Discovery of Romance Episode 12 Recap
> Discovery of Romance Recap
Xu Zehao departed from Xia Tian’s apartment, sarcastically remarking that his only reason for coming was to see her, but now, under the influence of alcohol, she didn’t even appear particularly attractive. He wondered aloud if she would worry about his safety if he were to be reckless on his way home, before concluding that he consistently exercised too much caution. Back in the living room, Xiao Song and Donghao had a conversation with Xia Tian.
Donghao, articulating their collective sentiment, suggested that Xia Tian’s recent actions might be somewhat inappropriate. He highlighted the disparity in their support systems: while Xia Tian had both Guan Xin and her friends, Guan Xin was isolated. Donghao advised her against immediate forgiveness but proposed that initiating reconciliation didn’t necessarily signify defeat.
He then offered his cynical perspective on love, asserting that while men might be devoted and accommodating when smitten, "eternal love" is an illusion, often succumbing to the "seven-year itch." Xiao Song attempted to lighten the atmosphere by offering Xia Tian a late-night snack. Xia Tian, however, admitted to feeling disappointed in herself for having resorted to investigating Guan Xin.
She resolved not to be the first to reach out, conceding that her initial certainty about her relationship with Guan Xin being unique and her last had wavered, leaving her with a disquieting sense that her love was no different from anyone else’s. Meanwhile, Guan Xin returned home, habitually checking for Xia Tian's shoes, harboring a secret hope that she might be playfully hiding in his closet, only to be disappointed that she hadn't come today.
To his surprise, Xia Tian then arrived, ringing the doorbell despite knowing the entry code. He playfully suggested she was providing time for someone inside to conceal themselves, a claim she dismissed. Xia Tian then confronted him, questioning when he had intended to call her, to which he insisted he was on the verge of doing so.
She explained her disappointment, feeling that his actions had caused her to doubt her paramount importance in his heart, and stressed the necessity of addressing any misunderstandings first. Guan Xin, relieved by her presence, readily agreed to her terms, provided she remained calm. Later that evening, Lu Xi ventured alone to the seaside, recording the ambient sounds of the waves. She reflected that some individuals are gifts simply by their entry into one’s life, and nothing further should be desired.
She committed to focusing on aiding Lili with her scar. Concurrently, Guan Xin expressed his profound longing for Xia Tian and proposed a two-day excursion to the suburbs.
As they both searched for suitable destinations, they each received unexpected messages: Lu Xi requested Guan Xin accompany her to the Qingshan Charity House, explaining that Lili was apprehensive about her impending surgery, while Xu Zehao informed Xia Tian about a timber mill possessing the specific old elm wood she required for a project. Both agreed to their respective requests.
Guan Xin falsely informed Xia Tian (on the phone) that he would be attending a burn recovery seminar, whereas Xia Tian truthfully disclosed her visit to the timber mill. The following day, at noon, Guan Xin picked up Lu Xi, and Xu Zehao collected Xia Tian. By chance, both pairs converged at the same shopping mall. Inside, Lu Xi expressed her concern over the expensive children’s clothing for the welfare house.
Guan Xin, eager to assist, purchased several outfits, stating his desire to contribute, which further endeared him to Lu Xi. Elsewhere in the mall, Xu Zehao spotted Guan Xin and Lu Xi together. He quickly steered Xia Tian away, suggesting they visit an alternative store with more favorable reviews. During their lunch, Xu Zehao commented on Xia Tian's handbag, mistakenly believing it was a gift he had bought her with his first salary.
Xia Tian corrected him, reminding him that his initial earnings were used to buy her earrings on Valentine's Day. She clarified that the bag he admired was, in fact, an apology gift following three instances where he had stood her up. Xia Tian admitted to having discarded the earrings since, explaining her disinclination for reminders of past relationships. She mused that their once cherished memories had deteriorated within five years, persistently recalling that all beautiful things are transient.
While awaiting an elevator, Xia Tian and Xu Zehao unexpectedly encountered Lu Xi alone. A terse exchange ensued, with Lu Xi questioning the nature of Xia Tian and Xu Zehao’s joint presence, and Xia Tian responding with equal sharpness. Xu Zehao promptly escorted Xia Tian away, subtly criticizing Lu Xi as calculating. Xia Tian, however, observed that Lu Xi was carrying two milk teas, which intensified her suspicions.
She then considered Guan Xin's attire from earlier—unsuitable for a professional seminar and more like he was on vacation. She subsequently called Donghao (on the phone) to inquire if Guan Xin was at work for surgery. Donghao revealed that Guan Xin was absent and purportedly visiting his mother. This information, combined with Lu Xi carrying two milk teas and Guan Xin’s casual attire, heightened Xia Tian’s doubts about him attending a seminar.
She contemplated calling Guan Xin but ultimately refrained, fearing another argument, especially if Lu Xi were with him. Meanwhile, Guan Xin and Lu Xi arrived at the Qingshan Charity House. Guan Xin noted that it had been seventeen years since his last visit, and he experienced a profound sense of belonging. He effortlessly captivated the children, particularly Lili, who typically harbored shyness towards doctors.
He gave her a gift, tied her hair, and promised to make her scar vanish, then encouraged her to draw with him. Lili showed him a drawing of a blue sky. Ms. Zhang, a staff member at the welfare house, observed Lu Xi's affectionate gaze towards Guan Xin. Lu Xi confided that her feelings were unrequited, as Guan Xin was already in a relationship. Ms. Zhang subtly cautioned her that prolonged contemplation of something often intensifies the desire for it.
Back at Xia Tian's studio, Xiao Song was collaborating with Mr. Yu to consolidate data. Mr. Yu, recognizing their imminent completion, invited Xiao Song to the aquarium, presenting her with two complimentary tickets from his company. Xiao Song, enthusiastic, ascended to change and requested Donghao to zip up her dress, causing his heart rate to accelerate. Upon learning of her plans with Mr. Yu, Donghao insisted on joining, playfully pleading with her. The trio then proceeded to the aquarium.
There, both Mr. Yu and Donghao competed for Xiao Song's attention, from offering her beverages and snacks to engaging in a trivia contest about beluga whales. Donghao confidently described their diet and habitat but faltered when asked to distinguish their genders, much to Mr. Yu's amusement. Their good-natured rivalry persisted during feeding sessions and photo opportunities.
Perceiving Xia Tian's melancholic mood, Xu Zehao decided to postpone his timber mill meeting and take her to a familiar spot, hoping to lift her spirits. Xia Tian, still preoccupied, inquired if he had seen Guan Xin earlier, a question Xu Zehao, bound by a promise to Guan Xin, initially answered evasively. Xia Tian’s persistent unease prompted Xu Zehao to remind her that, from Lu Xi’s perspective, their own pairing might also appear questionable.
To alleviate her distress, Xu Zehao eventually disclosed what Guan Xin had revealed during a recent shared drink: that Guan Xin "only has her" and "cannot live without her," and that there was no romantic involvement between him and Lu Xi. Xia Tian’s demeanor visibly brightened, and Xu Zehao self-satisfiedly noted his own honesty compared to Guan Xin’s secrecy. They then proceeded to the timber mill.
Xia Tian, now in a more positive state, promptly identified the elm wood she required, cheerfully capturing photographs of it. Xu Zehao smiled, content to witness her renewed cheerfulness. He then playfully suggested she consider breaking up with Guan Xin, eliciting a sharp glance from her. He clarified his intention, explaining that in matters of affection, excessive clinging can sometimes lead to loss.
Finally, Xu Zehao drove Xia Tian to another nostalgic location—the very spot where she, he, and her late father used to pitch a tent and fish. However, upon their arrival, Xia Tian's mood drastically deteriorated. Overwhelmed by a vivid, traumatic flashback of her father's car accident, her lips turned pallid, and she struggled for breath, appearing on the verge of collapse. Alarmed, Xu Zehao frantically drove her towards the nearest hospital, narrowly averting a collision with an oncoming vehicle in his panicked haste.
