Master of My Own Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> Master of My Own

Master of My Own Synopsis

Ning Meng always had a career dream of becoming an investment director, but the work she did after graduation was far from her dream.

Her boss, Lu Jiming, was an investment CEO with strong business skills, and he never thought that Ning Meng could become a qualified investor.

One day Ning Meng finally made up her mind to leave Lu and prove to him and to herself that she could do it.

Ning Meng resumed her job search, and after all the obstacles, she finally entered Yingshi Investment by chance, starting her path to promotion.

During the process, Lu Jiming was also following Ning Meng. At first, he did not approve of her, but at important moments, he would still give Ning Meng advice and help her through the difficulties.

Lu Jiming’s long-term investment philosophy benefited Ning Meng, and Ning Meng also changed Lu Jiming’s attitude toward the world.

They influenced each other and went hand in hand. After experiencing numerous ups and downs and “storms”, Ning Meng transformed into the best investor, while Lu Jiming became more mature and responsible.

They believed that they were the right person for each other.

Master of My Own Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Ning Meng’s day began on the subway, where she started handling tasks for her job as CEO secretary at Joint Capital even before reaching the office. Upon her arrival, while out picking up suits for her boss, Lu Jiming, she received an urgent call from her colleague Xiaoyang, warning her that their notoriously temperamental CEO was a "volcano about to erupt" and she needed to return immediately.

Meanwhile, Administrative Director Liu Yitian nervously tried to find Ning Meng, only to be dragged back into a meeting where he was harshly told he didn't have the right to a toilet break and was ordered to keep calling for her. Inside his office, Lu Jiming, the highly capable CEO, was berating his directors, including Ren Pengfei from Investment Department One. He was furious about the near-finalized Qilin's Home project, accusing the team of being stood up.

Ren Pengfei explained that the project's founder, Tang Zhengwang, had unexpectedly changed his mind. Lu Jiming contemptuously challenged Ren Pengfei to find a better environmentally-friendly furniture company, even offering to give up his own position if he succeeded. Xiaoyang later explained to a returning Ning Meng that Tang Zhengwang had secretly been poached by a rival firm, Caihuang Capital, and its owner, Jin Haiyang, rendering all of Joint Capital's preparatory work useless.

Undeterred by the tense atmosphere, Ning Meng calmly entered Lu Jiming's office. She offered a potential excuse, suggesting that Tang Zhengwang’s secretary, Luan, had mentioned he was recently ill and might have missed calls. Though Lu Jiming scoffed at the excuse, her presence seemed to ease his temper. He tested her by asking for a drink with a series of contradictory requests for tea, only to complain that he actually wanted coffee.

Anticipating this, Ning Meng had already prepared his usual: hot, sugared coffee made from specific Ethiopian beans. After a single sip, Lu Jiming’s mood visibly improved. Seizing the moment, Ning Meng efficiently presented the new quarter's financial report, the itinerary for an upcoming awards ceremony, and reminded him of an urgent meeting with the bank.

Snapped back to business, Lu Jiming ordered his directors to write analysis reports on the Qilin's Home debacle by the end of the day and dismissed them. Outside, the relieved directors—Ren Pengfei, Mr. Qiu, and Liu Yitian—acknowledged that while Lu Jiming's temper was fearsome, his business acumen was undeniable.

They credited Ning Meng with saving them, marveling that she was the only secretary to have lasted three years, whereas others quit within three months, and jokingly speculated that they might one day have to call her the "lady boss." In his office, Lu Jiming confided in Ning Meng that he suspected Tang Zhengwang's betrayal was due to a higher valuation from Jin Haiyang. He instructed her to use her friendly rapport with Luan to gather intelligence.

Ning Meng met with Luan, who confirmed Caihuang's valuation was higher. After telling Xiaoyang that this was her last day as a secretary, she relayed new intel to Lu Jiming: Tang Zhengwang was now planning to sign with Jin Haiyang that very day. Lu Jiming deduced this was a bluff—a tactic to pressure Joint Capital into raising its offer.

He dispatched Ning Meng to intercept Tang Zhengwang at The Peninsula Hotel, explaining that since his rival was using a secretary to play games, he would counter with his own. At the hotel, Tang Zhengwang was taken aback to see only Ning Meng. She firmly stated Lu Jiming’s position: the valuation was final and would not be raised, as it was already the highest reasonable offer.

She conveyed Lu Jiming's core philosophy: he preferred a win-win partnership where both sides earn a fortune together, rather than fighting over scraps. Flustered, Tang Zhengwang was left speechless as Ning Meng wished him well with his new partner and departed. She then called Lu Jiming to confirm the situation was "handled." That evening at the annual investor awards ceremony, Ning Meng spotted Jin Haiyang speaking with Mr. Wang of Zhixiao Venture Capital and alerted Lu Jiming.

Lu Jiming approached them and casually torpedoed Jin Haiyang’s potential deal by loudly mentioning the "sincere" and "sky-high" valuation Jin had offered for Qilin's Home, making Mr. Wang realize their projects would be direct competitors. Lu Jiming then publicly questioned Jin Haiyang about his company’s capital chain issues and a past payment crisis, accusing him of exploiting retail investors. Mr. Wang quickly excused himself, leaving Jin Haiyang humiliated.

As the ceremony began, Ning Meng felt a sharp stomach pain but refused to leave, determined to see through her final duty as secretary. Later, Joint Capital was honored as a "Top Ten New Force," and Lu Jiming accepted the award, delivering a speech on his philosophy of partnership, using the Chinese character "丛" (cóng) to illustrate how an investor and a founder, standing together, can create a thriving forest.

After the event, Lu Jiming called Ning Meng to a private dinner. He ordered an elaborate meal with his usual precise and peculiar specifications. He then complimented her, remarking, "You remember it quite clearly," to which she replied, "After all, I've been with you for three whole years."

Taking this as her cue, she tried to bring up a promise from three years prior, but he interrupted her by presenting a designer handbag as a reward for her service and wished her a "Happy April Fool's Day." Frustrated, Ning Meng refused the gift and declared she no longer wanted to be a secretary and wished to transfer to the Project Department. Lu Jiming was shocked, calling her role a "god-given opportunity" and offered to double her salary.

She reminded him of the original promise that she could transfer once a replacement was found, but he condescendingly dismissed her ambition, insisting she was "naturally gifted" as a secretary and that her tasks could be done by a "chimpanzee with a higher IQ." Determined to make him understand, Ning Meng took Lu Jiming to her apartment. She showed him how the small space was completely overrun with his work: documents, itineraries, client gifts, and dry-cleaning.

Her home had become a second office with just a bed. Lu Jiming, unmoved, blamed her for being inefficient. She then revealed her "CEO Lu's User Manuals"—binders filled with his exhaustive rules for every aspect of her job. She tearfully broke down, explaining she was his secretary by day, nanny by night, and 24/7 on-call assistant, with no personal life left. He callously replied that her dedication only proved she was a good secretary.

Deeply hurt, Ning Meng stated that if she continued, her career would be ruined. Lu Jiming coldly retorted that his admiration for her was purely for her secretarial skills and that she had no value to the company in any other role. When she brandished her finance degree certificates, he scoffed. Having reached her limit, Ning Meng yelled that he hadn't listened to a word she'd said. Lu Jiming angrily declared she would "never" work on projects at his company.

As he demanded a glass of water, he spotted a punching bag with his photo taped to it. He accused her of being a hypocrite, but she, now clutching her stomach in pain, admitted it was for venting and ordered him to leave. As he left, dropping a slipper in his haste, Ning Meng called her friend Zeng Yuhang. Venting her fury, she made a vow: "I will definitely do project investment, and one day, I will make him call me Director."

Episode 2 Recap

Three years ago, Ning Meng, a recent finance graduate, confidently shared her aspirations for the investment field during an interview at Joint Capital. She expressed her belief that money, when used to its maximum value in worthy places, is noble and inspiring. Coincidentally, Lu Jiming, the CEO, urgently needed a translator who had passed the TEM-8 English exam.

Ning Meng’s qualifications and quick thinking during a sudden translation task made her the ideal candidate, leading her to unexpectedly become his secretary. At that time, Director Liu promised Ning Meng that she would be transferred to the Project Department once a suitable replacement secretary was found, assuring her the role was temporary for a maximum of three years. However, despite her repeated inquiries, Mr. Liu consistently sidestepped the issue.

Ning Meng awoke from a nightmare, her mind troubled by her stagnant career. Arriving at the office, she was dismayed to learn that her secretarial contract was up for renewal for another three years. Mr. Liu, urging her to sign immediately, highlighted the unprecedented benefits, including a two-grade salary increase and a ten-day annual leave, implying that Lu Jiming had personally requested these generous terms.

Ning Meng, however, firmly reiterated her long-standing desire to join the Project Department, reminding Mr. Liu of his three-year-old promise. She rejected another "temporary" three-year term, but Mr. Liu, citing Lu Jiming’s unpredictable temper, suggested she take the contract home to consider. Later, a colleague confirmed that the ten-day leave was contingent on Lu Jiming not needing her, making it practically impossible to take. Determined, Ning Meng resolved to speak with Lu Jiming directly.

As Ning Meng pondered her next move, Xu Sitian, a socialite and Lu Jiming’s classmate, arrived at Joint Capital. She was there to introduce Shi Ying from Eaglestone Capital, an accomplished investor who had built her own company in just a few years, to discuss a potential collaboration. Ning Meng, a great admirer of Shi Ying’s progressive investment concepts, including her "industrial mindset," was thrilled at the chance to meet her idol.

When Shi Ying arrived, Lu Jiming intended for his project directors, Ren Pengfei and Qiu Junlin, to present the company’s ventures, but both were unavailable. Ning Meng stepped forward and volunteered to present the projects herself. Despite Xu Sitian’s skepticism about a secretary handling a project briefing, Ning Meng showcased a deep understanding of every project’s progress and details, surprising everyone.

She articulately introduced "Qilin's Home," an eco-friendly home concept, highlighting its sustainable wood sourcing, low-carbon production, and preservation of wood texture. She explained that Joint Capital was the lead investor for its Series A financing and was now helping it pursue Series B funding. Shi Ying was highly impressed, praising Ning Meng’s professional and detailed presentation, and noting her clear thinking and meticulous logic.

She suggested Lu Jiming should train Ning Meng for project work, but he dismissed the idea, stating that Ning Meng was "not on the same path as money" and the company had plenty of other talent. After Shi Ying departed, a visibly annoyed Lu Jiming confronted Ning Meng. She seized the opportunity to again bring up her transfer request, but Lu Jiming brusquely rejected her ambition as a "foolish daydream."

He asserted that her ability to present a project was entirely different from actually managing one. After sharply reprimanding an absent director for making the company look like a "joke" by having a secretary step in, he turned back to Ning Meng, instructing her to abandon her "investment dream" and focus on her secretarial duties. Later that day, a light drizzle mirrored Ning Meng's disheartened mood. She sought solace in an izakaya, ordering a lemon cocktail.

Her brief respite was interrupted by a call from Lu Jiming’s friend, informing her that Lu Jiming was heavily intoxicated at a bar and demanding his secretary pick him up. The friend hung up before Ning Meng could refuse, leaving her no choice but to go. On the drive home, a drunken Lu Jiming was a far cry from his usual stern self, singing off-key and revealing he had been pressured into drinking by the Yunshang Capital team.

However, his condescending nature remained, as he told Ning Meng she should feel honored by the trust he placed in her. Exasperated by his arrogance, Ning Meng deliberately slammed on the accelerator, startling him. Upon returning to Lu Jiming’s residence, Ning Meng, despite her exhaustion and silent grievances, took care of him as usual before heading home. There, thoughtful voice messages from her parents about her well-being brought tears to her eyes.

Her thoughts drifted back to the autumn of 2000, when her father, a determined entrepreneur, showed her his innovative rechargeable battery and first explained the concept of an "investor." A few months later, her father’s project failed to secure funding after he had invested all their savings.

Witnessing her mother, despite her anger, ultimately agree to sell their house to support her father and cover the debts, young Ning Meng made a silent vow: to one day become an investor herself, to ensure that passionate entrepreneurs like her father would never have their dreams destroyed. The next morning, Ning Meng confronted Lu Jiming one last time. As expected, he remained steadfast in his refusal, giving her a stark ultimatum: remain his secretary or leave the company.

With tears in her eyes but her resolve firm, Ning Meng handed him her letter of resignation and walked out. She hurried to pack her belongings, her frustration palpable. Just then, Lu Jiming’s friend Zeng Yuhang arrived with a gift of crabs and was met with a shower of shredded paper flying from Lu Jiming's office. Moments later, a furious Lu Jiming stormed out, screaming at Ning Meng to "get lost" as a bewildered Zeng Yuhang looked on at the chaotic scene.

Episode 3 Recap

Lu Jiming unexpectedly yelled at Ning Meng to report to the Project Department. He explained that he had considered her impulsive decision to quit and was offering her an alternative. He gave her one month to prove herself; if she couldn't succeed, she had to return to her secretarial role. He warned that if she caused trouble after that, he would genuinely fire her. Ning Meng, relieved, argued the one-month period was too short, negotiating for six months, then four.

Zeng Yuhang intervened, suggesting a three-month compromise, but Lu Jiming dismissed his input and firmly set the deadline at two months, warning Ning Meng not to push her luck. Despite the pressure, Ning Meng confidently accepted. Later, Lu Jiming vented to Zeng Yuhang, stating that a good secretary is more valuable than an investment director and bringing up an unresolved issue about a bag. Feeling triumphant, Ning Meng called her friend to share the news.

She recounted the dramatic turn of events, speculating Lu Jiming's outburst was a way to save face after realizing she might actually resign. Her friend congratulated her, advising her to start dressing like a female investor. Ning Meng admitted to being nervous but revealed she had spent her three years as a secretary diligently preparing, showing her friend extensive notes on project cases, legal risks, and risk control systems. Her friend and another acquaintance, Lao He, offered congratulations.

Lao He also gave her a friendly warning that unlike her previous role serving only one boss, as a regular employee in the Project Department she would need to be more careful navigating interpersonal relationships. The next morning, Ning Meng arrived at the office early. After handing over her duties to her replacement, Xiaoyang, who was already daunted by Lu Jiming's demands, Ning Meng went to Project Department II.

She found the office empty and learned from another director, Mr. Liu, that her new boss, Qiu Junlin, had taken the team to a meeting without notifying her. Mr. Liu kindly suggested that if things didn't work out, she could always return to her secretarial post. Ning Meng politely refused, stating she doesn't like to go back on her decisions. Soon after, Qiu Junlin arrived and offered a cursory apology.

He instructed her that all her work would be assigned by Ms. Feng and she was not to report directly to him. He then questioned whether she was officially joining or just "experiencing life" at the grassroots level. Qiu Junlin brought up her two-month wager with Lu Jiming, but Ning Meng corrected his assumption that she would simply return to her old job, clarifying that if she failed to produce results, she would have to leave the company entirely.

Later, Ning Meng accompanied Lu Jiming to his father's house to deliver a high-tech fishing gadget she had purchased for him. Lu Jiming had insisted she come, questioning why she wasn't working overtime for her new department. Upon arrival, Mr. Lu offered them water from a new purification machine he was testing, only to reveal it had been filtered from a "stinky river ditch," causing them both to spit it out in horror.

Lu Jiming criticized his father for using them as test subjects, sparking a heated argument over investment philosophies. Mr. Lu championed socially responsible environmental projects, while Lu Jiming defended his consumer-focused investments. Ning Meng defused the tension by presenting the fishing equipment, which delighted Mr. Lu, who joked that the fish could no longer play "hide-and-seek" with him.

During dinner, upon learning Ning Meng had transferred to the Project Department after three years as his son’s secretary, Mr. Lu assumed it was because she couldn't stand Lu Jiming’s "wolfhound" temper. He began lecturing his son on his poor management style. Ning Meng clarified that the move was her own career ambition, but Mr. Lu continued to praise her and criticize Lu Jiming for suppressing a talented employee.

The father-son argument escalated until Lu Jiming, claiming he had a meeting, abruptly left with Ning Meng in tow. Outside, he warned her not to get arrogant over his father's support, explaining that Mr. Lu was only trying to spite him. Frustrated, Lu Jiming admitted he couldn’t swallow the insult of her leaving after he had trained her for three years from a "workplace rookie" to a qualified professional.

Ning Meng retorted that he was now seeing her true, defiant colors and it was best she didn't return. As her first task, Ms. Feng assigned Ning Meng to reorganize and create a detailed report on over 900 projects the department had handled, demanding it be finished by the next day. Determined to prove herself, Ning Meng worked through the night. The next morning, she submitted the completed documents to Qiu Junlin, who was surprised by her efficiency.

When she asked for more work, he again reminded her to go through Ms. Feng. Later, Ms. Feng admitted to Qiu Junlin that the work was so flawlessly done that she couldn't find any fault. Recalling Lu Jiming’s instruction to test Ning Meng's project capabilities, Qiu Junlin decided they couldn't leave her idle. He assigned her a challenging, uninvestigated RV park project that Xu Sitian had previously mentioned, with a tight deadline of the following Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Xu Sitian arrived at the office and declared herself Lu Jiming's new "personal secretary." To mark her first day, she treated the entire company to a variety of Luckin Coffee drinks, instructing everyone to call her "Secretary Xu." Lu Jiming was annoyed and questioned the appropriateness of the arrangement, but Xu Sitian claimed her father approved.

Unable to reach Zeng Yuhang for help, Lu Jiming reluctantly agreed to a one-day trial before feigning an urgent matter and fleeing the office, leaving Xu Sitian confidently installed at her new post.

Episode 4 Recap

Ning Meng traveled a considerable distance, paying 445 yuan for a taxi, to a remote RV park for her due diligence. Upon arrival, she met the park manager, Mr. Zhang, who showed her around the expansive 15-mu property. He highlighted features like ten RVs, themed rooms resembling a space shuttle, helicopter, and train, and a small square with a stage for performances and team-building activities. Mr. Zhang also noted the park's online popularity with influencers.

Ning Meng meticulously observed the site and interviewed visitors, who revealed that while the park was popular for photos, most didn't stay overnight due to the high cost and lack of nearby attractions. The next day at the company, Lu Jiming led a meeting on the environmental protection industry, emphasizing its projected growth of over 11% in the next five years. He advised focusing on smaller, technologically advanced companies struggling with funding, as they could hold significant future value.

Eager to curry favor, Yang Xiaoyang instructed attendees to applaud and later arranged for Lu Jiming's words and past interviews to be compiled into an internal investment guide, encouraging everyone to share it on social media. Xu Sitian, who had been trying to impress Lu Jiming with massages, food, and coffee made from expensive Geisha beans, learned that Ning Meng was handling the due diligence for her RV park project.

Annoyed, she confronted department head Qiu Junlin, questioning his decision to assign an important project to a secretary who lacked project experience. Qiu Junlin defended his choice, stating that Ning Meng was trained and highly regarded by Lu Jiming. When Ning Meng arrived, Xu Sitian berated her for getting ahead of herself. Ning Meng calmly assured her she would deliver a satisfactory report. Afterward, Yang Xiaoyang complained to Ning Meng about being Xu Sitian's "follower" and getting scolded daily.

Ning Meng advised her to be quiet before retorting that her trip was for due diligence, not fun. Shortly after, Ms. Feng approached Ning Meng, explaining she wasn't told about the project's origin earlier to avoid bias, as Xu Sitian's previous proposals had been subpar. Praising Ning Meng's work ethic, Ms. Feng revealed that Qiu Junlin had specifically requested her to present at the upcoming investment appraisal.

Despite Ning Meng's hesitation, Ms. Feng encouraged her to seize the opportunity before her two-month probation ended and provided her with industry research reports. Ning Meng prepared all night but overslept the next morning, rushing to the office after a wake-up call from Ms. Feng. Upon entering the meeting room, Ning Meng instinctively headed for the coffee machine.

Lu Jiming mocked her, remarking that her body was present but her brain was still asleep, and questioned if the stress of her dual roles was too much. Despite the awkwardness, Ms. Feng prompted her to begin. Ning Meng presented her findings, citing two main concerns: guest flow and revenue conversion. She identified the remote suburban location, far from attractions and main roads, as a core issue limiting visitors. She also challenged the marketing claim of a 50% occupancy rate.

Xu Sitian interrupted, pointing to the park's online popularity. Ning Meng countered that online hype didn't equal revenue, as most visitors only came for photos. Her research revealed that high prices, discomfort with RV living, and a lack of on-site entertainment were major deterrents. Xu Sitian accused her of nitpicking, but Ning Meng stood by her objective report, acknowledging that RV culture, as a foreign concept, needed time to be accepted by the local market.

When pressed for a conclusion, Ning Meng stated the project was "too risky" and advised against investment. Enraged, Xu Sitian slammed the table, questioning a secretary's authority to dismiss her project. Qiu Junlin stepped in, siding with Xu Sitian by calling Ning Meng's report "lopsided" due to her limited time on-site.

Ning Meng countered that she had analyzed data since the park's opening, but Qiu Junlin undermined her by revealing a future government eco-tourism subsidy for the area that she was unaware of. After the meeting, Lu Jiming told Ning Meng her inability to handle the task proved she was only suited to be a secretary. Overhearing colleagues, Ning Meng realized Qiu Junlin had set her up as a scapegoat to avoid offending Xu Sitian.

The colleagues expressed relief at avoiding the "troublesome job" and praised Qiu Junlin's tactic of "diverting trouble." Fighting back tears, Ning Meng understood the scheme. Lu Jiming, likely aware of Qiu Junlin’s manipulation, may have used the situation to push her to quit and return to her old role. At home, Ning Meng recounted the events to her friend You Qi, who furiously condemned Qiu Junlin and Ms. Feng for setting her up.

Ning Meng calmly dismissed it as "weight training." She relayed Lu Jiming's comment that she was only "suited to be a secretary." You Qi’s husband, He, advised Ning Meng that such incidents were normal and she needed to understand the stakes to avoid being a scapegoat. You Qi criticized his advice as "toxic."

Ning Meng acknowledged that Qiu Junlin was narrow-minded and targeting her, but when asked if she regretted her decision, she vehemently declared she would rather "jump off a building" than return to being Lu Jiming's secretary. Zeng Yuhang confronted Lu Jiming, suspecting he was intentionally making things difficult for Ning Meng. Lu Jiming claimed he was just helping her "see the reality" of the "capital market's world of deceit" from which he had previously shielded her.

He predicted she would ask for her old job back within two days, as her replacement, Yang Xiaoyang, was incompetent. He then tasked Zeng Yuhang with getting rid of Xu Sitian. Zeng Yuhang found Xu Sitian complaining about having to buy Lu Jiming's lunch in high heels, acting as his personal "courier."

He cunningly suggested she had the "wrong target," revealing that Lu Jiming had never been interested in Ning Meng but was still hung up on "Meng," a childhood neighbor who was now a successful designer in the U. S. He challenged Xu Sitian to emulate Meng instead of wasting her efforts. Realizing her mistake, Xu Sitian informed Lu Jiming she was better suited as "President Xu" and was leaving for Europe to explore art investments.

Relieved, Lu Jiming had Yang Xiaoyang clear her desk. Zeng Yuhang later confirmed Xu Sitian’s resignation, joking that he made a personal "sacrifice" as she had asked him to travel with her. Later, Lu Jiming warned Qiu Junlin not to waste his intelligence on internal politics again. He then put the RV park project on hold, stating the "time is not right."

While searching for documents, Ning Meng found inspiration in old, rejected projects from 2015-2016, believing some might have "new chances" as market conditions evolved. Encountering Lu Jiming in the elevator, she told him, "Mr. Lu, you are right." He beamed, assuming she was ready to return to her secretarial role. However, Ning Meng clarified she was referring to his "wise decision" to shelve the RV park project. His smile froze.

When he questioned her interest in old projects, she credited him for the "reminder" that things can find "new life" over time. Baffled and annoyed, Lu Jiming told her to take a different elevator because she was "annoying" him.

Episode 5 Recap

Ning Meng meticulously reviewed previously rejected projects, hoping to discover a viable opportunity. Her persistence paid off when she identified Locke's Thermos Cup project as promising. She sought advice from Ms. Feng, who, while appearing helpful, ultimately directed Ning Meng to conduct her own research. Undeterred, Ning Meng thoroughly investigated the market, purchasing various popular thermos cups for comparison and distributing them to colleagues for feedback, noting that one would be particularly useful for Director Liu, who had kidney stones.

Ning Meng visited Locke Technology and met Max, their young CTO. While praising the new product's design, she pointed out a key flaw: the cumbersome, non-detachable rechargeable heating base. She proposed a modular design, separating the heating base from the cup to make it lighter and more practical. Impressed by her insights, Max invited her to participate in their team's future discussions.

Confident in the project's potential, Ning Meng submitted a revised proposal to her superior, Qiu Junlin, but he dismissively took the document without any apparent interest. Meanwhile, Lu Jiming's assistant, Xiaoyang, on behalf of Director Liu, asked if Lu Jiming needed a new secretary. He harshly rebuked her for the question and for her perceived incompetence with making coffee.

A frustrated Xiaoyang later confided in Ning Meng, lamenting Lu Jiming's volatile temper and humorously suggesting that he might have romantic feelings for Ning Meng since he was keeping the secretary position open. Ning Meng dismissed the idea, citing his consistently harsh treatment. Xiaoyang reflected on her initial idealized view of Lu Jiming, concluding that a "bossy CEO is best observed from a distance." Despite Ning Meng's enthusiasm for the Locke project, Qiu Junlin remained unresponsive.

When she finally confronted him, he curtly stated the project was not worth investing in and condescendingly refused to elaborate. Frustrated, Ning Meng went directly to Lu Jiming, but he refused to even look at her proposal, reprimanding her for bypassing her superior. He sarcastically remarked that he would only listen if she were still his secretary, then belittled her past work as lacking "technical skill" and declared she was unsuitable for the investment world.

Infuriated by his condescension, Ning Meng left, internally seething and imagining herself physically retaliating. While venting to her friend You Qi, she resolved not to give up. Encouraged by You Qi, Ning Meng approached Mr. Ren, the head of Investment Department I. She presented her plan, explaining the project's merits and offering to forgo any personal profit. While Mr. Ren expressed reservations about taking on a project rejected by another department, he was impressed by her dedication.

As he was leaving for a business trip, he agreed to have his team evaluate her proposal and connect with her upon his return. The next day, he called to confirm his team was impressed and the project was worth pursuing, scheduling a follow-up meeting. Excited, Ning Meng called Max with the good news, only to be shocked when Max revealed that a "Director Qiu" had already visited and signed a contract, assuming she was aware.

The realization that Qiu Junlin had stolen her project filled her with anger. She confronted Qiu Junlin, who first feigned innocence before admitting he had dismissed her proposal without reading it. He offered a condescending apology and warned her that she was lucky it was him and not someone else, advising her to quit if she was unhappy.

Overhearing the argument, Lu Jiming dispatched Xiaoyang to persuade Ning Meng to return as his secretary, framing it as a final chance for a long-time employee. Ignoring the offer, Ning Meng called Max, fabricating an email issue to have the contract correspondence re-sent to her. On her way to investigate, she ran into Mr. Ren and had to awkwardly inform him that there might be a problem with the project.

Her investigation revealed a significant discrepancy: Locke had initially promised Joint Capital a 10% investment quota, but the signed contract only showed 8%. Further research exposed that another investor, Baixiang Venture Capital, was run by a legal representative named Zeng Yan—Qiu Junlin's wife. This was clear evidence that Qiu Junlin was funneling the missing 2% to his wife's firm as a kickback.

Ning Meng presented her findings to Lu Jiming, but he dismissed her evidence, accusing her of playing "Sherlock Holmes" instead of doing her job. He belittled her for having completed no projects and only finding "loopholes," comparing her to a failing student proud of not being the worst. When she persisted, he shut her down. Heartbroken by his disregard for ethics, Ning Meng accused him of being "blind" to his principles.

Lu Jiming retorted that he was the one who gave her the opportunity to transfer departments. Ning Meng challenged him, asking if he had ever intended for her to succeed or had simply set her up to fail so she would return as his secretary. Enraged, Lu Jiming told her not to "judge a gentleman by her own petty standards" and reiterated that she was unfit for investment. Having reached her breaking point, Ning Meng declared her resignation.

As she packed, Xiaoyang and Director Liu tried to convince her to stay, but her decision was firm. After offering Director Liu some health advice, she encountered Qiu Junlin on her way out. He feigned a polite farewell, telling her not to forget her "old colleagues." Ning Meng coolly retorted that she would never forget how he had "cultivated" her. Outside, she called You Qi, a smile spreading across her face as she announced, "I'm free," feeling an overwhelming sense of relief and readiness to pursue her own path.

Episode 6 Recap

Late at night, with his office being the only one still lit at Joint Capital, Lu Jiming finished his work and was drawn to Ning Meng's empty desk. He noticed a lemon ornament, a gift from a partner, which triggered fond memories of their time working together, bringing a smile to his face. His reverie was broken by Xiaoyang.

Lu Jiming stopped her and, to her surprise, instructed her to find him a new secretary, specifying he wanted someone "just like the previous one," which left Xiaoyang confused about whether he wanted someone like Ning Meng or not. The next morning, Ning Meng instinctively prepared for work before remembering she had resigned. Her former director, Mr. Liu, called to inform her that her resignation paperwork was ready and offered to courier the documents requiring her signature, which she accepted.

Back at Joint Capital, Lu Jiming impatiently urged his team to accelerate the screening process for a new secretary. In a separate conversation with Mr. Liu, Lu Jiming authorized the bonus payment for Ning Meng, recognizing her as an outstanding employee for three consecutive years and stating that Joint Capital does not owe anyone anything. Ning Meng’s job search proved difficult, as every interview led to questions about her departure from Joint Capital.

Despite her willingness to start as an intern, no company would hire her. Meanwhile, at the office, a frustrated Lu Jiming rejected both tea and coffee from a nervous Xiaoyang, demanding "that" specific drink. A confused Xiaoyang called Ning Meng, who immediately identified it as the seaweed-flavored soda in the fridge and reminded her to restock it.

Xiaoyang then vented to Ning Meng about Lu Jiming's increasingly controlling and erratic behavior since her departure, revealing he had even called her by Ning Meng's name and was treating her like a "convenient mother." During this period, Mr. Ren from Investment Department I reported to Lu Jiming, who noticed Ning Meng’s name on the report for the Locke Portable Kettle project.

Mr. Ren explained that after Investment Department II, under Mr. Qiu, had rejected the project, Ning Meng believed in its potential, worked extensively to improve it, and then brought the revised proposal to his department. Suspicious, Lu Jiming tasked Zeng Yuhang with investigating a "cunning person" in the company, hinting at kickbacks. Zeng Yuhang accepted, noting Lu's foul mood was reminiscent of when Ning Meng had first left.

Despite her interview struggles, Ning Meng reconnected with her university classmate, Wang Yao, now in HR at Prosperity Capital. Wang Yao arranged a direct interview for an investment role with the department director. Ning Meng impressed the director by highlighting her unique strength as an "ordinary" person who understands mass-market consumers, and by demonstrating integrity when she declined to share her first project proposal (the Locke project) due to its confidential nature. Wang Yao later confirmed she got the job.

Their celebration was cut short when they encountered Lu Jiming. He confronted Ning Meng, mockingly calling her a "sour orange" and predicting she would fail and come back to him. Ning Meng sharply retorted with a proverb about how soil affects the fruit, implying her environment had made her seem "sour," and firmly rejected his offer of a ride.

However, Wang Yao soon called back to apologize, explaining that the company had rescinded the offer due to an issue found during her background check. Ning Meng immediately suspected Lu Jiming's interference. Furious, she went drinking with Xiaoyang and vented her frustration. While Xiaoyang doubted Lu Jiming would resort to covert tactics, Ning Meng was convinced he was retaliating. During their conversation, Lu Jiming called.

Fueled by alcohol, Ning Meng berated him, accusing him of sabotaging her career after three years of dedicated service. When he feigned ignorance, she declared that anything that doesn't kill her makes her stronger and vowed that one day she would make him address her as "Ms. Ning," before promptly blocking his number. Later, an upset Xu Sitian arrived at Lu Jiming’s office after her RV Park project was halted, accusing him of being swayed by Ning Meng’s negative assessment.

Already irritable, Lu Jiming harshly dismissed her as a "flower vase" and a "pretty face" who should stay out of business. A hurt and tearful Xu Sitian confided in Zeng Yuhang, who comforted her and encouraged her to learn from Ning Meng's resilience. Back home, Ning Meng received a supportive call from her father, who had learned of her job-hunting struggles from her mother.

He encouraged her to pursue her dream of becoming an investor, reassuring her of her talent and telling her she could always come home. Though comforted, she broke down in tears after the call. Meanwhile, Zeng Yuhang reported his findings to Lu Jiming, who then summoned Qiu Junlin.

Lu Jiming first confronted Qiu about financial misconduct, including taking a smaller share (8% instead of the usual 10%) on a recent project to accommodate his own private venture capital firm and using his friends' factories for projects. He then fired him. When Qiu protested, Lu Jiming revealed his true rage: Qiu had stolen the Locke Portable Kettle project from Ning Meng and submitted her proposal "without changing a word."

Qiu audaciously claimed he had done Lu Jiming a favor by helping "get rid of" Ning Meng, who he assumed Lu disliked. Enraged by this slander and plagiarism, Lu Jiming threatened to turn Qiu’s own dirty tricks back on him.

Episode 7 Recap

Faced with the evidence, Qiu Junlin showed no remorse and instead slandered Ning Meng. An infuriated Lu Jiming declared that he would subject Qiu Junlin to the same underhanded tactics he had used against Ning Meng, ensuring he could no longer work in the investment industry. Agitated and helpless, Qiu Junlin could only make a show of leaving.

Witnessing this, Yang Xiaoyang found a private moment to call Ning Meng, revealing that the deceitful Qiu Junlin, not Lu Jiming, was the one sabotaging her job search. Struck with remorse, Ning Meng composed a text message to Lu Jiming, only to discover he had blacklisted her. In the unsent message, she admitted her impulsiveness and regret, joking that her brain "must have been flooded" and offering to let him scold her in return.

As Ning Meng worried, she received a call from her idol, Shi Ying. Initially nervous, Ning Meng was overjoyed upon hearing Shi Ying’s intention to hire her. Shi Ying explained that her firm, Eaglestone Capital, was newly founded and in an exploratory phase, and that she recruited based on capability alone. Ning Meng clarified that she left Joint Capital because Lu Jiming valued her more as a secretary, while her dream was to be an investor.

Shi Ying noted their strategic partnership meant Ning Meng would still interact with Lu Jiming, but saw her newfound acceptance of her past experience as a positive sign. Shi Ying formally offered her a position, starting as an analyst to build foundational experience before becoming an investment manager, which Ning Meng enthusiastically accepted.

Soon after, Ning Meng changed her appearance at Shi Ying's suggestion, who advised that an image change can shift one's mindset and that dressing elegantly symbolizes capability and a balance between work and life. Settling into her new role in the Project Department with her colleague Tang Ya, Ning Meng chose a lemon tree for her desk to symbolize her fresh start.

At the opening cocktail party for the Qilin Home flagship store, Shi Ying arrived with Ning Meng, while Lu Jiming came with his temporary secretary, Yang Xiaoyang. Upon seeing Ning Meng's new look, Lu Jiming couldn't resist a sarcastic remark about her "cured" nearsightedness. Shi Ying clarified she had hired Ning Meng after she had already left Joint Capital, but Lu Jiming scoffed, comparing a secretary doing investment work to a tricycle peddler trying to drive a high-speed train.

During the ceremony, Mr. Tang, the owner of Qilin Home, gave a speech and specifically thanked Lu Jiming, not just for financial support but for teaching him how to choose between short-term and long-term interests, a lesson crucial to his success. Watching him, Ning Meng was deeply impressed. Later, they met in the restroom, where Ning Meng sincerely apologized for blaming him for the background check sabotage.

Arrogantly, Lu Jiming flicked water from his hands at her and challenged her, saying he would wait and see what she could accomplish. Ning Meng simply smiled, unfazed. Shi Ying assigned Ning Meng to lead the research on a new project: Cozap, a trending national chain of home furniture stores. Ning Meng hesitated, feeling her secretarial past left her unprepared for investment decisions.

Shi Ying encouraged her to discard the "secretary" label and embrace her new identity as an investor, clarifying that Ning Meng's role was to identify problems while she would make the final decision. Shi Ying stressed the project's urgency, as Cozap was gaining buzz and required a quick assessment to gain an advantage. Inspired, Ning Meng committed herself to the task.

Shortly after, Ning Meng's landlady informed her that the apartment had been sold, as it was now designated within a desirable school district, and she had to move out in two days. The situation escalated when the landlady entered Ning Meng’s apartment without permission to show it to the new owner. Overhearing Ning Meng's distressed phone call, Shi Ying took her to a spacious, furnished apartment near the company.

She explained she had acquired it at a discount from a company she helped go public and offered it to Ning Meng at an "employee price." Overwhelmed, Ning Meng felt she hadn't earned such generosity. Shi Ying reassured her, sharing her own past struggles with renting and explaining that the investment returns Ning Meng would generate for the company far outweighed the rent, calling it a "win-win." Overjoyed, Ning Meng accepted the offer and began decorating her new home.

Meanwhile, a helpless Lu Jiming returned home after a work dinner, acutely feeling the absence of Ning Meng's meticulous care. He dismissed the driver's offer to help him inside and slumped onto his sofa, where no hangover soup awaited him. Later, Lu Jiming attended Zeng Yuhang's birthday party, where Xu Sitian was already present.

Zeng Yuhang tried to create an opportunity for them to reconcile, but Lu Jiming showed no interest, instead leisurely discussing a vintage whiskey he had brought as a gift, making the atmosphere awkward. He then received a work call regarding digital commercialization and stepped out, unexpectedly running into Ning Meng.

Episode 8 Recap

Ning Meng returned home to find Lu Jiming outside her apartment. A brief exchange revealed that Zeng Yuhang, whom Lu Jiming was visiting for his birthday, lived directly opposite her. The reunion was cut short when Xu Sitian appeared, creating an awkward atmosphere that prompted Zeng Yuhang to pull her back inside. As Ning Meng unlocked her door, she dropped a stack of documents. Lu Jiming glanced over, prompting her to quickly gather them, declaring them commercial secrets.

Seizing the opportunity, Lu Jiming provocatively suggested she had missed a major flaw in the company's file she was holding. When she pressed for details, he haughtily refused, citing their "blacklisted" relationship. The next day, Ning Meng called Lu Jiming to probe for more information. After being hung up on, she called back and tested her theories, first asking if the company’s flaw was financial, then suggesting an issue with sales figures.

Lu Jiming cunningly denied having mentioned a problem and mockingly offered to reveal the answer only if she returned to her secretarial position. Undeterred, Ning Meng ended the call, confident that after three years of working for him, she could see through his games and deduce the truth. Ning Meng meticulously investigated the company, Cozap, and discovered that the signatures of its franchise owners on reports were suspiciously similar.

By cross-referencing contact information with Alipay, she confirmed that two-thirds of the details were fake. After finding the real contact numbers, she called the franchise managers, whose coordinated, evasive answers confirmed they were hiding something. She then targeted a few remote stores, extracting information that revealed discrepancies in their sales figures and that two defunct stores were still submitting operational data. Ning Meng presented her findings to Shi Ying, who praised her sharpness.

Shi Ying and Ning Meng immediately went to Cozap's headquarters. Expecting a confrontation, Ning Meng was surprised when Shi Ying remained amicable. Shi Ying later explained that when she calmly stated they would not be investing, the CEO's guilty expression was enough. She taught Ning Meng that with intelligent people, it is better to convey a firm stance without direct confrontation, as there is no need to publicly expose someone's struggles.

Later, at a company meeting, Shi Ying publicly lauded Ning Meng for uncovering the falsified data and saving Eaglestone Capital from a significant loss. At Joint Capital, Lu Jiming’s assistant reported that Eaglestone had rejected Cozap due to a hidden flaw found by Ning Meng. Lu Jiming instructed his team to turn down the project, privately acknowledging Ning Meng’s cleverness. Impressed, Shi Ying assigned Ning Meng to the Baoyi Goldsmith capital increase project, a joint venture with Joint Capital.

This meant Ning Meng would be liaising directly with her former employer. In an elevator, Lu Jiming blocked her path, demanding a sincere "thank you" for his hint about Cozap. Ning Meng responded with over-the-top, sarcastic gratitude. When he called her fake, she retorted that since he was never fake, perhaps he wasn't human. Frustrated, Lu Jiming threatened to call the police for being blocked, and to her surprise, he actually did as she walked away laughing.

Lu Jiming later complained to Zeng Yuhang about Ning Meng’s new, assertive personality. Zeng Yuhang then revealed that Xu Sitian wanted to bring Yuanyuan Real Estate into the Baoyi project as a limited partner. In exchange for the opportunity, Yuanyuan would invest in Xu Sitian's RV park project, which she was passionate about. Lu Jiming reluctantly agreed, insisting it would be strictly business.

For her first meeting at Joint Capital, Ning Meng followed her friend's advice to dress up and wear high heels to project confidence. Upon arrival, she found Lu Jiming scolding Director Liu Yitian for not organizing files as well as Ning Meng used to. When Ning Meng entered, Lu Jiming immediately mocked her heels, calling them "stilts." He ordered her to get him water, but she deflected the command and excused herself to work on the contract.

Leaving his office, she ran into Xu Sitian, who disparaged her new role and criticized her outfit. Shi Ying instructed Ning Meng to liaise with Fang Jian, an assistant at Yuanyuan Real Estate, warning her the process would test her patience and communication skills. Ning Meng called Fang Jian, who initially addressed her respectfully as "Director Ning." However, upon learning she was an analyst with three years of experience, his tone turned condescending.

He suggested creating a group chat to include a senior from her team, implying she was too junior. When she questioned this, he curtly hung up. Despite the snub, Ning Meng added him on WeChat, only to see he immediately began scrolling through her profile. Ning Meng found herself trapped between a demanding Lu Jiming and an uncooperative Fang Jian.

Lu Jiming deliberately made her work difficult, criticizing her efficiency and insisting she personally deliver all documents, even publicly available ones. He gave her requests piecemeal, forcing her to make multiple trips for things like a DDQ and stamped copies of financial reports. Meanwhile, Fang Jian complained about her multiple requests, accusing her of wasting his time by not asking for everything at once, leaving Ning Meng to apologize for the inefficiency caused by Lu Jiming.

Episode 9 Recap

Ning Meng grew increasingly frustrated as Fang Jian consistently ignored her calls and messages regarding documents required by Lu Jiming. After discovering he was active on social media but unresponsive to her, she realized his obstruction was deliberate and reported it to her boss, Shi Ying. Shi Ying immediately called Fang Jian and got through, with him claiming the documents had already been sent.

Ning Meng checked the front desk and initially found nothing, but later located a package addressed only to "Eaglestone Capital," without her name, explaining the oversight. Just as Ning Meng prepared to deliver the file, Lu Jiming called, urging her to hurry. Upon her arrival, he immediately requested another document: a shareholder resolution. Trying to be more efficient, Ning Meng suggested he list all necessary documents at once to avoid repeated trips.

Lu Jiming reacted defensively, accusing her of trying to teach him his job and developing a "temper." Swallowing her frustration, Ning Meng left to fulfill the new request. Ning Meng contacted Fang Jian again, stressing the urgency. Learning from her previous experience, she frequently checked for the delivery, but days passed with no package and Fang Jian became completely unresponsive.

Prodded by Lu Jiming, Ning Meng went to Yuanyuan Real Estate in person, only to find the office nearly empty and be told Fang Jian had already left for the day. Returning to Eaglestone in the pouring rain, a defeated Ning Meng was met by Shi Ying, who had the shareholder resolution in hand. Shi Ying explained she had gotten it directly from Yuanyuan's CEO at a dinner party.

Hearing how Fang Jian had made excuses, Ning Meng resolved to "do both"—call and message—in the future. After giving Ning Meng some ginger tea, Shi Ying sent her to Lu Jiming. However, upon receiving the document, Lu Jiming demanded yet another: a Self-financing Undertaking Letter, needed by the next morning. At her breaking point, Ning Meng asked if he was deliberately targeting her. Lu Jiming scoffed, reminding her their limited partners weren't obligated to provide on-demand service.

He berated her for her slow performance, noting the first document took three days and the second five. Ning Meng retorted that she had worked for him for three years and was not careless; she had pushed so hard that people turned against her, but whether they provided a document was out of her control.

Lu Jiming yelled back that she had gained a temper but no skills since changing jobs and that if she was incapable, she shouldn't waste his time. Ning Meng finally shouted back that his wealth didn't give him the right to trample on others' self-esteem and that her capabilities were not for him to judge. Despite her anger, Ning Meng went back to Yuanyuan Real Estate.

She found Fang Jian and confronted him, subtly referencing her knowledge of Yuanyuan's financial instability. She warned that if they couldn't even pass risk control, the project might be jeopardized, implying his delays were hurting his own company. Her firm stance and inside knowledge worked; a chastened Fang Jian promised to provide the letter the next day. Later, Shi Ying called Ning Meng into her office and showed her a rejected due diligence questionnaire, asking her to spot the error.

Ning Meng was mortified to realize she had forgotten to have the copies stamped—a basic but critical mistake. Shi Ying, however, reassured her a corrected version was already on its way. She then explained that Fang Jian's obstruction was because he felt Ning Meng's rank was too low to deal with him. More importantly, she revealed that Lu Jiming's piecemeal requests weren't a personal attack but a reflection of the strict, stage-by-stage requirements from the trust and asset management departments.

Realizing she had let her emotions cloud her judgment, Ning Meng apologized. Shi Ying, seeing Ning Meng's potential, encouraged her to learn from the experience and grow quickly. That evening, an exhausted Ning Meng received a call from Lu Jiming's friend, asking her to pick up a heavily intoxicated Lu Jiming from a club. She reluctantly went and, to her surprise, encountered Su Weiran, her college senior.

Seeing him brought back memories: how he, as an exam proctor, had trusted her when she was nearly accused of cheating, and how she had once planned to give him a birthday gift, only to retreat when she saw him with another woman he called "Suan Juzi." At the club, Su Weiran helped Ning Meng get Lu Jiming into a car and offered to accompany her, seeing she was struggling.

During the ride, he praised Lu Jiming's rare success as a young investor who built his firm without his father's money. He revealed he had recognized Ning Meng immediately but hesitated to say so since she seemed not to know him. He complimented her transformation from a quiet student in glasses to her current confident self.

Su Weiran shared that after working in investment banking on Wall Street and at BDI, a top VC firm in Silicon Valley, he had returned to Shanghai as an executive director, noting China's growing importance in global business. Realizing they were in the same industry, they exchanged contact information. Afterward, Ning Meng excitedly told her friend You Qi about the reunion.

You Qi grilled her for details, and Ning Meng confirmed Su Weiran was more handsome than ever and likely single, as he wore no ring. The next day, as Ning Meng prepared to deliver the final document, Lu Jiming informed her that Yuanyuan Real Estate was off the project. Puzzled, she asked why. Lu Jiming guided her to connect the dots: Fang Jian's evasiveness and her own observation that Yuanyuan had launched no new projects that year.

She correctly deduced that Yuanyuan was in financial trouble. Lu Jiming confirmed there was something fishy, though not outright fraud. Analyzing their financial statements, Ning Meng discovered they had misclassified factored receivables under "other liquid assets" and had a suspiciously low bad debt provision. Recalling a past dispute involving their Tianyuan New City project, her calculations revealed a 30 million yuan shortfall in their capital increase that they couldn't explain. Based on Ning Meng's findings, Lu Jiming formally decided to drop Yuanyuan and find a new limited partner.

Episode 10 Recap

Upon arriving at the office, Ning Meng was informed that Xu Sitian was also present and had been frequently mentioning Ning Meng to Shi Ying. Ning Meng found it odd how unusually polite Xu Sitian was towards Shi Ying. Ning Meng then reported to Shi Ying that Yuanyuan Real Estate’s financial status indeed had problems, noting that while it was hard to say if there was outright fraud, their liquidity was definitely inflated.

Xu Sitian, however, dismissed it as a minor issue that could be resolved with money, proposing that Yuanyuan’s majority shareholder lend 30 million yuan to the company to resolve the liquidity problem. Ning Meng found Xu Sitian’s casual attitude unbelievable, but Shi Ying reassured her, stating that such an operation was normal and compliant. While Shi Ying stepped out to take a call, Xu Sitian discreetly urged Ning Meng to speak to Lu Jiming on behalf of the project.

Xu Sitian admitted that she had overlapping interests with Yuanyuan Real Estate, having introduced them for a capital increase, and she also wanted them as a limited partner for her RV park. She felt she should avoid getting involved directly with Lu Jiming and emphasized his tendency to listen to Ning Meng, citing his rejection of her RV park project as an example.

Before Ning Meng could respond, Xu Sitian unilaterally declared to a returning Shi Ying that Ning Meng had agreed. Ning Meng tried to express her skepticism about Yuanyuan Real Estate’s instability, noting she had observed poor management issues, and felt Lu Jiming’s concerns were valid. Shi Ying intervened, suggesting they take a day to cool off before making a final decision.

After Xu Sitian left, Shi Ying reminded Ning Meng that the decision was ultimately hers, but she stressed the importance of effective communication, revealing that Lu Jiming actually valued Ning Meng’s input. Hesitant after her conversation with Shi Ying and feeling pressured, Ning Meng sought advice from her friends over the phone. One of them pointed out that the issue was not about money but about relationships, and that this was a strategic game between the general partner bosses.

Ning Meng finally called Lu Jiming, who immediately stated he knew why she was calling and would not change his mind about replacing the limited partner. Ning Meng persisted, requesting an opportunity to discuss a new solution. Although Lu Jiming's tone was firm, he told her to meet him at the fencing center. Upon arriving, Ning Meng watched Lu Jiming’s match. She observed that his opponent attacked aggressively, while Lu Jiming chose to defend, patiently waiting for an opening.

Ning Meng realized he was using his opponent's recklessness to find an opportunity to counterattack and win, understanding that being too eager for a quick victory could lead to losing the entire match. Following this epiphany, Ning Meng immediately called Shi Ying to state her agreement with Lu Jiming’s decision to replace the limited partner. She asserted that integrity was the bottom line and that like in a competition, an ill-timed offense was reckless and would expose weaknesses and risks.

Pleased with Ning Meng's resolve, Shi Ying agreed with her decision and promised to inform the others. Later, Xu Sitian confronted Ning Meng outside her home, accusing her of sabotaging her projects. Xu Sitian called Ning Meng two-faced and mockingly claimed she only lived in Shi Ying’s house because Shi Ying pitied her, implying Ning Meng was backstabbing her benefactor. Just then, Zeng Yuhang arrived and intervened.

Afterward, Ning Meng learned that Xu Sitian’s desperation to prove herself stemmed from her patriarchal family, as her father intended to leave the family business entirely to her younger brother. One day, Ning Meng went to Jiming Capital and found Lu Jiming scolding Xu Sitian for her lack of thorough due diligence and recklessness. Deeply upset, Xu Sitian retreated to the restroom to cry but found she had no tissues. Ning Meng, passing by, offered her a pack.

She then deliberately provoked Xu Sitian, questioning why, despite her claims of superiority, she was the one crying. This prompted a candid conversation, and Xu Sitian invited Ning Meng for drinks. Over drinks, Xu Sitian apologized for her past animosity, admitting she had mistakenly believed Lu Jiming had romantic feelings for Ning Meng. The two bonded over their shared grievances about Lu Jiming’s harsh but well-intentioned nature.

Inebriated, Xu Sitian declared Ning Meng her "buddy" and decided to abandon her romantic pursuit of Lu Jiming to focus on her career. Ning Meng called Zeng Yuhang to pick up the very drunk Xu Sitian, who was touched by his unwavering support for her new career goals. The new private placement project was successfully completed, with Ning Meng demonstrating exceptional competence in liaising with the new limited partner.

Afterward, she encountered Lu Jiming and sincerely thanked him for his support, having learned from Shi Ying that it was he who had suggested she remain in charge of the project. Lu Jiming playfully admitted he had also asked Shi Ying to pretend there was a problem to see her reaction.

He then offered Zeng Yuhang a lucrative opportunity to provide bridging capital for a company, making it clear the offer was a way to help both him and Xu Sitian. With the project concluded, the Christmas holidays were approaching. To thank Lu Jiming for the business opportunity, Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian decided to treat him to a holiday dinner and invited Ning Meng to join. Ning Meng arrived late, explaining she had unexpectedly encountered an acquaintance, Su Weiran, whom Zeng Yuhang found unsettling.

Episode 11 Recap

On Christmas Day, Lu Jiming, Zeng Yuhang, and Xu Sitian were dining in a restaurant when they unexpectedly encountered Ning Meng and Su Weiran. Lu Jiming, Zeng Yuhang, and Xu Sitian couldn't help but notice Ning Meng's altered appearance, noting her heavier eye makeup and different lipstick. They were curious about Su Weiran, describing him as a very gentlemanly, gentle, and elegant man.

Xu Sitian, eager to find out more, directly approached Ning Meng and Su Weiran, pointing out that Lu Jiming and Zeng Yuhang were also present. Lu Jiming reluctantly greeted them, but Zeng Yuhang encouraged him to invite them to join their table, which Lu Jiming eventually did. At the table, they discussed various Huaiyang cuisine specialties. Su Weiran, an investor himself, revealed that he and Lu Jiming had met at a bar where Lu Jiming had gotten quite drunk.

Lu Jiming tried to claim he had faked his drunkenness to escape an unproductive conversation, but Zeng Yuhang immediately corrected him, stating Lu Jiming was genuinely intoxicated and had insisted Ning Meng pick him up. Su Weiran then shared that Ning Meng was his university junior and coursemate, and their reunion after graduation was thanks to Lu Jiming's drunken incident, as Ning Meng and Su Weiran had brought him home together.

Xu Sitian lightheartedly remarked that Lu Jiming had become their matchmaker, causing Lu Jiming to drop his food and freeze. To ease the awkward atmosphere, Zeng Yuhang shifted the conversation to Su Weiran's recent business endeavors. Su Weiran passionately spoke about his research into augmented reality and virtual reality, referencing "Black Mirror" and highlighting how 5G technology could enable advanced human-computer interaction. While Xu Sitian initially misunderstood, she quickly became enthusiastic, expressing a desire to invest.

Lu Jiming, however, dismissed Su Weiran's vision as premature for mass consumption, citing high upstream costs and lagging downstream content. He also subtly jabbed at Xu Sitian, referring to investors like her as "rich and naive." Ning Meng tried to support Su Weiran, suggesting that technology and content were interdependent, but Lu Jiming cut her off, implying she didn't understand and was using "useless fillers."

Lu Jiming continued to demean Ning Meng, questioning her knowledge as a "late joiner" in the investment field. Su Weiran defended Ning Meng, praising her inherent potential and excellence during their university days. Ignoring Su Weiran, Lu Jiming imperiously ordered Ning Meng to pour him tea, further questioning her "dramatic" reaction. Feeling stifled and humiliated, Ning Meng excused herself from the table, with Su Weiran quickly following.

Outside, Su Weiran comforted Ning Meng, sharing his own experiences of denial and pressure when he started working on Wall Street. He encouraged her to believe in her inner strength and prove herself. Back inside, Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian confronted Lu Jiming, accusing him of being disrespectful and going too far. Lu Jiming remained unrepentant, downplaying his actions and asserting that respect is earned.

He then insulted their intelligence and warned Xu Sitian against investing in Su Weiran's project, claiming it was his money. Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian, thoroughly angered, then left the restaurant, leaving Lu Jiming alone. Su Weiran had already paid the bill before leaving. The next day, an intern from Eaglestone Capital arrived to deliver a report, not Ning Meng. Lu Jiming, who had specifically asked for Ning Meng to deliver it personally, was visibly disappointed.

Meanwhile, Xu Sitian and Zeng Yuhang, still upset with Lu Jiming, invited Ning Meng for an outing at an RV park to help her feel better. Lu Jiming, back at the office, texted Zeng Yuhang to meet him at a fencing hall. Zeng Yuhang, however, saw the message but deliberately ignored it, still nursing his anger. Instead, he and Xu Sitian continued to post photos of their fun outing online.

Lu Jiming, growing increasingly frustrated, tried calling Zeng Yuhang, then Xu Sitian, and finally Ning Meng, but all three conspired to ignore his calls, taking pleasure in his growing exasperation. That evening at the RV park, as the air grew colder, Xu Sitian asked Zeng Yuhang if her RV park project would truly succeed. Zeng Yuhang reassured her, praising her unwavering persistence and effort despite her perceived unreliability in other areas.

He noted her significant positive changes and her newfound openness to others' opinions, encouraging her to continue her efforts. As Zeng Yuhang added more firewood and shared his jacket with her, Xu Sitian leaned her head on his shoulder, and their hands slowly intertwined. The following morning, Lu Jiming unexpectedly entered Zeng Yuhang's room, having used his easily guessable password. Lu Jiming immediately confronted Zeng Yuhang about the ignored calls, accusing him and Xu Sitian of influencing Ning Meng.

Zeng Yuhang fired back, stating that Ning Meng didn't need any persuasion after Lu Jiming's utterly excessive behavior at the restaurant. He reminded Lu Jiming of Ning Meng's three years of dedicated work as his secretary and how he publicly humiliated her. Zeng Yuhang criticized Lu Jiming's volatile nature, pointing out his tendency to lash out at anyone, regardless of their relationship, when he was unhappy.

Lu Jiming, somewhat conceding, admitted that he might have gone "a little overboard" at dinner. Zeng Yuhang then firmly stated that Lu Jiming owed Ning Meng an apology. Later, Su Weiran invited Ning Meng to experience the augmented reality glasses he was researching. They tried on the lightweight prototype glasses, which integrated a chip, battery, gyroscope, and camera.

Looking up, they used the "star map" function to view various constellations like Polaris, Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, Gemini, Scorpio, Libra, Virgo, Cancer, and Leo, marveling at the beauty of the night sky, which is often obscured by city light pollution. Ning Meng was visibly delighted and amazed, finding the experience both interesting and incredible.

She mused on the practical applications of AR, suggesting it could eventually replace mobile phones and foster more natural human-computer interaction through sight, gestures, and voice commands. Su Weiran praised Ning Meng's potential as an investor, noting how her eyes lit up when discussing products. Ning Meng confirmed her passion for the investor profession, sharing how seeing her ideas used in a successful thermos cup project, even after it was taken from her, brought her immense happiness. Su Weiran encouraged her to trust in herself, assuring her that she would undoubtedly become an excellent investor.

Episode 12 Recap

Lu Jiming peered through the peephole of Zeng Yuhang's door and, upon seeing Ning Meng's return, quickly stepped out, feigning a casual departure. Ning Meng, hearing the sound, merely turned to open her own door, indifferent to his presence. As she prepared to enter, Lu Jiming swiftly blocked her path. He imperiously suggested that after her contract with Shi Ying expired, she should return to his company, Joint Capital.

He promised he wouldn't force her to be his secretary again, but would let her dedicate herself fully to investment. Ning Meng listened in bewilderment, her anger rising. She firmly stated she would not return, emphasizing that she was not his "plaything" and demanding respect, instructing him not to call her for anything unrelated to work in the future.

After being rebuffed by Ning Meng, Lu Jiming turned to Zeng Yuhang to complain, baffled by Ning Meng's anger despite his offer for her to engage in investment. Zeng Yuhang pointed out that Ning Meng simply desired respect, not for him to impose what he thought was best on her. He explained that respect encompassed her personality, wishes, and choices, reminding Lu Jiming that he was there to apologize, not to deliver an ultimatum.

Zeng Yuhang made Lu Jiming practice saying "I'm sorry," noting it would be his first time. Lu Jiming, looking dejected, initially hesitated to apologize directly, claiming it was too late that night, but promised to clarify things the next day. The following morning, Lu Jiming intercepted Ning Meng as she was heading to work, asking for her decision. Ning Meng, in a hurry, stated she had already made herself clear and asked him to move aside.

He insisted he had shown great sincerity by coming early, but she tried to evade him, even turning to take the stairs when he blocked the elevator. Lu Jiming pursued her, blocking her path again. Ning Meng then directly asked if he was begging her to return to Joint Capital. He arrogantly denied it, claiming he was merely "allowing" her to return. However, as Ning Meng started to walk away, he conceded, admitting he was begging.

He then attempted to save face, stating he respected her choice and she could stay wherever she pleased, prompting Ning Meng to accept his "making peace" gesture, declaring the matter settled. Their fragile truce quickly broke when Lu Jiming immediately questioned Ning Meng about her relationship with Su Weiran, asking if they were "bound together in investment."

Ning Meng retorted, asking if he was "a cop on the Pacific Ocean," implying he was too nosy, and asserted that she had known Su Weiran since university and didn't need Lu Jiming's judgment on his character. Lu Jiming, undeterred, claimed her "insight" was poor and she couldn't discern if someone was reliable. Ning Meng countered sharply that having "endured three years" with him, anyone else, no matter how unreliable, would be more reliable.

Offended, Lu Jiming demanded clarification, but Ning Meng instead asked him to stop following her, accusing him of being a "perverted stalker." He denied it, stating he could take the subway if he wished, leading to a bickering match where Ning Meng mocked him for taking the subway when he usually complained about a Maybach's comfort. Their argument continued about who had "tolerated" whom, with Ning Meng calling him "petty."

As they navigated the crowded subway station, Lu Jiming, unfamiliar with the mobile app for entry, complained about the masses, personally experiencing the difficulties of Ning Meng's daily commute. He continued to lecture her, urging her to exercise "calm judgment as an adult" and always perform an "investment risk assessment" for any project, especially those from her senior, Su Weiran. Amidst the pushing crowd, he pressed her again to explain what she meant by "tolerating" him.

Later, Lu Jiming arrived at the office looking disheveled, having apparently taken the subway, and immediately requested his dry-cleaned suit and a fresh pair of shoes. Meanwhile, Shi Ying handed Ning Meng documents for Phoenix Home Textile, instructing her to prepare for a meeting at Joint Capital that afternoon to see if Lu Jiming would be interested in a joint investment.

Shi Ying explained Joint Capital's strong brand, extensive funding channels, and stable relationships with limited partners, making cooperation with Lu Jiming the "best solution" given Eaglestone's own strengths in project resources. During their discussion at Joint Capital, Lu Jiming showed keen interest in Phoenix Home Textile, acknowledging the trend of transforming traditional manufacturing. He agreed to a two-week joint due diligence assessment. Shi Ying mentioned Ning Meng's lack of on-site experience and need for guidance.

Unexpectedly, Lu Jiming offered to go personally, claiming his friend Zeng Yuhang happened to have a project in the same area. He confidently stated he'd only need "one-tenth" of his effort to guide Ning Meng, much to Shi Ying's surprise. Ning Meng's colleague later noticed a change in Ning Meng's attitude towards Lu Jiming, who seemed less hateful and somewhat happier, prompting her to jokingly ask if Ning Meng had developed Stockholm syndrome.

Ning Meng denied it, saying she was not sick and saw it as her own personal growth, believing Lu Jiming had learned his lesson and wouldn't treat her like a maid again. Despite this, when Lu Jiming later appeared at Zeng Yuhang's door, inviting Ning Meng to drive with them to the due diligence site, she politely declined, stating she was from the project department, not logistics, and had already purchased a high-speed rail ticket due to motion sickness.

Lu Jiming, visibly frustrated by her refusal, muttered that she "just doesn't get it." Upon arriving at the Phoenix Home Textile factory, Lu Jiming, Zeng Yuhang, and Ning Meng were greeted by the general manager, Yuan Jie. Yuan Jie proudly introduced the company's history, founded by his father in the late 1990s, evolving from a small workshop to a large enterprise covering 30,000 square meters.

During a tour of the exhibition hall, Lu Jiming urged Ning Meng to stay close and pay attention. Yuan Jie explained that Phoenix primarily supplied bedding to mid-to-low-tier hotels and was seeking financing to introduce automated production lines and expand into overseas markets. He also revealed that he had taken over the business last year after his father's passing, who had fallen ill from overwork.

Lu Jiming praised Yuan Jie's initiative in managing such a long-standing, large enterprise at a young age. Yuan Jie then presented blueprints for factory reconstruction, outlining plans to upgrade existing workshops into automated smart factories to improve efficiency by replacing human labor with machines. When Lu Jiming inquired about quality improvement, Yuan Jie confirmed that the primary benefit would be efficiency.

After the day's work, Lu Jiming offered Ning Meng a ride to their hotel, but she declined, stating her guesthouse was nearby and she preferred to walk. Lu Jiming and Zeng Yuhang then checked into their five-star hotel. Lu Jiming complained about Phoenix's booking standards, which allocated a five-star hotel to Zeng Yuhang, whom he called a "freeloader," while assigning a guesthouse to Ning Meng, a "hard worker."

Zeng Yuhang playfully suggested Lu Jiming had a soft spot for Ning Meng, which Lu Jiming denied, insisting it was about work convenience. Later, Zeng Yuhang called Ning Meng, relaying Lu Jiming's concern about her guesthouse's conditions. Ning Meng again declined the offer to move, stating she was not part of Joint Capital and wouldn't accept "unearned favors," and that she was comfortable in her guesthouse, before ending the call to continue working.

The next day, Ning Meng was already diligently working in the resource center when Lu Jiming arrived. He declined the offer of a separate office, stating it was more efficient for them to work together. He then began to guide Ning Meng, chastising her for reading the company's history instead of starting with the financial reports.

He meticulously explained how to analyze receivables, bad debts, and asset efficiency, and how to compare them with interview results to detect anomalies, despite his initial critical remarks about her lack of project experience. Ning Meng pointed out his contradiction, prompting Lu Jiming to explain that he was teaching her to prevent her from embarrassing herself in front of her temporary boss. At lunchtime, the factory staff offered Lu Jiming a separate meal arrangement.

He refused, stating that since it was just the two of them, they could eat together at the cafeteria and discuss work. Ning Meng, who was already planning to eat at the cafeteria, was surprised when Lu Jiming also decided to join her.

At the cafeteria, with few options left due to their late arrival, Lu Jiming declined an offer to eat out, stating it would be a waste of time and could compromise his impartiality if he accepted a lavish meal from the factory. Ning Meng observed his discomfort with the simple cafeteria food and, to help him, scalded his chopsticks with hot water.

She then shared a funny anecdote about a father and son who were drunkards, which Lu Jiming, amused, recognized as being about him. Ning Meng then produced a "secret seasoning" from her bag, a travel staple, which she claimed made any meal delicious. She offered it to Lu Jiming, who, after trying it, admitted it was "not bad."

She continued with another humorous story about a bad singer and a neighbor, which Lu Jiming found equally entertaining, commenting that while the meal was "average," her jokes "go well with the food." He even asked her to buy him more of the seasoning, playfully asking if it was reimbursable. While they ate, background conversations of factory employees complaining about the new general manager, Yuan Jie, and the changes he was implementing could be heard.

Lu Jiming, however, maintained a broader perspective, expressing that Yuan Jie seemed like a hardworking individual eager to improve the factory, a sentiment Ning Meng agreed with, acknowledging the pressure of inheriting a family business. Before leaving the cafeteria, Lu Jiming realized he'd forgotten his seasoning, but Ning Meng stopped him, telling him to forget it and instead tell her another joke.

As the day ended, Ning Meng had accumulated a large volume of data and planned to work overnight to compile a report. Hearing this, Lu Jiming surprisingly offered to come to her guesthouse to help, expressing concern that she might not be able to finish alone. Ning Meng, though surprised, accepted the offer, acknowledging that an extra hand would be helpful. At her guesthouse, Lu Jiming immediately complained about its "shabby" appearance and the uncomfortable chair.

He also complained about the limited food Ning Meng offered, though they soon settled down to focus on the work. As they reviewed the data, Lu Jiming provided further instruction, cautioning Ning Meng against solely relying on surface-level financial reports, as businesses could appear profitable on paper while struggling in reality. Suddenly, a large moth flew into the room, unsettling Lu Jiming and distracting him even as Ning Meng asked for his help with the bad debt risk section.

When the moth landed on his hand, Ning Meng pointed it out, causing Lu Jiming to jump back in alarm, inadvertently bumping into her. As she tried to swat the moth, he accused her of hitting him. The moth escaped to the ceiling, out of Ning Meng's reach. She prompted Lu Jiming, who was taller, to handle it. Reluctantly, he threw his slipper at the moth, successfully hitting it but also accidentally striking the smoke alarm.

Water instantly began pouring from the ceiling, drenching the room. They frantically scrambled to gather all the documents and her laptop, shouting instructions to each other amidst the chaos, trying to save their work from getting wet. Once the immediate crisis was over, Lu Jiming, with water dripping from his hair, suggested Ning Meng move to his hotel for the night.

Episode 13 Recap

When Lu Jiming and Ning Meng, both soaked, stood by the front desk, Lu Jiming playfully suggested Ning Meng dry her head, but she retorted it should be his. Lu Jiming then offered her another room or for her to move into his, but she declined, prioritizing the documents that needed sorting and her clothes, not wanting to bother with the change. Seeing her dedication, Lu Jiming joined her in drying the important papers.

Later that night, Ning Meng felt unwell and inquired about traditional remedies or a nearby pharmacy, but found none. As her condition worsened, Lu Jiming called, pressing her for a work agreement. She tried to dismiss her illness, assuring him she would be fine after sleeping and wouldn't hinder his work. However, when Lu Jiming called again for a corrected document and she didn't answer, his concern escalated.

He rushed to the guesthouse and tried to get the staff to open her room. The staff was hesitant, even jokingly accusing him of making her work in the dead of night. Lu Jiming, revealing his identity and fame, eventually convinced them to let him in. Inside Ning Meng’s room, Lu Jiming found her disoriented and burning with fever, immediately deciding to take her to the hospital.

He frantically called Zeng Yuhang, explaining Ning Meng’s severe illness and asking for help. However, Zeng Yuhang dismissed it as just a fever and claimed to be busy with a major business deal, refusing to come. On the way, Lu Jiming had to carry Ning Meng down many stairs due to her weakness, despite her complaints about feeling terrible.

At the hospital, Ning Meng tried to instruct Lu Jiming on the registration process, but he impatiently dismissed her, preferring to handle it himself. He showed frustration with the manual procedures, repeatedly questioning staff for efficiency. When Ning Meng, feeling slightly better, attempted to queue for medicine, Lu Jiming insisted she rest, despite her stating she felt bad seeing him do all the work.

A nurse, observing Lu Jiming's attentiveness, remarked that Ning Meng was lucky to have "such a good boyfriend." Both Lu Jiming and Ning Meng immediately corrected her, with Lu Jiming stating he was her boss and Ning Meng adding, "former boss." Despite the late hour, Lu Jiming remained by Ning Meng's side, even getting water for her medicine.

He then teased her about her physical weakness, comparing it to her past stamina as his secretary, which she countered by reminding him of a time she worked for him while having a fever. Ning Meng suggested he go back to rest, finding his presence "unaccustomed," but Lu Jiming playfully accused her of trying to get rid of him.

He continued to insist she drink water for her cold, then jokingly demanded she repay his "lifesaving kindness" by picking him up when drunk and cooking him noodles. The next morning, Ning Meng woke to find Lu Jiming asleep at the table, having stayed by her side all night. The doctor confirmed her fever had dropped and she was recovering well.

As they prepared to leave, Ning Meng told Lu Jiming he didn't need to see her off, stating she was fully recovered. He then teased her about her height, calling her a "shorty," which she quickly countered with a witty remark about concentrated essence. Back at the guesthouse, Lu Jiming surprised Ning Meng by taking a room on the same floor, explaining he was bored alone without Zeng Yuhang.

He dismissed her concerns about the guesthouse's conditions, asserting that if she could stay, he could too, playfully challenging her. He then immediately shifted to work, suggesting they now needed to work overtime to catch up, complaining about the travel time between the guesthouse and the factory. Ning Meng feigned dizziness, but Lu Jiming saw through her act. Settling into their respective rooms next to each other, Lu Jiming and Ning Meng immediately resumed work.

Ning Meng presented her findings on Yuan Jie, noting his strong academic background in finance and mathematics, and his sensitivity to numbers. However, she cautiously pointed out that while the current data looked good, it largely reflected the work of the former boss, as Yuan Jie had only been in charge for less than a year, suggesting his practical operational and management skills still needed further observation.

As dinner time approached, Lu Jiming found the local food delivery options unappealing and lacking nutrition. He decided to return to their original hotel to pack some food and bring his luggage, asking Ning Meng for her preferences, which included chicken soup, lightly cooked vegetables, cut fruits, and dessert. While waiting for Lu Jiming, Ning Meng went to a nearby store for water.

She struck up a conversation with the elderly storekeeper, Old Liu, who revealed that the Phoenix Home Textile factory planned to lay off a significant number of workers due to "smart technology" upgrades. Old Liu explained that the factory's "little Mr. Yuan" (Yuan Jie) intended to refer these workers to other "brother companies" to avoid hefty severance pay, a plan Old Liu himself doubted was feasible, as it would leave many older workers jobless.

When Lu Jiming returned with their dinner and luggage, Ning Meng shared her findings from the store, which she called a "natural intelligence station." Lu Jiming immediately agreed that Yuan Jie's plan sounded unreliable. Ning Meng had already estimated that the actual number of laid-off workers could far exceed projections, leading to a significant hidden danger.

Building on her insight, Lu Jiming elaborated on the potential risks: insufficient budget for proper placement, increased labor disputes, legal liabilities, and significant damage to the company's image—all major risks for investors. Later, when Lu Jiming complained about the noise in his guesthouse room, Ning Meng offered him her earplugs, a habit that Lu Jiming had helped her develop during her previous business trips. He appreciated the gesture.

The next morning, Lu Jiming and Ning Meng arrived at the Phoenix Home Textile factory to find a heated argument already underway between the factory workers and Yuan Jie. Workers accused Yuan Jie of trying to fire them under the guise of "elimination mechanisms" and questioned his authority, reminding him of their loyalty to the former boss.

Yuan Jie attempted to explain that the changes were necessary due to "automation and smart upgrades" and that it was about "survival of the fittest," promising to arrange proper placements with other companies for those laid off. The workers, however, dismissed his explanations, sarcastically remarking that he simply "won" by being born into privilege. After the tumultuous scene, Yuan Jie apologized to Lu Jiming and Ning Meng and escorted them to his office.

There, Lu Jiming directly stated that their due diligence was complete, and they had decided to temporarily abandon the investment. When Yuan Jie inquired about the reason, Lu Jiming explained that while the technology itself was sound, the core issue lay in the problematic placement of the retrenched workers.

He highlighted that Yuan Jie's plans for re-employment seemed highly unlikely to succeed, which could lead to increased severance costs, labor disputes, legal liabilities, and significant damage to the company's image—all major risks for investors. Lu Jiming pointed out that Yuan Jie's budget for human resources was severely underestimated. Yuan Jie admitted his oversight, confessing he was too focused on technological advancements and underestimated the "people" aspect of the reform. He then asked Lu Jiming if he would reconsider the investment should he find a proper solution for the employee placement issue.

Episode 14 Recap

Yuan Jie asked Lu Jiming if he would reconsider the investment if he could properly resolve the issue of staff placement. Lu Jiming, however, advised against such a drastic approach. He explained that a complete equipment overhaul and factory reconstruction would require a significant period of inoperability, incurring severe losses. Furthermore, there was no guarantee that new orders would match the increased production capacity after the upgrade, potentially wasting the new production lines.

Ning Meng suggested a more gradual approach to the technological reform, which would give the workers a buffer period to adapt. Yuan Jie thanked them and assured them he would seriously consider their suggestions. Before leaving, Lu Jiming encouraged Yuan Jie, expressing satisfaction with Phoenix Home Textile's products. He noted that the bedding he used at a budget hotel was from Phoenix and its quality was comparable to that of a five-star hotel.

Lu Jiming concluded that Phoenix primarily lacked precise brand positioning and marketing strategies. Later, Ning Meng visited Yuan Jie at the factory, presenting him with a booklet detailing the history of Phoenix Home Textile. Yuan Jie reflected on his childhood, recalling how his father, the old factory director, was so dedicated to the factory that he rarely saw him. His father would only come home for a meal when Yuan Jie achieved high marks or won competitions.

He admitted that his desire to rapidly advance the factory was, in part, an attempt to gain his father's attention and prove his own capabilities. Ning Meng empathized, sharing her own experiences and assuring Yuan Jie that parental love is unconditional. Yuan Jie then recounted a memory of his birthday during a typhoon, when his father left their family meal to handle flood prevention at the factory.

He had angrily accused his father of only caring about money, but Ning Meng helped him realize his father's commitment was to the workers' safety. Ning Meng added that the messages in the "Workers' Corner" showed that the employees treated Phoenix like their home, and that the old factory director, who believed the home textile industry should bring warmth and human connection, never gave up on any of them.

He saw it as "sailing a large ship" where everyone must work together in unison. Having reflected deeply, Yuan Jie decided to adopt a slower, phased technological reform to allow workers to adapt and avoid mass layoffs, thanking Ning Meng for helping him find "the most precious thing." He also confirmed that the "Fenghuang Tongxing" publication would continue as a public account.

Ning Meng then relayed a message of goodwill, assuring Yuan Jie that the doors of both Jiming Capital and Eaglestone Capital would remain open for future cooperation. That evening, Zeng Yuhang arrived at their hotel with his luggage, suggesting a celebration. Lu Jiming was reluctant, finding it illogical to celebrate a canceled investment, but Ning Meng was eager to relax.

Outdoors, Lu Jiming complained about Zeng Yuhang's choice of location, and Zeng Yuhang retorted that Lu Jiming was the one who was "blind" for letting a good employee like Ning Meng go. Intrigued, Ning Meng asked how two people with such different personalities became friends. Zeng Yuhang explained that he, Lu Jiming, and Xu Sitian were middle school classmates.

He recounted how, after getting into trouble with some local hooligans, Lu Jiming, who initially didn't want to get involved, stepped in to fight them off when he saw how badly Zeng Yuhang was being beaten. Since then, Zeng Yuhang had deeply admired him. Ning Meng then shared her own past, recalling how her father's venture into environmentally friendly rechargeable batteries failed, leading to bankruptcy and draining their family savings.

This experience, she revealed, was what motivated her to become an investor. While Zeng Yuhang stepped away to take a phone call, Lu Jiming confessed to Ning Meng that his family life had been tumultuous. He recalled constant arguments between his parents, his father's singular focus on work, and his mother's departure when he was ten.

Despite his numerous letters, she never replied, and he only later learned she had passed away from cancer during his first year of junior high. He spoke of his father's strictness and lack of warmth, expressing a longing for simple family life. He recalled enviously watching a neighbor boy his age get scolded by his mother with a spatula, wishing his own mother were still around, even if it meant being disciplined by her.

As they talked, they ran out of drinks. Ning Meng offered to buy more, but as she stood up, she tripped over an empty bottle and fell onto Lu Jiming, resulting in an accidental kiss. Both were startled and quickly pulled away, visibly awkward. The next morning, Ning Meng was deeply embarrassed to see Lu Jiming, while Zeng Yuhang playfully tried to push them together.

Upon their return to Shanghai, Xu Sitian joyfully greeted Zeng Yuhang and linked arms with him. To Lu Jiming and Ning Meng's surprise, Zeng Yuhang announced that he and Xu Sitian were in a relationship, which began after they accidentally held hands during a drunken night at an RV park. Back home, Ning Meng found herself unable to stop replaying the kiss in her mind. Confused, she called You Qi, fabricating a story about a "friend" and her male colleague.

You Qi quickly saw through Ning Meng's "I'm asking for a friend" act, teasing her about blushing. After Ning Meng admitted the kiss was real, You Qi advised her that if her "friend" wasn't repulsed by the kiss and kept thinking about it, it meant she had feelings for the person. Mortified, Ning Meng quickly hung up, leaving both her and Lu Jiming to a restless night.

Episode 15 Recap

Lu Jiming arrived at the meeting half an hour early, having taken a shortcut, which he admitted was a mistake. He felt hot and asked to turn off the air conditioner, though Ning Meng confirmed it wasn't on. In a moment of awkwardness, Ning Meng accidentally touched Lu Jiming's hand while distributing documents, startling herself and dropping the papers, bringing them into closer proximity as they both bent down to retrieve them. He then complained about Zeng Yuhang's usual tardiness.

When Zeng Yuhang finally arrived, he teased Lu Jiming for not accepting a coffee made by Ning Meng, suggesting Lu Jiming had been longing for it, unlike the "dishwater" from Yang Xiaoyang. Lu Jiming declined, citing an upset stomach. After the meeting, Ms. Shi praised Lu Jiming's judgment on the Phoenix project, but he was quick to credit Ning Meng, highlighting her significant contributions.

Ms. Shi acknowledged Ning Meng's rapid growth and hard work, noting she even pushed through a bad cold, thanks to Lu Jiming's care. Ning Meng then thanked Lu Jiming. After the meeting, Zeng Yuhang suggested they all go to dinner. Ning Meng immediately refused, and to Zeng Yuhang's surprise, Lu Jiming also declined, prompting Zeng Yuhang to comment on their strange synchronicity.

Later, Lu Jiming probed Zeng Yuhang with a hypothetical question about a friend who accidentally kissed a girl while drunk, asking how the girl might perceive it. Zeng Yuhang, clearly suspecting Lu Jiming was "making this friend up," pressed for details about what truly happened that night after he had left. Embarrassed and angered, Lu Jiming loudly retorted that Zeng Yuhang had slept in his room that night, implying he should already know.

This outburst drew the attention of others nearby, making Lu Jiming so uncomfortable that he quickly got up and left, asking Zeng Yuhang to pay the bill. On the subway ride home, Ning Meng observed a young couple being openly affectionate. Later, Lu Jiming was caught peeking through his apartment peephole as Ning Meng returned. He quickly pretended to take out the trash, hoping for a casual encounter.

Zeng Yuhang, however, walked out, confronting them and accusing them of having a secret. He directly asked if they had kissed, which Zeng Yuhang himself then confirmed, adding that it was "no wonder" given their behavior. Lu Jiming, annoyed, called the topic "dirty" and blamed Zeng Yuhang for talking too much. Zeng Yuhang then suggested Lu Jiming must have feelings for Ning Meng, pointing out how much Lu Jiming still involved himself with her even after she had resigned.

Lu Jiming dismissed it, claiming he was comfortable with Ning Meng as his secretary and that her investment skills could make her a valuable asset back at Joint Capital. Zeng Yuhang continued, urging Lu Jiming to move on from Han Yimeng, his former "ideal girl," who was living in the United States and was reportedly about to get engaged.

Lu Jiming refused to acknowledge this, questioning Zeng Yuhang's logic and stubbornly insisting things were different, even asking if Zeng Yuhang expected him to wait until she divorced. Zeng Yuhang warned him that his "childish and shallow outlook on relationships" could lead to future heartbreak. When Zeng Yuhang suggested Ning Meng might have feelings for Lu Jiming, Lu Jiming immediately rejected the idea, firmly stating that she could not like him.

Zeng Yuhang then criticized Lu Jiming for using "taking out the rubbish" as an excuse for an encounter, saying it would only lead to innocent Ning Meng misunderstanding and calling it a "sin" to steal her heart. Angered, Lu Jiming told Zeng Yuhang to leave, to which Zeng Yuhang retorted that it was his home. Meanwhile, Ning Meng had dinner with Su Weiran, her senior from university.

They discussed the augmented reality project, which Su Weiran decided not to invest in, citing issues with application scenarios, databases, unclear market positioning, and a lack of profitability in the near term. Ning Meng, however, passionately argued that such technology represents a major future trend and that "Made in China" innovations deserve more space and opportunity for development, expressing a desire for more "sentiment and integrity" in capital markets.

Su Weiran acknowledged her perspective, comparing his own profit-driven investment approach to a game of Texas Hold'em poker, while acknowledging Ning Meng's more sentimental attachment to projects. Ning Meng then pondered what kind of investor Lu Jiming was, admitting she couldn't quite figure him out despite working with him for three years. Su Weiran picked a sweet, round fruit for Ning Meng, and she confessed that he seemed different, more mature.

She expressed hope that he would remain the "sunny, simple senior" she remembered from university. Su Weiran was touched, remarking that it had been a long time since anyone had said such a thing to him, and said he would have to see her more often.

To avoid Lu Jiming, Ning Meng chose to represent Eaglestone Capital at the Nanjing Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition, a move Ms. Shi supported by providing her with new "Investment Manager" business cards to compensate for her analyst title, which would be a disadvantage at such a prominent event and for making a good impression. Coincidentally, Lu Jiming also decided to attend as a substitute judge after one of the original judges fell ill, intending to avoid Ning Meng.

Despite their mutual efforts, they ran into each other at the event, creating an awkward atmosphere. During the competition, Lu Jiming, as a judge, proved to be sharp-tongued. He critiqued a cancer screening technology for its unclear business model and lack of a closed commercial loop, questioned a renovation platform's high spending and user retention strategy, and challenged another B2B2C platform on how it would compete with existing industry leaders.

The audience noted his harsh comments, wondering if he always spoke that way. The next entrepreneur presented a "kissing device" that used high-precision sensors to transmit the sensation of a kiss remotely, even when partners were in different locations. He boldly invited Lu Jiming to try it. Lu Jiming, visibly uncomfortable, declined the demonstration but praised the innovative concept.

He suggested the underlying technology could be expanded to medical applications, such as measuring blood pressure, heart rate, and blood oxygen, and providing health reports to family members living far apart, concluding that it represented a good investment opportunity. While his evaluation earned applause, his gaze subtly drifted towards Ning Meng. Later, at a reception, Ning Meng noticed two executives, Liang Guozhi and Liu Zhiwen, discussing a gym project.

She casually approached and, when asked for her opinion, offered insightful observations. She recounted her own experience of losing money on a gym membership when the business suddenly closed and ran away. She explained that the industry suffered from low entry barriers, leading to a mix of dubious operators who ruined its reputation.

She also pointed out the single-dimensional business model, intense homogeneous competition, and a lack of sustainability once the local market was saturated due to inadequate regulations and supervision difficulties. Impressed by her analysis, Liang Guozhi and Liu Zhiwen gave her their business cards and invited her to discuss more ideas, expressing their appreciation for engaging with young, innovative minds. They then proposed a toast to future investment success.

Later that evening, as Ning Meng was strolling in a park, Lu Jiming unexpectedly called, asking for her location and telling her to wait for him. He soon arrived, and they rented a boat. However, their combined lack of rowing skill led to an argument, with Lu Jiming criticizing her technique and Ning Meng retorting that she had only intended to row alone before he called.

Unable to make progress, they eventually gave up trying to row, spinning aimlessly in circles before letting the boat drift. Lu Jiming initiated a conversation about the previous incident, clarifying it was "purely accidental" and urging Ning Meng not to dwell on it. He admitted that his feelings for her were different from others, suggesting he regarded her as a "buddy" and praising her for having "no ulterior motives" about him, a quality he admired and wanted her to maintain.

Ning Meng, while hiding a flicker of disappointment, quickly countered that she already had someone she liked, and expressed concern that he might have illusions about her. Just then, Su Weiran called, but Ning Meng chose not to answer, dismissing it as "not important" to Lu Jiming, who was no longer her boss. Lu Jiming probed further, guessing it was Su Weiran.

Ning Meng confirmed, elaborating that her feelings for Su Weiran were complex, encompassing admiration, respect, and even reverence, rather than just "like," which she considered too mundane to describe their connection. Lu Jiming, in turn, quipped that her taste in men was questionable. As evening fell, park staff began escorting visitors off the lake, reminding them of the closing time. They easily towed Lu Jiming and Ning Meng's stranded boat back to the shore.

A park staff member, Xiaosong, effortlessly rowing his own boat past them, boasted about his "boating skills" and mocked those who couldn't navigate, calling them lost. Meanwhile, Yang Xiaoyang, who was nearby, recognized Lu Jiming being towed, prompting her and her companion to quickly cover their faces and flee to avoid being seen.

Episode 16 Recap

Ning Meng was lying in bed, reflecting on Lu Jiming's earlier words, when her phone rang. It was Su Weiran, calling to offer her a new, improved pair of AR glasses to try. Ning Meng explained that she was out of Shanghai on a business trip but would be back the next day, suggesting they meet then. Su Weiran noted a hint of unhappiness in her voice, but Ning Meng quickly dismissed his concern.

The following day, Ning Meng took a high-speed rail back to Shanghai. On board, she recognized Lin Dayi, whom she had briefly encountered at a previous entrepreneurship competition. After proper introductions, Lin Dayi, who humbly introduced himself as an analyst despite his temporary manager title, shared the inspiration behind his project, Mobi, a home fitness equipment line.

He explained that after years as a software developer, working long hours and eating unhealthily, he grew fearful upon hearing news of young people's sudden deaths. A timely health check-up revealed significant issues, prompting him to embrace exercise out of a desire to preserve his life. Over time, it evolved from a necessity into a passion, which he then sought to combine with his professional expertise to create a business.

Impressed, Ning Meng expressed strong interest in conducting a detailed market survey, and Lin Dayi enthusiastically invited her to visit his company whenever she wished. A few days later, Ning Meng arrived at Mobi's office, immediately noticing the vibrant energy of the employees, many of whom were fitness enthusiasts. The environment exuded a high-tech feel.

Lin Dayi demonstrated their aesthetically pleasing yet functional equipment, like a treadmill designed for a slower, safer unfolding, and showcased their proprietary software which generated personalized workout plans. He also pointed out the in-app tutorials for less familiar machines, such as the rowing machine, and discussed future plans to integrate biomechanics for enhanced safety and user guidance. Ning Meng praised Mobi's development philosophy, particularly its attention to space efficiency, design, safety, and professional standards, which offered a distinct competitive advantage.

She later presented her positive assessment to Shi Ying, who agreed the project showed great promise. Shi Ying then directed Ning Meng to conduct thorough market research, including competitor analysis and benchmarking, and submit a comprehensive report. Soon after, Madam Liu called Ning Meng, inquiring about Lu Jiming's upcoming birthday. She hoped to arrange a family dinner, mentioning that Lu Jiming hadn't responded to her messages and asking Ning Meng to relay the invitation.

Ning Meng, however, clarified that she no longer worked at Joint Capital and thus couldn't access Lu Jiming's schedule. Madam Liu initially worried that Ning Meng and Lu Jiming had fallen out, but Ning Meng assured her it was merely a professional transition. Madam Liu then confided in Ning Meng about the strained relationship between Lu Jiming and his father, expressing her hope that the birthday celebration could help mend their differences.

Sympathizing with Madam Liu, Ning Meng agreed to call Lu Jiming, though she couldn't guarantee his attendance. When Ning Meng contacted Lu Jiming, he was pleased to hear from her and initially stated he had no plans for his birthday. However, his mood shifted abruptly when he learned the invitation was for a family dinner with his father, which he flatly refused, citing past arguments and his father's stubborn nature.

Ning Meng gently reminded him of their earlier conversation about spending more time with his father. Seeing Ning Meng's awkwardness, Lu Jiming eventually relented, but on the condition that Ning Meng accompany him. Reluctantly, Ning Meng agreed. On the day of the birthday dinner, Ning Meng accompanied Lu Jiming to his family home. Madam Liu warmly welcomed them, and Lu Jiming's father expressed his delight at Ning Meng's visit.

Madam Liu praised Lu Jiming for bringing thoughtful gifts for his father. Lu Jiming's father then spoke fondly of the fishing apparatus Ning Meng had given him previously, though he lamented that the fish in the wild lake had become too clever to bite. Madam Liu suggested Lu Jiming join his father for fishing, hoping they would have a meaningful conversation.

Lu Jiming was initially hesitant, fearing they would scare the fish away, but Ning Meng encouraged him, pointing out his upcoming client fishing trip and suggesting his father could offer tips. Though reluctant, Lu Jiming eventually agreed. As they headed out, Madam Liu urged Lu Jiming to take a jacket for his father.

At the pond, Lu Jiming, concerned his father might get cold, took off his own jacket and put it on him, despite his father's initial dismissal of the concern. By the pond, the two men continued to bicker, first about Lu Jiming's excessive phone use and then about Lu Jiming's father's prolonged sitting. Their conversation shifted to business, with Lu Jiming's father raising concerns about Lu Jiming's investment in an eco-friendly material and a major shareholder's opposition.

Lu Jiming defended his approach, drawing parallels to 3M's long-term patent development. Lu Jiming's father repeatedly recounted a familiar story, frustrating Lu Jiming, who challenged him to make their company a century-old business. Lu Jiming's father also brought up Ning Meng's resignation, questioning her continued presence, only to learn Madam Liu had invited her. The argument escalated when a fish bit the hook, and Lu Jiming's father blamed his son for scaring it away.

He angrily threw Lu Jiming's arm away and stormed off. After calming down, Lu Jiming's father put on the jacket Lu Jiming had given him, though he did not apologize. During dinner, Madam Liu, out of concern, mentioned Lu Jiming's father's recent high blood pressure. This remark angered Lu Jiming's father, who accused her of ruining the meal. Lu Jiming intervened to defend Madam Liu, stressing the importance of health and reducing alcohol consumption.

Lu Jiming's father retorted that he knew his own body and that his high blood pressure was caused by his son. The argument intensified as Lu Jiming accused his father of being unreasonable, bringing up how his father had treated his mother, implying it was the reason she left. Enraged, Lu Jiming's father stood up, pointing at Lu Jiming and declaring that if he hated being home, he shouldn't return.

Lu Jiming countered, saying he doubted his father would even remember it was his birthday without Madam Liu's reminder and that his father only cared about himself. The dispute culminated in a bitter conclusion, prompting Ning Meng to leave with Lu Jiming. After leaving the house, Lu Jiming drove Ning Meng home. Noticing that he hadn't eaten much, Ning Meng invited him into her apartment and prepared a bowl of longevity noodles for him.

While he was eating, Ning Meng's parents initiated a video call, inquiring about her work. Ning Meng’s mother subtly complained about her "current boss" not being much better than her previous one, unaware that Lu Jiming, her former employer, was sitting right there. Ning Meng quickly ended the call. Feeling a bit flustered, she offered Lu Jiming another bowl of noodles. Seeing him eat voraciously, Ning Meng wished him a "Happy Birthday."

Lu Jiming was momentarily stunned, visibly moved by her simple gesture, remarking that it had been a long time since he felt such warmth. Ning Meng teased him, asking if he had food on his face or tooth, then clarified she was just joking. The next day, Lu Jiming, dressed in casual clothes, drove himself to the airport after receiving an audio message from Han Yimeng asking him to pick her up.

Simultaneously, Ning Meng arrived at the airport to pick up You Qi. As Ning Meng and You Qi walked through the terminal, they spotted Lu Jiming embracing another woman. Ning Meng asked You Qi if she knew them, and You Qi then greeted Lu Jiming, asking how he was.

Episode 17 Recap

Lu Jiming brought Han Yimeng to his apartment. Han Yimeng commented on the modern decor and requested coffee, explaining that her jet lag and daily habits meant she could drink it at night without issue. While Han Yimeng went to change, Lu Jiming struggled with the unfamiliar coffee machine and called Ning Meng for help with the one she had purchased for him.

Ning Meng was surprised by his late-night coffee request, and her unease grew when he confirmed he was hosting a friend, realizing he had brought someone home. Despite this, she patiently guided him through the steps of making pour-over coffee. Meanwhile, Ning Meng's friend, You Qi, noticed Ning Meng's irritation with Lu Jiming's persistent calls and teased her about her "colleague." The two friends then reminisced about their college days.

After Lu Jiming served the coffee, Han Yimeng complimented his first attempt. He offered to help tidy her room, but his clumsiness led Han Yimeng to take over. As he sat, Lu Jiming noticed a bottle of Vortioxetine, an antidepressant, in her luggage. Seeing his concern, Han Yimeng explained it was for sleep issues and told him not to worry.

Ning Meng presented the Mobi fitness project's research report to Shi Ying, who was impressed and immediately asked if Lu Jiming would be interested in co-investing. Ning Meng hesitated, explaining that Lu Jiming had rejected similar fitness-related projects in the past. Shi Ying countered that past rejections don't dictate future decisions and emphasized Lu Jiming's high regard for Ning Meng's abilities, suggesting her involvement might change his mind.

Ning Meng expressed a preference for finding other limited partners to give Eaglestone more control over the project, but Shi Ying insisted on leveraging Lu Jiming's vast experience, valuing his insights even if he ultimately chose not to invest. Pressured by Shi Ying, Ning Meng reluctantly agreed to approach him. Ning Meng sent the project proposal to Lu Jiming, who was at a restaurant for Han Yimeng's welcome dinner. Zeng Yuhang playfully chided Lu Jiming for working during the meal.

The group's conversation touched upon Han Yimeng's unique ring and her plans, with friends suggesting she could return to China permanently due to the booming contemporary art market. Zeng Yuhang hinted at Lu Jiming and Han Yimeng's long-standing connection, calling them childhood sweethearts. Han Yimeng appeared withdrawn, especially when asked about her boyfriend. Noticing her discomfort, Lu Jiming deflected the questions and later asked Zeng Yuhang to discreetly inquire about her situation.

When Lu Jiming didn't reply to her message, Ning Meng called his assistant, Xiaoyang, who revealed Lu Jiming had been acting strangely, leaving the office early and requiring appointments for all meetings. Ning Meng went to Joint Capital to meet Lu Jiming. Before she could discuss the Mobi project, he interrupted and asked for her help with a food delivery app, inquiring about adding a second phone number.

While assisting him, Ning Meng saw the delivery order was addressed to "Ms. Han" at a familiar address, confirming her suspicions about his guest. Just as she finished, Lu Jiming received a call from Zeng Yuhang, who reported that Han Yimeng had likely returned to China because of a difficult breakup with her long-term boyfriend, with whom she had been close to getting engaged. Witnessing Lu Jiming's evident distress over the news, Ning Meng felt uneasy.

Leaving the office, she ran into Zeng Yuhang, who confirmed Lu Jiming was preoccupied with a friend who had returned from overseas. Upon returning home, Lu Jiming found Han Yimeng drinking alone. He tried to get her to eat, but she had no appetite. He suggested instant noodles, a food she used to crave while abroad.

This sparked a shared memory of their childhood, when his busy father would often leave him at Han Yimeng's home, and the two would bond over instant noodles. Later, Ning Meng asked Zeng Yuhang about Han Yimeng. He revealed their deep history, explaining that after Lu Jiming's parents divorced, Han Yimeng was his closest companion through his school years. Her departure for New York to study art in high school deeply affected Lu Jiming.

Zeng Yuhang confessed he had urged Lu Jiming to confess his feelings to her before she left, but she dismissed it as childish talk. He told Ning Meng that Lu Jiming had been waiting for her ever since, quoting Lu Jiming: "She was with me through my loneliest and most desperate years. I'm willing to wait for her to see me as a man, not just a boy." Ning Meng was visibly shaken by this revelation.

Back home, a distraught Ning Meng confessed to You Qi, who had already deduced her feelings for Lu Jiming after observing her recent behavior. You Qi correctly guessed that a previous "accidental kiss" had been with Lu Jiming, stating, "The kiss was an accident, but the feelings aren't." Ning Meng admitted her despair, explaining that Han Yimeng was Lu Jiming's unrequited childhood love, the one he had been waiting for.

You Qi advised her to let go before her feelings deepened, and Ning Meng agreed, wishing Lu Jiming would reject the project so she could avoid him. That night, Lu Jiming found Han Yimeng drinking alone on the terrace. He stayed with her, and she confessed that revisiting the memories of her past relationship was too painful. Overcome with emotion, she began to cry.

Lu Jiming awkwardly but sincerely comforted her, offering to be a non-judgmental listener whenever she was ready to talk. Han Yimeng expressed her gratitude, telling him his presence was deeply reassuring. The next day, Shi Ying instructed Ning Meng to go to Lu Jiming's office for an answer on the Mobi project. Lu Jiming was direct, stating he had reviewed the proposal, found it uninteresting, and would not be investing.

Ning Meng's calm acceptance of his decision without question seemed to puzzle him. Before she left, he asked what she does to cheer herself up, but she gave a brief, impersonal answer about finding jokes online. Back at Eaglestone, Ning Meng relayed the rejection. When Shi Ying questioned the project's viability, Ning Meng passionately defended its potential. Shi Ying, surprised by Lu Jiming's curt dismissal, asked if they had argued.

Ning Meng denied it and then confronted her boss, asking if Eaglestone was too dependent on Lu Jiming's judgment and, more pointedly, if Shi Ying's favor toward her was primarily because of her connection to Lu Jiming.

Episode 18 Recap

Ning Meng questioned Shi Ying about her continued favoritism, asking if it was solely due to her relationship with Lu Jiming. Shi Ying admitted it was a factor but insisted that Ning Meng's competence and potential were the primary reasons for hiring her. She explained that the workplace is fundamentally composed of people and tasks, and while work ability is crucial, it cannot exist in isolation from human connections.

Especially in the investment field, strong personal networks are indispensable and are considered a vital part of one's overall capability. Shi Ying emphasized that Ning Meng's knack for maintaining good relationships was an advantage and advised her not to overthink it, suggesting that if Ning Meng learned to leverage resources effectively, the outcome would be greater than the sum of its parts.

Shi Ying also mentioned her strategic partnership with Lu Jiming, asking if Ning Meng would mind being inextricably linked to his circle if she stayed. As Ning Meng walked home alone, the bustling streets felt eerily empty. When she was about to enter her apartment, she heard a sound from the opposite door. Her heart sank when a cleaning lady emerged, rather than Lu Jiming. Memories of their past interactions flickered in her mind, hinting at a growing unease.

Upon You Qi's return, Ning Meng declared her intention to move out. You Qi expressed surprise, highlighting how difficult it was to find such a good apartment in Shanghai. Ning Meng clarified that while the apartment itself was excellent, she could no longer afford the "additional cost"—the indirect reliance on Lu Jiming. She desired to sever ties with him, not wanting her achievements to be attributed to his influence, directly or indirectly.

You Qi wholeheartedly supported Ning Meng's resolve, asserting that physical separation was the crucial first step toward psychological independence, and encouraged her to stand firm in her decision. Ning Meng later discussed her decision to move out with Shi Ying, clearly articulating her reasons. She expressed profound gratitude for Shi Ying's initial offer of cheap rent, which had helped her immensely.

However, having now adapted to her new company and having more energy for her personal life, Ning Meng felt she could no longer depend on Shi Ying. She feared that continually choosing the easy path would eventually erode her courage and perseverance for more challenging routes. While acknowledging Lu Jiming's expertise and judgment, Ning Meng affirmed her deep confidence in Eaglestone Capital and in herself.

She declared her aspiration to grow into a towering tree herself, rather than remaining like small grass shaded by Lu Jiming's formidable presence. Furthermore, Ning Meng passionately advocated for the Mobi project, stating that she had thoroughly researched their company and products and admired Lin Dayi’s unique product development philosophy.

She emphasized Mobi's commitment to professionalism amidst a market dominated by price wars, clarifying that her interest in the project was not impulsive but stemmed from it being the first genuinely good project she had recognized since joining the company. She requested Shi Ying's approval to continue pursuing the project and promised to find suitable limited partners. Impressed by Ning Meng's decisiveness and bravery, Shi Ying agreed, while also cautioning her to be mindful of sunk costs and time.

Shi Ying reiterated that Ning Meng should prioritize her comfort regarding her living situation. With a wistful gaze at the apartment filled with shared memories, Ning Meng pulled her suitcase and departed. Outside, she ran into Zeng Yuhang, who asked if she was going on another business trip. Ning Meng informed him she was moving out, which surprised him. You Qi, eager to leave, hurried Ning Meng into the elevator.

After Ning Meng left, Zeng Yuhang considered informing Lu Jiming but ultimately hesitated, deciding it was perhaps for the best. Meanwhile, Ning Meng and You Qi began organizing their new apartment. You Qi playfully accused Ning Meng of only asking her to help with strenuous tasks like assembling furniture. Ning Meng clarified she was showing support by ordering a Mobi fitness equipment unit.

You Qi then mentioned her boyfriend, He Yueluan, expressing irritation that he had been evasive about his arrival, sparking a suspicion that he might be secretly engaged in other activities. She immediately video-called him, but he hung up. Undeterred, she called again. When He Yueluan finally answered, You Qi noticed he was in a dimly lit place, holding a bouquet of roses, and confronted him about it.

Ning Meng, sensing the situation, quickly opened the door to find He Yueluan standing outside. He Yueluan explained he had just arrived after his flight, intending to surprise You Qi, who expressed her dislike for surprises. After He Yueluan thanked Ning Meng for taking care of You Qi, Ning Meng, recognizing the need for privacy, quickly excused herself to give the couple their personal space.

Back at Lu Jiming’s building, he was initially mistaken for a thief by someone attempting to enter the apartment. Lu Jiming then learned from Zeng Yuhang that Ning Meng had moved out about a week prior and expressed surprise that she hadn't informed him. Zeng Yuhang dismissed it as her personal business, suggesting it wasn't necessarily a bad thing. Lu Jiming, however, speculated that Shi Ying might be troubling Ning Meng because he hadn't invested in the Mobi project.

Zeng Yuhang subtly suggested that Lu Jiming's concern for Ning Meng was excessive, implying he was acting like a "scumbag." Lu Jiming denied it, claiming his concern stemmed from his role as her former boss. Ning Meng faced an uphill battle trying to secure investments for Mobi. Despite numerous calls, she made no progress throughout the day. She initially thought she had oversimplified things, but deep down, she believed in Mobi's potential and Lin Dayi's trust in her.

You Qi suggested she seek advice from an expert like Su Weiran. Ning Meng reluctantly reached out to Su Weiran, who frankly admitted his skepticism about the project. He explained that he didn't see home fitness as a strong market due to saturation and the ease with which Mobi's unique folding feature could be imitated. Seeing Ning Meng's disappointment, Su Weiran shared a personal anecdote about a challenging thesis topic from his university days.

He had initially followed his professor's advice to change the topic, only for a later student to succeed with the very same research, becoming an authority in the field. Su Weiran advised Ning Meng not to shoulder the burden alone and suggested that open communication with the founder could uncover new insights.

Later, over a barbecue, Ning Meng confessed to Lin Dayi that her attempts to secure limited partners had been unsuccessful, with several companies finding Mobi's folding function and professionalism insufficient as unique selling points. Lin Dayi, however, remained unfazed. He jovially recounted his many setbacks in entrepreneurship, explaining how they had helped him develop a "big heart" for failures.

He emphasized that one must never give up, likening the process to marathon beginners who need running buddies to motivate them when they feel like quitting. Lin Dayi added that exercising can be dull without company and encouragement, explaining why many home treadmills end up as clothes racks due to a lack of atmosphere and interaction. This sparked an idea in Ning Meng: what if they gathered all Mobi users into a social fitness group?

Lin Dayi enthusiastically agreed, seeing the potential for interaction, likes, comments, and online competitions with rewards, which he gladly offered to fund. He was thrilled that this solution involved software updates, tapping into his background as a software developer. Lu Jiming's Uncle Lu, after seeing Ning Meng's social media post about the Mobi project, called her and asked her to help him purchase a rowing machine for his home. Ning Meng happily delivered the equipment.

Madam Liu enthusiastically demonstrated the rowing machine, highlighting its joint-friendly nature and suitability for the elderly. Uncle Lu expressed his reluctance to go to a gym. Ning Meng encouraged him to try the machine, detailing its IF award, realistic rowing simulation, and app connectivity for social competitions. She even offered to compete with him using her own unit. Uncle Lu found it intriguing, comparing it to a game. Just then, Lu Jiming arrived with Han Yimeng.

Madam Liu warmly welcomed Han Yimeng. Ning Meng introduced herself to Han Yimeng as Lu Jiming's former secretary. Feeling awkward, Ning Meng quickly made an excuse about an upcoming meeting and left, despite Madam Liu's invitation to stay for tea. Lu Jiming followed her, asking why she had moved out. Ning Meng offered only terse, vague replies, insisting there was "no reason" and that she simply "didn't want to stay anymore."

When Lu Jiming suggested Shi Ying might be troubling her due to his non-investment in Mobi, Ning Meng reassured him that Mobi's progress was good and urged him to return to dinner before walking away. During dinner, Madam Liu and Uncle Lu spoke glowingly of Ning Meng, praising her thoughtfulness and recalling how she had been Lu Jiming's capable assistant.

Madam Liu noted that Lu Jiming rarely came home unless Ning Meng encouraged him, implying she was the only one he listened to. Lu Jiming, present at the table, dismissed their conversation. Madam Liu then turned to Han Yimeng, inquiring about her personal life. Han Yimeng revealed she had recently broken up with her boyfriend, attributing it to the common difficulty successful individuals face in finding partners. Madam Liu observed that Lu Jiming faced similar challenges.

Uncle Lu offered to help Han Yimeng find a suitable partner from his company. Madam Liu then suggested that Lu Jiming and Han Yimeng, being childhood friends, would make a good match. Lu Jiming immediately rejected the idea, stating that Han Yimeng was like an older sister to him. Uncle Lu quickly diffused the awkward atmosphere by changing the subject and inviting Han Yimeng to dine with them more frequently.

Ning Meng's innovative idea quickly bore fruit, gaining positive feedback from users and attracting significant interest from investors. Lin Dayi expressed his excitement, noting that the "socialization" aspect of their new plan had indeed proven to be a key highlight. Recognizing the momentum, Shi Ying instructed Ning Meng to strike while the iron was hot.

She had already contacted representatives from several interested companies and arranged a small investment recommendation meeting at Eaglestone Capital to select the most suitable limited partner. Ning Meng proudly noted that it was now their turn to choose investors, a reversal from their previous position. Shi Ying, impressed by the project's progress, decided to attend the meeting herself and pledged to mobilize all available resources to support Ning Meng.

Out of courtesy, Shi Ying suggested Ning Meng invite Lu Jiming, even though he had previously shown no interest in the project, stating that his attendance was entirely his decision. Ning Meng also considered inviting a senior from her university, who was an executive director at BDI, despite her doubts about his interest in such projects. Shi Ying encouraged her to invite him anyway, as it was a good opportunity for networking.

Unbeknownst to Ning Meng, Su Weiran instructed his assistant to reschedule all his meetings for the following afternoon, including an important, pre-arranged meeting with Mr. He, a manager from an insurance agency, citing urgent personal matters as the reason for the cancellation.

Episode 19 Recap

Ning Meng sent an invitation for the upcoming investment promotional event to Lu Jiming. Unexpectedly, Zeng Yuhang called her, stating that Lu Jiming was busy and couldn't attend, but he himself would be there to represent. Ning Meng maintained a calm demeanor, yet a myriad of emotions swirled within her. On the day of the promotion event, Ning Meng felt a touch of nerves. She took a deep breath, then confidently walked onto the stage.

Her humorous opening quickly put everyone at ease, eliciting laughter and setting a relaxed tone for the presentation. Ning Meng then introduced Yunniao Tech, a cutting-edge company specializing in smart fitness equipment, highlighting their five-year journey from the Mobi rowing machine to their latest innovations, including hardware breakthroughs, quality software applications, and customized training plans.

She emphasized Mobi's competitive edge in its social attributes, an idea championed by its founder, Mr. Lin Dayi, stating that investments should not only be in the product but also its underlying concept. Her clear and concise explanation captivated the attendees. Following her presentation, Zeng Yuhang openly declared his intention to invest, praising Ning Meng's presentation style.

Ning Meng then asserted that while investors were evaluating their project, her team was also in the position to select the most suitable investors. She specifically mentioned prioritizing those with advertising and e-commerce resources to facilitate resource integration. This declaration sparked an immediate and lively response, with various investors eagerly touting their extensive resources, including social media influencers and key opinion leaders. Zeng Yuhang even boasted of having the most comprehensive network of resources.

Ning Meng efficiently instructed all interested parties to submit their proposed investment shares and quotations for comparison, promising to announce the results soon. Zeng Yuhang then light-heartedly reminded her to secure his share. As the lively discussions unfolded, Su Weiran, who was among the attendees, noticed Lu Jiming standing discreetly by the entrance. Lu Jiming watched Ning Meng, a soft, appreciative smile on his face, before quietly departing.

After the successful promotional event, Ning Meng remained busy, diligently compiling the meeting minutes. She worked until nightfall, only to find Su Weiran still waiting for her outside. He congratulated her on the event, then revealed he was the "friend" she had mentioned at the cafe, about the Mobi project. He confessed that initially he hadn't been optimistic about the project, but seeing the upgrades, he had genuinely changed his mind, emphasizing his judgment was purely professional.

Ning Meng, touched by his genuine interest, confirmed that he still had an opportunity to invest, but stressed that everyone would have to compete fairly. Su Weiran then surprised her further by admitting he hadn't come for the project or to see Shi Ying, but simply "wanted to see her." He explained that seeing her on stage reminded him of his own initial passion when he first entered the investment world, a passion he rarely felt for projects anymore.

He shared that seeing her helped him remember his true self and the original intentions he had when he left university. Ning Meng was surprised by his heartfelt confession. The very next morning, Ning Meng received wonderful news: she had been promoted to Investment Manager. Shi Ying, her superior, personally delivered the news, praising Ning Meng for successfully completing every task, especially the Mobi project which she managed without direct company funding.

Shi Ying handed Ning Meng her new business cards, calling them the "real deal," a testament to her well-deserved promotion. Ning Meng expressed her sincere gratitude to Shi Ying for continuously providing her with opportunities. The team celebrated with cake. Soon after, Xiaoyang arrived at Eaglestone Capital to deliver documents to Shi Ying. Upon seeing the celebration and learning of Ning Meng's promotion to Investment Manager, Xiaoyang became ecstatic.

He immediately rushed back to Joint Capital, Lu Jiming's company, to share the exciting news. He exuberantly told Lu Jiming about Ning Meng's new role. Lu Jiming, however, remained calm, merely asking Xiaoyang to get him coffee and downplaying the news as nothing extraordinary. Xiaoyang, undeterred, then playfully inquired if he, a former secretary like Ning Meng, also had a chance at promotion within Joint Capital. Lu Jiming simply smiled and told him he was "thinking too much."

To celebrate her promotion, Ning Meng arranged a dinner with Su Weiran and her good friends, You Qi and her boyfriend, He Yueluan. During the exchange of business cards, He Yueluan, who worked at Renning Insurance, was surprised to discover that Su Weiran from BDI was the very investor he had previously scheduled a meeting with but had to postpone. They made plans to reconnect.

Throughout the meal, You Qi, a cheerful and outspoken friend, relentlessly teased Ning Meng, hinting at her past feelings for Su Weiran during their postgraduate studies. She recounted how Ning Meng had taken great care in choosing a birthday gift for Su Weiran during their postgraduate studies – a CD. Ning Meng tried to divert the conversation to work, discussing Mobi's plans to find a suitable artist for their treadmill designs, but You Qi persisted.

Sensing an opportune moment, You Qi subtly suggested Ning Meng go to the restroom to fix her makeup. Once Ning Meng was out of earshot, You Qi directly asked Su Weiran if he had listened to the CD, including both sides A and B. Su Weiran confirmed he had but admitted he hadn't opened the CD case to read the lyrics.

You Qi, with a mysterious smile, urged him to go back and examine the CD "inside and out" if he still had it, promising a surprise. Under Lu Jiming's enthusiastic organization, Han Yimeng held an art exhibition. Ning Meng, who was looking for an avant-garde artist for Mobi's new design project, decided to visit the exhibition. There, she encountered Han Yimeng and expressed her deep admiration for one of her paintings, finding it both peaceful and powerful.

Ning Meng then boldly proposed a potential collaboration for a co-designed product with a fitness brand. Han Yimeng, as an independent artist who had never engaged in commercial collaborations, initially hesitated. Ning Meng thoughtfully explained that such a partnership would allow Han Yimeng's work to reach a much wider audience, prompting Han Yimeng to agree to consider the proposal. Soon after, a renowned painter returning to China for an exhibition naturally attracted a large number of reporters.

During a press interview, Han Yimeng admitted to adjusting her creative state. However, the reporters quickly turned intrusive, persistently asking if her artwork was linked to her romantic relationship and a rumored breakup. The situation grew increasingly uncomfortable. Lu Jiming, seeing Han Yimeng's distress, swiftly intervened, attempting to lead her away. But the reporters were relentless, their flashbulbs relentlessly firing at Han Yimeng.

Losing his patience, Lu Jiming angrily confronted one of the reporters, vehemently reprimanding him for his inappropriate questions and aggressive photography, which almost escalated into a physical altercation before security intervened. After the chaotic scene, Han Yimeng, visibly upset, reproached Lu Jiming for his impulsive behavior, expressing her exhaustion and desire for solitude. Lu Jiming, still fuming, seemed not to understand why his actions were wrong.

Seeing him standing there, dazed and frustrated, Ning Meng gently approached him and offered him a bottle of water. She acknowledged that his intentions were good, as he was trying to protect Han Yimeng, but pointed out that fighting would not resolve the situation. Ning Meng then shared her perspective on Han Yimeng's art, saying she found it deeply moving and possessing a "healing power," suggesting it might reflect Han Yimeng's own inner longings.

Ning Meng advised Lu Jiming to give Han Yimeng some space, assuring him that with time, everything would likely improve for her. Later, Zeng Yuhang sought out Han Yimeng and, understanding the depth of Lu Jiming's feelings, directly asked her if she knew Lu Jiming had "always" liked her.

He clarified that Lu Jiming's confession years ago was not a joke, and that despite her long absence abroad and numerous advances from others, Lu Jiming had remained resolute and true to his feelings for over a decade, never changing. This revelation, accompanied by a fleeting flashback of a young Lu Jiming earnestly confessing his love to a younger Han Yimeng, seemed to stir a deep emotional response within her.

In the evening, Su Weiran unexpectedly called Ning Meng, saying he was already downstairs and had something urgent to ask her. Ning Meng quickly went down, and they began to walk, bathed in the soft evening breeze. Su Weiran brought up the CD Ning Meng had given him for his birthday years ago. Ning Meng seemed surprised by his sudden mention of it.

Su Weiran admitted he had indeed listened to the music many times back then, especially during final exams, but had only opened the CD case once to transfer the songs to his music player. He then revealed that, thanks to You Qi's persistence at their earlier dinner, he had recently revisited the CD and discovered a hidden note inside the case. Ning Meng, slightly flustered, tried to dismiss it as "past things."

But Su Weiran, looking directly at her, pressed on, asking if it was truly all in the past and if her feelings from back then still remained. He then referenced their past interaction, recalling how she had once called him a "kid" who didn't understand "like," and then directly asked her if she, after all these years, had truly not changed at all.

Episode 20 Recap

Han Yimeng embraced Lu Jiming, declaring that this time, she did not want to miss out. Lu Jiming, caught off guard and feeling a surprising lack of the joy he'd expected, admitted it was unexpected and that perhaps they both needed a little more time to process things. Despite his reaction, Han Yimeng held firm, reiterating her desire not to let the moment pass.

Meanwhile, Ning Meng confessed that her past feelings for Su Weiran were merely a beautiful memory from her youth and that they belonged firmly in the past. When Su Weiran pressed her about her current feelings, Ning Meng gently replied that they needed more time to clarify their feelings for each other. Su Weiran accepted her response, agreeing to give them both the time Ning Meng suggested, and proposed they let nature take its course without dwelling on the past.

The next morning, Han Yimeng was already busy preparing breakfast for Lu Jiming. She told him she wanted to change and try new things, explaining she couldn't always depend on him, as it made her feel useless. To that end, she asked for Ning Meng's contact details, hoping to pursue the design collaboration Ning Meng had previously mentioned.

Han Yimeng then commented on Lu Jiming's consistent black, white, and gray wardrobe, suggesting it made him appear unapproachable and offering to help him with a makeover. True to her word, Han Yimeng's efforts transformed Lu Jiming's appearance. When he arrived at the office, his colleagues were visibly impressed, remarking on how "dashing" and "handsome" he looked. During a meeting, Lu Jiming's colleagues were distracted, with one even dropping a pen.

Later, someone noticed his patterned socks, joking about how they added a "playful touch" to his handsome look, much to Lu Jiming's slight embarrassment. He quickly dismissed their attempts to flatter him for a raise, then adjourned the meeting. Upon hearing that Ning Meng had subtly refused Su Weiran's implied confession, You Qi expressed her regret.

She reminded Ning Meng how much she used to like Su Weiran and stressed that their reunion felt like fate, especially since they were both currently unattached. You Qi even probed if Ning Meng still held a torch for her ex-boss, Lu Jiming, a notion Ning Meng dismissed as a tiny flame that had long been extinguished.

You Qi emphasized the difficulty of navigating a big city alone and urged Ning Meng to find someone who could support and protect her, suggesting she could pursue both her career and love simultaneously. Ning Meng, however, maintained her focus on her career, believing one must let go to move forward. Later, Han Yimeng called Ning Meng, confirming her interest in the collaboration.

Ning Meng was delighted and promptly arranged a meeting for Han Yimeng with Mr. Lin Dayi, the founder of Mobi Fitness. Lu Jiming accompanied Han Yimeng to the meeting, a sight that caused a flicker of sadness across Ning Meng's face. During the meeting, Mr. Lin praised Han Yimeng and expressed his honor at their presence, immediately assuming that Lu Jiming and Han Yimeng were a couple due to their apparent compatibility.

He also complimented Ning Meng's capabilities, to which Lu Jiming proudly stated he had trained her well. After the meeting, Lu Jiming had a short call with his colleague and made plans to celebrate Han Yimeng's first commercial collaboration with a steak dinner at home that evening. Later that day, Su Weiran called Ning Meng and invited her to a movie over the weekend, which Ning Meng readily accepted.

That evening, Han Yimeng proudly showed Lu Jiming how she had adorned his cool-toned home with vibrant flowers and colors. Over dinner, she brought up a potential investment in a food waste grinder project, an idea Lu Jiming dismissed after explaining the significant differences in Chinese and foreign culinary habits, which would likely lead to severe drainage issues. Despite the work discussion, Han Yimeng suggested they relax that weekend.

She offered options like a Munch exhibition, a concert, or a movie, and Lu Jiming decided on a movie, taking the initiative to arrange it. To his surprise, when they arrived at the cinema, he saw Ning Meng and Su Weiran entering together. The movie proved to be a distraction for Lu Jiming, whose gaze kept drifting toward Ning Meng and Su Weiran.

His anxiety peaked when their hands brushed as they both reached for popcorn, causing him to crane his neck to see them clearly. Ning Meng and Su Weiran chatted and laughed happily throughout the film, while Lu Jiming remained preoccupied and unable to focus on the screen. After the movie, Lu Jiming deliberately waited, hoping to avoid Ning Meng and Su Weiran, but they inevitably ran into each other at the exit.

Han Yimeng acknowledged the coincidence and joked about the movie, subtly noting Lu Jiming's apparent dislike for it. On the way home, Han Yimeng asked Lu Jiming if Su Weiran was Ning Meng's boyfriend, remarking on their compatibility and "cute height difference." Lu Jiming dismissively stated that it would be tiring to constantly look up. Han Yimeng then added that perhaps others found her and Lu Jiming equally compatible, subtly hinting that she had noticed his underlying emotions.

Some time later, Ms. Shi and Ning Meng were discussing the Mobi collaboration, with Ning Meng confidently predicting high sales. Suddenly, Mr. Lin called Ning Meng, inquiring about her knowledge of Han Yimeng. He revealed that the printing for the Mobi product's rear panel had been halted due to a copyright issue with Han Yimeng's painting.

He explained that a painter named Sui Tang in the United States had recently exhibited a very similar work, which he had registered for copyright beforehand. Ning Meng, shocked, immediately left to clarify the situation with Han Yimeng. She met with Lu Jiming, who informed her that Sui Tang was Han Yimeng's ex-boyfriend. Ning Meng pressed for clarification on who truly created the painting, which visibly agitated Lu Jiming, who defensively asked if she, too, doubted Han Yimeng.

Ning Meng insisted she only wanted to understand the full story. Han Yimeng apologized profusely for the trouble, offering to terminate the contract and compensate for all losses. However, Ning Meng and Lu Jiming refused, stating that it would be unfair to her. Ning Meng stressed the importance of clarifying the truth. Han Yimeng then explained that she met Sui Tang at her graduation exhibition in the United States, where he was already a well-known Chinese artist.

She admitted being drawn to his talent, and the painting in question was created during their relationship, a period of great inspiration for her. However, Sui Tang gradually revealed a strong desire for control, interfering with her life and artistic process, often belittling her work. The relationship ended because of his controlling nature and, ultimately, because he was seeing someone else right before their engagement.

She concluded that he had plagiarized her work because he lacked the ability to surpass his own artistic achievements. Ning Meng noticed a recurring "flying bird" motif in Han Yimeng's paintings, which Han Yimeng confirmed was a consistent element in her art, symbolizing humanity's yearning for freedom and hope, yet acknowledging the inherent shackles and fate.

She recalled a similar painting from her university exhibition, which was sold to an art gallery owner whose business card she had tucked into a book, likely at her old family home. Ning Meng immediately contacted a lawyer, Mr. Qian, who confirmed that locating that specific artwork would be crucial evidence to prove Han Yimeng's authorship. Lu Jiming added that Mr. Lin had managed to secure them three days to resolve the issue with the shareholders, assuring Han Yimeng that they would solve the problem.

Episode 21 Recap

Lu Jiming, Ning Meng, and Han Yimeng diligently searched for the location of a specific painting. They initially sifted through art albums from high school and university, eventually discovering the name "Star Gallery" in one. Upon arriving at the gallery, they were informed that Miss Han's painting had already been sold and that the buyer's information could not be disclosed due to policy.

Han Yimeng urgently explained the importance of contacting the buyer, and the staff agreed to attempt to set up a meeting. Later, they learned that the painting had been purchased by a customer at a restaurant where it was displayed. The restaurant boss initially had no intention of selling it, as its ambiance perfectly complemented the establishment. However, after a lengthy conversation, the persistent customer managed to convince him to sell. The restaurant staff then attempted to contact the buyer.

The three then traveled to Mr. Liu's secluded courtyard home, where he confirmed he had the painting and was willing to help them by providing testimony if needed. He led them to his daughter Keke's room, where the painting was displayed. Mr. Liu revealed that his daughter, Keke, had chosen the painting. He shared a poignant story: Keke's mother had passed away in a car accident when Keke was two, leaving the child inconsolable.

However, the moment Keke saw Han Yimeng's painting in the restaurant, she immediately stopped crying. Mr. Liu explained that for his family, the painting carried a special meaning, having helped him and Keke through a very difficult period and giving them much courage. He expressed hope that this courage could also help Han Yimeng overcome her own difficulties and get back on her feet.

Keke then affectionately presented Ning Meng with a lemon flower and playfully gave Lu Jiming a "bitter melon flower" for his serious expression. Seeing that it was getting late and heavy thunderstorms were forecast for the mountain area, Mr. Liu invited them to stay the night, noting how much Keke enjoyed their company. Keke personally pleaded with Ning Meng to stay and play with her. Han Yimeng also informed You Qi that she would not be returning home that night.

Later that evening, Han Yimeng expressed her deep gratitude to Ning Meng. Ning Meng reciprocated, telling Han Yimeng that her painting conveyed warmth and strength. Han Yimeng confessed that she hadn't touched a paintbrush for a long time before returning to the country, struggling to find her creative inspiration. However, this recent event had greatly encouraged her, reigniting a strong desire to paint. They encouraged each other, wishing each other success in their respective fields.

Lu Jiming, having overheard their conversation, made a sarcastic remark about Ning Meng's comforting abilities, then announced his intention to leave. Ning Meng knew his playful annoyance was just his usual arrogant demeanor and turned to depart. However, Lu Jiming called her back and sincerely thanked her, acknowledging her crucial role in helping Han Yimeng. The next morning, Keke bid them farewell, asking Ning Meng to visit frequently, a request Ning Meng happily promised to fulfill.

Just as they were preparing to leave, Su Weiran arrived. He explained that he had been unable to reach Ning Meng by phone and had learned her location from You Qi. He was worried, having heard about the heavy rain and landslides that occurred in Northern Zhejiang's Mount Mogan over the past two days. Lu Jiming curtly informed Su Weiran that the matter was resolved and they were leaving.

Ning Meng, after a moment of hesitation, chose to ride with Su Weiran, leaving Lu Jiming visibly disheartened. Han Yimeng then prompted Lu Jiming to depart with her. During the drive back, Su Weiran expressed his concern for Ning Meng's habit of apologizing and offered her food he had brought. He reiterated his worry about her being on the mountain during the recent storms.

To keep her awake on the long journey, he told her a joke about a pink shovel. Meanwhile, in Lu Jiming’s car, Han Yimeng inquired why he hadn't kept Ning Meng at his company. Lu Jiming dismissed the question, though he later subtly commented that Ning Meng "has bad taste," implying her choice to ride with Su Weiran. Han Yimeng then directly asked if he disapproved of Ning Meng being with Su Weiran, to which he feigned indifference.

Later that night, Lu Jiming confided in Zeng Yuhang about Han Yimeng’s proposition to try a relationship. Despite having waited over a decade for her to say those words, he found himself not feeling the joy he had anticipated. Zeng Yuhang, observing Lu Jiming's troubled state, offered a "rapid fire" quiz to help him clarify his feelings, presenting choices like "Ning Meng or Meng Jie?"

Lu Jiming hesitated, initially attempting to deflect with a vague answer, but his obvious struggle and Zeng Yuhang's probing confirmed his underlying feelings for Ning Meng. Zeng Yuhang urged him to be honest with Han Yimeng, suggesting that his feelings for her might be more akin to familial affection or a sense of obligation rather than romantic love.

He pointed out that Lu Jiming was visibly unhappy and advised him against acting as a "grateful child" who repays a deed, emphasizing that true happiness comes from acknowledging one's genuine feelings. Unable to resolve his turmoil, Lu Jiming suggested they go for a drink instead of continuing to spar.

That night, Han Yimeng became increasingly worried when Lu Jiming didn't return home and called Zeng Yuhang, who confirmed he had seen Lu Jiming leave with a designated driver but couldn't confirm his current whereabouts. Han Yimeng eventually found a heavily intoxicated Lu Jiming asleep outside his apartment door. When she asked if he was feeling unwell, he murmured that he didn't want to make her sad, leaving Han Yimeng surprised and then wistful.

The collaboration between Mobi and Han Yimeng's art line was a success, with Han Yimeng approving the co-branded treadmills. Lu Jiming placed an initial order of thirty units to be gifted to company clients, acknowledging Ning Meng as Mobi's greatest contributor, praising her work from pre-investment to post-management. Su Weiran invited them to dinner to celebrate, but Lu Jiming and Han Yimeng already had plans. Later, Su Weiran invited Ning Meng to visit their alma mater together.

He mentioned he would be giving a recruitment talk there that Sunday morning and suggested they could explore the campus afterward. Ning Meng, who hadn't been back since graduation, happily agreed. On their visit to the campus, Ning Meng watched Su Weiran playing basketball. She cheered as he scored a point, praising his skills.

They sat down and reminisced about their university days, including Su Weiran's past as the school's MVP and his game-winning shot in an intercollegiate championship, a moment Ning Meng recalled vividly despite the unfair refereeing. A familiar song, "The Brightest Star in the Sky," played over the campus broadcast. Su Weiran noted it was on a CD Ning Meng had given him, and they both admitted it was their favorite song from the album.

Su Weiran also brought up an old memory of Ning Meng and her senior meeting him on his birthday, where she gave him a gift. Ning Meng then suggested they walk around their old classrooms. They found their former classroom, and Ning Meng asked Su Weiran why he had been so certain she hadn't cheated on an exam years ago.

He explained that her paper contained correct answers, including an additional question he and their professor had set, making it clear she possessed the knowledge to pass without cheating. The experience made them feel as if they were students again. The next day, Lu Jiming and Han Yimeng went to their childhood skating rink. They noticed how much it had changed but were delighted to see their old coach still there, though he had aged significantly.

Han Yimeng recalled a time when the coach had made Lu Jiming cry, and afterward, he had only wanted her to teach him. She thanked Lu Jiming for accompanying her recently and for his past companionship. Han Yimeng then gently told him that she sensed he hadn't been truly happy lately, often prioritizing her emotions.

She expressed that she didn't want him to suppress his feelings, emphasizing that a relationship should be mutual, not a one-sided sacrifice that could only last for so long. She confessed that she had always seen him as a younger brother. While she had been surprised and "a little touched" by his confession in high school, the timing wasn't right as she was about to study abroad.

She later learned from Zeng Yuhang that Lu Jiming had been waiting for her all these years, which made her consider if they could make up for their past missed opportunity. However, she now understood that some things, once missed, cannot be recaptured, as they had both grown and changed. She told Lu Jiming that he was avoiding admitting his own transformation, fearing it would be a betrayal to himself.

Yet, she stressed that facing one's true feelings is a sign of integrity and making a genuine choice is the only way to avoid regret. Lu Jiming thanked her, and they both agreed it was time to move forward.

Episode 22 Recap

Su Weiran opened up to Ning Meng about his past relationship after she agreed to listen. He revealed that after graduation, he and his ex-girlfriend moved abroad, where they faced significant challenges. They struggled to adapt to a new life and were constantly short on money, leading to frequent arguments. Both felt they were sacrificing more for the other, enduring hardship while loving each other.

He then described how a wealthy second-generation immigrant aggressively pursued his ex-girlfriend, detailing the appalling tactics such individuals used to win hearts. Although his ex-girlfriend initially found it hard to let go of him, he discovered she was seeing this man and confronted her. She then chose the wealthy man. Su Weiran went through a very difficult period, feeling her betrayal profoundly changed his life.

From that point on, he dedicated all his time and energy to work, determined to prove himself and achieve success, which he now felt he had done. He admitted that he hadn't dated since and had lost faith in love until he met Ning Meng again. He told her that seeing her always reminded him of his past self, who believed in the beauty and purity of the world and in the realization of original dreams.

He thanked her for helping him regain the ability to love and then asked Ning Meng to be his girlfriend. Han Yimeng was about to depart and said goodbye to Lu Jiming at the airport, urging him to take care and stay safe. She advised him not to be consumed solely by work and to take action on certain things.

She expressed her belief that Lu Jiming and Ning Meng were compatible, noting how relaxed and comfortable he seemed when he was with Ning Meng, emphasizing that true feelings cannot be faked. She implored him to face his heart directly before leaving. Zeng Yuhang echoed Han Yimeng's sentiments, questioning if Lu Jiming felt any reluctance about Han Yimeng leaving. Lu Jiming admitted he didn't, feeling at ease after Han Yimeng had clarified things.

Zeng Yuhang persisted, telling Lu Jiming to genuinely confront his feelings. Lu Jiming, sighing, claimed he was already doing so. Zeng Yuhang then pressed him, asking if he admitted to liking Ning Meng, to which Lu Jiming nodded. Zeng Yuhang, impressed, then revealed a crucial piece of information: he believed Ning Meng also had some feelings for Lu Jiming.

Though Lu Jiming briefly smiled with a hint of satisfaction, Zeng Yuhang cautioned him not to celebrate too soon, explaining that those feelings were from a long time ago and Ning Meng's current thoughts were uncertain. He urged Lu Jiming to act quickly, reminding him that Ning Meng was now even more exceptional and had many suitors. Lu Jiming casually dismissed the urgency, but then emphatically stated that no one else was allowed to pursue her.

Meanwhile, Ning Meng was making significant strides in her career. She learned that the initial pre-sale batch of the Mobi artist crossover series had completely sold out, indicating great success. She also discussed future plans for Mobi with Shi Ying, suggesting they seek a broker for restructuring to potentially list on the A-share or New Third Board, showcasing her diversified investment thinking.

Ning Meng then presented Shi Ying with a new project opportunity: Lehui, an enterprise specializing in small household electrical appliances that was seeking funding for its new multi-functional Donlim Pot. Ning Meng's friend introduced her to the project. The company was led by a female entrepreneur, Liu Huimin, who personally designed all of Lehui’s products, making them unique in the small appliance industry. Impressed, Shi Ying encouraged Ning Meng to pursue it.

Ning Meng then requested to independently manage the project if Lehui proved viable, much like she had done with Mobi, taking full responsibility for finding capital and executing the plan. Shi Ying gave her full approval. Ning Meng met with Liu Huimin, who detailed her entrepreneurial background: she previously co-owned an appliance OEM business with her ex-husband, but became a homemaker after pregnancy.

After their divorce, fueled by her experience cooking at home and her ex-husband's lack of support for her new ideas, she refocused on designing convenient kitchen appliances. Liu Huimin explained she intended to use the raised funds for initial production, with market launch costs covered by her divorce settlement, which was pending due to her ex-husband’s business affairs. Ning Meng confirmed the settlement's due date was clearly stipulated, and Liu Huimin vouched for her ex-husband's honesty.

Liu Huimin expressed her nervousness about such a large financing project after years away from entrepreneurship, and Ning Meng offered her support, leveraging her experience in capital management and operation. Both expressed hope for a successful collaboration. Back at his office, a distracted Lu Jiming sought dating advice from his driver, Song, who comically compared pursuing a girl to driving, emphasizing the importance of timing and avoiding "rear-end collisions" and random lane changes.

Lu Jiming also asked Xiaoyang for gift ideas. Xiaoyang suggested handbags and elaborated on gift choices for different relationships, though Lu Jiming found the suggestions unhelpful. Annoyed, Lu Jiming decided to book a restaurant himself for two people that evening at seven, requesting a private room with a night view and pre-ordered flowers.

He then sent Song away and drove himself to Eaglestone Capital, only to find Ning Meng was out on a project inspection and wouldn't be back until late. To conceal his true intention, he pretended he was there to discuss investment projects with Shi Ying. Shi Ying mentioned Ning Meng was already independently handling the Lehui project, having secured the right to find funds herself.

Lu Jiming feigned disinterest in investing in Lehui, stating he would let Ning Meng manage it fully. He then spent the rest of the time presenting other projects to Shi Ying, trying to stall for Ning Meng's return. Finally, Ning Meng returned to Eaglestone Capital. Shi Ying, sensing the situation, quickly made an excuse to leave, giving Lu Jiming and Ning Meng privacy.

Lu Jiming praised Ning Meng's increasingly sharp investment insight and called her an outstanding investor, acknowledging her growth. Ning Meng, calm and composed, correctly guessed that Lu Jiming had something important to tell her beyond professional matters. As Lu Jiming stammered, struggling to find the right words to invite her out, Su Weiran suddenly appeared, holding a bouquet of flowers. He immediately announced that Ning Meng had agreed to be his girlfriend, surprising Lu Jiming.

Su Weiran then mentioned he had just picked up a new car and planned to take Ning Meng to dinner. Lu Jiming witnessed Ning Meng getting into Su Weiran's car and driving away, leaving him crestfallen. Heartbroken, Lu Jiming cancelled his dinner reservation and instructed the restaurant to discard the pre-ordered flowers. Heartbroken, Lu Jiming channeled his frustration into a vigorous run on the treadmill.

Zeng Yuhang found him and tried to comfort him, urging him to confess his feelings to Ning Meng, arguing it was not too late as they had likely just started dating and Ning Meng might have acted on impulse. This seemed to ignite a realization in Lu Jiming, who immediately rushed out to find Ning Meng. He confronted her, asserting that he found Su Weiran unreliable and accusing her of being swayed by small favors.

Ning Meng, visibly annoyed, questioned his right to interfere in her personal life, accusing him of maliciously speculating about others and being a busybody. Lu Jiming clarified that he and Han Yimeng were merely family and friends, not romantically involved, countering her insinuation that he was taking out his recent heartbreak on her.

Finally, summoning his courage, Lu Jiming confessed his feelings, explaining that his past contentious behavior, such as repeatedly insisting she return as his secretary or opposing her strategic cooperation with Shi Ying, stemmed from his deep care for her and his reluctance to be separated from her. He acknowledged his regret for not expressing himself sooner. However, it was too late. Ning Meng firmly stated that she already had a boyfriend and that they should mind their own business.

She then asked him to respect her. Defeated, Lu Jiming returned to drown his sorrows in alcohol. In the days that followed, Lu Jiming’s demeanor changed dramatically. He became quiet and distracted, no longer losing his temper, which alarmed his colleagues. Xiaoyang, concerned, noted that the company felt lifeless and missed Lu Jiming’s previous outbursts. She even worried about being fired, perceiving Lu Jiming's unusual quietness as the "calm before the storm."

Xiaoyang later called Ning Meng, describing Lu Jiming's symptoms and suspecting he was heartbroken, especially after Lu Jiming had asked about gifts for girls. Ning Meng, however, coldly stated she no longer understood him as she had left the company long ago. Despite the personal turmoil, Ning Meng continued to focus on the Lehui project.

She had successfully structured the limited partnership, securing Mr. Liang (with advertising resources) and Mr. Zhou (with e-commerce resources, who had previously wanted to invest in Mobi) as limited partners, with Eaglestone Capital as the general partner, investing 20% into Lehui. Ning Meng found the process surprisingly smooth, almost to the point of suspicion. Shi Ying later suggested Ning Meng visit Jiming Capital to explore other projects, but Ning Meng declined, citing her focus on Lehui and sending Xiaoya instead.

Mr. Zhou later met Ning Meng, expressing his desire to invest directly in Lehui, bypassing Eaglestone Capital despite being a secured limited partner. He questioned why he needed to invest through them if he was the primary investor. Ning Meng explained that her company provided essential post-investment management, resource integration, and synergy, which direct investment lacked.

Unconvinced, Mr. Zhou proposed that Ning Meng should yield 10% of the shares to him, in exchange for a substantial "project introduction fee" paid directly to her personal account, urging her to keep it quiet. Ning Meng found this unethical and insisted on adhering to the original investment structure, believing it was best for all parties involved. Mr. Zhou, however, saw it as disadvantageous for himself and threatened to pull out, forcing Ning Meng to find a new investor.

Episode 23 Recap

Mr. Zhou presented Ning Meng with two choices: either he would invest in the project if she gave him ten percent of the stakes and he would provide a substantial project introduction fee, or he would withdraw from the project entirely, as it would not result in any losses for him. Ning Meng decisively chose the second option, stating it was for everyone's convenience.

She later explained to Su Weiran that for her, it was not about the amount of money, but about upholding her bottom line, a principle Su Weiran fully supported. Later, Su Weiran invited Ning Meng to a stand-up comedy show. They watched, thoroughly entertained, until Ning Meng was distracted by the sight of Lu Jiming leaving the venue.

Sensing her shift in mood, Su Weiran asked if Lu Jiming was the one who had made her feel puzzled in the past. Ning Meng confirmed it, but as she began to elaborate, Su Weiran gently interrupted, extending his hand for her to take, assuring her of his trust. Ning Meng smiled, placing her hand in his. As Ning Meng scrolled through her social media, she noticed Tang Zhengwang and had a sudden idea to meet him.

She presented the Lehui project, explaining how Tang Zhengwang could profit by becoming a customized furniture supplier for middle to high-end hotels and serviced apartments that cater to young people, a project previously handled by Mr. Liang whom Ning Meng had worked with. Furthermore, Lehui would include Qilin's Home in its marketing campaigns for free, creating a mutually beneficial brand promotion. Tang Zhengwang was delighted by this resource integration and agreed to cooperate.

They toasted with water and took a photo, which Tang Zhengwang posted to his Moments, celebrating their new partnership. Shi Ying praised Ning Meng for her quick resolution of the LP issues, especially her innovative use of resource integration, and admired her for prioritizing the company's interests over Mr. Zhou's tempting offer.

Meanwhile, Lu Jiming was seen absorbed in his phone, looking haggard, a sight that deeply concerned Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian, who believed he was suffering from heartbreak due to being slow to realize his feelings. Later, colleagues discussed that Shuangxun Group had been aggressively purchasing shares of Qinhe, the company chaired by Lu Tianxing, Lu Jiming's father. Just as they were talking, Lu Jiming arrived at Eaglestone Capital for a meeting.

Shi Ying instructed Ning Meng to host him, but Ning Meng quickly made an excuse, claiming she had an urgent meeting with Ms. Liu of Lehui, and promptly left the office, leaving a colleague to attend to Lu Jiming. Shi Ying later approached Ning Meng, sagely advising her that sometimes, avoiding someone one does not wish to be associated with is futile.

She emphasized that relationships not meant to last will eventually dissolve, while those that are meant to be will endure, no matter how far one tries to hide, calling it human fate. Ning Meng met with Liu Huimin. After their meeting, while waiting for a taxi with Su Weiran, Ning Meng unexpectedly saw He and Qiu Junlin together, looking intoxicated, as they entered a car.

Concerned that He might be betraying You Qi, but lacking concrete evidence, Ning Meng decided to invite He and You Qi out for dinner, hoping to discreetly observe He. During the dinner, Ning Meng subtly questioned He about Qiu Junlin. You Qi interjected, recalling that Qiu Junlin was the person who had caused Ning Meng to resign from her previous job, and warned He not to associate with him.

He dismissed the connection, downplaying his knowledge of Qiu Junlin, and continued to show his characteristic attentiveness and affection toward You Qi, peeling shrimp for her and expressing care when she found a dish spicy. After observing their interactions, Ning Meng felt she had overthought the situation. Later that evening, as Ning Meng and Su Weiran walked through the romantic Shanghai night, Su Weiran leaned in to kiss Ning Meng by the Oriental Pearl Tower.

However, Ning Meng instinctively flinched and subtly moved away. Although Su Weiran verbally dismissed it, stating he would wait until she was truly ready, he inwardly felt a sense of disappointment. Liu Huimin later informed Ning Meng that her ex-husband's OEM factory had encountered issues due to using unapproved parts to cut costs, leading to massive returns and compensation demands from brands. This meant he could not transfer the money he had promised her on time.

Liu Huimin explained that even legal procedures would not expedite the payment. Tang Zhengwang, upon hearing the news, called Ning Meng, worried about their investment. Ning Meng reassured him, promising to find a solution for Lehui's capital gap within three days. She then sought advice from Su Weiran, who expressed suspicion, suggesting that Liu Huimin and her ex-husband might be colluding to defraud the limited partners, a common tactic he had witnessed in the capital market.

However, Ning Meng defended Liu Huimin, emphasizing Liu Huimin's integrity and her personal sacrifices—mortgaging her house and car and borrowing money—to save the project. Shi Ying, while supporting Ning Meng's efforts, also informed her that Eaglestone's own funds were currently tight, meaning Ning Meng would need to seek additional investment externally. Concerned about Lehui's situation, Lu Jiming reached out to Tang Zhengwang to inquire about any updates. Concurrently, Ning Meng went to the factory to meet Liu Huimin.

While she was there, a group of aggressive men, who were not factory employees, arrived and began forcibly removing inventory from the warehouse, claiming that Lehui's funding had dried up and they were collecting on a debt. Ning Meng rushed to intervene, asserting that the payment terms were clearly stipulated in the contract and accusing them of taking advantage of the situation.

As one of the men pulled out a knife, Lu Jiming suddenly appeared and bravely shielded Ning Meng, taking the blade himself. The police arrived shortly after, causing the thugs to flee. At the hospital, the doctor informed Lu Jiming that he was fortunate the cut on his arm wasn't deeper, as it could have been life-threatening.

When Lu Jiming asked Ning Meng how she came to be there, she explained that she had heard about the factory's trouble from Tang Zhengwang. He then suggested that they could at least be friends, a simple friendship without strange words or crossing boundaries, similar to how she interacted with Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian. Ning Meng readily agreed, and they shared a lighthearted moment, finally breaking the long-standing awkwardness between them.

Episode 24 Recap

Su Weiran arrived at the hospital to pick up Ning Meng, where he found her speaking with Lu Jiming. Ning Meng apologized to Lu Jiming for his injury, regretting her late arrival, and Su Weiran, on her behalf, thanked Lu Jiming for his help. Su Weiran then sarcastically commented on Lu Jiming's attentiveness to a former employee, calling him "such a good boss" and noting how "rare" it was.

Lu Jiming dismissed it as nothing significant, calling it a small favor. Su Weiran added that Ning Meng seemed frightened and then decided to take her back to rest. In the car, Su Weiran admonished Ning Meng for going to such a dangerous place without informing him immediately. He interrogated her about Lu Jiming's sudden appearance, accusing her of deliberately creating "a chance to pursue" her. Ning Meng denied this, explaining that their encounters were infrequent and strictly work-related.

Su Weiran dismissed her explanations, claiming to understand the pervasive tactics of "rich kids" and suggesting Ning Meng was too naive. When Ning Meng defended Lu Jiming, Su Weiran became agitated, questioning her trust in him as well as his own, before losing control and violently punching the steering wheel, shocking Ning Meng. He exited the car to compose himself.

Upon returning, he apologized, explaining that a past betrayal had made him "very afraid" and "very sensitive," causing him to lash out from fear of losing her. Ning Meng expressed understanding but urged him not to let his past experiences cast a shadow over their current relationship, assuring him she would never betray him. Su Weiran acknowledged his mistake and promised to control his impulses.

Separately, Tang Zhengwang called Ning Meng, informing her he intended to increase his investment ratio and provide additional funds. Ning Meng, aware that his company, Qilin, was already operating at its maximum investment capacity while expanding its manufacturing line, questioned the sudden availability of extra funds. She directly asked if the money was from Lu Jiming. Tang Zhengwang vehemently denied it but, looking towards Lu Jiming who was nearby, told Ning Meng to thank him on his behalf.

Lu Jiming, overhearing this, told Tang Zhengwang there was no need. Understanding the situation, Ning Meng politely declined the direct financial assistance, stating she would resolve Ms. Liu's project issues herself. Later, Lu Jiming called Ning Meng. He acknowledged her stubborn independence in declining help but clarified that his call was to "motivate" her. He reminded her of her past success in transitioning to the project department despite his initial doubts, encouraging her to continue believing in herself.

Ning Meng resonated with his advice, likening her current challenge to making "delicious chicken soup" – she needed to demonstrate her capabilities for others to invest by letting them taste it first. Lu Jiming praised her insight, and they concluded the call on friendly terms. Meanwhile, Ning Meng visited Ms. Liu, the owner of Lehui, who was contemplating delaying her project.

Ms. Liu felt unprepared for entrepreneurship despite having gathered the penalty funds for breaching a contract, echoing her ex-husband's criticisms. Ning Meng shared her own journey, having been told she was unsuited for investment but ultimately succeeding through perseverance. She encouraged Ms. Liu to "bravely try" and proposed an alternative strategy: instead of focusing on immediate manufacturing, they should leverage the existing funds for marketing and promotion.

This involved distributing some of the Donlim Pots as free samples to build a strong reputation first, which would then attract investors for larger-scale production. Ning Meng mentioned she had already discussed this with Mr. Liang and Mr. Tang. Inspired by Ning Meng's conviction and detailed plan, Ms. Liu decided to make one last attempt. Ning Meng and Ms. Liu then met with Mr. Lin from Mobi to propose a cross-industry collaboration.

Mr. Lin initially questioned the high promotion costs of bundling a Donlim Pot with a fitness machine. Ms. Liu explained it was a "last-ditch attempt" to build reputation and visibility rather than seek immediate profits, trusting that a good product would eventually attract new investments. Mr. Lin then asked Ning Meng about her innovative idea to combine such seemingly disparate products.

Ning Meng articulated that both products shared a common philosophy of fostering social connection and shared happiness, thus targeting overlapping consumer bases. She further detailed Lehui's comprehensive marketing strategy, including collaborations with food apps for "Donlim Pot Recipe," sharing platforms for lucky draws, and popular live broadcasts, impressing both Ms. Liu and Mr. Lin. The collaboration proved highly successful, significantly boosting the reputation and sales of both Mobi and Lehui, and attracting new investors.

Ms. Liu publicly hailed Ning Meng as the "biggest contributor" to Lehui's revival, deeply moved by her unwavering support and declaring that Ning Meng made her feel she was "no longer fighting alone." To celebrate Lehui's triumph, Su Weiran invited Ning Meng to dinner, expressing his renewed admiration for her accomplishments. During their meal, Su Weiran suggested that Ning Meng, with her impressive capabilities, should consider a larger platform than Eaglestone Capital, which he described as an "average" company.

While Ning Meng briefly left to use the restroom, Su Weiran secretly checked her phone and observed recent text message exchanges between her and Lu Jiming. Ning Meng appeared to notice a subtle change in his demeanor upon her return, though she did not comment on it. Later, Lu Jiming attended a social gathering where he was playing poker. His consistent wins were noted by other players. Soon, Su Weiran arrived, and an immediate tension filled the room.

The two men exchanged formal greetings before joining the game. As the poker game progressed, Su Weiran played with aggressive precision, quickly forcing other players to fold. The remaining participants observed the intense atmosphere between Lu Jiming and Su Weiran, remarking that they seemed to harbor a "grudge," playing with an "obsessed" intensity as if determined to "settle this within a game" by going "all-in" early. Both Lu Jiming and Su Weiran vocalized their shared disdain for "dragging things out."

Despite most onlookers believing Su Weiran was guaranteed a win with three aces, Lu Jiming chose to stay in. In a surprising turn, Lu Jiming revealed a straight, securing a dramatic comeback victory against Su Weiran's seemingly superior hand. Defeated and visibly frustrated, Su Weiran admitted his play became "too emotional" and abruptly left the game. Lu Jiming also departed shortly after his win.

Upon returning to his company, Lu Jiming found his colleagues discussing a major equity shift involving Shuangxun Capital and Qinhe. They speculated that what appeared to be a capital war was, in reality, a power struggle between Lu Tianxing, Lu Jiming's father, and Lu Guoyu for corporate control and influence. They hypothesized that Shuangxun Capital was a "mercenary" hired by Lu Tianxing to regain shareholder rights, indicating Lu Tianxing's faction held the advantage.

Lu Jiming then went home to speak with his father, Lu Tianxing, about Shuangxun's increased stakes. He expressed concern that the rapid accumulation of shares might lead his father to be "taken advantage of." Lu Tianxing, upholding his business philosophy of trust, acknowledged that his previous choice, Lu Guoyu, had drastically changed, constantly interfering with Qinhe's operations and opposing him on critical decisions, particularly a rushed and problematic sewage treatment project.

Lu Jiming suggested his father try to engage Lu Guoyu in a more amicable discussion to avoid mutual destruction, even questioning if his father's attitude might be too strong. However, Lu Tianxing became defensive, accusing his son of "teaching him how to do things" and questioning his understanding of Qinhe. The conversation escalated, prompting an older woman, a family member, to intervene and encourage them to eat and calm down.

Despite her efforts, Lu Tianxing remained agitated and left the table. Later, Ning Meng also discussed the ongoing news with a colleague, admitting her limited understanding of the secondary market and the potential progression of the situation. Separately, He Yueluan called Ning Meng, requesting her to pick up You Qi, who was "causing trouble" during an important client discussion. Ning Meng immediately headed to his location. Upon arrival, she found You Qi vehemently confronting He Yueluan, demanding he return home.

He Yueluan dismissed her, claiming he was working. You Qi pointed to a provocatively dressed woman, accusing her of being a "hostess" rather than a colleague and noting she "even sat on his lap" and "drank with him so much that it spilled on her." The woman attempted to explain that He Yueluan's wine had spilled on her, but You Qi ignored her.

As the argument intensified, He Yueluan shouted at You Qi, demanding she stop being "unreasonable" and leave, embarrassed by the public scene. Ning Meng attempted to mediate, but You Qi remained furious. Ning Meng decided to take You Qi away, sternly telling He Yueluan to "behave himself." As they departed, Ning Meng glanced back at the scene with a shocked expression, having seemingly witnessed something further.

Episode 25 Recap

You Qi tearfully confided in Ning Meng, recounting how she had checked He Yueluan's phone the previous night and discovered a reservation for a karaoke room. When she confronted He, he claimed to be working overtime at the office. Driven by suspicion, You Qi went directly to the karaoke room, where He explained he had gone there with a client after finishing his overtime work.

Ning Meng tried to reassure You Qi, suggesting that if He's explanation was true, her outburst might have caused him to lose face in front of his clients. However, You Qi's intuition told her that He seemed to have changed. To ease You Qi's distress, Ning Meng continued to console her and even spoke on He's behalf.

Yet, Ning Meng couldn't shake the memory of seeing He at a hotel, visibly drunk and holding a woman's arm without any attempt to hide their closeness. She cautiously asked You Qi what she would do if He had truly betrayed her. You Qi, having been with He for many years, was unwilling to easily end their relationship and refused to even consider the possibility of him cheating.

Ning Meng tried to explain it was a hypothetical situation, but You Qi became distraught, stating she didn't know how she could live if they broke up. Ning Meng arrived at a restaurant to celebrate You Qi's birthday and unexpectedly ran into Lu Jiming and Zeng Yuhang. After exchanging a few brief pleasantries, they parted ways, though Zeng Yuhang found their interaction strange.

Later, He Yueluan presented You Qi with a beautiful necklace, which delighted her so much that she immediately forgave him for the previous misunderstanding. Lu Jiming's fears were confirmed: Shuangxun's acquisition of Qinhe's shares had exceeded twenty percent, reaching twenty-two percent. Zeng Yuhang was incredulous upon hearing the news. Lu Jiming believed that Shuangxun's true objective was to seize control of Qinhe.

He explained that his father and Qinhe's executives held twenty-one percent, and his plan was to acquire an additional two percent from the secondary market, bringing their combined stake to twenty-three percent. Concerned about his father's health and knowing that once Shuangxun reached thirty percent ownership, a tender offer would be triggered, Lu Jiming prepared to raise funds to help his father and prevent a hostile takeover.

He called Ning Meng, asking for her help to arrange a meeting with He Yueluan, as Renning Insurance held the crucial seven percent stake needed to reach thirty percent and gain control. Ning Meng was also worried about Qinhe's situation and, since Lu Jiming had actively sought her assistance, she was determined to do everything she could to help. To prevent any misunderstanding with Su Weiran, Ning Meng specifically told him about the situation.

Su Weiran encouraged Ning Meng to proceed, assuring her he wasn't a petty boyfriend. Lu Jiming proposed that Renning Insurance and Qinhe form a concerted action group to gain the upper hand. However, He Yueluan informed them that Shuangxun had already contacted Renning before their arrival. Lu Jiming and Ning Meng exchanged knowing glances, understanding that this was to be expected. Although it was anticipated, both Lu Jiming and Ning Meng felt a sense of disappointment.

He then shifted the conversation, stating that the company's executives and board members fully supported cooperation with Qinhe, acknowledging Qinhe's strong qualifications and Lu Senior's contributions to environmental efforts. He assured them he would supervise the Shenzhen headquarters to expedite the necessary internal processes, though he couldn't give an exact timeline for the agreement's signing. With He's commitment, a slight burden was lifted from their minds.

After the meeting, Ning Meng encountered a female colleague of He Yueluan's in the company and subtly implied the deep bond between He and You Qi, hoping to deter any romantic intentions the colleague might have. During this encounter, Ning Meng also overheard the colleague discussing Lu Jiming's recent financial difficulties, mentioning a struggling new energy vehicle stock he held that was nearing its lock-up expiry and negative news causing its value to drop.

Pleased that the matter was seemingly resolved, Ning Meng suggested having dinner with Su Weiran. In the car, Mr. Zhai unexpectedly called Su Weiran to thank him for his help with bond issuance. Ning Meng sensed something was amiss, and her suspicion grew when she learned Mr. Zhai was from Zhoushan. They arrived at Su Weiran's newly renovated apartment, which he had bought in full, and sat on the floor watching a movie together in the evening.

Su Weiran subtly put his arm around Ning Meng's shoulder, hinting for her to stay the night. However, Ning Meng felt uncomfortable and declined his invitation, citing a prior commitment to You Qi for yoga. Many days passed, but there was still no news from Renning Insurance. Ning Meng repeatedly asked He Yueluan, but he consistently replied that the process was still ongoing.

During a meal, Lu Jiming discussed the situation with his father, who expressed deep self-reproach, feeling like a "sinner" for Qinhe's predicament. However, his father refused to listen to Lu Jiming's advice regarding the current business climate and his strategies, particularly about fundraising. This led to another heated argument, with his father cautioning him against misusing funds.

Despite their disagreement, Lu Jiming was concerned about his aging father's health and went to urge him to eat, feeling a pang of sadness as he looked at him. One day, Ning Meng coincidentally met a senior she knew, who had previously been in a relationship with Su Weiran. As they reminisced, the senior suddenly asked Ning Meng if she and Su Weiran had ever quarreled.

The senior also advised Ning Meng to give Su Weiran more space if they ever argued and to avoid contention until he calmed down, while also expressing remorse for past issues in their own relationship with him. Ning Meng was puzzled by the senior's words and felt a growing sense of unease. That evening, Ning Meng told Su Weiran about her encounter with his senior.

Episode 26 Recap

Ning Meng told Su Weiran that she had met her senior sister, who expressed deep remorse towards him for past events. Su Weiran claimed he bore no ill will, adding that humans are inherently driven by desire, making it difficult to uphold one's integrity amidst numerous societal temptations. He expressed gratitude for Ning Meng, asserting his belief that she would never disappoint him.

The following day, Lu Jiming approached Ning Meng, asking her to follow up with He Yueluan regarding the Qinhe agreement, as he felt hesitant to rush him further. Lu Jiming voiced concerns about Shuangxun Group's potential moves and Renning Insurance's slow procedures, even suggesting that Qinhe might have to suspend trading as a last resort.

Ning Meng immediately called He Yueluan in front of Lu Jiming, and He Yueluan assured them the headquarters had completed the process and the documents were being sent back, promising finalization within a day or two. He also pledged to handle it urgently once the written instructions arrived in Shanghai, explaining that the HQ's efficiency was beyond his control. Both Ning Meng and Lu Jiming felt a temporary sense of relief. However, unexpected bad news arrived.

Financial reports revealed Shuangxun Group's hostile takeover of Qinhe, with their stake unexpectedly surging to 22% and then, in conjunction with Renning Insurance, reaching 30%. They had formally launched a tender offer for Qinhe. Ning Meng felt the world crashing down. She desperately tried calling He Yueluan, but his number went unanswered.

She then called Lu Jiming, only to be informed by a nurse at Huadong Hospital that his phone had been left there, and his father, Lu Tianxing, had suffered a heart attack and was undergoing emergency rescue in the ICU. Ning Meng rushed to the hospital, finding Lu Jiming exhausted and silent. She apologized profusely, explaining she never anticipated He Yueluan would mishandle things to such an extent.

Lu Jiming, however, wearily dismissed her apology, indicating he had no emotional capacity to discuss the matter. Madam Liu, a family caretaker, was also at the hospital, informing Ning Meng that Lu Tianxing's surgery would be lengthy due to a large bleeding area. Distraught, Ning Meng called You Qi, her best friend, who confirmed He Yueluan had just returned home but was preparing for an impromptu business trip.

Ning Meng urged You Qi to keep him there, as she urgently needed to confront him. You Qi confronted He Yueluan, accusing him of messing up the favor Ning Meng had asked. When Ning Meng arrived, she demanded an explanation for his betrayal. He Yueluan coldly countered that financial markets are unpredictable, and as a mere Shanghai branch manager with superiors, the decision wasn't solely his. He added that any verbal agreement was void before formal signing.

You Qi fiercely defended Ning Meng, but he dismissed her interference, treating her concerns as if they were "playing house." Ning Meng then realized He Yueluan had deliberately lied and stalled for his own benefit. You Qi, heartbroken, accused him of being obsessed with money. He Yueluan retorted that all her expenses, from branded bags to monthly rent for their house, were paid by him, claiming she had never truly understood or cared for him over the years.

Feeling "too tired," he abruptly ended their long-term relationship. While Lu Tianxing's surgery was successful and he was saved, he remained in critical condition and under observation. Meanwhile, You Qi was inconsolable, unable to reach He Yueluan. She tearfully recounted her distress, revealing that He Yueluan had shown an unusual interest in Qinhe news even before they sought his help. Ning Meng, furious but trying to reassure You Qi, promised to find He Yueluan for answers.

Ning Meng then went to He Yueluan's company, encountering Chen Xiaoyi, a colleague who acknowledged knowing about the breakup and subtly hinted at her own involvement. Ning Meng warned Chen Xiaoyi that a man who could so easily betray a long-term relationship or a solemn business agreement could not be trusted. Later, Ning Meng expressed regret to Su Weiran about confronting He Yueluan so harshly in front of You Qi, fearing she had dragged her innocent friend into the mess.

Su Weiran, however, calmly advised Ning Meng that You Qi and He Yueluan's problems were their own, suggesting that the breakup, though painful, might be a beneficial "cut loss" for You Qi in the long run. Later, Su Weiran accompanied Ning Meng to Huadong Hospital to visit Lu Tianxing. Upon arrival, Su Weiran deliberately introduced himself to Madam Liu and Lu Jiming as "Ning Meng's boyfriend." Lu Jiming, visibly annoyed, walked out of the room.

Outside, Su Weiran approached Lu Jiming, offering to help "take over some projects" if Joint Capital faced "cash flow" issues. Lu Jiming curtly refused, stating he didn't need help, and Su Weiran replied he could ask anytime. Back home, Ning Meng reviewed all recent events, finding herself increasingly confused. Just then, Chen Xiaoyi, He Yueluan's former colleague, called and requested a meeting.

Chen Xiaoyi revealed she had quit Renning Insurance because He Yueluan had "kicked me out" after she tried to question him, telling her their relationship was merely a "casual fling" and threatening her if she exposed him. She disclosed that the real "mistress" and "true enemy" of Ning Meng and You Qi was Quan Ruru, whom Ning Meng had actually seen before.

Chen Xiaoyi reminded Ning Meng that Quan Ruru was present at the karaoke room when You Qi "crashed" it, and also at the Jiangnanchun Restaurant, helping Shuangxun's Mr. Zhao. She confirmed that Shuangxun had been openly acquiring stakes while Renning Insurance provided secret assistance. Chen Xiaoyi also revealed the shocking truth that He Yueluan had bought Quan Ruru an apartment located right next to You Qi's rented place.

She also mentioned that Caihuang Capital's Jin Haiyang was involved in manipulating the stock price. Chen Xiaoyi stated that they had all been deceived by He Yueluan, who was a "scum." Armed with this information, Ning Meng went directly to the apartment Chen Xiaoyi mentioned, finding He Yueluan there with Quan Ruru.

Ning Meng confronted He Yueluan, exposing his deceit, how he had paid 15 million yuan in full for a five-bedroom garden house for Quan Ruru while lying to You Qi about marrying her. As Ning Meng chastised Quan Ruru for her involvement, You Qi suddenly appeared, having tracked He Yueluan's food delivery transactions. Seeing the house, You Qi's composure cracked.

She heartbreakingly reminded He Yueluan of his solemn vows to be devoted to her for life, and how he had sworn he would "suffer from retribution" if he ever changed his heart. She then told him to make sure he received that retribution, then stoically offered to clean up the messy house, despite her inner turmoil. Ning Meng stayed with You Qi, holding her as she quietly cleaned and cried.

Meanwhile, at the hospital, Lu Jiming was approached by lawyers representing the bank. They informed him that his overdue loan payment constituted a breach of contract and that if he were sued and listed as a discredited individual, it would severely impact his life and work. Lu Jiming, though understanding his precarious financial situation and acknowledging the default, requested a few more days for cash flow turnover, assuring them he would repay every penny he owed. Madam Liu encouraged Lu Jiming to return to work, knowing the burden of his business responsibilities.

Episode 27 Recap

The atmosphere at Joint Capital was fraught with anxiety and speculation following Lu Tianxing's incident and Lu Jiming's prolonged absence. Investors, growing impatient, demanded explanations, their concerns heightened by the feeling that their companies were on the verge of collapse. Despite Ren Pengfei's attempts to calm them, staff members, including Zhou from the Risk Control Department, had already begun tendering their resignations, seeking new prospects amidst the turmoil, fearing the worst.

Xiaoyang, Lu Jiming's secretary, lamented the situation, fearing the company was doomed. However, the arrival of Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian, who introduced themselves as Lu Jiming's strategic partners, helped to stabilize the agitated crowd. They assured everyone that they were there to resolve the issues and would bring in legal and financial teams to find solutions, prompting the worried investors to eventually leave.

Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian then offered their support to Lu Jiming, who was grappling with a dunning notice from the bank and quietly preparing to sell his house to alleviate the financial strain.

Meanwhile, He Yueluan arranged to meet Ning Meng, informing her that he had prepaid three years' rent for the apartment You Qi was staying in and offered to help You Qi find a job, claiming You Qi was dependent on him and he didn't want her to be homeless or starve. Ning Meng, however, saw through his pretense, accusing him of self-pity and stating that You Qi was capable of fending for herself and didn't need his charity.

She vehemently criticized him for resorting to "hurt and lies" instead of direct communication in his relationship with You Qi. Her anger escalated as she accused him of similar betrayal and deceit concerning the Qinhe project. Ning Meng asserted that He Yueluan had colluded with Shuangxun, purposefully delaying contract signings to impede Lu Jiming, a scheme she believed began around the time of their meeting at Jiangnanchun Restaurant.

She warned He Yueluan that his illegal and unscrupulous actions would inevitably be exposed, a threat he dismissed, demanding proof and warning her she was too naive to catch him. Later, Ning Meng visited You Qi, bringing her food and trying to comfort her. You Qi expressed feeling lost and useless without He Yueluan, describing herself as adrift in a dark ocean.

Ning Meng reassured her, emphasizing that she was still young, capable, and could find her own direction, reminding her she didn't need He Yueluan to live well. You Qi eventually began to eat. Subsequently, Ning Meng consulted Su Weiran about market manipulation, revealing her deep dive into Shuangxun's fund management plan concerning Qinhe. She explained that if Qinhe's stock price fell below 0. 8, Shuangxun's position would be forcibly liquidated, leading to massive losses.

She suspected Shuangxun had already contacted Caihuang Capital to prevent this. Su Weiran, however, advised her to stay out of it, asserting that the authorities would handle any illegal activities and implying her concern stemmed from an unwarranted sense of guilt towards Lu Jiming. He ended the conversation by telling her not to mention Lu Jiming again.

At the hospital, Madam Liu, unable to stand by idly, offered Lu Jiming her life savings, which he gently refused, assuring her he had a plan. Madam Liu commented on his stubbornness, noting he was just like his father, Lu Tianxing. She recounted how Lu Tianxing, despite his harsh words, secretly cared for her, once scolding her for dressing too lightly only for her to later discover he had bought her two warm, albeit "ugly," sweaters, though he denied it.

She also recalled Lu Jiming’s birthday, when Lu Tianxing's temper flared at the dinner table but Lu Jiming stood up for her. This incident, Madam Liu shared, marked a turning point, softening Lu Tianxing's attitude towards her. She revealed that Lu Tianxing, despite his sharp tongue, had a soft heart and was always overjoyed when Lu Jiming returned home for meals.

She vividly described Lu Tianxing proudly showing off Lu Jiming's "Best Investor" award photo while tipsy, insisting that Lu Jiming shouldn’t be bothered with a call since he was busy, saying they had plenty of time for family gatherings. Overcome with emotion from these memories, Madam Liu broke down in tears. In Lu Tianxing's hospital room, Lu Jiming sat by his unconscious father's bedside, a memory of a fishing trip flashing through his mind.

He recalled his father's frustration when he startled the fish. Holding his father's hand, tears welled in Lu Jiming's eyes as he promised to earnestly learn how to fish, vowing never to scare away another catch. Later, Lu Jiming called a meeting with his staff, apologizing for his recent absence due to family matters and acknowledging the trouble it caused.

Despite his apology, the staff expressed understanding, acknowledging his difficulties, and offered to work harder to salvage projects, even suggesting they could gain understanding from limited partners and project parties. However, Lu Jiming announced his decision to dissolve Joint Capital, explaining that his current personal and financial circumstances made it impossible to continue operating the company, and that this decision was the best for the company, its projects, and everyone involved.

He expressed deep gratitude to his loyal staff for staying and assured them he had arranged new opportunities for everyone. He had transferred ongoing projects to reliable companies, ensuring no reduction in salary for those involved. For others, he had prepared recommendation letters and would contact top headhunters. He specifically advised Mr. Liu, the HR manager, to consider a standing offer from Mr. Xu Senior. Xiaoyang and Song, his secretary and driver, were instructed to go with Mr. Liu.

Xiaoyang, in tears, pleaded to stay as his secretary, lamenting that she had envisioned working there until retirement and even joking about how she had mastered his coffee preferences. Lu Jiming, while touched, gently pushed her to accept the new opportunity, playfully remarking she wouldn't find a boss with a worse temper than his. Song, too, offered to continue driving him, only to learn Lu Jiming had sold the car.

Lu Jiming thanked them all for tolerating his temper over the years and sincerely wished them success in their futures. As Ning Meng arrived at the almost deserted office, Xiaoyang, still emotional, urged her to comfort Lu Jiming, who looked isolated and despondent. Ning Meng approached him and directly asked about the source of the funds he used to acquire the stocks. Lu Jiming confessed he had invested all his own money and then borrowed additional funds from the bank.

He had counted on a "Plan B" involving a private placement in a new energy vehicle to secure his cash flow, expecting to recover both principal and interest, but his luck was terrible, and the stocks were liquidated. Ning Meng, knowing his cautious nature, questioned his decision to take such a risk. Lu Jiming admitted it was an unprecedented gamble for him, but he took it "Because it's for my dad."

He apologized for He Yueluan's betrayal, but Ning Meng reassured him it wasn't his fault, lamenting only that she hadn't seen through He Yueluan earlier. Lu Jiming stoically accepted his business losses. Ning Meng then made him a cup of coffee, brewed to his exact preference. Sitting opposite each other, they reminisced.

Ning Meng playfully reminded him of his notoriously strict coffee-making rules and other quirks, acknowledging that it took her significant effort to learn his habits, even joking that advanced mathematics was simpler than mastering his preferences.

Lu Jiming recalled how he had protected her from an aggressive client during a business trip, taking the drinks himself and later sending her on a wild goose chase for specific cigarettes, which he admitted was his way of getting her out of an unpleasant and chaotic environment. He even admitted that her innocent inability to take a hint then had made him genuinely angry and consider firing her.

Just for this, she added, she had tolerated every time he called her drunk in the middle of the night thereafter. He explained that he initially dissuaded her from investing because he believed the complex capital market was unsuitable for an "innocent girl" like her. However, he then sincerely admitted, "you are already a very talented investor." Lu Jiming mused that he had no immediate plans and would likely "end his investing career."

As Lu Jiming prepared to leave, he intentionally left behind his numerous award trophies. Ning Meng, finding this regrettable, collected them and chased after him, telling him, "In my heart, you're still the best investor." As she placed the trophies into a box, she discovered the lemon pendant he had given her. Lu Jiming retrieved it and, handing it back to her, embraced her.

Episode 28 Recap

Lu Jiming released Ning Meng from his embrace and bid her farewell, acknowledging their friendship. Ning Meng fought back tears, clutching a lemon charm as she watched him walk away. Just a few steps later, she encountered Su Weiran, who appeared consumed by rage and struggled to control his emotions. Su Weiran had photos in his hand, revealing the cause of his anger.

Ning Meng tried to explain that she had worked at Joint Capital for three years and it was natural for her to feel sad about its dissolution, but Su Weiran interrupted her, demanding to know if her grief was for Joint Capital or for Lu Jiming. He accused her of always being there for Lu Jiming whenever something happened, unable to forget him, and angrily threw her cherished lemon charm to the ground.

He expressed disbelief, stating he thought she was different, but that she, like others, liked to "two-time," even asking when she and Lu Jiming had started seeing each other and if they had "slept together." Ning Meng, shocked by his accusations, shouted her indignation and tried to pick up her charm, but Su Weiran grabbed her, eventually striking her and causing her to fall.

As he moved to help her up, Ning Meng fiercely pushed his hand away, retrieved her charm herself, and left. Upon arriving at the office, Ning Meng found a bouquet of flowers on her desk with a note that read, "Forgive me. Su." She unceremoniously threw the flowers onto the floor. Later that day, Su Weiran was waiting for her downstairs. Shi Ying, noticing Ning Meng's reluctance to engage with him, stepped in.

She informed Su Weiran that she had arranged a project discussion with Ning Meng that evening, effectively whisking Ning Meng away. In the car, Shi Ying shared her personal experiences of two divorces, explaining how she initially tried to persevere through difficult relationships, feeling she would regret it if she gave up. She advised Ning Meng that life is a series of choices, and no one always makes the right one.

She posed a crucial question to Ning Meng: whether she persisted in a project because the project itself was worthy, or because persistence itself was the goal. Shi Ying emphasized that the most important thing in love is whether one is truly happy or if they are forcing themselves. Ning Meng, listening intently, admitted to feeling emotionally drained and began to understand. After much thought, Ning Meng decided to meet Su Weiran.

She firmly informed him of her decision to break up. Su Weiran tried to apologize for his behavior that night and reconcile, promising not to lose control again. However, Ning Meng stated that his distrust of her had made it impossible for her to trust him in return. She acknowledged that they were both caught in vicious circles and could not escape past traumas, leading to an inability to trust.

Ning Meng explained that they were no longer the same people they were in college and that continuing their relationship in their current state would only lead to mutual hurt. With that, she turned and left. On a grim day, Lu Tianxing suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and was rushed into surgery. Lu Jiming waited outside the operating room, consumed by anxiety, while Madam Liu appeared utterly distraught.

Zeng Yuhang promptly informed Ning Meng of the emergency, and she immediately rushed to the hospital. There, she received the devastating news that Lu Tianxing had passed away despite the doctors' best efforts. The rain poured relentlessly, mirroring Lu Jiming and Madam Liu's unending grief. Madam Liu suggested selling the house, believing it would help alleviate the company's financial woes, but Lu Jiming refused, insisting it was his father's legacy to her.

Madam Liu reminisced about Lu Tianxing, recalling how he would spend long nights working in his study and how she often urged him to rest, only for him to claim he wasn't tired. She mourned that he was gone just as she thought he was ready to step down, calling him a "stubborn old man" for leaving them without a word. Lu Jiming stared at the empty house, a profound sense of loss weighing heavily on his heart.

Later, Lu Jiming stumbled upon a book filled with news clippings about himself. His father, Lu Tianxing, had meticulously cut out and pasted these articles, adding handwritten notes expressing his pride and encouragement. Overwhelmed, Lu Jiming burst into tears, finally realizing the depth of his father's quiet love and pride. Meanwhile, Ning Meng found herself distracted, realizing it had been a long time since she had spent quality time with her own parents.

Just then, Zeng Yuhang called, frantically searching for Lu Jiming, whose phone was off. Ning Meng had not heard from him either, but a sudden thought struck her: he might have gone to the river where Lu Tianxing often fished. Indeed, Ning Meng found Lu Jiming at the familiar riverside spot. He explained that his phone had run out of battery.

He shared memories of his father, admitting that as a child, he never appreciated his father's fishing skills and disliked eating the fish he caught, a simple pleasure he now longed for. He revealed the meanest thing he ever said to his father, during an argument after his mother passed away: that his father didn't deserve to be his dad and he wouldn't cry even if he died.

Ning Meng gently urged him to take care of himself, reminding him that his father wouldn't rest in peace otherwise. Lu Jiming confessed that Ning Meng had been right to scold him, acknowledging his bad temper, his tendency to be presumptuous, and his difficulty in expressing his true feelings, regretting that he realized this too late. Moments later, Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian arrived, relieved but also upset by Lu Jiming's disappearance, fearing he might do something drastic.

They tried to persuade him to join them on a trip abroad for the Mid-Autumn Festival, but Lu Jiming declined, citing his overwhelming debt and responsibilities. Seeing his refusal, Ning Meng proposed that he accompany her back to her hometown for the festival instead, suggesting it would allow him to relax and the others to continue with their plans.

Before their departure, You Qi informed Ning Meng that she wouldn't be joining them on the trip as she planned to start looking for a new job and update her resume. Ning Meng was pleased to see You Qi regaining her spirits, knowing that You Qi believed her own situation was less severe than Lu Jiming's and that she could not just "sit idly at home."

Ning Meng and Lu Jiming embarked on their journey to her hometown, a charming Jiangnan town famous for its numerous rivers, bridges, and locally made glutinous rice wine. Ning Meng shared stories of her childhood, including how she once got drunk on the sweet rice wine. She also pointed out significant landmarks along the way, such as Bazi Bridge, Dongshuang Bridge, and the Jiujie Bridge near her home, and recited a local nursery rhyme about "Granny's Bridge."

She explained that for non-locals working in Shanghai, hardships like the long journey home only made them stronger. Upon their arrival, Ning Meng's parents, initially unaware of Lu Jiming's identity, warmly welcomed him, mistaking him for Ning Meng's boyfriend. Ning Meng quickly clarified that Lu Jiming was merely a good friend she had brought back so her parents could teach him how to make mooncakes.

During dinner, as Ning Meng's mother served their signature chicken marinated in wine and Rice Vinasse Chicken, her father began to speak freely. He described Ning Meng's former boss as "very hateful" and "loathsome," unknowingly insulting Lu Jiming directly. Ning Meng was mortified, and Lu Jiming grew increasingly uncomfortable. When Lu Jiming finally revealed, "Sir, I'm Ning Meng's ex-boss," Ning Meng's father was so shocked that he dropped the food he was holding.

Ning Meng then took her parents aside and explained the recent tragedies that had befallen Lu Jiming: how his father's company was sabotaged, how Lu Jiming used all his savings to save it but lost everything, leading to his father's death from the immense shock, and how his own company was dragged down, leaving him in significant debt. Hearing this heartbreaking account, Ning Meng's parents' attitude shifted completely.

They expressed deep sympathy for Lu Jiming and resolved to cheer him up. As Ning Meng's father observed his daughter's profound concern for Lu Jiming, he couldn't help but wonder if she had developed feelings for him.

Episode 29 Recap

Ning Meng's mother and father playfully questioned if Ning Meng had romantic feelings for Lu Jiming due to her helpfulness. Ning Meng quickly denied it, insisting she loved her parents, but a blush betrayed her. Lu Jiming, who had been sitting under the eaves, was invited by Ning's father to go grocery shopping.

As they walked through the town, a neighbor jokingly asked if Lu Jiming was the Ning family's future son-in-law, prompting Ning's father to explain that Lu was the great-nephew of his distant aunt's cousin. Upon their return, Lu Jiming found himself actively participating in household chores. He helped bargain at the market, cleaned the house, assisted with gutting fish, retrieved osmanthus wine, and watered the plants.

He jokingly wondered if Ning Meng's parents were intentionally making him work as revenge for his past mistreatment of their daughter, a thought Ning Meng entertained, saying her father was hard to figure out. Later, Ning's father asked Lu Jiming to accompany him the next day to collect a wild pig ham for making meat-filled mooncakes and to help him practice driving, as his wife wouldn't let him drive alone. Lu Jiming agreed.

Ning Meng, however, expressed concern to her father about pushing Lu Jiming too hard, but her father countered that it was a necessary challenge to build character, especially after how Lu Jiming had treated their daughter. He then reiterated his suspicion about Ning Meng's feelings for Lu Jiming, which she again artfully dodged. The next morning, as they drove on a bumpy road in Ning's father's old car, Ning's father mentioned that Ning Meng had told him everything.

Misunderstanding, Lu Jiming immediately apologized, admitting to having frequently scolded, argued with, and ordered Ning Meng around in the past. This confession infuriated Ning's father, who, momentarily forgetting he was driving, threatened to throw Lu Jiming out of the car. Lu Jiming quickly clarified that Ning Meng had actually informed her father about his recent business troubles, not their past work interactions.

The tension dissipated, and Lu Jiming peeled a mandarin orange for Ning's father, who fondly recalled almost naming Ning Meng "Ning Xiaoju," meaning "little mandarin orange." During the drive, Ning's father shared his own experience of a failed startup at a similar age to Lu Jiming, noting that his own struggles were arguably worse but that he persevered.

He emphasized that the most crucial thing in life is to have supportive companions through thick and thin, a blessing that money cannot buy. Lu Jiming took these words to heart, acknowledging their truth and expressing renewed hope, equating it to refilling a car's tank to continue the journey. Back at Ning Meng's home, the four began making traditional meat-filled mooncakes. Lu Jiming, clumsy with the task, inadvertently shaped his mooncake like a dumpling.

Ning Meng playfully teased him, but her parents quickly defended him, finding his "dumpling-like mooncake" festive and creative, even recalling how Ning Meng's father had praised her for making a bun-shaped mooncake as a child. After the mooncakes were baked, Lu Jiming enjoyed his unique creation, and they all shared a celebratory toast for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Later, by the riverside, Ning Meng and Lu Jiming released river lanterns, a local custom allowing one wish per lantern.

They each made a wish. The tranquility was broken when Su Weiran called Ning Meng, and it was then that Lu Jiming learned of their breakup. Ning Meng, not wanting to dwell on it, shifted the conversation to Lu Jiming's recent stay. Lu Jiming confessed that he had found a profound sense of warmth and belonging with her family, a feeling he had always longed for but never truly experienced.

He expressed his joy, admitting it was the first time in a long while he had smiled so genuinely. Ning Meng encouraged him to visit often and even join her father for mahjong. She then urged him to rise above his current difficulties, revealing her suspicion that He Yueluan and Shuangxun, possibly with Caihuang Capital's involvement, had deliberately manipulated stock prices and possibly even his own private placement stock to target his father's company and him.

She stressed the importance of him regaining his power to confront those who had wronged them. The following day, as Ning Meng and Lu Jiming prepared to return to Shanghai, Ning's parents affectionately bid them farewell, offering them "Victory Cakes" for good fortune and reminding them to look after each other. Back in Shanghai, You Qi excitedly greeted Ning Meng, revealing she had secured her first job as a beauty consultant at a cosmetics counter.

Despite You Qi’s humble assessment of the sales position compared to Ning Meng’s investment career, Ning Meng reassured her that all professions hold value and that the job perfectly suited You Qi's talents and personality. You Qi admitted to some insecurity about her new role, recalling how Ning Meng had once taught her that makeup was for self-pleasure, not external validation.

Ning Meng affirmed You Qi's capabilities, and they celebrated their new beginnings, with You Qi promising Ning Meng employee discounts on cosmetics. The next morning, Ning Meng arrived at work to find her desk occupied by a new intern. To her surprise, Shi Ying approached and announced Ning Meng's immediate promotion to Investment Director of Eaglestone Capital.

Shi Ying explained that Ning Meng's successful turnaround of Lin Dayi's company, now listed on NEEQ, and her excellent work on the Lehui project, had earned her this significant recognition. Shi Ying further revealed her plan to establish a new branch in Singapore next year, where her boyfriend works, and entrusted Ning Meng with the responsibility of overseeing Eaglestone Capital's operations in Shanghai. That evening, You Qi celebrated Ning Meng's promotion by baking "Qiqi's celebratory egg tarts."

You Qi reminisced about Ning Meng's past determination to become a director, and while Ning Meng expressed happiness, she also admitted to feeling a sense of nervousness, recognizing that her new role was merely the beginning of a long journey. Both friends toasted to their bright new chapters.

Lu Jiming then enthusiastically contacted Ning Meng, sharing his decision to make a comeback in the investment world, asserting it was his true passion and what genuinely made him happy, a realization he credited to Ning's father's wisdom. He recounted a story about an old man whose investment in medical research led to a drug that cured his long-term illness, illustrating for Lu Jiming the profound impact and trust-building nature of good investments.

Lu Jiming revealed he had already initiated the process of acquiring an existing finance company, noting that Ning Meng’s prior research into such acquisitions had been helpful. He admitted he had started planning this during their Mid-Autumn Festival visit, anticipating her support. As he was about to ask Ning Meng something important, their conversation was interrupted by her colleagues, who addressed her as "Director Ning."

Lu Jiming congratulated her on the promotion, and when she prompted him to continue what he was saying, he playfully deflected, stating that he too now needed to "turn the tables" and make his own comeback. Despite his cheerful demeanor and well wishes for her dreams and career, Ning Meng felt a subtle pang of disappointment as he departed.

Later, holding her various business cards, from secretary to director, she reflected on the arduous yet fulfilling journey that had shaped her into the person she was today. Lu Jiming’s attempts to secure new collaborations proved challenging. During one meeting, he was informed that Mr. Liu, his prospective partner, was "away on business," making Lu Jiming suspect he was being deliberately avoided.

Later, he encountered Mr. Jia of Zhongxing, a former client he had helped connect with Boyu Capital, in the company of Jin Haiyang. Despite their strained past, Lu Jiming approached Mr. Jia to warn him about Jin Haiyang's Caihuang Capital, known for deceptively inflating valuations. However, Mr. Jia rebuffed Lu Jiming, accusing him of abandoning their previous project. Jin Haiyang then joined the conversation, openly mocking Lu Jiming and implying his current diminished status. Swallowing his anger, Lu Jiming retreated to his studio to organize his belongings, where Ning Meng unexpectedly appeared.

Episode 30 Recap

Ning Meng expressed her deep gratitude to Shi Ying for her guidance and support, acknowledging that she wouldn't have achieved her current success without her. However, Ning Meng felt compelled to return and assist Lu Jiming. She explained that Lu Jiming was her first boss and the one who introduced her to the capital market, teaching her invaluable lessons.

Despite his demanding nature and his initial reluctance to let her manage investments, Ning Meng realized he had been protecting her in his own way. For both professional and personal reasons, she wanted to help him overcome his current difficulties. Shi Ying, understanding Lu Jiming's past contributions to their company and their strategic partnership, fully supported Ning Meng's decision, inviting her to visit whenever she had time.

Back with Lu Jiming, Ning Meng helped him settle his belongings and inquired about the progress of the new fund. She informed him that she had secured commitments from Mr. Liang and Tang Zhengwang, who were willing to be limited partners. Mr. Lin from Mobi, whose company was listed on the NEEQ, also agreed to invest a significant sum. Additionally, Ning Meng pledged her own savings, emphasizing that even a small contribution was better than none.

Lu Jiming, still puzzled by her unwavering support, listened as Ning Meng reiterated her belief that he was the best investor and that she owed her current self to him. She viewed it as repaying his kindness, noting that investing should be a joyous endeavor. Lu Jiming then formally invited her to be his partner in the new venture, a proposal Ning Meng readily accepted. Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian also contributed a substantial amount to Lu Jiming's new company.

Zeng Yuhang playfully chided Lu Jiming, reminding him that he had invested his "wife's capital" and warning him to take responsibility if Xu Sitian's parents disapproved of their marriage due to the financial commitment. He then urged Lu Jiming not to miss his chance with Ning Meng again, especially now that she had recently broken up with her former boyfriend.

He questioned why Lu Jiming wasn't trying to advance his relationship with Ning Meng, given that he had already visited her hometown and met her parents. Lu Jiming, however, felt it wasn't the right time, citing his current debt and lack of vengeance, feeling he couldn't offer Ning Meng a "luxurious life" or grand gestures. Zeng Yuhang countered that Ning Meng didn't desire such materialistic things.

Around this time, Lu Jiming was looking for a new place to live, not wanting to continue imposing on Zeng Yuhang. Zeng Yuhang, seizing the opportunity, found an apartment for rent near Ning Meng’s home and, unbeknownst to Lu Jiming, paid a substantial sum to secure it by convincing the previous tenants to move out. Later, Ning Meng had a conversation with You Qi, who probed about her romantic relationship with Lu Jiming.

Ning Meng, focused on her new entrepreneurial endeavor, dismissed the idea of romance, stating she had no time for it. That very evening, however, she was surprised to find Lu Jiming at her doorstep, now her new neighbor. Lu Jiming feigned coincidence, while You Qi reveled in the success of Zeng Yuhang's orchestrated plan. A sudden power outage plunged Lu Jiming’s new apartment into darkness.

Unfamiliar with the switch box, Lu Jiming struggled, but Ning Meng quickly located it and restored the power. To express his gratitude, Lu Jiming invited her for dinner. The next morning, the two went out to purchase materials and began tidying up their new studio space. Ning Meng was surprised to see Lu Jiming proficiently ride a shared bicycle and meticulously clean the windows.

Her surprise grew even more when their former colleagues, Song, Xiaoyang, Mr. Liu, and Ren Pengfei, unexpectedly arrived. Song, who had been delivering food after Lu Jiming sold his luxury car, expressed his readiness to join. Xiaoyang arrived with "Xiaoyang's special brewed coffee" and even brought prepared resumes, eager to be the "lively and lovely chairman's secretary." Mr. Liu and Ren Pengfei also offered their services, with Ren Pengfei specifically asking for the Director of Project Department position.

The reunion was heartfelt, and everyone worked with enthusiasm. That evening, they gathered for a hotpot meal. During dinner, Lu Jiming officially announced the name of their new company: "Lu Meng," explaining it as a combination of "Lu" meaning path and "Meng" meaning alliance, signifying "heroes from all paths coming to form an alliance." He dismissed Xiaoyang's suggestion of combining his and Ning Meng's names for the company.

Lu Jiming then delivered a heartfelt speech, thanking everyone for their trust and willingness to start from what he called "negative numbers." He admitted that his previous fall had deeply affected him but had also enlightened him, showing him the future path. He emphasized that the experience had taught him that beyond profit, the capital market held more valuable treasures like comradeship and dreams. Lu Jiming informed Ning Meng that there was a new development concerning the Nanlin Co. issue.

He explained that the previous day, Nanlin Co.'s share price had been unusually manipulated at the end of trading, indicating that the orchestrators were finally making their move. Ning Meng expressed her relief, noting that they had waited a long time for the culprits to show their hand. Immediately, Lu Jiming sought out Ms. Chen, Nanlin Co.'s Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Chen, who had already submitted her resignation and wished to avoid further complications, understood Lu Jiming's concerns.

Lu Jiming assured her that he would protect her from any involvement, expressing his shared disdain for the "despicable means" employed by the manipulators. He firmly believed that those who upheld integrity, like her, should not be forced out by those who corrupted the system, echoing the sentiment that "bad money drives out good." He then asked her to lend him the "drawer agreement" between Nanlin's high-level management and Caihuang Capital.

Ms. Chen informed Lu Jiming that the agreement would be of little use because Caihuang's owner was cunning and never directly involved himself in such matters, always authorizing a subordinate named Qiu to act on his behalf. Lu Jiming immediately deduced it was Qiu Junlin, recalling his past actions, including his scheme that led to Ning Meng's resignation and Lu Jiming subsequently firing him. The team then convened to devise a strategy. Ning Meng decided to confront Qiu Junlin directly.

She appeared in his office and, after exchanging pleasantries, presented him with the drawer agreement for stock price manipulation, implying it was signed in his name and that Jin Haiyang had used him as a "proxy" to avoid risk. Qiu Junlin, feigning ignorance, dismissed her, suggesting she was still bitter from their past conflict.

Ning Meng pressed on, urging him to "expand the scope a little" and demanding evidence of Caihuang Capital's collusion with Shuangxun and Renning to acquire Qinhe through improper means. As Qiu Junlin continued to deny knowledge, Ning Meng exposed his "dual contract" with Nanlin Co., revealing that he had "embezzled the difference of the margin," effectively "embezzling a lot" from Jin Haiyang.

She questioned whether Jin Haiyang would make him a "scapegoat" to clear his own name, knowing Qiu Junlin's past pattern of using this very tactic. This revelation visibly rattled Qiu Junlin. Suddenly, Jin Haiyang was reported to be leaving his finance forum early. Xiaoyang, alerted to the situation, informed Lu Jiming, who instructed them to stall Jin Haiyang. Song and Xiaoyang attempted to block Jin Haiyang's car with their electric bike but were unfortunately stopped by traffic police.

With no other option, Lu Jiming personally intervened, intercepting Jin Haiyang outside the building. He engaged Jin Haiyang in a series of absurd business proposals, such as "adding tiles to the Great Wall" or "adding a switch for the sun," hinting at opportunities to "gain profit without investing anything," all while stalling for time.

During this distraction, Ning Meng continued to pressure Qiu Junlin, threatening to report him to the police, which would force Jin Haiyang to decide whether to save or betray him. Panicked, Qiu Junlin frantically searched for his keys, visibly breaking under the pressure. At last, Ning Meng successfully obtained the crucial evidence from him.

Episode 31 Recap

Lu Jiming and Ning Meng successfully execute their plan against Qiu Junlin. Qiu Junlin opens the bag only to find it filled with blank papers, realizing he has been scammed. Ning Meng confirms that all evidence has been submitted to the Economic Crimes Division, and Lu Jiming adds that they have also submitted their own materials and paid fines. A pleased Ning Meng visits You Qi at a department store, where You Qi is confidently working as a sales associate.

Ning Meng expresses her satisfaction, then informs You Qi that the evidence against He Yueluan and his associates has been handed over to the Economic Crimes Division, implying they won't be at large much longer. You Qi, though somewhat somber, agrees, expressing her desire to witness He Yueluan's arrest. You Qi then shares an observation: she recently saw Quan Ruru not with He Yueluan, but with another man entering a mother-and-baby store.

This makes Ning Meng wonder if He Yueluan is being cheated on. At home, He Yueluan affectionately leans down to listen to Quan Ruru's pregnant belly and starts preparing breakfast. Suddenly, officers from the Shanghai Municipal PSB, Pudong Branch, Economic Crimes Division arrive with a warrant and take him away for investigation. Subsequently, Jin Haiyang and Zhao Changhai are also brought in for questioning.

News quickly breaks, reporting that He Yueluan, along with Yan Shuangxun (Chairman of Shuangxun Group), Board Secretary Zhao Changhai, and Jin Haiyang (Chairman of Caihuang Capital), were all taken in for investigation. The reports indicate that these individuals colluded during the hostile acquisition of Qinhe, manipulating the stock market and engaging in illicit self-dealing, severely disrupting secondary market order and harming investor interests.

The Economic Crime Investigation Bureau and the CSRC vowed a thorough investigation to restore justice to the financial market. Upon hearing the news, Ning Meng and Lu Jiming express immense satisfaction, learning that Qiu Junlin and Chen Xiaoyi were also arrested, effectively bringing down all the "bad guys." Lu Jiming visits his father, Lu Tianxing's, grave, placing flowers and sharing the good news that all those who had conspired against his father have been apprehended.

He reflects on his past ambition to constantly prove himself against his father, realizing now that it's important not to be overly demanding of oneself, as that also burdens others. He tells his father that he has learned to consider others' perspectives. Ning Meng soon joins him, affirming to Lu Tianxing that she has become a director and that she and Lu Jiming have founded a new company, Lu Meng, which will focus on long-term integrated smart community projects.

She pledges that they will carry forward his steadfast environmental protection ideals through this new venture. She also mentions that Lu Guoyu, filled with remorse, will ensure Qinhe continues to uphold Lu Tianxing's business philosophy and will collaborate extensively with Lu Meng. Feeling a newfound sense of ease after the arrests, Ning Meng suggests they celebrate with a celebratory dinner. However, Lu Jiming reveals that he feels unexpectedly calm rather than overjoyed, so a celebration isn't necessary.

Instead, they decide to go home and prepare Ning Meng's "secret recipe" together. While cooking, the clumsy Lu Jiming accidentally splashes hot oil on his hand. Ning Meng quickly rushes to bandage his injury. Later, Lu Jiming quietly picks up Ning Meng's broken lemon charm, which he sees as "injured," and takes it home to repair. The following morning, he discreetly places the mended charm on her office desk.

The next day, a serious Lu Jiming informs Ning Meng that the police revealed He Yueluan and his associates had confessed to all matters related to Qinhe. However, none of them admitted to manipulating Lu Jiming's private placement stock. Lu Jiming finds this omission illogical, reasoning that if they confessed to a major crime like Qinhe, there would be no need to conceal a lesser one. He senses that someone else is behind the stock manipulation.

Both of them begin to ponder who else could be involved. To uncover more clues, Ning Meng shows You Qi photos from the KTV party, asking if she recognized anyone there. You Qi quickly identifies Zhao Changhai as the man she saw with Quan Ruru at the baby store, recalling he was standing with Quan Ruru by the billiard table that day. Seeking more information, Ning Meng arranges to meet Quan Ruru.

After some probing, Quan Ruru reluctantly admits that the man is named Jason, an overseas returnee who is wealthy and wears a distinctive Patek Philippe watch. Ning Meng instantly recalls seeing such a watch in Senior Shen Xi's social media post. Although Quan Ruru confirms it wasn't Shen Xi's husband, when Ning Meng shows her a picture of Su Weiran, Quan Ruru definitively identifies him as Jason. The revelation leaves Ning Meng utterly stunned.

Meanwhile, Zeng Yuhang contacts Lu Jiming, informing him that the negative news surrounding his private placement stock was fabricated by an unscrupulous official account, which has since been shut down. He further reveals that the major shareholder had already divested their shares before the fake news even broke, clearly indicating pre-arranged collusion. Zeng Yuhang then asks Lu Jiming if he knows the identity of the major shareholder's limited partner.

This question triggers a flash of realization in Lu Jiming's mind, leaving him profoundly shocked as he connects the dots. At the annual "Outstanding Investor Award of Top Ten New Forces" ceremony, Su Weiran is honored with the award. During his acceptance speech, he eloquently describes investment as a high-stakes game in a dangerous capital market jungle, where only true risk-takers and capable individuals triumph.

After the ceremony, Lu Jiming confronts Su Weiran, coldly advising him to prepare a guilty plea statement. Lu Jiming systematically outlines Su Weiran's involvement in manipulating his private placement stock, accusing him of orchestrating the spread of false market news and colluding with the major shareholders. Lu Jiming suggests Su Weiran made his move after a game of Texas Hold'em, knowing Lu Jiming would invest in the private placement stock to recover.

He distinguishes Su Weiran from He Yueluan, asserting that Su Weiran's motive was not mere profit but a deliberate attempt to ruin him. Su Weiran vehemently denies the accusations, dismisses Lu Jiming's claims as blaming bad luck, and then launches into a bitter tirade. He challenges Lu Jiming's privileged upbringing, asking if he has ever experienced hardship, been trampled on, or felt the pain of having something precious easily taken away.

Su Weiran, hoisting his trophy, defiantly declares himself the winner. Lu Jiming calmly responds that Su Weiran has, in fact, already lost the most important thing. Lacking direct evidence to convict Su Weiran, Lu Jiming is inclined to let the matter drop for now. However, Ning Meng feels a profound sense of injustice, unwilling to see Su Weiran continue down a destructive path without accountability.

She decides to confront him herself, reminding him of a past university bully named Wen Li, who unwittingly became a scapegoat for others' minor misdeeds. Ning Meng then directly challenges Su Weiran, asking if he uses the name "Jason" for similar reasons, as a form of psychological revenge or subconscious escape. She explains her belief that the wealthy second-generation "Jason" who "stole" his senior, Shen Xi, left a deep wound from which Su Weiran never truly recovered.

Su Weiran confirms her deduction, admitting that he is indeed Jason. Su Weiran confesses to Ning Meng, clarifying that he doesn't hate Senior Shen Xi, but rather the man who took her away. He explains that his youthful belief in a just world where effort guarantees reward was completely shattered after he went abroad.

He witnessed others effortlessly attain things he had to fight tooth and nail for, such as prestigious university admissions or a lavish lifestyle, and their casual approach to relationships. He realized the vast inequalities in the world. He then recounts how he first encountered He Yueluan at the Mobi meeting Ning Meng had organized, which she later canceled. Their paths crossed again at Ning Meng's celebration party for her manager promotion.

After they had a chance to understand each other's working styles, He Yueluan extended an invitation to Su Weiran for a "big project," which turned out to be the hostile takeover of Qinhe. Ning Meng finally understands the full extent of Su Weiran's deception. She realizes that he was aware of the Qinhe plot from the very beginning, and his apparent generosity in encouraging her to return and help Lu Jiming was all part of his elaborate scheme. She also deduces that his absence from You Qi's birthday celebration was deliberate, to avoid revealing his association with He Yueluan and his involvement in their illicit activities.

Episode 32 (Ending) Recap

Su Weiran confessed to Ning Meng that he initially refused He Yueluan’s proposal, which led He Yueluan to seek out Jin Haiyang instead. Su Weiran admitted he looked down on those people because he saw Lu Jiming as his true opponent, someone only like Lu Jiming was worthy of being his rival. He explained that he lost control because he realized Ning Meng subconsciously continued to think of Lu Jiming even when they were together.

He knew she tried to distance herself from Lu Jiming, but the more she tried, the more Su Weiran’s hatred for Lu Jiming grew. He expressed deep regret, stating that hitting Ning Meng that day was the worst thing he had ever done. Ning Meng, in turn, expressed her heartbreak, pointing out that Su Weiran despised He Yueluan and his associates, yet chose to engage in illegal and wrongful activities with them, effectively splitting himself into another person.

Su Weiran mused about how things might have been different if they had started their relationship in university or reunited earlier, believing Ning Meng could have held him back and prevented him from becoming the person he was. Ning Meng firmly told him that only he could save himself, not her, urging him to surrender to the authorities.

She acknowledged his desire to change, stating that his "good self" had been fighting his "bad self," and it was time for the good self to prevail. Ning Meng assured him that accepting punishment, though difficult, was a path to rebirth, emphasizing that he was Su Weiran, not the fictional 'Jason.' After Ning Meng left, Su Weiran pondered her words, seemingly making a difficult decision.

L&M Capital celebrated a successful milestone as a client, Ms. Huang, expressed her confidence in Lu Jiming and Ning Meng. Ms. Huang appreciated that L&M Capital focused on execution rather than just conceptualizing, expressing hope for a decade-long partnership. Shortly after, Ning Meng received news that Su Weiran had turned himself in. She felt relieved, noting that his "good side" had finally prevailed over his "bad side."

Later, a package arrived for Ning Meng containing a birthday gift and a letter from Su Weiran. In the letter, he thanked her for her help, acknowledging that he alone could save himself and would confess everything he knew. He also expressed hope that she would one day forgive him for his past wrongdoings.

Su Weiran wrote that he realized he truly fell for Ning Meng when he saw her uphold her principles in the murky capital market, reminding him of his own pure and sunny past self. He confessed that his actions were driven by a desire to prevent precious things from being easily taken from him again. He thanked her for helping him find his former self, calling her his "savior," and concluded by sincerely wishing her happiness.

That evening, Lu Jiming expressed his gratitude for Ning Meng’s unwavering support. Ning Meng reciprocated, thanking him for not giving up. She recalled how, as his secretary, she felt miles apart from him, never imagining they would become such good friends. Lu Jiming attributed her success to her courageous spirit and persistence in pursuing her dreams, acknowledging that her strength had also inspired him to stand up again.

Lu Jiming found himself struggling to voice something he had held in his heart for a long time, eventually only managing to express a desire for them to "expand and make the intelligent community better" together. Meanwhile, You Qi visited He Yueluan in prison. She told him that she was doing well and was building her own independent life and career, stating that he had, in a way, awakened her.

She asked if he had seen his child's photo, describing the boy as a "chubby kid," "stout and honest," and looking "just like me when I was young." She wished him happiness before leaving, deciding it was better for him to discover the truth about the child on his own when he deserved to. Back at his place, Lu Jiming practiced confessing his feelings to Ning Meng in front of a mirror, repeatedly stumbling over the words "I like you."

Just as he was about to articulate his feelings, Ning Meng unexpectedly knocked on his door. He opened it, flustered and dressed in a new, sharp suit. Ning Meng teased him about being "all dressed up" while staying home, to which he awkwardly explained he was just trying on his new suit and hadn't even had time to try on the pants yet because she knocked.

Ning Meng then mysteriously invited him to meet at the company at 5 PM the following day, promising a surprise and playfully reminding him to "wear the pants tomorrow." The next day, Ning Meng sought You Qi’s advice on her makeup for the special occasion, opting for a look that was "mature yet playful."

When Lu Jiming arrived at the company carrying 99 roses, he was met by Xiaoyang and Song, who set off celebratory firecrackers, teasing him about Ning Meng's "poor secret-keeping" and implying the flowers were for her. Lu Jiming, taken by surprise, quickly claimed the roses were for "all the employees," declaring his love for them to deflect the attention, to which Xiaoyang playfully reciprocated. Soon after, guests began to arrive for L&M Capital’s first anniversary celebration.

Shi Ying arrived with her boyfriend, Jason, who worked at a Singaporean fund company. You Qi also came, accidentally bumping into Yuan Jie from Phoenix Home Textile and engaging in a brief, slightly awkward exchange about "champagne roses." Zeng Yuhang and Xu Sitian arrived along with Madam Liu, who humorously asked if the company needed a female secretary, to which Lu Jiming offered her an administrative consultant role.

As the anniversary celebration commenced, Lu Jiming delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on his journey in the capital market, acknowledging both betrayals and deep emotional connections. He particularly thanked Ning Meng, recognizing her shift from his secretary to the one who now guided him. Ning Meng then spoke, playfully describing Lu Jiming's transformation from an "irritable Tyrannosaurus rex" into a "resilient, warm Little Green Dragon" (with others jokingly interjecting "Little White Dragon," "Teddy Bear," and "Caterpillar").

She shared her own growth from an insignificant secretary to an investor, highlighting the complexities of the capital market with its "justice and evil." Ning Meng expressed gratitude for not abandoning her original intentions, for staying true to her principles, and for the "benefactors" and "partners" who gave her opportunities. She concluded by proclaiming that dreams were the only "sure-win" investment, urging everyone to always remember their initial dreams and original selves.

Everyone raised a toast, wishing for their dreams to come true. The celebratory mood continued as Yuan Jie from Phoenix Home Textile thanked Lu Jiming for his past guidance, which had taught him that "rushing things will only make it worse." He then teased Lu Jiming for taking "too small" steps in his relationship with Ning Meng, implying he should confess his feelings.

Taking the hint, Song suddenly declared his long-held affection for Xiaoyang, asking her to be his girlfriend, a proposal she happily accepted, to the cheers of their colleagues. The excitement didn't end there; Zeng Yuhang announced that he and Xu Sitian had gotten married the day before, showing off their marriage certificate and promising a wedding banquet on an auspicious date.

He also jokingly asked Lu Jiming about his "marriage money" investment, to which Lu Jiming assured him it was enough to raise a child. Just as the atmosphere seemed perfectly set for Lu Jiming to make his move, Shi Ying revealed her own "four-happiness": she was expanding her business to Singapore, leaving Shanghai operations to Lu Jiming, and shared that she, Jason, and their child would be relocating there.

Each piece of good news, while happy for others, left Lu Jiming visibly frustrated as his own opportunities to confess were repeatedly and comically thwarted. As the party wound down, guests left to enjoy a fireworks show, leaving Ning Meng and Lu Jiming alone. They decided to walk by the river, where the city lights reflected beautifully on the water.

Finally, Lu Jiming took Ning Meng’s hand and confessed his deep feelings, telling her he had wanted to say "let's be together" for a long time. He recalled how touched he was when she bravely returned to help him, but knew that wasn't the right time for a confession, as she needed to stand on her own first. He praised her for achieving that, saying her current self was even more endearing.

When she indicated her agreement but asked him to say it "seriously," he declared, "I want to become your father's son-in-law." He then asked if he could kiss her, to which she playfully called it a "stupid question." Just as Ning Meng initiated a tender kiss, their friends suddenly reappeared, having circled back from the fireworks, surprising the couple.

Lu Jiming, no longer shy, boldly called them to a halt and kissed Ning Meng in front of everyone, sealing their love amidst laughter and cheers, as their story continued to unfold.