Memory of Encaustic Tile Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Memory of Encaustic Tile Synopsis
Shao Xue, Zheng Sunian, Zhang Qi, and several other children of heritage restoration craftsmen grew up together in the hutongs of Beijing, experiencing the SARS epidemic, the death of their elders, the demolition of the old city and others, and formed a deep friendship.
Shao Xue was influenced by Zheng Sunian’s mother and chose to leave her hometown because she did not want to give up the unlimited possibilities of her future for love.
Zheng Sunian inherited the legacy of his elders and became a restorer of cultural relics, sensing time and gaining power in the immortal relics.
Zhang Qi was guaranteed admission in advance because of his talent in mathematics.
Even if the hearts were connected, the young Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian still went their separate ways because of their respective pursuits.
After years of separation, they meet again and get together in the end.
Memory of Encaustic Tile Recap
Episode 1 Recap
A heavy snow falls on November 23, 2002. The caliduct in the Restoration Department cracks due to freezing, causing water to spill everywhere. All the adults, including Shao Xue's mother, Jin Ning, and Lin Shiyin's father, are called back to the department for urgent repairs. Shao Xue's mother worries about her, calling her a "crazy lass" who "will always be a crazy lass," no matter how old she gets.
Jin Ning tells her son, Zheng Sunian, who is at home, to take care of Shao Xue. After the adults leave, Shao Xue calls her friends, including Zhang Qi and Lin Shiyin, inviting them to her house. Wu Huan also joins, as Shao Xue forgot to invite them.
Shao Xue proposes having a hotpot at her house, stating that it's a sacred moment as it involves going against three major rules: playing with fire, using knives, and gathering to fool around. She assigns Sunian to be in charge of vegetables and Zhang Qi to be in charge of meat, while she will be in charge of eating. At Shao Xue's house, the small pot available is deemed unsuitable for hotpot, lacking "any sense of ceremony."
Lin Shiyin remembers her father recently bought a cloisonne pot. She and Wu Huan go to her house to retrieve it. Shiyin cannot find the key to the cabinet where the pot is kept. Wu Huan attempts to pick the lock with Shiyin's hair clip but breaks the clip. Zheng Sunian arrives and tells Wu Huan that he should "follow the righteous path" and doesn't "have what it takes to be a crook."
Sunian then uses a screwdriver to remove the back panel of the cabinet, skillfully retrieving the cloisonne pot without damaging the lock. Everyone is impressed by his ingenuity. Meanwhile, Zhang Qi is sent to buy meat. On his way, he's persuaded by his friends to play Red Alert at a cybercafe, bragging about being the best in East Second Ring Road. By the time he finishes playing, all the mutton at Ox Street is sold out.
Zhang Qi returns empty-handed but lies, claiming he gave five jin of mutton to a "pitiful mother and son at the roadside" in the cold. Sunian presses him for details, asking about the price and location, which quickly exposes Zhang Qi's lie. Sunian then offers to get some meat from his own house. The children try to light the charcoal fire for the hotpot, but the charcoal is damp and won't ignite.
Zhang Qi, impatient, pours liquor on the charcoal, causing a large flame to erupt, nearly setting the house on fire. Meanwhile, the adults, including Shao Xue's mother and Lin Shiyin's father, return home from repairing the caliducts. They see smoke billowing from the house and rush in, fearing it's on fire. Inside the courtyard, they find a smoking charcoal basin but no children.
Upon entering the house, they discover the children pretending to study, heads down on their desks, each with a plate of hotpot ingredients hidden under the table. Shao Xue's mother points out to Lin Shiyin's father that the cloisonne pot being used for hotpot is his valuable antique. Shao Xue's mother, seeing the entire scene, is furious, unable to express her anger. Shao Xue's mother reprimands her and confines her to her room, forbidding her from leaving for several days.
Shao Xue's father tries to defend the children, suggesting they just wanted hotpot, but her mother argues about the dangers of fire and knives, mentioning they almost set the house ablaze. She criticizes her husband for spoiling Shao Xue and for not understanding her concerns, even asking if he's become "an idiot" from repairing too many watches.
Taking advantage of her parents' argument, Shao Xue sneaks out with her bag, leaving her mother exasperated and realizing Shao Xue has also taken all the vegetables. Shao Xue, Zhang Qi, and Sunian head to the Restoration Department, as Shao Xue declares she has "something huge to announce" and intends to become a "huge artist." Shao Xue notes that Sunian's mother, Jin Ning, didn't scold him, making her wish she had a mother like Jin Ning.
At the Restoration Department, the gatekeeper stops them, demanding a work pass. He refuses entry even when Shao Xue claims they left their homework inside. Mr. Luo, passing by, vouches for them. Shao Xue explains that their class was assigned to draw promotional artwork for the upcoming Olympics, and she took on the task despite her mother's disapproval due to her grades.
Mr. Luo allows them to use Ms. Jin Ning's table to draw, warning them not to touch his belongings. Shao Xue presents her "masterpiece," a drawing featuring international landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sydney Opera House, and Eiffel Tower. Zhang Qi jokingly points out a part resembling "long johns." Shao Xue asks Sunian to help "color it," but Sunian says it needs to be completely redrawn. Zhang Qi and Wu Huan, bored, decide to go make snowmen.
Sunian redraws the picture beautifully, impressing Shao Xue, who admits it's significantly better than hers. She wishes she could visit all the places in the drawing one day. Sunian advises her to go when she wants, as "some landmarks change at a rapid pace." Shao Xue jokes that he sounds like "Mr. Zhang next door." Shao Xue's mother had expressed her worries to her husband about Shao Xue, who is now in high school.
She's concerned about her declining grades, from being a top student to the bottom of her class, and laments that she's always been the one to worry about homework and attend parent-teacher meetings. Sunian, anticipating Shao Xue's mother's anger, gives Shao Xue a hair clip to help appease her. Upon returning home, Shao Xue's mother is still furious and initially rejects Shao Xue's attempts to apologize, claiming she doesn't have a daughter like her.
Shao Xue then presents the hair clip as a "tiny gift," and both Shao Xue and her father plead for forgiveness. Shao Xue's mother, charmed by the gift and the pleas, eventually relents, saying, "Why can't you stop making me angry?" She admits the hair clip "does look great" but reminds Shao Xue to use her pocket money for food. Shao Xue's mother forgives her daughter. After Sunian returns home, his mother, Jin Ning, asks whose idea the hotpot was.
When Sunian says it was "everyone's idea," Jin Ning surprisingly says she wished it had been his, as it would make him "look cute when you get into trouble like a normal kid," suggesting she wants him to be less sensible. Sunian playfully tells her to "stop watching those dramas." Later, after dinner, Shao Xue asks her mother for permission to go out to play with Sunian and Zhang Qi, claiming Sunian will help them with their homework.
Her mother is skeptical, pointing out that "homework questions and stomachache" are her oldest excuses. Shao Xue's father supports her, saying they should be cautious about stomachaches. Her mother reluctantly agrees, telling her to "come back early." Shao Xue's mother then complains to her husband, reflecting on how quiet Shao Xue was as a baby, but now "she doesn't want to stay at home" and is always "naughty." She calls her daughter her "adversary."
Her husband reminds her that Shao Xue was born after eight months of pregnancy. Shao Xue and Sunian go to Zhang Qi's house, where they hear a commotion. Zhang Qi's mother, Zhang Ling, is chasing him, scolding him for having a hotpot and almost setting the house on fire. Zhang Qi talks back, making fun of his mother and provoking her.
When Shao Xue and Sunian arrive, Zhang Ling quickly pretends she was just "hitting cockroaches" because Zhang Qi "didn't even take out the trash." She then praises Shao Xue. Zhang Qi quickly uses this opportunity to escape with Shao Xue and Sunian, claiming Sunian will help them with homework. Zhang Ling tells Zhang Qi she will "deal with him when he's back."
As they leave, Shao Xue gently reminds Zhang Qi not to make his mother angry, as she raised him alone. Zhang Qi brushes it off, saying their arguments actually "foster a closer relationship" and his mother "glows" afterward. Unwilling to go home, Shao Xue suggests they find Wu Huan. They discover Wu Huan building a snowman, intending to surprise Lin Shiyin. Shiyin soon joins them, and all the friends happily work on the snowman.
They decide to name the snowman "Xiaowa," a shortened version of Sunian's suggestion, "Encaustic Tile." The next morning, Zhang Qi, Shao Xue, and Sunian are on their way to school, stopping to buy roujiamo. Shao Xue asks Sunian what he plans to give his mother, Jin Ning, for her upcoming birthday. Sunian keeps it a secret, telling her she'll "know it by then."
Zhang Qi gives the same answer when asked, adding that "you don't need to guess what a man is thinking." Later, Lin Shiyin is at the school's radio station, acting as the announcer. She plays a song called "The Little Li Flying Dagger," requested by an anonymous student for Gu Weiyi from Class 1, Grade 11.
Sunian shows Zhang Qi a rare Naruto comic book he obtained, but clarifies it's not Jin Ning's birthday gift, inviting him to his house later to see the actual present. After the broadcast, Sunian approaches Gu Weiyi and asks to speak privately.
Episode 2 Recap
Jin Ning's birthday was approaching, and Zheng Jin was diligently working at the repair shop. He was meticulously restoring an antique music box, intending it as a special birthday gift for Jin Ning, so engrossed in his task that he skipped meals. As he fixed the music box, he recalled their first encounter, when Jin Ning, looking like a fairy, captivated everyone in the facsimile division upon her arrival.
Meanwhile, Zheng Sunian, a popular student, was often approached by a senior. This irked Zhuang Dada, a classmate and 'little hooligan,' who also liked the senior and warned Sunian to stay away from her. Sunian ignored him, and Zhuang Dada, in a fit of rage, later removed the valve cap from his bicycle, forcing Sunian to push it all the way home.
Later that evening, while doing homework with friends, Zhang Qi discovered his own schoolbag had also been damaged by Zhuang Dada. He told his mother about Sunian being bullied, which she found hard to believe, as Sunian was such a good kid. She cautioned Zhang Qi not to meddle in others' affairs. Zhang Qi, however, urged Sunian to fight back, but Sunian, being academically inclined, preferred to avoid trouble.
Seeing Sunian's passive approach, Shao Xue and Zhang Qi secretly decided to take matters into their own hands and confront Zhuang Dada. Shao Xue declared that Sunian was in charge of learning, while they would "protect the world's peace." She planned to send Zhuang Dada a "love letter" to lure him out. The next day, Shao Xue passed a note to one of Zhuang Dada's classmates, asking him to meet her at the North Gate.
Sunian, learning that Shao Xue had gone alone to confront Zhuang Dada, rushed to find her, worried she might be bullied. He found Zhuang Dada by himself and, assuming Shao Xue was in trouble, immediately restrained him, warning him that he could bully Sunian but not Shao Xue. Just then, Shao Xue returned, revealing she had already handled the situation.
She had flattered Zhuang Dada, telling him he was quite good-looking but needed to improve his "temperament" to win the affection of the school's belle. Zhuang Dada, eager to impress the belle, agreed to stop bullying Sunian in exchange for Shao Xue's guidance. Zhang Qi, who had mistakenly gone to a different "North Gate" (of an opposite community), arrived late, missing the confrontation.
Separately, Lin Shiyin was caught by their teacher, Mr. Liu, for bringing nail polish to school and was punished to stand outside the classroom. Wu Huan tried to take the blame, claiming the nail polish was his, but Mr. Liu dismissed him. Shiyin was furious with Wu Huan for not speaking up effectively and told him to stop being a busybody.
Shao Xue then decided to find a "Winter Sonata" movie disc as a birthday gift for Aunt Jinning, knowing she had been sad when the show stopped broadcasting. Zhang Qi boasted about his "connections" and offered to help her find it. They went to a music store where the owner, Haonan, jokingly showed them inappropriate films before providing the correct disc. On their way back, Mrs. Li from the Neighborhood Committee stopped them, scolding them for neglecting community service.
She assigned them to put up posters at the Neighborhood Committee Activity Center. Finding the door locked and Mrs. Li having gone to buy soy sauce, Shao Xue proposed climbing the wall. As she climbed, she saw Sunian talking to the senior. Upset by the sight, Shao Xue fell, spraining her leg.
Sunian quickly came to her aid, carrying her, but Shao Xue, still angry, demanded to be put down and insisted that Zhang Qi carry her instead, claiming she was "scared of heights" and subtly implying Sunian was too tall. At the neighborhood clinic, Dr. Liu examined Shao Xue and assured them it was just a sprain, no need for a hospital.
When Shao Xue's mother arrived to take her home, Sunian tried to talk to Shao Xue, asking what he had done to upset her. Shao Xue responded that he "doesn't treat us like buddies anymore." Later, Sunian confided in Zhang Qi, wondering if Shao Xue was "sick" for getting angry without apparent reason, and concluded that "girls are such a hassle." Zhang Qi humorously suggested he think of Shao Xue as "a guy who gets a monthly period."
Despite his frustration, Sunian couldn't shake the feeling that Shao Xue was different, remembering how "soft" she felt when he carried her. The next day, Sunian went to Shao Xue's home to apologize and gifted her a new "Winter Sonata" disc to replace the broken one. Shao Xue, pleased with the gesture, reluctantly forgave him. At Aunt Jinning's birthday celebration, Shao Xue presented the disc, which Jin Ning adored, exclaiming how thoughtful it was.
Zhang Qi gave her an "Errand ticket," promising to be at her service anytime. Shiyin gave a delicate hairpin she had secretly modified from her mother's pendant, and Wu Huan presented a folded paper gift that Jin Ning particularly cherished. When asked about his gift, Sunian kept it a secret.
Later, to everyone's surprise, Sunian's senior appeared and performed a song, revealing that Sunian had arranged this musical performance as a special birthday surprise for his mother, explaining his recent secret meetings with the senior. The senior spoke about how Aunt Jinning was her inspiration, often telling stories of her time abroad, fostering a dream to see faraway places and discover her own landscapes and stories.
Episode 3 Recap
As the final exams approached, parents were busy preparing breakfast for their children and urging them to do well. Zheng Sunian's mother, Jinning, even told him not to score too high so she wouldn't constantly be asked about her parenting methods. Meanwhile, Zhang Qi's mother quizzed him on ancient poetry during breakfast, to his annoyance, and warned him that if he didn't score well, he wouldn't get pocket money.
Shao Xue's mother insisted she eat an extra fried dough stick and two eggs, claiming it was the secret to a perfect score, but Shao Xue noted it had never worked before. After the exams, the students gathered to discuss their performance. Shao Xue was overjoyed, believing she had performed exceptionally well and might even rank in the top ten. However, when others started discussing the last few major problems on the math test, Shao Xue's confidence quickly evaporated.
She soon realized she had completely missed an entire page of questions, leaving four large problems unanswered. Terrified of her mother's reaction, Shao Xue exclaimed, "My mom would kill me." Zheng Sunian suggested they talk to the teacher about the oversight, but Zhang Qi quickly dismissed the idea, saying "Demon Liu" would only use Shao Xue as a "bad example" in "circulating speeches" across all grades.
Zhang Qi then proposed a daring plan: they should sneak into the school, steal the test paper, modify it, and return it. Shao Xue found the idea "reliable," but Zheng Sunian strongly disagreed, citing the "too much risk" involved. Zhang Qi confidently claimed, "With me there, how would we get caught?" to which Zheng Sunian retorted, "With you there, we'll surely get caught."
To get Zheng Sunian to leave, Shao Xue and Zhang Qi pretended to be engrossed in studying, discussing a math function. After Zheng Sunian left, his father, Zheng Jian, sent ribs to Shao Xue's home via Zheng Sunian. Usually, Shao Xue would eagerly devour them, but this time she showed no interest, which puzzled her parents, who noted her uncharacteristic behavior. The next morning, Shao Xue and Zhang Qi decided to put their plan into action.
Shao Xue prayed for success, vowing this would be her first and last "bad thing." They successfully snuck into the school grounds. Finding the main door to the archives room locked, they discovered an unlocked window, allowing them to gain entry. Inside, Shao Xue located her math test paper. However, as she tried to fill in the missing answers, she became too nervous to write anything and also expressed concern that burglary was a much bigger crime than cheating.
Just then, the school guard began his routine patrol and noticed the open window. As he approached the archives room, Zheng Sunian appeared, asking the guard for help to retrieve his English dictionary from his classroom. This clever diversion allowed Shao Xue and Zhang Qi to escape unnoticed. After their close call, Shao Xue worried about security cameras in the school capturing their actions.
Zhang Qi, who had been unusually quiet, seemed fixated on Shao Xue, a sign of his developing feelings for her. He urged her to keep their adventure a "secret." Later, Zheng Sunian confronted Shao Xue about her "scheme with Zhang Qi." She denied going through with it, claiming it was "too risky" and that she had decided it wasn't a "good idea" after all, again asking him to keep it a secret.
Undeterred by Shao Xue's failure to complete the test, Zheng Sunian later gave her a blank math paper. He challenged her to solve the last four major problems within 30 minutes, the amount of time she stated she would have had for active problem-solving during the actual exam. At home, Yu Dongge surprised Shao Hua and Shao Xue by ordering an elaborate dinner from a restaurant.
She explained that she felt her cooking wasn't good and that she had "made you two suffer" all these years. Her unusually kind and solicitous demeanor worried Shao Xue, who suspected her mother might have found out about her exam problems. Shao Hua, equally confused, wondered if something good had happened.
Later, Yu Dongge brought milk tea to Shao Xue's room and, with a gentle tone, told her that "scores don't mean anything" and that she would always be her "precious daughter," which only intensified Shao Xue's anxiety about her secret. That evening, Yu Dongge confided in Shao Hua that she had been experiencing sudden dizziness and stomach pain, which she initially attributed to "acid reflux."
However, after overhearing colleagues discuss how minor ailments could sometimes be symptoms of serious diseases, she grew concerned and feared she might have stomach cancer, like her own mother, expressing, "I can't accompany you till we're old." Shao Hua dismissed her worries, calling the fortune-teller who had told her the disease had "spread" a "liar," and insisted they go to a proper hospital. Yu Dongge was distraught, crying, "I don't want to die. I don't want to leave you."
Shao Hua comforted her, promising to "bring her back" even from the "king of Hell." Back at school, during the announcement of the math test scores, Shao Xue was astonished to hear she scored 101 points, a result she found hard to believe given her incomplete paper. The teacher, Mr. Liu, privately told her he was giving her a "chance this time" and warned her to avoid such "sloppy mistakes" in the future.
Zheng Sunian later revealed to Shao Xue that he had volunteered to help Mr. Liu grade papers. He had explained Shao Xue's situation, assuring the teacher that she had only missed a page due to an oversight. Presenting the blank test paper she had completed at his home, he proved her capability, and with Mr. Liu's permission, filled in her missing answers. Shao Xue was incredibly grateful for Zheng Sunian's help.
The next day, Yu Dongge and Shao Hua, accompanied by supportive neighbors, went to the hospital for her check-up. Shao Hua soon emerged with a report, joyfully announcing that Yu Dongge was not sick but pregnant. He teasingly told her to "eat whatever you want" so the "fetus won't be malnourished." The news brought immense relief and celebration to everyone.
Returning home, Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian were greeted by jubilant neighbors who congratulated Shao Xue on becoming an older sister. Shao Xue was "speechless" and "confused" by the unexpected news of a second child. Sensing her turmoil, Zheng Sunian took her for a walk. Shao Xue confessed her deepest fear: "If I do have a younger brother or sister, will you all like me less?"
Episode 4 Recap
Shao Xue worried about how her family's love for her would be divided if she had a younger sibling. She expressed her fears to Zheng Sunian, recounting an old saying about the eldest child being the least favorite. Zheng Sunian reassured her that not only would their love not diminish, but she would also receive additional love from her younger sibling, who would adore her as their "amazing big sister" and motivate her to strive for excellence.
Excited by this, Shao Xue immediately wanted to talk to her unborn sibling to establish herself as the "boss." However, when she returned home, her mother, Ms. Yu, informed her that due to her age and health, she would likely not be able to carry the pregnancy to term. Saddened, Shao Xue embraced her mother, promising to love her twice as much, on behalf of herself and her unborn sister.
She felt blessed to have her parents and friends in her life. Later, Zhang Qi, confused about his feelings for a person, asked Zheng Sunian for specific signs of being interested in someone. Zheng Sunian described it as constantly wanting to see them, desiring to be close, and wishing to be the sole focus of their attention. Zhang Qi, realizing he felt none of these things, concluded he wasn't interested in Ran Mori and had always preferred Ai Haibara.
Zheng Sunian, amused, told him he was reading too much manga. On New Year's Eve, Shao Xue's mother, Ms. Yu, playfully scolded Shao Xue for asking for "salary" after running errands, to which Shao Xue jokingly retorted that getting scolded on New Year's Eve was a good omen. Zheng Sunian arrived and promised Ms. Yu he would make sure Shao Xue bought everything. The group of young people, including Lin Shiyin, set off for New Year shopping.
Lin Shiyin mentioned her afternoon flight to Hainan, where her family was spending the holiday, and was somewhat disappointed that Wu Huan had to work during New Year instead of joining them. Shao Xue suggested they split up to finish faster. While shopping, they encountered Wu Huan working at a stall selling baked flatbreads. Zhang Qi tried to jump the queue for baked flatbreads, but Wu Huan insisted he wait his turn.
Lin Shiyin also ordered baked flatbreads from Wu Huan and received free mutton skewers. Shao Xue invited Wu Huan and his mother to their family's New Year's Eve dinner, but he declined, promising to visit on the first day of the New Year. As they continued shopping, Zhang Qi suddenly became philosophical after remembering a game where his character, Zhao Ling'er, died.
He wondered how many more New Years they would spend together, fearing that Shao Xue, who always spoke of exploring the world, might eventually leave. Zheng Sunian expressed hope she would return. Approaching home, Shao Xue noticed Ms. Deng's steamed bun stall still displayed last year's New Year scrolls, which reminded Shao Xue that she had forgotten to buy new ones.
Worried about her mother's reaction, Zheng Sunian suggested they seek help from Mr. Luo, who was known for his excellent calligraphy. Upon arriving at Mr. Luo's home, they found him practicing calligraphy. He explained the custom of asking for "artwork" and graciously offered to give them some of his works. Shao Xue chose a couplet with a poem by Wang Anshi and a horizontal scroll reading "The beginning of a New Year."
Zhang Qi also picked a couplet, which Zheng Sunian identified as the first New Year scrolls in history, written by Meng Chang of the Later Shu dynasty. Shao Xue then requested a simpler, easy-to-understand horizontal scroll, and Mr. Luo kindly wrote "An auspicious New Year" for her. Back home, Shao Xue proudly displayed Mr. Luo's couplets to her parents. Her father jokingly suggested she should try to get a painting from Mr. Luo next to secure their family's future.
Soon after, Ms. Li arrived with exciting news. She revealed that Shao Xue's school was implementing a "two-plus-one" program, a study-abroad initiative where students would complete two years of high school in China and their senior year abroad, making it easier to enter prestigious overseas universities. Ms. Li confirmed that Shao Xue, despite her average grades but strong English skills, had been shortlisted for the program.
Shao Xue's mother was delighted but also concerned about her daughter being away for so long. She strictly warned Shao Xue not to tell anyone about this opportunity, as it was still confidential. Later, while delivering New Year gifts to neighbors, Shao Xue, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi visited Mr. Sun's home.
They found Siyuan, Mr. Sun's grandson, tinkering with a new digital camera he had bought with money from a side job and given to Mr. Sun as a New Year's gift. Siyuan confessed he had been considering leaving the Restoration Department because his salary barely covered his living expenses. Despite his background in polytechnic, he admitted his heart still longed for restoration work. Zheng Sunian encouraged him, noting how handsome Siyuan looked when engaged in restoration.
Just then, Fu Qiaomu arrived to pay her respects. Mr. Sun introduced her as an art school graduate who would be joining the Restoration Department after the Spring Festival, making her Siyuan's future junior colleague. Siyuan, smitten by Fu Qiaomu's beauty, became flustered, even attempting to take photos of her with the new camera. Fu Qiaomu asked if he planned to stay at the department and if he could mentor her, which surprised Siyuan, causing him to spill water.
After taking some group photos in the snowy courtyard, Siyuan, emboldened, told his grandfather that he had decided to stay at the Restoration Department, much to Mr. Sun's joy. During the New Year's Eve dinner, Shao Xue excitedly shared her news about the "two-plus-one" program with Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi. Zhang Qi teased her about her academic performance but Shao Xue proudly stated her English skills secured her spot.
When Zheng Sunian asked if she would indeed go if accepted, Shao Xue affirmed her intention, explaining it would be boring to stay in one place forever and she wanted to see the world to live without regrets. Zheng Sunian felt a sense of reluctance, knowing he would miss Shao Xue if she left. Zhang Qi supported her ambition.
At the dinner table, Shao Xue eagerly asked her mother for her New Year red envelope, but her mother announced that red envelopes were canceled this year. Instead, she would save the money for Shao Xue's university education, promising a big reward then. Zhang Qi also lamented the loss of his red envelope. Meanwhile, Wu Huan's mother gave him a red envelope for good luck, acknowledging his hard work in helping the family due to her poor health.
Later that evening, as the adults played mahjong, Shao Xue, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi watched the Spring Festival Gala. Shao Xue and Zhang Qi made a bet on who could stay awake until midnight, with the loser buying the winner either a complete set of Detective Conan manga or twenty meals at Pizza Hut. Zheng Sunian was appointed as the judge. Shao Xue eventually dozed off on Zheng Sunian's shoulder, which made Zheng Sunian feel happy.
Having grown up together, they were accustomed to such closeness, and Shao Xue viewed Zheng Sunian as a dear older brother. As midnight approached, Shao Xue woke up, startled to find Zheng Sunian watching her. She quickly realized Zhang Qi had also fallen asleep. They woke him up, and all three joined the countdown, shouting "Happy New Year!" before heading outside to light fireworks.
Amidst the sparks, Shao Xue wished for her parents' health, her family's happiness, and to study abroad. Zhang Qi wished for his mother's work success and more time with her. Zheng Sunian, with a heartfelt inner thought of wanting everyone to be happy and for nothing to change, wished for Shao Xue and Zhang Qi's wishes to come true. After the celebration, Zhang Qi returned home.
He spoke to a portrait of his deceased father, reminiscing about past New Years when his father was absent. He expressed how much he missed him, while also acknowledging he hadn't forgiven his father for leaving them. He described his mother as a strong, independent "superwoman" now, but admitted that despite her outward strength, she still deeply missed his father.
Episode 5 Recap
Shao Xue had a nightmare where the college entrance exam, personified as a villain, shot mathematical formulas at her like hidden weapons. She woke up terrified to find Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi had written many words about the college entrance exam on her face as a prank. When asked what they were doing, Zhang Qi jokingly said they were cheering for her, and Zheng Sunian added that he was correcting Zhang Qi's potential misspellings.
Shao Xue, annoyed, told them to leave, explaining to Shiyin that she had been praying every day to be selected for a study abroad program to avoid the college entrance exam. Shiyin then shared some "good news": she was taking Shao Xue to her rural hometown down south. Shao Xue was surprised, as they had just celebrated the Spring Festival.
Shiyin expressed her dislike for her hometown, describing it as shabby with no modern amenities like a water heater, toilet, or many TV channels, and her elderly relatives, including her hard-of-hearing grandmother, made conversations difficult. Shao Xue was initially hesitant, fearing her mother's disapproval, but Shiyin assured her that her mother had already gotten approval, stating, "if you're willing to go, you can go."
Shao Xue’s mother, however, was filled with worry as Shao Xue prepared to leave, giving her endless instructions about staying warm and not being picky with food at other people's houses. Shao Xue, finding her mother's nagging tiresome, quickly got into the car to escape. Shiyin's mother advised Shiyin to endure the visit to avoid upsetting her father. Meanwhile, Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi were at a bookstore.
Zhang Qi, considering his future, casually mentioned he might also study abroad to keep Shao Xue company. Zheng Sunian became quiet, revealing his underlying discomfort with Shao Xue leaving. He worried that if she left, their relationship would change, and she would find new friends and a new life, growing distant from them.
Zhang Qi, with a more optimistic outlook, reassured him that some bonds, like their friendship, were unchanging, comparing them to cherished "antique clocks" that retain their value regardless of new trends. He reminded Zheng Sunian of his own longing for Zhang Qi during a month-long summer camp as proof of their enduring bond.
Later, Zhang Qi received a call from Sun Siyuan, inviting them to the art academy for an assignment from Grandpa Sun, and they decided to go in the afternoon. Upon arriving at Shiyin’s hometown, Shao Xue was charmed by the rustic environment, finding it picturesque and akin to a vacation spot she once wanted to visit. Shiyin, in contrast, maintained a sullen expression, clearly disliking the rural setting.
Many relatives had gathered at Grandma's house, curious about the new toilet Shiyin's father had installed for Grandma, who had difficulty squatting. The scene amused Shao Xue, especially when an elderly relative accidentally dropped his false teeth into the new toilet. Shiyin, however, dismissed the relatives as "country bumpkins" and refused to join the commotion or even look at a cute lamb Shao Xue excitedly pointed out, commenting that Shao Xue was "being a country bumpkin" too.
At dinner, Shao Xue enthusiastically enjoyed the local dishes, praising Grandma’s cooking. Grandma, happy with Shao Xue's appetite, continued to serve her more, including local bamboo shoots. Shiyin, on the other hand, barely touched her food, citing a diet and her general dislike for "country food," appearing distant and unappreciative of Grandma's efforts. After dinner, Grandma offered to take them to the market, but Shiyin declined, finding the idea "tacky." Shao Xue readily offered to help Grandma feed the chickens.
At the art academy, Sun Siyuan and Fu Qiaomu explained their plan to shoot a graduation film about the college entrance exam, featuring Zheng Sunian, Zhang Qi, and another friend as high school students. Their proposed concept—showing students studying, encouraging each other, and running—was immediately criticized by Zheng Sunian as "unoriginal" and "boring." Fu Qiaomu expressed desperation, explaining she needed to submit the project soon to graduate and continue working at the Bronzeware Restoration Division.
Zheng Sunian, inspired by Shao Xue's recent nightmare, suggested a new approach: portraying the college entrance exam as a "battle" rather than a mere "publicity film," and offered to take charge of the creative direction. Later that evening, while in Grandma's room, Shao Xue discovered old photographs, realizing that Grandma was once an elegant lady, reminiscent of a star from Old Shanghai. She also found a box of old jewelry.
Shiyin initially dismissed the jewelry as "tacky trinkets," but Shao Xue persuaded her to try on a rabbit pendant, her zodiac animal. To Shiyin's surprise, she liked how it looked. They then took joyful photos with Grandma, who wore a bangle, creating a happy memory. That night, Shiyin opened up to Shao Xue about her past. She confessed that she moved to Beijing at three and was often bullied and called a "country bumpkin" due to her humble background.
Her proud mother, despite their financial struggles, bought her expensive clothes to present her as a "little princess." This experience made Shiyin terrified of others knowing about her rural upbringing and her "tacky" relatives, fearing they would no longer respect her. She admitted to forcing herself to forget her past and never replying to her grandma's and aunt's letters, which made her feel ashamed.
However, seeing Shao Xue happily engaging with her grandmother that day made her realize that being proud of her roots was not embarrassing. She just didn't know how to bridge the emotional distance she had created. Shao Xue comforted her, reminding her that those who love us, like her grandma and aunt, deserve to be cherished and given a chance. The next day, as Shiyin's family prepared to leave, Grandma offered Shao Xue some lucky money, which she gently declined.
However, Shiyin accepted 500 yuan from Grandma. Shiyin's parents were surprised, noting that this sum was several months of Grandma's living expenses, especially since Grandma still wore mended shoes to save money. This revelation deeply moved Shiyin. She immediately asked the car to stop, ran back to Grandma, and returned the money. She embraced her grandmother tightly, promising to visit often and invite Grandma and Aunt to Beijing, where she vowed to buy Grandma "the most beautiful shoes in Beijing."
Her parents watched, touched by her newfound maturity. On the journey back, Shiyin thanked Shao Xue for accompanying her, realizing the true value of family love. Back in Beijing, Shiyin distributed the local specialties from her hometown to neighbors. Jin Ning informed Shao Xue that Zheng Sunian had a gift for her. Shao Xue excitedly went to find him.
Zheng Sunian presented her with a carefully selected set of IELTS study materials, including books on English conversation, writing methods, and a practice question bank tailored to her level. He confessed his initial selfish desire for her to stay, explaining that he admired things that remained unchanged, like the Forbidden City, symbolizing permanence. However, he realized that her yearning to "see a bigger world" was just as deeply rooted as his desire for stability.
He acknowledged that stifling her ambition would bring her great unhappiness, and his ultimate wish was for her to always be "happy Xue." Shao Xue then asked him if his fear was that she would forget him if she left.
Episode 6 Recap
Shao Xue openly questioned Zheng Sunian, asking if his hesitation about her studying abroad stemmed from a fear that she would forget him. Zheng Sunian conceded that it might be a factor, but Shao Xue quickly reassured him that some individuals and experiences leave an indelible mark on one's memory, a sentiment she recalled Zhang Qi also sharing. Shao Xue added that Zhang Qi genuinely wished her well.
Zheng Sunian, however, cautioned that it was too early to consider, noting the intense competition for limited study abroad opportunities. Shao Xue expressed unwavering faith that he would achieve his aspirations. Later, Fu Qiaomu's graduation project, a promotional film for the National College Entrance Examination (NCEE), achieved a perfect score. Shao Xue praised Zheng Sunian for his brilliance after hearing about the perfect score.
Fu Qiaomu, the director, later publicly acknowledged Zheng Sunian's suggestion to frame the NCEE as an intense "battle" rather than a mere advertisement, a concept vividly brought to life in her film "The Exam Battleground." Zhang Qi comically claimed his "superb performance" was key to the film's success, implying he wanted to be in it.
At home, Zheng Sunian was apprehensive when he found his father, Zheng Jin, waiting for Jin Ning to prepare dinner, as it was his mother's turn to cook, and her culinary skills were generally poor. He attempted to find an excuse to leave, but Zheng Jin insisted he stay. When Jin Ning served her homemade steak, both father and son found it quite unpalatable.
Zheng Sunian tactfully suggested to Jin Ning that if all foreign food tasted similarly, he should learn Chinese cooking from his father before considering going abroad. Meanwhile, Zhang Qi, home alone and eating instant noodles, was pleasantly surprised by a delivery of sushi and sashimi, a thoughtful surprise from his mother, Zhang Ling, who called him to explain. In another household, Wu Huan was tending to his mother, Xin Jie, when his mention of Zheng Sunian sparked a furious outburst.
Xin Jie accused Jin Ning of ruining their family and demanded that Wu Huan harbor hatred for the entire Zheng family. She also irrationally blamed Wu Huan for his father's death, calling him a jinx. A flashback revealed that years prior, Xin Jie had been dismissed from the Restoration Department for stealing a painting from Luo Huaijin.
During a dramatic scene caused by Xin Jie at the institute, Jin Ning attempted to intervene, but Luo Huaijin prevented her, believing her presence would only exacerbate Xin Jie's anger. This incident fueled Xin Jie's intense resentment towards Jin Ning, whom she disparagingly called a "wretch." Wu Huan eventually managed to calm his mother and ensure she took her medicine. As news of rapidly escalating SARS cases in Beijing spread, widespread panic began to grip the city.
Shao Xue initially remained unfazed but soon observed a palpable shift in her neighborhood, with residents becoming cautious and avoiding casual interactions. At school, Zhang Qi suddenly developed a high fever, causing alarm among students and staff fearing SARS infection. Shao Xue, concerned for Zhang Qi, wanted to visit him at the hospital. Zheng Sunian, anticipating the need, provided her with a mask. However, upon arrival, hospital security denied them entry, citing strict quarantine protocols.
Zhang Ling, having learned of her son's isolation, rushed to Shao Xue's home, distraught and seeking information. Just then, Zhang Qi called Shao Xue. Zhang Ling immediately snatched the phone, frantically instructing her son to protect himself and avoid any physical contact with others. Zhang Qi, having already recovered from his fever and expecting to be released soon, then discreetly requested Shao Xue to bring his new Naruto comics from home, complaining of the extreme boredom during his isolation.
Shao Xue agreed and enlisted Zheng Sunian's help. After school, the two covertly returned to the hospital and successfully passed the books to Zhang Qi through a window, narrowly escaping detection by a vigilant security guard. The SARS epidemic continued to intensify, with daily new cases escalating and igniting widespread fear. Residents expressed anxiety about healthcare workers returning to the neighborhood, fearing they might unknowingly bring the virus home to the elderly and young.
Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian witnessed these escalating tensions, realizing the true gravity of the situation. Following the surge in cases, the school announced its immediate closure and the suspension of all classes. Students were instructed to continue their studies at home, emphasizing the importance of diligence for the upcoming NCEE. After delivering the comics, Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian went to the Restoration Department to return Zheng Sunian's father's phone.
There, they met Baiqing, who immediately recognized Shao Xue despite her having grown significantly. Baiqing revealed that he had returned to China at his mentor's request to contribute to SARS vaccine research. He mentioned being temporarily locked out of his own home because his father had changed the lock. Soon after, Baiqing's father, Mr. Sun, appeared, urging Baiqing to rest and reminding him to wear a mask.
Mr. Sun then generously offered Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian some "foreign stuff" Baiqing had brought back, as he himself didn't care for such "foreign things." Seizing the opportunity, Shao Xue asked Baiqing about life abroad, while Zheng Sunian, with more concern, inquired about potential challenges. Baiqing assured them of safety but noted that foreign food could be monotonous, advising Shao Xue to learn to cook before she moved abroad.
Later, at Zheng Sunian's house, Shao Xue discovered a collection of cassette tapes belonging to Jin Ning. Among them was a tape featuring English lyrics personally written by Jin Ning, titled "From Afar." Zheng Sunian shared that his mother would listen to this particular song whenever she longed for his father during her time studying abroad. Shao Xue found the song to be melodious and felt as if it conveyed a heartfelt story.
Soon after, Baiqing deployed to a designated hospital in Xiaotangshan to treat SARS patients on the frontline. Everyone expressed deep worry for Baiqing, keenly aware of the inherent dangers. Recognizing that Mr. Sun, despite maintaining a stoic facade, was undoubtedly consumed with anxiety for his son, Shao Xue proposed that she, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi visit him to offer comfort and companionship. Shao Xue's mother supported the idea, even preparing some braised beef for them to take.
The three friends went to Mr. Sun’s home. Shao Xue noticed Mr. Sun seemed to have forgotten to eat and inquired about his lunch. Zheng Sunian offered to cook noodles for him, a new skill he had learned from his father. While Zheng Sunian prepared the meal, Zhang Qi attempted to play chess with Mr. Sun, but the elderly man remained visibly distracted, his mind clearly preoccupied with his son's perilous work on the front lines. Before leaving, Shao Xue urged Mr. Sun to eat the noodles Zheng Sunian had prepared.
Episode 7 Recap
Zhang Qi was released from isolation, and Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue brought him home. However, they remained concerned about Mr. Sun's safety as he continued to treat patients in the hospital. Meanwhile, Kou Siyuan, knowing that Qiaomu was also isolated at her art school and couldn't leave, visited her outside the campus walls. He brought her various delicious foods and even some isatis root infusion. Qiaomu was touched by his thoughtfulness.
Upon returning to her dorm, her roommates, seeing all the food, jokingly suggested it was from a boyfriend. Qiaomu, however, clarified that they were merely intern colleagues and hadn't confessed any romantic feelings. As they opened the food bags, they discovered a brand-new, red mobile phone. Her roommates were amazed by Kou Siyuan's generosity, but Qiaomu, finding the gift too valuable for mere friends, rushed out to return it, only to find that he had already left.
Soon, the epidemic came to an end, and life gradually returned to normal. Shao Xue's mother, hearing the news, quickly gathered her family to visit the Restoration Department, where Mr. Sun had urged them to pick ripe cherries. Everyone from the alley gathered, enjoying the cherry picking and celebrating the return to normalcy after the long lockdown. Later, Wu Huan invited everyone to Pizza Hut for a meal. Zheng Sunian sensed something was amiss.
Wu Huan revealed that he hadn't been able to find work during the epidemic, and his family was in a difficult financial situation. He had decided to drop out of school to work and support his family. He clarified that after this meal, they would no longer be classmates but would remain friends forever. That evening, Shao Xue confided in her parents about Wu Huan's decision. Her mother empathized, remarking on the family's long-standing struggles, barely surviving on government aid.
Shao Xue proposed secretly organizing a donation to help Wu Huan return to school. Her mother strongly supported the idea and promised to be the first to contribute if Shao Xue successfully organized it. Just then, Zhang Qi arrived and whisked Shao Xue away, revealing that he and the others were also planning a donation to help Wu Huan continue his studies.
However, Lin Shiyin chose not to participate, believing that everyone has the right to make their own choices without interference, a stance Zhang Qi found difficult to understand. Zheng Sunian initially agreed with Lin Shiyin about respecting Wu Huan's choice but, seeing Shao Xue and Zhang Qi's determination, agreed to help. Shao Xue, Zhang Qi, and Zheng Sunian launched the donation drive at the community center. Many neighbors, touched by the cause, contributed generously.
With a substantial amount collected, the three friends went to Wu Huan's house to present the money. Wu Huan was happy to see them but, out of pride, politely declined their donation, though he appreciated their kindness. Just then, Wu Huan's mother, Xin Jie, emerged. Upon seeing Zheng Sunian, she became agitated, angrily scolding him and demanding he leave their house. She accused him of being spoiled and claimed his family was responsible for her and her son's misfortunes.
After being driven away, Zheng Sunian told Shao Xue and Zhang Qi that Wu Huan's refusal was a matter of his dignity. He suggested that Lin Shiyin was the only person Wu Huan might accept help from. Meanwhile, Jin Ning visited Xin Jie, carrying one of Xin Jie's old paintings.
Jin Ning gently reminded Xin Jie of their master's high praise for her artistic talent and urged her to let go of past grievances, for her son's future and her own well-being. Lin Shiyin then approached Wu Huan, explaining that she hadn't donated money because she anticipated his refusal. Zheng Sunian had entrusted her with the collected funds from their friends, emphasizing that Wu Huan could accept it from her without compromising his dignity.
Lin Shiyin persuaded Wu Huan about the importance of a university education for a better future and expressed her sincere desire to continue seeing him at school, as they were friends. Moved by her words, Wu Huan finally agreed to accept the donation. Back at school, during math class, Mr. Liu, the language teacher, noticed Zhang Qi secretly reading a book. When he confiscated it, he was surprised to find it was a Math Olympiad textbook.
Believing Zhang Qi couldn't possibly understand such advanced material, Mr. Liu challenged him to solve a problem, asking the math teacher, Mr. Zhang, to provide one. Zhang Qi effortlessly solved complex cubic and quartic equations, even discussing Galois groups for quintic equations, much to Mr. Liu's embarrassment. Mr. Zhang, recognizing Zhang Qi's exceptional talent, invited him to his office after class to discuss entering the Math Olympiad competition.
Later, Mr. Zhang called Shao Xue to the board to solve a simple math problem, but she struggled. He expressed frustration at the stark academic disparity between students, implicitly contrasting Shao Xue with Zhang Qi. Soon after, the placement test results were posted. Shao Xue's score was mediocre, ranking over 100th, meaning she could no longer sit with Lin Shiyin (who ranked around 50th). Wu Huan was also among the lower-ranked students.
Zhang Qi was called to Mr. Liu's office, where he was informed of his transfer to the competition class, which comprised the school's brightest students. Mr. Liu revealed that he had personally pleaded with the principal on Zhang Qi's behalf. Despite Zhang Qi's poor performance in other subjects, Mr. Liu had highlighted his extraordinary mathematical genius, convincing the principal to make an exception for him.
Mr. Liu also warned Zhang Qi that the competition class was very demanding and he must not relax his efforts. Upset by her poor test results, Shao Xue didn't go home after school, causing her mother, Dongge, great worry. Dongge heard from neighbors about Shao Xue's low score and immediately went to look for her. She found Shao Xue lost in thought at the sundry shop and quickly pulled her home. The neighbors observed the scene, speculating that Shao Xue would likely face a severe scolding and implying she wouldn't easily escape this predicament.
Episode 8 Recap
After Shao Xue's poor test results are revealed, her mother, Yu Dongge, confronts her at home. Furious, she scolds Shao Xue for her declining grades, accusing her of being distracted by her dream of joining the twinning program to study abroad. She compares Shao Xue unfavorably to the ever-successful Zheng Sunian and the recently improved Zhang Qi. Stung by the criticism, Shao Xue retorts that her mother's constant pressure is the real problem.
In a burst of anger, she tells her mother to go adopt the other kids she praises so much, declaring she doesn't want her as a mother anymore. Shao Xue calls a sulking Zheng Sunian, coaxing her out of the house to help her vent her frustration. Shao Xue admits she's now angry with herself, feeling stupid for not getting good grades despite her efforts.
Sunian comforts her by revealing his own secret struggles; he wakes up at five every morning and studies relentlessly, yet he still feels his English isn't as naturally gifted as hers. He encourages her to give it her all just once, to show him how brilliant she can be. He then shares another secret: he often sees her mother awake in the yard at that same early hour.
Shao Xue is stunned into silence, realizing her mother rises before dawn every day just to make her breakfast. The next morning, Yu Dongge wakes up to find that Shao Xue has already prepared breakfast for her and her husband. Left on the table is a note. In it, Shao Xue apologizes for her poor grades and promises to work hard to improve.
More importantly, she thanks her mother for the daily breakfasts that give her the energy to face each day. Touched by her daughter’s thoughtful gesture, Yu Dongge sits down to eat, her anger replaced by emotion. Zheng Sunian falls ill with a fever after getting caught in the rain. When Zhang Qi’s mother calls Zhang Qi with the news that Sunian is home alone, Shao Xue overhears and immediately rushes to his side.
She finds him delirious in bed with a high temperature. Meanwhile, Zhang Qi tries to buy some nourishing food from the corner store but, having spent all his money, returns empty-handed. In Sunian's kitchen, Shao Xue attempts to cook him some noodles, only for Zhang Qi to point out that she forgot to turn on the stove. She then patiently tries to feed the barely conscious Sunian.
Watching her, Zhang Qi asks if she would care for him the same way if he were sick. Shao Xue jokes at first but then assures him that as her good friend, she and Sunian would both take care of him. By the time Sunian's mother, Jin Ning, returns, his fever has broken. She explains to her son that Shao Xue had been there the whole time, diligently changing the cold towels on his forehead to bring the fever down.
While Sunian recovers, Jin Ning shows Shao Xue old photo albums, much to his embarrassment. She points out photos from when Sunian's grades were poor, noting his perpetually serious expression, which only changed to a smile after his academics suddenly improved in the fifth grade. Sunian begs her to stop sharing his "dark history," but Jin Ning playfully teases him further, revealing that their families had arranged a childhood engagement for him and Shao Xue.
She even recalls arguing with Zhang Qi's mother, Zhang Ling, who insisted her son was a better match for Shao Xue. Back at school, the class welcomes several new transfer students, including the outgoing Wu Nana, Yu Huai, and the timid Tang Ya. At the same time, Zhang Qi makes a dramatic farewell to his old class before officially moving to the elite competition class. Expecting a warm reception, he is instead met with a cold, studious silence.
The other students ignore his introduction, and the teacher curtly tells him to find a seat and not disturb the class, leaving Zhang Qi feeling isolated. Shao Xue is summoned by her teacher, who gives her some exciting news: representatives from a foreign university are visiting, and the school has selected her to be the official student interpreter. The teacher explains she was chosen for both her English skills and her photogenic appearance.
Thrilled and proud, Shao Xue promises not to disappoint. She later befriends her new deskmate, Tang Ya, who confides that her English is terrible and that she has always struggled to make friends. Shao Xue immediately offers to help her study and protectively declares, "I'm your friend now." The news of Shao Xue’s prestigious new role spreads quickly through the neighborhood, growing more exaggerated with each telling.
Neighbors congratulate her on being interviewed by foreign television and even giving a speech at the embassy. At home, Shao Xue diligently practices her English aloud from a book. When her mother questions the need for it, Shao Xue passionately explains that she cannot afford to embarrass herself, her school, or the city of Beijing. Deeply committed, she continues to prepare for the important day.
Episode 9 Recap
To prepare for her role as a translator for visiting foreign guests, Shao Xue agrees with her friend Shiyin that wearing makeup is a matter of etiquette. Since neither has any cosmetics, they go to Zhang Qi's house. There, Zhang Qi provides them with his mother Zhang Ling's expensive, unused makeup collection. Shiyin, impressed by the quality, shoos Zhang Qi away and gives Shao Xue a dramatic makeover.
When she proudly presents her work, Zhang Qi and a newly arrived Zheng Sunian are stunned into silence. Shao Xue’s face is caked in ghostly white foundation with garish red cheeks and lipstick, resembling a paper figurine. Shiyin quickly defends it as a "makeup style for the camera" that they simply can't appreciate, then makes a swift exit. Zheng Sunian kindly tells Shao Xue that he prefers her usual look and comforts her by helping her practice her English introduction.
Later that evening, after avoiding her mother, Yu Dongge, Shao Xue is horrified to see her reflection and discovers her face is intensely itchy. The next morning at school, the allergic reaction has worsened, and her face is red and swollen. Her teacher sends her to the hospital, canceling her translation duties. The doctor diagnoses an allergy to the makeup and prescribes a strict diet, advising her to avoid irritating foods.
Back home, her father secretly gives her snacks to subvert her mother's all-vegetable meals. Zhang Ling learns that her expired makeup was the cause and brings Zhang Qi to apologize. Shao Xue playfully tricks him into thinking she’s been disfigured before revealing the rash is just red. As punishment, she makes him her personal follower for a week. At a follow-up appointment, the doctor notes that Shao Xue's skin isn't healing, likely because she hasn't followed the diet.
Yu Dongge realizes her husband is to blame. The confrontation leads to Shao Xue having a breakdown, crying that her mother is being cruel and doesn't love her. Overwhelmed, Yu Dongge relents and asks her husband to get Shao Xue some food she likes. Shao Xue runs off, but Zheng Sunian finds and consoles her.
He reassures her about the missed opportunity and, to calm her fears of being disfigured, promises that if no one else wants her in the future, he will marry her. Feeling better, Shao Xue goes shopping with her mother, who has decided to buy her proper cosmetics. They run into Zheng Sunian at the department store, who is secretly there to buy gentle makeup for Shao Xue himself. Flustered, he pretends he is shopping for his own mother, Jin Ning.
He later gives the products to Jin Ning, and she correctly guesses they were an undelivered gift for a young girl, teasing him until he escapes to his room. The school announces an upcoming 10th-anniversary celebration, inspiring Shao Xue to direct a stage play. However, she struggles to find actors as all her friends decline. Zhang Qi is too busy studying, Zheng Sunian bluntly says he doesn't want to act, and Shiyin is preoccupied with choreographing the opening dance.
Just as Shao Xue feels abandoned, her quiet classmate Tang Ya volunteers to help, to Shao Xue’s immense relief. Yu Dongge observes that her neighbors, Jin Ning and Zheng Jian, seem to be fighting, a fact she discusses with Zhang Ling. Zhang Ling is initially skeptical, given Jin Ning's gentle nature and their usual harmony, but seeing Jin Ning's demeanor confirms the argument.
The argument started when Zheng Jian berated Jin Ning for watching TV during dinner, embarrassing her in front of Sunian. To avoid her husband, Jin Ning has dinner at Shao Xue’s house. Shao Xue tactlessly asks her about the fight, mortifying her parents. Jin Ning tries to downplay it, but Shao Xue tries to comfort her by explaining that her own parents fight constantly, which only makes the situation more awkward for everyone.
Episode 10 Recap
Shao Xue convened her friends, Lin Shiyin, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi, urging them to participate in her stage play. Despite their reluctance, with Shiyin citing her dance commitments and Zhang Qi expressing time concerns, Shao Xue passionately pleaded for them to help her fulfill her dream of being a director. When polite requests failed, she invoked her "birthday privilege," reminding them of their promise to grant her any wish on her birthday, which coincided with the school anniversary.
Faced with this, they agreed. Shao Xue then began assigning roles. She declared Zheng Sunian the male lead, noting his presence on the school's Prince Ranking, a list of school hunks. Zheng Sunian, though not enthusiastic about acting, accepted. When he inquired about the female lead, Lin Shiyin, mistakenly believing it was her role, boasted about her popularity and busy schedule.
Shao Xue clarified that her new deskmate, Tang Ya, would be the female lead, mentioning Tang Ya's initial nervousness but assuring everyone she would handle it. Lin Shiyin, visibly upset at not being chosen, abruptly left, which Shao Xue chose to ignore as she continued to discuss the play's characters and plot.
She assigned Zheng Sunian the protagonist and Zhang Qi the antagonist, even offering Zhang Qi the example of Granny Rong from "My Fair Princess" to demonstrate how an antagonist could be outstanding. Shao Xue then outlined the play's premise: a beautiful, gravely ill princess, admired by two warriors (Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi). Meanwhile, at the Restoration Department, a colleague approached Mr. Luo, seeking his help with restoring a particularly challenging color.
Mr. Luo feigned busyness and insisted that Jin Ning take on the task. Despite her hesitation and the fact that she and Zheng Jian were still angry with each other, Jin Ning agreed. Upon her arrival, a colleague expressed relief at "Master Jin's" arrival, explaining they simply couldn't get the color right. Jin Ning quickly identified that while the color mixing ratio was off, the color was achievable through trial and error. This made Zheng Jian very impressed.
After she provided the correct ratio, Mr. Luo, seizing an opportunity, instructed Zheng Jian to walk Jin Ning back. Zheng Jian, initially reluctant, eventually agreed to escort her. Mr. Luo then subtly probed Zheng Jian about how he had won Jin Ning over in the past, to which Zheng Jian curtly responded to mind his own business. Later, Shao Xue discussed roles with Wu Huan, thanking him for his reliability and preparing a suitable character for him.
As they spoke, they heard Tang Ya's beautiful singing. Shao Xue was captivated and immediately confirmed Tang Ya as her female lead, intending to add a solo song for her. Tang Ya, however, was hesitant, confessing that she got embarrassed singing in front of people and felt intimidated, even though she longed for the opportunity. Wu Huan encouraged her, emphasizing that not everyone gets such a chance and that she should pursue what she desires.
Inspired by their support, Tang Ya agreed to try. Shao Xue enthusiastically declared her "Princess Jasmine" and asked her to sing again. Across town, Lin Shiyin was undergoing intense dance training. Her teacher, Mr. Nai, was dissatisfied with the current lead dancer, sternly critiquing her lack of emotional depth, failing to convey the "misery of deaths" and "despair" required by the music. Mr. Nai decided to replace the lead, despite time constraints.
He then called Lin Shiyin forward, asking her name and whether she liked martial heroes, which she confirmed. After observing her dance, Mr. Nai, though finding her movements exaggerated, deemed her superior to the previous dancer and appointed her the new lead, immediately resuming practice. Back at home, Shao Xue's mother, Yu Dongge, voluntarily offered to fund and make the costumes for the play, a gesture Shao Xue deeply appreciated.
As Yu Dongge took measurements, Shao Xue learned that both Jin Ning and Zheng Jian were at the Restoration Department that weekend. Realizing they were still at odds, Shao Xue decided to take her friends to the Restoration Department, ostensibly to have Jin Ning help with props but also to foster reconciliation between Zheng Jian and Jin Ning. When they arrived, Zheng Jian and Jin Ning were observed keeping their distance from each other, with Jin Ning still visibly upset.
They only interacted indirectly through a wild cat Jin Ning was feeding. Jin Ning, however, brightened upon seeing Shao Xue and happily greeted them. Zheng Sunian, prepared for the occasion, presented Jin Ning with her favorite cake. While Jin Ning worked on drawing props, Shao Xue sought her advice, confessing that her script, despite others' feedback about lacking depth and passion, was now being criticized by Jin Ning for not being romantic enough.
Shao Xue admitted she didn't know how to add romance. Jin Ning, noticing the cake, inquired who brought it, knowing her specific taste. Zheng Sunian attempted to speak up, but Jin Ning, with a playful jab, suggested it must have been Shao Xue. Seeing the lingering tension, Zheng Sunian tactfully suggested they leave Jin Ning to her work, as she preferred quiet, which Jin Ning wryly noted was different from Zheng Sunian and his father.
Before leaving, Zheng Sunian advised his mother not to consume too many sweets, to which she simply acknowledged. Seeking inspiration for romance, Shao Xue, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi approached Mr. Luo, who was repairing a watering can. After Zhang Qi managed to fix it, Shao Xue explained her dilemma with the play's romantic elements and asked Mr. Luo to tell them a romantic story.
Mr. Luo agreed but warned them not to guess the identities of the characters, as the story would blend truth and fiction. He began by recounting a tale from many years ago, set in their very courtyard. The story unfolded: Jin Ning, new to the Restoration Department, encountered a wild cat trying to eat something. Zheng Jian, fearing the cat would ingest rodenticide, shooed it away. Misunderstanding his intentions, Jin Ning scolded him for being heartless.
Later, a colleague clarified that Zheng Jian was only trying to protect the cat. Feeling remorseful, Jin Ning later found the cat injured and, hesitant to treat it herself, asked Zheng Jian for help. Concerned the wild cat might scratch Jin Ning, Zheng Jian bravely held it, getting scratched in the process. Jin Ning, feeling responsible, insisted on taking him to the hospital for a shot and walking him home. Through these events, they became acquainted.
Afterward, Jin Ning frequently sought out Zheng Jian to fix various items, including a broken music box she had brought from overseas, as a way to spend time with him. Zheng Jian, a skilled craftsman, quickly repaired it. Jin Ning, remembering a moment when she saw him watching her dance to the music, expressed her awareness of his gaze. She also revealed her plans to leave for an overseas museum job the following year.
As her internship ended, Jin Ning, still hoping for a sign, gave Zheng Jian the repaired music box as a souvenir and asked him to see her off the next day. However, Zheng Jian, citing work his master had assigned, politely declined, wishing her a smooth trip. Jin Ning, heartbroken by his apparent indifference, left. After she was gone, Zheng Jian secretly shed tears, but Jin Ning, unaware of his true feelings, cut off contact.
Over the next year, Zheng Jian became withdrawn, working intensely during the day and drinking heavily at night, concealing his emotional turmoil. Mr. Luo, concerned for his well-being, eventually led Zheng Jian to a room where he found a stack of letters Jin Ning had written to Mr. Luo. In these letters, Jin Ning poured out her heart, expressing regret for leaving in anger, hoping Zheng Jian would pursue her and confess his feelings.
She questioned why she waited for him and wished she had been more direct. She reflected on her disappointment that he didn't ask her to stay or look for her, making her feel unimportant. She now regretted her impulsive departure, feeling they had drifted too far apart and she lacked the courage to rekindle their relationship. Reading these heartfelt words, Zheng Jian realized the depth of Jin Ning's feelings.
He immediately asked Mr. Luo for her overseas work address, determined to go find her. Mr. Luo concluded his story, leaving the children to wonder about the ending. However, as Zheng Jian approached Jin Ning, she teasingly asked why he was there, calling him "cheeky" when he suggested the story was about them. Zheng Jian then reaffirmed his lifelong commitment, recalling his promise to always treat her well when he first brought her back.
Jin Ning, touched, confirmed that he had indeed surpassed his promise, treating her even better. Zheng Jian then sincerely apologized to Jin Ning. Old memories resurfaced, washing away their recent disagreements, and the couple happily reconciled, their love rekindled. The school's literary gala approached. Shao Xue, now confident, reassured Tang Ya, stressing that with their strong script, lead actors, and elaborate costumes and props, their performance would "amaze everyone in the hall." Backstage, Tang Ya was still incredibly nervous.
Zheng Sunian introduced himself as "Liang Chen" and Zhang Qi as "Aotian," while Tang Ya presented herself as "Princess Jasmine." Shao Xue then announced their stage play, "Princess Jasmine," with conviction. Meanwhile, Lin Shiyin continued to endure grueling dance rehearsals. Her teacher, Mr. Nai, relentlessly pushed her, demanding "one more time" repeatedly. Exhausted and on the verge of collapsing, Lin Shiyin protested, saying she was too tired to dance well and questioning his teaching methods.
Mr. Nai challenged her, reminding her that everyone was waiting for her and asking if she intended to waste their efforts. Lin Shiyin, determined, affirmed that she would continue dancing. Mr. Nai, satisfied, commanded her to keep going, as her friends watched and encouraged her from outside the studio.
Episode 11 Recap
The school's cultural performance began with Shao Xue narrating the story of a beautiful princess who fell gravely ill. Two brave warriors, Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi, embarked on a quest to find the legendary jasmine flower that could bring her back to life. Upon reaching the jasmine's location, the warriors, both desiring to be the princess's one and only, began to quarrel.
Zhang Qi stumbled over his lines, prompting Shao Xue to remind him of the script, much to the amusement of the audience, who commented on the amateurish acting. As the two argued, Wu Huan, playing the dragon guarding the jasmine, descended and spewed blazing flames. The warriors, putting aside their differences, worked together to defeat the dragon. However, a new problem arose when the script called for one warrior to die, but both Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi dramatically collapsed.
Shao Xue, frustrated, insisted that only one should fall. Zhang Qi then got up and lay down again, still confused. When Tang Ya, as the princess, appeared on stage, some audience members remarked that she looked too ordinary to be worth dying for. The princess was meant to sing to revive the fallen warrior, but Tang Ya, overwhelmed by stage fright, remained silent. The audience grew impatient, shouting for her to sing and eventually to leave the stage.
With the performance in chaos, Shao Xue reluctantly had the curtains drawn. Ms. Miao, the teacher, concluded that the students were not suited for stage plays and should focus on their studies. Backstage, Tang Ya was heartbroken, blaming herself for the failure. Wu Huan comforted her, pointing out that Zhang Qi and Zheng Sunian had forgotten their lines, so she wasn't the only one at fault.
Tang Ya felt that even remembering her lines was useless if she couldn't utter a word on stage. Wu Huan reassured her that her rehearsals were excellent and encouraged her not to doubt herself, revealing that he, too, struggled with confidence but was trying to overcome it. He persuaded Tang Ya to give it another try, promising everyone's support. Meanwhile, Shao Xue appealed to Ms. Miao for another chance, explaining that they hadn't had enough time to rehearse.
Ms. Miao, while acknowledging Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi's excellent academic records, reiterated that they should prioritize their studies over extracurricular activities. She suggested Shao Xue watch other drama club performances first. Elsewhere, Shiyin was enduring rigorous dance practice. After her classmates left, her teacher kept her behind, candidly stating that Shiyin lacked natural talent but commended her hard work.
He reminded her that he had chosen her from many, and on her own, she wouldn't have been a lead dancer, emphasizing that his guidance had brought her into the spotlight. He chastised her for questioning him in public, to which Shiyin apologized. The teacher then instructed her to continue practicing until her dance was flawless.
Wu Huan, who had been watching, intervened, telling Shiyin not to believe the teacher's harsh words and calling the teacher "incompetent" for finding validation by hurting others. Shiyin, however, fiercely defended her teacher as an "artist" and told Wu Huan to mind his own business. Later, while practicing alone, Shiyin twisted her ankle. Wu Huan immediately rushed to her side and carried her to the infirmary.
The doctor confirmed that while the injury wasn't severe, Shiyin would be unable to dance for a while, deeply upsetting her. Wu Huan tried to console her, suggesting that dancing for such a teacher wasn't worth the pain. Shao Xue expressed her frustration with Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi's previous performance, calling them "unreliable" and jokingly suggesting even a shop owner would have done better.
Just then, Wang Haoran approached Shao Xue, complimenting her play and lamenting its poor execution by the actors. As the president of the drama club, he formally invited her to join his club and star as Juliet. Shao Xue declined, stating she already had her own production. Wang Haoran persisted, claiming she deserved "better partners" than her current friends, whom he deemed unworthy. Zhang Qi and Zheng Sunian arrived, confronting Wang Haoran. Zhang Qi mocked him as "Romeo."
Wang Haoran tried to entice Shao Xue with pizza and a discussion about acting, but Shao Xue, still annoyed with her friends, walked away. Zhang Qi openly declared Wang Haoran "unwanted," while Wang Haoran confidently stated that Shao Xue didn't share their sentiments. The argument continued, with Wang Haoran claiming he was merely there to observe "junk food" culture. Shao Xue, fed up, left them to their bickering. Wang Haoran found their hostility towards him "interesting."
At home, Zheng Sunian found himself constantly thinking of Shao Xue. Puzzled by his feelings, he asked his father how he knew when he fell in love with a woman. His father, initially evasive, eventually shared a simple yet profound thought: "If you like someone, that feeling lasts for a lifetime." The next day, Zheng Sunian visited Ms. Miao, earnestly explaining Shao Xue's dedication to the play and successfully convinced the teacher to give them another chance.
Shao Xue was astonished and grateful. During the subsequent rehearsal, Tang Ya expressed concerns about the script, questioning who the true protagonist was and why the princess would be so devoted to the warrior, feeling the "love for the princess" wasn't clearly portrayed. Shao Xue struggled to address these points. Zheng Sunian then offered an improvised speech, passionately declaring his character's love for the princess and his readiness to fight for her, which deeply impressed Shao Xue and Tang Ya.
Shao Xue, remembering her initial goal to help Tang Ya build confidence, affirmed her decision to keep Tang Ya as the princess. Zheng Sunian, impressed by her dedication, then pledged his full support. Wu Huan, whose dragon role was less demanding, took the opportunity to leave practice early to check on Shiyin. Tang Ya remained anxious about stage fright.
Wu Huan offered a unique solution: he suggested she imagine the audience as inanimate objects, like boxes in a warehouse, and placed a teddy bear in the front to represent himself, urging her to sing to them. This creative approach helped Tang Ya practice her singing with renewed confidence. On Shao Xue's birthday, her parents surprised her with a math tutoring class as a gift, which disappointed her. They quickly left for work, having restoration tasks.
Zhang Qi, with a hidden gift, tried to give it to her, but Zheng Sunian's arrival caused him to conceal it. At the cultural performance, Shiyin, still recovering from her ankle injury, was in the audience, supported by her friends who cheered her up before heading backstage. The second performance of "Princess Jasmine" began. Shao Xue narrated the tale with the audience praising the elaborate costumes and props.
Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi, as the warriors, delivered their lines and acted with improved conviction. They united to defeat Wu Huan, the dragon, earning positive remarks from the teachers about their much-improved performance. As Tang Ya, the princess, stepped forward to sing, a vengeful Wang Haoran, upset over Shao Xue's earlier rejection, subtly sabotaged the sound system, cutting the power.
Panic arose, but Tang Ya, remembering Wu Huan's advice and seeing the teddy bear he had placed in the audience, took a deep breath. She bravely began to sing "Good Jasmine Flower" without amplification. Her clear, powerful voice filled the hall, captivating the audience, who erupted in thunderous applause. Everyone felt immense satisfaction at Tang Ya's triumph, with Shao Xue commenting on the perfectly fulfilling evening.
Episode 12 Recap
The performance of Shao Xue's play concluded successfully, with Tang Ya singing beautifully and receiving enthusiastic applause, despite the power outage caused by Wang Hao Ran. Afterward, Shao Xue, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi walked home, feeling satisfied with the day. Zhang Qi had to leave first to head home. As Zheng Sunian continued walking with Shao Xue, he recalled the lines from the play and recited the knight's confession to the princess, saying, "My Princess. . .
You are my everything. Your voice made me believe that all suffering will come to an end. The look in your eyes made me believe that all the goodness is eternal. I'm not one to seek any dispute, but if anyone wants to take you from me, I will put everything I have on the line and fight to the very end."
Shao Xue playfully chided him, asking why he performed with such emotion now when he had been so lifeless during rehearsals. Zheng Sunian explained that he didn't enjoy acting but didn't mind trying it with her. He then presented her with a sketchbook filled with drawings of places she wanted to visit, telling her, "Happy birthday," and promising to take her to those places when they were older. Shao Xue was delighted by the thoughtful gift.
Unseen by them, Zhang Qi watched the interaction from his window, holding a snow globe he had intended to give to Shao Xue, lost in thought. His mother entered his room and noticed his quiet demeanor. Zhang Qi mentioned giving away a favorite scarf, and his mother advised him that sometimes one must fight for what they want, and other times, they must learn to let go.
With the Olympics approaching, a public announcement encouraged citizens to learn English to welcome foreign visitors. Neighbors practiced English greetings, often comically. Yu Dongge, too, was diligently studying English words related to silk and embroidery for potential foreign customers. She expressed her frustration over the complexity of English words, noting that Shao Xue's success in scoring third in English in her grade was a remarkable feat.
Amidst this, Yu Dongge received a call from Mr. Liu, who informed her that Shao Xue had passed the preliminary selection for the overseas study program, ranking among the top few out of thousands of applicants. He added that a team of foreign teachers would conduct interviews, and success would require meeting both interview and IELTS score standards, mentioning Shao Xue's 8. 5 IELTS score. Meanwhile, Shao Xue, Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi went to buy barbecue.
Despite Shao Xue's recent low math score and her mother's disappointment, her appetite remained unaffected, prompting teasing from Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi. Yu Dongge returned home, worried about Shao Xue's potential overseas study. She voiced her concerns to Shao Hua, fearing Shao Xue would be alone in an unfamiliar country, unable to cope. When Shao Xue arrived home, Yu Dongge directly stated her opposition, leading to a heated argument.
Shao Xue vehemently insisted on pursuing her dream, accusing her mother of being selfish and uncaring. The argument escalated, with Shao Xue threatening a hunger strike if her parents tried to block her. Hearing the commotion, Zheng Sunian rushed to Shao Xue's house to mediate. Shao Xue had locked herself in her room, refusing to eat. Yu Dongge and Shao Hua prepared a large bowl of food, including extra meat, and asked Zheng Sunian to take it to her.
Shao Xue, hearing Zheng Sunian's voice, finally opened the door. Inside, Shao Xue poured out her frustration, calling her mother a "tyrant" who didn't care about her feelings. Zheng Sunian acknowledged her mother's concerns were born from love and fear of the unknown. Shao Xue showed him her detailed study plan, extending into her thirties, emphasizing that this was not a whim but a long-cherished dream. Together, they decided that Ms. Jinning was the best person to persuade Yu Dongge.
At the convenience store where Wu Huan was working, Lin Shiyin found him. They chatted briefly, and Lin Shiyin mentioned how successful their play was, crediting Shao Xue's direction. She also brought up the dance studio incident. Just then, Fu Qiaomu walked over. Lin Shiyin was surprised to see him, and he explained that he was working there. A look of disappointment crossed Lin Shiyin's face before she quickly excused herself and left the store.
Wu Huan then asked Fu Qiaomu about his relationship with Lin Shiyin, to which Fu Qiaomu replied that she was his most precious friend. Shao Xue went to Ms. Jinning's house. Ms. Jinning welcomed her with chocolate cake, knowing it was her favorite. Shao Xue admired Ms. Jinning's collection of old novels and cassettes from abroad, remarking on her exciting past compared to her mother's. Shao Xue confided in Ms. Jinning about her argument with Yu Dongge.
Ms. Jinning, understanding a mother's worries, promised to speak with Yu Dongge. While Shao Xue was there, Zheng Sunian was out sketching. An elderly neighbor, Mr. Luo, approached him and praised his artistic improvement. He advised Zheng Sunian to imbue his art with emotion and encouraged him to read classical love poems.
Mr. Luo recalled teaching Zheng Sunian a line from the "Classic of Poetry" describing a woman as beautiful as a flower, but unlike the typical frail depiction, this woman was resilient, like a hibiscus flower – not dazzling but full of vitality and capable of enduring hardships. He suggested Zheng Sunian should find a wife like that.
Soon after, Ms. Jinning brought out a beautiful qipao, explaining it was a precious piece made by a highly-skilled tailor in Shanghai, which she no longer wore. Shao Xue initially hesitated to accept such a valuable gift but was convinced when Ms. Jinning playfully suggested giving it to Zheng Sunian if Shao Xue didn't take it. Just then, Zheng Sunian returned home. Ms. Jinning kept him waiting for a "surprise" before Shao Xue emerged, wearing the qipao.
Zheng Sunian was captivated by her appearance. Shao Xue asked how she looked, and Zheng Sunian, visibly flustered, managed to say "It's okay," though Ms. Jinning quickly corrected him, asserting Shao Xue looked "amazing." Noticing the qipao was slightly large, Ms. Jinning suggested Shao Xue's mother could alter it. However, Shao Xue, fearing another lecture, decided to take it to Ms. Kang instead during the National Day holiday.
At Ms. Kang's house, Shao Xue admired her embroidery and asked Ms. Kang to adjust the qipao. Ms. Kang recognized the garment's excellent fabric and tailoring. While Ms. Kang was taking measurements, Shao Xue noticed a photograph on her table of Ms. Kang smiling brightly with an unfamiliar man. Curious, Shao Xue asked if he was her husband, to which Ms. Kang replied he wasn't.
Shao Xue then observed that Ms. Kang's smile in the picture was exceptionally sweet, unlike any she had seen, leading her to believe the man was very important. Ms. Kang responded cryptically, saying, "Some people were precious at some point, but the pain could last forever. I wish we had never known each other," before quickly dismissing her words as rambling and returning to her work. Later, Yu Dongge arrived at Ms. Jinning’s house, searching for Shao Xue.
Ms. Jinning told her Shao Xue had just left but convinced Yu Dongge to stay and chat, offering her a piece of chocolate cake. Ms. Jinning gently brought up Shao Xue's study abroad plans, asking Yu Dongge why she was always at odds with her daughter despite caring for her so much. Yu Dongge reiterated her fears: Shao Xue’s lack of self-sufficiency, her allergies, and potential academic struggles abroad. She wished Shao Xue were as obedient as Zheng Sunian.
Ms. Jinning countered, expressing her desire for Zheng Sunian to be more outgoing like Shao Xue or Zhang Qi, to experience the joys of parenting through their youthful antics. She then sincerely appealed to Yu Dongge, emphasizing Shao Xue’s exceptional talent in languages, evident in her 8. 5 IELTS score, a feat even Zheng Sunian couldn't achieve.
Ms. Jinning highlighted that living abroad was the best way to master a language and reminded Yu Dongge of all the effort Shao Xue had put in, concluding that it would be a great pity, and a source of future regret, if Shao Xue had to give up this opportunity. That evening, Shao Xue returned home for dinner. She expressed her continued desire to go abroad.
Shao Hua, attempting to mediate, told Shao Xue, "My idea is difficult to change, but if you speak to Mom properly, Mom can still listen to suggestions." Yu Dongge then noticed the qipao Shao Xue carried. When Shao Xue explained Ms. Jinning had given it to her, Yu Dongge scolded her for accepting such a valuable gift and owing favors. Then, upon noticing the qipao had been altered, Yu Dongge asked who had done the work.
Upon learning it was Ms. Kang, Yu Dongge was furious, revealing that Ms. Kang was an intangible cultural heritage inheritor, officially invited by her department. Shao Xue explained she sought Ms. Kang's help to avoid Yu Dongge's scolding. Shao Hua remarked that Ms. Kang's alterations made the qipao even more precious. Shao Xue playfully implied her mother was not on the same "level" as Ms. Kang.
Yu Dongge, though initially annoyed, agreed that Ms. Kang was a master from whom she still had much to learn. She then advised Shao Xue on how to style her hair with the qipao and took money from Shao Hua to buy hair accessories for Shao Xue. Shao Xue then left to go shopping with Zhang Qi, telling him he was the first person she thought of, boosting his spirits.
Episode 13 Recap
Zheng Sunian arrived early in the morning to take Shao Xue shopping. As Shao Xue rushed out, her father remarked to her mother that Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue were like innocent childhood sweethearts. Her mother, annoyed, retorted that her father, a middle-aged man, shouldn't interfere, and that he wasn't taking their daughter seriously enough. Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi accompanied Shao Xue to buy hairpins to match her cheongsam.
Shao Xue tried on several, but Zhang Qi and Zheng Sunian were brutally honest about their dislike. The salesperson suggested they choose, and after they each picked one, Shao Xue decided to try them on with a cheongsam at a shop across the street. When Shao Xue emerged in a Hangzhou silk cheongsam, both boys were stunned by her beauty. Zhang Qi remarked that Sunian's choice was much better than his own.
Zheng Sunian admitted he hadn't seen her dressed like that before. Suddenly, a young boy named Tom rushed into the shop, hugging Shao Xue and calling her "Grandma." Mr. Sun then appeared, looking for Tom, revealing that Tom was his son. Mr. Sun explained that he had brought Tom back from overseas for a visit, as Tom, who grew up abroad, wanted to see China. Recognizing the children, Mr. Sun invited them to eat lamb hotpot.
During dinner, the children asked Tom why he called Shao Xue "Grandma," and they learned it was a misunderstanding caused by Shao Xue wearing a cheongsam, which reminded him of his own grandmother. Mr. Sun shared his regrets about studying abroad, recalling the financial hardships his family faced to support him, his own struggles working day and night, and the emotional toll of being separated from loved ones.
He lamented that despite being a doctor, he couldn't be there for his father, Sun Qirui, who had always been looked after by the neighbors. He felt he had let his father down. Mr. Sun's tales of life abroad made Shao Xue understand her mother's concerns: the financial burden, the hardships, and the growing distance from family. Despite these worries, her dream of studying abroad, of exploring other countries' histories and cultures, remained strong.
She confided in Zheng Sunian, expressing her struggle between her dream and her worry for her parents. Zheng Sunian supported her fully. He presented her with a recipe book, emphasizing the importance of self-care while abroad, and assured her that he would look after her parents. Shao Xue, touched by his warmth, felt grateful for his presence. Her mother, overhearing this heartfelt conversation, realized the depth of Shao Xue's desire to study abroad and decided to support her.
Upon returning home, Shao Xue's mother initiated a family meeting, proposing a democratic vote on Shao Xue's study abroad plans. Shao Xue initially resisted, fearing her father would side with her mother, but realizing this was her last chance, she agreed. During the vote, Shao Xue cast her vote for going abroad, and her mother, as expected, voted against it.
After a subtle glance from her mother, her father, to Shao Xue's delight, voted in favor, thus allowing Shao Xue's dream to move forward. Sun Qirui was suddenly hospitalized due to a heart attack from excessive smoking, having called emergency services himself the previous night. He insisted that no one tell his son, Mr. Sun, threatening to cut ties if they did.
Neighbors quickly visited, but Sun Qirui, acting like a "naughty old child," kept sending them away, fearing they would trouble the hospital. After most visitors left, Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian arrived with food. Sun Qirui tried to dismiss them too, but Fu Qiaomu and Siyuan, who were also there, insisted on staying to look after him, with Fu Qiaomu confiscating his lighter, suspecting he wanted to smoke.
Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian eventually left, with Siyuan offering to escort them, jokingly doubting Zheng Sunian's practical skills despite his intelligence. When Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian returned home, Zhang Qi was waiting for them, feeling left out because they hadn't informed him about Sun Qirui's hospitalization. Despite his initial annoyance, they quickly reconciled and decided to go shopping for snacks before picking up Wu Huan.
At the convenience store where Wu Huan was working, they found him being harassed by two classmates of Wang Haoran. Shao Xue and Zhang Qi immediately intervened, which led the bullies to summon their leader, Wang Haoran. To their surprise, Lin Shiyin was with Wang Haoran. Shao Xue tried to pull Lin Shiyin away, questioning her association with them, but Lin Shiyin appeared to side with Wang Haoran.
Wang Haoran, aiming to avoid a direct confrontation, challenged them to a basketball match the next afternoon, which Zhang Qi readily accepted. Zheng Sunian expressed concern, knowing Wang Haoran and his friends were skilled school basketball team members. Wu Huan was visibly heartbroken to see Lin Shiyin allied with Wang Haoran. The next day, the basketball match began. Wang Haoran proposed a wager: the loser would kneel and call the winner "Boss."
Zhang Qi countered, demanding Wang Haoran and his friends apologize to Wu Huan if they lost. Surprisingly, Wu Huan stepped forward, insisting on a one-on-one challenge with Wang Haoran. The rules were "first to four points." Wang Haoran initially dominated, scoring several points. However, when it came to the deciding shot, Wu Huan blocked it and then made an impressive comeback, scoring all subsequent points and ultimately winning the game, much to the jubilation of Shao Xue and Zhang Qi.
After Wu Huan's victory, Zhang Qi demanded Wang Haoran honor the wager and apologize. However, Lin Shiyin intervened, asking them to "forget it," much to the group's dismay. When pressed by Shao Xue, Wang Haoran retorted that Wu Huan had been "annoying Lin Shiyin," implying his actions were to "teach Wu Huan a lesson." Deeply hurt by Lin Shiyin's lack of support and Wang Haoran's words, Wu Huan silently walked away.
Shao Xue expressed her profound disappointment in Lin Shiyin, feeling she had completely changed. Zheng Sunian, observing the situation, commented that everyone has the right to make their own choices, but he believed Lin Shiyin would eventually realize who truly cared for her. Later, Tang Ya visited Wu Huan at his home to comfort him.
She reassured him that his supervisor understood the situation at the convenience store and hadn't blamed him, advising him to call security in the future, as employees have rights too. Tang Ya also brought him bread, and while he ate, she candidly asked why he continued to treat Lin Shiyin so well, suggesting Lin Shiyin might not be worth his devotion.
Wu Huan then shared a childhood memory: in kindergarten, ostracized due to his family background, he was often bullied and alone. It was Lin Shiyin, his first friend, who reached out to him and asked him to walk the "red carpet" with her during a performance. He described Lin Shiyin as the "light that shone into his life." When Tang Ya questioned if that light might eventually hurt him, Wu Huan bravely responded that he wasn't afraid of being hurt, only afraid of that light disappearing.
Episode 14 Recap
Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian ate mutton soup and discussed Siyuan, who was staying to restore valuable artifacts. Shao Xue ordered four bowls, one of which Zheng Sunian clarified was for Fu Qiaomu. Siyuan reflected on his initial hesitation to pursue this path, feeling inferior to his successful university peers in academia, research, and business. However, he realized that a true craftsman must withstand loneliness and poverty, dedicating themselves to their work rather than material gains.
Zheng Sunian agreed, adding that Siyuan possessed a true craftsman's spirit, a quality he admired in masters like Mr. Sun and Mr. Luo, who valued their work over material wealth. Shao Xue expressed her admiration for them and Aunt Jin Ning, aspiring to be like them. As Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian returned, they encountered Zhang Qi, who playfully accused them of forgetting him, jokingly calling Zheng Sunian "Li Xiaoyao, Zhao Ling'er's boyfriend," implying Shao Xue was Zhao Ling'er.
Shao Xue apologized, explaining she had been distracted earlier by Wang Haoran. Zhang Qi then expressed his anger over Lin Shiyin’s treatment of Wu Huan, vowing never to speak to her again, having comforted Wu Huan and sent him home. Zheng Sunian, however, suggested that if Wu Huan truly liked Shiyin, he would not hold a grudge, no matter what she did.
He then turned the question to Zhang Qi, asking if he had someone he liked, leaving Zhang Qi speechless. Zhang Qi also thought Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian were fond of each other. Shao Xue’s mother, Dongge, then called Shao Xue home. Later, Shiyin called Shao Xue, who initially asked her parents for privacy before taking the call. Shao Xue told Shiyin she wasn't angry but disappointed.
She reminded Shiyin not to hurt those who truly cared for her, like Wu Huan. Shiyin revealed that after a dance incident, she doubted herself and sought validation from a new group of friends, whose members looked down on Wu Huan. She admitted she never truly considered Wu Huan a friend and only walked the red carpet with him at the kindergarten to appear kind, to avoid being looked down upon by her new social circle.
Shao Xue was deeply disappointed, stating that she hoped Shiyin was only speaking out of anger, because if Shiyin genuinely felt that way, she couldn't be her friend, as Shao Xue did not want a friend who looked down on the less fortunate. Shiyin concluded that Wang Haoran was right, and that Shao Xue and her friends were all the same and never took her seriously.
Shao Xue's academic pressure mounted, with late-night math and English tutoring sessions, making her feel exhausted. Her friend Tang Ya cautioned her about recent muggings, but Shao Xue confidently declared herself an "iron-blooded, resolute girl" whom no one would dare to rob, earning Tang Ya's admiration as "the most valiant girl." Meanwhile, Fu Qiaomu received a large bouquet of roses, delivered by an old man, prompting others at the Restoration Department to speculate about a boyfriend.
Siyuan, feeling jealous, commented that cut flowers were a waste of money because they quickly wilted, which displeased Fu Qiaomu. Mr. Sun, the master craftsman, chided Siyuan for not being able to win Fu Qiaomu's heart despite being so close to her. Siyuan later bought Fu Qiaomu a cactus, explaining that it was easy to keep and would live for a long time. Fu Qiaomu appreciated the gesture, placing it on her desk as a "self-defense item."
Colleagues at the department discussed the man who sent the roses, agreeing he seemed ordinary and "greasy," and that Siyuan was a better match, though too slow. Dongge also weighed in, stating that youngsters nowadays have their own ideas and outsider opinions don't matter, contrasting it with her generation where parents and matchmakers decided everything. Zhang Qi informed Shao Xue that his mother, Zhang Ling, had bought a new computer and was giving her old one to Shao Xue.
Shao Xue was overjoyed. Her parents were initially hesitant to accept such a valuable item, but Zhang Ling convinced them it was old and wouldn't run games well, only suitable for internet browsing and research. She added that it would be useful for Shao Xue's studies, especially with the rise of online teaching by famous teachers. Shao Xue quickly set up the CPU (computer tower), keyboard, and mouse, impressing her family with her typing speed.
Her mother attempted to type with one finger, much to Shao Xue's amusement, proclaiming her hands were those of an "expert embroiderer." One evening, walking home alone after tutoring, Shao Xue felt a chilling wind and a sense of being followed. Remembering Tang Ya's warning, she panicked and ran, spraining her ankle. To her relief, Zheng Sunian appeared. He checked her ankle and offered to carry her home, despite her protests about having gained three kilograms.
As he carried her, she fell asleep on his back. He later told her he had finished his class early, visited her house, and, after finding out from Dongge that she was still at tutoring, came to look for her. She expressed feeling safer with him. He admitted that studying also exhausted him and that being with her, listening to her energetic voice, made him feel revitalized. He offered to walk with her to her next tutoring session.
The Chinese plot noted that Shao Xue, though grown, still lacked a clear boundary sense regarding interactions between boys and girls, treating Zheng Sunian and their relationship as they were in childhood. The next day, Zhang Qi gave Shao Xue a cat-shaped alarm as a self-defense item, boasting it was very effective. Zheng Sunian then arrived and gave her a flashlight, which he hinted was a "girlish item," the most suitable for Shao Xue among all her possessions.
In class, Shao Xue, curious about the alarm, accidentally pulled it, triggering a loud siren. The principal rushed in, demanding an explanation. Shao Xue initially took responsibility, claiming she bought it for self-defense, but Zhang Qi burst into the classroom, admitting he gave her the alarm. The principal was furious, stressing that students in the competition class had precious time and should not be involved in such distractions.
Shao Xue quickly intervened, promising to write a self-reflection report to protect Zhang Qi from further trouble. That night, with the alarm confiscated, Shao Xue walked home using Zheng Sunian's flashlight. She again felt followed but discovered the words "Sunian is here" inscribed inside the flashlight, which immediately calmed her. This inscription was specially designed by Zheng Sunian. She then realized the "follower" was just a dog.
She shared her sausage with the dog, making a deal for it not to scare her anymore. As she continued home, she saw Zheng Sunian waiting for her near the small shop, finally feeling safe. When she asked why he was there, he vaguely claimed to be unwell with a sore throat and just passing by.
However, a prior conversation with Jin Ning, who suggested adding "pink ribbons" to a "gray and dull flashlight" to make it more appealing as a gift, hinted at Zheng Sunian's thoughtful motive behind the personalized gift. Shao Xue then revealed she had already ordered a return gift for him online, her first online shopping experience, which made it especially meaningful.
At home, Shao Xue's mother, Dongge, worried about online shopping scams and the risk of revealing their address and ID number for parcel delivery. Shao Xue's father played a favorite Cantonese song from his wife's youth, a song that had helped her through difficult times. He then sent Shao Xue out to the shop with Boss Qian to buy yogurt, so her mother could listen to the song alone.
Shao Xue, surprised, asked her father about her mother's hardships, given that her grandfather was a taxi driver in Beijing and their family was well-off, hinting that perhaps her father was the cause of those difficulties.
Episode 15 Recap
Shao Xue pressed her father, Shao Hua, to recount the story of his youth and how he and her mother fell in love. Although her father was worried her mother would be upset, he couldn't resist her persistence. He began by describing her mother, Yu Dongge, as a beautiful girl from their hutong with large, striking eyes and a long, thick ponytail. He confessed he had liked her since childhood, and she liked him too.
However, Yu Dongge harbored dreams of exploring the world, a notion her father, Shao Xue's grandfather, rejected, believing women should prioritize marriage and remain close to home. This disagreement led to a heated argument, and Yu Dongge, in a fit of anger, ran away. Worried for Yu Dongge's safety and deeply in love, Shao Hua decided to resign from his factory job and embark on a search for her, starting from the north and making his way south.
His mother supported his decision, urging him to find his happiness. After a long search, Shao Hua eventually located Yu Dongge working at a clothing factory. Upon seeing him, Yu Dongge hid, embarrassed by her struggles and fearing his ridicule. Despite her reluctance, many of her co-workers felt she should at least meet Shao Hua, who had been waiting outside the factory for days.
Sensing she was hiding, Shao Hua went to her rental room and spoke to her through the closed door, making several heartfelt promises. He assured her he would take care of her father, Mr. Yu, "like my own father," and urged her to write to her father, Mr. Yu, to ease his worries. He also vowed to protect her, promising to come from Beijing to "beat him to death" if anyone dared to bully her.
Moved to tears, Yu Dongge finally opened the door, tearfully apologizing and embracing him. They eventually returned to Beijing together, started working at the Restoration Department, got married, and had Shao Xue. Back in the present, Shao Hua reminded Shao Xue that her mother’s "nagging" was always for her own good and her future. He highlighted how Yu Dongge was frugal and saved diligently for Shao Xue's education, future studies abroad, and even her marriage.
Moved by her father's story, Shao Xue hugged her mother, feeling ashamed of her past disagreements. Her mother then jokingly asked to see an item Shao Xue had recently bought online. Later, Shiyin was out eating with Wang Haoran. When Wang Haoran ordered only a small plate of chips, claiming Shiyin was on a diet, she grew annoyed. Unexpectedly, Wang Haoran’s mother appeared and immediately began to scold Shiyin, blaming her for Wang Haoran's declining grades.
Shiyin, feeling utterly wronged, desperately asked Wang Haoran to explain, but he sided with his mother, affirming that Shiyin was indeed pestering him. Shiyin was heartbroken by his betrayal. Meanwhile, Shao Xue had an interview for her "Two Plus One" study abroad program. The interviewers, tired of generic self-introductions, asked her about her favorite school.
Shao Xue boldly declared it was "The Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry," arguing that the question didn't specify a real institution and praising Harry Potter for bringing magic to the world. Her unconventional answer impressed the interviewers. At school, Wu Huan noticed Shiyin's absence and asked Shao Xue, who admitted they hadn't been in touch recently. The situation escalated when Wang Haoran’s mother went to the school, complaining to the principal and Mr. Liu about Shiyin.
Shiyin’s mother, Ms. Ji, distraught and crying, told Mr. Liu that Wang Haoran's mother had caused a scene in their hutong, spreading damaging rumors. Mr. Liu, Shiyin's class teacher, reassured Ms. Ji that he believed Shiyin was a good child who wouldn't do anything inappropriate, promising the school would handle the matter. However, the rumors had already spread throughout the hutong. At home, Shao Xue overheard neighbors gossiping about Shiyin.
Yu Dongge, upon learning Shao Xue knew about the incident, scolded her and warned her not to get involved or follow Shiyin's example, fearing for Shao Xue's reputation. Just then, Zheng Sunian arrived with a gift from his mother. Yu Dongge, still concerned but relieved by Zheng Sunian’s presence, asked him to accompany Shao Xue to visit Shiyin.
When they arrived at Shiyin’s house, Shiyin had locked herself in her room and refused to open the door, even for Shao Xue. To Ms. Ji and Shiyin inside the room, Zheng Sunian stated that Wang Haoran was a "jerk" and his words were "never to be trusted." He advised Ms. Ji to ask the boys at school about Wang Haoran to learn about his "bad behavior" and to take this as a lesson, ignoring others' opinions.
Later, as they walked home, Shao Xue warned Zheng Sunian against early romance, emphasizing he had many admirers. Zheng Sunian, however, replied that he couldn't "see them anyway," implying that those not in his heart were irrelevant, regardless of their appearance. The next morning, Wu Huan went to Shiyin's window to comfort her.
He told her not to be sad over Wang Haoran, who was "not worthy" of her, and revealed he knew she was the one who always requested the Li Xunhuan songs. He expressed his belief that "the best Li Xunhuan will be waiting for you in the future." Shiyin finally returned to school, though many students continued to gossip about her, making her feel self-conscious.
Zhang Qi initially said Shiyin deserved the public humiliation, recalling her past mistreatment of Wu Huan. But Shao Xue, determined to clear Shiyin's name, urged him to find a solution. Zhang Qi, in response, devised a plan to make Wang Haoran publicly apologize. He recorded Wang Haoran's confession and played it over the school's broadcast system.
The recording, titled "I'm really shameless," featured Wang Haoran admitting he was the one who pestered Shiyin, but out of fear of his mother, he lied and blamed Shiyin. He further detailed his manipulative behavior, boasting about bullying others in the drama club and forcing basketball teammates to let him score.
While Mr. Liu initially tried to stop the broadcast, Shao Xue bravely kept him out of the room, and upon hearing the full confession, Mr. Liu allowed it to continue. After the broadcast, Shiyin and Shao Xue reconciled, with Shiyin jokingly scolding Shao Xue for not seeking her out earlier. Their group of five friends was whole again. To celebrate Zhang Qi's upcoming birthday, they decided to go to the beach for a two-day, one-night trip.
To get parental approval, Zhang Qi presented a fake flyer for a "High School Essay Training Camp" supposedly organized by his mother, Zhang Ling's, workplace. He explained that his mother had forgotten her phone on her business trip, and he had pre-recorded "universal voice messages" of her voice to answer any calls from parents. Shao Xue, although hesitant, used the flyer to ask her mother, Yu Dongge, for permission.
Yu Dongge, suspicious, called Zhang Ling (who was actually Zhang Qi's pre-recorded voice claiming to be busy in a meeting). Convinced, Yu Dongge allowed Shao Xue to go. Shao Hua, however, later found it odd that they would choose to attend a training camp instead of celebrating Zhang Qi's birthday with a feast.
Episode 16 Recap
Zhang Qi devises a plan for a weekend getaway to celebrate his birthday, using a flyer from his mother's company to disguise the trip as an "essay training camp." With this ruse, he and his friends seek permission from their parents. Shao Xue's mother is initially suspicious, noting that the trip falls on Zhang Qi's birthday weekend, a time they usually spend feasting. However, she relents when Shao Xue mentions that the studious Zheng Sunian will also be attending.
Zheng Sunian's mother, Jin Ning, also readily agrees, happy to see her son engaged in a productive activity. Similarly, Wu Huan's mother gives her blessing, hoping the trip will encourage him to be more social. But while helping around the house, Jin Ning experiences a sudden, sharp pain in her stomach. While she dismisses it, her husband, Zheng Jian, urges her to see a doctor. The friends' excitement for their beach trip quickly evaporates upon arrival.
They are met not with warm sun, but with a biting, freezing wind that shatters their plans for swimming. Their disappointment mounts when they discover the "grand hotel" Zhang Qi booked is a rundown guesthouse. The three boys are forced to share a single, tiny bed. The situation is no better for the girls, as Shao Xue and Shiyin are promptly scared out of their room by a large mouse.
With their original plans in tatters, the group decides to consolidate in the boys' cramped room to celebrate Zhang Qi's birthday. Amidst the disappointing conditions, they gather for cake and then start a game of Truth or Dare. When Shao Xue is asked to describe her first kiss, she admits she has never had one, a revelation that brings a subtle look of relief to both Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi.
The game takes a tense turn when Zhang Qi draws a card. After a long, charged silence, he looks directly at Shao Xue and confesses, "I like you." The group is stunned, but Zhang Qi quickly breaks the tension by revealing the dare on his card was to "tell a lie that you dare not say," skillfully playing off his heartfelt admission as a joke.
The party comes to an abrupt end when Zhang Qi receives a frantic call from his mother. The parents have discovered their deception, and their collective anger is palpable over the speakerphone. The friends are ordered home immediately. Upon their return, they are met by their furious parents. Shao Xue is dragged home and grounded, while Zhang Qi gets into a loud argument with his mother.
In contrast, Zheng Sunian's parents remain calm, simply asking him not to lie to them again. As the group disperses, Wu Huan pulls Zhang Qi aside and admits he wrote the dare specifically to give Zhang Qi an opportunity to confess his feelings. Zhang Qi thanks him but confesses he was too afraid of changing their friendship and making things awkward, which is why he hid behind the lie.
Unbeknownst to the children, a far more serious drama has been unfolding. Jin Ning secretly went to the hospital, where a doctor told her she has a tumor that might be cancerous. To get further tests without worrying her family, she tells her husband she is going out of town to visit a distant relative. After receiving a conclusive diagnosis, she returns home and tells Zheng Jian the devastating truth: she has terminal cancer.
The news leaves him shattered and speechless. The world suddenly changes for everyone. Shao Xue, confined to her house, talks to Zheng Sunian from her bedroom window. Worried about them drifting apart, she gives him a voice recorder containing a message from her, so he can hear her voice whenever he feels down. Zheng Sunian promises he will always stay somewhere she can find him.
He and his father begin spending all their time at the hospital, taking turns keeping vigil by Jin Ning's bedside. A heavy sadness settles over their close-knit community. Neighbors, including Shao Xue's mother, try to help by bringing food, but the Zheng family has no appetite. They speak in hushed tones about how difficult it is to see the once-vibrant Jin Ning now so frail, admitting they are afraid to visit for fear of breaking down in tears. The lively courtyard falls quiet, weighed down by the looming tragedy.
Episode 17 Recap
Shao Xue and Zhang Qi visited Jin Ning, who told Shao Xue she liked seeing her. Shao Xue promised to visit every day after school and do her homework by Jin Ning's side, despite Jin Ning's concern about her studies. Jin Ning was then overcome with pain but refused any painkillers. Noticing Zhang Qi's quiet demeanor, Jin Ning asked if her current appearance had scared him.
Zhang Qi reassured her, confessing that he had always wanted a wife as pretty as her. He then informed Jin Ning that his mother was on a business trip in Hong Kong, exploring more treatment plans for her condition and even offering to transfer her there. Jin Ning dismissed the idea, stating that Beijing had the best doctors, and if they couldn't cure her, no one could. She advised Zhang Qi to tell his mother to take care of herself.
Shao Xue, to lift Jin Ning's spirits, reminded her that Zhang Qi's mother was waiting for her to plan a trip abroad with her, implying Jin Ning would recover and join. Jin Ning, inspired, agreed to plan the trip. Soon after, Zheng Sunian arrived with food. Jin Ning urged him to take Shao Xue and Zhang Qi out to eat something decent, noticing how much weight he had lost from eating hospital meals.
Zheng Jian, Jin Ning's husband, slipped Zheng Sunian some money for the outing. As they left, Jin Ning reminded Shao Xue to prioritize her studies. Outside, Zheng Sunian told Shao Xue and Zhang Qi to stop being so careful around him, insisting he was the same person and hadn't turned into a "monster." Shao Xue lightened the mood by joking about his Kakashi-like fringe.
Zheng Sunian then led them to buy cat feed for the stray kittens his mother often worried about, explaining he wanted to care for them for her. When they discussed where to eat, Shao Xue and Zhang Qi suggested hotpot or Pizza Hut, but Zheng Sunian opted for roujiamo. At the hutong's roujiamo stall, Ms. Deng, the vendor, recognized them.
Hearing about Jin Ning's illness, she insisted on treating them to four roujiamo, one for Zheng Jian, and expressed her deep sadness for Jin Ning. Shao Xue tried to change the subject, but Ms. Deng continued to worry, offering to make nutritious bone soup. Zheng Sunian quietly revealed that Jin Ning's appetite was poor, and she couldn't eat anything. Ms. Deng offered words of encouragement, saying, "kind people will have good karma," and Jin Ning would surely recover.
Zheng Sunian then sent Shao Xue and Zhang Qi home, explaining he needed to relieve his father at the hospital. They both assured him of their unwavering support. A small shop owner also gave Zheng Sunian some snacks to take to Jin Ning, asking him to convey their regards and inquire about visiting times. At the hospital entrance, Zheng Sunian found his father, Zheng Jian, alone, warming his hands.
Zheng Jian explained that Jin Ning had sent him home to rest. Zheng Sunian understood, admitting he didn't want to go home either because the house reminded him of his mother's healthy past self. Zheng Sunian then asked for the truth about his mother's condition. Zheng Jian revealed the doctor's recommendation to move Jin Ning to the intensive care unit, where visits would be restricted to four hours daily.
He worried Jin Ning couldn't handle such isolation and questioned if she could truly be cured. Despite his fears, Zheng Jian reassured his son that she would recover. Later, Wu Huan visited Jin Ning with his mother, Xin Jie. Wu Huan soon excused himself, giving Jin Ning and Xin Jie privacy to talk. Jin Ning expressed self-reproach, feeling she had tormented her loved ones.
Xin Jie tearfully apologized for her past resentment and ill wishes, admitting she hadn't slept well since hearing about Jin Ning's illness and even wondered if she had "cursed" her. Jin Ning comforted Xin Jie, urging her to prioritize herself and Wu Huan. Xin Jie, however, insisted Jin Ning must recover so she could continue to "hate" her, claiming it gave her life purpose. Their long-standing grievances were finally resolved.
Shao Xue, after reflecting on her initial fear, discussed Jin Ning's illness with her parents. She bravely stated that Jin Ning needed her and she wanted to visit daily after school, promising it wouldn't affect her studies. Her parents were touched by her maturity and agreed to accompany her, deciding that their entire family would visit Jin Ning together to offer support to Zheng Jian and Zheng Sunian.
Back at the hospital, while Zheng Jian was caring for Jin Ning, she was struck by intense pain. Zheng Sunian immediately called the doctor. After the doctor stabilized Jin Ning, she suggested moving her to the intensive care unit soon, as these severe pain episodes would become more frequent.
Zheng Jian, wanting to spare his son the sight of Jin Ning's suffering, urged Zheng Sunian to go home, saying Jin Ning wanted to "save face" and not be seen in such a state. Heartbroken, Zheng Sunian reluctantly left the room. Zheng Jian then presented Jin Ning with a rose after she awoke. They reminisced about their youth, recalling a time when Zheng Jian took her to the hospital on his bike after she was scratched by a cat.
Jin Ning expressed a desire to return to those days, wishing they had cherished every moment. Zheng Jian reaffirmed his commitment to spoil her and insisted she move to the ICU for recovery, promising she would return home once well. Jin Ning, however, resisted, citing the high cost of the ICU, which she felt was meaningless, and she didn't want to burden Zheng Sunian's future education.
Zheng Jian, determined, reiterated that she must live and he would continue to spoil her. Shao Xue later went to the hospital and found Zheng Sunian sitting alone outside, looking distressed. She offered to stay with him, but he dismissed her, claiming to have errands. Unconvinced, Shao Xue secretly followed him and witnessed him breaking down in tears in a secluded hutong.
She realized the extent of his pain, reflecting that in their seventeen years of friendship, she had never seen the usually stoic Zheng Sunian cry. She wished she could be a "shoulder he can rely on" to provide him strength. Shao Xue's emotional distress carried into school, where she was visibly distracted during class.
Her teacher called her out for not paying attention, reminding her and her classmates that as third-year high school students, they needed to focus to avoid falling behind. Shao Xue apologized, admitting it was her own fault for not listening. Meanwhile, in the Textile Division, Yu Dongge was deeply preoccupied with Jin Ning's condition, unable to focus on her work. She lamented how such a wonderful person had become so frail, which she found unbearable.
Another colleague inquired about Mr. Zheng (Zheng Jian), noting his absence due to his wife's illness and the increased workload. The colleague mentioned that Mr. Lu Xun once said, "Time is like water in a sponge. You can always get some by squeezing hard enough," implying they would manage, but the heavy atmosphere due to Jin Ning's illness was palpable throughout the neighborhood and among colleagues.
Episode 18 Recap
Zhang Qi, who was preparing for a competition, planned to visit Ms. Jin Ning with Shao Xue before his departure. However, Shao Xue informed him that Ms. Jin Ning had been transferred to the intensive care unit, where visiting hours were restricted to four hours daily, making it difficult to see her during the evening. Zhang Qi was surprised, having spoken with Zheng Sunian the previous night without hearing about this development.
He felt Zheng Sunian was not opening up to him, but Shao Xue explained that Zheng Sunian preferred not to discuss his mother's illness. She encouraged Zhang Qi to concentrate on his competition, wishing him success and urging him to take care of himself. After class, Zheng Sunian rushed to the hospital. His teacher stopped him, expressing concern about his declining grades in his senior year.
Despite acknowledging Zheng Sunian's difficult family situation, the teacher stressed the importance of his studies. Zheng Sunian, however, was focused on spending every possible moment with his mother, understanding her time was limited. He briefly assured his teacher he knew what he was doing before leaving. At the hospital, Zheng Sunian learned from his father, Zheng Jian, that Ms. Jin Ning was very weak and found the restricted diet unbearable.
She longed to see them whenever she woke, feeling that even a short absence felt like years. Moved by his mother’s suffering, Zheng Sunian suggested taking her home, but Zheng Jian insisted on her remaining in the hospital for better hope of recovery. Zheng Jian then tried to extend the visiting hours for Zheng Sunian. The mounting medical expenses were a heavy burden.
When Zheng Jian went to pay the bill of 35,800 yuan, he realized he didn't have enough money. Hesitantly, he visited Shao Xue’s home, struggling to voice his need for a loan. Shao Xue's mother, Dongge, perceived his unspoken request and offered him money collected by colleagues from the Restoration Division and neighbors from the hutong. Zheng Jian gratefully accepted the help but insisted on keeping a record of each contribution so he could repay them later.
Shao Xue, overhearing the conversation from her room, was deeply saddened by the family's struggles. Dongge later cautioned Shao Xue to keep the financial assistance a secret, especially from Zheng Sunian. The next day, Shao Xue was distracted during class, her mind on Ms. Jin Ning's family. As soon as school ended, she quickly rode her bicycle to the hospital. Ms. Jin Ning was pleased to see Shao Xue, acknowledging her consistent help with errands since her illness began.
Ms. Jin Ning then asked Shao Xue to deliver a voice recorder to Zheng Sunian, which contained her final messages and guidance for him. She hoped Shao Xue would help Zheng Sunian navigate his grief after her passing. Suddenly, Ms. Jin Ning was struck by intense pain but expressed a strong desire for cake. Shao Xue immediately rushed out to buy one.
After trying several cake shops that were closed or out of stock, Shao Xue desperately explained Ms. Jin Ning’s situation to a sympathetic shop owner, who agreed to bake a fresh cake for her. By the time Shao Xue returned to the hospital with the cake, visiting hours had ended. She couldn't enter the room. Shao Xue's father, Shao, had also arrived, and he was with Zheng Jian.
Zheng Jian explained that while Ms. Jin Ning had wished for the cake, she was no longer able to eat. Shao offered to stay the night with Zheng Jian, but Zheng Jian gently declined, wanting to be alone with his wife. Shao then took Shao Xue home. On their way, they encountered Zheng Sunian, who had just come from school. Shao Xue noticed how weary and disheartened he looked, a stark contrast to his formerly vibrant self.
Zheng Sunian admitted he just wanted to see his mother again, even though he knew visiting hours were over. The following day, Zheng Jian called everyone to inform them that Ms. Jin Ning was in her final moments. Friends and neighbors rushed to the hospital to say their goodbyes.
Inside the intensive care unit, a weak Ms. Jin Ning spoke to Zheng Sunian and Zheng Jian, expressing her enduring love for Zheng Jian and her wish to be his wife again in their next life. Zheng Jian then played a repaired music box, a symbol of their cherished memories. As the melody filled the room, Ms. Jin Ning peacefully passed away.
Overcome with sorrow, Zheng Jian cried out Ms. Jin Ning’s endearing nickname, "Ning'er," holding onto her hand, unable to let go. In the aftermath, neighbors and colleagues from the Restoration Division helped Zheng Jian organize Ms. Jin Ning's memorial service. The hutong residents mourned the loss of such a kind person, reflecting on the difficult future ahead for Zheng Jian and Zheng Sunian.
Shao Xue, not seeing Zheng Sunian among the mourners, went to his room, where he had secluded himself for days. She offered to take him for a walk or get him something to eat, observing that his silence was not a lack of grief but a profound, overwhelming sorrow. Shao Xue gave Zheng Sunian the voice recorder Ms. Jin Ning had given her, hoping his mother's words would bring him some comfort.
In the recording, Ms. Jin Ning spoke of her deep pride in Zheng Sunian’s sensible and kind nature. She expressed sorrow at not being able to witness his future milestones and jokingly mentioned her plans to conspire with his future wife to tease him and his father, both being introverts. Her final request was for Zheng Sunian to cry freely, urging him not to keep his sadness bottled up, assuring him that she would still hear him.
Listening to his mother's message, Zheng Sunian finally broke down in tears, while Shao Xue, standing outside his door, also wept, feeling the profound loss of Ms. Jin Ning, whose departure left an irreplaceable void in their lives.
Episode 19 Recap
Dou Siyuan approached Mr. Shao, expressing his desire to join the Watchmaker Division, hoping it would give him more opportunities to be close to Fu Qiaomu. Mr. Shao lamented that finding recruits was difficult, as few people these days valued learning such a craft, unlike in his time when it ensured a livelihood. Shortly after, Sun Qirui and Fu Qiaomu joined them, inquiring about the Zheng family.
Mr. Shao sighed, revealing that Zheng Jin had become withdrawn and barely spoke since Jinning's passing, almost like a mute, and was growing thinner, only knowing how to repair watches. He also shared concerns about Zheng Sunian, who was in his final year of high school and whose academic performance had plummeted from first in his grade to over 200th place. Mr. Shao mentioned Sunian's previous ambition to study physics at Tsinghua, and everyone worried about his future.
Meanwhile, Mr. Liu called Shao Xue to his office, delivering both good and bad news. The bad news, he joked, was that she wouldn't see him around much longer. The good news was that she had been selected for the study abroad program. He praised her exceptional performance, reminding her that this had been her dream. Shao Xue, however, appeared conflicted rather than joyful.
Later, Zheng Sunian’s mathematics teacher summoned him to the office, reprimanding him severely for his drastic fall in grades. The teacher expressed disbelief that Sunian, once the top student capable of attending any university, was now risking his academic future. Sunian remained silent, eventually stating he had nothing to say and that the teacher wouldn't understand his feelings anyway, as no one could truly grasp another's pain. He then left, much to the teacher's frustration.
After school, Zhang Qi enthusiastically tried to convince Zheng Sunian to celebrate his birthday, suggesting a dinner at a restaurant Shao Xue was excited about. Sunian, however, flatly refused, stating he was not in the mood to celebrate, and asked them to stop pressing him. Zhang Qi, understanding, suggested they could celebrate another time when Sunian felt ready. Zheng Sunian later went alone to visit the stray cat his mother used to feed.
He confided in the cat, feeling regret for his earlier harshness towards his friends but insisting he couldn't bring himself to celebrate his birthday. He worried about the cat now that his mother was gone, telling it to take care of itself and not to miss her too much. Upon returning home, Zhang Qi asked Shao Xue about her decision to decline the study abroad opportunity, recalling Mr. Liu's praise for her impressive scores (including an IELTS of 8.
5 and placing first in the interview) and the fact that it had always been her dream. Shao Xue explained that her current dream was to help Zheng Sunian find happiness again and suggested they plan a make-up birthday celebration for him that evening. At home, Shao Xue's parents noticed her preoccupation during dinner. When asked, she nervously confessed she no longer wanted to study abroad and feared their disapproval.
Her mother, secretly relieved as she hadn't wanted Shao Xue to leave, happily encouraged her decision, saying she could cook for her every day. Shao Xue, feigning that it was entirely her choice, made her mother even happier, though her father still seemed to sense something deeper was troubling her. That night, Zheng Sunian returned home, looking somber. Shao Xue met him outside, offering a comforting presence and a necklace as a birthday gift.
She told him that if he had any sadness or grievances, he should not keep them bottled up, but cry them out, offering her shoulder as support. When she attempted to leave, he quietly reached out and pulled her hand, indicating he wanted her to stay. Meanwhile, Mr. Liu, the Head of Discipline, called Zheng Jin to school.
He informed Zheng Jin that Sunian had been skipping afternoon classes for a week and was distracted during lessons, remaining unresponsive to criticism. Mr. Liu acknowledged the family's tragedy but stressed that Sunian was in Grade 12, a critical juncture for his future. He urged Zheng Jin to talk to Sunian gently to help him overcome his emotional burden. Zheng Jin promised to speak with his son immediately.
In the hallway, Zheng Jin ran into Zhang Qi and asked if he knew why Sunian was skipping school, but Zhang Qi claimed ignorance. Mr. Liu, the math teacher, also delivered exciting news to Zhang Qi: he had been granted a slot in USTC due to his outstanding performance in the Mathematical Olympiad, where he had won one silver and two gold medals. Zhang Qi, however, was hesitant.
He was only in Grade 11 and worried about leaving home and his friends behind. Mr. Liu was frustrated by his reaction, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He gave Zhang Qi one day to decide, threatening to involve his mother if he didn't comply. Later, Wu Huan found Zhang Qi lost in thought at the sundry shop. He confided in her about his USTC offer but asked her to keep it secret as he hadn't decided whether to accept.
Wu Huan initially thought he was reluctant to leave his mother, Ms. Zhang Ling, or her, but then realized his true hesitation was about leaving Shao Xue. She pressed him to confess his feelings to Shao Xue, but Zhang Qi felt it was "not necessary anymore." Wu Huan then questioned how he would even know Shao Xue's feelings if he hadn't spoken to her, which made Zhang Qi pause.
Shao Xue brought a dish of ribs prepared by her mother to Zheng Jin, who was waiting for Sunian to return. She felt a pang of sadness, recalling how Jinning used to cook for her. Shao Xue worried about Sunian, noting that he had been avoiding everyone. That evening, Shao Xue went to the yard to do her homework, hoping to see Zheng Sunian, as she felt he was deliberately hiding from them.
Her mother expressed concern about the cold, but Shao Xue was determined to wait. Zhang Qi arrived, also looking for Sunian, and saw Shao Xue waiting for him. He decided not to confess his feelings for her, sensing her sole focus was on Sunian. He did, however, tell her about his USTC offer.
Shao Xue was overjoyed for him, enthusiastically urging him to accept the opportunity and jokingly reminding him that his other grades might not be good enough to get in otherwise. Later, Zheng Sunian finally returned. Shao Xue had fallen asleep while waiting. Zhang Qi woke her up and informed Sunian about his admission to USTC. Sunian offered a quiet congratulations.
Zhang Qi, in turn, pressed Sunian to promise to take good care of Shao Xue once he left for university, expressing his worry about Sunian's current dispirited state. He then asked Sunian to walk Shao Xue home. Shao Xue tried to encourage Sunian to smile. Back home, Zheng Jin confronted Sunian about skipping school. Sunian admitted it and said he wasn't hungry. Zheng Jin urged him not to bottle up his emotions and to talk to him.
Sunian replied that his father already knew his feelings, expressing that losing the most important thing in his heart had left him feeling empty and that everything seemed meaningless. Zheng Jin acknowledged his son's pain, admitting he didn't know how to console him, but implored him not to let the wound in his heart fester. He urged Sunian to find a way to "fill the missing spot," assuring him it was possible with enough will.
Separately, Dou Siyuan arrived at work and saw Fu Qiaomu stepping out of a luxurious Mercedes-Benz, which immediately sparked a pang of jealousy in him. Inside the repair shop, Fu Qiaomu excitedly told Siyuan that she had pulled some strings to get his resume to an HR manager at a prestigious company, who was interested in interviewing him. She recalled Siyuan's past ambition to work for a large company.
However, Siyuan reacted coldly, questioning why she would casually give his resume to a "random person" and stating he didn't need favors. He added that he was content with his current job, even if it meant he couldn't afford a Mercedes-Benz. His words visibly hurt Qiaomu, who had put considerable effort into helping him. Siyuan eventually apologized but maintained that he didn't need her help. News of Zhang Qi's acceptance to USTC quickly spread through the hutong.
Neighbors flocked to Ms. Zhang Ling's house, showering her with congratulations and praising Zhang Qi's intelligence. They enthusiastically suggested that Zhang Qi should tutor their children, making Ms. Zhang Ling unsure whether to be happy or dismayed. Zhang Qi, hiding from the "terrifying" neighbors, complained to his mother that they also expected her to treat them to a meal. Ms. Zhang Ling jokingly predicted that next, they would try to get him as a son-in-law. Wu Huan, who was also present, defended Zhang Qi, highlighting his good looks and favorable background.
Episode 20 Recap
To celebrate Zhang Qi’s admission to college and to thank the neighbors, Zhang Ling invited everyone from the hutong and the Restoration Division to a lamb hotpot dinner. While the neighbors were happy, Zhang Qi was less enthusiastic, believing his misery was the fuel of their happiness. Shao Xue told him he was ungrateful, reminding him that having a genius son wasn’t always "good and dandy," as it was troublesome and expensive, requiring celebratory dinners.
Zhang Qi further complained that since his success, several neighborhood madams had been pestering him to tutor their children, with one even bringing her son to his home to ask if the child had a "maths material" face. His honest response earned him a beating from his mother, leading him to conclude that "being ordinary is the best thing ever." Shao Xue retorted that his statement was as irritating as a millionaire wanting to live a "normal life."
During a toast, Zhang Ling expressed her gratitude to her "relatives and neighbors" for celebrating her son's "minor achievement," assuring them she would always be there to help. At the dinner, Zhang Ling asked Fu Qiaomu about Siyuan's job search. Fu Qiaomu revealed her frustration, stating that she had pulled many strings to find him a job, but he was unappreciative.
Siyuan, upset, declared he liked the repair institute and didn't want to go anywhere else, despite Zhang Ling’s insistence that he had the education and qualifications for a better-paying corporate job. Siyuan abruptly left, claiming he had work to do. Fu Qiaomu, disheartened, soon followed him out. Shao Xue went after Fu Qiaomu to understand what happened. Fu Qiaomu explained that after taking Siyuan to a classmate reunion where everyone else seemed successful, he appeared visibly upset.
She assumed he was envious and wanted a better job with a higher starting salary, so she tried to help him find a tech position in a big company. However, he turned it down, making her feel meddlesome and as if she had "pissed off everyone." Shao Xue pointed out that Siyuan was a traditional man and might have felt too ashamed to accept a job she found for him.
Sun Qirui, the Master, joined them, saying that if one could list reasons for liking someone, "then it's just business, not love." He revealed that Siyuan had been indecisive about staying at the institute until he met Fu Qiaomu. Siyuan concluded that if the girl he liked wanted to stay, he had no reason to leave.
Sun Qirui elaborated on the pressure Siyuan faced from his parents to pursue a higher-paying job in Beijing, but Siyuan prioritized his passion for the "metal scraps" over money. Fu Qiaomu, now understanding, expressed her frustration that Siyuan "kept everything to himself" instead of communicating with her.
Sun Qirui then shared his own story, recounting how he chose to stay in the restoration workshop over a high-paying antique appraiser job—a decision his late wife supported, saying he should do "what I thought was worth doing" and "leave something for this world." This realization deeply resonated with Fu Qiaomu. Inspired by Sun Qirui's words, Zheng Sunian took Shao Xue to Tiananmen Square.
He expressed his desire to leave a lasting mark on the world, something that "will still be admired by many after a century," much like the Forbidden City, so that when he is old, he can look back with "no regret." Shao Xue echoed his sentiment, quoting, "I regret nothing for I did not squander my life away; I'm ashamed of nothing for I did not toil blindly in vain."
When Zheng Sunian expressed his wish to find his calling and for things around him to remain unchanged, he also considered how to help Shao Xue go abroad. However, Shao Xue lied to him, claiming she had not passed her own exam and therefore would stay, expressing her desire to "cling to him" for life. She then made a wish for him to smile and encouraged him to make one too.
The next day, Siyuan, worried by Fu Qiaomu’s absence from work, was spurred on by Sun Qirui’s hints that she was truly upset and might have left the department permanently. Siyuan rushed to her school, mistakenly believing she had left with a man driving a Mercedes-Benz. To his embarrassment, Fu Qiaomu pointed out that the Mercedes driver was a female classmate.
Siyuan then explained his earlier dismissive behavior, saying he thought Fu Qiaomu found him "too poor" and wanted him to get a new job. Fu Qiaomu clarified that she had indeed thought he wanted a better job, but after she met him, that thought disappeared. She explained her perspective: if he changed jobs, he would leave the Restoration Department, and they wouldn't be able to be together.
Amidst the cheers of her classmates urging her to "dump him," Siyuan confessed his love, acknowledging his social awkwardness but stating, "after I met you, I think loving someone means I want to be with her every day." Fu Qiaomu, moved, accepted his heartfelt confession. Zheng Sunian visited the Restoration Division, seeking traces of his mother. Luo Huaijin showed him Jin Ning’s unfinished painting, praising its quality and emotional depth.
He explained that although cultural relics are inanimate objects, they gain life when one's soul is poured into them. Luo Huaijin advised Zheng Sunian that everyone must eventually leave the world, but leaving "something for this world" makes one's life worthwhile. He encouraged Zheng Sunian to process his grief and then "move on and live. . . for yourself and for your mother."
Deeply moved, Zheng Sunian told Luo Huaijin he wanted to be like his mother and complete her unfinished painting. Later, Zheng Sunian's father, Zheng Jian, supported his son's decision to switch to the art department and pursue painting, specifically ancient painting replication, after Zheng Sunian explained his desire to "leave something for this ever-changing world" like his parents.
Zheng Sunian then shared his plans with Shao Xue, who, despite her concerns about the late start, wholeheartedly believed in his ability to succeed in anything he set his mind to. Meanwhile, Shi Yin's mother, worried that her daughter was skipping school to take broadcasting classes in secret, sought advice from Yu Dongge, Shao Xue's mother.
Shi Yin's mother recounted how Shi Yin had delivered a dramatic speech about her dream of becoming an "excellent host" and threatened to quit school if her parents didn't support her. She asked Yu Dongge to have Shao Xue convince Shi Yin to change her mind, believing Shi Yin would listen to her friend.
However, Shao Xue, when consulted by her mother, felt that broadcasting "suits Shiyin" and refused to interfere with Shi Yin’s personal decision, knowing it would damage their friendship. Yu Dongge, exasperated by her daughter's stance, told Shao Xue to focus on her own studies and the upcoming college entrance examination. Zheng Sunian began attending an art class.
A presumptuous classmate, Li Yuan, who had been studying there for three years, initially belittled Zheng Sunian for being a beginner, mocking his ambition to apply to the Academy of Fine Arts after only a few months of learning. However, Li Yuan’s attitude quickly shifted when Zheng Sunian mentioned his mother replicated old paintings at the Restoration Department and that Luo Huaijin was his mother’s master.
Immediately, Li Yuan became deferential, asking Zheng Sunian to introduce him to the esteemed Luo Huaijin. Separately, Shao Xue visited Ms. Kang, who had been absent from work. Shao Xue found Ms. Kang dressed up and was complimented on her appearance. Ms. Kang confessed that she was sad and used alcohol to forget her unhappiness. Shao Xue noticed a spread of delicious Suzhou cuisine and inquired if it was for a special occasion.
Episode 21 Recap
Shao Xue finds Ms. Kang preparing an elaborate meal and learns the sad reason why. Ms. Kang explains that it is the anniversary of her husband's death. He had taken his own life by jumping into a lake, and his body was only discovered three days later. Every year on these three days, she drinks to numb the pain and avoid facing reality soberly.
Seeing Shao Xue's concern, she quickly changes the subject, telling the young girl to only believe in the beautiful things in the world. Shao Xue, in turn, diverts the conversation by complimenting Ms. Kang's makeup and asking for lessons. Meanwhile, Shiyin has a fierce argument with her parents, who refuse to let her study broadcasting despite her teacher saying she has talent. Frustrated, she storms out of the house. Wu Huan finds her and follows, trying to console her.
He takes her to a quiet spot and gives her a packet of instant noodles, telling her to crush it to relieve her stress. The trick works, and Shiyin's mood lightens. She explains her passion for broadcasting, and Wu Huan comes up with an idea: the store where he works is having an anniversary celebration, and he suggests she host the event. This would be a perfect opportunity to prove her abilities to her parents.
When Shao Xue returns home, her father, Shao Hua, gives her Math Olympiad books from Zhang Qi. He also tells her that Zheng Sunian is leaving for a month-long sketching trip and would like her to accompany him to visit his mother Jin Ning's grave before he goes. At the cemetery, Zheng Sunian stands silently before the tombstone.
Shao Xue takes the initiative, updating Jin Ning on everyone's lives and telling her about Zheng Sunian's decision to study art to fulfill her unfinished dreams. When she suggests letting him speak, he stops her from leaving and finally opens his heart. He tearfully confesses his deepest regret: being too timid to tell his mother how much he loved and admired her while she was sick. He vows to carry on her legacy and never disappoint her.
With Wu Huan's help, Shiyin gets the hosting gig. He secretly invites her parents to watch. They are stunned and impressed by her confident and professional performance on stage. Afterwards, Wu Huan assures them that Shiyin is serious about her dream. Her parents finally relent and give her their support. A grateful Shiyin thanks Wu Huan with a gift, and he feels their bond has grown stronger. Following their dreams, the friends dedicate themselves to their goals.
Zheng Sunian immerses himself in painting, making rapid progress through talent and hard work. Shiyin diligently practices for her broadcasting exams, and Shao Xue focuses on her studies. Their efforts pay off when Zheng Sunian is accepted into the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts, earning the admiration of all their neighbors. One evening, Shao Xue's hairdryer breaks, and with her hair still wet, she rushes to Zheng Sunian's house to borrow his.
Worried the old appliance might have an electrical leak, he insists on drying her hair for her, leading to a warm, intimate moment between them. His father, Zheng Jian, returns with breakfast for them before heading off to work. To celebrate his college acceptance, Zheng Sunian takes Shao Xue to buy fruit. Zhang Qi appears, feeling jealous that he wasn't invited. Zheng Sunian generously offers to treat him, and Zhang Qi cheekily orders ten boxes of the most expensive cherries.
Their banter is interrupted by Ms. Deng, the beloved neighborhood "roujiamo" vendor. She tells them she is returning to her hometown for her son's wedding and will not be coming back. The news saddens them, as they have grown up with her and her food. As the day comes for the boys to leave for college, Shao Xue gives them farewell presents.
With Zheng Sunian and Zhang Qi off to top universities, Shao Xue feels the pressure from her parents to focus on her own upcoming exams. Elsewhere, Wu Huan tells his mother he has decided not to go to college, believing it's better to start working since his grades are not strong. His mother suggests he celebrate his upcoming 18th birthday and encourages him to invite Shiyin. Wu Huan later invites Shiyin, telling her she will be his only guest.
Zheng Sunian arrives at his university in Beijing and settles into his dorm. He meets his new roommates: the quiet Bai Yunsheng from Suzhou and the boisterous and friendly Pei Shu. Eager to start their college life, Pei Shu immediately invites them out for a meal.
Episode 22 Recap
Pei Sheng, an outgoing new university student, enthusiastically suggests treating Zheng Sunian and Bai Yunsheng to a meal. Bai Yunsheng politely declines, stating he has plans with his girlfriend, while Zheng Sunian also expresses he doesn't feel like going. Pei Sheng then realizes that Zheng Sunian is the top-scoring student in the cultural course, having achieved over 500 marks.
Thrilled to be roommates with such an accomplished individual, Pei Sheng attempts to hug Zheng Sunian, who, visibly uncomfortable, tries to avoid the physical contact. Pei Sheng jokes that they are now like brothers and wants to absorb some of Zheng Sunian's "top student's aura." Meanwhile, Zhang Qi's mother urges him to hurry as his car to the airport has arrived. She meticulously checks his luggage, advising him to be careful at the airport.
Zhang Qi, reassuring her he is an adult, embraces his mother, promising he won't let her or his late father down. His mother, calling him her "little brat," then hands him some money, which he initially declines. As Zhang Qi’s car drives away, both he and his mother secretly shed tears. Later, his mother visits his father's memorial, proudly announcing that Zhang Qi has been accepted into the University of Science and Technology.
She expresses how all her years of hardship, during which she often blamed his father, now feel completely worth it. Showing her wedding ring, she vows never to remove it and demands that his father repay his debts in the next life by treating her and their son exceptionally well and never abandoning them again. Xin Jie visits Yu Dongge (Ms. Yu) at her workplace, surprising her.
Ms. Yu inquires about Xin Jie's health, to which Xin Jie replies that she is trying to be more active as lying down made her health worse. Xin Jie presents a painting she drew many years ago and asks Ms. Yu to help her sell it, explaining that after another illness, her family is struggling, and Wu Huan is suffering because of their financial difficulties. She has no one else to turn to.
Ms. Yu praises the "exceptional" drawing but admits she doesn't know many art buyers and suggests taking it to Master Luo. Xin Jie refuses, stating she is "too ashamed to see Master" and only needs enough money for meals. When Ms. Yu offers her money directly, Xin Jie declines, emphasizing that they are not indebted to each other and she is already grateful for Ms. Yu's help. She then leaves, thanking Ms. Yu.
In school, the teacher reminds the senior students to finalize their university and major choices, using Zhang Qi's early admission as an example. Shao Xue and Tang Ya are both undecided about their future paths, with Shao Xue planning to ask Zheng Sunian for advice. Tang Ya expresses envy for Shao Xue's strong support system. Wu Huan announces that he won't be attending university, as he feels he isn't suited for academics.
He has already started interviewing for jobs in logistics, a field he believes has great potential, and jokingly promises his friends free delivery for their future online purchases. Later, Tang Ya approaches Wu Huan, wanting to treat him to a meal to thank him for helping her find a job at the supermarket.
However, Wu Huan reveals he knows she arranged for her salary to be given to him, disguised as a raise, and urges her not to do it again. He thanks her for her kindness before leaving for another interview. During military training, Bai Yunsheng receives a gift from Xue Ning, the beauty of the design course. Pei Sheng teases Zheng Sunian about not having similar admirers despite his good looks.
Pei Sheng then presses Zheng Sunian about his ideal type of girl, offering to introduce him to someone. Zheng Sunian, however, simply replies that he has "no interest in relationships" and is "inexperienced." Pei Sheng then boasts about his own past popularity. Later, Bai Yunsheng talks to his long-distance girlfriend, Yunjin, on the phone. Yunjin asks about his military training and if any pretty girls are pursuing him.
Bai Yunsheng reassures her that no one is as beautiful as she is and no one is pursuing him, promising to explore Beijing. Pei Sheng overhears and makes an interjecting comment, irritating Bai Yunsheng. A sudden downpour during military training sends Zheng Sunian back to his dorm, where he finds Shao Xue waiting, soaked. Pei Sheng makes suggestive comments about their "neighbor" relationship, making Shao Xue uncomfortable.
Zheng Sunian helps Shao Xue dry her clothes and hair before taking her for coffee. Shao Xue, feeling lost about her major, seeks his advice. Zheng Sunian suggests she consider "minority languages," explaining that it requires a good command of English and could lead to a career as a translator. Shao Xue is delighted, feeling that Zheng Sunian truly understands her.
She then advises Zheng Sunian to spend more time with Bai Yunsheng, whom she sees as loyal to his long-distance girlfriend, and less time with the "flippant" Pei Sheng. Shiyin arrives at Wu Huan's house for his birthday and is warmly welcomed by Xin Jie. She presents Wu Huan with a formal shirt for his upcoming interviews, which he appreciates. Just as they are enjoying the moment, Tang Ya unexpectedly arrives with a birthday gift—also a shirt for work.
Shiyin, who thought she was the only guest, becomes visibly upset, believing Wu Huan had deceived her. Xin Jie, unaware of the tension, praises Tang Ya's gift and invites her to stay for dinner, further enraging Shiyin. Feeling jealous, Shiyin abruptly leaves. Wu Huan chases after her, trying to explain that he truly had no idea Tang Ya would come. He pleads with Shiyin not to be "hostile" towards Tang Ya and to try to be friends.
Shiyin refuses to listen, retorting that if she were truly "willful," she wouldn't have bothered to come. Frustrated by her unyielding attitude, Wu Huan declares he will no longer force her to do anything, which causes Shiyin to storm off angrily. Inspired by Zheng Sunian's advice, Shao Xue returns home and begins translating an English passage from a book, reading it aloud to her parents. She enthusiastically announces her decision to pursue a career as a translator.
Her parents express their full support. That night, Shao Xue calls Zheng Sunian to share her exciting news about choosing to study minority languages, telling him that his support means everything and she couldn't have slept without telling him. Overhearing the call, Pei Sheng teases Zheng Sunian about his "clingy neighbor." Later, Bai Yunsheng asks Zheng Sunian for help finding high-quality silk in Beijing for his girlfriend, who makes cheongsams.
Zheng Sunian suggests asking Shao Xue's mother, Yu Dongge, who works in textile restoration at the Restoration Department. Bai Yunsheng agrees to visit, with Pei Sheng insisting on joining them. The next day, the three friends head to the Restoration Department. They encounter Shao Xue, who is bringing lunch for her mother, and learn that her school is closed due to an adults' self-study exam. Inside, Bai Yunsheng spots Ms. Kang.
He greets her, stating that while he had many things to say, seeing her doing well makes them unnecessary, and then abruptly leaves. Puzzled, Shao Xue asks Ms. Kang about her relationship with Bai Yunsheng. Yu Dongge (Ms. Yu) interjects that both Ms. Kang and Bai Yunsheng are from Suzhou.
Ms. Kang then reveals that the man Shao Xue once saw in a photograph is, in fact, Bai Yunsheng's father, and she had fallen in love with him in her youth without knowing he was already married. Shao Xue reflects on the complexity of the situation, asking Zheng Sunian if anyone was truly at fault in Ms. Kang's story. Zheng Sunian suggests that matters of the heart are often too convoluted for anyone, even those involved, to fully comprehend.
He deflects Shao Xue's subsequent inquiry about his own romantic life by humorously stating he rarely exchanges more than three sentences with girls. Shao Xue then teases him about possibly gaining weight, while he playfully teases her back. After leaving the Restoration Department, Zheng Sunian visits his father, Zheng Jian, at home. He observes that his father, living alone in a dimly lit house, hasn't updated the calendar in a month.
His father attempts to cook him Noodles with soybean paste, but the sauce is burnt, and he laments his out-of-practice cooking skills. Zheng Sunian reassures him and insists on eating the noodles as they are. He also notices that Mimi, the stray cat his mother once cared for, has returned and is now keeping his father company. Wu Huan later confides in Shao Xue and Tang Ya that his recent job interview was unsuccessful.
Tang Ya promptly offers her assistance, having already researched various logistics companies near his home. She highlights that smaller companies might offer more flexibility, allowing him to better care for his mother. Wu Huan thanks her for her help. Overhearing this, Shiyin becomes furious, confiding in Shao Xue that she believes Tang Ya constantly "steals her things" and "goes against her," first by "stealing" Wu Huan, and now by interfering with his job search.
Shao Xue, however, suggests that Shiyin seems to be the one opposing Tang Ya. Upon returning to the dorm, Pei Sheng exuberantly greets Zheng Sunian, lamenting that his time without him was "excruciating" because Bai Yunsheng had been uncommunicative, only responding with monosyllabic grunts. Zheng Sunian calmly suggests that giving Bai Yunsheng some space to "cool down" would be beneficial. Pei Sheng, however, counters that he only experienced "coldness" from Bai Yunsheng.
He then brings up Xue Ning, the "beauty of the design course," who has been persistently pursuing Bai Yunsheng since military training began, even following him from their dorm to the self-study room, despite Bai Yunsheng's clear attempts to distance himself. Pei Sheng observes that while Zheng Sunian and Bai Yunsheng are equally attractive, Zheng Sunian, who was once popular with many girls, is now no longer pursued. He questions the reason for this change. Zheng Sunian speculates it might be due to a comment he made during a class meeting, leaving Pei Sheng to wonder what he said.
Episode 23 Recap
Zheng Sunian explained to Pei Shu that he had once claimed not to like girls in a class meeting to deter persistent female admirers, which led to misunderstandings. Pei Shu, initially concerned by Zheng Sunian's joke, was relieved when he remembered Bai Yunsheng was also in their dorm. Just then, Bai Yunsheng returned to the dorm. Zheng Sunian invited both Pei Shu and Bai Yunsheng out for instant-boiled mutton.
Bai Yunsheng initially declined, but Pei Shu jokingly threatened to mimic a girl calling his name during a phone call, which convinced Bai Yunsheng to join them. During dinner, Bai Yunsheng drank heavily, expressing his lingering sadness over his family's past. He blamed Ms. Kang for his family's misery and detailed his father's scandalous affairs that led to their downfall. He was determined to rebuild his family's jewelry business and buy back their old house to honor his deceased mother.
Zheng Sunian then shared that his own mother had passed away earlier that year. Pei Shu acknowledged their difficult circumstances, stating they were both "desolate" but encouraging them to move forward and focus on a brighter future. Inspired by this conversation and his friends' support, Bai Yunsheng decided it was time to meet Ms. Kang to resolve their past. Bai Yunsheng met with Ms. Kang.
She offered him an apology, but Bai Yunsheng clarified that while he didn't hate her, he blamed his father for ruining both their lives and then simply dying. Ms. Kang admitted that despite her efforts, she couldn't completely forget his father. Bai Yunsheng advised her to let go of the past, live for herself, and return to her hometown to visit. He believed that with time, everyone could look back on difficult memories with a smile.
The next morning, Zheng Sunian visited Shao Xue. After some playful banter, he invited her to his home to give her some of his mother's paintings and other belongings. While looking through these items, Shao Xue found a cat bookmark and commented on Jin Ning (Zheng Sunian's mother)'s love for cats. She then asked to see Zheng Sunian's sketches, but he tried to put her off, claiming his sketchbooks were at school.
However, Shao Xue spotted a sketchbook on his table and insisted on seeing it. As Zheng Sunian tried to hide it, the sketchbook accidentally opened, revealing numerous sketches of Shao Xue herself. Surprised and touched, Shao Xue asked why he had drawn so many pictures of her. He claimed it was just practice, as he was not good at portraits.
Shao Xue then requested a finished portrait, and Zheng Sunian promised to draw a perfect one for her, even signing a bookmark as an IOU. Meanwhile, other friends were embarking on new phases of their lives. Lin Shiyin attended an audition for broadcasting, reciting "To the Oak," while Wu Huan faced repeated rejections in his job search. Fu Qiaomu and Siyuan celebrated their marriage by taking a wedding photo with a cactus.
Shao Xue, on the other hand, was deeply immersed in preparing for her National College Entrance Examination. The day before her exam, Zheng Sunian gave her a drawing with a heartfelt message, wishing her good luck. After the exam, Zheng Sunian picked up Shao Xue. Zhang Qi, who had recently returned home for vacation, organized a celebratory dinner with everyone. During the dinner, Zhang Qi announced his plans to study in Cambridge.
Everyone was initially shocked but quickly expressed their happiness and pride for him. As they drank and reminisced about their childhood memories in the hutong, Zhang Qi became emotional. He expressed how much he would miss them and specifically asked Zheng Sunian to take good care of Shao Xue. After Zheng Sunian took the intoxicated Shao Xue home, Wu Huan and Shiyin were left alone. Wu Huan took the opportunity to apologize for his temper at her birthday party.
Shiyin also admitted to being impulsive that day and offered to apologize to Wu Huan's mother. Wu Huan expressed his feelings, believing that now that they had graduated, Shiyin no longer needed him and he would no longer be a part of her world, feeling "scorched by this light." Shiyin, however, embraced him tightly, reassuring him that she always needed him and would not let him leave.
Back at the dorm, Zhang Qi called Zheng Sunian, needing his dorm key as Bai Yunsheng was also out. Later, Shao Xue, when talking to Zheng Sunian, jokingly described Zhang Qi as "preferring the new to the old, abandoning after using" and declared "we'll meet again, someday" in response to his departure. Wu Huan eventually found a job at a logistics company, where he was surprised to discover that the manager, Mr. Ji, was Shiyin's uncle.
Mr. Ji revealed that Shiyin had persistently lobbied him for two to three days to hire Wu Huan, much to Wu Huan's delight and gratitude. Elsewhere, Bai Yunsheng was found drunk in his room, having socialized extensively for his design work. His roommate observed that Bai Yunsheng was an ambitious person, actively "paving the way" for his own brand, which often involved drinking with clients who might not understand design.
Shao Xue's parents were growing anxious as her college acceptance letter had not yet arrived. Shao Xue revealed that she had boldly applied only to the School of Foreign Studies, without a second choice or backup. She felt embarrassed because almost everyone else in her freshman QQ group, even those from distant provinces, had received their letters, while she, being in Beijing, had not.
Seeing her distress, her parents, despite their previous concerns about her estimated scores being "barely passed," decided to explore the option of sending her to study abroad if she wasn't accepted, even planning to withdraw all their savings to support her. Shao Xue sought comfort by re-watching "Harry Potter," wistfully wishing that Dumbledore would send her an acceptance letter. In a touching moment, Zheng Sunian brought her a toy wand and encouraged her to make a wish; she wished to not disappoint her parents again.
Episode 24 Recap
After Wu Huan finished work, Tang Ya was waiting at his doorstep. He invited her into the courtyard, where she revealed she had been accepted into an international logistic management program and had started her first day of work, meaning they would soon be colleagues. Just then, Lin Shiyin arrived. Upon seeing Tang Ya, Lin Shiyin immediately embraced Wu Huan, making Tang Ya feel the two had an established relationship. Tang Ya bid them goodbye and left.
Lin Shiyin then insisted Wu Huan acknowledge her as his girlfriend. Wu Huan stammered at first but, encouraged by Lin Shiyin, finally declared loudly, "Lin Shiyin is Wu Huan's girlfriend," a statement that made him feel very happy. Meanwhile, Zheng Sunian was in his dorm, looking online for reasons why Shao Xue hadn't received her acceptance letter. Pei Shu jokingly chimed in, suggesting she must have failed the exam, much to Zheng Sunian's annoyance.
Zheng Sunian then went to the post office to inquire about Shao Xue's acceptance letter. He learned that due to system issues and understaffing, many letters were backlogged. Zheng Sunian helped the postal worker locate Shao Xue's letter, which had been buried under a pile of other mail. Later, as Shao Xue was anxiously waiting, the postman delivered the letter. Her entire family was overjoyed. Shao Xue was thrilled, exclaiming that Zheng Sunian's "magic wand" wish had truly worked.
Zheng Sunian and the postman exchanged a subtle nod, acknowledging their success. To celebrate Shao Xue's admission and their graduation, Zhang Qi gathered his closest friends and the entire class at their high school. Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian also waited for Zhang Qi's plane to fly overhead before his departure abroad, though Zheng Sunian mentioned it wouldn't be visible from their location.
Standing beneath the building, they loudly called out for Mr. Liu, their teacher, to express their gratitude for his dedicated guidance over the years. Mr. Liu was initially annoyed by the commotion but became deeply moved as Zhang Qi spoke. Zhang Qi, in his usual playful yet heartfelt manner, thanked Mr. Liu for believing in him, a "troublesome" student, and preventing him from becoming a social outcast.
Shao Xue and Lin Shiyin also shared their thanks, with Shao Xue appreciating his efforts that gave her the opportunity to study abroad (even though she ultimately didn't), and Lin Shiyin thanking him for returning her confiscated (and expired) cosmetics. The whole class bowed in unison, bringing Mr. Liu to tears. Through his tears, Mr. Liu jokingly told them not to return unless they achieved success.
After this emotional gathering, Zheng Sunian received a call from a colleague of Bai Yunsheng, asking him to pick up a heavily intoxicated Bai Yunsheng. Zheng Sunian rushed to a hotel where he found Bai Yunsheng in the restroom, barely able to stand after throwing up. As he helped Bai Yunsheng sober up outside, Bai Yunsheng confessed his weariness about his internship, where his manager forced him, a designer, to drink with clients to secure projects.
He felt compelled to do this for money, as he dreamt of buying an apartment in Beijing for Yunjin, his girlfriend, to live with him. A rich young lady who had been pursuing Bai Yunsheng approached them, offering to drive him home, but Bai Yunsheng politely declined, insisting Zheng Sunian take him.
He later explained that he was being cordial with her because her father was a major fabric distributor in Jiangsu, and her connections would be invaluable for his jewelry business. He viewed it as a mutually beneficial arrangement, not a romantic one, asserting that her interest was merely a "whim." Back at the dorm, Yunjin called Zheng Sunian, worried because she couldn't reach Bai Yunsheng.
Zheng Sunian reassured her that Bai Yunsheng was asleep and promised that he wouldn't change, despite her concerns that he was becoming "different" since moving to Beijing. It was time for Shao Xue to start university. Despite Beijing being close to home, her mother, Yu Dongge, was heartbroken, crying profusely. She had packed two oversized suitcases for Shao Xue and expressed feeling "empty inside," like she was "losing her job" as a mother.
Shao Xue tried to comfort her, promising to visit every weekend. Zheng Sunian accompanied Shao Xue to her university orientation, attentively taking care of her. At the Italian Department's registration booth, a male senior named Mo Hai recognized Shao Xue due to her impressive foreign language scores. He was particularly helpful with her registration process and offered to show her around the students' union. Zheng Sunian noticed Mo Hai's overt attention and felt uneasy.
When Mo Hai inquired if Zheng Sunian was Shao Xue's boyfriend, Zheng Sunian clarified that he was her "neighbor's brother," to which Mo Hai commented on how "considerate" neighbors were nowadays. Excited about the prospect of joining the students' union, Shao Xue quickly completed her registration and eagerly left with Mo Hai, leaving Zheng Sunian behind to guard her luggage. Back home, Yu Dongge counted the days, missing Shao Xue terribly.
Shao Xue called them from the students' union, explaining she was very busy with activities, including assisting an exchange student group and planning a large welcome party. She excitedly shared that Mo Hai had invited her to join the public relations department, providing many practical opportunities to interact with foreign guests. She also mentioned she hadn't had time to see Zheng Sunian. Zheng Sunian, meanwhile, was growing increasingly concerned about Shao Xue's close involvement with Mo Hai.
Pei Shu and Bai Yunsheng noticed Zheng Sunian's distress and urged him to contact Shao Xue. Zheng Sunian called her dorm, but the resident assistant informed him that Shao Xue was still at the students' union, often returning late due to activities.
Pei Shu dramatically warned Zheng Sunian that the students' union was a "large-scale blind date site," where seniors might easily "steal" new students' affections, likening it to a romantic scenario involving characters like Ziwei and Erkang from a popular drama. Concerned by the late hour, Zheng Sunian decided to visit her the next day. The following day, Bai Yunsheng accompanied Zheng Sunian to the university. They found Shao Xue and Mo Hai returning to the dorms together.
Shao Xue cheerfully announced that she and Mo Hai were rehearsing for a "comedic version of Titanic" for the welcome party, with her playing Rose and him playing Jack. Zheng Sunian, agitated, immediately protested, forbidding her from participating because she couldn't swim. Shao Xue clarified it was a stage play and wouldn't involve actual swimming. She then quickly changed into her costume, wanting to look good for her senior, and left with Mo Hai for rehearsal.
Bai Yunsheng advised Zheng Sunian that he needed to be more assertive and "make a move soon," or Shao Xue would be "snatched away" or taken advantage of. Later, Pei Shu, trying to devise a plan, characterized Mo Hai as a "routine pervert" with "outdated tricks." He then tried to comfort Zheng Sunian by comparing Mo Hai to "Fahai," a villain from a folk tale, suggesting that antagonists only make a love story more "soul-stirring."
Unbeknownst to Pei Shu, Mo Hai had overheard their entire conversation and revealed himself, stating, "I'm the Fahai you speak of." Shao Xue, having learned about their conversation from Mo Hai, confronted the three of them. She expressed her disappointment, particularly in Zheng Sunian, whom she had always respected, for speaking ill of someone behind their back. Pei Shu attempted to take all the blame, but Shao Xue insisted on hearing Zheng Sunian's explanation directly.
Episode 25 Recap
Shao Xue confronted Zheng Sunian, calling him by his full name, which showed her anger. She accused him of badmouthing Mo Hai behind his back, stating that the Sunian she knew wouldn't do such a thing. Zheng Sunian admitted it was wrong but insisted that Mo Hai harbored ill intentions towards her.
Shao Xue dismissed his concerns, explaining that Mo Hai treated her merely as a junior and already had a girl he liked, though he hadn't confessed to her yet. Zheng Sunian questioned if Mo Hai had made up the story to lower her guard, which Shao Xue found despicable. Shao Xue then accused him of embarrassing her under the guise of worrying, but Zheng Sunian clarified that he only worried she might grow distant from him.
Shao Xue explained her busy schedule as a university student and student committee member. Zheng Sunian asked her to at least keep in touch. Shao Xue promised to return to her dorm early every day and call him to say good night, which pleased Zheng Sunian before he left with his two roommates. Later, Shiyin listened to Shao Xue's story and immediately concluded that Zheng Sunian was jealous because he liked her.
Shao Xue initially only felt a sibling-like affection for Sunian, but Shiyin's playful "love expert" test made her realize her true feelings. Shiyin had Shao Xue first imagine a boy named Zhang Qi and answer questions about seeing him, missing him, and if another girl stole him. Shao Xue answered indifferently. Then, Shiyin asked her to replace Zhang Qi with Sunian, and Shao Xue's emotional reaction, including pinching Shiyin, confirmed her deeper feelings.
Although Shao Xue found the idea of being his girlfriend awkward and feared changing their current comfortable relationship, she was curious about Shiyin's advice. Shiyin then laid out a "seduction" strategy for Shao Xue: start by giving him the cold shoulder to create a sense of distance, then become passionate, staring into his eyes, holding his hands, uttering a pickup line, and then pulling back.
After that, Shao Xue should tease him with her expressions, act delicate, touch him accidentally, and finally, show her willful side without warning to make him confess. Meanwhile, Zheng Sunian consulted Pei Sheng, who emphatically told him that even blind Bai Yunsheng could see his love for Shao Xue and urged him to confess, warning that if he didn didn't express his feelings, "it'll never begin."
Pei Sheng vividly described the joys of a relationship – holding hands, kissing, getting married, and consummating – which Zheng Sunian found embarrassing. Pei Sheng pressed on, emphasizing that in college, many "wolves" like Mo Hai would pursue Shao Xue, and he would regret not acting. Zheng Sunian, however, was hesitant to change their long-standing relationship, fearing Shao Xue wouldn't accept it, preferring to let "nature take its course."
Pei Sheng insisted he needed to know if Shao Xue liked him and how much. He then advised Zheng Sunian on a male version of "seduction" with the principle: "If you desire her, that means you've fallen for her. But if you can hold it in, that means you're serious about her." His strategy was to show initial passion, then act cool and collected.
When Zheng Sunian asked what if he couldn't hold back, Pei Sheng taught him to chant the "Enduring Mantra": "Endure for a moment and the wind will calm; a man must be calm and collected." Pei Sheng even demonstrated his techniques, first to a waitress by being demanding then coy, and then to a random girl by counting "fingerprint rings" on her hand and reciting a cheesy line about destiny.
The girl revealed she only had "loops" on her fingers, not "rings," but Pei Sheng, sticking to his script, told her he would count her "three rings" another day, then abruptly left, showcasing his "withdraw" strategy. Shiyin's parents hosted a dinner, where Yu Dongge and her husband were present. Shiyin's mother proudly spoke of Shiyin's beauty and popularity, but firmly stated that Shiyin was forbidden from dating during university, threatening to "break her legs" if she dared.
Just then, Shao Xue's voice rang out from outside, calling for Sunian. Zheng Sunian had prepared a homemade dinner and invited Shao Xue over, hoping to confess. Shao Xue, remembering Shiyin's "cold shoulder" advice, called his cooking "so ordinary," dampening his enthusiasm. He tried to serve her, but she insisted on serving herself.
Then, Zheng Sunian attempted Pei Sheng's hand-reading trick, counting her "fingerprint rings," but Shao Xue revealed she had no "rings," only "loops," making his line about their destiny fall flat. Embarrassed, Zheng Sunian tried to withdraw, awkwardly stating he would count her rings another day. Shao Xue then tried her own seduction moves, teasing him with her eyes, acting pitiful, and sitting close to him, complimenting his appearance.
Zheng Sunian, remembering Pei Sheng's "Enduring Mantra" and advice to stay calm, resisted her advances, pushing her hand away, telling her to serve herself, and questioning why she was sitting so close. Shao Xue's last attempt was to tickle him, but Zheng Sunian caught her hands, pulled her into a hug, and leaned in for a kiss before stopping himself. After their failed attempts, Shao Xue confided in Shiyin, regretting not asking Zheng Sunian directly about his feelings.
Shiyin, however, believed her strategy had frightened him and that he would eventually come around, advising Shao Xue to "stick to her principles." On the other side, Zheng Sunian recounted the evening to Pei Sheng, who, despite the awkward outcome, declared Zheng Sunian had succeeded in showing his seriousness. Pei Sheng, eager to further their progress, announced a paintball game, calling it "War and Love," an "ultimate technique."
He initially planned for Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue to be on the same team, with the others acting as "reinforcements" to highlight Zheng Sunian's bravery. However, Mo Hai unexpectedly arrived and insisted on splitting teams by university affiliation, which Shao Xue also agreed to. This resulted in Shao Xue and Mo Hai on one team, and Zheng Sunian and Pei Sheng on the opposing team.
Shiyin, now on Shao Xue's team, advised Shao Xue that to test a man's true feelings, one must stand on the opposite side; if he truly liked her, winning or losing wouldn't matter, only her happiness would. Shiyin then told Shao Xue she would be the "bait" for their team to draw out the enemy. Meanwhile, Pei Sheng rallied his team for "Plan B," vowing to win. In the game, Zheng Sunian's team successfully cornered Mo Hai.
Zheng Sunian ordered Mo Hai to choose a number between one and 100 as a penalty for how many times they would shoot him. When Mo Hai complained it would hurt, Zheng Sunian replied, "That's our goal." Mo Hai refused, so Zheng Sunian's team "eliminated" him. After Mo Hai's "sacrifice," Shiyin executed her plan, going out to draw fire from Zheng Sunian's team. She was quickly eliminated. Shao Xue then ran out, but, unable to shoot, simply yelled.
As Pei Sheng aimed at her, Zheng Sunian immediately shielded Shao Xue, taking the "shot" himself and crying out in pain. Their "Plan B" was deemed a success by Pei Sheng, as Zheng Sunian had once again protected Shao Xue. Following the game, everyone went to a hot spring. The friends intentionally left the sauna room one by one to give Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue some privacy.
Pei Sheng then re-entered, feigning a hand cramp, and handed Shao Xue ointment for Zheng Sunian's "wound," urging her to apply it before leaving again. Shao Xue, concerned, began applying the medicine. As her hair brushed against Zheng Sunian, he gently suggested she tie it up, saying he felt "ticklish." Misunderstanding his subtle hint, Shao Xue playfully began tickling him. Zheng Sunian caught her hands, pulled her close into an embrace, and leaned in for a kiss.
At that moment, Pei Sheng burst back in, asking about the ointment. Seeing their close proximity, he quickly backed out, telling them to "continue" and that he was still thirsty, excusing himself to the washroom. Embarrassed, Shao Xue ran out of the room. Zheng Sunian, seeking advice, found Bai Yunsheng and asked how he knew he loved Yunjin. Bai Yunsheng shared a story of how seeing Yunjin in a red cheongsam made him realize he wanted to marry her.
He advised Zheng Sunian that to confirm his feelings, he should imagine his wedding with Shao Xue; if his heart was entirely for her, then she was the one. Shiyin also pondered Shao Xue's feelings, asking if she truly liked Zheng Sunian and if she was ready for their relationship to change. Soon after, Zheng Sunian approached Shao Xue and presented her with a gift: a new mobile phone.
He explained it would make it easier for them to stay in contact. Shao Xue was delighted with the gift and happily declared she would make him her "first contact person" when he asked her to make him hers. She thanked him, embracing the new connection with her Sunian.
Episode 26 Recap
Zheng Sunian arrived at the Restoration Department and was surprised when Mr. Luo announced that he was taking Sunian as his apprentice, stating that Sunian should now call him "Master" instead of "Grandpa Luo." Mr. Luo brushed aside Sunian's concerns about the appropriateness of this new relationship, a move that placed Sunian in a standing akin to his father's generation, and promised to discuss it with Sunian's father later. He then formally introduced Sunian to his colleagues, who congratulated him.
Mr. Luo assigned Sunian a desk and outlined his duties, which included arriving early to clean, drawing, and only being allowed to work on vintage items once his drawing skills were up to standard, with each drawing receiving a score. Shao Xue later called Sunian to share the exciting news of his apprenticeship. Shao Xue found it amusing that Sunian's father was now his colleague, joking about their new generational standing.
She then asked Sunian to accompany her to the mall that evening to buy a formal dress for an important English speech contest and to treat her to dinner. Shortly after their call, Shao Xue received an urgent phone call from her mother, Yu Dongge, who declared that she intended to divorce Shao Xue’s father.
At the Restoration Department, Yu Dongge confronted Shao Hua, accusing him of taking her breakfast and warning him to stop touching her belongings as they would soon be divorced. Zheng Jin, witnessing the argument, tried to intervene, but Shao Hua expressed his frustration, explaining that Yu Dongge had thrown out his collection of vintage items from the flea market, which he kept in two small drawers.
Yu Dongge retorted that his drawers were a mess and that she had only meant to tidy them, but an item was accidentally lost, leading to Shao Hua yelling at her and calling her a "junk collector." Shao Hua, in turn, angrily threw out many of Yu Dongge's fabrics, then accused her of filling two large wardrobes with her "rags."
Yu Dongge defended her fabrics, explaining how good materials could be repurposed into new clothes, and later Shao Xue highlighted how many new clothes her mother had made for the family over the years. The argument escalated, with Yu Dongge recounting that Shao Hua called her a "tigress," "uneducated," and accused her of taking away his "human rights." She then angrily declared, "Let's get a divorce!"
Shao Hua readily agreed, even mentioning he had a contact at the Civil Affairs Bureau to expedite the process. Shao Xue rushed home to mediate. She spoke with her father, advising him to be more understanding of her mother, who might be experiencing menopause, and to make amends. Shao Hua initially felt he was in the right, pointing out his small collection versus his wife's expansive fabric collection.
Shao Xue reminded him that "being right" wouldn't help if he lost his wife and highlighted how much her mother had contributed to the family with her sewing. Convinced, Shao Hua decided to try a new approach to win his wife back. Meanwhile, Lin Shiyin was shopping with friends when she encountered Wu Huan, who was in his delivery uniform. Feeling embarrassed, she introduced him to her friends as just a high school classmate.
Noticing his discomfort and realizing her behavior had hurt him, Shiyin left her friends to take Wu Huan to a Western restaurant to alleviate the awkwardness. Wu Huan, finding the restaurant expensive, suggested for their next date that he could buy steak from the supermarket and cook it for her at his place, which displeased Shiyin. He then inquired about a play rehearsal, but Shiyin claimed the play was already over.
When he suggested spending the next day together, she declined, citing urgent overtime work due to a regional manager's inspection that could lead to career opportunities. Later, Zheng Sunian, Shao Xue, Pei Shu, and Bai Yunsheng went shopping. Shao Xue felt uncomfortable with Pei Shu and Bai Yunsheng accompanying them. Bai Yunsheng asked Shao Xue to try on a dress for his girlfriend, Yunjin, as they had similar builds. Shao Xue agreed, initially excited about the luxury store.
However, while she was trying on clothes, Bai Yunsheng received a call from Xue Ning, asking him to go shopping, so he left, asking Sunian and Pei Shu to take the purchased dress home for him. After trying on the dress, Shao Xue found it expensive, uncomfortable, and unattractive. She decided not to buy it and suggested they go eat instead. Shao Hua, still struggling to reconcile with Yu Dongge, asked Shao Xue for more advice.
Shao Xue told him his traditional methods were outdated and suggested he try "romance." Inspired, Shao Hua recorded an apology and loving sentiments on various clocks, proclaiming his deep love and inability to live without his wife. When Yu Dongge heard the messages, she chuckled, calling him a "smelly mouse," but then, with a smile, asked him to help fold the quilt.
Reconciled, she presented him with a new embroidered shirt she had made, which Shao Hua proudly wore to work, showing it off to his colleagues. Zheng Jin noted how much more refreshed Shao Hua looked. At an English speech contest, Mo Hai informed Shao Xue that Huanyu Investment, a major company, had inquired about her for a potential internship.
He mentioned they usually recruited master's students for international translation roles and were disappointed she was only a freshman, but reassured her about future opportunities if she entered their talent pool. After the contest, Shiyin cautioned Shao Xue to maintain a distance from Mo Hai.
Shiyin then excitedly told Shao Xue about a free "Queen's Spa" beauty treatment worth 1,888 yuan that she could get as an annual member at her beauty salon, urging Shao Xue to join her for a "luxurious experience." Shao Xue was hesitant, as she had promised to watch the new "Harry Potter" movie with Sunian.
Shiyin, however, insisted, advising Shao Xue to "play hard-to-get" by standing Sunian up this time, promising it would make him more interested when she later appeared "dazzling." Shao Xue reluctantly sent a text to Sunian, stating "something urgent came up." Sunian replied, asking for details, which left Shao Xue flustered. Shiyin told her to simply lie and say she was writing a thesis.
Unbeknownst to Shao Xue and Shiyin, Pei Shu saw Shao Xue at the beauty salon and immediately called Sunian, reporting her whereabouts. Sunian, feeling deceived, sent a message to Shao Xue, revealing he knew she was at a beauty salon. Shocked, Shao Xue rushed out to call him, explaining that Shiyin's free beauty treatment was a "now or never" opportunity, worth 1,888 yuan.
Sunian, hurt by her choice, replied that "money is more important than me" and told her to continue her treatment. Panicked by his obvious anger, Shao Xue desperately called him back, insisting she suddenly had an intense desire to watch the movie and needed to see him, begging him not to refuse. She quickly wiped off her facial mask and rushed to the cinema.
At the movie theater, Sunian remained distant and silent, rejecting her offers of popcorn and milk tea, telling her to simply watch the film. After the movie, Shao Xue, still unable to appease him, remembered a childhood incident where she had set off fireworks to cheer him up when he was angry, accidentally burning her hand, which immediately made him stop being upset and worry about her. Outside his apartment, she tried the same tactic, lighting fireworks and feigning injury.
Sunian rushed out, asking if she was hurt. Shao Xue playfully made him promise not to be angry before showing him her hand, claiming it no longer hurt now that he wasn't mad. As she continued to playfully coax him, pleading with him to smile, Sunian leaned in and kissed her. Shao Xue was secretly thrilled that her first kiss was with the person she loved.
The next day, Shao Xue, still processing the kiss, asked Shiyin if a relationship between good friends would be "better." Shiyin, reflecting on her own relationship with Wu Huan, which was struggling due to their different social circles and lack of common interests, advised Shao Xue to "be cautious."
She warned that once the "window paper is broken," meaning the friendship turns into romance, things might become different from what one imagined, and there would be "no going back to being friends." Meanwhile, Sunian was clearly distracted, lost in happy thoughts of the kiss, which Pei Shu noticed, commenting on his progress with Shao Xue. Sunian later asked Pei Shu if kissing someone automatically meant they were officially together.
Pei Shu clarified that one must first confess their feelings, and only then does a kiss confirm the relationship; otherwise, he stated, it would be considered "making improper advances." Pei Shu then pressed Sunian to reveal who he had kissed.
Episode 27 Recap
Zheng Sunian decided he would confess his feelings to Shao Xue but wanted to practice his lines first. He went to a park, rehearsing various approaches from direct declarations like, "Do you prefer being my girlfriend or my fiancee?" which startled nearby couples into thinking he was "unsound," to more subtle suggestions such as, "We can… be together?" After much practice, feeling more confident, he called Shao Xue to ask her out.
However, Shao Xue, remembering advice that a relationship might change their existing beautiful friendship and make it impossible to go back to being just friends, was hesitant. She gave a series of excuses, saying she was busy with homework, presentations, or school events. She even cut off calls, claiming to be in the library with bad signal or needing to retrieve things before closing.
Zheng Sunian called her repeatedly, but each time Shao Xue found a reason not to meet or talk, leaving him feeling dejected and wondering if he had made a mistake by taking a step forward in their relationship. Feeling down, Zheng Sunian met up with his friends, Pei Sheng and Bai YunSheng, for drinks.
Bai YunSheng, who was starting his own business and planning to move out of their dorm because he returned late every night, empathized with Zheng Sunian's situation. Pei Sheng, who was going abroad, noted that with him studying abroad, Zheng Sunian interning, and Bai YunSheng starting a business, it felt like they had already graduated. Despite the bittersweet farewell, they advised Zheng Sunian to persist in pursuing Shao Xue.
He then sent Shao Xue a message, asking to see her every day. The next morning, Zheng Sunian received an urgent call from Yu Dongge, Shao Xue's mother, who said she hadn't been able to reach Shao Xue for days and was worried. Zheng Sunian reassured her, mentioning that Shao Xue sometimes forgot her phone, and promised to find her.
He went to Shao Xue's school, where a classmate informed him that Shao Xue had left yesterday with a team of students for a volunteer teaching program in a small, remote village called Bama County in Guangxi. Hearing this, Zheng Sunian immediately headed to the airport and booked the earliest flight to Nanning, Guangxi. Upon arriving in Guangxi, Zheng Sunian learned that the bus to Bama County was canceled due to heavy rainfall and a road collapse.
Taxis also refused to go because of the dangerous conditions. Determined, Zheng Sunian offered 1,000 yuan to a driver, who eventually agreed to take him. However, their journey was cut short when they encountered another road blockage due to active repairs. A repair crew member informed Zheng Sunian that a group of college students, consistent with Shao Xue’s description, had passed through the area the previous night during the heaviest rain and were likely trapped in the mountains.
The repair crew leader, recognizing the danger, dispatched Li, Wang, and Zhang to accompany Zheng Sunian into the mountains. Zheng Sunian, receiving a walkie-talkie for communication, decided to split up to cover more ground. After a long search through the pouring rain, he finally heard their shouts for help and located Shao Xue and the other shivering, soaked students. Upon finding Shao Xue safe, Zheng Sunian embraced her tightly.
He then turned his anger towards Mo Hai, demanding, "Who's the leader?" Mo Hai nervously admitted it was his idea to lead them, but Zheng Sunian, grabbing him by the collar, reprimanded him for his irresponsibility, questioning how he could bear the consequences if something serious had happened. He then used the walkie-talkie to inform the repair team leader that he had found everyone and they were on their way back.
Meanwhile, Yu Dongge had managed to contact Shao Xue and was scolding her severely over the phone, expressing her terror and asking how she and Shao Hua would live if anything happened to her. Shao Xue, apologetic and hoarse from the ordeal, begged her mother to stop. Shao Hua then took the phone, kindly telling Shao Xue that her mother was just worried, and then thanked Zheng Sunian for rescuing their daughter and ensuring her safe return.
Once they reached the city, the group checked into a hotel. With only one room left after accommodating everyone else, the hotel staff, assuming Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian were a couple, assigned them to the same room. After Shao Xue took a shower, she urged Zheng Sunian to do the same to avoid catching a cold. Still fuming over her reckless actions, Zheng Sunian initially intended to find another place to stay.
However, Shao Xue, confessing she was scared to be alone, held him back. He reluctantly agreed to stay, offering her the bed while he would sit. Seeing his stern expression, Shao Xue’s eyes welled up, feeling that he had never been so "fierce" with her. Zheng Sunian, softened by her tears, let go of his anger and began to comfort her, asking if she was afraid.
Shao Xue tearfully admitted her fear and loneliness, describing her overwhelming relief at seeing him, only to be upset when he then yelled at her. Zheng Sunian apologized, explaining his intense fear and anxiety on the way to find her, constantly imagining her in danger. Moved by his words, Shao Xue confessed her deep affection, telling him, "I like you so much. . . I've always liked you."
She added, "From four, eight, sixteen… two to the power of six," playfully alluding to how long and deeply she had liked him. When Zheng Sunian questioned why she had been avoiding him after their previous kiss if she liked him, Shao Xue explained her fear that their relationship might change. However, the day's ordeal made her realize she "actually longed for the changes" and wanted to be with him.
She then pulled him onto the bed, wanting to act on their feelings. Zheng Sunian, wanting their first intimate moment to be more special than an impulsive act, initially resisted, but eventually, they gave in to their emotions and kissed passionately. The next morning, Shao Xue, shyly hiding under the covers, was gently coaxed out of bed by Zheng Sunian, who playfully teased her about "girlfriend privileges."
He had already made arrangements, contacting government officials and the school principal, to ensure the volunteer teaching program could continue with proper support. They took photos together to send to their parents, reassuring them of their safety. Yu Dongge, still annoyed at Shao Xue for going to Guangxi, softened when she saw the photos. However, as she and Zheng Jian looked through the pictures, they noticed the increasing intimacy between Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian.
Zheng Jian remarked that Shao Xue, who usually seemed like "a boy," was now "always sticking with Sunian," while Zheng Sunian himself "was not being sensitive enough." They decided to "remind him to keep his distance" once he returned home, acknowledging that they were no longer children.
Later, Zheng Sunian's art teacher praised his latest painting, noting how the addition of a human figure—implicitly Shao Xue—brought the entire piece to life, a significant improvement from his previous works, suggesting a profound shift in his inspiration.
Episode 28 Recap
Zheng Sunian returned and repainted a picture, which he brought to Luo Huaijin for his critique. Luo Huaijin noticed Shao Xue in the painting and immediately understood that Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue were now a couple. Luo Huaijin playfully teased them about young people's need for secrecy in their relationships but promised to keep their secret. He then asked Zheng Sunian if he truly intended to remain in the Wenxiu Yuan for the rest of his life.
Zheng Sunian replied that while his body might stay within that small square, his heart traveled far beyond its boundaries. Later, Shao Xue tried to tell her father about her relationship, but her mother, Yu Dongge, arrived home just as she was about to speak. Yu Dongge had been mediating a dispute at the Lin family, where Lin Shiyin’s parents were upset about her relationship with Wu Huan due to his family’s financial situation.
Yu Dongge and Shao Hua discussed how such relationships could complicate close family friendships if they didn't work out, citing examples of colleagues whose children broke up, leading to awkward interactions. Hearing this, Shao Xue decided it was best to keep her relationship with Zheng Sunian a secret from their parents for the time being. While Lin Shiyin was with Shao Xue, complaining about her parents' disapproval of Wu Huan, Zheng Sunian appeared.
Shao Xue immediately ran to embrace him, revealing their romantic relationship to Lin Shiyin. Lin Shiyin playfully expressed her shock and teased them about starting a relationship when they were so exhausted during the Guangxi trip and even sharing a room. Shao Xue admitted she initiated their first kiss. Lin Shiyin then decided to call Zhang Qi to share the news.
Zhang Qi, despite his hidden feelings for Shao Xue, congratulated them, jokingly saying he didn't call to avoid disturbing their "romantic time" and that he had plenty of admirers himself. Afterwards, Shao Xue asked Zheng Sunian to keep their relationship a secret from their parents for now, citing Lin Shiyin’s troubles as a reason and wanting to avoid making her university life difficult. Zheng Sunian agreed, promising to make it public when he was ready to marry her.
Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue embarked on a sweet, albeit secret, romance. They would sneak in moments together, even during classes, with Zheng Sunian playfully supervising Shao Xue’s studies. Their families, unaware of their secret, continued to interact normally. Yu Dongge noted how lucky Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian were to live so close, able to see each other daily. Soon, Zheng Sunian graduated, and his internship ended, marking his official start at the restoration institute.
The couple sweetly posed for his graduation photos, with Shao Xue looking forward to her own next chapter and job search. Mo Hai brought exciting news to Shao Xue: their past volunteer teaching experience had led to an unexpected opportunity for her. She had been invited for a second interview at the overseas headquarters of Huanyu Investment Corporation, a huge company she had initially only aimed to join at its domestic branch.
Mo Hai encouraged her, reminding her of her dream to explore the world. Shao Xue was conflicted, as this meant potentially working abroad permanently. She discussed it with her parents, with her mother worrying about her going overseas and her father being more supportive of the work experience. Just then, Wu Huan also arrived, and Yu Dongge invited him to stay for dinner. Shao Xue then cautiously informed Zheng Sunian about the two-week overseas interview.
Zheng Sunian was visibly upset, feeling it was too sudden and wondering why she hadn't told him earlier. Seeing his sadness, Shao Xue offered to give up the opportunity, but Zheng Sunian insisted she pursue her dreams, though he admitted he couldn't help but wish she would stay by his side. Shao Xue playfully chided him for being overly dramatic, then kissed him to cheer him up.
Zheng Sunian gave her a conch shell, telling her to blow on it whenever she missed him, and he would magically appear. Wu Huan informed Lin Shiyin that he might be going away for a six-month training program. Lin Shiyin was dismissive, questioning the need for a courier to attend such a long training and expressing that she would miss him.
Wu Huan, however, confronted her about the unequal dynamic in their relationship, pointing out that they rarely saw each other when she was busy enjoying university life, but he was expected to drop everything for her. He expressed his exhaustion from constantly tiptoeing around her. Lin Shiyin retorted that he used to treat her better and was no longer as accommodating.
Still angry, she gave him a gift card for his mother and warned him not to see her again until she was ready. One evening, as Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue were having a romantic moment in her room, they heard her father, Shao Hua, and Zheng Jin arrive home. They quickly hid and turned off the lights to avoid being discovered. While waiting for them to leave, they overheard Shao Hua and Zheng Jin discussing their children’s romantic lives.
Zheng Jin suggested it was time for Zheng Sunian to find a girlfriend, to which Shao Hua agreed but admitted Zheng Sunian was opinionated. Zheng Jin then asked about Shao Xue's romantic interests, mentioning her frequent references to a "senior" and speculating that he might be a good travel companion for her overseas, unaware he was talking about Mo Hai. After the adults left, Zheng Sunian questioned why they still had to hide their relationship after two years.
Shao Xue, still hesitant to reveal the truth about her job interview, claimed she feared her father might develop a "hostile" attitude towards his future son-in-law and suggested they wait until she returned from her trip abroad. Lin Shiyin visited Shao Xue at her university. Shao Xue, feeling broke after buying a plane ticket, confided that she was going for an interview with Huanyu Investment Corporation's overseas headquarters, not their Beijing branch.
Lin Shiyin was thrilled, urging her not to let this chance slip away and to prioritize her dreams over a man, drawing a parallel to her frustrations with Wu Huan, who had become less attentive. Meanwhile, Zheng Sunian, with Bai Yunsheng's help, looked at a new apartment, intending it to be their marital home.
Bai Yunsheng expressed envy that Zheng Sunian was marrying his first love but cautioned him to propose quickly, as women's priorities can shift significantly after graduation and entering the workforce. Bai Yunsheng also revealed that his girlfriend, Yunjin, decided not to move in with him. That evening, Shao Hua invited Zheng Sunian for dinner, informing him that Shao Xue wouldn't be joining them.
She had been called for an urgent, last-minute translation task for the Chinese Olympic Committee and had left a shirt for him in her room. Later, Zheng Sunian called Shao Xue, who explained she didn't know when she would finish work. He expressed his desire to see her, noting she would be gone for two weeks. Shao Xue promised to meet him once she was done, no matter how late.
Unable to wait, Lin Shiyin visited Wu Huan at his logistics company. She directly asked him to watch a movie after he finished work, but he reiterated his busy schedule. Wu Huan emphasized that his work was not merely a job but his career, a statement Lin Shiyin openly scoffed at, suggesting she could find him a "better" one next time. Feeling disrespected and ignored, Lin Shiyin, deeply frustrated, turned and left.
Later, Zheng Sunian waited for Shao Xue outside her home, playfully calling her "Red Riding Hood" and himself the "Big Bad Wolf." Shao Xue quickly got ready and joined him. She held up an old drawing from her childhood that Zheng Sunian had made for her, depicting various places he promised to take her.
She asked him which place he wanted to visit most, then reminisced about her past dream of studying abroad for the "Two Plus One program," which she hadn't passed. She tentatively asked if he would have supported her going abroad if she had passed it back then. Zheng Sunian replied that he would have supported it then, but now, he would not.
Shao Xue casually brushed off her question as mere curiosity, noting how late it was and that she still needed to pack for her upcoming trip. They then decided to head home.
Episode 29 Recap
As Shao Xue was on her way back, she mentioned it was getting late and she still needed to pack for her trip the next day, deciding it was time to head home. Meanwhile, Zheng Sunian and Shao Hua were waiting for her to arrive. Sunian knew exactly when she would get home, at 8:45 PM, much to Shao Hua's surprise.
Shao Hua admitted he hadn't considered who he would want his daughter to marry, but after Sunian inquired, Shao Hua mused that someone like Sunian would be a good match, adding sincerely, "Silly boy, would I joke about my own daughter?" This delighted Sunian. Shortly after, Zhang Qi arrived back in town to prepare for his postgraduate exams and went to see Sunian.
Upon entering Sunian's apartment, Zhang Qi commented on how cozy it looked and immediately guessed that Sunian intended for Shao Xue to move in with him. Zhang Qi, who was still single, advised Sunian that girls appreciate a "sense of ceremony" for such an invitation, warning that a simple request could lead to future arguments.
Sunian was skeptical of Zhang Qi's advice, given his lack of dating experience, but Zhang Qi suggested he consult Lin Shiyin, who had more experience in relationships. Sunian later sought Shiyin’s opinion, and she affirmed Zhang Qi's point about the importance of ceremony. Shiyin, knowing Shao Xue's love for Harry Potter, proposed a grand romantic gesture: Sunian, dressed as Harry Potter, would descend on a Nimbus 2000 broomstick and ask Shao Xue to move into their shared home.
Sunian agreed to the elaborate plan, and several friends worked together to set up the wire harness. While Sunian and his friends prepared the surprise, Shao Xue was in a taxi with Mo Hai on her way home. Sunian had earlier texted her, saying he was busy and couldn't pick her up.
Mo Hai, who had recently secured an overseas job offer and planned to pursue the woman he loved, encouraged Shao Xue to accept her potential job offer from Huanyu's headquarters if she was successful in her interview. He suggested they could look out for each other if they were in the same city abroad.
Shao Xue, whose dream of going abroad had faded since starting her relationship with Sunian, found herself considering the idea again after Mo Hai's persuasion, telling him she needed more time to think. She still hadn't told Sunian about her job interview abroad. As Shao Xue’s taxi pulled up to her home, the surprise went awry. Mo Hai exited the car first, greeting Sunian (who was suspended in the air in his Harry Potter costume).
Shao Xue, meanwhile, exited from the other side of the car. The grand romantic gesture was exposed to curious neighbors, creating an awkward scene for everyone involved, with Sunian lowering his head in embarrassment, still tied up with ropes. After the commotion, Shao Xue acknowledged she was indeed surprised, especially by Sunian's outfit, and thanked him for the thought, noting it was Shiyin's idea.
Sunian then tried to steer the conversation to a serious topic, asking Shao Xue about her post-graduation work plans and offering to buy a house wherever she chose to work. Shao Xue, still processing Mo Hai's words and feeling tired from her flight, evaded the conversation, saying she needed to rest. Later, Wu Huan waited for Shiyin in a phone booth to break up with her.
He told her she had always been a "ray of light" to him, but he realized he could never catch up to her. Feeling guilty that she had rejected many good opportunities because of him, and wanting to spare her further embarrassment, he decided to let go. Shiyin was devastated, tearing up his farewell letter and desperately calling after him as he walked away.
She later pieced the letter back together, weeping as she reread his heartfelt words, which expressed his sense of never closing the distance between them, his guilt over her sacrifices, and his wish for them to part ways peacefully and be well. That night, Shao Xue, unable to sleep due to her worries about her job opportunity, found her father, Shao Hua, also awake.
She confessed that she and Sunian were already together, which initially startled Shao Hua, making him ask if Sunian had done anything inappropriate. Shao Xue then revealed her dilemma about the Huanyu job offer, which would require her to live abroad and only return once a year.
While Shao Hua expressed his reluctance to see her go, fearing her mother Yu Dongge's reaction and feeling lonely without her, he ultimately advised her to make her own decision, promising his full support. He reassured her that parents often compromise for their children's happiness.
Shao Xue wondered if it was selfish to pursue her dreams at the expense of those who loved her, but Shao Hua told her not to feel burdened, encouraging her to follow her heart, assuring her he would handle everything else. The next day, Shao Xue met with her friends and learned the full extent of Sunian's surprise proposal—that he had rented an apartment with the intention of asking her to live with him.
Shiyin urged Shao Xue to tell Sunian about the job offer soon, reminding her not to give up such a good opportunity like she did in high school. Unbeknownst to Shao Xue, Sunian accidentally overheard Shao Hua discussing Shao Xue's overseas job interview with his colleague, Mr. Sun, at the conservation institute. Shao Hua was seeking advice on whether Shao Xue should go abroad, expressing his reluctance.
Sunian realized Shao Xue had interviewed abroad without his knowledge, despite his previous offer to support her dreams. Sunian confronted Shao Xue, expressing his hurt that she had kept the job offer a secret. He accused her of planning her future with Mo Hai while he was busy preparing a home for them. Shao Xue, emotional, retorted that the home he planned wasn't what "she" wanted. The argument left Sunian deeply wounded, feeling unimportant to her.
Shao Xue, regretting her words, apologized and left. She later ran into Zhang Qi, confiding in him about the difficult choice between her loved one and her dreams, and regretting her secrecy. Zhang Qi then sought out Sunian, explaining that Shao Xue had once given up a valuable overseas study opportunity in high school to stay by his side after his mother, Jin Ning, passed away, because she feared he would be alone and depressed.
He urged Sunian not to prevent her from pursuing her dreams again. Deeply affected by this revelation, Sunian visited Jin Ning's grave. He confessed his inner turmoil to his late mother, acknowledging Shao Xue's past sacrifice and his current fear of holding her back. He pondered whether it would be selfish to ask her to stay, as his father had done with Jin Ning, promising to treat her with the same boundless love.
Meanwhile, Shao Xue visited Sunian's father, Mr. Zheng (Zheng Jian), who seemed withdrawn and was eating instant noodles, his eyes reflecting the emptiness since Jin Ning's passing. This made Shao Xue worry that Sunian would become similarly lost if she left. In Sunian's room, she discovered his detailed drawings for their planned home, filled with her favorite colors and designs, further emphasizing his commitment to their shared future.
Back at the grave, Sunian reflected that he was the reason Shao Xue continually abandoned her dreams, especially one that was clearly within reach. He couldn't bear to see her suffer, realizing that it was better for him to endure the pain than for Shao Xue to sacrifice her aspirations. He silently resolved to support her.
Shao Xue, deeply touched by Sunian's drawings and his unwavering love, ultimately made her decision: she left a note for Sunian, stating, "Sunian, I've made my decision. I've decided not to go abroad."
Episode 30 Recap
Shao Xue composed a message for Zheng Sunian, deciding that she would no longer go abroad. Before she could send it, Zheng Sunian messaged her, asking to meet. Happy about this, Shao Xue went to see him. Upon meeting, Shao Xue told Zheng Sunian that she had seen the drawings for "our apartment" in his room and loved every aspect of his plans for their future home.
She declared her decision to stay by his side and decorate their home together. However, to her utter shock, Zheng Sunian abruptly stated that he was breaking up with her. Distraught, Zheng Sunian returned to his room, as he privately struggled with his decision. Meanwhile, Shao Xue wept inconsolably. Shiyin tried to comfort her by offering chocolate and suggesting that Zheng Sunian must have his own difficulties, similar to when Wu Huan broke up with her.
It was then that Shao Xue learned Shiyin and Wu Huan had also broken up. Still desperate for answers, Shao Xue called Zheng Sunian, but he hung up on her. Unable to wait, she rushed out in the pouring rain to confront him in person. At Zheng Sunian's new apartment, Bai Yunsheng and Pei Shu arrived with alcohol, hoping to cheer him up. They found him in a somber mood.
Bai Yunsheng, also recently broken up with Yunjin, complained about women being "cold and ruthless." Zheng Sunian, however, argued that Bai Yunsheng's own actions had pushed Yunjin away. The conversation escalated into an argument, prompting Bai Yunsheng to leave, followed by Pei Shu, as Zheng Sunian expressed a desire to be alone. Just then, Shao Xue arrived and began pounding on the door, pleading with Zheng Sunian to open up and explain his reasons for the breakup.
Inside, Zheng Sunian, equally heartbroken, ignored her pleas. Shao Xue refused to leave, sitting outside in the rain, crying, while Zheng Sunian remained inside, guarding the door. Eventually, Zhang Qi arrived and gently persuaded Shao Xue to leave, promising to speak with Zheng Sunian. Once she was gone, Zhang Qi confronted Zheng Sunian, accusing him of being selfish for breaking up with Shao Xue and refusing to even see her, leaving her outside all night.
Zheng Sunian quietly admitted that if he had seen her, they would have reconciled, explaining he intended to "let her go" rather than "break up." Zhang Qi highlighted the significant difference between "letting go" and "breaking up" from Shao Xue's perspective, criticizing Zheng Sunian for not considering her feelings and being selfish. Zheng Sunian offered no further explanation, believing the breakup was necessary for Shao Xue to pursue her dreams.
The next morning, Shao Xue intercepted Zheng Sunian on his way to work, still demanding to know why he broke up with her. With no other explanation, Zheng Sunian falsely claimed he no longer loved her and told her not to seek him out again. Back home, Shao Hua was alarmed to find Shao Xue's eyes swollen from crying. Shao Xue, still heartbroken and confused, cried in her father's arms, asking why Zheng Sunian had stopped loving her.
Shao Hua realized the depth of her pain. He comforted her, acknowledging that some relationships might not work out immediately but suggesting that hope for the future could still exist. He encouraged her to focus on the path she had chosen. Pei Shu, trying to mend fences between Zheng Sunian and Bai Yunsheng, invited them to a hotpot dinner.
While in the hutong, they coincidentally ran into Zhang Qi and Wu Huan, who were heading to watch the Olympic opening ceremony. Zhang Qi, seeing Zheng Sunian, deliberately walked past without acknowledging him. Pei Shu and Bai Yunsheng then insisted on dragging Zheng Sunian along to watch the ceremony on a large screen, where he caught sight of Shao Xue. Despite the lively atmosphere, none of them were truly engaged, their minds preoccupied with their respective heartaches.
As Shao Xue prepared to leave for her flight abroad, her parents helped her pack. She found a sketchbook Zheng Sunian had given her, filled with drawings of places she longed to visit and even recipes for her favorite dishes. These memories stirred deep emotions, making it difficult for her to let go.
Shao Hua offered words of encouragement, reminding her that her path was set and that while she was leaving now, there might still be a future for her and Zheng Sunian. As she carried her luggage out, Shao Xue glanced wistfully at Zheng Sunian's closed door. Unbeknownst to her, Zheng Sunian was hidden behind his own door, secretly watching her departure, both shedding silent tears. Time passed quickly.
Shao Xue thrived in her new job abroad, while Zheng Sunian continued his dedicated work at the restoration institute. Wu Huan saw new developments in his logistics business and reunited with Tang Ya, who was also excelling in the same industry. Shiyin achieved her dream, becoming a television host and frequently appearing on screen. Since Shao Xue went abroad, Zheng Sunian became increasingly quiet, a change that concerned Shao Hua.
Even when Luo Huaijin organized group activities, like a dinner banquet and an afternoon of cherry-picking, Zheng Sunian was initially reluctant to participate. Luo Huaijin, however, insisted, telling Zheng Sunian he had been working relentlessly, even finishing next month's tasks, and needed to engage more. Zheng Sunian eventually complied, reluctantly joining the group activities.
Episode 31 Recap
While working abroad, Shao Xue faced criticism from her boss during a meeting for wearing dirty shoes, which he considered a sign of negligence. Soon after, Mo Hai called her, initially seeking fashion advice for a date with a girl he had a crush on in college. He then tried to inquire about Shao Xue's own romantic life, prompting her to quickly end the call, unwilling to discuss the topic. Later, Shao Xue had a video call with her parents.
Her mother, Yu Dongge mentioned a gathering they were attending for Zheng Sunian, but Shao Hua quickly interjected about tea eggs on the stove, sending Yu Donggeaway to manage it. Shao Hua then confided in Shao Xue, expressing concern about Zheng Sunian, who had become very quiet since she left. He wished Shao Xue would reach out to him.
When Yu Donggereturned, she chided Shao Xue for not visiting home in two years and commented on Shao Xue's pale complexion, urging her to take care of herself and comparing her to Zhang Qi, who was busy studying for his doctorate but still maintained a healthy routine. Shao Xue defended herself by saying Zhang Qi was a "night owl," to which Yu Donggeretorted, calling Shao Xue an "ingrate" for not visiting.
Shao Hua reassured Shao Xue that he and Yu Donggewere fine, and their health was the best gift for her. Meanwhile, Shao Hua's neighbors arranged a blind date for Zheng Sunian at Liuli Restaurant. He was seated with a girl named Yu, who was also from the Restoration Department. Yu tried to engage him in conversation, asking about his work in the facsimile division and why he always seemed so busy that he missed their previous arrangements.
She even suggested they go for a stroll. However, Zheng Sunian remained silent. When Yu pressed him, he wrote "I'm a mute" on a piece of paper, surprising everyone and causing Yu to leave in anger. The neighbors concluded that this approach wouldn't work and decided on a "second plan." This "second plan" involved Bai Yunsheng and Pei Sheng taking Zheng Sunian to a cafe for another arranged meeting.
The new date, aware of Zheng Sunian's previous "mute" act, introduced herself as working in HR and mentioned that Bai Yunsheng had praised Zheng Sunian's paintings. She questioned why he didn't start a business with Bai Yunsheng, noting his talent. In response, Zheng Sunian whispered that he and Bai Yunsheng "used to be together" and that Bai Yunsheng "doesn't want me anymore" and was now "pushing me to someone else." The woman, disgusted, called them "scumbags" and stormed off.
Pei Sheng quickly distanced himself, claiming he was not part of their scheme. Back in her apartment, Shao Xue cooked noodles by herself, recalling Zheng Sunian's past instructions for making them. She realized how much she missed the days when he cooked for her. Zhang Qi called, asking if she was returning for Christmas, but Shao Xue said her work wasn't finished. She then asked Zhang Qi about Zheng Sunian, and Zhang Qi confirmed that he still didn't talk much.
Zhang Qi then revealed that he had recently fought with his "Ph. D. girlfriend," who accused him of having "unpleasant memories from childhood and couldn't get over my first love." Zhang Qi had tried to reconcile, but she texted back that he "dared not face your innermost emotions." Zhang Qi mentioned he was in town to relax and wanted Shao Xue to show him around, but Shao Xue explained her heavy workload prevented her from taking time off.
Shao Hua, deeply concerned by Zheng Sunian's continued emotional state, sought him out. He empathized with Zheng Sunian's unspoken pain, acknowledging that he was still waiting for Shao Xue. Shao Hua, drawing from his own life experience, advised Zheng Sunian to stop waiting for Shao Xue, as she was "too ambitious" and unlikely to return. He urged Zheng Sunian to give himself a chance to move on.
At the restoration institute, Zheng Sunian’s master harshly criticized his work, tearing up his painting and calling it "a waste of paper," attributing his poor performance to his distracted state. Luo Huaijin then took Zheng Sunian for a walk. He understood Zheng Sunian's inner turmoil but reminded him that replicating ancient artifacts required a clear mind, free from personal burdens.
Luo Huaijin emphasized that restoration was a form of self-cultivation and that one needed an "empty heart" to truly comprehend the spirit of the predecessors. When asked what was on his mind, Zheng Sunian confessed, "I'm thinking about things that I couldn't get." Luo Huaijin advised him to let go, acknowledging that everyone has attachments, but as a restorer, one must strive for detachment.
Later, Shao Xue faced difficulties at her company during a presentation to Mr. Smith, admitting they hadn't found a perfect solution to a problem. Zhang Qi, appearing as her technical advisor, stepped in to suggest an alternative approach, which seemingly saved her. After the meeting, Shao Xue thanked Zhang Qi for his timely help. She then received a call from her boss, asking her to return to the office.
Her boss informed her that she was being removed from Mr. Smith's case due to doubts about her abilities and would be demoted to basic translation duties. Shao Xue refused the demotion and promptly resigned. Distraught, she later cried, venting to Zhang Qi about the unfair treatment and her desire to sue. Zhang Qi, however, pointed out the lack of evidence and funds for a lawyer, once again suggesting she return home.
Shao Xue felt too ashamed to go back jobless. At that moment, Mo Hai called again. He informed Shao Xue that he was now the regional head of his company's branch and was shorthanded, renewing his job offer. Shao Xue, eager for a new opportunity, accepted and agreed to an interview the next day. Mo Hai immediately dismissed the need for an interview, telling her she could start right away, but Shao Xue insisted on following the proper procedure.
Shao Xue then called Zhang Qi to excitedly share the news of her new job. She went to Mo Hai's office, where he introduced his partner and fiancée, Pang Xin, revealing that she was the "college crush" he had mentioned earlier. Mo Hai and Pang Xin explained that their company, a large translation firm, handled challenging projects for documentary crews and volunteer organizations, requiring extensive travel to remote and difficult locations like Africa and polar regions.
Despite the demanding nature of the job, Shao Xue readily accepted. Recognizing that Shao Xue hadn't been home since leaving, Mo Hai offered her a few days off to visit her family, with the company covering her flight. Shao Xue gratefully accepted, calling Zhang Qi to tell him she would meet him at the airport. Shao Xue returned home and reunited with her friends at Liuli Restaurant.
Wu Huan arrived first and excitedly announced his upcoming marriage to Tang Ya, whom Shao Xue affectionately called "Princess Jasmine." Lin Shiyin then arrived, and Shao Xue warmly embraced her. When Zheng Sunian finally entered, an awkward silence fell over the group. Zhang Qi tried to lighten the mood by offering to order, but the tension lingered. Zheng Sunian, after briefly glancing at the menu and noting that "nothing has changed," handed it back to Zhang Qi to order.
Zhang Qi then suggested they go to Cashbox for karaoke after dinner. Suddenly, Shao Xue claimed she had urgent work and left, despite Zhang Qi's protests.
Shortly after, Zheng Sunian also excused himself, stating he had "things to do," and walked out, watching Shao Xue from a distance as she departed, both unable to bridge the gap between them, with Zheng Sunian hoping to help her and Shao Xue wishing he would cherish her like before, but neither acted on their feelings. Left in the restaurant, Zhang Qi lamented how difficult it had become for Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian to simply share a meal.
He then received a call from his "contract couple" and, complaining about his lack of "personal freedom," left as well, leaving Wu Huan and Lin Shiyin alone. The two discussed their own relationship statuses; Wu Huan spoke of his engagement, and Lin Shiyin, now a TV host, mentioned being too busy for suitors.
Lin Shiyin then dedicated a song, "The Little Li Flying Dagger," to "lonely folks in the city," hoping they would "find their own happiness soon," a song Wu Huan recognized as one she always loved, teasing her that it was for a "handsome colleague." Later, Zhang Qi joined Zheng Sunian at his home for drinks, where they played "True or Dare."
Zhang Qi asked Zheng Sunian why he had intervened in high school when they stole an exam paper, to which Zheng Sunian replied he wanted them to graduate. Zhang Qi drank as a forfeit. Zhang Qi then asked if Zheng Sunian had intended to give Shao Xue a birthday gift during a cultural performance years ago, which Zheng Sunian confirmed, revealing the crystal ball was still at Zheng Sunian's house.
Zheng Sunian then asked Zhang Qi what gift Shao Xue had given him before college. Zhang Qi retrieved a cup inscribed, "For Sunian who's the best in the world, Shao Xue." Zheng Sunian then produced his own cup, inscribed, "To the silliest person in the world, Zhang Qi." They toasted, and Zhang Qi then remarked on how, despite these gifts, Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian hadn't been in touch for all these years.
Episode 32 Recap
Zhang Qi visited Zheng Sunian, and as they chatted and drank, Zhang Qi wondered why Zheng Sunian hadn't contacted Shao Xue in so many years. Zheng Sunian admitted he still harbored feelings for Shao Xue, and that they had already been intimate. Zhang Qi recalled that when Shao Xue gave up her study abroad opportunity for Zheng Sunian, he realized her heart belonged to Zheng Sunian.
Zhang Qi questioned Zheng Sunian about their breakup, speculating that it was to enable Shao Xue to leave. Zheng Sunian confirmed that he broke up with her so she could go abroad and fulfill her dreams, not wanting to constrain her. Realizing Zheng Sunian's sacrifice, Zhang Qi felt Zheng Sunian had been greatly wronged. Angered by Shao Xue's perceived actions, Zhang Qi insisted on confronting her to "clear Zheng Sunian's name," accusing her of taking advantage of his friend.
Zheng Sunian resisted, lamenting that if he were to seek Shao Xue out, he would surely bring her back, but he had broken up with her precisely so she would leave and pursue her dreams. He expressed his desire for her to see, hear, and experience enough of the world before returning to him on her own. A neighbor, Ms. Li, intervened, scolding the two drunk men for their late-night commotion.
Later, Zheng Sunian received a call from his father, Zheng Jian, who wanted to set him up on a blind date. Zheng Sunian immediately refused, but Zhang Qi, concerned for his friend, took the phone and assured Zheng Jian that Zheng Sunian would attend, promising to accompany him just for appearance's sake. After Zheng Sunian left to get more beer, Zhang Qi called Shiyin, asking her to arrange a blind date for Shao Xue at the same time and place.
The next morning, Shao Xue’s mother, Yu Dongge, urged her to go on a blind date, which Shao Xue initially declined, citing jet lag. Shiyin arrived and revealed that Zheng Sunian was also going on a blind date at the same restaurant. Shiyin persuaded Shao Xue to go, suggesting she should at least see what kind of woman Zheng Sunian's date would be.
At the restaurant, Shao Xue sat with her date, Mr. Zhao, and Zheng Sunian with his, Ms. Bai. The two former lovers, seated across the room, began to subtly argue through their dates. Shao Xue complained about being dumped by a "jerk" who wanted her to go abroad, while Zheng Sunian retorted about Shao Xue returning from two years overseas only to go on a blind date, suggesting there were plenty of good men abroad.
Their dates were left bewildered as Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian angrily abandoned their tables and left. Outside, Shiyin and Zhang Qi, observing the scene, commented on their friends' stubbornness. Zhang Qi then explained his "contractual girlfriend" was part of a psychology experiment, which Shiyin suspected was a ploy to stay close to Shao Xue. Zhang Qi confessed his fear of confronting Shao Xue, likening her to a difficult math problem he couldn't solve.
Back in his room, Zheng Sunian put on an old MP3, listening to a recording of Shao Xue’s voice, a comfort whenever he missed her. Meanwhile, Shao Xue continued her work abroad. She initially declined Mo Hai's offer to become his business partner, lacking interest in business. However, during Chinese New Year, Mo Hai and his girlfriend brought her dumplings, which touched Shao Xue, and she agreed to become a formal partner.
Soon after, the company was shut down by the government. Mo Hai had embezzled investment funds and run away, leaving Shao Xue, as a partner, implicated in financial fraud. The police questioned her, causing her to faint. Admitted to the hospital, a lawyer informed her she was facing trial for financial fraud. The lawyer also told her that doctors found a growth in her uterus requiring immediate surgery.
Due to the legal case, her work visa might not be renewed, making her ineligible for medical insurance, and her bank accounts were frozen, leaving her without means to pay for treatment. Back at her residence, Shao Xue ignored her mother’s video call, feigning a work meeting, though her mother noted her weak voice and expressed concern for her health.
Shortly after, a friend called, having been informed by a doctor about Shao Xue's need for surgery, and offered to book a flight to be with her. Shao Xue, reflecting on her life abroad, realized that her pursuit of a bigger, more exciting world had left her without a sense of belonging. She missed her home, her friends, her parents, and Zheng Sunian.
When Zhang Qi visited her, informing her that Mo Hai had been arrested and her case would be dropped, he asked about her health. Shao Xue, without the means to pay for the required uterine surgery, tearfully told him she wanted to go home. After returning home, Shao Xue decided not to go directly to her parents, instead aiming to find a job first to reassure them. Shiyin, who was helping her recover, offered to find her a good job.
Shiyin also urged Shao Xue to reconsider her relationship with Zheng Sunian, explaining that Zhang Qi had inadvertently revealed to Zheng Sunian that Shao Xue had once given up an overseas study opportunity for him. Fearing Shao Xue would sacrifice her dreams again, Zheng Sunian had painfully decided to break up with her. Shiyin added that Zheng Sunian had only gone on blind dates to appease his father, rejecting all genuine interest.
Back in Beijing, Zheng Sunian often found himself looking at Shao Xue's old room, lost in memories. His father, Zheng Jian, eager for him to marry, constantly nudged him about his relationship status. Zheng Sunian would typically deflect these conversations with excuses, like delivering a parcel to Grandpa Sun. Shao Xue's parents also worried about Shao Xue, noting how Zhang Qi sent them health supplements while Shao Xue only called during holidays.
Episode 33 Recap
After hearing Lin Shiyin explain the real reason behind Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue's breakup, Shao Xue felt that Zheng Sunian was living a stable life and she was unsure if he still loved her. She stated that Sunian didn't want her to pass on another great opportunity because of him, which was why he decided to break up with her and was very upset about it. He only attended blind dates because he didn't want to upset his dad.
Shao Xue acknowledged that while he proposed the breakup, it was her decision to leave. She further added that they never spoke once she was abroad, and her return was also of her own volition. She didn't want to intrude on his life, especially since he might not love her anymore.
Lin Shiyin insisted that Shao Xue should ask Zheng Sunian directly to find out if he still loved her, but Shao Xue firmly told her not to worry about them. Lin Shiyin then left for a business trip, urging Shao Xue to take care of herself for the next few days and think about Zheng Sunian. Meanwhile, Zhang Qi called Zheng Sunian, informing him that Shao Xue had returned to China and was in a difficult situation.
He explained that a man named Mo Hai had swindled money from her company, causing her visa application to be put on hold and her bank account to be frozen, forcing her to be the scapegoat. Zheng Sunian was furious upon hearing this. Zhang Qi then revealed the worst: Shao Xue had fainted from anxiety and was diagnosed with an illness requiring surgery. He described her as pale with weak breathing when he saw her.
Zheng Sunian immediately demanded her address and rushed to her location. Upon arriving at Shao Xue’s place, Zheng Sunian found her on the phone with her parents. He immediately pressed her about her surgery and sickness, visibly heartbroken by her state. Unbeknownst to Shao Xue, her parents, Yu Dongge and Shao Hua, as well as Zheng Jian, overheard their conversation, learning about Shao Xue's return and her serious illness, which greatly distressed them.
Zheng Sunian chastised Shao Xue for hiding her return and condition from her parents, reminding her that he was her Sunian and would care for her. Shao Xue tearfully confessed her loneliness and struggles while living abroad, describing how she had to cook, watch movies, shop, and even go to the doctor all by herself. Zheng Sunian hugged her tightly, promising never to let her be alone again.
He explained that he had let her go years ago because she wanted to explore the world, but now that she had seen and experienced it, he would never let go of her hand again. Shao Xue confessed how much she missed him every day she was abroad and hoped he would always be by her side.
After their emotional reconciliation and a kiss, Shao Xue playfully questioned why he kissed her, to which Zheng Sunian replied that she had kissed him first. At this point, Yu Dongge, who had been listening in, erupted, demanding Shao Xue pick up the phone and explain everything, including her sickness and what she had done with Sunian. Zheng Jian, however, was pleased to overhear their conversation and offered his rental property for them to use as their new marital home.
Zheng Sunian quickly took the phone, assured them he would handle it, and hung up. Shao Xue, embarrassed, tried to get Zheng Sunian to leave, but as she pushed him out, the door accidentally locked, leaving her no choice but to stay with him. The next day, Zheng Sunian was relieved to find Shao Xue making breakfast, after a brief moment of panic that she might have left again.
Later, Bai Yunsheng arrived to invite Zheng Sunian for a drink, but Zheng Sunian, now happily reunited with Shao Xue, awkwardly sent him away, confirming that Shao Xue was finally back. Bai Yunsheng was thrilled for his friend, celebrating that Zheng Sunian had finally reunited with the girl he loved. After Zheng Sunian cooked a lavish meal for Shao Xue, she teased him about whether he had cooked for other women while she was away.
He denied it, affirming he had waited for her all these years. Shao Xue was deeply moved, giving him a heartfelt kiss. Zheng Sunian also received a call from Lin Shiyin, who playfully inquired if he was sleeping alone or with someone. Lin Shiyin mentioned her clothes were still at Zheng Sunian's place and asked when he would return them. Meanwhile, Yu Dongge and Shao Hua were frustrated by their children's lack of communication.
Yu Dongge complained about Sunian not returning her calls, but Shao Hua reminded her that after a long-awaited reunion, it was only natural for the young couple to be absorbed in their happiness. Zheng Sunian took Shao Xue shopping, insisting on buying everything she looked good in. Shao Xue, accustomed to being frugal during her time abroad, was overwhelmed by his spending and made him return most of the items, reminding him they needed to plan for their future finances.
They later visited the Forbidden City, where Shao Xue, reflecting on her journey, told Zheng Sunian that she had decided not to go abroad again and wanted to stay by his side forever. She said her wish had come true, and she wouldn't leave no matter what, even if he tried to shoo her away. Returning home, they faced an unhappy Yu Dongge, who scolded Shao Xue for not coming home for five days since her return.
Shao Xue tried to explain that she had immediately found a decent job with insurance and good pay, and wanted to settle down before returning to make her mother proud. Yu Dongge was not appeased, demanding Shao Xue move back that very day. Zheng Sunian intervened, proposing that he and Shao Xue should formalize their relationship first before discussing living arrangements.
This suggestion instantly delighted Yu Dongge, who, with Zheng Jian, immediately began making elaborate plans for their wedding, discussing dates, hotel bookings, wedding dresses, photos, and invitations. Shao Xue soon had to leave for Suzhou for a training program. She discreetly asked Shao Hua to inform her mother about the trip, which resulted in Shao Hua being vehemently scolded by Yu Dongge for letting Shao Xue leave again after just returning.
Zheng Sunian was visibly reluctant to see Shao Xue leave, clinging to the car door. After she departed, he immediately called her, urging her to miss him every day. In Suzhou, Shao Xue met Ms. Kang, who expressed how happy she was for Shao Xue and Zheng Sunian. Ms. Kang praised Zheng Sunian, noting his unwavering devotion and single-minded love for Shao Xue, comparing him to his father.
She assured Shao Xue that their relationship, built on such pure and persistent love, would bring them immense happiness. Upon Shao Xue’s return from Suzhou, Zheng Sunian met her at the airport. On their way home, Shao Xue surprised him by pulling out a wire ring and proposing to him. Just as she did, Zheng Sunian revealed his own elaborate surprise proposal, planned with Lin Shiyin and Zhang Qi.
A long scroll of paintings depicting their shared life from childhood to the present and future was unfurled on a courtyard wall. Deeply touched by this gesture, Shao Xue accepted his proposal. Excited, they returned home to share their joyful news, only to find the elders gathered together with sorrowful expressions. They learned that their beloved hutong neighborhood was slated for demolition. The news saddened everyone, especially Yu Dongge, who was deeply nostalgic about their home and neighbors.
Many neighbors were already busy moving out, but Yu Dongge, due to her profound emotional attachment, refused to leave, declaring she would stay until the very last day to bid farewell to the hutong. Shao Xue expressed concern, jokingly asking if her mother intended to become a holdout, to which Shao Hua confirmed her mother’s strong emotional attachment to the place.
Episode 34 (Ending) Recap
As the demolition of the hutong looms, the residents begin to pack up their lives. While packing, Zhang Qi overhears his mother speaking to a photograph of his late father. She tells the photo about their new, luxurious house and how he would have chided her for being extravagant. She also expresses immense pride in Zhang Qi's promising future, then asks her son to give the photograph a proper military salute, which he does. Shiyin's family is also moving.
After finishing her packing, she visits Wu Huan. He is happy to see her and mentions that he and Tang Ya are getting married, though they plan to keep it simple with just a celebratory meal. Shiyin offers her sincere congratulations and advises him to treat Tang Ya well. They share a nostalgic moment about leaving the homes they grew up in, but Shiyin reassures him that even though the place is disappearing, their friendship will endure forever.
While packing, Zheng Jian finds a cherished music box belonging to his late wife, Jin Ning. His son, Zheng Sunian, notices his father's reluctance to leave the old apartment, which is filled with memories of Jin Ning. To ease his father's worries, Zheng Sunian reveals that he has decided to move back to Beijing permanently and wants his father to live with him, a promise that deeply touches Zheng Jian.
Zheng Sunian and Shao Xue have dinner at Boss Qian's bustling eatery in the hutong. Boss Qian, who has partnered with the restaurant's owner and shed his wig after finding love, playfully urges the couple to get married. Inspired by the suggestion, Shao Xue proposes they hold their wedding right there in the hutong. She believes it would be more meaningful than a fancy hotel and would give their families one last happy memory in their beloved neighborhood.
Zheng Sunian wholeheartedly agrees. Shiyin, now a successful television host, generously offers to arrange a designer Western-style wedding dress for Shao Xue as a gift. Shao Xue is thrilled and eagerly looks through catalogs with her friend, dismissing traditional Chinese gowns as old-fashioned. Unbeknownst to them, Shao Xue's mother has painstakingly handmade a beautiful traditional gown for her daughter as a surprise. She and Shao Hua look on with disappointment as Shao Xue focuses on the Western dresses.
Shao Hua tries to hint at the gift, but his wife quickly changes the subject to avoid ruining her surprise, leaving the parents feeling disheartened. Zhang Qi arrives from abroad for the wedding, bringing along a woman named Bi Lan, whom he introduces as his girlfriend. Later, Bi Lan privately explains to Zheng Sunian that she and Zhang Qi were originally in a contract relationship, but she developed genuine feelings.
She recounts how Zhang Qi unceremoniously broke up with her on a plane and now she is only pretending to be his girlfriend while in town for a seminar. She mischievously warns that she could change her mind about their breakup at any time, a threat that keeps Zhang Qi on edge. Zheng Jian visits his wife Jin Ning's grave, bringing her fresh flowers and the music box he found.
He shares the news of their impending move and, more joyfully, tells her that their son is finally marrying Shao Xue, the girl she always adored. He tearfully asks her to think of names for their future grandchildren and to send them to him in a dream. He plays the music box for her, promising to join her after he has had the chance to meet their grandchildren.
On the morning of the wedding, Shao Xue's mother is in a panic because the Western dress hasn't arrived. Shao Xue calmly reveals that she canceled it, and to her mother's immense joy, she announces her intention to wear the traditional gown her mother made for her. Later, as Shiyin's professional makeup team gets her ready, Tang Ya stops by to offer her well wishes.
Shao Xue congratulates Tang Ya on her marriage to Wu Huan, and is pleasantly surprised to see Shiyin greet Tang Ya warmly and also offer her blessing, a sign of her friend's growing maturity. When Zheng Sunian arrives with his best man, Zhang Qi, to pick up the bride, Zhang Qi playfully rushes into the room first and locks the groom out. He takes the moment alone with Shao Xue to confess that he once had strong feelings for her.
He asks if there was ever even a small part of her that liked him back. Shao Xue answers honestly, telling him that her heart has only ever belonged to Zheng Sunian, but that Zhang Qi is her best and most important friend. Touched by her sincerity, Zhang Qi opens the door, embraces Zheng Sunian, and tells him to cherish her. The wedding ceremony takes place in the hutong courtyard.
Shao Hua tearfully walks his daughter down the aisle and gives her hand to Zheng Sunian. At the altar, the couple exchanges emotional vows. Zheng Sunian calls Shao Xue the "hibiscus flower" of his life, the one who guided him out of darkness. Shao Xue confesses that her dream is no longer to see the world, but simply to spend the rest of her life with him. After they kiss, all the friends and neighbors of the hutong gather for a final group photograph, capturing a perfect, timeless memory of their community before they all part ways.
