Resumen, trama, sinopsis de Be Together

Sinopsis de Be Together

Xia Yan, Han Shuang, Zhao Xiaolei and Xiang Nan are good girlfriends who have known each other since their college age, and they work and live in the same city.

Xia Yan aspires to design a quality app that can change people’s lifestyle, so after graduation, she stays in the metropolis where the IT industry gathers, and with her hard work, she eventually becomes a project leader of SG Group and gains sincere love.

Han Shuang, who comes from a wealthy family, is able to jump out of the comfort zone and start working independently as a part-time store assistant in a fashion furniture store in order to hold on to her design dream. She and Mark, a doctor, finally became a couple after numerous trials and tribulations.

Born in a traditional family, Zhao Xiaolei was tragically broken up by her boyfriend on the eve of her wedding. With the encouragement and help of several friends, she finally got out of the shadow of her lost love and found her confidence and self.

Doctor Xiang Nan seems calm and sensible, but she is closed inside, until an accident makes her regain her faith in life.

Through all the twists and turns, the four young girl encourage and support each other, work together to solve the various problems and confusions that occur in each other’s lives, and witness each other’s growth and transformation.

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Liu Yiming and Yang Yun's wedding ceremony was in full swing, with the host passionately describing their perfect union. However, the event was abruptly interrupted when three women stormed the stage. A video began to play, displaying footage of Liu Yiming in compromising situations with multiple women. Liu Yiming hastily ordered security to remove the disruptive women, claiming the video was "Photoshopped" and urged everyone not to believe it.

A while before the wedding, Zhao Xiaolei, then Liu Yiming's fiancée, received a call from her mother about her younger brother, Xiao Jun, wanting to find work. Zhao Xiaolei hoped her brother could come to Xinzhou to be closer to her, believing that Liu Yiming agreeing to marry her was already a great fortune. She told her mother that Liu Yiming had promised to help Xiao Jun with arrangements, though the wages might not be as high as expected.

Zhao Xiaolei's friends expressed concern, asking if she was rushing into marriage for her family's benefit, but she insisted it was simply her age for marriage. As a university teaching assistant with a modest income, she was happy Liu Yiming didn't mind her situation. Her friends, however, asserted that Liu Yiming was lucky to marry her.

Later, as she admired a wedding invitation, she mentioned Liu Yiming was out dealing with business, and she wanted to surprise him with her bridal gown on the wedding day. Unbeknownst to Zhao Xiaolei, her supposedly devoted fiancé was with another woman. This was accidentally captured by her close friend, Han Shuang. Earlier, in a Western restaurant, Han Shuang had just rejected her own boyfriend's marriage proposal, reminding him they had agreed to only date, not marry.

She then coolly walked out, only to see Liu Yiming intimately entering a hotel with another woman. Han Shuang quickly recorded a video to show Zhao Xiaolei. Zhao Xiaolei initially refused to believe Han Shuang's video, as Liu Yiming had told her he was out for a business meeting. When Zhao Xiaolei still wanted to try on her wedding dress, Han Shuang angrily confronted her, saying Liu Yiming was cheating and Zhao Xiaolei was pretending not to know.

Han Shuang insisted that men either stray countless times or never, and if Zhao Xiaolei ignored it now, it would happen again after marriage. The friends then persuaded Zhao Xiaolei to go to the hotel to confirm the truth. Upon arrival, a prepared Han Shuang opened the hotel room door and sprayed pepper spray at Liu Yiming, causing chaos. She then recorded the scene for evidence.

Zhao Xiaolei's friends berated Liu Yiming for his infidelity right before his wedding, calling him an animal. As Liu Yiming tried to apologize to Zhao Xiaolei, her other friends rushed in, grabbing the other woman, who screamed for her "husband," Liu Yiming, to save her. Witnessing this, Zhao Xiaolei, realizing the full extent of his betrayal, slapped Liu Yiming across the face.

Distraught, Zhao Xiaolei holed herself up in her room, prompting her friends to agree she needed time to process her emotions. While her friends praised her for slapping Liu Yiming and Xia Yan for stepping on him, Han Shuang felt she hadn't done enough. They concluded that marriage between Zhao Xiaolei and Liu Yiming was impossible, but they needed to understand when he met the other woman and his intentions regarding his marriage to Zhao Xiaolei.

Xia Yan offered to speak with Liu Yiming. He casually admitted it was his first time with the woman, blaming Zhao Xiaolei and her friends for their "feudal" and "old-fashioned" principles. He dismissed his actions as a "normal man's normal needs" and even proposed a "trial marriage" to Xiaolei before they held the wedding as planned, stating he was still choosing between Zhao Xiaolei and Miss Yang Yun. Xia Yan was appalled, calling him a "monster."

Heartbroken by Xia Yan's account and the video evidence, Zhao Xiaolei felt lost and stupid for even considering forgiving him, questioning if her principles were too inflexible. Her friends reassured her, emphasizing that her choice not to have premarital sex was her right, and Liu Yiming's actions stemmed from his own low character. Just then, Han Shuang received a wedding invitation from Liu Yiming.

It was for the exact same date and venue Zhao Xiaolei had chosen, with only the bride's name changed to Yang Yun. This blatant challenge infuriated the friends, with Xia Yan agreeing they couldn't ignore it. They decided to "play his game." At Liu Yiming and Yang Yun's wedding, Han Shuang secretly approached the videographer she had previously hired for Zhao Xiaolei, asking him to expose Liu Yiming and the other woman during the ceremony.

She also had Zhao Xiaolei, dressed in a beautiful wedding gown, stand at the venue, presenting her as the true bride who was supposed to be getting married that day. As Liu Yiming and Yang Yun exchanged vows, the video exposing Liu Yiming's infidelity played for everyone to see. Despite Liu Yiming's protests that it was Photoshopped, the chaotic scene, with Zhao Xiaolei standing gracefully in her gown, clearly embarrassed him and Yang Yun.

After their act of revenge, the friends compensated the wedding planners for the disruption. They affirmed that Zhao Xiaolei, stunning in her wedding dress, had truly overshadowed Yang Yun, teaching Liu Yiming a harsh lesson. They encouraged Zhao Xiaolei to move on, assuring her that she was too good for such a "jerk" and would find a better man. Han Shuang humorously offered to help her find a new husband, even a mixed-blood one, to which Zhao Xiaolei laughingly declined.

Meanwhile, Xia Yan encountered President Xu Chengyi, the General Manager of SG Technology, in an elevator while doing a live stream. She didn't recognize him and initially rebuffed his attempt to introduce himself. Later, she realized he was the "President Xu" she was scheduled to meet, and apologized to him in the office. Xia Yan presented her "Love Yoga" app, highlighting its features and social interaction capabilities.

President Xu was initially skeptical, pointing out many similar apps on the market and questioning its unique advantages. However, Xia Yan persuasively argued that integrating "Love Yoga" with SG's "Show Me" platform would create a win-win situation due to its strong user communication, which ultimately convinced him. President Xu agreed to the collaboration, assigning his Director of Operations, Director Xue, to work with Xia Yan.

Zhao Xiaolei's mother called again, pressing for the rescheduled wedding date and updates on Xiao Jun's job with Liu Yiming. Unable to explain the breakup, Zhao Xiaolei dodged her mother's questions, claiming the wedding was postponed and letting Xiao Jun handle the call about his job. At work, Xia Yan faced difficulties collaborating with Director Xue, who repeatedly refused to meet with her, citing the disparity in their positions as Director vs. ordinary employee.

Xia Yan's boss, President Sun, advised her not to worry about Director Xue, reminding her that President Xu's decision was final. During a company meeting, President Sun announced the promotion of a new Director of Operations, Qiao Sisi, instead of the expected Xia Yan. Colleagues gossiped that Qiao Sisi's promotion was due to an inappropriate relationship with President Sun. Later, Xia Yan encountered President Xu again while trying to connect with Director Xue.

President Xu, aware of Xia Yan's situation, subtly inquired if she was interested in working for his company. Xia Yan, however, felt it was inappropriate for him to poach employees while collaborating with her current company. Xia Yan later spoke with her boyfriend, Lin Hao, on the phone, expressing her frustrations about work, how her promised promotion and salary raise were stalled, and her projects were being taken away.

Lin Hao suggested she resign, confident in her abilities, and told her he would be flying to Xinzhou soon to be with her. Xia Yan, though tempted, was hesitant due to financial concerns, mentioning wanting to save money for their future, her parents' upcoming visit, and buying a car. Her friends, Han Shuang and Zhao Xiaolei, sensing her stress, offered unwavering support, telling her not to worry about rent and that they would financially support her if needed. Zhao Xiaolei's cousin remarked that if Xia Yan had a better choice, resigning might actually be a good idea.

Xia Yan felt a strong attachment to Star Technology, where she had worked since graduation. However, her friend Han Shuang urged her to leave, pointing out that despite her efforts, President Sun consistently assigned her menial tasks and would not promote her. Han Shuang also warned Xia Yan to be cautious of Qiao Si Si, who appeared cheerful but was full of wicked tricks.

Xia Yan confessed that she was disappointed in President Sun and felt like a "frog being boiled in warm water," afraid to face the outside world. Han Shuang encouraged her, stating that hesitation leads to more regrets than wrong decisions. After much thought, Xia Yan decided to resign and submitted her resignation letter to President Sun. He tried to persuade her to stay, promising a bonus and a salary increase, even offering a director position after the Tokyo Olympics.

However, Xia Yan reiterated that her personal growth aspirations no longer aligned with the company's plans and thanked the company for the platform it had provided. Just then, Qiao Si Si entered, prompting President Sun to ask Xia Yan to leave and reconsider.

After Xia Yan left, Qiao Si Si advised President Sun to let her go, but he worried about who would handle the "Love Yoga" project with SG Technology and feared Xia Yan might join SG Technology and cause trouble. Qiao Si Si dismissed this, believing Xia Yan lacked the ability to join SG Technology.

Later, Qiao Si Si, as Star Technology's Operations Director, represented the company in a meeting with President Xu of SG Technology to discuss taking over Xia Yan's previous work on the "Love Yoga" project. President Xu found Star Technology's change of personnel unprofessional. He sarcastically suggested President Sun might consider SG Technology undeserving of his own involvement, though he still directed Qiao Si Si to liaise with relevant individuals before abruptly leaving, which embarrassed Qiao Si Si.

Xia Yan's boyfriend was supportive of her decision to resign, assuring her not to panic and that they had enough savings to manage. He expressed that her well-being was more important than work pressure. Soon after, Star Technology quickly approved Xia Yan's resignation. She then received an interview invitation from SG Technology. At the interview, she met Director Xue, who was one of the interviewers. Xia Yan presented her ideas on "Show Me," a social e-commerce platform, with confidence.

While another interviewer found her impressive, Director Xue expressed reservations, citing concerns about hiring a former representative from a collaborating company and the potential for accusations of "stealing talent," and instructed her staff to politely decline Xia Yan. Meanwhile, Han Shuang, the daughter of Chairman Han, started a job as a sales associate at a furniture store. Her boss, Uncle Pai, was initially skeptical of her unconventional ideas, such as setting up a bar counter in the store.

Han Shuang, with her 200,000 online followers, convinced him to give her three months to significantly boost sales through live-streaming, otherwise the bar would be removed, and any spills on furniture would be her responsibility. Simultaneously, Zhao Xiaolei received a phone call from her younger brother, Xiao Jun, informing her that he was coming to Xinzhou in a few days and expected her husband (who doesn't exist) to pick him up from the airport.

This news caused Zhao Xiaolei to panic, fearing her lies about her engagement would be exposed. Xia Yan was celebrating her new job with Han Shuang and Zhao Xiaolei when she received a phone call from SG Technology's HR, informing her that she did not pass the interview without providing a specific reason. Xia Yan was confused, confident in her performance, and suspected Director Xue was behind it due to their previous interactions and Director Xue's strange glances.

Encouraged by her friends, she decided to confront Director Xue. The next day, Xia Yan went to SG Technology and found Director Xue and President Xu. She directly asked why she was eliminated, given her strong performance in the first two rounds. Director Xue claimed Qiao Si Si had confirmed that Xia Yan was fired from Star Technology for incompetence, and SG Technology had a policy against hiring employees with "bad records."

Xia Yan immediately refuted this, stating she resigned voluntarily. Director Xue then demanded a valid certificate of resignation as proof, giving her only two and a half hours, until noon, to provide it before the hiring list was finalized. President Xu acknowledged Director Xue's procedure was correct but was surprised by Xia Yan's situation, also pointing out that if Xia Yan was indeed framed, it showed a lack of personal connections and self-protection awareness.

Xia Yan rushed back to Star Technology to obtain her resignation certificate. She first approached Qiao Si Si, who feigned ignorance about the "fired" status and then claimed to be too busy to process the certificate, subtly implying President Sun was unavailable and his personal signature was required. Xia Yan saw President Sun about to leave the building and chased after him.

She called Han Shuang, asking her to impersonate President Xu's assistant and call President Sun, arranging a fake meeting at the office. This forced President Sun to return. Initially, President Sun tried to withhold the certificate, accusing Xia Yan of causing the company losses due to her "personal emotions" and work mistakes. However, Xia Yan played a recording of President Sun and Qiao Si Si being intimate in the office, threatening to expose their affair.

Panicked, President Sun immediately ordered Qiao Si Si to process Xia Yan's resignation certificate. Xia Yan returned to SG Technology just in time with the certificate. However, Director Xue presented another challenge, accusing Xia Yan of "stirring up trouble" by disrupting Liu Yi Ming's wedding, deeming such behavior unsuitable for a listed company like SG Technology.

Xia Yan defended her actions, explaining that Liu Yi Ming had cheated on her friend before their wedding and then planned to marry another woman at the same time and place. She stated that they went to expose Liu Yi Ming's true colors and seek justice for her friend. Xia Yan asserted that if defending a friend was considered "stirring up trouble," then SG Technology was not the right fit for her.

As she prepared to leave, President Xu stopped her. He pointed out that while files shouldn't deny someone, neither should one person's words deny a company. He offered her a position with a monthly salary of 20,000 yuan, a fifteen-month salary package, and a three-month probation period, with a start date of the following Monday. Xia Yan accepted and completed the entry procedures. In another development, Ma Ke meticulously planned a public proposal to Ma Xiangnan.

He expressed his long-standing devotion and how their complementary personalities made them a perfect match. However, Ma Xiangnan rejected his proposal. She plainly told him she didn't like men younger than herself, preferring mature, stable, and responsible partners. She also stated she didn't want to marry someone in the same profession, as their busy schedules would leave no time for family.

Finally, and most importantly, she admitted she had no feelings for him, suggesting his feelings for her might be a misconception. Later, Xia Yan celebrated her new job at SG Technology with her friends Han Shuang and Zhao Xiaolei at Han Shuang's furniture store. Her boyfriend, Mr. Lin, called, and she excitedly told him she had good news to share and would see him tomorrow.

Xia Yan’s long-distance relationship with her boyfriend, Lin Hao, continued with frequent calls. Han Shuang, Xia Yan’s friend, found their constant affection, even after seven years, a bit much, though others envied their enduring love. Lin Hao, who had just returned, promised Xia Yan that he would handle all the housework, including cooking, cleaning, and laundry, envisioning her as his pampered "little princess."

He humorously suggested that instead of eating food, he'd rather "eat his little princess," before heading to take a shower. Zhao Xiaolei, their other friend, conveniently decided to stay out that evening, leaving the couple to their privacy. On her first day at SG, Xia Yan introduced herself to the operations department, mentioning her previous role at Star Technology.

Director Xue immediately set a stern tone by outlining the company’s "bottom-tier elimination" policy: employees ranking last for two consecutive months receive a warning, and a third month means termination. She demonstrated this by informing Qi, who had been last for three months, to submit his resignation to HR. Director Xue emphasized SG's focus on results, stating that efforts without achievement were meaningless.

She then critiqued Yoyo’s team’s plans as uncreative and assigned Xia Yan to take over Qi’s unfinished task of finalizing the guest list for the upcoming "Security Information Elite Forum," giving her a strict one-week deadline for her three-month trial period. Feeling sympathetic, Xia Yan caught up with Qi as he left and offered him a contact for an advertising agency, providing her own phone number for any assistance.

Meanwhile, Han Shuang faced a confrontation with her boss, Uncle Pai, who accused her of not making any sales in a month and bringing "unsavory people" to the shop after hours, as seen on surveillance cameras. He confiscated her door access card, asserting he would handle the shop’s opening and closing himself. Undeterred, Han Shuang declared her intention to start a live stream to sell furniture.

Later, Uncle Pai was ecstatic when Han Shuang’s live stream successfully sold three of their most expensive furniture sets. Han Shuang explained the potential of live-stream marketing. Uncle Pai quickly apologized, returned her keys, and promised to support her, even allowing her friends to visit and keeping the bar counter he had threatened to remove. Han Shuang cynically accepted, attributing his change of heart to profit.

Back at SG, Yoyo warned Xia Yan that Director Xue's assignment regarding Professor Yuan Da Hai was a "mission impossible," a task that had led to Qi's termination. Xia Yan, however, was determined, asserting that "impossible" was not in her vocabulary. She learned that Professor Yuan was a highly respected expert in cybersecurity. Xia Yan attended one of Professor Yuan's university lectures and, afterward, approached him to discuss her ideas for a custom security lock system.

Professor Yuan initially showed interest but, upon learning she was from SG and seeking his participation in their event, he became enraged. He called security and had her removed, adamantly refusing to engage in any "commercial events." Despite Xia Yan’s attempts to explain their forum wasn't commercial, she was dismissed. Xia Yan persisted, even falling while chasing him one day as he returned home, but he remained unwilling to listen.

Frustrated, Xia Yan discussed the issue with Han Shuang, who, drawing a parallel to Zhao Xiaolei's quirky stubbornness (refusing a high-paying job to care for kittens), suggested that even stubborn people have "soft spots." This prompted Xia Yan to call Qi for more information. Qi revealed that Professor Yuan had previously only collaborated with companies linked to his students or academic institutions and had even fought with university leaders for a student's research sponsorship.

Xia Yan realized that Professor Yuan's "soft spot" was his students. She quickly drafted a proposal for a university intern recruitment program, hoping to present him with an offer he couldn’t refuse. However, Director Xue immediately rejected the proposal, telling Xia Yan to focus on her core responsibilities instead of HR matters. Later, Yoyo enlightened Xia Yan about SG's "talent incentive policy," which allowed employees to submit cross-departmental suggestions for a bonus if adopted.

Xia Yan was elated, realizing this was her chance to resubmit her recruitment plan. Soon after, President Xu Chengyi complimented Xia Yan on her recruitment proposal, recognizing her shrewd analysis of Professor Yuan and her clever use of company policy. He did, however, express concern about her prominent dark circles, playfully advising her to rest properly to avoid looking unattractive and risking her relationship.

Armed with her approved university recruitment proposal, Xia Yan waited for Professor Yuan, who, upon seeing her again, accused her of persistent efforts for "capitalists" and even "lying." Xia Yan, despite falling while chasing him, presented her "SG Recruitment Plan for Xinzhou Institute of Technology," explaining it was specifically for his students and had already been approved by SG, ensuring its implementation regardless of his participation in their event.

When Professor Yuan still expressed skepticism about the company's commitment, Xia Yan pledged that if SG failed to uphold the plan's charitable spirit and content, it would face significant compensation and public discrediting by a notary, and she herself would never appear before him again. Convinced by her determination and the security of the notarized proposal, Professor Yuan finally agreed to participate in the forum.

Xia Yan reported her success to Director Xue, who, though initially surprised, grew irritated upon learning that Xia Yan had negotiated university recruitment as a condition. Director Xue accused Xia Yan of making unauthorized decisions. Xia Yan calmly countered that the recruitment proposal had been approved and filed by HR prior to the agreement. Silenced, Director Xue then questioned the operations department's progress on the "Show Me" talent show, learning they were fifteen participants short.

Annoyed by the low efficiency, Director Xue publicly reassigned Emmy's talent show tasks to Xia Yan, stating that "the capable ones can take on more duties" and no one would be allowed to hinder the company's progress, much to the surprise of her colleagues. Later that evening, Lin Hao arrived at Xia Yan's apartment with groceries, ready to celebrate her achievements. He and Zhao Xiaolei began cooking, but Xia Yan was still working late.

When Lin Hao called her, she apologized, explaining she had lost track of time due to work and asked them to eat without her, promising to return as soon as she could. Simultaneously, President Xu brought Xia Yan a late-night meal at the office. Xia Yan explained she was reorganizing the "Show Me" talent show plan, noting that the current pool of internet celebrities lacked diversity. She proposed inviting a wider variety of talents to challenge societal standards.

Xu Chengyi encouraged her ideas and told her to organize them for him to review the next day, but insisted she eat first, even giving her an egg from his meal. He playfully commented on her working late and suggested the company might need to offer "emotional compensation" if her relationship suffered. Back at the apartment, Lin Hao and Zhao Xiaolei ate.

Zhao Xiaolei confided in Lin Hao about her younger brother, a junior college graduate in marketing management, struggling to find a job. Lin Hao readily offered to help him, saying it was no trouble to assist Xia Yan’s close friend and a fellow student union alumnus, earning Zhao Xiaolei’s heartfelt gratitude.

When Xia Yan finally returned home late, she found that Lin Hao had already left, but he had thoughtfully left peeled shrimp and hot soup for her. Zhao Xiaolei relayed Lin Hao’s message, assuring Xia Yan that he would always be by her side, regardless of her decision on marriage, which deeply touched Xia Yan. She reflected on their seven-year relationship, feeling they were already like a married couple, needing only a marriage certificate.

She vowed to commit herself to Lin Hao, but also felt driven to work hard to ensure a stable and happy future for their potential children. Meanwhile, at SG Technology, Xu Chengyi suggested to Director Xue that Xia Yan’s proposal to rebrand "internet celebrities" as "experts" for wider appeal was a strong idea, a suggestion that only deepened Director Xue’s animosity towards Xia Yan.

During a subsequent meeting, it was revealed that five top influencers, who had only verbally agreed to participate, were now demanding a 50% increase in commission due to a conflicting event, threatening to withdraw if their demands weren’t met. Director Xue, furious at the team’s failure to secure signed contracts, lashed out at her staff.

Xia Yan attempted to explain the last-minute nature of the problem, but Director Xue cut her off, assigning her full responsibility for the talent show coordinating team and tasking her with resolving the crisis. Xia Yan diligently sought out the influencers, successfully negotiating a contract with Miss Cai by emphasizing the "Show Me" talent show's three-month duration and extensive first-page advertising across SG Technology platforms, contrasting it with the perceived saturation of other events.

At home, Zhao Xiaolei’s younger brother, Xiao Jun, arrived unexpectedly, looking for work. Zhao Xiaolei was visibly uneasy, knowing Xiao Jun's original intention was to seek opportunities through her former wealthy boyfriend, Liu Yiming, a relationship she had kept secret from her family. Lin Hao, upon arriving with Xia Yan, immediately offered to help Xiao Jun find a job at his own company.

Xia Yan later expressed her concern to Lin Hao, explaining Xiao Jun’s true motivation and the difficulty of concealing the truth about Liu Yiming. Lin Hao reassured her, suggesting they settle Xiao Jun into a job first, then Zhao Xiaolei could reveal the truth at an opportune moment.

However, Xiao Jun was unimpressed with Lin Hao, complaining to Zhao Xiaolei that he expected his "brother-in-law" (Liu Yiming) to find him a job and rent him an apartment, not Lin Hao, whom he dismissed as a "lousy boyfriend." Zhao Xiaolei tried to explain Lin Hao's professional background and the company's offer of an apartment. Xia Yan achieved a significant breakthrough by securing a partnership with NetEase Music for the "Show Me" talent show.

She proposed them as joint producers, highlighting their shared goals of supporting original musicians and young talent. NetEase Music agreed to provide all music and promotional resources, including song authorizations, which would save SG Technology substantial costs. Director Xue, impressed by this financial advantage, approved the collaboration. Back home, Xia Yan confided in her friends about the difficulties at work, specifically mentioning a "picky female director" and a "male boss who acts weird," often making flirtatious comments.

Her friends immediately suspected "office sexual harassment," warning her of its potential escalation and offering to intervene. While Xia Yan clarified that her boss was not old and was, in fact, popular, Han Shuang eagerly volunteered to "deal with" him, vowing to make him fall solely for her. Meanwhile, Ma Ke met with Xu Chengyi and recounted his recent romantic rejection by Dr. Xiang, who cited his youth and lack of romantic feelings.

Xu Chengyi offered relationship advice, but Ma Ke brushed it off, joking that he actually enjoyed being "hurt" by women. Ma Ke then playfully accused Xu Chengyi of recently "hurting a girl," to which Xu Chengyi cryptically replied that he was "saving a girl." Despite Ma Ke's persistent questions, Xu Chengyi refused to reveal her identity.

Zhao Xiaolei told her friends that her parents had arranged a blind date, explaining her desire to settle down due to parental pressure and their health. Han Shuang advised against marrying for her parents, but Zhao Xiaolei saw marriage as a natural life stage. On the date, Mr. Liu was very direct, outlining his wealth (three apartments, two luxury cars) and his desire for a son, revealing he already had a daughter.

Zhao Xiaolei, uncomfortable with the revelation of his daughter, quickly excused herself and left. Han Shuang later visited Xia Yan at SG Technology and was surprised to see Xu Chengyi, whom she found handsome, not the "old pervert" Xia Yan had described. She jokingly called him a "handsome pervert" and expressed her intent to pursue him.

Their conversation was interrupted by a phone call from Director Xue, who informed Xia Yan that influencer Wang Yi Ting had gastroenteritis and was pulling out of the event, demanding Xia Yan find a replacement within the hour. Xia Yan immediately rushed back to the company. After Xia Yan left, Han Shuang called her agent, confirming an event for SG Company and offering to step in as a substitute.

Upon returning to the company, Xia Yan was relieved to learn from her colleague Youyou that a beauty makeup expert had agreed to replace the absent influencer. At the "Show Me" talent show opening ceremony, Xia Yan delivered a speech introducing the event. To her astonishment, Han Shuang then appeared on stage as one of the makeup experts, introduced as "Coco."

Afterward, Han Shuang proudly told Xia Yan that she had stepped in to help when she heard about the trouble. She immediately asked for Xu Chengyi's whereabouts, announcing her plan to "take him down" and make him exclusively interested in her, despite Xia Yan's plea to focus on the event. Later, Han Shuang followed Xu Chengyi into an elevator, introducing herself as Coco and complimenting him as "Prince Charming," hinting at a fated encounter.

Xu Chengyi stated he wasn't responsible for talent acquisition. Han Shuang persisted, mentioning that Xia Yan had spoken about him, but she wished to speak with him directly. Xu Chengyi, likely sensing her flirtatious intentions and connecting them to Xia Yan's previous comments, simply declared, "I'm not interested," and exited the elevator. Zhao Xiaolei went on a second blind date, meeting a man who looked older. He introduced himself as a friend covering for the original date, Zhang Lian Chun.

He carried an unpublished book that Zhao Xiaolei had been searching for. He gifted her the book, and they spent the afternoon engrossed in reading. He then formally introduced himself as Fei Tianming, and she as Zhao Xiaolei, clarifying the specific Chinese character for "Xiao" in her name. Noticing her love for reading, Fei Tianming recommended a nearby book bar that stocked out-of-print books, describing its owner as either "silly or an idealist."

Lin Hao brought Xiao Jun to his company for a job interview with a colleague, "Brother Zhang." Brother Zhang was highly critical of Xiao Jun, calling him "dumb," unprepared, and lacking qualifications, initially refusing to hire him for a sales agent position. The tense interview was interrupted by the arrival of President Chen and President Hao (Hao Jie).

Lin Hao was visibly uncomfortable, as Hao Jie was his former boss and was now there to discuss a business deal, specifically requesting Lin Hao to be in charge. Hao Jie observed Xiao Jun, commenting that he seemed smart, "like Lin Hao back then," and subtly pressured Brother Zhang by offering to take Xiao Jun herself if they wouldn't hire him. Brother Zhang immediately conceded, stating they "must hire someone President Hao likes."

Later, a delighted Xiao Jun arrived at Lin Hao's office with his new work card, full of enthusiasm. He pledged to work hard, aiming for a promotion and an office next to Lin Hao, affectionately calling Lin Hao his "real brother" who treated him better than his own family.

Hao Jie visits Lin Hao's new office, immediately sending Xiao Jun away for water. She critiques the office's furniture, insisting Lin Hao needs the best equipment to impress clients, though Lin Hao expresses contentment with his current setup. They later share coffee from a downstairs shop, with Hao Jie subtly implying she’s refined his taste. Hao Jie observes Lin Hao's distraction and jokingly suggests he still harbors feelings for her, which he denies.

She inquires about his relationship with Xia Yan, and Lin Hao states it's "not bad," but they live separately and rarely see each other, though marriage is planned soon. Hao Jie then asks if he will cook his signature braised shrimp for Xia Yan. Lin Hao assures her he will not, calling it their "unique memory." After discussing work matters, Hao Jie brings up a past meeting Lin Hao missed, implying he was avoiding her.

She then reveals she nominated him for manager, expressing concern he might feel awkward due to their shared past, before finally disclosing that she got divorced yesterday. Meanwhile, Xu Chengyi questions Xia Yan about her proposal to reduce the number of talents from 50 to 30, suggesting 20 talents be cut by the graduation party. Xia Yan confirms her plan, which she submitted to Director Xue, noting it hasn't yet been approved.

She explains that based on training data and platform feedback, 50 talents are excessive. The remaining 30, chosen for their diverse styles and unique qualities, are sufficient, and more would be redundant. Regarding contracts, Xia Yan clarifies that only initial talent show agreements were signed, with further collaboration contracts intended post-program. She admits this initial condition requires her to explain the change to the talents.

Xu Chengyi, while praising her thorough report, provocatively suggests she's undermining her own previous efforts, implying she’s trying to indirectly remove a friend. Xia Yan maintains that her decision is purely professional and for the company's benefit. Xu Chengyi urges her to complete her plan and prioritize the graduation party, setting aside personal life.

Xia Yan asserts her ability to manage her personal life, but Xu Chengyi hints that "someone" in her life is a constant source of concern for him. Zhao Xiaolei encounters Fei Tianming, the man from her previous blind date, again at the bookstore. He invites her for coffee, and she expresses admiration for the bookstore's ambiance and unique ornaments. Fei Tianming reveals that he himself crafted the various handmade stationery items she admires.

Zhao Xiaolei is particularly captivated by a painted alloy forest, reflecting on how even ordinary materials like printing alloy, often constrained by rules, can be transformed into beautiful works, much like individuals navigating life's restrictions can still achieve greatness. Fei Tianming praises her profound interpretation. He then reveals that he owns both the bookstore and a development museum, offering her a membership card for discounts and access to his rare book collection.

He explains that seeing her deeply immersed in a book during their last encounter inspired him to theme his development museum's latest exhibit "Islands Scattered in the River of Time, Who Remain Unchanged in a Changing World," a concept he believes her temperament embodies, and he intends to operate the bookstore with her temperament as its theme. Zhao Xiaolei accepts the card.

At SG Technology, Xia Yan informs Han Shuang that she is among the 20 talents facing elimination, citing performance data. Han Shuang expresses outrage, reminding Xia Yan she joined as a favor. Xia Yan explains that while not explicitly stated, the contract allows termination for unmet evaluation standards. She points out Han Shuang's failure to meet the required five daily video posts, having posted fewer than ten in two weeks.

Xia Yan suggests Han Shuang, already a successful celebrity, might find an exclusive contract with SG burdensome, as the company seeks new talents with high potential. Han Shuang, unwilling to be outshone by new social media stars, offers to increase her posting, but Xia Yan states the decision is final. Suddenly, Cai Xin bursts in, angrily confronting Xia Yan about her own name on the elimination list.

Cai Xin argues she met all fan and posting requirements and accuses Xia Yan of favoritism towards Han Shuang. Provoked, Han Shuang reveals she is also fired and signs her termination papers in front of Cai Xin. Xia Yan tells Cai Xin there's a mistake on the list and she is not eliminated, asking her to return. Director Xue Ning then arrives, taking responsibility for Cai Xin's elimination.

Xue Ning explains that despite Cai Xin's hard work, she barely met fan requirements and lacked true potential. In contrast, Xue Ning praises Han Shuang, noting that despite her temper and lack of effort, her posts consistently garner significant retweets, making her a genuinely valuable talent. Xue Ning criticizes Xia Yan for not prioritizing the company's commercial interests, but acknowledges Han Shuang has already signed her termination.

Later, Han Shuang confides in her friends, expressing frustration about being eliminated from SG Technology despite her half-million Weibo fans. Xia Yan clarifies that Han Shuang’s independent nature made it difficult for her to adhere to the daily account maintenance required by an exclusive contract, emphasizing that the elimination was a directive from above. Han Shuang then asks if her flirtatious "trick" on Xu Chengyi failed and if he is now "taking advantage" of Xia Yan.

She directly asks if Xia Yan has a crush on him. Xia Yan firmly denies it, reiterating her commitment to Lin Hao and their upcoming marriage. She admits that after their initial negative encounter, she still feels a "thrill of fear" whenever she sees Xu Chengyi. Zhao Xiaolei, intrigued by the mysterious man, asks for his identity, and Ma Xiangnan reveals it's Xu Chengyi, Xia Yan's boss. Xia Yan invites Han Shuang to the graduation party.

Although initially resistant, Han Shuang changes her mind upon learning that Xu Chengyi will be present. At the graduation party, Xia Yan and her friends arrive. Han Shuang, upon spotting Xu Chengyi, decides to approach him. However, Xu Chengyi, seeing her, subtly directs Ma Ke to intercept her. Ma Ke introduces himself to Han Shuang, and they share a drink. Han Shuang attempts to leave, but Ma Ke playfully tries to keep her engaged.

Ma Xiangnan then steps in, formally introducing Ma Ke as her colleague to Han Shuang and Zhao Xiaolei. This distraction allows Han Shuang to slip away and search for Xu Chengyi, only to find he has already taken the stage to deliver a speech. Xu Chengyi expresses his gratitude to everyone, particularly the talents, whom he declares are the stars of the night as SG partners.

The host then announces an interactive segment where SG employees can send screenshots of their NetEase Music app levels to determine who performs with Xu Chengyi. Director Xue Ning, confidently expecting to win, is visibly stunned when the results are announced: Xu Chengyi and Xia Yan have tied for first place. Xia Yan is called to the stage, where she humbly states she is not a good singer.

Xu Chengyi, recalling from her resume that she plays piano, suggests she accompany him while he sings. His soulful performance, with Xia Yan on piano, captivates the audience. Employees are moved by his singing, with some expressing envy for Xia Yan’s position next to him, though they acknowledge that Director Xue Ning is known to have a crush on Xu Chengyi, making him "off-limits." After their performance, Xu Chengyi formally introduces Xia Yan as SG Technology’s newest team member.

He commends her dedication to the Talent Project and the graduation party, acknowledging her significant sacrifices for the operations department. He then announces her immediate regularization, making her a full-time employee ahead of schedule. This unexpected promotion visibly shocks and displeases Xue Ning, who promptly exits the event. As they descend from the stage, Xu Chengyi maintains his hold on Xia Yan's hand, prompting her to express concern about potential misunderstandings. Xu Chengyi, however, dismisses her worries.

Xia Yan then plainly states that she has a boyfriend and is on the verge of getting married. To her astonishment, Xu Chengyi directly advises her to "break up with him," asserting that her current partner doesn't deserve her and she has superior options. Confused and slightly perturbed, Xia Yan cryptically suggests he educate himself by reading "The Story of Gathering Wheat."

Observing their seemingly intimate conversation, Han Shuang intervenes, asking Xu Chengyi if he's available to chat, providing Xia Yan an opportune moment to depart. Zhao Xiaolei and Ma Xiangnan approach Xia Yan, congratulating her on her early regularization. Noticing Xia Yan’s discomfort, they inquire about her conversation with Xu Chengyi. Xia Yan reveals that Xu Chengyi boldly told her to break up with Lin Hao. Her friends are shocked, deeming his suggestion outrageous and questioning his motives.

They connect this to Ma Xiangnan’s earlier suspicions, suggesting Xu Chengyi’s early regularization of Xia Yan and his initial recruitment of her might be part of a calculated plan to test her limits. Concerned about potential harassment, they urge Xia Yan to be cautious, document any incidents, and inform Lin Hao, believing he could provide a solution. Xia Yan reassures them she will consider their advice.

Han Shuang engages Xu Chengyi in conversation, telling him she has never met a man quite like him. She observes a similarity between them, suggesting they both project an image of strength while hiding behind "masks." Xu Chengyi acknowledges her perceptive "analysis." Han Shuang further details her own public persona as an independent, flirtatious woman who enjoys romance but shies away from long-term commitments, explaining that her pursuits are always driven by genuine attraction, albeit to varying degrees.

She then applies her analysis to Xu Chengyi, describing his ambiguous humor and apparent conceit as mere facades, beneath which lies a yearning for traditional love that he sometimes fears. She warns him that prolonged masking can make genuine expressions of affection seem insincere. Xu Chengyi is impressed by her insights, asking if she’s a psychologist.

Han Shuang clarifies her primary goal is survival, while her secondary passion is "studying men," asserting her resilience against his deceptions and her lack of fear towards him. Xu Chengyi commends her expertise. Han Shuang then challenges him, asking if he understands women. After a brief back-and-forth, she provocatively asks what she would do to him once he was drunk. Xu Chengyi, intrigued, states he "looks forward to it."

Later, Xia Yan and her friends realize both Han Shuang and Xu Chengyi are nowhere to be found and become very anxious. Han Shuang then sends Xia Yan a message suggesting she has taken Xu Chengyi away to get a room. Concerned, Xia Yan and her friends immediately try calling Xu Chengyi, who doesn’t answer. They then reach Han Shuang, who assures them she is fine and that Xu Chengyi has already left.

Han Shuang went back and said that Xu Chengyi had truly given her a surprise, asking Xia Yan if she was genuinely concerned for her or if she regretted letting Xu Chengyi go to her. They were best friends, there was no need to know that Xu Chengyi liked Xia Yan and then pretend not to know; that feeling should be very enjoyable for Xia Yan. Xia Yan was very confused listening to Han Shuang.

Ma Xiangnan told Han Shuang to stop talking, telling Xia Yan not to take it to heart, as Han Shuang was drunk. Han Shuang told them not to worry about her and left. Afterwards, Ma Xiangnan told Xia Yan and the others to leave first, and she would go after Han Shuang. Xu Chengyi recorded everything Han Shuang said when they were together. Ma Ke thought Xu Chengyi was quite something. Xu Chengyi said that wasn't his talent.

The next morning, Xia Yan went to find Xu Chengyi and told him that his words and actions had severely interfered with her life, and Han Shuang would no longer bother him in the future. She hoped that from then on, they would only discuss business matters. But Xu Chengyi did not agree, saying they still had many things to discuss. So Xia Yan said she wanted to resign.

Xu Chengyi told Xia Yan to complete her current tasks first, but not to mention her resignation to anyone during this period. Director Xue was very unhappy, so he called Xia Yan to his office and told her that her early promotion to a permanent position was due to her outstanding abilities.

From now on, Xia Yan would report directly to Director Xue, and she would be responsible for any issues, so Xia Yan had to clear everything she did with Director Xue. Although Xu Chengyi was the Chief Operating Officer, Director Xue was Xia Yan's direct superior, and she should not bypass him to report issues in the future. Xia Yan knew what Director Xue meant and said that seeing Xu Chengyi earlier was a personal matter.

However, Director Xue was still displeased, stating that personal matters could not be discussed during working hours. Xia Yan bought some cosmetics as a gift for Han Shuang, and then told her that she was about to resign, not wanting outsiders to affect their sisterhood. Han Shuang told Xia Yan not to do that, saying she regretted saying those things earlier.

Xia Yan asked Han Shuang what had provoked her to be so agitated that day when she was with Xu Chengyi, but Han Shuang told Xia Yan not to ask again, as she didn't want to bring up that matter anymore. Hao Jie invited Lin Hao out for a drink, saying that she had now lost not only her marriage but also her career and family.

Lin Hao felt that Hao Jie had the ability to work at a company in the city, as her connections and capabilities were still there. Just then, Hao Jie saw Xu Chengyi and Ma Ke also at the bar and went over to greet them. Afterwards, she introduced Xu Chengyi and Lin Hao to each other.

Lin Hao felt a little nervous after hearing that Xu Chengyi was Xia Yan's boss, so he simply greeted Hao Jie and left the bar. While Xia Yan was tidying Lin Hao's clothes, she found a lipstick in his pocket. However, Lin Hao said he didn't know whose it was. Xia Yan felt that things weren't that simple and demanded that Lin Hao explain what was going on, especially since it was a half-used lipstick.

Xia Yan went to Ma Xiangnan to talk about it, feeling a bit scared. Seeing the lipstick in Lin Hao's pocket reminded her of what Xu Chengyi had said, telling her to break up with Lin Hao. Ma Xiangnan told Xia Yan not to overthink it and to clarify the situation first.

Afterwards, Lin Hao found Xia Yan, saying he was almost frantic, and that he had finally found the owner of the lipstick: it belonged to the girlfriend of Xiao Qiang, his former roommate in Beijing. He said if Xia Yan didn't believe him, he could call Xiao Qiang for a confrontation, but Xia Yan didn't do that. Huo Kai went to the hospital for an X-ray, carrying his bag; his leg was injured.

Ma Xiangnan said that he needed hospitalization and surgery, and his family should be there to accompany him, but Huo Kai said his family was all abroad and he was currently alone in the country. Afterwards, while hospitalized, Huo Kai was very lively, always playing the piano and singing for his fellow patients. Although Ma Xiangnan felt that such behavior was inappropriate in a hospital and would disturb other patients' rest, she did not blame Huo Kai.

Ma Ke arranged for his grandfather to go to the hospital to see Ma Xiangnan. Ma Ke had his grandfather sit in a wheelchair and then said that he was near death, hoping to use an emotional plea to move Ma Xiangnan to agree to his request. At this moment, Han Shuang stood aside and directly exposed their trick, even finding the script Ma Ke had written for his grandfather on his person.

This made the grandfather unable to bear it any longer; he stood up from the wheelchair and walked away. Han Shuang told Ma Ke not to pursue Ma Xiangnan anymore, saying she had already left a long time ago, and he shouldn't bother her again in the future. Xiao Jun went to Zhao Xiaolei and directly questioned her why she broke up with Liu Yiming.

Everyone in the family knew that Zhao Xiaolei was getting married, the wedding banquet money had been collected, and relatives all knew. Now they told Zhao Xiaolei to go and apologize to Liu Yiming. But Zhao Xiaolei said that Liu Yiming was already married, and even if he wasn't, she wouldn't be with him anymore. Xiao Jun said that Liu Yiming's conditions were so good, and Zhao Xiaolei was truly too difficult.

As soon as Han Shuang heard this, she cursed Xiao Jun, saying that his own sister had been bullied, yet he didn't stand up for her, but instead came to her house to throw a tantrum. Xiao Jun was kicked out by his sister. Afterwards, Han Shuang and Xia Yan chased him out, wanting to teach him a lesson, stating that any job he had now was because of his sister.

However, Xiao Jun remained ungrateful, saying that none of the friends Zhao Xiaolei hung out with were good people. Zhao Xiaolei told them not to be angry and apologized to them for Xiao Jun's words.

Huo Kai took Ling outside to play soccer, where Ling excitedly asked him to "head" the ball. When Ma Xiangnan discovered them, she quickly instructed Ling to return to her hospital room, noting that Ling had been outside for too long and that it was very dangerous for her. Ma Xiangnan then confronted Huo Kai, expressing her anger.

She emphasized Ling's extremely fragile health, explaining that catching a cold could lead to unimaginable consequences, and that Ling needed to stay in bed to recover. When Huo Kai asked about Ling's condition, Ma Xiangnan revealed that Ling had a bone tumor, which was discovered a year ago and had already spread throughout her entire body.

Later at work, Xia Yan approached Xu Cheng Yi to discuss her resignation, reminding him that the price comparison site project was in its final stages and could be launched next week. She expected him to honor his previous promise.

However, Xu Cheng Yi informed her that he had already arranged for HR to transfer her to the company's anniversary celebration team, reminding her of her interview statement about wanting an extensive career, which he now presented as an opportunity for her to be involved in various company functions. He also mentioned that bonuses for past projects would be distributed after the anniversary celebration, suggesting this money could sustain her until she found a new job.

Xia Yan, however, privately dismissed the importance of money. Back home, Xia Yan told Lin Hao about the upcoming company anniversary celebration next Friday and hoped he would attend with her, as many colleagues were bringing partners. Lin Hao, however, declined, stating he might have to work overtime. Xia Yan then shared her decision to resign after the celebration, explaining that Xu Cheng Yi had been making unsettling comments, including telling her to break up with Lin Hao.

Lin Hao dismissed Xu Cheng Yi's words as a joke and accused Xia Yan of overthinking. He urged her not to resign, highlighting their financial burdens, including a mortgage, and questioning her ability to find another job quickly in Xinzhou. Xia Yan countered by saying she had savings and confidence in her ability to find new employment, reminding Lin Hao of his promise to support her. Feeling frustrated, Lin Hao abruptly ended the conversation, stating he had a meeting.

Meanwhile, Ma Xiangnan entered Huo Kai's empty hospital room and noticed numerous music scores and lyrics scattered on his bed, finding him quite interesting. Later, Ling's condition took a sudden turn for the worse. Ma Xiangnan desperately tried to revive her, while Huo Kai watched helplessly from the side. Despite Ma Xiangnan's strenuous efforts, Ling's heart stopped, and she passed away. Deeply heartbroken, Ma Xiangnan sought solace by a lake.

Huo Kai found her there and gently offered an earphone, sharing his thoughts on mountain climbing. He explained that reaching a mountain's summit makes one realize the insignificance of human worries compared to the eternal mountains, helping him forget his troubles. He vividly described an imaginative scene of misty mountains clearing to reveal sunlit leaves, which gradually soothed Ma Xiangnan's grief.

At the SG anniversary party, Director Xue gave toasts, praising several colleagues for their contributions and progress, but noticeably omitted Xia Yan. Feeling ignored and disheartened, Xia Yan tried to call Lin Hao, but he didn't answer. Unknown to Xia Yan, Lin Hao was with Hao Jie, and his phone was ringing unanswered in her room.

Hao Jie informed Lin Hao that her new company would be officially established next week with a cocktail party and invited him to help her, "just like old times." Lin Hao hesitated, stating they were "no longer who we used to be." Hao Jie agreed, revealing she was now divorced.

She confessed that after Lin Hao left, she realized that nothing remained between her and her ex-husband except common interests, and that she had truly fallen in love with Lin Hao. Lin Hao, too, admitted he had been serious about her. However, he then insisted that he was with Xia Yan and they were getting married, expressing his regret for past events and his desire to not let Xia Yan down.

Hao Jie argued that marrying someone while loving another would be even more irresponsible, pressing him to admit his feelings for her. Lin Hao remained silent. Meanwhile, a heavily intoxicated Xia Yan was playing a drinking game at the party. Xu Cheng Yi approached her, scolding her for drinking excessively if she couldn't handle it. Xia Yan explained that she was silently saying goodbye to her colleagues, as she loved her challenging and passionate job.

When Xu Cheng Yi questioned why she would leave a job she loved, Xia Yan pointed at him and drunkenly declared it was "because you're here," adding that she had something more important she couldn't lose. She further muttered that there was a "wolf named Xu Cheng Yi" and "Xia Yan in the zoo."

Xu Cheng Yi, after assuring Director Xue he had only been drinking water, supported the stumbling Xia Yan out of the party, a scene that Director Xue observed with jealousy. As Xu Cheng Yi helped Xia Yan to Lin Hao's apartment door, she confirmed it was her boyfriend's home. Observing her extreme intoxication, Xu Cheng Yi felt suspicious and didn't want Xia Yan to get hurt, sensing there might be a problem at Lin Hao's home.

Inside, Lin Hao and Hao Jie heard the knocking. Lin Hao, through the peephole, saw Xia Yan with Xu Cheng Yi and was visibly shocked. He quickly asked Hao Jie to hide, but she refused, challenging him to reject her in front of Xia Yan if he truly wanted her to give up. Hao Jie then also peered through the peephole and commented that Xia Yan seemed to be facing the same problem as Lin Hao.

Concerned for Xia Yan, Xu Cheng Yi decided to take her away, as she was too drunk to be left alone. Lin Hao watched them from his window. As Xu Cheng Yi helped Xia Yan into a car, he glanced back and noticed Lin Hao at the window and Hao Jie's car parked nearby, confirming his suspicions. Hao Jie then emerged from hiding, questioning why Lin Hao was hiding when Xu Cheng Yi was openly escorting Xia Yan.

Lin Hao tried to explain that it was not what it looked like and that he and Xia Yan were merely colleagues. Hao Jie dismissed this, stating that a CTO personally driving a junior clerk home would lead to more, implying that innocent girls like Xia Yan are easily swayed by powerful, wealthy, and single men like Xu Cheng Yi. Lin Hao then expressed insecurity, asking if he was truly so far behind Xu Cheng Yi.

Hao Jie reassured him, suggesting that once he became the legal representative of her company, he would be a boss, and Xia Yan would regret missing out on him because of Xu Cheng Yi. Lin Hao asked why Hao Jie treated him so well, to which she replied that she returns kindness tenfold, but also promised to return hurt tenfold. The next morning, Xia Yan woke up in a hotel room, disoriented.

When Xu Cheng Yi entered, she panicked, but he calmly handed her new clothes, instructed her to pay the 1200 yuan room fee, granted her a day off, and then left. Believing she had slept with Xu Cheng Yi, Xia Yan was distraught and cried. Ma Xiangnan, finding Xia Yan feverish and looking terrible, offered her congee and comforted her. Despite feeling unwell, Xia Yan went to the office to pack her belongings, intending to leave the company.

Xu Cheng Yi approached her, but Xia Yan curtly informed him she had already taken the day off for private matters. Later, Xia Yan confided in Ma Xiangnan about her belief that Xu Cheng Yi had "slept with her." Ma Xiangnan suggested calling the police, but Xia Yan was unsure, recalling Xu Cheng Yi's unexpected praise for her work the previous night, which made her drop her guard and question her prejudice against him.

She confessed to feeling foolish and paranoid about Lin Hao, never imagining she would find herself in such a situation. Ma Xiangnan dismissed Xu Cheng Yi's compliments as a "tactic." When Xia Yan and Ma Xiangnan returned home, Zhao Xiaolei, visibly upset, informed Xia Yan that the hotel had called. Xia Yan had forgotten her cell phone, and it kept ringing.

Zhao Xiaolei had answered it and learned from the hotel clerk that Xu Cheng Yi had taken Xia Yan's dry-cleaned underwear to the laundry, providing her number for pickup. This revelation clarified that Xu Cheng Yi had simply brought her to a hotel to recover, but the mention of her underwear added a layer of humiliation and further complicated Xia Yan's perception of him.

Zhao Xiaolei confronted Xia Yan, demanding to know what she had been doing. She questioned why Xia Yan, whose relationship with Lin Hao was admired by their group, would put Lin Hao in such a difficult position. Zhao Xiaolei added that she had received a call from the hotel about Xia Yan’s underwear left at the dry cleaners, which Xu Cheng Yi had sent there.

She then asked if Xia Yan had developed feelings for Xu Cheng Yi, given she had stayed at SG Technology despite knowing his intentions. Xia Yan, deeply upset, admitted her fault and vowed to bear the consequences. Watching Xia Yan walk away, Zhao Xiaolei turned to Ma Xiangnan, wondering if she had been too harsh.

She confessed her hope that Xia Yan wouldn't easily give up her happiness and asked Ma Xiangnan to keep the details from Han Shuang for the time being. Later, Director Xue discovered Xia Yan's leave request and became furious. She questioned Emmy, who explained that Xia Yan had briefly come to the office but then left again. Emmy speculated that Xu Cheng Yi might know where Xia Yan went and suggested they might have left together.

Director Xue grew even angrier, stating it was unacceptable for Xia Yan to leave without her approval, leaving only a request on her desk. Xu Cheng Yi arranged to meet Lin Hao, telling him it was their third encounter. He recalled seeing Lin Hao with Hao Jie in Beijing and expressed surprise that Lin Hao was Xia Yan's boyfriend. Lin Hao nervously asked if Xu Cheng Yi had told Xia Yan about his affair.

Xu Cheng Yi replied that he couldn't easily speak about such a sensitive matter. Lin Hao tried to cover up, claiming Hao Jie was merely drunk that night. Xu Cheng Yi promptly dismissed the lie, revealing that Hao Jie had told him she divorced for Lin Hao. He urged Lin Hao to be honest with Xia Yan soon, so as not to betray a good girl's heart, even offering to help if Lin Hao found it difficult to confess.

Lin Hao, in turn, lashed out, accusing Xu Cheng Yi of being a "stealer of hearts." Xu Cheng Yi then countered, asking if Lin Hao had seen him on the balcony the previous day, implying Lin Hao knew about him and Xia Yan, and provocatively asked if Lin Hao knew where he had taken Xia Yan after that. Lin Hao waited for Xia Yan outside their building, looking distraught. Xia Yan appeared, visibly apologetic.

Lin Hao immediately questioned why she hadn't answered his calls all day, asking if something had happened. Xia Yan suggested they talk inside. Lin Hao pressed her for the truth, asking if Xu Cheng Yi was the "male supervisor" she had previously mentioned who interfered with her private life and tried to break them up. He then demanded to know where she spent the night after getting drunk at the anniversary party.

Xia Yan asked for a couple of days to compose her thoughts before answering, but Lin Hao relentlessly insisted on an immediate answer, repeatedly asking if she was with Xu Cheng Yi that night. Xia Yan tried to explain that she was drunk and couldn't recall everything clearly, but Lin Hao cut her off, stating that they were both adults who understood what happens when a man and woman are together in a hotel room.

He voiced his hurt, mentioning he had given up everything in Beijing to be with her in Xinzhou. Lin Hao accused Xia Yan of having feelings for Xu Cheng Yi, given she continued to work at the company despite knowing his intentions. Xia Yan vehemently denied this, affirming her love for Lin Hao alone and begging him to trust her.

She explained that she had drunk heavily on the night of the anniversary party because Lin Hao hadn't responded to her calls or messages. Despite knowing Xia Yan was innocent, Lin Hao refused to listen to any further explanations, saying he didn't want to hear it right then, and suggested they both calm down, seemingly trying to find fault to justify a breakup. He then stormed out of the room, angrily slapping himself and calling himself a "bastard" and "scum."

Later, Xia Yan went to Lin Hao’s apartment, hoping to clear things up. While fumbling for her key, she realized she had left it in his door lock after visiting with Xu Cheng Yi. Just then, an elderly neighbor approached her, mentioning that Lin Hao had brought a different girl home a couple of nights prior. This revelation made Xia Yan realize that Lin Hao, too, had been hiding something from her.

Ma Xiangnan, Zhao Xiaolei, and Han Shuang discussed Lin Hao’s disappearance. They noted that their mutual friends hadn't heard from him. Han Shuang insisted they find Lin Hao to confront him about his treatment of Xia Yan. Meanwhile, Xiao Jun, Lin Hao’s colleague, observed Lin Hao packing his belongings at the company. Xiao Jun spoke to Lin Hao, promising not to tell Zhao Xiaolei and their friends that Lin Hao was moving to a new company.

He told Lin Hao that he should have broken up with Xia Yan long ago, implying she had an affair with her boss, Xu Cheng Yi. Xiao Jun also asked if Lin Hao could take him to the new company, promising to work hard. Later, the friends saw photos of Lin Hao and Hao Jie together in Hainan on their social media.

The person who found the photos explained that Hao Jie was a well-known company manager whose husband was the president, and that Lin Hao had worked for their company in Beijing and had been linked to Hao Jie for a year or two, always by her side. Zhao Xiaolei initially tried to justify it as a professional relationship, trusting Lin Hao, but Han Shuang strongly disagreed, accusing Lin Hao of being a "male gold-digger."

Xia Yan, who had been listening nearby, quietly took Zhao Xiaolei's phone to view the photos. Han Shuang expressed her intent to seek revenge for Xia Yan, but Xia Yan told her not to bother. Zhao Xiaolei then shifted the blame to Xu Cheng Yi, stating that if he hadn't taken Xia Yan to the hotel, none of this would have happened. Hearing this, Han Shuang was deeply hurt, realizing her friends had hidden the hotel incident from her.

She felt like a fool, previously ready to defend Xia Yan, but now feeling like a "clown" realizing Xia Yan and Xu Cheng Yi might be a "perfect match." Han Shuang tearfully expressed her loyalty to her friends but felt betrayed by their secrecy. Ma Xiangnan then advised Zhao Xiaolei to let Han Shuang leave to cool down.

Ma Xiangnan also shared his belief that Lin Hao's selfish actions meant Xia Yan wouldn't be truly happy with him, suggesting her sadness was about the loss of the relationship itself rather than Lin Hao. At work, Emmy informed Xu Cheng Yi that Director Xue had not approved Xia Yan's leave and planned to fire her for absenteeism. Xu Cheng Yi immediately told Emmy to inform Director Xue that he had personally approved Xia Yan’s leave.

Emmy pleaded with Xu Cheng Yi to convince Xia Yan to return, stating that everyone missed her. Later that evening, Xia Yan sat alone, scrolling through old photos of her and Lin Hao on her phone, tears streaming down her face. She also saw a message from Lin Hao on her phone stating "Let's break up." Han Shuang appeared with an umbrella, joining her.

After listening to Xia Yan's story, Han Shuang's heart went out to her, urging her to let go of such a "bastard." Han Shuang lamented that Lin Hao had ended their seven-year relationship with a simple message. Han Shuang then confessed her own secret: the night she tried to get Xu Cheng Yi drunk and took him to a hotel, nothing actually happened, and he had merely pretended to be inebriated to fool her.

She admitted she had been too embarrassed to tell her friends. Xia Yan calmly revealed that she already knew, as Han Shuang had spilled the details while drunk that very night. Han Shuang was surprised, realizing she didn't remember telling them. They then decided to go get something to eat. Xia Yan's parents arrived for a visit. Her father commented on how thin she looked, while her mother urged her to eat more, saying plump cheeks brought good fortune.

They asked about Lin Hao's whereabouts. Xia Yan lied, telling them he was on an overseas business trip and would return in a few days. Her parents discussed the couple's busy schedules and future marriage, with her father worrying about who would manage the family. Xia Yan's mother reminded her father not to be so solemn when they eventually meet Lin Hao's parents, but Xia Yan clarified that Lin Hao was still in her "testing phase."

Xia Yan's parents arrive for a visit, unaware she and Lin Hao have broken up. To avoid upsetting them, Xia Yan hasn't told them the news. Xia Yan treats her parents to dinner, where her father, Xia Xue Li, steps away to wash his hands. He then sees Lin Hao with another woman, Hao Jie, acting intimately. Xia Xue Li confronts them, demanding to know Hao Jie's relationship to Lin Hao. Hao Jie brazenly states she is Lin Hao's girlfriend.

Xia Xue Li, knowing Lin Hao is Xia Yan's long-term boyfriend, is shocked. Lin Hao admits to Xia Xue Li that he and Xia Yan broke up some time ago and asks if she hasn't told them. Xia Xue Li accuses Lin Hao of lying, saying Xia Yan invited them specifically to meet her future son-in-law and that Lin Hao must have been seeing Hao Jie behind Xia Yan's back, perhaps even faking a business trip.

He demands Lin Hao come to their table to explain everything to Xia Yan. When they arrive at Xia Yan's table, her mother asks who Hao Jie is. Lin Hao again states Hao Jie is his girlfriend and admits to Xia Yan's parents that he and Xia Yan have broken up. Xia Xue Li demands to know why. Hao Jie interjects, telling Xia Yan's parents there's no need to be upset as they'll soon have a new son-in-law.

This enrages Xia Xue Li, who accuses Hao Jie of slandering his daughter and tries to physically confront Lin Hao. Xia Yan intervenes, shouting that she no longer likes Lin Hao, trying to de-escalate the situation. Back at the table, Xia Xue Li presses Xia Yan, questioning why she would end a seven-year relationship with Lin Hao, especially after all the effort and resources her parents invested in it, including her traveling between cities for him.

He demands to know why they broke up. Xia Yan's mother tries to interject, noting Xia Yan's sadness, but Xia Xue Li insists it's Xia Yan's fault. Xia Yan finally snaps, telling her father to stop. She reminds him of his strict parenting throughout her life, recounting how he never offered comfort when she was bullied or wronged, always treating her like a student he needed to discipline.

She explains that she hid the breakup from them precisely because she didn't want to be scolded before the situation settled. Xia Xue Li, however, fixates on Xia Yan's admission of fault, demanding to know the specifics. Frustrated and overwhelmed, Xia Yan leaves. Her mother then chastises Xia Xue Li for his harshness and for always blaming his own family first, emphasizing that he doesn't truly understand their daughter. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiaolei meets with a man.

He introduces himself as a 41-year-old Capricorn with AB blood type, divorced with a seven-year-old son who lives with his mother. He admits he hadn't planned on remarrying but changed his mind after getting to know her. Zhao Xiaolei, however, expresses her reluctance to date a man who has been married before, apologizing if it sounds traditional.

She explains her difficulty with complex interpersonal relationships, stating she values the complete integration of two people's inner worlds without compromise and desires a simple, straightforward love. She also reveals that just a few months prior, she almost married Liu Yiming, a man she didn't love, pressured by her family, only for Han Shuang to discover his affair days before the wedding. Her younger brother, Xiao Jun, then appears, surprised to see her with the man.

He immediately confronts Zhao Xiaolei, asking about the nature of their relationship. When Zhao Xiaolei insists they are just friends, Xiao Jun warns her, suspecting the man is only looking for a stepmother for his son and doesn't genuinely love her, referencing "terrible examples" he has witnessed. He attempts to pull her away to go shopping and have hotpot instead. Xia Xue Li then seeks out Lin Hao, apologizing for his earlier outburst.

He suggests that Lin Hao's relationship with Hao Jie might have been a ruse to make Xia Yan jealous, perhaps even orchestrating their "coincidental" meeting at the restaurant. Lin Hao, however, informs Xia Xue Li that he knows who Xia Yan is now interested in. Furious, Xia Xue Li returns home and immediately confronts Xia Yan about her relationship with "President Xu" from her company. Xia Yan realizes her father has been speaking with Lin Hao.

Xia Xue Li sternly reminds her that their family upholds principles and accuses her of disgracing them by "luring" her superior for a promotion. When he asks if she was forced or if she initiated it, Xia Yan defiantly retorts that she "lured him willingly" and "initiated it," prompting Xia Xue Li to slap her. A neighbor, hearing the commotion, enters to intervene.

She praises Xia Yan for her hard work and resilience, explaining that Xia Yan often works late into the night and gets only a few hours of sleep, always shielding her parents from her difficulties. The neighbor also reveals that Xia Yan, to maintain appearances and make her parents happy, even ordered a car for Lin Hao before their visit. Stunned by this revelation, Xia Xue Li immediately storms out, ostensibly to find Xu Cheng Yi.

Xia Yan's mother tries to console her, checking the slap mark on her face. She gently asks Xia Yan if her feelings for Xu Cheng Yi are genuine, reassuring her not to be afraid. Her mother explains that as they are far away, it's hard for them to be there for Xia Yan in times of trouble. She acknowledges Xia Yan's self-reliant nature and her tendency to hide her struggles, but emphasizes that this only makes them more worried.

Her mother advises Xia Yan to protect herself and be discerning when choosing a partner, reiterating that they prioritize her safety and well-being over any financial success. She also admits that Xia Xue Li's temper is bad, but he worries about Xia Yan deeply and asks her not to blame him. Xia Yan tells her mother she understands and is fine.

Later, while Xia Yan, her mother, and friends are making dumplings, Xia Yan's mother expresses concern about Xia Xue Li still not being home after hours. She recalls him leaving with "a card with a black string" from Xia Yan's room. Xia Yan immediately recognizes it as her employee badge and realizes her father must have gone to Xu Cheng Yi's company. Xia Yan, Han Shuang, and her mother quickly leave for the company, while Zhao Xiaolei stays behind.

At the company, Xu Cheng Yi and Ma Ke are playing video games and discussing Xia Yan and Lin Hao. Xia Xue Li arrives outside Xu Cheng Yi's office door and overhears their conversation. Xu Cheng Yi explains to Ma Ke that he had seen Lin Hao and Hao Jie together multiple times in Beijing, realizing they were "obviously lovers" despite Lin Hao being Xia Yan's boyfriend.

He had tried to subtly warn Xia Yan to prepare her for the breakup, although she ultimately discovered the truth herself. Xu Cheng Yi recounts that on the night of the company anniversary, he took a drunk Xia Yan to Lin Hao's apartment. He saw the lights on and Hao Jie's car downstairs, implying Lin Hao and Hao Jie were inside, but Lin Hao refused to open the door.

Because Xia Yan was wet from the rain, Xu Cheng Yi took her to a hotel, where he asked a female staff member to help her change and dry her clothes; nothing else happened. He concludes that this incident also contributed to Xia Yan's breakup with Lin Hao. Outside the door, Xia Xue Li, having heard this entire conversation, collapses, murmuring accusations that Xu Cheng Yi "hurt my daughter."

Xu Cheng Yi hears the noise, finds Xia Xue Li, and upon seeing Xia Yan's employee badge on him, realizes he is Xia Yan's father. He immediately rushes him to the hospital. On their way to Xu Cheng Yi's company, Xia Yan receives a phone call from Xu Cheng Yi, directing them to the hospital instead. There, Ma Ke explains to Han Shuang that Xia Xue Li fainted after overhearing Xu Cheng Yi's conversation with him in the office.

Xia Yan immediately confronts Xu Cheng Yi, demanding an explanation for her father's collapse. Xu Cheng Yi responds that everything Xia Xue Li heard was the truth and urges her to focus on her father's condition. He also mentions he used Xia Xue Li's ID and wallet for the hospital formalities. A doctor informs them that Xia Xue Li is in a coma due to a rapidly enlarging brain aneurysm, requiring immediate, urgent surgery to prevent rupture.

The doctor presents two options: craniotomy or minimally invasive intervention surgery. Xia Yan chooses the minimally invasive option, despite its potentially higher cost, and asks that her mother not be informed due to her high blood pressure. The doctor then details the significant risks associated with the surgery, including neurological dysfunction, hemorrhage, and even shock. Terrified by the possibilities, Xia Yan hesitates to sign the consent form.

Ma Xiang Nan, her doctor friend, gently but firmly encourages her to sign, reminding her that all surgeries carry risks. After a difficult moment, Xia Yan tearfully signs the form. Ma Xiang Nan tries to comfort a distraught Xia Yan, who blames herself for not knowing about her father's health, having only just quarreled with him that morning.

Ma Xiang Nan assures her that Xia Xue Li was sent to the hospital in time and that the surgeon, Dr. Liu, is highly skilled. Zhao Xiaolei and other friends arrive, offering their support and further trying to comfort Xia Yan. Moments later, Xia Yan's mother, having learned of Xia Xue Li's hospitalization, arrives distraught and agitated.

She immediately asks about her husband's condition, shocked to hear he is in surgery for a hemangioma in his head, a term Xia Yan used to simplify the actual condition for her mother's benefit. She demands to know what happened and who brought him there. Han Shuang prompts Xu Cheng Yi to explain. Upon hearing Xu Cheng Yi introduce himself, Xia Yan's mother recognizes him as the "President Xu" her husband had confronted. She becomes even more furious, directly accusing Xu Cheng Yi of being responsible for Xia Xue Li's hospitalization and demanding a full explanation.

Xia Yan's mother, distraught, confronted Xu Cheng Yi, asserting that he was the one who had caused all of Xia Yan's problems. As she demanded an explanation, a nurse interrupted, announcing that Xia Xue Li was in critical condition and needed a signature for the notice. This news caused Xia Yan's mother to faint in shock. Xu Cheng Yi stood by, looking helpless.

Han Shuang urged Xia Yan to stay where she was and wait for news, while Han Shuang herself went to check on Xia Yan's mother. Xu Cheng Yi approached Xia Yan, offering comfort and advising her to take care of herself, reminding her that if she collapsed, no one would be left to look after her parents. Xia Yan was overwhelmed with guilt, regretting her argument with her father.

She wished she had simply humored him, acknowledging that job issues like a bullying boss could be resolved by resignation, but now with both parents ill, she felt powerless. As Xia Yan wept, Xu Cheng Yi watched her, his expression complex, unsure of what to say. Xia Yan then dropped her father's wallet, which sent a wave of foreboding through her. Moments later, the doctor arrived to announce that Xia Xue Li's surgery was a success.

Simultaneously, Han Shuang returned with the good news that Xia Yan's mother had also woken up and was doing well, only suffering from high blood pressure. Relieved, Xia Yan finally let out a sigh of relief. Meanwhile, Hao Jie noticed Lin Hao struggling with Old Li's case and offered to step in. However, Lin Hao insisted on handling it himself, determined to prove his worth and avoid being seen as "just a pretty boy."

Hao Jie affirmed her trust in him, saying she hadn't misjudged him. Lin Hao then reminded her of her earlier promise to make him a legal owner of the company, which he believed would change how others perceived him and prevent him from being bullied. Hao Jie reassured him, promising to fulfill her word and begin the process the very next day.

Zhao Xiaolei's younger brother, Xiao Jun, informed her that he had quit his job and found a new one with Lin Hao and Hao Jie. He suggested that Lin Hao had found happiness after leaving Xia Yan. Xiao Jun urged his sister to quickly find someone to marry, even suggesting the older man she recently met, as he seemed caring, mature, and in his "golden years" compared to men her age. Later, Xiao Jun went to the man's book bar.

His behavior and comments about the book bar's lack of profitability and the possibility of converting it into a restaurant were clearly off-putting. He even offered to help manage the book bar, but the owner, who publishes books and cherishes his establishment for fostering literary discussions, politely but firmly told Xiao Jun that he needed someone who loved and understood books, implying Xiao Jun was not that person.

Back at the hospital, after Xia Xue Li regained consciousness, he and Xia Yan's mother discussed Xia Yan returning to Anshan to work. They also stressed that the final decision was hers, not wanting to force her. Xia Yan, not wanting to cause her parents any more distress, agreed to move back to Anshan. Her friends were saddened by the news.

Han Shuang speculated that Xia Yan was leaving because of Xu Cheng Yi, but Xia Yan clarified that her decision was solely for her parents, who were accustomed to the north and she feared for their health. The friends shared a tearful embrace, reluctant to part ways, though Xia Yan admitted her reluctance to leave the vibrant city she had lived in for ten years.

Xia Yan later sought out Mark, pressing him to reveal everything he knew about Lin Hao. Armed with this information, she confronted Xu Cheng Yi, demanding to know why he hadn't informed her earlier about Lin Hao's infidelity. Xu Cheng Yi countered by asking if she would have believed him then, to which Xia Yan conceded she probably wouldn't have.

He then explained that his subtle hints were prompted by his own similar past experience: he was also treated as a "backup" in college when his girlfriend, who was studying abroad, began a relationship with another man. Xu Cheng Yi reflected that Xia Yan, having grown up in a loving home, was fortunate to still believe in love despite being betrayed by a "scumbag" like Lin Hao, a belief he himself no longer held.

After this candid confession, Xu Cheng Yi left. Upon Xia Xue Li's recovery and discharge, Xia Yan presented her father with a gift: his cherished walnuts that her mother had intended to discard. Xia Xue Li was delighted, praising Xia Yan for being a thoughtful daughter and grateful for her and her friends retrieving the walnuts. Xu Cheng Yi then met with Xia Yan downstairs, ostensibly to discuss the hospital bills he had initially covered.

He suggested she could repay him in installments deducted from her salary if she continued working at the company. He argued that her parents weren't yet at an age requiring constant care (perhaps not for another ten or twenty years), and that her youth was precious and shouldn't be spent with regrets.

He reiterated that he wasn't foregoing the money, but offering a flexible repayment plan, and pointed out that her hometown might not offer the same opportunities as Xinzhou for her talents. Unbeknownst to them, Xia Xue Li overheard their conversation from upstairs and found Xu Cheng Yi's arguments quite reasonable. Later, Xia Yan's parents called her into their room, wanting to discuss her return home.

They made it clear they wanted to know her true feelings, not just their wishes, acknowledging that Han Shuang's earlier words about her staying might reflect Xia Yan's own desires. After a moment of hesitation, Xia Yan expressed her desire to remain in Xinzhou, believing that a big city offered the necessary opportunities and space for her professional growth and development, which she couldn't achieve in their hometown.

Xia Yan's parents supported her decision to remain in Xinzhou, telling her they had already discussed it and agreed. Xia Yan, thrilled, asked about their plans, but her father reassured her not to worry, saying they weren't so old that she needed to care for them. He admitted their main concern was her being bullied again, specifically mentioning Lin Hao. Xia Yan's mother interjected, telling him not to dwell on the past.

Her father then praised Xia Yan's friends, Xiang Nan and Xiao Lei, for their kindness, noting they visited him in the hospital and even helped find his beloved walnuts. Feeling reassured by her supportive friends, he encouraged Xia Yan to stay. Xia Yan promised to work hard for the next three or four years and bring them to Xinzhou, but her parents revealed their own plans to travel across their homeland and enjoy the scenic beauty.

After her parents departed, Han Shuang declared a celebratory shopping spree for Xia Yan staying, wanting to spend a lot of money. However, she then admitted her mother had stopped all her credit cards after a recent argument. Despite this, Han Shuang insisted she could still pay for everyone through her live-streaming and furniture store jobs. As they browsed, Han Shuang spotted Lin Hao and Hao Jie. She confronted Hao Jie, calling her an "old and ugly vixen."

Lin Hao attempted to intervene, but Han Shuang retorted that her words weren't nearly enough to describe Hao Jie's actions. Xia Yan tried to pull Han Shuang away, but Lin Hao lashed out at Xia Yan, accusing her of pretending to be innocent and claiming she had been flirting with Xu Cheng Yi for a long time. Xia Yan clarified that Xu Cheng Yi was merely her boss and their relationship was strictly professional.

Han Shuang threatened to beat Lin Hao if he continued to insult Xia Yan. Lin Hao, however, persisted, accusing Xia Yan of looking down on him and being a social climber, confidently stating she would one day see him in a new light before storming off with Hao Jie. Zhao Xiaolei confessed she was terrified by the near-fight, but Han Shuang remained unfazed, willing to confront Lin Hao. Xia Yan, however, felt he wasn't worth the trouble.

Zhao Xiaolei, still defending her former senior, suggested there might have been a misunderstanding and that long-distance relationships were difficult. Her friends countered, pointing out Lin Hao's egotism and lack of shame for quickly moving on. Xia Yan speculated that Hao Jie might be able to help Lin Hao's career, but noted his vanity and excessive concern for his image would likely lead to his downfall.

Reflecting on the encounter, Xia Yan realized she felt no lingering pain or fear, confirming she had finally let go. Her friends encouraged her newfound freedom. From a rooftop, Xia Yan loudly declared she had given up on Lin Hao, never wanted to see him again, and branded him "obsolete furniture." Meanwhile, Lin Hao was at home, replaying his arguments with Xia Yan, evidently still wrestling with his feelings.

Hao Jie tried to get him to relax and watch a movie, but he was engrossed in reviewing business contracts for an upcoming negotiation. He explained he needed to learn to do things himself, implying he couldn't rely on Hao Jie forever, and contrasted his current self-employment with his past as an employee, where he could "put off work" to "make the boss happy."

Hao Jie, perceiving this as a jab, questioned if he only spent time with her to appease her. Lin Hao quickly corrected himself and agreed to watch a movie. Hao Jie then pressed him about his visible anger when Xia Yan and Xu Cheng Yi were mentioned, asking if he still had feelings for Xia Yan.

Lin Hao claimed it was just "out of habit" and that he broke up with Xia Yan because of his love for Hao Jie, insisting his relationship with Xia Yan was merely "familial affection." Hao Jie asked about his parents' opinion of Xia Yan. Lin Hao stated his mother disliked Xia Yan, believing women age faster. Hao Jie then revealed she had already booked a wedding venue for autumn, a Japanese garden, because Lin Hao liked the color red.

Lin Hao expressed concern that it was happening too quickly, citing his seven-year relationship with Xia Yan before they even planned marriage and the demands of his newly established company. Hao Jie reluctantly agreed to postpone the wedding but insisted he inform his parents about their relationship and arrange a meeting with them. Lin Hao consented and returned to finding a Greta Garbo movie for her, struggling to recall details.

Back at the office, Director Xue congratulated her team on their recent success and announced a call for original project ideas, promising bonuses and leadership opportunities for adopted proposals. Xia Yan arrived late, explaining she was finalizing her holiday leave application, not resignation. Director Xue, visibly annoyed, questioned who approved the leave. Xu Cheng Yi immediately interjected, stating he approved Xia Yan's holiday leave but admitted to forgetting the proper procedures, which he had already explained to HR.

Director Xue quickly apologized for her oversight and welcomed Xia Yan back, telling her to find a seat. Later, Director Xue summoned Yoyo, emphasizing the need for a strong project proposal for the annual collection to avoid the Operations Department submitting a blank. Yoyo struggled for ideas, pointing out the saturated market in women's fashion software platforms.

Director Xue then handed Yoyo materials for "Beauty Online," instructing her to draft a plan within two days and submit it under her own name, stressing that someone from their department needed to step up and take responsibility. Xia Yan presented Xu Cheng Yi with a "Ground Rules (Conduct Code)" agreement outlining her conditions for staying at the company.

She acknowledged her limited bargaining power but insisted on preconditions that included: no non-work-related discussions, no flirting (emotional or physical), no physical contact, and that "debts should be paid." She described it as a "gentleman's agreement" that she hoped he would respect for a harmonious working relationship. Xu Cheng Yi playfully remarked that she could channel her "extra energy" into project planning.

After signing the agreement, Xu Cheng Yi handed her a copy, lightly tapping her hand and reminding her of the "no physical contact" rule, wishing her good luck with her project. Xia Yan's colleagues welcomed her back warmly, mentioning that Amy had informed them about her father's illness and expressing relief for his recovery. They commented that brainstorming sessions had felt incomplete without her. Xia Yan noticed Amy seemed upset.

Her colleagues explained that Amy had consistently been at the bottom of the performance reviews for two months and was in danger of being eliminated. Director Xue had spoken to Amy, highlighting her poor performance and noting that while Xia Yan's absence also placed her at the bottom, Amy and Xia Yan would ultimately be the two lowest performers.

Director Xue acknowledged Xia Yan's superior talent but expressed her reluctance to see Amy, whom she had brought into the company, leave. She sternly warned Amy that only hard work could ensure her continued employment. Xia Yan approached Amy to ask about the categories and themes of previous annual projects. Amy began to respond but then recalled Director Xue's words about their competition and gave vague guidelines about "conformity, feasibility, potential ability to replicate and promote" within SG's business scope.

Xia Yan, sensing Amy's distress about her performance review, tried to reassure her. Amy, however, responded by saying Xia Yan didn't need to worry because she was smart and had "President Xu supporting [her] from behind," implying Amy lacked such a powerful advantage. Amy then apologized for her words. Ma Xiang Nan, undergoing physical therapy, encountered Huo Kai, another patient recovering from an injury.

She jokingly remarked that every time she saw him, some "disaster" seemed to occur, to which he replied that as a surgeon, people only came to him when "something terrible happened." He then advised her not to approach a boxer without making a sound and asked about her recovery from the physical therapist he recommended. He extended an invitation for her to see him perform at the bar.

Later, Ma Xiang Nan attended his performance, joining the enthusiastic crowd in welcoming Huo Kai back after a two-month absence, during which he was hospitalized but gained "new realizations." After his set, Huo Kai asked if she used NetEase Music and sent her a friend request, explaining a new "Listen Together" feature that would allow them to listen to music together and show their physical distance.

He also suggested she listen to a demo song his friend wrote, claiming it expressed his inner feelings. As Ma Xiang Nan drove home, she listened to his music, visibly captivated. At the hospital, a nurse showed Ma Xiang Nan a photo of Ma Ke looking disheveled and drunk. Later, Ma Ke angrily confronted Han Shuang about posting the picture on Weibo, which had garnered numerous comments. He accused her of trying to embarrass him.

Han Shuang, unfazed, claimed the comments were "kind" and that people were simply impressed by his "handsome, confused appearance." Ma Ke expressed alarm, explaining that "Internet gangsters" were attempting to crowdsource information to report him to his hospital superiors. Han Shuang found his discomfort amusing, defending the caption "Young surgeon, born with a silver spoon, indulges in night clubs and gets wasted," calling it "very exciting."

Ma Ke chastised her for crossing basic ethical lines and for not pixelating his face. Han Shuang defiantly told him to "sue me," suggesting it would only bring her more media attention and prolong her popularity. Ma Ke warned that his "Uncle Pai" would have her fired. Han Shuang bet against it, promising to delete the video if she was fired, but until then, she would let people enjoy "Dr. Ma's colorful nightlife."

She offered him a specialized Yakult drink, subtly hinting at the expensive furniture in her store and how a spill would mean another sale for her. Ma Ke, frustrated, called her "lowly" and declared that "karma" would eventually deal with her. Han Shuang, undeterred, bid him farewell, jokingly calling him "Fahai."

Lin Hao returned home late, attempting to mask the scent of alcohol, but Hao Jie immediately noticed he had been drinking. She urged him to stop meeting with President Fang, a man known for heavy drinking, fearing it would harm him for business. Lin Hao insisted that President Fang was a famous and successful industry figure he couldn't afford to ignore. Hao Jie countered that doing business with him was too difficult, and they weren't in need of money.

Lin Hao, though furious, controlled his anger, stating he didn't want to constantly rely on her resources and needed to build his own career as a man. Hao Jie retorted that if she had wanted a rich or career-driven husband, she wouldn't have divorced. To appease her, Lin Hao quickly promised to accompany her and go out to play.

Hao Jie then suggested they travel to Europe for three months and have a romantic wedding upon their return, but first, she wanted to meet his parents before they left. Lin Hao tried to delay, explaining it was too soon after his breakup with Xia Yan and he worried about his parents forming a bad impression. Hao Jie dismissed his concerns about her age but insisted on meeting them, saying she cared about him acknowledging their relationship.

Lin Hao reluctantly agreed to her wishes. Moments later, Lin Hao saw a prenuptial agreement on the coffee table. Hao Jie explained her lawyer had just sent it and she would show him the finalized version, confidently stating he would agree to whatever she decided, as he had promised before. Lin Hao fumed internally, realizing she wanted him to be a companion without allowing him to pursue wealth or share in her property.

He understood he had to keep her happy without revealing his true anger, as he still needed her support to achieve his goals. Xia Yan, meanwhile, told her friends that since signing an agreement with Xu Cheng Yi, he had stopped bothering her, allowing her to focus entirely on her career. A conversation about women's empowerment and career ambition, combined with her friends discussing online sales and exclusive services, sparked an idea.

Xia Yan, full of inspiration, announced she was going to the office to work overtime, even though it was Sunday, leaving her friends surprised by her sudden enthusiasm. At a company meeting, two proposals for the Operations Department's next project were presented: Maggie's "Beauty Online" and Xia Yan's "Confidante Planet." Maggie described "Beauty Online" as a platform for fashionable young women to trade cosmetics, authenticating products to address the issue of non-refundable used items.

Xia Yan presented "Confidante Planet" as an online networking app, acknowledging the abundance of such apps but arguing for its potential in a niche market. She used NetEase Music's comment section as an example, highlighting how "like-minded people" gathered there, resonating over shared interests. She envisioned a "Confidante Planet" where girls could share everything from lipstick colors to love stories, creating a unique community.

While some colleagues questioned its necessity, comparing it to the existing "Show Me" platform, Xia Yan argued it would drive traffic and increase user retention for "Show Me." When Director Xue asked for opinions, Amy, fearing for her position, cautiously praised "Confidante Planet" but implied it lacked substance.

Xu Cheng Yi, however, strongly favored "Confidante Planet," declaring it more suitable to become SG Technology's most important project than "Beauty Online," which he suggested could be incorporated into a future update of "Show Me." He made his decision final, dismissing the meeting. Word quickly spread among colleagues that Xu Cheng Yi and Director Xue had argued over the projects, with Xu Cheng Yi ultimately insisting on "Confidante Planet."

Employees were surprised that Xu Cheng Yi had even made a pledge to the Chairman, taking full personal responsibility for the project and promising to reach ten million users within a month, a goal many found impossible. Xia Yan approached Director Xue to report on her work and team selection for "Confidante Planet."

However, Director Xue informed her that Xu Cheng Yi had instructed Xia Yan to report directly to him on all matters concerning the project, stating she didn't need Xue's opinion. Xia Yan expressed concern that removing team members might cause trouble for Director Xue's other projects, but Xue dismissed her worries, telling her to focus on forming her own team.

Later, Xia Yan thanked Xu Cheng Yi for his support, to which he replied it was his duty to champion valuable projects, but that success ultimately depended on her. He then revealed that he had already transferred her 20,000 yuan, the project reward, before it was officially announced, jokingly mentioning that others might suspect favoritism. Xia Yan then seized the opportunity to propose abolishing the Operations Department's ranking system.

She argued that the system fostered competition and concealment among colleagues, rather than collaboration. She gave an example of a colleague struggling with a project and another, not in charge, choosing whether to help or let them fail to avoid elimination. Xu Cheng Yi acknowledged her points but noted the system had been Director Xue's plan and had been in place for a year, promising to consider it.

Before Xia Yan left, Xu Cheng Yi gave her and her team company cards to cover meals for the next two months, anticipating long hours of overtime. Xia Yan assured him that her team would do their best. Han Shuang, with her credit cards frozen by her parents, tearfully prepared to sell her beloved designer bags. Ma Ke appeared, mocking her predicament and demanding she delete some old videos, threatening to badmouth her items to potential customers if she refused.

Han Shuang, defiant, challenged him to do his worst, even offering him a drink to "cure his boredom." Ma Ke, getting drunk, accidentally spat on a luxurious bed set. The shop owner, furious, forced Ma Ke to pay for the entire expensive set, which he did using his card, costing him over 18,000 yuan. After paying, Ma Ke heard the shop owner was planning to sell the shop.

He later called someone to pick up the entire bed, despite Han Shuang's surprise, proclaiming it was his business. At home, Ma Xiang Nan was surprised to find Huo Kai in her kitchen. Her mother explained that Huo Kai had helped them fix their broken speakers during square dancing the previous night, even accompanying them on guitar.

She praised his good character and passion for music, and even prepared chicken soup for him, showing an unusual level of affection, much to Ma Xiang Nan's bewilderment. Her mother playfully hinted that Huo Kai was interested in Ma Xiang Nan. Meanwhile, Amy, who Xia Yan had selected for her "Confidante Planet" team, was struggling to find new employment, having sent out numerous resumes without success.

She tearfully approached Xia Yan, apologizing profusely for her past rude behavior and for purposefully alienating her. Amy admitted she had felt immense pressure and jealousy because Xia Yan, despite being a newer employee, seemed to perform better, making Amy fear for her job. Xia Yan reassured her, stating that everyone experiences stress differently and that their past issues were forgotten.

She encouraged Amy to work hard with the team, highlighting Amy's strengths in developing creative and heartwarming ideas, which "Confidante Planet" needed. Amy, touched, promised to do her best, her trust in Xia Yan evident. That evening, Hao Jie, feeling bored, proposed to Lin Hao that they travel to Italy and ride motorbikes, ready to leave in two days, as her visa was prepared.

Lin Hao, however, said he couldn't go, as he was close to signing a big deal with President Fang. Hao Jie became frustrated, accusing him of not listening to her warnings about President Fang's character and his demanding drinking habits. She believed he was too young and naive to handle such a large project and questioned if he was working hard for the company or to impress Xia Yan.

Hao Jie asserted that he had changed since she gave him company shares and legal status, spending all his time drinking with clients and neglecting her, fearing he would become like her ex-husband who had affairs. She insisted they leave in two days and threatened to go alone if he refused. Hao Jie emphasized her no-nonsense attitude, reminding him that she ended her ten-year marriage abruptly when she wanted to.

Enraged, Lin Hao accused Hao Jie of not truly loving him but merely seeking a subservient partner. He called her a discarded old woman who was manipulating him by withholding property while demanding his presence, making it impossible for him to leave. He angrily confessed that he hadn't introduced her to his parents because he didn't want them to think he was with an older woman just for money.

He claimed he was with her for love and needed to prove his worth through his career. Hao Jie then asked if they would still be together if they were both poor. Lin Hao defiantly declared that he would never be poor; he would become richer than her, making her sign agreements in the future. He then told her to go to Europe for as long as she liked. The next morning, Hao Jie packed her bags.

She paused, looking at Lin Hao sleeping on the sofa with a hint of sorrow, then left him a letter, stating she had left him all her company shares and transferred 300,000 yuan, asking him never to call her again.

Lin Hao sought out Xiao Lei to inquire about Xia Yan. Xiao Lei informed him that Xia Yan had returned to SG Tech and had no involvement with Xu Cheng Yi, clarifying that their interaction that night was merely a misunderstanding. Xia Yan's return to SG Tech was solely for work, and she was also caring for her ailing father.

Xiao Lei observed that Xia Yan had been looking after her father, getting very little sleep, and had lost a lot of weight, always internalizing her struggles and not letting others see her negative energy. Xiao Lei then accused Lin Hao of profoundly hurting Xia Yan, causing her immense difficulty.

Lin Hao, in turn, blamed Hao Jie, stating that Hao Jie was shameless and that he had clarified his intentions while in Beijing, planning to propose to Xia Yan the following year. He also accused Xu Cheng Yi of instigating misunderstandings between him and Xia Yan. Lin Hao admitted he had initially tried to anger Xia Yan but found he couldn't go through with it.

He asserted that he had cut all ties with Hao Jie and desperately hoped Xia Yan would give him another chance. Xiao Lei, however, refused to intervene, reminding Lin Hao of the sadness Xia Yan had endured. Ma Ke finalized the acquisition of Uncle Pai's coffee shop. Uncle Pai expressed concern that Han Shuang might quit upon learning of the new ownership, but Ma Ke confidently declared he would ensure she stayed, asserting that he understood Han Shuang's personality well.

Upon seeing Han Shuang, Ma Ke immediately adopted the persona of the new boss, declaring her fired. Han Shuang, feigning indignation, challenged him, claiming she had a contract that prevented arbitrary dismissal and reminding him his parents' plastic surgery earnings funded the purchase. Ma Ke pretended not to know about any such contract. Uncle Pai then intervened, corroborating Han Shuang's claim and stating that Ma Ke was legally bound to honor her prior agreement.

Ma Ke, appearing to concede, was pleased. Han Shuang then suggested a farewell drink with Uncle Pai, subtly excusing Ma Ke. Once he was gone, Han Shuang revealed to Uncle Pai that she had seen through their charade, recognizing it as a tactic to provoke her into staying. She admitted the shop was her favorite and she was merely playing along, intending to let Ma Ke enjoy his triumph for a while before asserting her true control.

Uncle Pai found their dynamic both amusing and endearing. Xiao Jun, noting that Lin Hao and Hao Jie had broken up and Lin Hao had gained some wealth, tried to manipulate Xiao Lei into reconsidering Lin Hao. He met with Xiao Lei and urged her to visit Lin Hao more often, discouraging her from associating with Fei Tianming. Xiao Jun dismissed Fei Tianming as a burden due to his child and accused him of being inconsiderate.

Xiao Lei was surprised by Xiao Jun's sudden change of heart, as he had previously praised Fei Tianming for his talent. While they were talking, Xiao Lei overheard Xiao Jun on a phone call attempting to sell a pen holder. She then confronted Xiao Jun, revealing that he had taken and sold an item from Fei Tianming's book bar, leaving him speechless.

Later, Xiao Jun made another attempt, inviting Xiao Lei to a grand hotel under the pretext that Lin Hao was suffering greatly, having barely eaten and looking increasingly gaunt. He hoped this plea would move Xiao Lei to console Lin Hao. Feeling a pang of sympathy, Xiao Lei went upstairs to Lin Hao's room. She found him sitting in a dazed state, appearing truly forlorn.

Lin Hao immediately expressed deep remorse for hurting Xia Yan, viewing his loss of her as deserved punishment. He confessed that he couldn't let go of his feelings, stating his love for Xia Yan had never wavered. Lin Hao lamented his inability to provide for Xia Yan, fearing he could only bring her hardship. Xiao Lei tried to comfort him, expressing belief in his capabilities and assuring him that persistence could reunite them.

Lin Hao, however, was consumed by sadness and frustration, feeling that his diligent efforts in networking and enduring sacrifices like excessive drinking were insignificant compared to the power wielded by those from privileged backgrounds. He poured out his despair, questioning the fairness of a society where his hard-earned master's degree amounted to nothing, while others achieved success with minimal effort. This moved Xiao Lei to tears.

Lin Hao reflected on his past as the sole graduate student and pride of his village, and how Xiao Lei once told him he was Xia Yan's pride too. He admitted he once believed it, but later lost confidence, realizing he could offer Xia Yan nothing that others couldn't provide with ease. Lin Hao confessed that his involvement with Hao Jie was merely a fleeting connection, devoid of genuine feeling.

He explained that due to his position in the company, he felt compelled to compromise and endure humiliation when Hao Jie made demands, all in an effort to quickly establish a stable home and warm relationship for Xia Yan. He acknowledged his error, regretting that his pursuit of what he thought was best ultimately led him to lose the "most beautiful her." Xiao Lei, tears streaming down her face, smiled faintly.

She mused that life is rarely smooth sailing, and one only truly grows by navigating through adversity and low points, recalling Lin Hao's own words to her during their college days. Seeing him, Xiao Lei felt that despite everything, Lin Hao was still the person she once knew. Moved by their conversation, Xiao Lei made a phone call, pretending she needed to see Xia Yan, and asked her to come downstairs to her company. Lin Hao was waiting outside.

Xia Yan initially wanted to avoid him but decided it was time for a clear discussion. She expressed her astonishment that the person she had waited for had casually ended their relationship. Lin Hao took her hand, repeatedly apologizing. At that moment, Xu Cheng Yi witnessed their interaction from afar and turned to leave. Xia Yan, tears welling up, pulled her hand away.

She recalled Lin Hao's past promise that he would never say "I'm sorry" to her because he would never do anything to hurt her or make her sad. Now, she pointed out, he had said "sorry" multiple times. Xia Yan calmly stated that her purpose in meeting him was to bring closure.

She accused him of willingly believing she had an affair with Xu Cheng Yi to justify his own departure, and now, with Hao Jie gone, he was willing to believe it was a misunderstanding because he had no better options. Lin Hao tried to interject, asserting his love for her, but Xia Yan firmly declared that he only believed he still loved her because he currently lacked alternatives.

She calmly stated that from that moment on, they would have nothing more to say to each other and would be completely unrelated. She wished him a bright future. Meanwhile, Han Shuang discovered that Fei Tianming was a well-known but incredibly low-key designer, having won a prestigious international design award. Xiao Lei was surprised, as Fei Tianming had only ever told her he worked in publishing and owned a bookstore, never mentioning his significant achievements.

She wondered if he had withheld this information because he feared she had ulterior motives. Han Shuang dismissed this, explaining that Fei Tianming was simply a very pure and notoriously low-key individual in the design world, emphasizing that true love transcends status and wealth. Despite Han Shuang's reassurance that Fei Tianming genuinely admired her, Xiao Lei still felt a significant gap between their backgrounds and capabilities.

Xiao Lei went to Fei Tianming's book bar to return the pen holder that Xiao Jun had taken. Fei Tianming graciously dismissed her apology, saying that Xiao Lei was not Xiao Jun and that as an adult, Xiao Jun should be responsible for his own actions. He revealed he was aware of Xiao Jun being spoiled at home and expressed concern over the fact that Xiao Lei's parents had sold her favorite books when she was younger.

He recounted hearing that they believed girls didn't need extensive education, as their ultimate purpose was to find a husband. Fei Tianming sympathized deeply with Xiao Lei, acknowledging the challenges she faced growing up in such a family. He invited her to dinner, but she declined, suggesting the weekend instead. As Xiao Lei left, she saw Fei Tianming's ex-wife, Wang Meng, arriving with their son, Dou Dou. Fei Tianming greeted his child with immense affection.

Witnessing their familial interaction, Xiao Lei offered a quiet smile and discreetly departed. Lin Hao's company encountered severe financial difficulties as three major companies dissolved their cooperation, resulting in minimal liquidated damages. His secretary informed him that the company's public account lacked sufficient funds to pay salaries the following Monday. Lin Hao promised to cover the salaries by drawing from his personal account that weekend.

The secretary then announced her resignation, citing a myriad of personal reasons including her mother wanting her to take a civil service exam, her father's poor health, her grandmother's rheumatism, and her boyfriend proposing marriage and buying a house. Lin Hao, resigned, accepted her resignation and asked her to hand over her work directly to him.

Adding to his woes, Lin Hao received a phone call from his stockbroker, who informed him that his investments in the rare metal market had been continuously falling, contradicting earlier promises of profit, though the broker still insisted prices would eventually rise. Later, Wang Meng, Fei Tianming's ex-wife, visited Xiao Lei, offering a gift from Shanghai. Wang Meng explained that she and Fei Tianming divorced when their son, Dou Dou, was three years old.

Now older, Dou Dou was increasingly questioning why his parents didn't live together and yearned for his father's constant presence. Wang Meng admitted she had considered reconciling with Fei Tianming for Dou Dou's sake, but Fei Tianming had told her he was with Xiao Lei. Wang Meng then requested that if Xiao Lei and Fei Tianming were to build a future together, Xiao Lei would be considerate of Dou Dou's feelings, especially during his critical developmental stage. Feeling overwhelmed and uncomfortable, Xiao Lei quickly rose and excused herself.

Zhao Xiaolei confessed to Han Shuang that she felt she wasn't good enough for Mr. Fei, who was an outstanding man. His ex-wife had even approached her, making Zhao Xiaolei feel like a homewrecker. Han Shuang, however, urged her not to overthink it, reminding her that Mr. Fei was divorced and she shouldn't feel guilty about pursuing her own happiness.

Zhao Xiaolei admitted she had initially used her "ten taboos" to judge him and thought they were unsuitable, but after getting to know him, she found him quite nice, scoring him 60 points despite him not meeting all her requirements. She felt some of her rules wavered, and she wanted to give them a chance. However, she concluded that "Heaven, this proctor, is stricter than I am," believing Mr. Fei deserved someone better, as they were from different worlds.

Han Shuang suspected Zhao Xiaolei was giving up due to Mr. Fei's identity, but Zhao Xiaolei clarified that seeing his ex-wife with their child had truly solidified her decision not to disrupt what she perceived as a "warm family of three." Han Shuang countered that he was divorced, and Zhao Xiaolei was in love with the current man, not his past.

She advised her to trust her intuition in love and never give up on someone she liked, dismissing Zhao Xiaolei's "proctor" and "destroyer" talk as annoying. Zhao Xiaolei then asked Han Shuang not to tell Xia Yan or Cousin Xiang about this, not wanting them to worry. Meanwhile, Xu Cheng Yi brought Xia Yan to a gathering with several business owners. The bosses praised Xu Cheng Yi for dominating the app market and now venturing into the "Confidante Planet" app.

Xu Cheng Yi clarified that Xia Yan was the primary person responsible for the project, leading to playful remarks about him having both business and beauty. Xia Yan stood up to toast them, requesting their future support. Amy, who was also present, joined in the toasts. Xia Yan tried to signal her to slow down, but Amy was already too inebriated to notice and continued drinking with the bosses.

When the bosses suggested Xia Yan also drink, Xu Cheng Yi quickly intervened, explaining that while Xia Yan excelled at project work, she was not a strong drinker and offered to drink on her behalf. The bosses accepted, implying he would have to drink more than just three cups. Later, Zhao Xiaolei met Mr. Fei and brought up his ex-wife's visit.

Mr. Fei asked her not to mention his ex-wife, asserting they had no relationship, and Zhao Xiaolei shouldn't let it bother her. He acknowledged her discomfort and her wish to travel, assuring her she could visit the book cafe anytime as he would be away next month to gather materials for his "Museum of Changes" project. Zhao Xiaolei felt he liked her but explained she couldn't continue the relationship, fearing she would become a "sinner" by preventing a family reunion.

She bid him farewell, but Mr. Fei, with tears in his eyes, hurried after her. He offered her his award-winning sculpture, which she declined, deeming it too valuable and an "undeserved reward." He then presented her with a small engraved seal bearing the character "Xiao," representing her name, as a memento. He reiterated that he hoped he hadn't caused her too much trouble and that he was happy she was happy.

Zhao Xiaolei expressed her happiness at having met him and promised to visit his museum. After the gathering, a tipsy Xu Cheng Yi was escorted home by Xia Yan. Amy sent Xia Yan a text message, urging her to get him home safely, noting how much he had drunk for the sake of "Confidante Planet."

Despite his intoxication, Xu Cheng Yi was still focused on work, instructing Xia Yan on the app's final development stages and the importance of user diversion. He collapsed into Xia Yan's arms, falling asleep, but not before reiterating his belief that if the business deals went through, "Confidante Planet" would surely thrive. Back at her apartment, Zhao Xiaolei visited her senior classmate, Lin Hao.

Lin Hao warmly welcomed her, insisting on showing her around his home, including his bedroom, which he jokingly called his "Emperor and Empress sleeping quarters." Zhao Xiaolei felt awkward, but Lin Hao assured her there were no other women in his life, even opening a closet door to prove it. Zhao Xiaolei suspected he was drunk, but Lin Hao denied it and even attempted to dance.

To get him to rest, Zhao Xiaolei cleverly told him to "guard the sofa" so it wouldn't run away. Lin Hao found this a profound insight and dutifully lay down on the sofa to watch it, telling her to get water for herself from the kitchen. As he quickly fell asleep, Zhao Xiaolei gently covered him with a blanket. Xia Yan tried to leave Xu Cheng Yi's place, but he grabbed her arm, preventing her departure.

He insisted she couldn't leave SG Technology unless a truly better opportunity arose, stating he would even "drive her away" if she didn't pursue it. He shared that he had once encouraged Ling Wei to go to the U. S. , a decision he didn't regret despite later events, as it was her chance.

Xia Yan acknowledged that she had encouraged Lin Hao to go to Beijing and that both their experiences were failures, though Xu Cheng Yi corrected her that they "just failed" but "weren't wrong." Xia Yan then asked if he admitted to failure, to which he responded by showing her a desk covered with files—all his failed projects.

He explained that he kept them to remind himself not to forget past mistakes, asserting that truly successful people experience more failures, while only those who do nothing have a perfectly smooth journey. Xia Yan was surprised, having always thought he was effortlessly successful. As he spoke, he drifted off to sleep. Xia Yan noticed a framed "Three-point Covenant" she had signed with him hanging formally on the wall. She also found her lost bracelet on his desk.

She moved him to the sofa and couldn't help but notice how handsome he looked. Later that night, Zhao Xiaolei was waiting up for Xia Yan. When Xia Yan finally arrived home, Zhao Xiaolei chided her for being out so late, then inquired about Xu Cheng Yi. Xia Yan then posed a hypothetical question: what would be the mindset of someone who kept a lost item for many years without returning it, especially if it was of little monetary value?

Zhao Xiaolei speculated that it must hold significant "sentimental value," explaining that an item's worth is not always measured in money; something worthless to one person could be a priceless treasure to another. Xia Yan, recalling her cheap bracelet found at Xu Cheng Yi's, found it hard to believe it could hold such value for him. The next morning, Xu Cheng Yi awoke to find a blanket over him, realizing Xia Yan must have covered him.

Xia Yan, who had not slept well, replayed the previous night's events in her mind: Xu Cheng Yi defending her at the banquet and his impassioned plea for her to stay at SG. She felt a new, unfamiliar emotion stirring within her for him. At work, Xia Yan attempted to meet President Yan of NK Technology to pitch a collaboration. However, his secretary quickly dismissed her, stating he was busy and suggesting she return another time.

Undeterred, Xia Yan went back to Xu Cheng Yi, informing him she had learned President Yan frequently played golf and believed that could be a channel to reach him. Xu Cheng Yi revealed that he and President Yan were schoolmates from Xinzhou University of Technology, a year apart, but they mutually disliked each other and President Yan would never cooperate with SG Technology. Xia Yan, however, insisted on trying again, having only been rejected once.

She then asked Xu Cheng Yi if they had met before, hinting at finding her lost bracelet at his place. Xu Cheng Yi suggested they talk outside the office, then revealed they had met three years ago at Xinzhou airport. He remembered her crying on the phone about a canceled trip. During his recollection, he suddenly felt dizzy. Xia Yan immediately recognized his low blood sugar and offered him a supplement from her bag, giving him the whole package.

This triggered her memory, and she realized he was the one from the airport who had suffered low blood sugar. She also remembered dropping her bracelet that day while rushing for her flight, realizing Xu Cheng Yi had picked it up but couldn't return it then. She understood now why he had stared at her in the Star Technology elevator. Xia Yan assured him she could handle the NK Technology matter.

Xia Yan found Mr. Yan, inviting him to a golf competition for new entrepreneurs. She praised his exceptional golf skills, stating it would be a shame for a master like him not to participate. Mr. Yan, however, dismissed her compliments, telling her not to flatter him like Xu Cheng Yi.

He then discovered the competition was sponsored by SG Technology and flatly refused to attend, advising Xia Yan to tell Xu Cheng Yi that if he wanted to collaborate, he should come in person. Back home, Xia Yan confided in her friends, expressing her frustration that Mr. Yan was even more difficult to deal with than Xu Cheng Yi. She explained that his company's Hua Xin app was the ideal partner for their Confidante Planet project, and desperately sought advice.

Her friends debated Xu Cheng Yi's character, with one suggesting his gesture with the bracelet showed he was a romantic, while another thought he simply collected old items. Ma Xiangnan suggested that Mr. Yan’s coldness likely stemmed from an unresolved issue with Xu Cheng Yi, and that Xu Cheng Yi should resolve it himself. Later, feeling overwhelmed, Xia Yan's colleague Emmy encouraged her to relax by watching videos on her phone, where Xia Yan unexpectedly found a new opportunity.

Meanwhile, Director Xue Ning approached Xu Cheng Yi, proposing to take over the negotiation with Mr. Yan, believing Xia Yan was incapable of securing the deal. Xu Cheng Yi refused, explaining that while he had indeed put Xue Ning in charge of the overall project launch, he deliberately sent Xia Yan to Mr. Yan.

He reasoned that Mr. Yan viewed him as an "imaginary enemy," and sending a junior employee like Xia Yan might cause Mr. Yan to lower his guard, whereas Xue Ning's involvement would make Mr. Yan realize SG's desperation and treat them even more ruthlessly.

Xue Ning reminded him of his promise to the board to secure over ten million users upon launch, emphasizing that this was no time to "train a newbie" and asking if he was staking the company's future on Xia Yan. Xu Cheng Yi's silence indicated his unwavering commitment.

Driven by her newfound opportunity, Xia Yan raced to a lecture given by Mr. Yan Chang Jun at Xinzhou University of Technology, only to find it was by appointment only and fully booked. Undeterred, she snuck in through a back door. When Mr. Yan briefly left the stage to use the restroom, Xia Yan intercepted him, apologizing for the unconventional timing but insisting she needed just three minutes to pitch her project.

Mr. Yan sarcastically remarked on Xu Cheng Yi's apparent change in taste, now fancying "girls like her." Xia Yan passionately argued that SG's Confidante Planet and NK's Hua Xin were complementary and a collaboration would be a win-win, crucial for preventing foreign companies from monopolizing the domestic market. Mr. Yan dismissed her patriotic appeal, stating that internet competition was international and only the fittest survive.

He then countered by asking if she knew Xu Cheng Yi once sold a piece of software to a foreign firm, also mentioning Xu Cheng Yi's former partner, Ling Wei. Xia Yan immediately began researching online, discovering information about an International Programming Competition where two "code buddies" from Xinzhou University of Technology, both campus legends, were champions. When Xu Cheng Yi arrived, having been called by Mr. Yan, Xia Yan directly confronted him.

She asked if selling the software years ago was Ling Wei's idea and if he took the money, asserting that Mr. Yan's judgment could be clouded by bias. Xu Cheng Yi, impressed by her insight, admitted she was right. Xia Yan then deduced that Ling Wei was the girl both Xu Cheng Yi and Yan Chang Jun liked, leading to their rivalry over technical disagreements and romantic interests.

Xu Cheng Yi confirmed that he and Yan Chang Jun had competed for Ling Wei, who ultimately chose him after winning a competition they had set up. He then informed Xia Yan that he would take over the NK negotiation, telling her not to worry about that matter. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiaolei's brother approached Lin Hao, worried about rumors of the company shutting down due to lack of orders and financial difficulties following President Hao's departure.

Lin Hao reassured him, admitting the company was in a tough period with cash flow problems, but he had secured a one-million-yuan investment this week, with more potentially coming from other large companies. He urged his employee to focus on business and not worry about money, telling him that those who lacked faith could leave. Zhao Xiaolei's brother, convinced by Lin Hao's confidence, pledged his unwavering loyalty, promising never to leave.

Xu Cheng Yi later met Yan Chang Jun for coffee, attempting to bridge their seven-year-long rift. Xu Cheng Yi acknowledged Yan Chang Jun as a past friend and teacher. Yan Chang Jun, however, was cynical, mocking Xu Cheng Yi as an executive of a listed company while he ran a small one, claiming he never dared be an enemy. When Xu Cheng Yi inquired about NK's rumored IPO, Yan Chang Jun dismissed it as gossip.

Xu Cheng Yi subtly suggested NK wouldn't want to make an enemy of SG, but Yan Chang Jun retorted, accusing Xu Cheng Yi of being the fearful one. He criticized Xu Cheng Yi for sending a "rookie" like Xia Yan instead of someone experienced like Director Xue Ning, implying Xu Cheng Yi's true motive was to have Xia Yan rejected so he could blame Yan Chang Jun for the failed cooperation.

Xu Cheng Yi defended Xia Yan's ability, but Yan Chang Jun suspected Xu Cheng Yi had a personal interest in her. Xu Cheng Yi insisted his interest was solely in her work ability and then declared he would personally handle the collaboration details. Yan Chang Jun sensed Xu Cheng Yi's unease and suggested he was worried about Xia Yan.

Despite Xu Cheng Yi's emphasis on the business benefits for NK's IPO and not letting personal issues hinder their companies, Yan Chang Jun stated he would only work with Xia Yan, not Xu Cheng Yi. Xu Cheng Yi, in turn, refused, citing Yan Chang Jun's earlier dismissal of Xia Yan as a rookie. Xu Cheng Yi then promised not to tell Xia Yan about his and Ling Wei's past, but Yan Chang Jun warned that secrets couldn't be kept forever.

Yan Chang Jun concluded that Xu Cheng Yi hadn't changed, still lacking straightforwardness and being "too exhausting" to work with. Xu Cheng Yi left, emphasizing the importance of the collaboration for NK. Zhao Xiaolei met Lin Hao, offering him comfort and reminding him of his past academic brilliance, urging him to pull himself together.

Lin Hao expressed his deep regret and desire to reconcile with Xia Yan, asking Zhao Xiaolei to speak to her on his behalf and give their "seven years of love a chance." Zhao Xiaolei agreed to try. Later, Xu Cheng Yi finally opened up to Xia Yan about his past with Yan Chang Jun and Ling Wei. He revealed that he and Yan Chang Jun had indeed made a bet on a programming competition, with Ling Wei as the "stakes."

However, Ling Wei also won the championship, and chose Xu Cheng Yi, causing the rift between the two men. Ling Wei later went abroad. Xu Cheng Yi then connected this to their past encounter at the airport three years ago, confirming that he was waiting for Ling Wei, who never showed up, just as Xia Yan was waiting for someone who didn't return.

He recounted how Xia Yan's candy and spontaneous smile in the midst of her tears had left a lasting impression on him, stating her candy "saved" him. He confessed to feeling despair that day and admired Xia Yan's ability to openly express her emotions and quickly find joy. He decided to keep her bracelet and candy as a memento, hoping to learn from her and eventually let go of his past.

He reflected on his passive relationship with Ling Wei, wondering if things would have been different had he taken initiative. He concluded that sometimes one meets "the right person at the wrong time." That evening, Xia Yan arrived home to a room filled with candles and music, playing a song she and Lin Hao used to love. Lin Hao appeared, reminiscing about their shared memories and pleading for another chance, calling their seven years together his happiest.

Xia Yan, however, took the remote, turned off the music, and declared that their story, which began with that song, would also end with it. Lin Hao continued to plead, but Xia Yan firmly confronted him about his past betrayal, his unfounded accusations of her cheating with Xu Cheng Yi, and his recent relationship with Hao Jie. She accused him of lying to Hao Jie, using her for her money and company, and then breaking up with her.

Xia Yan stated she no longer recognized the man he had become, seeing him as "shrewd and also more stupid" than the person she knew at school. She reminded him of her unwavering support for his past aspirations but declared she could no longer help him with his current ambitions. When Lin Hao offered to change anything she disliked, Xia Yan challenged him to return everything he gained from Hao Jie, including the company.

Lin Hao vehemently refused, claiming he "earned it" and "won't let go of it." Seeing his lack of true remorse, Xia Yan concluded that despite her reluctance to let go of their seven years, she could not be with someone who lacked a clear conscience and whose actions she couldn't forget. She definitively told him there was no "us" anymore and asked him to leave.

After Lin Hao left Xia Yan's apartment, Zhao Xiaolei returned to the room where Xia Yan was, still upset about Lin Hao's attempt to reconcile. Xia Yan admonished Zhao Xiaolei for helping Lin Hao, remarking that she was responsible for eating the food she set out. Xia Yan questioned if Zhao Xiaolei would ever go back to her ex, Liu Yi Ming, if he returned. Zhao Xiaolei quickly replied that she wouldn't, agreeing with Xia Yan's stance.

Zhao Xiaolei apologized, explaining that she was softhearted and Lin Hao had helped her a lot during their school days, but she confirmed she had told Lin Hao this was the absolute last time she would assist him. Xia Yan told her not to apologize, simply asking that she understood her point. They then sat down to eat the prawns Lin Hao had made, finding them quite delicious.

At a performance venue, Huo Kai was informed by his bandmate, Leo, that their drummer, Xiao Peng, had been in a car accident and couldn't perform. Huo Kai suggested changing the program. He then took the stage and apologized to the audience for the absence of their drummer, explaining he would perform a solo song he wrote before forming the band. Many audience members were displeased, demanding rock and roll and their money back.

Just as the situation grew tense, Ma Xiangnan appeared on stage and skillfully took over the drums. Huo Kai, initially surprised, quickly adapted and began to sing. Later, at a celebration with the band, Huo Kai thanked Ma Xiangnan for saving their performance. Ma Xiangnan expressed that she enjoyed playing but couldn't continue as she had work commitments.

Huo Kai and his bandmates praised her drumming, with Huo Kai admitting he was surprised, as his aunt had mentioned Ma Xiangnan hadn't played instruments since middle school. Ma Xiangnan revealed that her father taught her, and she occasionally practices for relaxation, but keeps it a secret from her mother because anything related to her father upsets her. Huo Kai suggested she consider joining a band, given her talent, but she reiterated that drumming was only for her relaxation.

He then playfully accused her of being a secret fan, given how well she knew their songs. As a "reward," Huo Kai invited her to be a special guest drummer for a charity performance next month at the Jingxin Nursing Home in Xinzhou, noting he would be away for a month and she'd likely miss him. Ma Xiangnan declined and left.

After she departed, Huo Kai's bandmates teased him about Ma Xiangnan, calling her captivating and urging him to pursue her, but Huo Kai stated that he doesn't date. Mark visited Han Shuang's store. Finding her sleeping on a bed, he mischievously used his phone to play a loud sound, waking her abruptly. Before confronting her, he had complained to someone else about her treating his place like a hotel and wondered why no one could manage her.

He then scolded her for sleeping during working hours and her generally "unreliable" attitude. Han Shuang defended herself, explaining she worked a night shift. Mark then brought up their contract's Key Performance Indicators and offered an extension, but Han Shuang insisted she would meet them. Mark tried to engage her in a "conversation about life," questioning her lack of interest in dating or a stable job.

Han Shuang retorted that if he were "reliable," Ma Xiangnan might like him, advising him to sort himself out first. She emphasized that she lives authentically and that her friendship with Xia Yan thrives because Xia Yan understands her, unlike Mark, who is "exhausting." Han Shuang then left the store, ignoring Mark's reminders about her employment contract. Huo Kai later showed up at Ma Xiangnan's house, intending to make dumplings.

Ma Xiangnan was surprised by his presence, especially his attempt at making dumplings, which she playfully described as his "first masterpiece." He claimed he'd be an excellent chef if it were his dream. Huo Kai remarked that he felt they had known each other for a long time and that she understood him well, to which Ma Xiangnan responded that his thoughts were simple enough for anyone to understand.

Huo Kai explained his visit was to keep her mother company, emphasizing the value of family meals. Ma Xiangnan reminded him to keep her drumming a secret from her mother. Soon after, her mother returned. During dinner, Ma Xiangnan's mother doted on Huo Kai, offering him food despite Ma Xiangnan's protests about hygiene. Huo Kai then mischievously put wasabi in a dumpling, which Ma Xiangnan ate, prompting a playful exchange about secrets.

Huo Kai brought up the upcoming charity performance at Jingxin Nursing Home, mentioning Ma Xiangnan declined his invitation. Her mother, proud of her own singing achievements, enthusiastically volunteered to go instead. As Ma Xiangnan walked Huo Kai out after dinner, she thanked him for keeping her secret. She explained that her mother would cry whenever she saw a drum set in the past because it reminded her of Ma Xiangnan's late father, and they never spoke of him.

Huo Kai suggested that after so many years, her mother's feelings might have changed, recounting how her mother had fondly shared stories of Ma Xiangnan and her father with him, implying a desire to talk about him. He believed her mother would be happy to know she still played the drums. In a job interview, a company manager expressed great satisfaction with Han Shuang and was eager to hire her.

Han Shuang, however, presented a series of unconventional demands: flexible hours to get her beauty sleep and avoid rush hour traffic, and at least a month off each year for international travel. To her surprise, the manager agreed to all her requests, praising her potential and emphasizing the company's flexible culture. When pressed to sign a contract, Han Shuang stated that she simply didn't like the company, despite its bright, spacious office with French doors, and walked out.

The manager then revealed to a colleague that Han Shuang was the daughter of the Hualan Group's chairman, explaining their extraordinary willingness to accommodate her. Later, Han Shuang received a phone call from her mother, who was furious about her refusal to work. Han Shuang calmly told her mother that she knew what she wanted to do, and if her mother didn't want her to do it, she shouldn't bother with her.

Her mother threatened to cut off her financial support, to which Han Shuang politely responded, "Okay, thank you. Bye bye." Zhao Xiaolei's brother, Zhao Xiaojun, approached her to inquire about Lin Hao. Zhao Xiaolei spoke highly of Lin Hao, calling him the "Prince Charming" of their student union. She recounted how Lin Hao had encouraged her, a shy new student, to join the union and patiently taught her things when others wouldn't.

Zhao Xiaojun, observing her animated description, inferred that she was interested in Lin Hao. He suggested that since they were both single, they should pursue a relationship, praising Lin Hao's potential business success and noting he didn't have complicated personal entanglements like Zhao Xiaolei's ex, Fei Tian Ming, who had a child. Zhao Xiaolei quickly shut him down, clarifying that she only had respect for Lin Hao and that his recent visit was purely for Xia Yan.

She then warned her brother not to speak ill of Xia Yan. Meanwhile, Lin Hao secured a mortgage on his car. The lender reassured him that the car would remain his if he repaid the loan within six months, or he could apply for repayment in stages, noting their bank offered the lowest interest rates. Lin Hao appeared distressed as he signed the contract, reflecting internally that he couldn't give up what he had worked so hard to achieve.

After a meeting with Emmy, Xia Yan was picked up by a man, which Emmy later informed Xu Chengyi. Xu Chengyi, suspecting it might be Lin Hao, was visibly concerned. However, Xia Yan had been picked up by Yan Changjun. Yan Changjun led her to a building and presented her with an employment contract, offering her a director position in a new cloud operation and maintenance department at New Key Technology, complete with her own office.

He implied that he valued talent more than Xu Chengyi, who should have anticipated such a recruitment. Xia Yan politely declined the offer, explaining that she felt a debt of gratitude to Xu Chengyi for inviting her to SG Technology and genuinely enjoyed her current role and colleagues. She stated she would not proactively leave SG Technology as long as they wished for her to stay. Yan Changjun found her response "interesting."

Back at the office, Xu Chengyi confronted Xia Yan, noting that Emmy had reported on her meeting much earlier, implying he knew she had been gone for a long time. He sarcastically asked if she had used the extra hours to "clear things up," and told her to arrange a half-day leave with HR. Xia Yan, however, offered to treat him to dinner to discuss a "private matter." Xu Chengyi agreed.

During dinner, Xia Yan revealed she had met with Yan Changjun. Xu Chengyi expressed his displeasure, believing she shouldn't have gotten involved in the Confidante Planet project negotiations, which he considered his responsibility. He went on to explain Yan Changjun's ambition and the pressure from investors, reassuring her that he had his own plans for the project. Xia Yan then clarified that Yan Changjun had offered her a job at New Key Technology, which she had refused.

At that moment, Yan Changjun called Xia Yan's phone. Xu Chengyi took the phone, informed Yan Changjun that Xia Yan had other missions and would no longer be involved in their collaboration, and explicitly stated that Xia Yan would not be joining New Key Technology. Yan Changjun then directly asked Xu Chengyi if he liked Xia Yan. Xu Chengyi openly admitted, "I do like her," which visibly startled Xia Yan.

Xu Chengyi then warned Yan Changjun not to bother Xia Yan with any personal issues between them. As Xu Chengyi drove Xia Yan home, he presented her with a bracelet, which was her own lost bracelet. He explained that he had kept it in his wine cabinet because seeing her contagious smile, captured in the memory of their first meeting at the airport, gave him strength during his own struggles.

He confessed he should have returned it earlier and couldn't sleep until he did so. Xia Yan, calling it "just an old bracelet," suggested he keep it, but Xu Chengyi insisted she needed it more. He revealed that the bracelet had once been his "medicine" to help him move past a previous relationship, but now that he was "cured," he no longer needed it, especially since he could see "that girl" (Xia Yan) every day.

Xia Yan observed that Xu Chengyi had gotten angry twice that day, noting his "headstrong" behavior and calling him a "special" boss. Later, Han Shuang asked Ma Xiangnan to tell Mark to stop calling her, reminding him that their contract excused her from attendance. She threatened him if he continued. Xia Yan suggested that Mark might be in love with Han Shuang, but Han Shuang dismissed the idea.

Han Shuang then turned the conversation to Xia Yan, mentioning that Zhao Xiaolei had seen Xu Chengyi drive her home multiple times and speculating about the nature of their relationship. Xia Yan admitted that while nothing significant had happened, her attitude towards Xu Chengyi had changed; his flirting, which once gave her "goosebumps," now made her "heart beat a little faster." Han Shuang described this as the "flirting stage," where two people like each other but haven't defined the relationship.

Xia Yan, still uncertain, wondered if Xu Chengyi's current expressions were genuine, given his past "condescending" remarks. Han Shuang playfully made a suggestive comment about them needing a "bed," which Xia Yan found rather shocking.

Ma Ke confronted Han Shuang about dismantling the bar, asserting his authority as the boss and criticizing her frequent absences, which he claimed negatively impacted the store's image. Han Shuang retorted by suggesting a marketing campaign featuring a large poster of Ma Ke holding the "Dismantle" sign at the store entrance, referring to a popular image of him online. This made Ma Ke quickly back down.

He agreed to let her keep the bar, waived her clock-in requirement, and even offered to hire another girl to manage the bar, allowing Han Shuang to simply focus on his guests when she is present. Han Shuang apologized for her absences and then invited Ma Ke out for a drink as a gesture of goodwill. She led him to an empty, windy rooftop.

As Ma Ke questioned her choice of venue, she cryptically stated it was convenient and had "another advantage"—it was windy. She then locked him inside the cold, windy space, claiming it was a "surprise." Ma Ke, now trapped and cold, desperately apologized and promised not to dismantle the bar, pleading with her to open the door. Huo Kai and his band, with Ma Xiangnan playing drums, performed a charity concert at the Yangshan Senior Apartment.

Ma Xiangnan's mother arrived and encouraged her daughter to perform. Though some elderly attendees initially found the sound check confusing and loud, the main performance was well-received. Afterwards, Ma Xiangnan’s mother commended the teamwork and praised Huo Kai, implying her approval of him to Ma Xiangnan. She then told Ma Xiangnan to stay with Huo Kai to clean up and have dinner, declining to go home with her daughter and leaving with another elderly resident, Grandpa Zhang.

Huo Kai then prompted Ma Xiangnan to start packing up the equipment. Huo Kai drove Ma Xiangnan home. During the drive, Ma Xiangnan reflected on how she has overcome her past fears of loss after her father’s death and now openly pursues her passions. Huo Kai observed that despite this, her desire to travel and avoid staying in one place for too long indicated a fear of being tied down, which Ma Xiangnan acknowledged as perceptive.

Suddenly, Ma Xiangnan recalled Grandpa Zhang’s dizzy spell earlier and worried he might be having a stroke, urging Huo Kai to turn back to the nursing home. Upon arrival, a security guard refused them entry, citing non-visiting hours and questioning Ma Xiangnan’s credibility as a doctor given Huo Kai's previous mention of their band. Convinced of the emergency, Huo Kai and Ma Xiangnan scaled the wall to enter. They found Grandpa Zhang collapsed in his room.

Ma Xiangnan immediately called an ambulance, and Huo Kai assisted by opening a window, reassuring Grandpa Zhang that help is coming. Ma Xiangnan returned home late to find her mother looking through old photos of her deceased father. Ma Xiangnan asked if her drumming made her mother sad, but her mother reassured her, saying she had a great time and that Ma Xiangnan’s drumming reminds her of her father, making it feel like he is still with them.

Her mother explained that while she once found it painful to think of her husband, she now cherishes only happy memories of him. She admitted her previous reluctance to discuss him stemmed from a fear of making Ma Xiangnan sad, but Ma Xiangnan revealed her own fear was that her mother might forget him. Ma Xiangnan reassured her mother that their father lives on in their hearts.

They shared nostalgic and humorous memories from old photos, like Ma Xiangnan spilling noodles after her father insisted she eat independently, or him accidentally causing her to fall from a tricycle, with her mother fondly recalling how much he spoiled her. Huo Kai gifted Ma Xiangnan a medical hand cream, explaining it would protect her hands, which are exposed to disinfectants in her profession.

Ma Xiangnan updated him on Grandpa Zhang's recovery, expressing gratitude for his help in accessing the nursing home. Huo Kai revealed that Xinzhou is his hometown, and he regularly visits the elderly at the nursing home since he no longer has relatives there. He then announced his imminent departure for Africa, explaining that Grandpa Zhang's medical emergency reinforced his belief that life is short and one should travel while young and healthy.

Ma Xiangnan, however, highlighted the difference between brief visits and prolonged stays, implicitly preferring a more rooted life. Huo Kai proposed a future "appointment": if they ever grew tired of their current lifestyles, they should exchange them—he would settle down, and she would travel. Ma Xiangnan agreed to explore the world upon retirement, while Huo Kai vowed to settle only when he can no longer walk.

They shared a poignant farewell, acknowledging their contrasting paths: "Bye, Huo Kai, who is always on the road. Goodbye, Xiang Nan, who always stands her ground." Han Shuang met with her mother, Han Mingzhu, who criticized her busy schedule and dismissive attitude, contrasting Han Shuang with her own subordinates. Han Mingzhu suggested Han Shuang move back home, but Han Shuang declined, citing their differing schedules and jokingly calling her mother's large house "haunted."

Han Mingzhu then expressed disapproval of Han Shuang's job at a furniture store, questioning its seriousness for her daughter. Han Shuang defended her passion for the work, which her mother interpreted as a deliberate attempt to annoy her. When Han Shuang mentioned her unique selling method, live broadcasting, her mother dismissed it as "pornography or cheating" and questioned if Han Shuang was ashamed to be associated with it.

Offended, Han Shuang confronted her mother, accusing her of being narrow-minded, considering her "shameful," and trying to control her life. She asserted her independence, stating she was not her mother's doll. Han Mingzhu argued she was trying to help, but Han Shuang insisted she could manage on her own.

Her mother then revealed she knew Han Shuang had been staying in the family's hotel for free and that her salary could not cover the expenses, exposing that she had investigated her daughter. Infuriated, Han Shuang threw her credit card at her mother, vowing to pay her own bills and demanding an end to the surveillance. Han Shuang returned to the store after her argument with her mother.

Ma Ke, who had been released from Han Shuang’s blacklist, had prepared an elaborate setup with drinks and music, claiming it was a "special meal of gratitude" for her. He offered a sincere apology for his attempt to dismantle the bar, further explaining that her act of locking him on the cold rooftop led to a profound realization about her "caring" for him. He presented her with several elaborate cocktails, promising to dance "only for you."

However, the night took an unexpected turn when Ma Ke ended up severely drunk and nauseous, while Han Shuang remained completely sober. Han Shuang confronted him, correctly inferring he tried to exact revenge. Ma Ke confessed he initially planned to get her drunk and leave her in the cold, but later had a change of heart and decided to compete fairly in a drinking contest.

He then wildly exaggerated Han Shuang's drunken behavior, claiming she was "crazy the whole night," crying for her mother, and insisting on hugging him while falling asleep. Han Shuang denied these accusations, pointing to the store's cameras as proof. Ma Ke, still feeling ill, regretted his "kindness" for not leaving her outside.

He attempted to end their drunken standoff, but Han Shuang, enjoying her sobriety, insisted on continuing to drink and teach him the true meaning of "kindness," thoroughly intimidating Ma Ke, who recognized he could not outdrink her. Xia Yan declined her colleague Amy's invitation to go singing after work, explaining she must attend an award ceremony at Xinzhou Technological University where Yan Changjun was the presenter.

She noted the significance of the event, as it marked the first time Xu Chengyi and Yan Changjun, both alumni who had avoided each other since graduation, would appear together. Meanwhile, Xue Ning advised Xu Chengyi against attending the ceremony, warning of Yan Changjun's vengeful nature and potential ulterior motives due to the heavy media presence.

Xu Chengyi, however, asserted his decision to go, viewing it as an invitation from his alma mater and a strategic move to prevent Yan Changjun from slandering him, also acknowledging the importance of cooperating with NK. When Xue Ning offered to accompany him, Xu Chengyi declined, choosing Xia Yan instead, citing her prior experience and familiarity with Yan Changjun. This decision visibly angered Xue Ning, who then directed her subordinates to work overtime, making an exception for only one.

Upon arriving at the ceremony, Xu Chengyi and Xia Yan were immediately surrounded by reporters. After greeting Yan Changjun, they fielded questions about their past rivalry and potential collaborations. Yan Changjun skillfully deflected, emphasizing the focus should be on the students and promising answers during the ceremony. Xu Chengyi introduced Xia Yan as a key professional from SG’s Operations Department overseeing the upcoming "Confidante Planet" project, indicating her future prominence.

At the ODC International Programming Contest award ceremony, Yan Chang Jun took the stage. He began his speech by humbly stating he had nothing new to share, having already given a detailed industry talk a month prior. However, he mentioned the dean had urged him to speak again to broaden the students' horizons.

He then announced that an important person was in the audience: his junior schoolmate, Xu Cheng Yi, the CEO of SG Technology and the winner of the very first ODC gold award. Yan Chang Jun proposed that instead of him rambling, he and Xu Cheng Yi should have an on-the-spot competition to serve as practical learning for the students. The crowd responded enthusiastically, and Xu Cheng Yi was invited to the stage.

Watching the live broadcast on TV, Xue Ning immediately recognized Yan Chang Jun's move as a ploy to challenge Xu Cheng Yi. She instructed her subordinates, Maggie and Yoyo, to each draft a public announcement in preparation for Xu Cheng Yi's potential loss, emphasizing that winning was less important than being prepared for a defeat. She also told Amy to monitor online discussions and extract significant comments regarding the event.

Yan Chang Jun then revealed details about the upcoming "Confidante Planet" app, co-developed with SG Technology, and announced an extensive collaboration between NK Technology and SG Technology. Xu Cheng Yi agreed about the mutual benefits of such a partnership. Yan Chang Jun then suggested they use their competition to iron out "minor discrepancies" in their collaboration policies. He presented a challenge: if Xu Cheng Yi won, they would adopt SG's collaboration plan, and NK would provide funding for "Confidante Planet."

If Yan Chang Jun won, they would follow his plan, with an additional requirement: Xia Yan, an outstanding operations talent at SG Technology who led the "Confidante Planet" project, would join NK Technology in a leading role. Yan Chang Jun emphasized that in the 21st century, the fight was for talent. Xia Yan, sitting in the audience, immediately stood up and objected.

Yan Chang Jun tried to reassure her, saying she would still manage "Confidante Planet" at NK Technology and that her move would benefit both companies. He even provocatively questioned if she lacked confidence in Xu Cheng Yi. However, Xu Cheng Yi firmly refused the challenge, stating that SG Technology also highly valued its employees and he would not risk losing such an outstanding talent in a bet.

Observing this turn of events on television, Xue Ning looked visibly disheartened, and those around her noticed her disappointment. On their way back from the event, Xia Yan asked Xu Cheng Yi why he had been so quiet. She questioned his refusal to compete, admitting her own opposition had been impulsive.

Xia Yan worried that finding another partner for "Confidante Planet" would be difficult, as NK Technology was the most suitable collaborator and the app was due to launch in a week. Xu Cheng Yi explained that from SG Technology's perspective, they had already profited from the pre-launch marketing generated by Yan Chang Jun. He clarified that Yan Chang Jun would have collaborated with SG Technology regardless, driven by market demand; the only variable was the business plan.

By refusing to compete, Xu Cheng Yi forced Yan Chang Jun to take the initiative in contract negotiations, securing more favorable terms for SG Technology. Xia Yan wondered if this whole scenario was a collaboration between the two men to deceive everyone. Xu Cheng Yi confirmed that Yan Chang Jun benefited too, as NK Technology was seeking financing and preparing to relist on the stock market.

Xia Yan pressed him, asking if Yan Chang Jun was so confident in Xu Cheng Yi's refusal because of some past event. Xu Cheng Yi responded that everything he said on stage was genuinely true, indicating his sincerity about not wanting to lose Xia Yan. He then informed her that he would be away on a business trip to America for about a week, reassuring her not to worry about the fallout from the day's events, promising, "I'm here.

I won't let you face it alone." Xia Yan later reflected on Xu Cheng Yi’s words, feeling a deeper connection with him. Meanwhile, Xue Ning summoned Cai Xin, a talent signed by SG Technology. Xue Ning informed Cai Xin that her contract was being terminated due to a report of her privately accepting an advertisement from a small company without approval and publishing false propaganda on "Show Me."

Cai Xin admitted to the ad and offered to return the money, delete the vlog, handle PR, or post an apology, pleading for the contract not to be terminated. Xue Ning then added that Cai Xin was also reported for falsely inflating expenses, showing her an inconsistent invoice and spending record. Cai Xin questioned the accusation, dismissing the amount as trivial and asking for evidence.

She then asserted that Xia Yan had helped pay for most of her expenses and could prove her innocence. Xue Ning then revealed that it was Xia Yan who had reported Cai Xin for violating the rules regarding private work. The next morning, Xia Yan arrived at the office to find everyone there unusually early.

Amy explained that after witnessing Xu Cheng Yi's actions towards Xia Yan the previous night, Xue Ning's mood had been terrible, prompting everyone to arrive early to avoid her wrath. At a team meeting, Xue Ning announced that Xia Yan had ranked first in the internal promotion interviews and would soon be promoted to supervisor, commending her outstanding results despite her short tenure and encouraging others to learn from her.

Maggie, one of Xia Yan's colleagues, felt disheartened, but Xia Yan tried to reassure her that their scores were only one point apart. Shortly after, Li Jing from the Internal Investigation Department arrived and asked to speak with Xia Yan about some financial irregularities related to Cai Xin's accounts, which Xia Yan had managed. Li Jing stated that Cai Xin had reported Xia Yan, accusing her of instructing her to submit falsified accounts and split the income.

Xia Yan denied the charges, asking for evidence and calling it "fabricated slander." Li Jing presented records of four transfers totaling over ¥14,000 from Cai Xin to Xia Yan. Xia Yan explained these were repayments for items she had paid for with her own card, insisting that Cai Xin had indeed purchased the items. Li Jing also brought up Xia Yan's father's recent surgery, implying financial difficulties.

Xia Yan confirmed the surgery but stated she had sufficient savings and would never resort to such dishonest means. Li Jing questioned why Cai Xin would harm both her own and Xia Yan's reputation if the accusations were false, especially after posting about it online. Xia Yan maintained her innocence, insisting that the investigation would reveal the truth.

Li Jing informed her that a full investigation would be launched, emphasizing the importance of public opinion for a listed company like SG Technology. Xia Yan reiterated her denial, stating she would not admit to something she didn't do. Li Jing warned that if the company couldn't find evidence to refute Cai Xin's claims within 72 hours, legal action would be pursued. Xia Yan tried to call Cai Xin, but her phone was off.

Seeing Xue Ning watching her from her office, Xia Yan recalled previous incidents where Xue Ning seemed to be targeting her, suspecting Xue Ning might be orchestrating the current situation. Xue Ning called Xia Yan into her office, leaving the door open. She demanded to know why Xia Yan hadn't informed her about Cai Xin's report, dismissing Xia Yan's explanation that the investigation department had asked for confidentiality.

Xue Ning asserted that Xia Yan, as her subordinate, should report all issues to her immediately, even if Xu Cheng Yi had requested secrecy. She warned Xia Yan about the severe consequences this matter could have for both her and Xu Cheng Yi. Xue Ning urged Xia Yan to resign at once, promising to suppress the matter for her. Xia Yan firmly denied any wrongdoing.

Xue Ning retorted that verbal denial was insufficient, demanding proof of being framed; otherwise, the entire operations department and SG Technology would face humiliation. She warned that further investigation could lead to legal proceedings, and potentially to the public security bureau. Xia Yan countered, suggesting Xue Ning should be more concerned about the consequences, as the receipts in question had passed through Xue Ning's hands as well.

She accused Xue Ning of risking her own professional reputation just to force her out of SG Technology. Xue Ning dismissed Xia Yan, stating they would soon discover the truth, and then angrily told Xia Yan to leave. Shortly after, Xia Yan received messages from Amy confirming that Cai Xin was unreachable, had moved, and was rumored to be signing with NK Technology.

Xia Yan immediately set out to find Cai Xin, also sending a message to Xu Cheng Yi about her predicament. Xu Cheng Yi, in America, then called Xue Ning to inquire about the investigation. Xue Ning explained that an influencer had reported falsified accounts handled by Xia Yan, accusing Xia Yan of instructing her to create them. Xu Cheng Yi quickly dismissed the accusation, stating Xia Yan would never do such a thing.

Xue Ning insisted she couldn't be sure and that they should await the investigation results. She deflected Xu Cheng Yi's concern, telling him to focus on his forum, calling the matter trivial, and reiterating that the investigation department would handle it within 72 hours. Xu Cheng Yi acknowledged her words.

Xu Cheng Yi then instructed his assistant to book a flight for him to return early the next morning, despite having a scheduled speech on the Sedop algorithm and important client meetings requested by the chairman. He moved the client meetings to that same evening, prioritizing his return. He then called Xia Yan, reassuring her that he believed in her and urging her not to feel pressured.

He promised to be back soon and vowed not to let her face the situation alone. Next, Xu Cheng Yi called Yan Chang Jun, inquiring about Cai Xin and her potential signing with NK Technology. Yan Chang Jun confirmed Cai Xin was negotiating with his company and had told him the "truth." Xu Cheng Yi then asked Yan Chang Jun for a favor.

Yan Chang Jun, surprised by Xu Cheng Yi's request, demanded that Xu Cheng Yi publicly apologize for "betraying" him and "privately selling" the software they had co-developed years ago. Xu Cheng Yi flatly refused, and Yan Chang Jun ended the call. Xia Yan, however, met with Yan Chang Jun shortly after. Yan Chang Jun offered her a contract for collaboration with NK Technology, but Xia Yan instead asked for his help in finding Cai Xin.

Yan Chang Jun expressed skepticism, believing Cai Xin, who intended to frame her, wouldn't easily give up. Xia Yan insisted she still wanted to try. Impressed by her determination, Yan Chang Jun noted her unwavering confidence. He then offered his help on the condition that after completing the first season of their collaboration, Xia Yan would join NK Technology.

Xia Yan refused this condition, even as Yan Chang Jun warned of the lasting damage this scandal could inflict on her career if not properly handled. Xia Yan asserted that as long as she worked hard, she would have a clear conscience regardless of the outcome. Yan Chang Jun, intrigued by her resolve, then gave her Cai Xin's new address, telling her not to disappoint him.

Xia Yan found Cai Xin, who was arguing with her boyfriend over a parking ticket. Xia Yan attempted to talk to Cai Xin, showing her the receipts she had collected from stores, proving that Cai Xin had indeed purchased the items Xia Yan had paid for. She urged Cai Xin to clarify the matter with the company to avoid legal consequences. Cai Xin's boyfriend intervened, dismissing Xia Yan's concerns and insulting her. Just then, Lin Hao arrived.

Outraged by the boyfriend's words, Lin Hao confronted him, demanding an apology. A fight ensued. Xia Yan desperately tried to stop them, telling Lin Hao that violence was not the answer and that his actions were for his own ego, not for her. She told him not to seek her out again. Lin Hao, agitated, then revealed his deeper insecurities, explaining that he had pursued graduate school in Beijing to become stronger than her, to prove he was not inferior.

He expressed resentment that she would ask him to abandon his hard-won achievements in Beijing to return to Xinzhou. He also misinterpreted her offer to buy him a car as a condescending gesture, believing she viewed him as a "free driver." He accused her of abandoning him like a "rag" after meeting Xu Cheng Yi and lamented feeling unworthy to even associate with her friends.

Xia Yan, realizing how deeply she had misunderstood Lin Hao during their seven years together, found him "beyond reason." Despite his desperate pleas for another chance, Xia Yan firmly told him, "There is no 'us' anymore." Meanwhile, Xu Cheng Yi held his client meeting. He explained the concept of their Sedop algorithm but stated it was still under confidentiality and could not be demonstrated or officially released.

The guests, who had heard rumors that SG Technology planned to sell the algorithm, were surprised and questioned how he intended to sell it if it remained confidential. Xu Cheng Yi clarified that while they had been developing the algorithm for six years, they were not in a hurry to sell it. Their immediate goal was to understand the clients' views and expectations regarding the algorithm, without disclosing specific details.

Zhao Xiaolei discovered that Lin Hao, her senior, had blocked her number after a recent phone call. Worried he might do something drastic, potentially even commit suicide, given his company's current struggles and his distressed state, she and her younger brother, Zhao Xiaojun, rushed to his apartment. After knocking repeatedly without a response, Zhao Xiaojun went to check with the property manager.

Once he was gone, Lin Hao finally opened the door, revealing he had been in a fight and injured his waist, making it difficult for him to get out of bed. Zhao Xiaolei, seeing his injuries, offered to make him some food. Lin Hao explained that he had fought a man he saw yelling at Xia Yan, but Xia Yan had not appreciated his intervention.

Instead, she had scolded him for interfering and then told him to stop contacting Zhao Xiaolei, which led him to block Zhao Xiaolei's number. He apologized for causing her to misunderstand. Zhao Xiaolei reassured him, stating that Xia Yan wasn't the kind of person to get angry about her taking care of him, especially since he was badly hurt. She believed Xia Yan might have misunderstood the situation and would calm down and eventually come to see him.

As she made him noodles, Zhao Xiaolei asked if Xia Yan had contacted him after his injury. Lin Hao sadly replied that she hadn't, but urged Zhao Xiaolei not to blame Xia Yan, insisting his actions were his own choice. He expressed that he didn't blame anyone and just wanted to cherish his past years with Xia Yan as a beautiful memory.

He then tearfully requested that Zhao Xiaolei not tell Xia Yan about her visit, to avoid causing any more trouble for her. During her workday, Xia Yan was instructed by Xue Ning to organize and archive her computer data and hand over all physical documents to Maggie, as she was an SG employee "for now." Soon after, internal investigation staff arrived to take Xia Yan to an office for questioning.

They informed her that the investigation results were unfavorable, her accounts were incomplete, and the additional material she provided couldn't definitively prove she hadn't manipulated accounts. With the 72-hour deadline approaching, they suggested her best option was to resign voluntarily for personal reasons, promising to appease Cai Xin if she complied.

Xia Yan refused to resign, arguing it would be an admission of guilt, but the investigators pressed her, warning that refusing would lead to her termination, public discredit, and a potential lawsuit for "tens of millions" in economic and reputational losses. An attorney further explained that this could force her to work for 30 years to pay off indemnities, and her family would also be implicated.

They urged her to reconsider, offering a chance to change her and her family's fate if she signed the resignation application by 5 PM. Alone in the office, Xia Yan contemplated the severe consequences. She briefly called her mother, but quickly hung up, claiming she had dialed the wrong number, to avoid worrying her.

As the deadline approached, the investigators returned, intensifying their pressure by suggesting that her refusal could also implicate President Xu, who recruited her and entrusted her with projects, potentially ruining his long-standing career over a minor past oversight. Visibly distressed, Xia Yan picked up the pen to sign the resignation application but then, with a sudden surge of resolve, tore up the document. She firmly declared that she would not resign or admit to a charge she never committed.

In response, the investigators officially notified her of her dismissal, instructing her to complete the HR process the following morning. As they left, one of them received a call about Cai Xin's arrival, signaling a new development. Returning to her office, Xia Yan began to pack her belongings, observed by her sympathetic colleagues. Meanwhile, Xue Ning also received news of Ms. Cai's unexpected arrival at the company.

Just as Xia Yan was about to leave, the investigation staff intercepted her, delivering surprising news: Ms. Cai had come forward, admitted her mistake, and confirmed Xia Yan's innocence in the matter. They clarified that no dismissal notice had been issued and Xia Yan was not fired. They further explained that Xue Ning, having known the truth but failing to intervene, was deemed derelict in her duty and had voluntarily resigned.

The entire issue was successfully settled within the 72-hour timeframe, and Xia Yan was instructed to rest that day and return to work the next. Overwhelmed with relief, Xia Yan then received a phone call from Xu Chengyi. He informed her that he was back from his trip, currently at the airport, and asked her to meet him at King's Restaurant. Xia Yan immediately burst into tears of relief and joy, then quickly headed out to meet him.

On her way, she saw Xu Chengyi's car crashed into a roadside barrier. He had been rushing to meet her but was distracted by a phone call from Ling Wei, who announced her return to China and intention to see him soon. Despite his bleeding head from the crash, Xu Chengyi, hearing Xia Yan call his name, endured the pain and ran towards a pedestrian bridge.

They finally met there, and Xia Yan embraced him, pouring out all her pent-up emotions. Xu Chengyi, seeing her distress, apologized for not being by her side during the investigation, reiterating his promise to never let her face challenges alone. He vowed to clear her name, even if it meant his own resignation. Xia Yan, however, assured him that everything had already been resolved.

Overjoyed by this news, Xu Chengyi confessed his feelings, telling her he had liked her since their first meeting at the airport. He admitted to trying to deny his feelings for a while, initially focusing on helping her leave her previous relationship, but realized he couldn't treat her as just a colleague. He deeply regretted not confessing sooner, thinking she would have confided in him during her recent troubles if they had been together.

He then asked her to let him accompany her through all future joys and sorrows. Moved by his words, Xia Yan leaned in and kissed him, solidifying their new relationship. The next morning, Xia Yan and Xu Chengyi lay in bed, reflecting on their newfound relationship. Xia Yan confessed that she initially found him annoying, but her feelings began to change when he took her father to the hospital and provided constant support and comfort.

She realized then that he made her feel at ease, and she liked having him by her side. She also admitted that hearing him say he "couldn't afford to lose" her in front of many people solidified her feelings. When Xu Chengyi expressed his boundless love for her (gesturing with an infinity sign), Xia Yan playfully responded, showing a small space with her hands, but added that her heart, though "this big," was entirely filled with him.

Xu Chengyi got up early to prepare breakfast. When he returned to the bedroom, he affectionately woke Xia Yan with a kiss, despite her playful protests about not having washed up yet. During breakfast, Xu Chengyi confirmed that the "Confidante Planet" project was ready for launch. He suggested that Xia Yan take over Xue Ning's former responsibilities, urging her to manage the crucial aspects and delegate other tasks, learning not to shoulder every burden herself.

Xia Yan continued to address him as "President Xu" in a professional setting, to which he playfully questioned what she would call him at home. Meanwhile, Ma Ke encountered Han Shuang with her extensive luggage, humorously remarking on her being "driven out of the hotel" after a significant fight with her family. He poked fun at her "hedonistic, live-in-the-moment lifestyle."

Han Shuang initially proposed staying in Ma Ke's furniture store, citing slow business, but he rejected the idea, fearing she would scare away customers. Instead, he offered her the empty guest room at his house until she found a suitable place. Han Shuang, despite her initial protests about being "demanding when it comes to living space," readily accepted. Soon after, movers arrived to transport all her belongings to Ma Ke's home.

After a busy moving day, Ma Ke was exhausted by the sheer volume of Han Shuang’s belongings. Han Shuang, however, felt his home was too cluttered with "lousy toys" and demanded he discard them to make room for her things. Ma Ke refused, explaining that his collection of clivia miniata, cactus, and small daisy pots were precious mementos of flowers he had cherished, embodying years of companionship in his heart, even if the flowers themselves were no longer there.

Han Shuang teased him about his inability to keep plants alive, boasting about her grandmother's successful hydrangea, but Ma Ke sternly forbade her from attempting to grow his favorite flower, accusing her of "murdering" them. Han Shuang then declared the room to be hers and instructed Ma Ke to buy two boxes of face masks, treating him like her personal assistant. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiaojun tried to convince his sister, Zhao Xiaolei, to pursue Lin Hao.

He showed off a new phone, claiming Lin Hao had bought it for him, suggesting it was a sign of Lin Hao's affection for Zhao Xiaolei. Zhao Xiaolei was hesitant, citing Lin Hao's long history with Xia Yan as a reason it would be awkward. Zhao Xiaojun dismissed her concerns, arguing that her friends didn't truly prioritize her happiness and that she shouldn't sacrifice her own for others.

He called her foolish for valuing her friends' opinions over her own potential happiness, asserting that if she gave up on her joy for them, her head must be "filled with water." At the office, as Xue Ning prepared to leave, an awkward silence fell over the department. Xu Cheng Yi arrived with Xia Yan and directed Xia Yan to head to her desk while he spoke with Xue Ning. Back at their desks, colleagues discussed Xue Ning’s departure.

Amy remarked that Xue Ning's wrongdoings had finally caught up to her, stating that "good and evil will be recompensed." Another colleague, Meiqi, speculated that Xue Ning's resignation was due to her reluctance to see Xia Yan and Xu Cheng Yi together, or perhaps because she was being courted by other companies given the success of "Show Me." She even suggested that Xia Yan might be considered for Xue Ning's vacant position.

On the rooftop, Xu Cheng Yi confronted Xue Ning, acknowledging her resignation. He criticized her actions as "too far" and "stupid," explaining that he wouldn't forgive her. Xue Ning defended herself, claiming her actions stemmed from his change after Xia Yan joined the company, believing he had become "frivolous" and lost his distinction between public and private interests.

She revealed she had even had someone tell Xia Yan that if she didn't resign, Xu Cheng Yi would face bad luck, but Xia Yan remained "unmoved," which Xue Ning attributed to Xia Yan being similar to Ling Wei. Xu Cheng Yi clarified that Xue Ning misunderstood Xia Yan, asserting that Xia Yan would never harm others to achieve her goals.

He explained that Xia Yan's refusal to resign was a stance against compromising with those who had "ulterior motives," as resigning would imply their guilt. Xue Ning then asked if they were "already together," to which Xu Cheng Yi confirmed they were. He criticized Xue Ning's management philosophy of intimidation and "last-place elimination," arguing that true potential is unleashed by passion, not fear.

Xue Ning, in turn, called him a "fool whose head is muddled with love" and expressed her regret for having followed him for so many years. Back in the office, Xu Cheng Yi gathered the team to announce Xue Ning's resignation and that he would temporarily oversee the Operations Department. He declared that "Confidante Planet" would officially launch at daybreak and that Xia Yan would now be formally responsible for all matters related to the project.

He urged everyone to focus on the launch and not be distracted by personnel changes. Later, Lin Hao and Zhao Xiaolei were talking. Lin Hao confided in her about his difficulty moving on from his past relationship, comparing himself to someone lost in a desert. He expressed gratitude for Zhao Xiaolei, calling her a "constant and warm" presence in his world.

Just then, Zhao Xiaolei received a phone call from Zhao Xiaojun, who frantically reported that a crowd had gathered at their company demanding Lin Hao return money, fearing he had "absconded." Zhao Xiaolei reassured her brother that Lin Hao was with her and ended the call, promising to deal with the situation. As midnight approached, critical problems arose with "Confidante Planet" just before its scheduled launch.

Xu Cheng Yi rushed to address the issue, instructing everyone to put all their effort into ensuring a timely launch. Amidst the chaos, Ling Wei unexpectedly arrived at the company, announcing that she had been invited by the chairman to temporarily fill the director's position in the Operations Department following Xue Ning’s sudden resignation. Xu Cheng Yi, recognizing her expertise in finding bugs, immediately enlisted her help.

Xia Yan, seeing Ling Wei, felt a pang of unease, recalling seeing Ling Wei's photo at Xu Cheng Yi's home. She asked Amy to prepare midnight snacks for the team. When they returned, Xu Cheng Yi and Ling Wei were deeply engrossed in their work, oblivious to their surroundings.

Xia Yan noticed Xu Cheng Yi was developing a headache and went to get an ice pack, but Ling Wei had already retrieved one and was gently applying it to his head, leaving Xia Yan feeling a silent frustration. With Ling Wei’s swift help, a new program segment was written and the bug was resolved, much to everyone’s relief.

Xu Cheng Yi then dismissed the operations department for rest, introduced Ling Wei to Xia Yan and Emmy, and then left with Ling Wei for breakfast. During breakfast, Ling Wei expressed her satisfaction with their efficient collaboration, noting their shared mentor and similar thinking patterns.

She revealed that her move to SG Technology was not connected to him; the company had approached her months prior about a different role, and then offered her the director position upon her decision to return to China. She admitted contacting him to gauge his feelings. Xu Cheng Yi welcomed her return to China’s burgeoning internet industry but expressed "reservations" about her joining SG Technology, particularly the operations department, which he believed was not suitable for her.

Ling Wei then asked if he still harbored any "grudges" from their past. Xu Cheng Yi frankly admitted he once did, but stated that it was "the past" and that he had since moved on, having found a "new relationship." When Ling Wei asked if he had a girlfriend, he openly revealed it was Xia Yan, and Ling Wei congratulated him, calling Xia Yan a "nice girl."

Ling Wei then shared that she, too, had a new boyfriend after a recent divorce. She reflected on her nostalgic nature, preferring "acquainted people" over "new clothes," but Xu Cheng Yi countered that persistence eventually turns any new acquaintance into a familiar one. After their conversation, they both returned to work. Later, Xia Yan returned to find Han Shuang fuming over Xue Ning's past scheme, vowing revenge if she ever saw her.

Zhao Xiaolei was engrossed in revising her brother Zhao Xiaojun’s monthly work summary. Xia Yan gently admonished Zhao Xiaolei not to constantly protect her brother, reminding her that everyone must be responsible for their own life and that Zhao Xiaojun didn't seem to appreciate her efforts.

Han Shuang suddenly twisted her waist, and when Zhao Xiaolei tried to apply ice, Han Shuang refused, explaining that hot compress was needed instead, and insisted she couldn't go to the hospital because she needed to maintain her makeup, proclaiming, "If you have the heart, the whole world is the red carpet!" Meanwhile, Han Shuang returned home and confronted her mother, asserting her independence and that she was no longer staying in a hotel.

Her mother, however, had already discovered that Han Shuang had moved into a man’s house and chastised her for her lack of "self-respect and self-love," especially when she had her own home. Han Shuang angrily accused her mother of invading her privacy, of never showing genuine maternal care beyond professional reports and assistant notifications, and of failing to teach her what love was. Frustrated, Han Shuang stormed off, leaving her mother exasperated.

While Han Shuang was in her room using her computer, Ma Ke secretly turned off the electricity, causing her to fall from the bed in fright. Ma Ke rushed in to comfort her and massage her foot. He soon discovered Han Shuang had faked her injury, which surprised them both. This playful interaction made Ma Ke realize he enjoyed their time together and he began to develop feelings for her.

Later, Ma Ke found Han Shuang drinking alone at her store, intending to sleep there. He tried to persuade her to go home, but Han Shuang explained that she hadn't had a real home since she was six years old, after her grandmother, who taught her "wherever your people are, that's your home," passed away. Her parents, whom she described as "two strangers," were indifferent and constantly moved due to her mother's desire to compete with her father.

She preferred hotels because she could escape their fighting and wake up feeling clean and refreshed the next day. When Ma Ke suggested they were a family since they lived together, Han Shuang clarified that a house isn't necessarily a home, reiterating her grandmother's words. Ma Ke then vowed that if she wouldn't go home, neither would he, offering to stay with her at the store. Touched by his sincerity, Han Shuang kissed him, and they embraced.

The next morning, Ma Ke woke up, kissed the sleeping Han Shuang, and left a note saying, "Darling, I'm on duty today. See you later. I love you. Wait for me." before quietly leaving. However, Han Shuang awoke shortly after and called out to him, firmly stating that as adults, their encounter was consensual and he shouldn't expect her to take responsibility or "get all weird."

Hearing her words, Ma Ke, who had hoped to continue their relationship, was discouraged and secretly tore up the note he had left, taking the pieces with him. Meanwhile, Ling Wei held a company meeting, where she announced Xia Yan's promotion to manager of the operations department. Xia Yan would continue to oversee "Confidante Planet." Ling Wei also supported Xia Yan's proposal to eliminate the previous strict elimination system, which was met with enthusiasm from the team.

Xu Cheng Yi invited Xia Yan to lunch to celebrate her promotion and the launch of "Confidante Planet," but he had to cancel due to an urgent matter. Soon after, Xia Yan received a call from Yan Chang Jun, who wanted to discuss "Confidante Planet." As Xia Yan was getting into a car for her meeting, she saw Xu Cheng Yi leaving with Ling Wei.

During their meeting, Yan Chang Jun insisted that Xia Yan report any and all changes, including personnel shifts, arguing that changing a director just before an app launch could harm morale and project progress. Xia Yan suspected he was asking her to spy on Xu Cheng Yi and Ling Wei, but Yan Chang Jun denied it, framing it as "mutual information exchange."

He warned Xia Yan about Ling Wei, describing her as a formidable woman who left a promising career abroad for something more significant in China, implying she had ulterior motives. He stated that Ling Wei surpassed Xia Yan in knowledge, ability, and experience, suggesting that only by cooperating with him could Xia Yan secure her relationship with Xu Cheng Yi. However, Xia Yan refused to betray her company's information or use underhanded tactics to protect her relationship.

She politely ended the meeting, advising Yan Chang Jun to inform her of discussion topics in advance to avoid unauthorized absences from work. Later, Han Shuang met Ma Xiangnan for dessert and confessed that she and Ma Ke had slept together, not just once. Ma Xiangnan was unfazed. Han Shuang subtly tried to gauge if Ma Ke had expressed any strong feelings for her to Ma Xiangnan, but Ma Xiangnan simply told her to ask Ma Ke directly.

Back at the office, Xia Yan encountered Ling Wei, who asked if Yan Chang Jun had mentioned her. Xia Yan hesitated, and Ling Wei, understanding the unspoken, told her not to answer. Ling Wei acknowledged that Xia Yan likely knew about her past relationships with both Yan Chang Jun and Xu Cheng Yi, but she added that Xu Cheng Yi had also informed her about his relationship with Xia Yan, and she extended her sincere wishes for their happiness.

As they entered the elevator, Xia Yan's bag became jammed in the closing doors, with the strap tightening around her neck. Ling Wei quickly reacted, pulling the strap until it broke, saving Xia Yan but injuring her own hand. Xu Cheng Yi, arriving shortly after, immediately took Xia Yan to the hospital for a check-up. Although Xia Yan was declared fine, Xu Cheng Yi was visibly upset, blaming himself for not protecting her.

Xia Yan reassured him, expressing gratitude for Ling Wei's quick actions and concluding that Ling Wei was a good person who wouldn't cause problems for them. Xu Cheng Yi then asked Xia Yan to move in with him. Xia Yan, however, felt it was too soon, citing concerns about dating her boss and the added complication of her direct supervisor being Xu Cheng Yi's ex-girlfriend.

She admitted to feeling a little apprehensive about Ling Wei's sudden reappearance, but after Ling Wei saved her life, she was sure Ling Wei was a good person and wouldn't cause trouble. Xu Cheng Yi playfully insisted she could only think about growing old together. Meanwhile, Ling Wei met Yan Chang Jun at a bar, her hand visibly bandaged from the elevator incident. Yan Chang Jun revealed he knew about her ex-husband's company's bankruptcy.

Ling Wei speculated he was still angry about her choosing Xu Cheng Yi in the past or their decision to sell their software. Yan Chang Jun clarified that while he had moved past the romantic feelings, he still believed selling their software was a mistake, as he envisioned developing it into a major success.

Yan Chang Jun then accused Ling Wei of lying to Xu Cheng Yi about their software's future, claiming she promised it would be developed further to gain his support for the sale. Ling Wei denied lying, asserting that Xu Cheng Yi wasn't that naive then and she genuinely hadn't lied.

Their discussion continued, highlighting their fundamental differences in business philosophy; Ling Wei argued they lacked resources to compete with large companies, whereas Yan Chang Jun countered that big companies often buy out smaller ones to eliminate competition, and many small companies have indeed triumphed over large ones. Yan Chang Jun sternly warned Ling Wei not to interfere with his plans, stating his collaboration with Xu Cheng Yi was a matter of necessity, as he had no alternative.

Ling Wei, stating she came just to talk about old times, dismissed his suspicions and promised to make him "see her in a new light." Later that evening, Xu Cheng Yi drove Xia Yan home and stayed for a while. Han Shuang was surprised to realize Xia Yan and Xu Cheng Yi were now officially together. Zhao Xiaolei, however, expressed reservations about Xu Cheng Yi.

Ma Ke arrived, and upon learning Xu Cheng Yi was there, started to go greet him, but Han Shuang quickly pulled him back and instructed him to help in the kitchen instead. Han Shuang confirmed to Zhao Xiaolei that Xia Yan hadn't been home for two nights, implying she had been staying with Xu Cheng Yi. Han Shuang, still playing games with Ma Ke, revealed her intention to make him confess his feelings, only to reject him afterwards.

After preparing dinner, Han Shuang urged Xia Yan to formally introduce Xu Cheng Yi to everyone. Xu Cheng Yi took the initiative, introducing himself as Xia Yan's boyfriend. Mark, observing the exchange, felt that Xu Cheng Yi was incredibly fortunate to have found such a good woman, a sentiment he lamented not sharing. Han Shuang, however, quickly warned Mark against interrupting.

Xu Cheng Yi then eloquently shared their story, recalling how he first met Xia Yan three years ago during a dark period in his life. He described her as a "little sun" who helped him overcome his depression, expressing his gratitude for having met such a girl and his determination not to lose her again. He promised to take on the responsibility of protecting her, assuring her friends that they could entrust Xia Yan to him.

Despite his heartfelt words, Han Shuang sternly warned Xu Cheng Yi that if he ever hurt Xia Yan, she and their friends would hold him accountable. Mark inquired about Xia Yan's neck injury. Xia Yan explained that she was in an elevator when her bag got caught in the closing doors, causing the strap to choke her. Fortunately, Ling Wei saved her.

Mark, recognizing the name Ling Wei, expressed apprehension for Xia Yan's future, an opinion that quickly sparked a playful disagreement with Han Shuang. Later, in the kitchen, Mark questioned Xu Cheng Yi about Ling Wei's unexpected return. Xu Cheng Yi admitted he was also shocked when she contacted him, confessing that the surprise even led him to get into a car accident after her call. Meanwhile, Ma Xiangnan also discussed Ling Wei with Xia Yan, suspecting potential complications.

Xia Yan revealed that Ling Wei was Xu Cheng Yi's ex-girlfriend. Xia Yan initially viewed Ling Wei as someone who had betrayed others, believing she was long gone from Xu Cheng Yi's life. However, after working with Ling Wei, Xia Yan found her to be exceptionally capable and a strong professional collaborator with Xu Cheng Yi. Ling Wei's forthright character and long history with Xu Cheng Yi made Xia Yan feel inferior, worrying if Xu Cheng Yi might compare them.

Ma Xiangnan reassured Xia Yan, affirming that she was unique and excellent in her own way. Mark sought out Ma Xiangnan to discuss Han Shuang. Mark confessed that while he feels like a "mouse seeing a cat" around Han Shuang, he also misses her intensely when they are apart, experiencing a racing heart and a dazed state, feeling as if he's "falling into a little whirlpool of love."

He explained that Han Shuang had recently moved into his house and he was unsure how to navigate their dynamic. Ma Xiangnan, who had already heard from Han Shuang about their intimacy, teased Mark about his newfound embarrassment. She then offered sincere advice, encouraging him to treat Han Shuang well and expressing her hope that their relationship would work out, believing it was a good decision for both of them.

Lin Hao invited Zhao Xiaolei out for dinner, presenting her with flowers for Teachers' Day, acknowledging her dream of becoming a teacher. They discussed Zhao Xiaolei's academic aspirations, her desire to pursue further studies, and her family's financial situation. Lin Hao encouraged her to persist in achieving her dreams and offered his support if she encountered any difficulties. Zhao Xiaolei then cautiously shared that Xia Yan was now dating Xu Cheng Yi.

Lin Hao was visibly shocked, trembling and accidentally spilling juice on Zhao Xiaolei's clothes. After Zhao Xiaolei went to clean up, Lin Hao quickly wrote a message on a card and placed it with the flowers. When she returned, he congratulated Xia Yan but then made a heartfelt confession to Zhao Xiaolei.

He explained that he had realized over the years that she was the one he truly liked, elaborating that what he needed was "not a soldier," but rather "a gesture of comfort, a gentle look, a bowl of steaming porridge, and a girl who believes in him." He then asked Zhao Xiaolei to be his girlfriend, urging her to read the card. The card read: "To Xiao Lei: Thanks for your company during yesterday's haze.

I'd like to bathe in tomorrow's sunshine with you. Lin Hao." Zhao Xiaolei was taken aback and hesitant. She suggested they could be friends but couldn't be his girlfriend, proposing they stop contacting each other. Lin Hao agreed to her suggestion of starting as friends and promised to listen to her, but as he drove her home, he secretly slipped his wallet into her bag.

Back home, Zhao Xiaolei pondered Lin Hao's confession, surprised by the turn of events as she had always admired him. She considered his excellent qualities and whether to accept his feelings. Han Shuang expressed concerns to Xia Yan about Ling Wei being Xu Cheng Yi's ex-girlfriend, warning her not to be swayed simply because Ling Wei saved her. Xia Yan, however, had a different perspective. She felt that Ling Wei's actions during the elevator incident proved her kindness.

She also reaffirmed her trust in Xu Cheng Yi's love, recalling his palpable fear and shaking hands when he hugged her after the incident, which solidified her certainty of his affection. Han Shuang still pointed out Ling Wei's unique charm and impressive professional abilities. Later, Han Shuang invited Zhao Xiaolei to join her and Xia Yan for dinner, but Zhao Xiaolei declined, citing academic work and numerous documents to sort out as a professor's assistant.

After Zhao Xiaolei left, Han Shuang discovered Lin Hao's wallet and the love card in Zhao Xiaolei's belongings. Recognizing the wallet from a gift she bought for Lin Hao, Han Shuang immediately took it and the card to Xia Yan, intending to confront Zhao Xiaolei. Concurrently, Lin Hao called Zhao Xiaolei, pretending he had accidentally left his wallet in her bag after paying the restaurant bill the previous day and asking her to look for it.

He said he would come to retrieve it that afternoon. Zhao Xiaolei began searching for it. Meanwhile, Lin Hao's company faced difficulties, and his colleague resorted to obtaining a rival company's confidential plan to secure a project, which Lin Hao was hesitant to use. Zhao Xiaolei's brother, Zhao Xiaojun, called her, noticing Lin Hao's depressed state and asking if they had quarreled. Zhao Xiaolei clarified that they were not dating and that she had rejected his confession.

Han Shuang and Xia Yan then went to Zhao Xiaolei's apartment. Han Shuang, furious after finding Lin Hao’s wallet and the love note, confronted Zhao Xiaolei about possibly violating her own "ten prohibitions" rule of not getting involved with a friend's boyfriend. Zhao Xiaolei tried to explain, defending Lin Hao and arguing that his past with Xia Yan was a misunderstanding.

Han Shuang accused Lin Hao of being a "scumbag," citing his past affair and manipulative behavior, and questioned Zhao Xiaolei's judgment. Xia Yan interjected, supporting Han Shuang's assessment of Lin Hao, recalling how he became calculating and measured relationships by interests after his time in Beijing, which led him to suspect her relationship with Xu Cheng Yi. Xia Yan stressed that Lin Hao was no longer the person they once knew.

Zhao Xiaolei, however, insisted that Xia Yan misunderstood him and that he hadn’t changed. Han Shuang pressed Zhao Xiaolei, questioning if she could bear to tear up Lin Hao's card, a challenge Zhao Xiaolei struggled with. Finally, Zhao Xiaolei admitted that she "used to like him" before Lin Hao and Xia Yan began dating, but had buried those feelings once they became a couple, implying she had respected the boundaries of their friendship.

Han Shuang harshly criticized Zhao Xiaolei for developing feelings for her best friend's ex-boyfriend. She attempted to tear up a card Zhao Xiaolei held, but Zhao Xiaolei fiercely protected it, explaining it was a memento from the first man she had ever loved. She clarified that her feelings for him had begun before he and Xia Yan even knew each other, and she had suppressed them after their relationship started.

Just then, Zhao Xiaojun arrived, and seeing his sister in distress, he confronted Han Shuang, threatening her if she dared to bully Zhao Xiaolei. Han Shuang retaliated by revealing that Zhao Xiaolei's rent was less than half of what Xia Yan paid, insinuating that her friends had been doing her a favor. Upon learning this, Zhao Xiaolei felt betrayed, recalling Lin Hao's past comment about her friends not treating her fairly.

Believing she was seen as a charity case, she declared she would no longer live there and left with Zhao Xiaojun. Xia Yan tried to persuade Zhao Xiaolei to stay, but Han Shuang, still seething, pulled Xia Yan away. Han Shuang then confronted Lin Hao, warning him to stop harassing Zhao Xiaolei, whom she described as too kind and susceptible to manipulation. Lin Hao dismissed her, stating that Zhao Xiaolei was an adult capable of making her own choices.

Suddenly, Lin Hao received a call from Zhao Xiaojun asking him to pick up Zhao Xiaolei. When Xia Yan again urged Zhao Xiaolei not to leave, Zhao Xiaolei responded that she had sincerely wished Xia Yan and Lin Hao well when they were together, and now she hoped Xia Yan would offer her genuine blessings for any future relationship.

Enraged, Han Shuang pulled Xia Yan into their car, but not before issuing a stern warning to Lin Hao: if he "played with fire," she would get her mother to shut down his company. After Han Shuang and Xia Yan left, Zhao Xiaolei apologized to Lin Hao for the trouble. She assured him that Han Shuang's mother would not intervene, as Han Shuang and her mother were estranged.

Lin Hao offered Zhao Xiaolei a place to stay at his home for the time being. Although Zhao Xiaolei was hesitant, he insisted. Back at his house, Lin Hao deliberately hid photos of himself with his ex-girlfriend, Hao Jie, aiming to strategically manipulate Zhao Xiaolei rather than out of concern for her feelings. Later, Ma Xiangnan visited Zhao Xiaolei, intending to talk.

Zhao Xiaolei clarified that she was not officially in a relationship with Lin Hao, but merely staying at his place temporarily until Zhao Xiaojun could find a suitable apartment for them both. Ma Xiangnan encouraged her to return home, but Zhao Xiaolei expressed gratitude for her friends' past care and acknowledged she had been paying too little rent. She felt it was time for her to become independent and stop relying on them.

Ma Xiangnan warned her that Lin Hao was not as straightforward as he seemed, but Zhao Xiaolei felt she had been stagnant while her friends had all moved forward and found love. At this point, Zhao Xiaojun arrived, referring to Zhao Xiaolei's friends as negative influences that would hinder her future. Ma Xiangnan, just meeting Zhao Xiaojun, politely asked him for some privacy, but he refused to leave.

Zhao Xiaolei defended her brother, stating that her friends had never shown him respect, always bossing him around, and that only Lin Hao treated him as an equal. She believed her friends often mocked her and her family behind their backs. Overhearing this, Ma Xiangnan became emotional, asserting that Lin Hao was merely putting on a show for Zhao Xiaolei, and pointed out that Zhao Xiaolei even wrote Zhao Xiaojun's monthly reports due to his lack of work ability.

Zhao Xiaojun quickly retorted, claiming he contributed to half of their company's deals and had even been contacted by a headhunter from NK. Zhao Xiaolei, supporting her brother, told Ma Xiangnan not to look down on them, as they would prove their capabilities in Xinzhou. Frustrated, Ma Xiangnan left. Afterward, Zhao Xiaojun encouraged Zhao Xiaolei to pursue a relationship with Lin Hao, especially since her friendship with Xia Yan had soured.

However, Zhao Xiaolei believed their long-standing friendship wouldn't break apart so easily. Meanwhile, Ma Ke intended to give Han Shuang flowers, but an argument ensued, as neither was willing to admit their feelings. He then stated the flowers were for a blind date arranged by his mother, which visibly annoyed Han Shuang, despite her attempts to appear indifferent. He jokingly asked if she was jealous, which she vehemently denied.

Their conversation escalated to a point where Ma Ke revealed that Xu Cheng Yi had been in a car accident after receiving a message from his ex-girlfriend, Ling Wei, who had returned from the US. Han Shuang was visibly upset to hear about Ling Wei. Despite their squabbling, Han Shuang advised Ma Ke on good restaurants and urged him to drive safely to his date, prompting him to tease her further about her concern.

Later, Zhao Xiaojun took clients to a nightclub with the intent of soliciting prostitutes, which led to his arrest. Lin Hao quickly arranged for his bail. Upon arriving at the police station, Zhao Xiaolei received an angry phone call from her mother, who was deeply worried about her only son and scolded Zhao Xiaolei for his predicament. After the call, Lin Hao comforted Zhao Xiaolei, offering her a hug, which stirred her emotions.

Back at his home, Lin Hao continued his solicitous behavior, bringing her milk to calm her nerves before bed, all as part of his calculated plan to win her affection and exact revenge on Xia Yan. At home, Ma Ke returned to find his apartment in disarray, clothes strewn everywhere, and humorously complained that even a husky wouldn't make such a mess.

As he grumbled while tidying up, Han Shuang emerged from a pile of clothes, claiming exhaustion from a day of livestreaming. Ma Ke dismissed her work as merely chatting and playing, which angered Han Shuang. She passionately defended livestreaming as a demanding job that combined acting, hosting, and sales. Ma Ke apologized and offered to massage her shoulders, which soon led to a tender kiss between them.

Zhao Xiaojun continued to push Zhao Xiaolei to formalize her relationship with Lin Hao, bringing gifts from their mother as a thank-you to Lin Hao for bailing him out. He mentioned that their mother, initially upset about his arrest, had softened considerably after hearing about Zhao Xiaolei and Lin Hao.

He urged Zhao Xiaolei to be more proactive, even suggesting she shouldn't seek out Xia Yan first, but rather wait for an apology from her former friends, to avoid "cheapening" herself. Zhao Xiaolei, however, still felt a need to talk to Xia Yan about the situation. Finally, Lin Hao showed Zhao Xiaolei numerous local specialties sent by her mother.

He expressed his delight and, referring to Zhao Xiaolei as the "real treasure" he wanted to keep for himself, he leaned in to kiss her. Zhao Xiaolei, taken aback, softly uttered, "Sorry, I was too impetuous," referring to Lin Hao's forwardness.

Living with Lin Hao, Zhao Xiaolei felt like family as he looked after her, but her conservative nature kept her from crossing the line from friendship to romance, despite her feelings for him. Meanwhile, Han Shuang was suffering from severe period cramps, wrapped in blankets on her bed. Ma Ke, concerned, entered her room, apologizing for being impatient with her earlier due to a surgery. He tried to comfort her, but Han Shuang, feeling miserable, just wanted him to leave.

Ma Ke, however, worried she might suffocate under the covers. He noticed her sweating and told her to keep her feet warm, questioning why she only covered her face. Han Shuang confessed that if she always felt this way, she'd rather die. He brought her honey water, but she requested iced beer. Ma Ke gently scolded her for wanting cold drinks during her period, noting that her family might have been too busy to teach her such things.

He offered to cook noodles, but Han Shuang complained about the kitchen hood's noise. Ma Ke immediately offered to replace it with the best and quietest one. Han Shuang then questioned his excessive kindness, asking directly if he liked her and why he was so hesitant to admit it. Ma Ke, fearing rejection, struggled to confess, but Han Shuang insisted he speak his mind.

He finally admitted, "I like you," adding, "I want you to marry me and be my lady." Surprised and thrilled, Han Shuang enthusiastically declared her willingness to marry him, despite his initial disbelief that she was serious. They impulsively decided to register their marriage right away. Ma Ke, worried she might regret it, rushed her to the civil affairs bureau.

Excited, Han Shuang proudly showed her marriage certificate to Xia Yan and Ma Xiangnan, who were shocked by the sudden news. Ma Ke later explained to Xu Chengyi that Han Shuang had been the one to propose getting the certificate, which surprised him because he had only just confessed his feelings that morning. Han Shuang told her friends that she would uphold her marriage and be responsible for Ma Ke.

Xia Yan, observing a positive change in Han Shuang, thanked Ma Ke for his influence. While discussing wedding plans, Han Shuang brought up their past agreement about bridesmaids. She expressed her frustration with Zhao Xiaolei for choosing Lin Hao, saying she couldn't understand why Zhao Xiaolei prioritized him over their friendship, although Xia Yan still hoped for Zhao Xiaolei's happiness. At Lin Hao’s apartment, Zhao Xiaolei was busy with chores while Lin Hao watched a game.

Xia Yan sent Zhao Xiaolei a text message wishing her a happy birthday and inviting her to celebrate. Lin Hao discreetly picked up Zhao Xiaolei's phone and deleted the message before she could see it. Meanwhile, Ling Wei called Xia Yan to her office, not for work, but to ask for a recommendation for a venue for her upcoming birthday celebration with colleagues. Xia Yan suggested a suitable restaurant.

Later, at Ling Wei’s birthday party, Han Shuang and Ling Wei were introduced. Han Shuang playfully remarked on Ling Wei's dress and temperament, calling her a "strong competitor" (referring to Xia Yan). Ling Wei thanked Han Shuang for the lively party, but Han Shuang redirected the thanks to Xia Yan.

Ling Wei admired Xia Yan for having such supportive friends, prompting Han Shuang to share her philosophy about friends: those who celebrate with you and defend you in times of trouble. Ling Wei countered that making friends is often about luck and purposeful communication. Ling Wei then received an extravagant gift from her boyfriend, who was currently abroad.

She mused about life and relationships, stating that love isn't everything and that she wouldn't want anyone to compromise their potential for her. During their conversation, Ling Wei expressed surprise that Han Shuang hadn't told her parents about her marriage, deducing that Han Shuang likely had a highly successful mother and lived in her shadow, which Han Shuang admired her for seeing.

Ling Wei then related that she, too, had always lived in others' shadows, especially during her time working abroad, and that her return to China was partly to prove her own capabilities and ensure her achievements were not attributed to others. Lin Hao continued his manipulative efforts with Zhao Xiaolei by giving her a health check-up package for her parents, promising to handle their annual examinations.

He then surprised her with a birthday cake, claiming he had remembered her birthday all along. Zhao Xiaolei was deeply moved and happy as they made a wish and blew out the candles together. After the party, Han Shuang told Xia Yan that she was no longer worried about Ling Wei being a rival for Xu Chengyi. However, Xia Yan worried that Ling Wei was trying to win over Han Shuang's friendship, noticing their intimate conversation.

Han Shuang, a loyal user of Xia Yan’s "Confidante Planet" app, requested special access and suggested adding Ling Wei to their group chat. When Xia Yan mentioned adding Zhao Xiaolei, Han Shuang felt she should wait until Zhao Xiaolei "figures it out and is willing to come back to us." Later, as Zhao Xiaolei and Lin Hao relaxed on the sofa at his place, she confided in him about her self-doubt and how she felt inferior to others.

She specifically asked how she compared to Xia Yan. Lin Hao seized the opportunity to manipulate her emotions, showering her with compliments about her tenderness, kindness, intelligence, and perceptiveness, claiming that she understood people's feelings better than Xia Yan, who, according to him, "can't understand our sorrow." He asserted that only Zhao Xiaolei truly understood him and that they were "the same kind of people," declaring he couldn't live without her.

Their conversation culminated in a kiss, and they spent their first night together. Han Shuang and Ling Wei met again, for drinks. Ling Wei expressed surprise that Ma Ke was Han Shuang's husband. Han Shuang then confessed that she had once had a minor crush on Xu Chengyi but had given up when she realized Xia Yan loved him, asking Ling Wei to keep it a secret from Xia Yan.

Ling Wei astutely suggested that Xia Yan, being a perceptive person, might already know but pretended not to for the sake of their friendship. Ling Wei then shared her profound thoughts on marriage, describing it as a process that refines individuals by wearing down their rough edges, which, though painful, reveals the true strength of their love. Han Shuang appreciated Ling Wei's honest perspective and expressed joy at finding a new female friend with whom she could discuss private matters.

Han Shuang invited Ling Wei to join the "Confidante Planet" group chat, and Ling Wei accepted. While with Xia Yan, Xu Chengyi encouraged her to bless Zhao Xiaolei's relationship with Lin Hao, assuring her that he didn't care about Lin Hao and wouldn't restrict her friendships. He joked about getting jealous of Lin Hao. Suddenly, Xu Chengyi received a phone call from an employee, informing him that "something bad has happened to Confidante Planet," requiring him to rush back to the company.

Xu Chengyi and Xia Yan rushed back to the company after receiving an urgent call about Confidante Planet. Ling Wei informed them that the platform had been hacked, and users' information, including accounts and photos, was posted online starting at 6 p. m. two hours prior. Despite efforts to delete the posts, the information was spreading exponentially and going viral, with some even selling user accounts and photos. Ling Wei had already reported it to the internet police.

Xu Chengyi instructed everyone to cooperate with the police to minimize the damage and fix the security breach. He assigned two technicians to examine the "Show Me" database to ensure its integrity, emphasizing that it must not go wrong. When asked about the attack's origin, they reported the hackers used a proxy abroad but were likely domestic, possibly from Xinzhou.

As they were shorthanded, Xu Chengyi decided to personally work on locating the hackers, while Ling Wei assisted the IT department, and Xia Yan handled PR and media. Xia Yan was tasked with drafting an announcement to apologize to Confidante Planet users and reassure Show Me users that their databases were separate and secure, as most Show Me accounts were bound to credit cards. She also suggested holding a press conference as soon as possible.

Shortly after, the Chairman arrived, visibly angered by the crisis. He chastised Xu Chengyi, pointing to the plummeting stock index of SG Technology and the significant damage already incurred. Xu Chengyi promised to resolve the issue within seventy-two hours, but the Chairman remained skeptical about his ability to do so. Ling Wei intervened, suggesting they discuss the matter in a private office to allow the team to focus on their tasks.

Separately, Yan Chang Jun discussed the hacking incident with an employee, anticipating that SG would quickly patch the security loophole. However, he noted that the more significant challenge for SG would be ensuring customer information security. He observed that while SG was in crisis, their partner, New Key (NK) Technology, remained unaffected.

This led him to deduce that the mastermind behind the attack was intentionally avoiding NK, which could make NK a prime suspect, or even result in the blame being shifted onto them. Yan Chang Jun deemed this a vicious and challenging maneuver. Meanwhile, Xia Yan expressed her frustration about the relentless rumors and lies spreading online, with posts cursing Confidante Planet appearing non-stop since last night. She suspected it was a deliberate, organized attack by paid trolls.

Ling Wei brought up the possibility of Yan Chang Jun's involvement to Xu Chengyi, recalling his college expertise in internet security and natural hacking abilities, which made him adept at finding security breaches. However, Xia Yan argued that the method of using paid trolls didn't seem like Yan Chang Jun's style, suggesting it was a general organized attack.

Xu Chengyi agreed that it appeared to be an organized attack and that they would only know the truth by finding the actual hackers and trolls. As Xu Chengyi and Ling Wei were preparing to leave for a board meeting before the press conference, Xia Yan received a call from Yan Chang Jun. He asked her to meet him downstairs, stating that SG must be in disarray.

Downstairs, Xia Yan asked Yan Chang Jun if he was involved in the hacking incident, given his past. He countered by asking if Xu Chengyi suspected him and pointed out that a hacker is also skilled at anti-hacking. Yan Chang Jun offered his help as a friend, but quickly clarified that his assistance would not be free. Xia Yan declined his offer, citing potential negative impacts on New Key due to their cooperation with Confidante Planet.

Yan Chang Jun dismissed her concern, then subtly began to undermine Ling Wei, claiming Ling Wei's talk of a boyfriend was a facade and that no one had ever met him. He suggested Ling Wei was manipulating Xia Yan, who had let her guard down, with the ultimate goal of pursuing Xu Chengyi.

Xia Yan refused to believe him, demanding proof, but Yan Chang Jun simply told her to consider his words and call him when she was ready to cooperate. Xia Yan reiterated her suspicion about his involvement in the attack, but he did not directly answer. On their way to the press conference, Xu Chengyi, Xia Yan, and Ling Wei were ambushed by a mob of reporters.

As Xia Yan and Ling Wei tried to clear a path, a reporter deliberately flashed a blinding light into Xu Chengyi's eyes. In a protective instinct, Ling Wei pushed the reporter, who then retaliated by kicking her violently, causing her to fall. Xu Chengyi immediately carried Ling Wei away to the hospital, while the reporters loudly accused SG Technology of assault. Xu Chengyi instructed Xia Yan to stay behind and placate the media, telling her the conference was postponed.

At the hospital, Ling Wei apologized to Xu Chengyi, explaining that her action was a pure instinct to protect him. Xia Yan arrived shortly after, reassuring Xu Chengyi that Ling Wei had only sustained a bump. However, Xu Chengyi expressed deep concern for Ling Wei, recalling how she had previously injured her lower back, almost leading to paralysis, while carrying him after his own accident years ago.

He described Ling Wei's difficult upbringing, how she came from a poor mountain family, supported herself through scholarships and part-time jobs, and worked tirelessly in the computer room, where she initially hurt her waist. Xia Yan was touched, acknowledging Ling Wei's significant sacrifices for Xu Chengyi. Later, Xia Yan received a text message from Yan Chang Jun with an address for the trolls.

She tried calling him back but got no answer, so she quickly sent a message to Xu Chengyi and left for the location. Moments later, an employee in the office also discovered the trolls' address and sent it to Xu Chengyi, who noticed it matched the address Xia Yan had texted him. Realizing Xia Yan had gone alone, Xu Chengyi immediately called the police and rushed out to find her.

Xia Yan reached the address and began taking photos of the premises. The people inside confronted her, demanding her phone. Xu Chengyi arrived just as they were about to grab Xia Yan, and he quickly pulled her away to flee. However, they were chased, caught, and severely beaten. Xu Chengyi bravely shielded Xia Yan from the blows until the police arrived and arrested the suspects. Xia Yan took a bleeding Xu Chengyi to the hospital, deeply distressed by his injuries.

Despite his wounds, Xu Chengyi downplayed them as mere scratches and urged Xia Yan to check on Ling Wei instead. When Xia Yan visited Ling Wei, she informed her that they had found the trolls' address and they were currently being interrogated. Ling Wei was eager to know the mastermind behind the attack, but Xia Yan explained that they would only get answers after the police interrogation. Meanwhile, Xu Chengyi secretly visited the ophthalmology department.

The doctor revealed that his eyes, already injured years ago and exacerbated by a recent car accident and the flash from the reporter, were in serious condition. He was suffering from a vitreous hemorrhage, which could potentially lead to blindness if not treated carefully. The doctor emphasized the need for rest and continuous treatment, including an MRI. Later, Ling Wei, noticing Xu Chengyi's presence near ophthalmology, discreetly inquired with the doctor, learning the severity of his eye condition.

She confronted Xu Chengyi, threatening to tell Xia Yan if he didn't reveal the truth. Xu Chengyi reluctantly admitted he might go blind, expressing his fear of worrying Xia Yan, who was already blaming herself for the recent events. Ling Wei, recalling their shared history of injuries, urged him to seek treatment in America, where she knew the best ophthalmologist.

However, Xu Chengyi refused, stating he couldn't leave due to the critical situation at SG Technology and his promise to Xia Yan to protect her forever. Ling Wei, feeling a surge of jealousy, then left to wash some fruits. Separately, Lin Hao was struggling with his business. A crucial contract remained unsigned because President Kang had consulted a fortuneteller who advised against signing it that month.

Lin Hao suspected Han Shuang's mother, Han Mingzhu, was behind the delay and ordered his employees to investigate. At the same time, his landlord called, reminding him that his office rent was due next month and he owed six months' rent; Lin Hao pleaded for an extension, promising to pay the full six months. Zhao Xiaolei called Lin Hao at work to offer to bring him dinner, but he reacted angrily, scolding her for calling during business hours.

Later, Zhao Xiaojun, an employee, questioned whether Han Mingzhu truly interfered, suggesting it was more likely due to Lin Hao's dinner with President Kang. That evening, Zhao Xiaolei felt uneasy after seeing photos of Lin Hao with other entrepreneurs online. When Lin Hao returned home, she tried to comfort him about his business troubles, but he was irritable and blamed Han Shuang for ruining his deal. Zhao Xiaolei offered to talk to Han Shuang, but Lin Hao vehemently forbade her from interacting with "those people."

Xu Chengyi reassured Xia Yan that the company's situation had calmed down after they caught some paid posters, and the share price was rebounding, which pleased the shareholders. He acknowledged that the true instigator was still at large but advised her not to dwell on it, promising they would continue to investigate slowly. He urged her to get some rest and prepare for Han Shuang's upcoming wedding.

Ma Xiang Nan returned home to find her mother busily cleaning and decorating, explaining that Huo Kai was coming for dinner, marking his first visit since returning. Her mother spoke highly of Huo Kai, mentioning his frequent photo updates from Africa and hinting at a potential romantic pairing. Despite Ma Xiang Nan's casual attire, her mother insisted she change into something more presentable. After preparing a lavish meal, they waited for hours, but Huo Kai didn't arrive.

Ma Xiang Nan's calls and texts went unanswered, prompting her mother to suggest she call him. At the hospital, Huo Kai was being treated by Ma Ke for a badly injured hand after falling down the stairs. When Ma Xiang Nan called, Huo Kai quickly concocted a story about meeting a friend and having an urgent matter come up, promising to apologize to her mother later. He then quickly ended the call.

Ma Xiang Nan relayed the news, disheartening her mother, who was proud of her cooking. Ma Ke, having overheard Huo Kai's phone call and his mention of "Xiang Nan," confirmed it was Dr. Xiang, and Huo Kai asked him not to disclose his broken wrist to her. The next day at work, Ma Xiang Nan overheard nurses discussing Huo Kai's recent fall and broken arm, realizing he had lied.

Back home, her mother, concerned by Huo Kai's repeated injuries, wondered if he had osteoporosis. Since Huo Kai was unreachable and his whereabouts unknown, her mother decided to prepare a calcium-rich bone soup for Ma Xiang Nan to take to him once they found him, urging her to tell him to take calcium supplements and get more sun.

Ma Ke encouraged Huo Kai to visit Ma Xiang Nan, but Huo Kai hesitated, saying he couldn't let her see him in his injured state. He claimed he didn't date and felt safer knowing she usually didn't visit the medical wards. However, he checked his phone, seeing messages from "Xiang Nan." Later, in the hospital corridor, Huo Kai encountered Ma Xiang Nan.

She inquired about his hand, and he assured her it was fine, joking that Ma Ke even said he'd still be able to play guitar. Huo Kai apologized for the previous incident, but Ma Xiang Nan gently chided him for always hiding his troubles from friends, calling it pointless. Huo Kai promised to reach out next time, regardless of the injury, to which Ma Xiang Nan playfully responded that he shouldn't break anything at all.

She then gave him a bottle of calcium tablets, instructing him to take one daily and get more sun. Huo Kai remarked on his boredom from the injury and his intention to get more sun. He then explained that he would be busy writing songs in the coming days, using this as a reason not to visit her and her auntie.

Ma Xiang Nan understood, wished him luck with his songwriting, and they respectfully parted ways, acknowledging their mutual feelings but also the current impossibility of a deeper connection. Ma Ke and Han Shuang, who were living together, were startled awake when Ma Ke's mother unexpectedly entered their messy room one morning. Han Shuang quickly excused herself to get dressed.

Ma Ke's mother immediately confronted him, emphasizing his responsibility as a man towards Han Shuang, warning him against "seducing and abandoning" her. Ma Ke calmly revealed that their relationship was not ambiguous; they had already obtained a marriage license. His mother was utterly shocked, especially since neither had met the other's parents. When Han Shuang emerged, looking radiant and presentable, Ma Ke's mother's demeanor completely shifted.

She was instantly charmed by Han Shuang, praising her beauty and even suggesting she call her "Mom." She then insisted on planning a grand and proper wedding for them, much to Han Shuang's surprise and delight. After his mother left, Han Shuang and Ma Ke discussed the sudden turn of events. Han Shuang admitted she couldn't refuse Ma Ke's mother's enthusiastic offer for a wedding. She then pondered how to approach her own mother about the marriage.

Ma Xiang Nan’s mother expressed her approval of Huo Kai, believing he and Ma Xiang Nan would be a good match despite his restless nature. She had even considered playing matchmaker, seeing their contrasting personalities as complementary. However, she admitted he might not be ready for a stable relationship. She mentioned that Huo Kai's continued communication with her, even praising her cooking, made her think he liked Ma Xiang Nan.

Her mother then revealed she had canceled a planned vacation to Hainan with her dance group because Huo Kai had mentioned he was returning. Ma Xiang Nan encouraged her to go on the trip, but her mother worried about who would cook for her, prompting Ma Xiang Nan to suggest eating at the cafeteria. Her mother insisted that Ma Xiang Nan learn to cook at least simple dishes for herself.

Han Shuang went to her mother, Han Mingzhu's, office to inform her of her marriage, offering to send an invitation. Han Mingzhu was stunned, initially suspecting a marriage to a rich heir from a beauty empire, but Han Shuang clarified her husband was Ma Ke, a respectable orthopedic doctor. Han Mingzhu expressed deep disappointment at being kept in the dark, chastising Han Shuang for treating marriage so carelessly and lacking responsibility.

Han Shuang countered that her mother was judging her unfairly, based on past relationships she dismissed as mere friendships, and insisted her marriage to Ma Ke was based on genuine love, not impulse. Han Mingzhu, unconvinced, then demanded a prenuptial agreement, citing its necessity for a peaceful marriage and reminding Han Shuang that the vast Hualan Group would eventually be hers. Han Shuang was dismayed, accusing her mother of prioritizing the company over her daughter's happiness.

She flatly refused to sign any agreement, stating that neither she nor Ma Ke cared about the group's assets, and declared that her mother should not attend the wedding as it had nothing to do with her. Han Mingzhu was deeply hurt, feeling excluded and disregarded, especially knowing Ma Ke's family would be present.

Han Shuang retorted that she had come to arrange a proper introduction, but her mother's focus on property and contracts had overshadowed any genuine familial concern, contrasting her with Ma Ke's mother, who had been "extremely kind" upon their first meeting. Han Mingzhu, visibly angered, retorted that Han Shuang had not only found a husband but also a "new mother," and that from then on, Han Shuang's marital affairs would be of no concern to her.

Han Shuang was saddened by her mother's harsh words, but reiterated that those were her mother's own declarations. Zhao Xiaojun was staking out a hotel where President Kang was staying, hoping to photograph him with his lovers to coerce him into signing a contract. His phone's battery died, so he called Zhao Xiaolei to bring a power bank.

Upon arrival, Zhao Xiaolei discovered his scheme, which involved investigating President Kang's ties to Han Mingzhu and his multiple extramarital affairs, hoping to leverage this information. Alarmed, Zhao Xiaolei accused him of blackmail and breaking the law, threatening to tell Lin Hao. Zhao Xiaojun then revealed that Lin Hao himself had instructed him to do this, shocking Zhao Xiaolei, who found it hard to believe her mentor would engage in such tactics.

She expressed her distress, warning him of potential legal consequences and attempting to delete the incriminating photos from his phone. After some back-and-forth, with Zhao Xiaojun contemplating working for a larger company, Zhao Xiaolei eventually persuaded him to return with her. Upon returning home, Zhao Xiaolei found a gift from Xia Yan, containing a letter.

In the letter, Xia Yan expressed sorrow for Zhao Xiaolei's choices and her own past thoughtlessness, but affirmed her support for Zhao Xiaolei's decision to be with Lin Hao, hoping they could remain best friends. Moments later, Lin Hao arrived, furious. He immediately launched into a tirade about Zhao Xiaojun's impending resignation, accusing him of defiance and a bad temper for not following his instructions.

Zhao Xiaolei tried to defend her brother, arguing that the "matter"—referring to the illegal surveillance—shouldn't have been undertaken, and that Zhao Xiaojun was simply reluctant to follow through, not truly intending to resign. Lin Hao dismissed her defense. He then spotted a bridesmaid dress, questioning if Zhao Xiaolei was seeking a new boyfriend.

When Zhao Xiaolei explained it was for Han Shuang's wedding, Lin Hao grew even more enraged, demanding why she was still in contact with "them" (Xia Yan and Han Shuang), reminding her of the harm they had supposedly caused him and his previous command to sever ties.

He vehemently accused both Zhao Xiaolei and Zhao Xiaojun of being ungrateful, stating he had given Zhao Xiaojun a job, taught him everything, and paid him generously, only for both siblings to abandon him when the company faced difficulties. He felt betrayed, claiming he had made enemies to bring Zhao Xiaolei to his side, only for them to "scheme against him." Han Shuang returned to Ma Ke and recounted her intense argument with her mother.

She worried about her mother not attending their wedding. Ma Ke, ever practical, reminded her that they already had their marriage certificate and her mother's attendance was ultimately her choice. Han Shuang admitted she feared feeling embarrassed in front of their friends and relatives if her mother was absent, but Ma Ke said he was more concerned about her own sadness, a feeling she dismissed, claiming she was accustomed to their strained relationship.

Ma Ke proposed they send an invitation as a formality, leaving the decision to attend up to Han Mingzhu. However, when Han Shuang then wondered what they would do if her mother "did" decide to come, Ma Ke, slightly exasperated, declared he wouldn't send the invitation himself, suggesting Han Shuang could do so if she wished.

Mark, eager to see Han Shuang, tried to sneak into her dressing room before their traditional Chinese wedding. Xia Yan and Ma Xiangnan playfully intercepted him, stressing that seeing the bride before the ceremony brings bad luck, despite Mark's insistence that he was a "new generation" and already legally married. Mark, excited for their future, talked about growing old and having children, while Han Shuang playfully maintained her desire to always be the "hottest."

Mark also mentioned their family's plastic surgery business as an advantage for eternal youth. In her dressing room, Han Shuang was nervous and asked Xia Yan if her mother, Han Mingzhu, had arrived. Xia Yan evaded the question. Han Shuang then anxiously inquired about Zhao Xiaolei, emphasizing that if she didn't show up, she would be angry for life. Just then, Zhao Xiaolei walked in, reassuring Han Shuang that she would never miss such an important day.

Han Shuang, overjoyed and tearful, hugged her friend, jokingly complimenting Zhao Xiaolei's appearance while her friends teased her for her "empress" persona. Meanwhile, Han Mingzhu arrived and introduced herself to Mark's mother, Feng Xuehua. Han Mingzhu revealed a thorough knowledge of Feng Xuehua's background, including her past as a burns doctor and her current plastic surgery center, even mentioning its business focus on breast augmentations and liposuction, and recent funding challenges.

Han Mingzhu expressed her strong disapproval of the plastic surgery industry, deeming it "objectifying women" and diminishing their worth. Feng Xuehua defended her legitimate business and pointed out Han Mingzhu's own cosmetic procedures, which Han Mingzhu dismissed as mere "regular skin care." Mark intervened in their escalating argument, and Han Mingzhu requested to speak with him about his future.

Han Mingzhu bluntly told Mark to sever all ties with past girlfriends, including Ma Xiangnan, who she knew was a friend of Han Shuang's. Mark insisted his relationship with Ma Xiangnan was strictly professional. Han Mingzhu then questioned his plans to inherit his family's plastic surgery center, to which Mark responded that he intended to pursue his dream of being a doctor, but not a plastic surgeon.

Han Mingzhu doubted his ability to provide for her daughter with a modest salary, though she conceded that Han Shuang valued more than just wealth. Despite her initial skepticism, Han Mingzhu admitted she found Mark's "silly foolishness" endearing. She then went to see Han Shuang, remarking on the current wedding's modest scale and promising to host a lavish banquet at the Hualan Hotel later.

She lovingly reassured Han Shuang that she would always be her daughter, regardless of her marital status, and the mother and daughter shared a heartfelt embrace, finally reconciling. During the wedding ceremony, Han Mingzhu walked Han Shuang down the aisle and entrusted her to Mark, urging him to cherish and love her.

As a video montage showcasing the couple's journey was played, an unexpected clip appeared: Han Shuang kissing Xu Chengyi in an elevator, accompanied by audio where Han Shuang seemed to belittle Mark, saying, "How could Mark compare to you? I'm only playing with him." The guests were shocked, and Ma Xiangnan quickly ordered the video to be stopped.

Xu Chengyi attempted to cover up the incident by claiming it was a prank, but Mark's mother was furious, asserting that such a prank was unacceptable. The host tried to salvage the ceremony by inviting the couple to share their love story. A visibly distraught Mark, however, ran off. Han Shuang pursued him, finding him deeply upset.

Mark confessed to feeling like a "fool" on stage and admitted his belief that he was inferior to Xu Chengyi in terms of "abilities, appearance, and figure." Han Shuang questioned his trust and asked why he fled instead of seeking an explanation. Their argument intensified, culminating in Han Shuang declaring the wedding off and casting aside her dress.

Xu Chengyi tried to speak with Mark, reminding him of the truth about their encounter at the hotel and urging him to explain, but an enraged Mark told him to leave. Mark's mother, reeling from the cancelled wedding, disparaged Han Shuang as an "improper woman," criticizing Mark for marrying without her knowledge or proper caution. She emphasized their family's adherence to rules, especially in relationships. She accused Han Shuang of "flirting with someone else," causing the scandal.

Amidst the chaos, Mark's father suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized. Han Shuang returned to the stage, apologizing for the wait and announcing that the marriage was divorced. She instructed guests to reclaim their cash gifts but encouraged them to enjoy the food and drinks. Han Mingzhu confronted Han Shuang, demanding an explanation, but Han Shuang angrily told her to stay out of her affairs, reminding her of her own divorce.

Han Shuang's friends tried to calm her, suggesting that Mark hadn't explicitly sought a divorce and might have acted out of momentary hesitation. Han Shuang, however, interpreted Mark's reaction as a lack of trust and remained firm in her decision. She decided they should all go out and drink, especially since Zhao Xiaolei was with them. As they were about to leave, Lin Hao appeared, ordering Zhao Xiaolei to come home.

When Han Shuang protested, Lin Hao mocked her failed wedding. Zhao Xiaolei, looking frightened, left with Lin Hao. Ma Xiangnan noticed a bruise on Zhao Xiaolei's wrist, concluding that Lin Hao must have hit her. Enraged, Han Shuang rallied her friends to confront Lin Hao. Back at their apartment, Lin Hao aggressively questioned Zhao Xiaolei about attending the wedding and whether she believed Xu Chengyi was superior to him.

Despite Lin Hao's dismissal of Han Shuang's words as "nonsense," he pressed Zhao Xiaolei about her true feelings. Petrified, Zhao Xiaolei initially tried to avoid his questions. Under further pressure, she admitted that Lin Hao "used to be more tender, more kind," but now "nothing about you is better than him" compared to Xu Chengyi. In a fit of rage, Lin Hao threw Zhao Xiaolei onto the sofa.

Zhao Xiaolei attempted to pack a suitcase to leave for her brother Zhao Xiaojun's place, but Lin Hao prevented her. At that moment, Han Shuang and her friends arrived, banging on the door and demanding Zhao Xiaolei open it. Lin Hao quickly shifted tactics, making a dramatic, emotional plea. He claimed his company was on the verge of bankruptcy, that he had lost everything, and couldn't even pay rent.

He begged Zhao Xiaolei not to abandon him, asserting that she was "all he has" and that he "can't live without" her. Zhao Xiaolei, seemingly swayed by his manipulation, promised not to leave. After Lin Hao hastily tidied the living room, Zhao Xiaolei opened the door. Han Shuang immediately urged her to come with them. Zhao Xiaolei, however, denied that Lin Hao had hit her, claiming they merely had an argument and she accidentally broke a vase.

When asked about the bruise on her wrist and the packed suitcase, she offered weak excuses, stating she was cleaning and had forgotten to put the suitcase away. Xia Yan directly asked Lin Hao if he had struck Zhao Xiaolei, but Zhao Xiaolei deflected by asking Xia Yan if Lin Hao had ever hit "her" during their seven years together. Zhao Xiaolei then told her friends to stop interfering, asserting that arguments between couples were normal and that their relationship was none of their business.

Han Shuang was enraged and prepared to leave, but Lin Hao deliberately provoked her and her friends, claiming their friendship was merely superficial and that they were already estranged. He accused Han Shuang of liking Xu Chengyi, stating it was widely known on the internet and questioning why she hadn't pursued him, suggesting she failed because Xu Chengyi only ever liked Xia Yan.

Lin Hao then turned to Xia Yan, alleging that she had asked Han Shuang to test Xu Chengyi's feelings for her, only to abandon Han Shuang once she got the desired outcome. He further claimed Xia Yan frequently described Han Shuang as an "idiot with a good figure" and accused her of secretly speaking ill of her friends.

Lin Hao didn't spare Ma Xiangnan either, implying she never shared her true secrets with them because she didn't trust them to be rational enough to handle her problems. He concluded that the four women were just "dining partners who drink, go shopping, and gossip together." Han Shuang, furious, lunged at Lin Hao, but Zhao Xiaolei intervened, pulling her back and urging everyone to leave.

Zhao Xiaolei then affirmed that being with Lin Hao was her choice, revealing she had liked him for seven years and would now finally stop repressing her feelings. She insisted she would remain with him, even without her friends' blessing, and would take responsibility for her own decisions. Distraught, Han Shuang left with her friends. Outside, Xia Yan advised Han Shuang not to dwell on Zhao Xiaolei's choices, asserting that Zhao Xiaolei had the right to make her own decisions.

Ma Xiangnan suggested that Han Shuang and Xia Yan should talk privately. Han Shuang asked Xia Yan if she truly believed the contents of the viral video. While the video made it difficult to deny Han Shuang's past feelings for Xu Chengyi, Xia Yan, wanting to spare Han Shuang further pain, simply said she didn't believe it.

Han Shuang then dropped a bombshell, telling Xia Yan that she was divorcing Ma Ke and needed to go to his house to move her belongings. Later, Xu Chengyi approached Xia Yan, clarifying that Han Shuang had, in fact, approached him to test his feelings for Xia Yan. He explained that he hadn't told Xia Yan earlier because he assumed Han Shuang would inform her herself.

Xia Yan believed Xu Chengyi, but then shared her own findings, revealing that the individuals they had caught earlier were merely spammers. She suspected that the real mastermind behind the attacks was still at large, especially with the recent video leak. Xia Yan added that Han Shuang had stored her videos in a private section of Confidante Planet, suggesting they were likely leaked along with subscriber data.

Meanwhile, Zhao Xiaolei gave Lin Hao her salary card, whose password was her birthday, to help him with his urgent financial troubles. Lin Hao, surprised by her kindness, questioned if she was pitying him or saw him as a "total loser." Zhao Xiaolei denied this, reminding him of all the times he had cared for her, her brother, and her family, stating she liked him as a person, irrespective of his success or failure.

She did, however, point out that he had seemed like a different person earlier that day. Lin Hao confessed that recent "awful things" and betrayals from his employees and business partners had pushed him to the brink, almost driving him crazy. He pleaded with Zhao Xiaolei to believe that the "original Lin Hao," the loving senior who cared for her, was still there, promising that such incidents would never happen again.

Zhao Xiaolei, after a moment of hesitation, agreed to trust him again, urging him to pick himself up and not lose himself. Lin Hao then expressed his love and vowed to treat her well. Han Shuang returned to Ma Ke’s apartment. She told him that upon seeing the video, she felt awkward and helpless, expecting him to face the challenge alongside her. Instead, she felt he "shrank back."

She recounted how he used to cherish her unconditionally, fulfilling her every whim, even participating in her eccentric live broadcasts. She recalled the Ma Ke who trusted and loved her completely, but today, she saw "uncertainty" in his eyes, which terrified her. She admitted their relationship had always been "uneven," with him loving her excessively, making her increasingly dependent and afraid to leave him.

Han Shuang clarified that there was nothing romantic between her and Xu Chengyi, but she acknowledged her mishandling of the situation and apologized. She expressed that Ma Ke had brought warmth into her life, which she described as a "dark corner," but now she felt pushed into an "even darker corner" and was "really afraid of the dark." Ma Ke proposed they forget everything and start over.

Han Shuang dismissed this as naive, saying their numerous conflicts had led them to this point despite their efforts. She reflected on a brief moment when she felt like she had the world with him, never envying anyone else, and pondered the vulnerability of human relationships. Ma Ke sadly agreed with her observation. Later, Han Shuang and Ma Ke were seen leaving the Civil Affairs Bureau with their divorce certificates.

Ma Ke insisted on carrying Han Shuang on his back, just as he had done when they registered their marriage, desiring to give their relationship a complete ending. Han Shuang, with a wry smile, called him a "hypocrite." Xia Yan initiated a meeting with Lin Hao, who expressed surprise, expecting her to avoid him. Xia Yan stated she wanted to discuss Zhao Xiaolei. Lin Hao quickly retorted about the freedom to love and told Xia Yan she was an outsider.

Xia Yan clarified she wasn't trying to intervene but wanted to offer her blessing to him and Zhao Xiaolei. Lin Hao doubted her sincerity, reminding her and Han Shuang's previous attempts to keep him away from Zhao Xiaolei. Xia Yan explained that their anger had led them to say things they didn't mean, emphasizing their long-standing friendship with Zhao Xiaolei.

Lin Hao countered that "deep hatred" might have already existed among them, and Zhao Xiaolei's past compliance didn't mean she lacked her own thoughts. Xia Yan acknowledged Zhao Xiaolei's complex emotions and credited Lin Hao for giving her courage and comfort during their friends' estrangement, which solidified her choice to be with him. Xia Yan wished them happiness, hoping that any past grievances between her and Lin Hao would not overshadow his future with Zhao Xiaolei.

She then earnestly requested that, despite any lingering animosity he might hold against her, he would promise to treat Zhao Xiaolei well. Lin Hao readily promised to treat Zhao Xiaolei well as his girlfriend, adding that he and Zhao Xiaolei would "certainly be happier" than Xia Yan and Xu Chengyi. Meanwhile, Ma Xiangnan underwent a medical examination and was informed about a suspected breast issue, a detail that Huo Kai, passing by, noticed.

Back home, her mother, worried about health issues in their family, including Ma Xiangnan's aunt who died of breast cancer in her twenties, pressed her about the results. Ma Xiangnan dismissively reassured her mother that everything was fine. However, she later returned to the hospital and requested Director Zhao, the doctor, to keep her condition confidential, acknowledging her "situation isn't that great." Later, Huo Kai, having recovered from his injury, invited Ma Xiangnan to a concert.

He drove her to a lakeside park, which he presented as a music festival, promising a surprise. There, he set off fireworks, deeply moving Ma Xiangnan. He then suggested embarking on an impulsive trip they had once discussed, a "trip where we leave at any time." Ma Xiangnan accepted the challenge, and Huo Kai told her to make a list of things she wanted to experience on their journey.

They drove overnight, with Ma Xiangnan eventually falling asleep in the passenger seat. Huo Kai looked at her tenderly, briefly contemplating a kiss before refraining and eventually falling asleep himself. When Huo Kai awoke, Ma Xiangnan had returned, wearing a new pink dress, which she had purchased because they had left without packing any change of clothes. She felt unaccustomed to wearing pink, a color she hadn't worn since turning eighteen, but Huo Kai complimented her.

Ma Xiangnan happily informed him that she had taken time off work and turned off her phone to fully enjoy their spontaneous vacation. She asked where they were headed next, and Huo Kai replied with a smile that it was another surprise.

Ma Xiangnan informed Huo Kai that she had taken time off and turned off her phone, ensuring no one could disturb their vacation. Huo Kai asked where they should go, and they embarked on a trip, enjoying various activities like cooking, fishing, and sending a message in a bottle. Upon arriving at a guesthouse, the receptionist offered them a "lovers' room," but Ma Xiangnan requested two separate rooms.

They wished each other good night from their individual rooms, with unspoken affection between them. Meanwhile, Ma Ke called Han Shuang to a meeting, where he revealed he was moving out of their former residence, as there was no point in staying now that she was gone. He offered to transfer ownership of his furniture store to her, claiming he initially bought it just to tease her.

Han Shuang was skeptical, accusing him of trying to bind her to the store and prevent her from dating. She suggested paying him in installments if he wanted to be her creditor. Ma Ke then revealed he had secured a large furniture order through his parents, which would cover the store's debt. Han Shuang expressed suspicion, noting that his parents were in the plastic surgery business, not furniture.

After signing the store transfer contract, Han Shuang discovered that the large order was from Ruicheng, a subsidiary of Mingzhu Group, a company associated with her mother, Han Mingzhu. She realized this was a trap. Han Mingzhu, who deeply resented men who abandoned their wives (like Han Shuang's father), would not forgive Ma Ke for leaving her daughter at the wedding. Han Shuang pointed out a clause in the contract stating the furniture contained "no formaldehyde."

She explained to a bewildered Ma Ke that solid wood naturally contains some formaldehyde, and a "zero formaldehyde" claim was a setup for a lawsuit. Han Mingzhu likely intended to refuse the furniture delivery and demand huge compensation. Horrified, Ma Ke tried to tear up the signed contract, insisting he never intended to cause her trouble and would not abandon her with such a mess.

Han Shuang stopped him, declaring the store was now hers and he couldn't outsmart Han Mingzhu, leading to a heated argument where she called him a "silly fool" and he retorted that he was only to be cheated by her family. In another part of the city, Yan Changjun encountered Ling Wei at a café. He implied her quick hospital discharge meant she had achieved her objectives.

Ling Wei, in turn, subtly questioned if he suspected her of orchestrating the SG stock price fall, which she claimed would not benefit her. She brought up rumors of someone shorting SG shares in America before the data leak, reminding him that while she was in China, her husband was abroad, and questioned if they were divorced. Ling Wei then offered to help Yan Changjun with his company's public listing, suggesting she knew influential people in the U. S.

He politely declined, stating he didn't want "more trouble." Ling Wei tried to sow discord between Yan Changjun and Xu Chengyi, portraying Xu Chengyi as manipulative and unconcerned with their past friendship. She asked whose side he would take if she and Xu Chengyi came into conflict. Yan Changjun responded directly, advising her to return to the U. S. , stating that China was no longer her "arena."

After Yan Changjun departed, Ling Wei immediately called Lin Hao on the phone, instructing him to meet her at a different location. Upon returning home, Lin Hao told Zhao Xiaolei that he had discovered Han Shuang was not involved in their company's recent issues. He apologized for preventing Zhao Xiaolei from seeing her friends and encouraged her to reconcile with them, asking her to apologize to them on his behalf. Zhao Xiaolei was visibly surprised by his change of heart.

Later, Zhao Xiaolei met her brother, Zhao Xiaojun, who informed her he had resigned from Lin Hao's company because Lin Hao no longer trusted him and was being secretive. Zhao Xiaojun expressed his desire to start his own business but refused to go upstairs to avoid an angry confrontation with Lin Hao.

Lin Hao, observing them from above, later told Zhao Xiaolei that he understood Zhao Xiaojun's decision to resign due to lack of business and assured her that he would take Zhao Xiaojun back if his independent venture failed. Lin Hao also mentioned his company was out of danger and, in a good mood, promised to take Zhao Xiaolei on a trip.

Zhao Xiaolei, however, remained suspicious of his sudden success and questioned his methods, prompting Lin Hao to scold her for always assuming the worst of him. Meanwhile, Xia Yan informed Ling Wei about Han Shuang's data leak. Ling Wei subtly fanned the flames of suspicion by questioning why only Han Shuang's "entire" data, not just phone numbers like other users, was stolen.

Ling Wei assured Xia Yan she would follow up, but Xia Yan, growing suspicious, decided to confront Han Shuang. Xia Yan questioned Han Shuang's decision to take over Ma Ke's store, believing it was an act of revenge. Han Shuang vehemently denied this, explaining she would never seek revenge over property or for a divorce she initiated. She felt misunderstood by her friends, especially Xia Yan, who seemed to harbor doubts about her intentions with Xu Chengyi.

Xia Yan admitted that Xu Chengyi had clarified that Han Shuang's earlier flirtatious behavior was merely a "test" of his sincerity towards Xia Yan, but Xia Yan felt Han Shuang should have communicated this directly. Han Shuang then revealed her true reason for testing Xu Chengyi: she heard he crashed his car because of Ling Wei and feared he was using Xia Yan to make Ling Wei jealous.

After her "test," she became convinced of his sincerity towards Xia Yan and refrained from disclosing her actions to avoid making Xia Yan overthink the Ling Wei connection. However, Xia Yan stated she understood Xu Chengyi's silence from that day, but couldn't extend the same understanding to Han Shuang, which further enraged Han Shuang. They argued fiercely, both feeling their friendship was no longer the same, and Han Shuang stormed off.

Later, Ling Wei met with Han Shuang and presented her with a document detailing "SG Confidante Planet: User IP Address Retrieval." It showed that Han Shuang's account had been accessed via a computer, which Han Shuang denied ever doing. Ling Wei pointed out that the IP address associated with the computer login was "Unit 604, Building 6, Ivy Community, Wuhai District," which Han Shuang recognized as Xia Yan's address. Enraged, Han Shuang called Xia Yan, demanding she return home.

While waiting, Han Shuang accessed Xia Yan's computer, managing to log in by guessing "Xu" (Xu Chengyi's surname) as a password. Inside, she found a video of herself with Xu Chengyi, along with an audio recording of Xu Chengyi saying things like, "Helping Xia Yan is real. You tempting me, that's also real. There is no one I can't get." Overwhelmed with fury, Han Shuang smashed the computer, yelling "Xia Yan, go to hell!"

When Xia Yan arrived home, she was shocked by the destruction. Han Shuang, tearfully and angrily, confronted Xia Yan, accusing her of playing the video at her wedding despite Han Shuang having "bared her heart and soul" to her friends. Xia Yan vehemently denied any involvement. Han Shuang then confessed her past sincere feelings for Xu Chengyi but claimed she gave him up once she realized Xia Yan liked him.

She lashed out at Xia Yan, accusing her of always prioritizing her own feelings, just as she had with Lin Hao and Zhao Xiaolei, and making her friends "make way" for her. She asked if she was now "out," like Zhao Xiaolei, and accused Xia Yan of seeing her as "promiscuous," "lacking morals," and a "joke of a bimbo" who would steal her ex-husband's store and best friend's boyfriend.

Xia Yan insisted she didn't mean it that way, but the argument escalated further, with Han Shuang smashing more items and declaring, "Then let none of us be happy!" Later, an employee found Han Shuang on the rooftop, distraught and soaked in the rain. Ma Ke arrived, having been informed of her state. Han Shuang initially told him to leave her alone, but he stayed silently by her side. Eventually, she softened, asking him not to leave and to stay with her for a while, before leaning into his embrace.

Han Shuang was distraught after a major fight with Xia Yan that resulted in damage to her apartment. Mark cared for her, offering her milk and reassuring her that he had sent her laptop for repair and would quickly find out who was scheming against them. He emphasized that the situation wasn't just between her and Xia Yan, but involved him too, and he was committed to figuring it out.

Han Shuang confessed that she once thought she was the happiest girl in the world, with loving parents, best friends, and a great boyfriend, but everything had suddenly disappeared without reason. She lamented that Zhao Xiaolei had moved away, she and Xia Yan had fought until they were no longer friends, and even Cousin Xiang (Xiang Nan) was unreachable. Mark offered her food, but Han Shuang only wanted him to stay so she wouldn't be alone.

He fed her instant noodles, humorously claiming expertise from his hospital days. Han Shuang then brought up the wedding video, stating she found it on Xia Yan's laptop. Mark expressed disbelief, stating that Xia Yan would never do such a thing. Han Shuang admitted she also didn't want to believe it, but she had seen it, and recalled Xia Yan playing a similar video at Liu Yi Ming's wedding, which fueled her suspicion.

Han Shuang shared her deep sadness over the breakup of their friendship, finding it more painful than her divorce. She recounted her mother's wisdom about the stability of small-city friendships compared to the transient nature of big-city relationships, and how she had clung to her friends, only to now feel under the "spell" of big-city changes. Mark reassured her that they would always be together and her misunderstanding with Xia Yan would be resolved.

Reflecting on her beliefs, Han Shuang said she used to think love was changeable but friendship was unalterable, but now realized friendship was just as fragile. Mark affirmed she still had him, and despite their "failed marriage," they were like "wounded comrades" in love. He then suggested she move in with him, as the furniture shop would be too lonely and empty for her at night. Meanwhile, Cousin Xiang (Xiang Nan) was with Huo Kai.

She asked him to visit her mother sometime and confessed she was avoiding returning home because she had heard from her gynecologist that her health situation was not good. Xiang Nan revealed an 80% likelihood of having a malignant tumor, similar to her aunt's past diagnosis. She expressed her fear, primarily for her mother, who would lose another family member, and for her friends, worrying that if she wasn't there, no one would stop them from arguing.

She was used to being "Cousin Xiang," always worrying about them, but couldn't imagine them worrying about her. She decided to tell her friends after her puncture examination results were out. With Huo Kai's suggestion, Xiang Nan recorded a heartfelt video message for Xia Yan, Han Shuang, and Zhao Xiaolei, telling them about the tumor and her fear of breaking their promise to grow old together and missing important moments in their lives.

She asked for their forgiveness and for them to be with her for her examination the next day. Xia Yan, Han Shuang, and Zhao Xiaolei watched the video, deeply moved. They rushed to the hospital to be with Xiang Nan, offering comfort and encouragement. During the examination, the friends waited anxiously outside. Xiang Nan reassured them that it was just an examination and she would be fine, but she hoped for more time to do many things.

Han Shuang, tearful, apologized to Xiang Nan for her foolishness. Later, the doctor announced the news: the tumor was benign. Everyone was overjoyed and relieved, laughing and crying with happiness. Han Shuang hugged Xiang Nan, telling her how much she had scared them. Xiang Nan explained she would only need a small surgery. The friends then decided to go home, with Han Shuang promising to cook Xiang Nan's favorite wonton noodles.

Back at Xiang Nan's apartment, as they cleaned up, Xiang Nan encouraged her friends to speak openly about their recent conflict. She reminded Han Shuang of her promise when they first moved into the apartment: to create a "fortress" where they could always be themselves, laugh, cry, and be wild, always together. Xiang Nan then expressed her pain at seeing their "fortress" smashed.

Han Shuang tearfully apologized for her actions, admitting it was her fault for breaking their home and for not explaining things. Xiang Nan, however, told her there was no need to explain, as everyone experiences bad moods. But then, Xiang Nan pressed Han Shuang, asking if she truly believed Xia Yan would betray her. Han Shuang initially tried to dismiss it, saying people change, and their fight seemed trifling compared to Xiang Nan's health scare.

Xia Yan interjected, stating that the matter couldn't just end there. Han Shuang, finally letting her emotions out, lashed out at Xia Yan. She acknowledged her own mistake in approaching Xu Cheng Yi without telling Xia Yan, but questioned why Xia Yan had acted behind her back, particularly at her wedding. Han Shuang insisted she wasn't a bad person and would admit to anything she had done, but she couldn't understand Xia Yan's actions.

She declared they were no longer friends and would simply be polite to each other. Xia Yan calmly countered, asserting that she did not play the video. Han Shuang brought up finding it on Xia Yan's laptop. Xia Yan explained that after Xu Cheng Yi repaired her laptop, she realized that if a hacker could infiltrate SG's system, they could also hack her laptop and "add" files that were never there.

She then presented evidence showing the video was placed on her laptop "after" Han Shuang's wedding. She asked Han Shuang if she truly believed Xia Yan would do such a thing to her at her own wedding. Xia Yan then questioned Han Shuang about who had told her about the video being on her laptop.

Han Shuang recalled Ling Wei telling her she had checked the IPs that accessed her account, noting that some IP addresses linked to the video were from Xia Yan's apartment. Han Shuang realized Ling Wei had manipulated her twice, driving a wedge between her and Xia Yan. Overcome with regret, Han Shuang apologized profusely to Xia Yan, asking if Xia Yan was still willing to be her friend. Xia Yan embraced her, assuring her that she would always forgive her.

Zhao Xiaolei also offered comfort, telling Han Shuang she would feel better after crying. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiaolei had returned home to find Lin Hao, who expressed relief that Xiang Nan's examination had revealed a benign tumor. Zhao Xiaolei asked if he still opposed her contact with her friends.

Lin Hao, remorseful for his past behavior, assured her he would not and even offered to drive her back to the apartment to live with her friends for a few days to spend time with Xiang Nan. He promised to visit Xiang Nan himself and apologize in person for his past actions, assuring Zhao Xiaolei she wouldn't have to be "stuck between two sides."

Lin Hao then asked Zhao Xiaolei to promise to forget all the unpleasant things that had happened and for them to restart. Shortly after, Lin Hao received a call from a client. Some time later, Han Shuang learned that Mark intended to sell his family's hospital and confronted him. She insisted the debt was hers and Mark shouldn't interfere. Mark, however, was resolute, urging Han Shuang to win her competition with Han Mingzhu.

He revealed he had already mortgaged his family's hospital and would return home to work for his parents, never leaving them again. Han Shuang lived up to expectations, successfully clearing all inventory. Her friends celebrated her victory, and Han Shuang thanked them, but especially Mark, whose continuous support and funding had made her success possible. Mark embraced and kissed Han Shuang. At that moment, Han Mingzhu arrived. Sensing the impending conversation, the friends discreetly excused themselves.

Han Mingzhu acknowledged Han Shuang's impressive feat of selling all the inventory and, for the first time, admitted her defeat. Han Shuang advised her mother to embrace new thinking, emphasizing the power of the internet. However, Han Mingzhu remained steadfast in her belief in traditional business, anticipating future challenges where Han Shuang might defeat her again. Despite their business rivalry, the mother and daughter had resolved their personal estrangement.

Mark later sought out Han Mingzhu to explain his departure from the wedding, clarifying that he merely wanted time to clear his head and hadn't anticipated Han Shuang announcing their divorce. Han Mingzhu told Mark that Han Shuang, though appearing bold, was still a young girl at heart, and had acted out because Mark didn't show up.

Mark assured Han Mingzhu he would uncover the person responsible for the wedding sabotage and clear Han Shuang's name, hoping she would see his capability and soon accept him as family. Meanwhile, at SG, Ling Wei convened a meeting, announcing that a competitor had prematurely implemented their upcoming plan, indicating an internal leak. She instructed everyone to maintain distance from external contacts and cooperate with the investigation.

Colleagues were interrogated, and eventually, Xia Yan was questioned, with particular interest in her relationship with Xu Cheng Yi. Investigators suspected Xia Yan of having used Lin Hao to betray Xu Cheng Yi, suggesting Xu Cheng Yi gave the plan to Lin Hao as a trade-off for Xia Yan. Xia Yan found this accusation absurd. They presented a photo of Xu Cheng Yi and Lin Hao shaking hands as evidence.

Xu Cheng Yi was also being questioned by his boss, as the photo had spread online, negatively impacting SG's stock. The board was displeased with Xu Cheng Yi and suggested he take a leave of absence, while Xia Yan faced dismissal. Xia Yan felt she had implicated Xu Cheng Yi.

SG wanted to sell a core algorithm—a project Xu Cheng Yi had been developing for five years before joining SG—which he was reluctant to part with, seeing it as his life's work. The company, however, prioritized profit. Xia Yan resolved that Xu Cheng Yi would not leave SG, and she would protect his algorithm, even under immense pressure, to prevent them from being accused of conspiring to sell it to Lin Hao.

Upon Xia Yan's return, Ling Wei feigned comfort, offering support if Xia Yan chose to resign. When Xia Yan insisted on staying, Ling Wei assured her of continued support. After Ling Wei left, Xia Yan recalled Yan Changjun's past warning about Ling Wei being a cunning woman. Ling Wei, who could enjoy better treatment abroad, chose to return to China as an operations director, indicating something more significant than her position attracted her to SG.

Xia Yan then sought out Yan Changjun to discuss her suspicions that Ling Wei was setting them up. Although Xu Cheng Yi suspected Xue Ning, Xia Yan believed Ling Wei was the most likely culprit. She recalled how Ling Wei's hints about Han Shuang's data leak had made Han Shuang suspect Xia Yan. Yan Changjun firmly confirmed Ling Wei's involvement, stating her motives extended beyond Xu Cheng Yi, hinting at a deeper agenda.

Xia Yan relayed these developments to her friends. Han Shuang suspected Lin Hao and suggested calling the police. Zhao Xiaolei tried calling Lin Hao, but received no answer. She then called Zhao Xiaojun, who informed her of rumors circulating that Lin Hao had approached Zhao Xiaolei with the intention of retaliating against Xia Yan.

Early in the morning, Xiang Nan woke up to prepare breakfast for Xia Yan, who felt embarrassed, believing she should be cooking for her host. To keep Xiang Nan company, Xia Yan arranged for Han Shuang and Zhao Xiaolei to visit. After Xia Yan left for work, Han Shuang arrived and met Ma Ke downstairs. They went up together, bringing food they planned to cook for Xiang Nan.

As Han Shuang struggled with cleaning a fish, Ma Ke stepped in to help, inadvertently left Huo Kai's medical report on the sofa. Xiang Nan saw the report, realized the severity of Huo Kai's condition, and was devastated. After she rushed off to find Huo Kai, Han Shuang and Ma Ke discovered her absence and found the report. Ma Ke then explained that Huo Kai was suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive nervous system disease.

Realizing Xiang Nan had rushed off to find Huo Kai, Han Shuang and Ma Ke quickly followed her. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiaolei and Lin Hao also arrived at Xiang Nan's place. Upon learning of Huo Kai's illness and Xiang Nan's disappearance, they informed Xia Yan. The group decided to split up to search for Xiang Nan and Huo Kai. Xu Chengyi also joined the search, receiving a list of Xiang Nan's usual hangouts from Xia Yan.

While looking, Xu Chengyi encountered Lin Hao, who wanted to talk. Lin Hao expressed relief that Xia Yan and Xu Chengyi were together, admitting he always felt he didn't deserve Xia Yan. However, Xu Chengyi firmly stated he would not forgive anyone who had hurt Xia Yan, regardless of their reasons. Lin Hao then spoke about Zhao Xiaolei, praising her kindness, comparing it to Xia Yan's, and noted how at ease he felt with her.

He conveyed his desire for everyone to accept their relationship, hoping to avoid driving a wedge between Zhao Xiaolei and her friends. Moved by Lin Hao’s sincerity, Xu Chengyi shook his hand in reconciliation. Unbeknownst to them, Lin Wei secretly photographed their handshake. Huo Kai had gone into hiding and left a message for Xiang Nan, expressing his deep affection for her. He explained that his previous departure was due to his illness.

Despite leaving, he found himself missing Xiang Nan even more, which led to his return. However, he now chose to leave again, not wanting to selfishly make Xiang Nan sad. He asked her not to look for him. Hearing this message, Xiang Nan was utterly heartbroken and cried out for Huo Kai. Elsewhere, Zhao Xiaolei found her brother, Zhao Xiaojun, eating dry bread.

He revealed he had lost his job again after only a few days and was rejected by several companies. Zhao Xiaojun praised Lin Hao's kindness and asked Zhao Xiaolei to put in a good word for him to get his old job back. However, Zhao Xiaolei confessed that she was considering taking a break from Lin Hao, a suggestion Zhao Xiaojun adamantly opposed, warning her not to be foolish.

Han Shuang received a call informing her that her mother, Han Mingzhu, had refused to accept a large order of furniture from their company. Enraged, Han Shuang confided in Ma Ke, who arrived to help. Han Shuang frantically called previous clients, but none were willing to purchase the furniture. Convinced her mother was retaliating, Han Shuang decided to confront her. At Han Mingzhu's office, Han Shuang burst into a meeting, demanding to speak.

Han Mingzhu dismissed her employees and accused Han Shuang of embarrassing her and throwing a tantrum. Han Shuang retorted that her mother was deliberately making things difficult for her furniture store. Han Mingzhu denied it, claiming they were just conducting business, but Han Shuang insisted her mother was seeking revenge on Ma Ke for the humiliation at the wedding.

Han Mingzhu admitted she had investigated the video that caused the wedding scandal, confirming it happened before Han Shuang and Ma Ke were together and wasn't Han Shuang's fault. She believed Ma Ke, by divorcing Han Shuang over it, deserved to pay. Han Shuang tried to explain, but Han Mingzhu remained fixated on making Ma Ke pay the price for his perceived betrayal.

Han Mingzhu then laid out her condition: if Han Shuang wanted the furniture store to be saved, she must never see or contact Ma Ke again. Han Shuang furiously told her mother not to impose her values, stating her right to choose her associations. Han Mingzhu threatened to ensure the furniture store went bankrupt and to tell everyone to avoid it if Han Shuang refused.

Han Shuang, heartbroken, accused her mother of manipulating her under the guise of "doing it for her own good" and declared she would never betray her friends for money or succumb to threats. After leaving her mother, Han Shuang recounted the encounter to Ma Ke. Ma Ke, feeling responsible, suggested he should leave Han Shuang, believing the divorce was his fault and that Han Mingzhu was right to target him.

Han Shuang urged him not to dwell on it, explaining that her mother’s domineering attitude made her realize how she herself had treated Zhao Xiaolei earlier, trying to force her to break up with Lin Hao for her "own good." She reflected on how she had previously viewed Zhao Xiaolei as a mere follower, never valuing her opinions, and realized that it was Zhao Xiaolei who had always been tolerant of her willfulness and selfishness.

To celebrate Zhao Xiaolei’s missed birthday, the friends decided to throw her a belated party. During dinner, Xiang Nan inquired about Han Shuang’s business troubles. Han Shuang confided that her mother might truly send her to jail if she couldn't raise the necessary funds. All her friends immediately offered to help. Xiang Nan then revealed that Ma Ke was also preparing to sell his family's plastic surgery clinic to help Han Shuang.

Han Shuang confronted Ma Ke about his decision to mortgage his family's plastic surgery center to cover her furniture debt, insisting he shouldn't interfere with the financial burden she owed. Ma Ke, however, insisted that she must win her competition against Han Mingzhu. He confessed that he had mortgaged his family's plastic surgery center, explaining he had to cry and threaten his parents to get them to agree.

He promised to resign from the hospital and return to work at the center, giving up his dream of saving lives. He expressed his belief in Han Shuang, stating it was because she was "Han Shuang," not just Han Mingzhu's daughter, and reiterated that she needed to win. Han Shuang successfully sold all the furniture inventory.

Her friends gathered to celebrate, and Han Shuang thanked Xia Yan for her strategy, Zhao Xiaolei for her impactful copywriting, and Xiang Nan for providing healthy food and support. She reserved her deepest gratitude for Ma Ke, acknowledging his constant support and funding. She reflected on her initial perception of him as a playboy, contrasting it with his dedication to his dream and his hard work, even eating instant noodles.

She realized that while she often spoke of independence, she was afraid of hardship, and Ma Ke had been there for her in her most helpless moments, believing in her when she barely believed in herself. Ma Ke then embraced and kissed Han Shuang. Just as they shared the moment, Han Mingzhu arrived, causing their friends to quickly excuse themselves.

Han Mingzhu was impressed that Han Shuang had managed to clear all the inventory, admitting defeat, which she called her first complete loss in years. Han Shuang told her mother that her success came from utilizing the internet, urging her to adapt to the new economy. Han Mingzhu remained resolute in her belief in traditional brick-and-mortar businesses, arguing that some things, like building houses and and making phones, would always require physical effort.

Despite their professional rivalry, Han Mingzhu expressed joy at seeing Han Shuang grow and surpass her, promising to show no mercy as a competitor but looking forward to being defeated again. Later, Ma Ke sought out Han Mingzhu to explain his actions. He apologized for running away from the wedding, stating he only wanted some time alone and never expected Han Shuang to publicly announce their divorce.

Han Mingzhu revealed her daughter's true nature, explaining that Han Shuang might appear tough on the surface but was still a little girl inside, forced to act strong because Ma Ke had disappeared. Ma Ke acknowledged Han Shuang's pain and promised to find the person who maliciously edited and displayed the video at their wedding to clear her name, hoping this act would earn Han Mingzhu's respect and allow him to call her "Mom."

Meanwhile, a competing app called "Confidante Show" appeared in the App Store, alarmingly similar to their "Confidante Planet" app, even incorporating their unreleased new features and partner information. Ling Wei called a meeting, stating that their plan had been leaked internally. She instructed everyone to be honest during individual interviews with senior management, but warned against coordinating their testimonies, as this could lead to suspicion. Xia Yan was one of the last employees to be questioned.

The investigators were particularly interested in her relationship with Xu Cheng Yi, asking if her decision to join SG was influenced by him. They suggested she dumped her ex-boyfriend, Lin Hao, because she was attracted to Xu Cheng Yi.

They then revealed that Lin Hao's company had collaborated on the "Confidante Show" app, with Lin Hao providing the roll-out plan, implying that Xu Cheng Yi had leaked company plans to Lin Hao as a form of compensation for Xia Yan's past relationship, presenting a photo of Xu Cheng Yi and Lin Hao shaking hands as evidence. Simultaneously, Xu Cheng Yi was also being interrogated by his superior.

He was shown the photo of him shaking hands with Lin Hao, which had spread online and negatively impacted SG's stock price. His boss informed him that the board was already dissatisfied with him due to his steadfast refusal to sell the Sadoop Algorithm, a project he had dedicated years to, and now wanted him to take an extended leave of absence. They also intended to dismiss Xia Yan.

Xia Yan felt guilty, believing she was the cause of Xu Cheng Yi's troubles. She realized that if he left SG, he would lose control of the Sadoop Algorithm, his life's work. She learned that the board viewed the algorithm as a failed investment after five years of development and wanted to sell it. Xu Cheng Yi felt that taking a leave might give him a chance to turn the situation around, but Xia Yan adamantly refused to resign.

She insisted that her resignation would wrongly confirm their guilt in leaking the plan to Lin Hao. She was determined to stay and fight for Xu Cheng Yi and his algorithm, regardless of the pressure. Back at the office, Ling Wei approached Xia Yan, offering support if she chose to resign, but then changed her stance to one of support when Xia Yan stated her intent to stay.

Xia Yan reflected on Yan Changjun's past warning that Ling Wei was a cunning woman with hidden motives, noting that her return to a lower position at SG suggested something more significant than status was at play. Xia Yan confided in Yan Changjun, expressing her growing suspicion of Ling Wei, despite Xu Cheng Yi believing Xue Ning was responsible. Xia Yan argued that Xue Ning’s methods were direct, unlike the elaborate schemes used.

She pointed out that the person who stole Han Shuang's wedding video also framed her, and Han Shuang had only suspected Xia Yan after Ling Wei subtly planted the idea. Yan Changjun agreed, affirming that Ling Wei was definitely behind it, and her motives went beyond mere personal feelings for Xu Cheng Yi. Xia Yan then shared her concerns with her friends. Han Shuang immediately suspected Lin Hao, suggesting they call the police.

Zhao Xiaolei attempted to call Lin Hao, but his phone was off. She then called her brother, Zhao Xiaojun, who reported that Lin Hao had disappeared from his home and company, which were swarmed with journalists. Zhao Xiaojun also mentioned a rumor circulating that Lin Hao had only pursued a relationship with Zhao Xiaolei as a means of revenge against Xia Yan. Zhao Xiaolei was visibly upset by this news.

Xia Yan informed Xu Cheng Yi that Lin Hao had gone missing and his phone was off. She mentioned that Zhao Xiaolei had also been unable to reach him, last seeing him over the weekend and their WeChat communication stopping two days prior. Xu Cheng Yi immediately suspected Xue Ning, believing she conspired with Lin Hao, especially recalling the past user information leak.

While Xue Ning had resigned, Xu Cheng Yi pointed out her deep understanding of SG could still allow her to orchestrate such events. Xia Yan, however, reminded him that Ling Wei had previously implicated Yan Chang Jun for his hacking skills. Xu Cheng Yi countered that many possessed such skills, and he felt Xue Ning had stronger motives. He expressed disappointment that his suspicions were proving true.

Xia Yan emphasized that their current suspicions were mere doubts, and the real truth could only be uncovered by locating Lin Hao. Meanwhile, Lin Hao met with Zhao Xiaolei, having arranged the meeting through her brother, Zhao Xiaojun. Xiaolei, distressed, had been searching for him. Lin Hao vehemently denied leaking SG's plan or framing Xia Yan, claiming these were baseless rumors designed to mislead them.

He explained his disappearance by stating he was trying to avoid persistent reporters and had turned off his phone to avoid trouble. He assured her things will be okay after this period, and they can be together again. Xiaolei questioned if he still wanted to be with her after all that had happened, to which Lin Hao responded that he knew she wouldn't abandon him even in his darkest days.

He declared her the person who treated him best in the world and vowed not to let her down. Before leaving, he gave her a bank card, insisting she keep it for emergencies, despite her initial reluctance. He encouraged her to remember their happy memories and smile when thinking of him, then cautioned her not to tell anyone they had met or defend him, as he didn't want to cause her more trouble.

Shortly after Lin Hao departed, Zhao Xiaolei received a mobile alert for a 500,000 yuan transfer to her bank account. When she immediately tried to call Lin Hao to clarify, his phone was off. Remembering that her brother, Zhao Xiaojun, had mentioned Lin Hao asking about reporters at his home, Xiaolei rushed there, finding Lin Hao packing to go abroad. She confronted him about the sudden influx of money, accusing him of leaking SG's plan and framing Xia Yan.

Lin Hao, without denying it, confessed that his actions were a deliberate act of revenge against Xia Yan, whom he felt had been ruthless towards him. He admitted to seeing himself as a "good-for-nothing" with no future, which fueled his destructive choices. He also revealed that he initially pursued Xiaolei as part of his revenge scheme against Xia Yan, who had quickly moved on with Xu Cheng Yi.

However, he claimed to have genuinely fallen for Xiaolei due to her kindness and unwavering support, promising to return for her after things settled down so they could immigrate to Chile. Xiaolei, distraught, refused to leave with him and pleaded for him to turn himself in to save Xia Yan from being ruined. She emphasized the legal consequences of trade secret theft and argued that self-surrender would lead to a lighter sentence.

Lin Hao vehemently refused to go to jail, accusing Xiaolei of betrayal after he had gone to such lengths for her. When he attempted to leave, Xiaolei desperately clung to his leg, trying to prevent him from taking his passport. In the ensuing struggle, Lin Hao struck her on the head with an ashtray. Immediately after, he sent a text message to Zhao Xiaojun, urging him to save his sister, then deleted Xiaojun's contact.

Zhao Xiaojun quickly arrived at Lin Hao's apartment to find his sister, Zhao Xiaolei, lying on the floor with blood on her face. Rushing her to the hospital, Xiaolei weakly instructed him to pursue Lin Hao, who was headed to the airport, and ensure he didn't get away. Zhao Xiaojun sped towards the airport in pursuit. Encountering a severe traffic jam, he abandoned his car and began searching vehicles individually.

He eventually located Lin Hao in a taxi, forcibly removed him, and began assaulting him, accusing him of harming his sister. Lin Hao, in turn, lashed out, claiming that it was Xiaojun and his family who truly mistreated Xiaolei, citing examples of how Xiaojun always received preferential treatment and how Xiaolei was often blamed for his wrongdoings. Their violent confrontation escalated, resulting in both men falling from an overpass.

Back at SG, Ling Wei called a company meeting to announce significant internal changes. She informed everyone that Xu Cheng Yi had temporarily departed from SG, and the Board of Directors had appointed her as the interim Chief Technology Officer in his stead, meaning she would be leaving the Operations Department. Ling Wei expressed her gratitude for the time she spent with the department, saying it gave her a sense of belonging and validated her decision to return to China.

She then introduced the new Director of the Operations Department: Xue Ning, a familiar figure from SG's past. Ling Wei officially handed over the department to Xue Ning before departing to report to the board chairman. Xue Ning's return was immediately marked by a harsh assessment of the Operations Department's performance.

She criticized the declining SG stock, the drop in "Show Me" users, and the lack of growth for "Confidante Planet," asserting that the department had embarrassed her since her departure. To address this, she announced the reinstatement of the "last-elimination system," aiming to instill a sense of urgency. When an employee questioned the department's accountability for stock price decline, Xue Ning targeted Xia Yan, implying she should resign for causing trouble.

Xia Yan defended herself, asserting she had committed no wrongdoing and would appeal any unjust dismissal. Xue Ning then dismissed Xia Yan's past achievements, claiming they were only possible with support that was now withdrawn. Instead of firing her, Xue Ning reassigned Xia Yan to a menial desk, ordering her to transfer all her current projects to Mei Qi.

Xia Yan's new duties were reduced to office chores, booking travel, and meticulously managing expenses, with the stipulation that any missed cheaper prices would be personally covered by Xia Yan. Xue Ning then summoned the rest of the team to a meeting, pointedly excluding Xia Yan. Aware of Xue Ning's oppressive treatment of Xia Yan, Xu Cheng Yi arranged to meet with Ling Wei.

He expressed concern for Xia Yan's predicament at the company and asked Ling Wei to assist her. Ling Wei promised to do her best, but also cautioned that the Board's decision regarding Xu Cheng Yi's departure was final and beyond even the chairman's influence. Upon returning home, Xu Cheng Yi began to intensely focus on refining the Sadoop algorithm.

At the hospital, Zhao Xiaolei, her head bandaged from her own injury, diligently cared for her brother, Zhao Xiaojun, who was slowly regaining consciousness. He muttered semi-conscious phrases about not bullying his sister, a reflection of Lin Hao's accusations during their fight. Xiaolei quickly called for a doctor. The employees were dismayed to find their monthly salaries drastically reduced, with many reporting their pay was less than half the usual, making it difficult to cover basic expenses like rent.

Xia Yan, however, was unsurprised by the cuts. During a department meeting, a colleague confronted Xue Ning, questioning why the Operations Department was penalized for a stock decline that seemed unrelated to their work, attributing it to the Technical Department's issues. Xue Ning clarified that while the technical vulnerability had been fixed, the Operations Department's poor handling of the public relations crisis had severely damaged the company's reputation and eroded investor confidence, leading to the stock plunge.

She announced that until the stock price recovered, their performance-based salaries would be reduced to one-third. Xue Ning urged everyone to unite and overcome these challenges, framing SG's crisis as a shared one. The employees later privately complained about Xue Ning's hypocrisy, questioning why she didn't sacrifice her own pay. Some circulated rumors of a major contract with a US company that could potentially restore the stock price.

Xia Yan discovered from the company's intranet that SG was planning to sell the Sadoop algorithm to an American company, with a signing ceremony scheduled for the following Monday. She informed Xu Cheng Yi, deeply concerned about how this news would affect him. She knew Sadoop was his life's work, like a child to him, and worried about how an American company might use it, especially since his optimization efforts were still ongoing.

Xu Cheng Yi was profoundly distressed by the news, describing Sadoop as his "baby" that he had been developing for five years. He lamented that while he wished more people would use his algorithm, he didn't want it sold off for mere profit. He explained that Sadoop was a big data processing tool, and he was working tirelessly to optimize it further, aiming to increase its efficiency test score from 68 to 85.

He believed that achieving this goal would not only honor his commitment to the SG chairman but also give him peace of mind, even if he eventually left the company. He reasoned that with SG's stock price continually falling and a barrage of negative news, the Board saw selling Sadoop as a necessary, albeit painful, "invigorating shot" to quickly rebound the stock, despite it being akin to "killing the goose that lays golden eggs."

He was convinced that no amount of emotional appeal would change their decision unless he could tangibly demonstrate Sadoop's greater, undeniable value, hoping even a 5% increase in efficiency could sway them. Xia Yan met with Yan Chang Jun once more, seeking his advice on how to deal with Ling Wei. Yan Chang Jun reminded Xia Yan of his earlier warnings about Ling Wei's manipulative nature and then presented her with Ling Wei's online shopping records.

Reviewing the purchases, Xia Yan realized that the flowers and jewelry Ling Wei claimed to be for her "boyfriend abroad" were actually for herself, confirming that Ling Wei's entire narrative about an overseas partner was a calculated fabrication. Yan Chang Jun affirmed this, explaining that in the digital age, people's online activities leave undeniable traces, making such deceptions easily exposed.

He stressed that Ling Wei had meticulously planned her actions against Xia Yan for a long time, driven by motives far more complex than just Xu Cheng Yi. Yan Chang Jun advised Xia Yan to carefully consider how she would approach Xu Cheng Yi with this information.

Xia Yan and Han Shuang visited Zhao Xiaojun in the hospital, where Han Shuang expressed her outrage that he and Zhao Xiaolei were severely injured, while Lin Hao only sustained minor wounds. She declared her intent to sue Lin Hao and confirmed she had already hired a lawyer. Zhao Xiaojun, however, revealed he didn't wish to pursue legal action against Lin Hao, stating that despite Lin Hao hurting his sister, Lin Hao had treated him well previously.

He also felt a sense of responsibility, believing his sister wouldn't have been involved with Lin Hao if not for him. Xia Yan reassured him, explaining that surveillance footage from the bridge clearly showed Lin Hao pushing him, confirming it wasn't his fault. Unconvinced by Zhao Xiaojun's forgiving stance, Han Shuang vowed to confront Lin Hao herself.

In the hallway, Zhao Xiaolei intercepted Han Shuang, urging her not to trouble Lin Hao, which only intensified Han Shuang's frustration with the siblings' loyalty. Xia Yan then went alone to speak with Lin Hao. Defiantly, Lin Hao threatened to sue Zhao Xiaojun for his injuries. Xia Yan countered by informing him that they possessed the bridge footage proving he pushed Zhao Xiaojun, dismissing his claim of self-defense as Zhao Xiaojun had already ceased fighting.

She highlighted how he gravely injured both siblings and planned to flee. Lin Hao expressed concern for Zhao Xiaolei but quickly shifted blame to Xia Yan, accusing her of seducing Xu Cheng Yi, which he believed triggered Ling Wei's revenge, leading to Zhao Xiaolei's injury and his own predicament. Xia Yan realized Lin Hao's statement implied he was instigated by Ling Wei.

She conveyed that both Zhao Xiaolei and Zhao Xiaojun had decided not to press charges and had even returned the money he gave Zhao Xiaolei, choosing to remember his past kindness or forgive him. Despite their leniency, Xia Yan warned Lin Hao that he would still face legal consequences for his actions. Later, Zhao Xiaolei visited Zhao Xiaojun, who was recovering.

She mentioned Han Shuang's offer to help him secure a job through her powerful mother, but Zhao Xiaojun politely declined. He announced his decision to leave Xinzhou and return to their hometown to manage the family restaurant with their parents, believing a quieter life suited him better. He expressed regret for coming to Xinzhou and for his past self-centeredness, admitting he had often bullied Zhao Xiaolei during their childhood.

Now, he vowed to protect her from anyone who might try to harm her, both outsiders and their parents, moving Zhao Xiaolei to tears at his newfound maturity. Meanwhile, Xu Cheng Yi, anxious about the company's plan to sell the algorithm, worked relentlessly to perfect a new version, hoping to demonstrate its indispensable value and prevent its sale.

During this time, Ma Ke called him, excitedly revealing he had pinpointed the hackers responsible for stealing Han Shuang's video and breaching SG's database. Ma Ke declared his intention to retrieve the video and expose the truth behind SG's data leak. Alarmed, Xu Cheng Yi immediately requested the address and rushed to the location. Ma Ke also sent a heartfelt text message to Han Shuang, conveying his love and his determination to confront the hackers.

Upon arriving at the White Collar Film and Television Apartment, Ma Ke confronted two men, accusing them of being the hackers who ruined his wedding by editing Han Shuang's video. A fight broke out, and a bystander called the police. Xia Yan discovered Xu Cheng Yi's computer screen displaying a "Success" notification for the refined algorithm, but he was gone, so she took his laptop.

Concurrently, Xu Cheng Yi and Han Shuang arrived at the apartment complex to find the police already arresting Ma Ke and the hackers. Ma Ke quickly told Han Shuang that he had found the original video to prove her innocence, driven by his desire to make amends for them ruining his first wedding to her. Han Shuang, frustrated, told him she never cared about the video, but Ma Ke insisted he did.

As Ma Ke was escorted away by the police, he asked Han Shuang to care for his hydrangea. He then informed Xu Cheng Yi that the hackers had confessed to being instigated by a woman who had returned from America. In the office, Amy and Mei Qi engaged in a heated argument about Xue Ning and Xia Yan.

Amy fiercely defended Xia Yan, accusing Xue Ning of betraying the company, framing Xu Cheng Yi, and attempting to sell his seven-year algorithm. Ling Wei, observing the commotion, secretly smirked. After Xue Ning dismissed everyone, she expressed regret that the chairman hadn't heard Amy's accusations, as it might have exposed the "traitor." Xue Ning then confronted Ling Wei, asserting that she had suspected from the beginning that Ling Wei had invited her back to be a scapegoat.

She enumerated the various company crises that had erupted since Ling Wei's return and dismissed Ling Wei's denials, stating that Ling Wei's hidden motives were linked to external shareholders and the acquisition of the algorithm. Ling Wei feigned ignorance and insisted she only returned to save her own bankrupt company. Their heated exchange was interrupted by Yan Changjun, who arrived with irrefutable documents.

He exposed Ling Wei's deception, revealing she was still married in America and that Ankens, the company set to acquire SG's algorithm, was owned by her husband, Anson. Yan Changjun asserted that Ling Wei and Anson had faked their divorce to conceal their company's financial crisis and orchestrate the acquisition of Sadoop's algorithm to salvage their failing business.

Ling Wei attempted to deflect, denying knowledge of Anson's company and her marital status, and challenging Yan Changjun to present his evidence to the chairman. Yan Changjun then revealed the address of the hackers, implicitly linking Ling Wei to their activities. Xu Cheng Yi then burst into the room, announcing the arrest of the two hackers and demanding that the true mastermind surrender.

Xue Ning, feeling that Xu Cheng Yi suspected her, passionately argued that she had been protecting him and the company all along. She presented Yan Changjun's evidence, finally convincing Xu Cheng Yi of Ling Wei's true machinations. Confronted with the truth, Ling Wei continued her denials. Xu Cheng Yi then asked Xue Ning why she hadn't contacted him earlier if she was indeed helping him.

Xue Ning explained that his earlier refusal to forgive her and her own pride prevented her from seeking credit, as she didn't want her efforts to be misconstrued as begging for forgiveness. She admitted to framing Xia Yan in the past but vehemently denied ever framing him, stating she would never do that. She expressed her profound disappointment that even he, after all her years of silent support, would misunderstand her.

Xu Cheng Yi apologized, but Xue Ning, deeply hurt by his doubt and feeling her mission accomplished, declared she had no regrets at SG and left, declining his offer to remain as chief operations manager. Outside, her colleagues, who had overheard the entire conversation, were filled with remorse for their earlier misjudgment of Xue Ning.

Yan Changjun chastised Xu Cheng Yi, recalling a past incident where Ling Wei had attempted to sell his software and Xu Cheng Yi had sided with her, believing her word. Now, with Ling Wei trying to sell Xu Cheng Yi's algorithm, he observed that Xu Cheng Yi still trusted her and felt he had learned nothing over the years. Ling Wei denied framing him or having any connection to the hackers.

She then spoke of her past with Xu Cheng Yi, lamenting how he had promised to move to the U. S. after graduation, but instead chose to stay and research his algorithm, leading to their breakup. She claimed she had to be the one to suggest parting and insisted that Anson was merely a business partner, while Xu Cheng Yi was her only true love.

She admitted that her return was an attempt to rekindle their relationship, only to be saddened by his happiness with Xia Yan. Ling Wei vividly recounted saving Xia Yan in the elevator, confessing that while a fleeting thought of what might happen if Xia Yan died crossed her mind, she ultimately saved her, unable to bear the thought of Xu Cheng Yi's grief.

Yet, she expressed her pain at witnessing their affection daily without being able to voice her own sorrow, claiming she only wanted him to be happy. Xia Yan then entered, telling Ling Wei to stop pretending to be a good person and accusing her of orchestrating the video incident at Han Shuang's wedding.

When Ling Wei feigned ignorance, Xia Yan meticulously exposed her scheme, explaining that Ling Wei's impatience in trying to frame her to Han Shuang had revealed her true intent. The video, Xia Yan elaborated, was designed to destabilize her relationship with Xu Cheng Yi, hoping they would separate just as Han Shuang and Ma Ke had.

Xia Yan acknowledged her gratitude for being saved in the elevator but asserted her right to seek justice for the harm done to her, her best friend, and her boyfriend. Ling Wei tried to dismiss Xia Yan, threatening to damage her reputation by painting her as ungrateful, but Xu Cheng Yi intervened. He told Ling Wei that he now truly understood her, acknowledging that their path together was over.

Despite his reluctance to part, he stated the need to let her go and expressed his intention to return to the U. S. after the signing ceremony. Xia Yan revealed that the signing ceremony had been canceled, as the President had sent the American buyers home. She explained that Xu Cheng Yi had successfully optimized the algorithm, increasing its speed by over 20%, and she had presented the new version to the board, making a low-price sale unacceptable.

Ling Wei doubted Xu Cheng Yi could have optimized it so quickly, to which Xu Cheng Yi countered that he had been perfecting it for seven years and that genuine effort, not tricks, leads to success. Ling Wei argued that hard work doesn't guarantee triumph and that she could always try again. Xia Yan, however, informed her that there would be no next time. She disclosed that the hackers had confessed, implicating a woman returning from the U. S.

, and that Lin Hao had also been arrested and admitted Ling Wei instructed him, with a substantial payment, to steal the upgraded "Confidante Planet" to create "Confidante Show." Xia Yan stressed that illegal actions would always be exposed, and Ling Wei had lost everything—her future, her influence, and Xu Cheng Yi, who now only loved Xia Yan. Infuriated, Ling Wei attempted to assault Xia Yan, but Xu Cheng Yi intercepted her, forcefully pushing her away.

He warned Ling Wei not to harm his woman and stated she would pay the price for her actions. Ling Wei, enraged, threatened to seek revenge upon her release from prison, vowing to make them experience her current pain. Xia Yan then called in the waiting police officers, informing them that Ling Wei had just confessed. Ling Wei then realized she had been manipulated into admitting her guilt.

After Ling Wei was taken away, Xia Yan clarified to Xu Cheng Yi that Lin Hao had been reluctant to testify, but the hackers' confessions and Ling Wei's self-incrimination had been sufficient. She explained that her intention was to provoke Ling Wei, not to treat Xu Cheng Yi as a prize, as she believed true love had to be mutual and equal.

Yan Changjun, impressed by Xia Yan's cunning, remarked on Xu Cheng Yi's fortune in finding such a girlfriend and mused about finding love himself. Xu Cheng Yi apologized to Yan Changjun for his previous misjudgment, which Yan Changjun graciously accepted, solidifying their continued friendship. The President then entered, reflecting on Ling Wei's actions and the company's past corporate culture.

He confirmed the cancellation of the signing ceremony and Xu Cheng Yi's successful algorithm optimization, then instructed Xu Cheng Yi to hold a press conference. At the press conference, Xu Cheng Yi announced that the Sadoop algorithm would be open-source and freely available worldwide, aiming to address big data storage issues and accelerate cloud computing. He expressed his belief that the internet, once primarily for consumption and entertainment, would increasingly serve industry.

He acknowledged SG Technology's unconditional support for his vision. Following this announcement, SG's stock soared. Colleagues enthusiastically rallied for Xia Yan to be appointed director, a role she modestly accepted. During a celebration, a colleague, Maggie, shared her initial fear about the algorithm being free but now understood the long-term benefits of an open platform in the modern internet era. The team lauded both Xu Cheng Yi and Xia Yan for their leadership as "Confidante Planet" successfully launched.

Xu Cheng Yi later informed Xia Yan that the President wanted him to lead SG's new branch office in Beijing for approximately a year. He sought her opinion, emphasizing that her thoughts were the final decision and offering to decline the position if she wished. Although Xia Yan initially said "don't go," she clarified that she understood the significance of this opportunity for him and SG.

She expressed her concern about missing him and the possibility of other women "snatching him away." They shared a playful moment, affectionately calling each other "Cute Piggy" and "Piggy Essence." Ultimately, Xia Yan offered her full support for his move to Beijing, despite knowing she would miss him deeply. Meanwhile, Ma Xiangnan continued to send messages to Huo Kai, receiving no replies. She experienced a brief hallucination of him but remained resolute in her commitment to wait.

Eventually, Huo Kai responded, suggesting she listen to a new song on NetEase Music, and then miraculously appeared before her. Ma Xiangnan shared her heartfelt messages, likening their enduring connection to that of albatrosses who, despite long separations, always return to their partners. She promised to be an unwavering presence, like the mountains, always waiting for his return.

Huo Kai then explained NetEase Music's "Listen Together" function, which allows users to share music and see their proximity, symbolizing their continued connection regardless of distance, before embracing her. In another development, Han Shuang, dressed in a wedding gown, arrived in a sports car to propose to Ma Ke, asking him to marry her again. Ma Ke, surprised, inquired about her haste, to which she replied with her profound longing for him.

He revealed that Han Shuang's mother had assisted in locating the hackers responsible for the wedding video incident. Han Shuang expressed her desire for a wedding trip instead of a formal ceremony. Ma Ke readily agreed, and despite his lack of funds, Han Shuang playfully assured him she would take care of everything as they drove off for their honeymoon. Zhao Xiaolei returned to her hometown to become a teacher.

After class, she discovered the stamp left by Tian Ming, engraved with the character "曉" (Xiao), meaning dawn, which represented his name. Tian Ming then appeared, expressing his deep affection and inviting her to an exhibition called "Unchanging Things in a Changing World," asserting that his feelings for her remained constant. Zhao Xiaolei's love story finally found its resolution. Xia Yan and Xu Cheng Yi maintained their long-distance relationship through daily video calls.

One day, Xia Yan was unable to reach Xu Cheng Yi, and after a week of unanswered calls, she grew increasingly anxious. Han Shuang, upon hearing Xia Yan's distress, warned her that Xu Cheng Yi might be cheating, citing the lack of communication and his Beijing colleagues' unawareness of his supposed research project. She grimly noted the pattern of relationship failures among their friends. Determined, Xia Yan decided to find Xu Cheng Yi.

She approached the President, explaining Xu Cheng Yi's claim of mountain research with no signal, the contradictory information from Beijing colleagues, and her intention to go to Beijing if no other work was arranged for him. The President attempted to dissuade her, suggesting Xu Cheng Yi might be deliberately avoiding her. Xia Yan insisted she needed to find him, even if he wished to avoid her, due to her profound worry.

Seeing her genuine concern, the President revealed that Xu Cheng Yi was not in Beijing. He admitted Xu Cheng Yi had wanted to keep his situation a secret to spare her worry, but he could no longer do so. The President disclosed that Xu Cheng Yi had been receiving treatment for his eyes and was currently recovering, urging Xia Yan to go to him. Xia Yan found Xu Cheng Yi, and both, overcome with emotion, embraced and kissed.