Love in Flames of War Episode 26 Recap
> Love in Flames of War Recap
Mu Zizheng and his group found themselves ambushed. Lin Hangjing arrived swiftly in a car, rescuing them. However, Xiao Beichen also appeared shortly after, prompting the Japanese to withdraw from his territory. Lin Hangjing stepped in front of Mu Zizheng, pleading with Xiao Beichen to let them go. Seeing his silence, she quickly urged Mu Zizheng and the injured to leave. Instead of returning to the Xiao Residence, Xiao Beichen took Lin Hangjing to another villa.
He was seething with anger, expressing that he had spent the entire night preparing a surprise for their wedding anniversary, only for her to run off to rescue someone else, even willing to sacrifice her life for Mu Zizheng. He declared that from that moment on, Mu Zizheng's life or death had nothing to do with her; Lin Hangjing could only be his lover and wife.
The next day, Lin Hangjing awoke in the room and requested a car to return to the residence, but was informed she needed Xiao Beichen's permission. Xiao Beichen had arranged for her leave from school, stating that without his approval, she could not step out of the villa. Meanwhile, Kang Jingxiong, after learning of the previous night's events, grew suspicious of Mu Zizheng's identity and background.
Xiao Beichen's aide, Mo Weiyi, explained that Mu Zizheng was a member of the YMCA, currently close to Jin Cheng, and was also the assassin of Kang Jingxiong years ago. If his identity were exposed, Lin Hangjing, given her character, would inevitably try to save him. Thus, Xiao Beichen's actions were to protect her.
However, Xiao Beichen reiterated that he did not wish to meddle in YMCA affairs, as Lin Hangjing would also be implicated if Mu Zizheng's identity was revealed. Elsewhere, Mu Zizheng visited the school, only to be told that Lin Hangjing had taken a month-long leave. Later, Lin Hangjing attempted to sneak away from the villa but was caught by Xiao Beichen.
He carried her back to the room and wrapped her tightly in a quilt, akin to a spring roll, making it impossible for her to struggle free until she eventually quieted down. That night, Lin Hangjing, frustrated, tried to slip away again after Xiao Beichen had fallen asleep, but he was aware of her movements. He had even prepared water for her when she claimed to be thirsty.
Xiao Beichen then gently carried her back to bed, removed her shoes, and covered her with the quilt. Lin Hangjing tried to explain the situation with Mu Zizheng, but Xiao Beichen cut her off, saying he didn't want to hear Mu Zizheng's name and accused her of being insensitive to the romantic atmosphere. Lin Hangjing turned her head and closed her eyes in silence.
Xiao Beichen whispered that he wished to hold her like that for the rest of their lives, bringing a small smile to her face. Mu Zizheng, agitated, confronted Xiao Beichen, demanding to know Lin Hangjing's whereabouts. He accused Xiao Beichen of being guilty and afraid to let them meet, claiming Lin Hangjing would risk her life for him. Xiao Beichen dismissed his accusations, stating Lin Hangjing's rescue was out of kindness and old acquaintance.
He advised Mu Zizheng to worry about himself, reminding him that Jin Cheng abhorred underground organizations and the consequences if he discovered his godson was part of the YMCA. Xiao Beichen warned Mu Zizheng that he was not worthy to compete with him. Unaware of the confrontation, Jin Xiang, worried about Lin Hangjing's prolonged absence, found Xiao Rong and insisted on ensuring Xiao Beichen understood Lin Hangjing's affection for him. Meanwhile, Jin Rouke found Mu Zizheng looking distressed.
He expressed his deep concern for Lin Hangjing, and Jin Rouke offered to help him. Jin Xiang then presented Xiao Beichen with a pair of gloves Lin Hangjing had hand-knitted as an anniversary gift, emphasizing the effort she put into them, even pricking her fingers several times. Xiao Beichen, touched by the gift, happily accepted it and assured Jin Xiang that Lin Hangjing would return in a few days. Later, while Lin Hangjing was bathing, Xiao Beichen entered the bathroom.
She asked him to wash her back, but upon discovering it was him and not a maid, she ordered him out. Before leaving, he stepped back, lifted her chin, and gave her a gentle kiss. Jin Cheng extended an invitation to Xiao Beichen for a hunting trip the following day. After Xiao Beichen left for the trip, Mu Zizheng secretly entered the villa.
However, upon arriving at the Hot Spring Villa, Jin Rouke informed Xiao Beichen that Jin Cheng had already departed. Xiao Beichen immediately realized that the hunting invitation was a ruse orchestrated by Jin Rouke to help Mu Zizheng. Jin Rouke acknowledged that she understood Xiao Beichen and Lin Hangjing shared genuine affection and had even advised Mu Zizheng to give up.
Nevertheless, she expressed her belief that Lin Hangjing deserved a husband who understood and trusted her, implying that Xiao Beichen was failing in that regard. Xiao Beichen firmly declared that Lin Hangjing was his life, and his only wish was to grow old with her. He warned Jin Rouke to convey to her godbrother, Mu Zizheng, that anyone who dared to threaten his life with Lin Hangjing would face severe consequences.
Mu Zizheng tried to persuade Lin Hangjing to leave with him, promising her the freedom and respect he believed Xiao Beichen couldn't offer. Lin Hangjing, however, gently but firmly refused, stating she would not leave. When Xiao Beichen returned to the villa and found Lin Hangjing still there, he felt a wave of relief.
He then spoke to her about his fears, confessing his anger and jealousy when she selflessly protected Mu Zizheng, admitting it all stemmed from his profound fear of losing her. He shared a poignant story about his late mother and his longing for an enduring presence in his life, much like she had been.
Lin Hangjing, realizing the depth of his vulnerability, apologized for not considering his feelings and promised to stay by his side forever, vowing not to do anything he disapproved of. With their reconciliation, Xiao Beichen's spirits lifted, and he returned to the East Camp, proudly wearing the gloves Lin Hangjing had knitted. It was then that unsettling news arrived: Lin Tangsheng had been arrested. Back at the Hot Spring Villa, Jin Rouke found Mu Zizheng still despondent.
She urged him to respect Lin Hangjing's decision and to stop forcing his feelings upon her, reminding him that some things are simply destined. Meanwhile, Staff Officer Zhang observed some of Mu Zizheng's distinctive habits, which led him to recognize Mu Zizheng as the assassin of Kang Jingxiong from years ago.
Later, Jin Xiang excitedly rushed to Lin Hangjing, bearing the joyful news that Xiao Beichen had secured Lin Tangsheng's release from prison and he was waiting at the Xiao Residence. Lin Hangjing, without a second thought, hurried back to the family. Father and daughter, reunited after many years, shared a tearful embrace. Lin Tangsheng expressed profound gratitude to Xiao Haishan and Madam Qi for their care of Lin Hangjing during his absence and for their efforts in his release.
During a celebratory dinner where Madam Qi had specially prepared Jiangnan dishes, Lin Hangjing and Xiao Beichen's affectionate interactions were noted with unease by Zheng Fengqi and Xiao Shuyi. Lin Tangsheng thanked Zheng Fengqi for her assistance with the republication of his book. While Zheng Fengqi maintained a benevolent facade, she privately planned to investigate further into Lin Tangsheng's release, particularly his mention of "Warlord Cheng's mediation."
As Lin Hangjing and her father strolled together, arm in arm, Lin Tangsheng confided his earlier concern about her marriage. He was visibly relieved when Lin Hangjing assured him that despite their past disagreements, Xiao Beichen treated her sincerely and was a trustworthy man, confirming their genuine love. Elsewhere, Staff Officer Zhang set a trap, intentionally allowing Mu Zizheng to overhear that Kang Jingxiong was aware of the YMCA's involvement in the wharf incident.
Alarmed, Mu Zizheng rushed to warn Yong and the others to evacuate immediately. However, he unwittingly led Staff Officer Zhang and his men directly to their hideout. To sow discord, Staff Officer Zhang loudly thanked Mu Zizheng for leading them there, making his comrades believe he was a traitor. To allow his comrades to escape, Mu Zizheng drew a gun and took Staff Officer Zhang hostage. After ensuring Yong and the others had fled, Mu Zizheng willingly surrendered and was taken away.
