Dream Garden Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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Dream Garden Synopsis

Xiao Xiao, an emotional blogger, and Lin Shen, a professional psychological counselor, were feuding over differences in perceptions in a relationship variety show.

By chance, Xiao Xiao was recruited as Lin Shen’s assistant, and she hopes to enhance the professionalism of her emotional analysis by learning professional psychology knowledge.

While they are working and living together, they have solved a number of psychological cases and the crises around them, such as fan love delusions, Internet Troll, emotional attachment damage, etc., and their hearts are getting closer and closer to each other.

Xiao Xiao’s enthusiasm and energy infected Lin Shen, who has a cool personality, and Lin Shen taught Xiao Xiao how to become an excellent professional counselor.

But the crisis that lies around them also gradually emerges. After experiencing conflicts and crises, they eventually discover that love is actually a kind of hypnosis, making each other become better.

Dream Garden Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Lin Shen, a partner and professional psychologist at Shaolin's Psychological Counseling Center, was summoned by the police regarding the disappearance of his former patient, Sun Dong. Sun Dong had vanished after leaving a diary and driving off in a car with the tail number "8503." The police revealed that Sun Dong's diary depicted a profound emotional breakdown, which notably occurred after his sessions at Lin Shen's center.

Investigations uncovered that Lin Shen’s mother had experienced an incident at a sanatorium, where a Lejian ECG monitor, distributed by Sun Dong, malfunctioned and failed to issue an alarm. Sun Dong’s diary meticulously documented his intense guilt and self-blame upon learning his product nearly harmed Lin Shen’s mother, stating he had committed an unforgivable mistake and felt unworthy of forgiveness.

The police noted that while Lin Shen usually recorded his counseling sessions, he ceased recording Sun Dong’s after the Lejian incident, particularly during hypnosis. This raised suspicions that Lin Shen might have deliberately induced Sun Dong's psychological collapse. As another counselor, Xiao Xiao, had also provided sessions to Sun Dong, both she and Lin Shen were prohibited from leaving Lvteng City until Sun Dong was found.

Meanwhile, an undisclosed individual received confirmation of Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao’s locations and instructed to proceed with a pre-planned operation. Lin Shen recounted a story to someone, asking if they wished to hear it. He spoke of a man who lost the most vital person in his life, then sought vengeance on the perpetrator. The man vowed to make the culprit experience the same profound loss and utter ruin, yet even this, he declared, would be far from enough.

This narrative led into a flashback, setting the scene a year and a half earlier. A year and a half prior, the romance reality show "Heartbeat of Love" featured Xiao Xiao, known as Xiao Beibei, an emotional blogger. She presented her theory that individuals are more likely to choose someone who openly admires them, attributing this to a "love compensation effect." Concurrently, Lin Shen was lecturing on hypnosis at a university.

Noticing students distracted by Xiao Xiao’s program, he decided to use her case as a live example, challenging her psychological interpretations. Shao Ning, a partner at Lin Shen's center, arranged for Lin Shen to call into the show. Lin Shen immediately contradicted Xiao Xiao's on-air analysis of a couple, asserting they had already broken up. Xiao Xiao was visibly annoyed, suspecting he was there to disrupt the show.

Lin Shen elaborated that the couple's seemingly synchronized actions were merely ingrained habits from a long relationship, devoid of true emotional significance. He criticized her use of micro-expressions, explaining their diagnostic value is only present under genuine "stress" from unexpected stimuli, not when under the scrutiny of multiple cameras. He warned her about potentially misleading psychology students with inaccurate information.

Xiao Xiao then offered a feigned apology on air, expressing admiration for Lin Shen and playfully inquiring about joining his classes, regardless of the cost. Lin Shen concluded by stating that the couple's fundamental incompatibility meant any continued relationship would be an unconscious self-hypnosis detrimental to their mental health. Following the show, Xiao Xiao became a trending topic due to her public embarrassment.

Her social media manager, Sun Kele, was gossiping about the incident when Xiao Xiao redirected him to chase down their illustrator, Yan Luo, for overdue work, as a new article was pending. Despite her public persona as a love expert, Xiao Xiao herself had never been in a relationship, a fact that often left her feeling insecure. After five days with no updates or contact from Yan Luo concerning her manga, Xiao Xiao visited her home.

Finding the door ajar and the house in disarray, she grew increasingly worried as there was no sign of Yan Luo. Yan Luo’s parents, focused entirely on their valuables like bank passbooks, initially dismissed her absence as a mere robbery. However, Xiao Xiao discovered an electricity bill dated four days prior, concluding that Yan Luo had been missing for at least that long, and urged the parents to report it.

At the police station, Yan Luo's mother received a phone call from an editor about the overdue manga. She falsely claimed Yan Luo's phone was being repaired, promised a swift update, and inquired about Yan Luo’s full attendance bonus and payment. Afterward, she abruptly retracted the police report, insisting Yan Luo was merely on a "draw from nature" trip.

Both Xiao Xiao and the police had to sternly explain that Yan Luo would not typically cease updating her popular manga if she were just traveling, and stressed the severe repercussions of delaying a missing person report. The parents reluctantly agreed to file the report. Determined to find answers, Xiao Xiao resolved to revisit Yan Luo’s home for more clues. To further her investigation, Xiao Xiao returned to Yan Luo's home.

On Yan Luo’s computer, she discovered an email from Shaolin's Psychological Counseling Center, with an appointment date that precisely matched the electricity bill's due date. Another email, sent "to" Lin Shen "from" Yan Luo, intensified Xiao Xiao's suspicion of a romantic involvement between Lin Shen and her missing friend. Deciding to confront him, Xiao Xiao visited the center.

Without an appointment, she was initially denied entry but was then mistaken for Wang Amy, a candidate for Lin Shen’s assistant position, which granted her access. The interview was conducted by Shao Ning, not Lin Shen. Despite her lack of a psychology background, Xiao Xiao skillfully highlighted her experience as an emotional blogger and her keen understanding of young women, expressing a strong desire to learn professional psychology at Shaolin.

She eagerly offered to undertake any basic tasks, specifically asking if she would be collecting "Yan Luo's data." Shao Ning, impressed by her initiative and preparedness, agreed to hire her. As Xiao Xiao left, she saw police officers departing after questioning Lin Shen, which solidified her belief in his connection to Yan Luo's disappearance.

She seized the moment to approach Lin Shen, shaking his hand and effusively praising him, claiming his critique on the show had utterly convinced her and made him her "enlightenment teacher." Although Shao Ning was amused and formally welcomed her to the team, citing her potential for business growth and public relations, Lin Shen remained clearly displeased, viewing her as an "unorthodox" outsider. Xiao Xiao, meanwhile, secretly resolved to obtain Yan Luo's visitor records as quickly as possible.

Xiao Xiao’s primary goal was to obtain Yan Luo's patient files. She subtly extracted information from Zuo Yan, learning that Lin Shen preferred public transport, had few hobbies beyond running, a distinct preference for grapefruit iced drip coffee with maple syrup, and was a Scorpio, born on November 1st, 1991, which Xiao Xiao interpreted as a "dark" personality trait. While delivering documents, Xiao Xiao spotted a file labeled "Yan Luo" on Lin Shen's desk.

In an attempt to access it, she "accidentally" spilled coffee. However, Lin Shen swiftly intervened, saving the documents, and, irritated by her perceived clumsiness, sent her to the front desk to handle clients. There, she discreetly inquired about Yan Luo with Jia, feigning concern based on Lin Shen's supposed "vexation."

Jia informed her about the center’s stringent confidentiality protocols and revealed that Lin Shen had personally secured Yan Luo’s file in a password-protected cabinet because Yan Luo was missing and under police investigation. Later, Xiao Xiao fabricated an excuse about checking windows before an impending storm to remain after hours. She then sneaked into Lin Shen's office and attempted to open the cabinet using his birthdate (19911101) as the password. Multiple failed attempts triggered an alarm.

Just as it ceased, Lin Shen unexpectedly returned, having forgotten an item. Cornered, Xiao Xiao maintained her pretense of checking the windows, but Lin Shen's suspicion was evident as he confronted her about her presence and true motives. Under pressure, she impulsively confessed her "admiration" for him, claiming she saw his photo earlier and wanted to take a picture, before boldly declaring her love for him, stating her sole reason for joining Shaolin was "him", leaving Lin Shen speechless.

Xiao Xiao accompanied Lin Shen to his lecture. On a crowded subway, she grew frantic upon seeing a news report about a nameless female corpse found by the sea. She rushed to the scene, pushing through police, and was immensely relieved to confirm it was not Yan Luo. A flashback revealed that Xiao Xiao met Yan Luo during a difficult period in Yan Luo’s life.

Xiao Xiao, who had recently launched her own emotional public account, encouraged Yan Luo’s artistic talent and invited her to create illustrations for her platform, leading to a close friendship. In her haste, Xiao Xiao had inadvertently kept Lin Shen's USB drive containing his presentation. By the time she arrived at the university, Lin Shen had impressively delivered his entire speech from memory, leveraging his extensive knowledge of hypnosis. At the post-lecture celebration, Shao Ning praised Lin Shen’s performance.

However, Lin Shen, still exasperated by Xiao Xiao’s earlier behavior, abruptly announced her dismissal. Xiao Xiao refused to accept, earnestly apologizing and pleading for forgiveness, reiterating her dedication to becoming his disciple and a qualified psychologist. Shao Ning attempted to intercede, but Xiao Xiao resorted to feigning heavy intoxication. Unable to get her home address, Lin Shen reluctantly took Xiao Xiao back to his apartment. There, he discovered several items related to Yan Luo.

He clarified that Yan Luo had indeed scheduled a counseling session before her disappearance but never appeared, and he was actively cooperating with the police. The items, he explained, were not gifts for him but were intended for someone named "W," likely a boy who had pursued Yan Luo, with one item mistakenly mixed in with his own birthday gifts after being left in the office.

Xiao Xiao had no recollection of anyone named "W" and desperately asked Lin Shen to use hypnosis to help her remember. Given that Yan Luo had previously confided in him about Xiao Xiao being her best friend, Lin Shen agreed. During the hypnosis, Xiao Xiao vividly recalled her last meeting with Yan Luo about half a month prior, specifically remembering a dark blue baseball cap worn by a shadowy figure behind glass.

She wondered if this mysterious person was Yan Luo's "W." While Yan Luo's parents continued to discuss the manga contract and finding a "substitute" writer, her brother, Xiao Feng, burst in, urgently asking about his sister. His parents, still prioritizing their financial concerns, tried to dismiss him, falsely claiming they had reported her disappearance and that she was likely just staying with friends. Xiao Feng, however, angrily accused them of caring only for Yan Luo's money, not her well-being.

His mother defensively claimed their actions were "all for him" and the family's good. Disheartened, Xiao Feng left, seeking help elsewhere. Xiao Xiao later revisited Lin Shen, bringing him his preferred maple-syrup-laden coffee, and pressed him for further assistance in finding "W." Lin Shen declined, pointing out that if Yan Luo and "W" were truly close, it was odd she hadn't told Xiao Xiao.

He speculated that Yan Luo might have been hesitant about the relationship, or that "W" could be unreliable or dangerous. He advised Xiao Xiao to search for clues among Yan Luo's acquaintances rather than relying on him. Accepting this, Xiao Xiao resolved to return to Yan Luo's home to search for more leads, unaware that a mysterious figure was following her.

Episode 2 Recap

In her diary, Yan Luo chronicles her whirlwind romance with a man named Wang Su. Their meeting was serendipitous; after her drawing tablet of five years broke, he appeared and managed to fix it. Charmed by his attentiveness and gentleness, she quickly fell for him. However, his affection soon morphed into an overwhelming need for control.

He demanded she delete all male contacts from her phone except for relatives and flew into a rage upon discovering her psychologist, Lin Shen, in her contacts, refusing to listen to any explanation. The romance soured completely when Yan Luo discovered Wang Su had been secretly using her email to send flirtatious messages to Lin Shen and had planted a recording pen on her bookshelf.

When she finally broke up with him, he became hysterical, threatening that they would perish together if she left him. Searching for clues at Yan Luo's apartment, Xiao Xiao is startled by a figure she mistakes for a stalker. She strikes him, only to realize it is Lin Shen. He explains he was following her because he saw someone else stalking her—a young man who turns out to be Yan Luo's brother, Xiao Feng.

Confused, Xiao Feng accuses Xiao Xiao of hiding his sister to teach their overbearing parents a lesson and misinterprets her relationship with Lin Shen. After Lin Shen clarifies that he is Yan Luo's psychologist and Xiao Xiao is her best friend, he questions Xiao Feng about his sister's recent behavior. Xiao Feng recalls a time she gave him new sneakers, mentioning it was a "friend's" suggestion, before she took a mysterious phone call.

Meanwhile, with Yan Luo missing, her parents have hired a ghostwriter to continue her popular webcomic. However, Xiao Xiao has her own plan. Using Yan Luo's unfinished drafts, she completes and posts the next installment, hoping the update will lure Wang Su out of hiding. The plan works, but not before creating more tension. At Yan Luo's apartment, while waiting, Xiao Xiao confides in Lin Shen, expressing deep guilt for not knowing about Yan Luo's struggles.

Lin Shen reassures her that it is common for people in therapy to hide it from their loved ones, adding that having a friend as positive and energetic as her is a blessing for Yan Luo. They find common ground in their professions, both serving as an "emotional trashcan" for others. This leads Lin Shen to ask why she became an emotional blogger.

Xiao Xiao recounts her time in college, hosting a radio show called "Girls' Secrets" where she found fulfillment in helping other girls navigate their relationships, which then led her to create a public account. Suddenly, the power in the apartment cuts out; Xiao Xiao forgot to pay the bill. In the darkness, the door opens and a man enters, mistaking Xiao Xiao for Yan Luo. Lin Shen gives chase, but the intruder escapes.

Thanks to Lin Shen's sharp memory of the man's appearance—a specific denim blue baseball cap and a shirt with a software company's logo (KC with a horizontal line)—the police quickly identify him as Wang Su. They also discover he has just purchased a bus ticket to Huangshagang Town. Xiao Xiao immediately knows where to look; a guest house Yan Luo frequently visited to draw from nature is located there. Xiao Xiao finds a trembling Yan Luo at the guest house.

The police, who have already taken her statement, inform them that Wang Su was apprehended at the bus station. Yan Luo reveals that Wang Su had installed tracking software on her phone, which is why she had been unreachable; he located her within five seconds of her turning the phone on. To her immense relief, Lin Shen arrives and tells her that he spoke with Wang Su, who has agreed to undergo psychological counseling.

During his sessions with Lin Shen, Wang Su's extreme control issues are traced back to a past trauma, prompted by his sensitivity to a particular phone ringtone. Through hypnosis, Lin Shen uncovers the painful memory of Wang Su's first girlfriend, Wei Wei, who cheated on him before abruptly ending their relationship. The betrayal left him with a deep-seated fear of abandonment, which he projected onto his subsequent relationships.

After the session, Wang Su asks to see Yan Luo, but she refuses. He instead asks Xiao Xiao to convey his apology, explaining that the hypnosis helped him finally make peace with his past. Lin Shen's colleague, Shao Ning, expresses concern about Lin Shen's own psychological state, noting that he also suffers from severe psychological issues, highlighting the saying "a doctor cannot cure himself" and worries about his condition. With Yan Luo's forgiveness, the police close the case.

Following the incident, Xiao Xiao writes a popular article on her blog about the courage to love again after being hurt. Thankful for his help, Xiao Xiao gives Lin Shen a necklace featuring the Eye of Horus, joking that it can be used for hypnosis. She playfully dangles it in front of him, and to her surprise, he appears to fall into a trance.

She tests him with a series of questions, which he answers obediently, including whether she is the most beautiful, cute, smart, and sexy woman he has ever seen. He reveals it was a trick when she tries to ask him a more personal question, instead reminding her of her promise to resign. Annoyed and reminded of her promise to resign if he helped find Wang Su, Xiao Xiao slaps her resignation letter on his desk and bids him farewell.

After she leaves, a conflicted Lin Shen instructs his assistant, Zuo Yan, to get rid of the succulent plants Xiao Xiao had kept in the office. In the days that follow, Lin Shen finds himself missing Xiao Xiao's presence.

Despite his earlier disdain, calling her love for succulents a "shortcut" and criticizing her for using her "limited knowledge of micro-expressions on variety shows as an emotional guest, asserting that the human mind is a mysterious garden that cannot be judged by mere micro-expressions," he ends up taking care of her plants, even moving one into his office.

His annoyance peaks when a couple on the reality show "Heartbeat of Love" gets back together, just as Xiao Xiao had predicted and he had dismissed. In a moment of frustration, he deletes her from his contacts, only to immediately regret it. Meanwhile, Xiao Xiao is furious to discover she has been deleted. She goes to the counseling center to pick up Yan Luo after her final session and to retrieve her plants.

Learning from Zuo Yan that Lin Shen kept one, she dresses up to make an impression and enjoys seeing him flustered when she confronts him about it. A new case captures the city's attention: a young fan named Shanshan has been publicly harassing the popular star Zhou Ran, claiming they were in a relationship. Her distraught parents, fearing she has a delusional disorder, book a session with Lin Shen.

At the same time, Zhou Ran's agent, Fang Ling, contacts Xiao Xiao, hiring her to write an article clarifying the situation. During her session, Shanshan initially claims to accept that she is sick, but Lin Shen senses she is only trying to please her parents.

He connects with her through their shared appreciation for classical music, specifically mentioning Goldberg Variations and Brandenburg Concerto No. 2, and learns her passion for it was suppressed by her mother, which was also the reason she was first drawn to Zhou Ran. In their separate interviews, both Shanshan and Zhou Ran recount the same story. A year ago, Shanshan was an intern at Zhou Ran's agency when he was a struggling musician.

She became his first major fan and built his fan club from the ground up, as he insisted on pursuing music despite the agency's wishes for him to become an actor. The turning point in her perception of their relationship occurred at a movie screening for fans. When she nearly tripped and fell, Zhou Ran caught her. Both insist he let go immediately, but as Shanshan recalls the moment during her session, she becomes highly agitated. Sensing a breakthrough, Lin Shen gently hypnotizes her, guiding her back to that fateful day.

Episode 3 Recap

Six months ago, Dianfan Group CFO Zhou Rui underwent hypnosis with Lin Shen. He recounted how he felt someone was following him and how in hypnosis, he saw himself as both the perpetrator and the victim of an accident, even clearly remembering a license plate. Lin Shen explained that hypnosis amplifies the subconscious, projecting real-life fragments. He reminded Zhou Rui of a previous altercation with a truck driver, suggesting it influenced his hypnotic vision.

Lin Shen reassured him that this realization was a sign of progress, indicating an awareness of the distinction between the subconscious and reality, and noting that everyone experiences stress in a big city. As it was late and raining, Lin Shen left to catch the subway, while Zhou Rui, feeling exhausted, walked home, living nearby. Unexpectedly, Zhou Rui was involved in a car accident shortly after.

Later, during a hypnosis session with Lin Shen, Shanshan was guided back to a pivotal day where Jerry, an idol, took her hand on stage. However, Shanshan vehemently denied this, claiming it was all a fantasy. Separately, Jerry told Xiao Xiao that his kindness to Shanshan was merely because she was an early and supportive fan, and there were no romantic intentions. He hoped to clarify things with her once public opinion subsided, urging her to stop her strange fantasies.

Despite Shanshan's strong denials, Lin Shen persisted, explaining that her subconscious revealed a shared life with Jerry, including a dog named Sansanyao and painting "Sansanyao's Home" on a rooftop. During this, Xiao Xiao received a video from Fang Lin, Jerry's agent, purporting to show Shanshan attempting to illegally enter Jerry’s old residence. Jerry, present during the video’s viewing, appeared uneasy.

In her hypnotic state, Shanshan visited the rooftop from her memory but found nothing, realizing her vivid fantasies were not real, especially after discovering that a key she believed was theirs did not open the door. Awakening from hypnosis, Shanshan was convinced she was ill, believing she had "killed herself" in her fantasies.

Lin Shen, however, explained that it wasn't about killing herself but rather the pressure of reality making her unable to believe in her feelings for Jerry, and this was simply her current processing of the situation. Overwhelmed, Shanshan quickly left the psychological counseling center. Meanwhile, Xiao Xiao published an article on her official account about stalker fans. However, Jerry's uncomfortable demeanor during their interview made Xiao Xiao suspect there was more to the story than his words alone.

She called Shao Ning for advice, and Lin Shen, who was with Shao Ning, took the call. Xiao Xiao, unaware Lin Shen was there, complained that he had deleted her contacts. Lin Shen, flustered, hung up, earning teasing from Shao Ning, who suggested Lin Shen speak with Xiao Xiao about Shanshan. Lin Shen attempted to call Xiao Xiao multiple times but kept hanging up before connecting, eventually getting a busy signal.

Xiao Xiao was on the phone with Fang Lin, who refused her request to interview Shanshan, citing Shanshan's removal from the fan club and her unreliable psychological state. Determined to get more information, Xiao Xiao orchestrated a "coincidental" meeting with Lin Shen. She brought Yan Luo to look at an apartment in Lin Shen's building, where Yan Luo, impressed by the apartment and its direct rental from the owner, signed a lease.

Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen then met for dinner, where Lin Shen recognized it as a setup. Xiao Xiao presented video evidence from Jerry's team, portraying Shanshan as a stalker fan who squatted outside his old house and made harassing phone calls. Lin Shen, however, questioned the evidence, pointing out that if Shanshan were a stalker, she'd target Jerry's new home, not his old one.

He suggested that if Jerry and Shanshan had truly been in a relationship, her actions could be seen as reasonable, emphasizing the need to view situations from "both sides of the coin" to understand them fully. During their intense discussion, Yan Luo, already quite intoxicated, passed out after Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen brought her home. In a drunken state, remembering a past trauma with Wang Su, Yan Luo locked them out on the balcony.

With Xiao Xiao’s phone dead and Lin Shen without his, they were stranded. Xiao Xiao decided against publishing her article, hoping Sun Kele would manage the impatient advertisers. As the night progressed, Xiao Xiao fell asleep, leaning her head on Lin Shen, and their connection deepened. Unbeknownst to Xiao Xiao, Sun Kele, unable to reach her, published her draft article. It went viral overnight, with fans widely condemning Shanshan as a stalker.

The next morning, Yan Luo, sobered up, remembered Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao on the balcony. Lin Shen had acted chivalrously, giving Xiao Xiao his coat as a blanket and not letting Yan Luo wake her. Lin Shen had already left by then. The article's publication was irreversible, despite Xiao Xiao immediately asking Sun Kele to delete it. Shanshan's home was besieged by fans.

In an attempt to tell them she wasn't sick, she resisted her parents and accidentally fell down the stairs, sustaining injuries. With Shanshan's personal information, including her home address and even her visits to the Shao Lin counseling center, exposed online, Shao Ning advised Lin Shen to stay away from the center for a few days. However, when Shao Ning saw Xiao Xiao among the crowd, Lin Shen rushed to take her away.

At a coffee shop, Lin Shen used the opportunity to re-add Xiao Xiao on WeChat. Upon hearing that Shanshan was hospitalized, Lin Shen decided to visit her but advised Xiao Xiao against it, given she was the one who posted the condemning article. Conveniently, Xiao Xiao received a call from Fang Lin and arranged to meet. At the hospital, Shanshan’s parents, wanting to protect her, refused all visitors.

Lin Shen expressed his desire to talk to Shanshan once she woke up, and her father, despite her mother’s reservations about further counseling, put his trust in Lin Shen. Meanwhile, Jerry was troubled by the public's backlash against Shanshan, but Fang Lin seemed indifferent to Shanshan's plight. Fang Lin revealed that Jerry indeed had a stray dog, currently under her care, which she found unsuitable for Jerry's current status and planned to replace it with a "noble breed."

Xiao Xiao confronted Fang Lin, accusing her of hiring internet trolls to manipulate public opinion and of instigating the doxxing of Shanshan. Fang Lin admitted to hiring publicists to defend Jerry, but avoided directly answering the accusations regarding Shanshan's doxxing. Shanshan subsequently went missing. Both Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao independently thought she might return to Jerry's old house. On their way, Shanshan's father called to say she had been found, having merely gotten lost.

They then encountered the stray dog, Sansanyao. To Lin Shen's dismay, Shanshan had no recollection of the dog. Lin Shen deduced that Shanshan and Jerry had indeed been in a relationship, and her selective amnesia was a psychological defense mechanism triggered by severe mental trauma, causing her to forget everything about him. He warned that this selective amnesia could pose future risks as a "trigger" might resurface her traumatic memories.

However, Shanshan’s parents simply desired a peaceful life for their daughter and preferred she not remember Jerry, even asking if they could keep Sansanyao. Feeling unable to intervene further due to family wishes and professional boundaries, Lin Shen withdrew, leaving Xiao Xiao feeling deeply frustrated. Sometime earlier, Xiao Xiao had dismissed a call from Dianfan Group. Days later, Fan Qi, from Dianfan Group, approached her in person, stating they had met at Jerry's company.

He expressed awareness of her deleted article, noting Jerry’s company's displeasure. Fan Qi offered his assistance, citing his company’s collaborations with Jerry’s. When questioned about his motives, Fan Qi, whose demeanor was somewhat unnatural, replied that he admired Xiao Xiao's perspective, writing, and integrity, especially after seeing her delete an article that hurt someone. He also recognized the value of her official account, proposing to exclusively manage its business operations while assuring her creative freedom.

Xiao Xiao, still primarily focused on meeting Jerry, postponed any discussions about collaboration. Shanshan, her memories of Jerry selectively erased by her trauma, temporarily resumed a normal life, working at a music store. However, seeing a poster of Jerry triggered her memories, and images of their past fantasies resurfaced. True to his word, Fan Qi provided Xiao Xiao with two VIP tickets to Jerry's fan meeting. Shanshan also attended, watching Jerry shine on stage among thousands of fans.

During the fan interaction segment, Shanshan was unexpectedly chosen. As she stepped onto the stage, visibly disoriented, she was immediately swarmed by entertainment reporters aggressively questioning her relationship with Jerry. Overwhelmed by fear, Shanshan fell off the stage. Xiao Xiao, attempting to save her, also fell and was rendered unconscious. Witnessing this chaos, Jerry, without hesitation, leaped off the stage to intervene.

Episode 4 Recap

After the incident at the fan meeting, Xiao Xiao was taken to the hospital. When Lin Shen arrived, her first concern was whether her face was injured. Shanshan then requested to speak with Xiao Xiao privately, revealing that she knew Xiao Xiao was Xiao Beibei, the author of the controversial article. Shanshan confessed that she had been having recurring nightmares, seeing a familiar figure.

It was only after spotting Zhou Ran's poster at a piano shop that she searched online and discovered their shared past. The widespread public opinion, largely fueled by Xiao Xiao's article, made Shanshan question her own worth, wondering if the entire world hated her. Xiao Xiao apologized for her team's mistake in publishing the article.

Shanshan then shared that when Xiao Xiao rushed to protect her, she realized there was still someone willing to defend her, and that she wasn't as bad as she had thought. Shanshan genuinely thanked Xiao Xiao, acknowledging that she had deleted the article and protected her. Lin Shen explained that Shanshan was experiencing selective amnesia, a psychological defense mechanism that had become more pronounced, leading her to forget her relationship with Zhou Ran entirely.

Fortunately, after the recent accident, Shanshan's parents had agreed to continue her psychological counseling. Feeling a sense of responsibility, Xiao Xiao insisted on helping. After much persuasion, Lin Shen reluctantly agreed to teach her some basic hypnosis techniques, cautioning her about their proper and ethical use. During their initial lessons, Lin Shen discovered that Shanshan had posted long strings of numbers on her Weibo.

He identified these as FM radio channels for a car cinema and realized that "I Am Not Here," a movie Shanshan had marked but never seen, represented a significant emotional barrier for her. As Xiao Xiao struggled to grasp the complex concepts, Lin Shen provided her with a stack of books and a confidentiality agreement. Xiao Xiao playfully questioned why he was Party A, but signed the agreement, officially embarking on her journey into psychology.

Overwhelmed by the material, she soon fell asleep at her desk. Lin Shen gently carried her to a room to rest. The next morning, Shao Ning unexpectedly showed up at Lin Shen's house. Despite Lin Shen's attempts to stop him, Shao Ning entered and found Xiao Xiao there. Noticing Xiao Xiao's shoes, he immediately began teasing Lin Shen about having "something going on" and their "sweet" relationship. Lin Shen dismissed his comments as "thinking too much" and hurried him away.

As Shao Ning left, Lin Shen borrowed his car, explaining to Xiao Xiao that they would use it to experience the car cinema that evening as part of their hypnosis training, with Xiao Xiao driving. Xiao Xiao reminded him of his fear of cars, stemming from a childhood accident. During the movie, which unfortunately featured a car crash, Lin Shen became visibly distressed.

Xiao Xiao, an inexperienced driver, struggled to maintain the hypnosis, but Lin Shen guided her, explaining how to adapt to the subject's shifting focus and manage their emotional responses, such as fear. The following day, while helping Yan Luo and Sun Kele move into Yan Luo's new home, Xiao Xiao observed how retail displays leveraged superficial desires to tap into deeper ones.

This sparked a new insight: Shanshan's real yearning might not be for a car cinema experience itself, but for a public, unhidden date with Zhou Ran. Meeting Lin Shen at his office later, Xiao Xiao shared her new hypothesis. Lin Shen then presented torn ticket fragments found by Shanshan's mother, which included tickets for both car cinemas and regular cinemas.

He concluded that their initial assumption was wrong; Shanshan's true emotional barrier was likely the desire to openly watch a movie in a regular cinema. He revealed that Zhou Ran had missed a planned car cinema date due to a fan meeting, and subsequently missed a rescheduled public cinema date without any excuse, leaving Shanshan with a deep-seated longing for a public declaration of their relationship. Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen immediately went to a regular cinema.

During a car crash scene in the film, Lin Shen instinctively gripped Xiao Xiao's hand, entering a hypnotic state that transported him back to his college campus. In a surprising turn, Lin Shen, still under hypnosis, performed an "anti-hypnosis" on Xiao Xiao, pulling her into the hypnotic state as well. During this shared trance, Lin Shen saw Xiao Xiao in his own past.

Upon waking, Lin Shen revealed he had learned that Xiao Xiao had "never had a date," then pointedly questioned her credibility as a relationship blogger, asking how someone with no personal experience could advise others. Feeling embarrassed and frustrated, Xiao Xiao stormed out of the cinema, realizing that Lin Shen had only truly woken up from his hypnosis when she released his hand. Outside, they unexpectedly encountered Fan Qi, who was at the cinema for a press conference.

Fan Qi complimented Xiao Xiao's recent articles and offered them a ride, which Xiao Xiao politely declined, stating that Lin Shen preferred "environmental travel." Reflecting on Xiao Xiao's "never had a date" status, Lin Shen for the first time searched for and followed her official account. After taking one of her quizzes, he left a comment stating that her "analysis was not impartial." Xiao Xiao was thrilled and surprised to see Lin Shen had followed her account and commented.

Meanwhile, Shanshan's parents, worried about her constant confinement at home, encouraged her to invite Xiao Xiao out. Xiao Xiao readily agreed, recognizing this as an opportunity to enact her plan. She understood Shanshan's deep-seated resentment, believing the best way to help her overcome her emotional barrier was to help her bring a public and dignified closure to her past relationship. Xiao Xiao bought tickets for "I Am Not Here" at a regular cinema.

Upon seeing the tickets, Shanshan felt a profound sense of familiarity. In the dimly lit cinema, Shanshan was overwhelmed by a rush of painful memories, becoming visibly agitated. She claimed she had seen the movie before, was developing a headache, and wanted to leave. Xiao Xiao then confessed her true intention: she had brought Shanshan there hoping to help her recover lost memories. Shanshan admitted she still had recurring nightmares about Zhou Ran.

When Xiao Xiao asked if she wanted to forget everything or remember, Shanshan paused, then firmly declared her desire to remember, asserting her right to know what truly happened, even if the memories were painful. Lin Shen then hypnotized Shanshan, guiding her back to the cinema on the day of Zhou Ran's fan meeting.

Fragmented images of their past flooded her mind: raising their shared pet, Sansanyao; painting the rooftop to create a secret home for it; and Zhou Ran's heartfelt promise to publicly declare their love to the world one day. However, the scene abruptly shifted to Zhou Ran's cold rejection, where he denied their relationship, dismissing her as merely "a longtime fan from my fan club."

Tearfully, Shanshan envisioned herself pushing open the cinema doors and returning to Sansanyao's home, only for Fang Lin to appear, destroying their sanctuary and driving her away. This time, however, Shanshan found the strength to save herself. Lin Shen guided her through this traumatic memory, emphasizing that she had fallen in love with Zhou Ran for his musical passion, but as his career soared, she had lost her own identity.

He urged her to transform this deeply etched love into fuel for her future, reminding her that while the dream was over, her own aspirations remained within her grasp. Shanshan fully recalled her past. She invited Xiao Xiao to watch the rest of the movie they had left unfinished earlier. Although Shanshan expressed regret that Zhou Ran never publicly acknowledged their relationship, she finally felt brave enough to bid farewell to her past.

Xiao Xiao, in turn, wanted to apologize to Shanshan for her initial article, but Shanshan insisted that meeting Xiao Xiao had been her greatest fortune, as it had helped her clearly understand her past relationship. Xiao Xiao then decided she needed to meet Zhou Ran. She contacted Fan Qi, who offered her an opportunity to attend Zhou Ran's birthday party that evening as his female companion.

When Xiao Xiao sought Zuo Yan's help with her styling, Lin Shen learned of her plan to attend with Fan Qi and visibly expressed his displeasure. At the birthday party, Zhou Ran randomly selected Xiao Xiao to participate in a stage game, causing Fang Lin's expression to darken. On stage, Xiao Xiao strategically used an "association game" to trigger Zhou Ran's memories of Shanshan.

Drawing on details Shanshan had shared, Xiao Xiao revealed Zhou Ran's private habits, such as his preference for recording studios over stages, and his intolerance for spicy food, a stark contrast to the "spicy beef" his fans believed he loved, which was, in fact, Shanshan's favorite.

Fang Lin became increasingly agitated backstage, demanding Xiao Xiao be removed, but was informed by a staff member that as Fan Qi's friend, she couldn't be expelled from the stage, and it was "just a game." Later, during dinner with Shao Ning, Shao Ning deliberately brought up Xiao Xiao, commenting on her "eight-centimeter high heels" and wondering if Fan Qi would take her home. This made Lin Shen uncomfortable, and he abruptly excused himself to "buy something."

After the birthday party, Xiao Xiao went backstage to deliver an item from Shanshan to Zhou Ran. Zhou Ran's expression shifted dramatically. Xiao Xiao informed him that Shanshan's gesture was not to prove anything, but a sign that she had truly moved on. As an "outsider," Xiao Xiao urged Zhou Ran, if he had ever genuinely loved Shanshan, to honor their past and properly say goodbye. She relayed Shanshan's message to him: to be himself, not a corporate puppet, and not to let his heart remain in darkness while he stood in the public spotlight.

Episode 5 Recap

Xiao Xiao delivered a box from Shanshan to Zhou Ran, urging him to genuinely face his past if he had truly loved Shanshan. She emphasized that Shanshan had completely moved on and that Zhou Ran should be himself, not a puppet, and not keep his heart in the dark while appearing bright on stage. Zhou Ran opened the box, revealing many shared memories only they understood.

Lin Shen returned to the restaurant laden with shopping bags, having purchased shoes and clothes. Shao Ning, seeing his haul, remarked on his quick learning and ability to grasp more on his own. Later, as Lin Shen prepared to pick up Xiao Xiao, Fan Qi quickly approached her, offering his jacket and a ride home. Xiao Xiao politely declined, explaining that someone was already waiting for her.

Lin Shen, who had claimed he was just "passing by," then gave Xiao Xiao a pair of comfortable new shoes and a jacket. Xiao Xiao, whose feet were aching from high heels, happily put them on, commenting, "Mr. Lin, you're so sweet." Lin Shen then advised her, "The shoes are a bit big. Make do with it." She beamed, truly appreciating his thoughtfulness.

Shanshan informed Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen that she had decided to study music abroad to pursue her passion, although she hadn't finalized a school or major. Lin Shen offered to connect her with friends studying music overseas for advice. Xiao Xiao encouraged Shanshan to be brave and pursue what she loved, emphasizing, "Find what you really love. It matters. No matter what, you have to give it a try!"

Shanshan agreed, reflecting that "finding what you like, bravely taking that step, is very important." As Shanshan prepared to leave, Xiao Xiao hoped Zhou Ran would appear, lest her efforts be in vain. Just then, Zhou Ran arrived. Xiao Xiao, seeing his hesitation, called out "Sansanyao" to get Shanshan's attention. Meeting face-to-face, Zhou Ran cautiously suggested Shanshan keep her mask on to avoid paparazzi, but she calmly replied that they were in a corridor and paparazzi wouldn't be there.

Shanshan spoke of her past fears and how pursuing fame or love often leads to loss. She told Zhou Ran she was happy he came, clarifying that, "In the future there is nothing between us." She expressed her wish that he would achieve a "brilliant and shining" career, unlike other idols who fall from grace. Shanshan then mentioned she was going to study abroad and extended her hand for a final handshake.

As she turned to leave, Zhou Ran bravely hugged her. Shanshan paused, then pulled his hand away and went upstairs, holding back tears until she was alone. Later, Zhou Ran published a post on Weibo, confessing his past relationship with Shanshan. He admitted that his fear of losing fame and his public image led him to deny their relationship and push Shanshan into the public's crosshairs, where she faced widespread abuse.

He apologized sincerely, stating, "It's not only our beautiful love I denied, but also the real me. I'm sorry." Lin Shen, having lost a bet with Xiao Xiao that she could get Shanshan to seek his consultation within a week, was obligated to treat her to a meal at the "most beautiful restaurant." To Xiao Xiao's surprise, it was the rooftop of Shaolin's Psychological Counseling Center, where they had to skewer their own food.

Shao Ning teasingly called Lin Shen Xiao Xiao's "own waiter" and hinted at a "secret relationship," proclaiming that Lin Shen, this "iron tree," was finally blooming, causing both Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao to feel awkward. Xiao Xiao met with Fan Qi to discuss their ongoing business partnership. Fan Qi revealed that Fang Lin had terminated Zhou Ran's contract and was demanding all liquidated damages, forcing Zhou Ran to sell off his assets.

Recognizing Xiao Xiao's talent, Fan Qi suggested she pursue psychology and offered to help her find a professional counseling organization. Xiao Xiao revealed that developing her psychology career was "exactly what I want to do" and had "had my own choice in my mind" for a specific institute. Fan Qi then attempted to sign Xiao Xiao to a full contract, but Xiao Xiao preferred freedom and politely declined. Fan Qi appeared amiable on the surface, but inwardly revealed much displeasure.

That night, Xiao Xiao published an article about idols, reminding her followers that while idols can be guiding lights, one must ultimately steer their own life and that only personal dreams are worth striving for. At midnight, Yan Luo revealed her "super big surprise" – a new comic series titled "Dream Garden," featuring characters inspired by Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao. Xiao Xiao chuckled at the portrayal, commenting that "Lin Shen is not sweet. He is cold."

Shao Ning, who was also following the comic, secretly delivered Xiao Xiao's resume to Lin Shen, hoping to surprise him. Lin Shen, upon seeing it, seemed flustered, muttering, "She can directly tell me if she wants to come back, why go through all this trouble?" Xiao Xiao successfully joined Shaolin's Psychological Counseling Center as Lin Shen's assistant, even receiving her own office, which an assistant revealed was prepared specifically for her by Shao Ning after her interview.

Xiao Xiao later recounted to a colleague that Lin Shen had once joked he "dares not to hire" her even if she offered to work for free. However, her first day was chaotic; a couple seeking counseling erupted into a fight, nearly injuring Xiao Xiao, who was caught in the middle of their accusations. After the incident, Lin Shen, in his typical stoic manner, merely advised her, "You'll get used to that."

Later, as Lin Shen was heading home, Shao Ning called him back, feigning concern, saying Xiao Xiao was "upset because of that visitor." Sun Kele reported to Xiao Xiao that Chai Qian had not responded to the fan event proposal, making him consider hiring another event company, to which Xiao Xiao agreed.

Back at the office, Xiao Xiao inquired about Lin Shen's whereabouts, learning that he lectured at Shenjiang University on Mondays as a visiting professor, but his Fridays were a "secret," leading colleagues to gossip about a mysterious girlfriend. Xiao Xiao, despite buying him lunch, expressed a hint of jealousy, muttering that she "shouldn't have bought you lunch, I'd better feed it to a dog." Soon after, Lin Shen returned, having been "lured back" by Shao Ning.

Xiao Xiao then sincerely expressed her desire to learn from him and mentioned she'd found out his class schedule. Lin Shen, however, subtly arranged for his upcoming lecture at Run Run Shaw Building to be moved from the fifth floor to the sixth, knowing Xiao Xiao had the wrong information. During a class on Ericksonian Hypnosis, Lin Shen explained the concept of "resource utilization" and the clash between willpower and fear.

Xiao Xiao enthusiastically volunteered for a demonstration, attempting to jump from a table. Lin Shen steadily held her during the jump, but upon returning to her seat, she genuinely stumbled and twisted her ankle. Lin Shen, not kindly, used her accident as a live case study, explaining how the mind-body separation in a trance can lead to such incidents.

Capitalizing on her injury, Xiao Xiao playfully blackmailed Lin Shen into serving as her "human crutch" or temporary assistant for her upcoming fan appreciation event, arguing it was a "work injury." Lin Shen reluctantly agreed, despite his initial protests that he was "not your fan," after Xiao Xiao reminded him that he followed her account, and was secretly smiling. Chai Qian, now a full-time housewife, felt like she had fallen into a desolate grassland, losing her direction.

She experienced a vaguely dreamt nightmare, waking to her husband's request for warm milk, and she went to prepare it, having just taken melatonin. At Xiao Xiao's fan appreciation event, Lin Shen dutifully served as her "human crutch." Chai Qian attended, even though she hadn't managed the event. Xiao Xiao quickly directed Lin Shen away so she could chat with Chai Qian.

However, Lin Shen's striking appearance soon attracted other female attendees, prompting Xiao Xiao to send Sun Kele to intervene. Xiao Xiao remarked on Chai Qian's transformation from a sharp career woman to a seemingly content homemaker, noting a "happiness" emanating from her. Yet, Chai Qian's smiles seemed distant, as if she wasn't truly processing Xiao Xiao's words about the struggles of her own work.

During a "pass the parcel" game where attendees shared their stories with Xiao Beibei's account, the item landed on Chai Qian. She recounted her professional past as a client manager at Hongquan Advertisement and how her admiration for Xiao Xiao's articles led them to collaborate on an advertising campaign.

Chai Qian explained that she resigned to focus on her family with her boyfriend, but also confessed to feeling overwhelmed and anxious by the constant demands of her job, which left her unable to sleep. Another attendee interjected, dismissing Chai Qian's reasons as mere "excuses," asserting that all women in their industry face high pressure, and one's "anti-stress ability" is honed in the workplace.

Xiao Xiao stepped in to defend Chai Qian, emphasizing that "everyone has the right to live their own way" and expressing gratitude for Chai Qian's early support. However, the critical attendee persisted, questioning Chai Qian's current capabilities after a year away from work. Chai Qian, who had initially tried to maintain her composure, finally snapped, splashing water on the persistent attendee. Chaos erupted, with Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen colliding while trying to break up the fight.

Overwhelmed, Chai Qian broke down, exclaiming, "Why did you judge me and look down upon me?" before fleeing the venue. Xiao Xiao still remembered her first impression of Chai Qian as a perfect career woman, stylish and capable, and wondered what had happened to change her so drastically. Troubled by Chai Qian's uncharacteristic outburst at the fan event, Xiao Xiao began delving into "Psychology of Emotions," sensing that Chai Qian's sudden change was atypical.

She discussed her observations with Lin Shen, who agreed that a sudden emotional explosion usually has a hidden trigger. Soon after, Chai Qian sought out Xiao Xiao, who, still new to psychology, offered her an informal "simple consultation." Meanwhile, while Shao Ning was shopping at a supermarket, he accidentally saw Yan Luo and her mother.

Yan Luo's mother refused to buy what Yan Luo needed but was willing to buy expensive and good things for Yan Luo's younger brother, Xiao Feng. Yan Luo could only grit her teeth and give up, but she was still the one who paid the bill. When leaving, Yan Luo was very reluctant to part with a lamp she liked.

Turning around, she found the lamp already in her shopping cart, with a receipt from Shao Ning showing a smiley face after he paid. At a hospital, Fan Qi, whose company had donated new monitoring equipment, encountered Lin Shen, whose mother was using the new instruments. They exchanged polite nods. Fan Qi later approached Lin Shen, acknowledging his reputation as a "famous psychiatrist." He attempted to invite Lin Shen to dinner to discuss an Employee Assistance Program for his company.

Lin Shen, however, politely declined, stating that his partner, Shao Ning, handled such projects and offering Shao Ning's business card instead. After Lin Shen left, Fan Qi instructed his assistant to investigate Lin Shen, inquiring about his personal details, but only receiving information about his "green commuter" habits rather than finding any vehicle information registered under his name.

Episode 6 Recap

Huo Lang, recently promoted to deputy design director, faced a reprimand from Mr. Chen. Chen confronted Huo Lang for using identical designs for two clients' wedding houses, suspecting he was rushing to earn money for his own wedding home. Chen demoted Huo Lang to assist Li in another department and reassigned his current projects to others.

Upon returning home, Chai Qian enthusiastically informed Huo Lang that she had been hired by a public relations firm under Dianfan Group, her former profession. Instead of celebrating, Huo Lang subtly picked at her, first asking for hot water, then ice water, and finally complaining that the water was both hot and cold, reflecting his irritable mood. Chai Qian found herself reflecting on her college days, where she first met Huo Lang.

She recalled him appearing gentle and handsome in the library, wiping her dirty glasses, and instantly captivating her. On his birthday, Huo Lang had asked her to spend it with him, revealing that his parents divorced when he was young and he had never had anyone to celebrate with since his mother left. He expressed a desire for her to be present for all his future birthdays.

He then likened himself to the Little Prince meeting his unique rose, asking Chai Qian to be his one-of-a-kind rose, and for them to "tame" each other. Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen were having dinner when Xiao Xiao overheard a man at a nearby table flirting on the phone with another woman, despite his girlfriend being absent. She remarked harshly that men are liars, to which Lin Shen gently countered that not all men are like that.

Later, Chai Qian visited Xiao Xiao, apologizing for not accepting the job offer from Dianfan Group, a decision Xiao Xiao had initially encouraged. Chai Qian confessed to feeling immense pressure and depression, despite her boyfriend treating her well. She also shared recurring nightmares: one of being trapped in a forest where wolves tore each other apart, and another of being a butterfly specimen with her wings nailed to a basement wall, unable to escape.

She couldn't see the face of her captor. While Chai Qian did not reveal the details of her conversation with Huo Lang to Xiao Xiao, the viewer learns that Huo Lang had convinced her not to take the job, arguing that as a former leader, starting from the bottom in a public relations firm (Party B) would expose her to "tough clients" (Party A) and make her suffer.

He used gentle words, claiming it was "for her own good" and that he would be heartbroken if she struggled again, reminding her of a previous high-pressure job she quit. Xiao Xiao, after hearing the dreams, could only offer general advice to break free from her self-imposed confines and invited her for a formal psychological consultation. When Chai Qian returned home, Huo Lang darkly questioned her whereabouts.

She explained she had been feeling down and talked to a friend who worked at a psychological studio to alleviate her mood. Huo Lang, without a word, demanded that she call that friend immediately and tell her she would never see her again, reminding Chai Qian that she used to always listen to him.

Later, while Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen were having hotpot, Xiao Xiao expressed a newfound confidence in her potential as a psychologist after her conversation with Chai Qian, jokingly boasting that she had found Lin Shen a new client. However, she then received a call from Chai Qian, who stated she no longer wished to pursue psychological counseling. Xiao Xiao was deeply disheartened, lamenting how Chai Qian, once such an independent woman, now seemed to have lost her spark.

Lin Shen, understanding her feelings, advised her that as professionals, they couldn't force their will upon a client who chose not to continue. He subtly acknowledged Xiao Xiao as his apprentice by posting information about Shenjiang University's in-service psychology graduate program on a social media platform, visible only to her. Inspired, Xiao Xiao attempted to audit one of Lin Shen's classes.

However, she was mistaken by other female students for someone trying to deliberately get close to Lin Shen and was subsequently escorted out by security. Lin Shen, constrained by university regulations, could only instruct her to wait for him elsewhere until his class ended. Later, Xiao Xiao, determined to pursue an in-service graduate degree, pleaded with Lin Shen for tutoring.

She boldly proposed a bet: if she got accepted, he would have to grant her one request; if she failed, she would work for him indefinitely. While studying, Xiao Xiao pondered Chai Qian's transformation from an opinionated individual to someone who now seemed to obey her boyfriend's every word. She sought out Lin Shen, sharing her concern that Chai Qian's current state was linked to her boyfriend.

Lin Shen analyzed Chai Qian's dreams, noting that wolves, as pack animals with deep bonds, tearing each other apart in a dream could signify deception or a trust crisis in a real-life partnership. He agreed with Xiao Xiao's observation that Huo Lang was using phrases like "I'm for your own good" and "I care about you" to subtly suppress Chai Qian psychologically, rather than offering encouragement as a supportive partner should.

Lin Shen further elaborated on this dynamic, referring to it as the "gaslight effect" – a purposeful emotional manipulation within an intimate relationship that gradually erodes a person's confidence, sense of self, and independent thought, leading them to doubt their own perceptions.

He drew a parallel to an old movie where a man systematically destroyed his wife's mental well-being to gain her inheritance, explaining that any action within a close relationship that undermines a partner's confidence, identity, or restricts their ideas constitutes this form of manipulative control. Chai Qian invited Xiao Xiao to her home for dinner as a thank you for helping her with her mood. Xiao Xiao brought Lin Shen along. Huo Lang was not home at the time.

Xiao Xiao commented on Chai Qian's new residence, recalling she used to live downtown. Chai Qian explained they moved so Huo Lang could build a new home through his own efforts. Chai Qian then apologized again for canceling her therapy, but Xiao Xiao noted her seemingly improved spirits. Chai Qian glowingly revealed that Huo Lang had proposed to her, and since then, her mood had significantly stabilized, and she could sleep without melatonin.

Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen, though sensing underlying issues, chose not to disrupt her happiness. Chai Qian then recounted their college romance in detail, beginning with her instant infatuation with the gentle and handsome Huo Lang in the library. She described how on his birthday, he confessed his lonely childhood after his parents' divorce, asking her to fill that void by spending every future birthday with him.

He expressed a desire for them to "tame" each other, with her as his "unique rose" and him as her "Little Prince." Later, when her company offered an MBA opportunity requiring weekend classes in Beijing, Chai Qian hesitated, knowing it would mean less time with Huo Lang. He gently discouraged her, pleading that he didn't want to be a "lonely Little Prince" again. Softened by his words, Chai Qian relented and passed up the opportunity.

As her work progressed and she became a manager, the increased stress led to insomnia, overeating, and hair loss. Huo Lang remained by her side, telling her that work was "no big deal" and urging her to quit, promising to support her. Their conversation was interrupted by Huo Lang's unexpected return. Before Chai Qian could fully introduce her friends, Huo Lang instructed her to pack his luggage for an immediate business trip.

He then asked Xiao Xiao how she knew Chai Qian. Xiao Xiao candidly expressed her regret that Chai Qian was no longer working, citing her past success as a public relations manager. Huo Lang defensively stated he was simply "protecting" Chai Qian, implying her current "stress tolerance" was insufficient for a return to her former career.

Xiao Xiao retorted that he was using "love" as a guise to "restrict" Chai Qian, but Lin Shen quickly intervened to prevent her from saying more. Enraged, Huo Lang ordered them out of his house, injuring Xiao Xiao's hand as he forcefully shut the door behind them. Meanwhile, Fan Qi silently grieved the death of his elder brother, a tragedy that seemed to contradict his outwardly gentle demeanor. Later, Xiao Xiao and Sun Kele celebrated Yan Luo's housewarming.

Yan Luo was surprised to find a lamp she admired, but couldn't afford, mysteriously appear in her shopping cart and delivered to her home, leading Sun Kele to playfully suggest she had a "Daddy-Long-Legs" admirer. Sun Kele then delivered some bad news to Xiao Xiao: her popular emotional advice account, "Xiao Beibei," had dropped out of the top ten in monthly traffic rankings.

It had been surpassed by a new account called "Free Wandering," which taught men how to pursue women. Intrigued and concerned, Xiao Xiao attempted to register for the "Free Wandering" forum. Discovering it was exclusively for men, she signed up using Lin Shen's identity, which resulted in Lin Shen receiving an unexpected registration text message in the middle of the night.

The next day, Xiao Xiao went to Lin Shen to "apologize" for signing him up, but quickly explained her suspicion that Huo Lang was using PUA tactics on Chai Qian. She asserted the need to investigate the "Free Wandering" course, threatening to go undercover herself if Lin Shen refused, and playfully questioned if he wasn't worried about his "beautiful, cute, and sexy apprentice" falling victim to a "scumbag."

Lin Shen, unfazed, quipped that he was more concerned about the "scumbag" being outsmarted by Xiao Xiao, but agreed to attend the course. The course taught attendees the principles of PUA, including "warm-up, communication, honesty, and practice." After the initial lesson, a male participant, eager to "practice," approached Xiao Xiao, who was observing. He attempted to use the techniques taught, boasting about his sports car club and implying wealth.

Xiao Xiao feigned interest, but when he got physical, she lost her patience and exposed his manipulative tactics, sarcastically questioning why men always resorted to a "dying mother" sob story. Enraged, the man lunged at her. Suddenly, Fan Qi appeared, intervening in the escalating altercation and de-escalating the situation, effectively saving Xiao Xiao from the aggressive man.

Fan Qi, who claimed to be leaving a business meeting, recognized Xiao Xiao and offered to treat her to dinner to calm her nerves. During their meal, Xiao Xiao explained the entire incident, including her plan to write an article exposing the PUA organization. Fan Qi, seemingly curious, inquired about her romantic history, subtly suggesting that being single was his own biggest problem. Meanwhile, Lin Shen, having been searching for Xiao Xiao, spotted her dining peacefully with Fan Qi.

Without a word, he turned and left, clearly upset. Xiao Xiao quickly rose to follow him, while Fan Qi, with a dark look in his eyes, silently drank the remaining soup from Xiao Xiao's bowl.

Episode 7 Recap

Huo Lang accompanied Chai Qian as she tried on wedding dresses. He complimented her, saying she looked beautiful in everything and that his heart was burning for her. However, he received an urgent call from a Mr. Chen, who insisted he return to revise a proposal immediately. Huo Lang initially tried to resist, explaining he was with Chai Qian, but ultimately had to leave. Chai Qian assured him she would be fine alone.

Meanwhile, Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen were also at the same mall. They spotted Huo Lang leaving the bridal shop. Xiao Xiao, noting how quickly Huo Lang and Chai Qian were moving towards marriage, felt a sense of urgency. Inside, they congratulated Chai Qian, who looked radiant in her wedding dress and assumed Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen were on a date.

Xiao Xiao clarified that they were attending a PUA training seminar for an article Lin Shen was writing on psychological manipulation in relationships. She recounted an example from the seminar about a man systematically undermining his girlfriend's confidence to make her dependent. Chai Qian, however, was in a state of blissful anticipation and dismissed the example, suggesting some men genuinely want to protect their girlfriends from overworking, citing Huo Lang as such an example.

Xiao Xiao worried her message hadn't gotten through. Lin Shen explained that to fundamentally change someone's deeply held beliefs requires a gradual approach, similar to hypnosis, to awaken their true desires. Xiao Xiao, realizing Lin Shen was still angry with her for abandoning him earlier, apologized profusely for her previous actions. Lin Shen, still slightly exasperated, called her a "gas canister," implying she was easily agitated and explosive.

Xiao Xiao later invited Chai Qian to view a wedding venue, which happened to be the very place Chai Qian had organized her first professional event. Recalling her past as a capable public relations manager, Chai Qian felt a pang of nostalgia, lamenting that she would no longer have opportunities in the PR industry. Xiao Xiao encouraged her to personally plan her own wedding, emphasizing the profound meaning it would hold.

Chai Qian embraced the idea, putting her heart into developing creative concepts for the wedding, themed after "Le Petit Prince". During a meeting with the wedding planner, the planner lavished praise on Chai Qian’s exceptional ideas and capabilities. Hearing this, Huo Lang's expression darkened, and he abruptly excused himself, claiming urgent work. Soon after, a visibly distressed Chai Qian sought out Xiao Xiao at the counseling center.

She recounted how Huo Lang had been furious about her continued involvement with the wedding planner. He dismissed the planner’s compliments as mere flattery, arguing that as a consumer, Chai Qian was merely being exploited for her ideas. He even admitted his earlier praises for her creativity were insincere. Chai Qian felt deeply invalidated and undervalued, realizing it was Huo Lang, not others, who constantly dismissed her efforts.

She burst out, expressing that her dedication to creating a unique wedding was being trampled by his standards. Huo Lang reacted with disappointment, telling her she had changed and asking where the "sweet and gentle girl" he knew had gone. Chai Qian confessed that working on the wedding, creating ideas, and coordinating with teams, had been the happiest she'd felt in a long time.

Xiao Xiao then gently steered the conversation back to the PUA courses and the concept of "gaslighting," explaining how manipulators use negative reinforcement to erode a person’s self-worth. She encouraged Chai Qian to reconsider Huo Lang’s actions and suggested she research "Free Wandering," a notorious online forum where men learned such tactics. Chai Qian took the advice to heart. She looked up "gaslighting" and "Free Wandering" on Huo Lang's laptop, finding search queries for the forum's new domain.

Huo Lang noticed his laptop had been accessed and the search history wiped, which made him uneasy. To cover his tracks, he orchestrated a conversation with a friend that Chai Qian overheard, implying that his friend had been the one searching for "Free Wandering" on his laptop. Chai Qian, for a moment, was relieved and believed him. Huo Lang then suggested they get officially registered, saying tomorrow was a propitious day.

However, a closer look at his phone revealed a dual system, confirming her worst fears about his deception. Her heart, which had briefly warmed, plunged back into an icy despair. Chai Qian went to the psychological counseling center to see Xiao Xiao, with Huo Lang following close behind. Huo Lang immediately tried to pull Chai Qian away, accusing Xiao Xiao of being unreliable. Xiao Xiao, however, had had enough.

She snatched Huo Lang’s phone and played a series of PUA audio messages detailing tactics like "mind control is important," "get registered as soon as you can," and "make her give birth to your child" to "make sure she never leaves you." Huo Lang, completely exposed, frantically tried to explain himself. As his emotions escalated, he lunged at Xiao Xiao, but Lin Shen arrived just in time to shield her.

Chai Qian, though heartbroken, intervened, preventing Xiao Xiao from calling the police, claiming Huo Lang was merely "caught up in the moment." Nevertheless, she declared their relationship over, telling him, "Let's break up. The wedding is canceled." Huo Lang refused to accept it, vowing, "I won't let you leave me." Fan Qi met Xiao Xiao for dinner.

Lin Shen spotted them and, pretending to be with Shao Lin, chose to dine at the same restaurant, subtly observing Xiao Xiao and Fan Qi. Xiao Xiao took the opportunity to recommend Chai Qian for a job to Fan Qi, mentioning that Chai Qian was interviewing at his company that day. Fan Qi expressed reservations, as Chai Qian had previously accepted a job offer from them but never showed up for work.

Xiao Xiao, undeterred, shamelessly pleaded with him to give Chai Qian another chance. Lin Shen, who had been eavesdropping from the next table, was about to leave, satisfied that there was no romantic involvement between Xiao Xiao and Fan Qi. However, Shao Lin mischievously insisted on staying and even raised his voice, causing Xiao Xiao to notice them. Lin Shen, visibly uncomfortable, could only offer Xiao Xiao a forced, awkward smile.

After dinner, Xiao Xiao shared a song with Lin Shen, composed by their talented friend Shan Shan during her studies abroad. As Lin Shen drove Xiao Xiao home, she played a special ringtone she had set for him, amusing him with its playful message. Chai Qian was about to officially start working at Dianfan Group next week, and Xiao Xiao was genuinely happy for her.

Huo Lang, however, continued to send her discouraging messages, asserting she would not succeed and only he truly understood her. Soon after, Xiao Xiao received a call saying Huo Lang had attempted suicide by taking sleeping pills and had his stomach pumped. He claimed his depression had relapsed after their breakup, pleading with her to stay, even using their cherished "Le Petit Prince" music box as an emotional appeal, and asking, "You don't want to watch me die, do you?"

Heartbroken, Chai Qian agreed to stay with him. Lin Shen, after hearing about Huo Lang's alleged depression, suggested they could help him. Chai Qian managed to persuade Huo Lang to visit the psychological counseling center for hypnotherapy. Xiao Xiao, suspicious, asked Chai Qian to take her to Huo Lang's apartment while Lin Shen conducted the session. Huo Lang surprisingly seemed cooperative during the session, which initially puzzled Lin Shen.

As familiar music played, Lin Shen attempted to induce a hypnotic state. Meanwhile, at Huo Lang’s apartment, Xiao Xiao found the empty sleeping pill bottle in the trash. After a quick chemical test, she confirmed they were indeed actual sleeping pills, leading her to believe Huo Lang genuinely intended to harm himself. Under "hypnosis," Huo Lang claimed he had accumulated over thirty sleeping pills in the month since Chai Qian broke up with him.

However, Lin Shen realized Huo Lang was not fully under hypnosis and that his narrative was a fabrication. Lin Shen then explored Huo Lang's motivations, understanding his desperate desire to keep Chai Qian by his side, even if it meant using manipulation and lies. He firmly stated that the beautiful story of "Le Petit Prince" should not be twisted into a tool for mental control. Huo Lang then "woke up," dismissing hypnosis as a "trick" and psychological consultants as "liars."

He immediately tried to take Chai Qian away. However, Chai Qian was holding the sleeping pill bottle, her face etched with disappointment. Xiao Xiao had discovered that the "stomach pumping record" Huo Lang presented was a fake, clearly edited from an online template.

She pointed out glaring inconsistencies in the medical data, such as the identical volume of stomach pumping solution (5000 milliliters) to an online example, and the discrepancy between the amount Huo Lang claimed to have taken (over thirty pills) versus the relatively small amount of solution used, especially compared to a friend who took ten pills and required more. Exposed, Huo Lang became aggressive, attempting to force Chai Qian to leave.

Lin Shen quickly stepped between them to protect Chai Qian. Exhausted and heartbroken, Chai Qian pleaded with Huo Lang, "I beg you to stay away from me if you've ever loved me." Following this, Huo Lang never returned for further counseling sessions. Lin Shen felt a sense of defeat, and his supervisor pointed out that his approach lacked neutrality and understanding of Huo Lang's true motives, dooming the session to failure.

Chai Qian, now fully aware of Huo Lang’s manipulative nature, moved out. Despite his repeated apologies and pleas, she refused to reconcile. Xiao Xiao wrote a powerful online post, articulating that true love is about mutual growth and shared progress, not about crushing another's spirit or binding them through manipulation. She emphasized that PUA cannot protect love, and there are no shortcuts to genuine affection, only a sincere heart.

In due course, Xiao Xiao's work as Lin Shen's assistant gained recognition from patients. To celebrate her achievements, her colleagues organized a tea party. Lin Shen, caught off guard, sheepishly claimed it was "company culture," a statement quickly debunked by Shao Lin, who revealed Lin Shen had personally covered all the costs. In the following months, Xiao Xiao diligently balanced her assistant duties with her graduate school studies, often burning the midnight oil.

When the day of her entrance exam arrived, Lin Shen drove her there, repeatedly checking if she had all her documents, clearly more nervous than she was. He jokingly warned her that her performance would reflect on his reputation, to which she confidently replied that she had learned from the best. After the exam, an excited Xiao Xiao rushed to Lin Shen's office, only to find him absent. Consulting his schedule, she hurried out and spotted him across the street.

Waving enthusiastically, she reminded him of his promise to grant her one request if she passed her exams. Lin Shen, feigning forgetfulness, gently reminded her that she had "made me say that." Xiao Xiao's request was for him to shower her with elaborate compliments. Knowing his reserved nature, she had prepared a "short composition" for him to read aloud.

Lin Shen, though hesitant, complied, reading aloud about his student Xiao Beibei's "face that would stop a clock" and "extremely intelligent mind." As he struggled to finish the list of her "hottest" attributes, Xiao Xiao urged him on, gleefully recording his efforts on her phone. Finally, Lin Shen walked over to her and, in a soft whisper, said, "I'll always be rooting for you."

Later, Zuo Yan received a call from a demanding patient, Ms. Xie, who listed a series of meticulous requirements for her upcoming appointment, including freshly squeezed juice prepared precisely five minutes before the session, specific fruit preparations (strawberries de-seeded, hawthorn peeled and cored, California oranges de-veined), a precise room temperature (26 degrees Celsius), and three humidifiers. Meanwhile, Lin Shen was visiting his mother at the hospital. He received an urgent call from Jia informing him that "something went wrong." Lin Shen quickly left, but did not notice two air-conditioner maintenance workers entering his mother's room shortly after his departure.

Episode 8 Recap

Lin Shen went to the underground garage looking for Xiao Xiao, but couldn't find her, and she wasn't answering her phone. Suddenly, a car sped towards him. Noticing something strange about the vehicle, Lin Shen gave chase, only for the car to hit him, throwing him to the roadside. The driver then pulled out a knife, preparing to attack him. Ten days prior, the landlord, Mrs. Li, visited the psychological counseling center, announcing a rent increase.

Lin Shen rushed back after receiving a call about it. Zuo Yan's expression remained complex throughout the visit, and Mrs. Li observed her with unconcealed disdain. Lin Shen sensed a misunderstanding between Mrs. Li and Zuo Yan and invited her to the upstairs office to discuss it. Mrs. Li explained that she had once liked Zuo Yan and introduced her to her nephew, only to discover that Zuo Yan, who appeared gentle in person, was venomous behind her back.

Mrs. Li showed Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao chat records between Zuo Yan and her nephew. While the nephew’s messages were polite, sharing stories about his mother's cooking and healthy eating habits, Zuo Yan had bombarded him with sarcastic remarks, questioning his upbringing, asking if he expected a "nanny memo," and labeling him a "mama's boy" before blocking him.

Lin Shen tried to defend Zuo Yan, but Xiao Xiao interjected, suggesting Zuo Yan might be affected by the negative emotions of their patients. She advised Mrs. Li to tell her nephew to move on and offered to help him find new matches on online dating sites. Impressed by Xiao Xiao's warmth and helpfulness, Mrs. Li unexpectedly asked if Xiao Xiao had a boyfriend.

Lin Shen quickly stated that Xiao Xiao was still in college, and Xiao Xiao chimed in, cheerfully adding that she was only eighteen. Pleased by Xiao Xiao, Mrs. Li agreed not to raise the rent. Later, Xiao Xiao expressed disbelief that Zuo Yan could have written such harsh words, given her gentle demeanor at work. She wanted to talk to Zuo Yan, but Lin Shen insisted it was Zuo Yan's private matter and they shouldn't interfere.

He felt the chat logs alone weren't enough to understand the full picture. Xiao Xiao, full of imagination, proposed hosting a grand matchmaking party to create a controlled environment that might "trigger" Zuo Yan's hidden "Id." As she spoke excitedly, she nearly stumbled, but Lin Shen swiftly caught her, his ears turning red as he softly told her that high heels didn't suit her.

Xiao Xiao wasted no time, posting an invitation for a "Summer Fellowship Recruitment Activity" to launch her matchmaking party. Meanwhile, at home, Zuo Yan shed her daytime facade, transforming into a "keyboard warrior" as she vented her frustrations online. Her mother soon interrupted, admonishing Zuo Yan for staying up late and insisting she drink her vegetable juice. She then pressed Zuo Yan about her previous blind date, clearly expressing her controlling nature and high standards for Zuo Yan’s potential partner.

The pressure of encountering a "mama's boy" on the blind date, her ex-boyfriend Yu Yang's impending marriage, and her mother’s suffocating control all fueled Zuo Yan's online aggression. Sun Kele reported to Xiao Xiao that the matchmaking plan might be in trouble because she had many female registrants but only three male participants.

When Fan Qi heard about the event, he called Xiao Xiao, offering to have his single male colleagues from Dianfan Group's investment department participate, resolving the shortage of male guests. He also said he would attend as an investor. Xiao Xiao sent invitations to Zuo Yan and other colleagues, enticing them with the promise of meeting elite bachelors from Dianfan Group.

Chai Qian, the PR manager, naturally designed and hosted the event, which featured a five-minute speed-dating format where male guests rotated after each interval. At the event, Xiao Xiao closely observed Zuo Yan, who seemed distracted and uninterested in the male guests. Lin Shen felt uneasy about everyone attending the party, and his anxiety heightened when he saw a photo of Xiao Xiao and Fan Qi together on a social media post.

Xiao Xiao found it perplexing that Zuo Yan didn't seem to actively reject the blind dates, despite her earlier behavior. Xiao Xiao asked Fan Qi about his ideal partner, to which he replied he preferred "interesting souls," subtly implying Xiao Xiao fit the description. Before Xiao Xiao could react, she saw Lin Shen arrive and quickly left Fan Qi to approach him.

Lin Shen learned from Xiao Xiao that six male guests had selected Zuo Yan as their "girl of choice," praising her as "gentle" and "modest." This observation further confused Xiao Xiao, as it indicated that the act of matchmaking itself did not trigger Zuo Yan's aggressive side. Moments later, Xiao Xiao nearly fell again, but Lin Shen was blocked by another guest, and it was Fan Qi who caught her. However, Xiao Xiao’s thoughts were solely on Lin Shen.

Fan Qi then asked Xiao Xiao to call him "Qi," which she happily agreed to. Lin Shen, witnessing their jovial conversation, looked visibly jealous. Xiao Xiao also felt a pang of jealousy seeing Lin Shen talking casually with someone else, but when she turned back, he had disappeared. She then noticed Sun Kele engaging Zuo Yan in conversation. Lin Shen later received a package containing a lawyer's letter.

Sometime after the event, Sun Kele was seen chatting with Zuo Yan by the sea, appearing nervous and carrying coffee to calm his nerves. Zuo Yan received a WeChat message and immediately launched into an aggressive reply. Lin Shen interrupted Xiao Xiao and Fan Qi's conversation, stating they had urgent work to attend to. Fan Qi watched the two walk away together, his eyes filled with resentment.

Lin Shen then held a meeting with Xiao Xiao and Zuo Yan, revealing that the lawyer's letter was sent by Zhang Kexi because Zuo Yan had used the company's official Weibo account to attack her. Xiao Xiao quickly checked her phone, shocked by Zuo Yan's highly emotional and offensive posts, which she realized were the same aggressive online rants she had seen before.

Zuo Yan admitted she had "forgotten to switch to her personal account" and had deleted the posts immediately after realizing her mistake. However, the opposing party demanded not only the deletion of the comments and a personal apology, but also an apology from Shaolin, the company. Zuo Yan tearfully apologized to Lin Shen.

Soon after, Xiao Xiao received a message from Chai Qian containing a screenshot of a male guest's social media post from the event, calling Zuo Yan a "rare arguer" and sharing screenshots of her scathing remarks during the speed-dating session. Lin Shen explained that while some people argue unconsciously, Zuo Yan's conscious awareness of her wrong behavior, yet inability to control it, made her situation potentially more dangerous.

Xiao Xiao believed they needed to find the root cause of Zuo Yan's aggressive behavior. Lin Shen pondered why Zuo Yan concealed her aggression from familiar people while being so confrontational online, and what precisely triggered her outbursts. Zuo Yan issued a personal apology to Zhang Kexi, clarifying that her actions were unrelated to Shaolin Counseling Center. To understand Zuo Yan's underlying issues, Xiao Xiao asked Sun Kele to help her investigate Zuo Yan's private online accounts.

Initially reluctant to "pry into a beautiful woman's privacy," Sun Kele eventually understood Xiao Xiao's intention to help Zuo Yan. However, Lin Shen quickly found Zuo Yan's accounts himself and compiled a summary of her aggressive online comments, forwarding them to Xiao Xiao with a warning to be mentally prepared. Xiao Xiao then asked Lin Shen to help analyze the context behind these posts, specifically why Zuo Yan used arguing as a self-defense mechanism.

She connected Zuo Yan’s aggressive behavior to her subconscious "Id." Lin Shen explained that according to his analysis of Zuo Yan’s posts, commanding words like "impossible," "should," and "must" often triggered her argumentative responses. Zuo Yan, entering their office, realized they were discussing her. Lin Shen intentionally used a keyword, telling her she "should" take her situation seriously. Zuo Yan, with an uncharacteristically sharp tone, requested that Lin Shen and her colleagues "pay less attention to her personal affairs."

Xiao Xiao noted this new, defensive attitude. Shao Lin, the head of the center, asked Lin Shen to deliver a wedding gift to Yu Yang, a company partner and Zuo Yan's ex-boyfriend. When Xiao Xiao noticed the name, she exclaimed that Yu Yang was Zuo Yan's ex-boyfriend. Lin Shen clarified that Yu Yang referred to Zuo Yan as an "old classmate," and that he had introduced Zuo Yan to the company.

Later, Xiao Xiao accidentally saw Zuo Yan crying in the restroom, clutching Yu Yang's wedding invitation. After work, Xiao Xiao took Zuo Yan to a bar, hoping to open her heart. At the bar, Xiao Xiao, acting as a supportive friend, prepared a "Passionate Kiss" cocktail for Zuo Yan, describing it as a mix of sweet, sour, and bitter, reflective of her love story.

Zuo Yan confessed her struggles with her controlling mother, showing Xiao Xiao a picture of Yu Yang, cut from an old college club photo. She recounted how her mother disapproved of Yu Yang because he attended a vocational college and lacked a good degree or local residency, ultimately deleting his contact information.

Zuo Yan described a childhood where she was never allowed to express negative emotions, forced to be "generous and act like a lady," leading to a life of emotional suppression and "hypocrisy." She admitted that she could only endure her mother's dictates because "she is my mom." She explained that while she constantly avoided conflict in reality, the anonymity of the internet allowed her to "express herself freely, even unrestrainedly," as a form of "venting."

Xiao Xiao asked Zuo Yan if she had ever imagined what her life with Yu Yang might have been like if her mother hadn't intervened. Zuo Yan admitted to fantasizing about a happy life, marrying and having children with him. Xiao Xiao then introduced the concept of the "forbidden fruit effect," suggesting that Zuo Yan's lingering feelings for Yu Yang were intensified precisely because the relationship was forbidden.

Zuo Yan agreed, realizing that what she truly couldn't let go of was "the love I missed because of my mom's obstruction," rather than Yu Yang himself. Xiao Xiao then ordered two new cocktails from Max the bartender: a "Singapore Sling" and a "Pink Lady." She gave Zuo Yan the Singapore Sling, explaining its origin during a female prohibition era and its symbolism of "breaking free." Zuo Yan chose the drink, embracing its meaning.

Xiao Xiao then gave Zuo Yan the Pink Lady, saying it was for her and represented love coming into her life. Xiao Xiao promised to accompany Zuo Yan and help her change "little by little," a promise Zuo Yan accepted as they clinked glasses. Lin Shen had been waiting outside the bar, worried about Xiao Xiao. When she emerged, heavily intoxicated, Zuo Yan entrusted her to Lin Shen, apologizing for the trouble.

In her drunken state, Xiao Xiao told Lin Shen to "stay away from me" because he was "dangerous." Lin Shen tried to guide her away from a nearby swimming pool, but as he pulled her into his arms to prevent her from falling, they accidentally shared a kiss due to inertia. Although their hearts had long been drawing closer, Xiao Xiao was too drunk to realize what had happened, while Lin Shen blushed deeply.

When Zuo Yan returned home, her mother was still awake, immediately interrogating her about her whereabouts and companions. Zuo Yan said she was with a "girl colleague" named Xiao Xiao. Her mother then imposed a strict curfew: "Never come back later than 11 o'clock." She forced Zuo Yan to drink her daily vegetable juice, insisting on maintaining her "good habits."

However, Zuo Yan's composure shattered when her mother revealed she had found the matchmaking party invitation while "packing her bag," admitting she had gone through her personal belongings. Zuo Yan confronted her mother about invading her privacy, but her mother dismissively replied, "I'm your mother, what can't I see?" and reminded Zuo Yan that she had even kept the combination lock for her childhood diary.

Zuo Yan silently finished the juice, her mind filled with the despairing thought that "Nothing will change at all." A subsequent cryptic message from an unknown individual mentioned that "The tickets for the spa hotel have been sent out," with further instructions to follow, hinting at upcoming developments.

Episode 9 Recap

Zuo Yan grew up under the strict and unquestioning love of her mother. Because her pillow was made of Chinese herbs, she constantly carried a faint herbal scent, which led to classmates mocking her despite her pretty appearance. Her mother forced her to learn tennis and other subjects she disliked. One day, when confronted about skipping tennis lessons, Zuo Yan lashed out, mentioning her father, which deeply wounded her mother. Zuo Yan felt suffocated by her mother's control.

That night, after drinking with Xiao Xiao, her mother again handed her a glass of vegetable juice, a habit instilled since childhood for health and fitness, which Zuo Yan reluctantly drank. Xiao Xiao woke up the next morning with a hangover, trying to recall what happened, but the most crucial parts were a blank. Lin Shen, meanwhile, found the morning air unusually sweet, yet felt an awkwardness when he saw Xiao Xiao.

Xiao Xiao, feeling guilty, asked if she had done anything inappropriate, quickly explaining she had blacked out and would not have intentionally offended him, blaming the cocktail. Lin Shen’s mood plummeted at her words. He also noted Zuo Yan's latest online account had posted more critical comments the previous night, continuing her ongoing battle with Zhang Kexi's aggressive fans. Lin Shen deduced that Zuo Yan’s sudden outburst was likely triggered by something related to her mother.

Later, both Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao received packages. Xiao Xiao's contained hot spring experience vouchers from Fan Qi, a sight that visibly annoyed Lin Shen. Xiao Xiao then had an idea: to use these vouchers to organize a team-building trip and create a "rage gift" experience for Zuo Yan. Lin Shen found himself involuntarily waiting for Xiao Xiao to invite him to lunch. Shao Lin, observing him, perceptively told him he was in love, though Lin Shen denied it.

Shao Lin suggested Xiao Xiao invite another friend to complete the group, and Xiao Xiao naturally thought of Yan Luo. Zuo Yan initially resisted attending the team-building event because her mother had arranged a blind date for her that weekend. Xiao Xiao urged her not to be held captive forever and to make her own choices in life. She encouraged Zuo Yan to make small changes, assuring her that things would get better, even if a full transformation seemed impossible.

Lin Shen consistently went downstairs to take out the trash at precisely 9:30 PM. One evening, Xiao Xiao intercepted Yan Luo, taking her trash to seize the opportunity to speak with Lin Shen. Yan Luo stayed upstairs, secretly enjoying the unfolding drama. Xiao Xiao suggested rescheduling the team-building event to accommodate Zuo Yan, but Lin Shen argued against it, insisting that for any change to occur, Zuo Yan herself needed to cooperate.

Despite his firm stance, Lin Shen later sent Zuo Yan a message, acknowledging that while habitual compromise can be frightening, it doesn't mean true change is impossible.

Inspired by Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao’s words about making her own choices and breaking free from shackles, Zuo Yan, recalling Lin Shen’s words about releasing her inner “beast,” finally chose herself and walked away from the blind date arranged by her mother, who was pushing her to marry for an opportunity to emigrate to the UK. At the team-building destination, Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao's "rage gift" plan for Zuo Yan was set in motion.

Her room was filled with herbal scents and pillows, and the upcoming meals and music were specifically chosen to be things she detested, reflecting her mother's preferences. When everyone arrived, Xiao Xiao announced the first rule: handing in all mobile phones. Zuo Yan received frantic calls and messages from her mother, demanding to know where she was and why she skipped the blind date.

Zuo Yan replied with a simple text, "I'm at team building," and then switched off her phone. She reacted with visible physical repulsion to the pervasive herbal scent in her room. During the afternoon activities, when encouraged to play tennis, Zuo Yan reflexively refused, flashing back to traumatic childhood memories of being forced to play. However, after some encouragement from Xiao Xiao and others, she reluctantly agreed to play one round.

Lin Shen noted this as a failure for the first step of their plan to provoke her. Later, as Xiao Xiao went to the underground garage to retrieve some wine, a car intentionally tried to hit her. Fan Qi, who happened to be there, quickly pulled her out of the way. Lin Shen arrived shortly after with the car keys, just as the car returned for another attack.

Lin Shen managed to dodge it and, in a flash, recognized the driver from the hotel. Fan Qi then engaged Xiao Xiao, pressing her to help him choose a bottle of his private collection of wine, while Lin Shen ran out of the garage in pursuit of the car. Out on the road, the car reappeared and deliberately struck Lin Shen, knocking him unconscious.

The driver exited the car with a knife but was startled by a passerby and fled the scene. Fan Qi presented Xiao Xiao with an expensive bottle of wine, a rare import, using dangerously ambiguous language and insisting it was for her and her friends, acting as a generous host. Xiao Xiao, though initially hesitant, agreed to treat him to dinner in return. At dinner, everyone was concerned about Lin Shen’s prolonged absence.

Xiao Xiao went to his room and found him with a cut on his forehead. He downplayed it, claiming he was injured while rescuing a lost pet. Xiao Xiao, despite scolding him for his carelessness, tenderly cleaned his wound. At the dinner table, Shao Lin was notably attentive to Yan Luo, even revealing to her that several people in their company were part of her "wild fan club."

Meanwhile, Zuo Yan grew increasingly suspicious as the restaurant played a specific song, "Street Corner Wind," whose two distinct instruments, erhu and piano, played side-by-side but never truly merged, a melody that resonated with her own feelings of disconnect from her mother. That night, Xiao Xiao suggested to Lin Shen (over the phone) that experiencing intense emotions, even negative ones, could be a valuable experience.

Lin Shen disagreed, admitting he had experienced it long ago, but it felt bad because caring deeply for someone made him fear loss and feel weak. Xiao Xiao gently countered that weakness is a natural human emotion. As she drifted off to sleep, Lin Shen quietly whispered "Good night, my pet," revealing his true affection. The next day at the hot springs, Sun Kele, following the plan, sang Zuo Yan's favorite idol's song, "Diamonds," but deliberately off-key and badly.

Zuo Yan's face instantly stiffened, but she remained silent, only leaving the hot spring, feeling "stuffy." Lin Shen instructed Sun Kele to continue provoking Zuo Yan. They met at a coffee shop, with Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao discreetly observing. Sun Kele, again following instructions, ordered a vegetable juice for Zuo Yan, calling it a "slimming and beautifying" seasonal special. Zuo Yan recalled her mother's forceful insistence on her drinking such juice.

Sun Kele pressed her further with verbal taunts, and Zuo Yan finally lost her composure. She rose to leave, but Sun Kele continued his barrage of insults, calling her two-faced and comparing her to the Hulk, accusing her of being mentally ill and selfish for being a fan at her age. Lin Shen watched, noting, "the butterfly is going to flap her wings."

With her patience completely shattered, Zuo Yan returned to Sun Kele and splashed water on him, then launched into a furious tirade. She corrected him that her "ultimate bias" was Black Widow, not the Hulk, and asserted that her polite demeanor in front of others was a choice, not a sign of weakness, as she didn't want to humiliate them. She declared her high IQ and strong psychological well-being.

Sun Kele, Lin Shen, and Xiao Xiao then burst into laughter, celebrating Zuo Yan's long-awaited emotional release. Sun Kele later found Zuo Yan, bringing two bottles of wine to apologize. In his relief, he accidentally revealed that the entire situation was a planned "act" for her own good. Zuo Yan, however, understood their intentions and did not hold a grudge, instead relishing the refreshing feeling of being able to openly express her true thoughts and feelings.

Later, Lin Shen used this experience to teach Xiao Xiao a lesson: Zuo Yan, despite knowing them better, found it easier to open up to the relatively unfamiliar Sun Kele. This, he explained, was due to Jung's "persona theory," where people might act differently in various social settings, often finding it easier to be their true selves with strangers who hold no pre-conceived notions.

Meanwhile, Yan Luo was drawing her comics nearby when Shao Lin joined her, strongly suggesting she give his character a love interest and teasingly proposing a "youthful maiden" as a partner, causing Yan Luo to blush. As they prepared for lunch, Fan Qi heard a child cry out "brother" from a distance and suddenly fainted. In the ambulance, Fan Qi kept dreaming of his past with his elder brother. In his sleep, he instinctively clutched Xiao Xiao's hand tightly.

When he awoke, Fan Qi recounted a story to Xiao Xiao about two brothers who depended on each other. The younger brother was mischievous, and the elder always protected him, taking responsibility for his misdeeds. For the younger brother, his elder sibling was the most important person in his life. However, the elder brother was also just a child and could only hide and cry when he was bullied. Over time, the younger brother, who is Fan Qi, developed a stress reaction whenever he heard crying.

Episode 10 Recap

Lin Shen drove Xiao Xiao home, meticulously reminding her to secure all doors and windows, suggesting she install a family alarm, and instructing her to contact him immediately if she noticed anything suspicious. As they arrived, they encountered Zuo Yan, who seemed distressed. Zuo Yan explained her phone was dead and asked if she could stay at Xiao Xiao's place for a few days, to which Xiao Xiao readily agreed.

Later that night, Zuo Yan confided in Xiao Xiao, expressing her desire to rediscover herself. She admitted that despite being a psychology major, she found it impossible to "cure herself" when it came to her relationship with her mother. Zuo Yan revealed that before coming to Xiao Xiao, she had a heated argument with her mother, who was relentlessly pressuring her to go on a blind date.

Zuo Yan had erupted, questioning why her mother insisted on imposing her ideas, asserting that her current life was not what she wanted, and ultimately accepted her mother's harsh accusation of being "heartless" and "ungrateful." Zuo Yan explained that both the argument and her sudden departure were intentional, knowing her mother would eventually seek her out at Shaolin.

She hoped that Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao could help both her and her mother move past their difficulties, entrusting Xiao Xiao with a diary to give to her mother. Soon after, Zuo Yan's mother arrived, believing her daughter's sudden change in personality was due to some recent trauma. Lin Shen intervened, asking the mother if she truly understood Zuo Yan.

The mother confidently asserted she knew her daughter, even producing a diary she believed contained all of Zuo Yan's secrets. However, Lin Shen then presented a different diary. He explained that just as she was unaware of this second diary, she was also unaware of another side to Zuo Yan.

The diary contained heartbreaking entries detailing Zuo Yan's childhood, including her mother's insistence on activities like tennis despite Zuo Yan's dislike, and a painful memory of her mother telling her to "go to live with your dad" after an argument. Zuo Yan's entries questioned if love was still right if it brought sadness and pain.

Lin Shen gently told the mother that "the verbal violence of those closest to us is more subtle and more hurtful," and that her unintentionally spoken words had become a "thorn" in Zuo Yan's heart. Overwhelmed by the revelations, the mother broke down in tears. Xiao Xiao further elaborated, emphasizing that maternal love, while selfless, could also be selfish.

She told Zuo Yan's mother that a child is an independent individual, and it was unfair to expect Zuo Yan to fulfill her mother's unachieved dreams. Xiao Xiao urged the mother to live her own life. This case provided Xiao Xiao with a profound realization: "for your own good" love, when forced, becomes suffocating.

She concluded that whether as parents or children, everyone is experiencing life for the first time, needing to learn and grow, and that true family love is about allowing each other the freedom to choose their own paths. Xiao Xiao's reflections deepened after receiving her graduate school acceptance letter.

She enthusiastically planned a celebratory dinner, initially hoping for a private one with Lin Shen, but her excitement quickly deflated when she discovered he had invited everyone, including Sun Kele, as a "surprise." Although the gesture was meant to be kind, Xiao Xiao's face fell. After the meal, Lin Shen subtly arranged for Sun Kele to take Zuo Yan home, implicitly taking on the responsibility of escorting Xiao Xiao.

However, Xiao Xiao, still feeling a bit put out, insisted on walking home to "aid digestion." Lin Shen agreed, leaving Xiao Xiao feeling even more vexed, wondering why he hadn't pressed to walk her home. As they walked and were near the elevator, Lin Shen suddenly pulled Xiao Xiao to hide. The person following them was identified as Li Yixin, Lin Shen's student, who, upon being caught, awkwardly made excuses and left.

Lin Shen, visibly concerned for Xiao Xiao's safety, explained his overreaction was due to recent news reports of women being followed and an earlier incident in Xiao Xiao's neighborhood, making him wary of anyone following them. Xiao Xiao teasingly asked if he was complimenting her beauty. Xiao Xiao soon began auditing Lin Shen's psychology class at Shenjiang University.

During one class, Lin Shen, ever the teasing mentor, sent her a text message complaining that her bun hairstyle was "too childish" for her. After class, they witnessed a heated argument between Li Yixin and another female student. The student accused Li Yixin of seducing her boyfriend, and during the altercation, Xiao Xiao was accidentally scratched on her forehead.

After reviewing the chat history on Li Yixin's phone, Xiao Xiao sided with Li Yixin, sternly telling the other student to control her boyfriend instead of blaming Li Yixin. The incident led to Xiao Xiao and Li Yixin becoming friends. Lin Shen later returned with a band-aid and meticulously dressed Xiao Xiao's wound, while also admonishing her.

He stressed that while it was right to help, her aggressive words only escalated conflict, and as a budding psychotherapist, she needed to better manage her emotions as "language is a powerful tool." Despite Lin Shen's caring actions, Xiao Xiao felt uncertain about his true feelings. She used a relationship test app, which concluded he saw her as "nothing more than a friend," leaving her feeling dejected. Later, Fan Qi invited Xiao Xiao to dinner.

Xiao Xiao complained about strangers adding her on WeChat and subtly probed Fan Qi for insights into Lin Shen's perplexing behavior, describing how this "friend's" crush would express concern but then include many others on dates. Fan Qi, amused by her indirect questioning, acknowledged her expertise as an emotional blogger. He then shared his own "experience," confessing he had developed feelings for a girl but was unsure how to proceed, indirectly asking for Xiao Xiao's advice.

Unaware that he was speaking about her, Xiao Xiao enthusiastically gave him a "mini-lesson" on courtship strategies like "playing hard-to-get" and "intermittent reinforcement," even referencing psychological concepts like the Zeigarnik effect and Skinner's pigeon experiment. She mused to herself if Lin Shen was using these very tactics on her. After dinner, as Fan Qi dropped her off, he subtly, and without her noticing, removed one of her earrings, his eyes holding an ambiguous glint.

Xiao Xiao, influenced by Lin Shen's earlier comment about her hairstyle, experimented with a more "mature and sexy" style, much to Yan Luo's disapproval. While shopping, they ran into Li Yixin, who politely declined Xiao Xiao’s invitation to dinner, citing other plans. In Lin Shen’s next class, his striking good looks continued to attract attention. When a female student boldly asked if he had a girlfriend, Lin Shen skillfully redirected her to focus on class-related questions.

Simultaneously, Xiao Xiao subtly projected a message onto the large screen: "This person is taken, no tilling allowed," a clear declaration against any further romantic advances towards Lin Shen. Adding to the series of coincidences, Li Yixin entered the classroom late, wearing an outfit identical to Xiao Xiao’s, playfully asking if Xiao Xiao minded the "matching outfit." Lin Shen, observing not just their identical clothes but also their similar hairstyles, began to suspect a deeper pattern.

Indeed, the imitations grew increasingly concerning. Yan Luo noticed Li Yixin had posted about her comic on her social media, claiming Xiao Xiao had shared Yan Luo’s pen name. Xiao Xiao denied ever doing so, realizing Li Yixin possessed information she shouldn't have known, and the repeated coincidences were unsettling. Lin Shen also noted these striking similarities, extending even to identical water cups.

In class, he specifically taught about the "chameleon effect," a psychological phenomenon where individuals mimic others to gain social acceptance, but subtly warned, with a pointed glance at Li Yixin, that "excessive imitation can become a pathological behavior." After class, Li Yixin immediately approached Xiao Xiao, tearfully claiming Lin Shen's lecture was a message Xiao Xiao had asked him to deliver to her.

She insisted she had "no ill intentions," explaining that she struggled to fit in and desperately wanted to emulate Xiao Xiao’s "confidence and charisma" because she felt "not cute enough." Xiao Xiao, empathizing, comforted her and assured her she held no resentment. At that very moment, Sun Kele sent Xiao Xiao a link. It was a video of Xiao Xiao confronting Li Yixin’s classmate, now uploaded online and sparking a massive wave of criticism against Xiao Xiao.

Soon after, a gift box arrived containing a photo of Xiao Xiao, marred with what appeared to be bloodstains. A frantic knocking at her door revealed Lin Shen, who had seen the online backlash. Worried for her safety, he decided to stay the night. Unable to sleep, Xiao Xiao crept to the sofa where he was feigning sleep, playfully remarking that his concern had brought him all the way to her home, surely indicating "designs" on her.

Lin Shen, still pretending to sleep, softly returned her "Goodnight." The next morning, Lin Shen urged Xiao Xiao to move into a hotel for her safety, a suggestion she initially dismissed, believing locking her doors would suffice. Zuo Yan and others expressed deep concern after Sun Kele revealed the threatening package. Shao Ning even offered to cover hotel costs, but Lin Shen curtly told him, "No need to worry about it."

Undeterred by the online abuse, Xiao Xiao still planned to work late and attend class the next day. However, a sudden power outage at the office prompted Lin Shen to insist on taking her home. On the subway, as Xiao Xiao prepared to exit at her stop, Lin Shen firmly grabbed her wrist, telling her to continue to the next stop and stay at his place.

He explained that as her boss, he had an obligation to protect her until the person who sent the threatening package was caught. He also cautioned her that the culprit might be someone she knew, rather than just a random "black fan." Upon arriving at Lin Shen's meticulously ordered apartment, Xiao Xiao was surprised to find a full set of new toiletries, all in her favorite colors, wondering how he knew her preferences.

Meanwhile, Li Yixin’s imitation of Xiao Xiao had escalated to an alarming degree. At a plastic surgery clinic, despite having recently undergone surgery, Li Yixin presented a photo of Xiao Xiao, demanding to have "a chin like hers."

Episode 11 Recap

Xiao Xiao informed Lin Shen that she would be having dinner with Li Yixin the following evening. She expressed sympathy for Li Yixin, who had few friends growing up and was often bullied by Sun Rui at school, adding that Li Yixin considered her a very good friend and had even offered to help gather evidence against Sun Rui for the anonymous online posts.

While walking past the school track, Xiao Xiao saw Li Yixin wiping sweat from a male student. This immediately reminded Xiao Xiao of Sun Rui's accusation that Li Yixin was a "third party," as the student's WeChat avatar closely resembled Sun Rui's boyfriend's. Noticing Xiao Xiao, Li Yixin quickly approached her, explaining that she was not flirting but was trying to extract Sun Rui's computer password from Peng Xu to help clear Xiao Xiao's name.

She passionately affirmed Xiao Xiao's importance as a friend and then revealed that she had feelings for someone else—a charismatic person who had supported her after a previous breakup. Xiao Xiao met Fan Qi to ask him to investigate the recent social media attacks and the background of the anonymous leaker. She casually mentioned that she was temporarily staying at a friend's house. Fan Qi readily agreed to help, but not without a condition.

In return, Xiao Xiao gave a psychology lecture on stress management at Dianfan Group, where Fan Qi was the CEO. During a celebratory dinner, Fan Qi announced an increase in year-end bonuses and publicly thanked Xiao Xiao. Later that night, a heavily intoxicated Xiao Xiao insisted she needed to be home by midnight. Fan Qi carefully dropped her off at Lin Shen's house, his demeanor outwardly gentlemanly but his internal feelings unsettled.

The next morning, Xiao Xiao, having blacked out again, apologized to Lin Shen and promised to cook hot pot for him that evening. As Lin Shen returned home from work, he saw a figure resembling Xiao Xiao lingering downstairs. Upon entering the apartment, he found Xiao Xiao already home, leading him to realize the person he saw downstairs was actually Li Yixin.

He pondered why Li Yixin would be at his building late at night, a concern that troubled him while Xiao Xiao remained oblivious. Li Yixin attempted to trade a picture of herself before plastic surgery for the full video from Sun Rui. Sun Rui, however, questioned the authenticity of the photo and threatened to delete all evidence, leading to a physical altercation in which Li Yixin sustained an injury to her face.

Lin Shen, passing by, intervened and took Li Yixin to the infirmary. Xiao Xiao, hearing the news, rushed to the scene but was pulled aside by Lin Shen to talk. Li Yixin explained that she had been trying to get the complete video from Sun Rui to clear Xiao Xiao's name and had been hesitant to involve Xiao Xiao earlier. Lin Shen confirmed he had already contacted the school, and someone would speak with Sun Rui.

Xiao Xiao expressed deep sympathy for Li Yixin, believing her to be the true victim in the situation, while Lin Shen remained silent. Noticing Li Yixin's adoring gaze at Lin Shen, Xiao Xiao finally realized Li Yixin's crush was indeed Lin Shen. Li Yixin confessed that Lin Shen was the one who had comforted her during her breakup, which made her feel special to him.

Li Yixin held Xiao Xiao's hand, stating that both Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen were profoundly special to her, and she intended to confess her feelings to Lin Shen. Troubled by this revelation, Xiao Xiao spent a sleepless night. Lin Shen, seeing her light still on, knocked on her door, but Xiao Xiao, remembering Li Yixin's words, chose not to answer. Shao Ning suggested a double date with Xiao Xiao, Lin Shen, and Yan Luo for the weekend.

Xiao Xiao informed him that Yan Luo already had plans, causing Shao Ning some disappointment. Xiao Xiao later confided in Lin Shen about her complicated feelings regarding Li Yixin, describing the situation as "too frustrating to keep silent, yet too delicate to discuss." Lin Shen offered her coffee with sugar, saying something sweet might help. As he naturally took the cup she had just used, some of her lipstick transferred to it.

An employee passing by caught a glimpse, misinterpreting the innocent gesture as a passionate kiss, leaving them stunned. Later, Fan Qi visited the office to return an earring Xiao Xiao had left in his car, visibly irritating Lin Shen, who reacted with thinly veiled jealousy. Shao Ning again advised Lin Shen that if he liked someone, he should actively pursue them, but Lin Shen remained uncertain if Xiao Xiao reciprocated his feelings, or if her affections lay with Fan Qi.

When Fan Qi invited Xiao Xiao to dinner, Lin Shen strategically assigned her extra work just as her workday was ending, successfully compelling her to cancel her plans with Fan Qi. It was revealed that Sun Rui was the one who edited and uploaded the video, and an identical razor blade to the one Xiao Xiao received was found in Sun Rui's dormitory. With the full video eventually released, Xiao Xiao's name was finally cleared.

Shortly after, Sun Rui's boyfriend, Peng Xu, approached Xiao Xiao, begging her to intercede on Sun Rui's behalf, explaining that expulsion would severely impact her combined bachelor's and master's degree and future employment. Sun Rui denied sending the razor blade, but Xiao Xiao was skeptical, pointing out that none of this would have happened if Peng Xu hadn't "flirted" with Li Yixin.

Peng Xu admitted his initial attraction to Li Yixin but soon realized she was deliberately playing hot and cold with him to provoke Sun Rui. He claimed Li Yixin had initiated their interactions by coming to watch him play basketball. Xiao Xiao countered that Li Yixin only approached him to get Sun Rui's computer password, but Peng Xu revealed that Sun Rui's computer never had a password and that Li Yixin and Sun Rui had actually been good friends previously.

Sensing a deeper deception, Xiao Xiao was shown chat logs by Peng Xu, which included messages Li Yixin had sent and then quickly unsent, along with four selfies, three of which were immediately withdrawn. Li Yixin had kept only the last photo, claiming she was too late to withdraw it, and later used a selfie Peng Xu complimented as her profile picture, revealing her calculated manipulation. Xiao Xiao visited Li Yixin's dormitory with a fruit basket, finding only Xue present.

Xue revealed she was allergic to peaches, and incidentally, Li Yixin also disliked peaches, despite Xiao Xiao having seen a peach receipt among Li Yixin's belongings before. Xue explained that she and Li Yixin were not close. Xue had developed an allergic cough just before classes started and feared being replaced as Lin Shen's teaching assistant. She initially wanted to ask Sun Rui for help, but Sun Rui was preoccupied with arguments with her boyfriend.

It was Li Yixin who then proactively offered to substitute for Xue. Xue further disclosed that Sun Rui and Li Yixin's feud stemmed from a stray cat named Little Orange that Li Yixin brought to the dorm during their first year of graduate school. Sun Rui disliked the cat, and after it ran away, the two had a major argument, leading to their estrangement. Xue characterized Sun Rui as open and straightforward, while Li Yixin preferred to be solitary.

After much consideration, Xiao Xiao decided to intercede for Sun Rui. Upon hearing Xiao Xiao's complete account, Lin Shen theorized that a different truth, or perhaps "another Li Yixin," might be hidden behind the entire situation. Just then, Li Yixin called Lin Shen, claiming her dorm mates were isolating her due to Sun Rui's punishment and asked to meet him at Shaolin. Lin Shen agreed, prompting Xiao Xiao to sarcastically remark about his "deadly charm."

Lin Shen provided psychological guidance to Li Yixin and suggested self-hypnosis to help her uncover the root of her anxiety. During her self-hypnosis session, Li Yixin vividly re-experienced intentionally scattering peach crumbs on Xue's desk.

Episode 12 Recap

Sun Dong was pitching his medical equipment project to various companies, but kept encountering rejections. During a meeting, he received a phone call from Zuo Yan, who asked if he was satisfied with Xiao Xiao's counseling and offered to transfer him to Lin Shen. Sun Dong, however, expressed great satisfaction with Xiao Xiao and insisted on continuing his sessions with her, stating he felt much better after a few consultations. Overhearing this, Fan Qi then intercepted Sun Dong.

Sun Dong, changing his mind, then asked Fan Qi to transfer his counseling to Lin Shen, citing the complexity of his case. Meanwhile, Lin Shen was conducting a hypnosis session with Li Yixin. Under hypnosis, Li Yixin found herself alone in her dorm room, hearing the incessant dripping of a faucet. She then witnessed herself entering the room and sprinkling peach crumbs on Xiaoxue’s bed. The scene shifted, and she saw herself replacing Xiaoxue as Lin Shen’s teaching assistant.

Still under hypnosis, when confronted and accused of being a homewrecker, she saw herself feigning weakness in front of Lin Shen. Startled, Li Yixin suddenly woke up from the hypnosis. Lin Shen deduced that she must have seen or heard something significant during the session, which was the true cause of her insomnia. He advised her to seek a psychologist with whom she had a purely professional relationship. Li Yixin hurriedly left.

Outside, Xiao Xiao was waiting, armed with a video from a neighbor’s surveillance camera, showing Li Yixin, expertly disguised, placing threatening items outside her door. Xiao Xiao also revealed that Li Yixin had planted a blade on Sun Rui's desk, which led to Sun Rui's suspension. When confronted by Xiao Xiao with evidence of her actions, Li Yixin tearfully admitted her wrongdoing and apologized.

Xiao Xiao urged Li Yixin to confess at school, emphasizing that everyone must take responsibility for their actions. She suggested that Li Yixin's behavior might stem from a lack of attention or love, but warned that such manipulative tactics would only lead to a loss of trust and prevent her from achieving genuine friendship and love. Xiao Xiao explained that Li Yixin’s “chameleon-like” behavior ultimately brought harm to herself and others, concluding that only sincerity could foster true connections.

After the Li Yixin incident concluded, colleagues planned a hot pot dinner at Boss Shao’s place. However, both Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao declined, stating they had other engagements that evening. Xiao Xiao even fabricated a story about needing to care for a new puppy. Later, at the supermarket, Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao were separated. Resourceful, Xiao Xiao used the public address system to locate Lin Shen by announcing that his "great aunt" was looking for him.

Unexpectedly, Shao Ning and Zuo Yan were also present. Lin Shen quickly pulled Xiao Xiao aside to hide. Shao Ning, however, seemed to have sensed something after hearing the broadcast about Lin Shen's great aunt and casually walked away with Zuo Yan. Worried about explaining their situation, Lin Shen urged Xiao Xiao to stay hidden while he dealt with Shao Ning.

Shao Ning immediately insisted that Lin Shen join them for hot pot, even sending a teasing phone message to "great aunt" (meant for Xiao Xiao). At Shao Ning’s home, Lin Shen was visibly distracted and in a sour mood throughout the dinner, while Xiao Xiao was at home enjoying her own hot pot, carefree and happy. When Lin Shen tried to leave, Shao Ning blocked his path and directly confronted him about their "office romance."

Lin Shen denied it was as Shao Ning thought, but then reluctantly admitted they were cohabiting. Shao Ning, feigning generosity, allowed him to leave, telling Zuo Yan and others that Lin Shen had to go home to care for his great aunt. Li Yixin received academic probation, facing the deserved consequences for her actions.

Xiao Xiao started packing her belongings to move back to her own place, deliberately lingering in front of Lin Shen, who eventually asked her to stay another night, citing a rainy forecast. Meanwhile, Sun Kele sent Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao a lengthy confession draft for Zuo Yan, asking for their advice. The two "never had a date" psychology experts gave him earnest advice on love psychology.

Lin Shen enthusiastically explained the neurological basis of love, describing how the brain produces chemicals that create an "illusion of love," and how techniques like the "Mere Exposure effect" and "Primacy effect" could stimulate attraction. Xiao Xiao added that the "Veblen effect" could make someone more desirable. Lin Shen then demonstrated a technique involving prolonged eye contact, suggesting that extending a gaze by two seconds in an intimate setting, like while waiting for coffee, could lead to a deeper connection.

As he demonstrated this with Xiao Xiao, the prolonged eye contact naturally culminated in a kiss. The next day, Yan Luo, having heard about Xiao Xiao’s recent living situation, gossiped about her and Lin Shen’s relationship, surprised that Xiao Xiao was now moving out. Annoyed, Xiao Xiao refuted Yan Luo’s notion that Lin Shen was not “good with words,” recounting how abruptly their kiss ended when Lin Shen, immediately afterwards, asked Sun Kele where their conversation had left off.

Xiao Xiao fumed, determined not to be the first to confess in this "love tug-of-war." Returning home, Lin Shen found the house quiet and empty without Xiao Xiao, feeling a sense of emptiness. At Yan Luo's book signing for "Dream Garden," an overly enthusiastic male fan made her uncomfortable. Shao Ning arrived just in time to intervene, dispersing the fan and then asking Yan Luo for a signed copy, mentioning he was a "civilized fan."

Separately, Xiao Xiao was conducting a hypnosis session with Sun Dong. Due to immense pressure from his failing online medical equipment project—Lejian, his former company, had faced a product recall, making investors wary of his new venture—the hypnosis was not going well. Sun Dong again expressed a desire to transfer his consultation to Lin Shen, to which Xiao Xiao agreed to discuss with Lin Shen before making a decision.

Later, Shao Ning confessed to Lin Shen that he had witnessed their kiss in the tearoom a few days prior, teasing Lin Shen about their "office romance" ending quickly. Lin Shen, looking dejected, explained that he wasn't being irresponsible, but rather unsure how to execute a "ritualistic confession," which Xiao Xiao's public account emphasized as crucial for a woman.

Shao Ning offered to create an opportunity for them, suggesting a dinner for the four of them—Lin Shen, Xiao Xiao, Yan Luo, and himself—under the guise of celebrating Yan Luo’s successful book sales. Lin Shen saw Xiao Xiao taking stomach medicine in the break room. Without a word, he took her cup and filled it with hot water, then brought her lunch to her office.

Xiao Xiao admitted that she had been pulling all-nighters for Sun Dong's case, which caused her stomachache. She explained that Sun Dong's online medical device project was in trouble. While his condition had improved with her counseling, it recently worsened, leading to self-harm. Xiao Xiao, despite being an intern counselor, genuinely wanted to help but felt at a loss. Lin Shen affirmed her competence, suggesting that Sun Dong might have encountered a sudden crisis.

Lin Shen mentioned Shao Ning’s dinner invitation for the weekend. Xiao Xiao agreed enthusiastically, wanting to sample Shao Ning's wine, but Lin Shen immediately reminded her of a past incident where she got drunk and was brought home by Fan Qi, advising against such a "dangerous idea." At Shao Ning's house for the dinner, Lin Shen kept a close eye on Xiao Xiao, preventing her from drinking too much.

Yan Luo, to her surprise, realized that Shao Ning was the one who had helped her buy a lamp at the supermarket previously. After dinner, Shao Ning subtly urged Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao to leave early, attempting to create a private moment for them. Yan Luo, helping Shao Ning clean the dishes, slowly realized his intentions. The small kitchen became charged with a subtle, awkward tension.

Feeling flustered, Yan Luo accidentally dropped and broke a plate, then quickly excused herself and left before Shao Ning could stop her. As Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao walked home, they encountered an old woman selling flowers. When the woman offered flowers for his "pretty girlfriend," Xiao Xiao quickly clarified that she was not his girlfriend.

Lin Shen, momentarily echoing her words, then quickly bought all the old woman's flowers, stating that while she wasn't his girlfriend now, it didn't mean she wouldn't be in the future. In the following days, a palpable tension lingered between Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen. Xiao Xiao even started wearing a ring on her index finger, clearly signaling her single status.

Shao Ning, however, was preoccupied with Yan Luo's behavior, suspecting she suffered from attachment injury due to her avoidance of his overt affections, and asked Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao for their help. Xiao Xiao discovered that Yan Luo was still taking sleeping pills, showing that the emotional damage from Wang Su persisted. Yan Luo finally confided in Xiao Xiao, admitting her exhaustion.

She revealed that every time she considered a new relationship or a fresh start, Wang Su would appear in her dreams, haunting her and preventing her from moving on, leaving her in a state of self-doubt. Concerned, Xiao Xiao went to Shao Ning to inquire about attachment injury cases, only then realizing the depth of his feelings for Yan Luo, as he explained that a counselor could not have an emotional connection with a patient.

Shao Ning gave Xiao Xiao two movie tickets to "Hunter of Hearts," a film he believed would offer insights into Yan Luo's situation, suggesting she and Lin Shen go together. However, upon arriving at the cinema, Lin Shen received an urgent phone call from his mother’s nursing home, forcing him to stand up Xiao Xiao. This entire situation was orchestrated by Fan Qi, who considered Xiao Xiao a crucial element in his larger scheme.

As Xiao Xiao waited alone and frustrated at the cinema, unable to reach Lin Shen, Fan Qi appeared as planned, approaching her with a seemingly innocent offer to grant her wishes.

Episode 13 Recap

Lin Shen’s mother suddenly experienced vomiting symptoms, and the doctor advised observing her for a period. Seeing his mother in such distress, Lin Shen felt terrible. After a moment of relief, he remembered that Xiao Xiao was still waiting for him outside the movie theater. He called her, but she had already turned off her phone in frustration, having torn up the movie tickets and was playing with a gashapon machine nearby.

It was then that Fan Qi appeared, offering to take her to a movie. Fan Qi asked what she was doing on a workday dressed up, and she explained she had been stood up. When he offered to watch a movie with her, she noted that all showings were sold out. Fan Qi confidently replied that he could find a way, taking her hand and leading her to the cinema.

At that moment, Lin Shen arrived and, pulling Xiao Xiao’s hand, reclaimed their date. Fan Qi, left behind, watched with cold eyes. The next morning, a gashapon machine appeared at the company, piquing everyone’s curiosity. Xiao Xiao noticed the familiar logo. Later, Sun Kele asked Xiao Xiao to help him choose a suit. He then nervously hid, eavesdropping on Zuo Yan’s blind date.

The date, Mr. Zhu, immediately began to scrutinize Zuo Yan’s age, expressing his desire for marriage and two children, specifically a boy because his mother liked boys. Zuo Yan struggled to maintain a smile as Sun Kele, positioning himself as her "back-up," verbally defended her from the critical Mr. Zhu. When Mr. Zhu became indignant, Zuo Yan took Sun Kele's hand, effectively promoting him to her official boyfriend.

Sun Kele was overjoyed, but Zuo Yan seemed to dismiss the gesture as a joke. As Sun Kele dejectedly got into his car, he realized he had left his jacket with Zuo Yan and quickly turned back. Unfortunately, he was too late; Zuo Yan had already discovered his small cheat sheet of "cheesy pickup lines." Sun Kele’s explanations were weak, so he decided to directly confess his feelings, acknowledging that his past self wouldn't have been good enough for her.

Zuo Yan, despite her dislike for "tricks," understood his sincerity. She chose to face her own feelings and accepted Sun Kele’s confession. The following morning, Xiao Xiao found Zuo Yan cheerfully making coffee, announcing her successful blind date from the previous night. Xiao Xiao, surprised, quickly called Sun Kele, who casually confirmed he was the one Zuo Yan had successfully dated.

Xiao Xiao felt an awkward mix of admiration and annoyance, wondering why there was such a gap between people, even Sun Kele could succeed in a confession. She then tried the gashapon machine, expecting a consolation prize, but instead received a slip of paper that read, "Be my girlfriend." Lin Shen appeared, playfully acting indifferent to Xiao Xiao's hopeful expression. When she feigned leaving, he pulled her into a hug.

Their passionate kiss in the tea room was calmly interrupted by Zuo Yan, who confirmed a consultation time with Sun Dong before serenely telling them to continue. With a blush, Xiao Xiao watched as Lin Shen removed her current ring and placed matching couple rings on both their fingers. Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao’s blossoming relationship was as bright and vibrant as a rainbow after rain. Lin Shen sent flowers to the front desk.

Xiao Xiao, expecting him to deliver them in person and eager not to wait until after work, brought coffee to his office during work hours. Lin Shen remained unresponsive to her subtle hints, which left Xiao Xiao pouting as she left. Finally, after work, Lin Shen took the bouquet to the nursing home. Xiao Xiao, curious, followed him and was, predictably, discovered.

Lin Shen wasn't angry; he took her hand and led her to his mother's bedside, introducing Xiao Xiao as his girlfriend. Xiao Xiao's eyes welled up as she clasped Lin Shen's hand, promising to visit his mother frequently in the future. Xiao Xiao preferred to keep their office romance discreet, believing public displays of affection often lead to bad outcomes. Lin Shen humored her, leaving a playful kiss as they parted ways. Of course, office romance also offered convenience.

Xiao Xiao would often visit Lin Shen’s office for a hug whenever she missed him. Unfortunately, this intimate moment was witnessed by Shao Ning, who was there to deliver Yan Luo's early comic.

The comic, an early work by Yan Luo that few had seen, was based on herself and contained three wishes: to eat a grand meal at the restaurant her parents only took her younger brother to, to restore the hand-painted porcelain plate her mother had broken, and to try every ride at an amusement park. Shao Ning determined that Yan Luo's condition was a complex trauma.

He planned to help her fulfill these three wishes before her birthday, hoping that creating beautiful new experiences could help neutralize the unhappiness in her past. During a pottery session, Yan Luo recounted how her mother had broken her hand-painted porcelain plate. She had been deeply saddened and, unable to part with the fragments, had kept them in a drawer, though they could never be reassembled into their original form.

Shao Ning gently reminded her that the pottery wheel was now in her hands, allowing her to sculpt anything she desired. He stressed that the old plate was beyond repair and that this was an opportunity for a fresh start. Beside them, Zuo Yan and Sun Kele, along with Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao, were also engaged in pottery, playfully teasing each other. Lin Shen took a cup Xiao Xiao had made.

Yan Luo light-heartedly warned Xiao Xiao that giving someone a "cup" (杯子, beizi) could symbolize "a lifetime" (一辈子, yibeizi) between lovers. Realizing Lin Shen’s true intention, Xiao Xiao playfully called him an "old fox." Next, Shao Ning took Yan Luo to an amusement park to fulfill her wishes. To give them some private time, Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen went to enjoy other rides. Yan Luo and Shao Ning rode the Ferris wheel to its highest point.

It was Yan Luo’s first time; when she was a child, her mother had deemed the ticket too expensive, only taking her younger brother up, leaving Yan Luo with just an ice cream. Now, Yan Luo and Shao Ning shared an ice cream as they chatted.

Shao Ning spoke thoughtfully, subtly guiding Yan Luo to move past her past and encouraging her to find the courage for new beginnings, emphasizing that the subjective perception of time can be altered by one’s state of mind and environment. As other couples loudly declared their love, Xiao Xiao pouted and told Lin Shen that she wanted him to do the same, as he had never formally said "I like you."

Lin Shen deliberately avoided her request, only to surprise her with a kiss on her lips when she least expected it. By the sea at sunset, Xiao Xiao rode on Lin Shen’s back, whispering cheesy pickup lines, making the seawater seem sweet. Xiao Xiao often visited Lin Shen’s mother. One day, a heavy rainstorm hit. Lin Shen, leaving the nursing home, rushed into a convenience store to buy an umbrella, only to find his phone missing.

Xiao Xiao, using cash to pay, borrowed the store’s phone to call her own, but to no avail. Meanwhile, a mysterious figure in black covertly entered the nursing home and cut the power. When the lights flickered back on, Lin Shen's mother was discovered foaming at the mouth by Xiao Xiao, who had returned to retrieve Lin Shen’s phone. Xiao Xiao quickly alerted the doctors for emergency resuscitation.

After a night of uncertainty, Lin Shen’s mother recovered, and Xiao Xiao, exhausted, dozed off on a sofa. A nurse praised Lin Shen for having such a good girlfriend who frequently visited his mother when he was busy. Lin Shen, touched and grateful, realized that if Xiao Xiao hadn’t returned in time, the consequences could have been catastrophic.

He learned that the monitoring device’s alarm had malfunctioned, a problem the nursing home claimed had never occurred before, especially with their Lejian products, which were not from the recalled batch. They vowed to investigate, replace all Lejian products, and hold the company accountable, acknowledging that this might put more pressure on Sun Dong. Lin Shen’s mother’s finger suddenly twitched. Xiao Xiao rushed out to call the doctor.

Lin Shen, disbelieving, sat by his mother’s bed, watching with tear-filled eyes as she slowly awoke. In the following days, Lin Shen’s mother began rehabilitation with the constant companionship of Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao. Due to her prolonged coma, speaking was still a struggle. One day, Xiao Xiao specifically bought savory pastries to visit Lin Shen's mother. Lin Shen’s mother, with difficulty, asked Xiao Xiao to take her somewhere. Upon seeing the car, she reacted with visible tension.

Xiao Xiao initially thought Lin Shen’s mother also feared cars, but his mother still got in. It was then that Xiao Xiao understood that Lin Shen also became nervous in cars, realizing that the car accident years ago had deeply traumatized both mother and son. Returning from a familiar market, Lin Shen’s mother held a Monkey King sugar figurine. She presented it to Lin Shen upon seeing him. Lin Shen was touched, recognizing it as a cherished childhood obsession.

Lin Shen’s mother recounted the details of the car accident to Xiao Xiao, finally revealing the source of Lin Shen’s car phobia. Given their special relationship, Xiao Xiao could only assist Lin Shen with self-hypnosis rather than provide professional counseling. During the hypnosis, Lin Shen envisioned his childhood home, warmly decorated with a photo of him and his mother on the table. Xiao Xiao guided him to open a door he couldn't open before.

Lin Shen experienced great distress, but, struggling, he bravely opened the door, only to find an endless series of identical doors behind it. Since Lin Shen himself had taught Xiao Xiao the hypnotic techniques, her words were not very effective, making it difficult for him to enter a deep hypnotic state. What lay beyond that door remained a mystery to Lin Shen. Sun Dong asked Lin Shen to prescribe some sedatives.

Lin Shen politely explained that his clinic was not a hospital and could not dispense medication, suggesting Sun Dong contact a psychiatrist at a partner hospital for drug therapy combined with psychological counseling. Later, Lin Shen became notably jealous when he saw Xiao Xiao discussing Yan Luo’s case with Shao Ning. The nursing home then called Xiao Xiao, reporting that Lin Shen’s mother was in trouble, as they couldn't reach Lin Shen's phone and urged them to go there immediately.

Episode 14 Recap

Xiao Xiao received an urgent call from the nursing home about Lin Shen's mother. Since Lin Shen's phone was unreachable, Xiao Xiao quickly informed him. Despite his deep-seated fear of cars, Lin Shen was compelled to travel by car to the nursing home, with Xiao Xiao patiently accompanying him to help him manage his anxiety.

During the ride, Lin Shen was overwhelmed by flashbacks of the car accident from years ago, reliving the moment he tried to grab the steering wheel from his mother. To process his trauma, Lin Shen entered a hypnotic state. In this state, he revisited the day of the accident, believing his mother rushed because he had overslept by fifteen minutes. However, in the hypnosis, it was revealed that he was actually running a fever that day.

Xiao Xiao guided him, explaining that his mother's strictness stemmed from her desire for him to be exceptional. She encouraged Lin Shen to express his discomfort, urging him to try a different approach, as he might find an unexpected outcome. Following her guidance, Lin Shen spoke up about his illness, and in the hypnotic state, his mother tenderly checked his temperature and called Ms. Liu to excuse him from advanced math class.

This realization brought a sense of peace to Lin Shen. Xiao Xiao gave the pre-arranged code word to conclude the hypnosis, but Lin Shen remained unresponsive, causing her concern that he might be trapped in his subconscious. Thankfully, he soon awoke, realizing that the entire incident involving his mother was a carefully orchestrated scenario by himself, Shao Ning, and Aunt Qi, designed to help him overcome his car phobia through exposure therapy and hypnosis.

Upon exiting the car, Lin Shen rushed to his mother, who explained that while she didn't understand hypnosis, she had conveyed her true feelings to Xiao Xiao. Lin Shen's mother expressed her deep sorrow for his suffering over the years, and Xiao Xiao was deeply moved watching them embrace. With both company bosses on leave, Lin Shen dedicated his time to his mother, while Shao Ning’s vacation was dedicated to Yan Luo. Shao Ning took Yan Luo paragliding.

As they soared through the sky like birds, Shao Ning encouraged Yan Luo to open her eyes and embrace the beautiful experience. Yan Luo admitted that flying felt more wonderful than her dreams, which were often unpleasant. She recounted a dream of falling into a vast sea, being dragged down, until a blue ribbon transformed into a pair of hands that gently lifted her back to the surface.

Shao Ning interpreted this as an emotional dream, with the sea representing emotions, the ribbon symbolizing human connection, and the hands signifying someone who cared for her, confirming a mutual bond in reality. To address her attachment injury, Shao Ning proposed a "limited boyfriend" arrangement for one week, during which Yan Luo could be her true self, and he would provide a safe space to overcome her fears.

After a moment of hesitation, Yan Luo took his outstretched hand, willing to try. As Shao Ning dropped Yan Luo off at home, they encountered Yan Luo’s mother. Delighted to learn Shao Ning owned a company, Yan Luo's mother, whose son was seeking an internship, eagerly asked for his help. Shao Ning promised to assist and offered to treat the family to dinner.

After Shao Ning departed, Yan Luo’s mother scolded her for lavishly spending on a man, emphasizing that a girl should never financially support a boyfriend. Yan Luo tried to explain that Shao Ning appreciated her, but her mother relentlessly questioned what qualities Yan Luo possessed that would garner such appreciation. Faced with her mother’s continuous belittling, Yan Luo’s smile stiffened. She declared that she would manage her own earnings and no longer give her mother any money.

Her mother reacted furiously, bringing up past sacrifices she made, asking if Yan Luo would be where she was today without her. Feeling suffocated by her mother's words, Yan Luo found strength in the encouragement she had received from Shao Ning and Xiao Xiao. She bravely pushed back, asserting her worth, her independence from being an extension of the family, and her determination to control her own life.

Infuriated, Yan Luo's mother spat in frustration and, before leaving, snatched the gift Shao Ning had given Yan Luo. As tears welled up, Shao Ning reappeared, comforting her. In his arms, Yan Luo finally voiced all the feelings she had suppressed for years and wept freely. Xiao Xiao was captivated by Yan Luo’s fan art of Shao Ning, playfully praising Shao Ning’s looks. When Lin Shen showed signs of jealousy, she quickly appeased him with a kiss.

Lin Shen's vacation was a cycle of caring for his mother and cooking for Xiao Xiao, who complained about gaining weight. Lin Shen then used the pretext of "burning calories" to whisk Xiao Xiao away to their room for a playful workout. Their apartment gradually filled with matching couple’s items, making the wardrobe feel much smaller. With Lin Shen’s patient guidance, Xiao Xiao learned to drive, and they enjoyed a cozy evening at a car cinema.

She noted how different their relationship was from their first visit, now a "deeper partnership." Xiao Xiao planned to introduce Lin Shen to her parents that weekend. While Lin Shen was on his way to pick her up, he received a call from Shao Ning, alerting him to an emergency. Lin Shen then called Xiao Xiao, asking her to take the high-speed rail ahead, and he would drive later.

Meanwhile, Sun Dong had gone missing, leaving behind a journal that detailed his psychological turmoil after learning Lin Shen’s mother had used the faulty ECG monitor he distributed. He viewed himself as a sinner. Sun Dong's family reported his disappearance, suspecting that Lin Shen had used negative psychological suggestions during their sessions, exacerbating Sun Dong's depression. They also highlighted that Lin Shen had ceased recording sessions after the monitor incident.

Lin Shen refuted these claims, stating he never mentioned his mother to Sun Dong, and the recordings stopped at Sun Dong's request because the camera made him nervous. However, the police grew suspicious of Lin Shen's connection to Sun Dong’s disappearance, and the story rapidly spread across social media with a notably consistent narrative.

Shao Ning warned Lin Shen to prepare for a difficult battle, as Sun Dong's family was clearly targeting him, and urged him to protect Xiao Xiao from being implicated. Alarmed by Lin Shen’s sudden silence, Xiao Xiao, who had been unable to reach him via texts or calls, rushed back from her hometown, bringing her mother’s homemade omelet rice. She eagerly presented it to Lin Shen, but he was distant and somber.

He then abruptly proposed they break up, citing incompatibility. Xiao Xiao refused to accept his reasoning, convinced he was facing a problem she could help him confront. Lin Shen pulled his hand away, insisting he was "fine on his own," despite his evident distress. Heartbroken and confused, Xiao Xiao tearfully left.

An anonymous party submitted defamatory articles against Shaolin to a psychological magazine, but Shao Ning, leveraging his connections, managed to prevent their widespread publication, realizing it was a deliberate and complex attack. Following the breakup, Xiao Xiao immediately resigned from Shaolin. Sun Kele, trying to cheer her up, booked a "vacation" to Changle Homestay for her. As Xiao Xiao flew away, Lin Shen felt an emptiness, while their colleagues puzzled over Xiao Xiao's unexpected travel posts.

Lin Shen, alone, played a gashapon machine, receiving various messages, including love confessions. At her guesthouse, Xiao Xiao was devastated to see news reports of Lin Shen’s police investigation, accidentally dropping and breaking her phone in her distress. Shaolin's situation worsened when Sun Dong was found, having called the police himself.

After ruling out foul play, police discovered a recording on Sun Dong’s phone, purportedly of Lin Shen, suggesting that he induced Sun Dong to find "release" by "dying in his sleep." Lin Shen vehemently denied ever uttering such words. Xiao Xiao meticulously analyzed the Sun Dong case, noticing a chain of interconnected coincidences that appeared too perfectly aligned, implying a calculated plot. She observed that Sun Dong's emotional fluctuations had consistently correlated with the investment company’s actions.

The online narrative, while thoroughly exposing Lin Shen’s background, conveniently omitted Sun Dong’s significant business struggles. Worried for Lin Shen, Xiao Xiao saw news of a mudslide in the area where she was staying. Lin Shen also saw the news and tried to call her, but her broken phone prevented him from connecting. The next morning, Fan Qi arrived at her guesthouse with breakfast, having rushed over after hearing about the mudslide and being unable to reach her.

Shortly after, Lin Shen also arrived, looking displeased to find Fan Qi there. Feeling awkward caught between the two men, Xiao Xiao quickly made excuses to send them away. Later that evening, Lin Shen returned to the guesthouse. Xiao Xiao revealed her findings regarding the Sun Dong incident and requested his help. Under Lin Shen’s guidance, Xiao Xiao entered a hypnotic state to revisit her past sessions with Sun Dong.

During this memory, she noticed the "Exemplar Company" logo on a document that had fallen. Suddenly, Fan Qi knocked on the door. Xiao Xiao swiftly hid Lin Shen in the bathroom, wanting to understand Fan Qi's motives for a private conversation so late at night. Fan Qi presented her with a new phone and food. He then asked to use the bathroom, causing a moment of tense anxiety for Xiao Xiao.

Episode 15 Recap

At the welfare house, young A Yan introduced himself and his younger brother, Xiao Qi, to A Yuan. A Yan became "big brother Yan," A Yuan "second brother Yuan," and Xiao Qi "third brother Qi." During an incident where A Yan and Xiao Qi defended A Yuan from a bully, A Yuan got a cut on his hand that would become a scar.

Young Xiao Qi promised to earn a lot of money to buy endless sugar-coated haws for his brothers. Years later, Fan Qi (formerly Xiao Qi) returned to the old welfare house, observing old photographs and memories. Back at a guest house, Xiao Xiao was flustered when Fan Qi opened the bathroom door and pulled back the shower curtain, thinking Lin Shen was hiding. Fan Qi simply intended to show her a better way to hang laundry.

He then received a phone call, and told Xiao Xiao that temporary work had come up, preventing him from joining her for drinks. After he left, Lin Shen emerged from the bubble-filled tub, soaking wet from holding his breath. He playfully pulled Xiao Xiao into the bath and, seeing her flushed face, warned her against drinking at all, and especially with Fan Qi. Xiao Xiao, seemingly in retaliation, echoed Lin Shen's earlier breakup phrase, "I'm fine on my own.

Thanks," before Lin Shen silenced her with a kiss. He then explained that this was why he couldn't let Fan Qi know she was in his room. As the rain continued, Xiao Xiao revealed to Lin Shen that she had clearly seen the logo of Sun Dong’s new investment company: Dianfan Group. She found it suspicious that Fan Qi had never mentioned Sun Dong’s serious situation. Lin Shen immediately contacted Shao Ning, asking him to investigate Fan Qi.

Later, Xiao Xiao had dinner with Fan Qi and intentionally brought up Sun Dong's situation, mentioning that Lin Shen was in professional trouble because one of his patients attempted suicide, and the family was accusing Lin Shen of inducing it, which led to Shaolin's forced closure. Fan Qi acknowledged Lin Shen’s immense pressure but showed little other reaction.

After taking Xiao Xiao back to the guest house, Fan Qi advised her to let bygones be bygones, suggesting that the happiness Lin Shen once provided would eventually be given to her by someone else. He gave her a comforting hug before leaving, noting she seemed unhappy, unlike her usual self. Lin Shen, having ordered a cake and flowers, was embarrassed to realize it was not yet Xiao Xiao's actual birthday.

They sat by the window, drinking, and eventually fell asleep. Lin Shen woke up after midnight, lit the candles, and, unable to wake Xiao Xiao, silently wished for her eternal happiness. He covered her with a blanket, playfully dabbed cream on her nose, and then left. Xiao Xiao woke shortly after he departed and blew out the candles on the cake.

In a separate moment of reflection after being injured, Lin Shen pondered that while fear of loss can make one feel weak, weakness itself is a normal emotion. Lin Shen attempted to leave Xiao Xiao behind, but she caught up with him at the airport, boarding the same flight.

She confronted him, acknowledging his intention to protect her from his dangerous predicament by breaking up and leaving her, but pointed out he never asked if she "wanted" to face it with him. Despite his reluctance, she declared her willingness to stand by him. Meanwhile, Fan Qi arrived at the guest house with flowers for Xiao Xiao's birthday, only to discover she had already checked out, a development that, he confirmed via phone call, was part of his "original plan."

On the plane, Xiao Xiao suddenly awoke from a dream where Lin Shen was arrested upon landing, clutching his arm in panic. Shao Ning informed Lin Shen that Sun Dong's family was completely uncooperative, and information remained limited. He also shared his findings on Fan Qi: an only child, raised abroad by his wealthy businessman father, who had only recently returned to China to start his own ventures. Shao Ning could not confirm any direct investment in Sun Dong's company.

Xiao Xiao, hearing this, found it puzzling, remembering Fan Qi had previously spoken of having a brother, creating two conflicting narratives about his background. Later, Zuo Yan called, reporting that people were blocking the doors of Shaolin again, including the back entrance. Lin Shen instructed Zuo Yan to remain inside, avoid conflict, and check surveillance footage for suspicious individuals or vehicles that had been present during previous disturbances.

Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao agreed it was time to move from being reactive to proactive. Zuo Yan discovered that a particular car consistently parked at the same spot whenever there was unrest at Shaolin, leaving only after the crowds dispersed. Sun Kele, having infiltrated the protesting crowd, learned they were organized and awaiting signals from their "boss." When the police arrived and scattered the crowd, Sun Kele confronted one of the instigators about payment.

Shao Ning then secretly followed the car and photographed the driver's side profile. Lin Shen immediately recognized the face: the same individual who had hit his car during a team-building event and later impersonated a repairman at the nursing home. Deeming it too dangerous to pursue further, Lin Shen instructed Shao Ning to report the car's license plate to the police.

Shao Ning quickly traced the vehicle to Xingyao Media, a company whose major shareholder was Dianfan Group, owned by Fan Qi. They also discovered that Lin Shen's ID and home address had been leaked. Although the precise motive was still unclear, they now definitively knew their adversary. Xiao Xiao believed Sun Dong was the key to unlocking the truth of the events and was determined to help Lin Shen.

Despite Mrs. Sun’s initial hostility, Xiao Xiao persistently visited Sun Dong in the hospital, assisting with his care by performing massages and regulating room conditions, eventually winning Mrs. Sun’s trust. During this time, Lin Shen noted he was being followed and decided to work separately from Shao Ning for safety. Fan Qi invited Xiao Xiao to a belated birthday celebration.

Xiao Xiao explained that Lin Shen was facing trouble, and despite their breakup, he remained a very important person, like family, to her. When she questioned Fan Qi again about his brother, he changed his story, insisting he was an only child. Xiao Xiao subtly took a picture of Fan Qi's cufflink and showed it to Yan Luo, who, thanks to her parents' tailor shop background, recognized it as an accessory from a traditional custom suit store.

Their search led them to a century-old shop, where the owner confirmed it was their unique design, with only a few ever made, specially customized by a buyer named Lu Yan. Xiao Xiao excitedly believed she had found a crucial lead, only for Lin Shen to deliver the startling news: Lu Yan was dead. Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao visited the welfare house, the place where Fan Qi and Lu Yan had lived.

The head explained that the photos on the wall were put up by Fan Qi on behalf of his brother when he returned. Fan Qi's original name was Lu Qi, but Lu Yan, being stubborn, never changed his surname after his adoption. Huang Yuan, who shared a room with them, became close friends with the brothers after they defended him from bullies, an incident that left Huang Yuan with a scar on his hand.

The full picture began to emerge: Fan Qi and Lu Yan, adopted by different families, experienced vastly different lives. Fan Qi was adopted by a wealthy businessman and received an elite education abroad, while Lu Yan faced a more challenging path, being abandoned multiple times. Despite starting a transportation company, Lu Yan met a tragic end, dying of a sudden heart attack in detention after being arrested for a criminal offense for intentionally hitting someone with his car.

The victim of that accident was Zhou Rui, a former financial director of Dianfan Group and a client of Lin Shen's who had just left Lin Shen's office on the day of the incident. Lin Shen realized he was the sole eyewitness to the accident, making him Fan Qi's target. According to Lu Yan's testimony, he and Zhou Rui had an argument when Zhou Rui hired him for moving services.

Lu Yan, with a strong sense of self-esteem, harbored resentment and intended to teach Zhou Rui a lesson. However, after hitting Zhou Rui with his car, he was recognized, leading him to, without hesitation, kill Zhou Rui. Lin Shen now found this account suspicious, especially considering Zhou Rui's past role at Dianfan Group.

Armed with the cufflink, Lin Shen confronted Fan Qi, presenting him with the story of two brothers who, after losing their family, were separated by fate but cherished their bond. He explained how the cufflink symbolized their precious connection, a gift from the elder brother to the younger. Fan Qi's composure visibly broke, and a tear rolled down his face as he softly called out "Brother." Lin Shen directly asked if Sun Dong’s suicide attempt was connected to him.

Fan Qi then recounted his own version of a story: a man who lost the most important person in his life, found the culprit, and vowed to make him suffer a similar loss, to ruin his reputation, and stated that even this would "not be enough." Fan Qi, however, denied being the protagonist of his own story, claiming his interaction with Lin Shen was solely due to his pursuit of Xiao Xiao.

He then issued a veiled threat, mentioning Lin Shen's mother in the hospital and implying that the victim's family in Lin Shen's case could cause harm there. Sun Dong regained consciousness but suffered from amnesia. Lin Shen and Xiao Xiao collaborated to help him recover his memory.

Recognizing Sun Dong's highly sensitive sense of smell, they decided to try awakening his olfactory memory, a concept Xiao Xiao brought up, mentioning how the scent of maple sugar reminded her of Lin Shen. Xiao Xiao continued her diligent care, and when she brought sleep-aid aromatherapy, Sun Dong found the scent eerily familiar. With Mrs. Sun's reluctant consent, Xiao Xiao continued using olfactory stimulation.

She expressed her belief in Lin Shen’s innocence, stating that the truth was not as it seemed, and was not afraid that Sun Dong might accuse him. Both Lin Shen and Mrs. Sun received calls from Officer Chen, confirming that the recording implicating Lin Shen had been edited and manipulated, indicating a deeper conspiracy. Lin Shen speculated that Sun Dong might also recognize the unique scent from Fan Qi’s office, a scent Lin Shen had been trying to identify.

Xiao Xiao also noticed a peculiar link: a song Fan Qi had hummed while in the ambulance was remarkably similar to a new piano piece, "Paper Airplane," that Sun Dong’s daughter had learned, suggesting Fan Qi might have taught it to her. In the hospital room, as Sun Dong inhaled the familiar aroma, he experienced vivid flashbacks of Fan Qi's manipulative words, instructing him to feign suicide to accuse Lin Shen in exchange for solving his debts.

His memory fully returned. Lin Shen then revealed to Sun Dong that Fan Qi was the one who taught his daughter the piano piece, "Paper Airplane," confirming that Fan Qi had thoroughly investigated Sun Dong's family and life before choosing him as a pawn. Lin Shen warned that Fan Qi, capable of such harm to Sun Dong, could also harm his daughter.

Mrs. Sun tearfully conveyed her gratitude for Xiao Xiao’s unwavering care and Lin Shen’s compassion in covering medical expenses and not pressing charges despite his mother's related incident. Deeply conflicted, Sun Dong ultimately decided to cooperate with the police, revealing that Fan Qi had instructed him to fabricate diary entries and had others edit the recording before sending it to him. Sun Dong had secretly recorded his own conversations with Fan Qi, providing crucial evidence.

Fan Qi informed Xiao Xiao that he was leaving for a "very distant place." Xiao Xiao casually reached for her phone, but Fan Qi gently stopped her, saying he had few friends growing up and considered knowing her an honor. He then asked if she had ever desired to protect someone. Xiao Xiao replied that she wished to protect her family, her friends, and Lin Shen. Fan Qi gave her another gift, advising her to open it later.

They shared a knowing glance, the unspoken truth hanging between them, before Fan Qi departed. Xiao Xiao immediately called Lin Shen to relay the news of Fan Qi’s departure, but before she could leave the coffee shop, Huang Yuan suddenly appeared and abducted her.

Episode 16 (Ending) Recap

Sun Dong confessed to the police that Fan Qi had instigated him to forge the contents of journals and edit recordings to frame Lin Shen. Sun Dong provided a recording of his conversation with Fan Qi as proof. Meanwhile, Fan Qi had already left his home before the police arrived and went to meet Xiao Xiao. He informed her that he was leaving for a distant place. Xiao Xiao instinctively reached for her phone, but Fan Qi stopped her.

He shared that he had always had few friends since childhood and considered it an honor to know her. Fan Qi then asked Xiao Xiao if she would ever wish to protect someone in her life. She replied that she would protect her family, friends, and Lin Shen. A look of dejection crossed Fan Qi's face upon hearing this. He then gave Xiao Xiao a gift, telling her to open it later, and departed.

Xiao Xiao immediately called Lin Shen to tell him about Fan Qi's departure, but before she could leave, Huang Yuan kidnapped her, leaving only her phone behind for Lin Shen to find. Fan Qi had made arrangements, using a phone number and a house not registered in his name, instructing Huang Yuan to lay low. However, Huang Yuan refused to leave, instead secretly kidnapping Xiao Xiao.

When Fan Qi learned of this, he desperately pleaded with Huang Yuan not to involve Xiao Xiao, insisting she had nothing to do with their plans. Huang Yuan remained indifferent, stating that since Fan Qi was already "trapped," he would ensure Xiao Xiao’s safety. Lin Shen quickly deduced that Huang Yuan was responsible for Xiao Xiao's abduction, and the police also initiated an investigation.

Lin Shen then received a photo of a bound Xiao Xiao and a chilling warning not to involve the police, or he couldn't guarantee her safety. The police found that the number was a virtual one, constantly changing its IP address, making it impossible to trace. Undercover officers shadowed Lin Shen, but he managed to shake them off by switching subways several times.

He followed Huang Yuan's instructions to a bathroom at the end of a platform, where he found a new phone. Huang Yuan, seemingly aware of the police presence, issued another warning via the new phone, cautioning Lin Shen not to bring any additional items or people, otherwise, he couldn't assure Xiao Xiao's safety. Upon reaching the abandoned factory, Lin Shen was ambushed and beaten by Fan Qi before he could even see Xiao Xiao.

Fan Qi's deep-seated hatred for Lin Shen resurfaced, as he blamed Lin Shen for Lu Yan's death. Lin Shen calmly pieced together the truth: Lu Yan had intentionally run over Zhou Rui, Fan Qi's former company accountant, to protect Fan Qi from Zhou Rui's blackmail regarding Fan Qi's economic crimes. Lu Yan had also hidden his own illness, ultimately dying in custody, all to shield Fan Qi.

Lin Shen concluded that Fan Qi was well aware that he was responsible for Lu Yan's death, and to escape the crushing despair and guilt, he had created Lin Shen as a convenient "enemy" onto whom he could project his blame. Fan Qi vehemently denied this, clinging to his accusation that if not for Lin Shen, his brother would still be alive.

Meanwhile, the police had covertly attached a listening and positioning device to Lin Shen's button, but he cleverly transferred it to a passerby, misleading their pursuit. Xiao Xiao regained consciousness to find herself tied up by the sea, quickly realizing her captor was Huang Yuan. Huang Yuan explained that Lu Yan loved the sea, so he had buried him there. Like Fan Qi, Huang Yuan believed Lin Shen was responsible for Lu Yan's death.

He then revealed his original intent to kill Lin Shen's mother, Qi Fang, at the sanatorium, but Xiao Xiao had intervened and saved her. Therefore, Huang Yuan declared, Xiao Xiao would die in Qi Fang's place to atone for Lu Yan. He began repeatedly submerging Xiao Xiao into the sea. At the factory, Fan Qi, still on the phone with Huang Yuan, overheard Xiao Xiao's pleas.

Although he had just stabbed Lin Shen in the abdomen, he urged Huang Yuan to release Xiao Xiao, admitting he didn't want to lose her after losing Lu Yan. Huang Yuan, however, was resolute in his plan and placed Xiao Xiao in the trunk of a car. Despite his severe injury, Lin Shen used a moment of opportunity to overpower Fan Qi, but the abdominal wound proved too much, and he soon lost consciousness.

When the police finally stormed the factory, Fan Qi had already doused the area with gasoline and tossed a lighter. Witnessing the ensuing blaze, Lin Shen, still alive, courageously leaped into the sea. Fan Qi met his end in a hail of police gunfire, paying the ultimate price for his actions. Lin Shen, critically wounded with a severe abdominal wound, was rushed into surgery.

Xiao Xiao’s car, with her still in the trunk, was pushed into the sea by Huang Yuan, leaving her fate unknown. Miraculously, a while later, in a bustling hospital, Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen, both clad in hospital gowns and having narrowly escaped death, were reunited. Seeing each other safe, their eyes welled up with tears, and their smiles were a mixture of bitterness and profound happiness, grateful to be alive. Following Huang Yuan's arrest, new evidence emerged.

It was confirmed that Lu Yan had committed crimes to protect Fan Qi, and in a surprising revelation from the orphanage director, Fan Qi's adoptive parents had initially intended to adopt Lu Yan, who selflessly gave that opportunity to his younger brother. Fan Qi's deep-seated paranoia prevented him from accepting the truth of his brother's death, leading him to displace his hatred onto the past.

Among Lu Yan's belongings from the detention center, a paper airplane and a children's book were found, the airplane bearing cryptic numbers. Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen, recalling the brothers' childhood method of secret communication using book page numbers, deciphered Lu Yan's dying message: "Forget about me and live a good life." Xiao Xiao reflected that perhaps if Fan Qi had seen this message earlier, he might not have embarked on such a destructive path.

Xiao Xiao eventually opened the gift Fan Qi had given her. It contained a letter from Fan Qi, where he continued the story of the two brothers. He recounted that despite their humble origins in the orphanage, those early days were the happiest of their lives. After their separation, Fan Qi's life course changed, but he never gave up searching for his brother, eventually reuniting with him years later. As children, they often pondered what the unseen "distance" might hold.

Even as an adult, Fan Qi admitted he still couldn't truly grasp that "distance," but perhaps loving others and being loved in return constituted the profoundest meaning of life. He wondered if meeting Xiao Xiao under different circumstances might have led to a different outcome, an answer he knew he could never find, and through this letter, he confessed his love for her.

Lin Shen later reflected on the nature of love, stating that there is no single definition as it manifests in countless forms. However, he emphasized that no matter its form, love should never be expressed through extreme or criminal acts. One year later, life had moved on.

Shao Ning thoughtfully selected a diamond ring from the Extreme Star's Heart Wing series, a piece signifying the "freedom of love and a lifetime of companionship," as he prepared to propose to Yan Luo, whom he described as talented, quiet, and beautiful. Xiao Xiao and Lin Shen's relationship had deepened considerably.

Xiao Xiao received an email confirming her acceptance into a three-month international academic exchange in psychology in the UK, to be followed by a year of global psychological aid with her university. She found herself conflicted, torn between this rare opportunity for professional growth, driven by a desire to become more outstanding and strong to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Lin Shen, and the prospect of a year and three months away from him.

She nearly let slip details about Shao Ning’s upcoming proposal to a friend. That weekend, Shao Ning and Yan Luo went to the cinema. They witnessed a public marriage proposal that ended in rejection. Shao Ning, observing the heartbroken man, quipped to Yan Luo about the risks of public proposals, half-jokingly asking if she would leave him like that.

He then went to comfort the rejected man, who, in turn, handed Shao Ning his bouquet and even gave him his contact information, jokingly providing Shao Ning with a "new client." Yan Luo hadn't even finished remarking on the unusual day when her own artwork suddenly appeared on the big screen. At that moment, Shao Ning entered, stepped in front of the screen, and knelt down.

He proposed to Yan Luo, promising to care for her for life, ensuring her freedom, happiness, and declaring himself her "Uncle Long Legs." Yan Luo, visibly moved, nodded her acceptance. Xiao Xiao, Lin Shen, Zuo Yan, and Sun Kele, who were all hiding and watching, erupted in cheers. Shao Ning and Yan Luo shared a passionate kiss amidst a romantic atmosphere, while Zuo Yan and Sun Kele exchanged loving glances.

Later that evening, Xiao Xiao excitedly recounted Shao Ning’s romantic proposal to Lin Shen. However, Lin Shen, who had already seen her email, gently brought up her upcoming trip to London. He reassured her of his full support for her decision to pursue further studies and become an outstanding psychological counselor, promising to wait for her return. With a "pinkie promise" and a tender kiss, he "sealed" her mouth, after which she affectionately clung to him for a long time.

Their long-distance relationship began, and even the usually serious Lin Shen started using cheesy pickup lines during their video calls, playfully telling Xiao Xiao he was suffering from "love sickness" (or "love trance"). Their colleagues noticed Lin Shen's unusual behavior, such as arriving early every day to care for Xiao Xiao's succulent plants and suggesting hot pot, her favorite, for their team dinner.

Months later in London, Xiao Xiao walked into her apartment and noticed a pair of men's shoes, initially thinking her roommate had brought another boyfriend home. To her surprise, Lin Shen emerged from the kitchen, holding a hot pot. He had come to cure her "love sickness," he declared, using his newfound cheesy pickup line. Xiao Xiao, looking at Lin Shen, reflected on the meaning of love.

She mused that everyone has their own answer to "what is love"—it could be love for family, lovers, or friends, or the pursuit of one's ideals. However, she concluded that the most important love is self-love. She believed that within each person lies a mysterious, "Dream Garden," holding untapped potential, waiting to be awakened.

She wished for everyone to open their own "Dream Garden" and find their best selves, as she herself had found the best "us" in her "Dream Garden," looking at Lin Shen by her side.