Memory of Encaustic Tile Episode 21 Recap
> Memory of Encaustic Tile 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.
