Encounter with You Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Encounter with You Synopsis
Young mother Wan Xinxin unexpectedly becomes pregnant and hastily marries Qin Gang, a wealthy heir. Just as she is about to settle into the comfortable life of a pampered young wife, the two impulsively divorce. While Qin Gang provides her with financial security as the foundation of love and marriage, he turns to his ex-girlfriend Liu Wei, who has just returned from studying abroad. This plunges Wan Xinxin into an emotional crisis, strained in-law relations, and the difficulties of raising a child. Unable to bear the pressure, she leaves home with her newborn baby.
On her journey away, Wan Xinxin encounters Hua Ming, a warm-hearted older man. As fate would have it, her sudden appearance completely upends his quiet life—his car gets wrecked, his house floods, his money disappears, and he’s left helping take care of her baby. Forced to spend time together, Hua Ming gradually sees past her mischievous and headstrong ways, and her honesty and sincerity rekindle his long-lost hope for love. From reluctant acceptance to tender affection, the reserved and steady Hua Ming provides Wan Xinxin with thoughtful care, bringing warmth into her once gloomy world.
Meanwhile, Qin Gang, pressured by his mother to reclaim Wan Xinxin and their child in order to secure his inheritance, sets off a rivalry between two vastly different men—the dashing wealthy heir and the down-to-earth “uncle” figure. Qin Gang’s mother intervenes for custody of her grandchild, while Liu Wei refuses to back down. At the same time, Hua Ming’s ex-wife Xia Qing returns with their teenage daughter, hoping to reunite their family, delivering another heavy blow to Wan Xinxin. As Hua Ming’s hidden past gradually comes to light, the fragile balance of this “double second-marriage” family is once again thrown into turmoil.
The increasingly tangled circumstances test Wan Xinxin’s growth and the difficult choices she must make.
Encounter with You Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Wan Xinxin, recently a new mother and feeling stifled at the postpartum care center, successfully orchestrated an escape with her baby. Her close male friend, Xu Ke, acted as her accomplice, using his car to facilitate their getaway. As they sped away, staff from the center gave chase, but Wan Xinxin, exhilarated by her newfound freedom, celebrated loudly, exclaiming that the expensive center felt worse than prison with its constant scrutiny.
Xu Ke, amused by her antics but also exasperated by her carefree attitude, reminded her that her husband's money was being "wasted" on her, before excusing himself, stating he had a client named "Miss Liu" to meet. Wan Xinxin, still on a high from her escape, decided to take her baby to her husband Qin Gang's office. Unbeknownst to her, a visitor was already there: Liu Wei, Qin Gang's ex-girlfriend, who had left him six years prior to marry abroad.
Liu Wei confessed she had realized she still loved him and had divorced to return to him, asserting her belief that he still loved her too. Qin Gang, visibly conflicted, revealed he had married and recently had a son because his ailing mother desperately wished for a grandchild and he needed to appease her. Despite this, Liu Wei confidently embraced and kissed him. After a brief hesitation, Qin Gang returned her embrace, his long-dormant feelings resurfacing.
At that very moment, Wan Xinxin burst through the office door, excited to surprise her husband. Her joy turned to horror as she saw Liu Wei in Qin Gang's arms. Her shriek startled the two, and Qin Gang frantically pushed Liu Wei away. Enraged, Wan Xinxin screamed "Beast!" at Qin Gang, slapped him twice across the face, and fled the office with her baby. Qin Gang immediately chased after her but found no trace of Wan Xinxin or their child.
Meanwhile, Wan Xinxin and her baby had stumbled into the back of a pet hospital van, driven by Dr. Hua Ming. He was initially startled and suspicious when he discovered them mid-journey, even accusing Wan Xinxin of child trafficking. However, seeing the baby cry from hunger, Hua Ming's demeanor softened. He allowed Wan Xinxin to use his van to breastfeed while he stepped away to give her privacy.
During this time, he discovered a small dog with an injured leg by the roadside and rescued it. When he returned to the van, Wan Xinxin and her baby were gone again. Later, as Hua Ming drove past Bihai Park, he spotted Wan Xinxin perched on a reef, drunkenly yelling obscenities at Qin Gang, her baby crying nearby.
He got out of his car to intervene, but a disoriented Wan Xinxin mistook him for Qin Gang, called him a "mermaid," and aggressively pulled his hair, still consumed by her anger. When Qin Gang's phone call came through, Hua Ming answered, explaining that his wife was drunk and asking him to pick them up from Bihai Park. Qin Gang and his sister soon arrived to find Wan Xinxin still in a drunken rage, clinging to Hua Ming's hair.
After helping them retrieve Wan Xinxin and the baby, Hua Ming left the scene as night fell. Back at the maternity center, Wan Xinxin regained consciousness. Soon after, Liu Wei and Qin Gang entered her room. Wan Xinxin glared at Liu Wei, who calmly explained that she was merely Qin Gang's client and that what Wan Xinxin witnessed in the office was a "misunderstanding."
Liu Wei claimed she had accidentally spilled coffee on Qin Gang, and Wan Xinxin had walked in while she was helping him clean his clothes. Qin Gang, standing by, offered a hesitant affirmation. Liu Wei presented Wan Xinxin with a gift and departed.
Later, Qin Gang's sister tried to reassure Wan Xinxin, arguing that a mistress wouldn't apologize to a wife, and that Qin Gang was too fond of their healthy baby boy to leave her, recounting how worried he had been during her absence. Wan Xinxin, however, remained unconvinced. Qin Gang, deeply frustrated by Wan Xinxin's erratic behavior, confided in his sister, expressing his growing desire for a divorce.
He reiterated that he had only married Wan Xinxin due to their mother's illness and her insistent demand for a grandchild, even threatening to leave her inheritance to the baby. His sister urged him to consider their son's future. Qin Gang also called his mother, fabricating a story about the baby being premature and unable to be photographed too soon, to avoid revealing Wan Xinxin's continued disappearances.
Not long after, Hua Ming visited Wan Xinxin at the maternity center, bringing fruit. Wan Xinxin, embarrassed by her drunken behavior at the beach, apologized profusely. Hua Ming brushed it off, instead asking for her help as a witness. He explained that the owner of the injured dog he rescued earlier had accused him of hitting it. Wan Xinxin, grateful and eager to make amends, readily agreed.
To leave the center, she needed a guarantor, so Hua Ming, in turn, vouched for her at the front desk. As Hua Ming drove Wan Xinxin and her baby from the maternity center, Wan Xinxin spotted Qin Gang's car outside a high-end apartment complex. She watched as Liu Wei exited the car, blowing a playful kiss to Qin Gang before he drove away. Filled with suspicion, Wan Xinxin quickly exited Hua Ming's car and followed Liu Wei into the building.
Inside Liu Wei's apartment, Liu Wei, who had seen Wan Xinxin approaching, calmly invited her in. Once inside, Wan Xinxin saw a photo wall filled with intimate pictures of Qin Gang and Liu Wei, confirming her worst fears. Liu Wei brazenly declared she was Qin Gang's ex-girlfriend, asserting that he loved her and that Wan Xinxin was merely a "substitute."
To twist the knife, Liu Wei played a recording of Qin Gang's voice, in which he confessed his undying love for Liu Wei and admitted that he only married Wan Xinxin because he wanted to find someone to replace her. Hearing this devastating truth, Wan Xinxin completely broke down. Inconsolable, Wan Xinxin sought refuge at Xu Ke's apartment, weeping as she poured out her heart. Xu Ke, while sympathetic, felt helpless.
With a lucrative business trip suddenly arising, he gave Wan Xinxin all the money he had and left her his apartment, remarking that she would now have to learn to manage household bills—a stark contrast to her accustomed life of luxury. Later, while Wan Xinxin was shopping at a mall, Qin Gang received a notification about her credit card use.
As he prepared to go find her, Liu Wei, who was with him, subtly suggested that he simply cancel her credit cards. She reasoned that without funds, Wan Xinxin would have no choice but to return home. Qin Gang, finding logic in her suggestion, agreed. Wan Xinxin left the mall, planning to treat herself to hot pot, but unexpectedly encountered Hua Ming at a restaurant.
Feeling a surge of guilt, knowing that Qin Gang had previously harassed Hua Ming about her whereabouts, Wan Xinxin attempted to discreetly leave. However, Hua Ming, remembering his promise to the maternity center to ensure her return, kept a watchful eye on her. Wan Xinxin, feigning an urgent need for the restroom, managed to slip away from him once more.
Episode 2 Recap
After escaping Hua Ming at the restaurant, Wan Xinxin returned to Xu Ke's apartment with her baby, only to find the gas supply had been cut off due to unpaid bills. She frantically called Xu Ke, who was annoyed by her persistent calls. Xu Ke, who Wan Xinxin teasingly called "Xu Huahua," told her he was busy and had reminded her to pay the gas bill before he left, a claim Wan Xinxin denied.
He then suggested she go across the street and borrow some hot water from their neighbor, an "uncle," to prepare milk for the baby. Wan Xinxin, frustrated, reluctantly hung up. Holding her baby, Wan Xinxin nervously knocked on the neighbor's door, asking to borrow hot water. To her dismay, the man who opened the door was Hua Ming. She immediately wanted to retreat, but realized Xu Ke's apartment door had closed behind her, and she didn't have her keys.
Hua Ming, observing her awkward and desperate situation, remarked on their "connection." Wan Xinxin, seeing no other option, had to reluctantly accept his offer to stay. Hua Ming was keen to take her back to the maternity center, stating that since he had brought her out, he was responsible for her safe return. Wan Xinxin protested, arguing he had no humanity for disturbing a helpless mother and child so late at night.
Hua Ming countered, reminding her he had rescued her and her child from the seashore rocks. Inside Hua Ming’s apartment, Wan Xinxin, concerned about the inappropriateness of a single man and woman cohabiting, suggested he find somewhere else to stay. Hua Ming scoffed at her concern, then agreed to let her stay, confirming she needed formula.
He promised to buy formula for 0-3 months before breakfast the next day, after which he still intended to take her back to the maternity center. Before leaving, Hua Ming sternly warned Wan Xinxin not to touch any of his belongings, especially his books. After he left, Wan Xinxin secured the door with a chair.
She then tried to make coffee, but her lack of domestic skills led to a chaotic mess: broken cups, coffee spilled on books, and water everywhere. She worried about Hua Ming's reaction, muttering, "He's not going to kill me, is he?" The next morning, Hua Ming returned to find his apartment in disarray. He cautiously entered after struggling with the chair blocking the door, then confronted Wan Xinxin, asking, "So you blew up my house, huh?"
She feigned a back injury, asking him to help her up, while assuring him the baby was fine. Hua Ming carefully helped her, then expressed his anger over the damaged items, particularly a coffee mug given to him by his medical school classmates, emphasizing its sentimental value. Wan Xinxin attempted to apologize and offer to replace the mug, even questioning his "generation's" supposed poverty.
He dismissed her apologies and offers, stressing his primary concern was her safety and his responsibility to return her to the maternity center, remarking that he couldn't "afford to compensate for her life" if something happened. He even confessed that he considered seeing her bad luck and preferred they not meet again. As they discussed her return, Wan Xinxin secretly called the Credit Card Center, discovering her primary card had been suspended.
Realizing her financial predicament, she argumentatively insisted he take her home instead, calling him "stubborn" and "cold-hearted" for his insistence on returning her to the maternity center. Hua Ming, tired of her protests, eventually agreed to take her home.
Upon arriving at her home, Wan Xinxin asked Hua Ming to wait in the car with the baby while she went inside to collect essential items, explaining her credit card had been canceled by "that Qin guy" and she couldn't afford new clothes. Hua Ming, suspicious, reluctantly agreed but handed her his car keys as a sign of trust, warning her not to try any tricks.
She retorted that she still had photos of him on her phone, then hurried inside. Finding the house empty, she quickly packed her designer clothes and bags into a suitcase, talking to them as her "darlings" she was rescuing. As she was about to leave, she heard the front door open. Wan Xinxin quickly hid as Qin Gang entered the house with Liu Wei. Liu Wei, admiring the spacious home, asked Qin Gang if he had bought it for her.
He confirmed he had bought it six years ago with her in mind, but she had left him. He then confessed that he only married Wan Xinxin because his mother was eager for a grandchild, implying he would not have married Wan Xinxin if Liu Wei had returned earlier. Wan Xinxin, heartbroken, overheard their entire conversation from her hiding spot.
Liu Wei then asked if they could "start over," and Wan Xinxin silently cursed them, throwing her high heels in frustration. Overwhelmed with pain, Wan Xinxin looked at her wedding photo with Qin Gang on the bedroom wall. Feeling it was a cruel mockery, she ripped it down and threw it out the window. She then quickly tied bedsheets together to form a makeshift rope, intending to escape from the window.
Hua Ming, still waiting in the car, heard the crash of the photo frame and looked up, utterly shocked to see Wan Xinxin climbing down from the window. Meanwhile, Qin Gang, hearing the commotion, began banging on the bedroom door, calling for Wan Xinxin and his son. Panicked, Wan Xinxin hurried her descent, losing her grip and falling the last few feet. Luckily, she was close to the ground and only sprained her ankle.
Enduring sharp pain, she frantically urged Hua Ming to grab her luggage and help her escape. Hua Ming, without hesitation, quickly helped her and the baby flee. Hua Ming took Wan Xinxin to his pet hospital to treat her injured ankle. As he attended to her, Wan Xinxin wept inconsolably over Qin Gang's betrayal.
Hua Ming gently encouraged her, telling her it was okay to cry, but reminded her that if she truly felt hurt and resentful, she should focus on living well to show Qin Gang that his choice was a mistake. His words resonated with her, and she stopped crying. She then asked him not to take her back to the maternity center. Hua Ming agreed, on the condition that he could always find her.
Not knowing where else to go, Hua Ming offered her and the baby refuge at the pet hospital, suggesting she could help him care for his dogs if she needed to vent her frustrations. He noticed her demeanor softened when she was around animals and the baby, remarking that she transformed from "neurotic to goddess." He assured her that his door would always be open for her and the baby.
Meanwhile, Wan Xinxin's sister, Xu Chunli, distraught over her sister's disappearance, called her husband, Jiang Kaiyang, to discuss how to find her. Jiang Kaiyang advised her to contact Wan Xinxin's old boyfriends, as she was a "campus beauty" and would likely turn to someone she knew, especially without an ID card for hotels.
Later, just as Qin Gang was once again regretting having let Wan Xinxin slip away, Xu Chunli suddenly called him, informing him that she had found out Wan Xinxin's whereabouts. Qin Gang was overjoyed by the news.
Episode 3 Recap
Following a tip from Xu Chunli, Qin Gang quickly drove to Xu Ke's apartment. Wan Xinxin opened the door and was furious to see Qin Gang, turning to leave, but he grabbed her arm. Seeing Qin Gang confront Wan Xinxin, Xu Ke came out to help her, and the two men immediately started fighting. Wan Xinxin, holding her baby, cheered on Xu Ke, shouting, "Xu Ke, go for it! Bite him! Come on!"
Hua Ming, hearing the commotion, emerged from his apartment and quickly intervened, restraining both Xu Ke and Qin Gang who were struggling. Hua Ming, strong and unyielding, held them firmly. Qin Gang demanded that Wan Xinxin return the baby to him. To provoke Qin Gang, Wan Xinxin falsely claimed that the baby was hers and Xu Ke's, stating that Qin Gang had been raising someone else's child.
Wan Xinxin further taunted Qin Gang, implying the baby couldn't be his because it was born too soon after their marriage and she married him only for his money. Xu Ke then joked about Qin Gang getting a "free cuckold's hat." Qin Gang called Wan Xinxin a "scheming woman" and she retorted, "What? Can't accept it? If you can't accept it, let's divorce." Qin Gang agreed, saying, "See you at the Civil Affairs Bureau tomorrow."
Wan Xinxin and Xu Ke then thanked Hua Ming, promising a family dinner. The next day, Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang went to the Civil Affairs Bureau and smoothly divorced, as Wan Xinxin chose to leave with nothing. Xu Ke, still playing his part, congratulated Wan Xinxin, calling her "Your Majesty," and encouraged her to look happy. As they exited, they noticed Qin Gang's car had a flat tire.
Wan Xinxin sarcastically thanked Qin Gang for "raising my son all this time" and said, "It wasn't easy. You've worked hard." Xu Ke suggested they "have a meal together." Liu Wei then arrived and told Xu Ke and Wan Xinxin that Qin Gang was too upset to eat and their behavior was "inappropriate." Xu Ke retorted that such behavior was appropriate for "beasts like Qin Gang."
Liu Wei and Qin Gang then left together after Xu Ke presented Qin Gang with a breakup gift, implied to be a large "green hat." As they drove off, Qin Gang received a call from Xu Chunli but rejected it, telling her, "Don't call me anymore." After the divorce, Wan Xinxin faced the immediate problem of livelihood. She told Xu Ke that she was "broke" and needed to return to work.
Xu Chunli visited Wan Xinxin at Xu Ke's place and was shocked to learn about the divorce and that Wan Xinxin left with nothing. Xu Chunli angrily scolded Wan Xinxin, calling her "insane" and questioning how she and the baby would survive. Wan Xinxin defiantly stated, "If I could give birth to him, I can raise him," and insisted that Qin Gang had nothing to do with the child.
Xu Chunli, watching the baby, noted that while some features resembled Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang, the baby "doesn't look like that brat [Xu Ke] at all." She then realized Qin Gang had "demanded a paternity test" and "shot himself in the foot." Xu Chunli, determined to get child support, later confronted Qin Gang at his company's parking lot. Holding the baby, she threatened to jump from the building if his staff touched her.
She furiously demanded child support and compensation for emotional damages. Qin Gang refused, declaring, "That child isn't mine. Wan Xinxin admitted it herself. The child is hers with that bastard Xu Ke." Xu Chunli, enraged, then quickly pulled a few strands of hair from Qin Gang, who yelped in pain. She left, saying, "I have evidence now. I'll prove this child is yours."
Wan Xinxin returned to work at Lady Company, greeted by her colleagues who jokingly asked why she, the "boss's wife," was back. She pretended to have been bored at home and missed them. The company's boss, Shi Lu, had been trying to collaborate with "Frontier Magazine" but faced repeated rejections. To Wan Xinxin's surprise, Shi Lu called her into the office, informing her that Frontier had specifically requested Wan Xinxin for negotiations, impressed by her previous proposals.
Confident in her "quick wit, graceful demeanor, and silver tongue," Wan Xinxin happily accepted the task. Wan Xinxin went to meet "Manager Liu" from Frontier Magazine. As she approached the meeting place, Manager Liu called, instructing her to first go buy a specific "musk coffee" from a shop two blocks away, dismissing the downstairs cafe's offerings as "poor taste." Liu Wei, watching Wan Xinxin from the rooftop, smiled as Wan Xinxin, in high heels, set off.
After Wan Xinxin returned with the coffee, Liu Wei called again, telling her to search for a lost necklace in a flowerbed downstairs. As Wan Xinxin diligently searched, a sprinkler truck passed by, drenching her. When Wan Xinxin, wet and disheveled with spilled coffee, finally arrived at the meeting, she was met by a triumphant Liu Wei. Wan Xinxin realized Liu Wei was "Manager Liu" and that Qin Gang had told her everything about Wan Xinxin.
Liu Wei then revealed the real purpose of their meeting was not business, but personal. She then presented Wan Xinxin with a paternity test, confessing that her earlier visit to the hospital was not to explain things, but to obtain a sample for the test.
Liu Wei, expressing disbelief that Wan Xinxin would have a child for a man she had known for only a few months, offered Wan Xinxin a long-term contract if she promised not to tell Qin Gang the child was his. She further offered an additional one million dollars if Wan Xinxin took the child and left the city. Wan Xinxin scornfully rejected the offer, calling Liu Wei "pathetic" and saying she had no interest in participating in her "melodramatic schemes."
She wished Liu Wei would "sink deeper and deeper in your soap opera drama" and stormed out. Distraught, Wan Xinxin called Shi Lu to resign, apologizing for "messing up." She then went to Hua Ming's pet hospital. Hua Ming, however, was strangely cold towards her, telling her he was "in the middle of surgery" and asking her to leave. An old man was there, holding his beloved dog, Banban, who was very ill.
Hua Ming explained that Banban had a massive, widespread tumor and surgery offered little hope, might even be fatal. The old man, reluctant to put Banban through more suffering, decided against the surgery, saying he didn't want his dog to "go through another surgery and suffer again." Wan Xinxin, seeing the old man's sadness, approached him and the dog.
She then told the old man that she could understand Banban's barks, explaining that her father was a biology professor and that "every animal has its own language." She translated Banban's barks, telling the old man that Banban was "just tired and wants to sleep for a while." She relayed Banban's gratitude for being part of his family and the happy memories they shared.
She also conveyed Banban's message that it might not be able to stay with him anymore, urging him to take care of himself and call his children when he felt lonely. Finally, she shared Banban's favorite memory: the old man smiling and calling its name when he returned home. The old man's sadness turned to a serene understanding, and he thanked Wan Xinxin. Hua Ming watched, visibly shocked by Wan Xinxin's unique ability.
Episode 4 Recap
At the pet hospital, the old man, comforted by Wan Xinxin's translations of his dog's barks, expressed his gratitude to her, even after his beloved dog passed away. Hua Ming, still surprised by Wan Xinxin's apparent ability to understand animals, asked her about it. Wan Xinxin revealed that the idea came from her father.
She shared a poignant story: her mother died when she was born, and her father raised her alone, creating a fairy tale world where her mother was an angel in heaven. Later, when her father became ill and eventually died in an accident before her wedding day, she realized he was the "real liar" for constructing such a beautiful, yet ultimately fleeting, world. However, she affirmed that she still believes in fairy tales.
Hua Ming, admitting he had been in a terrible mood, felt better after hearing her story and apologized for his earlier rudeness at the hospital. Seeing Wan Xinxin's honesty, Hua Ming, still under the impression that the baby was Xu Ke's, felt compelled to share some "honest thoughts." He gently told her that he believed she had gone too far in her actions against Qin Gang.
Hua Ming explained his view with an analogy: while Qin Gang might have "painted a little green" on her (implying infidelity), she had "dumped an entire bucket of green paint over his head" by having another man's child, questioning how any man could react mildly to such a revelation. He suggested she apologize to Qin Gang. Wan Xinxin was deeply hurt and angered by Hua Ming's judgment, feeling profoundly misunderstood.
She declared that she would no longer trouble his life and stormed away, despite his attempts to stop her. Meanwhile, Xu Chunli, having obtained paternity test results, quickly sent a picture of them to Qin Gang, who immediately called her back. On the phone, Xu Chunli demanded 100,000 yuan from him, stating it was for child support, emotional damages, and "compensation for Xinxin's lost youth."
She instructed him to bring the money to the children's park, threatening that he would "never see the child again" if he failed to comply. Qin Gang, desperate, agreed to her demands. At the park, Xu Chunli, hidden, guided Qin Gang by phone as he anxiously searched for her with the money. She made him confirm the money was real.
She then directed him to a trash can near a statue of a kneeling woman and told him to place the money inside. As Qin Gang complied, Xu Chunli emerged, pushed him into the lake, and then quickly grabbed the money, exclaiming triumphantly to the baby in the stroller, "Bao, we won!" before hurrying away. Xu Chunli excitedly showed the 100,000 yuan to Wan Xinxin, recounting how she had "stood up for her" by pushing Qin Gang into the lake.
She proudly presented the money as support for Wan Xinxin and her son. However, Wan Xinxin was furious, calling Xu Chunli "mad" and adamantly demanding she return the money to Qin Gang immediately. Wan Xinxin even threatened to burn the money if Xu Chunli refused. Despite Xu Chunli arguing that burning money was illegal, Wan Xinxin retorted that Xu Chunli's actions constituted fraud. Xu Chunli, calling Wan Xinxin stubborn, reluctantly agreed to return the money.
Later, Xu Chunli discussed the situation with her husband, Jiang Kaiyang. She showed him the 100,000 yuan and expressed her frustration with Wan Xinxin's refusal to keep it. Jiang Kaiyang advised her against returning the money, explaining that Wan Xinxin, being somewhat irresponsible and currently jobless with a child, would undoubtedly need it for future emergencies.
He suggested Xu Chunli discreetly hold onto the money "for Qin Gang for now," to be returned when Wan Xinxin eventually found a stable job. Xu Chunli, deeming his suggestion "smart," agreed to keep the money. The next day, when Xu Chunli returned home, she found a woman named Miss Shen waiting outside her door. Miss Shen stated she was there for "Director Jiang" (Jiang Kaiyang) regarding a promise, making Xu Chunli immediately suspicious.
When Jiang Kaiyang came home late, claiming overtime, Xu Chunli confronted him, accusing Miss Shen of being his "mistress" and questioning if he was involved in "trading favors." Jiang Kaiyang dismissed her concerns as "watching too many TV dramas," explaining that Miss Shen required "document approval" for issues that necessitated private discussion outside the office. He scolded Xu Chunli for not understanding the complexities of his job. Despite his explanations, Xu Chunli remained unconvinced.
Later that day, while out with the baby, Xu Chunli again saw Jiang Kaiyang with Miss Shen. She observed Miss Shen giving him money and suggesting they collaborate on larger deals, after which they left together, further deepening Xu Chunli's suspicions. Unable to follow her husband and Miss Shen while pushing the stroller, Xu Chunli spotted Hua Ming in the park. Recognizing him, she quickly entrusted him with the baby, asking him to watch "little Bao" for a moment.
As she hurried away to follow Jiang Kaiyang, she muttered to the baby that its "whole family is unreliable." Meanwhile, Qin Gang received a call from his mother, who was abroad and recovering from illness. His mother expressed her desire to return soon and see her grandson. Distraught, as he had recently shared with Liu Wei his fear of his mother discovering his divorce and lack of child custody, Qin Gang called Wan Xinxin.
At the same time, Wan Xinxin had just left a job interview, frustrated after being rejected due to being a single mother. Qin Gang angrily demanded to see their son, claiming his right as the father. Wan Xinxin defiantly asserted the child was hers alone, reminding him of his past actions, and hung up on him.
She then called Xu Chunli, who informed her that she had left the baby with their neighbor, Hua Ming, to attend to an urgent matter. Wan Xinxin then went to the park to meet Qin Gang. At the park, Qin Gang found Hua Ming with the baby. Qin Gang was confused why Hua Ming had the child, and Hua Ming mistakenly stated the child belonged to Wan Xinxin and Xu Ke.
Qin Gang then showed Hua Ming the paternity test results, proving he was the child's biological father. Hua Ming was surprised and realized his previous misunderstanding and accusation against Wan Xinxin were wrong. Qin Gang explained his mother's precarious health and her desire to see her grandson, leading him to fear revealing the divorce and his lack of custody.
Hua Ming, understanding Qin Gang's predicament, agreed to let him take a photo with the baby to send to his mother, but refused to hand over the child directly, as he had promised he would only return the baby to its mother's caretaker. Hua Ming helped Qin Gang take several photos with the baby.
Grateful, Qin Gang gave Hua Ming a large sum of cash, asking him to use it for the baby's needs, not for Wan Xinxin or Hua Ming himself. Hua Ming accepted, intending to count the money and ensure Wan Xinxin repaid it to Qin Gang when she was able. Just then, Wan Xinxin arrived and saw Hua Ming counting the money while Qin Gang stood by the stroller.
She immediately misinterpreted the situation, believing Qin Gang was bribing Hua Ming to take her son. Enraged, she confronted Qin Gang, calling him a "beast" and questioning his paternal claims given his past actions. She grabbed the stroller and fiercely declared she would fight anyone who tried to separate her from her baby, then stormed off. Hua Ming, flustered, tried to explain the "misunderstanding" and quickly returned the money to a bewildered Qin Gang.
Wan Xinxin then took her son to Xu Ke's workplace. Xu Ke, who had previously confided in Wan Xinxin that only a woman named Shilu could "save him," had recently spotted Shilu entering an apartment building during a photoshoot. He had been diligently trying to find her ever since, even moving out of his home, believing his sincerity would eventually bring them together again.
Wan Xinxin, having accepted money from Xu Ke earlier (from selling her bags and his own contribution for her living expenses), recounted the chaotic scene at the park, accusing Hua Ming of almost "selling" their godson. Xu Ke reacted with surprise.
Episode 5 Recap
Wan Xinxin sought out Xu Ke, venting her frustrations. She complained about her lack of a job and the inability to return home, fearing someone might take her son. Xu Ke attempted to reassure her, suggesting she might be overly sensitive due to her worries about the child.
He noted that Hua Ming, despite his often expressionless demeanor, seemed like a good person, especially since it was Xu Chunli who had handed the baby to him, not a planned abduction as Wan Xinxin feared. Wan Xinxin, however, was unwilling to concede her error and insisted that no one should interfere with her son.
She then expressed her profound distress over her and her son's future livelihood, feeling like her luck had been terrible since her entanglement with Qin Gang and Liu Wei. Xu Ke, seeing her predicament, proposed a solution. He suggested she secure a new business deal, which would allow her to return to Laidi Company with her head held high.
Wan Xinxin was initially skeptical, doubting her ability to find clients, but Xu Ke assured her he had a reputable company in mind, one that was expanding and for whom he had previously worked. He advised her to go home, rest, and prepare for a fresh start. Wan Xinxin, though uncertain, agreed, hoping for a positive outcome.
Meanwhile, Jiang Kaiyang returned home to find Xu Chunli waiting for him in the living room, a feather duster in hand, her face stern. She immediately began questioning his whereabouts, accusing him of seeing another woman. Jiang Kaiyang tried to explain that the woman, a Miss Shen, was a financial advisor helping him make money for their family.
Xu Chunli did not believe him until she discovered several stacks of cash in his briefcase, which made her reconsider her accusations, though still with lingering doubt. The next day, Xu Ke called Wan Xinxin early in the morning, informing her he had arranged a client meeting for her at 10 AM. Wan Xinxin, still asleep, quickly became excited and began to prepare, but then realized she had no one to watch her baby. She called Xu Chunli for help.
However, Xu Chunli, having just overheard Jiang Kaiyang arranging another meeting, was planning to track him and could not babysit. Disappointed, Wan Xinxin had no choice but to bring her baby to the client meeting. Xu Ke was astonished to see her arrive with the child. Xu Chunli followed Jiang Kaiyang and Miss Shen to a lakeside café. She observed Jiang Kaiyang handing over money to Miss Shen, who seemed unimpressed, stating it was not enough for her to manage.
Jiang Kaiyang, trying to appease her, promised to quickly raise more funds, aiming for 500,000 yuan. As they spoke, Xu Chunli suddenly burst forth, publicly accusing Miss Shen of being a "homewrecker" and a "vixen," drawing the attention of passersby. Jiang Kaiyang, furious and embarrassed, tried to get Xu Chunli to leave. When she loudly demanded that Miss Shen be taken to the police, Jiang Kaiyang, desperate, denied knowing Xu Chunli.
After the spectacle, Jiang Kaiyang quickly apologized to Miss Shen, reaffirming his commitment to the investment and promising to secure the 500,000 yuan that day. Back at home, Jiang Kaiyang angrily chastised Xu Chunli for ruining his opportunity, explaining that Miss Shen was a financial advisor with a large investment project that could earn them millions, a chance he had secured through previous favors.
He revealed his plans to use the money for a trip abroad and to transfer their daughter to a better school, all of which Xu Chunli had jeopardized. Xu Chunli, realizing her grave misunderstanding, was filled with remorse and suggested he call Miss Shen again. Meanwhile, at the client meeting, Wan Xinxin, introduced by Xu Ke, presented her son to the client, Mr. Li. Mr. Li expressed surprise at her bringing a child to a business meeting.
Wan Xinxin cleverly explained that because his company specialized in children's products, she thought her son's presence as a user would be more valuable than her own experience. Mr. Li seemed to appreciate her approach, and they had a productive discussion. He agreed to sign a contract if Wan Xinxin could deliver a satisfactory proposal promptly. Wan Xinxin was overjoyed by the successful meeting.
Despite Wan Xinxin's enthusiasm, Xu Ke harbored concerns about the demanding conditions and tight deadline of the proposed project. He questioned her for blindly agreeing to such terms, fearing she might not be able to fulfill them. Wan Xinxin, however, was confident, asserting that she would never shy away from a challenge. As Wan Xinxin tried to persuade Xu Ke to accompany her to see Shi Lu, Shi Lu herself called.
It turned out that Qin Gang, concerned about Wan Xinxin's ability to support their son, had offered to collaborate with Shi Lu's company on a project, on the condition that Shi Lu reinstate Wan Xinxin and assign her to manage the new venture. This unexpected intervention prompted Shi Lu to call Wan Xinxin back to work. Wan Xinxin was puzzled by Shi Lu's change of heart and, with trepidation, brought her baby to the company.
To her surprise, Shi Lu did not reprimand her for bringing the child, instead providing her with extensive materials and instructing her to focus on developing the proposal for the new project. Wan Xinxin diligently worked on the proposal, with her baby asleep in a chair beside her in the office. After a long day, Wan Xinxin arranged to meet several nannies at her home.
However, her offered salary of 2,500 yuan per month for live-in care with a three-month probation period was deemed too low. The ensuing noise attracted Hua Ming from across the hall. He was dismayed to learn Wan Xinxin had found the nannies online and, deeming them unreliable due to their lack of professional qualifications, promptly sent them away. In a panic, Wan Xinxin increased the salary by 1,000 yuan.
Finally, a middle-aged woman named Xiaomei, who had two children of her own, agreed to stay. Wan Xinxin, despite Hua Ming's disapproval, decided to keep Xiaomei. The next morning, as Hua Ming was leaving, he noticed Wan Xinxin's front door ajar. Upon entering, he found Xiaomei bathing the baby. Concerned by the open windows and draft, he checked the water temperature and the baby's forehead, discovering the child had a fever.
Enraged, Hua Ming accused Xiaomei of negligence and, without hesitation, scooped up the baby and rushed him to the hospital. Wan Xinxin received a frantic call from Xiaomei, reporting that Hua Ming had "taken" the baby. Worried, Wan Xinxin called Hua Ming, who informed her he had taken the baby to Changhai Hospital. She immediately sped to the hospital. The doctor diagnosed the baby with a common cold.
Hua Ming, however, suspected meningitis due to the baby's drowsiness and unfocused eyes, demanding a cerebrospinal fluid test. The doctor was reluctant, and Wan Xinxin, having just arrived, dismissed Hua Ming's medical opinion as he was merely a vet, insisting on following the doctor's diagnosis. Seeing that he couldn't convince Wan Xinxin, Hua Ming cleverly sent her to fetch medicine, then took the opportunity to rush the baby to another Children's Hospital.
When Wan Xinxin returned with the medication to find them gone, she was furious. She tracked them down to the Children's Hospital and angrily confronted Hua Ming, ordering him to leave. The doctor then informed her that the child indeed had viral encephalitis and that Hua Ming's timely intervention had been critical, as the situation could have been very dangerous otherwise. Wan Xinxin was left stunned by the revelation.
Episode 6 Recap
Feeling remorseful about her recent behavior towards Hua Ming, Wan Xinxin quietly slipped a note under his door, apologizing and thanking him. Hua Ming found the note and inwardly smirked. The next morning, Wan Xinxin overslept. In a rush, she scrambled to get ready and hailed a taxi to work. However, en route, she realized she had left important documents at home, forcing her to return.
Opening her front door, she was stunned to find Xiaomei, the nanny she had recently hired, neglecting her crying baby on the sofa. Xiaomei was casually wearing Wan Xinxin's limited edition clothes and a face mask. When caught, Xiaomei appeared startled but quickly became defiant. She openly neglected the baby, stating, "His diaper is wet. Go get a new one," expecting Wan Xinxin to take care of it. Wan Xinxin was furious, exclaiming, "I feel like I'm the nanny now.
And you're acting like the employer. I'm paying you to work here. Are we playing role reversal?" Xiaomei retorted that even nannies have dignity and demanded Wan Xinxin be more polite. She then brazenly demanded her overdue wages and an apology, stating she wanted the job but only after being paid and receiving an apology. Wan Xinxin, bewildered, refused to apologize. Xiaomei then declared she was quitting, confident that with the current nanny shortage, finding another job would be easy.
She even claimed she was laid off and demanded double wages according to labor law, threatening to expose Wan Xinxin on social media for withholding wages. Before leaving, Xiaomei grabbed two of Wan Xinxin's limited edition clothing items, claiming they would cover her wages. Desperate, Wan Xinxin begged Xiaomei to stay, offering to give her the limited edition clothes and pay her, lamenting that having no one to care for the child was "absolutely impossible!"
Just then, Hua Ming emerged from his room, having heard the commotion. Wan Xinxin asked why he wasn't at work, and he explained that his pet hospital was closed for reorganization, giving him a few days off. Wan Xinxin, remembering her previous harshness, sincerely apologized to him, admitting she had been wrong and too sensitive as a mother.
Hua Ming, understanding her predicament, offered to watch the baby for a day, teasingly asking if she was afraid he would sell the child to her ex-husband. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Wan Xinxin called him her hero and offered to pay him. Hua Ming, in turn, pointed out she was already late for work. She quickly gave him her house keys and the baby's essentials, rushing off to work.
Hua Ming assured the baby he would take better care of him than his mother. Meanwhile, at the company meeting, Wan Xinxin's colleagues were discussing the challenges of the upcoming toy brand promotion, especially the tight timeframe. Her boss, Shi Lu, encouraged them, stating, "The greater the challenge, the better we can showcase our capabilities." Concerns were raised about Wan Xinxin's reliability and ability to lead the project.
Wan Xinxin eventually arrived, offering a long, convoluted excuse for her lateness involving her child, a "unreliable babysitter," traffic, and a multiple-car accident, portraying herself as a kind samaritan. Shi Lu, seemingly humoring her, simply told her to take a seat. Back home, Hua Ming was helping Wan Xinxin refine her proposal while looking after the baby. Frustrated and with a headache, Wan Xinxin complained about the baby and Hua Ming's singing.
Hua Ming commented that it was "just a stupid toy fair," prompting Wan Xinxin to passionately explain the importance of targeting "women and children" as the easiest money to earn. Hua Ming, holding the baby, then offered insightful advice: "When you sell toys, you can't just consider the children's feelings. You need to consider their parents' feelings too. You should make toys into a bridge, a bridge between babies and parents, for emotional connection."
Wan Xinxin, impressed, admitted she was getting inspiration, but quickly cut off Hua Ming when he tried to extend his advice to her relationship with Qin Gang, dismissing it as "useless motivational nonsense." The next morning, Hua Ming arrived early with breakfast. When Wan Xinxin asked why he hadn't used his key, he playfully said he feared seeing her without makeup. He handed her the refined proposal and a cup of warm milk, knowing she hadn't had breakfast.
Wan Xinxin praised him as a "thoughtful and incredibly good man," to which Hua Ming sarcastically replied, "I'm mainly afraid that if you starve to death, no one will pay my salary." Later, Qin Gang was video calling his mother, who was delighted to see her grandson and urged Qin Gang to treat Wan Xinxin well for her efforts in childbirth and raising the child. Unexpectedly, Wan Xinxin did not interrupt the call.
After Qin Gang ended the call, she pushed the stroller away. Qin Gang thanked her, admitting she wasn't as unreasonable as he thought. Wan Xinxin sarcastically complimented his "brilliant performance" but stated that while his mother was welcome to visit the child anytime, he was not. After Qin Gang left, Hua Ming commented on Wan Xinxin's maturity in showing respect for elders, but also noted she still had room to grow in understanding others.
Wan Xinxin, playfully indignant, accused him of acting like a parent. Qin Gang later discussed the situation with his current partner, Weiwei. He told her Wan Xinxin was not as unreasonable as he previously believed, noting his mother's affection for Wan Xinxin. He also shared advice he received from a friend (Hua Ming) about former couples not needing to become enemies and resolving issues with open-mindedness.
He mentioned Wan Xinxin's successful "YouBei toy brand" promotion, which included plans to invite Tong Tong and Ma Youyou. Weiwei, however, grew insecure, feeling neglected as Qin Gang spent more time with his son and expressing fear of being "played for a fool" like Wan Xinxin. At the company meeting, Wan Xinxin presented her fairy tale themed proposal with renewed confidence.
She explained her product concept was to "bring adults back to a fairy tale world," turning the product into "a bridge for communication between adults and children." She proposed an amusement park as the venue, citing its high family traffic, and suggested inviting popular film star Tong Tong and musician Ma Youyou. A colleague, Beibei, estimated the event's cost at 2 to 3 million, deeming it extravagant. However, Wan Xinxin defended her plan, emphasizing results and client approval.
Shi Lu observed Wan Xinxin's newfound maturity and ability to consider others' perspectives. When asked if she created the proposal alone, Wan Xinxin admitted to getting help from a "strange uncle" housekeeper who was very attentive to children. Despite the high cost, Shi Lu was impressed by Wan Xinxin's passion for creating a childhood fairy tale world and approved the proposal, instructing all departments to provide full support. The next day, Hua Ming accompanied Wan Xinxin to the amusement park.
Wan Xinxin was dismayed to find the park manager was German, and she struggled to communicate, despite her basic English. She expressed her frustration to Hua Ming, who then calmly approached the manager himself. To Wan Xinxin's utter surprise, Hua Ming fluently conversed with the manager in German and successfully negotiated the terms.
The manager, mistakenly thinking Wan Xinxin was Hua Ming's wife, complimented their "happy family of three," which Hua Ming corrected by saying Wan Xinxin was his employer and he had no wife. Wan Xinxin, deeply impressed by Hua Ming's hidden talent, hailed him as a great help, playfully offered him a 200 yuan raise, and even suggested they enjoy the amusement park with the baby. Hua Ming, ever practical, reminded her that they still needed to finalize contract details with a translator.
Episode 7 Recap
After learning from Qin Gang about Wan Xinxin's busy event plan, Liu Wei obtained the complete proposal by bribing Shi Lei's assistant at Lady Company. Using her position as editor-in-chief of Frontier Magazine, Liu Wei forcefully contacted the agents of celebrities Tong Tong and Ma Youyou, demanding they clear their schedules for exclusive interviews and photoshoots the following day.
The next day at the amusement park, Wan Xinxin had everything prepared: the stage, sound systems, and many excited parents and children were all present. However, Tong Tong and Ma Youyou failed to appear, leaving everyone waiting impatiently. Xu Ke, acting as Wan Xinxin's assistant, tried to boost morale with an inspiring speech about overcoming challenges, but an exasperated staff member urged him to "speak like a normal person."
Xu Ke then threatened to report slackers to get them back to work. Just as the audience grew restless, a sudden thunderstorm erupted. Parents and children scattered in a panic, desperately seeking shelter. Wan Xinxin watched her meticulously planned event descend into chaos, feeling utterly defeated as her efforts seemingly crumbled. In her moment of despair, Hua Ming unexpectedly walked onto the stage and began to play the piano. His beautiful melody captivated the remaining audience.
Soon, a singer joined him, performing a heartfelt song. Xu Ke quickly instructed Wan Xinxin to change into her Snow White costume, reminding her that the show could still be saved. Wan Xinxin took the stage, and her performance helped revitalize the chaotic scene, turning the event into a resounding success. Back home, Wan Xinxin and Xu Ke celebrated the unexpected success, feeling curious about Hua Ming's hidden talents.
They were amazed by his piano skills, the singer's revelation that Hua Ming had once saved his life, and his surprising ability to speak German during the amusement park negotiations. Hua Ming, however, remained elusive, downplaying his abilities and deflecting their questions by humorously claiming to be an "old firework about to burn out" or from a "monkey babysitter academy."
He shared that his piano skills came from practicing with his daughter and that he was moved by the singer's story. Despite their persistent probing, Hua Ming simply said he was tired and retreated, leaving them speculating whether he was an "international spy" or an "alien." Later, in a private moment, Hua Ming reflected on his own painful past, including a medical accident that forced him from his beloved profession, his wife's sudden departure, and his daughter's misunderstanding.
Meanwhile, Shi Lei called Wan Xinxin, delivering shocking news: YouBei, the company they promoted, was suing Lady Company. Shi Lei explained that according to their contract, they were in breach because the celebrities did not appear, and YouBei was demanding substantial compensation that could jeopardize their cash flow. Wan Xinxin protested, arguing that the promotion had achieved its purpose, with YouBei's online sales already tripling.
She clarified that she had not broken any rules or had conflicts of interest with YouBei. Shi Lei, though, emphasized the contractual failure and tasked Wan Xinxin with directly contacting YouBei's CEO Li to understand the true issue. Unbeknownst to Wan Xinxin, Liu Wei had already orchestrated YouBei's lawsuit. After Wan Xinxin's event surprisingly succeeded, a furious Liu Wei used her authority as editor-in-chief of Frontier Magazine to approach CEO Li of YouBei.
She offered Frontier Magazine's extensive promotional support for YouBei's brand, especially for an upcoming international expo, securing full authority over YouBei's promotional rights. Although CEO Li initially expressed satisfaction with Lady Company's event and was hesitant to sue, Liu Wei insisted that "business is business" and even "bad news can increase brand awareness," assuring him she would handle the "minor legal matters." CEO Li, now at ease, departed on his flight, leaving Liu Wei in charge.
Liu Wei then instructed someone to tell Wan Xinxin to meet her at a specific coffee shop. At the coffee shop, Liu Wei bluntly informed Wan Xinxin that she was personally responsible for YouBei's lawsuit against Lady Company. She demanded that Wan Xinxin and her child leave the city, threatening to ruin any company Wan Xinxin might join if she refused. Wan Xinxin accused Liu Wei of being despicable and vindictive, reiterating that she had no interest in Qin Gang.
Liu Wei countered, accusing Wan Xinxin of being shameless, clinging to Qin Gang through her child, and secretly asking him for money. It was then that Wan Xinxin learned her sister, Xu Chunli, had not actually returned the one hundred thousand yuan to Qin Gang. Wan Xinxin left, determined to confront her sister. At Xu Chunli's home, her husband Jiang Kaiyang learned that his entire investment, including the one hundred thousand yuan from Qin Gang, was lost.
As a devastated Xu Chunli blamed him, Jiang Kaiyang was urgently summoned by his director, Director Zheng, over a problem with the investment company, leaving his wife to fear he was in legal trouble. Meanwhile, at the house, Xu Ke argued with Xu Chunli over letting Qin Gang visit the baby, insisting that Wan Xinxin had already agreed.
Wan Xinxin, who had taken a call from Qin Gang about the visit while on her way, arrived to find her sister in a state of despair. Witnessing Xu Chunli's emotional breakdown, Wan Xinxin comforted her and promised to repay the money to Qin Gang herself.
Episode 8 Recap
Wan Xinxin was at Xu Chunli's home, offering comfort as Xu Chunli worried about her husband, Jiang Kaiyang. Xu Chunli expressed that if anything happened to her husband, it would be devastating for her and their child, Xiaoxiao. Wan Xinxin reassured her that she would always have her support. Just then, Jiang Kaiyang returned, visibly distraught. Noticing his unusual demeanor, Wan Xinxin decided to leave. Once she was gone, Xu Chunli pressed Jiang Kaiyang to reveal what had happened.
He disclosed that Miss Shen's so-called financial company was actually a loan shark operation, and their invested money was completely lost. More gravely, he had processed official documents for her, which put his political career in jeopardy. Jiang Kaiyang announced that his career was over. He clarified that while he hadn't embezzled or taken bribes, his involvement in processing documents was a serious rule violation.
He mentioned an investigation was unavoidable, and he faced disciplinary action, but it wasn't as severe as Xu Chunli feared, so he wouldn't be going to prison. Xu Chunli suggested writing a self-criticism, but Jiang Kaiyang adamantly refused, citing his dignity as a deputy division-level government official. He couldn't bear the thought of making a public self-criticism in front of his colleagues, which he believed would stain his record and end any hope of promotion.
He then revealed that he had already submitted his resignation. Xu Chunli was shocked, worrying about their family's financial future, especially their two million yuan mortgage. Jiang Kaiyang confidently dismissed her concerns, proclaiming that his years in government had equipped him with invaluable experience and political acumen, making him a highly sought-after talent in the business world. He declared himself "free" from the constraints of his former position and ready to achieve great things.
Meanwhile, Liu Wei learned that Qin Gang was visiting their son, Little Bao, again. Annoyed by his constant visits, she called her company's legal department, instructing them to immediately gather breach of contract materials from Laidi Company and draft a legal notice. She demanded that if Laidi Company didn't respond within 24 hours, they should initiate legal action without negotiation. At Laidi Company, an assistant informed Director Shi Lu that YouBei Company had sent a legal notice.
Director Shi Lu immediately called Wan Xinxin, who was still attempting to negotiate. Director Shi Lu expressed anger, demanding to know what had truly happened. Wan Xinxin asked for more time to resolve the issue, but Director Shi Lu insisted she return to discuss the impending lawsuit, fearing it could bankrupt the company. Feeling responsible, Wan Xinxin came up with a plan. She rushed to Xu Ke, asking him to "role-play" as Manager Li from YouBei Company.
She instructed him to meet with Director Shi Lu and claim that YouBei was withdrawing the lawsuit, begging her not to pursue legal action. Xu Ke, after much persuasion, reluctantly agreed. When Wan Xinxin introduced Xu Ke as Manager Li to Director Shi Lu, Xu Ke was overwhelmed. He found himself unable to meet Director Shi Lu's gaze, but as he declared YouBei's intention to withdraw the lawsuit, he looked at her closely and was stunned.
He realized Director Shi Lu was the true love he had been searching for. Their deception quickly unraveled when Director Shi Lu produced a photo of the real Manager Li, exposing their charade. Wan Xinxin and Xu Ke stood there, embarrassed. Director Shi Lu expressed deep disappointment in Wan Xinxin, criticizing her for resorting to deceit instead of bravely facing the problem head-on.
She lamented that Wan Xinxin consistently made grand promises but never followed through, always employing underhanded tactics that forced others to clean up her messes. Xu Ke tried to defend Wan Xinxin, but Director Shi Lu sharply dismissed him. Wan Xinxin apologized, reiterating her commitment to resolve the issue and provide an explanation to Director Shi Lu and the company. Later, a disheartened Wan Xinxin called Liu Wei, admitting defeat.
She promised to leave with her son and never see Qin Gang again, begging Liu Wei to drop the lawsuit against Laidi Company. Liu Wei agreed to withdraw the lawsuit, warning Wan Xinxin not to play any more tricks. Back in her neighborhood, Wan Xinxin saw Qin Gang and Hua Ming playing happily with Little Bao. Qin Gang, trying to appease her, proudly displayed the expensive baby formula, trendy clothes, and intelligence-developing toys he had bought for their son.
Wan Xinxin, however, was disgusted. She told him to take everything away and declared that from then on, they would go their separate ways, never to see each other again. Qin Gang was enraged by her sudden change of heart, reminding her of their previous agreement. Wan Xinxin defiantly stated that she had changed her mind, even offering to return the 100,000 yuan to sever all ties.
Qin Gang, asserting his rights as the child's father and his mother's right as the grandmother, threatened legal action for custody. Wan Xinxin, distraught, told him to lock her up so she would never have to see him again. Qin Gang returned home furious, complaining to Liu Wei about Wan Xinxin's refusal to let him see their son or accept his support. Liu Wei was secretly pleased that Wan Xinxin had seemingly kept her word.
However, Qin Gang then declared his firm decision to sue Wan Xinxin for custody. Liu Wei was surprised by this decision, reminding him that custody usually goes to the mother during the nursing period, but Qin Gang was adamant about fighting "till the end." Despite her anger, Director Shi Lu wanted to understand the full truth behind the YouBei incident.
She decided against immediately sending a legal notice to the entertainment company and instead arranged to meet with YouBei's Assistant Wang, as Manager Li was out of the country. Meanwhile, Xu Ke, still determined to help Director Shi Lu, tracked down Assistant Wang and called him, subtly threatening to expose "private photos" if they didn't meet. Assistant Wang reluctantly agreed to the meeting. At a hotel, Director Shi Lu and Assistant Wang were drinking.
Assistant Wang, flattered by Director Shi Lu's compliments and generosity with expensive wine, hinted that resolving the issue depended on her sincerity. As they prepared for a "cross-cup toast," Xu Ke burst into the room. He snatched Director Shi Lu's glass, declared her his girlfriend, and told Assistant Wang that he would handle any discussions. Director Shi Lu vehemently denied knowing Xu Ke, but Assistant Wang was annoyed.
Xu Ke then threatened Assistant Wang, stating he would expose his "nightclub photos" to his wife if he didn't leave immediately. Assistant Wang, furious and embarrassed, quickly departed. Director Shi Lu was enraged at Xu Ke for ruining her meeting, but Xu Ke, with a smug smile, promised he would resolve the issue if she finished all the remaining drinks with him. At home, Wan Xinxin comforted her child, promising not to let Qin Gang take him away. She then received a call from Liu Wei and confirmed that she had acted according to her promise to leave.
Episode 9 Recap
Wan Xinxin received a phone call from Liu Wei, who demanded that she immediately leave the city with her son, threatening to send a legal notice to Shi Lu if she delayed. Wan Xinxin pleaded for time to get settled, but Liu Wei was unyielding, warning of consequences if Qin Gang were to pursue custody. Wan Xinxin reluctantly agreed to Liu Wei's terms. Soon after, Hua Ming returned home with groceries.
He noticed Wan Xinxin's somber mood, and despite her insistence that she didn't want to eat, he began preparing dinner. He also suggested that she should allow Qin Gang's mother to see her grandson, explaining that he had accepted some items from Qin Gang on her behalf and that they could be donated. Wan Xinxin, however, refused to elaborate on her decision and seemed distressed.
Hua Ming, finding her unreasonable, criticized her for quitting her job without a plan, reminding her that she was now a mother and couldn't rely solely on friends like Xu Ke. Wan Xinxin retorted that she had always been unreliable and that it was her decision to depend on Xu Ke. Angered, she fired Hua Ming, telling him to leave and stop interfering in her life.
Before he left, Hua Ming, still caring, gave her detailed instructions for feeding the baby. Meanwhile, stumbling out of a restaurant drunk, Xu Ke confronted Shi Lu, telling her he disliked seeing her grovel to clients and questioning her self-respect. Shi Lu retorted, asking if she needed his approval or if he had the right to control her.
She explained that she endures humiliation to save her company and its employees, as preventing a decade of hard work from being destroyed by a 2 million deficit and a potential lawsuit was more important than her dignity. Xu Ke declared his affection for her, insisting she was precious to him, and promised to solve her problem by selling his house to provide the money.
Shi Lu remained skeptical, calling his promise a typical male ploy and doubting that his "dignity" could solve her financial woes. Xu Ke reaffirmed his commitment, telling her his house key was hidden under the doormat at his front door and urging her to believe in his ability to help. The next day, Hua Ming encountered Xu Ke at their building. Xu Ke was there to retrieve his property deed.
Hua Ming briefly mentioned that Wan Xinxin had been hacked, suggesting Qin Gang's involvement. Xu Ke entered Wan Xinxin's apartment, intending to see her and convey his reassurance that he could resolve her issues. Later, Hua Ming found a note from Wan Xinxin on the table. In it, she expressed regret for possibly breaking her promises and stated her intention to leave for a while with her son, vowing to stay strong.
Shocked by her sudden departure, Hua Ming immediately drove off to find her. At the same time, Shi Lu was struggling with the legal battles facing her company, which lacked the funds even for a lawyer's deposit. She then received a call from Assistant Wang of UBay Group, who informed her that UBay had received the compensation and withdrawn their lawsuit. Shi Lu was astonished, and Wang clarified that her "boyfriend" had personally delivered the payment that morning.
Shortly after, Shi Lu's own assistant confirmed the withdrawal of the lawsuit and a 1. 5 million yuan transfer to the company account from Xu Ke's private account, leaving Shi Lu stunned by Xu Ke's unexpected commitment. Hua Ming eventually located Wan Xinxin and reprimanded her for attempting to run away, arguing that her actions were self-deceptive and would lead to her son being deprived of knowing his father.
He urged her to stay and face her challenges with her friends. While they were talking, Wan Xinxin received a call from Xu Ke. He apologized for selling his house without consulting her and explained that she and her son could stay in his small rented apartment after two days, as he was about to leave for a business trip.
Distressed that she had indirectly caused Xu Ke's sacrifice, Wan Xinxin then received another call, this time from Shi Lu, who urgently needed to find Xu Ke. Wan Xinxin directed Shi Lu to Xu Ke's newly rented apartment, which was conveniently located directly across from Shi Lu's place. Shi Lu rushed to the apartment across the street but found no one there. Remembering Xu Ke's casual remark about his key being under the doormat, she found it and entered.
Inside, she was astonished to discover the apartment entirely filled with various photographs of herself. After Hua Ming convinced her to return, Wan Xinxin confronted Xu Ke, questioning his decision to sell his house. Xu Ke explained that he felt responsible because he had recommended her job to her. He asserted that as her friend, Shi Lu's potential future lover, and the baby's godfather, he was compelled both emotionally and rationally to take responsibility.
He shared his plan to go on a business trip to earn money so they could eventually rent a larger home, asking Hua Ming to manage the moving logistics. As Xu Ke prepared to leave, Wan Xinxin tried to persuade him not to meet Shi Lu, but Shi Lu arrived nonetheless. Shi Lu accused Xu Ke of trying to prove something to her, reiterating that she didn't need his help and would never reciprocate his feelings.
Xu Ke confessed his love for her, stating it was a personal matter that required no return. Shi Lu, firm in her resolve, offered to repay him with interest. Xu Ke, rejecting a simple repayment, proposed becoming a shareholder in her company, framing it as "bottom fishing" during its difficult time to prosper with its future growth. Shi Lu reluctantly agreed to grant him a proportional share.
Xu Ke playfully declared himself a new shareholder, jokingly calling them all his employees and entrusting them with his "little investment." Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming then bid Xu Ke farewell as he departed for his trip. To help Wan Xinxin build confidence and temper her will, Hua Ming took her on an outdoor survival training trip, leaving the baby in Xu Chunli's temporary care.
At home, Xu Chunli expressed concern for Jiang Kaiyang's unemployment and suggested various job opportunities, which he dismissed. He then inquired about the relationship between Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang. Xu Chunli reported that Qin Gang was constantly requesting to see his son, but she refused to allow it, believing he didn't deserve it. Jiang Kaiyang countered that, despite the divorce, Qin Gang was still the father, and denying him access was unreasonable.
He suggested that Xu Chunli, as Wan Xinxin's sister, should help ease her burden, perhaps by caring for the child. He also argued for the importance of the child having the Qin family's acknowledgment for his future. He proposed a strategy of allowing Qin Gang to see the child to "invest his emotions" but not to yield custody, ensuring the child could benefit from the Qin family's resources.
Later that evening, Jiang Kaiyang called Qin Gang to his house to discuss the child. When Qin Gang arrived, he voiced his frustration that Wan Xinxin was preventing his mother from seeing the child and making him look bad. Jiang Kaiyang gently reminded Qin Gang of his past actions but then shifted the focus to the child's well-being, proposing that Qin Gang or his mother could see the child by giving advance notice, allowing for appropriate arrangements to be made.
Episode 10 Recap
Jiang Kaiyang invited Qin Gang to his home and falsely claimed that Xu Chunli would take care of Qin Gang's child from then on, allowing Qin Gang and his mother to visit anytime. Qin Gang was delighted by this news. Jiang Kaiyang then subtly brought up his desire to work at Qin Gang's company, explaining that he had voluntarily stepped down from his previous role due to restructuring and was not accustomed to idleness.
He expressed his interest in the automotive industry and his wish to learn and contribute his experience. Qin Gang readily agreed to consider his request. The next day, Qin Gang arranged for Jiang Kaiyang to become the Deputy Manager of the Sales Department at his company, offering him compensation equivalent to that of a General Manager. Jiang Kaiyang was pleasantly surprised by the offer, though Qin Gang explained the title was a starting point to familiarize him with the business.
Qin Gang then expressed his concern about explaining his divorce to his mother, fearing she would blame him. Jiang Kaiyang quickly reassured Qin Gang, stating that the divorce was entirely Wan Xinxin's fault due to her "terrible temperament," and he would ensure Qin Gang's mother believed this narrative. He promised to handle the situation, which greatly relieved Qin Gang. Meanwhile, Hua Ming accompanied Wan Xinxin on a wilderness survival training exercise.
As they struggled through the challenging terrain, Hua Ming encouraged her, reminding her of her strong willpower and how she had overcome various fears. He urged her to reflect on her journey, asserting that enduring these difficulties proved her resilience and that moving forward could lead to a beautiful future. Wan Xinxin, initially afraid, gradually found hope and resolved to stay in the city to bravely face her future.
She worried about losing her child, but Hua Ming reassured her that if she held her loved one gently in her heart, no one could take them away. He also showed her a local wishing tree, symbolizing new beginnings. Back in the city, Xu Chunli confronted Jiang Kaiyang, questioning his motivations for working for Qin Gang, which she saw as hypocritical. Jiang Kaiyang dismissed her concerns, claiming he was protecting his nephew's inheritance.
Later, as Xu Ke had sold his house, Hua Ming prepared to move out of his apartment so Wan Xinxin and her child could live there. Wan Xinxin expressed her gratitude and some awkwardness about the living arrangements, but Hua Ming explained he would be staying at Xu Ke's rented place. He set some ground rules for Wan Xinxin regarding his belongings before leaving. As Hua Ming was leaving his apartment, he encountered Jiang Kaiyang and Xu Chunli.
They questioned him about Wan Xinxin living in his apartment and him caring for the child, deeming the situation inappropriate. Jiang Kaiyang stated that he and Xu Chunli, as Wan Xinxin's family, would take over the child's care, implying that Hua Ming's close presence with a newly divorced Wan Xinxin could hinder her future prospects. Hua Ming, understanding the implication, assured them he knew his boundaries and was only helping with the child.
Jiang Kaiyang and Xu Chunli then headed upstairs, leaving Hua Ming looking dejected. Qin Gang, having learned from the hospital that his mother had been discharged earlier than expected, called Liu Wei in a flustered state. He instructed her to quickly remove her belongings from his house before his mother arrived, to avoid her discovering the truth about his divorce. Liu Wei, though displeased, complied with his request.
Upon her return, Qin Gang's mother anxiously searched for Wan Xinxin and her grandson. Qin Gang reluctantly confessed that he and Wan Xinxin had divorced, and he falsely claimed that Wan Xinxin had cheated on him. Unconvinced, Qin Gang's mother went to Lady Company, where Wan Xinxin worked, to confront her. After receiving a call from Shi Lei, the company head, Wan Xinxin rushed back to the office, only to be shocked by the presence of Qin Gang's mother.
Qin Gang's mother directly accused Wan Xinxin of infidelity. Seeing Qin Gang's betrayal, Wan Xinxin refused to defend herself, stating that further explanations were pointless now that they were divorced. Qin Gang's mother, believing her son's account and witnessing Wan Xinxin's difficult circumstances, declared that Wan Xinxin was unfit to raise her grandson and demanded to take the child. Wan Xinxin vehemently refused to give up her child but agreed to let Qin Gang's mother see him.
Wan Xinxin then took Qin Gang's mother to Hua Ming's apartment. To her surprise, Hua Ming was there instead of Xu Chunli, who had an emergency. Qin Gang's mother immediately surmised the situation, and Wan Xinxin was at a loss for words. Hua Ming attempted to defuse the tension with humor, but Qin Gang's mother dismissed his efforts. Upon seeing her grandson, she was overcome with emotion but immediately expressed her dissatisfaction with Wan Xinxin's living conditions.
She bluntly told Wan Xinxin that the environment was inadequate for her grandson and reiterated her demand to take the child, stating that if Wan Xinxin truly loved him, she would give him everything, which Qin Gang's mother could provide. Wan Xinxin firmly restated that her child needed his mother, not just material comforts.
Episode 11 Recap
Qin Mother pridefully presented Wan Xinxin with a bank card containing eight to nine hundred thousand yuan, stating it was compensation for her, and demanded that Wan Xinxin hand over the child so he could have a better living environment. Wan Xinxin firmly refused, declaring she wouldn't sell her son. Qin Mother grew angry and scolded Wan Xinxin, accusing her of having an affair with Hua Ming and lacking the qualification to raise the child.
Wan Xinxin was unable to defend herself. Qin Mother then threatened that if she couldn't take the child today, she would return tomorrow and every day after, promising to make Wan Xinxin's life miserable if she didn't get her grandson. Hua Ming, who was present, clarified he was only the landlord and a friend, telling Qin Mother to keep her voice down as the baby was sleeping.
After Hua Ming escorted a fuming Qin Mother out, Wan Xinxin felt wronged and cried, stating that Qin Gang had cheated, but his mother still blamed her. Hua Ming, after comforting her, decided to fully move back into his house to help Wan Xinxin deal with Qin Mother. The following day, Qin Mother, along with a group of housekeepers, arrogantly stormed into Hua Ming's home. She commanded the housekeepers to perform a thorough cleaning, causing chaos in the house.
Hua Ming, watching this, subtly sprayed the housekeepers and Qin Mother with a pet disinfectant solution. He then dramatically announced that everyone had been exposed to a highly contagious "sebaceous cyst fungal infection," a skin disease transmitted from animals to humans, capable of causing eczema and rashes, especially dangerous for children. He, as a professional veterinarian and former physician, urged them to get immediate disinfection at a hospital to avoid infecting their families.
Panicked and fearing for the baby's health, Qin Mother and the housekeepers quickly left. Later, Qin Mother had her family doctor examine her, only to discover she was perfectly healthy and had been tricked by Hua Ming. The doctor identified the strange odor as creolin, a "stink medicine" used for disinfecting pet tools, confirming Hua Ming had deliberately splashed it on them. Enraged, Qin Mother vowed revenge on Hua Ming.
The next day, Qin Mother returned, this time bringing a large array of new baby supplies and instructing her helpers to discard everything she deemed unsuitable in the house, particularly any pink-colored items as the baby was a boy. Wan Xinxin became furious and tried to reason with her, but Qin Mother was unyielding, bringing up Wan Xinxin's alleged infidelity and lack of gratitude towards Qin Gang.
Seeing the escalating argument, Hua Ming intervened and pulled Qin Mother outside to talk privately, despite her protests. Outside, Hua Ming patiently explained to Qin Mother that her son Qin Gang and Wan Xinxin’s divorce might have an untold story. He pointed out that Wan Xinxin never demanded property during their marriage and was now living with him in a modest setting.
Hua Ming argued that he was older than Qin Gang, not as wealthy, and divorced with a daughter, making it illogical for Wan Xinxin to choose him over Qin Gang for any superficial reasons. He suggested that Wan Xinxin, who lost both parents and was raising her child alone, deserved a peaceful environment. This explanation caused Qin Mother to fall into deep thought. Meanwhile, at an auction organized by Shi Lu's company, she encountered her former boss, Mr. Chen.
He made condescending remarks about her single status and subtly implied she could still call him if she needed anything. Shi Lu, unfazed, countered that she also had his wife's number, which hadn't changed, and had called her recently. Mr. Chen's wife, witnessing their interaction, abruptly approached Shi Lu, accusing her of seducing her husband and raising her hand to strike.
Xu Ke, who was present taking photographs, quickly intervened, grabbing the wife's arm and declaring that Shi Lu was his girlfriend. Shi Lu, however, seemed displeased by his actions and left without a word. During the auction of a South African sapphire necklace, Mr. Chen, trying to impress his wife, bid 300,000 yuan, proudly announcing it was for her.
To prevent Shi Lu from losing face, Xu Ke impulsively raised the bid to 400,000 yuan, stating it was for his girlfriend. The crowd was astonished, but Shi Lu, once again, left the venue, seemingly upset. Separately, Qin Mother secretly hired someone to investigate Liu Wei and discovered that she was not in the US as Qin Gang had claimed. Qin Mother then covertly followed Qin Gang and witnessed him picking up Liu Wei from work.
Upon Qin Gang's return home, Qin Mother directly confronted him, revealing she knew about his relationship with Liu Wei and that his infidelity was the true reason for his divorce from Wan Xinxin. She announced that she had revised her will, adding two conditions: Qin Gang must reconcile with Wan Xinxin and bring their grandson home, and he must never see Liu Wei again. If he failed to meet these conditions, he would be disinherited from the Qin family fortune.
Qin Gang was stunned by his mother's revelation. He admitted that Liu Wei's reappearance had left him "completely confused" and confessed to having a six-to-seven-year relationship with her in the past.
Episode 12 Recap
Panicked after learning his mother had revised her will, Qin Gang earnestly promised to break up with Liu Wei and win back Wan Xinxin. He told his mother that he had been confused when Liu Wei appeared and that her health was paramount. He vowed to fulfill her wishes, win Wan Xinxin back, and provide her with many grandchildren. His mother, though pleased, reiterated that he must meet the two conditions she had changed in the will.
Qin Gang agreed, promising to clarify things with Liu Wei that very night. Under Qin Mother’s watchful eye, Qin Gang called her to ensure she was listening, then knocked on Liu Wei’s door. Seeing Qin Gang, Liu Wei was about to speak, but he subtly gestured that he was on the phone with his mother.
Understanding the charade, Liu Wei listened as Qin Gang dramatically announced their breakup, claiming he couldn't live without Wan Xinxin, realized his mistake, and intended to win her back. He instructed Liu Wei not to call or look for him, saying their continued relationship would hurt Wan Xinxin. As soon as his mother ended the call, Qin Gang dropped the act. Liu Wei confronted him, acknowledging his "good show."
Qin Gang then embraced her, revealing his true plan: he would swiftly gain custody of his child and control of the family business, then give Wan Xinxin some money to make her leave. He reassured Liu Wei that she was the most important person to him and that he would marry her once his mother was appeased. Liu Wei confessed that leaving him for America was her biggest mistake, realizing then she couldn't live without him.
Qin Gang hurried away to avoid his mother's suspicion, promising Liu Wei that their wait would soon be over. The next day, Wan Xinxin arrived at work to find a bouquet of yellow roses, a symbol of apology, on her desk. A colleague pointed out the meaning of the roses, and upon finding a card, Wan Xinxin learned they were from Qin Gang. She promptly tossed the flowers into the trash.
Soon after, Shi Lu called Wan Xinxin into her office. Shi Lu expressed her frustration with Wan Xinxin’s incomplete proposal, refusing to accept any excuses about family issues, being a single mother, or Qin Gang's mother bothering her. Despite Wan Xinxin's plea for another chance for Xu Ke's sake, Shi Lu swiftly assigned her a new project: a promotional campaign for a car brand, instructing her to meet the CEO immediately.
Shi Lu warned her that this was her "last chance" and if there were any further problems, no one could help her. Wan Xinxin promised to go immediately. Wan Xinxin arrived at the designated meeting place, a restaurant. As she walked in, she recognized the familiar setting and a song playing, realizing it was the same place and music from her first date with Qin Gang. Her suspicions grew when she saw Qin Gang holding a bouquet of yellow roses.
Qin Gang reminded her of their first date there, the rain, and how he had arranged for their "relationship-sealing song" to be played. Wan Xinxin, realizing Shi Lu had set her up, refused to engage in personal matters and insisted on discussing the project. Qin Gang attempted to apologize and promise to make amends for their past, but Wan Xinxin angrily rebuffed him. She accused him of being shameless and attempting to sweep his infidelity under the rug.
She reminded him that he had been comforting Liu Wei while their newborn son was still in the maternity center. Qin Gang tried to explain that nothing had happened with Liu Wei and he was merely comforting her after her divorce, admitting his immaturity and thoughtlessness, and claiming he realized how much he loved Wan Xinxin after their divorce.
Wan Xinxin retorted that he likely only realized he loved Liu Wei after marrying her, firmly stating she was "not second-choice grass," and left in a huff. Later that evening, Wan Xinxin returned home, still upset, to find Hua Ming preparing dinner. Just then, Qin Mother unexpectedly arrived, carrying gifts for Wan Xinxin and the baby. She explained that she had been too hasty and wronged Wan Xinxin, now understanding the truth.
She urged Wan Xinxin to give Qin Gang another chance, claiming he regretted his actions and would love her even more. Wan Xinxin tried to politely decline, stating she had already spoken with Qin Gang. Qin Mother persisted, emphasizing the years of their relationship and the difficulty a single mother faces in finding a new partner, suggesting Wan Xinxin might remain single. To put an end to the conversation, Wan Xinxin quickly pulled Hua Ming close, declaring him her boyfriend.
Although initially startled, Hua Ming quickly grasped the situation and played along, apologizing for not being open sooner, confessing his love for Wan Xinxin, and vowing to take good care of her and her brother. Qin Mother, expressing disappointment but claiming she had anticipated this outcome, urged Wan Xinxin to reconsider before leaving. After her departure, Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming discussed their act.
Hua Ming complained about the charade, but Wan Xinxin insisted he would have to keep playing her boyfriend for as long as Qin Mother continued to meddle. The next day, Wan Xinxin again found roses on her desk and later received a special "nutritious lunch" delivery, confirming Qin Gang's ongoing ploys. She gave the lunch to her colleagues. Shi Lu then summoned Wan Xinxin, demanding an update on the auto show project.
Wan Xinxin openly criticized Shi Lu for making her negotiate with Qin Gang, given their complicated personal history, metaphorically explaining that their vastly different approaches meant they couldn't possibly be on the same page. Shi Lu retorted that she only cared about results and insisted Wan Xinxin close the deal. As Wan Xinxin prepared to leave, Shi Lu stopped her, candidly revealing the company's precarious financial situation and stressing the vital importance of every project.
After a moment of hesitation, Wan Xinxin reluctantly agreed to lead the negotiations with Qin Gang’s company, but only on the condition that someone else would handle the project's subsequent stages, stating that if Qin Gang didn't agree, she could do no more. Wan Xinxin, accompanied by Hua Ming, went to Qin Gang's company, only to find he was intentionally avoiding them.
Meanwhile, Qin Gang called Shi Lu, making it clear that if Wan Xinxin was there to reject him, their cooperation would end. Shi Lu confirmed Wan Xinxin’s reluctance and request for a different project lead. Qin Gang, however, stood firm, stating that he would pay any promotional fee but Wan Xinxin "must" be the one to handle the case. He suggested Shi Lu enlist Wan Xinxin's relatives and friends to persuade her.
Afterwards, Qin Gang called Liu Wei, complaining about Wan Xinxin "playing hard to get." He confessed that Wan Xinxin held no significance to him beyond his mother's desire for grandchildren. He reiterated his plan to keep his mother happy until he gained control of the family business, then remove Wan Xinxin with a financial settlement, ensuring an undisturbed life with Liu Wei. At the same time, Xu Ke was facing a dire situation.
Debt collectors had arrived at his home, demanding repayment for the 400,000 he had borrowed to buy a sapphire necklace. Shi Lu attempted to call Xu Ke, but one of the collectors snatched his phone and hung up. Xu Ke desperately pleaded for more time, but the collector threatened to take two of his fingers. Seeing no other option, a terrified Xu Ke managed to call Wan Xinxin for help, explaining he had been beaten.
Wan Xinxin quickly alerted Hua Ming, and they rushed to Xu Ke’s aid. Upon their arrival, Hua Ming immediately confronted the debt collectors. Xu Ke confirmed his 400,000 debt for a necklace, which he bought to impress a girl, though it ultimately failed. Wan Xinxin, hearing this, called him an "idiot" for such a reckless expense. Hua Ming told Wan Xinxin and Xu Ke to go inside, promising to handle the situation.
He reasoned with the collectors, agreeing to repay the debt the following day, but warned against their aggressive tactics. When a collector brandished a knife, Hua Ming, feigning extensive medical knowledge, calmly and graphically described how and where to inflict a fatal wound, terrifying the collector. Conceding to Hua Ming’s unconventional intimidation, the collector agreed to leave with the promise of payment by the next day.
Hua Ming then gave Xu Ke his own bank card, instructing him to sell the necklace and use the money to pay off his debt. Xu Ke was deeply moved and speechless with gratitude. Wan Xinxin also urged Xu Ke to quickly settle his debt. As they left Xu Ke's place, Wan Xinxin expressed profound admiration for Hua Ming's impressive skills, asking if he'd had special training. Hua Ming playfully attributed his strength to the stamina required as a doctor.
While they were talking, Qin Mother spotted them. She had already suspected their true relationship but chose to feign ignorance. She approached them, carrying homemade black chicken soup and a durian cake, claiming these were Wan Xinxin's favorite foods, as Qin Gang had told her. Wan Xinxin, however, truthfully stated she disliked both, but pretended to make Hua Ming eat them instead. Hua Ming, who also genuinely detested durian and black chicken soup, was forced to consume them, much to his private agony, to maintain the façade for Qin Mother.
Episode 13 Recap
After Qin mother left, she invited Wan Xinxin to go shopping the next day. Wan Xinxin, hoping to avoid her, claimed she had plans with Hua Ming to take the child to the amusement park. She expected Qin mother, due to her age, wouldn't want to join, but Qin mother insisted, saying she wanted to experience the rides like roller coasters and pirate ships that weren't around when she was young.
Wan Xinxin returned home and explained the situation to Hua Ming, who was still recovering from having to eat durian cake, a food he detested, to maintain their charade for Qin mother. Hua Ming was reluctant, citing his fear of heights, but Wan Xinxin reminded him of their agreement to act as a couple and how long it had been since she had gone out for fun, eventually convincing him.
He agreed to go, provided she threw away the leftover durian cake. Meanwhile, Qin mother confided in Qin Gang, expressing her frustration with his marital problems. She didn't believe in Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming's relationship, thinking it was an act to fool her, and was determined to see how long they could keep it up.
Qin Gang suggested simply letting Wan Xinxin keep the child, but Qin mother sternly rejected the idea, recalling his father's abandonment and not wanting her grandchild to feel the same resentment. The next day, at the amusement park, Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming tried to get Qin mother to ride the pirate ship. Qin mother, however, feigned being scared due to her age, suggesting they go on the ride while she waited.
Hua Ming offered to stay with her, but Wan Xinxin pulled him along, insisting he ride with her. During the ride, Hua Ming was clearly terrified, sweating profusely, which Wan Xinxin playfully pointed out, teasing him about claiming not to be afraid of heights. After they returned, Qin mother, noticing Hua Ming’s disheveled state, made a lighthearted comment about his "temporary high blood pressure."
She then offered to take a photo of the couple, encouraging them to get closer for a more intimate shot, making them pose awkwardly while she filmed and commented on their lack of natural affection. Later, at Wan Xinxin's home for dinner, Qin mother brought pre-ordered black chicken soup, which Qin Gang had wrongly told her was Wan Xinxin's favorite.
Hua Ming immediately interjected, declaring that he would personally cook all of Wan Xinxin's soups from now on, emphasizing his cooking skills and his caring nature. Qin mother complimented Hua Ming's cooking and his attentiveness to Wan Xinxin. When Hua Ming suggested she treat Wan Xinxin as her own daughter, Qin mother brushed it off as "too confusing." As Qin mother prepared to leave after eating little, she pulled Wan Xinxin aside.
While acknowledging Hua Ming's thoughtfulness and how relieved she felt seeing him care for Wan Xinxin and the baby, she reiterated that his financial situation was not stable enough for marriage. She again suggested Wan Xinxin consider returning to Qin Gang, assuring her that her door was always open. After returning home from dinner, Qin mother spoke with Qin Gang again.
She acknowledged Hua Ming's attentiveness and care for Wan Xinxin, which she had witnessed, but maintained that his financial situation made him unsuitable for marriage. She reiterated that Qin Gang needed to put in more effort to win Wan Xinxin back, specifically advising him to be more attentive and caring than Hua Ming, and questioned why he had chosen Liu Wei over Wan Xinxin in the first place.
Separately, Xu Chunli discovered Jiang Kaiyang was on a lengthy phone call past 3 AM. She confronted him the next morning, but he dodged her questions, claiming it was a business associate named CEO Qian. When Xu Chunli tested him by pretending she made up the name, he quickly confirmed the CEO's surname was indeed Qian. When she attempted to call the number, Jiang Kaiyang stopped her, threatening that such an action could ruin a business deal.
He then defensively warned her not to touch his phone without permission again, and stated if she couldn't trust him, he no longer cared if their marriage continued. Still suspicious, Xu Chunli secretly followed Jiang Kaiyang later that day and found him at a clothing store. When confronted, he again accused her of lacking trust and reiterated his willingness to divorce. Xu Chunli was left frustrated, feeling powerless.
Meanwhile, Qin Gang called Shi Lu, giving her a one-week ultimatum to arrange a meeting with Wan Xinxin, threatening to cancel their business deal otherwise. He made it clear his priority was seeing Wan Xinxin, not the car show itself. Shi Lu, understanding Wan Xinxin's stubborn nature, agreed to try to arrange it, but warned Qin Gang she was only responsible for setting up the meeting, not the outcome.
Back at work, Wan Xinxin, confronted by Shi Lu about the car show project, promptly announced her resignation. She declared she wouldn't compromise her dignity for a project and would find a way to repay her debt to the company. Shi Lu, visibly upset, lamented losing Wan Xinxin and joked about missing the yellow roses she used to receive.
Just then, Qin Gang arrived at Wan Xinxin's company, once again with a bouquet of yellow roses and the keys to a brand new car, which he offered to her. He apologized for past mistakes, hoping for a chance to make amends. Wan Xinxin, however, was furious. She rejected his gifts, telling him she had quit her job and found his presence suffocating.
She threw the car keys back at him, stating that his current actions were too little, too late, and that he remained a "jerk" in her eyes, before angrily leaving. Later, Shi Lu met with Hua Ming, seeking his help to persuade Wan Xinxin to take on the car show project with Qin Gang. She explained the company's urgent need for the project and believed it would also benefit Wan Xinxin's career.
Hua Ming politely declined, stating that Wan Xinxin was doing well and didn't need to prove anything, and that it would be inappropriate for either of them to meddle in her personal decision concerning her ex-husband. Hua Ming then shifted the conversation to Xu Ke, revealing that Xu Ke had borrowed heavily to buy Shi Lu a necklace and was now in a desperate situation.
He urged Shi Lu to give Xu Ke a clear answer about her feelings to prevent him from ruining himself. Shi Lu reacted angrily, demanding to know who had told him about her personal affairs, and seemed very upset about it, much to Hua Ming's surprise. Soon after, Xu Ke put the sapphire necklace back up for auction. To his astonishment, a stranger bid 400,000 for it.
After the auction, Xu Ke observed the man reporting to Shi Lu, realizing she was the one who bought the necklace. He misinterpreted this as a sign of her love for him. However, Shi Lu confronted him, angrily accusing him of bragging about their relationship to others. She called him foolish and naive for pursuing her by mortgaging his company, stating she hated people spectating her life and that she could owe anyone else but not him.
Xu Ke, deeply hurt and confused, asked if Hua Ming or Wan Xinxin had told her. Shi Lu then stormed off. That night, a heavily intoxicated Xu Ke pounded on Hua Ming's door. He loudly accused Hua Ming of being a liar and of deliberately sabotaging his relationship with Shi Lu, claiming that Shi Lu broke up with him after Hua Ming's intervention.
Hua Ming tried to calm him down, explaining that Shi Lu had contacted him, and he had simply advised her that pursuing love by selling one's house and borrowing money was not genuine. He apologized for interfering. Wan Xinxin, having come out to see what the commotion was, also tried to reason with Xu Ke, pointing out his irrational behavior. Enraged, Xu Ke accused Wan Xinxin of siding with Hua Ming and betraying their long-standing friendship for him.
He declared their friendship over and stormed out. Hua Ming immediately followed him to ensure his safety. Still reeling from the argument with Xu Ke and her job loss, Wan Xinxin was approached by Xu Chunli. Xu Chunli implored Wan Xinxin to convince Hua Ming to work for Jiang Kaiyang, covertly monitoring him for signs of an affair, as she lacked concrete evidence.
Wan Xinxin found the request outrageous and refused, saying she couldn't ask Hua Ming to do such a thing. Xu Chunli, growing frustrated, threatened to stop helping Wan Xinxin with her child if she wouldn't cooperate. As Xu Chunli angrily exited, threatening to cease childcare altogether, she encountered Hua Ming and Qin mother entering the building. Qin mother, overhearing a hint of distress from Wan Xinxin about a "broken pot," proposed they all go out for dinner, including the child.
At the restaurant, Qin mother noticed Wan Xinxin's somber mood and offered a sympathetic ear, assuring her she could confide in her about any personal or work issues and even offered to intervene if Hua Ming was bothering her. Hua Ming quickly interjected, and Wan Xinxin confirmed he would not dare to bully her.
Episode 14 Recap
Qin Mother invited Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin to dinner at a restaurant, where she persistently urged Wan Xinxin to reconcile with Qin Gang. She told Wan Xinxin she could confide in her about any troubles, even if Hua Ming was mistreating her. Hua Ming quickly denied he would ever do so. Qin Mother then suggested Qin Gang regretted their past, had broken up with Liu Wei, and wished to reconcile.
However, Wan Xinxin firmly stated that she and Qin Gang were divorced and should live separate lives to avoid further entanglement. Qin Mother retorted that Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming were not a real couple, a claim Hua Ming disputed. Wan Xinxin insisted they were together and that Hua Ming had promised to care for her and her son, which Hua Ming confirmed.
Qin Mother challenged Hua Ming, questioning if he had made any real promises, and if so, why they weren't married. Hua Ming dismissed marriage as a mere formality, but Qin Mother emphasized its responsibility, daring him to declare his commitment, promising she would then back off. When Qin Mother implied Hua Ming might not remain in the city, Wan Xinxin asserted her independence. Feeling uneasy, Hua Ming excused himself to the restroom, asking Wan Xinxin to hold the child.
Inside the restroom, Hua Ming observed a man nervously pacing. The man, a stranger, told Hua Ming that the restaurant was a popular spot for proposals, boasting a high success rate. He confessed his own anxiety, explaining that he had already arranged a band, dancers, and flowers, but his girlfriend was delayed at work until 8 PM, making him increasingly nervous. Hua Ming, listening to this, got an idea.
While Wan Xinxin was still politely deflecting Qin Mother’s persistent suggestions, a band suddenly started playing and approached their table, followed by dancers, leaving both women bewildered. Then, Hua Ming, dressed in a suit, emerged with a bouquet of roses. He told Wan Xinxin he wanted to see her smile and make her happy.
He sang a heartfelt song about finding love unexpectedly and then, kneeling, declared his love for her and her son, promising to spend his life protecting and caring for them. The surrounding crowd chanted for Wan Xinxin to marry him. Qin Mother, clearly disturbed, muttered that things were going too far. Wan Xinxin, swept up in the romantic display, accepted the proposal, and Hua Ming placed a ring on her finger.
Hua Ming then turned to Qin Mother, thanking her for her blessing and claiming it was "heaven's arrangement" that she had invited them to this restaurant, which, he explained, was famous for proposals. He stated he had originally planned a surprise proposal there but improvised when she had invited them. He reiterated his promise to care for Wan Xinxin and her son. Visibly upset, Qin Mother made an excuse about feeling unwell and quickly left.
Still basking in the glow of the "proposal," Wan Xinxin asked Hua Ming if they were moving too quickly. Hua Ming then shed his suit and tie, and to Wan Xinxin's astonishment, seriously told her to remove the ring, admitting it was borrowed. He apologized and forcefully took it off, causing Wan Xinxin a moment of pain.
He then began directing the band and dancers, instructing the nervous man from the restroom to follow his lead but omit any mention of being forty years old in his speech. He also rallied the crowd to passionately chant "Marry him!" Wan Xinxin realized it had all been a performance, a rehearsal for the nervous man. Hua Ming explained he was merely helping the anxious man practice. Wan Xinxin, feeling a sudden sense of disappointment, chastised herself for being foolish.
Meanwhile, Qin Mother informed Qin Gang about the proposal, accusing him of not trying hard enough. Qin Gang, frustrated, complained to Liu Wei that he couldn't get his child back and Wan Xinxin wouldn't remarry him. He also doubted his mother would truly donate her entire inheritance. Liu Wei, however, gravely informed him that, knowing his mother, she very well might donate most of her fortune, leaving him with nothing.
Qin Gang lamented that he couldn't think of a solution, and that merely thinking about Wan Xinxin irritated him. Liu Wei, drawing on her experience, urged him not to give up, stressing that miracles often happen when all seems lost, and he must pursue Wan Xinxin to show his sincerity. When Qin Gang wondered where to find her, Liu Wei suggested that a woman who loves to show off like Wan Xinxin would surely leave clues about her whereabouts.
Later, Qin Gang, seeing Wan Xinxin's social media post about going to Antarctica, was infuriated, questioning how he could chase her there. Liu Wei dismissed the Antarctica post as a joke, telling him to check Wan Xinxin's home for real clues. Qin Gang agreed and promptly left. After the fake proposal, Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin found themselves in an awkward silence when they were alone.
Wan Xinxin teased Hua Ming about his formal attire, calling it hilarious, to which he responded that he used to dress that way before meeting her. She admitted that his declaration of taking care of her and her son had genuinely touched her. Hua Ming, in turn, confessed to being 40, divorced, and having a daughter, stating that grand romantic gestures were behind him and he was tired.
To further solidify their charade, Wan Xinxin then proposed they go on a "honeymoon." Hua Ming was astonished and vehemently refused, arguing they couldn't honeymoon without being married. Wan Xinxin, however, revealed she had already posted the news on Weibo, leaving him no choice as many, including Qin Gang, would see it. Hua Ming complained that her antics would only make Qin Gang more persistent, but Wan Xinxin was determined to make Qin Gang realize she was fine without him.
Later, Hua Ming called his daughter, Ruirui, to explain his upcoming week-long absence, claiming he was visiting an old friend and that signal might be poor. Ruirui grew suspicious when she saw Wan Xinxin packing and correctly deduced that Hua Ming was taking her along, accusing him of lying before hanging up the phone. Hua Ming then met with Qin Gang, informing him about the "honeymoon" and their planned 15-day absence, intentionally provoking him.
Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming did not actually go to Antarctica. Instead, they drove to a familiar spot in the suburbs, a place Hua Ming had previously taken her, to relax in nature. They set up tents for camping. As they worked, Wan Xinxin had to playfully coerce Hua Ming into helping with the heavy luggage, threatening to make him sleep on the floor.
When he agreed, she further teased that she would join him on the floor and he would have to hold her, prompting him to swiftly comply. That evening, as they relaxed, Hua Ming lightheartedly teased Wan Xinxin about being a "bride" working on their "fake honeymoon." Their banter continued with Hua Ming making a joke about her having a "gutter mind" when she misunderstood his comment about checking the tent.
Later that night, Wan Xinxin, feeling cold, suggested they share a tent. Hua Ming protested, arguing it was inappropriate and there was a clear difference between separate tents and sharing a room. He playfully referred to himself as "Neighbor Old Man Hua," offering assistance from next door. However, Wan Xinxin quietly approached his tent and opened it, prompting Hua Ming to ask if she was cold, implying she joined him inside.
The next morning, while Wan Xinxin was singing and fishing, she asked Hua Ming for help with a fish she had hooked. He refused, playfully telling her to be independent and joking that if she fell in, he would use the fishing rod to pull her out.
Episode 15 Recap
While camping, Wan Xinxin spotted Hua Ming relaxing and reading under a tree. Feeling playful, she deliberately tossed her jacket into a nearby pond, then threw a large rock, following it with a startled scream. Hearing the commotion and seeing the splashing water and floating jacket, Hua Ming immediately jumped into the pond. After a moment of frantic searching, he realized he had been tricked.
Wan Xinxin, delighted by her prank, burst into laughter but was then unexpectedly pulled into the water by Hua Ming. After their playful splashing, the two emerged from the water. Wan Xinxin soon felt the chill and developed a fever. Seeing Hua Ming's tender and caring demeanor, Wan Xinxin impulsively kissed him. In that instant, memories of their time together flooded Hua Ming's mind, and he was overcome with emotion, pulling Wan Xinxin into a tight embrace.
As the evening progressed, Hua Ming repeatedly checked if Wan Xinxin was getting cold, insisting she wear a jacket. Wan Xinxin initially denied having a cold, humorously remarking that one sneeze meant someone was thinking of her and two meant someone was cursing her. Hua Ming noted she felt warm, but Wan Xinxin joked that using his hand wasn't accurate and suggested a thermometer, which she hadn't brought.
Eventually, she challenged him to check "professionally" with his lips, claiming children used to do it that way. Hua Ming, playing along, acted as Baymax, a cute inflatable robot who cares for people. He playfully scanned her, declared she had a fever and needed rest, and suggested they go home. Wan Xinxin, however, insisted on staying to make a wish for her little brother to grow up quickly, become a real man, and protect her.
Hua Ming teased her, asking why she needed protection with her fighting skills, but she emphasized that girls naturally want to be protected. She urged Hua Ming to make a wish too. He jokingly wished for her to disappear immediately, then carried her on his back as they headed back. The next morning, Wan Xinxin, still feeling the effects of her fever but full of excitement, sang about marrying Hua Ming and becoming his bride.
Hua Ming, concerned, reminded her of her fever and that she might end up on an IV if she didn't take care of herself. Wan Xinxin, however, expressed that even if this honeymoon was "fake," it was her first and potentially her last, and she wanted him to help her capture the memories. As Hua Ming took photos, Qin Gang suddenly appeared.
Qin Gang pleaded with Wan Xinxin, asking her not to marry Hua Ming and to give him another chance. He knelt, presenting a ring, and proposed to her, reminding her of their child and promising to rebuild their family. Wan Xinxin found him unreasonable and insisted it was too late, attempting to leave with Hua Ming. Hua Ming intervened, stating Wan Xinxin had a fever and needed to leave, also asserting that she was his wife.
Undeterred, Qin Gang declared that if Wan Xinxin did not accept his proposal, he would jump off a stone bridge. Wan Xinxin dismissed his threat as childish and dared him to jump, ready to leave. To their shock, Qin Gang suddenly leaped into the water. Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin immediately rushed him to the hospital.
The doctor informed them that Qin Gang had sustained a mild concussion and would need to remain under observation for a few days, but was otherwise fine. Wan Xinxin, still worried, chastised Qin Gang for his foolish and dangerous act. Qin Gang, lying in the hospital bed, admitted his past immaturity and declared that Wan Xinxin and their child were the most important people in his life.
After Wan Xinxin left, Qin Gang made a phone call to Shi Lu, instructing her to inform Wan Xinxin that he agreed to her terms: he would not deal with her directly, but he wanted her company to handle the car show project's design and promotion, and he would accept any of her conditions. Later, Liu Wei visited Qin Gang, criticizing his reckless behavior.
Qin Gang admitted he hadn't intended to jump but merely slipped, adding that the incident had noticeably softened Wan Xinxin's attitude toward him. Despite this, he confided in Liu Wei that he planned to use the auto show to utterly crush Wan Xinxin's spirit and ensure she could never recover professionally. Following Shi Lu's persistent requests, Wan Xinxin ultimately agreed to take on Qin Gang's car show project.
She clarified that her decision was for Shi Lu and the company's benefit, not for Qin Gang, whose trust she considered to be at zero. Shi Lu, in turn, reassured Wan Xinxin that Qin Gang genuinely valued her professional abilities and expertise in the 4S dealership, and he had promised not to approach her directly during the project.
As Wan Xinxin began working diligently on the car show, discussing design elements like wanting darker red stripes for elegance, Liu Wei secretly met with Ledi's assistant, Lu Beibei. Liu Wei presented Lu Beibei with a designer bag and 300,000 yuan, promising another 300,000 upon completion. She instructed Lu Beibei to sabotage Wan Xinxin's car show, ensure its failure, cause Wan Xinxin to mess things up, and ultimately make Qin Gang hate her.
Despite initial reluctance and concerns about karma, Lu Beibei, swayed by the substantial offer, reluctantly agreed to Liu Wei's unethical demands. Meanwhile, Hua Ming approached Qin Gang with a business proposal: he offered to provide nutritious, low-cost boxed meals for the employees of Qin Gang's 4S dealership. Qin Gang quickly saw through Hua Ming's intentions, realizing he primarily wanted to cook for Wan Xinxin.
Hua Ming readily admitted this, explaining that he aimed for Wan Xinxin to eat well and take a break with everyone. Amused by Hua Ming's dedication, Qin Gang teased him about "going after his leftovers" but ultimately agreed to the arrangement. Hua Ming also advised Qin Gang that classical music might make him anxious. The next day, Hua Ming arrived at the dealership with lunch.
He saw Qin Gang calling Wan Xinxin into his office, seemingly to discuss the car show plans over a meal. Hua Ming felt a pang of discomfort seeing them together. Later, Wan Xinxin returned from Qin Gang's office, frustrated and refusing to eat. She vented her anger, initially blaming a designer for not understanding her vision for the 4S dealership project.
Hua Ming suggested Qin Gang might have ulterior motives, but Wan Xinxin dismissed it, instead jokingly expressing annoyance with her "brother-in-law" (Hua Ming), implying he didn't understand her ideas, while Qin Gang reportedly did. Hua Ming, observing that Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang had been chatting happily with the blinds closed, humorously accused her of making him jealous.
Just as Hua Ming was about to tell Wan Xinxin something important about their camping trip, he was interrupted by a phone call regarding unfinished car show posters, indicating that the sabotage might already be underway. The following day, Wan Xinxin was in Qin Gang's office, presenting her ideas for the car show colors.
She suggested lighter, sporty colors for a summer auto show, but Qin Gang simply agreed with whatever she said, making it clear he wasn't genuinely engaging with the details. At that moment, Liu Wei burst into the office, initiating a loud, staged argument with Qin Gang designed to manipulate Wan Xinxin. Liu Wei angrily confronted Qin Gang for not answering her calls and accused him of being busy with Wan Xinxin.
She questioned Qin Gang's cruelty, reminding him she had returned to restart their relationship. Qin Gang, playing his part, acted as if he deeply regretted his divorce. He coldly asserted that they had broken up long ago and Liu Wei should not have returned. He stated that his divorce from Wan Xinxin was a mistake, and that he and Wan Xinxin had a child, a fact that couldn't be changed.
He declared he would do whatever it took to rebuild his family with Wan Xinxin, making it clear that no one could tear them apart. Qin Gang then accused Liu Wei of setting a trap to get him to leave Wan Xinxin in the first place. As Liu Wei stormed out in feigned anger, a visibly uncomfortable Wan Xinxin attempted to discreetly leave. However, Qin Gang grabbed her, attempting to embrace her. Wan Xinxin quickly pushed him away, reminding him that they were divorced and she was not his plaything to be discarded and then reclaimed at will.
Episode 16 Recap
Wan Xinxin meticulously prepared for the car show, instructing a colleague to print promotional materials using a USB drive. The colleague handed the USB drive to Lu Beibei, who immediately took it to a secluded corner to call Liu Wei. Lu Beibei reported to Liu Wei that she had the USB drive and discussed how to modify the content, expressing concern that it might implicate Qin Gang.
Shi Lu overheard parts of their conversation as she passed by, leading Lu Beibei to realize her actions were discovered. Shi Lu later arranged a meeting with Liu Wei, confronting her about the scheme, clearly indicating she was aware of Liu Wei's manipulation involving Lu Beibei. Liu Wei, unfazed, dismissed Lu Beibei as useless and then offered Shi Lu a tempting deal.
If Shi Lu assisted in the planned sabotage, Liu Wei promised that Shi Lu's company would handle all global promotion for her magazine, 'Frontier Magazine,' which would instantly elevate Shi Lu's company to a top-tier industry position. Shi Lu, after a moment of consideration, accepted the offer but firmly stated that she would not fire Wan Xinxin over the incident, to which Liu Wei agreed. On the day of the car show, Wan Xinxin believed everything was perfectly organized.
However, a large crowd of people began clamoring, holding up flyers and demanding laptops, claiming the promotional material promised a free laptop for attending the show. Wan Xinxin was shocked, as her original plan was to offer free bottled water, not computers. She tried to explain the discrepancy, stating that the laptop offer was only for customers who purchased a car, but the agitated crowd insisted on the promise written on their flyers.
Qin Gang intervened, announcing to the public that he would honor the flyers' promise, taking responsibility for the error and stating that Wan Xinxin's mistake was his own. Despite Wan Xinxin's attempts to stop him, Qin Gang ordered the distribution of computers to everyone present. Afterward, Wan Xinxin was distraught, blaming herself for the significant losses. Qin Gang tried to comfort her, but she insisted on compensating him.
Feeling immense guilt, Wan Xinxin returned to the office to pack her belongings and resign. Shi Lu tried to stop her, explaining that Lu Beibei was responsible for mixing up the files and had already been fired, so Wan Xinxin was not to blame and did not need to leave. However, Wan Xinxin felt an undeniable responsibility for the outcome.
She apologized to her colleagues for the trouble and her short temper, expressing a desire to work with them again in the future, then resolutely left the company. Upon learning of Wan Xinxin's resignation and the car show fiasco, Hua Ming discretely found Lu Beibei. He introduced himself as Wan Xinxin's friend and appealed to Lu Beibei's conscience, revealing that Wan Xinxin was suffering and had resigned.
Overcome with guilt, Lu Beibei confessed that Liu Wei had paid her to switch the USB drive, although she later returned the money. Lu Beibei also revealed that Shi Lu was aware of the plot. Hua Ming then shared this information with Xu Ke, concluding that Shi Lu and Liu Wei must have colluded, and Liu Wei must have offered Shi Lu a significant benefit to secure her silence. Xu Ke, disturbed by the news, confronted Shi Lu.
He accused her of hating Wan Xinxin and destroying her, especially after Wan Xinxin had taken the car show project to repay a favor to Shi Lu. Shi Lu denied personal animosity, stating her actions were solely for the company's growth and better opportunities, asserting that she prioritized her career above all else. She defended her decision not to fire Wan Xinxin, noting that Wan Xinxin resigned voluntarily.
Xu Ke warned her against collaborating with Liu Wei, calling Liu Wei dangerous, and criticized Shi Lu for her lack of "humanity." Shi Lu angrily dismissed his concerns, declaring she did not need anyone's approval and only believed in herself and her career. Xu Ke, exasperated, told her to live alone with her career and her selfishness, then stormed out. Later, Xu Ke relayed the full story to Wan Xinxin and apologized on Shi Lu's behalf.
To his surprise, Wan Xinxin held no grudge against Shi Lu, rationalizing that adults prioritize "pros and cons." She explained that she understood Shi Lu's position and, now knowing Liu Wei was the true instigator, felt no anger towards Shi Lu. Instead, Wan Xinxin expressed immense guilt over the substantial financial losses Qin Gang incurred and felt compelled to apologize to him, separating their personal history from professional ethics.
Xu Ke was shocked by her forgiving attitude and tried to dissuade her, even revealing he had broken up with Shi Lu because of the situation, but Wan Xinxin insisted he should reconcile with Shi Lu and that her apology to Qin Gang was necessary. Wan Xinxin went to Qin Gang's 4S dealership to apologize. Qin Gang appeared nonchalant about the losses, reiterating that he was willing to pay any price to make her happy.
He even declared that if the dealership caused her unhappiness, he would simply shut it down. Wan Xinxin was stunned and urged him not to act impulsively. However, Qin Gang, ignoring her pleas, gathered all his employees and publicly announced the immediate closure of the dealership, effective the following day. He instructed his staff to handle all personnel and financial matters, including compensations and distribution of remaining funds.
Wan Xinxin was left speechless and confused by his drastic decision, as were the employees, who wondered how a seemingly fine business could suddenly close. Behind the scenes, Qin Gang had orchestrated a plan. He sent Jiang Kaiyang to talk to Hua Ming and Xu Chunli to persuade Wan Xinxin. Jiang Kaiyang met with Hua Ming and showed him the dealership's account books, revealing that the business had actually been operating at a significant loss for some time.
Jiang Kaiyang explained that Qin Gang was not closing the store because of Wan Xinxin, but rather using the car show incident as a face-saving excuse to shut down a failing enterprise. Hua Ming was taken aback by this revelation, as the company had always appeared profitable with salaries paid on time. Meanwhile, Xu Chunli tried to convince Wan Xinxin to talk to Qin Gang, praising him and reiterating that he cared deeply about her feelings. Wan Xinxin, however, still struggled with the idea of being responsible for Qin Gang's decision, despite Hua Ming’s efforts to explain the dealership's true financial state.
Episode 17 Recap
Jiang Kaiyang proudly commanded the staff at Qin Gang's reopened 4S store. During this time, Xu Chunli called him, demanding to know where he had been all day. Jiang Kaiyang, growing irritated, questioned if he needed to inform her of his whereabouts and confidently declared he would make a comeback one day. Qin Gang, having overheard Jiang Kaiyang's phone conversation, presented him with the company ledger.
He instructed Jiang Kaiyang to take it home to show Xu Chunli the store's millions in annual profit, promising to promote him to manager in two to three years if things continued successfully. Back home, Jiang Kaiyang felt his future was bright. He informed Xu Chunli that he had gotten his old job back, emphasizing his success and accusing her of constantly suspecting him of an affair.
He proudly displayed the company ledger entrusted to him by President Qin, highlighting the millions in annual profit. He then coldly stated his desire for a divorce, causing Xu Chunli to be distraught. She later confided in Wan Xinxin, explaining Jiang Kaiyang’s arrogance and how Qin Gang's company had reopened with promises of management and millions in profit.
Wan Xinxin was surprised, recalling Hua Ming had previously told her Qin Gang's store was operating at a loss, and angrily questioned Hua Ming's intentions. Hua Ming became upset that Wan Xinxin suspected him. It was then that Wan Xinxin received a call from her alma mater. A teacher invited her to an alumni gathering the next day, stating her academic performance was outstanding and some of her student artwork would be displayed.
Excited by the invitation, Wan Xinxin insisted Hua Ming accompany her to the event, which she described as her art exhibition. At the gathering, Hua Ming found the mix of ages unusual for an alumni event and suspected something was off. Wan Xinxin inquired among the attendees, only to discover they were there for various reasons—a new education seminar, a clothing sale—and not an art exhibition at all.
As Wan Xinxin stood confused, Qin Gang appeared, revealing himself as the organizer. Hua Ming, realizing the deception, stated that the entire event was arranged by Qin Gang. Qin Gang then sincerely apologized to his former teachers and neighbors for past wrongdoings, giving them expensive gifts as a token of his sincerity. He then turned to Wan Xinxin, expressing deep regret for his past mistakes, especially since she left him.
He publicly asked for her forgiveness, vowing to dedicate his entire life to making amends. Wan Xinxin, though bewildered, told Qin Gang that he had better mean everything he said, adding that true love should make someone smile, not sad. Qin Gang responded that he would wait for her forgiveness forever, even if it took a lifetime.
Meanwhile, it was revealed that Liu Wei had orchestrated this entire event to help Qin Gang win back Wan Xinxin, hoping to sow discord between Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming. Back home, Wan Xinxin remained deeply unsettled by the day's events. Hua Ming, noticing her distress, repeatedly asked if she was softening towards Qin Gang and considering a reconciliation. Wan Xinxin, feeling overwhelmed, confessed that she was upset and just felt Qin Gang had matured.
She clarified she wasn't taking him back but acknowledged they would always be connected through their child. Hua Ming, however, believed she still harbored feelings for Qin Gang. He expressed suspicion that all of Qin Gang's recent actions, including the car show incident and the current situation with the 4S store, seemed too convenient and possibly part of a plan to regain Wan Xinxin's trust, especially since he knew the store had been losing money for a long time.
Wan Xinxin, however, defended Qin Gang, saying that people can change and Hua Ming shouldn't always resort to "conspiracy theories." She also asserted that she had forgiven Qin Gang. Feeling misunderstood and hurt by her implied accusation of him lying, Hua Ming became upset and left to cool off. The next day, Hua Ming saw Wan Xinxin carefully preparing a bouquet.
He asked if she was going to the beach to pay respects to her father, confirming it was his birthday. Wan Xinxin declined Hua Ming's offer to accompany her, stating she could manage by herself, though Hua Ming reminded her to wear a coat as it would be windy by the sea.
When Wan Xinxin arrived at the beach, she was surprised to find Qin Gang already there, having set out flowers and wine to commemorate her father's birthday, an act Liu Wei had suggested to Qin Gang. Hua Ming, who had made his way to the beach with flowers, witnessed Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang together. That night, Hua Ming, visibly distressed, told Wan Xinxin he had a headache and left the house without much explanation.
He went to a bar and met Xu Ke, where he drank heavily in silence. Concerned, Xu Ke urged him to speak. Hua Ming, somewhat under the influence, lamented that he never expected to fall in love at his age, admitting his feelings for Wan Xinxin and her child, but confessed he didn't know how she felt about him. Xu Ke criticized him for not confessing his feelings directly, urging him to get an answer from Wan Xinxin herself.
Hua Ming expressed his belief that he and Wan Xinxin were "right person, wrong time," constantly out of sync. Meanwhile, Wan Xinxin was also troubled at home, crying uncontrollably. Xu Chunli, surprised to see her in such a state, learned that Wan Xinxin had fallen for Hua Ming but was unsure of his attitude, finding him to be hot and cold.
Xu Chunli strongly advised Wan Xinxin that Hua Ming was not a suitable match and urged her to reconcile with Qin Gang, who had been actively pursuing her and was Xiaobao's father. However, Wan Xinxin insisted that her heart belonged to Hua Ming. Xu Chunli then advised her that love alone wouldn't sustain them and that as a woman, she needed someone reliable.
Episode 18 Recap
Xu Ke listened to Hua Ming’s heartfelt confession and passionately urged him to declare his feelings to Wan Xinxin. He stressed that even a failed confession was better than being consumed by doubt. Emboldened, Hua Ming found his courage and purchased a large bouquet of flowers, hurrying back to confess. However, he suddenly received a phone call from Mrs. Qin, who was waiting downstairs outside his building. When Mrs. Qin saw him with the flowers, she quickly deduced his intention.
She advised Hua Ming against confessing to Wan Xinxin, emphasizing that for the sake of Baogege, he should refrain. She explained that Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang’s relationship was healing, and he shouldn't prevent the child from having both biological parents. She also reminded him of the enduring pain a child experiences from divorced parents, citing his own daughter Ruirui as an example. While Hua Ming acknowledged her reasoning, he asserted it had nothing to do with love.
Mrs. Qin left him to make his own decision. After she departed, Hua Ming pondered her words and, feeling their weight, decided to sacrifice his own emotions for Wan Xinxin and the child. Upon returning home, Hua Ming put on a facade of nonchalance and found himself unable to confess his feelings to Wan Xinxin. He claimed to have had too much to drink with Xu Ke.
Wan Xinxin repeatedly tried to encourage him to speak, even asking directly if he had something to tell her and offering to drink with him. However, Hua Ming continuously deflected her questions, complaining of a headache and insisting they would talk about everything the next day. Frustrated by his evasiveness, Wan Xinxin eventually gave up. Meanwhile, Liu Wei unexpectedly called Wan Xinxin and arranged a meeting.
Wan Xinxin, surprised by the request, met with Liu Wei, who announced her decision to return to America. Liu Wei, feigning self-pity, admitted defeat, stating that no matter how hard she tried, she could never win Qin Gang’s heart and only pushed him further away. She even suggested that if she had never intervened, Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang might still be together. Wan Xinxin acknowledged this possibility but firmly stated she was doing well now.
Liu Wei then extended her hand, proposing to make peace, but Wan Xinxin refused, declaring she never felt she had lost. Separately, Shi Lu discovered that the contract Liu Wei had promised her was invalid. Her lawyer confirmed that a clause granting Party A sole interpretation of terms rendered it useless. Realizing she had been deceived, Shi Lu angrily tore up the contract. Xu Ke, witnessing Shi Lu's distress at her company, offered his support.
Despite Shi Lu's initial reluctance and a moment of sharp words, Xu Ke persisted, offering to join her company and help navigate the difficult period. Touched by his sincerity, Shi Lu accepted his offer, and Xu Ke was overjoyed. Hua Ming then began helping Wan Xinxin search for jobs online. However, Wan Xinxin found it difficult to find a suitable position, deeming some roles a demotion and others too senior for her age.
During their search, Qin Gang called, suggesting Wan Xinxin either work at his company or stay home to care for the child, leaving financial worries to him. Wan Xinxin politely declined, asserting she wished to handle her career independently. Hua Ming was visibly upset by Qin Gang's interference and Wan Xinxin's defense of Qin Gang, leading to a minor argument where she accused Hua Ming of being petty.
The next day, as Wan Xinxin stepped out, she encountered Qin Gang waiting downstairs. He lavished her with romantic sentiments, claiming to have missed her constantly and implying he was ready for her to take him back. Unimpressed by his dramatic display, Wan Xinxin dismissed his words and continued on her way. Hua Ming observed this scene from a distance, his heart heavy. Hua Ming was in anguish, grappling with his decision.
Soon after, Mrs. Qin called him again, imploring him to consider Wan Xinxin and the baby's best interests for a happy life with Qin Gang. Xu Chunli also strongly supported Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang's reunion. Having made his difficult choice, Hua Ming organized a dinner that evening, using food prepared by Xu Chunli, as a "celebration" for Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang's supposed reconciliation. Wan Xinxin, suppressing her true feelings, directly asked Hua Ming about their relationship.
Hua Ming, feigning indifference, stated they were merely friends. He rationalized that Xu Chunli and he needed to find jobs, and the baby would receive a better education with the wealthy Qin family. Devastated, Wan Xinxin inferred that Hua Ming did not truly like her. Both found solace in drinking heavily, neither willing to voice their genuine emotions.
Wan Xinxin tearfully wondered why Hua Ming was so unaffected by her, recalling his kindness during their camping trip, and decided to test him one more time. In his thoughts, Hua Ming apologized for speaking words contrary to his feelings, believing he could not selfishly keep her when her future seemed tied to Qin Gang and the child. The following morning, Hua Ming rose early and finished packing Wan Xinxin and the baby's luggage.
Wan Xinxin, still hurting from their conversation, observed silently that Hua Ming still wouldn't ask her to stay, confirming her belief that she had been deluding herself. Mrs. Qin and Qin Gang soon arrived to pick them up. Mrs. Qin expressed immense gratitude to Hua Ming for caring for Wan Xinxin and her grandson, overjoyed by the family's reunion, and assured Wan Xinxin that Qin Gang would treat her exceptionally well.
Qin Gang earnestly told Wan Xinxin he was sincere and it was time to go home. Hua Ming, maintaining a facade of composure, helped load the baby's belongings into Qin Gang's car, even giving detailed instructions about the baby's favorite music on Wan Xinxin's phone. Qin Gang, however, cut him off, asserting his presence was enough. Wan Xinxin quietly thanked Hua Ming, who simply replied, "You're welcome."
As Wan Xinxin sadly got into the car, believing Hua Ming was simply trying to rid himself of the trouble she and the baby represented, Hua Ming said goodbye to the baby. As the car drove away, Hua Ming watched, feeling as though his heart was being carried away with them. Wan Xinxin, equally somber in the car, asked Qin Gang if he was happy now, to which he simply replied, "No."
Episode 19 Recap
Wan Xinxin returned to the Qin family home, where she was treated as an honored guest by Qin Gang and his mother, with many nannies present. Despite the pampering, Wan Xinxin felt unnatural and unhappy. Qin Gang showed her to her room, assuring her that everything was as it had been before, with the addition of a crib for the baby.
He mentioned he had installed an intercom for her convenience, promising to be there in a flash if she needed anything. Qin Gang’s mother expressed her joy at Wan Xinxin's return, feeling like it was a dream and hoping they could go back to how things were. That night, Wan Xinxin made it clear she would be sleeping separately.
Qin Gang, anticipating this, told her he had already cleaned the guest room downstairs and would not come to her room without permission. At dinner, Qin Gang’s mother, who takes blood pressure medicine, cautioned Qin Gang to treat Wan Xinxin well and not upset her. She expressed hope that Wan Xinxin would eventually address her as "Mom," promising a large red envelope when she did.
Later, Qin Gang brought warm milk to Wan Xinxin, but she declined, stating she didn't have that habit. She also dismissed his offer to learn how to care for the baby. Feeling disappointed, Qin Gang spoke with his mother, who advised him to give Wan Xinxin time to adjust. Qin Gang admitted his disappointment about not being allowed into her room, but also expressed satisfaction that she was back, emphasizing the importance of a complete family.
His mother shared her life's regret of not having a complete family and urged him to always remember this lesson, especially when he inherited the family assets. Soon after, Qin Gang made an excuse about a welcome party for a CEO returning from America, leaving the house. He went to Liu Wei's place, where Liu Wei greeted him, asking if he finally decided to come back.
Qin Gang complained that Wan Xinxin was "acting crazy" and wouldn't let him into her room. He swore he wouldn't touch Wan Xinxin without Liu Wei's permission, and Liu Wei granted it jokingly. Qin Gang reassured Liu Wei that his heart would always belong to her, even when he took over the family business. Meanwhile, Hua Ming, whose home still held memories of Wan Xinxin and her son, was unable to eat properly.
He collected their forgotten belongings and personally delivered them to the Qin residence. When he arrived, Wan Xinxin appeared shocked to see him. Hua Ming handed a toy to Qin Gang's mother, explaining that it was the baby's favorite and would stop him from crying. He then asked if he could go upstairs to see the baby, but Qin Gang quickly interjected, saying the child had just fallen asleep and it wasn't convenient.
As Hua Ming was leaving, Qin Gang escorted him out and sternly warned him never to come to their house again, stating he was not welcome. Later, Hua Ming called Wan Xinxin, inquiring about a book. During the phone call, he asked how she was doing. Wan Xinxin replied she was fine and was trying to start over, learning to accept new things, as he had once advised. Hua Ming acknowledged her growth, hoping it wasn't too late.
He ended the call by jokingly telling her not to torture herself when he wasn't around, but she abruptly ended the conversation. At his office, Qin Gang called his mother to inform her he wouldn't be home for lunch due to a client meeting but would return early for dinner, asking her to inform Wan Xinxin. After the call, Jiang Kaiyang approached Qin Gang and was informed about Wan Xinxin moving back to the Qin household.
Jiang Kaiyang was ecstatic, believing this meant they would remarry, which would lead to his own promotion to store manager. He then rushed home to share the good news with Xu Chunli, who was watching TV. Xu Chunli was happy about Xinxin's return, but cautioned Jiang Kaiyang against visiting immediately, suggesting Wan Xinxin might still be upset for not having informed them herself. Jiang Kaiyang accepted her advice and they decided to eat out.
Concurrently, Xu Ke was massaging Shi Lu's neck at her company. Shi Lu, still stressed, expressed her admiration for Wan Xinxin's ability to return to the Qin family as the lady of the house, while also reveling in Liu Wei's downfall, calling it inevitable for a mistress. Xu Ke tried to soothe her by mentioning Wan Xinxin’s information that Liu Wei had gone back to America.
Shi Lu was surprised, revealing that Liu Wei had responded to a lawyer's letter just two days prior, refusing mediation. This meant Liu Wei was still in the country. Xu Ke immediately suspected a major conspiracy. Driven by his suspicion, Xu Ke went to Liu Wei's magazine office. He feigned being a heartbroken admirer, explaining to Liu Wei's secretary that Liu Wei was his "goddess" and he was desperate to propose before she left for America.
Moved by his passionate plea, the secretary secretly informed him that Liu Wei had not actually gone to America but was on vacation at home and did not want anyone to know. Xu Ke immediately shared this shocking revelation with Hua Ming. They both concluded that Liu Wei's lie about going to America indicated a deeper, more troubling scheme involving Qin Gang and Liu Wei. Hua Ming confronted Qin Gang at his office, demanding to know the truth.
Qin Gang openly admitted he loved Wan Xinxin and planned to remarry her. When Hua Ming questioned him about Liu Wei, Qin Gang tried to evade, saying Liu Wei had returned to America. Hua Ming pressed him to be honest, accusing him of hurting Wan Xinxin by secretly seeing Liu Wei. Qin Gang challenged him for proof.
Losing his temper, Qin Gang aggressively admitted his relationship with Liu Wei, boasting that Wan Xinxin was still devotedly following him despite this, a testament to his "charm and ability." Determined to expose Qin Gang, Hua Ming instructed Xu Ke to covertly photograph Qin Gang and Liu Wei together. Xu Ke was to find a vantage point between their respective homes, where they frequently met. However, Xu Ke only managed to capture photos of their backs, which disappointed Hua Ming.
Despite the low quality, Hua Ming chose a few clearer images, intending to confront Qin Gang. Hua Ming presented the photos to Qin Gang, who remained unfazed. Qin Gang challenged Hua Ming to confront Wan Xinxin with the photos himself, and Hua Ming agreed. At the Qin house, Qin Gang brought Hua Ming in, provocatively announcing that he wanted to confirm "how shameless Dr. Hua is" to his mother and Wan Xinxin.
Wan Xinxin opened the envelope containing the photos, and both she and Qin Gang's mother were shocked. Qin Gang's mother exclaimed, "Isn't this Liu Wei?" Hua Ming confirmed that Liu Wei had never left. Qin Gang then calmly produced his phone, showing a photo of a female business partner named Ms. Qian, whose back resembled Liu Wei's. He accused Hua Ming of fabricating evidence to ruin his relationship with Wan Xinxin.
Qin Gang's mother grew agitated, berating Hua Ming for trying to disrupt her son's happiness. Hua Ming vehemently insisted he was telling the truth, that Liu Wei and Qin Gang had never ended their affair. Qin Gang ordered him to leave his home. As Hua Ming tried to convince Wan Xinxin that Qin Gang was setting a trap and urged her to leave with him, Qin Gang's mother, overwhelmed with anger, suffered a high blood pressure attack and collapsed.
Amidst the chaos, Wan Xinxin called an ambulance. At the hospital, the doctor confirmed Qin Gang's mother was out of danger but scolded them for causing her such distress. Qin Gang furiously blamed Hua Ming, threatening him if anything serious happened to his mother. Hua Ming tried to approach Qin Gang's mother's room to apologize, but Wan Xinxin stopped him, fearing it would further upset her.
Outside the room, Hua Ming desperately tried to convince Wan Xinxin that he was telling the truth and that Qin Gang was deceiving her. However, Wan Xinxin, prioritizing Qin Gang’s mother's health, told him that the truth no longer mattered. She stated that since she had returned to the Qin family, she would face whatever consequences came her way, and asked Hua Ming to stop looking for her. Dejected, Hua Ming sought solace in alcohol.
Xu Ke, finding him drinking, tried to comfort him. Hua Ming lamented that despite acting for Wan Xinxin's own good, she was ungrateful and refused to see them. He expressed his frustration at having underestimated Qin Gang's cunning, declaring he was "done" with Wan Xinxin, only to immediately contradict himself, admitting he couldn't stop caring for her. Qin Gang's mother eventually rested, and Wan Xinxin remained by her side.
Episode 20 Recap
After recovering from her recent health scare, Qin's mother, while still in bed, asked Wan Xinxin to address her as "Mom" from now on. Seeing Qin's mother's frail condition, Wan Xinxin immediately agreed. Qin's mother then summoned Qin Gang, stating that despite the scare, she feared sudden health deterioration and wished to revise her will immediately. Qin Gang tried to dissuade her, suggesting they wait until tomorrow morning, but his mother insisted, wanting a lawyer at once.
He promised to make the call. Once outside, Qin Gang contacted Liu Wei, informing her that their plan was finally nearing success. Meanwhile, Xu Ke was staked out near Qin Gang's company, hoping to capture clear photographic evidence. Hua Ming arrived and urged him to stop, explaining that Qin Gang was now alert and unlikely to expose himself easily. As they spoke, Qin Gang emerged from the company and spotted them.
He then deliberately made a phone call to Wan Xinxin, fabricating a conversation to make it sound like Hua Ming was harassing him by being at the company entrance with Xu Ke, making Wan Xinxin furious.
Qin Gang mockingly referred to Hua Ming as "her knight in shining armor" and falsely suggested there was a "misunderstanding" between him and Hua Ming that needed clearing up, all while subtly implying that this situation could upset his mother and cause her blood pressure to spike again. Later, Wan Xinxin returned to Hua Ming's home and confronted him, demanding he stop interfering with her life.
She explained that she had finally accepted Qin Gang and was trying to build a new life, and she didn't want Qin's mother to fall ill again due to their disputes. Hua Ming expressed his regret for having persuaded her to move back to the Qin family, even offering to have her move back in with him.
Wan Xinxin, however, felt he kept his true feelings hidden and that she could never understand what he was truly thinking, remarking that his "door is always closed" to her. Hua Ming assured her that everything he had done was for her and her son, Bao. Wan Xinxin, however, declared her decision to remarry Qin Gang and asked Hua Ming to no longer disturb her. Hua Ming was visibly shocked.
Xu Ke, deeply upset by Wan Xinxin's decision, went to the Qin residence to confront her. He was angry that she was falling for Qin Gang's tricks again, calling her foolish for repeatedly putting herself in a bad situation. Wan Xinxin explained that with a child now, all her decisions were for Bao's sake, and she was willing to endure the situation.
When Xu Ke pressed her about her feelings for Hua Ming, Wan Xinxin hesitated, admitting she couldn't understand Hua Ming's true emotions, as he had never given her a clear answer. Xu Ke accused her of being a coward, unwilling to face her true feelings and afraid of being hurt again. He became furious, telling her that if she remarried Qin Gang, he would end their friendship.
Wan Xinxin defiantly accepted, walking away and telling him not to talk to her anymore. Distraught over losing Wan Xinxin as a friend, Xu Ke met Hua Ming at a bar to drink and vent. While they were talking, two women approached and asked to share their table. Hua Ming, observing two muscular men intently watching them, discreetly warned Xu Ke that something was amiss and instructed him to stay calm and follow his lead.
Hua Ming agreed to let the women join their table. Shortly after they sat down, the two muscular men stormed over. The women immediately turned on Hua Ming and Xu Ke, accusing them of harassing them and making them drink. One of the muscular men angrily approached Hua Ming. Hua Ming punched him, knocking him down.
Noticing the women quickly leaving, Hua Ming quietly told Xu Ke to take his phone and follow them, while he himself insisted on calling the police. Xu Ke followed the women, who rendezvoused with Liu Wei and received money from her. It became clear that Liu Wei had orchestrated the entire setup to have Hua Ming arrested and removed as an obstacle to Qin Gang and Wan Xinxin's remarriage.
Shocked by this discovery, Xu Ke called Wan Xinxin to inform her that Hua Ming had been detained after the bar fight, but Wan Xinxin, dismissive and angry, cut him off, stating she was getting her marriage certificate with Qin Gang the next day and telling them both to stop disturbing her. Later that night, Qin Gang arrived at Liu Wei's apartment, elated about his impending remarriage to Wan Xinxin.
Liu Wei confirmed Hua Ming's arrest, noting that the path was now clear for him. They discussed their future plans. Qin Gang promised to compensate Wan Xinxin financially after securing his inheritance, acknowledging she was caring for his child. However, Liu Wei expressed frustration over Qin Gang's current lack of career and financial independence, and Qin Gang himself admitted to feeling inferior and insecure in their relationship.
He reassured her of his love and commitment to building a better life together, free of worries, once his plans materialized, stating everything he did was for their future. Unable to convince Wan Xinxin, Xu Ke secretly climbed to her bedroom balcony at the Qin residence. He urged her to come with him, insisting she needed to see that Liu Wei had never left the country.
Wan Xinxin initially resisted, accusing Hua Ming of sending him and wanting them to stop interfering. Xu Ke, however, persisted, dragging her to Liu Wei's apartment. He banged on the door, and when Liu Wei opened it, he triumphantly shouted Qin Gang's name. Qin Gang, emerging in his pajamas, was stunned to see Xu Ke, who then revealed Wan Xinxin standing behind him. Wan Xinxin witnessed the scene firsthand, confirming Qin Gang's betrayal. She kicked Qin Gang and fled.
After being released from the police station, Hua Ming was informed of Wan Xinxin's disappearance and frantically began searching for her. He confronted Qin Gang at his home, accusing him of giving up the search easily. Qin Gang claimed he had asked everyone he knew but couldn't find her. Hua Ming, furious, warned Qin Gang that he would come back for him after finding Wan Xinxin.
Xu Ke also mobilized all his friends to help locate her, and he personally visited his sister, asking if Wan Xinxin had contacted her. She hadn't seen her either. With no leads, Xu Ke, along with his sister and friends, continued the desperate search for Wan Xinxin.
Episode 21 Recap
Hua Ming frantically searched for Wan Xinxin, eventually making his way to the Wishing Tree where they had last camped together. He spoke aloud, filled with regret, wishing he could turn back time and no longer avoid her. Unbeknownst to him, Wan Xinxin was hiding nearby and overheard his heartfelt words, feeling a bittersweet pang and wondering why he hadn't expressed this sooner. Later, Wan Xinxin went to the seashore to confide in her deceased father.
She tearfully expressed her feelings of betrayal, mentioning how her father, Qin Gang, and even Hua Ming had seemingly lied to her. She felt homeless and unwanted, wishing her father had taken her with him.
Hua Ming found her there and, after some playful banter about the ocean and his poetic observations (like calling the sea "spinach soup"), he urged her to return home with him, clarifying that his place was her home and admitting he was now begging her to come back. Accompanied by Hua Ming, Wan Xinxin returned to the Qin family home to retrieve her son. Qin Gang's mother expressed her concern, but Wan Xinxin was resolute.
Qin Gang attempted to intervene, but Hua Ming stood by Wan Xinxin's side. Wan Xinxin firmly told Qin Gang that she did not want her son to grow up to be a liar. Despite Qin Gang's mother pleading to keep her grandson, Wan Xinxin apologized, acknowledging the kindness shown to her, but insisted on taking her child, assuring them they could visit anytime. With her son, Wan Xinxin returned to Hua Ming's home, finding a sense of peace.
That evening, Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming shared their feelings. Wan Xinxin admitted she had always felt she and Qin Gang would never reconcile, and initially, she had pursued Qin Gang out of spite for Hua Ming. However, as Hua Ming continued to distance himself and her son grew to resemble Qin Gang, she considered sacrificing her own happiness for her son's sake, viewing marriage as a mere formality.
Hua Ming expressed his relief that she hadn't remarried, as discovering the truth later would have caused her further heartbreak. Wan Xinxin confessed she was not sad but relieved, feeling that fate had orchestrated these hardships so they could learn to cherish each other. She was delighted to live with him again.
Still, she wondered about Qin Gang's true motives for wanting to remarry her, speculating it was to secure custody of their son, the heir to the wealthy Qin family. Hua Ming, now vibrant and happy, joked with her while making breakfast, describing himself as a "pressure cooker" before she and her son entered his life. Wan Xinxin teasingly called him "an incredibly reserved man with a hidden wild side."
Xu Chunli visited Wan Xinxin and learned about Qin Gang's latest deception. Although she considered Qin Gang a "jerk" and "garbage," she immediately worried about her husband, Jiang Kaiyang, who worked for Qin Gang. Her concerns were valid; Qin Gang, still reeling from Wan Xinxin's departure, ordered Jiang Kaiyang to persuade Wan Xinxin to return immediately, threatening him with indefinite leave if he failed. Jiang Kaiyang returned home enraged, blaming Wan Xinxin for jeopardizing his career.
Xu Chunli refused to push her sister back into a "fire pit," to which Jiang Kaiyang retorted it was a "fire pit that burns with money" and threatened to divorce her if she didn't comply. Later, Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming enjoyed a day at the beach. Hua Ming mentioned needing to find a job after being idle for months, which prompted Wan Xinxin to ask why he no longer wanted to be a doctor.
He appeared reluctant to discuss it, attempting to change the subject. Wan Xinxin pressed him for an answer, sensing a deeper reason behind his avoidance, but he remained unwilling to explain. Their conversation was interrupted by an urgent phone call from Xu Ke. Believing something serious had happened, Wan Xinxin rushed to meet Xu Ke.
He dramatically declared he was suffering from "lovesickness, terminal stage," explaining that his relationship with Shi Lu was stalled, "like a cold train stopped on the tracks, missing a driver." He recounted how Shi Lu treated him professionally at work but would accept his invitations for dinner and shopping after hours. Despite the emotional "whoosh" he felt in her presence, he couldn't break through her "firewall" and feared pushing too hard.
Wan Xinxin suggested testing Shi Lu's feelings by seeing if she would react with jealousy. Xu Ke then asked Wan Xinxin to help him with this plan. After playfully negotiating a month's worth of breakfast as payment (specifically, Jianbing with three eggs), Wan Xinxin agreed. The following day, after Xu Ke's meeting at Shi Lu's company, Wan Xinxin arrived, dressed in a striking manner.
She immediately greeted Xu Ke with affectionate terms ("Honey," "Darling") and reminded him of their fabricated lunch plans. In front of Shi Lu, Wan Xinxin explicitly announced that she and Xu Ke were now a couple, feigning a deep relationship. However, Shi Lu remained completely unfazed, simply offering them her congratulations.
Episode 22 Recap
Xu Ke had expected Shi Lu to be upset and jealous after seeing him and Wan Xinxin act affectionately, but Shi Lu reacted with surprising indifference. After they left, Wan Xinxin reassured a nervous Xu Ke that Shi Lu’s perceived anger was a sign of her care for him, encouraging him to confess his feelings. The next day, Xu Ke arrived at Shi Lu’s home with flowers to declare his love.
He tried to clarify that Wan Xinxin had only been helping him and that they were merely good friends. Shi Lu, however, remained cold, stating that she would never be with anyone because “none of you men are any good,” including Xu Ke. She explained that she had extreme insecurity and only work brought her peace of mind, implying she had been deeply hurt in the past.
Despite Xu Ke’s attempts to convince her to give herself another chance, Shi Lu was unyielding, refusing to try again if she knew she would only get hurt. She dismissed his romantic overtures, telling him to discuss work matters at the office and to take his flowers with him. A disappointed Xu Ke left the flowers behind. Meanwhile, Qin Gang presented the revised will to his mother for review.
She immediately tore it up, declaring that she had changed her mind. She asserted that it was her money to dispose of as she pleased and announced her intention to donate all her assets, just like Bill Gates. Qin Gang argued that even Bill Gates left a portion for his children, but his mother maintained she was "more noble" for planning to donate everything. Upset and frustrated, Qin Gang sought out Liu Wei.
Liu Wei suggested he stop worrying about the inheritance and Wan Xinxin for now. She proposed they get married first and have their own child, believing that his mother would then come around. Qin Gang rejected the idea, explaining that he felt incomplete without the family business. He desired to take over, expand the family enterprises, and get them listed on NASDAQ, to prove his worth and self-respect, especially given Liu Wei’s successful career as a star editor.
Blaming Wan Xinxin for his mother’s latest decision, Qin Gang resolved to fight for his child’s custody. He immediately called his lawyer, Attorney Zhao, to initiate a lawsuit against Wan Xinxin. Ignoring Qin Gang’s protests, his mother decided to return to America for a rest. Before leaving, she visited Hua Ming’s home to see the baby.
She explained to Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming that her previous insistence on reconciliation with Qin Gang stemmed from her fear that the baby would grow up to hate Qin Gang, much like Qin Gang resented his own father for abandoning them. However, after witnessing Qin Gang’s recent actions, she admitted she could no longer persuade Wan Xinxin to return to him. Wan Xinxin, understanding, promised that she would not let the baby hate Qin Gang.
Qin Gang’s mother was visibly relieved and touched. She praised Wan Xinxin as a good girl, lamenting the loss of such a daughter-in-law. She then entrusted Wan Xinxin and the baby to Hua Ming, whom she saw as a mature, steady, and clever man. She announced her intention to establish a trust fund in America, giving all her money to the baby to ensure Wan Xinxin and the child would have no financial worries in the future.
Hua Ming promised to take good care of them. As Qin Gang’s mother exited Hua Ming’s building, she encountered Qin Gang, who had been anxiously waiting for her downstairs. He begged her not to leave. His mother reiterated her resolve, stating that seeing the baby had only solidified her decision to establish a trust fund, dedicating all her money to the child’s future.
Qin Gang angrily accused Wan Xinxin of using the baby to manipulate his mother and trick her out of her money. Enraged, his mother slapped him, questioning his identity as her son and expressing profound disappointment before walking away. Immediately after his mother left, Qin Gang called Attorney Zhao, instructing him to accelerate the court date. The next day, Qin Gang summoned Jiang Kaiyang to his office.
Qin Gang asserted that Wan Xinxin’s actions were illegal and demanded an immediate court hearing. He handed Jiang Kaiyang the legal notice, telling him to deliver it to Wan Xinxin. Jiang Kaiyang hesitated, suggesting it was inappropriate, but Qin Gang dismissed his concerns, asking whose side he was on.
Qin Gang then revealed his true reason for keeping Jiang Kaiyang on staff: whenever he was frustrated with Wan Xinxin, he would send Jiang Kaiyang to "make trouble for Wan Xinxin," which brought him satisfaction. After leaving Qin Gang’s office, a fuming Jiang Kaiyang complained about Qin Gang's disrespectful treatment but admitted he couldn't quit due to financial obligations. He then tried to convince Xu Chunli to deliver the legal notice to Wan Xinxin.
He speculated that Qin Gang’s lawsuit might be a bluff, intended to pressure Wan Xinxin. He urged Xu Chunli to persuade Wan Xinxin to give the child to the Qin family, arguing that it would be less embarrassing for everyone and Wan Xinxin might even receive compensation. More importantly, he stressed that if the lawsuit proceeded, he would lose his job, jeopardizing their daughter Xiaoxiao's studies abroad. Xu Chunli reluctantly agreed to deliver the notice.
Xu Chunli delivered the lawyer’s letter to Wan Xinxin, reiterating Jiang Kaiyang's points. She tried to convince Wan Xinxin to avoid a lawsuit by letting the Qin family take the child, reminding her that Qin Gang’s mother treated the child well and that Wan Xinxin could still visit and might receive compensation. She pleaded with Wan Xinxin to consider the impact on Jiang Kaiyang's job and Xiaoxiao's education.
Wan Xinxin was indignant, refusing to "sell my child" and vowing to fight for her baby, regardless of the consequences. Hua Ming reassured Wan Xinxin, acknowledging the emotional toll but advising her to hold onto her child if she couldn't hold onto love. He promised to arrange a lawyer for her.
Qin Gang, meanwhile, assembled a formidable legal team of "elite professionals" and "top lawyers," whom he instructed not only to win his case but also to ensure that all their lawyer friends "absolutely refuse Wan Xinxin's requests for representation." Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming struggled to find legal counsel. Many prominent lawyers declined to take the case once they heard it was against Qin Gang, leading them to suspect Qin Gang’s interference.
They eventually found a small firm with a lawyer, Mr. Zhang, who had previously studied architectural engineering. Mr. Zhang informed them that while the child's young age and nursing status favored Wan Xinxin, her current lack of employment was a significant disadvantage, as it suggested an inability to raise a child. He advised her to quickly find a job with a decent income to improve her chances of winning. Hua Ming helped Wan Xinxin search for jobs.
She was determined to find a high-paying position to leave no room for Qin Gang to attack her. She successfully interviewed for a design manager role, impressing Manager Yang with her resume and past work. He offered her the job to start the following week. However, as Wan Xinxin was leaving the office, she encountered Liu Wei.
Liu Wei subtly undermined Wan Xinxin by telling Manager Yang that Wan Xinxin had "issues," causing trouble at a previous company, resulting in contract breaches and significant compensation payments. Manager Yang subsequently withdrew the job offer. Liu Wei informed Qin Gang of her actions, explaining she had sabotaged Wan Xinxin's job interview because she knew a lawyer had advised Wan Xinxin to secure employment.
Qin Gang thanked her and asked her to spread the word among her industry contacts to blacklist Wan Xinxin, ensuring she could not find work. Wan Xinxin was devastated, telling Hua Ming she had been "fired again" and realizing Liu Wei was behind it. She questioned Qin Gang and Liu Wei’s motives, reiterating her desire to keep her baby. She felt trapped, unable to find a lawyer or a job, seeing it as a concerted effort to take her child.
She vowed that despite the suffering and unfair treatment, she would never let them take her baby away, feeling "backed into a corner. . . with no way out." Seeing her despair, Hua Ming took her to a boxing gym. He explained that he used the gym to vent his own frustrations, recounting how he once thought he could punch his problems away but was knocked down himself. He then called Wan Xinxin "special," "an indestructible cockroach," and encouraged her to stand up and face the many difficulties ahead, urging her to fight rather than succumb to helplessness.
Episode 23 Recap
Wan Xinxin found herself repeatedly unable to secure employment, suspecting that Liu Wei was actively sabotaging her job search. Observing her distress, Hua Ming took her to a boxing gym, urging her to confront the challenges head-on. He encouraged her to "face it, recognize it, understand it, and find a chance to knock it down," a mantra she eventually echoed with determination.
Despite her efforts, Wan Xinxin continued to face polite but firm rejections from numerous companies, which she believed were influenced by Liu Wei's near-monopoly in the design industry. Frustrated by her inability to escape Liu Wei's control, Wan Xinxin worried about her upcoming custody battle and the need for a stable income. Hua Ming then reminded her of her past talent in painting, suggesting she open her own art gallery and become her own boss.
Wan Xinxin expressed concern about the significant financial investment required, but Hua Ming reassured her, promising to handle all the practicalities so she could focus solely on her art. The following day, Hua Ming surprised Wan Xinxin by informing her that he had secured a warehouse to be converted into her art studio and gallery. He explained that artists require a spacious environment to foster inspiration and expressed confidence that this new space would reignite her creative spark.
Wan Xinxin, having not painted for a long time, decided to test the waters by setting up a street art stall with her old paintings to gauge public reception. Her works quickly attracted attention, including a couple who requested a portrait. Wan Xinxin, stating she did not paint portraits, declined, leading to an argument. A young woman, Jiang Xiaoyu, intervened on Wan Xinxin's behalf, for which Wan Xinxin offered her a free painting.
Jiang Xiaoyu, in turn, requested a custom landscape with a figure, and Wan Xinxin agreed. However, upon seeing Wan Xinxin's sketch, Jiang Xiaoyu dismissed it as inferior to even amateur street art, criticizing its lack of style and creativity. She then tore up the painting, brazenly accusing Wan Xinxin of being a fraud, claiming the impressive paintings on display were not truly hers.
Wan Xinxin vehemently denied the accusation, but Jiang Xiaoyu, introducing herself and leaving a business card, challenged her to have the "actual artist" contact her if she disagreed. Back home, Wan Xinxin researched Jiang Xiaoyu, discovering she was a prominent art critic, a young PhD from Southeast Art Academy, and a highly followed social media influencer.
Not giving up, Wan Xinxin drew another painting the next day and presented it to Jiang Xiaoyu, who, after reviewing it, tore it up again. After several such encounters, Wan Xinxin's fighting spirit was further ignited. She publicly challenged Jiang Xiaoyu on social media, leaving comments of doubt on her Weibo, prompting Jiang Xiaoyu to respond with the proverb, "What's fake can't become real."
This escalated into a social media firestorm, with Jiang Xiaoyu's followers accusing Wan Xinxin of seeking fame. Hua Ming warned Wan Xinxin that such negative publicity could severely impact her custody case. Undeterred, Wan Xinxin arranged yet another meeting with Jiang Xiaoyu. At this meeting, Jiang Xiaoyu once again tore up Wan Xinxin's new painting, reiterating her belief that Wan Xinxin's current work was inconsistent with the displayed pieces and that she was a fraud.
Wan Xinxin found herself frustrated, admitting to Hua Ming that Jiang Xiaoyu's core accusation—that her current self wasn't the artist of her acclaimed past works—felt true, leaving her without a counter-argument. Overwhelmed by the mounting criticism and feeling like a "joke," Wan Xinxin started to lose confidence in her gallery venture. Hua Ming, however, refused to let her give up, emphasizing that the investment was already made and she had to see it through.
He reassured her that she had never disappointed him. Meanwhile, Qin Gang learned of Wan Xinxin's damaged reputation and the negative public perception of her gallery. He anticipated that her lack of legitimate income would guarantee him victory in the custody battle, enabling him to take their son, Xiaobao, to America to present to his mother, thus securing his inheritance. Despite the challenges, Wan Xinxin, with Hua Ming's unwavering support, proceeded with the gallery's grand opening.
On this day, Qin Gang made an unwelcome appearance, contemptuously offering a small sum of money—107 yuan—to "buy a painting" and sarcastically "open her for business." Wan Xinxin was furious, but Hua Ming calmly accepted the money. With a flourish, he drew a simple pig-head sketch and handed it to Qin Gang, implying it was his self-portrait and a charm to "ward off evil spirits." Qin Gang left in a fit of pique.
Separately, Jiang Kaiyang, still working under Qin Gang, complained to his wife, Xu Chunli (Wan Xinxin's sister), that Wan Xinxin's public confrontation with Qin Gang put his job at risk. Xu Chunli defended her sister, reminding Jiang Kaiyang that Qin Gang's behavior had been outrageous at the gallery opening. Jiang Kaiyang, however, was unsympathetic, claiming he endured humiliation and abuse at his job, and callously suggested he should have divorced Xu Chunli by now.
He then dismissively called her a "haggard housewife." Distraught by his words, Xu Chunli later asked Wan Xinxin if she truly looked haggard. Xu Ke, a friend who overheard, vehemently disagreed and offered to take Xu Chunli shopping to help her regain confidence. Xu Ke advised Xu Chunli on the importance of self-love, suggesting she embrace modern fashion, makeup, and perfume to keep her husband's interest alive, especially after years of marriage.
Xu Chunli hesitated, worrying about her husband's reaction if she didn't cook dinner. However, Xu Ke insisted on a complete transformation. Later, Jiang Kaiyang came home to drawn curtains and no dinner, only to be "shocked" by Xu Chunli's new slip dress and bold makeup. He angrily criticized her appearance, told her to remove it, and stormed out to get noodles, complaining about his job worries and loss of appetite.
At work, Qin Gang further pressured Jiang Kaiyang, threatening him with a demotion to the reception desk if he failed to secure major deals to boost the company's performance. Jiang Kaiyang, staking his reputation, vowed to succeed. Finally, the day of the court hearing arrived. Wan Xinxin, accompanied by Hua Ming and their single attorney, Attorney Chen, faced Qin Gang, who arrived with an imposing team of elite lawyers.
Qin Gang confronted Wan Xinxin outside the courthouse, arrogantly telling her to give up and hand Xiaobao over to him. Wan Xinxin, however, stood firm, declaring she would never surrender her son. Inside the courtroom, Qin Gang's lawyer immediately attacked Wan Xinxin's financial stability, stating that she had been repeatedly fired and unemployed for months, relying on friends and family for her basic living expenses. The accusation left Wan Xinxin speechless.
Episode 24 Recap
Following struggles to find work and suspecting foul play by Liu Wei, Wan Xinxin received a suggestion from Hua Ming to open her own art gallery, given her past talent for painting. Lacking funds, Hua Ming promised to handle the arrangements. The next day, he secured a renovated warehouse studio, encouraging Wan Xinxin to find inspiration there. Unsure of her artistic appeal after a long hiatus, Wan Xinxin set up a street stall to gauge public reaction.
There, her earlier works drew attention, but an attempt to paint a new piece for a young woman was met with scorn. The woman, Jiang Xiaoyu, a renowned art critic and Ph. D. with a large online following, tore up Wan Xinxin's painting, accusing her of fraud, claiming the older works couldn't be hers. Undeterred, Wan Xinxin repeatedly attempted to prove herself by submitting new paintings, which Jiang Xiaoyu consistently rejected.
This sparked Wan Xinxin's determination, leading her to publicly challenge Jiang Xiaoyu on Weibo, only to face widespread criticism and further damage her reputation, causing her to lose confidence in the gallery before it even opened. With Hua Ming's continuous encouragement and help, Wan Xinxin's gallery eventually opened. On opening day, Qin Gang arrived and mockingly offered a small amount of change to buy a painting.
Hua Ming responded by drawing a pig's head and handing it to Qin Gang, who left in a rage. When the first court trial for child custody finally arrived, Wan Xinxin, accompanied by Hua Ming, faced Qin Gang and his formidable legal team.
During the trial, Qin Gang's lawyer argued that Wan Xinxin lacked the financial means to raise a child, citing her frequent job losses, prolonged unemployment over several months, and reliance on friends and family for basic living expenses. Wan Xinxin's lawyer countered that her client had just opened an art gallery and already secured orders, projecting a stable income within the art industry.
Qin Gang immediately dismissed this, stating that he had never known Wan Xinxin could paint since they married, and she had only opened the gallery after receiving his legal notice, clearly as a tactic for the lawsuit. He also questioned the potential value of her paintings and expressed concern about their child's upbringing and nutrition.
Wan Xinxin interjected, denying his claims and vowing that she would never let her son starve, emphasizing that their child, Wan Xiaobao, was healthy and happy. Qin Gang then challenged her, asking why she had stayed at his house, to which Wan Xinxin accused him of tricking her. After a brief halt to restore order, the court found no further evidence to consider.
The court then announced its first-instance judgment, awarding custody of Wan Xiaobao to Qin Gang and instructing Wan Xinxin to bear the 100 yuan filing fee. She was informed of her right to appeal within fifteen days. Devastated by the verdict, Wan Xinxin felt weak and watched her baby all night, tormented by the thought of losing him.
Hua Ming, heartbroken by her suffering, tried to comfort her, assuring her that this was only the first trial and not the final outcome. He promised to stand by her throughout any continued legal fight. He acknowledged that she must feel she had let her son down, but reassured her that she had made immense efforts and was a good mother, a transformation he had witnessed since their first meeting.
He promised that he, her sister, and Xu Ke would all support her. Wan Xinxin cried, vowing to her son that she would never let anyone take him away. Meanwhile, Qin Gang, celebrating his "complete victory" over the phone, scoffed at the idea of Wan Xinxin's comeback, boasting of his previous sabotages and dismissing Hua Ming's involvement. His co-conspirator reminded him of their marriage plans, which Qin Gang confirmed he hadn't forgotten.
Later, Hua Ming sought out Jiang Xiaoyu, introducing himself as a friend of Wan Xinxin. Jiang Xiaoyu, initially sympathetic after hearing about Wan Xinxin's plight, refused to go against her artistic integrity as a critic by providing false positive reviews for Wan Xinxin's work.
She maintained that she would not call "bad good," and could only promise not to denigrate Wan Xinxin in the future, though she admitted seeing potential in Wan Xinxin's earlier paintings, finding her current works to be mediocre. Jiang Xiaoyu declined to act as an art teacher to help Wan Xinxin regain her original artistic state. As Hua Ming left Jiang Xiaoyu's studio, he coincidentally saw Chen Weimin walk in, and Jiang Xiaoyu greeted Chen Weimin as "Brother."
Hua Ming later found Chen Weimin at a hospital. It was revealed that Jiang Xiaoyu was Chen Weimin's cousin, and Chen Weimin himself was a former intern of Hua Ming's. Chen Weimin expressed surprise that Hua Ming, once the hospital's "top neurosurgeon" and a specialist, was no longer practicing medicine. Chen Weimin clarified that Jiang Xiaoyu was his cousin (not his girlfriend), and he regularly checked on her for her parents.
When Hua Ming explained his visit was about Jiang Xiaoyu, Chen Weimin offered to try and persuade her. However, he made a counter-proposal: in exchange for his help, Hua Ming must agree to lead the neurosurgery department at Chen Weimin's hospital, an area the hospital lacked expertise in. Hua Ming hesitated, revealing he had been away from medicine for years and found it difficult to return.
Chen Weimin pressed him, calling his absence a "waste of talent" and hinting that Jiang Xiaoyu's cooperation was contingent on Hua Ming's acceptance. Hua Ming was deeply conflicted. He was haunted by memories of a past surgery where the patient's family had accused him of being a "murderer," their faces and voices dogging him like nightmares. Despite this, for Wan Xinxin's sake, he eventually agreed to Chen Weimin's terms. Chen Weimin was overjoyed.
However, when Hua Ming picked up the scalpel again, attempting even a minor surgery, he still couldn't overcome his psychological barrier; his hands shook, and he asked Chen Weimin to take over. Hua Ming later confessed to Chen Weimin about his shaking hands whenever he picked up a scalpel, a psychological barrier he couldn't overcome.
He asked for time to adjust, requesting to initially focus on developing treatment plans and providing guidance rather than performing lead surgery, which Chen Weimin accepted. Meanwhile, Jiang Xiaoyu paid a surprise visit to Wan Xinxin's gallery. She complimented Wan Xinxin's courage but reiterated that her current paintings were still "mediocre" and she couldn't offer much help. During their conversation, Wan Xinxin realized the "exchange" Jiang Xiaoyu mentioned referred to Hua Ming's deal with Chen Weimin.
Moved but also anxious, Wan Xinxin found her inspiration still elusive. Her mood worsened when she received an official notice for the appeal hearing. Returning home, Wan Xinxin found Hua Ming despondent over his inability to perform surgery. Overwhelmed by her own distress and anxiety, she lashed out at Hua Ming, accusing him of orchestrating her life and questioning his timing in offering help only when she was facing legal defeat.
She confronted him about the "coincidences," from his connection to Jiang Xiaoyu's brother to his opening the gallery for her. Hua Ming, while enduring her accusations, eventually expressed his own pain, explaining his shaking hands and the agony of not seeing his daughter, Ruirui, who had been abroad for three years. He revealed he had allowed Wan Xinxin to stay with him because he pitied her struggles as a single mother, an assertion Wan Xinxin rejected as she stormed out.
Wan Xinxin went to the seaside to confide in her deceased father, lamenting her difficult situation and wishing he were there to comfort her. She acknowledged Hua Ming's struggles but emphasized that her baby was her entire world and she would never let him be taken away. She poured out her feelings of despair, questioning why fate had dealt her so much misfortune.
Reflecting on her carefree childhood and the joy she found in drawing with her father, she lamented her current inability to find inspiration, feeling that everything she drew was wrong. This emotional release at the seaside proved to be a breakthrough. Wan Xinxin rushed back home and worked through the night on a new painting.
The next day, Hua Ming, though exhausted from his own struggles, tried to accompany her to show the painting to Jiang Xiaoyu, but Wan Xinxin insisted he rest and look after their son. When Jiang Xiaoyu saw Wan Xinxin's new work at the gallery, she was astonished, praising it as "amazing" and expressing that it showed the true talent she had recognized before. She told Wan Xinxin, "You should thank that older guy."
Realizing Wan Xinxin's urgent need for income, Jiang Xiaoyu immediately called a collector friend, enthusiastically arranging for the painting to be acquired by a French auction house the following week with a starting bid of $20,000, promising that the new artist would soon be famous. Wan Xinxin was stunned by the speed and scale of this development, initially feeling unaccustomed to the "role change" of gaining fame and fortune through her art.
Jiang Xiaoyu dismissed her concerns, calling it a noble pursuit, and Wan Xinxin quickly provided her bank details. Celebrating her newfound financial success, Wan Xinxin happily offered to treat Hua Ming to dinner. On the day of the second trial, Wan Xinxin's lawyer presented the new evidence: her artwork was acquired by a French contemporary art auction house with a starting price of $20,000, and expressed interest from bidders for other commissions.
Based on these projections, the lawyer argued that the total value of paintings in Wan Xinxin's gallery exceeded 1 million yuan, unequivocally demonstrating her financial capability to raise her child. Qin Gang vehemently rejected this, calling it "Nonsense!" and "fabricated evidence." He argued that Wan Xinxin was merely an ordinary office worker and could not possibly possess such artistic talent or generate such income. Wan Xinxin retorted, demanding that Qin Gang provide proof of his accusations of fabrication.
After order was restored, the court delivered its final judgment: the previous first-instance decision was revoked, Qin Gang's appeal for custody modification was rejected, he was ordered to pay the court fees for both trials, and the full custody of Wan Xiaobao was awarded to Wan Xinxin. With the final judgment in her favor, Wan Xinxin celebrated her hard-won victory.
Episode 25 Recap
Wan Xinxin was overjoyed after the court granted her full custody of Baobao until he turned 18. She went to the beach to confide in her late father, sharing the good news that a huge weight had been lifted from her mind and that no one could take her son away now. She knew this victory was largely due to Hua Ming's selfless help and, feeling unable to adequately repay him, decided to "win him over" that night.
She asked her father for his opinion of Hua Ming, agreeing that despite being a bit older and sometimes moody, he was truly great. That evening, Wan Xinxin prepared a Western-style dinner at home, dressed alluringly. Hua Ming, flustered by her appearance, could barely meet her gaze. Wan Xinxin, engaging in playful role-play and expressing her deep gratitude, toasted him repeatedly.
She told him that he made her feel the "warmth of home," though he playfully dismissed her praise, calling his support an "investment" from which he expected a share of profits when her art became famous. Undeterred, Wan Xinxin toasted him for helping her return to painting and for his exceptional care for Baobao, declaring that holding Baobao made her "the happiest person in the world."
Hua Ming then stood to toast her father, thanking him for raising such an "angel-like daughter" and for Baobao, whom he also called an "angel-like little boy," promising to take good care of them both. As the evening progressed, Wan Xinxin repeatedly pressed Hua Ming, asking, "Do you love me?" After some hesitation, he finally confessed, "Yes, I do. My love for you is endless." She countered that she wanted him to "shout to the sky" that he loved her.
Eventually, Hua Ming swept her into his arms, and she asked if they were going to her room with its "king-size bed." Just as they were about to retreat to the bedroom, Hua Ming abruptly remembered he hadn't told his sister where he'd put Baobao's baby formula, insisting he had to go back to tell her in person, despite Wan Xinxin suggesting a phone call. He then left, much to Wan Xinxin's disappointment.
The following day, as Wan Xinxin was trying on clothes, she playfully pressed Hua Ming again about his feelings. He finally confirmed his love for her. However, their moment was interrupted when Hua Ming received an urgent call about a critical patient at the hospital, forcing him to leave abruptly and leaving Wan Xinxin to take a taxi home alone. Meanwhile, Qin Gang, fuming over his defeat in court, summoned Jiang Kaiyang to his office.
Jiang Kaiyang arrived, eagerly presenting reports that showed the 4S dealership's sales had doubled, expecting his promised promotion to store manager. Instead, Qin Gang coldly announced that Jiang Kaiyang was fired, effective immediately. A shocked Jiang Kaiyang protested, accusing Qin Gang of breaking his promise and questioning the reason. Qin Gang bluntly stated it was "because you're Wan Xinxin's brother-in-law," dismissing Jiang Kaiyang's plea for fairness by declaring, "I'm the boss, so I am fairness itself."
Jiang Kaiyang returned home full of suppressed rage, immediately taking it out on his wife, Xu Chunli. He declared that their life had to end and insisted on a divorce, presenting her with drafted papers. Xu Chunli was terrified, pleading with him not to divorce her and suggesting she talk to Qin Gang. Jiang Kaiyang refused, stating that as long as he was "involved with your family," he would "never get ahead in life."
When Xu Chunli refused to sign, he began packing, vowing that they would divorce eventually even if they had to separate for three years. Desperate, Xu Chunli revealed that "Qin Gang just wants the child to fight for the family inheritance" and that "Liu Wei is behind all of this" because Qin Gang intended to marry Liu Wei once he secured the inheritance. This revelation stopped Jiang Kaiyang in his tracks.
Confused, he pondered whether helping Qin Gang get custody of Baobao would make things "easier to negotiate" for him. He then announced he was going out, declaring that they were "not getting divorced." Jiang Kaiyang tracked down Liu Wei, addressing her as "Editor Liu," and asked to speak privately. He told her he had been fired by Qin Gang and urged her to intercede on his behalf, not only to keep his job but to be promoted to store manager.
Liu Wei dismissed his request, stating she couldn't help him. Jiang Kaiyang then offered his help, claiming that as Wan Xinxin's brother-in-law, he could assist them in getting the child back, which he believed would make things "easier to negotiate" for them. Liu Wei angrily retorted that his information was "completely untrue" and warned him not to harass her again before storming off.
Later, at her art gallery, Wan Xinxin excitedly learned from her assistant, Xiaoyu, that Hua Ming's interventional surgery had been successful. She rushed home to prepare a congratulatory champagne toast, only to find Hua Ming looking disheartened. He revealed that while the "plan" for the interventional surgery he helped develop was successful, he wasn't the lead surgeon and still couldn't overcome his mental block to perform surgery himself.
He felt like a "useless doctor" unable to hold a scalpel, comparing himself to a chef who lost his sense of smell. Wan Xinxin comforted him, assuring him that in her heart, he was still the best, and that he and Baobao were the most important people to her. She then confessed her deep love for him again. Soon after, as Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin were back at his apartment, he received a phone call.
After hanging up, he awkwardly informed Wan Xinxin that his ex-wife, Xia Qing, and their daughter, Ruirui, were returning from America. He explained that Ruirui had previously sabotaged Xia Qing's wedding to her American boyfriend due to her strong opposition. Hua Ming asked Wan Xinxin to keep their relationship a secret for a few days and to pretend to be a tenant, allowing Ruirui time to adjust.
Wan Xinxin was deeply unhappy, feeling as though she was being treated as "the other woman" and comparing Ruirui to a "little demon." Hua Ming implored her to be understanding, suggesting she try not to meet Ruirui, or to "follow my lead" if they did meet. He tried to appease her with compliments, calling her his "most delicious pancake wrap" and promising to make her "Mrs. Hua" soon.
Hua Ming then left to pick up Xia Qing and Ruirui at the airport. Ruirui, having not seen her father in three years, excitedly rushed into his arms. Xia Qing greeted Hua Ming, remarking that he looked more energetic than ever, hinting that men "bloom at forty" and subtly suggesting he must have "lots of girls chasing him."
Ruirui quickly interjected, declaring that her Daddy "can't date anyone else" and that since she and her Mom were back, they "should be together forever." Xia Qing echoed this sentiment, telling Ruirui they would "always stay with Daddy" from now on. Later, away from Ruirui, Xia Qing directly questioned Hua Ming about his relationship, stating she knew he was "in love with someone" the moment she saw him at the airport.
She suggested he hid it because he feared she would mind. Hua Ming confirmed it was "because Ruirui was here" and clarified that when Xia Qing left with Ruirui years ago, "we made everything clear," so he felt no need to explain his current relationship. When they arrived at a hotel Hua Ming had booked, Ruirui was furious, complaining about staying in a "cold hotel" and demanding to go "home" to live with "Daddy and Mom."
Xia Qing also pressed Hua Ming, questioning if he had sold their old house and if he was still planning to pursue a medical license in the US, as he had once promised. Hua Ming admitted he had "some things he can't get away from right now." Ruirui continued to insist on going home, saying she wanted to cook for him with her mother. Xia Qing supported her daughter, adding that she didn't like hotels either.
Hua Ming, in a difficult position, finally admitted, "Right now, there's nowhere for us to go back to," and that he was currently living in "an apartment." He reluctantly agreed to take them home.
Episode 26 Recap
Although Hua Ming had initially arranged for them to stay at a hotel, Ruirui had eagerly convinced him to bring them home. She pleaded, "Dad, please take Mom and me home. We can cook for you together. Wouldn't that be nice?" She also appealed to his emotions, reminding him of their shared meals and bedtime stories, to which Hua Ming admitted, "When my precious daughter begs me, my heart just melts."
Hua Ming arrived home with Xia Qing and their daughter Ruirui, much to Wan Xinxin's shock. Upon entering the house, Hua Ming introduced Xia Qing as his ex-wife and Ruirui. Ruirui, introducing herself, noticed a baby stroller and asked Wan Xinxin if she had a baby, creating an awkward moment. Hua Ming quickly apologized for his daughter's innocence.
Xia Qing immediately took on the role of hostess, observing the living room and commenting, "Huaming, before renting out the house, did you tell the tenant about any requirements for the living environment? Look how messy this living room is." Wan Xinxin, seeing Hua Ming's embarrassed expression, had to tolerate it.
Despite Hua Ming's attempts to defend the cleanliness, Xia Qing insisted on cooking dinner at home and invited "Miss Tenant" to join them, making it clear she was in charge. When Hua Ming directed them to a guest room, stating that Wan Xinxin was already renting another room and they would take this one, Xia Qing readily agreed.
Later, inside, Xia Qing found some baby items and told Ruirui they were "your little brother's things," instructing her to put them away. Wan Xinxin was furious with Hua Ming for bringing them home after they had agreed on a hotel. He explained that Ruirui had insisted, and he hadn't seen her in three years. He promised they would only stay "at most two or three days." Wan Xinxin expressed her insecurity, pointing out that Xia Qing seemed quite formidable.
Xia Qing continued to assert her position; when Hua Ming offered to prepare ingredients, she agreed, implying her role in the kitchen. She then engaged Wan Xinxin in conversation, asking about her marital status and children, and spoke of Hua Ming's thoughtfulness. She deliberately mentioned that Hua Ming had "insisted" on bringing them home from the hotel, and that she would be staying "for a while," directly contradicting Hua Ming's earlier promise to Wan Xinxin.
Later, at dinner, Xia Qing highlighted how much Hua Ming loved her cooking. Wan Xinxin confronted Hua Ming again about Xia Qing's prolonged stay, suspecting Xia Qing's real intention was to remarry him. Hua Ming vehemently denied it, reassuring Wan Xinxin that he had no such plans.
Wan Xinxin, feeling like an outsider in her own home, threatened to reveal their relationship, but Hua Ming urged her to be patient, warning against hasty actions like a "cornered dog leaping over a wall." At dinner, Hua Ming tried to avoid eating Xia Qing's cooking, claiming he was full from takeout. Ruirui and Xia Qing, however, successfully pressured him to join them, with Xia Qing emphasizing she had made his favorite dish, tomato and egg stir-fry.
That night, after Hua Ming read Ruirui a bedtime story, Ruirui wistfully expressed her wish for their family to be "like before." Hua Ming then slipped into Wan Xinxin's room, thanking her for her understanding earlier. He tried to express affection with playful words, playfully meowing, but the lighthearted atmosphere was soon interrupted by Xia Qing, who appeared, feigning ignorance about their private discussion.
She offered Hua Ming water and urged him to go to bed, subtly implying her close bond with him. She then "reminded" Wan Xinxin of Hua Ming's "flaw" of needing complete darkness to sleep, effectively telling Wan Xinxin to turn off her lights and end her work, which Wan Xinxin reluctantly did. Hua Ming, caught between the two women, felt overwhelmed. Feeling increasingly marginalized, Wan Xinxin sought out Xu Ke to vent her frustrations.
She recounted how Hua Ming had brought his ex-wife and daughter home, making her feel like "the other woman" and describing her interactions with Xia Qing as "calm on the surface, but secretly, a battle of daggers." She confirmed that she and Hua Ming were officially together, though the declaration was simple: "I asked him what I am to him, and he said girlfriend."
Wan Xinxin felt Xia Qing was treating her like an enemy and suspected Xia Qing was trying to remarry Hua Ming. Xu Ke agreed with her assessment, stating it was "very likely." He advised Wan Xinxin to learn from Xia Qing's refined demeanor and to actively cultivate a good relationship with Ruirui, emphasizing that winning over the daughter was key to winning Hua Ming. Taking Xu Ke's advice, Wan Xinxin tried to bond with Ruirui.
She intervened when Xia Qing scolded Ruirui for eating ice cream, instead giving her a teddy bear filled with chocolate. Ruirui was delighted and thanked "Sister Xinxin." Seeing this, Xia Qing, disregarding Hua Ming's protests, deliberately told Ruirui, "She's your father's girlfriend. She's also the one who wants to take your father away." Ruirui, distraught, turned to Hua Ming, who struggled to explain.
Ruirui then angrily told Wan Xinxin, "I hate her" and expressed her desire for her parents to reunite. From that point, no matter how Wan Xinxin tried to please Ruirui, Ruirui did not respond kindly, effectively crushing Wan Xinxin's efforts. Wan Xinxin tearfully confronted Hua Ming, expressing her deep insecurity. " Every day they're here, I can't eat or sleep. I have no sense of security at all."
Hua Ming reiterated his commitment to her, promising, "Marry Wan Xinxin, not remarry her." However, when she pressed him to tell Xia Qing about their relationship, he hesitated, saying he would "find another time." Frustrated by his continuous evasion, Wan Xinxin declared that if he wouldn't talk to Xia Qing, she would. Wan Xinxin then confronted Xia Qing directly, telling her they needed to discuss "adult matters."
She pointedly asked if Xia Qing had returned hoping to remarry Hua Ming, asserting that she and Hua Ming were now together and Xia Qing was attempting to "break them up." Xia Qing calmly dismissed Wan Xinxin's claims, stating her rights and obligations as Hua Ming's ex-wife and Ruirui's mother. She provocatively referred to Wan Xinxin as merely a "potential stepmother candidate" whom she was "evaluating."
Wan Xinxin retorted that she was Hua Ming's "legitimate and only girlfriend," representing "the present," while Xia Qing was "the past." She added that Hua Ming had no intention of remarrying Xia Qing. Xia Qing scoffed, highlighting her twelve-year history with Hua Ming (four years of dating and eight years of marriage) and their shared child, confidently stating that Wan Xinxin "wouldn't stand a chance" against her.
To prove her point, Xia Qing used her phone to call Hua Ming in front of Wan Xinxin, asking him to meet "the day after tomorrow evening" to discuss Ruirui. Hua Ming initially declined, but upon hearing Ruirui's name, he immediately agreed. Xia Qing then stated, "Wherever you are will always be home for Ruirui and me" and concluded the call with a deliberate "Love you" for Wan Xinxin to hear. Wan Xinxin was left feeling dejected.
The next day at dinner, Wan Xinxin appeared with a new hairstyle, asking Hua Ming if it made her look younger, while pointedly glancing at Xia Qing. She tried to offer Hua Ming food, but Xia Qing repeatedly interrupted, demonstrating her intimate knowledge of his preferences (he doesn't eat fatty meat) and subtle health issues (his teeth had been bothering him). Xia Qing also referred to Hua Ming as "uncle" when talking to Ruirui.
Later, Wan Xinxin suggested Hua Ming go to the movies with her the day after tomorrow night, subtly reminding him of Xia Qing's scheduled meeting. Hua Ming hesitated, and Wan Xinxin nudged him under the table.
Episode 27 Recap
At the dinner table, Wan Xinxin openly showed affection for Hua Ming, calling him the "sweetest guy ever." Prior to this, Wan Xinxin had also invited Hua Ming to a movie for the day after tomorrow, but he was evasive about his availability. Xia Qing then implied Wan Xinxin was unfamiliar with Hua Ming's preferences and encouraged Huarui to eat vegetables, asserting that Hua Ming also favored them.
Huarui reacted with disgust, angrily throwing down her chopsticks and running off crying. Hua Ming later pulled Wan Xinxin aside, urging her to be more mindful of her words and actions in front of Huarui. Wan Xinxin, referring to her new haircut, defensively asked what she had done wrong, claiming she hadn't used inappropriate language. Hua Ming apologized, taking the blame, and told Huarui to go to her mommy.
Later, reflecting on Xu Ke’s advice, Wan Xinxin understood that this was a crucial time for her. Since Hua Ming adored his daughter, she needed to win Huarui over. Wan Xinxin approached Huarui, who was initially resistant to eating, and suggested they draw together. Wan Xinxin drew a picture depicting Huarui, herself, and Huarui's mom living in Huarui's dad's house.
She earnestly promised Huarui that she would never take her dad away, highlighting Huarui’s good fortune in having two mothers who both loved her and could teach her various skills, even promising ice cream. Huarui confided that her mom always said Wan Xinxin had taken her dad away and prevented his return to America. Wan Xinxin swore she had no intention of separating them and assured Huarui she was welcome to visit her dad whenever she wished.
Feeling relieved, Huarui accepted. Seeing their interaction, Hua Ming praised Huarui's drawing, and Wan Xinxin expressed regret for her earlier anger towards him. However, Xia Qing quickly resumed her efforts to provoke Wan Xinxin. Wan Xinxin mentioned her recent headaches to Hua Ming, who playfully attributed them to having "three women" in his life. Immediately after, both Xia Qing and Huarui feigned headaches, seeking Hua Ming's attention.
Xia Qing insisted on massaging Hua Ming’s head, reminiscing about their past intimacy, while Huarui also offered a massage and was encouraged to draw for her dad. This blatant display of family closeness and affection left Wan Xinxin feeling dejected. During this low point, Wan Xinxin's agent, Jiang Xiaoyu, arrived with exciting news.
She informed Wan Xinxin that her paintings had skyrocketed in value, leading to a new contract that would limit her to one painting for the rest of the year. More significantly, Wan Xinxin had received an invitation to study at the French Academy of Contemporary Art. Jiang Xiaoyu explained that this opportunity could lead to immigration, French citizenship, and a lifetime contract as an artist with the academy, a dream for many.
Wan Xinxin was stunned but felt the decision was too sudden, as it would drastically change both her professional and personal life. Jiang Xiaoyu, while respecting Wan Xinxin's hesitation, suspected her reluctance was due to Hua Ming, advising her to carefully consider this rare opportunity. Wan Xinxin tentatively asked Hua Ming about his opinion of Paris, suggesting they could live there together and stroll along the Seine at sunset.
Hua Ming, however, revealed that despite having traveled extensively and lived in places like Seattle for years, he never felt a true sense of belonging in foreign countries. Wan Xinxin understood his nostalgic feelings. After Hua Ming walked away, Huarui suddenly appeared, angrily calling Wan Xinxin a liar and accusing her of wanting to steal her dad by taking him to France. As Huarui ran off in a fit of rage, she accidentally fell.
Wan Xinxin quickly helped her up, but Hua Ming and Xia Qing, hearing the cries, rushed out. Huarui tearfully claimed Wan Xinxin had pushed her. Xia Qing immediately chastised Wan Xinxin for bothering a child. Despite Wan Xinxin's pleas that she hadn't pushed Huarui, Hua Ming sided with his daughter, stating his belief in her. Distraught, Wan Xinxin accused them of ganging up on her, lamenting that all basic trust between her and Hua Ming had vanished since Huarui's return.
Later, Xia Qing tried to frame a celebration as "15 years since they first met," but Hua Ming corrected her, stating it was the third anniversary of their divorce. Xia Qing asserted her actions were aimed at providing Huarui with a healthy family environment. Hua Ming attempted to discuss something important with Xia Qing, but Huarui and Xia Qing enthusiastically interrupted him to cut a cake.
Huarui then insisted her parents dance, and Xia Qing persuaded a reluctant Hua Ming to dance for their child's sake, with Huarui playing the piano. As they danced, Xia Qing reminisced about their college and wedding dances, trying to rekindle old feelings. Hua Ming, however, firmly stated they could never return to the past. Huarui persistently demanded her dad kiss her mom, and Hua Ming reluctantly obliged with a kiss.
Wan Xinxin, witnessing this emotional scene upon returning home, was heartbroken. Recalling Xu Ke's warning about Hua Ming's vulnerability, she immediately rushed to the gallery, telling Jiang Xiaoyu she desperately wanted to fly to Paris. She declared she was done fighting, believing Hua Ming's ex-wife would always hold a place in his heart, and he would always unconditionally believe his daughter, leaving her feeling like "nothing." Afterward, Hua Ming had a deep conversation with Xia Qing.
He asked her how long she planned to stay, explicitly stating his love for Wan Xinxin and that he and Xia Qing could never return to the past. He also expressed his discomfort with Wan Xinxin's suffering due to Xia Qing's presence. Xia Qing explained that she initially wanted to gauge Wan Xinxin's character and her treatment of Huarui, as well as the nature of Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin's relationship.
She also spoke about the hardship of being a single mother, hoping they could try again, but acknowledged that Hua Ming had changed. Hua Ming firmly reiterated that they could not go back, apologizing for the past. That evening, Hua Ming arrived at the gallery with homemade food, playfully introducing himself as "Huaming's Delivery." Wan Xinxin, still angry, refused to eat, accusing him and his "entire family" of bullying her.
Hua Ming gently explained that Huarui was just a child seeking her dad's attention. When Wan Xinxin questioned her own significance to him, Hua Ming called her "the most important person in my life," a phrase he also used for his daughter, which Wan Xinxin found frustrating. Hua Ming then revealed that Xia Qing and Huarui had moved out, explaining that they had done so to give him and Wan Xinxin space. Wan Xinxin was stunned, and despite her lingering anger, she playfully asked why she should return, wondering if she was merely his tenant.
Episode 28 Recap
Hua Ming discovered an invitation in the gallery from the French Academy of Contemporary Art for Wan Xinxin to go to France. Wan Xinxin confirmed that Jiang Xiaoyu had secured this significant opportunity, which would involve being away for an extended period, possibly indefinitely. Hua Ming, visibly moved and fearing her departure, asked her to promise to always inform him of her decisions.
Wan Xinxin playfully called him overreactive, but he expressed his deep fear of her leaving without a word or disappearing from his life. She then admitted feeling he had been avoiding her and keeping secrets, to which he responded that he had no intention of remarrying and would share everything when the time was right. When he asked if she loved him, she confirmed her feelings.
Following their reconciliation, Wan Xinxin sent a message to Jiang Xiaoyu via phone, declining the Paris opportunity, explaining that she had made up with her boyfriend. Jiang Xiaoyu, calling her unreliable, wished her happiness. Hua Ming reiterated his request for her promise, and they shared a tender moment. Meanwhile, Qin Gang's 4S dealership business was failing, with contracts being lost despite advanced negotiations. He furiously chastised his employees, asserting that even Jiang Kaiyang knew how to handle such situations.
When Liu Wei visited, Qin Gang complained that his current staff was inferior to Jiang Kaiyang. Liu Wei, seeing the company's predicament, requested to review the company files to understand the business and potentially recommend someone. She subsequently contacted Jiang Kaiyang via phone. Jiang Kaiyang met Liu Wei, initially appearing confident. However, Liu Wei quickly confronted him with evidence of his past embezzlement, detailing how he had inflated repair costs by replacing parts that only required minor fixes.
She revealed that she had consulted a mechanic and listed numerous discrepancies, hinting at the severe consequences if she exposed this information. Jiang Kaiyang attempted to downplay his actions, but Liu Wei acknowledged Qin Gang's current need for managerial skills and offered to help him return to the dealership. She made it clear, however, that she would retain the incriminating ledger for future leverage. Overjoyed at the prospect, Jiang Kaiyang readily agreed to her terms.
Liu Wei then reminded him of his previous promise to assist her regarding Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang. Jiang Kaiyang immediately pledged his full support, assuring her he would help Qin Gang defeat Wan Xinxin. Later, Liu Wei informed Jiang Kaiyang that Qin Gang had agreed to rehire him as sales manager, advising him to allow Qin Gang to save face and providing him with money for new clothes in anticipation of "important tasks."
Hua Ming asked Wan Xinxin to watch Ruirui while he and Xia Qing went to mail documents for Ruirui's school. While alone, Ruirui made sarcastic remarks to Wan Xinxin, who attempted to ease the tension by offering her ice cream. They discussed Ruirui's disapproval of Wan Xinxin and her father's relationship, with Ruirui asserting that her parents would reunite. Wan Xinxin playfully suggested she might marry Hua Ming, even offering Ruirui the option to call her "sister" instead of "stepmom."
After checking on her baby, Wan Xinxin, having previously confirmed with Jiang Xiaoyu that she would bring her painting for the French exhibition, discovered to her dismay that the painting, which she had placed on an easel, was missing. She immediately questioned Ruirui, who denied seeing it and threatened to tell Hua Ming that Wan Xinxin was falsely accusing her. When Hua Ming and Xia Qing returned, they found Ruirui crying.
Hua Ming quickly comforted his daughter and, upon hearing Ruirui's denial, believed her, chastising Wan Xinxin for being overly sensitive and disorganized. Wan Xinxin, feeling hurt and unsupported, accused Hua Ming of always siding with Ruirui and lacking trust in her. She admitted to keeping a draft of the painting as a "way out" should their relationship fail, which Hua Ming found to be a profound blow to his trust.
Wan Xinxin countered that he didn't trust her either and brought up the presence of his ex-wife and daughter as a significant challenge for her. Feeling unappreciated and disappointed by Hua Ming's lack of trust, Wan Xinxin, driven by her long-held dream of going to Paris, angrily decided to leave and pursue the French opportunity. She moved out of the house with her baby and went to the gallery, where she met Xu Ke and Jiang Xiaoyu.
Xu Ke tried to advise her to be more understanding of Hua Ming, even suggesting she treat him with "motherly love," which she found absurd. Wan Xinxin then asked Jiang Xiaoyu to help her rectify the situation, firmly reiterating her decision to go to France, emphasizing it as an unmissable opportunity. Jiang Xiaoyu, despite her earlier change of mind, agreed to help her apply for an extension.
Despite Hua Ming's attempts to appear cheerful, Ruirui sensed his deep sadness over Wan Xinxin's departure. Moved by his emotional state, Ruirui confessed to Xia Qing that she had deliberately hidden Wan Xinxin's painting because she was angry about Wan Xinxin wanting to marry her dad. While understanding Ruirui's jealousy, Xia Qing firmly explained that lying was wrong and that Wan Xinxin was not a bad person.
Ruirui, remorseful, worried that her father would stop loving her if he knew the truth. Xia Qing reassured her of Hua Ming's enduring love but insisted that Ruirui must apologize to Wan Xinxin, to which Ruirui agreed, also admitting that she had accidentally damaged the painting. Xia Qing then escorted Ruirui to Wan Xinxin's gallery, making Ruirui go in alone to apologize.
Ruirui, though scared, bravely entered and confessed to Wan Xinxin that she had hidden the painting and accidentally torn it, presenting her with a replacement drawing she had made herself. Wan Xinxin, after a playful jest about selling Ruirui to France as child labor, forgave her, emphasizing that "a good child knows how to correct their mistakes."
Ruirui, relieved and happy, told Wan Xinxin that she now understood because her dad had explained that Xinxin also liked her and that his love for Ruirui would not change if he married Xinxin. Ruirui then asked if Wan Xinxin would still go to France even if she and Hua Ming reconciled. Wan Xinxin affirmed her decision, explaining that the opportunity to go to France was too rare to pass up.
Later, Xia Qing met with Wan Xinxin, expressing gratitude for her generous forgiveness of Ruirui. She acknowledged Wan Xinxin's understanding of Ruirui's feelings, but also pointed out the special bond between Hua Ming and his daughter, with Ruirui being his central focus. Wan Xinxin reaffirmed her love for Hua Ming and her acceptance of all aspects of his life, including his ex-wife and daughter. Xia Qing then stated she was entrusting Hua Ming to Wan Xinxin.
When Xia Qing pressed Wan Xinxin again about her decision to go to France, Wan Xinxin revealed her fear of their relationship ending badly, noting the "unspoken understanding" between Hua Ming and Xia Qing that she and Hua Ming lacked. She hoped that distance would allow for a more rational decision-making process, and also to test if Hua Ming truly loved her.
Xia Qing, while expressing her own belief that true love requires perseverance, respected Wan Xinxin's choice to still go to France. Separately, at Shi Lu's company, Xu Ke presented a highly unconventional proposal during a strategy meeting. Despite Shi Lu's skepticism and accusation of him "causing trouble," Xu Ke concisely articulated his vision for children's products promotion as simply "Warmth," emphasizing the need to make pregnant women and new mothers feel cared for rather than merely offering "cold sales pitches."
To Shi Lu's astonishment, the attendees overwhelmingly supported Xu Ke's two-word concept. Faced with this unexpected consensus, Shi Lu, though still incredulous, gave Xu Ke a week to develop his "Warmth" concept into a detailed proposal, threatening to reclaim his shares if he failed. Overwhelmed, Xu Ke immediately called Wan Xinxin for help, via phone, reminding her of her past experience with similar projects.
Wan Xinxin, however, was preoccupied and told him she was too busy, having been "tortured" by Ruirui, who ruined her exhibition painting, forcing her to paint a new one to meet the deadline for France. Xu Ke, surprised she was still going, learned that the French Academy had already sent an invitation and that her decision was independent of Hua Ming.
Episode 29 Recap
Wan Xinxin confirmed her decision to attend the Contemporary Art Academy of France, having already received an invitation letter. She confided in a friend that while the decision was her own, it was also provoked by Hua Ming's ambiguous attitude, which made her feel their relationship lacked clarity and trust. With the recent external pressures and constant arguments involving his ex-wife, Xia Qing, and their child, Ruirui, Wan Xinxin felt their hard-built trust was gone.
She intended to use her departure for France as a test for their relationship. Later, a worried Ruirui expressed to Xia Qing her fear that Hua Ming would stop loving her if he knew the truth about the painting. Xia Qing reassured her, promising that if Ruirui had the courage to admit her mistake, her father wouldn't blame her. Prompted by Xia Qing, Ruirui confessed to Hua Ming that she was the one who took Wan Xinxin's painting.
Hua Ming was shocked and furious, reminding Ruirui of his trust in her. He angrily scolded her for lying and causing Wan Xinxin to miss the art exhibition, telling her that nobody likes a child who lies. Xia Qing intervened, telling Hua Ming to stop lecturing Ruirui, who already knew she was wrong. Hua Ming told Xia Qing not to interrupt his discipline, questioning why Ruirui only acted this way after coming to China, implying the environment played a role.
Xia Qing disagreed, insisting it was about a child lying and lying being wrong. Ruirui, distraught, cried that she took the painting because Wan Xinxin was trying to take her father away, and that Hua Ming now only loved Wan Xinxin and her baby, not her and Xia Qing. Xia Qing comforted Ruirui, assuring her that her parents still loved her and their arguments had nothing to do with her.
Meanwhile, Hua Ming went to Wan Xinxin's gallery but couldn't find her, wondering if she had gone to the airport. Shortly after, Xia Qing called him, frantic, to report that Ruirui was missing. Hua Ming immediately called Wan Xinxin, asking her to help search for their daughter. Wan Xinxin, recalling Ruirui's fondness for a children's clothing store called "Smile Baby," hurried there. Wan Xinxin found Ruirui on the road, holding a doll. Ruirui burst into tears upon seeing her.
Ruirui explained that she had confessed to her dad, leading to a fight between her parents, and now felt her dad no longer loved her and was disappointed. Wan Xinxin comforted her, assuring her that her parents loved her most and that she wasn't a burden. Wan Xinxin then took Ruirui to "Smile Baby" and let her pick out some clothes.
Cheered up, Ruirui asked Wan Xinxin to reconsider going to France, explaining she had seen Hua Ming's sadness and wanted him to be happy. Wan Xinxin promised to think about it and reassured Ruirui that her parents would always be by her side. Wan Xinxin then took Ruirui home. Xia Qing profusely thanked Wan Xinxin for finding her daughter.
Hua Ming apologized to Wan Xinxin for wrongly accusing her about the painting and for his lack of trust, asking for another chance. Wan Xinxin replied that she was tired and needed time, then said "I don't know" when Hua Ming asked if she was still going to France, and left. In a separate development, at Shi Lu's company, Xu Ke presented his "human-centered design" promotion plan, stating his belief that a mother's love is the most selfless.
Despite Shi Lu's dismissive remarks, Xu Ke boldly asserted his rights as a shareholder and stood by his ideas. To Shi Lu's surprise, the entire company applauded Xu Ke's courage in challenging her. Outside the meeting, two female employees gossiped, praising Xu Ke for "defeating" Shi Lu and criticizing Shi Lu's leadership. Shi Lu overheard their remarks and immediately fired them.
Xu Ke confronted Shi Lu, arguing that the company was short-staffed and that tolerance was necessary for common office gossip. Shi Lu, angered by his challenge, reminded him whose company it was and fired him, demanding to return his shares and never see him again, despite Xu Ke's attempts to apologize and promise to work hard to pay back her investment.
Back home, Xia Qing told Hua Ming she was satisfied with Wan Xinxin, acknowledging her reliability and rationality after the incident with Ruirui. Hua Ming dejectedly informed Xia Qing that Wan Xinxin was firm in her decision to go to France. Xia Qing suggested he propose to keep her, even offering to organize a flash mob proposal. She found it ironic that she, an ex-wife, was helping her ex-husband pursue his current girlfriend.
Xia Qing then called Chen Weimin for assistance with the proposal. When Chen Weimin asked who the proposal was for, Xia Qing showed him a photo of Wan Xinxin, and Chen Weimin was visibly shocked upon seeing her face. Later, as Wan Xinxin waited at Seaside Park for Hua Ming, as they had arranged, Xia Qing suddenly appeared, rushing her away. Wan Xinxin, confused, questioned what was happening and where they were going.
Xia Qing lied that Hua Ming had an urgent matter and couldn't make it, then explicitly forbade Wan Xinxin from going to find him. Furious, Wan Xinxin accused Xia Qing of changing her mind and wanting to get back together with Hua Ming. Xia Qing admitted, "Yes, because I'm getting back together with Huaming," adding, "There's no choice. It's fate. You two can't be together." Wan Xinxin tried to call Hua Ming, but Xia Qing snatched her phone away.
Xia Qing then revealed to Ruirui the secret of Hua Ming's past: he had failed to save a university teacher during a medical incident, which devastated him and caused him to switch careers to become a vet. Ruirui was shocked to learn that this university teacher was Wan Xinxin's father. She finally understood Xia Qing's motive—to prevent Hua Ming from being hurt a second time.
Ruirui then agreed to help Xia Qing bring Hua Ming back and convince him to return to America with them, ensuring the secret would be kept. While Hua Ming, unaware of these machinations, was anxious and tried to contact Wan Xinxin, Ruirui and Xia Qing deliberately kept him from leaving the house, urging him to eat with them and persuading him to return to America. Just then, Wan Xinxin unexpectedly arrived at Hua Ming's house.
She walked in to find Hua Ming, Xia Qing, and Ruirui having lunch together. Feeling betrayed by the "surprise" she was supposed to receive and by Ruirui's earlier statement that Hua Ming had promised to go to America, Wan Xinxin was enraged. She slammed the door and stormed out. Hua Ming tried to follow her, but Xia Qing and Ruirui held him back.
In another development, Xu Ke presented his new IT venture to Shi Lu, mentioning he had started it with an American classmate who held several cloud technology patents. Xu Ke was confident their startup would reach 200 million in sales within two years and go public in three. He later discussed Qin Gang's new project with a colleague, expressing concern that Qin Gang's investment would be a total loss. He suggested they have their IT friends discreetly warn Qin Gang about the project's feasibility.
Episode 30 Recap
Hua Ming arrived at Wan Xinxin's gallery, where she was still upset with him. He knelt before her, presenting a ring and proposing marriage. Wan Xinxin was shocked but hesitated, expressing that she didn't want them to marry under such contentious circumstances, fearing they might truly not be meant for each other. Hua Ming lovingly reassured her, recounting past coincidences as proof of their destiny, emphasizing that fate is a result of their efforts.
Wan Xinxin, however, worried they might eventually tire of trying. Deeply moved, Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming embraced and kissed. She eventually accepted the ring, agreeing to keep it for him for now, but did not wear it. She also revealed her suspicion that his proposal was an attempt to stop her from going to France, vowing she wouldn't leave if he resolved the issues with his ex-wife and daughter.
Later, Ruirui coaxed Hua Ming into reenacting his proposal to Xia Qing. Though Hua Ming initially tried to simplify the memory, Xia Qing clarified he had knelt. Hua Ming reluctantly agreed, performing a brief "I love you, marry me" while Ruirui recorded it on her phone. Meanwhile, Xia Qing met Wan Xinxin, boldly declaring her intention to remarry Hua Ming. Wan Xinxin confidently responded by showing her engagement ring, stating Hua Ming had already proposed to her.
Unfazed, Xia Qing then presented the video Ruirui had recorded, implying Hua Ming had proposed to her as well, and that they were remarrying. Wan Xinxin was surprised but chose not to immediately distrust Hua Ming, accusing Xia Qing of manipulative schemes. Xia Qing then revealed that she and Ruirui were returning to America in a few days, subtly urging Wan Xinxin to give up.
Hua Ming received a phone call from his former mentor, Director Chen, who informed him of a rare and significant opportunity: a fund was looking to invest in a hospital, and they wanted Hua Ming to lead the establishment of a new, powerful medical institution. Director Chen encouraged Hua Ming to seize this chance, which could fulfill his professional aspirations.
While discussing the opportunity, a colleague suggested Hua Ming consider remarrying Xia Qing, citing their shared background and Ruirui's need for a complete family. Hua Ming acknowledged his relationship with Xia Qing was one of close friendship now and clarified they had moved on. He confessed his strong affection for Wan Xinxin, but also admitted Wan Xinxin's concern about a lack of basic trust between them.
The colleague advised him to take the opportunity to go to America, spend time with Xia Qing and Ruirui, and perhaps gain new clarity on his relationship with Wan Xinxin. Xu Ke, having been confided in by Wan Xinxin, called Xia Qing to meet, intent on holding her accountable. At their meeting, Xu Ke accused Xia Qing of engaging in "tasteless things" by misleading Wan Xinxin.
He directly challenged the authenticity of Hua Ming's proposal to her, pointing out that she couldn't even recall what Hua Ming had said during the alleged proposal and wasn't wearing an engagement ring identical to Wan Xinxin's. Xia Qing tried to deflect, but Xu Ke pressed, revealing that he knew the video was a staged act and that Hua Ming had never truly proposed to her. Ruirui then unexpectedly arrived, further complicating the confrontation.
Ruirui, recognizing Xu Ke, playfully teased him about his feelings for "Sister Xinxin." Xu Ke, frustrated, asserted that he had spoken with Hua Ming, who confirmed he had not proposed to Xia Qing. Xia Qing quickly retorted that Hua Ming had agreed to return to America with them and remarry her, with Ruirui adding that "Dad belongs to us."
Xu Ke challenged them to compete fairly for Hua Ming, then left, having paid the bill himself after Xia Qing and Ruirui stormed out. Back at the gallery, Wan Xinxin began covering her paintings with white cloths, preparing to leave. Xu Ke arrived, stopping her packing, and angrily admonished her for giving up so easily. He questioned her fiery spirit, asking why she was afraid and running away.
Wan Xinxin, however, felt her life became a mess whenever Xia Qing and Ruirui appeared, and she was simply giving up. Xu Ke reiterated that the video of Hua Ming proposing to Xia Qing was fake and that Hua Ming was merely practicing for his proposal to Wan Xinxin. Despite this revelation, Wan Xinxin felt it no longer mattered, believing that she and Hua Ming could not go back to how they were. Xu Ke, exasperated, left her to reconsider.
Ruirui and Xia Qing then conspired to stage a scene to further influence Hua Ming. Ruirui urged Hua Ming to tend to Xia Qing, who feigned a headache and slight fever. Ruirui insisted Hua Ming check Xia Qing's temperature with his lips, just as he used to do for her as a child. Hua Ming complied, confirming a slight fever.
Ruirui then prompted Xia Qing to lean on Hua Ming's shoulder, calling it the most comfortable place, and pleaded with Hua Ming to return to America with them, so they could all care for Xia Qing together. Hua Ming, having already considered Ruirui's heartfelt pleas over the past few days, solidified his decision to go back to America for her schooling.
Xia Qing expressed her gratitude, and Hua Ming explained his decision, mentioning not only Director Chen's advice but also Ruirui's poignant words about wanting a complete family and his happiness. Hua Ming later told Xia Qing that he had packed his bags. Xia Qing acknowledged his feelings for Wan Xinxin but emphasized that marriage requires more than just love.
Hua Ming reflected on how his life had been mundane until Wan Xinxin and her baby brought back passion and youthful feeling. He reiterated his deep affection for Wan Xinxin and gently but firmly told Xia Qing that while they, along with Ruirui, would always be a family, he and Xia Qing could never go back to the past. Wan Xinxin continued packing her luggage, entrusting her baby to Xu Chunli.
Xu Chunli, noticing the engagement ring Wan Xinxin still wore, tried to persuade her to say a proper goodbye to Hua Ming, sensing their enduring feelings. To create an opportunity, Xu Chunli fabricated a story, claiming the baby's favorite bell toy had been left at Hua Ming's house and Wan Xinxin needed to retrieve it herself to practice independence.
Reluctantly, Wan Xinxin returned to Hua Ming's apartment, where she found Hua Ming, Xia Qing, and Ruirui joyfully packing their belongings, preparing to move to America. Hua Ming had already retrieved the bell, intending to mail it to her. Ruirui warmly invited Wan Xinxin to visit them in America. Wan Xinxin then asked Hua Ming when he was leaving, and he quietly replied, "The day after tomorrow." Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming exchanged a long, silent look, their eyes filled with unspoken emotions.
Episode 31 Recap
Hua Ming handed Wan Xinxin a first aid kit, advising her to be careful in the future as she might need it. In response, Wan Xinxin took off the engagement ring he had given her. When he hesitated to accept it, she asked, "You don't want it? If you don't want it, I'll throw it away," and with a despairing gesture, flung the ring from the balcony.
Reflecting on her feelings, she thought, "I thought after all these changes, my heart would never race again. But then I met you. Yet I no longer believe in love. It's not that I don't want to love despite being hurt before. Who can predict what fate has in store? It's not that I don't want to love." Soon after, while on her way to the airport, Wan Xinxin instructed her driver to turn around.
Returning to Hua Ming's building, Wan Xinxin frantically searched for the ring on the rain-soaked grass below the balcony. Hua Ming, also drenched, approached her and told her he had already searched multiple times without success. Undeterred, Wan Xinxin continued her desperate search and eventually found the ring. She then knelt, presenting the ring to Hua Ming, and proposed to him, saying, "I don't want to miss you again.
As long as we're together, whether you go to America or anywhere else, I'll wait for you. Whether it's 3 years, 5 years, 10 years or 30 years, I'm willing to wait, as long as we can be together. You said you believe in fate. But this time I don't want to let heaven decide for us. I want to fight for my own happiness. Marry me. Please give me a chance to love you."
Hua Ming embraced her tightly, as if afraid she would disappear. He agreed, "Let's get married. We'll register tomorrow. Then we'll have the wedding." Wan Xinxin responded, "I don't care what kind of wedding it is as long as you're there." Hua Ming then informed Xia Qing and Ruirui of his decision. He spoke with Ruirui, explaining that due to their adult relationship, he and her mother could no longer be together.
He assured her, "Ruirui is a big girl now. There's one thing I hope you understand. No matter when, no matter what happens, Mom and Dad will always love you. That will never change." Ruirui, showing maturity, asked, "Dad, are you not coming to America with us because you want to be with Sister Wan Xinxin?"
Xia Qing tried to coerce Ruirui into telling Hua Ming that he couldn't marry Wan Xinxin, but Ruirui bravely asserted, "Mom, I think I've grown up. I believe what Dad said is true. No matter what happens, the fact that Mom and Dad love me will never change. So this is your adult business. I won't interfere anymore." Despite Ruirui's acceptance, Xia Qing vehemently opposed Hua Ming's decision, declaring, "I won't let you marry Wan Xinxin."
As Hua Ming attempted to leave, Xia Qing blocked his path, begging him, "Huaming, you can't go. For more than three years, you've never said you wanted to remarry me. Now Ruirui has agreed." Hua Ming responded, "I hope you won't interfere with my life, okay? Thank you." She insisted, "I don't have to remarry you, but you can't marry her either." When Hua Ming questioned her reasons, she refused to elaborate, only pleading, "Listen to me just this once.
I'm really doing this for your own good. You absolutely cannot marry her. I already hurt you once three years ago. I know how you've been getting by these three years. So I'm begging you, you can't marry her. I won't let you get hurt again." Hua Ming calmly stated, "We are family and friends. That will never change. When you left with Ruirui three years ago, I didn't try to stop you.
I hope you won't try to stop me now." Xia Qing escalated her efforts, standing in front of his car and threatening, "If you insist on going today, you'll have to run me over first." She warned that if he married Wan Xinxin, "the pain she'll cause you will be unbearable for the rest of your life."
When Hua Ming again demanded to know why, Xia Qing finally hinted at a past incident, asking, "Do you remember three years ago, what made you put down your scalpel?" Driven by Xia Qing's cryptic warning, Hua Ming immediately drove to his former hospital. There, he asked a former intern, Yang, to retrieve his surgery records from June 4, 2012.
Reviewing the files, Hua Ming had a vivid flashback to that day: he had two critical patients, including Wan Xinxin's father, Wan Quanyou. Prioritizing the more critical condition of a young man, he decided to perform that surgery first, planning to operate on Wan Quanyou afterward. However, upon completing the first surgery, he was tragically informed that "The patient, Wan Quanyou, shows no vital signs anymore."
Overwhelmed by this devastating truth, Hua Ming turned off his phone and retreated to the seaside to grapple with his emotions, remembering Wan Xinxin's heartfelt proposal. Meanwhile, Wan Xinxin and her sister waited impatiently at the Civil Affairs Bureau. Her sister urged her to call Hua Ming, but when Wan Xinxin did, his phone was off. The next day, Hua Ming met Xia Qing and Ruirui at the airport to see them off.
Xia Qing mentioned that Ruirui disliked airport goodbyes, calling them "final goodbyes." Hua Ming reassured his daughter, "No matter what happens, as long as we hold hands, we'll always be a family. Whenever you need me in the future, I'll be there for you. Trust me." Xia Qing asked him how he planned to deal with Wan Xinxin. Hua Ming replied, "I'll tell her the truth. I can't keep hiding it from her. I'll tell her when I get back."
Xia Qing offered him a way out, saying, "If you can't handle it, come find us in America." She also urged him, "Promise me you'll take care of these hands. When Ruirui and I come back, I hope you'll be back at the operating table." After seeing them off, Hua Ming walked to the entrance of Wan Xinxin's gallery, but unable to face her, he hesitated and retreated.
Elsewhere, Jiang Kaiyang was heard on a phone call, expressing stress about repaying a loan and asking for more time, hinting at a serious financial issue. Soon after, Liu Wei summoned him to her office and surprised him with a promotion to Acting CEO and Chief Financial Officer. Overjoyed, Jiang Kaiyang pledged his absolute loyalty, confirming that Qin Gang had approved the appointment.
Liu Wei then mentioned that she had "accidentally overheard" his earlier call and asked if he was facing financial difficulties. Jiang Kaiyang explained his significant financial burden from his child's studies abroad and substantial mortgage payments. Liu Wei generously offered to lend him 40,000, which he accepted as a loan, promising to repay her.
At home, Qin Gang told Liu Wei that Hua Ming had called him, stating he was returning to America and had strangely urged Qin Gang to "be nicer to Wan Xinxin." Qin Gang also voiced his concern that his mother's recent peculiar phone calls indicated she might be planning a surprise return, and he feared she would find them together. Liu Wei attempted to reassure him, and they shared a tender moment.
However, their intimacy was abruptly interrupted when Qin Mother appeared at their doorway, catching them in the act. Qin Mother immediately confronted Liu Wei, expressing her strong disapproval. She reminded Liu Wei of her past breakup with Qin Gang and accused her of making a "very basic mistake" by returning, implying she was not good enough for her son. Qin Mother went on to accuse Liu Wei of selfishly breaking up Qin Gang's family.
Despite Qin Gang's attempts to defend Liu Wei, his mother dismissed him, saying, "If you had any sense at all, you wouldn't let her cling to you again." Visibly upset, Liu Wei left. Qin Mother then scolded Qin Gang for his lack of maturity, despite being a father. Unable to tell Wan Xinxin the truth, Hua Ming moved out of his home, leaving it for Wan Xinxin and her child. He carried only simple luggage to Chen Weimin's hospital dormitory.
He confessed to Chen Weimin his inability to tell Wan Xinxin everything and pleaded with him to keep his new location a secret. Shortly after Hua Ming settled in, Wan Xinxin arrived at the hospital, frantically searching for him. Chen Weimin, upholding his promise to Hua Ming, lied and told her he hadn't seen Hua Ming for days, suggesting a nurse must have mistaken someone else for him. Hua Ming, hidden in his dorm room, listened as Wan Xinxin called out his name, but he remained out of sight, unable to face her.
Episode 32 Recap
Qin Mother expressed her deep disappointment in Qin Gang, lamenting that she had failed as a mother, especially given his initial indifferent attitude. She questioned when he would finally grow up, reflecting on how she had spoiled him since childhood, giving him the best of everything, only for him to still be at the starting line, never moving. She criticized his car dealership, which was barely surviving, and most importantly, her failure to instill a sense of responsibility in him.
Qin Mother then tearfully revealed that doctors in America had given her a terminal diagnosis, leaving her with only three months to live. Qin Gang was shocked and shed tears, in denial, insisting that modern medicine could cure any disease and they had the resources to find a cure. Qin Mother, however, expressed her only wish was for Qin Gang, Wan Xinxin, and their grandson to live well together, stating she would die content if that happened.
Later, Qin Gang called Dr. Jia, who confirmed Qin Mother's condition was indeed very serious, having consulted with specialists in America. Dr. Jia advised Qin Gang to ensure his mother remained in good spirits, as any significant emotional distress could lead to serious danger for her. Qin Gang then sought out Liu Wei, apologizing on behalf of his mother for her past actions.
Liu Wei, however, told him there was no need to apologize, as she understood Qin Mother's actions were for his own good despite her misunderstandings. Qin Gang then told Liu Wei that his mother wanted him to pursue Wan Xinxin seriously this time, given her limited time. Liu Wei was visibly upset, stating she was tired of pretending and didn't care about the property.
She confessed her jealousy and hurt whenever she saw him with Wan Xinxin and wished to find the best doctors to treat his mother instead of continuing this charade. Qin Gang, firm in his decision, reiterated that he "must win Wan Xinxin back." After he left, Liu Wei, feeling desperate, immediately called Jiang Kaiyang, telling him to meet her at "the usual place," implying they would accelerate their action plan.
Jiang Kaiyang later discussed the acquisition of a dealership with Liu Wei, noting its flaws made it an opportunity, showcasing his ambition. Qin Gang went to the gallery to see Wan Xinxin, who was initially annoyed and asked him to leave, reminding him that she and Hua Ming were about to get their marriage license. Qin Gang, however, persisted, even suggesting she could divorce Hua Ming and remarry him.
When Wan Xinxin expressed her anger at being used, Qin Gang emotionally pleaded with her, revealing his mother's terminal illness and asking her to help his mother live out her final three months happily, even if not for him, then for Qin Mother's past kindness. He offered her anything she wanted in return, promising her freedom after three months. Wan Xinxin was taken aback by the news. Wan Xinxin visited Qin's house with her baby.
Qin Mother was overjoyed, showering the baby with affection. She eagerly invited Wan Xinxin and the baby to move back in, expressing how her anxious heart had finally found peace seeing them. Wan Xinxin, however, explained it wasn't convenient and mentioned that she and Hua Ming were "getting married soon," much to Qin Mother's awkwardness. After Wan Xinxin left, Qin Mother called Hua Ming, requesting a private meeting to discuss something difficult to explain over the phone.
When Qin Mother met Hua Ming, he questioned why she had investigated him. Qin Mother, acknowledging her business nature, explained that she was the anonymous donor for Huaming Online's substantial funds, which Hua Ming had used to take patients to the United States for treatment. She apologized for the investigation, citing the significant amount of money involved. Hua Ming expressed his gratitude for her support in helping him realize his dream of helping more people through Huaming Online.
Qin Mother then revealed she needed to be a "villain" because the matter concerned Wan Xinxin, the mother of her grandson. She explained that two events had deeply scarred Wan Xinxin: her father's death three years ago due to an "irresponsible doctor," and Qin Gang's divorce. Qin Mother then asked Hua Ming how he intended to explain the situation to Wan Xinxin, knowing he was that very doctor.
Hua Ming stated his intention to tell Wan Xinxin himself at the right time, maintaining that his decision three years ago as a doctor was correct and he had no regrets. Qin Mother vehemently disagreed, arguing it would be selfish and devastating for Wan Xinxin to learn that the man she loved was responsible for her father's death. She advised Hua Ming to keep the secret and "leave Wan Xinxin," suggesting "the further away you go, the better."
Hua Ming protested, saying he loved Xinxin and leaving her would also cause pain. Qin Mother countered, saying it was a choice between two evils, and while his leaving might make Xinxin think he was heartless (stabbing her once), revealing the truth would be like "stabbing her twice." Determined to "be the bad guy till the end" for her grandson, Qin Mother arranged for both Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin to come to her house.
When Wan Xinxin saw Hua Ming, she confronted him, asking why he was avoiding her and being inconsistent about their relationship. Hua Ming pulled her outside, and she urged him to tell her any difficulties he was facing, promising to face them with him and emphasizing her unwavering commitment to him despite any hardship.
Unmoved, Hua Ming pulled out his phone and, in front of Wan Xinxin, called Xia Qing, telling her he was going to America to remarry her, promising that he, Xia Qing, and Ruirui would be a family of three, never to be apart. He then abruptly said "Goodbye" to Wan Xinxin, drove away, leaving her heartbroken and banging on his car window, pleading with him to stop.
He later confided in Chen Weimin that he couldn't bring himself to tell Wan Xinxin the truth about her father's death. He also revealed that he was going to the U. S. to find Dr. Wei to develop an effective treatment plan for Qin Mother's terminal cancer, acknowledging her substantial donations and belief that she deserved help.
Meanwhile, at Shi Lu's company, Xu Ke learned from an assistant that Shi Lu was going on a business trip to America and that the company would be managed by him during her absence. Xu Ke secretly followed Shi Lu to the airport. There, he unexpectedly spotted Hua Ming. He immediately called Wan Xinxin, addressing her as "Your Majesty," to inform her that Hua Ming was at the airport.
Wan Xinxin, who was at Qin's house, begged Qin Gang to drive her to the airport, expressing great urgency. Qin Gang seemed hesitant, stating they definitely wouldn't catch up with him.
Episode 33 Recap
Wan Xinxin rushed to the airport, but Hua Ming had already left. Wan Xinxin went back in frustration, and she couldn't get over the knot in her heart. She didn't understand why Hua Ming would leave her for the United States. She decided to go to the United States to find Hua Ming and get an answer. Wan Xinxin packed her luggage and came out of the gallery. Xu Chunli rushed to stop her at the door.
Xu Chunli told Wan Xinxin that had she noticed that Hua Ming's mood had changed drastically after Qin's mother returned to China, and that Hua Ming had also specifically met with Qin's mother before leaving. Didn't Wan Xinxin suspect that Hua Ming's departure had something to do with Qin's mother? Wan Xinxin felt that Xu Chunli's suspicion made sense. Wan Xinxin rushed to the Qin's house.
After she dismissed Qin Gang, she questioned Qin's mother whether she had bribed Hua Ming to leave her. Qin's mother tried her best to deny it. Qin's mother persuaded Wan Xinxin that Hua Ming was really not suitable for her, and she hoped that Wan Xinxin could remarry Qin Gang. Wan Xinxin excitedly and resolutely told Qin's mother that she would never remarry Qin Gang in her life.
Wan Xinxin accused Qin's mother of interfering in her affairs with Hua Ming. Qin's mother suddenly fainted on the ground while arguing emotionally. Wan Xinxin was shocked. Qin Gang and Wan Xinxin frantically sent Qin's mother to the hospital. The doctor diagnosed that Qin's mother's condition had deteriorated due to emotional agitation and she was in a deep coma.
Wan Xinxin felt very guilty, and Qin Gang kept blaming Wan Xinxin, even threatening to make Wan Xinxin pay for it with her life. Liu Wei also fanned the flames, saying that Wan Xinxin deliberately harmed Qin's mother in order to fight for the family property. Wan Xinxin fainted out of anger and anxiety. Qin Gang was in no mood to take care of business because of Qin's mother's illness.
Liu Wei had long had the idea of embezzling and transferring Qin Gang's property. So she took the opportunity to pretend to share Qin Gang's worries and asked Qin Gang to entrust all his property and real estate to her for management. Although Qin Gang was worried, he still wrote a power of attorney to Liu Wei. Because Qin Gang stayed in the hospital to take care of Qin's mother, Liu Wei searched Qin Gang's house for the property certificate.
Just when she found the property certificate, she also found information about Hua Ming that Qin's mother had entrusted someone to investigate. She discovered the matter between Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin's father. A smug smile appeared on Liu Wei's face. As soon as Hua Ming arrived in the United States, he found Professor Wei, his tutor, to discuss Qin's mother's surgical plan. Professor Wei was also very embarrassed, saying that Qin's mother's surgery was very risky.
Just as Hua Ming continued to study, he received a video message from Wan Xinxin. Wan Xinxin helplessly told him that she had caused a catastrophe. Qin's mother was in critical condition because of her. She was so frightened that she didn't know what to do. She begged Hua Ming to come back and help her. Hua Ming resolutely prepared to return to China when he saw Wan Xinxin alone and helpless.
The day Hua Ming returned to China was the day Qin Gang invited all the top domestic experts for a consultation. The experts put forward several surgical plans. At this moment, Chen Weimin appeared at the consultation site with the plan researched by Hua Ming and Professor Wei. Hua Ming returned to his office in the hospital at this time. Liu Wei suddenly visited.
She smugly took out her mobile phone and showed Hua Ming the information she had taken about Hua Ming. Hua Ming asked Liu Wei calmly what she meant. Liu Wei threatened Hua Ming to give up the surgery on Qin's mother. Hua Ming stared at Liu Wei and told her firmly that he would not give up. Liu Wei left in anger. Qin's mother's condition suddenly worsened, and surgery was imminent. Qin Gang and Wan Xinxin were worried.
Chen Weimin pulled Wan Xinxin aside and told her that there was someone who was sure to perform this surgery. Just as Wan Xinxin was puzzled, Chen Weimin pulled her to Hua Ming's office. Chen Weimin asked Wan Xinxin to persuade Hua Ming to accept this surgery and pick up the scalpel again.
Episode 34 Recap
Wan Xinxin earnestly implored Hua Ming to perform the critical surgery for Qin's mother. Director Chen confirmed Hua Ming's expertise, stating he was the only one capable of saving her. Hua Ming initially expressed hesitation, acknowledging Mrs. Qin's extensive help to others but citing his current unsuitability for surgery. Wan Xinxin persisted, conveying her unwavering belief in his ability.
Director Chen then revealed that he had already arranged for Professor Wei to provide remote guidance via video call during the operation, with Hua Ming leading the surgical team. However, Professor Wei later called Hua Ming directly, explaining an urgent situation prevented his physical presence and that Hua Ming would have to proceed on his own. Hua Ming accepted the challenge and instructed his team to prepare, while Wan Xinxin expressed her gratitude.
Qin Gang was astonished to learn that Hua Ming, whom he believed to be a veterinarian, was the lead surgeon. Other medical experts present praised Hua Ming as a "god" in their field, remarking on his extraordinary return to lead such a complex surgery after three years. Qin Gang, bewildered, was assured that Hua Ming was the only one who could save his mother in her critical condition.
As Mrs. Qin was wheeled into the operating room, Qin Gang, Wan Xinxin, and Liu Wei waited anxiously outside. Inside the operating room, Hua Ming meticulously guided the surgical team through the procedure, carefully monitoring vital signs. Outside, Wan Xinxin was consumed with worry for Mrs. Qin, but Liu Wei harbored malicious intentions. She provocatively asked Wan Xinxin about property division, despite Mrs. Qin still being in surgery. Wan Xinxin rebuked her for such insensitivity.
Liu Wei, feigning concern for Qin Gang's financial security, then launched into a tirade of envy, criticizing Wan Xinxin's seemingly perfect life – her potential inheritance, Hua Ming's devotion to opening an art gallery for her, and his unwavering love despite her being a divorced mother. Wan Xinxin tried to dismiss her, but Liu Wei, fueled by jealousy, pressed on, suggesting that Hua Ming was not who she thought he was.
She venomously advised Wan Xinxin to re-examine her father's death certificate, hinting at a shocking revelation. Disturbed by Liu Wei's words, Wan Xinxin rushed home and retrieved her father's death certificate. To her horror, Hua Ming's name was clearly listed as the attending physician. The devastating truth that Hua Ming was the doctor whose delayed intervention had tragically led to her father's passing left her utterly paralyzed with shock. Disoriented and grief-stricken, she returned to the hospital.
Meanwhile, Hua Ming successfully completed Mrs. Qin's high-difficulty surgery, with the team celebrating the triumph and Director Chen welcoming him back to the neurosurgery field. Outside, Qin Gang joyfully announced his mother's successful surgery to everyone present. Hua Ming, visibly fatigued, emerged from the operating room. Not far away, Wan Xinxin stared at him, her eyes burning with rage. She strode directly to him, slapped him forcefully across the face, and then threw her father's death certificate at him. "
Did you know all along?" she demanded, "Why did you hide it from me? Do you pity me?" Overwhelmed by anguish, she questioned his identity and why it had to be him. A bystander attempted to intervene, reminding them they were in a hospital, as Hua Ming grasped that Wan Xinxin had uncovered the painful truth.
Hua Ming tried desperately to reach Wan Xinxin, calling her and pleading for a meeting, but she refused to answer or see him, leaving him in profound agony. Doctors confirmed Mrs. Qin's stable vital signs, expecting her to awaken within 24 hours. Hua Ming informed Qin Gang that his mother's life could be extended by three to five years, but emphasized the critical need to avoid any emotional distress, as it could be fatal.
Later, in a video conference, Professor Wei and Director Chen lauded Hua Ming's surgical prowess, noting his full recovery and suggesting he had even surpassed his previous capabilities. Professor Wei invited Hua Ming to join his team in America for research, a proposition Director Chen jokingly opposed. Hua Ming, feeling his future was being decided for him, found himself caught between his mentors. Shortly thereafter, Qin Gang excitedly reported that his mother was awake.
Mrs. Qin, albeit weak, confronted Hua Ming about breaking his promise not to return to China. Hua Ming explained that Professor Wei had assembled a specialist team for her treatment, determining Hua Ming was the best candidate, prompting his return. He added that as she had generously helped many, she deserved their help in return.
Understanding Hua Ming's character, Mrs. Qin then made a poignant request: that Hua Ming would extend help to Qin Gang should he ever face difficulties or be unable to cope. Hua Ming readily promised his assistance. He then candidly informed Mrs. Qin that her condition was incurable, and the surgery merely aimed to extend her life, a truth she calmly accepted, having never expected a complete cure.
Despite Qin Gang's persistent efforts to prevent Liu Wei from entering Mrs. Qin's room, fearing she might cause undue stress, Liu Wei insisted, driven by her eagerness to ascertain the family's asset distribution. She dismissed Hua Ming's medical advice as coming from a "vet." Inside, Liu Wei offered insincere well wishes to Mrs. Qin. However, Mrs. Qin quickly cut her short, declaring her clear wishes regarding the family assets.
She stated that the family villa and the 4S car dealership would go to Qin Gang, while all remaining assets would be left to her grandson, Xiaobao. Until Xiaobao reached adulthood, Wan Xinxin would manage these assets. Both Qin Gang and Liu Wei reacted with strong indignation. Qin Gang questioned his mother's decision, implying distrust, while Liu Wei outright deemed it inappropriate. Mrs. Qin firmly stated that she was informing them, not consulting them.
As they left, Liu Wei spitefully "congratulated" Wan Xinxin, then, in a desperate plea, offered Wan Xinxin a large sum of money to decline the management of the assets. Wan Xinxin, seeing through Liu Wei's manipulations, calmly retorted that she was merely there to visit Mrs. Qin and had no ulterior motives.
Mrs. Qin then engaged Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang in a conversation, expressing her deepest wish for them to raise their child together, though she conceded their remarriage seemed unlikely. Wan Xinxin reassured her that the baby would be raised happily, leaving her relationship with Qin Gang to fate.
Mrs. Qin, however, probed further, asking if Wan Xinxin hated Qin Gang, to which she replied no. Mrs. Qin then asked if Wan Xinxin hated or could forgive Hua Ming, subtly guiding her to consider Qin Gang again. She reminded Wan Xinxin that Hua Ming was the one who hurt her father, causing Wan Xinxin to ask her to stop. Mrs. Qin apologized, attributing her bluntness to her post-surgery state. Wan Xinxin promised to visit again soon with her grandson.
Wan Xinxin later contacted Xu Ke, meeting him at the gallery. She poured out her heart, revealing Hua Ming's role in her father's death due to delayed treatment. Xu Ke was momentarily stunned. After recovering, he rationally argued that Hua Ming was not the type to abandon a patient, suggesting there must be a deeper reason behind the incident. He urged Wan Xinxin to grant Hua Ming an opportunity to explain himself, despite her initial resistance to any "chance."
Xu Ke then decided to seek out Hua Ming. Xu Ke met with Hua Ming, informing him that Wan Xinxin had disclosed everything and, while she understood him, she couldn't face him. Xu Ke emphasized his role as a mutual friend, highlighting the depth of their relationship and his belief in their love, which was why he returned from his honeymoon.
He promised to do his utmost to arrange a meeting between Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming, but cautioned that how Hua Ming explained himself would be entirely his responsibility, as no one else could truly help him in this situation. Later, Xu Ke visited Mrs. Qin in the hospital.
He introduced himself as Wan Xinxin's close friend and directly posed a thoughtful question: if Wan Xinxin were her biological daughter, would she prefer her to be with Qin Gang or Hua Ming? He explained that Wan Xinxin was unwilling to let Hua Ming explain, and he, as her best friend, couldn't persuade her.
He acknowledged Mrs. Qin's desire for Wan Xinxin and Qin Gang to reconcile, but urged her to consider what Wan Xinxin's parents would want for her future. After Xu Ke left, Mrs. Qin was left in deep contemplation.
Episode 35 Recap
Wan Xinxin sent a message to Hua Ming, asking him to meet her at the gallery. Hua Ming, hoping for a reconciliation, rushed there. However, Wan Xinxin coldly handed him a bank card and the engagement ring he had once given her. She told him that the money covered all she owed him for rent and the gallery, with some extra as thanks for caring for her and Bao, and that from now on, they had no relationship.
Hua Ming tried to explain the truth about what happened three years ago, but Wan Xinxin declared it meaningless and pushed him out of the gallery door. From outside, Hua Ming pleaded with Wan Xinxin to listen, insisting on telling her the full story of three years ago. He recounted how, on that night, two patients were brought in: a young man in a more critical condition and her father, Wan Quanyou.
Despite knowing the young man was a criminal, Hua Ming believed that in the face of life, there should be no discrimination based on identity. He decided to operate on the more critical patient first, instructing his team to prepare for the second surgery immediately after. Tragically, by the time he was ready, Wan Quanyou had no vital signs.
Hua Ming explained that the criminal he saved later escaped from prison and murdered a guard and another inmate, leading to a death sentence. The victims' families branded Hua Ming an accomplice, claiming his scalpel had become a murder weapon. This event had haunted him, causing him to put down his scalpel, yet even now, he felt he had made the right choice in saving a life.
Wan Xinxin angrily challenged him, asking if saving a criminal and abandoning a good person, allowing the criminal to hurt others, was truly the right choice. Hua Ming defended himself, stating he was alone and intended to save both, but her father was already gone when he finished the first surgery, and he hadn't known it was her father. Wan Xinxin silenced him, telling him to stop talking.
Hua Ming desperately offered to do anything to make amends, but Wan Xinxin stated he already had, by saving her and Bao and providing for them. She reiterated that they now owed each other nothing. Hua Ming confessed his enduring love for her, how he had thought of her constantly even in America, and asked for another chance. Wan Xinxin tearfully told him it was impossible and that he should forget her.
After being discharged from the hospital, Qin Mother returned home, her spirits and health significantly improved thanks to Dr. Hua Ming. However, upon entering, she immediately smelled Liu Wei's perfume. Confronting Qin Gang, she accused him of bringing someone into their home while she was hospitalized and threatened to disown him if he continued seeing Liu Wei. Qin Gang then went to Liu Wei's home to tell her they couldn't see each other anymore, at least temporarily.
He explained that his mother had just had surgery and couldn't handle any stress, fearing her reaction if she discovered their continued contact. Liu Wei, however, was upset, questioning if he wanted to be with Wan Xinxin. Qin Gang clarified there was no chance with Wan Xinxin, but he was overwhelmed and couldn't endure the pressure.
Despite Liu Wei's pleas for him to stay, Qin Gang insisted he had to leave quickly to avoid arousing his mother's suspicion, concluding that they couldn't contact each other at all from now on. Liu Wei abruptly appeared at Qin Mother's house. Qin Mother was displeased and tried to send her away, but Liu Wei insisted she wanted to discuss Qin Gang. Qin Mother reluctantly allowed her inside.
Liu Wei tearfully recounted her supposed deep love for Qin Gang, claiming she went to America for studies and married her ex-husband out of true love. Qin Mother immediately exposed her lies, stating her investigations revealed Liu Wei married her ex-husband, a seventy-year-old man, solely for his alleged wealth and a green card, only to find he had no money. Qin Mother added that Liu Wei's departure caused Qin Gang immense pain and led him to a self-destructive phase.
Liu Wei dropped her pretense, acknowledging her youthful mistakes but claiming to truly love Qin Gang now. Qin Mother vehemently refused to accept Liu Wei, calling her calculating and manipulative. Qin Mother firmly told Liu Wei to stay away from her son. In response, Liu Wei's demeanor turned vicious. She told Qin Mother that she would soon die and that she, Liu Wei, could wait.
She declared her intention to marry Qin Gang after Qin Mother's death, move into the family home, and turn Qin Gang against his grandson. Enraged, Qin Mother trembled and collapsed onto the floor. Qin Mother reached out, begging Liu Wei for help, but Liu Wei merely watched her struggle in pain before fearfully fleeing the house.
As Liu Wei frantically drove away from Qin Mother's house, Xu Chunli, who was arriving to drop off Bao, witnessed her hurried departure and noticed the open front door. Filled with suspicion, Xu Chunli entered and found Qin Mother collapsed. She quickly called emergency services.
Xu Chunli relayed her suspicions about Liu Wei to Jiang Kaiyang, who, after some hesitation, sternly warned her to keep silent about Liu Wei's involvement to protect both their jobs, as Liu Wei had helped him secure his current position. Hua Ming decided to leave the city permanently and accept a research position in Shanghai, expressing to his senior colleague that this city held too many painful complications for him.
His senior, understanding his "place of heartbreak," agreed but urged him to say goodbye to Wan Xinxin. After much deliberation and seeking advice from Xu Ke, Wan Xinxin agreed to meet Hua Ming. At their meeting, Hua Ming formally apologized for the past. Wan Xinxin explained that while her rational mind, as a doctor, understood his choice to save the more critical patient, her emotions could not forgive him, as his presence constantly reminded her of her father's death.
She reiterated that they now owed each other nothing. Hua Ming desperately declared his love for her, but Wan Xinxin left. Shortly after their emotional parting, both Wan Xinxin and Hua Ming received urgent calls from the hospital. Hua Ming immediately rushed to the hospital to assist with Qin Mother, who had been brought to the emergency room in critical condition. Qin Gang and Wan Xinxin waited anxiously outside. Meanwhile, Liu Wei covertly observed the scene from a distance.
Despite Hua Ming's best efforts, he emerged from the operating room with the grim news that Qin Mother could not be saved. Qin Gang was overcome with grief, and Xu Chunli remained by his side to comfort him.
Episode 36 Recap
After Qin Gang’s mother's attending physician, Dr. Jia, returned from out of town, he visited the Qin family. Qin Gang, in mourning, directly asked Dr. Jia for the reason behind his mother's sudden passing. Dr. Jia explained that there were two primary possibilities: complications arising from her surgery, or a severe emotional shock that could have triggered a stroke or heart attack. Qin Gang then turned to Liu Wei, questioning if his mother had contacted her recently.
Liu Wei denied it defensively, insisting she was home all day and expressing disbelief that Qin Gang would suspect her. Qin Gang stated he was simply eliminating possibilities, especially since his mother had been recovering well post-surgery and emotional distress was the main risk. Liu Wei vehemently denied upsetting Qin Gang's mother, claiming she was well aware of her fragile condition and would never dare.
She then dramatically shifted the blame to Hua Ming, suggesting that there might have been a problem with his surgery. Liu Wei labeled Hua Ming a "quack who has killed patients before," questioning his competence and ability to cure a disease American experts couldn't. She accused him of performing the surgery merely to scam Qin Gang's mother for money to support his website.
Qin Gang found Liu Wei's arguments compelling and promised to investigate further, after which Liu Wei departed abruptly. Qin Gang went to Hua Ming's home and found him packing a substantial amount of luggage for a research project in Shanghai. Qin Gang immediately suspected that Hua Ming was attempting to flee due to his mother's death.
Hua Ming, expressing his regret over the loss, clarified that the surgical plan was developed with his American mentor, Qin Gang’s family had reviewed and approved it, and the surgery itself was unequivocally successful without complications. He explained his departure as a need to distance himself from painful memories. Qin Gang misinterpreted this as Hua Ming blaming him for his mother's death, suggesting he had failed to care for her properly. Hua Ming denied such an implication, reiterating his sorrow.
Unconvinced, Qin Gang declared that he would thoroughly investigate the matter. At her home, Xu Chunli was plagued by guilt. She confronted Jiang Kaiyang, asking why he had forbidden her from revealing that she saw Liu Wei leaving Qin's mother's house on the day of her collapse, a moment Xu Chunli believed had caused Qin's mother's death. She confessed her conscience wouldn't let her rest.
Jiang Kaiyang acknowledged her distress but firmly reiterated that she absolutely could not tell anyone, warning that if she spoke, he and consequently, she and their child, would be ruined. Xu Chunli pressed him, suspecting he was hiding something more serious than Liu Wei merely helping him regain his job. Jiang Kaiyang admitted that if anything happened to Liu Wei, he would be in deep trouble too.
He confessed to having committed a grave error but refused to elaborate further, fearing he would drag her into his predicament, which could lead to him going to prison and leaving their family destitute. Despite their difficulties, Xu Chunli pleaded with him to confide in her, offering to face the consequences together, even suggesting they turn themselves in. Jiang Kaiyang dismissed this as impractical, highlighting their financial obligations and the welfare of their child.
He promised to surrender himself "in a few days" after completing some pressing tasks, then insisted he needed to leave. Xu Chunli desperately urged him to turn himself in immediately. Jiang Kaiyang then sought out Liu Wei, who was preoccupied on the phone, arranging a swift money transfer. Jiang Kaiyang, no longer deferential, demanded half of the money Liu Wei was in the process of acquiring from Qin Gang, deeming his previous share insufficient.
Liu Wei initially resisted, asserting her indispensability, but Jiang Kaiyang turned the tables, revealing his ace: Xu Chunli had witnessed Liu Wei leaving Qin's mother's house on the day she died. He threatened to expose Liu Wei for driving Qin's mother to her death, which would, in turn, unravel Liu Wei's entire financial scheme against Qin Gang.
Realizing the gravity of the threat, Liu Wei grudgingly agreed to split the money half-and-half, but immediately demanded that Jiang Kaiyang expedite the finalization of their scheme. Driven by a desire for revenge, Qin Gang contacted someone to hack Hua Ming's "Huaming Online" website, instructing them to brand it as a "scam site run by murderers" at any cost. Meanwhile, Wan Xinxin discovered Hua Ming's hacked website and expressed her anger.
Xu Chunli, seeing the defaced site, agreed that Hua Ming wouldn't commit such a crime for money and lamented that Qin Gang's relentless accusations would destroy Hua Ming's career. Xu Chunli then tentatively suggested that Qin's mother's death might be connected to Liu Wei. Sensing her hesitation, Wan Xinxin pressed her for details, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Hesitantly, Xu Chunli confessed that she had vaguely seen Liu Wei leaving Qin Gang's house in a panic on the day Qin's mother collapsed, though she added that she couldn't be entirely certain from a distance. Upon hearing Xu Chunli's account, Wan Xinxin immediately called Qin Gang, asking him to bring Liu Wei to her gallery. At the gallery, Qin Gang confronted Liu Wei, asking if she had visited his mother on the day she fainted.
Liu Wei denied it, then accused Wan Xinxin and Xu Chunli of fabricating stories to protect Hua Ming. Wan Xinxin prompted Xu Chunli to repeat her observation, and Xu Chunli reluctantly stated she had seen Liu Wei leaving Qin Gang's house that day. Liu Wei, momentarily losing her composure, contradicted her earlier denial by admitting she had gone out later that day. When Qin Gang pressed for specifics, she became defensive and called on Jiang Kaiyang to provide an alibi.
Jiang Kaiyang, visibly uncomfortable, confirmed that he and Liu Wei had been in a cafe discussing business for an extended period. As Xu Chunli attempted to add more details, Jiang Kaiyang abruptly pulled her away, apologizing to Qin Gang for the disturbance and attempting to leave. Wan Xinxin protested their departure, stressing the gravity of the situation. Qin Gang, however, seemed to dismiss the immediate issue.
Liu Wei, irritated, remarked to Qin Gang that Wan Xinxin's words seemed to carry more weight. Wan Xinxin then told Qin Gang that he didn't need to defend Hua Ming and that she would uncover the truth herself. Later, Hua Ming was on the phone with a senior colleague, mentioning he was almost done packing and preparing to leave.
His colleague informed him that his website had been hacked, to which Hua Ming responded that he already knew and considered it a good time to shut it down, stating he just needed to take things slowly and wouldn't give up on his dream. Shortly after, Wan Xinxin visited Hua Ming. She asked him directly if Qin's mother's death was related to his surgery, and he unequivocally confirmed that the surgery was successful.
Hua Ming acknowledged Qin Gang's belief that the death was linked to the surgery, but expressed indifference, asserting that his clear conscience as a doctor was enough. Wan Xinxin countered, emphasizing the paramount importance of a doctor's reputation and questioning why he would abandon his renewed calling. She declared that while he might not care, she did. Touched by her concern for his reputation, Hua Ming thanked her.
Wan Xinxin then clarified that she felt a personal responsibility, having implored him to perform the surgery. She told him he was free to leave, but only after unequivocally clarifying the entire situation, otherwise she would not let him go. Later, Hua Ming's friend, Xu Ke, visited and found him no longer packing, having decided to stay and clear his name as per Wan Xinxin's insistence.
Meanwhile, Liu Wei continued to manipulate Qin Gang, who was mentally exhausted by recent events. When Qin Gang expressed his urgent need to delve into company finances to establish his credibility, Liu Wei advised him to adopt a "long-term" perspective. She cautioned him against appearing agitated and impatient, which could undermine his authority with shareholders and executives, and pledged her unwavering support in carefully investigating the company's accounts at a strategic time.
Reassured, Qin Gang confided that he felt uneasy about Jiang Kaiyang handling all company matters. During this time, Xu Chunli repeatedly called Jiang Kaiyang, pleading with him to tell her everything and turn himself in, but he evaded her questions. Jiang Kaiyang then locked Xu Chunli inside their home and proceeded to Qin Gang's company. He accessed the company computer and prepared an authorization contract for Liu Wei.
After a moment of hesitation, reflecting on his life with Xu Chunli, he stamped the document with the company seal. He presented the completed contract to Liu Wei, who triumphantly declared that all company assets would soon belong to them. Jiang Kaiyang then instructed Liu Wei to deposit the substantial funds into a company account first, due to the large sum, and demanded that at least half of the money be transferred by the following morning. Liu Wei, though annoyed by his urgency, reluctantly agreed.
Episode 37 Recap
Liu Wei prepared breakfast for Qin Gang early in the morning, which surprised him. He remarked on her unexpected domesticity, expressing that his mother would have approved of them if she had seen this. Liu Wei, however, seemed preoccupied and troubled. Earlier, Liu Wei had a phone conversation with Jiang Kaiyang, instructing him to transfer at least half of the money to a specific account by the next morning.
Jiang Kaiyang countered, accusing her of impatience and reminding her of their previous agreement. Liu Wei explained that Qin Gang's company was investing in a new project, and they wouldn't notice the funds missing for a while. Jiang Kaiyang then insisted he didn't care and demanded the money for himself. Liu Wei reluctantly agreed to transfer the money to his account the next day, and Jiang Kaiyang warned her to keep her word or face consequences.
Later, Jiang Kaiyang desperately tried to reach Liu Wei, but her phone was off, and he hadn't received the promised money. He realized she had likely absconded with the funds. Overwhelmed with despair, Jiang Kaiyang, speaking to Xu Chunli, questioned if he had been a good husband. Xu Chunli affirmed that he was the best man in the world to her, but Jiang Kaiyang dismissed it as "bullshit."
He lamented his fall from a respectable deputy director to his current state, feeling like less of a man compared to his peers who had achieved more. Xu Chunli reassured him that she didn't need a big house or fancy car, only for him to be well, emphasizing that a simple life together was all that mattered. Jiang Kaiyang agreed but felt it was too late to turn back, convinced he couldn't escape prison.
He urged Xu Chunli to sign the divorce papers, fearing his actions would implicate her. Xu Chunli refused, declaring her unwavering loyalty. She insisted that she would wait for him, regardless of his sentence, promising that their home and her status as his wife would remain unchanged upon his return. Moved to tears, Jiang Kaiyang apologized for his past mistakes. Xu Chunli asked him to promise to behave well and focus on their future together.
He then tearfully called the police to turn himself in. At the same time, Qin Gang received a phone call from the city police department, informing him of severe financial losses in his company and that a bankruptcy application had been filed with the court. Disbelieving, Qin Gang tried to find Liu Wei, but she was nowhere to be found. Rushing home, he discovered she had vacated their house.
Bank staff and prosecutors arrived, informing him that his house had been mortgaged by Liu Wei and was now repossessed. Qin Gang was stunned, insisting he never mortgaged the house and that Liu Wei's actions had nothing to do with him. The officials showed him the mortgage documents, confirming they were processed by his agent, Liu Wei, and reiterated that the house was no longer his.
Qin Gang frantically searched for Liu Wei, only to learn she had resigned and vanished without a trace, finally realizing her true manipulative nature. Meanwhile, a reporter named Chen approached Hua Ming at work, asking about his website, Huaming Online, being shut down and accusations of fraud. Hua Ming was surprised by the reporter's information. Reporter Chen also questioned Hua Ming about allegations that he obtained medical funds fraudulently while in America and did not fully use them for patients.
Hua Ming calmly stated that if he had the ability to obtain funds to help more patients, he would. He asked about the source of the reporter's information, but Reporter Chen refused to disclose it, citing it as hearsay. Hua Ming then asserted his responsibility for his statements and expected the same from the news organization, emphasizing the need for evidence.
He offered to publicly disclose all details of Huaming Online's medical fund usage, transaction by transaction, and promised to accept legal punishment if any illegal actions were found. He suggested ending the interview there. Reporter Chen, however, pressed on, asking if Hua Ming had caused a medical accident that killed Wan Xinxin's father, and if he subsequently dated and tried to marry her to atone for his sins.
Hua Ming warned Reporter Chen not to rely on hearsay and emphasized the need for factual evidence, stating that such questions concerned his personal privacy. He then warned the reporter against disturbing Wan Xinxin and violating her privacy, reserving the right to take legal action. After Hua Ming left, his colleague speculated that Qin Gang was behind the attacks, seeking an explanation for his mother's death.
Hua Ming's colleague suggested showing the surgical records, but Hua Ming explained the burden on doctors. He affirmed his clear conscience regarding the surgery and mentioned he returned for "someone" — Wan Xinxin. He then instructed his colleague to publicly release all financial accounts for Huaming Online, stating that if he had to leave, he wouldn't do so under a cloud of blame.
His colleague questioned if Wan Xinxin had forgiven him, to which Hua Ming replied he would figure it out. Reporter Chen then sought out Wan Xinxin at her gallery under the guise of interviewing her about her French art exhibition. He quickly shifted the conversation, asking if Hua Ming was responsible for her father's death. Wan Xinxin grew angry and refused to answer.
The reporter persisted, asking her opinion on the accusations against Huaming Online regarding fraudulent profits and questioning Hua Ming's professional integrity. Wan Xinxin stated she had no authority to speak on medical matters but believed Hua Ming's numerous medical awards were legitimate. She described him as an honest, kind, and passionate person. The reporter then asked why she gave up on him if she thought so highly of him, implying it was due to the past incident.
Wan Xinxin vehemently refused to comment, demanding the reporter leave. When asked if they would ever reunite, she firmly replied, "No. Never." Saddened, Xu Chunli went to Wan Xinxin's gallery and informed her of Jiang Kaiyang's surrender to the police. It was then that Wan Xinxin learned about Jiang Kaiyang and Liu Wei conspiring to drain the Qin family's assets.
Xu Chunli also confessed that she had seen Liu Wei rushing out of Qin Gang's house on the day Qin Gang's mother passed away. Shocked by this revelation, Wan Xinxin immediately called Hua Ming, asking him to join her to find Qin Gang, fearing Qin Gang would be devastated by the betrayal. Wan Xinxin then called Qin Gang.
He sounded deeply distraught, apologizing profusely to her, calling himself a fool, and expressing regret for listening to Liu Wei and betraying Wan Xinxin. He admitted that only now did he understand who truly loved him and tearfully thanked her. He then spoke of "another life" and promised to treat her well, stating he was "leaving" and "going away now."
Wan Xinxin sensed his extreme emotional instability and became very worried, asking him where he was and then trying to reach him again but his phone was off. Hua Ming arrived at the gallery, and Wan Xinxin, with her son, rushed out with him to search for Qin Gang. They found Qin Gang's car parked by a bridge in the suburbs. Qin Gang stood on the bridge, consumed by despair and ready to jump.
He cried out to his deceased mother, lamenting his failure and having wasted all the money she worked hard to earn. Hua Ming and Wan Xinxin urgently pleaded with him not to do anything foolish. Wan Xinxin told him there was always a way back, that life was paramount, and that he had his son. She urged him to turn around and look at his son, reminding him that he was only 30 and still had everything to live for.
She implored him not to be irresponsible, stressing that he was the only family she had left and questioning what she would tell their son if he disappeared. As Wan Xinxin continued to appeal to his parental love, Hua Ming stealthily approached Qin Gang from behind and tackled him to safety. Qin Gang, rescued, cried in Wan Xinxin's arms. Wan Xinxin brought Qin Gang back to the gallery.
Qin Gang kept muttering about finding Liu Wei and not letting her get away with it. Wan Xinxin tried to calm him, reminding him of his son and emphasizing that life was more important than money, which could always be re-earned. Wan Xinxin then spoke to Qin Gang on behalf of their son, Xiaobao, reminding him of their future together, including playing soccer when Xiaobao grew up, and comforting Qin Gang by saying that they would overcome any difficulties.
After Hua Ming left, he sat outside in contemplation. The next day, Hua Ming returned to the gallery with two plane tickets, asking Wan Xinxin to leave the city with him, to abandon their painful memories and start anew. He pleaded for her to give them a chance, reminding her of their past happiness with their son.
Wan Xinxin took the tickets and tore them, telling Hua Ming she couldn't move past it and couldn't start over with him, stating, "I can't do it. I just can't." Hua Ming, heartbroken, left. The following day, Hua Ming visited Qin Gang at the gallery. He asked Qin Gang if there was any chance of him reconciling with Liu Wei. Qin Gang firmly stated he would never forgive Liu Wei.
He explained that after everything he had endured, he finally understood his mother's words from years ago: money was not important, as it was merely material wealth. What truly mattered was family, relatives, and loved ones. Qin Gang declared that he would never leave Wan Xinxin and their baby. Hearing Qin Gang's heartfelt assurance, Hua Ming felt relieved.
He gave Qin Gang his house keys, suggesting that Wan Xinxin, their son, and Qin Gang live there, as the house would be empty since he was leaving. Qin Gang accepted the keys, overwhelmed with emotion.
Episode 38 (Ending) Recap
Hua Ming informed Qin Gang of his plan to leave indefinitely and offered his house as a comfortable place for Qin Gang, Wan Xinxin, and their baby to stay, as it would otherwise be empty. Qin Gang worried that Wan Xinxin would not agree to move in. Hua Ming then suggested he tell Wan Xinxin that he had bought the house, believing she would accept it under that pretense.
Qin Gang protested, saying he was broke, but Hua Ming insisted that sometimes telling small lies is acceptable for the family's well-being. Later, Qin Gang attempted to persuade Wan Xinxin to move from the gallery. He pointed out the gallery's unsuitable living conditions, mentioning that clothes were getting moldy due to dampness, and urged her to think about their baby's health.
Wan Xinxin, who was feeling unwell and coughing, said she would start painting to earn money for a new apartment. When Qin Gang suggested they move into Hua Ming's vacant house, she firmly refused. Qin Gang then noticed she had a high fever and insisted on taking her to the hospital immediately, despite her attempts to dismiss it as a minor cold. Hua Ming learned of Wan Xinxin's illness and quickly went to the hospital to check on her.
He pressed Qin Gang about the moving plans, emphasizing the urgency due to the damp gallery. Qin Gang planned to move the next day but asked Hua Ming not to show up, fearing it would upset Wan Xinxin further. Hua Ming, however, urged Qin Gang to move everything first, asserting that Wan Xinxin would have to accept it once they were settled.
He also advised Qin Gang to keep Wan Xinxin and the baby separated due to her viral cold and asked him to call immediately if any issues arose. The following day, Hua Ming discreetly helped Qin Gang move into his house. He provided detailed instructions on managing the household, including a utility card for bills linked to his bank account, a spare house key, and a notebook listing Wan Xinxin's habits.
He gave specific advice for the kitchen, noting her preference for lighter-flavored soups, and cautioned against using air conditioning for the baby, highlighting the house's natural ventilation. He also prepared a basic medicine kit, reminding Qin Gang to check expiration dates. Before leaving, Hua Ming handed his own house key to Qin Gang, stating he no longer needed it, and gave him his personal phone number for emergencies.
That evening, Qin Gang brought Wan Xinxin and their baby to the house. Wan Xinxin was still resistant, but Qin Gang insisted she come inside. She looked around, each detail bringing back memories of her life with Hua Ming. Qin Gang, attempting to cook, clumsily boiled some eggs for her. Although Wan Xinxin appreciated his effort, her fever returned. Alarmed, Qin Gang secretly called Hua Ming for help. Hua Ming rushed over and met Qin Gang downstairs.
Qin Gang frantically told him Wan Xinxin had a 40-degree fever and asked if she needed an IV. Hua Ming advised against an IV unless there were complications and questioned what she had eaten, noting that eggs could worsen a fever. He then provided homemade porridge and stir-fried vegetables, stressing the importance of light but nutritious food. Hua Ming instructed Qin Gang to give her medicine and, if the fever persisted, to use physical cooling methods, which he demonstrated.
The next morning, Qin Gang looked out from the balcony and saw Hua Ming still downstairs, realizing he had stayed there all night, watching over Wan Xinxin. Later, when Wan Xinxin left for the supermarket, Qin Gang called Hua Ming, asking him to come teach him various household chores and cooking. Hua Ming patiently guided him through tasks such as preparing food, properly wiping and holding the baby, and the correct way to wash and store baby clothes separately.
When Wan Xinxin returned home, she found a delicious meal laid out and asked Qin Gang if he had cooked everything. He nervously claimed he was learning from TV shows and cookbooks. However, Wan Xinxin noticed a familiar taste in the food, and his subsequent "mistake" of forgetting to add salt to a dish further raised her suspicions. Qin Gang explained that his efforts were for her and the baby's well-being.
Hua Ming prepared for his departure, ensuring everything was set for Wan Xinxin and the baby. He provided Qin Gang with a registration form, framing their stay as a rental, and gently declined Qin Gang's offer to pay rent when he had money. Hua Ming shared that his house had truly felt like a home with the three of them there. Later, Qin Gang, deeply moved by Hua Ming's selfless love, revealed everything to Wan Xinxin.
He told her that Hua Ming had not only given them his house but had also guided him through her fever, staying downstairs until she recovered, and personally taught him how to cook and manage household chores. Qin Gang confessed his earlier desire to remarry her was selfish, acknowledging Hua Ming's pure and unconditional love for her happiness.
Wan Xinxin listened in silence, reflecting on her past and current emotional turmoil, having previously admitted she lacked the capacity to love again and needed more time. Even after Qin Gang's revelations, she stated that it was impossible between them now. However, Qin Gang urged her to consider Hua Ming, insisting they go find him. They rushed to the hotel, only to learn that Hua Ming had already checked out and left.
Wan Xinxin then suggested he might be at their special spot, the big banyan tree. Several months passed. Qin Gang received a call from the police, informing him that Liu Wei had been arrested and transferred to the prosecutor's office, bringing him immense relief. He took their baby to the beach, where the child, now walking and drawing, happily painted. Wan Xinxin watched them with a sweet smile.
Suddenly, Xu Ke arrived, telling Wan Xinxin he would handle things there and urged her to leave. With a look of excited happiness, Wan Xinxin rushed off. In her heart, she silently repeated a past vow: if she could relive everything, she would never let him go. Meanwhile, Hua Ming had returned and was sitting alone under the big banyan tree where they once made wishes, unaware that Wan Xinxin was speeding towards him, and towards their happiness.
