his mind momentarily blank. He can't recall what Tan Jing's husband looks like, but he is now struck by Pingping's undeniable resemblance to himself. Nie Dongyuan receives confirmation from Dr. Fang that Pingping is indeed his biological grandson.

Overwhelmed with emotion, he expresses profound gratitude, believing fate has finally granted him a successor. Determined to compensate for lost time, Nie Dongyuan instructs Dr. Fang to prioritize Pingping’s recovery, declaring his intention to bring Pingping to live with him and provide him with the best life. Dr. Fang suggests discussing this with Tan Jing, describing her as a good person.

However, Nie Dongyuan vehemently states that he will never allow Tan Jing to "harm" Nie Yusheng, labeling her as cunning and manipulative. He emphasizes that as long as he lives, she will not be allowed to get close to his son. Meanwhile, Tan Jing visits her parents’ graves, finding solace in confiding her true feelings and struggles, including Sun Zhijun's ongoing issues and her hopes for Pingping's future. Later that night, Nie Yusheng confronts Tan Jing outside her apartment.

His demeanor confirms his suspicion that Pingping is his son. He asks why she kept it secret. Tan Jing responds by instructing him to ask his own father for the truth, and to also inquire about the real cause of her father's death. Nie Yusheng then goes to Nie Dongyuan's hospital room.

Despite seeing his father beaming with joy and recounting Pingping's charming resemblance to a young Nie Yusheng, Nie Yusheng, deeply affected by Tan Jing's words, probes his father about the actual circumstances of her father's demise.

Episode 15 Recap

Nie Yusheng questioned Nie Dongyuan about the cause of Tan Jing’s father's death. Nie Dongyuan became extremely agitated, furiously stating that he had never committed any illegal acts and that he would not be held accountable for Tan Jing's father's death, whom he claimed he had never mistreated. He then lashed out, questioning why Nie Yusheng couldn't forget Tan Jing, accusing her of causing trouble, and ordered him out of the room.

Nie Yusheng tried to calm his father, but Nie Dongyuan insisted he leave. Afterward, Nie Yusheng asked a nurse to check Nie Dongyuan's blood pressure, calling it a routine inspection. The next morning, Tan Jing arrived at the hospital to find a head nurse and a caretaker, Liu Hong, attempting to move Pingping to a VIP ward. Pingping informed Tan Jing that "they insist on moving Pingping to the VIP room."

Tan Jing refused, stating she had not arranged it and asking them to take the items back, insisting they were not moving. She then confronted Nie Dongyuan directly, telling him to stay away from them and that they did not need him meddling in their family affairs. Nie Dongyuan asserted that he was not an outsider but Pingping’s grandfather, stating, "He's my grandson."

Tan Jing retorted that her son's last name was Sun, not Nie, but Nie Dongyuan insisted she knew Pingping was his grandson. Tan Jing accused him of thinking he could do anything with his money, to which Nie Dongyuan questioned why she chose a difficult life for Pingping instead of a good one.

Tan Jing revealed that her good life ended the moment her father died and she reminded Nie Dongyuan of his past actions, warning him that if he approached her son again, she would call the police. Nie Yusheng overheard this exchange and, after Tan Jing left in tears, he followed her, pressing her to tell him what happened between her and his father. He offered to face any problem with her so she wouldn't have to suffer alone.

Tan Jing, however, bitterly responded that she and Pingping lived the life they did because they brought it upon themselves, just as his father would say. She added that she had no choice at the time and that they couldn't go back, lamenting that nothing she said could change the fact that their parents were enemies. Later, Nie Yusheng's colleagues were heard gossiping about him having a son.

Mr. Fang called Nie Yusheng to his office, expressing surprise at the sudden news, especially for someone usually so reserved. Nie Yusheng dismissed the gossip, stating he didn't care what others thought, and confessed his heartbreak over Tan Jing's suffering alone for so many years. He added that they would focus on treating Pingping first. Mr. Fang advised him to be mindful of appearances, for both his and Pingping's sakes.

Meanwhile, Tan Jing stayed by Pingping's bedside as he received an IV drip. Pingping asked if she and "Mr. Fengfeng" (Nie Dongyuan) had quarreled because of him. Tan Jing reassured him it was just adult matters and had nothing to do with him. Pingping then expressed a desire for his surgery to happen soon so he could recover and protect her.

Touched by his words, Tan Jing told him that he had always protected her and that she wouldn't have made it this far without him. In a flashback, Tan Jing confronted Nie Dongyuan about her father's accident. Nie Dongyuan offered her five million yuan to help with the aftermath and move past the crisis, with the condition that she break up with Nie Yusheng.

He revealed his unhappiness that Nie Yusheng had abandoned a business career for medicine because of her and stated he wouldn't allow anyone to disrupt his plans for his son. Tan Jing refused the money, asserting that Nie Yusheng was an adult capable of making his own choices, and citing her father's teaching not to accept things for nothing. Nie Dongyuan urged her to reconsider, assuring her the money was always available.

Further flashback details emerged: the contractor, Mr. Lei, had fled, leaving Tan Jing's father in a precarious legal situation. Although her father had signed a contract with a labor company with no apparent qualification issues, Tan Jing questioned if the company was genuinely unrelated to Nie Dongyuan, mentioning Sun Zhijun’s belief that her father was forced to use them.

She was informed that the labor company had not insured its workers, meaning her father, as the legal representative of the construction project company, and Sun Zhijun, as the project manager, would face significant legal liabilities, potentially imprisonment. In her despair, Tan Jing turned to Sun Zhijun, telling him that Pingping was her only family left. Sun Zhijun promised to support her, assuring her that if she kept the baby, they would raise him together.

Later, Wang Yuling discovered Tan Jing had a fever of 38°C and urged her to go home to rest and take medication, promising to care for Pingping. Alone, Tan Jing reflected on her past choices: deciding to keep her baby, not telling Nie Yusheng, and pushing him away now. She questioned if she truly had choices.

She recounted how she once believed love could overcome all problems but realized after her father's death that many difficult moments in life must be faced alone. Shu Qin spoke with Nie Yusheng, who admitted he felt no real connection or "bond" as a father. Shu Qin explained that such feelings take time to develop and that some people love so deeply they try desperately to protect it.

She speculated that Tan Jing, whose world collapsed after her father's death, chose not to tell Nie Yusheng to preserve their love at its purest moment, so she could find comfort in that memory during future hardships. Meanwhile, Shu Qin met Sheng Fangting. They reminisced about their impulsive breakup and acknowledged lingering feelings, with Sheng Fangting observing that they had both matured since then. Nie Yusheng later joined Sun Zhijun for drinks at a food stall.

Nie Yusheng expressed envy for Sun Zhijun, who had Tan Jing as his wife and the life Nie Yusheng yearned for. Sun Zhijun retorted that he envied Nie Yusheng and then provocatively stated that Pingping belonged to the Sun family. Nie Yusheng offered Sun Zhijun money for a divorce, but Sun Zhijun angrily refused, calling him a "fool" and Nie Dongyuan’s true son.

Sun Zhijun then revealed the painful truth: during Tan Jing's childbirth, she suffered massive bleeding while Nie Yusheng was absent. He further disclosed that after Tan Jing's father died when scaffolding collapsed, killing many, Nie Dongyuan's company "brushed the matter aside" and made Tan Jing's family bear the responsibility. He added that Tan Jing, desperate and having sold her house, took the five million yuan from Nie Dongyuan as "hush money" to silence her.

An argument with another table escalated into a fight, which Nie Yusheng helped Sun Zhijun in. Afterward, Nie Yusheng assisted a heavily intoxicated Sun Zhijun in getting home. Late that night, Nie Yusheng arrived at Tan Jing's old apartment, where he collapsed at the door, crying uncontrollably.

He demanded to know why she hadn't told him the truth, blaming himself for his absence when she needed him most, saying that Sun Zhijun had told him everything and that he thought he had suffered enough. Tan Jing embraced him silently and stayed by his side throughout the night. The next morning, Nie Yusheng awoke in Tan Jing's apartment and saw her making breakfast in the kitchen, a scene he had long dreamt of.

At breakfast, he told her that he did not agree with moving Pingping to a different ward and promised to take care of that issue. He also suggested they leave the old building due to its poor environment. Tan Jing did not verbally respond but peeled an egg for him. Seizing the moment, Nie Yusheng offered to have a caretaker stay at the hospital to care for Pingping, allowing Tan Jing to go to work.

As he left, he offered her his house key, explaining his place was closer to the hospital and she could rest or cook for Pingping there. Tan Jing subtly avoided taking the key, and Nie Yusheng urged her not to reject him, assuring her he had no other intentions.

Episode 16 Recap

Nie Yusheng offered Tan Jing his house keys, explaining that his home was conveniently located near the hospital for her to rest or prepare meals for Pingping, who was growing tired of hospital food. Tan Jing instinctively recoiled, so Nie Yusheng placed the keys on the counter. He encouraged her not to rush to refuse him, stating that he meant nothing more and that they could consider trying to start over.

He later reminisced about Tan Jing's past words, that a kiss was a seal of love, and if she had sealed him, he would belong to her. He now understood it to be more than a seal, calling her a "brand" in his heart that, even after years, had not faded but intensified with pain. Meanwhile, Nie Dongyuan learned from Mr. Quan that Tan Jing and Sun Zhijun were not legally married, despite publicly presenting themselves as a couple.

Nie Dongyuan found this incomprehensible and was particularly upset that she allowed Sun Zhijun, whom he called a "thug" with a history of violent behavior, to be Pingping's father. He also noted Sun Zhijun's infrequent and overnight-less visits to Tan Jing's home. Primarily concerned with Pingping's custody, Nie Dongyuan instructed Mr. Quan to thoroughly investigate Sun Zhijun's social background and his relationship with Tan Jing and Pingping to gather advantageous evidence. Mr. Quan assured him of a complete investigation.

Later, Nie Yusheng requested Mr. Quan to locate detailed information about Tan Shaohua's (Tan Jing's father) project from years past, hoping to uncover the truth. Mr. Quan agreed to email the documents. He also advised Nie Yusheng to avoid agitating his father, whose illness made him vulnerable to stress, emphasizing Nie Dongyuan's indispensability to the Dongyuan Group. Back at his office, Nie Yusheng called his former classmate, Chubster, requesting his help to examine the documents pertaining to Tan Jing's father.

He wanted to ascertain the truth of the past events to provide an explanation for Tan Jing and for himself. Chubster, acknowledging Tan Jing as his classmate, readily agreed, dismissing Nie Yusheng's capacity to investigate such matters as a doctor. In the ensuing days, Tan Jing maintained her demanding routine, juggling her work, home life, and hospital visits. In the company pantry, colleagues gossiped about Sheng Fangting, who was rumored to have a new girlfriend.

They described her as "seductive" and dressed in a revealing outfit, expressing surprise at Sheng Fangting's apparent preference for such a type, contrary to their expectation of him liking "pure and innocent girls." They recounted how Sheng Fangting had immediately offered her his jacket. Attempting to glean information from Tan Jing, Sheng Fangting's assistant, they were met with her indifference.

Tan Jing stated that Sheng Fangting was single, his dating life was his own, and as his assistant, she had no right to interfere in his personal affairs. During his hospital rounds, Nie Yusheng observed Pingping drawing. When he approached, Pingping quickly hid his artwork, appearing overly guarded. Nie Yusheng then noticed soybeans soaking in water by Pingping’s bed. Pingping explained that someone told him making a wish while soaking beans would make it come true when they sprouted.

His wish was for his father to visit him when the beans sprouted. Nie Yusheng assured him that his wish would be granted. Nie Yusheng reflected that despite initially feeling unprepared for fatherhood or accepting a six-year-old son, he now deeply cared for Pingping. He found himself disturbed by Pingping calling another man "Dad" and pondered how Pingping perceived him. Upon returning home, Nie Yusheng was surprised to find Tan Jing there, preparing food for Pingping.

They cooked braised fish together, reminiscing about when they first made the dish, creating a heartwarming scene reminiscent of their past. After Tan Jing approved the taste, they packed the fish and brought it to Pingping at the hospital. The three shared the meal in the hospital room, a joyful family moment.

Pingping thoroughly enjoyed the fish, calling it "Mom's cooking," and asked Tan Jing to make it again, suggesting she invite Sun Zhijun next time, as his "dad" also loved her braised fish. This comment visibly unsettled Nie Yusheng, who promptly excused himself to get water. Outside Pingping’s room, Tan Jing observed Nie Yusheng's sullen expression and playfully remarked that he and Pingping looked identical when upset. She then expressed her gratitude to him for fulfilling his promise.

Nie Yusheng felt he had many more promises to keep. Tan Jing promised to tell Pingping the truth when the time was right, a notion Nie Yusheng supported, saying there was no rush. Back inside, Tan Jing saw Pingping had drawn a family portrait but had left his father's face blank, explaining he had forgotten his father’s facial features and would fill it in when he came to visit.

At a dinner gathering, Sheng Fangting, Shu Qin, and other colleagues discussed professional opportunities in the Southwest Region. When some colleagues teasingly mentioned Shu Qin and Nie Yusheng, Shu Qin clarified that she and Nie Yusheng had broken up long ago and were now merely friends. Sheng Fangting, seemingly to provoke Shu Qin, engaged in a close conversation with a female colleague, making Shu Qin noticeably upset.

When Shu Qin went to the restroom, Sheng Fangting followed her, and they shared a passionate moment in the hallway, undeterred by the noisy banquet. The next morning, Shu Qin prepared a steak for Sheng Fangting, but he informed her he had a client meeting that day, leaving her feeling disappointed. During his hospital rounds, Nie Yusheng found Tan Jing sleeping, exhausted, by Pingping's bedside.

He gently woke her and suggested she go to his house to rest, mentioning he had a pair of shoes for her there. Around the same time, Shu Qin arrived at Nie Yusheng's apartment to return his keys. She found Tan Jing asleep on the sofa, and after a brief, surprised pause, they exchanged knowing smiles.

Shu Qin, understanding the depth of Nie Yusheng’s love for Tan Jing, advised Tan Jing earnestly that regardless of her feelings, she should not hurt him again, emphasizing that Nie Yusheng was a truly good person who deserved to be treated well. Later, Chubster called Nie Yusheng, reporting the results of his investigation into Tan Jing's father.

He explained that after the engineering accident, media reports unfairly cast Tan Jing's father as solely responsible, accusing him of greed and hiring unqualified contractors. This effectively shifted public opinion and attention away from the Dongyuan Group. Nie Yusheng noted the one-sided nature of the report, which only featured interviews with Dongyuan personnel. Chubster revealed he had located the reporter, who admitted to rushing the article to publication after only hearing Dongyuan's side, acknowledging the significant impact on public perception.

Nie Yusheng questioned the reporter's ethics, highlighting the immense responsibility of his words. Chubster pointed out a key suspicious detail: the article deliberately omitted the names of the Dongyuan individuals interviewed, leading him to suspect that Dongyuan had orchestrated the report rather than it being an independent journalistic endeavor. They agreed that this was a strong hypothesis requiring further investigation to find concrete evidence and individuals connected to the original incident.

Chubster concluded by expressing how difficult Tan Jing's life must have been after her father's death, as she would have been hounded by creditors. Flashbacks depicted Sun Zhijun vehemently defending Tan Jing's father's integrity against Tan Jing's own doubts. Another flashback revealed Nie Dongyuan offering Tan Jing five million yuan to leave Nie Yusheng.

Sun Zhijun deduced this was not a breakup fee but hush money, reasoning that Dongyuan Group, amidst its IPO preparations, had used Tan Jing's father as a scapegoat to sanitize its image. Despite the lack of immediate proof, Sun Zhijun argued that such a large sum would not be offered if Nie Dongyuan were innocent.

More flashbacks showed Sun Zhijun shielding Tan Jing from angry workers demanding compensation, underscoring why Tan Jing entered into a contractual marriage with him—he had stood by her and taken on the burdens following her father's death. Back in the present, Tan Jing tried on the new shoes Nie Yusheng had bought her. They didn't fit. She realized that despite his remembrance of her style and size, her feet had grown larger over years of pregnancy and hardship.

She reflected that time inevitably changes everything, and sometimes, a fit that once was, simply no longer is. That night, Nie Yusheng lay awake, tormented by the revelation of Tan Jing's past suffering. Imagining her pain felt like a "daily torment," breaking his heart. The next morning, he brought breakfast for Tan Jing and Pingping. Pingping excitedly showed Nie Yusheng the sprouted soybeans, proudly stating that his mother taught him to add water to make them grow faster. Nie Yusheng encouraged him, then prepared to leave for his rounds. As he turned to go, Tan Jing called out his name.

Episode 17 Recap

Tan Jing returned the expensive shoes Nie Yusheng had bought for her. She explained that she often commuted on foot and found the shoes too delicate for her lifestyle. When Nie Yusheng asked if she had tried them on, she confirmed they were "not the right size." Despite his offer to exchange them, Tan Jing insisted that they simply weren't suitable for her, adding that "no matter how hard you try, it's useless." She then thanked him for the thought.

At the office, Sheng Fangting observed Nie Dongyuan's assistant delivering an elaborate tea set to Shu Qin. The assistant conveyed Nie Dongyuan's wish to gift it to someone who appreciated tea. Shu Qin thanked Nie Dongyuan for his generosity. Sheng Fangting, clearly displaying jealousy, commented on the gift and remarked he thought Shu Qin preferred wine to tea. He also boasted that his grandfather had left him far more valuable possessions.

Shu Qin, seeking to pacify him, explained that Nie Dongyuan was currently in poor health, and she didn't want to cause any additional trouble for him or Nie Yusheng. Later, to express her commitment, Shu Qin gave Sheng Fangting her house keys, telling him he wouldn't have to wait for her downstairs anymore and playfully warning him that she would be conducting "room inspections."

Sheng Fangting accepted the keys but made no mention of offering his own in return, a fact Shu Qin later noted to Nie Yusheng. Nie Dongyuan visited Sun Ping in the hospital. Sun Ping, visibly down, explained he was focused on his "plan of making money" but couldn't stock goods because his supplier, Mr. Liang, hadn't visited. Impressed by the boy's ambition, Nie Dongyuan offered to invest, proposing a 70/30 profit split in Sun Ping's favor.

Sun Ping politely declined, citing his mother's advice never to accept money from others. Despite Nie Dongyuan's insistence that he wasn't "other people," Sun Ping stood firm. Nie Dongyuan then feigned a headache and asked Sun Ping for a massage, promising to pay him a salary as his business capital. Sun Ping, displaying touching empathy, agreed to massage him for free, reiterating that Nie Dongyuan was an elderly man in need of care.

Nie Dongyuan clearly enjoyed the attention and pretended his headache returned, seeking more of Sun Ping's care. Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng and his friend Pang Tou investigated the past incident involving Tan Jing's father. They tracked down Liu Qunsong, a former high-level executive at Dongyuan Group who had left after a dispute with Nie Dongyuan. Believing Liu would give them an unbiased account, they met with him.

Liu unexpectedly revealed that Nie Dongyuan was not directly at fault for the public relations disaster that had ruined Tan Jing's father; rather, the company's PR head had acted without authorization. Although Liu's account seemed to exonerate his father, Nie Yusheng remained determined to uncover the whole truth, believing there must be a clear answer about what was right and wrong. Sheng Fangting offered his support to Tan Jing, acknowledging the immense difficulty of raising Sun Ping alone.

He assured her that if she ever faced problems she couldn't resolve, she could confide in him. He offered his resources, experience, and connections, stating that an outsider's perspective could often provide clarity, whether he acted as her superior or a friend. Tan Jing expressed her gratitude. Simultaneously, an anxious Nie Dongyuan confronted Mr. Fang, the director of cardiac surgery, demanding to know the reason for Sun Ping's delayed surgery.

He expressed his impatience and threatened to transfer Sun Ping to a top hospital in Beijing, insisting that Nie Yusheng accompany them. Mr. Fang calmly explained that Sun Ping's condition, specifically his high pulmonary hypertension, made surgery unsafe. Nie Dongyuan, though chastised, still urged Mr. Fang to prioritize and schedule the operation as soon as Sun Ping's condition stabilized. Tan Jing happened to overhear this entire conversation.

Shortly after, she saw Nie Yusheng sharing a laugh with a female colleague while looking at baby pictures, which she misinterpreted as a discussion about his own child, deepening her sense of unease. Overwhelmed by these events and a growing feeling of betrayal, Tan Jing left the hospital without returning to the cardiac ward. Instead, she went directly to Sheng Fangting at the office, instinctively trusting him.

In her desperation, Tan Jing confided in Sheng Fangting, revealing that Nie Dongyuan, the wealthy head of Dongyuan Group, was Sun Ping's grandfather, and Nie Yusheng was his father. She expressed her profound fear of losing custody if the matter proceeded to court, given the Nie family's considerable power and financial resources.

Tan Jing shared that her time with Nie Yusheng had been the happiest of her life, but she had chosen to leave him to protect him, particularly in light of her father's past incident. Sheng Fangting listened patiently and then calmly outlined Nie Dongyuan's probable strategy: the family would likely not immediately seek full custody. Instead, they would employ "appeasement" tactics.

This would involve showing kindness, visiting Sun Ping frequently, covering his medical and living expenses, and even offering property to Tan Jing and Sun Ping. Sheng Fangting explained that these seemingly benevolent actions would, in fact, gradually establish a "de facto fostering" relationship, laying a strong foundation for their future claim to custody. He urged Tan Jing to prepare for a difficult struggle and to firmly decide whether her priority was Nie Yusheng or Sun Ping.

As they spoke, Tan Jing received a phone call from Shengda Law Firm, informing her that Nie Yusheng intended to transfer a house to her and requested her signature on the agreement. Tan Jing promptly refused, stating she needed "nothing," an action that inadvertently validated Sheng Fangting's predictions about the Nie family's appeasement strategy. Later, Wang Yuling took Sun Ping to a window where he watched other children playing soccer.

He clearly yearned to join them but remembered his mother's admonition not to run around. Nie Yusheng then arrived and engaged Sun Ping with a Bumblebee toy. He explained to the boy that, just as a car needs an "engine" to run, Sun Ping had a "small problem" with his "engine." Nie Yusheng promised that once his "engine is fixed," he would be able to play soccer just like the other children, and he would teach him how.

Tan Jing then entered the room and witnessed this touching exchange. That evening, Nie Yusheng took Tan Jing out for dinner. During dinner, Tan Jing reiterated her firm refusal to accept Nie Yusheng's house, emphasizing that her current path was her own choice and he shouldn't feel obligated to compensate her. Her sole focus, she stated, was to "cure Pingping and give him a healthy future," with no other concerns.

Nie Yusheng expressed his appreciation for her honesty, pledging to be equally open and suggesting they cease "hiding and hurting each other for each other's sake." He then revealed that his father desired "joint custody" of Sun Ping, wanting to "take more responsibility for raising the child" and "get close to the child." Nie Yusheng acknowledged his father's good intentions but understood Tan Jing's inability to accept this.

He then corrected her previous assertion that they were "children of archenemies," affirming instead that their true relationship was "Pingping's parents." This statement, however, only intensified Tan Jing's sense of urgency and unease. Later that evening, Nie Yusheng saw Shu Qin leaving Nie Dongyuan's ward with a food container, realizing she had been bringing meals to his father. Shu Qin again mentioned Nie Dongyuan's recent gift of a tea set.

Nie Yusheng lightheartedly responded that her frequent food deliveries more than sufficed as reciprocation. Shu Qin then urged Nie Yusheng to find an opportune moment to gently inform his father about their breakup, adding that she now "has a boyfriend" and was "back together with Mark," confirming "Mark" was Sheng Fangting. Nie Yusheng revealed he had already suspected this during a previous lunch.

Shu Qin, however, expressed her disappointment that despite her giving Sheng Fangting her house keys, he hadn't reciprocated, prompting Nie Yusheng to advise her to communicate directly, as "it's not good to doubt each other." He then reflected on his own struggles to truly understand Tan Jing, despite believing he knew her well. That night, after Wang Yuling left for the day, noting Tan Jing's consistent unhappiness since they met, Tan Jing was seen doing laundry.

Later, as Sun Ping slept, he repeatedly murmured "Mr. Nie" in his sleep. This unsettling event sparked a sense of crisis in Tan Jing, bringing to mind Sheng Fangting's earlier warning that Nie Dongyuan "will never give up" his pursuit of Sun Ping. The next day, a nurse directed Nie Dongyuan to the children's activity room, where Sun Ping was attending a birthday celebration.

Nie Dongyuan found Sun Ping and tried to bond with him, continuing their conversation about Sun Ping's "engine." Suddenly, Sun Ping spotted Sun Zhijun, eagerly called him "Dad," and ran into his arms. Nie Dongyuan immediately attempted to pull Sun Ping away, initiating a fierce argument with Sun Zhijun. Sun Zhijun, anticipating the confrontation, quickly instructed Pingping to cover his ears. Nie Dongyuan insisted that Sun Ping was his grandson and questioned Sun Zhijun's legitimacy as a father figure.

Sun Zhijun adamantly declared that Sun Ping was his son and he would never "sell his family," regardless of any financial offers. Nie Dongyuan retorted by calling Sun Zhijun a "fake dad." Wang Yuling stepped in to separate the two men, fearing for Sun Ping's safety. As the argument drew a crowd, Sun Zhijun's coworkers pulled him away from the scene. Overwhelmed by the escalating tension, Sun Ping suffered a cardiac episode and collapsed, struggling to breathe.

Nie Yusheng and Tan Jing hurried to Sun Ping's side. Fortunately, a nurse soon confirmed that Sun Ping was "stable now" and had recovered. Despite the relief, Nie Dongyuan, still enraged by the confrontation with Sun Zhijun, instructed his assistant to contact Mr. Qiao from Shengda Law Firm to expedite the custody proceedings.

Nie Yusheng offered Tan Jing a bottle of water and reassured her that Sun Ping's lung infection had significantly improved with treatment, showing "no signs of infection of the aortic valve." He optimistically predicted that in "three to four weeks," once the inflammation subsided, Sun Ping would be ready for surgery. Nie Yusheng then stated his desire for Mr. Fang to perform the operation.

Episode 18 Recap

When Nie Yusheng learned that Sun Ping's surgery was possible in three to four weeks, he expressed his desire for Mr. Fang to perform the operation instead of himself. He explained that as a father, his concern for Sun Ping made him flustered and he feared he wouldn't be able to think clearly during the surgery, especially after witnessing Sun Ping's heart rate spike. He acknowledged that the more one understood, the more afraid they became.

Nie Yusheng assured Tan Jing that Mr. Fang, a top cardiac surgeon, was the best choice. He also stated he would ask his father, Nie Dongyuan, to limit his visits to Sun Ping to avoid any further distress, and urged Tan Jing to speak with Sun Zhijun about the same, emphasizing that Sun Ping's health was paramount before the surgery.

Nie Yusheng held Tan Jing's hand and told her not to worry, assuring her that they would get through this together. That evening, Sun Zhijun reflected on how his life had turned out, even questioning if he should thank Nie Dongyuan for the circumstances that led him to have his wife and child.

Wang Yuling expressed sympathy for Sun Zhijun, who then shared his past struggles, admitting he felt like a "terrible father" due to their financial hardships, but deeply loved Sun Ping as his own son. He conveyed the pain of seeing a child suffer. Wang Yuling remarked on how they only learned the full story that day. When Tan Jing arrived, Wang Yuling asked about Sun Ping.

Tan Jing reiterated the doctor's advice against further emotional distress for Sun Ping before the operation. She then made a solemn promise to Sun Zhijun, with Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan present, that Sun Ping would always bear the name Sun Ping, now and in the future, and that she remembered all of Sun Zhijun's past kindness. However, she appealed to Sun Zhijun, asking him not to visit the hospital for now, given Sun Ping's delicate condition.

Sun Zhijun agreed to stay away. Later, Tan Jing learned from Wang Yuling that she was six weeks pregnant. Overjoyed, Tan Jing encouraged Wang Yuling to tell Liang Yuanan and to finalize their wedding banquet, offering to help care for the baby after it was born. Liang Yuanan later disclosed his excitement about the pregnancy to Wang Yuling, revealing he had secretly saved 100,000 yuan in a fixed deposit, which he had intended for their future child.

Wang Yuling, though happy, admitted to feeling a bit nervous, but Liang Yuanan reassured her he would face all challenges with her. At the office, colleagues gossiped about Shu Qin and Nie Yusheng's breakup, with some criticizing Shu Qin for letting go of a "good catch" like Nie Yusheng. Sheng Fangting, who was present, openly declared himself Shu Qin's current boyfriend, stating he had "courted her with great difficulty."

During a dinner date, Shu Qin questioned Sheng Fangting's unusually high-profile and impulsive declaration, which was out of character for him. Sheng Fangting explained he acted because he overheard colleagues speaking ill of her, and he didn't want them to do that. He later gave Shu Qin a key to his home, further solidifying their relationship, much to her happiness. Nie Yusheng visited Sun Ping at the hospital, bringing him a racing car block set to play with.

Initially, Sun Ping was reserved, pretending to read. When Nie Yusheng asked if he disliked him, Sun Ping admitted he used to like him but no longer did because Nie Yusheng made his mother sad. Nie Yusheng agreed that they both shared the goal of not wanting Tan Jing to be sad.

He then showed Sun Ping a discolored red string he wore, explaining that Tan Jing had made it for him a long time ago, just like the one Sun Ping wore. He revealed that he had known Tan Jing since she was a young girl and understood her well, but wanted a chance to get to know Sun Ping too. Sun Ping eventually accepted the offer, exchanging his own toy for the racing car set.

Tan Jing, who had been watching from the doorway, heard Nie Yusheng tell her that Sun Ping, despite his young age, understood many things and that they should be honest with him. Nie Yusheng expressed his wish for them to continue co-parenting and living together peacefully. The next day, Sheng Fangting and Shu Qin arrived at work together, openly displaying their relationship. Soon after, Shu Qin found Sheng Fangting's resignation letter and confronted him.

He claimed to have found a "better company" and insisted his decision was not because of her. Shu Qin pointed out the industry's downturn and questioned which company could offer him more than Shengmei, suggesting he was being overconfident. Sheng Fangting hinted that his "next company" was related to Shu Qin herself, explaining that while she couldn't offer him a high salary or share options, he was willing to offer his services for free and fight for his own equity.

He insisted she was "overthinking" and that his departure wasn't solely for her. Meanwhile, Liang Yuanan meticulously consulted Tan Jing about pregnancy precautions, taking detailed notes on diet and emotional well-being for Wang Yuling, highlighting his deep care for his wife. Wang Yuling encouraged Tan Jing to spend more time with Nie Yusheng, acknowledging his genuine love for her despite their years apart and urging Tan Jing to look forward, not dwell on the past.

Upon returning home, Tan Jing discovered a parcel containing shoes in every size from Nie Yusheng, accompanied by a note explaining he sent them this way to avoid her rejection. The note conveyed his enduring hope that "one of them fits," symbolizing his persistent efforts to rekindle their relationship. Later, Nie Yusheng found a new red string in his home, left by Tan Jing, indicating she was beginning to open up to him.

Wang Yuling's MAIWEI CAKE SHOP became incredibly popular, with customers lining up daily. This success provoked the jealousy of a neighboring shop owner, who came over to complain about their long queue blocking his store, accusing them of unfair competition. Tan Jing, who was helping at the bakery, intervened to de-escalate the situation and calmly reason with the male owner, while Wang Yuling urged him to talk inside.

During the heated exchange, the female owner of the neighboring shop stumbled and fell, immediately accusing Tan Jing of pushing her and causing injury. The male owner frantically called for an ambulance. At the police station, the police stated that Tan Jing had to stay for further investigation, while Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan could leave. The male owner insisted on suing Tan Jing, claiming multiple witnesses saw her push his wife.

Tan Jing, recognizing the futility of arguing, instructed Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan to go, emphasizing that Sun Ping needed them. She assured them she would be fine with the police. Later, Sun Ping woke up from a nightmare, crying out for his mother, whom he saw in a "dark place." Wang Yuling comforted him. A police officer informed Nie Yusheng that he could not visit Tan Jing due to regulations but would be updated on any progress.

Nie Yusheng immediately called Chubster, who, despite being busy with court cases, was shocked to hear Tan Jing was detained. Nie Yusheng explained she had pushed someone at a friend's shop, and the person was now in a coma. Chubster warned that if it was deemed a serious injury, it would be a criminal matter. He advised Nie Yusheng to seek help from Nie Dongyuan, as Dongyuan Group had access to the country's best lawyers.

Nie Yusheng went to the hospital, where Nie Dongyuan was reading a story to Sun Ping. Nie Yusheng offered to take over. Sun Ping, still shaken, asked to call his mother. Nie Yusheng, knowing Tan Jing's phone was off, tried calling her anyway, then gently told Sun Ping that his mother was on a business trip and likely asleep, promising he would hear her voice tomorrow.

After Nie Dongyuan and Wang Yuling left, Nie Yusheng stayed to read to Sun Ping until he fell asleep. Nie Yusheng then went to Nie Dongyuan's VIP ward. Nie Dongyuan, still under the impression Tan Jing was on a business trip, expressed his disapproval of her leaving while Sun Ping was hospitalized. Nie Yusheng clarified that Tan Jing was not on a business trip but was "in trouble" and had been detained.

Nie Dongyuan reacted with dismissive surprise, saying he wasn't surprised by any "stunt" from her. Despite his harsh words, when Nie Yusheng requested to hire the best lawyers, Nie Dongyuan immediately picked up his phone to call Mr. Quan to handle the matter.

Episode 19 Recap

Nie Yusheng, having contacted Mr. Qiao, immediately sought out Wang Yuling and Liang Yuanan to understand the situation regarding Tan Jing. Wang Yuling explained that Tan Jing had confronted the other party to protect her. The opposing shop owner had fallen, claiming injury. They wanted to settle the matter privately and had even bought nutrition products, but the shop owner refused, insisting on an injury assessment to determine legal judgment.

Liang Yuanan was certain the incident was targeted at Tan Jing, as the quarrel initially involved him before quickly escalating to Tan Jing's involvement. Wang Yuling added that the shop owner’s family refused to disclose which hospital she was in, fearing they would "make a scene," and were now ignoring their calls. She recalled seeing the shop owner carried into an ambulance, appearing to have no external injuries, but paramedics prevented her from following.

Nie Yusheng found this suspicious, agreeing that there must be foul play since the other party was actively avoiding them. Wang Yuling, feeling helpless, pleaded with Nie Yusheng to assist Tan Jing, emphasizing her trust in Tan Jing's innocence. Nie Yusheng assured her that he believed Tan Jing. That night, Nie Yusheng watched a sleeping Sun Ping in his hospital ward, feeling a pang of sadness. Tan Jing called from detention to inquire about Sun Ping.

Nie Yusheng briefly told her the child was doing well and had just eaten, reassuring her that he had hired the best lawyer. He then passed the phone to Sun Ping. Sun Ping asked his mother when she would return, to which Tan Jing, unable to reveal her true predicament, lied, saying she was on a business trip and would be back after work. She urged Sun Ping to be good and listen to Nie Yusheng and Wang Yuling.

After Sun Ping returned the phone to Nie Yusheng, Tan Jing meticulously instructed him on Sun Ping's peanut allergy, dietary restrictions, and nighttime care, including where to find his clothes and to keep his favorite green doggie towel nearby. Nie Yusheng promised to take good care of Sun Ping and asked her not to worry, assuring her that everything would pass quickly. Meanwhile, Sheng Fangting learned of Tan Jing's situation from Liang Yuanan.

He then spoke with Shu Qin, asking her to discreetly alter the official reason for Tan Jing's leave. Sheng Fangting explained that after his impending departure from the company, Tan Jing, as his personal assistant, would face difficulties, and news of her detention would only worsen her standing.

Shu Qin agreed to process it as personal leave but warned that if the police issued a formal notice or if Tan Jing was found guilty of a criminal offense, there would be nothing more she could do. Sheng Fangting acknowledged her warning. Shu Qin also expressed concern for Nie Yusheng, noting that with Sun Ping ill and Tan Jing in trouble, he must be suffering. Sheng Fangting remarked that Shu Qin seemed to understand Nie Yusheng's feelings.

Later, Sheng Fangting decided to visit Sun Ping, feeling it was appropriate given Tan Jing's absence, and Shu Qin accompanied him. Mr. Qiao updated Nie Yusheng on the investigation, stating that Tan Jing and her friends denied pushing the shop owner and suspected ulterior motives. Mr. Qiao’s team was investigating this lead, but with no surveillance footage from the incident, they were seeking witnesses and attempting to contact the other party.

The main issue was the opposing party's insistence on an injury assessment, which could greatly disadvantage Tan Jing. He outlined the potential outcomes: a minor injury would lead to 10-15 days of detention and compensation, while a light injury would initiate criminal proceedings, precluding any private settlement. Mr. Qiao concluded that Tan Jing was in a passive position. Nie Yusheng insisted they take a more active approach, asking Mr. Qiao to continue searching for evidence favorable to Tan Jing.

Nie Yusheng also vowed to use his own connections to locate the missing shop owner, convinced she hadn't disappeared without reason. When Sheng Fangting and Shu Qin arrived at the hospital, they found Nie Dongyuan playing with Sun Ping. Shu Qin, seizing the moment, informed Nie Dongyuan that she and Nie Yusheng had already broken up. Nie Dongyuan, though sad to hear this, acknowledged the awkwardness he had observed between them.

He expressed his regret over losing a potential daughter-in-law and, still hopeful of a reconciliation, asked if she would consider getting back with Nie Yusheng if he resolved the "child issue," assuring her that Sun Ping would not be a problem. Sheng Fangting interjected, sarcastically questioning Nie Dongyuan's view of a child as a "problem." Nie Dongyuan retorted that it was a family matter and none of Sheng Fangting's business.

Sheng Fangting promptly declared that Shu Qin was his girlfriend, making it his business. Shu Qin then clarified that her breakup with Nie Yusheng was long-standing and unrelated to Sun Ping. She excused herself, citing a company meeting, and left with Sheng Fangting after a brief farewell. Over the next few days, Nie Yusheng tirelessly called friends at various hospitals, including the Changpu Hospital, trying to locate the shop owner who had accused Tan Jing, but his efforts were fruitless.

One evening, as Sun Ping slept, he overheard Wang Yuling and Ms. Wang discussing Tan Jing’s detention. Ms. Wang lamented Tan Jing’s suffering in the detention cell, not being able to eat or sleep well. Wang Yuling, feeling guilty, also expressed confusion over how the shop owner fell without being touched. Suddenly, Sun Ping suffered a seizure, prompting an urgent call for doctors. Nie Yusheng, who had just finished another surgery, quickly rushed in to attend to Sun Ping.

He stabilized Sun Ping using a stent and guidewire, but the boy's temperature spiked to 39°C. When a nurse announced that Sun Ping's condition had changed and he needed emergency surgery, requiring the signature of an immediate family member, Nie Yusheng immediately volunteered to sign the consent form, knowing Tan Jing was unable to. It was explained that only by becoming Sun Ping's primary guardian could Nie Yusheng authorize the life-saving surgery.

To ensure her son received the necessary medical care, Tan Jing, still in detention, reluctantly signed a temporary primary guardianship agreement. Nie Yusheng then assisted Mr. Fang in Sun Ping’s surgery, which lasted for several hours. The surgery was successful, and they awaited Sun Ping's awakening. That same night, Tan Jing was released from detention, as the opposing party decided not to pursue criminal charges. Sheng Fangting picked her up, observing that everything felt too coincidental.

He warned her that signing the temporary guardianship agreement, even if temporary, was disadvantageous and could threaten her future custody rights, especially since the Nie family had paid for the surgery and obtained the consent form during a critical moment. He predicted they would try to prove her incapable of raising Sun Ping. Tan Jing asserted her rights as a mother, but Sheng Fangting stated that the decision was no longer hers alone.

Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng stood vigil outside the ICU, considering calling the police station for news of Tan Jing, when he saw her arrive. He informed her that the surgery went smoothly and that Sun Ping was stable but would take several hours to wake up. He would be discharged in about ten days if he recovered well. Tan Jing visibly relaxed and thanked him.

Nie Dongyuan, watching from the doorway as Nie Yusheng and Tan Jing stood together by Sun Ping’s bedside, quietly left. Back in his room, Nie Dongyuan told his secretary that Sun Ping was awake. He then declared that while Sun Ping's health was the immediate priority, the ultimate goal remained unchanged: to bring his grandson back to the Nie family and ensure he embraced his true heritage. As Sun Ping gradually regained consciousness, Mr. Fang confirmed his good recovery.

Nie Dongyuan visited, and Sun Ping greeted him warmly. Tan Jing was touched watching the positive interaction between her son and Nie Dongyuan. For the first time, Nie Dongyuan consulted Tan Jing, suggesting Sun Ping be moved to a VIP ward for a quieter environment and reduced infection risk. To his surprise, Tan Jing readily agreed, stating that anything beneficial for her child was acceptable, which also pleased Nie Yusheng. Nie Dongyuan promptly arranged the transfer.

In the VIP ward, Tan Jing explained to Sun Ping that his "engine" was fixed and now better than ever, making him excited about racing with other children. That evening, Tan Jing saw Wang Yuling off at the bus station, then returned to the hospital to care for Sun Ping. Wang Yuling had offered to stay, but Tan Jing insisted, feeling she needed to be there after missing the surgery.

She also confided in Wang Yuling about the shop owner leasing out her business and how Nie Yusheng had selflessly signed the consent form for Sun Ping’s surgery without hesitation. Later, Nie Yusheng read a story to Sun Ping, who noticed the new red string around Nie Yusheng’s neck. Nie Yusheng explained that Tan Jing had made it, symbolizing their shared connection.

Sun Ping wanted to trade red strings, but Nie Yusheng gently declined, explaining that Sun Ping's mother had given it to him. Once Sun Ping fell asleep, Nie Yusheng suggested Tan Jing go home or to his place for some rest, as she looked exhausted and he was not on duty. Tan Jing refused, saying she wasn't tired and wanted to stay. Nie Yusheng then took her hand and earnestly pleaded for another chance to protect her and Sun Ping.

Tan Jing remained silent, tears welling in her eyes, before turning and re-entering the room. Nie Yusheng, disheartened, walked away, unaware that Tan Jing soon reappeared at the door, her gaze following him. Despite the profound emotional chasm between them, their past feelings lingered, tying them together in a complex and unresolved relationship.

Episode 20 Recap

Nie Dongyuan and Nie Yusheng frequently visited Sun Ping at the hospital. Sun Ping, affectionately calling Nie Dongyuan "Grandpa," asked if they could continue playing together after his discharge, and Nie Dongyuan promised they would, even inviting him and his mother to his home. Sun Ping's recovery progressed well, and he was soon ready to be discharged. Nie Yusheng, anticipating a future with them, meticulously prepared his home, cushioning sharp corners and laying carpets to ensure Sun Ping's safety.

A colleague, Dr. Li, urgently requested Nie Yusheng to play as a striker in a hospital football match the next day. Nie Yusheng initially declined, citing a lack of practice and stamina. However, seeing Sun Ping's excitement and desire to watch the match, Nie Yusheng agreed, despite Tan Jing's concerns about Sun Ping's health. Nie Yusheng reassured her that Sun Ping was physically well enough to attend and deserved to experience such joys.

The next day, Nie Yusheng played energetically, scoring goals, and Sun Ping cheered enthusiastically until he fell asleep in the second half. As they walked back to the hospital, Nie Yusheng carried the sleeping Sun Ping. He informed Tan Jing that his home was fully ready for her and Sun Ping to move in, highlighting the safety measures taken and the convenience of its location to the hospital. Tan Jing remained largely silent, her emotions complex.

That evening, as Tan Jing read a bedtime story, Sun Ping expressed a wish to watch football matches every week. The following morning, Nie Yusheng arrived at Sun Ping’s ward only to find Tan Jing and Sun Ping gone. Believing they had been discharged and gone home, he went to Tan Jing’s apartment, but no one answered. Feeling lost, he contacted Wang Yuling, who was equally clueless about Tan Jing’s whereabouts.

Tan Jing had taken Sun Ping to a rental apartment. Sun Ping, disliking the unfamiliar surroundings, wanted to go home, and Tan Jing promised they would return in a few days. Nie Dongyuan, furious that Tan Jing had taken his grandson, immediately dispatched people to locate them. He suspected Tan Jing had been planning to escape with Sun Ping all along, while Nie Yusheng believed something else must have happened.

Mr. Quan soon informed them that Tan Jing and Sun Ping had been found. As Tan Jing went downstairs to collect a food delivery, she was startled to see Nie Yusheng waiting. He confronted her, asking why she had left. Tan Jing explained she wanted Sun Ping to grow up happily, free from unnecessary burdens, and that she could not allow Nie Dongyuan to take him away from her.

Nie Yusheng tried to persuade her, arguing that the unfamiliar environment was not good for Sun Ping's recovery, and that Tan Jing herself was too exhausted. He promised to stand by her and prevent his father from taking Sun Ping. However, back at the hospital, Nie Yusheng overheard Nie Dongyuan and Mr. Quan discussing the custody case. Mr. Quan stated that if the matter went to court, Nie Yusheng’s authorization would be needed.

Nie Yusheng firmly refused, saying he would not fight Tan Jing for custody. Nie Dongyuan dismissed Nie Yusheng's objections, confident in his ability to force Tan Jing to surrender Sun Ping without court intervention. He warned Nie Yusheng that if he didn't fight for custody, Tan Jing would disappear with Sun Ping, and he would lose them both. Mr. Quan urged Nie Yusheng to comply for his own good.

Later, Wang Yuling visited Tan Jing, expressing relief and questioning her sudden departure. Tan Jing revealed that years ago, Nie Dongyuan's lawyer had coerced her into signing away custody rights while Sun Ping was in critical condition. She admitted she had been unable to tell Nie Yusheng about it then or now. Nie Dongyuan's lawyer then formally notified Tan Jing that the Nie family would pursue full custody, pointing out her weaker financial and living conditions.

Tan Jing retorted that her deep understanding of Sun Ping's needs was more important than money and defiantly declared she would fight for her rights as a mother in court. Sheng Fangting introduced Tan Jing to Ms. Xu, a lawyer. Ms. Xu advised Tan Jing that she had an advantage but cautioned her about the opposing side's potential underhanded tactics. She also warned that taking Sun Ping away might be used against her.

Ms. Xu instructed Tan Jing not to contact the Nie family directly and to consult her on all decisions. When Nie Yusheng called to discuss Sun Ping, Tan Jing, following advice, handed the phone to Ms. Xu. Ms. Xu informed Nie Yusheng that she was Tan Jing’s attorney and that all communications regarding the custody case should go through her, advising him not to contact Tan Jing privately. She also mentioned sending a legal attest letter to his lawyer.

Upon learning that Tan Jing had hired a prominent lawyer, Nie Dongyuan instructed Mr. Quan to ensure Mr. Qiao resolved the custody matter within five working days. Mr. Quan explained that such lawyers often took on high-profile cases for free due to the Nie family's reputation. He also relayed that Qingsheng Group had inquired about potential share changes in Dongyuan Group due to the custody dispute.

Nie Dongyuan reassured Mr. Quan that this was a family matter that wouldn't impact company affairs. He specifically instructed Mr. Quan not to inform Nie Yusheng about their tactics and to ensure Sun Ping was not frightened. Mr. Quan believed Tan Jing had many vulnerabilities that could be exploited. To further undermine her, he arranged for her to be terminated from her job.

Tan Jing accepted the termination, telling her colleague, Shu Qin, that she appreciated her and Sheng Fangting's support and now needed a job. Later, worried about the impact on custody, Tan Jing called Sheng Fangting. He confirmed that lacking a stable income would be detrimental, and suggested she tell Nie Yusheng about his father's role in her own father's death. Tan Jing refused, stating she wouldn't involve Nie Yusheng now if she hadn't before.

Ms. Xu had found evidence that Nie Yusheng had undergone extensive psychological treatment, attending over forty sessions in three years at a Belgian hospital. She believed this could be presented as proof of a serious mental illness, which would be highly beneficial to Tan Jing's custody case. However, after careful consideration, Tan Jing decided against using this information, asserting that Nie Yusheng had never harmed her, and she did not wish to target him.

Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng was unexpectedly notified of an investigation by the hospital’s audit office, prompted by an anonymous report alleging he accepted bribes during the CM project. Nie Yusheng denied the accusations, explaining that the project was a collective decision by hospital experts and that all records were available for review. Mr. Fang, his superior, was incensed by the baseless allegations, vouched for Nie Yusheng’s integrity, and offered to have the entire department testify on his behalf. Nie Yusheng requested that Mr. Fang keep the investigation from his father, a request Mr. Fang agreed to.

Episode 21 Recap

Dr. Dong visited Sun Ping at home for a follow-up check-up. Pingping was recovering well from his surgery, taking his medication on time, and his health and mental state were good, with Dr. Dong noting he had even gained weight. As Dr. Dong was leaving, Pingping expressed his disappointment that Nie Yusheng hadn't visited him, and Dr. Dong reassured him that Nie Yusheng was busy with many surgeries. Downstairs, Nie Yusheng was waiting to hear about Pingping.

Dr. Dong confirmed Pingping was doing well and mentioned the boy had asked about him. Nie Yusheng also learned that Tan Jing had been fired from her company and was now looking for a new job. That evening, as Tan Jing read a story to Sun Ping, he again brought up Nie Yusheng's absence and also asked about Grandpa Nie. Tan Jing explained that Nie Yusheng was busy and promised to ask him to visit.

After fixing his toy engine, Sun Ping proudly told his mother he could now protect her like Superman. Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng, back at his own home, gazed at a ring. He recalled a past moment when he had promised Tan Jing a "real" ring, hinting at a wedding where they hadn't worn one. The next morning, Nie Yusheng went to Changpu Hospital as usual, only to find himself embroiled in a public scandal.

Online news accused the hospital of colluding with a medical company over the CM Program and implicated Nie Yusheng in accepting bribes. In a meeting, Mr. Fang passionately defended Nie Yusheng, asserting that the CM Program had been approved by a panel of experts and that no one had received commissions. He argued that suspending Nie Yusheng would ruin the hospital’s reputation, especially during its bid to be recognized as one of the top 100 hospitals.

He even challenged the accusation of conflict of interest, pointing out his own long-standing connection to Nie Dongyuan. Overhearing the discussion, Nie Yusheng entered the meeting and willingly accepted a suspension for investigation. He stressed that while the Cardiology Department could manage without him, it could not afford to lose Mr. Fang, reminding him of his earlier teaching that patients are paramount.

After handing over his duties to a colleague, who assured him of their trust, Nie Yusheng left the hospital. Later, Tan Jing, accompanied by Attorney Xu, met with Nie Dongyuan and Nie Yusheng to discuss Sun Ping's custody.

Attorney Xiao, representing the Nie family, presented three demands: Sun Ping’s custody be transferred to Nie Yusheng, with his name changed to Nie Ping; Tan Jing would have weekly visitation rights; and Nie Yusheng would pay Tan Jing three million yuan for past child support and medical expenses. Attorney Xu vehemently rejected these terms.

He explained that Tan Jing was forced to break up with Nie Yusheng by Nie Dongyuan and subsequently discovered her pregnancy, but could not inform Nie Yusheng due to Nie Dongyuan’s demands. He argued that disrupting the deep bond between mother and son would be detrimental to Sun Ping's health. Attorney Xiao countered by highlighting Tan Jing’s unemployment, lack of income, and her inability to pay for Sun Ping's critical heart surgery, which Nie Yusheng ultimately funded.

He contrasted this with Nie Yusheng’s stable income and double doctorate from Belgium. Attorney Xu maintained that love was immeasurable and that Tan Jing’s temporary unemployment did not equate to an inability to raise her child. Attorney Xiao then brought up Tan Jing's past statements about using Nie Yusheng for money, her arrest for assault, and her association with Sun Zhijun, questioning her moral suitability as a mother.

Nie Dongyuan cut the lawyers short, stating the true objective was to secure a better future for Pingping. He declared his non-negotiable terms: full custodial rights and Sun Ping must bear the Nie surname as the future heir of Dongyuan Group. Under Attorney Xu's discreet instruction, Tan Jing remained silent while her attorney, in turn, made extensive demands: five million yuan for past expenses and emotional damages, plus a five percent stake in Dongyuan Group for Sun Ping.

Nie Dongyuan angrily accused them of being overly ambitious, but to everyone's surprise, he conceded, agreeing to all demands and instructing his lawyer to amend the contract immediately, promising to transfer funds and shares within five working days if Tan Jing signed. Tan Jing, horrified, refused, stating this was not her intention and she didn't want their money.

She passionately argued that Pingping was her child, whom she had raised for six years, and accused Nie Dongyuan of trying to snatch him away. Nie Yusheng then intervened, proposing marriage to Tan Jing. He declared it the only solution to provide Sun Ping with a complete family, stating he was serious. Nie Dongyuan dismissed it as nonsense. At that moment, Sun Zhijun burst into the room carrying a portrait of Tan Jing’s father, Tan Shaohua.

He publicly accused Nie Dongyuan of being a murderer who caused Tan Shaohua's death, ruining his reputation and destroying his family. An enraged Nie Dongyuan ordered security to remove Sun Zhijun. Amidst the chaos, Tan Jing received a phone call. She announced in a horrified voice that Sun Ping was missing, instantly silencing everyone. Panic ensued, and everyone scrambled to find Sun Ping, with missing person alerts quickly spreading online.

Nie Yusheng and Tan Jing, driving together, received a message about Sun Ping's disappearance. Tan Jing, distressed, confided that Pingping had recently asked about both Nie Yusheng and Nie Dongyuan, indicating his awareness of the family tensions. After searching all their usual spots without success, Nie Yusheng received a phone call with a lead. They rushed to a soccer field, where they found Sun Ping sitting alone.

Tan Jing tearfully embraced her son, asking why he had run off, while Nie Yusheng comforted them both. After bringing Sun Ping home and putting him to bed, Nie Yusheng confessed his sincere desire to protect Tan Jing and Pingping, reiterating his marriage proposal to provide them with a family. Tan Jing, still overwhelmed, told him that Pingping was her only remaining blood relative, and her priority was to keep him by her side.

Unable to get an immediate answer, Nie Yusheng placed a ring on the table, stating it belonged to her regardless of her decision, and left. Tan Jing stared at the ring, memories stirring in her mind. Shortly after leaving, Nie Yusheng received a call from Chubster, which was abruptly followed by a car accident, leaving him unconscious.

At the hospital, doctors informed Nie Dongyuan that Nie Yusheng's injuries were primarily external and not severe, but he would need further, more extensive tests the following day after an overnight stay in the emergency room. Nie Dongyuan was heartbroken seeing his son lying in the observation room and refused to leave the hospital, despite encouragement to rest. The next morning, at breakfast, Sun Ping apologized to Tan Jing for running away, fearing she was angry.

Tan Jing reassured him she was merely worried. Sun Ping then expressed missing Nie Yusheng again, asking if there would be any soccer games where he might see him. Tan Jing, still processing the day's events, called Sheng Fangting to discuss Nie Dongyuan's unexpected offer of company shares for custody. She confided her overwhelming anxiety about the uncertain future and her sole desire to keep her child.

Sheng Fangting advised her to remain calm, noting that Nie Dongyuan's eagerness for custody meant Tan Jing held the strategic advantage as long as Sun Ping was with her. Later, Nie Yusheng awoke in the VIP ward, exhibiting a changed demeanor. He immediately asked for spicy hot pot, claiming he hadn't eaten anything spicy in a long time, which confused Nie Dongyuan as his son had avoided spicy food for years.

Nie Yusheng then spoke of continuing his postgraduate studies in Belgium and going with Tan Jing, even referring to Mr. Fang as "Uncle Fang," a term he hadn't used in years. These remarks revealed a startling shift in his perception. Doctors conducted further tests, explaining that while a CT scan showed no brain damage, a functional MRI indicated blocked microvessels near his brain cells due to the impact, causing transient amnesia.

More significantly, his symptoms pointed to psychological regression, a defense mechanism where individuals facing immense stress revert to earlier, often happier, life stages. In Nie Yusheng's case, his cognitive age had regressed to his university days. Nie Dongyuan, stunned by the diagnosis, asked if his son could recover.

Episode 22 Recap

A lawyer contacted Sun Zhijun to inquire about events that transpired seven years ago, stating the request came from a client willing to pay a sum of money. However, Sun Zhijun rejected the payment and refused to disclose any information, insisting the client meet him in person or through a lawyer. He found it curious that the client was not directly approaching him if they truly wished to learn about the past.

While helping out at Wang Yuling's bakery, Tan Jing received a phone call from Mr. Fang, informing her that Nie Yusheng had been in a car accident. He reassured her that Nie Yusheng had regained consciousness but described his condition as complicated. Tan Jing immediately rushed to the hospital. Upon seeing Tan Jing, Nie Yusheng embraced her tightly, instructing her not to move as his father was not present and he wanted to hold her for a moment.

He mentioned his desire to find her earlier but was restricted from leaving the hospital. He then spoke of her excellent grades, assuring her she would pass her exams, as if they were still in their university days. Observing his unusual behavior, Tan Jing gently asked what was wrong. Nie Yusheng explained he was in a hurry to see her right after landing from a flight and drove too fast, but surprisingly, he had no memory of the accident itself.

He even recalled sending her his flight details. He then shared his plan to officially introduce her to his father and inform him of their wedding, asking if she had told her own father. Nie Yusheng quickly added that he would tell his father himself, promising to ensure her happiness and never upset her. Following this, Mr. Fang arranged a joint consultation with Nie Dongyuan, Tan Jing, and Nie Yusheng's former Belgian psychologist.

Mr. Fang believed Tan Jing's presence would aid in understanding Nie Yusheng's condition. The Belgian psychologist explained that when Nie Yusheng first arrived in Belgium, he suffered from a severe anxiety-depression disorder, was silent for nearly six months, and experienced intense insomnia. He refused sleep medication because of recurring nightmares, preferring sleeplessness over facing them.

After half a year, he finally recounted the dream: being alone on a stormy, thundering night, rain blurring with tears on his face, a bright car approaching, and a terrifying figure wielding a knife. The local doctor then explained to Nie Dongyuan that Nie Yusheng was "living in the past," a psychological regression to a period he perceived as safe and happy, triggered by severe shock and head trauma to escape current conflicts.

Recovery would require time, acceptance of his state, and understanding the root cause of his regression. Nie Dongyuan confirmed his son's past diagnosis and three years of counseling in Belgium, promptly agreeing to the joint consultation. Later, Shu Qin and Sheng Fangting visited Nie Yusheng, but he did not recognize them. Shu Qin was shocked by his state.

Nie Dongyuan explained Nie Yusheng's condition to them and then turned to Sheng Fangting, remarking on his luck for having Shu Qin, a good girl, and urging him to treat her well. Sheng Fangting assured Nie Dongyuan that he would, and also expressed his belief that Nie Yusheng was strong and would recover. As Shu Qin and Sheng Fangting left the hospital, Shu Qin spontaneously proposed marriage to Sheng Fangting.

His silence prompted her to quickly dismiss it as a joke. Seeking to help Tan Jing, Sheng Fangting met with Sun Zhijun. He directly asked about the past events concerning Tan Jing's father and the Dongyuan Group, admitting he disliked Nie Dongyuan and wanted to find leverage against him, which would also serve as a way to repay Tan Jing for her help.

Sun Zhijun was suspicious of his motives, but Sheng Fangting clarified that his relationship with Tan Jing was strictly professional. In the days that followed, Tan Jing dedicated her evenings to researching "psychological regression" online. Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng frequently called and texted her, telling her he missed her, which left Tan Jing feeling a mix of emotions.

Upon his discharge, Nie Dongyuan brought Nie Yusheng home, telling him they had moved and that this was his "new house" and a surprise. Nie Yusheng asked if his belongings had been moved, and Mr. Quan confirmed everything was in his room, which was arranged to look exactly like his old one. Mr. Quan later reported to Nie Dongyuan that Nie Yusheng's state was good. Meanwhile, Sun Zhijun, while delivering takeout to Wang Yuling's bakery, inquired about Nie Dongyuan's family.

Wang Yuling informed him about Nie Yusheng's car accident and subsequent "psychological regression," explaining it as a state where one retreats to the past after a shock. Sun Zhijun remarked that it was retribution for Nie Dongyuan's "despicable deeds," but Wang Yuling defended Nie Yusheng, asserting he was a good person. Sun Zhijun then asked if Nie Yusheng could recover. Surprisingly, Nie Yusheng's illness seemed to improve his relationship with his father.

They shared a meal, and Nie Dongyuan expressed regret for not spending more time with his son and wife in the past. Nie Yusheng apologized for not heeding his father's wishes and pursuing medicine, explaining the profound satisfaction he found in saving lives. He stated he had no regrets about his medical career or his relationship with Tan Jing, asking his father for his blessing. Nie Dongyuan, visibly moved, did not object this time.

That evening, Nie Dongyuan went to Nie Yusheng's room and saw a photo of his son with Tan Jing and a keychain clutched in Nie Yusheng's hand. He also heard his son call out Tan Jing's name in his sleep. This solidified his realization of her deep significance in Nie Yusheng's life. He recalled Mr. Fang's advice that "he who tied the bell must take it off," implying Tan Jing was central to Nie Yusheng's recovery.

The next day, Nie Dongyuan visited Tan Jing. Looking much older, he humbly asked her to cooperate with the doctors in treating Nie Yusheng's illness, offering to meet any conditions she might have. He acknowledged her dislike for him but emphasized his utmost sincerity. He reiterated that during his regression, Nie Yusheng thought and spoke only of her.

He implored her to temporarily set aside their past conflicts and help save his son, appealing to the unwavering love Nie Yusheng had held for her. Tan Jing agreed without hesitation. Tan Jing then waited outside Nie Yusheng's house. When he emerged, it felt as if they had returned to the past. Nie Yusheng eagerly led her inside, showing her his "new" house.

He then took her to his room, commenting that he didn't like the decor his father chose, but he loved a corner with a window view that reminded him of their hometown. Seeing a photo of them, he remarked that their past wedding was too rushed and expressed a desire to have a better one and see her in a wedding dress.

He spoke of his plans to study medicine in Belgium and encouraged her to pursue what she loved, reminding her of her inspiring speech, "Without love, there is nothing," and assured her he would support all her decisions. Later, Tan Jing took Nie Yusheng to her apartment. He was charmed by the place, finding it cozy and familiar, unlike his father's large, empty house. While she cooked, Nie Yusheng playfully commented on her improved skills.

This led him to recall a high school memory: seeing her eat wontons with chili oil on her lip, wanting to wipe it for her but being too shy. Tan Jing confessed she knew he was watching her then. Filled with nostalgia, they decided to return to Ning'an to eat wontons. As they flew to Ning'an, Nie Dongyuan called Tan Jing, reminding her not to trigger Nie Yusheng.

Tan Jing explained her strategy to bring him to familiar environments and use sensory cues to gradually awaken his "memories of reality," helping him recognize his regressed state. Nie Dongyuan agreed, stressing the need for careful execution. Upon arriving in Ning'an, they noticed that many old shops were still there. They headed to their old high school, but a security guard refused them entry, even when they claimed to be former students. Despite the guard's refusal, Nie Yusheng was determined to go inside.

Episode 23 Recap

Tan Jing and Nie Yusheng, evading a security guard, carefully climbed over the wall to sneak into their old high school. Inside, Nie Yusheng enthusiastically joined a group of students playing soccer. To their surprise, they encountered their former classmate, Hu, who was now a physical education teacher. When Hu asked Nie Yusheng if he was married, Nie Yusheng, living in a past memory, claimed they were still in college.

Tan Jing quickly intervened, diverting the conversation before privately explaining Nie Yusheng's condition to Hu, who then understood and apologized for his remarks, assuring Tan Jing he would help if needed. Tan Jing watched Nie Yusheng, wishing time could stop so he could remain happy forever. After leaving the school, the couple went to their favorite noodle shop. They ordered the same noodles they used to enjoy, but the taste was different.

Upon inquiry, they learned that Mr. Li, the original owner, had retired. Tan Jing reflected on how the world is constantly changing and they must learn to face it. Nie Yusheng, touched by her wisdom, declared he would never allow her the slightest chance to leave him. Meanwhile, Sun Zhijun took his son, Sun Ping, out for a fun day.

They enjoyed snacks, and Sun Ping delightedly rode on his father's scooter, wishing his father could spend more time with him. That night, a rainstorm raged, and Nie Yusheng woke from a terrifying nightmare. He had dreamed that he and Tan Jing married overseas, only for her to suddenly break up with him, claiming she never loved him.

Terrified, he clung to Tan Jing, who embraced him and reassured him that it was just a dream and she would never leave his side. For several days, Tan Jing stayed by Nie Yusheng’s side, taking him to familiar places to revisit their past, including eating ice cream outside a convenience store. One morning, Nie Yusheng quietly left the house.

Tan Jing, sensing something amiss, followed him and saw him burying a wishing bottle under a large tree, a tradition she had taught him years ago. Later, Tan Jing retrieved the bottle and found it filled with wishes all about her, which brought a smile to her face. On their way home, a passenger on their bus suffered a sudden heart attack. Nie Yusheng immediately rushed to perform CPR, instinctively proclaiming, "I'm a doctor."

After successfully stabilizing the patient, and as paramedics arrived, fragmented memories flashed through his mind, causing him to correct himself and say, "I'm a medical student." He then felt a little dizzy. In another part of town, Shu Qin introduced Sheng Fangting to her parents. Knowing they had broken up before, her parents were hesitant. Sheng Fangting sincerely promised them he would make Shu Qin happy and never let them down.

Impressed by his earnestness, Shu Qin's father invited him to stay for dinner and offered him his prized rice wine. Despite recently undergoing gastric ulcer surgery and being advised against alcohol, Sheng Fangting drank several glasses to please Shu Qin’s father. After her parents left, Shu Qin found Sheng Fangting quite intoxicated. He apologized to her for his past behavior, admitting he had always struggled with a "black hole" in his heart, making him unable to trust others or love.

He explained that he had always run away and hid behind a closed door, even when Shu Qin tried to get closer. Shu Qin revealed that her "breakup" had been an attempt to force him to open that door, but he refused to open it. She confessed that she still wasn't sure if his emotional door was truly open, but she was willing to take a chance on him.

Considering Nie Yusheng's condition, Tan Jing and Nie Dongyuan played along, pretending it was their first meeting during dinner. Nie Yusheng proudly informed his father that he and Tan Jing had gotten married in Belgium. Nie Dongyuan was shocked but managed to compose himself, careful not to upset his son further. Nie Yusheng walked his father home, allowing Tan Jing to return to her son, Sun Ping.

That night, as Tan Jing read him a story, Sun Ping asked if Nie Yusheng's "malfunction" had been repaired and if he could visit him. Tan Jing gently told him they would visit once Nie Yusheng's condition stabilized, but not now. The following morning, Nie Yusheng returned to his work apartment. The familiar surroundings seemed to trigger a few vague memories. Soon after, Chubster called Nie Yusheng, revealing that Tan Jing’s father's death was indeed connected to Nie Dongyuan’s company.

This news severely stimulated Nie Yusheng, causing more painful memory fragments to surface. Overwhelmed with anguish, he isolated himself in his room. Tan Jing, worried, desperately knocked on his door. His father, Nie Dongyuan, arrived and learned from Dr. Wen and Danielle, a Belgian psychologist, that Nie Yusheng's condition had worsened significantly. He had entered a "morphological regression," a state of complete mental breakdown where he completely shielded himself from external pain.

Dr. Wen explained the risks of this regression, including continuous regression to a younger age or permanent social isolation. Danielle, however, noted two optimistic signs: Nie Yusheng's questioning of "Belgium" suggested a subconscious awareness of his age, and his looking at the calendar indicated he might be acknowledging the present time. Danielle recommended stimulation therapy, but Dr. Wen cautioned that this method could also lead to Nie Yusheng's complete collapse.

Episode 24 Recap

Following the medical advice that confronting past trauma, even to the point of a complete breakdown, might be the best way for Nie Yusheng to regain his memory, Nie Dongyuan expressed strong reservations. He feared a severe stress response. During a tense conversation in a car, Nie Dongyuan told Tan Jing that while he would respect her decisions regarding Pingping's treatment, she had no right to intervene in Nie Yusheng's recovery.

He accused her of making Nie Yusheng's condition worse, saying his biggest mistake was allowing her to treat him. Tan Jing retorted that Nie Dongyuan pushed her forward when he needed her but cast her aside when she was no longer useful. She insisted they had to discuss Nie Yusheng's serious condition together. Nie Dongyuan, however, declared that he would rather Nie Yusheng live in his pleasant past memories forever, and that he could afford to hire many caretakers.

Tan Jing challenged him, asking who would protect Nie Yusheng if he were gone. Nie Dongyuan, tears in his eyes, reiterated that he only wanted his son to be alive and well, recounting Nie Yusheng's three years of suffering, emaciation, and silence following their past separation, asserting that Tan Jing was solely responsible for his pain. He then told her to leave the car. Despite Nie Dongyuan's dismissal, Tan Jing remained determined to help Nie Yusheng.

She confided in Wang Yuling, admitting she initially thought Nie Yusheng would recover quickly given his privileged life, but realized the seven-year-old incident had deeply scarred him. She declared her intention to help him remove that "knife" from his heart. Wang Yuling offered her unwavering support, assuring Tan Jing that she would take care of Pingping.

Pingping, having overheard that his mother was going to help "Uncle Nie," enthusiastically gave Tan Jing his "magic powers," believing she could transform into a "Wonder Woman" to save him. Tan Jing promised her son that she would bring Nie Yusheng back. That evening, Nie Yusheng received a text from Tan Jing, inviting him to meet her downstairs. When he arrived, he found her standing in the rain, mirroring the day of their original breakup.

Nie Yusheng urged her to come inside, but Tan Jing, initiating a "stimulation therapy" scenario, told him they should break up. Playing the part, she recounted the tragic accident at her father's construction site where many, including her father, had died, an incident for which her father was blamed.

Nie Yusheng, still somewhat in his regressed state, tried to comfort her, but Tan Jing pressed further, revealing that his father was involved in the project, thus linking his family to her father's death. This revelation shook Nie Yusheng, and he asked if she hated him. She denied it, but then, echoing their past conversation, explained that they were too young to overcome such a tragedy and she didn't want to ruin his life.

Nie Yusheng declared that his life was already ruined and he would rather give up everything than her. Tan Jing then gave him the pivotal instruction, telling him to "move on" and that she would "be waiting for him in the future" when they were strong enough to bear the burden. Desperate, Nie Yusheng asked twice if she had ever loved him. This time, Tan Jing held him close in the rain and confessed, "I had never stopped loving you.

Never." Their embrace marked a turning point. The next day, medical examinations confirmed Nie Yusheng's full recovery; all his health indicators, hormone levels, psychological reactions, and consciousness were normal. Dr. Wen credited Tan Jing for her crucial role. Nie Dongyuan, overjoyed, thanked Tan Jing and proposed a "family of four" dinner to celebrate. Despite Nie Yusheng's initial hesitation, Tan Jing agreed, first picking up Pingping. At the restaurant, Nie Dongyuan was visibly delighted, ordering Pingping's favorite dishes.

Pingping even affectionately fed his grandfather, making Nie Dongyuan beam. Nie Dongyuan then offered a heartfelt apology to Tan Jing, admitting his past prejudices and attempts to keep her and Nie Yusheng apart were his fault. He expressed hope that they could reconcile their past grievances. Tan Jing, however, told him that their feuds could not be resolved with just a toast and that she couldn't simply forgive him, suggesting they drop the topic for such a happy day.

As they prepared to leave, Nie Dongyuan presented Tan Jing with documents to transfer five percent of the company's shares, explaining it was a gift for Pingping, to be decided upon when he turned eighteen. Pingping eagerly accepted the "big gift." Nie Yusheng carried Pingping home, reassuring Tan Jing that he would investigate her father's case and bring the truth to light, no matter the culprit, a promise Tan Jing trusted.

He then reflected on how wonderful it would be if such moments could last forever. That night, Nie Yusheng called his father, informing him of his decision to join Dongyuan Group. Nie Dongyuan was surprised, questioning his son's interest and ability to handle the responsibilities, reminding him that his dream was to be a doctor. Nie Yusheng clarified that he simply wanted to help.

The next day, Nie Yusheng began inquiring with a nurse about suitable kindergartens for his child, listing options like Xuexing Kindergarten and Adler Kindergarten. He then shared the kindergarten information with Tan Jing and Pingping, and after discussing the excellent teachers, environment, and convenient location, they settled on one. Tan Jing raised concerns about Pingping's heart condition in a playful environment, but Nie Yusheng reassured her that with careful monitoring, he would be fine.

Unbeknownst to them, Sun Zhijun observed their happy family moment from afar, riding away with a look of melancholy. The family's newfound happiness continued, with Nie Yusheng, Tan Jing, and Pingping enjoying a day at an amusement park. His growing comfort with Nie Yusheng was evident when, during a game at home, Pingping spontaneously called him "Dad," bringing immense joy to both Nie Yusheng and Tan Jing. However, the joyful atmosphere was soon clouded by Nie Dongyuan's deteriorating health.

At Changpu Hospital, Mr. Fang informed Nie Dongyuan that he had at most six months to live, possibly as little as three. Mr. Fang offered to explore advanced medical treatments, but Nie Dongyuan refused, stating he had lived a full life and wished to spend his remaining time with dignity. Mr. Fang later called Nie Yusheng, relaying the grim diagnosis and his father's refusal of medical intervention, casting Nie Yusheng into despair.

Nie Dongyuan then presented Nie Yusheng with Dongyuan's financial report, admitting the company was in disarray with many "holes" that would require constant "patching up." He advised Nie Yusheng to leverage his expertise in the medical sector, where Dongyuan was expanding, and to seek counsel from his trusted associates, Mr. Quan and Tu, when encountering difficulties. Meanwhile, Sheng Fangting, having learned of Nie Yusheng's recovery and Nie Dongyuan's acceptance of Tan Jing, appeared disturbed, hinting at larger schemes.

Despite his intricate plans, he found warmth and solace in Shu Qin's presence. In a heartfelt moment, he proposed to her in a new unit he had purchased for them, admitting his past failures as a partner but expressing his desire for happiness with her. Shu Qin, moved by his sincerity, accepted his proposal on one condition: that he would share his secrets and "black hole" with her, striving to overcome any challenges together. Sheng Fangting promised he would.

Episode 25 Recap

Tan Jing took Sun Ping to kindergarten, feeling reassured as he happily interacted with the other children. Before leaving, she informed the teacher about Sun Ping's health condition. While exchanging contact information, Tan Jing discovered that the teacher, Gu Jun, was her university junior, though she hadn't recognized him at first. Meanwhile, Nie Yusheng had made the decision to enter Dongyuan Group.

He briefed Mr. Fang, his mentor at the hospital, on the status of his patients and all necessary follow-up work. Mr. Fang expressed regret at Nie Yusheng's departure, recognizing him as a talented doctor and his most cherished disciple. However, he understood Nie Yusheng's situation, as his father, Nie Dongyuan, was in critical condition and Nie Yusheng felt compelled to support him.

Mr. Fang advised Nie Yusheng to approach the business world with the same precision and careful judgment he applied in surgery, so as not to bring shame to his father. Nie Yusheng reflected on his past aversion to Dongyuan Group, feeling it had taken his father, his mother's smile, and even Tan Jing's happiness. He never imagined he would one day take its helm.

Chubster, who had been investigating, found little concrete information, leading him to believe that someone within Dongyuan Group was deliberately concealing facts. Nie Yusheng agreed, suspecting an internal cover-up. He shared his view that the traditional family-successor model was outdated for modern enterprises and expressed his intention to find a suitable professional manager for Dongyuan Group.

Chubster, surprised that Nie Yusheng hadn't informed Tan Jing of his career change, urged him to be honest with her as soon as possible, knowing her temper. Later, Nie Yusheng went to pick up Sun Ping from kindergarten, arriving at the same time as Tan Jing. Watching the heartwarming scene of Pingping excitedly telling his mother about his day, Nie Yusheng felt a sense of completion.

At home, Nie Yusheng revealed his decision to leave his medical career and join Dongyuan Group. He explained that the hospital was investigating him due to the CM Program, and he needed to step up to support his father during his hospitalization. Tan Jing was unconcerned about his new job, stating that as long as he and Pingping were by her side, that was enough.

The next morning, she messaged him, giving him her full support and telling him that she wouldn't stop him from pursuing what he wanted. With Tan Jing's unwavering support, Nie Yusheng, dressed in a suit, formally arrived at Dongyuan Group. Mr. Quan, the company secretary, introduced him to the board members as Nie Dongyuan's representative during his medical leave. Nie Yusheng addressed the board, acknowledging his previous reluctance to join but stating it was now time for him to return.

He expressed his desire to learn and thanked them for safeguarding the company in his father's absence, promising to shoulder his responsibilities and asking for their guidance. However, the board meeting proved challenging. A board member, Mr. Cheng, immediately dismissed the idea of relying solely on financial statements to understand Dongyuan's crisis, demanding to know Nie Yusheng's plan to lead the company out of its current predicament.

Mr. Cheng outlined the company's external challenges, including pervasive rumors, false information spread by competitors, ineffective public relations, and confused individual stock investors. Nie Yusheng, in turn, questioned the veracity of these rumors, asserting that they must first identify the root cause of the problems. He argued that if the issues were merely false rumors, clarification would be simple, but if there were genuine internal problems, they needed to be resolved before addressing external pressures.

After the meeting, Nie Yusheng asked Mr. Quan to arrange individual meetings with department heads that afternoon. He then visited his father's office, which remained unchanged since his childhood, evoking memories of playing there as a boy. The company faced a pressing issue of nearly 300 million yuan in overdue payments to suppliers. Nie Dongyuan had previously used a three-month payment cycle to temporarily invest funds in real estate, but unsold properties had created a severe cash flow problem.

Suppliers, hearing rumors of Dongyuan's financial difficulties, were now demanding immediate payment, threatening to halt production, which would be disastrous for the manufacturing company. Meanwhile, Tan Jing and Sun Ping returned home to find Sun Zhijun preparing dinner. Despite his limited culinary skills, he had put in the effort, though his Coca-Cola chicken wings were a bit salty. Pingping, however, praised his braised fish, saying it tasted just like his mom's.

Sun Zhijun informed Pingping that he would be moving to a nearby dorm because his new delivery job was too far from their home. He reassured the boy he would still visit frequently. As Tan Jing walked him downstairs, Sun Zhijun reminded her about the excess yogurt in the fridge for Pingping to eat and the low electricity meter that needed charging.

Tan Jing, in turn, told him that she would never change the door lock, that he still had his keys, and that their home would always be his. Sun Zhijun, visibly touched but trying to hide his emotions, simply told her not to frown. In a separate conversation, Sheng Fangting had informed Sun Zhijun of Mr. Lei's approximate whereabouts, confirming that Sun Zhijun would need to locate him precisely to exact revenge for Tan Jing's father's death.

Sun Zhijun also arranged to borrow a motorbike from his friend Dazhi for a trip, confirming his departure. Later, Nie Dongyuan visited Sun Ping, and the two shared a joyful reunion, with Pingping expressing how much he missed his grandpa. To give them space, Tan Jing excused herself to visit Ms. Wang. There, she confided that seeing Sun Ping with Nie Dongyuan brought back painful memories of her own father, making it difficult for her to move past her resentment.

Ms. Wang expressed concern about Nie Dongyuan's liver cancer diagnosis, knowing the suffering it would cause, and observed his genuine efforts to connect with Pingping, acknowledging the power of their blood ties. Suddenly, Sun Ping rushed downstairs, crying that his grandpa had collapsed. Tan Jing immediately called for an ambulance, then hurried back upstairs, holding Nie Dongyuan's hand to comfort him. He was rushed to the hospital and, though still unconscious, was out of immediate danger.

At the hospital, Sun Ping insisted on staying by his grandpa's side. Nie Yusheng tried to persuade him to go home but Pingping refused. Nie Yusheng then borrowed a stethoscope, letting Pingping listen to his own heartbeat, then his father's, and explained that just like theirs, Grandpa's heart was still beating, so he was going to be alright. Reassured, Pingping agreed to go home.

Nie Yusheng offered to drive them, but Tan Jing insisted he stay with his father, though Nie Yusheng eventually drove them home before returning to the hospital. Later that night, after Nie Yusheng had put Pingping to bed, he sincerely thanked Tan Jing for calling the ambulance in time, acknowledging her actions had saved his father. Tan Jing admitted she had been scared too, but Pingping had told her a hug would make everything better, and they embraced.

Shu Qin soon arrived at the hospital to visit Nie Dongyuan, shocked by his sudden decline. She expressed her sympathy for Nie Yusheng, who now had the heavy burden of both the hospital and the company. Nie Yusheng assured her that with the management structure in place and seasoned veterans like Mr. Quan, the company would remain stable. Shu Qin then shared her happy news: she and Mark were getting married.

Nie Yusheng congratulated her warmly, and she promised to send him and Tan Jing an invitation. In a separate conversation, Sheng Fangting and his associate discussed Dongyuan's situation. The associate remarked that Nie Yusheng's takeover seemed surprisingly smooth. Sheng Fangting countered, stating that the absence of visible problems didn't mean they didn't exist; they were merely dormant because Nie Dongyuan had just fallen ill.

He criticized Nie Dongyuan's "old-fashioned" and autocratic management style, which had led him to over-expand and create an "empty shelf" of a company, hollowed out internally. He confidently asserted that his financial expertise surpassed Nie Yusheng's medical background and instructed his associate to "remind" Nie Yusheng to closely examine Dongyuan's real estate investments for problems.

Meanwhile, news reports confirmed Dongyuan Group's deepening crisis, citing Nie Dongyuan's coma, three consecutive days of stock limit downs, and severe problems with property investments, leading to a backlog and suppliers demanding immediate payment of nearly 300 million yuan. Nie Yusheng, during a meeting with suppliers and regional sales directors, reiterated Dongyuan's commitment to timely payments, but the sales directors could only promise a meager 3 to 5 million yuan in collected funds within the week.

A subsequent attempt to secure a bank loan also failed, as the bank could only offer a limited amount given Dongyuan's precarious state. Nie Yusheng was left deeply concerned about the company's future.

Episode 26 Recap

The Dongyuan Group's stock continued to plummet, causing Nie Yusheng immense stress as he found himself at a dead end. His attempts to secure bank loans were repeatedly rejected due to the company's grim financial outlook. Even a promising lead for a loan fell through when the contact failed to show up for their scheduled meeting.

Meanwhile, news spread about Dongyuan, a leading mineral water enterprise, facing a financial crisis due to overdue supplier payments, with its stock hitting an all-time low. Knowing Nie Yusheng was struggling, Shu Qin called him to offer support and invite him to dinner. She acknowledged the immense financial gap and the widespread anxiety among employees, many of whom were already seeking new jobs. Nie Yusheng admitted his exhaustion from a full day of fruitless bank visits.

Shu Qin reminded him that as long as people were still drinking Dongyuan's water, there was hope. Nie Yusheng also relied on his friend Zhou Rongyang, nicknamed Chubster, who was now working in Dongyuan's legal department, to review contracts and look for clues, specifically about old real estate contracts that were hard to access. Nie Yusheng warned Chubster to be discreet, acknowledging the complex internal dynamics of the company. That night, Nie Yusheng visited his comatose father in the hospital.

He massaged his father's hands, speaking from his heart about the difficulty of running the company and finally understanding his father's past struggles. Later, he went to Tan Jing's home, where she cooked him a simple bowl of noodles. He confessed he wasn't truly hungry but sought the comfort and warmth he found with her, a place where he could momentarily stop and rest.

Tan Jing stayed by his side, reassuring him that he was Nie Yusheng and could overcome anything. During an administrative meeting, department heads presented financial reports, revealing three consecutive quarters of losses and a projected deficit by the fourth quarter, which would impact supplier payments. Nie Yusheng emphasized the critical importance of paying suppliers on time to protect Dongyuan's reputation, but no one could offer a viable solution.

Mr. Quan, the company's secretary, subtly spread rumors that Nie Yusheng might have a private source of funds, but he also highlighted his and Nie Yusheng's unsuccessful attempts to secure bank loans, indicating the severity of the situation. Tan Jing took Sun Ping to visit Nie Dongyuan. The thoughtful boy listened to his grandfather's heartbeat with a stethoscope, hoping he would wake up soon.

Nie Yusheng and Tan Jing were moved by Sun Ping's genuine affection for Nie Dongyuan, acknowledging the strong bond between them. Meanwhile, Shu Qin proactively sought someone to assist at Dongyuan. She thought of Sheng Fangting and managed to persuade him to join, seeing it as an opportunity for him to prove his capabilities by turning the company around. Sheng Fangting's arrival provided a much-needed breakthrough for Nie Yusheng.

Sheng Fangting quickly proposed a solution: selling Dongyuan water to PQC, a global supermarket chain entering the Chinese market, at a significantly reduced, almost cost, price. This would secure immediate capital, even if it meant sacrificing short-term profits and offending existing retailers. Nie Yusheng agreed, and while the board initially objected, calling it a desperate and self-sabotaging move, they had no alternative solutions when pressed by Nie Yusheng, with Mr. Quan reluctantly agreeing.

After Sheng Fangting secured the contract with PQC, upset retailers protested, but Sheng Fangting calmly stated that Dongyuan's market share was too significant for them to simply stop selling its products. He advised Nie Yusheng to focus on the long-term goal of solving the financial crisis rather than current issues. Nie Yusheng informed Tan Jing about Sheng Fangting joining the company.

He playfully feigned jealousy, attributing his initial reluctance to share the news to Sheng Fangting's past help at the hospital for Tan Jing. Tan Jing also shared good news: her school friend, Mr. Gu, had helped her find a job at a kindergarten teaching English picture books. She successfully completed her trial lesson and received positive feedback from parents. Later, after work, Nie Yusheng met with Chubster, a meeting secretly observed by Mr. Quan.

Nie Yusheng provided Chubster with extensive legal and financial data access, including old contracts and emails, asking him to look for clues, particularly related to third-party agreements and any issues from seven years prior, while stressing the importance of discretion due to the company's complex internal relations. Later, Shu Qin arrived to pick up Sheng Fangting, and Nie Yusheng invited them, along with Tan Jing, to dinner.

At the dinner, Shu Qin recounted how she and Sheng Fangting met, sharing details of his insightful advice during a difficult time with her father. Nie Yusheng promised them a generous gift for their upcoming marriage. During a discussion about the company's challenges, Sheng Fangting highlighted that the main problem lay with the company's veterans who lacked motivation and protected their own interests. He suggested a "big reshuffle" to revive the company.

Privately, Shu Qin confided in Tan Jing, sharing her personal philosophy on love and commitment, revealing a past "time limit" she set for Sheng Fangting and contrasting it with Nie Yusheng's boundless love for Tan Jing. She encouraged Tan Jing to prioritize her happiness and not to let Nie Yusheng slip away.

On the drive home, Nie Yusheng, fearing Tan Jing's misunderstanding, explained that he pursued Shu Qin years ago because his father wanted him to settle down, and Shu Qin was his only female friend at the time. He admitted he also hoped it would make Tan Jing jealous. Tan Jing, realizing his underlying feelings, smiled and said he succeeded in making her jealous.

Nie Yusheng expressed his frustration with the board's "old guard" who were more interested in cashing out than helping the company. Sheng Fangting viewed their underestimation of Nie Yusheng as an advantage. Nie Yusheng, now determined, ordered a special shareholders' meeting, requiring all directors, even those abroad, to attend. He and Sheng Fangting played a game of chess, during which Sheng Fangting warned him that a "terrible battle" lay ahead as Dongyuan's internal corruption needed to be rooted out.

At the board meeting, the "Corporate structure upgrade" proposal caused outrage among the veteran directors, who accused Nie Yusheng of wanting to fire them and lacking conscience. While this unfolded, Mr. Quan was secretly informed that Chubster had been delving into old financial and legal documents from seven years ago, and Sheng Fangting was investigating past supplier loan issues related to real estate.

Mr. Quan then made a lengthy speech, appearing to support Nie Yusheng's "options reward system" as a temporary measure for the company's long-term benefit, seemingly encouraging the shareholders' temporary sacrifice while implying future compensation. Nie Yusheng, however, had already seen through Mr. Quan's facade, subtly asking him to refer to him as "Mr. Nie" in the workplace to avoid appearing biased, signaling his awareness of Mr. Quan's true intentions.

Episode 27 Recap

Before the board meeting, Sheng Fangting cautioned Nie Yusheng to remain rational and not be swayed by those "having their backs," subtly referring to Mr. Quan. Nie Yusheng had never suspected Mr. Quan of disloyalty, even hoping his past relationship with Nie's father would keep him in check. However, Mr. Quan indeed stirred up trouble during the meeting, confirming Sheng Fangting's prediction.

Nie Yusheng's proposed option reward system, intended to motivate key employees and boost company efficiency, faced resistance from the board. When shareholders questioned the "business optimization" and demanded assurances for their losses, Nie Yusheng challenged them. He reminded them that during Dongyuan Group's recent fund shortage, when Qingsheng Group proposed pledging shares, no shareholder was seen taking risks, yet now they were quick to demand returns. He admitted he couldn't guarantee profits, but he possessed the "confidence and drive."

He then offered a stark choice: those who believed the "enterprise structure optimization" could revitalize Dongyuan should stay to "brave through the difficulties together and share the glory." Those who lacked faith were free to leave without resentment. Nie Yusheng then announced Sheng Fangting's appointment as a board member and Deputy General Manager. Nie Yusheng then publicly revealed a problem he had uncovered regarding supplier payments.

He stated that Mr. Quan's "mistake in his decision" to misappropriate funds to invest in real estate led to unsold commercial properties and the failure to recoup costs. Mr. Quan attempted to shift the blame to Nie Yusheng's comatose father, claiming it was his father's decision to temporarily shift funds and that it was a long-standing Dongyuan tradition. Nie Yusheng countered that his father had explicitly proposed to gradually reduce real estate investments three years prior.

When Mr. Quan lamented his inability to prove his innocence with Nie's father in a coma, Nie Yusheng declared that while "time will prove everything," Dongyuan Group "can't wait anymore" and must "put an end to such mistakes." He then announced that Mr. Quan would no longer participate in the company's projects and would be transferred to the Logistics Department. With that, the meeting was adjourned, leaving Mr. Quan alone in the conference room.

After the meeting, Sheng Fangting observed that the "heart of people you meet in the business world is much more complicated than the heart of the people you encounter during surgery." Nie Yusheng agreed, noting that while a patient's heart never changes, the "hearts here change every day." Sheng Fangting expressed admiration for Nie Yusheng's management skills, questioning why he became a cardiac surgeon.

Nie Yusheng admitted it was initially "for Tan Jing" and due to "rebellion" against his father, Nie Dongyuan, who was rarely home and seemed to care only for Dongyuan Group. Nie Yusheng would rebel to get his father's attention, but now, having taken over Dongyuan, he truly understood his father's immense difficulties. Nie Yusheng then asked about Sheng Fangting's own father, and Sheng revealed that his father left him and his mother long ago.

Chubster informed Nie Yusheng about negative online news circulating about Dongyuan Group. His investigation into old construction contracts revealed significant irregularities, including fake names for contractors, such as "Lei Laoda," "Lin Dagou," and "Li Erdan." Furthermore, the addresses were vague, often just listing a village name like "Dagouzi Village," of which there were twenty-nine in the province.

Chubster highlighted the difficulty of finding these individuals, comparing the chances to winning a lottery jackpot, but Nie Yusheng remained hopeful, pointing out that someone still wins. Nie Yusheng subsequently introduced a new incentive scheme for the company. He announced an increase in the sales performance bonus ratio from 3% to 5%. Additionally, sales performance would now be "calculated based on orders and settled monthly," instead of quarterly, with prompt payouts from the Finance Department.

During this announcement, Nie Yusheng received a video call from Sun Ping, who proudly showed his drawing of a stethoscope. Unbeknownst to Nie Yusheng, his phone screen was accidentally projected onto the conference room's main display, showing his colleagues the intimate interaction with Sun Ping and Tan Jing. The staff were surprised by Nie Yusheng's gentle side, commenting on the resemblance between him and Sun Ping.

After the call, Nie Yusheng quickly wrapped up the meeting, joking that he needed to go home to buy groceries. Meanwhile, Sun Zhijun, continuing his investigation, inquired about Lei Wanxing (Mr. Lei) at a street stall. The vendor informed him that Mr. Lei had died elsewhere after falling ill, and many others had also come to collect debts from him. Later, while picking out a toy for Sun Ping at another stall, Sun Zhijun received a call from Sheng Fangting.

Suddenly, he spotted Mr. Lei walking by. Ending the call abruptly, Sun Zhijun trailed Mr. Lei home. That night, Sun Zhijun ambushed Mr. Lei at his doorstep, demanding to know the truth about "what happened years ago." Despite Mr. Lei's initial resistance and threats, Sun Zhijun injured his leg, forcing him to agree to reveal the mastermind. Shu Qin was planning her wedding and reviewing the guest list, noting that her father had invited "almost all of our relatives."

She asked Sheng Fangting if he had any relatives to invite, but he revealed that he had no family members to invite, as his uncle and cousin had lost touch after his grandfather's death. Shu Qin comforted him, promising, "I'll be your family after this." At the hospital, Shu Qin also visited Nie Yusheng's comatose father, sharing her wedding news and expressing confidence that he would send his best wishes, even though she wouldn't become his daughter-in-law.

Later, Sheng Fangting showed Shu Qin a photo of his mother, Rujin, named after the "hibiscus flower." Shu Qin, touched, suggested using hibiscus as the main flower for their wedding, wanting his mother to be with them on their special day. Nie Yusheng continued to visit his comatose father, reflecting on whether his father needed him to talk more or if he needed to talk to his father.

He acknowledged that he had to get used to the responsibility of Dongyuan Group, his father's life's work, and ensure it wasn't ruined under his leadership. He expressed gratitude for Sheng Fangting's presence. Nie Yusheng's staff reported that a new start-up company, "Hibiscus Co., Ltd.," was actively acquiring Dongyuan Group's retail investor stocks in the secondary market.

Shortly after, Nie Yusheng, preparing for a meeting with Mr. Tang, realized he had forgotten a hard drive containing updated PowerPoint slides at home. He called Tan Jing, and she offered to deliver it. Upon arriving at Dongyuan Group, Tan Jing was surprised that all the employees recognized her. Nie Yusheng explained that during a recent video call with her and Sun Ping, his phone screen was accidentally "projected on the slide," revealing their family life to his colleagues.

Tan Jing playfully called him clumsy, but Nie Yusheng responded by saying, "We're a family. What is it about us that can't be known to others?" Nie Yusheng then invited Tan Jing to accompany him to a banquet in two days, where Dongyuan Group had reached an agreement, hoping to discuss future collaborations. He emphasized the importance of presenting a stable family image at such events.

Tan Jing, with a wink, agreed to be his "most competent female secretary" and translator. At the banquet, Nie Yusheng spoke about Dongyuan's successful foray into the medical device market, crediting his father's foresight. Tan Jing added her insights, highlighting the potential of combining medical services with the internet. A guest complimented Nie Yusheng on having a "very beautiful and compassionate wife," noting the common saying about an "outstanding woman behind a successful man."

During the event, Tan Jing mentioned her son Sun Ping's congenital heart condition, which prevented them from having pets. Sheng Fangting, also present, acknowledged the difficulties but advised her not to complain, stating, "No one has it easy with the current market." Tan Jing then spoke about her love for dogs, having cared for a stray, and her desire to adopt it when Sun Ping's health improved, mentioning an upcoming "World's Stray Animals Day" charity event.

Sheng Fangting discussed Dongyuan Group's grim financial situation with Nie Yusheng, citing zero profit from beverages and an expanding deficit in the real estate sector. He revealed that a creditor named Li was pressing for payments. Sheng Fangting advised immediate action: to "cut the losses in time" and "cut off the real estate sector," acknowledging that few would be willing to take it over given the current market.

He believed that only those whose interests were tied to Dongyuan's stock increase would consider it. He then instructed his assistant to arrange a meeting with Mr. Fang of Qingsheng Group. During the meeting, Nie Yusheng confidently presented Dongyuan's potential for real estate recovery, promising returns several times higher than before. He reminded Mr. Fang that Qingsheng was a major shareholder and that a rise in Dongyuan's stock price would result in a "win-win situation."

Mr. Fang, however, expressed reservations about the significant investment impacting Qingsheng's future operations and promised a prompt response. Later, Nie Yusheng speculated that Mr. Fang would likely demand an "increase in holdings." Sheng Fangting explained that despite the current market pessimism, Dongyuan's core food and beverage business remained strong with leading market share, and the contract with PQC would only impact the company for about six months before a turnaround.

He concluded that Mr. Fang was interested in "Dongyuan Group's future profit." Nie Yusheng, however, worried that an increase in Qingsheng's holdings would mean losing "the management rights to Dongyuan Group."

Episode 28 Recap

Nie Yusheng takes care of Tan Jing as she soaks her feet, comforting her and reminding her that he remembers her support during difficult times. Later, Shu Qin meets Tan Jing for coffee, explaining that her wedding planners are handling most of the preparations. She asks Tan Jing for two favors: first, to have her friend Wang Yuling's bakery make the wedding cake.

Tan Jing expresses concern about the small size of Wang Yuling's shop for a grand wedding, but Shu Qin assures her that the patissier's skill and familiar taste are what matter. Second, Shu Qin formally invites Nie Yusheng to be her groomsman and Tan Jing to be her bridesmaid. Tan Jing hesitates, feeling her past marriage makes her unsuitable and worried about bringing bad memories to Shu Qin's happy day.

Shu Qin dismisses these "ridiculous customs," stating it's her wedding and her decision. She emphasizes that Nie Yusheng is her closest friend and that Tan Jing and Nie Yusheng, having overcome many hardships, represent true love. She sincerely wishes for their blessings on her most joyful day. Tan Jing agrees to try and persuade Nie Yusheng.

Tan Jing then expresses her admiration and envy for Shu Qin's courage to move forward and embrace a deep relationship without hesitation, even if it might not last forever. During a fitting for their wedding attire, Shu Qin tries on dresses, and Nie Yusheng models his suit, which Sheng Fangting teases might steal the groom's spotlight. Later, as Tan Jing tries on a bridesmaid dress, Nie Yusheng looks at her with clear admiration.

Tan Jing then speaks with Sheng Fangting, remarking on his current involvement with Dongyuan Group despite his past dislike for Nie Dongyuan. Sheng Fangting explains that Nie Dongyuan and Nie Yusheng are different, and he admires Nie Yusheng, curious to see how Dongyuan will transform under his leadership. That night, after Nie Yusheng drops Tan Jing home, she urges him to be cautious of Sheng Fangting.

She reveals that Sheng Fangting provided significant help and advice during her child custody battle, suggesting his understanding of Dongyuan and Nie Dongyuan is far more extensive than they realize. Nie Yusheng acknowledges her concerns, stating they will discuss it. Nie Yusheng and Sheng Fangting successfully finalize a contract with a client for Dongyuan's real estate sector.

Sheng Fangting had previously advised Nie Yusheng that selling off 5% of their equity was a necessary, albeit costly, step to save the struggling real estate division, reassuring him that his majority control would remain intact. After the deal is closed, while Sheng Fangting steps out for a breather, Nie Yusheng discovers an email on Sheng Fangting's phone that reveals his entry into Dongyuan was premeditated.

When Sheng Fangting returns, he calmly admits his long-standing plot, which began when Nie Dongyuan "left our company." Nie Yusheng questions if Sheng Fangting only approached Shu Qin to gain his trust and infiltrate Dongyuan. Sheng Fangting denies it but wonders if Nie Yusheng would believe him. On the wedding day, Shu Qin, radiant in her gown, walks down the aisle to Sheng Fangting.

It is later revealed that Shu Qin had overheard a conversation between Nie Yusheng and Sheng Fangting, learning about Sheng Fangting's ulterior motives regarding Dongyuan Group. However, remembering Sheng Fangting's past care and her earlier pledge to never leave him, she proceeds with the wedding, both expressing their "I will" vows amidst the guests' blessings. Meanwhile, Sun Zhijun visits Tan Jing's home to see Pingping, but they are at the wedding.

He leaves a toy dog with Ms. Wang, promising to return later. As he departs, Ms. Wang advises him to stop causing trouble for Tan Jing and to cherish the good times, adding cryptically, "God sees everything. Karma does exist." Shortly after, while on his motorcycle and distracted by his phone, Sun Zhijun is struck by a speeding car. Tan Jing receives news of Sun Zhijun's accident after the wedding.

A flashback shows Sun Zhijun's first encounter with Tan Jing at his Master's house, where he was immediately captivated by her. At the hospital, accompanied by Nie Yusheng, Tan Jing is devastated as she signs Sun Zhijun's death certificate, a moment that painfully reminds her of her father's passing. The police inform them that the drunk driver mistook the accelerator for the brake, but they will continue their investigation.

Back home, after Tan Jing puts Pingping to sleep, Wang Yuling and Ms. Wang arrive. Wang Yuling, still shaken, expresses her belief that Sun Zhijun's death was not a simple accident, citing his strange remarks earlier that day. Although Sun Zhijun's known enemy is Nie Dongyuan, Tan Jing dismisses the idea of his involvement, given his comatose state and the lack of evidence. Nie Yusheng, however, harbors suspicions.

He calls Chubster to discuss the case, concerned that Tan Jing might blame his father. He later attempts to visit his father but finds Mr. Quan guarding the room, preventing his entry. The next morning, Tan Jing, Wang Yuling, and Nie Yusheng attend Sun Zhijun's funeral. Tan Jing is overcome with grief and guilt, reflecting on how Sun Zhijun had supported her for years. She then goes to Sun Zhijun's staff dormitory to clear his belongings.

There, she discovers a collection of news reports about Dongyuan Group and a photo of a family of three affixed to the ceiling above his bed, leading her to break down in tears. Among Sun Zhijun's possessions, Tan Jing finds Sheng Fangting's contact information, revealing their secret communication. Sheng Fangting meets Tan Jing and admits that Nie Dongyuan is his sworn enemy, and he had sought to collaborate with Sun Zhijun for revenge.

He shows Tan Jing photos of the accident scene, asserting it was not a mere traffic accident but murder. Sheng Fangting suggests that Nie Dongyuan's loyal aides, bound by shared interests, would have covered up any evidence on his behalf, even while he was in a coma.

Sheng Fangting further explains that he withheld this information earlier due to Tan Jing's strong feelings for Nie Yusheng, but he believes Sun Zhijun's death has now opened her eyes to the true nature of some people. Later, Pingping expresses how much he misses "Papa Jun," asking Tan Jing to tell him to wait for him after school next time.

Tan Jing gently tells Pingping that "Papa Jun" is very busy and won't be able to visit as often, but that he loves him very much. Pingping recalls his dad telling him he was the person he loved the most. When Nie Yusheng arrives to pick him up, Pingping, holding the toy dog from Sun Zhijun, innocently wishes that both his fathers could pick him up from school, unaware of the tragic reality.

Episode 29 Recap

After an emotionally challenging period, Tan Jing found herself unable to reconcile her complicated feelings about Sun Zhijun’s death and the potential involvement of Dongyuan Group with her relationship with Nie Yusheng. She expressed to Nie Yusheng that while she knew he was different from his father, Nie Dongyuan, the recent events, which she suspected were connected to Nie Dongyuan’s company, were hard to forget.

Nie Yusheng assured her that his feelings for her wouldn't change, no matter what he did for his father's company. However, he acknowledged her lingering suspicions about his father. Tan Jing believed the best course of action for them at the moment was to separate and give each other space. Nie Yusheng, saddened but unable to change her mind, later visited his father in the hospital.

There, he unexpectedly found Sheng Fangting by his father's bedside, confirming Sheng Fangting was his half-brother. During a tense conversation, Sheng Fangting openly declared his intention to reclaim what he felt was rightfully his, stating that he was ambitious and would win, even if it meant sacrificing Shu Qin. The next morning, Nie Yusheng went to the police station to report his suspicion that Sun Zhijun's death was not a simple traffic accident.

He provided the police with detailed information on all employees of Dongyuan Group, hoping they would find clues related to the case. Meanwhile, Tan Jing received a call from Dongyuan Group's executive secretary, informing her that a shareholders' general meeting would be held, and she was required to attend as Sun Ping's guardian, due to the shares Nie Dongyuan had gifted Pingping.

The financial director also informed Nie Yusheng about a 300 million personal insurance fund Nie Dongyuan had set aside for Dongyuan, which could be used to buy back shares if the secondary market showed abnormalities, to protect the chairman's position. Nie Yusheng visited his still unconscious father and told him he had made a decision, implying he would yield the company.

At the shareholders' general meeting, Sheng Fangting announced himself as the proxy for Qingsheng Group, declaring them the largest shareholder and himself Dongyuan's controlling shareholder. Tan Jing challenged this, stating that Qingsheng only held eighteen percent of the shares, while Nie Yusheng held twenty-five percent. Sheng Fangting then asked Tan Jing to transfer the five percent shares Nie Dongyuan had given Pingping, offering to reinvestigate Sun Zhijun's and her father's cases in return.

Tan Jing firmly refused, asserting that she had no right to dispose of shares given to Pingping by his grandfather, and that these shares, by all rights, belonged to Dongyuan Group, which should be under Nie Yusheng’s control. Sheng Fangting countered that he had acquired additional shares from the secondary market. To everyone's shock, Mr. Quan, Nie Dongyuan’s longtime secretary, then publicly sided with Sheng Fangting, announcing the management's five percent support for Qingsheng.

He then dropped a bombshell, revealing that Sheng Fangting was also Nie Dongyuan's biological son, thus securing Sheng Fangting's position as chairman. Tan Jing realized Nie Yusheng's sincerity for her earlier in the day when the police, after Nie Yusheng had reported the incident, informed her about his initiative to investigate Sun Zhijun’s death. Shortly after the meeting, Nie Yusheng received a call that his father had woken up. He, Tan Jing, and Pingping rushed to the hospital.

Pingping happily greeted his grandfather, who was delighted to see him and thanked Tan Jing for saving his life. Overwhelmed and unable to face Nie Dongyuan directly, Tan Jing excused herself. Everyone at the hospital agreed to keep the news of Sun Zhijun’s death from Pingping, as his delicate health could not withstand another shock. Meanwhile, Mr. Quan sought out Sheng Fangting, reminding him of their arrangement.

However, Sheng Fangting ruthlessly dismissed him, claiming no such deal existed and that Mr. Quan, being more experienced in the business world’s deception, should know better. Sheng Fangting then walked into the chairman's office, now his, feeling an inexplicable sense of loneliness despite achieving his long-sought goal. Nie Yusheng continued to care for his father. Nie Dongyuan acknowledged that Nie Yusheng's decision to cede the company to Sheng Fangting demonstrated a deeper understanding of life.

He felt reassured by his son's perspective and decided it was time to go home. Before his discharge, Mr. Quan visited Nie Dongyuan, attempting to justify his actions by claiming he always acted for Dongyuan's benefit. Nie Dongyuan, however, urged him to let go, explaining that true happiness lay in simple things and that constant internal struggle was exhausting.

He reminded Mr. Quan that Sheng Fangting was also his son, not an outsider, and that his actions had caused more losses than gains. Later, Nie Dongyuan formally signed a contract, entrusting Dongyuan Group to Sheng Fangting, hoping this would serve as compensation for his past failures. Sheng Fangting accepted, declaring Dongyuan now belonged to the Sheng family. As Sheng Fangting turned to leave, Nie Dongyuan called out, pleading with him not to target Nie Yusheng, as they were brothers.

Sheng Fangting, his emotions surfacing, recounted his painful childhood, his mother's constant tears after they were abandoned, and the profound loneliness he felt after his mother's passing when he was still a child. He firmly stated he could never forgive Nie Dongyuan. Nie Dongyuan, regretting his past, expressed a wish for Sheng Fangting not to be alone in their next life. Sheng Fangting left the hospital, deeply moved by their conversation, shedding tears on his drive home.

Unaware of his adoptive father's fate, Pingping deeply missed Sun Zhijun. At Wang Yuling's bakery, he spotted a delivery man on what he recognized as his "Papa Jun's motorcycle." He ran to ask about Sun Zhijun, and the delivery man vaguely replied that his father "might not be able to come home." Upon hearing this, Pingping's heart rate accelerated, and he collapsed with shortness of breath. Wang Yuling immediately called for an ambulance and rushed him to the hospital.

Tan Jing and Nie Yusheng arrived, distraught, as Pingping was taken into emergency care. Nie Dongyuan also arrived at the hospital, concerned for his grandson. Pingping was in critical condition, and Nie Yusheng signed a notice of critical illness for him.

Episode 30 (Ending) Recap

Tan Jing and Nie Yusheng rushed to the hospital, where Sun Ping's condition was critical, requiring family to sign a notice of critical illness. Overwhelmed with despair, Tan Jing prayed to exchange her own life for her son's, but Nie Dongyuan intervened, stating that she was too young and that he, an old man, would gladly offer his life for his grandson's safety.

Dr. Fang, the doctor, emerged from the operating room and informed the family that Pingping was being transferred to the ICU for observation. He explained that Pingping was still unconscious due to a high fever and that his condition could change at any moment. He stressed that Pingping needed to survive the next 24 hours and regain consciousness for there to be hope.

Later, Dr. Fang spoke privately with Nie Yusheng, confirming Pingping's vital signs were stable for the moment and reiterating the importance of him waking up. He also warned Nie Yusheng about Nie Dongyuan's deteriorating health, noting that his father was overexerting himself and advised Nie Yusheng to be prepared for it. Nie Yusheng then urged his father to go home and rest, promising to inform him immediately when Pingping woke up.

At home, Nie Dongyuan sat looking at photos of himself and Pingping, tears in his eyes. He had previously told Pingping a gentle lie, saying he was "leaving now" but would return to see him after he woke up. Meanwhile, in the hospital, Pingping eventually opened his eyes and called for his mother, much to Tan Jing's relief. Nie Yusheng was overjoyed to see his son awake and immediately called his father with the good news.

However, the call went unanswered, as Nie Dongyuan had quietly passed away on his sofa. When Sheng Fangting received news of Nie Dongyuan's death, he briefly lost his composure before regaining control of his emotions. Back in the hospital, Pingping told Tan Jing he missed "Papa Jun," and then asked why his Grandpa Nie hadn't visited.

Pingping remembered Nie Dongyuan telling him he was going somewhere "far, far away," a place with no transport, and reassured him that as long as Pingping's "generator" (heart) kept working, Nie Dongyuan would "never die." Nie Yusheng organized a memorial service for his father, Nie Dongyuan. Many employees from Dongyuan Group and Nie Dongyuan's old friends attended, including Sheng Fangting.

One friend shared that Nie Dongyuan had wished for a cheerful send-off, stating that he was a stubborn but classy man who always finished what he started. Nie Yusheng then spoke, admitting that his relationship with his father had been strained; he saw Nie Dongyuan more as a strict mentor who tried to mold him into someone he wasn't, rather than understanding his true desires.

Their emotional distance only lessened when his father fell ill, and Nie Yusheng began to truly understand the immense effort Nie Dongyuan had put into building Dongyuan Group from humble beginnings. He expressed profound regret for never having had the chance to truly resolve their differences or even have one last argument. Since Pingping was still hospitalized, Tan Jing played a pre-recorded message from Pingping on a toy dog.

In the message, Pingping apologized for not being able to attend and reassured his grandpa that his "generator" was fixed and would keep working, ensuring Nie Dongyuan would "never be gone." After Pingping's heartfelt message, the recording unexpectedly continued, revealing a past conversation between Sun Zhijun and Mr. Lei. Sun Zhijun claimed he was forced by Quan Yucheng to commit an act under threat to his family.

Mr. Lei then revealed that Quan Yucheng was behind the past incident involving Tan Shaohua, and that Quan Yucheng had embezzled funds that Nie Dongyuan had intended for Tan Jing's family, leaving Nie Dongyuan to unknowingly take the blame. The police successfully restored Sun Zhijun's mobile phone and found a recording of a call between Sun Zhijun and Quan Yucheng, where Quan Yucheng was arranging a meeting.

Sun Zhijun stated he didn't want money but sought an explanation, to which Quan Yucheng agreed, sending him a location for a noon meeting. With this evidence, the police immediately launched an operation to arrest Quan Yucheng. Meanwhile, Shu Qin informed Sheng Fangting that she was leaving. She returned his ring and keys, explaining that she married him to understand the depth of her love for him, and now she had her answer.

She decided to go home to spend time with her parents, whom she had left to study at sixteen. Despite Sheng Fangting's plea for her to stay, she gave him a final hug and left. Sheng Fangting was left alone and despondent, reflecting that his mother was the only person who had never abandoned him. Later, Shu Qin received a package containing a letter from Nie Dongyuan and the Nie family's ancestral bracelet.

In the letter, Nie Dongyuan apologized to Shu Qin on behalf of Sheng Fangting, acknowledging that the current situation was his fault. He expressed hope that after his death, Sheng Fangting's hatred would diminish, allowing him to become a trustworthy person, and wished for Shu Qin to ultimately become a part of the Nie family. Shu Qin was left with complex emotions after reading the letter. Quan Yucheng faced trial for his crimes.

The court found him guilty of accepting bribes as a non-state functionary and of intentional homicide. He was sentenced to six years in prison for bribery and received the death penalty with a two-year suspended sentence for homicide, along with lifelong revocation of his civil rights. Nie Yusheng, Tan Jing, and Pingping visited the graves of their deceased loved ones, including Sun Zhijun, finding a measure of peace after the truth came to light.

With misunderstandings resolved, Tan Jing and Pingping moved into Nie Yusheng's home. One morning, Nie Yusheng woke up to the sight of Tan Jing in the kitchen and Pingping happily eating breakfast. It was a scene he had only dreamed of, now a reality, signifying the fulfillment of his long-held dream for a complete family. Reflecting on their journey, Nie Yusheng asked Tan Jing if she regretted meeting him, suggesting her life might have been simpler without him.

Tan Jing responded that while her life might have been less complicated, she would not have experienced such profound love, affirming that falling in love with him was the best thing that ever happened to her.