Hidden Love Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Hidden Love Synopsis
During high school period, Sang Zhi is frequently asked by her teacher to meet with her parents. In order to solve the problem, Sang Zhi decides to ask her brother to take the blame. However, she fails, she has no choice but to turn to her brother's roommate Duan Jiaxu, who comes to play with her brother.
As a result, Duan Jiaxu helps Sang Zhi to meet with her teacher at school, and they become close, and then Duan Jiaxu treats Sang Zhi as his own sister.
As Duan Jiaxu graduates from university, they are separated from each other, and due to some misunderstandings, they become estranged.
It is not until Sang Zhi is an adult that they reunite when she is admitted to Duan Jiaxu's city, as she had hoped.
Gradually, Sang Zhi discovers the source of Duan Jiaxu's constant stress and wants to protect this older brother who has always been so kind to her and revive her hidden love.
With the company of Sang Zhi, Duan Jiaxu slowly unravels the "knot" in his heart, and he truly falls in love with the grown-up Sang Zhi.
Hidden Love Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Life contains several unforgettable moments—or more precisely, distinct, paused time nodes. This philosophical reflection sets the stage for Sang Zhi's story. Her narrative begins in middle school, specifically in Grade 8. During math class, while the teacher explains the Pythagorean theorem, Sang Zhi is completely distracted, captivated by a mother bird feeding its young outside the window. When called upon, she vividly recounts the birds' actions, much to her teacher's annoyance.
The teacher, whom her friends refer to as "Old Chen," chastises her for her lack of focus, declaring it an attitude problem and demanding her parents come to school the following day. After class, Sang Zhi's friends discuss the incident, with one apologizing for indirectly getting her caught and another noting that Sang Zhi's mother has already visited the school twice in the last half-month.
Sang Zhi complains that the teacher's voice is "hypnotic," making her want to sleep unless she finds something to do. When her friends suggest joining some boys, including Fu Zhengchu, at a bookstore to buy study materials, Sang Zhi declines, stating she's not in the mood because of the impending parent-teacher meeting.
She decides to ask her college-aged brother, Sang Yan, for help, texting him about how much she misses him and asking if he can return home the next day. Exasperated, Sang Zhi returns home, lamenting to a dog about Sang Yan's "heartless" abandonment. Her mother then surprises her with the news that Sang Yan is actually home and asks her to take some fruit upstairs for him.
Carrying a watermelon, Sang Zhi enters her brother's room and is stunned to see an incredibly handsome young man. Believing it to be her brother, she immediately asks if he got plastic surgery. Her actual brother, Sang Yan, then appears behind her, playfully mocking her for getting into trouble, as he knows she only "misses" him when she needs help. He introduces the handsome stranger as his roommate, Duan Jiaxu, who politely greets Sang Zhi.
A playful spat erupts between the siblings over her mistake. Duan Jiaxu intervenes, offering Sang Zhi fruit and telling her not to mind Sang Yan. He then states he needs to leave for his part-time job, declining Sang Yan's offer to shower first. Before he can go, Sang Zhi desperately tries to enlist Sang Yan's help for her meeting, but he refuses.
In a dramatic move, Sang Zhi feigns tears, running to her mother and, while hiding behind a bewildered Duan Jiaxu, tearfully accuses Sang Yan of hitting her. Her mother scolds Sang Yan and takes him away. As soon as they are gone, Sang Zhi's tears immediately cease, surprising Duan Jiaxu. She explains this is how they've always interacted.
When Duan Jiaxu offers to speak to Sang Yan on her behalf, Sang Zhi dismisses the idea, certain Sang Yan won't help her now. Sang Zhi then turns to Duan Jiaxu, boldly asking him to pretend to be her brother and meet her teacher. When pressed for details, she vaguely claims she was punished despite answering a question correctly, a story Duan Jiaxu clearly doesn't believe.
As Duan Jiaxu prepares to leave for his job, Sang Zhi begs him at the door to come to her school tomorrow. Amused, he asks for her grade level, and she proudly announces she's in Grade 8 and is fourteen years old. He teases her about her short stature, playfully remarking that at thirty, she'll still look eighteen. Sang Zhi retorts that his height might lead people to mistake him for her father.
Before leaving, Duan Jiaxu asks for her school and full name, confirming she attends Xuri Middle School, Grade 8, Class 1, and her name is Sang Zhi, with "Zhi" as in innocence. He then cryptically states, "So, Sang Zhi, you know when we'll meet next time, right?" leaving her confused and wondering if he meant he would come. Years later, Sang Zhi is a high school student in Grade 11.
Her brother, Sang Yan, returns home, requesting to borrow their father's car to move back to the main campus, which is conveniently located near Sang Zhi's school. He playfully dismisses the idea of picking her up, but when he asks to transport his roommate's luggage as well, Sang Zhi enthusiastically offers to help him move. Surprised by her eagerness, Sang Yan reluctantly concedes after their parents encourage her. That afternoon, Sang Zhi heads to his dorms after school.
She spots her father's car and then encounters Duan Jiaxu, who jokingly calls her a "thief." He recognizes her, surprised at how much she's grown. Noticing she's holding a fox doll from his luggage, he playfully accuses her of "stealing his things," then tells her she can keep it if she likes it. Sang Zhi, conscious of her age, initially states she no longer plays with dolls but quickly relents when Duan Jiaxu threatens to throw it away.
Inside the dorm, Sang Zhi finds Sang Yan resting and accuses him of lying about being busy. He introduces her to his roommate, Qian Fei, who immediately remarks on her cuteness. Duan Jiaxu invites Sang Zhi to sit beside him, and when he calls her "little sister," she protests, "I'm not little!" The roommates discuss dinner, but Duan Jiaxu has to leave for his part-time job. Before he goes, he again tells Sang Zhi she can keep the fox doll.
After he departs, Sang Zhi curiously asks Qian Fei if the doll was a gift from a girlfriend. Qian Fei explains that Duan Jiaxu is too busy to date and that the doll was a prize from an event. He also reveals that Duan Jiaxu and Sang Yan are known as the "Double Dogs of Nanwu," which surprises Sang Zhi, who had thought only her brother held that title. Declining dinner, Sang Zhi decides to head home alone.
Back home, Sang Zhi places the fox doll on her desk and examines a book, "The End of Eternity" by Asimov, which she took from Duan Jiaxu's room. She finds herself unable to comprehend its contents, a symbol of the "distance between us." Later, Sang Zhi devises a plan. She calls her brother's phone, claiming Duan Jiaxu left something at her place.
Duan Jiaxu takes the phone, and Sang Zhi "corrects" herself, stating that she left her essay notebook at his place. When Duan Jiaxu offers to have Sang Yan deliver it, Sang Zhi explains she hasn't started writing it. Understanding her unspoken plea for help, Duan Jiaxu gently advises her that she should be honest with her teacher rather than having someone else do her work.
However, he then offers to help, proposing they meet at the bus station at 6:40 AM the next day so he can "accompany her while she writes the essay." Excited, Sang Zhi sets an early alarm and falls asleep snuggling the fox doll. The next morning, she arrives at the bus station early, waiting nervously and wondering if he will actually show up. Her mind drifts to her middle school days, recalling her similar anxiety about the parent-teacher meeting. She vividly remembers Duan Jiaxu's enigmatic farewell, which had left her to wonder what he meant and whether he would actually show up the next day.
Episode 2 Recap
Continuing from where he agreed to help with her homework, a high-school-aged Sang Zhi waits for Duan Jiaxu at a bus stop. When he calls, she assumes he is late and playfully curses that he will "never find a girlfriend." To her surprise, a bottle of milk touches her cheek; Duan Jiaxu was already there. He teases her for being an "ingrate" and warns that if his curse comes true, she'll be "doomed."
He then leads her to a nearby breakfast shop to do her homework, buying himself a red bean bun and honey water, and a small cake for her when he notices her watching him eat. As Sang Zhi works, she recalls the time in middle school when Duan Jiaxu posed as her brother, Sang Yan, to meet her teacher. He had coached her to simply agree with whatever the teacher said to avoid being exposed.
At the meeting, Duan Jiaxu introduced himself as Sang Yan, which Sang Zhi affirmed by blurting out that he must be her brother because he was "so good-looking." Duan Jiaxu smoothly explained to the teacher, Mr. Chen, that their parents had a last-minute work emergency.
While Mr. Chen confirmed Sang Zhi's academic performance was top-notch, he spent the entire meeting lecturing about her poor attitude, such as drawing in class and having the audacity to ask where he was in the lesson when called upon. Duan Jiaxu played the part of a concerned older brother, feigning shock and scolding Sang Zhi.
He then showered Mr. Chen with flattery, attributing Sang Zhi's success to his excellent teaching and even suggesting he should "hit her and scold her as necessary," an offer Mr. Chen quickly refused. Convinced the meeting was a "big success," Mr. Chen dismissed them. Afterward, Duan Jiaxu had Sang Zhi properly apologize to her teacher. Back in the present, after Sang Zhi finishes her homework, Duan Jiaxu asks if she is angry about his earlier joke.
She instead asks if he's from Nanwu; he replies he's from Yihe but won't be returning for the summer, changing the subject back to her studies. Before she enters the school, he gives her a piece of paper, explaining it’s a “compensation” piece since he secretly read the composition she left at his dorm. Sang Zhi is mortified, recalling she had written about a stray dog that looked exactly like her brother, Sang Yan.
Before Sang Zhi can read the note, her classmate Fu Zhengchu appears, loudly proclaiming he worked hard to get into her school just to be near her, and invites her to his birthday party. Her friend, Yin Zhenru, promises to make sure she attends. Later, Yin Zhenru sees the milk Duan Jiaxu bought and reminds Sang Zhi of her milk allergy, but Sang Zhi says she isn't going to drink it.
At home, her mother voices the same concern, but Sang Zhi claims she just likes the bottle for drawing and will pour the milk out. In her room, Sang Zhi reads Duan Jiaxu’s essay. Titled "Helping My Brother Move," it is written from her perspective, humorously describing her brother's "useless things" before shifting to a warm description of his roommate.
The essay notes that even though he jokingly called her a "thief," she is grateful for his help and won't "detest him for being old anymore." It concludes with the wish for a brother like him and a postscript: "He told me he was very happy to meet me again." Her heart fluttering, Sang Zhi treasures the note and adds Duan Jiaxu on WeChat, which he accepts immediately.
That weekend, her parents leave to attend a wedding, arranging for Sang Yan to stay with Sang Zhi. She strongly objects, but her father insists, promising to cut Sang Yan's allowance if he bullies her. Sang Yan arrives and playfully calls her "little demon," telling her they are going out for hot pot with his roommate. When Sang Zhi hears this, she quickly agrees to go.
In the car, Sang Zhi is initially disappointed to see only Qian Fei in the back seat, but her mood lifts when they stop to pick up a sleepy Duan Jiaxu. Noticing Sang Zhi staring, Duan Jiaxu teases her for not greeting him. After she shyly says, "Hello, brother," he asks why she always blushes when she sees him.
This prompts Sang Yan and Qian Fei to mock him, with Sang Yan recounting a time Duan Jiaxu said the same thing to him after a 1000-meter run, and Qian Fei adding that he even talks to dogs that way. Sang Zhi quietly agrees that Duan Jiaxu is "not a good guy." At the restaurant, Sang Yan leaves to park, telling Duan Jiaxu to take Sang Zhi inside. Feeling unwell, Sang Zhi says she needs the restroom.
Duan Jiaxu then notices a bloodstain on the back of her skirt. Understanding, he tells her to wait in the restroom while he goes to buy something. Inside, Sang Zhi sees the stain in the mirror and is overcome with embarrassment. From a nearby supermarket, Duan Jiaxu frantically calls Sang Yan for help, calling him a "pig's brain" when he doesn't immediately grasp the situation.
Together, they awkwardly select sanitary pads and, realizing her skirt is stained, also buy a new dark-colored skirt for her. A female staff member, asked by the two, delivers the items to Sang Zhi in the restroom, kindly reassuring her that "such things happen." When Sang Zhi emerges, only Sang Yan is waiting for her, and they both tactfully avoid the topic. Rejoining their friends, Sang Yan covers for her absence by claiming she was stubbornly playing a claw machine.
Duan Jiaxu quietly pours her a glass of warm water. At the table, Sang Yan, who is treating, carefully monitors the menu, vetoing dishes Sang Zhi is allergic to, while he, Duan Jiaxu, and Qian Fei decide that iced tea is the "perfect match" for hot pot.
Episode 3 Recap
The meal concluded with Qian Fei humorously complaining to Duan Jiaxu and Sang Yan about not getting anyone's number, feeling like a "backup" compared to them. As Duan Jiaxu went to retrieve the car, Sang Zhi internally wondered if his earlier actions—preventing her from eating certain foods—were meant to spare her embarrassment over her period. Though Sang Zhi initially expressed reluctance, Qian Fei led her towards a claw machine.
Duan Jiaxu then joined them, asserting he was the best at the game and would teach her. He specifically helped her win a white doll, telling her afterward not to cry anymore. Feeling brave, Sang Zhi offered him a candy in return, which he accepted. As he prepared to walk her home, Duan Jiaxu playfully threatened to "lecture" her. His words triggered a memory for Sang Zhi of the time he had posed as her brother for a parent-teacher meeting.
Back then, he had also joked about lecturing her but relented when she started to cry at his threat to call Sang Yan. On that day, Duan Jiaxu had insisted on walking her home, promising to keep the school incident a secret if she, in turn, promised to pay attention in class.
Touched by his kindness, which included giving her a new lightbulb for her family's broken kitchen light, Sang Zhi had even suggested he could pretend to be her brother again in the future. Back in the present, Sang Zhi clutched the doll he had just won for her as he affectionately called her a "difficult kiddo." Yin Zhenru persistently urged Sang Zhi to join her for Fu Zhengchu's birthday celebration.
They met at a dessert shop where, to Sang Zhi's surprise, Duan Jiaxu was working. He greeted them warmly. While Sang Zhi was ordering, her classmate Yin Zhenru gushed about how handsome he was. Duan Jiaxu playfully teased Sang Zhi for staring at him, but ultimately refused to let her pay, insisting the dessert was on him.
Shortly after, Sang Zhi overheard Duan Jiaxu's boss offering him half a month's salary in advance, making her wonder if he was working multiple jobs because he was short on money. Fu Zhengchu arrived, greeting Duan Jiaxu, and then curiously asked Sang Zhi why Duan Jiaxu was working part-time if her family was wealthy, a question Sang Zhi quickly dismissed. Despite Sang Zhi not finishing her dessert, Fu Zhengchu insisted they leave to meet their classmates.
As they departed, Duan Jiaxu reminded them to be careful. However, Sang Zhi quickly doubled back to the shop alone. Worried that Duan Jiaxu was struggling financially, she told him he didn't have to treat her and left cash on the table before running off, leaving a visibly moved Duan Jiaxu behind. During Fu Zhengchu's birthday celebration, he attempted to confess his feelings to Sang Zhi as he was about to make a wish.
Uncomfortable, Sang Zhi made an excuse to go home and left the party, with a disappointed Fu Zhengchu following her. He confronted her, growing emotional as she tried to deflect his advances. Just then, Duan Jiaxu appeared, causing Fu Zhengchu to flee. Duan Jiaxu gently advised Sang Zhi that while it's okay to be admired, she should learn to reject people kindly without hurting them. He then returned the money she had left at the dessert shop.
Sang Zhi explained she only wanted to help, just as she would for her own brother. Touched by her sincerity, Duan Jiaxu assured her he wasn't in dire financial trouble and promised he would only borrow from her if he was ever truly desperate. He then made sure she knew her way home before returning to work. In the aftermath of the party, Yin Zhenru became noticeably distant from Sang Zhi.
During a school assembly, Sang Zhi's teacher overruled her request to be a record clerk for the annual sports day and instead signed her up for the high jump, dismissing her concerns about having bad knees. Later, Zhenru rebuffed Sang Zhi's attempt to walk with her to the store and was later seen enthusiastically cheering for Fu Zhengchu during his race.
When it was time for Sang Zhi's high jump competition, Zhenru flatly refused to join their friends to watch, highlighting their strained friendship. At the registration area for the high jump, Sang Zhi found Sang Yan and Duan Jiaxu overseeing the event. Sang Yan immediately began teasing Sang Zhi about her height, but Duan Jiaxu intervened, giving her a hat to prevent sunburn and encouraging her. During the competition, Teacher Chen from her junior high was also present to observe.
Sang Zhi struggled with the high jump, failing several attempts. On her final try, she landed badly and twisted her ankle. Sang Yan immediately rushed to her side and carried her on his back towards the medical room. In the medical room, Teacher Chen recognized Sang Yan and addressed him as Sang Zhi's brother. To Sang Yan's immense annoyance, Sang Zhi quickly covered his mouth and declared he was her father.
As Duan Jiaxu gently disinfected and dressed her sprained ankle, Sang Zhi reflected that he was much kinder to her than Sang Yan. Duan Jiaxu, however, pointed out how worried Sang Yan had been when she fell. The medical staff advised a hospital visit for the sprain. As they prepared to leave, Sang Zhi watched Duan Jiaxu carefully help another girl who had also fallen.
A pang of jealousy struck her as she realized that while he was very kind to her, he was just as kind to everyone, making her feel less special. Several days later, with her ankle still sprained, Sang Yan called to inform Sang Zhi that Duan Jiaxu would be picking her up from school, adding a warning for her to behave.
Annoyed, Sang Zhi later went out with a friend who had arranged for her to have the day off school, which Sang Zhi planned to hide from her parents. Her friend, after buying a drink for Duan Jiaxu, also brought Sang Zhi some candy, teasing her gently.
Episode 4 Recap
Yin Zhenru approached Sang Zhi after school, asking her to accompany her to buy something. Meanwhile, Duan Jiaxu waited at Sang Zhi's school gate, but the security guard informed him that all students had left. Duan Jiaxu asked the guard to tell Sang Zhi to wait for him if she appeared. He then asked a vendor if they had seen a high school girl with an injured leg, and the vendor directed him toward an alley.
Zhenru led Sang Zhi away from the stationery shop, suggesting they go to a cyber cafe instead, despite Sang Zhi’s protests that their teacher had warned them it was dangerous. When Sang Zhi refused, Zhenru guilt-tripped her by saying she would go alone. Concerned, Sang Zhi followed her into the alley, where three older girls were waiting. They immediately confronted Sang Zhi, searching her bag and demanding money.
When Sang Zhi said she had no money, they called her a "cripple" and threatened her, instructing her to bring money the next day. A tearful Zhenru then apologized to Sang Zhi, explaining she had been extorted and was forced to bring Sang Zhi along. Realizing she had been used, a disappointed Sang Zhi confronted Zhenru about her recent indifference, reminding her how she had been ignored after Fu Zhengchu's birthday and during the sports day.
Sang Zhi told Zhenru to go home, tell her parents everything, and ask them to inform the school, assuring her the bullies were just trying to intimidate them. Despite Zhenru's repeated apologies, Sang Zhi limped away alone. In the alley, Duan Jiaxu finally found Sang Zhi. He asked why she hadn't answered his calls, and noticing her injured hand, he gently asked if she had been bullied. Sang Zhi initially tried to downplay it, not wanting to trouble him.
However, seeing his concern, she promised to tell her parents and confessed that the girls had tapped her cheek and taken her wallet, though she claimed her hand injury was accidental. She explained that a classmate, scared after being extorted, had brought her along. Duan Jiaxu advised Sang Zhi to distance herself from that classmate and emphasized that she should always tell her parents when something happens, as they would always protect her.
Duan Jiaxu took Sang Zhi home on his bicycle. On the way, Sang Zhi asked about Sang Yan, and Duan Jiaxu mentioned he was busy with graduation approaching. Sang Zhi wondered if he would return to Yihe for work, but he said he hadn't decided and liked Nanwu too. Duan Jiaxu encouraged her to find ways to de-stress, urging her not to bottle up her feelings and to talk to him or Sang Yan if she was overwhelmed.
He then gave her some money to replace what was stolen, insisting she tell her parents everything. As Sang Zhi walked into her house, she felt happy despite the ordeal. Later, she wrote a secret in her diary on October 27th: "As much as I hate to admit it, I think I might be in love with him, with Duan Jiaxu. He's so handsome." She then folded the paper into a star and placed it in a wish bottle.
The next day, Sang Yan, Duan Jiaxu, and two of their roommates arrived at Sang Zhi's school. Sang Yan told Sang Zhi to lead them to the bullies, declaring that no one gets away with messing with his family. Upon seeing the bullies, Sang Yan was surprised to learn they were girls and hesitated, saying he couldn't fight girls. One of his friends, Qian Fei, pointed out that four boys confronting three girls was inappropriate.
So, Sang Yan and another friend went to confront them, while Duan Jiaxu and Qian Fei stayed behind with Sang Zhi. Sang Yan confronted the girls for extorting money from his sister. He took back the 50 yuan, lectured them about studying instead of wasting their lives, and sternly warned them that only the weak bully others.
Afterward, Sang Zhi asked Duan Jiaxu how they handled it, and he jokingly claimed he told the girls he had a monthly quota for killing people and would be back for them next month. He then teased Sang Zhi for looking like a pufferfish when she ate. Sang Zhi offered him the money he had given her, but he refused. Qian Fei then playfully remarked that Sang Zhi seemed more like Duan Jiaxu's sister than Sang Yan's.
Privately, Sang Zhi wished that Duan Jiaxu were her real brother, reflecting that he was the warmest person she knew, always offering care and strength. She wanted to grow up faster to become a better person, someone who could bring warmth to others, just like him. At school, the teacher announced that Yin Zhenru had transferred for personal reasons. Sang Zhi found an apology note from Zhenru on her desk but had a muted reaction.
The teacher also addressed the class about the recent extortions, assuring them the school and police had handled the situation and reminding students to always inform adults about such incidents. Sang Zhi’s parents reviewed her final exam transcript and were concerned about her barely passing Physics grade. Sang Zhi admitted she disliked Physics, but her parents insisted on hiring a tutor for the winter break.
To her dismay, the tutor was Sang Yan, who boasted about his high score in the subject. Their first lesson quickly devolved into arguments, with both demanding a replacement. Their parents agreed to find a new tutor to stop their bickering. That evening, Sang Zhi’s mother told her a new tutor would arrive at 10 AM the next day.
Dismayed, Sang Zhi decided she would sneak out early in the morning to make the new tutor think she was a difficult student and quit. Meanwhile, at Duan Jiaxu's workplace, his colleague Xun, also from Yihe, informed him about a project at the company's Yihe headquarters and invited Duan Jiaxu to join him after the Chinese New Year. Duan Jiaxu promised to consider it. Just then, Qian Fei approached and asked him to do him a favor and pick up his sister.
Episode 5 Recap
Sang Zhi intended to sneak out before her new tutor arrived, expressing her disdain for the idea to Sang Yan and trying to bribe him to get her out of it. However, to her surprise, she found Duan Jiaxu in the kitchen. Sang Yan then revealed that Duan Jiaxu was her new tutor. Despite her initial shock, Sang Zhi sat down to eat the instant noodles Duan Jiaxu had prepared for her, complete with two sausages and an egg.
Duan Jiaxu teased her about sleeping in, mentioning that Sang Yan had tried to wake her multiple times. Sang Zhi, now unexpectedly enthusiastic about tutoring, retrieved her books. Sang Yan and Duan Jiaxu were engrossed in a video game, prompting Duan Jiaxu to tell Sang Zhi to rest while they finished their round. While waiting, Sang Zhi looked at Duan Jiaxu's resume and finally learned the correct characters for his name, noting that he hadn't attached a photo.
She then discreetly tried to take a picture of him, but Duan Jiaxu noticed and posed for the camera. Caught off guard, Sang Zhi quickly invented a story about a classmate finding Sang Yan handsome, hoping to conceal her true intentions. Sang Yan was dismissive, but Duan Jiaxu seemed to understand her awkwardness, chalking it up to a young girl's pride.
After changing Duan Jiaxu's contact name on her phone, Sang Zhi found him offering her a slice of watermelon he had cut. He then playfully demanded to see the photos she had taken earlier, promising to let her take more if they turned out unflattering. Sang Zhi quickly redirected the conversation to her physics lesson. She admitted that she found physics difficult and hadn't understood much in class, including questions on the conservation of energy.
Duan Jiaxu, with patience, began explaining basic physics principles like Ampere's Law. He informed her that he was available to tutor her three days a week, as his internship occupied the other four. Sang Zhi, who initially disliked the idea of a tutor, now found his teaching style refreshing and asked if he could tutor her daily. Later, she asked Duan Jiaxu why he chose to attend university in Nanwu.
He explained that he wanted to broaden his horizons and that Nanwu was the hub for the gaming industry, aligning with his dream of working in that field. On another tutoring day, Duan Jiaxu arrived late, explaining he had worked late the previous night. Sang Zhi, observing his fatigue, offered to work on her assignments while he rested, suggesting he could check her work later.
He playfully accused her of trying to slack off, but then conceded and took a nap. Later, Sang Zhi expressed her continued struggle with physics, admitting she found it uninteresting and hard to retain. Concerned about her lack of interest, Duan Jiaxu proposed a trip to the City Museum of Science and Technology to spark her curiosity, informing Sang Yan of his plan.
He even got Sang Yan to cover the cost of three tickets, though Sang Yan comically kept the change for himself to go to a cyber cafe, dismissing the museum as a place for "little brats." Inside the museum, Duan Jiaxu explained various physics concepts through interactive exhibits, like the brachistochrone curve principle behind a curved slide and the science behind tsunamis and thermoelectric sensing.
He encouraged Sang Zhi to study hard, emphasizing that her future dreams would likely depend on her academic foundation. Inspired by their conversation about his own dream to create video games, Sang Zhi declared her intention to study hard and find her own dream, and they agreed to pursue their goals together. During their time together, Duan Jiaxu noticed Sang Zhi's artistic talent and encouraged her to continue drawing.
Sang Zhi then spontaneously asked him not to date, expressing a childlike fear that relationships might hinder his dreams and that he might not treat her as well if he had a girlfriend. Duan Jiaxu gently reassured her, promising that if he were to find a girlfriend, he would choose someone gentle who would also treat Sang Zhi well, effectively adding another person who cared for her.
Sang Zhi, somewhat satisfied, asked if she could meet this hypothetical girlfriend first, and he agreed. Soon after, Sang Yan arrived to pick Sang Zhi up, as Duan Jiaxu had work commitments. Later that evening, Sang Zhi discovered her sketchbook was missing and, after retracing her steps, realized she must have left it at the museum. Calling them, she was told that the sketchbook had been handed over to her male companion.
Sang Zhi's heart sank, realizing that Duan Jiaxu must have seen the drawings she had made of him inside. The next day, Sang Yan brought Sang Zhi her sketchbook, mentioning that Duan Jiaxu had dropped it off on his way to work. Sang Zhi, mortified, tried to throw it away, convinced that Duan Jiaxu had seen its contents and sent Sang Yan to return it because he felt awkward.
Meanwhile, Sang Yan, believing Sang Zhi was in a puppy love, rushed back to his dorm and informed Duan Jiaxu that his sister was "online dating," suggesting they postpone her tutoring sessions. Duan Jiaxu calmly advised Sang Yan that such feelings were normal at Sang Zhi's age and encouraged him to talk to her reasonably rather than being overly restrictive.
Determined to make Duan Jiaxu believe her lie and distract him from the sketchbook incident, Sang Zhi decided to feign heartbreak during their next tutoring session. When Duan Jiaxu arrived, he gently inquired about her well-being, assuring her he wouldn't tell her parents about her "online relationship." He asked for details about her "online boyfriend," but Sang Zhi dodged his questions.
Duan Jiaxu then gently but firmly explained that her family had her best interests at heart and that she should not be in a relationship until she was an adult, at which point she would be free to make her own choices. Sang Zhi inwardly acknowledged his reasoning but felt she couldn't resist her true feelings.
Episode 6 Recap
The tutoring session begins with Sang Zhi defensively claiming she cannot resist temptation, stating that if someone close to her is dating, she too would want to be in a relationship. Duan Jiaxu playfully teases her, asking if she is referring to him and accusing her of being petty for not wanting others to date. Sang Zhi quickly concedes, but then Duan Jiaxu turns serious, directly addressing her fabricated "ex-boyfriend" who supposedly asked her to visit him in Yihe.
He reveals that he himself is from Yihe and sternly warns her that if she attempts to find this "ex-boyfriend" before she is an adult, she will not "see what she looks like after adulthood," effectively squashing any idea of her pursuing the made-up person. Sang Zhi, relieved her lie was not fully exposed, breathes a sigh of relief. Duan Jiaxu praises Sang Zhi for her significant improvement, noting her physics score of 97 points.
He informs her that his tutoring sessions will conclude, as she no longer needs intensive help. Sang Zhi visibly deflates, but Duan Jiaxu reassures her, offering to answer any future questions via text message. To further motivate her, he promises to send her a gift for every future exam she shows improvement in, which lifts Sang Zhi's spirits considerably. After the tutoring session, Sang Zhi's parents invite Duan Jiaxu to celebrate Chinese New Year's Eve dinner with their family.
Duan Jiaxu politely declines, explaining that his university is providing a special New Year's Eve meal and red envelopes for students who remain on campus. Sang Zhi is visibly disappointed. Concerned he might not accept a direct gift, she quickly goes upstairs to retrieve a prepared red envelope. Inside, she writes a small note wishing him "Happy Chinese New Year" and carefully folds it into a star.
Later, amidst the family's preparations for the holiday, Sang Zhi discreetly slips the red envelope into Duan Jiaxu's jacket pocket. On Chinese New Year's Eve, the Sang family gathers for dinner. Sang Zhi and Sang Yan offer New Year's greetings to their parents and receive their red envelopes. Sang Zhi is delighted to receive a new phone, while Sang Yan complains about his meager red envelope, which Sang Zhi playfully snatches.
Sang Zhi's father humorously warns her to delete games and her "online dating prospect" from her new phone, which Sang Zhi vehemently denies having. Later, Sang Zhi returns Sang Yan's red envelope, teasing him about its small amount. Her mood brightens considerably when she receives a "Happy Spring Festival" message from Duan Jiaxu, wishing her happiness and the realization of her dreams. She quickly sends a reply.
While Duan Jiaxu spends Chinese New Year's Eve alone in his university dormitory, he receives an urgent call from a nursing home in Yihe. He is informed that his father has developed severe pulmonary edema due to a lung infection and requires immediate transfer for drainage surgery. Duan Jiaxu is asked to rush to the hospital to sign the consent form, leading him to return to Yihe immediately on New Year's Eve.
After the Spring Festival break, Sang Zhi receives a package from Duan Jiaxu. Inside, she finds a black dog plushie named "Winner," along with a note congratulating her on her impressive mock exam results: 20th overall and 95 in physics. Sang Zhi is surprised he did not deliver it in person and asks Sang Yan about his whereabouts.
Sang Yan reveals that Duan Jiaxu returned to his hometown of Yihe due to a family matter, information he had not shared with Sang Zhi directly. Sang Zhi expresses disappointment that Duan Jiaxu left without telling her but is somewhat reassured when Sang Yan confirms he will return for his graduation ceremony. Since first meeting Duan Jiaxu, Sang Zhi has held a quiet hope that Sang Yan would bring him home when he visited.
However, her hopes are often dashed when Sang Yan returns alone. On one such occasion, Sang Yan explains that Duan Jiaxu is preoccupied with work and that making money is all he can think about. Curious about university life, Sang Zhi asks Sang Yan about dating among students. Sang Yan, boasting about his own popularity, then reveals that all his roommates, including Duan Jiaxu, are single, to Sang Zhi's quiet relief.
Later, Duan Jiaxu calls Sang Zhi, acknowledging the black dog plushie he sent, which he reveals was inspired by a drawing she made in an essay. Sang Zhi offers to send him a gift in return, but Duan Jiaxu gently declines, insisting she save her pocket money. However, they make plans to meet at his and Sang Yan's upcoming graduation ceremony, giving Sang Zhi a renewed sense of anticipation for her own gift.
Shortly after his call with Sang Zhi, a young woman approaches Duan Jiaxu. She offers him money, expressing concern for his well-being and acknowledging his father's difficult situation, telling him not to worry about repaying her this month. Duan Jiaxu, however, politely but firmly declines her help, stating he can manage on his own.
She also asks if she can attend his graduation ceremony, but he suggests it is not necessary, implying they can meet again when he returns to Yihe. The young woman then wishes him an early happy graduation and promises to keep in touch. On the day of the graduation ceremony, Sang Zhi arrives with her father, looking forward to seeing Duan Jiaxu. Upon spotting him in his graduation gown, her eyes light up.
She immediately approaches him to present a bouquet of flowers, dedicating them to her physics tutor and wishing him a happy graduation and daily happiness. Duan Jiaxu genuinely thanks her, expressing his fondness for the gift, and reciprocates with well wishes for her bright future and academic success. As the graduation ceremony is about to begin, Duan Jiaxu, despite Sang Zhi's offer to find Sang Yan herself, insists on accompanying her to the auditorium.
During the ceremony, Duan Jiaxu takes a photo with Sang Zhi, introducing her as his sister to a classmate. He exchanges heartfelt goodbyes with Professor Zhang, promising to excel in the gaming industry, and shares a poignant moment with his university friends. They reminisce about their challenging yet fulfilling four years, acknowledging the likelihood of rarely seeing each other again as they return to their respective hometowns. Duan Jiaxu confirms his departure for Yihe the following day.
Sang Zhi, overhearing their conversations, asks Duan Jiaxu if this separation means they will not meet again either. He reassures her that she is different from his classmates, citing her thoughtful gestures like the red envelope and flowers. He promises to return to Nanwu and visit her whenever he has free time, vowing to inform her in advance.
Later, at the graduation celebration, while others joke and drink, a visibly melancholic Duan Jiaxu is singled out by his friend Qian Fei for not having a girlfriend, implying his close bond with Sang Yan. As the night progresses, a drunken Qian Fei tearfully laments Duan Jiaxu and Chen Junwen's return to their hometowns, expressing his sorrow that only he and Sang Yan will remain in Nanwu and questioning the appeal of Yihe.
Duan Jiaxu appears deeply affected by the goodbyes and the weight of his departure. After the party, Duan Jiaxu escorts a heavily inebriated Sang Yan back to his family home. Upon arrival, Sang Zhi's parents greet them, expressing concern over Sang Yan's excessive drinking. Duan Jiaxu politely states his intention to check into a nearby hotel, but Sang Zhi's mother warmly intervenes, insisting he save his money and stay the night in Sang Yan's room.
Despite Duan Jiaxu's initial reluctance, Sang Zhi quickly ushers him upstairs. Sang Zhi's mother then instructs Sang Zhi to prepare fresh toiletries for him. Although Duan Jiaxu tries to decline, both Sang Zhi and her mother assure him it is no trouble. Sang Zhi takes him to Sang Yan's room, where he clarifies that he does not drink alcohol and thus does not need hangover soup. She then proceeds to gather a clean towel and other necessary items for him.
Episode 7 Recap
Sang Zhi offered Duan Jiaxu some hangover soup, but he declined, stating he doesn't drink alcohol and she shouldn't trouble herself. Later that night, Sang Zhi found Duan Jiaxu still awake. When she asked why he wasn't sleeping, he admitted he wasn't used to the bed. Sang Zhi noticed he seemed upset and encouraged him to talk, promising not to tell anyone, not even her brother. Duan Jiaxu then confided a secret, telling her he had "plenty of debtors."
Sang Zhi immediately worried he was in huge financial trouble and earnestly offered to help him repay it once she grew up and started earning money. Duan Jiaxu gently corrected her, explaining that these weren't his debts to begin with, and instead advised her to use her future earnings to buy beautiful dresses for herself. Still, Sang Zhi secretly resolved to earn a lot of money to help him.
Before dawn, Duan Jiaxu quietly left, but Sang Zhi spotted him from the balcony. He waved goodbye, and she waved back, watching him go. Duan Jiaxu later texted her, informing her he had caught an early morning flight back to Yihe. He reminded her to notify her parents and to study hard, ensuring she sent him updates on her grades. He also asked her not to forget the promise they had made.
As Sang Zhi entered her final year of high school, her new dream became getting into Yihe University. Each time she made academic progress, Duan Jiaxu sent her gifts, motivating her to work even harder to achieve her goal. One day, Sang Zhi overheard her brother, Sang Yan, on the phone, discussing a rumor that Duan Jiaxu had a girlfriend.
Sang Zhi was heartbroken, recalling Duan Jiaxu's promise that he would show her his girlfriend first if he ever got one. Deeply unsettled, she felt a strong urge to ask him about it directly. Unable to shake her unease, Sang Zhi decided to go to Yihe herself. Sang Yan was furious when he found out, immediately calling Duan Jiaxu to pick her up. Sang Zhi concocted a story, claiming she was there to meet an "online dating partner."
Her parents, worried and angry, urged her to stay in a safe area at the airport, unaware of her true intentions. When Duan Jiaxu arrived, accompanied by a woman, Sang Zhi's heart sank. Duan Jiaxu immediately admonished her for traveling so far alone and for the "online dating" pretense, reminding her of his previous warnings and her promise to study hard.
Sang Zhi, fixated on the woman beside him, internally questioned if she was his girlfriend and why he hadn't kept his promise to tell her first. The woman kindly intervened, telling Duan Jiaxu not to be so harsh. Sang Zhi, still playing along with her cover story, tearfully told them her "online dating partner" didn't like her because she was too young. Duan Jiaxu tried to comfort her, assuring her that she would meet someone better when she grew up.
However, Sang Zhi felt even more dejected, believing that the woman beside him was Duan Jiaxu's "someone better." She apologized for the trouble, but Duan Jiaxu reassured her that they were only worried about her safety. He led her to wash her face, offering to take her for a meal while he sorted out her flight ticket home. As Sang Zhi went to the restroom, the woman remarked to Duan Jiaxu that this is how little girls grow up.
Upon returning, Sang Zhi saw the woman had left and asked where she went. Duan Jiaxu told her she had other commitments, then playfully chided Sang Zhi for treating him like a stranger after only a few months apart, making him "heartbroken." Duan Jiaxu bought her a ticket for a 1:10 PM flight. Although there was still time, Sang Zhi had no appetite when he took her to eat.
She pulled out a gift for him, which he happily accepted and unwrapped. While Duan Jiaxu was on a call, Sang Zhi discreetly slipped some money into his wallet for the flight ticket. As he walked her to the gate, Sang Zhi suddenly told him he no longer needed to inform her if he started dating. She then returned a bear plush toy he had won for her long ago, wishing him daily happiness.
Duan Jiaxu smiled, holding the bear, and Sang Zhi, for the first time in a while, smiled back before heading to her flight. Upon her return, Sang Yan picked her up at the airport and, despite his earlier anger, tried to console her. He offered to buy her favorite taro-and-duck dish or comics, or even find someone to confront the "online dating partner," but Sang Zhi cried hysterically, leaving him helpless.
At home, her mother welcomed her and told her to get ready for dinner. Her father, however, sternly reprimanded her, emphasizing the severity of her actions and how worried her parents had been. He warned her against puppy love and chastised her for secretly taking her ID to buy a plane ticket, highlighting the dangers she could have faced. Sang Zhi, in her mind, reflected that there was no "online dating partner"; she had only wanted to ask Duan Jiaxu if he still remembered their promise.
Episode 8 Recap
After Sang Zhi went upstairs, her parents dropped their facade and cautiously observed her reaction. Sang Yan assured them that Sang Zhi had realized her mistake, having cried the entire way home, and he had already scolded her sufficiently. He added that Duan Jiaxu confirmed her online crush was unrequited, and given Sang Zhi's proud nature, she would likely let go once she decided. Her father agreed it was a normal rebellious phase for a teenager.
They decided to act as if nothing unusual had happened at dinner, treating her return from school as normal. However, her mother insisted on confiscating Sang Zhi's ID card and phone to prevent future incidents. Sang Yan was also asked to take cold medicine up to Sang Zhi, as she was wearing a short skirt and might catch a cold. Upstairs, Sang Zhi quietly gathered all her items related to Duan Jiaxu into a box.
She found a star-shaped note where she had written her dream of being admitted to Yihe University, and a message: "Jiaxu, goodbye." With a heavy heart, she slowly crossed out this wish, then sat alone, embracing the box, seemingly resolving to bid farewell to Duan Jiaxu. Two years later, Sang Zhi's voiceover revealed she had fulfilled her dream and was admitted into Yihe University.
She began a new life there, participating in military training, attending lectures, and making new friends, including her beloved roommates. Ning Wei, Sang Zhi's enthusiastic roommate, began recording a video blog, inviting viewers to see the "most beautiful view" of their university. She playfully filmed their cool roommate, Yu Xin, who, to her embarrassment, tripped and asked Ning Wei to delete the footage. Soon after, they met Jiang Ming from the Sports Department, who was helping a professor carry books.
He introduced himself as being from the long-distance running team. Ning Wei, quick to make new connections, informed him that she and Sang Zhi were from the Digital Media Department and were roommates. She then invited Jiang Ming to her birthday celebration the following day, suggesting he bring his friends from the Sports Department along, to which he readily agreed. The group gathered at a lively KTV to celebrate Ning Wei's first university birthday party.
Ning Wei expressed her desire to eat well, have fun, and party hard. Meanwhile, in another section of the KTV, Duan Jiaxu arrived late and was introduced by a friend to a woman named Xu, who worked in Human Resources at a foreign company. The friend praised Duan Jiaxu as the young and promising chief programmer of their company. Sang Zhi, caught in the celebratory crowd, entered the private room with her friends, oblivious to Duan Jiaxu's presence nearby.
Feeling overwhelmed by her friends' encouragement to sing and dance, Sang Zhi excused herself to get some fresh air. On the stairs, she unexpectedly encountered Duan Jiaxu. He immediately noticed a cigarette that had fallen from her pocket and sternly accused her of smoking. Sang Zhi quickly denied it, explaining it belonged to a friend. Duan Jiaxu, however, confiscated it and continued to scold her, expressing his displeasure that she hadn't contacted him since her military training ended.
He called her an "ungrateful thing" and a "kiddo with no conscience," reminding her of how he used to help her with school. Sang Zhi retorted that he was practically a senior when he helped her, while she was a busy freshman now, which prompted him to accuse her of calling him old.
He pressed her on why she ignored his many messages, and Sang Zhi claimed she needed to isolate herself to focus on her studies to get into Yihe University. She repeatedly asserted that she was a grown-up and found the term "kiddo" awkward, but Duan Jiaxu insisted she was still a child. Duan Jiaxu offered to send Sang Zhi home, but she declined, preferring to return with her friends.
Back inside, as they prepared to cut the birthday cake, Ning Wei mentioned her mother would call by 11 PM. This prompted Sang Zhi to decide to leave early. As she walked away, steeling herself, Sang Zhi muttered, "I'm a grown-up now. I'm no longer a kid," before cursing, "Old thing." Unexpectedly, Duan Jiaxu was waiting outside and overheard her. He immediately challenged her, suggesting he was the only "old thing" she had encountered that night.
Despite his displeasure, he insisted on driving her back to campus to "settle a score" with her. In the car, Sang Zhi tried to justify her language, claiming "old thing" was a common term among young people. Duan Jiaxu questioned her about drinking, advising her to be careful with strangers, though Sang Zhi clarified she was with friends. He then tried to get to the root of her apparent animosity, asking why she seemed to have something against him.
She continued to express her discomfort with being called a "kiddo," reiterating that she was a grown-up. He then asked about her decision to attend Yihe University, suspecting it was because of her "old online friend." Sang Zhi quickly refuted this, clarifying that she chose Yihe because its digital media program was the best and her scores were sufficient.
She explained that Sang Yan's anger stemmed from her not informing him about her university choice, though her parents had supported her. Duan Jiaxu finally acknowledged she had grown up, offered his support for any future difficulties, and gently reminded her to speak more politely. As he dropped her off at her dormitory, Duan Jiaxu advised her to drink honey water to prevent a headache.
He then revealed that he had been living in Yihe by himself and was genuinely happy when Sang Yan told him she would be coming to study there. After he left, Sang Zhi pondered to herself, wondering why Duan Jiaxu would be alone if his family home was in Yihe, and questioned if he still had a girlfriend. The next morning, Sang Zhi assured Sang Yan over the phone that she hadn't drunk much.
She received a message from Jiang Ming offering to walk her back if she was ever out late again, but she ignored it and instead finally replied to Duan Jiaxu's unread messages. Later, while discussing boys with her roommates, Sang Zhi brought up a "friend's" dilemma: this friend had liked her brother's friend since high school but gave up when she thought he started dating.
Now they had reconnected, and the "friend" was unsure what to do, fearing he only saw her as a little sister. Her roommates, quickly catching on that Sang Zhi was talking about herself, asked for details. Sang Zhi described the man as a handsome, amusing, and charismatic 24-year-old game developer who worked on "A Dream of Jianghu," which Yu Xin recognized as a top-tier mobile game.
When asked if he had a girlfriend, Sang Zhi hesitantly said she didn't think so. Based on her glowing description, her roommates humorously concluded that a man that great "definitely" had a girlfriend, much to Sang Zhi's quiet disappointment.
Episode 9 Recap
Sang Yan encouraged Sang Zhi to treat Duan Jiaxu to a meal, reminding her that his suggestion came from genuine concern, not a complaint. He recalled how Duan Jiaxu had consistently inquired about her well-being and grades over the years, careful not to pressure her. Sang Yan also pointed out that Duan Jiaxu, despite his own financial struggles, unfailingly sent Sang Zhi various small gifts for her birthdays, good exam results, and holidays.
Reflecting on this, Sang Zhi began to question if her recent coldness towards him had been inappropriate, admitting to herself that he had always treated her well and she felt like an ungrateful person. Meanwhile, at Duan Jiaxu's company, a crucial meeting was underway for their new game expansion. After a team member, Wang, presented updates to maps, characters, and gameplay, Duan Jiaxu reintroduced his "Celestial Progression System."
This ambitious AI-driven algorithm was designed to make non-player characters (NPCs) more lifelike and logical, creating a truly immersive world. The concept, which had been rejected before, was met with skepticism over technical feasibility and resource allocation. However, Duan Jiaxu presented a compelling demo featuring a popular NPC, Fang Siming, which impressed his colleagues with its realistic reactions.
In a subsequent meeting, the manager officially greenlit the system as a core feature for the new project, appointing Wang and Duan Jiaxu as co-leads. Later, Sang Zhi drafted a message to Duan Jiaxu, laboriously editing her words before settling on a formal tone. Duan Jiaxu, seeing her unusually formal use of "您" (a respectful 'you'), called her. He teased her, asking if the honorific implied he was on her mind.
Sang Zhi quickly fabricated an excuse, claiming her father advised her to use honorifics with anyone five years her senior, noting that Duan Jiaxu fit the description exactly. Before she could end the call, Duan Jiaxu asked why she hadn't responded to his messages before. Sang Zhi explained that she hadn't had her phone while living on campus, to which Duan Jiaxu revealed Sang Yan had already told him.
Soon after, Sang Zhi's roommate, Ning Wei, happily announced she was dating someone new. Later, a student named Jiang Ming came looking for Sang Zhi, inviting her alone to a movie premiere. Her roommates immediately intervened, insisting they all go together. Jiang Ming extended the invitation to the group for Sunday evening.
Sang Zhi hesitated, mentioning she had plans with Duan Jiaxu, but her roommates eagerly pushed her to accept, suggesting it could be an "excuse to leave" if her dinner turned awkward. Reluctantly, Sang Zhi agreed. Meanwhile, Duan Jiaxu received a package from Jiang Ying containing health supplements. He immediately wired her the final compensation payment and firmly texted her not to contact him again before discarding the items. Jiang Ying's subsequent anxious calls went unanswered.
During the follow-up meeting about the "Celestial Progression System," a colleague noted Duan Jiaxu's pale complexion and that he had barely eaten, a subtle sign of his declining health. That evening, Sang Zhi arrived at the restaurant for their dinner. Duan Jiaxu called, his voice noticeably strained, to cancel, citing an urgent work matter. Sensing his discomfort, Sang Zhi pressed him, and he admitted to having stomach pain.
Despite his insistence that he was fine, Sang Zhi demanded his company address and rushed over in a taxi. She found him pale and clearly in pain. Over his protests, she insisted on taking him to the hospital. As she helped him into a taxi, they stumbled, and she bumped into his arms. The driver mistook his condition for intoxication, but Sang Zhi clarified he was sick and urged the driver to hurry.
At the hospital, an ultrasound confirmed Duan Jiaxu had acute appendicitis, and the doctor noted that the delay in seeking treatment had nearly caused a perforation. Given the severity, Duan Jiaxu chose to have immediate surgery. As he was wheeled into the operating room, Sang Zhi felt a wave of anxiety, realizing he likely wouldn't have come to the hospital if she hadn't insisted.
She called her mother, who was saddened by the news, remarking how pitiful it was that he had no family in Yihe to care for him. Confused, Sang Zhi questioned this. Her mother then revealed a story she'd never heard: years ago, after Duan Jiaxu's mother fell ill, his family borrowed money from Sang Yan's parents.
Duan Jiaxu, then just a college freshman, had repaid the entire sum within six months of his mother's funeral, a testament to his character despite his hardship. After the surgery, a nurse informed Sang Zhi that he would be hospitalized for seven days and could only have liquids. Duan Jiaxu, though groggy from anesthesia, urged her to return to her dorm safely, asking her to text him the taxi's license plate.
He told her to only visit when she didn't have classes, insisting he was fine. As she left, he quietly wondered if she was upset about their accidental collision earlier. Shortly after, Sang Yan called to tease him about the surgery, and Duan Jiaxu started to say something but stopped himself. Deciding she couldn't leave him alone, Sang Zhi soon returned to the hospital room.
She reasoned that if their roles were reversed, he would undoubtedly stay to look after her. Seeing her return, Duan Jiaxu asked if she had eaten, and she showed him a piece of bread. Concerned, he offered to order her food, but she refused, insisting she wasn't a child. He chuckled, observing how she stuffed her cheeks like a pufferfish while eating. Later, realizing he couldn't get up, Sang Zhi offered to wipe his face with a wet towel. He initially resisted, but she gently warned him not to disturb his stitches, and he relented, allowing her to care for him.
Episode 10 Recap
In the hospital room, after Sang Zhi finished wiping Duan Jiaxu’s face with a towel, he suddenly opened his eyes, startling her. She playfully chided him for not giving a warning. Later that evening, Sang Zhi set up a makeshift bed next to Duan Jiaxu, who apologized for the trouble, but she reassured him she didn’t mind. She turned off the lights, and he offered her a pillow and his clothes to keep warm.
As she lay down, Sang Zhi messaged her friends, explaining she was staying at the hospital because a relative was ill. A voice message from Jiang Ming then played, asking if she had arrived at the cinema. Duan Jiaxu, who had been lying quietly, immediately questioned if she was still awake because she hadn't finished listening. Sang Zhi accused him of pretending to be asleep and eavesdropping. He denied it, playfully blaming her for playing the message out loud.
Duan Jiaxu then persisted, asking her to play the rest of the voice message so he could see who was asking her out. When she said he didn’t know the person, he offered to help her "inspect" the suitor. Sang Zhi dismissed his concern, but he feigned worry that she might get cheated on. She retorted that he was too old to understand or pry into the lives of young people, to which he playfully conceded.
The next morning, Sang Zhi helped Duan Jiaxu before heading to class. He asked her to retrieve his laptop from his study, providing her with the keys and address. Sang Zhi refused, emphasizing that he was ill and should rest, stating that his boss wouldn't pay him extra for working. When he joked about his value to the company, she remained firm, stating she would not bring the laptop.
Duan Jiaxu then remarked that hearing her lecture him made him realize how much she had grown up. At her university, Sang Zhi's roommate asked about her relative's condition. Sang Zhi explained he had undergone surgery and would likely be discharged soon. Her roommate also revealed that Jiang Ming had been asking about her. Later, Jiang Ming approached Sang Zhi directly, and she apologized for missing their movie date, explaining her relative's sudden illness.
She offered to treat him to a movie the following weekend, which he eagerly accepted. Meanwhile, a restless Duan Jiaxu called his superior, Siyun, requesting a computer from the company, but she refused, insisting he rest and warning him not to reopen his wound. Concurrently, Jiang Ying continued to leave apologetic voice messages for Duan Jiaxu, which he ignored. Sang Zhi soon arrived at Duan Jiaxu's apartment.
She looked around curiously, finding a framed photo of them together and a photo of him with his mother, to which she sweetly introduced herself. As she packed some clothes for him, including underwear, she also decided to pack his laptop, despite her earlier reservations about him working. Shortly after she left, Jiang Ying arrived, frantically knocking and calling out for Duan Jiaxu, distressed to find him not home.
Back at the hospital, an old man in the adjacent bed saw Sang Zhi arrive with bags and mistakenly assumed she was Duan Jiaxu's wife. Duan Jiaxu tried to correct him, explaining Sang Zhi was his little sister, but the old man, who was hard of hearing, praised her beauty and urged Duan Jiaxu to marry her soon. Duan Jiaxu agreed just to placate him, telling Sang Zhi it was only a joke.
Annoyed, Sang Zhi loudly told the old man that Duan Jiaxu was old enough to be her father. The old man misheard again and enthusiastically congratulated them, thinking Duan Jiaxu was about to become a father, leaving Sang Zhi mortified. The next morning, Sang Zhi woke to find Duan Jiaxu working on his laptop. Frustrated, she regretted bringing him the computer and scolded him for not resting. The old man chimed in again, asking when they would marry.
After trying to explain they weren't a couple, Duan Jiaxu finally conceded and said they would, quietly telling Sang Zhi it was just a joke for the old man's sake. As Duan Jiaxu was discharged, the old man urged them to get along and marry soon, to which an exasperated Sang Zhi loudly agreed. Outside, Sang Zhi was still upset. She refused to let him carry her bags, accusing him of starting the joke.
He apologized, admitting he was just bored from being hospitalized. They arrived at Duan Jiaxu's apartment, where Sang Zhi was still visibly upset. While he was in the bathroom, she reflected on her feelings, concluding that Duan Jiaxu only saw her as a sister, which is why he could joke so freely about them.
Before leaving, she wrote detailed instructions on sticky notes for him: reminding him about his diet, encouraging him to walk around, and forbidding strenuous work or staying up late. She explained that she had assignments and couldn’t visit as often, postponing her promise to treat him to a meal until he recovered. She refused his offer to walk her to the station, comforting herself that it was fine to just be his sister.
Later, Duan Jiaxu was seen diligently following her advice. Concerned that Sang Zhi was truly angry, Duan Jiaxu sought advice from his colleague, Siyun, and her partner. Siyun immediately deduced Sang Zhi’s anger stemmed from him joking about her love life, especially since she was sensitive and likely had a crush.
When Duan Jiaxu tried to blame the old man, Siyun called him an accomplice, criticizing him for making light of the situation after Sang Zhi had selflessly cared for him. She advised him to treat Sang Zhi to a meal to talk things through and cautioned him to be more mindful of his jokes now that she was an adult.
Meanwhile, Jiang Ying called Duan Jiaxu again, but he firmly reiterated that they had no reason to stay in touch and hung up. Later, Sang Zhi went to a movie with Jiang Ming. Unexpectedly, Jiang Ming, who claimed to be fearless, was terrified by a monster in the horror film, revealing a surprising phobia of sharp-beaked animals.
Episode 11 Recap
At a shopping mall, Sang Zhi and Jiang Ming play at a claw machine. After Jiang Ming offers to help her, they both succeed in catching a dog doll, ending up with one each. Jiang Ming suggests they eat, but Sang Zhi, noting the late hour, proposes they head back to school. Back at the dorm, one of Sang Zhi's roommates inquires about Jiang Ming, describing him as handsome and nice, and comparable to Sang Zhi's "old brother."
Her roommates, Ning Wei, Yu Xin, and Wang, plan to spend New Year's Eve at the Central Plaza. Despite their persuasion and Jiang Ming's agreement to join them, Sang Zhi decides to stay in, finding the idea of a crowded, cold celebration unappealing. When her friends leave, Jiang Ming is visibly disappointed that Sang Zhi is not with them. Alone in her dorm, Sang Zhi gets a call from Duan Jiaxu.
He tells her his company is having a New Year's Eve dinner where employees can bring family and invites her to come as his guest. Sang Zhi immediately clarifies she is not his family and declines, saying she has already ordered takeout. Unfazed, Duan Jiaxu reminds her of the meal she owes him, insisting they have dinner together. As he is already near her university, he makes a reservation, leaving her little choice but to get ready.
At dinner, Duan Jiaxu asks why Sang Zhi didn't join her roommates, concerned they might not be getting along. Sang Zhi reassures him they have a good relationship; she just dislikes crowds and the cold. She explains she only agreed to come so he wouldn't think she was backing out of her promise to treat him to a meal. Duan Jiaxu then formally apologizes for teasing her at the hospital, but she dismisses it.
He insists on paying for the meal as an apology, but when Sang Zhi protests, he light-heartedly jokes that her insistence sounds like they won't meet again after this meal. Their conversation is interrupted when Jiang Ying approaches their table, angrily confronts Duan Jiaxu for not answering her calls, and splashes water on him. Sang Zhi instantly retaliates by throwing water back at Jiang Ying.
Duan Jiaxu quickly shields Sang Zhi as Jiang Ying's friend pulls her away, with Jiang Ying shouting that he will owe her for life. After the commotion, Sang Zhi gently wipes Duan Jiaxu's face and asks who the woman was. He dismisses her as an "unimportant person," clarifying she is his father's former creditor. Sang Zhi remembers seeing Jiang Ying outside his apartment when he was sick and grows concerned.
She firmly tells Duan Jiaxu that Jiang Ying's issue is with his father, not him, and he shouldn't let her bully him. Touched, Duan Jiaxu thanks her. As snow begins to fall, Sang Zhi makes a silent wish for Duan Jiaxu’s happiness and for her to be the one to bring it to him. Duan Jiaxu notes that it's the first snow in Yihe since her first year of high school and feels lucky to see it with her.
He then makes his own wish for Sang Zhi's happiness and health, and for his own as well. Meanwhile, Sang Zhi's roommates also make wishes in the snow. When asked, Jiang Ming reveals his wish is for the person he likes to also make a wish, and for hers to come true, his thoughts clearly on Sang Zhi. Later, Jiang Ying confronts Duan Jiaxu outside his apartment building. She apologizes for her earlier outburst but insists he still owes her.
Duan Jiaxu states that all court-ordered compensation for his father causing her father's death has been paid, and his father faced legal consequences. Jiang Ying accuses him of trying to cut ties now that the money is paid, maintaining he owes her for his father's actions and reminding him of his mother's promise to take care of her. A flashback shows Duan Jiaxu's mother tearfully promising his family would take full responsibility.
Another flashback reveals the cruel gossip Duan Jiaxu endured at school, where classmates called him the "son of a murderer." Duan Jiaxu ignores Jiang Ying and goes inside his apartment. He finds solace looking at a photo of himself and Sang Zhi, then glances at one with his mother. As fireworks light up the sky, both he and Sang Zhi watch from their respective rooftops and exchange New Year's greetings via text.
He considers changing her contact name to a more intimate nickname but decides against it. Later, a jubilant Qian Fei announces his engagement in their group chat and calls Duan Jiaxu, too excited to sleep. He recounts his proposal and his fiancée's witty reply. After congratulating him, Duan Jiaxu evades Qian Fei’s questions about his own love life, his thoughts drifting to Sang Zhi.
Sang Zhi messages Duan Jiaxu that she has some "stationery" for him and will drop it off at his company. She declines her roommates' invitation for a post-exam celebration, telling them she has to deliver an electronic peephole camera to a relative. After a meeting, Duan Jiaxu learns Jiang Ying is causing a scene downstairs. He uses a different exit to meet Sang Zhi and sternly tells her not to visit his company or home without notifying him first.
After a brief, confused pause, Sang Zhi hands him the electronic peephole camera. She explains it's to help him deal with Jiang Ying's harassment, as it connects to his phone and has an alarm. She then quickly leaves for class, leaving him with the gift.
Episode 12 Recap
Despite years passing, Jiang Ying continues to harass Duan Jiaxu. His colleague expresses relief that Jiang Ying didn't spot Duan Jiaxu's "relative's child," Sang Zhi, during a recent disturbance at the company, worried about what Jiang Ying might do. Duan Jiaxu reassures his colleague he knows how to handle things. Later, Duan Jiaxu calls Sang Zhi, asking when her exams are and if she's bought her ticket home.
Sang Zhi informs him she's bought a ticket for the 19th, but when he asks if she'd be free to eat after her exams, she curtly replies that she'll probably be busy with friends. Sang Zhi is visibly upset, struggling to focus on her studies and blaming Duan Jiaxu for her current mood.
Her roommate Wang Wang notices Sang Zhi has been down lately, ever since the day she delivered the electronic peephole camera to her "relative," hinting that this "relative" might be Sang Zhi's crush. Sang Zhi, despite admitting something happened that day, maintains she is fine and that the person she likes treats her well. With final exams approaching, tension runs high among the students.
After complaining about her boyfriend, Ning Wei proposes a drinking session to de-stress, and Sang Zhi suggests they go after their exams to relax. The group agrees, but Ning Wei has to leave to meet her boyfriend, Chen Qiang. After the exams, Sang Zhi and her friends head to a music bar. The atmosphere is lively, with everyone playing games. Jiang Ming takes the stage and dedicates a love song to his friends, captivating the audience.
Sang Zhi's roommates comment on Jiang Ming's handsome appearance and good singing, but Sang Zhi shows little interest, excusing herself to the washroom. While she's away from the table, Duan Jiaxu calls, asking where she is and if she's been drinking. Upon learning she's at a bar with friends, he immediately declares he's coming to "catch a drunkard."
Sang Zhi is further annoyed, muttering about the contradiction that he won't let her visit him, yet he is now coming to find her. As Sang Zhi heads outside, feeling unwell, Jiang Ming follows to check on her, attempting to support her. Sang Zhi, however, keeps pushing him away, insisting she's fine and waiting for her "brother." Jiang Ming then confesses that the song he sang was specifically for her.
Just then, Duan Jiaxu arrives and takes Sang Zhi from Jiang Ming, who introduces himself as Sang Zhi's classmate. Duan Jiaxu acknowledges him and thanks him before taking Sang Zhi away. Duan Jiaxu confronts Sang Zhi about being at the bar. She argues that she's an adult and can make her own choices, bringing up his past words about being able to do what she wants when she grows up.
She expresses frustration that even as an adult, there are still many things she cannot or dares not do. Feeling nauseous, Sang Zhi wants to sit, but Duan Jiaxu insists on carrying her on his back to avoid her catching a cold. She initially objects, reminding him of his recent surgery, but he assures her it's been over three months.
As he carries her, Sang Zhi drunkenly makes a self-deprecating comment about her weight and being flat-chested, to which Duan Jiaxu humorously responds by trying to console her, mistaking her "flat" comment as a source of genuine sadness. While on Duan Jiaxu's back, Sang Zhi confides that she has a secret: she likes someone who doesn't like her back.
When Duan Jiaxu presses for details, she describes the person as being "very nice" to her but also "very nice to everyone." Duan Jiaxu misinterprets this, concluding that the person is a "central air conditioner" (a slang term for someone who is affable to everyone) and advises her to stop liking such a person, unaware that he is the one she is describing.
After this, Duan Jiaxu privately muses that he wants to become the kind of person Sang Zhi likes—someone who is only good to her. Believing she has grown up and his own debts are finally paid, he decides he can now take care of her. The next morning, Sang Zhi wakes up in her dorm, horrified as she recalls throwing up on Duan Jiaxu.
Her roommates, however, are excitedly gossiping about how handsome her "old brother," Duan Jiaxu, is, comparing him favorably to Ning Wei's boyfriend. Mortified, Sang Zhi makes her roommates promise to stop her from ever drinking again. Duan Jiaxu messages her, informing her that flights at her preferred time are sold out so he has rebooked her ticket, and he will pick her up at 10 AM. Despite her embarrassment, Duan Jiaxu arrives at her school as promised.
As Duan Jiaxu loads her luggage into his car, Jiang Ming approaches Sang Zhi. He tells her that he had wanted to confess on New Year's Eve but she hadn't come. He reiterates that the song he sang at the bar was prepared for her and formally confesses, "Sang Zhi, I like you." Witnessing the confession, Duan Jiaxu discreetly advises Sang Zhi to thank Jiang Ming for his appreciation, then politely reject him.
Following his cue, Sang Zhi thanks Jiang Ming but tells him she already has someone she likes. Jiang Ming accepts her rejection gracefully, assuring her they can still be friends. On the way to the airport, Sang Zhi nervously explains that her visit to the bar was just a post-exam celebration with friends in a safe place. Duan Jiaxu, however, fixates on Jiang Ming, asking if the "1.
95-meter-tall guy" who just gave her a hamburger is the person she likes. Sang Zhi avoids answering, so Duan Jiaxu takes the hamburger, stating she can't eat the beef patty inside and eating it himself. This action reinforces his mistaken belief that Jiang Ming is the object of her affection. Sang Zhi apologizes again for throwing up on him, but Duan Jiaxu kindly dismisses it, offering her fruit and promising to buy her a warm drink at the airport.
Episode 13 Recap
Duan Jiaxu mistakenly believed that the boy who had just brought Sang Zhi a hamburger was the one she liked. Sang Zhi quickly denied it, struggling to explain. When pressed about her type, Sang Zhi described him as very "manly," which prompted Duan Jiaxu to playfully suggest she was describing a "jerk," as her ideal man was "manly, yet had no muscles, and was attentive to everyone." Sang Zhi insisted he was not.
She then cleverly turned the tables, asking Duan Jiaxu why he, already in his twenties, still didn't have a girlfriend. To her surprise, Duan Jiaxu responded by asking her to introduce someone, adding that he would be fine with someone her age. Sang Zhi was left bewildered, wondering if he was merely teasing her. Upon Sang Zhi's arrival home, her parents rushed to greet her, promising her favorite steamed fish and white strawberries.
Meanwhile, Sang Yan was left to drag all her luggage inside, grumbling about being treated like a "worker." Sang Zhi presented her parents with New Year gifts, including two items for her mother and hand cream for her father. For Sang Yan, she proudly presented a pair of asymmetrical sunglasses, claiming they were "on-trend." Sang Yan, however, found them "ugly" and "sophomoric," but under Sang Zhi's prodding, he reluctantly admitted he liked them.
During dinner, Sang Zhi updated her family on Duan Jiaxu's recovery from appendicitis, mentioning his game was now very popular. This prompted her parents to scold Sang Yan for being idle and skipping a blind date they had arranged. Later, Sang Zhi suggested Sang Yan take Duan Jiaxu along on a blind date, reasoning that Duan Jiaxu might be looking for a girlfriend and could otherwise "end up pathetically alone." Sang Yan found the idea preposterous.
Later, Sang Zhi found a teddy bear blanket Duan Jiaxu had given her, which brought back his earlier comment about being fine with a girlfriend her age. Wondering if he was serious, Sang Zhi messaged Duan Jiaxu, claiming Sang Yan had a very young girlfriend. Duan Jiaxu immediately asked if she was an adult. When Sang Zhi confirmed she was, he dismissed any concerns.
Privately, Duan Jiaxu felt uneasy, realizing that while such an age gap seemed acceptable for others, it felt different when it concerned himself. He worried Sang Zhi, who had always seen him as a brother, would not be able to accept it. Unbeknownst to him, Sang Zhi lamented their age gap, wishing they had met now, when she was nineteen and he was twenty-four, so he might have seen her as an equal rather than just his friend's little sister.
Sometime later, Qian Fei, in Yihe for a business trip, had dinner with Duan Jiaxu and asked about the girl he liked. Duan Jiaxu vaguely described her as "a little girl," admitting he felt somewhat "guilty" about the age difference. When asked about the girl's preferred type, Duan Jiaxu described a man who was "quite a flirt," "attentive to everyone," and "a bit shameless."
Qian Fei immediately pointed out that this description perfectly fit Duan Jiaxu himself and suggested the girl might actually like him. Duan Jiaxu initially dismissed the idea, claiming he had seen the man and that he was a "jerk." However, Qian Fei's insistence that he had never met anyone who fit the description better than Duan Jiaxu led him to consider the possibility that he was the one Sang Zhi liked.
On the day of Qian Fei's wedding, Duan Jiaxu texted Sang Zhi to let her know he had arrived in Nanwu. At the banquet, Duan Jiaxu playfully called Sang Yan his "brother" after receiving a red envelope from him, much to Sang Yan's disgust. Sang Zhi was seated next to Duan Jiaxu but remained uncharacteristically quiet. Duan Jiaxu prompted her to say hello and then directly asked how old the guy she liked was.
Seeing Sang Zhi flustered and trying to switch seats with Sang Yan, who refused, Duan Jiaxu realized Qian Fei's observation had been correct. After the banquet, as Sang Yan prepared to continue drinking with friends, Sang Zhi excused herself to go home. Duan Jiaxu followed her out, offering to drive her. He then returned the red envelope to her, affectionately using her childhood nickname, "Zhi Zhi."
When she questioned it, he reminded her that she had said only "close people" called her that. The next morning, as Sang Zhi prepared to return to school, Duan Jiaxu informed her he would pick her up for the airport, revealing they were on the same flight. He then gave her a New Year gift: a bracelet with her name engraved on it. Sang Zhi was puzzled by the gift's potential meaning.
His intense gaze left her even more confused about his intentions. He then playfully offered her a white strawberry, teasingly asking if she wanted him to feed it to her and warning her not to "take advantage" of him.
Episode 14 Recap
Sang Zhi looked up the meaning of the bracelet Duan Jiaxu had given her, discovering it was meant to convey care from an elder. This revelation left her feeling quite disappointed. She informed her parents that Duan Jiaxu would pick her up early the next morning, as they were on the same flight to Yihe, allowing her parents to sleep in.
Meanwhile, Duan Jiaxu spent the night struggling to secure a ticket for that same flight, only breathing a sigh of relief when he finally succeeded. The next morning, before dawn, Duan Jiaxu appeared at Sang Zhi's door with breakfast. Noticing she wasn't wearing the bracelet he gave her, he was visibly disappointed. At the airport, Duan Jiaxu unexpectedly ran into Yuan Lang, a high school classmate. Yuan Lang, seeing Sang Zhi, immediately asked if she was Duan Jiaxu's girlfriend.
He then brought up rumors he'd heard about Duan Jiaxu and Jiang Ying being together, which Duan Jiaxu quickly denied. Sang Zhi casually inquired about Jiang Ying, only to realize that she was the same woman who had previously thrown water on Duan Jiaxu. Duan Jiaxu clarified that they had no such relationship, reminding Sang Zhi that he had promised to introduce her to any girlfriend he might have first.
Sang Zhi then brought up the other woman she had seen with him at the airport when she visited Yihe in high school. This prompted an internal realization that Duan Jiaxu had never forgotten his promise to her and had never lied. Upon arriving at her dorm, Sang Zhi waved goodbye to Duan Jiaxu from the balcony. Ning Wei, her roommate, eagerly pulled her aside for gossip.
Sang Zhi expressed her belief that Duan Jiaxu had been acting strangely recently, even more intensely than before, suggesting he might like her. However, she quickly dismissed the idea, thinking she was overthinking things, as Duan Jiaxu had watched her grow up and she couldn't convince herself he harbored such feelings. Ning Wei, however, saw nothing unusual in their age difference and advised Sang Zhi to interact with Duan Jiaxu naturally, as friends.
Her primary advice was, "If the enemy doesn't make any move, you do the same. But if he does, you must strike first." Duan Jiaxu had a breakthrough, realizing that the "person" Sang Zhi liked likely didn't exist and that she was, in fact, referring to him.
He promptly called Qian Fei for advice on how to pursue someone, acknowledging that Sang Zhi still believed he couldn't possibly like her and that he needed to clarify his intentions to his "girl." Later, intending to clear up Sang Zhi's misunderstandings, Duan Jiaxu called her to ask her out. Overhearing the call, Sang Zhi's roommates became excited. When Sang Zhi answered, Duan Jiaxu invited her to dinner, and they settled on Friday.
Sang Zhi also clarified to her roommates that she and Jiang Ming were just ordinary friends and that she had already made that clear to him, a statement which seemed to affect one of her roommates, Wang Wang. On Friday, Duan Jiaxu dressed up for the occasion. Sang Zhi, too, was meticulously styled by her roommates from head to toe, who then watched her leave with the feeling they were marrying off a daughter.
In the car, Duan Jiaxu mentioned he wanted to introduce someone to her, which startled Sang Zhi, making her fear he had a girlfriend he wanted her to meet. She initially tried to sit in the back seat but was gently guided by Duan Jiaxu into the passenger seat. At the restaurant, a woman was indeed waiting.
She was Siyun, Duan Jiaxu's superior and the producer of "A Dream of Jianghu," the same "sister" Sang Zhi had seen at the airport before. Duan Jiaxu exchanged a glance with Siyun before excusing himself. Siyun then explained the airport incident to Sang Zhi, confirming she was married and had only tagged along to help because Duan Jiaxu had a fever and her husband had a last-minute client meeting.
She also emphasized that Duan Jiaxu had been single ever since she'd known him. Duan Jiaxu then returned with several colleagues, introducing Sang Zhi as his "friend," a departure from his previous descriptions of her as his "sister" or a "relative's child." Sang Zhi understood that Duan Jiaxu had asked Siyun to explain everything to her so she wouldn't have any misunderstandings. With their dinner crashed by his colleagues, Sang Zhi felt awkward and suggested they go eat elsewhere.
Duan Jiaxu agreed and instead took her to a movie. During the wait, Sang Zhi messaged her roommates that she would be back late. Duan Jiaxu bought her a peach oolong, but the shop mistakenly gave them milk tea. Upon learning she was allergic to milk, Duan Jiaxu became visibly anxious and quickly went back to exchange it for pure tea. However, the movie plans were ruined when Sang Zhi developed a rash from her allergic reaction, and Duan Jiaxu insisted on taking her to the hospital immediately.
Episode 15 Recap
Duan Jiaxu offered Sang Zhi medicine for her allergic reaction and checked if she felt better. Sang Zhi, still covering her face, assured him she was fine and surprisingly commented that the milk tea was good, though she wouldn't have it again due to her bad experience with milk. Duan Jiaxu recalled giving her milk before, but Sang Zhi quickly claimed her classmate drank it.
As they walked, Sang Zhi kept scratching her face, prompting Duan Jiaxu to hold her hands to stop her, a gesture she amusingly compared to being "walked like a dog." Sang Zhi then asked Duan Jiaxu why he introduced her as his "friend" to his colleagues when he previously called her his "sister." Duan Jiaxu deflected the question, simply saying it was nothing.
He then mentioned her approaching birthday, regretting he couldn't get her a cream cake due to her allergies. When he noted their birthdays are close, he added that he doesn't celebrate his own because "it's pointless to celebrate it alone." Back at the dorm, Sang Zhi's roommates were discussing dating strategies. One roommate advocated for bold confessions, while another, Wang Wang, expressed a more passive approach, stating she wouldn't pursue someone who hadn't shown interest first.
When Sang Zhi finally arrived, her face covered from the allergy, she couldn't hide her hopeful smile. She confided that she had a good time and believed Duan Jiaxu might like her too. Her roommates immediately advised her to hide her feelings, insisting that the woman should be the one pursued. Sang Zhi worried he might not make a move, but ultimately agreed to wait, though she jokingly added that if he didn't, she would pursue him.
On her birthday, a dressed-up Sang Zhi was on her way to meet Duan Jiaxu when she was intercepted by Jiang Ming. He gave her a gift but made a quick exit upon seeing Duan Jiaxu approach. Duan Jiaxu took the gift and asked if Jiang Ming was the "manly man" she once mentioned. Sang Zhi denied it. Duan Jiaxu then leaned in close, challenging her to look at him and say if "he" resembled the boy she liked.
Flustered and panicking internally that he knew her secret, Sang Zhi quickly denied it. She tried to cover her tracks by claiming she no longer had a crush, dismissing her former crush as a "central air-conditioning system"—a term she explained meant a guy who is overly friendly with all women. Intrigued, Duan Jiaxu listened to her definition before playfully murmuring that she's "pretty good at framing people." They headed to the cinema to watch the movie they missed.
On the bus, Sang Zhi held onto Duan Jiaxu's sleeve for balance. Later, at the concession stand, Sang Zhi ordered an iced lemon tea, but Duan Jiaxu, wary of her allergies and the cold, tried to manage her order. When she insisted, he relented but playfully told her to get used to him managing her.
When Sang Zhi's hands got cold from the drink, Duan Jiaxu offered to hold it for her, then jokingly asked her to warm his hands in return. Sang Zhi refused, calling it "inappropriate," to which Duan Jiaxu teasingly agreed, remarking, "After all, you're not my girlfriend yet." After the movie, Duan Jiaxu invited Sang Zhi back to his place. She was surprised, reminding him he'd previously warned her away from his home and office.
He explained that Jiang Ying had shown up unexpectedly that day, and he had acted hastily out of concern for Sang Zhi's safety, leading to the misunderstanding. They both apologized, clearing the air. At his home, Duan Jiaxu surprised Sang Zhi with a rooftop birthday setup, complete with two cakes: one store-bought, and one he personally baked to be dairy-free. Moved, Sang Zhi chose the handmade cake for her wish, hoping for many more birthdays with him.
Duan Jiaxu then presented her with a gift, saying it was "something that lasts longer" than cake. His jealousy flickered as he noticed Jiang Ming's gift, prompting him to ask what qualities a guy needed to pursue her. Sang Zhi listed being handsome, good-tempered, taller than her, and having a sound moral compass. Duan Jiaxu, pointing out that he meets all her criteria, then asked directly, "Can I woo you?" Flustered, Sang Zhi asked him to clarify his meaning.
Duan Jiaxu confirmed her suspicion, explaining that calling her a "kid" was just a term of endearment and that he no longer wanted to be just her brother—he wanted to be her boyfriend. Still processing, Sang Zhi cleverly responded that she could only know her true feelings if he actually pursued her. Duan Jiaxu accepted the challenge, playfully promising to pursue her for decades and warning her not to see other boys, or he'd complain to her parents.
Before she left, Sang Zhi sought clarification: he had asked to pursue her, not confessed, and she hadn't rejected him. She then asked to take the cakes. After a mock-petty refusal, Duan Jiaxu agreed she could take both, even offering to bake for her daily. Sang Zhi returned to her dorm, where her roommates surprised her with their own celebration.
They immediately noticed the two cakes she brought, with one commenting on the "ugly" handmade one, which Sang Zhi affectionately defended as "cute." Realizing Duan Jiaxu made it, they excitedly confirmed that there had been "substantial progress." A flashback revealed Duan Jiaxu earnestly learning to bake from a baker, who recognized him from his high school part-time job and teased him about finally dating someone. Despite his initial struggles, Duan Jiaxu's determination to make the perfect cake for Sang Zhi was clear.
Episode 16 Recap
Upon receiving a gift from Duan Jiaxu, Sang Zhi discovered a camera inside, which contained a blurry selfie of his collarbone. She immediately called him "thick-skinned" for sending such a picture and asking if she liked it. Duan Jiaxu countered that if she agreed to be pursued by him, he would promptly send a high-definition version.
Sang Zhi privately labeled him a "scheming old man," while Duan Jiaxu remarked that he needed to be one step ahead to deal with "young foxes" like her. After wishing each other good night, Sang Zhi changed his contact name from "Brother No. 2" to "Suitor." Later, after Sang Yan sent her some money, Sang Zhi informed him that she might be getting into a relationship, adding that the person was "quite old."
Sang Yan, initially calm, advised her to be careful not to be scammed. However, his demeanor changed dramatically after she mentioned the man's age. He called her back, demanding to know how old the guy was and adamantly stating he wouldn't accept anyone older than himself, even by a day. Sang Zhi's roommates discussed her situation with Duan Jiaxu.
Ning Wei emphasized the importance of protecting herself, while Sang Zhi confessed her worry that Duan Jiaxu's interest might be a fleeting whim. Another roommate reassured her, suggesting that given their long history, his intentions were likely serious, and proposed that Sang Zhi test him. Soon after, while wearing a bracelet Duan Jiaxu had given her, she received a text from him asking if she was free the next day.
Before Sang Zhi could reply, Ning Wei took her phone and responded, "I'm not free," reminding Sang Zhi they had agreed to test him. Duan Jiaxu then asked about the day after. Sang Zhi, adhering to the test, replied she "might not be free either." Puzzled, Duan Jiaxu consulted his colleagues, who suggested such a response meant "it depends on your performance." He then asked if she was free on Thursday night.
Sang Zhi, prompted by her roommates, finally agreed, considering his three attempts a passing grade. On Thursday, Sang Zhi dressed up for their date, but Duan Jiaxu called to cancel, explaining that an urgent system bug required everyone at work to handle it immediately. He canceled again on another occasion, citing a colleague's issue that necessitated program changes.
After multiple cancellations, Sang Zhi returned to her dorm, telling her roommates the latest one wasn't even due to work, though she hadn't bothered to ask for details. Her roommates were outraged, arguing that he wasn't putting in enough effort. Sang Zhi defended him, explaining he was so overwhelmed he barely had time to sleep, and by the time he finished, her dorm's curfew would have passed. Unbeknownst to Sang Zhi, Duan Jiaxu was grappling with severe family issues.
He visited his father, Duan Zhicheng, at a nursing home, where Dr. Yang informed him that his father, who had been comatose for nine years after an accident, was in critical condition due to severe pulmonary edema. Dr. Yang recommended surgery, offering a hopeful but uncertain reply about the possibility of miracles. Duan Jiaxu then arranged for his father's hospital transfer. A flashback revealed the tragic events of Duan Jiaxu's past.
Years ago, on the night he won a city-wide physics contest, his father returned home intoxicated and confessed to a hit-and-run. Despite pleas from Duan Jiaxu and his mother to surrender, his father jumped from their building in a suicide attempt. This catastrophe forced Duan Jiaxu to take on multiple part-time jobs. His mother insisted he attend university, working tirelessly to support him.
Later, her health deteriorated, and Duan Jiaxu borrowed 30,000 yuan from a university friend for her medical bills. However, she vehemently opposed it, weary of their mounting debts and afraid of leaving him with an even greater burden. Despite his exhaustion, Duan Jiaxu called Sang Zhi for a late-night meet-up. Her roommates eagerly pushed her out the door. When they met, Sang Zhi subtly hinted at her disappointment over his cancellations. Duan Jiaxu apologized, attributing it to "messy trivial affairs."
Sang Zhi challenged him, stating that if they were truly trivial, he shouldn't have neglected her. Surprised by her directness, he asked if she was upset. She denied it, instead expressing concern that he was overworked. Touched, Sang Zhi then made him a cotton candy, explaining that eating sweets always cheered her up. Misinterpreting her gesture and the fact she was wearing his bracelet, Duan Jiaxu declared she had agreed to be his girlfriend.
Flustered, Sang Zhi corrected him, advising him to learn how to properly pursue someone. Duan Jiaxu earnestly apologized for his missteps and promised to seriously court her from that day forward, to which Sang Zhi replied she would be watching his performance. The next day, Sang Zhi attended a sharing session by an alumnus at her university. Duan Jiaxu appeared, explaining he had taken time off work. Sang Zhi playfully called their meeting a "coincidence."
Other students in the hall noticed Duan Jiaxu's gentle gaze fixed on Sang Zhi, speculating that he was her boyfriend. Feeling self-conscious, Sang Zhi pretended to be asleep. At the same time, Sang Yan texted Duan Jiaxu, asking him to look out for his sister, unaware that the man he was concerned about was Duan Jiaxu himself.
Episode 17 Recap
Sang Zhi was resting her head on her desk during a lecture when Duan Jiaxu playfully poked her face. She sat up abruptly, her ears reddening. When he feigned ignorance, Sang Zhi, after telling him to come closer, leaned in and kissed him on the cheek. She immediately clarified that this gesture didn't imply romantic feelings and that she hadn't agreed to be his girlfriend.
Duan Jiaxu teasingly accused her of "taking advantage," to which Sang Zhi retorted that he had started it. When Sang Zhi threatened to tell her brother, Duan Jiaxu confidently stated that their relationship would eventually go public anyway. Sang Zhi insisted she hadn't agreed to anything and urged him to leave, claiming she couldn't focus on the class with him there, but he chose to stay. Their senior, Wang Lin, then began a sharing session on future career planning.
After class, Duan Jiaxu accompanied Sang Zhi on a stroll through the campus. He asked if she hadn't experienced such walks before, to which she replied she hadn't, as there was no one to accompany her. He playfully teased her about Sang Yan. They then came across a basketball game where their friends, including Chen Qiang, were playing. Jiang Ming, one of the players, twisted his ankle, and their friend Wang rushed to his side in concern.
Seeing the team was short a player, Duan Jiaxu was asked to substitute. He quickly proved his skills on the court, capturing the admiration of the female students watching. One girl even mistook him for Sang Zhi's brother, but another clarified they were not related. Later, as summer break approached, Sang Zhi discussed her plans with her roommates, Yu Xin and Weiwei. Yu Xin announced she would be interning at a design company that was interested in her game prototype.
Inspired, Sang Zhi expressed her desire to find an internship in Yihe instead of going home and sought resume advice from Yu Xin. Sang Zhi then messaged Sang Yan, explaining her wish to stay for an internship and asking him to help convince their parents. She offered to support him if their mother pressured him to get married. Sang Yan immediately called, suspiciously asking if her "postgraduate boyfriend" was also staying in Yihe.
He firmly demanded she return home, accusing her of staying for a relationship. Sang Zhi clarified it was for an internship and playfully accused him of being jealous. Sang Yan insisted he had a girlfriend and warned her not to be foolish over love, referencing a past incident where she ran off to meet an online friend. He reiterated that she must come home, but she stood her ground.
Meanwhile, Wang visited Jiang Ming to deliver traditional medicine for his sprained ankle, leading their friends to tease her about her obvious feelings for him. Later that evening, Duan Jiaxu messaged Sang Zhi after work. To his surprise, Sang Zhi appeared moments later, holding balloons and a gift, wishing him a happy birthday. Duan Jiaxu admitted he had forgotten. After learning that neither Sang Yan nor their friend Qian Fei had remembered, Sang Zhi discreetly messaged her brother.
Soon after, Sang Yan called Duan Jiaxu to wish him a happy birthday and slyly inquired about Sang Zhi's supposed "postgraduate boyfriend." Flustered, Sang Zhi hastily ended the call. Duan Jiaxu then teased her, asking if she truly had no feelings for him. After some hesitation, Sang Zhi quietly admitted, "Maybe just a little bit."
Unfazed, Duan Jiaxu stated that he would continue pursuing her, promising that "what other young girls have, my Zhizhi has to have it too," and playfully suggesting this would be her only relationship. For his birthday dinner, Sang Zhi had rented out an entire restaurant. She went into the kitchen to prepare longevity noodles herself, struggling to cut mushrooms in a "flower style." When Duan Jiaxu entered the kitchen out of curiosity, she promptly ushered him out.
Once the noodles were ready, she reluctantly let him take a photo, admitting she wasn't sure if they were edible. Duan Jiaxu, however, took a large bite, praised them as delicious, and finished the entire bowl. He then closed his eyes and made a birthday wish. Sang Zhi confidently stated she knew his wish and that it was very easy to fulfill.
She then announced she was agreeing to be with him, clarifying that she wanted to be by his side for all his future birthdays. Surprised and overjoyed, Duan Jiaxu stood up and gave her a tender first kiss. Sang Zhi expressed how special the day was, as it was both the first birthday she had celebrated with him and their first day as a couple. Duan Jiaxu then decided to fully disclose his family situation.
He revealed that his mother had passed away and his father was in a coma, a result of a drunk driving accident years ago in which someone was killed. He added that he had paid off the compensation and now had a car and some savings, but no house. He apologized for the sudden revelation, but Sang Zhi reassured him, saying she was only worried that recalling these memories would make him sad.
He admitted he was nervous she might "mind" his past, but she firmly reiterated that she didn't at all. The following day, a power outage occurred in Sang Zhi's dormitory. Duan Jiaxu called, affectionately calling her "girlfriend," and suggested they have lunch. She declined, saying she was heading to the library to study. Unexpectedly, Duan Jiaxu appeared at her dorm, explaining the library would be full. He invited her to his apartment to study, promising to cook for her.
At his place, he insisted she study at the desk in his room so he wouldn't disturb her while he cooked in the living room. While Sang Zhi studied, Duan Jiaxu simply sat in the living room, admitting he just wanted to watch her. Unbeknownst to Duan Jiaxu, Sang Zhi had also visited a cake shop to order a custom 8-inch cake for him, showing the staff a picture of the design she wanted.
While placing the order, her phone rang. It was her mother, calling back about the longevity noodles recipe Sang Zhi had requested earlier. Sang Zhi explained it was for Jiaxu's birthday and that since he was alone in Yihe and had been so caring, she wanted to make him a special meal, adding that her mother's recipe was the best. Pleased, her mother agreed to write down the recipe and send it to her.
Episode 18 Recap
Duan Jiaxu watches Sang Zhi as she studies at his apartment, saying he wants to get more glances at her. Sang Zhi playfully complains she cannot focus with him there, but he insists on staying quietly. He then offers to cook her a meal, affectionately worrying that someone might "steal his kiddo." Sang Zhi finds his cooking delightful, and he reveals she is the first person to taste it.
After eating, Sang Zhi insists on doing the dishes, explaining that in the future, he cannot be the only one doing chores, a comment that makes her realize she is already thinking about their life together. Although Sang Zhi claims she isn't sleepy and is determined to study for a scholarship, she soon finds herself dozing off in his bedroom.
When Duan Jiaxu enters, he finds her on the floor, where she quickly claims to be memorizing vocabulary, asserting that studying on the floor is "more exciting" and helps her stay awake. Amused, Duan Jiaxu playfully pins her down, teasing that he will show her what "exciting" really means. Sang Zhi, blushing, pushes him away.
She admits she fell asleep and was afraid he would misunderstand her intentions if he found her napping after she had been so determined to study. Duan Jiaxu reassures her he is not that petty and encourages her to rest, offering to wake her later. When she worries he will be bored, he admits he might be "a little bit" but is happy just to have her there.
Sang Zhi then clarifies that she does not dislike his physical affection, but she gets extremely nervous whenever he is close and is not yet used to it. Duan Jiaxu, understanding, tells her not to worry and urges her to sleep. Later, as Duan Jiaxu walks Sang Zhi home, she offers him a choice between a piece of candy or holding hands, quickly deciding on the latter herself.
She then teases him for being so formal, unlike others who might grab a hand while crossing the street. Duan Jiaxu explains he is being cautious because he previously upset her by kissing her without asking. Sang Zhi clarifies she was not upset, just nervous. When he asks if she is finding it hard to get used to being his girlfriend, she reassures him she is not, and for the first time, tells him that she "really, really likes him."
Duan Jiaxu reciprocates, saying he likes her "very much, too." Sang Zhi also mentions she has applied for several internships in Yihe but has not received any replies yet. Qian Fei calls Duan Jiaxu to announce an upcoming business trip to Yihe and demands a seafood feast instead of their usual fried chicken. Duan Jiaxu generously agrees, leading Qian Fei to correctly guess that he has successfully "gotten the girl" and to jokingly take credit for it.
Qian Fei immediately boasts in a group chat that he helped Duan Jiaxu find a girlfriend, tagging Sang Yan. Panicked, Duan Jiaxu confesses to Qian Fei that the girl is Sang Zhi. Stunned, Qian Fei tries to retract his message, but Sang Yan has already seen it and calls Duan Jiaxu, angrily questioning why he sought help from Qian Fei instead of him. Duan Jiaxu calmly deflects, promising to explain everything in person when he returns to Nanwu.
Sang Yan agrees, asking them to bring Sang Zhi home for the summer vacation. Meanwhile, Sang Zhi’s friend Wang interviews Jiang Ming for a project. He speaks about the perseverance required of an athlete and the difficulty of being unable to train, recounting a past rib injury. Wang finds his dedication inspiring. Separately, Sang Zhi and her roommate Ning Wei are struggling with their term papers.
When Ning Wei learns Sang Zhi has been studying at Duan Jiaxu’s place, she teases her about their time alone and asks if they have kissed. Sang Zhi confirms they have and confides in Ning Wei about her nervousness during intimate moments, fearing Duan Jiaxu might misinterpret her tension as dislike. Ning Wei reassures her, suggesting her anxiety might stem from a subconscious fear that he will discover her long-held crush.
She encourages Sang Zhi to be proactive and show him through her actions that she enjoys his affection. Taking Ning Wei's advice, Sang Zhi invites Duan Jiaxu on a skating date for the weekend. At the rink, she notices he looks tired, but he insists on skating to "show off" his skills. Before they start, Sang Zhi boldly informs him that she plans to kiss him that day, giving him a heads-up so it is not too sudden.
Amused, he agrees. After he patiently teaches her some moves, she skates into his arms and gives him a quick peck on the lips. He playfully complains he was not ready and that it "didn't count," pulling her in for a more deliberate and passionate kiss. After an exam, Sang Zhi discusses her internship plans with her friends.
Her parents want her to return to Nanwu for an internship they found for her, but she prefers to stay in Yihe, believing there are more opportunities—both for her career and her relationship. She then receives a call confirming she has passed an interview. Later, a girl approaches Duan Jiaxu to ask for his WeChat. He politely declines, stating that his girlfriend would "kill" him. Sang Zhi, who witnessed the exchange, confronts him with a pout.
He teases her for being jealous, which she initially denies before admitting it, accusing him of "flirting" with the girl. He defends himself, but it's soon his turn to be jealous when he sees another man ask for Sang Zhi's contact information. He accuses her of flirting back, but she explains that she immediately rejected the man by telling him she already has a boyfriend.
Episode 19 Recap
Sang Zhi received the exciting news that she had passed her interview and could begin her internship. Meanwhile, at Duan Jiaxu's company, his colleague Siyun suffered from a stomach ailment. Despite her reluctance, her teammates, including Duan Jiaxu and Xun, insisted she go to the hospital, prioritizing her health over work. Duan Jiaxu drove her himself, ensuring she received care.
Back at Sang Zhi's dorm, her roommates remarked on her formal attire, teasing her about dressing up for a "beauty pageant." Sang Zhi clarified she just wanted to make a good impression. Her roommate, Ning Wei, also probed if Sang Zhi was interning early to spend more time with someone. Soon after, Sang Yan called, revealing he was busy with his own relationship but still planning to pick Sang Zhi up.
Sang Zhi reluctantly confessed that she wouldn't be returning home, as she had found a hard-to-get internship in Yihe, a decision their parents had approved. This news enraged Sang Yan, who accused her of being foolish and warned her not to come crying if she got scammed. Sang Zhi retorted that he was childish for always broadcasting his relationships. The argument escalated, with Sang Yan threatening to cut ties.
Worried, Sang Zhi decided to text Sang Yan to clear the air, revealing that her boyfriend was Duan Jiaxu, someone he knew and could trust. However, her message was instantly rejected, as Sang Yan had already blocked her. On her first day as an intern, Sang Zhi was introduced to the planning department. To her dismay, the department head was Shi Xiaoyu, who recognized her from Jiang Ying's previous confrontation with the couple.
Shi Xiaoyu gave Sang Zhi a disdainful look, not even allowing her a full self-introduction before brusquely assigning menial tasks like printing documents and preparing refreshments. Later that evening, Sang Zhi lied to her father on the phone, claiming her first day was happy and her colleagues were nice. Shortly after, Duan Jiaxu arrived with a bouquet of sunflowers, hoping her work days would be as bright as the flowers.
During their meal, Sang Zhi teased him for being "naggy like a father," asserting she was a "mature adult." Duan Jiaxu then presented her with a pig-shaped ornament, sharing that he had a stressful internship and wished for her to have a happy experience. He acknowledged she stayed to be with him and encouraged her to confide in the ornament if she felt upset. Sang Zhi told him about Sang Yan blocking her.
Duan Jiaxu called her brother childish and reassured her they would visit together during the National Day holidays to explain their relationship in person, promising to handle it. The next day, Shi Xiaoyu caught Sang Zhi discreetly calling Duan Jiaxu during a team meeting and sternly reprimanded her for making personal calls during work hours.
At the end of the day, as her colleagues left, Shi Xiaoyu assigned Sang Zhi a box of invoices to process, forcing her to work overtime. At his own office, Duan Jiaxu and his team were also working late. When a food delivery ordered by Sang Zhi arrived for him, he was teased by his colleagues. Realizing she was still at her office and hadn't eaten, Duan Jiaxu immediately left to find her.
He found her exhausted, offering his shoulder for her to lean on. Sang Zhi suddenly asked if he had ever had another girlfriend, and he reassured her she was the only one. He advised her on navigating the competitive corporate world as an intern. Sang Zhi confessed that seeing him instantly "recharged" her, and Duan Jiaxu playfully sought his own "recharge" from her. Later that night, Shi Xiaoyu called Sang Zhi to assign more tasks for the next morning.
Duan Jiaxu dropped her home before returning to his office, where he ended up pulling an all-nighter, only to be woken by colleagues returning from a late supper. The next morning, he surprised Sang Zhi by picking her up for work. She noticed he looked fatigued and was wearing the same clothes. He initially lied, claiming he owned multiple identical outfits, but soon admitted to working overtime. Before entering her building, Sang Zhi affectionately cupped his face and kissed him.
This intimate moment was witnessed by Shi Xiaoyu, who immediately called Jiang Ying to report that Duan Jiaxu and Sang Zhi were in a relationship, causing Jiang Ying's anger to spiral. Back at the office, Shi Xiaoyu harshly criticized Sang Zhi's first proposal draft, attacking the layout and font sizes and accusing her of being self-important.
A colleague, Pengxing, defended Sang Zhi, but Shi Xiaoyu reiterated her dislike, complaining that Sang Zhi "doesn't know anything, yet acts like she knows everything." Later, Shi Xiaoyu declined a dinner invitation from Jiang Ying, explaining she had a company team-building event at a karaoke lounge. During the event, Sang Zhi, finding it boring, texted Duan Jiaxu to come and pick her up. As she tried to leave, the door to their private room was pushed open by a furious Jiang Ying.
Episode 20 Recap
As Sang Zhi was about to leave a private room due to her dorm's curfew, she encountered Jiang Ying at the doorway. Refusing to be ignored, Jiang Ying stopped her and began to speak ill of Duan Jiaxu. She revealed that his father was in a vegetative state, incurring nearly 100,000 yuan in annual medical bills, and questioned which young girl would be willing to waste her time and money on him.
Sang Zhi firmly declared that she could and would. Jiang Ying escalated her attack, asserting that Duan Jiaxu's father had killed someone while driving, labeling him a murderer. Sang Zhi dismissed this, asking what it had to do with Duan Jiaxu, and told Jiang Ying not to concern herself with her parents' approval of their relationship.
Jiang Ying continued to provoke Sang Zhi, claiming that due to his family circumstances, Duan Jiaxu grew up without love and mistook any kindness for affection. She even suggested he would be indifferent if Sang Zhi were to break up with him, believing he could easily find thousands of others. Unmoved, Sang Zhi remained steadfast, prompting Jiang Ying to reveal the painful truth: Duan Jiaxu's father had killed "her" own father.
Jiang Ying recounted how Duan Jiaxu's father had fled after the accident and attempted suicide out of fear of imprisonment, but survived while her father died. She claimed she was the one who suffered the punishment. Sang Zhi acknowledged Jiang Ying's pain but firmly stated that it was Duan Jiaxu's father who had committed the crime, for which Duan Jiaxu had already tried to compensate.
She emphasized that Duan Jiaxu himself was innocent and that Jiang Ying's personal tragedy did not justify her attempts to hurt him. The confrontation left Sang Zhi deeply saddened for Duan Jiaxu, making her wonder if Jiang Ying had previously made him feel such profound guilt. Later that evening, Duan Jiaxu found a visibly upset Sang Zhi sitting alone by the riverside, drinking beer. He offered her some bread he had bought.
Moved by his concern, Sang Zhi unexpectedly handed him her bank card, which contained five thousand yuan, and promised an additional three thousand after her internship. She declared sincerely that she wanted to be good to him for the rest of her life.
Duan Jiaxu accepted her card but, in a tender gesture, gave her his own wallet, telling her its password was her birthday and that she should use the money inside to buy beautiful dresses, while he would use her card. Sang Zhi teased him for being corny, but he advised her to save the money, jokingly suggesting it could be for her dowry or to buy a house.
Sang Zhi enthusiastically detailed her research, noting that a downtown Yihe apartment of over 100 square meters would require a down payment of more than 500,000 yuan, optimistically estimating they could save it in fifty years. Duan Jiaxu playfully agreed, joking about her buying a huge house for him to hide his mistress in. Despite her earlier unhappiness, Sang Zhi affirmed she was perfectly fine, expressing joy simply at his presence, and Duan Jiaxu quietly remained by her side.
As Sang Zhi worked late, a colleague delivered food that turned out to be an order from Duan Jiaxu. He had been concerned about her working overtime, especially with the campus being quiet during summer break. He playfully suggested picking her up daily or having her stay at his place, though Sang Zhi mentioned her mother's nightly check-ins. Shortly after, Sang Zhi's mother called, expressing worry and requesting a video call once she returned to her dorm.
Duan Jiaxu reassured Sang Zhi, promising to continue picking her up. Just then, Sang Yan called, despite having blocked her number. He immediately confronted her, having spotted her holding hands with a man on campus. Sarcastic, he remarked on how her postgraduate boyfriend bore an uncanny resemblance to Duan Jiaxu, questioning if she took him for a fool. Sang Zhi nervously tried to deflect, attributing it to a "generic face," but Sang Yan pressed on.
Stepping forward, Duan Jiaxu honestly declared that he was the one who wooed her. Sang Zhi added that she had intended to tell Sang Yan but he had blocked her, admitting her earlier lie about a postgraduate boyfriend was to prepare him for their age difference. Fuming, Sang Yan walked Sang Zhi to her dorm, brusquely telling her to go inside and call her mother. As Sang Zhi reluctantly headed into her dorm, she repeatedly looked back, worried.
Sang Yan, unable to contain his rage, immediately turned on Duan Jiaxu, landing several punches. Duan Jiaxu, accepting the blows without retaliation, calmly stated he was serious about Sang Zhi. Sang Yan demanded to know how long they had been dating—two and a half months—then launched into a furious tirade. He accused Duan Jiaxu of lacking a conscience, expressing that he wouldn't object if Duan Jiaxu dated any other girl, but Sang Zhi was his sister.
He pointed out that Sang Zhi had known him since junior high and had always seen him as an older brother, questioning how Duan Jiaxu could pursue her. Duan Jiaxu admitted his fault and apologized, even offering to let Sang Yan beat him further. Sang Yan, though still enraged, eventually told Duan Jiaxu to clean himself up. When Sang Zhi called, Sang Yan ignored her, prompting Duan Jiaxu to quickly text her and reassure her that everything was fine.
Duan Jiaxu then turned back to Sang Yan, declaring with utmost sincerity that he would treat Sang Zhi well for the rest of his life. Sang Yan sarcastically questioned his seriousness and implied intimacy between them, which Duan Jiaxu denied. Sang Yan continued his accusations, calling Duan Jiaxu shameless for pursuing a girl who had just started university.
Duan Jiaxu calmly reiterated his seriousness, reminded Sang Yan their age difference was only five years, and invited more punches if it would make Sang Yan feel better. Duan Jiaxu led a fuming Sang Yan back to his apartment. Upon arrival, Sang Yan attempted to raid the refrigerator, but Duan Jiaxu swiftly intervened, playfully stating that the contents were exclusively for his girlfriend. Later that night, Sang Zhi initiated a video call.
To conceal his bruised face, Duan Jiaxu claimed he wasn't wearing clothes, prompting them to switch to an audio call. He downplayed his confrontation with Sang Yan, assuring Sang Zhi that her brother had merely told him off, which soothed her anxieties and allowed her to sleep soundly. The next morning, Duan Jiaxu met Sang Zhi wearing a mask, feigning a cold to hide his injuries.
However, Sang Zhi quickly noticed the bruises on his face and deduced that Sang Yan was responsible. Incensed, she stormed off to confront Sang Yan at a restaurant, threatening to disown him. Touched by Sang Zhi's fierce protectiveness, Duan Jiaxu tried to calm her down, while Sang Yan, exasperated, muttered about her temper worsening due to Duan Jiaxu's indulgence. He then sarcastically offered Duan Jiaxu another beating, claiming he was moved by Sang Zhi's display of affection.
Sang Yan taunted Sang Zhi for siding with an outsider, and a heated argument erupted between the siblings, with Sang Zhi questioning Sang Yan's resort to violence. Duan Jiaxu, mediating, revealed that Sang Yan had willingly stood still the previous night to be hit, effectively evening the score. The trio eventually shared a meal, during which Duan Jiaxu peeled shrimp for Sang Zhi, much to Sang Yan's visible annoyance.
Later, back at Duan Jiaxu's apartment, Sang Yan jokingly questioned Duan Jiaxu about an old appendicitis scar, hinting that he had aimed for it during their fight. Still seeking fairness, Sang Yan insisted Duan Jiaxu punch him back, to which Duan Jiaxu awkwardly complied, much to Sang Yan's exasperation. As the night concluded, Sang Yan, observing the single set of slippers, questioned where he was supposed to sleep, hoping it wouldn't be the couch.
Episode 21 Recap
After dropping Sang Zhi home, where she had fallen asleep in the car, Duan Jiaxu intended to return to his office for more work. Sang Yan, expressing concern about Duan Jiaxu’s late hours, insisted on accompanying him. At Duan Jiaxu's apartment, Sang Yan questioned if Duan Jiaxu had been neglecting his sleep due to spending time with Sang Zhi—picking her up, having dinner, shopping, and going to movies before returning to work.
Duan Jiaxu explained that while he had been busy due to his superior's illness, things were better now, and today was an exception. Sang Yan remarked that Duan Jiaxu was risking his health just to date. Duan Jiaxu then revealed his plan to move to a new, larger two-bedroom apartment closer to Sang Zhi's campus, hoping it would ease Sang Yan's worries.
Although Sang Yan was still protective, recalling Sang Zhi's past online dating incident, he admitted he felt relieved that Duan Jiaxu was her boyfriend. He warned Duan Jiaxu never to hurt Sang Zhi, threatening serious consequences, to which Duan Jiaxu confidently replied that Sang Yan would never get such an opportunity. Understanding, Sang Yan promised not to tell Sang Zhi about Duan Jiaxu’s late-night work.
The next morning, after Sang Yan had returned home, Duan Jiaxu learned from a colleague that Sang Zhi had been seen talking with Jiang Ying at a karaoke lounge a couple of days prior. Duan Jiaxu immediately went to Jiang Ying's office. He stated that he could tolerate her past harassment of him, but if she dared to harm Sang Zhi, the person he loved most, he would call the police and do anything to protect her.
Meanwhile, Sang Zhi attended a work meeting where she bravely proposed an innovative idea for an advertisement for the Dongjie brand. She suggested an animated character-driven story focusing on product ingredients and safety, drawing from her personal experience with allergies to connect with potential customers. Her superior, Shi Xiaoyu, advocated for a more conventional approach focused on bold innovation to attract new clients, dismissing Sang Zhi's idea as childish and out of sync with the brand's image.
However, the manager, Mr. Zhang, was intrigued by Sang Zhi's creativity and decided to have both her "innovative" concept and Shi Xiaoyu's "functional" one developed for the client to choose from. Following the meeting, Shi Xiaoyu confronted Sang Zhi, accusing her of undermining her by presenting the idea directly in the meeting. She then resorted to a personal attack, accusing Sang Zhi of stealing someone else's boyfriend.
Later, Sang Yan informed Sang Zhi that he was flying back home the next morning, which upset her. She expressed frustration that he hadn't told her sooner, as she would have taken time off to show him around Yihe. As Sang Zhi started crying outside her workplace, Sang Yan, though initially telling her it was embarrassing, noticed her genuine distress. She confessed her unhappiness with her internship, feeling like a watchdog.
Realizing her sadness, Sang Yan suggested she quit if she was unhappy, reassuring her that they had enough money and even offering to confront her superior if she was being bullied. When Duan Jiaxu arrived, Sang Yan quickly handed Sang Zhi over to him to be comforted. After Sang Yan left, Duan Jiaxu gently asked her about her bad mood. Sang Zhi admitted she didn't want to burden him with her problems, thinking she could handle them herself.
Duan Jiaxu reassured her that it was alright to cry and that she could always rely on him, even offering to support her indefinitely. He then asked if she was homesick and offered to take leave and accompany her back home, reiterating his desire to be more than just her boyfriend, but someone she could truly depend on. Sang Zhi agreed.
Duan Jiaxu then revealed that he knew Jiang Ying had approached her and that he had already warned Jiang Ying to stay away. He implored Sang Zhi to always tell him immediately when she encountered problems, as she didn't have to face everything alone. Sang Zhi explained that she hadn't told him about Jiang Ying because she felt she had grown up and could handle it herself, adding that she could also protect him.
Duan Jiaxu was deeply moved by her maturity. Later, Sang Yan sent Sang Zhi her allowance and advised her not to be temperamental with Duan Jiaxu. Subsequently, Sang Zhi's "allergic little girl" ad concept was enthusiastically approved by the client. Mr. Zhang praised Sang Zhi for her brilliant idea, promising a bonus for the entire team.
After this success, Duan Jiaxu picked Sang Zhi up and surprised her by showing her a new two-bedroom apartment he had rented near her university. He clarified that they wouldn't be living together but that it would be a convenient place for her to rest when tired. He solemnly handed her the key, declaring, "From now on, this is our home." A few days later, the air conditioner in Sang Zhi's dorm broke down.
The dorm supervisor informed her that maintenance workers were on summer vacation and couldn't fix it. Complaining to Duan Jiaxu about the heat, he immediately offered to pick her up and take her to his place. Once at his new apartment, he showed her a variety of her favorite snacks he had bought, playfully tempting her to stay. After Sang Zhi took a shower, she emerged to find Duan Jiaxu in his pajamas.
They settled down to play a game together. At one point, Sang Zhi's hair accidentally got tangled in a button on his pajamas. As he helped her untangle it, an intense moment passed between them. Flustered, Sang Zhi quickly said she was tired and rushed to her bedroom without her slippers, leaving Duan Jiaxu to compose himself. The next morning, Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu emerged from their rooms dressed in coincidentally matching clothes, sharing a warm smile.
Duan Jiaxu made breakfast, and they discussed his upcoming game test launch and her internship ending. They agreed to spend more time together and go wherever Sang Zhi wished once they were both free.
Episode 22 Recap
Sang Zhi began her day by preparing breakfast for Duan Jiaxu. Later, when Duan Jiaxu returned home from work, he would often find Sang Zhi asleep on the sofa and affectionately kiss her. He also made sure to order late-night meals for Sang Zhi whenever she had to work overtime.
As Sang Zhi’s internship drew to a close, her supervisors, Siyun and Xun, noted that she and another intern, Wan, were the most intelligent and capable interns they had mentored in years. On her last day, Sang Zhi presented small gifts to her colleagues to express her gratitude. Mr. Zhang, her superior, praised the interns’ impressive performance, offering to either recommend them for positions in Yihe or write recommendation letters if they chose to return to their hometowns.
Duan Jiaxu, meanwhile, celebrated a major professional achievement. His team’s game, "A Dream of Jianghu," had officially launched after more than two years of development, with its performance exceeding all targets. Duan Jiaxu thanked his team for the countless nights and extra hours they had dedicated to the project. Following this, Sang Zhi approached Shi Xiaoyu on her final day, offering her a gift.
She clarified that she had never stolen anyone's boyfriend and advised Xiaoyu to accompany Jiang Ying to see a psychologist, suggesting it might help Jiang Ying and allow Xiaoyu to understand the true situation. Siyun and Xun then met with Duan Jiaxu, attributing the project's success to his perseverance and coordination. They revealed their intention to recommend him for the vacant chief programmer position.
Although Duan Jiaxu felt his credentials might not be sufficient, they assured him of their confidence in his abilities, though the promotion still awaited headquarters' approval. To celebrate and make up for his long work hours, Duan Jiaxu proposed taking Sang Zhi on a holiday to an amusement park, complete with a highly-rated nearby hotel. However, Sang Zhi showed little enthusiasm, concerned about the expense. Instead, she proposed camping, arguing it would be more economical and intimate.
She had already meticulously prepared a comprehensive list of items, envisioning a romantic trip where they could enjoy the sea breeze, watch sunsets, and gaze at the stars, away from the crowds. Swayed by her thoughtful preparations, Duan Jiaxu agreed to the beach camping trip, much to Sang Zhi’s excitement. The next morning, heavy rain thwarted their camping plans, leaving Sang Zhi crestfallen. Undeterred, they decided to set up the tent indoors in Duan Jiaxu’s apartment.
As they worked, Sang Zhi received a video call from her mother. Sang Zhi quickly hid inside the tent while Duan Jiaxu ducked out of sight. Her brother, Sang Yan, who was on the call with their parents, immediately suspected Sang Zhi was at Duan Jiaxu’s place but didn't expose them. During the call, her parents expressed how much they missed her and wished she would return to Nanwu for future internships and after graduation.
After the call, Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu played a board game. Later that evening, noticing how homesick she was, Duan Jiaxu tenderly promised to accompany her back to Nanwu for the upcoming National Day holiday. Back at university, Sang Zhi decided to participate in the Yihe University Design Competition to enhance her resume. One of her friends, who was planning to enter with a concept called "The Century's Star Wars," encouraged her to find inspiration during the holiday.
Meanwhile, her friend Wangwang approached Jiang Ming to give him an edited version of his interview. Wangwang then boldly confessed her long-held feelings for him, explaining she had been drawn to him since he helped her during their first meeting. She reassured a flustered Jiang Ming that she simply wanted to be honest and hoped they could remain friends. As the National Day holiday approached, Sang Yan arrived in Yihe to pick up Sang Zhi.
On their drive home, he complained about Duan Jiaxu sending him takeout with a note claiming his "boyfriend" was weak, annoyed by what he saw as over-the-top concern. Sang Zhi defended Duan Jiaxu, explaining he was just busy and worried. Sang Yan then panicked, realizing he had forgotten to buy Sang Zhi her favorite deep-fried duck with taro mash. Upon arriving home, Sang Zhi surprised her parents, who were excited about their new camera.
Later, she privately called Duan Jiaxu, and they both expressed how much they missed each other. Duan Jiaxu promised to fly to Nanwu the next day to see her. After the call, Sang Zhi held her little fox plushie and looked at the star-filled bottle, reflecting on the reality of her relationship with Duan Jiaxu. Moments later, Sang Zhi’s parents confronted her about her dating life.
Overwhelmed by their barrage of questions about her boyfriend's age, background, and willingness to move to Nanwu, Sang Zhi panicked and fled to Sang Yan for help. She pleaded with him to take her to dinner with his friends, knowing Duan Jiaxu would be there. In the car, Sang Yan’s jealousy surfaced. He complained that when they were younger, Sang Zhi used to call Duan Jiaxu "brother" more affectionately than she ever called him.
He recounted past instances where she seemingly favored Duan Jiaxu, such as insisting on his help to move into a new dorm or an occasion where he and Duan Jiaxu even had to buy her sanitary pads. Sang Zhi dismissed his complaints as exaggerated and told him to focus on driving, playfully affirming her affection for her brother despite his jabs.
Episode 23 Recap
Sang Zhi rushed eagerly to meet Duan Jiaxu, her lack of composure annoying her brother, Sang Yan, who playfully questioned if Duan Jiaxu was truly the one who pursued her. Duan Jiaxu soon arrived, and he and Sang Zhi held hands as they settled into the back seat of Sang Yan's car.
Sang Yan grumbled about being their personal driver, sarcastically welcoming them to "Yan's personal ride" and warning them against inappropriate behavior in his car, while also hinting at his envy of their relationship. The trio arrived at a gathering where Duan Jiaxu formally introduced Sang Zhi as his girlfriend, much to the surprise of their friends, who remembered Sang Zhi being introduced as his sister at graduation.
Duan Jiaxu admitted he had been secretly crushing on her back then and was too embarrassed to reveal the truth. Their friend, Qian Fei, then announced that his wife was three months pregnant, prompting a chorus of congratulations from everyone. The conversation soon turned to the costs of confinement centers and hospitals, with Duan Jiaxu surprising Sang Yan by revealing he had already researched them.
When Sang Zhi wanted to drink, Sang Yan childishly called their mother to complain about her, causing a momentary stir before Duan Jiaxu interceded, reminding everyone that Sang Zhi had to be home by ten. As the evening wound down, Duan Jiaxu walked Sang Zhi home, explaining it would help her sober up from the wine she had consumed. Sang Zhi teased him about his supposed alcohol allergy, prompting him to kiss her, seemingly proving his allergy was gone.
She playfully cut the kisses short, admitting she missed him terribly when they were apart and felt the need to see him every day, before rushing home. At home, Sang Zhi's mother noticed the faint smell of alcohol on her. While she accepted it this time because Sang Yan was present, she sternly warned Sang Zhi not to drink alone outside.
The conversation then shifted as her mother revealed she had seen Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu together, realizing they were dating. Sang Zhi hesitantly admitted to the relationship, explaining that it was part of the reason she hadn't returned home for the summer break, along with her internship. She assured her mother that Duan Jiaxu was a good person who treated her very well.
However, her mother, while acknowledging Duan Jiaxu's character, expressed deep concerns about his family background, particularly his father's vegetative state and the ongoing issues with the victim's family. She worried that Sang Zhi might be mistaking admiration for love, given Duan Jiaxu had been a significant part of her life since childhood. Sang Zhi vehemently denied this, asserting that she was old enough to distinguish between admiration and genuine affection.
The next day, Duan Jiaxu suggested Sang Zhi spend more time with her parents, mentioning his own plan to formally visit them soon. Sang Zhi agreed to ask her parents. She confided in Duan Jiaxu that she felt too young at nineteen and wished she were twenty-nine, believing that her brother's potential reaction would be less problematic if she were older. Duan Jiaxu lightheartedly brushed off her worries, assuring her that he was happy.
Later, Sang Zhi's father invited Duan Jiaxu to their home while Sang Zhi was out. He politely expressed his surprise at their relationship and reiterated his concerns. He questioned Duan Jiaxu about the duration of their relationship, the status of his father's condition, and whether the victim's family continued to cause trouble.
Sang Zhi's father explained that while he and his wife were grateful for Duan Jiaxu's kindness towards Sang Zhi over the years, they harbored significant worries given his family's circumstances. He emphasized that Sang Zhi was young and spoiled, and as parents, they could not bear to see her suffer. He earnestly urged Duan Jiaxu to seriously consider their future together. Duan Jiaxu acknowledged their concerns, promising to resolve any issues and assuring them that he could manage everything.
Upon Sang Zhi's return from a classmate reunion, her parents reminisced about her childhood. Her father clarified that their worries stemmed not from snobbery, but from a profound desire to protect their daughter from any hardship. Her mother then revealed that she and Sang Zhi's father had met with Duan Jiaxu and expressed their concerns, advising Sang Zhi to re-evaluate the relationship and even consider breaking up if it wasn't suitable.
Sang Zhi listened in silence before asserting that Duan Jiaxu had never caused her any suffering. She declared her willingness to face and shoulder any challenges related to his family's situation with him, insisting that their relationship was deeply considered, not a whim. She pleaded with her parents not to be prejudiced against Duan Jiaxu, reminding them that he had no control over his family's circumstances and had already faced much judgment.
Feeling overwhelmed, Sang Zhi excused herself and went to her room. Worried about Duan Jiaxu, Sang Zhi called him, apologizing for her parents' words and urging him not to be upset. Duan Jiaxu tried to lighten the mood by joking about the age difference, but Sang Zhi firmly reassured him that he was a good person and that his family's situation was not his fault. She emphasized her willingness to support him and even help care for his father.
Duan Jiaxu, visibly touched, advised her to spend time with her parents and not to discuss their conversation further. He then informed her that he had to return to Yihe the next morning for an urgent client meeting. Sang Zhi offered to see him off, but he declined, citing the early flight.
After the call, Sang Zhi's mind raced with anxieties, wondering if his sudden departure was an attempt to avoid her and if he was truly considering ending their relationship. The following morning, determined, Sang Zhi packed her bags and informed her parents she was going to Yihe to see Duan Jiaxu. She expressed her understanding of their concerns but asserted that she was grown up and certain of what she wanted, asking them to trust her.
Her parents, though still worried, drove her to the airport. Once at the airport, Sang Zhi called Duan Jiaxu, who told her to wait for him. When he arrived, Sang Zhi confessed that her story about coming to Yihe in high school to meet an "online crush" was a lie. She revealed that she had actually come to find him after hearing from her brother that he might have a girlfriend.
She showed him a star-shaped paper from her childhood, containing a secret message she had written: "I have a secret. I'd hate to admit it, but I think I have a crush on him. Duan Jiaxu. Before I even knew which characters made up your name. . . I had fallen for you. I've been in love with you for years. To make a lot of money. To pay off his debts." With profound vulnerability, Sang Zhi pleaded with Duan Jiaxu to believe in himself, to disregard what others said about him, and to be with her forever.
Episode 24 Recap
Sang Zhi confessed the secrets she had long hoped to hide, pleading with Duan Jiaxu to believe in his own goodness, disregard others' opinions, and stay with her forever. As she struggled to refold the paper stars, Duan Jiaxu, wiping away his tears, promised to cherish them and acknowledged that he had made her cry many times.
He hugged her, assuring her that he knew everything now and playfully emphasized that he finally had a real girlfriend, not the rumored one. When Sang Zhi, remembering his earlier mention of "consideration," feared he meant ending their relationship, Duan Jiaxu clarified his intentions.
He explained his "consideration" was about their future: whether he should stay in Yihe for two years until she graduated before they returned to Nanwu together, or if he should go back to Nanwu first to settle things before she joined him. He even joked that if not for her parents' potential objections, he would have "snatched" her to get their marriage certificate immediately.
Duan Jiaxu insisted that Sang Zhi should focus on her studies, promising to handle her parents' concerns himself. Later that night, Sang Zhi found Duan Jiaxu drinking. He expressed feeling that he hadn't treated her well enough, but Sang Zhi reassured him of his kindness, both in the past and present. Moved, he confessed his love for her, apologizing for the late confession and for the years of emotional turmoil she endured.
He admitted that Sang Zhi's unwavering devotion made him realize his own shortcomings—his slowness to understand and his indecisiveness. He vowed to make up for these failings every day of their life together, promising that she would never regret choosing him. Duan Jiaxu later informed his colleagues, Siyun and Xun, of his decision to resign after completing the upgrade of the Tian Yan System. He explained his plan to return to Nanwu to start his own business.
Though surprised, they understood his resolve when he explained it stemmed from a desire to do more for Sang Zhi and address her parents' concerns. He felt that as the older partner, it was his responsibility to build a stable foundation for their future. Siyun and Xun offered their full support, suggesting he apply to the headquarters to open his own studio, which would provide technical support and ease his financial burden. Duan Jiaxu gratefully accepted their help.
Soon after, Duan Jiaxu received a distressing call from the hospital about his father's critical condition. At his father’s bedside, Duan Jiaxu finally confronted years of unspoken resentment. He recounted how his mother died from untreated cancer because they couldn't afford medical care, a direct consequence of his father's actions. He confessed that he once wished his father would wake up to witness their suffering and feel the guilt he deserved.
However, he also thanked his father, acknowledging that this hardship taught him the true meaning of responsibility. Now a better man capable of protecting his loved ones, he bid his father a final farewell, urging him to apologize to his mother in the afterlife. With a final, faint movement of his hand, Duan Jiaxu’s father passed away. Sang Zhi arrived at the hospital, her face etched with worry.
Duan Jiaxu initially tried to maintain composure, but soon broke down in her arms, sobbing that he was now an orphan. Later, Sang Zhi accompanied Duan Jiaxu to his mother’s grave. He introduced Sang Zhi as his girlfriend and informed his mother of his father's peaceful passing and his plans to settle in Nanwu. Sang Zhi then addressed Duan Jiaxu’s mother directly, assuring her that Duan Jiaxu was an outstanding and sincere person who had persevered through immense hardship.
She promised to take good care of him, ensure his happiness, and protect him from ever being bullied again, vowing that he would have a family and never be alone. A month later, after confirming his resignation and completing the handover, Duan Jiaxu prepared to move back to Nanwu. He told Sang Zhi that wherever she was, that would be his home.
On the day of his departure, a reluctant Sang Zhi clung to his arm all the way to the airport, urging him to work hard but not to overburden himself, and promising to support him if his business failed. As Duan Jiaxu prepared to board, their shared reluctance to part was palpable. Just before he left, Sang Zhi presented him with a meticulously prepared "Guide to a Long-Distance Relationship."
The guide included agreements for daily video calls, celebrating holidays together, and a rule to always reconcile on the same day after an argument. Touched, Duan Jiaxu teased her for her lack of trust but praised the guide, promising to strictly adhere to all its rules.
Episode 25 (Ending) Recap
After returning to Nanwu to start his business, Duan Jiaxu diligently began setting up his studio, starting by scouting for suitable office spaces. After touring a 200-square-meter former event venue, he settled on a 150-square-meter office in the Tech Zone, noting its suitability for a startup and the landlord's support for young entrepreneurs. In his free time, Duan Jiaxu met Qian Fei at Sang Yan's bar. During their gathering, Chen Junwen, his new chief programmer, arrived, exhausted from his journey.
Duan Jiaxu welcomed him, and they all joked about not picking him up from the airport. Later, Duan Jiaxu informed Sang Yan of his intention to visit Sang Zhi's parents, stating there were important things he wished to discuss. Sang Yan was surprised by his urgency, but Qian Fei noted that unlike Sang Yan, Duan Jiaxu was serious about his relationship and aiming for marriage. Duan Jiaxu playfully called Sang Yan "Brother-in-law," much to Sang Yan's annoyance.
When Sang Zhi called, Duan Jiaxu reported his whereabouts, and she expressed playful jealousy upon learning Sang Yan and Qian Fei were with him. After the call, Duan Jiaxu continued to tease Sang Yan, who, along with Qian Fei and Chen Junwen, comically suggested joining the visit to Sang Zhi's parents, an idea Duan Jiaxu quickly dismissed.
On the day of the visit, Sang Yan also returned home, having been asked by Sang Zhi to help, as she believed her parents were not fond of Duan Jiaxu. Duan Jiaxu arrived with gifts and was warmly welcomed. Over dinner, he confirmed to Mr. Sang that the studio's location was secured and his team was assembled. Afterward, Duan Jiaxu sincerely addressed Sang Zhi's parents, acknowledging their concerns.
He assured them that the past issues related to his father's accident had been fully resolved and pledged to work hard in Nanwu for their future together. He emphasized how Sang Zhi had changed his life for the better, recounting her selflessness and her vow to protect him. He solemnly promised to dedicate his entire life to her happiness. Moved by his sincerity, Mr. and Mrs. Sang admitted their primary concern had always been Sang Zhi's happiness.
Duan Jiaxu expressed his gratitude, noting that Sang Zhi’s excellent character was a testament to her wonderful parents, to which Sang Yan comically added that having a good brother also helped. As Sang Yan walked Duan Jiaxu out, he advised him not to shoulder every burden alone. The walk sparked a memory for Duan Jiaxu, who recalled that the first time he met Sang Zhi was on this very path while taking out the trash with Sang Yan.
He reminisced about how Sang Yan had complained that his younger sister was in a rebellious phase. In the memory, after Sang Zhi's teacher requested a parent-teacher meeting, she had asked Duan Jiaxu to go, leading to an annoyed Sang Yan telling him to attend in his place. Later that evening, Duan Jiaxu video-called Sang Zhi and happily informed her that he had met her parents and they no longer opposed their relationship.
Overjoyed, Sang Zhi shared her own good news: her design project had won an award, with the ceremony scheduled for the end of the month. She eagerly invited him, but Duan Jiaxu expressed regret, explaining that his new project required many meetings at that time. Understanding, Sang Zhi made him pinkie-promise to attend her next award ceremony. Despite what he said, Duan Jiaxu surprised Sang Zhi by showing up at the award ceremony.
He explained to her and her friends, Yu Xin and Ning Wei, that he had flown in that morning, taking the place of a colleague who had also been invited. He admitted he wanted to surprise her, inspired by a long-distance relationship guide she had made. As Duan Jiaxu, now a presenter for the event, took the stage to announce the final award, he sweetly acknowledged his girlfriend in the audience.
A montage of their past aspirations played on screen before he announced Sang Zhi as the winner for "Best Character Design." As she walked onto the stage, they stood side by side, having both realized their dreams. Two years later, Sang Zhi graduated. At a beachside gathering, she was led to believe they were setting up a surprise proposal for their friends.
Using Ning Wei's smudged makeup as a ruse to lead Sang Zhi away, her friends quickly arranged a heart shape in the sand with rose petals. Sang Zhi was then blindfolded and led to the spot, only to realize the surprise was for her. With her parents and Sang Yan present, Duan Jiaxu began his proposal.
He told her that before meeting her, he thought he would be alone for life, but she taught him the joy of loving and being loved. He confessed he had little to offer but a six-word promise: "one person for a lifetime." He asked, "Will you marry me?" Amidst cheers, Sang Zhi accepted, and he slipped the engagement ring onto her finger. Afterward, Sang Zhi marveled at his ability to keep a secret, admiring his long-held crush.
Duan Jiaxu then revealed his own secret: he had fallen in love with her even before she confessed, pinpointing the first snow of her freshman year as the moment it began. Their story, which started when Duan Jiaxu was twenty-two, concluded as Sang Zhi turned twenty-two. Over five years, she strived to become a better person to close the distance between them, only to discover he had been running toward her all along.
She healed his past wounds, and he brought her youthful first love to a perfect conclusion. The story ends with Sang Zhi finding a hidden, folded star from him, curious about the wish written inside.
