My Neighbour Can't Sleep Recap, Plot, Synopsis
My Neighbour Can't Sleep Synopsis
Song Miduo, a single girl who vows to become a romance novelist, met pianist Xi Song, who became famous as a teenager, during her summer vacation from high school.
Xi Song suffers from insomnia due to stress but can sleep peacefully next to Song Miduo.
Song Miduo was determined to write a romantic novel based on Xi Song to get a chance to study in the Chinese Department.
They reached a friendly and reciprocal agreement and started the “pillow plan” of sharing a bed.
When the soft and dreamy girl meets the ascetic warm “cadre”, they walk side by side and reap not only love but also the crystallization of their dreams.
My Neighbour Can't Sleep Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Song Miduo, a recent high school graduate with a distinctive curly hairstyle and glasses, cherished a dream of becoming a romance novelist. However, her mother had a different vision, adamantly pushing her to attend the renowned Sitian Conservatory of Music, even suggesting she retake her exams if necessary. Song Miduo, though, harbored a secret disdain for Sitian, finding its piano major tolerable but everything else unappealing.
Despite her reluctance, she found herself powerless against her mother's resolve, especially with her father's unwavering support for her mother's plans. Her mother's determination led the family to relocate to Qiuyin Town, the home of the Sitian Conservatory. In Qiuyin Town, Song Miduo was warmly welcomed by her childhood friend, Lu Yiyou, whose great-grandfather was the town's wealthiest resident. Lu Yiyou had diligently prepared for her arrival, ensuring a comfortable stay.
During their drive, Song Miduo's mother confirmed her intention for Song Miduo to attend Sitian, dismissing her daughter's literary aspirations as having already led to a debut novel rejected by a publisher. Her father conveyed her mother's insistence that if Song Miduo didn't get into Sitian, she would repeat her exams. Song Miduo voiced her frustration, questioning the need to attend Sitian Conservatory of Music and highlighting her lack of interest in the piano.
Her father, trying to appease his wife, gently intervened. After their arrival, Lu Yiyou revealed the specially prepared room for Song Miduo, boasting of its new furnishings and thoughtful touches. He even mused about creating a romantic ambiance with candles and wine, hinting at his deeper feelings for her.
Song Miduo's parents observed Lu Yiyou's devotion, noting that despite knowing Song Miduo since they were five, his efforts had yet to sway her, leading them to believe his romantic pursuits were likely futile. Later, Lu Yiyou drove Song Miduo to Sitian Conservatory of Music to meet her best friend, Xiao Mi, a striking dance student often misjudged for her looks.
Annoyed by Lu Yiyou's flashy driving and loud music, Song Miduo got out of the car, abandoning him to wander the campus alone. As she explored, she noticed numerous posters and announcements featuring a prominent figure named Xi Song. She muttered her confusion and disinterest in Xi Song, wondering why her mother was so insistent on her attending this school when she had no interest in piano.
Shortly after, a group of students gathered around an announcement about Xi Song, expressing concern for him. Receiving a phone call from Xiao Mi, Song Miduo, still puzzled by Xi Song's widespread popularity, jokingly suggested that someone so famous might actually be unattractive, unaware that the very students she had offended were now surrounding her.
When they confronted her, demanding to know if she was an outsider, Song Miduo, in a panic, claimed to be a student from Sitian and identified herself as "Xiao Mi, Dance Department Class 2" to escape their wrath. She then rushed to find Lu Yiyou, urging him to flee the campus with her. Before they could make a clean getaway, Xiao Mi intercepted them, clearly upset.
She had been subjected to ridicule and shoe-throwing by her classmates due to Song Miduo's impersonation. Although annoyed, Xiao Mi didn't hold a grudge, and the three friends, after a playful argument where Lu Yiyou tried to defend Song Miduo against Xiao Mi’s teasing, decided to head to a restaurant. There, Lu Yiyou raised a toast to Song Miduo’s arrival and her ambition to become a "romance queen."
Xiao Mi and Lu Yiyou then took the opportunity to enlighten Song Miduo about Xi Song's impressive reputation: he was the world's youngest, most handsome, and most accomplished pianist, who had become a lecturer at Sitian Conservatory of Music immediately after graduation. He was a beloved figure throughout Qiuyin Town, with fans of all ages. They noted that Xi Song seemed to dedicate himself solely to piano, having no close relationships apart from his manager, Liang Ge.
Song Miduo reiterated her strong dislike for the piano. Xiao Mi, realizing Song Miduo might not have applied to Sitian, began to press her, but Lu Yiyou quickly intervened, ordering more drinks to shift the conversation. Despite Lu Yiyou's caution about her inexperience with alcohol, Song Miduo enthusiastically participated in a toast celebrating their high school graduation and impending college life.
As the evening progressed, Song Miduo became heavily intoxicated, drunkenly lamenting about the students who threw shoes at Xiao Mi (due to her own deception). Her father called, threatening to lock them out if they didn't return home soon. Later that night, as Song Miduo attempted to fall asleep, a piano began playing loudly, seemingly without end. Frustrated, she yelled for it to stop, but the music persisted, only fueling her stubborn resolve.
Under the influence of alcohol, she grabbed a ladder, climbed onto her balcony, and scaled over to the neighbor's house, determined to confront the source of the noise. However, being her first time drinking, Song Miduo's judgment was severely impaired. Upon entering the neighbor's home, she became disoriented by a curtain that obscured a face, stumbled, and fell onto a bed. Forgetting her initial purpose, she quickly drifted into a deep sleep.
The following morning, still muddled, Song Miduo awoke without realizing she was in a stranger's house. She sleepily descended the stairs, collapsing onto a sofa. Her mother called, asking her to go to the supermarket for soy sauce needed for cooking, mentioning that her father was at the property management office and she was busy in the garden. Song Miduo, believing she was still at home, left her phone on the sofa and stumbled out of the house.
As Song Miduo walked out, she didn't see her mother, who had claimed to be busy in the garden, leading her to mutter that her mother was a "liar." After aimlessly purchasing the soy sauce, she returned, almost mistakenly entering the neighbor's house again. Fortunately, her mother, who was indeed tending to the garden, spotted her and called her back, playfully suggesting she was still "sleepy."
This moment brought Song Miduo to a startling realization: she had not woken up in her own home that morning. Back inside, she asked her parents if they had heard any piano music last night. They both denied it, stating they had returned home before eleven and that her aunt had assured them no one lived in the adjacent property. Her parents, dismissing her concerns, suggested she was still "sleepy" and advised her to go back to bed.
They also discussed how her mother's past insistence on piano lessons had caused Song Miduo to develop a "deep psychological shadow" around the instrument. Still uneasy, Song Miduo rushed out of her house and spotted a milk delivery person at the neighbor's gate. She stopped him, hoping to gather information about who lived there. The delivery person, however, was unhelpful, claiming he only left deliveries at the door and knew nothing about the residents.
He commented on the security of the villa area, implying she might not belong there. Song Miduo clarified she lived next door and pressed for details about the neighbor’s gender, age, or family situation, but he refused to disclose any information before riding off. Deciding that since she had emerged from the house unharmed, the occupant couldn't be a bad person, Song Miduo mustered her courage. As she was about to knock on the neighbor's door, it suddenly opened.
Standing there was Xi Song, with clear eyes beneath fluffy hair, his exquisite face captivating Song Miduo. He held her phone, comparing her face to the screen saver. As Song Miduo, recognizing her phone, began to stammer an explanation, acknowledging the image on the screen was indeed her own, but was photoshopped, he abruptly pulled her inside.
Episode 2 Recap
Xi Song sternly questioned Song Miduo about her identity, how and when she came to his house, and what her purpose was. Song Miduo, identifying herself as the neighbor, confessed she had no recollection of how or when she arrived, or why she was there. She only remembered sleeping on his sofa last night before claiming to have slept on the bed in his upstairs bedroom, noting its comfort. Xi Song, bewildered, confirmed it was indeed his bedroom.
Song Miduo then insisted there must be a mistake, as she had slept alone, both when she went to bed and when she woke up. As they both pieced together their memories, they realized they had, in fact, slept in the same bed. Song Miduo reacted with alarm, threatening to kill Xi Song if anything untoward had occurred. Xi Song reminded her that she was the one who trespassed into his home and climbed into his bed.
Song Miduo then explained that she heard incessant piano playing the previous night, which drove her to shout from her balcony. When that proved ineffective, she resorted to climbing over the wall, intoxicated, to confront the source of the noise. Xi Song acknowledged that he was the one playing the piano. Xi Song then led Song Miduo to the balcony, where the ladder she used was still propped up, clearly illustrating how she had entered.
He coolly instructed her to return the way she came. As Song Miduo pleaded to use the front door because the outside was "too dangerous," Aunt Gu, Xi Song's housekeeper, knocked, calling for "Xiao Song." Song Miduo desperately hid, begging Xi Song not to open the door. He ignored her pleas and opened it. Aunt Gu mentioned hearing voices and thought he had friends over.
Xi Song openly stated that someone was indeed inside, but not a friend, and then, to Aunt Gu's shock, revealed that he and Song Miduo had slept together the previous night. He then presented a mortified Song Miduo to Aunt Gu. Song Miduo quickly excused herself, wishing Aunt Gu a good morning, and hastily departed. Aunt Gu, still surprised, asked Xi Song if he had slept well, to which he replied he had slept "exceptionally well" that night.
Panicked by the strange encounter, Song Miduo called her best friend, Xiao Mi, suggesting they go to school together to escape her "dangerous home." On campus, Xiao Mi informed Song Miduo that Xi Song was on the basketball court, drawing a massive crowd of his fangirls. Xiao Mi explained that Xi Song was a piano prodigy who achieved fame at a young age and now taught at Sitian University.
Despite his popularity, he disliked being surrounded and maintained a reserved demeanor. She warned Song Miduo to only admire him from afar, as getting too close would incite the wrath of his devoted fans. Song Miduo, however, had no idea which player was Xi Song, so Xiao Mi simply told her he was the "most handsome and dazzling one" on the court.
Song Miduo picked out player number 7, thinking he was Xi Song, and was impressed by his apparent talent in both basketball and piano, in addition to his good looks. After watching the game for a while, Song Miduo noted the lack of goals. Xiao Mi clarified that while Xi Song loved basketball, he was terrible at it; the game was merely a performance where other skilled players feigned incompetence to allow Xi Song to enjoy himself.
Suddenly, player number 5 scored a basket, eliciting cheers. Song Miduo questioned why, believing number 7 was Xi Song. Xiao Mi corrected her, revealing number 5 was the actual Xi Song, his senior brother and manager, Liang Ge, was number 7. Song Miduo's jaw dropped as she recognized player number 5 as her eccentric neighbor. To her annoyance, he walked past her with his entourage, seemingly oblivious to her presence.
Later, Liang Ge conversed with Xi Song, expressing concern for Xi Song's hands and suggesting they play football next time to avoid injury. He then mentioned Aunt Gu's call about Xi Song sleeping "exceptionally well" last night, attributing his good mood today to this rare restful night. Liang Ge, aware of Xi Song's long-standing insomnia, cautioned him against reckless behavior, citing its negative impact on his public image and the girl involved.
Xi Song, genuinely perplexed, asked what could be so bad about it. He even suggested a "long-term cooperation" with the girl if it could cure his insomnia. Liang Ge was stunned. Xi Song then invited Liang Ge to sleep over that night, wanting to test if his presence could also induce sleep. Driven by a desire for inspiration for her new novel, Song Miduo dragged Xiao Mi to attend Xi Song's music class.
As Xi Song passionately lectured on Richard Clayderman's "Autumn Whispers," describing its themes of romantic longing and cherished memories, Song Miduo was captivated, feeling as though he was speaking directly to her. When Xi Song called for a volunteer to demonstrate, Xiao Mi eagerly put Song Miduo's hand up. Song Miduo, fearing recognition, went to the stage wearing a mask, claiming she had allergies and couldn't expose her face to the air.
Xi Song accepted her explanation and told her to begin. Instead of "Autumn Whispers," Song Miduo played Canon, impressing everyone but raising Xi Song's suspicion. He pulled off her mask, instantly recognizing her. The other students then identified her as the girl who caused trouble at the bulletin board and mistakenly called her Xiao Mi, only for the real Xiao Mi to correct them and Song Miduo to finally state her own name.
Just then, Lu Yiyou rushed into the classroom, saw Xi Song's hand on Song Miduo, and mistakenly assumed Xi Song was harassing her, throwing the classroom into disarray. Following the commotion, Liang Ge escorted Song Miduo, Xiao Mi, and Lu Yiyou to the security office, demanding an explanation. He lectured them about impersonating Sitian students, disturbing class, and fighting, emphasizing that such behavior would jeopardize their chances of admission to Sitian.
Xiao Mi tried to explain they were just fans wanting to attend a sharing class, but Song Miduo immediately retorted, denying she was a fan and questioning why Xiao Mi had dragged her to the basketball game if she wasn't. Their argument continued until Xi Song arrived, telling Liang Ge to release them. Liang Ge was surprised by Xi Song's intervention but eventually agreed, dismissing them with a warning not to appear in his sharing class again.
As they left, Song Miduo rushed after Xi Song, profusely apologizing for impersonating a student and denying she was a brainless fan. She desperately begged him not to reveal their shared secret from the previous night, fearing for her life in Autumn Whispers Town. She then realized Xi Song had his headphones on and hadn't heard a word. Song Miduo and Xi Song unexpectedly found themselves on the same bus ride home.
Upon reaching their shared villa entrance, Xi Song removed his headphones and told Song Miduo that if she kept quiet, no one would know what happened. He also advised her not to return to school to avoid further trouble. Song Miduo inwardly mused about his remarkably slow "reflex arc." Later that evening, Aunt Gu expressed her concern for Xi Song, recognizing his insomnia stemmed from the intense pressure of preparing for the upcoming Wen Si Special Competition.
She emphasized that while the competition was important, his health was paramount, urging him to relax and avoid excessive stress. Xi Song reassured her, promising to take care of himself and mentioning that Liang Ge would be staying with him that night. He thanked Aunt Gu for her worries. Lying in bed, Song Miduo pondered Xi Song's distinct character. She decided he was the perfect inspiration for the male lead in her new novel.
As she reached for her notebook to jot down ideas, she realized it was missing. She immediately called Xiao Mi, asking for her help to find it, certain she had left it in the music classroom. Meanwhile, in the house next door, Xi Song once again struggled with insomnia. Even with Liang Ge lying beside him in bed, he tossed and turned.
Realizing Liang Ge's presence wasn't helping, Xi Song asked him to leave, and Liang Ge gratefully retreated to the guest room. The next morning, before Song Miduo even got out of bed, Xiao Mi called with alarming news: Xi Song had taken her notebook. Song Miduo promptly headed to Xi Song's door. Just as she was about to knock, the door swung open. Xi Song, greeting her, declared that her timely arrival saved him a trip, and despite Song Miduo's refusal to enter, he pulled her into his room.
Episode 3 Recap
Liang Ge sternly warned Xi Song against reckless behavior, stating that any scandalous news would ruin him. Xi Song remained silent for a moment before telling Liang Ge that he wished to handle things himself. He explained that he had slept soundly the night Song Miduo was there, but despite Liang Ge being by his side last night, he still suffered from insomnia.
Xi Song sought to remedy his sleeplessness and wanted to test if Song Miduo was indeed the key. He deliberately broke a glass cup, intending to use it as leverage to negotiate with Song Miduo. Coincidentally, Song Miduo arrived at his door, also seeking to retrieve her lost notebook. Xi Song pulled her into his room, initiating his plan. Song Miduo, naive and straightforward, immediately pleaded for her notebook, emphasizing its importance.
Xi Song, with a clear mind, refuted her claims, adamantly denying he had taken her notebook. Song Miduo felt dejected, unaware of the larger scheme awaiting her. Xi Song then presented Song Miduo with the broken glass, claiming it was a rare, handmade Austrian crystal cup, a limited edition piece personally cut and polished by Master Daniel, and now shattered by her. Song Miduo denied breaking it, insisting she had never seen the cup before.
Xi Song, without flinching, reminded her that she was too drunk to remember anything, even entering the wrong house, so it was natural for her not to recall the cup. He conceded he had no proof it was her, suggesting they call the police. Fearing that news of her spending the night at Xi Song's would become public, Song Miduo quickly stopped him and agreed to pay for the damage.
Xi Song quoted a price of fifty thousand yuan, stunning Song Miduo. Seeing her reaction, Xi Song then offered an alternative: if she stayed another night at his house, the debt would be canceled; otherwise, she had three days to pay the fifty thousand. Song Miduo, defiant, pledged to pay the money, refusing to compromise her integrity by staying with him.
She thought to herself that the famous Xi Song must not be that bad, as any scandal would affect him more. However, she quickly regretted her decision as she realized the difficulty of finding such a large sum. Later, at home, Song Miduo's parents were having a meal. Song Miduo, witnessing her parents' affection, inquired about their courtship. Her father, Song Beijiang, enthusiastically recounted how her mother pursued him, dating back to high school.
He described how her mother would bring him food and water every day for over two years until he finally agreed to be with her. Song Miduo was captivated by the story and impulsively asked when they had first slept together, causing an immediate awkward silence at the dinner table. Song Miduo, embarrassed, quickly finished her meal and left. Song Miduo embarked on a quest to borrow money.
After numerous calls, only Xiao Mi offered her two thousand yuan, a mere drop in the ocean compared to the fifty thousand yuan she needed. She then sought out the wealthy Lu Yiyou, only to discover his father had confiscated all his bank cards for not attending an internship, leaving him with only two hundred yuan and starving. Song Miduo ended up treating him to a twenty-yuan bowl of noodles.
While dining, she asked Lu Yiyou about handmade glass items, to which he vaguely confirmed they were likely very expensive. Wandering the streets, Song Miduo spotted Xi Song in a flower shop. She greeted him warmly. Xi Song asked her what she was buying, and Song Miduo casually mentioned lavender, stating her entire family loved it. Xi Song then instructed the florist to wrap all the lavender in the shop.
Song Miduo, misinterpreting his gesture, assumed he was buying them for her in a grand, romantic style, but Xi Song quickly disabused her of the notion, stating they were for himself. Song Miduo continued to follow Xi Song, trying to curry favor by recounting the plot of an idol drama called "Lavender," where the male lead missed the female lead because of the flower's scent.
Upon hearing this, Xi Song suddenly leaned closer to Song Miduo, sniffing her, and asked if she also smelled of lavender. Song Miduo was flustered, staring blankly at Xi Song. Realizing his inappropriate behavior, Xi Song quickly walked away, but not before reminding her to pay him back. Song Miduo, encouraged by his display of emotion, felt renewed confidence, believing she could appeal to his sympathy to resolve the fifty-thousand-yuan issue.
Song Miduo enthusiastically invited Xi Song to share a taxi home, insisting she would pay. Without waiting for his refusal, she pulled him into a cab. However, Xi Song was not going home but to Moon Bay. Song Miduo, determined to please him, instructed the driver to take them there. As the meter relentlessly climbed, Song Miduo realized how incredibly far Moon Bay was, her heart aching at the expense, but she stubbornly maintained her composure.
Xi Song strolled along the Moon Bay beach, while a financially drained Song Miduo rushed to catch up, complaining that he hadn't brought any money. Xi Song calmly told her he didn't have a phone, to which Song Miduo expressed surprise that anyone in modern times would be without one. Xi Song, aware of Song Miduo's underlying motives, deliberately found ways to make her spend more money.
Song Miduo gritted her teeth, persevering until they finally sat together on a rock. She then began her performance, tearfully recounting her pitiable situation, how she was forced to learn piano instead of writing novels, made to attend Sitian Conservatory of Music instead of studying Chinese, and now burdened with debt, all due to a lack of financial independence and choices. Xi Song remained unmoved.
He laid out his true intention, stating that he just wanted her to accompany him for one night so he could fall asleep. He clarified that he didn't care about his reputation or what others thought; his sole purpose was to get some sleep.
Episode 4 Recap
Song Miduo slowly followed Xi Song, who urged her to walk faster. She complained that she was too hungry to move quickly. Xi Song, also feeling hungry, suggested they grab something to eat. They found a pancake stall, where Xi Song fastidiously wiped down a table. Watching his meticulousness, Song Miduo felt that he was a challenge sent by fate to test her. Song Miduo kindly offered Xi Song the first bite of her pancake, but he declined.
Xi Song then meticulously instructed the vendor, requesting no coriander, no green onions, and an extra egg for his own pancake, much to Song Miduo's visible annoyance. The pancake vendor observed Xi Song closely, remarking that he looked very familiar. Fearing the vendor had recognized the famous pianist, Song Miduo became anxious that any photos of them together might be posted online, leading to her being doxxed by his fans.
She quickly grabbed Xi Song’s hand and ran, pulling him away. Xi Song initially thought Song Miduo was overreacting, but soon enough, the pancake vendor was running after them, calling out for them to stop. Song Miduo pulled Xi Song faster through the streets, a subtle smile playing on his lips. The vendor, puzzled by their strange behavior, later muttered about them not paying for the extra egg and abandoning the newly purchased lavender flowers.
Finally, they managed to hail a taxi, allowing Song Miduo to breathe a sigh of relief. Xi Song’s pancake had been lost during their dash, but Song Miduo had managed to finish hers. The taxi driver, mistaking them for a couple, began teasing them about their quarrel. Feeling awkward, Song Miduo asked the driver to turn on some music or the radio.
The radio was coincidentally broadcasting news about the upcoming Huaster Piano Competition, with much anticipation for Xi Song’s performance. Spotting the driver looking at them in the rearview mirror, Song Miduo worried he might have recognized Xi Song. She quickly put a hat on Xi Song’s head, covering his face, and, pretending he was tired, gently suggested he take a nap. Xi Song, surprisingly, complied and soon drifted off to sleep.
When Song Miduo woke him upon their arrival at the villa, Xi Song noted that he had once again slept soundly because she was beside him. He informed her that he was shortening the repayment deadline for the 50,000 yuan to tomorrow night at 8 PM, warning that if she didn't provide an answer, all previous conditions would be void.
This unexpected change left Song Miduo sleepless through the night, leading her to search online for "autism," wondering if that was his condition and why he sought her companionship. She also pondered his stinginess and lack of friends, attributing it to his lack of a phone. Xi Song, despite also having been sleepless, was remarkably energetic the next morning, restlessly waiting for Song Miduo's decision, which perplexed Aunt Gu.
Aunt Gu noticed his unusual behavior, but Xi Song dismissed her concerns. By evening, Song Miduo arrived, ringing his doorbell with a gift box. Inside was a handmade, note-shaped ceramic cup, adorned with a purple bead and an engraved message, which Song Miduo boldly declared was a "limited edition, unique in the world," and worth fifty thousand yuan.
Xi Song accepted the cup and instructed her to bring her pillow and quilt to his house by 10:30 PM that night, to which Song Miduo reluctantly agreed. At 10:30 PM, Song Miduo arrived at Xi Song’s house, wrapped in multiple layers of sleepwear. She sternly warned him against any improper advances, threatening to call the police. Xi Song retorted that she was the one with such thoughts.
Song Miduo suggested sleeping on the floor, but Xi Song rejected the idea and told her to get into the bed. He set strict rules for her stay: everything in the room must be restored to its original state by morning, she was not to leave the room, nor touch anything inside, emphasizing that she was there only to sleep, not as a guest.
Song Miduo, secretly planning to use the opportunity to gather material for her novel and make him her new male lead, asked about the bathroom and the earliest time Aunt Gu would arrive, hoping to leave before her. The next morning, Song Miduo woke up surprisingly late, past 9 AM. Xi Song, who had been awake for an hour, had already called Aunt Gu to come later. Song Miduo prepared to leave, declaring that they were now "even."
However, Xi Song urged her to consider continuing to stay every night until he left Qiuyin Town. When Song Miduo attempted to refuse, Xi Song finally confessed his severe insomnia, explaining that his late-night piano playing was due to his inability to sleep. He then revealed that, inexplicably, he could sleep soundly only when she was lying beside him. He offered her compensation if she accepted his proposal and thanked her for her help, regardless of her decision.
Song Miduo, flattered, concluded that he must be in love with her, believing herself to be his "only cure." She then bid him goodbye and left. Upon returning home, Song Miduo was caught climbing over her garden wall by her mother and Xiao Mi. She quickly concocted an excuse about morning exercise.
Later, Song Miduo’s mother taught Xiao Mi and Song Miduo how to bake a cake, emphasizing the importance of thinking about the person for whom the cake is intended. Xiao Mi readily named her boyfriend, but when Song Miduo’s mother subtly prompted her, Song Miduo, lost in thoughts of Xi Song, adamantly declared she was making the cake for herself, disappointing her mother.
Meanwhile, Liang Ge found Song Miduo’s notebook, which contained a melodramatic love story, and stayed up all night reading it. Xi Song recognized the notebook as belonging to Song Miduo, the "outsider" who caused trouble at a sharing session, and insisted on keeping it. Liang Ge found Xi Song’s unusual interest in such a "brainless" and "unnutritious" story strange, as Xi Song was typically indifferent to others' affairs.
Xi Song, however, simply claimed it was left in his class and thus his responsibility to keep. Later, Song Miduo asked Xiao Mi about her notebook. Xiao Mi confirmed it was with Xi Song, assuring her it was safe, as he had "no interest" in such "brainless" content.
Episode 5 Recap
Liang Ge, Xi Song's manager, found Song Miduo's notebook and read her rather dramatic novel. He expressed concern to Xi Song, labeling Song Miduo a "nympho" and a "brainless fan" who was merely seeking attention with her past antics in class and on the bulletin board. Liang Ge strongly advised Xi Song to avoid her and return the notebook.
However, Song Miduo later discovered her notebook was with Xi Song, and Xi Song, intrigued by a mention of himself in her writing, decided to keep it. Liang Ge then reminded Xi Song about their 1 PM meeting for a charity performance. Meanwhile, Song Miduo, her mother, and Xiao Mi were busy making cakes. While Xiao Mi's creation was beautiful, Song Miduo's resembled a messy fruit platter.
She defended her cake, claiming that cakes were for eating, not just for show. Suddenly, Lu Yiyou arrived, carrying a large durian, much to Xiao Mi's disgust. Despite the appearance of Song Miduo's cake, Lu Yiyou surprisingly praised it, a remark that stunned everyone. As he reached for Xiao Mi's perfect cake, Xiao Mi pushed him away. He stumbled, accidentally shoving Song Miduo's face directly into her own cake.
Furious, Song Miduo chased Lu Yiyou out of the house, hitting him as she went. Song Miduo, covered in cake, chased Lu Yiyou out of the house. Outside, they encountered Liang Ge and Xi Song, who were just leaving their house; Liang Ge wore sunglasses, and Xi Song was masked. Liang Ge chastised them for disturbing the peace in a residential area.
Lu Yiyou argued back, but Xi Song cut him off, stating that their noise was disturbing him and he could sue. Liang Ge quickly apologized for their behavior. As Liang Ge and Xi Song walked away, Xi Song dryly suggested they find the children's playground in the southwest corner of the community, implying their behavior was childish. Song Miduo felt a strange sense of familiarity with the two men, as if she had seen them in a dream.
Liang Ge and Xi Song proceeded to their meeting with Wang Dandan, the Marketing Director of Qinhai Charity Society and the organizer of the upcoming charity concert. Wang Dandan, visibly smitten with Xi Song, asked them to call her Dandan. Liang Ge, however, maintained a professional distance, informing Xi Song that any deeper collaborations would have to wait until after his current competition. Later, Song Miduo reluctantly accompanied Xiao Mi to her boyfriend's birthday celebration at a restaurant.
As Xiao Mi went to reapply her makeup, Song Miduo spotted Xi Song and Liang Ge inside, leading her to suspect Xi Song was on a blind date. She muttered to herself, criticizing Xi Song as "two-faced" and "prudish." Xiao Mi's boyfriend soon arrived and, standing outside the restaurant, began an intimate phone conversation with another woman, reassuring her that he was intentionally trying to anger Xiao Mi and would soon clarify things with her.
Song Miduo, overhearing the entire conversation, was enraged. She confronted him, calling him "trash," and forcefully handed him the cake Xiao Mi had made. The boyfriend, without remorse, told Song Miduo to relay to Xiao Mi that he didn't want to see her anymore. He claimed Xiao Mi had been the "mistress," knowing he had a girlfriend, and that their time together was "just an impulse," lacking true mutual feeling. Xiao Mi, returning from the restroom, overheard these devastating words.
Heartbroken, she began to cry. Song Miduo tried to comfort her, calling the boyfriend a "scumbag" who didn't deserve her. But Xiao Mi, defensive, argued with Song Miduo, even accusing her of thinking she "deserved to be dumped" and lacking "self-respect." Xiao Mi, deeply hurt, declared herself a "shameless bitch" and angrily told Song Miduo to mind her own business before storming off. Alone and dejected, Song Miduo walked home, clutching the broken cake box.
Unbeknownst to her, Xi Song followed her onto the bus, sitting quietly a few rows behind. He noticed her sorrow and, when she zoned out and missed her stop, he discreetly asked the driver to call out to her. Upon realizing she had overshot her destination, Song Miduo thanked the driver and disembarked. Still distraught, Song Miduo nearly walked to Xi Song's house by mistake.
Xi Song wanted to comfort her, but ultimately just told her to go home and get some sleep. When Song Miduo arrived at her own home, she discovered she had forgotten her keys and her parents weren't home. Sitting on the steps, she ate the broken cake and cried, regretting her harsh words to Xiao Mi and wishing she had offered comfort instead of judgment. A security guard on patrol, unfamiliar with Song Miduo, questioned her presence.
She explained she lived there, in her aunt's villa, but couldn't recall her uncle's name. Finding her behavior suspicious, the guard insisted she accompany him to the security office. As they argued, Xi Song appeared, pulled Song Miduo away, and, without a word, threw the remaining cake into a trash bin.
Inside Xi Song's house, Song Miduo questioned why he had thrown her cake, to which he playfully retorted, "Don't you just like to pick things up from the ground to eat?" He then asked if the man at the restaurant was her boyfriend. Song Miduo clarified it was Xiao Mi's ex-boyfriend and tried to explain the situation, but Xi Song cut her off, simply telling her to wash her face and go upstairs to avoid dirtying his house.
After cleaning up, Song Miduo thanked Xi Song for saving her from the security guard. Xi Song then presented her with her lost blue notebook. Realizing he now held leverage, he proposed a two-month contract: she would come to his house to "sleep in" whenever he needed, and he would return her notebook. Song Miduo vehemently disagreed, calling him an "emperor" who "flipped cards" and accused him of being "unreasonable" and "threatening."
Xi Song, admitting he might be "a bit unreasonable," countered that it was a negotiation: her notebook for his sleep. He then threatened to play his piano loudly every night if she refused, ensuring neither of them would get any rest. Speechless, Song Miduo could only stare. Xi Song advised her to consider the offer, assuring her of her safety.
Hoping to escape the "sleep-in" arrangement, Song Miduo brought up Xi Song's supposed "blind date" she had witnessed earlier that day. She exaggeratedly praised the woman's grace and implied she seemed quite fond of him, suggesting he should pursue her so that she could be the one to "sleep with him." Xi Song's expression darkened.
Without a word, he pushed her onto the balcony, telling her to go home, think it over, and come back when she had made up her mind. Song Miduo protested about her notebook, but Xi Song closed the door, leaving her on the balcony.
Episode 6 Recap
Song Miduo's father observed her recent unusual behavior, noting her poor appetite and tendency to stay home. He suspected she might be heartbroken and discussed it with Song Miduo's mother. Hearing his theory, Song Miduo's mother immediately confronted her daughter in her room, questioning why she wasn't eating or sleeping, and if she was in love.
She sternly declared that Song Miduo was not allowed to date before her senior year, but if she insisted, her boyfriend must be exceptionally talented, handsome, over 1. 85 meters tall, thin, a man of few words, older to be more caring, and ideally a pianist. Song Miduo's father realized his wife was describing Xi Song. He tried to get Song Miduo to open up, but she remained unresponsive, asking him to leave her alone to be quiet.
Unable to get answers from Song Miduo, her father called Lu Yiyou, asking if she had argued with him and expressing his concern, asking for help to cheer her up. Lu Yiyou reassured Song Miduo's father, promising to handle the situation. To surprise Song Miduo, Lu Yiyou dressed in a bulky lion mascot costume.
However, the delivery driver was stopped at the community gate by the vigilant security guard, who insisted that "surprises" had to enter on foot without homeowner contact. Lu Yiyou had no choice but to awkwardly stumble to Song Miduo’s house in the cumbersome costume. From their respective balconies, Song Miduo appeared downtrodden while Xi Song calmly sipped tea. Seeing Lu Yiyou in the lion costume, Song Miduo's mood brightened considerably.
She ran downstairs, happily embracing Lu Yiyou and dancing with him. Xi Song watched from above, a faint smile eventually gracing his lips. Song Miduo confided in Lu Yiyou, complaining that since coming to Qiuyin Town, she had accomplished nothing good and only caused trouble, admitting she had said inappropriate things to a friend, Xiao Mi, when Xiao Mi was going through a breakup.
Lu Yiyou advised her to stop contacting Xiao Mi for a while, letting her calm down, and then sincerely apologize later. He also suggested she channel her energy into writing a novel. His words ignited a spark in Song Miduo, who declared she wouldn't give up on her dreams and would definitely succeed.
Inspired, Song Miduo began outlining a new story titled "My Neighbor Can't Sleep," featuring a sleepless piano prodigy as the male lead and a renowned female writer living next door as herself. To gather inspiration, she deliberately knocked on Xi Song’s door, observing Aunt Gu’s robust personality, and decided to portray her as the male lead's formidable mother.
She then secretly followed Xi Song, noting his grocery choices like instant noodles, yogurt, milk slices, and jelly, concluding that his love for sweets stemmed from a lack of maternal affection due to his overbearing mother. She further observed him at school, characterizing him in her novel as a popular yet cold, arrogant, and ruthless "girl killer" who was cool and aloof in public but a dominant, loyal "puppy" in private, especially after meeting the female lead.
Her "research" was cut short when Xi Song caught her stalking him at school. Song Miduo feigned needing to retrieve her notebook. Xi Song claimed he wasn't interested in "brain-dead romance stories," yet he kept the notebook. Song Miduo provocatively accused him of being two-faced, suggesting he secretly liked her writing, saying his body was honest even if his mouth denied it. She promised him the first published copy of her novel if he returned the original manuscript.
Xi Song agreed, but then reminded her of their previous deal: her notebook for "sleeping together" for two months. Song Miduo, flustered, tried to bargain, proposing "half a month" instead, which Xi Song immediately accepted, leaving Song Miduo realizing she had fallen into his trap. Frustrated by her reality, Song Miduo indulged in a vivid fantasy in her novel.
She wrote herself as a dominant queen and Xi Song as her submissive, loyal boyfriend, performing chores, giving massages, and even playing dress-up games. Back in reality, however, Song Miduo adhered to their agreement. After showering, she layered on multiple clothes before expertly climbing over the wall into Xi Song's house. Following the sound of a piano, she found Xi Song playing, composing his own music.
Impressed, she reminisced about her own piano lessons, boasting of winning an "Excellence Award" in a city competition and claiming she could have been as good as him if she had persevered, before catching Xi Song's stern expression and stopping herself. She then complained about the tediousness of piano practice, how it made life monotonous and risked depression or colorblindness.
Xi Song's expression darkened, and he sharply told her to keep her distance from his piano to avoid becoming a "colorblind person with depression." Song Miduo pouted, muttering about his lack of humor. Just then, Xi Song's phone rang. He got up to answer it, leaving Song Miduo alone with the piano. Curious, she quietly began to play it.
On the phone, Xi Song’s father heard the piano sounds and immediately questioned who was with him so late, speculating if it was Liang Ge or even Aunt Gu. When his father continued to press, Xi Song, exasperated, conceded that it was his girlfriend. Song Miduo, overhearing this, happily covered her mouth in surprise.
Episode 7 Recap
Xi Song had long known that Song Miduo was secretly following him; he didn't stop her and even smiled whenever he saw her. Although he wasn't interested in boring novels, he couldn't resist his curiosity and eventually read the novel Song Miduo wrote. Later, Xi Song's father called, asking if he was disturbing his piano practice.
He then informed Xi Song that Su Li would be returning to the country soon and asked him to prepare the house to ensure her comfort. Su Li, Xi Song's childhood sweetheart, is a professional cellist, known for being gentle and generous. She has always liked Xi Song and put in much effort to be with him. Xi Song, however, was not particularly enthusiastic, giving his father perfunctory answers and attempting to end the call.
Suddenly, he heard Song Miduo secretly playing his piano. He immediately yelled at her to stop touching it, which surprised his father, who wondered who was with him so late at night. To quickly conclude the conversation, Xi Song claimed that Song Miduo was his girlfriend and told his father not to disturb them while they slept. Xi Song's father was proud of his son finding a girlfriend and briefly cautioned him against being rude to her before hanging up.
Song Miduo, having overheard Xi Song refer to her as his girlfriend, was overjoyed. Later, as she lay bundled in bed, Xi Song entered the bedroom and reached to turn off the lights for sleep. Song Miduo suddenly became nervous and exclaimed that he couldn't turn off the lights, explaining that it wouldn't be safe if she needed to use the restroom at night.
Xi Song, puzzled by her request to sleep with the lights on, instead turned on a bedside lamp. Its soft glow illuminated the dark room and their faces, now close to each other. Xi Song, unfazed, simply asked if she felt safe now, to which Song Miduo shyly nodded. A moment later, she complained that the lamp was too bright and hurt her eyes. Sleepy, Xi Song told her to turn over and face away from the light.
Song Miduo complied, turning to face the already-sleeping Xi Song. She then began to chat with him, asking many questions. Xi Song patiently answered. She inquired about his large villa, his family in the U. S. , and Aunt Gu, learning that Aunt Gu was a hired aunt responsible for his daily needs and had been with him for nearly ten years, like family.
Song Miduo also found his manager, Liang Ge, a bit strange, though Xi Song told her to look him up online. She then asked if his insomnia was real and why he insisted on "her" to accompany him to sleep when many other girls would be willing. He replied that no one else would do. Song Miduo's heart fluttered at his words.
Song Miduo then asked Xi Song if he had any questions for her, but he only wanted to sleep and had none. As she watched him drift off, Song Miduo mused that love begins with curiosity, and it seemed he truly didn't like her, but she liked him very, very much. The next morning, a sleepy Song Miduo was drawn downstairs by the aroma of breakfast and secretly ate some of the meal Aunt Gu had prepared.
Soon after, Song Miduo's parents arrived as new neighbors to pay a visit, bringing homemade pastries. Aunt Gu, however, was cold and impolite, commenting on their daughter's loud and penetrating voice and stating that Xi Song was too busy to join them for a meal. Song Miduo's mother was displeased and quickly left with her husband. Meanwhile, Xiao Mi encountered her ex-boyfriend and his new girlfriend.
Xiao Mi had started dating him under the false impression that he had broken up with his girlfriend. She decided to get her revenge. She confronted the couple, repeating all the negative comments her ex-boyfriend had made about his current girlfriend. Initially disbelieving, the girlfriend became furious upon learning that he had even disclosed a private detail about her breast augmentation. She immediately broke up with him.
Satisfied, Xiao Mi received a message from Song Miduo, which she happily responded to. Back at Xi Song's home, Song Miduo had acquired a large amount of personal "equipment" that now occupied most of Xi Song's room. Seeing her setup, Xi Song reluctantly instructed Aunt Gu not to clean his room anymore. Fourteen days passed, and Song Miduo had grown accustomed to her cohabitation with Xi Song.
When her parents packed their luggage for a camping trip and announced she was coming, she refused. Unable to resist her mother's insistence, she feigned a stomachache, claiming she had her period. Her mother saw through her poor acting but chose not to expose her. Lu Yiyou, however, believed her and insisted on staying to care for her.
Song Miduo became anxious as Lu Yiyou's constant presence prevented her from going to Xi Song's for their last night of the "sleep-sharing" agreement. To get rid of Lu Yiyou, Song Miduo suggested they watch TV and then have a drink together. She drank water while he drank alcohol. Lu Yiyou naively agreed. Song Miduo cunningly found various reasons to ply him with drink after drink, and he continued drinking until he passed out after more than thirty glasses.
Song Miduo then settled him onto the sofa, covered him with a blanket, and promptly rushed off to Xi Song's house for their final night together. In his drunken sleep, Lu Yiyou dreamt of Song Miduo, wishing he had successfully confessed his feelings to her and could always be by her side.
Episode 8 Recap
Xi Song frantically searched for a special, handmade, musical note-shaped cup that Song Miduo gave him, which he described as "the only one in the world." Aunt Gu tried to help him find it, but to no avail. She then brought in a pot of green onions, remarking that some things only appear when you stop looking. Xi Song immediately recognized the pot holding the onions as the very cup he was searching for.
He asked Aunt Gu to put it down, but she was confused, pointing out that he didn't eat onions and shouldn't be interested in looking at them, unaware of the pot's true significance to him. On the last night of their agreement, Song Miduo tried to convince herself she should be happy to be free, but she felt a sense of loss. She climbed onto Xi Song's balcony to his room.
When a knock came, she excitedly opened the door, expecting Xi Song, but it was Aunt Gu. Aunt Gu immediately confronted Song Miduo, asking who she was and her relationship with Xi Song, accusing her of lacking self-respect for living with a man. Song Miduo tried to deflect, claiming to be Xi Song’s distant relative and that his mother had sent her to stay.
Aunt Gu, however, revealed that Xi Song’s mother had passed away when he was five, and angrily denounced Song Miduo as full of "nonsense and corrupt morals," ordering her to pack her things and leave. Just then, Xi Song arrived. He quickly intervened, telling Song Miduo to go back to her room and informing Aunt Gu that Song Miduo was his invited guest.
When Aunt Gu pressed for more explanation, Xi Song, to appease her alarm, claimed that Song Miduo was his new girlfriend, that they had been together for over half a month, and that his father was aware of their relationship. After Aunt Gu left, Xi Song tried to reassure Song Miduo, explaining that Aunt Gu’s harsh words came from a place of concern for him, and asked her not to take it to heart.
Song Miduo, seemingly unfazed, replied that it didn't matter since after tonight, she wouldn't be returning or seeing Aunt Gu again. She then feigned sleep, and Xi Song, sensing she was awake, agreed with her sentiment about not seeing each other again. Xi Song, knowing Song Miduo was still awake, mentioned the room felt "stuffy" and invited her to go out for some fresh air.
She initially refused but eventually followed him out, acting as stealthily as a thief, a stark contrast to Xi Song's confident stride. As they walked, Song Miduo asked where he had been that day, learning he was rehearsing for an upcoming performance. She suggested they could collaborate, with her writing lyrics and him composing music, citing their proximity as neighbors would make it "convenient to have a meeting."
Xi Song, seeing through her pretense, asked if she simply wanted to see him every day. After a moment of silence, Song Miduo boldly admitted that "I just want to see you every day," expressing her fear that after this night, they would lose all connection.
Xi Song seemed taken aback, but a sudden sneeze from Song Miduo brought him back to reality, and he suggested they head home due to the wind, initially walking in the wrong direction before correcting himself. As they walked, Song Miduo chattered about him calling her if he couldn't sleep, offering to keep him company.
Xi Song declined, stating he wasn't someone who broke promises, but Song Miduo insisted it was only right to "repay the debt" by spending more time with him. The next morning, Aunt Gu, alerted by his earlier deception, called Liang Ge, who rushed over to Xi Song's house. Entering Xi Song’s room, Liang Ge found Xi Song had just showered and believed Song Miduo was gone.
Xi Song, however, clarified that Song Miduo was not "some random person" and revealed her identity as Song Miduo, an author whose novels Liang Ge himself had once stayed up late to read. Liang Ge grew agitated, fearing Song Miduo might write about Xi Song and their "transaction" in a novel, causing irreparable damage to his reputation, the Sitian Conservatory of Music, and his uncle's Hengyuan Group. Liang Ge demanded Xi Song immediately cut ties with her.
Xi Song then explained that their arrangement was a half-month "deal" for her to help him with his insomnia by sleeping next to him, and now that his insomnia was cured, he no longer needed her; "it doesn't matter if she’s here or not." Liang Ge, relieved, disparaged Song Miduo, saying he knew Xi Song, with his high standards, would never truly be interested in "a girl like her."
Unbeknownst to them, Song Miduo, who had forgotten something and had climbed back onto Xi Song's balcony, was eavesdropping on their entire conversation, repeating her own earlier sentiment to herself, "Anyway, after tonight, I won’t come again, and I won’t see you again," which Xi Song then echoed, "I think so too." Devastated by what she heard, Song Miduo pushed open the door, startling both Xi Song and Liang Ge.
She calmly walked in, stated she had forgotten something, and demanded her notebook back. With a resolute voice, she declared that if it weren't for the notebook, she would "not have set foot in this room at all." She confronted them, saying, "I know you guys are famous and handsome and rich, it's amazing, but I don't care at all." She asserted that she had broken his crystal cup but had also cured his insomnia, so they were "evened."
As she left, she told Aunt Gu, who was nearby, "I’m sorry, Aunt Gu. I lied to you. My name is Song Miduo. I’m not even friends with Xi Song. I have nothing to do with you." Aunt Gu, recognizing the name, remarked, "You are that Song Miduo who writes dog-blood stories." Song Miduo then walked out, immediately bursting into tears.
Lu Yiyou found Song Miduo crying inconsolably and stayed by her side, choosing not to press for details but offering comfort. He insisted on knowing who had upset her, vowing to "cut him to death" if anyone dared harm her on his "territory." Song Miduo, however, simply claimed she was fine and had gone for a morning jog. Lu Yiyou believed her, but then expressed concern, realizing she was on her period and worried about her health.
He chided himself for not "watching her" the previous night, preventing her from "running out and messing around." Song Miduo was deeply touched by Lu Yiyou's unconditional trust and care, acknowledging he was truly a good friend, unlike some "plastic sisterhood" relationships. Realizing she hadn't spoken to Xiao Mi in a while, Song Miduo decided to go to school to find her, despite Lu Yiyou's offer to accompany her.
At the school, Song Miduo overheard other students gossiping about Xiao Mi, saying she had been dumped "three times in a row in less than a semester" and was seen "crying and begging for reunion." Angered, Song Miduo confronted the students, defending Xiao Mi and accusing them of jealousy. The argument escalated, and the students, led by Xia Feini, tried to drag Song Miduo to the security office.
When one of the girls' boyfriends stepped forward to physically assault Song Miduo, Xi Song suddenly appeared. He reprimanded Xia Feini, listing her past disciplinary issues like "absent from class and exams," and warning her not to add "fighting and making trouble" to her record, threatening her expulsion from Sitian. He then dispersed the crowd. Seeing Song Miduo's red arm, Xi Song was concerned, but she pulled away. She thanked him and promised, "this is my last time to come to school," before quickly leaving him, leaving Xi Song to stare after her.
Episode 9 Recap
Xi Song rushed home after his rehearsal, arriving just as he heard Song Miduo being angrily scolded by Aunt Gu. He quickly stepped inside. Aunt Gu was furiously telling Song Miduo, "I don’t care who you are or what relationship you have with Xiao Song. A girl full of nonsense and moral corruption like you is never allowed to appear in this house. Pack up your things and leave immediately. Don’t let me see you again."
After the confrontation, Xi Song helped Song Miduo put her toothbrush back in its place, a small, unconscious smile gracing his lips. That night, Song Miduo tossed and turned restlessly in bed. Xi Song patiently waited for her to settle, intending to gently move her onto a pillow. However, she was lying on his arm, trapping it. Xi Song carefully lay back down. Song Miduo then turned over and hugged him, murmuring, "Xi Song, don’t be afraid. I’m here."
Xi Song tenderly embraced her. Later, Song Miduo went to look for Xiao Mi, eventually finding her in a practice room at Sitian. Seeing the injury on Song Miduo's face, Xiao Mi asked what happened. Song Miduo claimed she had accidentally fallen. Xiao Mi playfully chastised her, saying, "You’re so big. You can’t walk on the road. What else can you do?" Song Miduo apologized to Xiao Mi, admitting, "I’m sorry. That day I shouldn’t have said that about you."
Xiao Mi then opened up, explaining her distress wasn't about being dumped, but about being seen in that vulnerable state and feeling that Song Miduo didn't believe her. She defended herself, asserting, "Am I, Xiao Mi, the kind of person who can be a little three and a little four?" Song Miduo reassured her, "I believe you. And I’m not comforting you, I really think you are excellent."
She recounted how Xiao Mi had always been hardworking and supportive, a "gentle, kind girl who dares to love and hate," an "excellent fairy" in her eyes. The two friends spoke from their hearts and reconciled. To celebrate their renewed friendship, Song Miduo, Xiao Mi, and Lu Yiyou went to KTV. Song Miduo enthusiastically grabbed the microphone, but her singing was so off-key that it sounded like "ghostly wails," prompting complaints from Xiao Mi and Lu Yiyou.
Lu Yiyou even quipped, "Blame me, I shouldn't have reconciled with her!" Amidst the lively banter, Song Miduo had a quiet realization, thinking, "Xiao Mi, in fact, I, like you, also fell out of love. It turns out that meeting someone you like is not difficult at all, but you need the other person to happen to like you too, it’s really too difficult." Later, Song Miduo returned home, feeling tipsy, and found Xi Song standing by the door.
Assuming he had forgotten his keys, she asked why he was there. Instead of answering, Xi Song questioned her about her late return. Remembering their complicated relationship, Song Miduo retorted haughtily, "Why should I tell you? It’s none of your business." She then noticed his injured hand and asked what happened, but he replied, "It’s none of your business." Xi Song then issued a firm warning, "I’m here to warn you not to enter Sitian again. Listen clearly.
It’s not a reminder, it’s a warning." Believing he was worried she would cause trouble for him, Song Miduo defiantly declared she would "never step foot in Sitian again." She resolutely told him she had retrieved her notebook and their connection was severed, stating, "We’ll settle the matter in the future. We’re normal neighbors." She promised to keep her voice down to avoid bothering him and requested he stop playing the piano late at night, disrupting her rest.
She asked if they could "be considerate to each other and spend these two months well." After a moment, Xi Song advised her, "Like you, someone with poor alcohol tolerance and even worse drinking etiquette, you should stop drinking in the future. So you don’t go around harming others again," before turning to go inside. As expected, Song Miduo heard no piano music that night. Yet, she found herself unable to sleep.
She wished inwardly, "Play the piano, don’t go to sleep." Across the way, Xi Song, also sleepless, stood on his balcony, watching the lights in Song Miduo's house flick on and off. The next morning, Aunt Gu arrived at work, witnessing Song Miduo’s parents affectionately seeing Song Miduo’s mother off. She muttered disparagingly, "Don’t be shy. It’s great to have a husband at such an old age. Who hasn’t had it yet?"
Moments later, Liang Ge rushed in, asking for Xi Song. Aunt Gu, surprised by his early arrival, directed him upstairs. Liang Ge confronted Xi Song about getting into a fight with a student, which had escalated to the school directors and resulted in an injury to Xi Song’s hand. He reprimanded Xi Song, stressing, "A pianist’s hands are like a dancer’s legs, if they are useless, it’s all over." Liang Ge urged him to be mindful of his public image.
Xi Song calmly countered, "I'm just a piano player. I'm not a star. I don't need fans. I don't care about public opinion. I just want to do what I like." Liang Ge insisted that "as long as it has nothing to do with Song Miduo, you can do whatever you want." As their argument intensified, Aunt Gu, who had been listening, interrupted them, announcing that dinner was ready.
Meanwhile, Song Miduo’s father informed her that he and her mother would be attending a friend's wedding the following week. He suggested she invite Lu Yiyou and Xiao Mi over. Song Miduo pouted, asking to go with them, and when her father expressed surprise—since she usually disliked being a "light bulb"—she confessed she didn't want to stay in the villa and wished to return home.
There was a knock at the door, and it was Liang Ge, asking to speak with Song Miduo privately. Song Miduo immediately refused, but her father politely invited Liang Ge in and left them alone. Liang Ge directly told Song Miduo that he wanted her family to move out of the Lily of the Valley villa area, offering to cover all expenses, as he considered her "the biggest interference" to Xi Song. Song Miduo rejected his demand, finding him unreasonable.
She asked if this was Xi Song's instruction, but Liang Ge brushed it aside, insisting her presence seriously affected Xi Song. Song Miduo defiantly responded, "Whoever is unhappy should move!" She reiterated her promise to Xi Song to keep quiet and accused Liang Ge of also interfering with her.
Liang Ge then warned her that Xi Song had a crucial competition in two months, for which he had prepared for three years, and if she caused him to be distracted and ruin his efforts, he would hold her responsible. The discussion ended on a sour note, leaving Song Miduo puzzled as to how she could possibly "distract" Xi Song. Frustrated by Song Miduo's refusal, Liang Ge colluded with the property manager, Mr. Wang, to harass Song Miduo's family.
Soon, the family faced constant complaints from the property management about littering, excessive noise, and improper parking. To alleviate the escalating neighborly tensions, Song Miduo’s mother baked a cake and asked Song Miduo to deliver it to their next-door neighbor, Aunt Gu, whom she jokingly called a "tigress." Song Miduo reluctantly agreed, and walked over.
Episode 10 Recap
Xi Song practiced speaking to himself, trying to articulate an explanation for Song Miduo, but messed up. After Song Miduo returned to her room, he secretly left his room to observe her. Xiao Mi arrived at Song Miduo's house, and Song Miduo abandoned her plans to deliver a cake to her neighbor, instead eating it with Xiao Mi.
When Xiao Mi asked what she had been doing, Song Miduo complained bitterly about her neighbor, calling him cold-blooded, ruthless, unreasonable, arrogant, and not even that handsome if one didn't look carefully, claiming he would be unremarkable in a crowd. Xiao Mi immediately teased Song Miduo, asking if she had a crush on her neighbor, which Song Miduo vehemently denied, claiming someone as outstanding as her wouldn't easily fall for anyone.
Changing the subject, Song Miduo asked why Xiao Mi had come. Xiao Mi, glowing, announced she was in love again. She described her new boyfriend as being like the sun at eight or nine in the morning, warming her, and making her feel fresh and grounded, despite his average looks and height but with a masculine charm. Excited, Xiao Mi rushed to the balcony to show him to Song Miduo.
To their shock, the "morning sun" turned out to be Xi Song, leisurely sipping coffee on his own balcony. Xiao Mi was stunned to realize that Song Miduo's arrogant neighbor was none other than Senior Brother Xi. Despite Song Miduo's attempts to stop her, Xiao Mi enthusiastically greeted Xi Song and playfully repeated all the bad things Song Miduo had just said about him. Xi Song then asked if there was any cake left.
Xiao Mi eagerly offered to get him a slice. Song Miduo apologized to Xi Song for Xiao Mi's outburst, assuring him that her friend would not leak his address, as her manager, Liang Ge, would be furious. She then accused Xi Song and Liang Ge of being behind the recent complaints, leading her mother to make cakes to appease neighbors, and declared that they would absolutely not move out. Xi Song, surprised, asked if Liang Ge had approached her.
He did not explain himself, but instead questioned why Song Miduo would bother appeasing others if she suspected him, suggesting she should just "deal with him" directly. Song Miduo retorted that he wasn't someone who could be appeased with a cake, but Xi Song challenged her to try. Song Miduo quickly pulled Xiao Mi away. Xiao Mi, buzzing with excitement, relentlessly questioned Song Miduo about when and how she discovered Xi Song was her neighbor and what they had discussed.
Song Miduo tried to deflect, claiming they had just found out while taking out the trash and that Xi Song constantly complained about her noise disturbing his piano practice. Unconvinced, Xiao Mi continued to press, threatening to find out the truth. Song Miduo then threatened to tell Xiao Mi's new boyfriend that Xiao Mi was actually interested in Xi Song, to which Xiao Mi quickly backed off, confirming Song Miduo had caught her "morning sun" analogy.
Xiao Mi teased Song Miduo about finally "getting enlightened" and falling for a "big boss," but Song Miduo continued to deny any romantic interest, leading to more playful bickering as they walked. Later, Liang Ge tried a new tactic. He called Xi Song, who told him on the phone to turn around and not pick him up, as he would take a taxi to the station himself.
Liang Ge, however, intercepted Song Miduo on her way home and dramatically told her that her house was haunted. He claimed that a worker's wife had died tragically during construction, falling into a cement mixer and having her remains sealed within the very house Song Miduo now occupied.
He fabricated a story that the house's dark aura had caused Xi Song's insomnia for three months, which was miraculously cured when Song Miduo's family moved in, bringing "human vitality" and dispelling the evil. He then tried to convince her that she must not move for Xi Song's sake, suggesting the house's unusually low purchase price (five million compared to the fifteen million average) was due to its dark history, and she should question her aunt about it.
Despite Song Miduo's outward show of defiance, telling Liang Ge to take care of himself and calling him a "childish ghost," his tales genuinely unnerved her. Back at home, Song Miduo found the house empty. Her parents had gone to Xi Song's concert, not a wedding as they told her, revealing themselves to be avid "fan parents" of Xi Song, a fact they preferred to keep from their daughter.
Alone and unsettled by Liang Ge's ghost story, Song Miduo stood by her door, lost in thought. Xi Song appeared, asking for her help to hail a taxi to Shuang’an for a performance, explaining he had no phone and would return tomorrow. Song Miduo reluctantly agreed to help. In the taxi, Song Miduo complained to Xi Song, questioning why he wouldn't let Liang Ge drive him, yet burdened her with the task.
She recounted Liang Ge's ghost story, asserting she wasn't scared and wouldn't be fooled by their "dirty tricks" to make her move. She accused Xi Song of being ungrateful and cold-hearted after she had helped him, treating her like a rag. Xi Song's expression darkened. Upon reaching the station, he abruptly exited the taxi, leaving Song Miduo to deal with the fare, which included his return journey. She told the driver to turn back.
That evening, as Song Miduo was eating alone, the power suddenly went out amidst a fierce thunderstorm, plunging the house into darkness. Terrified, she tried to call her parents, but her phone was dead. She remembered Xi Song was supposed to be in Shuang’an, so she couldn't seek him out. Panicked, she ran to her bedroom, burying herself under the covers. A figure silently entered and gently patted her.
Believing it to be a ghost, Song Miduo screamed and furiously thrashed at the person. A familiar voice called her name, comforting her and telling her not to be afraid. As she gradually calmed down, she realized it was Xi Song, who had rushed back for her. Overwhelmed, she cried into his arms. Song Miduo, still slightly disoriented, thought the power outage was due to a tripped breaker, but Xi Song showed no knowledge of how to fix it.
He then led her to his house. When Xi Song suddenly flicked on the lights, Song Miduo instinctively covered her eyes, grumbling that he had no common sense and could blind her by turning on the light abruptly after she had been in the dark, wondering if he had gone stupid from playing the piano. As she continued to ramble, Xi Song, in an impulsive moment, leaned down and kissed her. Song Miduo was stunned, asking what had just happened.
Xi Song casually claimed she had something on her mouth. Song Miduo, dazed, believed him. Her heart fluttering, she asked if he had come back specifically for her. Xi Song initially denied it, saying her "crying and howling" had kept him from sleeping. Song Miduo pointed out that he was still wearing his performance suit, suggesting he hadn't even been home to sleep.
Caught in his lie, Xi Song then confessed he had rushed back immediately after his concert, speeding and even running two red lights, just to ensure her safety. Song Miduo was overjoyed, lost in her fantasy, wanting to caress his face. When Xi Song's stomach rumbled, she enthusiastically offered to cook for him, framing it as a mutual favor since she was hungry too. While Song Miduo went to the kitchen, Xi Song took a shower.
When Xi Song returned from his shower, he found Song Miduo asleep at the dining table, with food laid out. He gazed at her sleeping face, his eyes lingering on her lips. Conscious of his thoughts, he deliberately made a loud noise with the dishes to wake her. Song Miduo, now awake, proudly boasted about her excellent cooking, claiming any imperfections were due to limited ingredients, not her skill.
Xi Song decided to give Aunt Gu a long vacation and arranged for Song Miduo to cook for him from now on. Song Miduo was secretly thrilled, but her moment of triumph was interrupted by a phone call. It was the delivery driver for the takeout food she had ordered, calling to say they had forgotten a dish and wanted to resend it. Panicked, Song Miduo quickly refused, even threatening to complain if they insisted on redelivering.
After dinner, Xi Song told Song Miduo to go upstairs to sleep. Her heart pounded with anticipation, acknowledging that though she had slept many times before, tonight felt different, and she wondered what she was hoping for, reminding herself to maintain some composure as a girl.
Episode 11 Recap
Song Miduo’s parents, her mom as president and dad as vice president of Xi Song’s fan club, excitedly waited at an exit. Meanwhile, Liang Ge was on the phone, reassuring Mr. Li that he and Xi Song would definitely be on time for the celebration banquet that Mr. Li personally organized.
However, Xi Song firmly told Liang Ge he would not attend the banquet; he was returning to Qiuyin Town because there was a heavy rain, and he needed to ensure Song Miduo's safety. He instructed Liang Ge to stop bothering Song Miduo, declaring that he would never let her move away. That night, back at Xi Song’s house, Song Miduo and Xi Song argued over who should sleep in the study.
Song Miduo, insisting she was a guest, felt she should be the one to sleep there. Xi Song, exasperated, wondered how she managed to write romance novels with her level of reasoning. Song Miduo was puzzled, thinking about how Xi Song had insisted she sleep with him when they weren't familiar, but now that they were, he was pushing her away. She wondered if he truly regarded her as a mere sleeping pill, to be discarded once he felt better.
Despite the arrangement, Xi Song found himself tossing and turning in the guest room, unable to sleep. The next morning, Aunt Gu arrived at Xi Song’s house, singing cheerfully. Upon opening the door, she was surprised to find Song Miduo in her pajamas, making breakfast. Aunt Gu immediately began to lecture Song Miduo, asking why she was there and if she liked Xi Song, adding that girls should be sensible when chasing stars.
Song Miduo boldly admitted she liked him, declaring herself "Xi Song's future girlfriend." Just then, someone knocked on the door. It was Xiao Mi, arriving to get Xi Song’s autograph. Xiao Mi was stunned to see Song Miduo opening the door in her sleepwear. Aunt Gu, seeing yet another girl, expressed her displeasure and, learning that Song Miduo had stayed the night, closed the door on both of them.
Outside, Xiao Mi grilled Song Miduo, suspecting something was going on between her and Xi Song. Song Miduo, however, was convinced Xi Song didn't like her. Determined to test Xi Song’s true feelings, Xiao Mi took Song Miduo to school. When they encountered Xi Song being surrounded by other students asking for autographs, Xiao Mi pushed Song Miduo forward, urging her to ask for a signature.
Song Miduo, using the excuse that she needed an autograph, was surprised when Xi Song, who usually never signed autographs on campus, immediately signed her CD and told her to go home quickly. Following Xi Song to the supermarket, Song Miduo, on Xiao Mi’s advice to fill a cart to test his heart, piled many items into her shopping basket. At the checkout, Xi Song paid for her groceries without hesitation.
Noticing a significant amount of sanitary products, he assumed she was on her period and, just before leaving, he grabbed her ice cream and threw it away, leaving Song Miduo confused. Later, at the basketball court, Xiao Mi rushed over to find Xi Song, saying Song Miduo needed to talk to him. However, Liang Ge quickly intervened, dismissing Xiao Mi and taking Xi Song away. Song Miduo felt disheartened by Xi Song's apparent indifference.
Xiao Mi, refusing to let her give up, encouraged Song Miduo, asserting that Xi Song’s unusual actions—signing autographs for her, paying for her groceries despite his reputation for being stingy—were clear signs of his interest. She convinced Song Miduo that her feelings were paramount and urged her to pursue him boldly, promising to be by her side. Inspired, Song Miduo declared she would embark on a "thick-skinned tactic."
Their newfound resolve was short-lived when Liang Ge suddenly appeared, angrily demanding what Song Miduo was doing and telling her to stop pestering Xi Song. He revealed that Xi Song’s hand injury was from a fight to defend Song Miduo against some students who were insulting her, calling her "short and squat." Liang Ge emphasized that Xi Song had kept Song Miduo away from school not to avoid trouble for himself, but to protect her from being bullied.
He warned Song Miduo that her feelings for Xi Song should remain unspoken, as they would only lead to self-humiliation. Overwhelmed with guilt, Song Miduo felt like a troublemaker. Lost in her thoughts, she accidentally twisted her ankle while walking alone. Xi Song, who had witnessed her fall, approached her. He patiently knelt down to re-tie her loosened shoelace.
Then, despite Song Miduo’s protests that she was too heavy, he offered to carry her home, revealing he didn't know how to ride a bicycle. Song Miduo felt a surge of happiness as Xi Song piggybacked her. As they approached her house, they saw Lu Yiyou waiting.
Panicked, Song Miduo hastily asked Xi Song to put her down and subtly signaled for him to leave, lying to Lu Yiyou that they had merely met on the road and Xi Song was kindly helping her. Xi Song, clearly annoyed, told Song Miduo in front of Lu Yiyou to rest well and not to come over to his house for the next two days, before turning and leaving with a mischievous smile.
Lu Yiyou immediately questioned Song Miduo about Xi Song's remarks. Unwilling to explain, Song Miduo retorted that it was none of his business. Their escalating argument was cut short by the arrival of Song Miduo's parents. Her dad jokingly accused Lu Yiyou of bullying their daughter, while her mom, ever supportive of Lu Yiyou, said it was probably Song Miduo doing the bullying.
The couple quickly made up, and her parents invited Lu Yiyou to stay for dinner, which he accepted. Later, Lu Yiyou tried to examine Song Miduo's injured foot, but she carefully guarded her shoe, not wanting him to untie the shoelace Xi Song had tied. Lu Yiyou teased her about her poor taste.
Lu Yiyou then warned Song Miduo about Xi Song, stating that Xi Song’s gaze towards her seemed like he liked her, but quickly added that for a "perfect man" like Xi Song to like someone with her "ugly, bad-tempered, musically challenged" personality could only be out of "curiosity." Song Miduo, initially delighted by the idea of Xi Song liking her, grew upset at his backhanded compliment. She then asked what if she liked Xi Song.
Lu Yiyou scoffed, saying Xi Song, with all his perfection, was merely a "male number two" from a novel, while he, the "striving, upwardly mobile" one, was the "male number one." Song Miduo dismissed his words, calling novels misleading, and told him to leave. She also discreetly warned him not to tell anyone, especially her parents, that Xi Song lived next door.
As Lu Yiyou left Song Miduo's house, he saw Xi Song standing on his balcony, looking directly towards Song Miduo's room, which only confirmed his suspicions. Later that night, having finished writing her novel, Song Miduo climbed onto her balcony and whispered a goodnight towards Xi Song's house. She reflected that while others might see Xi Song as flawless, he had his own quirks, like being unromantic, rigid, lacking common sense, and even being unable to tie shoelaces properly.
She realized that with enough affection, even imperfections become endearing. Song Miduo resolved that from now on, she would disregard others' opinions. As long as Xi Song didn't turn her away, she would stay. She then bid goodnight to her "male number two."
Episode 12 Recap
Lu Yiyou and Xi Song engaged in a video game competition, with Lu Yiyou ultimately losing. As a result, he was bound by their wager to grant Xi Song one condition. Lu Yiyou anticipated that Xi Song would demand he abandon Song Miduo, but instead, Xi Song simply asked him to keep his address a secret.
Bewildered, Lu Yiyou loudly questioned why Xi Song wasn't asking him to give up Song Miduo, asking if he couldn't see how much Lu Yiyou liked her. Xi Song merely chuckled softly, offering no reply. Having been delayed by the bet with Lu Yiyou, Xi Song missed the last bus home and was forced to walk, consequently catching a cold.
Both Song Miduo and her mother received news that Xi Song's upcoming event had been canceled due to a high fever. Song Miduo's mother, as the fan club president, was quite upset by the news. Seeing an opportunity, Song Miduo decided to go check on Xi Song, but her father, returning from grocery shopping, intercepted her at the door. Song Miduo quickly fabricated a story about having flung her pen onto the neighbors' balcony and wanting to retrieve it.
Her father, however, offered to buy her a new pen and forbade her from going to the neighbor's house, claiming that a "tigress" resided there, someone even fiercer than her own mother, and that as a "full-time tigress breeder," he was well-versed in such matters. Meanwhile, Aunt Gu was at Xi Song's home, sneezing repeatedly. Liang Ge, caring for a feverish Xi Song, suspected that Song Miduo was somehow involved in his illness.
He cautioned Aunt Gu against revealing the relationship between Song Miduo and Xi Song. Aunt Gu was astonished to discover that the couple who often openly displayed their affection were actually Song Miduo's parents. Liang Ge then expressed his intention to find Xi Song a new residence and have him move out. Unable to visit Xi Song directly, Song Miduo resorted to writing notes on paper and tossing them from her balcony to his.
Xi Song soon appeared on his balcony, saw Song Miduo's note, and a faint smile touched his lips. He then tossed a reply back to her. After several exchanges of notes, Song Miduo received a key thrown by Xi Song. Overjoyed, she became ecstatic upon seeing it. Song Miduo indulged in a daydream, imagining herself as "Mrs. Xi" accepting compliments about her accomplished husband, and she giggled aloud.
Back in reality, she searched her home for the perfect hiding spot for the key but found nothing satisfactory. Eventually, she threaded the key onto a necklace and wore it around her neck, finally feeling at ease. The next day, Song Miduo arrived at Xi Song's house with a pot of homemade porridge. After ringing the doorbell several times with no answer, she used the key to open the door.
Just as she stepped inside, Aunt Gu appeared, surprised that Song Miduo possessed a key to the house. Song Miduo explained that Xi Song had given it to her, and Aunt Gu slowly lowered her hand that had been blocking the doorway. Aunt Gu observed that Song Miduo's porridge contained green onions, anticipating Xi Song's displeasure, as he previously disliked coriander in his food. To her surprise, Xi Song not only ate the porridge but declared it delicious.
Aunt Gu, feeling put out, feigned an intention to leave, saying she had some family matters and wouldn't be coming for a while, adding that her presence seemed unnecessary with Liang Ge and now Song Miduo around. Xi Song promptly agreed, exacerbating Aunt Gu's annoyance. Unable to retract her statement, she packed her belongings and departed in a huff. On her way, Aunt Gu encountered Song Miduo's parents, who were once again openly affectionate.
She sternly advised them to pay more attention to their daughter, particularly during her teenage years, warning that spiritual care was more important than material conditions. Song Miduo's mother bristled at Aunt Gu's unsolicited advice. Suddenly, her phone chimed with a reminder that Song Miduo's birthday was approaching. Song Miduo's mother couldn't recall whether it was the lunar or Gregorian calendar date, but when her husband asked for Xi Song's birthday, she immediately stated, "December 28th, Capricorn."
Realizing her oversight, Song Miduo's mother reflected on her lack of attention to her daughter and decided they should throw a grand birthday party. Meanwhile, Lu Yiyou was at a mall, selecting a birthday gift for Song Miduo. He spotted a lovely doll, but noticed a woman also interested in it. He kindly offered the last doll to her, learning it was for her teacher's three-year-old daughter.
Grateful, the woman reciprocated by offering him advice on gift-giving, suggesting delicate, portable trinkets that convey sentiment, emphasizing thoughtfulness over cost. As they exited the store, she attempted to exchange contact information, but Lu Yiyou politely declined, stating he was already "taken" and wishing her well. Back at Xi Song's house, Song Miduo enthusiastically cleaned the entire place. She heard the sound of water from the bathroom and, assuming Xi Song was showering, discreetly leaned against the door to listen.
Soon after, Xi Song emerged in a bathrobe and headed upstairs. Song Miduo stealthily followed and, upon seeing his piano, couldn't resist playing it. Xi Song, hearing the music, came out and found Song Miduo. He asked why she was playing again, given that she had given it up as a child. Song Miduo replied that she wanted to have common interests with him.
Looking a bit shy and with eyes flickering, Song Miduo then asked if Xi Song could teach her. Xi Song mentioned his private lessons were very expensive, to which Song Miduo playfully retorted that she had already repaid him 50,000 yuan, leading to a moment of awkward silence as they both remembered. Xi Song then allowed her to try. As Song Miduo played, Xi Song gently placed his hands over hers on the keys, beginning to teach her.
Song Miduo's heart pounded, acutely aware of Xi Song behind her, his hair still damp from the shower. Overwhelmed, she abruptly stood up, accidentally bumping her head against his. Xi Song rubbed his bruised face and firmly told Song Miduo that she was not to mention piano lessons again. He also urged her to focus on writing her novel, stating she was merely being lazy, not lacking inspiration. Song Miduo found his demeanor strikingly similar to her mother's.
Xi Song then awkwardly clarified that he only kept her around due to his insomnia and not wanting her to move, but he struggled to explain the reason for giving her the key. At that moment, Song Miduo's phone rang, breaking the tension. It was Xiao Mi, who threatened to show up at Xi Song's house if Song Miduo didn't meet her immediately at a new dessert shop on Binhai Road.
Song Miduo, having no choice, hurried out, promising to bring Xi Song some treats and reminding him to take his medicine. Xiao Mi reminded Song Miduo that her upcoming birthday presented an excellent opportunity to advance her relationship with Xi Song. She explained that if Xi Song agreed to attend her birthday party, it would be an indirect acknowledgment of Song Miduo as his girlfriend.
Reflecting alone, Song Miduo marveled at the profound change in her attitude towards Xi Song since she first arrived. She realized that her deepest aspiration might simply be to be with him, to be accepted into Sitian Conservatory of Music and to remain in Qiuyin Town. She concluded that success wasn't solely about career, but also about being with loved ones forever.
Episode 13 Recap
Song Miduo returned to find Xi Song eating instant noodles, despite still recovering from a cold. She expressed concern, asking why he would eat such "junk food." She then offered to cook for him, since she had forgotten to bring him anything. Xi Song declined her offer. Song Miduo quickly explained that she had gone to a dessert shop where the food was both expensive and "unpalatable," so she hadn't brought anything.
Xi Song, noticing cake crumbs on her mouth, gently wiped them away and remarked that it "was really unpalatable." Caught in her lie, Song Miduo insisted on going to make food for him immediately, but he still refused. Sitting together, they read a manga. Song Miduo began to cry, but Xi Song reassured her that the protagonist, Musashi, would not die and would ultimately be with Atong.
Still emotional, Song Miduo questioned why characters who loved each other deeply chose to separate. Xi Song explained that achieving unparalleled greatness in any field necessitates sacrificing an ordinary life, suggesting that Musashi was unique because of his unwavering focus. Song Miduo challenged this, asking if men, especially those at the peak of their profession like him, would abandon a relationship if it hindered their personal development.
Xi Song affirmed this, elaborating that if a relationship affected him, it would inevitably impact the other person, making separation a form of protection. Song Miduo strongly disagreed, calling his reasoning "male chauvinist," and asserting that true love means finding ways to stay together. She argued that a breakup shouldn't be a unilateral decision, especially under the guise of "love and protection," and bluntly called such actions selfish and cowardly.
Realizing her words might have been too personal, she quickly apologized, clarifying she was speaking generally. Xi Song remained silent, lost in thought, while Song Miduo continued her passionate argument. As it grew late, Xi Song told Song Miduo it was eleven o'clock and she should go home. She adamantly refused, declaring she wouldn't leave until she finished the manga, even offering to borrow it.
Xi Song, seemingly giving up the argument, told her to finish it quietly without making a sound. While he drifted off to sleep, Song Miduo murmured to herself about his "arrogant look," finding it "cute," and vowed that she would eventually "handle him." Soon after, she also fell asleep. Song Miduo repeatedly tried to invite Xi Song to a gathering on Saturday.
First, she simply asked if he was free, to which he replied with a firm "no." Undeterred, she proposed they have dinner, enticing him with her mother's delicious braised pork, but he again said he "can't go on Saturday." Song Miduo then tried to reassure him, mentioning it would only be her family and Xiao Mi, without any of his fans.
Xi Song maintained that he had "work on Saturday," and Song Miduo countered that "work also requires eating; you can't work hungry, right?" Growing desperate, Song Miduo asked when he would return, offering to wait for him no matter how late, even suggesting she could travel to him. He informed her he wouldn't be back until "next Monday." Song Miduo was writing in bed when her father, Song Beijiang, walked in.
She tried to hide what she was writing, but he playfully teased her about having secrets now that she was growing up. She affectionately called him "Xiao Jiangjiang" and assured him she would always be his "little padded jacket." He then grew sentimental, remarking how quickly she had grown to nineteen and would soon leave for college, then work, find a boyfriend, marry, and have her own family.
Song Miduo, finding his mood too somber for a birthday, asked why he was so sad. He denied being sad, claiming joy and praising her intelligence and beauty, saying he only wished for her health and happiness. She then asked if he and her mother were planning another "couple's world" trip, leaving her alone, but he firmly denied it, emphasizing that they would never miss her birthday.
Song Miduo then asked about her birthday gift, which her father affirmed was ready. Before leaving, he gently reminded her to go see her mother, explaining that her birthday was her mother's "day of suffering," and that she should always love and respect her mother. Following her father's advice, Song Miduo went to her mother's bedroom. Her mother jokingly chided her for entering without knocking and for trying to hide something.
Song Miduo then delivered a heartfelt speech, thanking her mother for giving birth to her nineteen years ago and for raising her so well. She admitted, "Although I’m not as good-looking as you," and then confessed that part of the speech was "what my dad told me." She continued, acknowledging that she often disappointed her mother and "accidentally" made her angry, but promised to "work hard and try to be your pride."
Her mother, deeply touched, responded, "Not working hard is also mother’s pride," assuring Song Miduo that she was always her pride. Overwhelmed with emotion, Song Miduo cried, embracing her mother tightly and declaring, "Mom, you are so kind. I love you." Her mother, struggling to breathe from the tight hug, called out to Song Beijiang for help, exclaiming, "You’re going to strangle me to death!"
Song Beijiang rushed in, teasing Song Miduo about becoming a "goldfish eye" if she kept crying. The family shared a tender moment, with Song Miduo also telling her father she loved him. On Saturday morning, Song Miduo was awakened by Xiao Mi, who was busily arranging decorations and urged her to get up, reminding her that she wouldn't "be able to catch up with [her] birthday" otherwise.
Song Miduo quickly prepared, putting on a flowing white dress and makeup, though it was "a little exaggerated." She then excitedly rushed to Xi Song's house. To her surprise, she found movers taking luggage out. Xi Song, dressed formally in a suit, emerged and explained that he was going to "participate in an event in other places" and would only return "tomorrow night at the earliest."
Song Miduo finally understood that he truly "had something to do" and wasn't avoiding her earlier invitations. She then revealed that "today is. . . my birthday," but quickly added that it didn't matter as "birthdays happen every year." She playfully teased him, asking why he hadn't said anything earlier, jokingly stating that she was afraid he'd prepare a gift, given how "stingy" he was, and that saying it sooner or later made no difference.
Xi Song wished her "happy birthday," remarked that she looked "beautiful today," and encouraged her to "have fun with your friends." The birthday celebration began with Song Miduo toasting her parents for their hard work and her best friend, Xiao Mi, hoping she would always be present for her birthdays. Xiao Mi, in turn, wished her a happy birthday.
Song Miduo's father then inquired about Lu Yiyou, prompting Song Miduo to explain she hadn't invited him because his gifts were always "too exaggerated" and she couldn't repay them. Her parents insisted she call him, and her father jokingly warned her to protect her hands because her "boyfriend plays the piano." Meanwhile, Song Miduo's mother expressed her disappointment about missing Xi Song's awards ceremony, which was happening that night.
Her father tried to console her, suggesting they watch the replay later, but she insisted on watching it live. Soon after, Lu Yiyou made a dramatic entrance, kneeling with a ring and declaring that he wouldn't miss her tenth birthday with him and promised to always be by her side. Xiao Mi quickly intervened, dismissing his "sick" gesture of giving a ring on a birthday as "old-fashioned."
Song Miduo's family largely ignored his dramatic proposal, ushering him to the dinner table. Xiao Mi continued to subtly block Lu Yiyou's attempts to get close to Song Miduo throughout the evening. As the party continued, Song Miduo’s parents watched the awards ceremony live on their phones, excitedly celebrating when Xi Song won. Xiao Mi also saw the news on her phone and shared it with Song Miduo, who quietly rejoiced while Lu Yiyou looked bewildered.
After dinner, Xiao Mi invited her boyfriend to join them, and the group set off for a "night tour" of Qiuyin Town. As Song Miduo made her birthday wish, she reflected that while her past wishes (for her parents' everlasting love and friends' happiness) had always come true, on her nineteenth birthday, she made a new, exceptional wish: "to be loved by the people I like." She then silently addressed Xi Song, hoping he could help her wish "come true."
Episode 14 Recap
Song Miduo had a vivid nightmare where her mother relentlessly forced her to play the piano, chastising her with shouts of, "Hurry up! Don't cry, hurry up!" A younger Song Miduo wept, pleading that she didn't want to practice and wanted to play outside instead. Her mother sternly replied that if she didn't finish, she wouldn't be allowed to go out, eat, or even come home.
In her dream, a boy resembling Xi Song comforted her, leading her to realize that she didn't hate the piano, but rather her mother's forceful methods. She then boldly asked the boy if he could be her boyfriend when she grew up, to which he firmly replied, "You're dreaming." As Song Miduo cried out, "Don't go!" in her sleep, Xi Song, who was holding her, gently woke her by affectionately calling her "idiot."
Lu Yiyou persistently tried to make Song Miduo accept a ring he had bought for her, even snatching her bag to coerce her. Song Miduo refused, calling him naive and explaining that such a gift should be for a future girlfriend. Lu Yiyou insisted she was his most important female friend, but Song Miduo, cleverly distracting him, managed to slip away. Suddenly, she heard a crowd of fans excitedly shouting Xi Song’s name.
Curious, she ran towards the commotion and spotted Xi Song, wearing a mask, stealthily exiting the crowd. He quickly grabbed her hand, and they ran off together. Meanwhile, Song Miduo’s parents, who were also among the crowd, wondered if it was their daughter they had seen and if it was truly Xi Song.
As they walked away, Song Miduo, beaming with happiness, asked Xi Song why he had returned, especially since he was supposed to be at an awards ceremony until Monday. Xi Song playfully attributed his return to her birthday being today. Song Miduo teased him, saying he had clearly come back for her, but he initially denied it, claiming his other commitments were cancelled. When Song Miduo insisted it was clearly for her, he playfully conceded, saying "Right."
She then playfully demanded a birthday gift, joking that if he hadn't prepared one, a kiss would suffice. Mumbling to herself that she wouldn't let him off the hook on her special day, she was taken by surprise when Xi Song suddenly turned and kissed her, leaving her stunned and realizing her birthday wish had come true almost instantly. Back at Song Miduo's house, her parents and an increasingly anxious Lu Yiyou waited for her.
While her parents remained calm, Lu Yiyou grew more frantic, expressing worry that Song Miduo, being unfamiliar with Qiuyin Town, might encounter danger, especially since he had her bag containing her phone and money. He apologized profusely to her parents for taking her bag. Just then, Song Miduo's mother received a paparazzi photo on her phone, showing Xi Song kissing a girl.
Mistaking the girl for Su Li, with whom Xi Song had been rumored, she became infuriated, getting a headache and going to lie down. Song Miduo's father, attempting to calm her, suggested Xi Song and Su Li were just friends and even remarked on how well-suited they were with their musical talents—a pianist and a cellist, playing in harmony with deep affection.
Her mother, unconvinced, went to lie down, while her father reassured Lu Yiyou that his wife was simply worried about their daughter. Later, Xi Song presented Song Miduo with a small doll, but claimed it was a gift from someone else that he was merely showing her. Song Miduo found it "ugly," remarking that it resembled Xi Song when he was angry. Xi Song, annoyed, snatched the doll back.
As Song Miduo reached to grab it, she stumbled onto him, hearing his fast heartbeat. When she called him childish, he retorted that she was the naive one. Her delight at being called childish confused him, but she explained that one only gets to see the childish side of someone they truly like. This implied confession left Xi Song feeling shy and somewhat flustered.
As Xi Song escorted Song Miduo home, he told her it was late and she should go inside. She thanked him, calling it the happiest birthday she'd ever had and the happiest gift she'd received, noting that it didn't cost him anything. When he jokingly attributed this to his "stinginess," she cheekily said she hoped he would be generous to everyone else but only "stingy" with her. Xi Song became shy again and urged her to go home.
As he stood lost in thought, Song Miduo suddenly rushed back, kissed him as a "return gift," wished him goodnight, and then quickly ran inside, leaving Xi Song utterly stunned. Upon returning to his own home, Xi Song found Su Li crying. Liang Ge explained that Su Li was upset because she had only placed second in a cello competition. Xi Song comforted her, telling her not to cry and that it was alright.
Unable to sleep, Song Miduo couldn't stop thinking about the kiss. She debated whether Xi Song's actions meant he liked her too or if the kiss was merely a consequence of her blaming him for not bringing a birthday gift. After calling Lu Yiyou to confirm she was home, she went out onto her balcony and tried to call out to Xi Song. To her surprise, Su Li emerged onto the adjacent balcony.
Although Song Miduo tried to hide, Su Li spotted her and greeted her warmly, stating she had heard about her from Liang Ge. Song Miduo, in turn, acknowledged Su Li, mentioning she knew she was Xi Song's childhood friend and fellow musician, often referred to as a "golden boy and jade girl" by the public.
Su Li remarked that Xi Song probably often spoke ill of her to Song Miduo, but Song Miduo clarified that Xi Song had never mentioned her, and she had learned about Su Li online. Su Li apologized on Xi Song’s behalf for his past insomnia and piano practice possibly disturbing her, assuring her it wouldn't happen again now that she was back. They exchanged goodnights, but Song Miduo's mood plummeted.
Meanwhile, Liang Ge, speaking with Xi Song, expressed his surprise at Su Li losing the competition and urged Xi Song to comfort her, adding that he should prevent Song Miduo from coming over while Su Li was around. Xi Song dismissed this, asserting he had no special relationship with Su Li and found Liang Ge’s concerns unwarranted. Liang Ge countered that Xi Song was being too simple-minded.
Their discussion was interrupted when Su Li re-entered, stating that she had just met Song Miduo on the balcony and found her to be a nice girl, not "as scary" as Liang Ge had made her out to be. Liang Ge, eager to avoid further complications, quickly excused himself, leaving Xi Song and Su Li. Xi Song then advised Su Li to take a hot bath and rest, and not to think about anything until the morning.
They wished each other goodnight. Later, Song Miduo secretly returned to Xi Song's doorstep. She watched Liang Ge leave, but Su Li did not emerge. This led her to a troubling thought: perhaps Xi Song had rushed back tonight not for her, but for Su Li, and the kiss had genuinely been just a birthday gift. Unable to sleep, she yearned for the sound of Xi Song's piano playing from next door, but the night remained eerily quiet.
Episode 15 Recap
Xi Song, wearing a mask, went to pick out a gift for Song Miduo. He was nearly recognized by onlookers who commented on his handsomeness and familiar face, speculating if it was truly him. He politely declined a fan's request for a photo, saying "next time." Unable to find a suitable gift, Xi Song decided to give Song Miduo a doll a fan had gifted him. However, when he arrived at her door, no one answered.
A kind security guard informed him that Song Miduo's family had gone to People’s Square to celebrate a birthday. The next morning, Song Miduo woke up and immediately headed towards Xi Song’s house. Before she could get close, Lu Yiyou intercepted her and invited her for breakfast. He asked where she had been the previous night, and Song Miduo vaguely replied that she had met an acquaintance.
Lu Yiyou then brought up the news of Xi Song’s sudden disappearance the night before. Song Miduo, eating quickly, revealed that Xi Song hadn't disappeared but had returned early. When Lu Yiyou pressed her on how she knew, Song Miduo claimed she was just guessing. Feigning sleepiness, she quickly excused herself, saying she hadn't slept well, and left. On her way home, Song Miduo found Su Li locked out of Xi Song's apartment after a grocery run.
Su Li explained that she had been ringing the doorbell for a long time but no one answered, and she didn't have her phone to contact Liang Ge. Song Miduo then revealed she had a spare key and let Su Li in. Su Li, though surprised, attributed Song Miduo's possession of the key to Aunt Gu's affection for her. Song Miduo clarified that it was a spare key kept with her because she lived next door, in case of emergencies.
Su Li laughed, acknowledging her explanation. Grateful, Su Li enthusiastically invited Song Miduo to stay for lunch, mentioning she had bought fresh produce and seafood to cook a good meal, especially for Xi Song, who she noted had lost weight. She shared intimate details about Xi Song's preferences, like his love for salty and spicy food, and how he couldn't drink a specific coffee because it made him too energetic.
Feeling uncomfortable with Su Li acting like the lady of the house, Song Miduo tried to leave, but just then, Xi Song and Liang Ge returned. Liang Ge attempted to send Song Miduo away, but Su Li insisted that Song Miduo was her guest and would be staying for dinner. Su Li then asked Xi Song for a house key.
Xi Song replied that he had none left, prompting Liang Ge to realize that Song Miduo must have the last one. Song Miduo slowly produced the key, reluctantly offering it to Liang Ge. However, Xi Song gently pressed her hand down and told Liang Ge to get a new key made for Su Li instead. Liang Ge, visibly awkward, led Su Li to the kitchen, loudly praising her as a beautiful and capable hostess.
After they left, Xi Song confronted Song Miduo about when she found the key, acknowledging she had kept it well hidden. Xi Song then informed Song Miduo that he would be going to Liuting with Su Li for two days, as Su Li was in a bad mood and needed to relax. Song Miduo was disappointed but remained silent.
Xi Song started to say something about inviting her for dinner, but before he could finish, Song Miduo misunderstood it as an invitation to join the trip. Her spirits instantly lifted, and she excitedly rushed home to pack. The next day, Aunt Gu joined the group, affectionately greeting Su Li and commenting on her beauty. Song Miduo then unexpectedly appeared, announcing her intention to join the trip to Liuting, known for Fairy Mountain and Bilianhai.
Aunt Gu and Liang Ge tried to deter her, citing concerns about a young girl staying out overnight and parental disapproval. However, Su Li warmly welcomed Song Miduo, and with Xi Song's quiet agreement, Song Miduo joined them in the car, making a party of five. Aunt Gu wore a look of utter resignation. During the drive, Song Miduo leaned on Su Li's shoulder and fell asleep, exhausted from lack of rest.
Upon waking, Su Li recounted stories of Xi Song's younger days, mentioning how he used to lean on her shoulder and sleep on the bus in high school, and how he was a "childish ghost" despite his current serious demeanor. Song Miduo realized that she wasn't the only one who had witnessed Xi Song's immature side.
Upon arrival at the hotel, Xi Song jokingly warned Song Miduo about the high cost of a five-star hotel room, suggesting a minimum of 1,500 yuan per night. Song Miduo, unfazed, quipped about sharing a room with him, reminding him they had shared rooms before. Xi Song, however, stated that things were different now, which left Song Miduo puzzled about the change.
When checking in, Liang Ge confirmed that he had only booked four rooms, and the hotel was fully booked, leaving no extra rooms. Su Li immediately requested to share a room with Xi Song. Aunt Gu quickly interjected, insisting that Song Miduo should share a room with her. She then pulled Song Miduo aside in their shared room and delivered a stern lecture.
Aunt Gu explained that Su Li and Xi Song were childhood sweethearts and their families were close, making them an ideal and publicly recognized "official couple" destined for marriage. She emphasized Xi Song’s cold nature but noted his exceptional patience and responsiveness to Su Li's every request. Aunt Gu advised Song Miduo to abandon any romantic notions, as she and Xi Song would never have a future together, warning her that dreams eventually wake up.
Deeply disheartened, Song Miduo went to the hotel lobby, observing Xi Song, Liang Ge, and Su Li chatting cheerfully. Xi Song noticed her downcast mood and approached her, guessing that Aunt Gu's words had upset her. He reassured her not to take Aunt Gu's comments seriously. Song Miduo then asked if he would marry Su Li, to which Xi Song gave an ambiguous "What do you think?" and then hesitated, unable to complete his thought.
Revitalized by his words, Song Miduo’s spirits soared, and she once again eagerly followed Xi Song. Throughout the day of sightseeing at the amusement park, Aunt Gu and Liang Ge persistently intervened to keep Song Miduo away from Xi Song, attempting to create opportunities for Xi Song and Su Li to spend time alone. Liang Ge even gave Song Miduo money to go buy water, trying to send her away.
During one instance, while Xi Song and Su Li were posing for photos, Liang Ge pulled Song Miduo aside to take her picture. Later, Song Miduo tried to join Su Li on an exciting ride, but the experience terrified Su Li, causing her to cling to Xi Song afterward. By the end of the day, despite her efforts, Song Miduo had barely managed to speak with Xi Song, leaving her feeling utterly helpless.
Episode 16 Recap
Xi Song called Liang Ge late at night, asking him to book two tickets for a newly released horror movie. Liang Ge, believing the tickets were for Xi Song and Su Li, sent a text message to Su Li to inform her. Excited, Su Li went to Xi Song’s room but found him absent.
She used his computer and discovered his recent search history was filled with inquiries about "girlfriends," which made her feel uneasy, suspecting Xi Song might have a girlfriend. Meanwhile, Song Miduo went to buy water alone, feeling frustrated that Aunt Gu and Liang Ge were constantly preventing her from interacting with Xi Song. She bought five bottles of room-temperature mineral water, struggled with the math for the change, and ended up leaving without receiving all of it.
When she returned to where the group had been taking photos, everyone was gone. Panicked, she frantically began to search for them. Elsewhere, Su Li proposed staying with Xi Song, but he gently declined, advising her to return home after the holiday. Liang Ge then returned to the group, complaining about how long Song Miduo was taking to buy water. Aunt Gu suggested calling her, only for them to realize that none of them had Song Miduo’s phone number.
Xi Song became extremely worried and angrily chastised Liang Ge for letting Song Miduo go alone. He immediately ran off to find her. Song Miduo, still carrying the five bottles of water, was also searching for the group when she stumbled and fell. Just then, Liang Ge, Aunt Gu, and Su Li found her. Aunt Gu and Su Li quickly helped her up, while Liang Ge expressed concern, asking if she had hurt her leg.
Song Miduo, feeling abandoned, tearfully expressed her belief that they had left her behind. Liang Ge reassured her that they would never do that. Song Miduo then realized Xi Song was still missing and asked where he was. Liang Ge grew anxious, explaining that Xi Song did not carry a phone, and Aunt Gu worried he might be recognized by the public. As they prepared to search for him, a broadcast suddenly echoed through the air.
A sweet female voice announced, "Attention Song Miduo from Qiuyin Town, please proceed to the Visitor Center; your boyfriend is waiting for you here." Both Song Miduo and Su Li were stunned speechless by the term "boyfriend." At the broadcast room, the announcer recognized Xi Song. He quickly corrected her, stating, "It was a mistake. It’s a friend, not a boyfriend." When the announcer apologized and offered to re-broadcast the correction, Xi Song declined.
Later, Song Miduo called her father, Song Beijiang, telling him she was in Liuting with Xiao Mi and some friends and would return in a couple of days. Her father, astute, sensed that she might be in love. Her mother, Han Wenxiu, overheard and became furious, declaring that if Song Miduo dared to date before her senior year, she would break her legs.
After hanging up, Song Miduo immediately called Xiao Mi, begging her to help cover her lie, emphasizing that her legs depended on it. Xiao Mi agreed but also expressed surprise and mock anger at Song Miduo secretly meeting Xi Song in Liuting. The group went to a Western restaurant where the menu was entirely in English, which Song Miduo couldn't read. Aunt Gu, however, fluently ordered ham salad, creamy shrimp soup, and pan-fried foie gras.
Song Miduo awkwardly ordered "the same," prompting everyone to suppress smiles at her transparent attempt to hide her unfamiliarity. Su Li then recounted how the restaurant owner, Huang Yancheng, became her friend in America two years ago, praising his culinary skills and shared interest in music. Aunt Gu speculated that the chef might have feelings for Su Li.
Liang Ge tried to encourage Xi Song to react, but Xi Song instead told Su Li to get to know Huang Yancheng better, adding that she "should find a boyfriend too." Su Li looked visibly awkward. When the dishes arrived, Song Miduo discovered her order was pan-fried foie gras, which contains liver, an ingredient she disliked. Xi Song noticed her discomfort and, claiming he had ordered incorrectly, swapped his steak with her dish.
Liang Ge questioned this, as Xi Song usually avoided offal. Aunt Gu, with a knowing glance, remarked that Xi Song's tastes had changed considerably. Soon after, Huang Yancheng appeared, warmly greeting Su Li. He insisted she perform a piano piece in exchange for the meal, an "old rule" between them. Su Li gracefully agreed and played, her elegant demeanor and the flowing music making her seem like a goddess.
She occasionally glanced at Xi Song, who smiled back, creating an intimate moment that made Song Miduo feel a pang of sadness. Back in their room, Aunt Gu urged Song Miduo to change into her pajamas and go to bed, forbidding her from going out.
Song Miduo expressed her determination not to give up, saying, "I am young and love to dream now, so I should be bold to do it, otherwise I will not be able to dream when I am old, it will be so miserable." Aunt Gu, skeptical, sat up to keep watch but eventually drifted off to sleep. Song Miduo quietly slipped out. As she left her room, she saw Su Li knocking on and entering Xi Song's room.
Song Miduo discreetly approached Xi Song's door to listen in. Inside, Su Li directly asked Xi Song if he liked Song Miduo. Xi Song immediately and definitively replied, "I like her. Very much." He clarified that he never saw her as a sister. He admitted, "I just like to watch her make trouble, see her make mistakes, and see her thick-skinned sticking to me," adding, "I can't leave her now."
Su Li questioned his choice, pointing out their vastly different worlds and lack of common interests. Xi Song countered that common topics develop after two people are together. Su Li then reminded him of his previous girlfriend, Lin Shihan, who left due to online harassment, and expressed concern that Song Miduo, being even simpler and purer, might also be unable to withstand public pressure and eventually leave him. Xi Song acknowledged these worries, admitting he had already considered them.
He understood that when Song Miduo started university in September, she would face not only online harassment but potentially campus bullying, and he didn't want to inadvertently harm her. Because of these concerns, he explained, he hadn't yet confessed his feelings to Song Miduo, choosing instead to "wait until the time is right." Hearing Su Li prepare to leave, Song Miduo quickly ran away, but in her haste, she forgot her own room number.
She frantically swiped a random door card, and the door opened to reveal a large, half-naked man, who immediately became aggressive. Fortunately, Xi Song appeared and quickly explained the misunderstanding, rescuing Song Miduo from the awkward situation. Flustered, Song Miduo lied, claiming she had eaten too much and wanted to go for a walk. Xi Song retrieved his jacket and accompanied her.
Episode 17 Recap
Xi Song desperately searched for Song Miduo and found a water vendor. He first described her in glowing terms: "about eighteen or nineteen years old, with a ball head, a cute round face, a thin body, looking smart and having a nice voice." When the vendor said they hadn't seen such a person, Xi Song changed his description to "the silly one, maybe no brains, the black and fat one."
The vendor immediately recognized her, recalling she bought five bottles of water, struggled with the math, and overpaid by 2. 5 yuan, then pointed in her direction. The vendor then chuckled, noting how thick Xi Song's "filter" was when describing Song Miduo. Once Xi Song found Song Miduo, they walked side-by-side. Song Miduo giggled, explaining she was happy because the entire scenic area knew her boyfriend was looking for her.
Xi Song jokingly brought up her overpaying the vendor by 2. 5 yuan, which made her blush. Later, as they continued their stroll, Song Miduo brought up Xi Song's important upcoming competition. She encouraged him not to be nervous, to treat it as a regular practice, and assured him he would do great. Xi Song told her to take care of herself, to which she provocatively replied, "I can't manage myself, you come." This left Xi Song speechless.
Despite his initial resistance, he later admitted to Song Miduo, "Yes, I was teased by you." Song Miduo then pretended to be cold, asking to check his hands, and once she held his hand, she declared it was "hot." Song Miduo playfully asked Xi Song if he was truly the world-renowned pianist, to which he replied, "I’m your neighbor."
She then requested to take a "sweet" photo, as she might only see him online once she left in a few days. Xi Song, sensing her underlying melancholy, asked about her university choices. Song Miduo revealed that while her mother wanted her to pursue music and encouraged her to apply to Sitian's Music Education department, she secretly switched her preferences, making her first choice Chinese Literature at Novartis.
She confessed her mother's lifelong dream of having a pianist daughter and her own lack of musical talent, admitting she often felt she disappointed her mother. Xi Song listened intently and encouraged her. He advised her not to force herself into something she disliked or lacked talent for, just as he wouldn't force her to write novels if she wasn't good at it.
He urged her to persevere, to follow her own wishes, and to transform her passion into something she excels at, adding with a smile, "Just be yourself. You can be a little smarter." Song Miduo affirmed that she wanted to work hard to become like him. As the night wore on and the wind picked up, Song Miduo sneezed.
Xi Song took off his jacket, but instead of giving it to her, he wrapped it around both of them, pulling her close in a warm embrace. Song Miduo, nestled against him, told him that she finally understood his feelings, having previously heard him confess his love for her. She playfully insisted they do some "love heart" poses together.
Meanwhile, back at the hotel, Aunt Gu discovered Song Miduo's bed empty and her phone still in the room, realizing she hadn't returned all night. She alerted Liang Ge, and then Su Li, who, upon finding Xi Song’s room also empty, reassured them that Song Miduo and Xi Song were likely together.
After spending the night watching the sunrise, Xi Song and Song Miduo returned to the hotel by taxi, bickering good-naturedly over the expensive fare, which was 56 yuan, and Song Miduo's complaint that she had fallen asleep and not seen the sunrise properly. Song Miduo expressed her anxiety about facing Aunt Gu, blaming Xi Song for their late return. Xi Song, also feeling the pressure, conceded it was his fault for going out with her.
As they arrived, they ran into Liang Ge and Aunt Gu. Liang Ge informed Xi Song that the school had arranged for him and Su Li to participate in an international music exchange festival in Hong Kong next Wednesday, requiring them to leave immediately. Su Li, already packed and downstairs, kindly suggested that Xi Song and Song Miduo go upstairs to shower and rest before they departed, so as not to rush.
Song Miduo, eager not to cause further delays, insisted she was fine. However, Xi Song, placing his arm around Song Miduo, announced they would both go to their rooms to shower and meet everyone in the lobby in twenty minutes, appearing like a close couple. Su Li's expression hardened as she watched them. Lu Yiyou encountered Xiao Mi, who was with her boyfriend. Lu Yiyou was confused, believing Xiao Mi was supposed to be with Song Miduo in Liuting.
Xiao Mi, after dismissing her boyfriend, reluctantly admitted that Song Miduo was actually with Xi Song because they were dating. She urged Lu Yiyou to keep it a secret, as Song Miduo didn't want her parents to know. Refusing to believe it, a devastated Lu Yiyou rushed to Song Miduo's house. There, he found Song Dad covertly moving a box of support items for Xi Song.
When a "Love Xi Song" light board fell out, Song Dad, embarrassed to admit he was the fan, hastily claimed it belonged to Song Miduo. Inside, Song Mom was on the phone, visibly upset while looking at photos of Xi Song and a girl watching the sunrise in Liuting, complaining about the gossip. Lu Yiyou took the phone, only to recognize the girl in the photos as Song Miduo, confirming his worst fears.
On the return journey, Xi Song and Song Miduo slept peacefully, leaning on each other. Su Li, witnessing their closeness, found it unbearable. She asked Liang Ge to pull over and burst into tears, confessing that she saw Xi Song truly liked Song Miduo, not just "getting used to" her. She lamented that after sixteen years of unwavering companionship, her efforts to win Xi Song's affection had been futile, only to lose to "a high school girl who was nothing."
Liang Ge tried to comfort her, but Su Li assured him she would handle her emotions. Upon arriving home, Song Miduo was saying goodbye to Su Li and the others when Lu Yiyou, who had been waiting, suddenly rushed out and pulled Song Miduo aside. Song Mom immediately confronted Song Miduo about her trip to Liuting, accusing her of being in a relationship and threatening her with expulsion if she dated before her senior year.
Song Miduo argued back, pointing out her parents also dated in high school and criticizing her mother's contradictory views on relationships. Ultimately, she apologized and retreated to her room under her mother's stern gaze. Lu Yiyou then left, dejected. Later, Su Li went to speak with Xi Song, feigning concern by asking if he was hungry. After he dismissed her, she casually mentioned seeing a handsome boy, Lu Yiyou, downstairs at Song Miduo's house.
She implied that their relationship might be serious, as she had previously seen him at a gift shop buying a ring for his girlfriend, whom she suspected was Song Miduo. Xi Song immediately understood why Song Miduo had never accepted any gifts from Lu Yiyou. Though he told Su Li he was going to sleep, he appeared restless and later stood on his balcony, where he observed a dejected Lu Yiyou leaving Song Miduo's house.
Episode 18 Recap
Xi Song asked Liang Ge to buy him a new mobile phone, explaining that if he had one, the previous day's incident of not being able to find Song Miduo would not have happened. Liang Ge was surprised by the sudden request, recalling Xi Song had previously refused a phone multiple times. Xi Song then added that he would likely need Liang Ge to teach him how to shop online, hoping to eventually handle it himself without bothering Liang Ge.
Liang Ge, feeling repeatedly hit by these requests, expressed his dismay. Later, Xi Song and Song Miduo found comfort in each other's arms and fell asleep, with Xi Song tenderly kissing Song Miduo's forehead. Meanwhile, Song Miduo's mother had confined Song Miduo to her room for reflection. While collecting Song Miduo's clothes for washing, she noticed they were identical to the outfit worn by the girl in photos with Xi Song on her own phone. Her suspicions grew.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Song Miduo's mother urgently called Song Miduo's father home. Song Miduo's father was out drinking with Lu Yiyou, who was visibly distressed. Lu Yiyou avoided sharing his troubles and simply urged Song Miduo's father to drink more. Upon being summoned by Song Miduo's mother, Song Miduo's father and a heavily intoxicated Lu Yiyou made their way home. In his drunken state, Lu Yiyou blurted out his desire to become Song Miduo's son-in-law.
Song Miduo's father, knowing Lu Yiyou's feelings, stated he couldn't decide such matters and that Song Miduo herself must choose. Lu Yiyou then decided to confront Song Miduo, but mistakenly went to Xi Song's door and loudly called out Song Miduo's name, demanding she open up. Inside, Xi Song, Liang Ge, and Aunt Gu were having dinner and were disturbed by the commotion. Xi Song remained outwardly calm, urging his companions to continue eating.
Lu Yiyou continued his drunken shouts, even claiming "Dad and I are back." Liang Ge tried to shush him, warning him that Song Miduo didn't live there and that a "tigress" and a "zombie face" resided within. Song Miduo, awakened by the noise, came out from her own house. Song Miduo's mother then emerged from her villa, scolding her husband for being drunk with a "kid."
As Lu Yiyou spotted Song Miduo, he rushed over and embraced her, refusing to let go despite her struggles. At that moment, Xi Song opened his door and stepped out. Song Miduo's father froze in shock upon seeing Xi Song and pointed him out to Song Miduo's mother. Song Miduo's mother, initially scolding her husband, also became speechless when she saw Xi Song.
Xi Song calmly walked past Song Miduo's parents, pulled Lu Yiyou away from Song Miduo, and chastised Song Miduo for coming out in her pajamas. He gently touched her forehead and told her to go back inside. Witnessing Xi Song's intimate actions towards her daughter, Song Miduo's mother was so stunned that she fainted.
Xi Song took the still intoxicated Lu Yiyou back to his own house, telling Aunt Gu that Lu Yiyou was his friend and asking her to take good care of him. Aunt Gu was surprised and delighted, noting that Xi Song had never brought a friend home before, and promised to look after Lu Yiyou well. Unbeknownst to her, the half-conscious Lu Yiyou was muttering Xi Song's name and calling him a "bastard" while also lamenting about "my Miduo."
Back home, Song Miduo's mother regained consciousness and immediately questioned Song Miduo about her relationship with Xi Song. Song Miduo lied, claiming they were just ordinary friends, explaining their initial meeting was due to Xi Song's piano playing. Not convinced, her mother pressed for details about the public kiss on her birthday and watching the sunrise together. Curious how her mother knew these things, Song Miduo's mother vaguely replied that a mother knows her daughter's every move.
Song Miduo quickly explained that the kiss was a staged angle that didn't actually connect, and the sunrise viewing was with a large group of people. Fearing her mother was angry about a potential relationship, Song Miduo apologized repeatedly and promised not to date before her senior year. To Song Miduo's surprise, her mother then changed her tune, urging her not to be impulsive and to seize good opportunities, implying she should not let go of Xi Song.
Song Miduo, however, remained cautious, believing her mother was setting a trap and continued to deny any romantic involvement. Later that night, Song Miduo's mother lay awake, afraid to fall asleep, worried that the reality of her daughter's relationship with Xi Song was a dream that would disappear if she closed her eyes.
Meanwhile, Liang Ge showed Aunt Gu a photo of Song Miduo's mother from an event five years ago, revealing her as an enthusiastic "fan head" of Xi Song. Liang Ge and Aunt Gu speculated that Song Miduo's family had deliberately moved next door as part of a scheme to get close to Xi Song, using Song Miduo as a pawn.
Xi Song, however, dismissed their "brain-dead novels" and "messy TV dramas," asserting that if it were a plot, Song Miduo's mother wouldn't have fainted, and Song Miduo herself wasn't clever enough for such elaborate plans. He insisted it was a "pure coincidence." Xi Song then reminded them that fans should be treated well and instructed Aunt Gu to be more polite to Song Miduo's mother, asking her to stop referring to her as a "tigress."
From her balcony, Song Miduo tried calling Lu Yiyou, but he didn't answer. She confided in herself, resolving to keep her connection with Xi Song a secret to protect him. Xi Song then appeared on his adjacent balcony, informing her that Lu Yiyou was asleep at his place and inquiring about her mother. Song Miduo apologized for the trouble, explaining that her mother, who strictly forbade dating before university, had fainted because she believed Song Miduo was in a relationship.
Xi Song, with a hint of amusement, playfully suggested they should minimize contact to avoid upsetting her mother further. Song Miduo quickly responded that it would be fine as long as her mother didn't find out. Xi Song then smiled and asked Song Miduo to tell her mother that he would personally visit after his performance in Hong Kong.
He explained that his celebrity status often brought restrictions and trouble to those around him, which was why he rarely got close to people, except for her. He emphasized that he didn't care about his public image or others' opinions and told her that if anyone asked about their relationship, she should tell them the truth, as long as it made her happy. Moved by his words, Song Miduo immediately ran to Xi Song's apartment.
She asked him how she should respond if people inquired about their relationship. Xi Song warmly embraced her and told her to simply tell them the truth: they had hugged, kissed, and even slept in the same bed. Song Miduo, blushing, hid her face in his arms. Later, Lu Yiyou woke up at Xi Song's house and was surprised to see Su Li.
Su Li informed him that she had been present when Xi Song and Song Miduo went to Liuting and assured him that they were merely ordinary friends, like siblings, with no romantic involvement now or in the future. Feeling validated, Lu Yiyou agreed, stating that Xi Song and Song Miduo were completely mismatched.
Su Li then encouraged Lu Yiyou to pursue Song Miduo, explaining that she herself would not give up on Xi Song, as her long-standing affection for him meant she couldn't miss any opportunity. Lu Yiyou, feeling a sense of camaraderie, agreed that they were kindred spirits. Su Li then told him that she would be traveling to Hong Kong with Xi Song and wished him luck in his endeavors.
Episode 19 Recap
While in Hong Kong, Xi Song unexpectedly encountered the sister of his ex-girlfriend, Shihan. She inquired about his well-being before acknowledging that he likely wanted to know about Shihan. She explained that she had brought Shihan to Hong Kong so she could pursue her dream of joining the L&A Design Institute, and also because the fast-paced life there meant Shihan would rarely encounter news of him.
Xi Song asked about Shihan’s current state, and her sister replied that Shihan was healthy, doing well at work, and surrounded by family and friends, living the life she had always wanted. However, Shihan's sister quickly corrected him, asserting that the life Shihan truly desired was one with him. She stated that while Xi Song was a good person, he was not a good boyfriend. She had initially opposed their relationship but couldn't sway Shihan.
Shihan's sister revealed that during their year together, Shihan was never at peace, not because of outside opinions, but because Xi Song “said nothing,” and as Shihan had always lacked security, their breakup was inevitable. Xi Song apologized, admitting his past ignorance and belief that separation was for the best. Shihan's sister acknowledged that everyone's understanding of love differs and that their past was over.
Xi Song asked her to convey his apologies to Shihan, hoping she would find someone who truly understood her. Shihan’s sister declined, believing the greatest happiness after a breakup was no longer having contact. She then forgave him on Shihan’s behalf and urged him to hold tightly to his next relationship, to never give up easily, and to leave no regrets. Xi Song promised, "Never again." Soon after, Xi Song received a phone call from Shihan.
Sobbing, Shihan pleaded with him to return, distraught by the constant harassment from his fans. People were pointing fingers everywhere she went, anonymous letters were sent to her boss, and even her family and friends were not spared. She questioned if they would only leave her alone if she broke up with him. Xi Song, with a heavy heart, apologized and ended their relationship, saying, "Let's break up." When Shihan questioned him, he repeated, "Then let's break up."
Meanwhile, Song Dad prepared breakfast and called for Song Mom, who emerged from her room dressed provocatively. She ignored Song Dad and went next door to Xi Song's house. Aunt Gu answered the door. Song Mom greeted her cordially and tried to make conversation, despite Aunt Gu’s barely concealed displeasure.
Song Mom eventually asked if Xi Song was home, and Aunt Gu informed her that Xi Song, Su Li, and Liang Ge had left half an hour earlier for the airport, heading to Hong Kong for an international music exchange, with no set return date. Disappointed, Song Mom returned home. Soon after, Lu Yiyou arrived, looking for Song Miduo. Song Mom pulled him aside and pressed him on whether Song Miduo and Xi Song were dating.
Lu Yiyou vehemently denied it, unaware of Song Mom's admiration for Xi Song. He went on to criticize Xi Song, calling him a "wooden block who plays the piano," boring, without fun, and too old. Just then, Song Miduo called Lu Yiyou. Song Mom pressured him to put the call on speaker, and Lu Yiyou, cornered, asked Song Miduo directly about her relationship with Xi Song. Song Miduo, realizing her mom was listening, denied they were dating.
This left Song Mom visibly disappointed, while Lu Yiyou celebrated, exclaiming, "I told you he had no chance!" Lu Yiyou went upstairs to find Song Miduo, who immediately confirmed his suspicion: "My mom was next to you, right? Good thing I didn't tell the truth, traitor!" Lu Yiyou was shocked to learn that Song Miduo and Xi Song were indeed dating.
He protested, claiming Xi Song was not good enough for her, pointing out he couldn't even give her a proper title or public recognition. Song Miduo brushed off his comments and brought him to meet Xiao Mi, where she officially confessed her relationship with Xi Song to both of them.
Song Miduo enthusiastically defended Xi Song, detailing how he could tell jokes (even if not very funny), show care, get into fights, say flattering things, and was romantic, even better at flirting than her, suggesting their differences created a unique "chemical reaction." Xiao Mi expressed happiness for Song Miduo but cautioned her to keep the relationship secret, fearing the wrath of Xi Song's fans.
Unbeknownst to them, Song Mom and Song Dad were secretly following Song Miduo and overheard her confession. Song Mom was so ecstatic that she pinched Song Dad in excitement. When Xiao Mi, eager for intimate gossip, pressed for specifics about who confessed first, hugs, holding hands, and kisses, Song Miduo became coy. Teasing, Xiao Mi suggested they go for drinks to loosen Song Miduo’s tongue, and Song Miduo playfully dragged a reluctant Lu Yiyou along.
Song Mom attempted to continue following them but was stopped by Song Dad, who reasoned that Lu Yiyou would look after Song Miduo. However, Song Mom insisted she wanted to know what happened if Song Miduo got drunk, and criticized Song Dad for thinking she was embarrassed about chasing her daughter when she wasn’t embarrassed about chasing stars. Song Dad then lost track of them.
Later that evening, after drinking with Song Miduo and Xiao Mi, Lu Yiyou drove Song Miduo home. He was noticeably dejected, so Song Miduo, who was tipsy, tried to cheer him up with cold jokes, but he couldn't crack a smile. She encouraged him to be happy, assuring him that there was no obstacle in life that couldn't be overcome. As she said goodnight and turned to leave, Lu Yiyou embraced her tightly.
He promised to stand by her unconditionally, support her, and even stick up for her, no matter what happened. Hiding his personal heartbreak, Lu Yiyou maintained his role as a supportive friend. After Song Miduo entered her house, he sat alone in his car, silently weeping as he reflected on their shared past. Seeing a light in Song Miduo’s room, Song Dad came in to talk to her, concerned about her relationship.
He observed that his daughter had grown up and had secrets she didn't want to share with her parents. Song Miduo acknowledged that he was referring to Xi Song. Song Dad expressed his worries, explaining that Xi Song, as a public figure, was not an ordinary person; his every move would be scrutinized, magnified, misinterpreted, and misunderstood. Song Miduo told her father that she liked Xi Song, but not as a fan.
She asserted that her perception of him differed from others', and acknowledged that Xi Song, and even Lu Yiyou, had expressed similar concerns about her getting hurt. Song Miduo reassured her father that she would never intentionally hurt herself, especially knowing how much they loved her. Regarding external criticism, she believed it stemmed from people's deep affection for Xi Song, and that if she proved her genuine feelings, they might accept her.
She declared she was ready for any challenges and completely unafraid. Song Dad, stating he only wished for her to be a healthy, happy, ordinary person, and not to pursue fame or become a "phoenix," ultimately accepted her decision. He assured her he would respect her choice and unconditionally support her. Song Miduo, touched, hugged her father and promised to work hard to prove her choice was the right one.
Episode 20 Recap
Su Li arranged for a friend with media connections to publish news in tabloids, sensationally claiming that she and Xi Song were about to get married. Liang Ge, suspecting the truth, confronted Su Li. She admitted to orchestrating the news and pleaded with him not to tell Xi Song or acknowledge her involvement, asking him to pretend he knew nothing. News of Xi Song and Su Li's impending marriage quickly spread, dominating social media and news outlets.
Song Miduo’s parents, along with Xiao Mi and Lu Yiyou, learned of it and immediately became concerned about Song Miduo. They devised a plan to keep her from seeing the news. Lu Yiyou pretended he forgot his phone and asked to borrow Song Miduo's, then deliberately dropped it into the toilet, rendering it unusable. However, Song Miduo was already aware of the news. She chased Lu Yiyou, hitting him playfully for damaging her phone.
Meanwhile, Song Miduo’s parents argued about the relationship news. Her mother, furious, posted online, refuting the rumors and declaring that Song Miduo, not Su Li, was Xi Song’s girlfriend. Xiao Mi and Lu Yiyou tried to comfort Song Miduo, encouraging her to cry if she needed to. However, Song Miduo insisted she was fine. She explained that Xi Song and Su Li were widely considered an "official couple," so rumors of their marriage were normal.
She vowed not to believe any news unless Xi Song himself confirmed it. Xiao Mi praised Song Miduo's resilience, jokingly remarking that Xi Song was incredibly lucky to have found her, which led to some lighthearted banter and playful scuffling between them. Their light mood was shattered when several of Xi Song's fans confronted them, accusing Song Miduo of being a "mistress" who interfered with Xi Song and Su Li’s "official" relationship.
The fans also lashed out at Song Miduo's mother for stirring up trouble. A fight quickly broke out between the two groups. Concurrently, Liang Ge was receiving numerous phone calls about the "mistress" rumors. He tried to clarify that Song Miduo was merely a fan and had no romantic involvement with Xi Song. Xi Song, who arrived and overheard Liang Ge's conversation, demanded his phone. He then watched a video of Song Miduo fighting with the fans.
Song Miduo was astonished to discover that her mother was not just a fan, but a die-hard fan of Xi Song, which explained her past insistence on piano lessons and entrance exams. The online backlash against Song Miduo's mother had exposed her personal information, leading to severe online harassment for the entire family.
To escape the escalating situation, Song Miduo’s father decided to take her mother away for a few days, and Song Miduo made plans to stay at Xiao Mi’s place. Xiao Mi expressed her frustration at Xi Song's silence, but Song Miduo, despite her own pain, worried more about how the news might affect Xi Song's competition. She even found herself relieved that he didn't own a mobile phone, hoping he would never see the hurtful comments.
Shortly after, Song Miduo received a phone call. She broke down, sobbing uncontrollably into Xiao Mi's arms, releasing all her suppressed emotions. As Song Miduo’s parents attempted to leave their home, they were ambushed by a large group of reporters. Her father tried to protect his family by asserting that Song Miduo had no involvement with Xi Song or Su Li and threatened legal action if the journalists continued to spread malicious rumors.
Song Miduo arrived at her house and saw her parents surrounded. She got out of the car and stepped forward to confront the reporters. To protect Xi Song’s reputation, she publicly claimed that she was merely a fan who had "pestered" him, and that the photos were a result of her actions, not any reciprocal feelings from him. She apologized to Xi Song, his fans, and Su Li, promising to be a more rational fan in the future.
Watching the scene unfold, Aunt Gu grew increasingly anxious. Suddenly, Xi Song appeared. He loudly called Song Miduo’s name, then pushed through the crowd. He publicly clarified that he and Su Li had grown up together, were friends and family, but never lovers, and there was no marriage contract between them. Turning to Song Miduo, he asked her, "Song Miduo, would you like to be my girlfriend?" Without waiting for an answer, he said, "Not talking means you agreed."
He then turned to the reporters, stating that Song Miduo was not just a fan and, in fact, initially didn't even know who he was. He confessed that he was the one who fell in love with her first but hadn't been good at chasing her. He thanked the reporters for being witnesses and asked them to supervise him, warning them not to let him off if he ever did anything to wrong Song Miduo.
After his heartfelt declaration, Xi Song took Song Miduo's hand and led her away, leaving Aunt Gu with a relieved smile. Later, Xi Song formally met with Song Miduo’s parents. He apologized for not handling the situation better and causing them trouble. Song Miduo’s mother was visibly star-struck, leaving her father to do most of the talking. Song Miduo’s father expressed gratitude to Xi Song for defending their daughter.
He explained that they were open-minded parents who let Song Miduo follow her own path. He acknowledged that Xi Song's public statements were made to protect Song Miduo and assured him that they understood his intentions and would not hold him accountable for those words. Xi Song, however, interrupted him, stating with utmost sincerity that he genuinely and deeply liked Song Miduo, emphasizing that his words were not just to help her but a true reflection of his feelings.
Episode 21 Recap
Xi Song confronted Su Li, asking if the online news was her doing. With tears in her eyes, Su Li admitted her involvement and confessed her long-standing love for him. She expressed disbelief that he hadn't noticed her feelings over the years, recounting how she had always seen him as more than a brother, despite his view of her as a sister.
She believed that by remaining by his side, even silently, and tolerating his other relationships, he would eventually realize she was the one who understood him best and would stay with him until the end. Xi Song acknowledged that she might understand him better than anyone, but firmly stated that Song Miduo was the person he wanted to spend his life with. Su Li frantically asked if he intended to publicly declare his feelings for Song Miduo.
Xi Song confirmed, adding that he couldn't wait another minute. She pleaded with him, highlighting that everyone now perceived her as his girlfriend and begging him not to go to Song Miduo. Xi Song remained resolute, pushing her away. He informed her that he would clarify the fake marriage announcement, stating that "what's false will always be false."
He advised her to stop wasting her time on him, as he had nothing to offer her, and expressed a wish that they could at least remain friends. Su Li broke down in tears as Xi Song departed. Liang Ge attempted to stop Xi Song, but Xi Song grabbed his phone to call Song Miduo. He assured her that the marriage news with Su Li was fake and they were merely friends.
He instructed her to avoid the internet, stay indoors, and not remain at home, advising her to stay with Xiao Mi for a couple of days. He emphasized that she should not respond to anyone about the situation, but simply "wait for him to return." Song Miduo was in tears, but Xi Song reassured her that he was there. Xi Song then met with Song Miduo’s parents.
Song Dad, initially expressing an understanding that Xi Song's public statements were merely to protect Song Miduo, said they wouldn't hold him accountable for his words. Xi Song interrupted, making it clear that his words were not just to help Song Miduo, but because he genuinely and deeply liked her.
He explained that he had kept their relationship private to shield Song Miduo from public scrutiny, but now understood that true protection meant standing by her side and giving her enough sense of security. He implored them to trust him and accept their relationship, promising to cherish and respect Song Miduo as they did.
Song Mom was immediately overjoyed and approved, while Song Dad, seemingly outvoted by his wife and daughter, gave Xi Song a stern warning: he would not be forgiven if he ever wronged Song Miduo. Song Mom dismissed Song Dad's concern, noting that reporters and her fan club would be monitoring Xi Song, even jokingly suggesting Song Dad quit his fan club. She affectionately began calling Xi Song "Xiao Song."
Both Song Mom and Song Dad expressed their curiosity about why Xi Song liked Song Miduo, listing her many perceived shortcomings and jokingly asking if Song Miduo had some leverage over him. Song Miduo, exasperated by her parents' teasing, slumped onto the sofa. Xi Song subtly took her hand from behind, bringing a wide smile to her face. Driven by her newfound excitement, Song Mom embarked on a rigorous training regimen for Song Miduo.
This included extensive shopping for clothes, as Xi Song preferred elegant, clean styles, particularly black, white, grey, and pink. She also shared details about Xi Song's personal preferences, such as his admiration for Penny Dai, advising Song Miduo never to sing in front of him. Song Mom revealed Xi Song's sole previous relationship was with a designer named Lin Shihan three years prior, which ended due to intense public and fan pressure.
She also divulged details about his affluent family background: his father, Xi Hengyuan, is a world-renowned entrepreneur, making Xi Song a rich second generation. She shared the tragic story of his mother, a composer, who died in a car accident when Xi Song was five, on her way to the Vasser Competition featuring her composition—the same piece Xi Song was preparing to perform. Song Mom warned Song Miduo not to mention this sensitive topic to him.
Song Mom also expressed concerns about navigating the media, Xi Song's fans, and his powerful father, Xi Hengyuan. When Song Miduo complained about the grueling preparations, Song Mom used reverse psychology, suggesting Song Miduo wouldn't last six months, unlike Lin Shihan. This spurred Song Miduo to embrace the training, which also included flower arrangement, cooking, skincare, and weight loss.
Song Mom meticulously listed Xi Song’s likes: salty, spicy, and sweet foods, green tea, and milk; and dislikes: pets, furry things, hotpot, animal organs, green onions, ginger, garlic, cilantro, being bothered by "flamboyant, self-righteous" people, and "fat people, especially those with swollen faces." Meanwhile, Su Li was drowning her sorrows alone at a bar. Lu Yiyou approached her, demanding to know if she was behind the recent news. Su Li grimaced, realizing his persistent concern for Song Miduo.
She cynically remarked that if she were Song Miduo, she would choose him. Lu Yiyou warned her not to harm Song Miduo, vowing he would not forgive her if she did. Su Li scoffed at his "Lei Feng" persona, then tearfully confessed her bitterness. She cried that her decade-plus of companionship and waiting for Xi Song had been for naught, as he now preferred a high schooler who had nothing.
She recounted how Xi Song had been her only focus from the beginning, making his rejection all the more painful. Lu Yiyou reminded her of a favor she owed him and urged her to release Xi Song, Song Miduo, and herself from her grasp. He offered comfort, suggesting that their only real advantage over Song Miduo and Xi Song was a few more years of shared history and memories, and that she shouldn't feel so indignant about the outcome.
Su Li continued to weep. Back at Xi Song’s home, Liang Ge sat anxiously outside with him, worried about Su Li. He pressed Xi Song for his next move. Xi Song stated he had done everything he could, and the rest was up to Su Li.
Liang Ge criticized Xi Song for being so heartless toward his childhood sweetheart, but Xi Song countered that precisely because of their deep emotional connection, he had to be decisive and leave no room for doubt. Xi Song predicted Su Li would return to the U. S. the following day and asked Liang Ge to see her off. Liang Ge, sounding displeased, stated Su Li was his friend too and didn't need Xi Song's instructions.
Xi Song spent a restless night. The next morning, he heard Su Li stirring and opened the door to find her luggage packed. He expressed a hope that she would still turn to him first with any difficulties, as she used to. Su Li revealed she was ready to let herself go.
She explained that she had forced herself to be strong for years, believing it was the only way to be worthy of standing by his side, but that was no longer necessary. She made a final plea to Xi Song: for her sake, he should not answer her calls or reply to her emails once she returned to the U. S. , and should delete them immediately, helping her to forget him.
With tears welling in her eyes, Su Li bid him goodbye, effectively ending her years of unrequited love. She also told him that if he ever changed his mind, he was welcome to find her in the U. S. Xi Song replied that such a day would never come. Su Li wished him success in his upcoming competition, expressing her certainty that he would succeed, and told him to take care of himself before departing.
Liang Ge was waiting to drive Su Li away; unsure how to comfort her, he simply patted her shoulder. Su Li understood. She cast a final glance at Xi Song's home and then smiled, finding a sense of release as she left. Xi Song did not appear to see her off.
Episode 22 Recap
After Su Li's departure, Xi Song secretly watched her leave, feeling a bit sad. Song Miduo, noticing his dejection from her own balcony, tried to cheer him up with stories, jokes, and songs, but Xi Song simply asked for quiet. He then apologized to her on Su Li's behalf. Song Miduo felt she was the one who should apologize, acknowledging that feelings cannot be forced.
She told Xi Song that if he ever stopped liking her, he must tell her directly, promising to leave gracefully without clinging to him. Xi Song chuckled, remarking that she had grown up. He then invited her to play the piano with him. As they performed the "dream song" together, Song Miduo felt a profound sense of completeness, as if she were seeing her childhood self in a dream. Xi Song softly kissed her forehead, sealing their sweet moment.
Later, Xi Song bought a new phone and called Song Miduo. Mistaking him for an insurance salesperson, she repeatedly hung up and eventually blocked his number. Unable to reach her, Xi Song climbed over to her balcony to confront her. Song Miduo was surprised to see him and realized he had bought the phone specifically to communicate with her, filling her with warmth.
Their sweet moment was interrupted by Song Dad knocking on the door, intending to retrieve a potted plant from the balcony. In a panic, Song Miduo quickly hid Xi Song in her wardrobe. Song Dad entered, locking the balcony door, and then went to the closet, looking for pajamas, but Xi Song skillfully avoided being discovered.
Song Dad reminded her that dating was fine, but she must not "cross the line," unaware that he had just locked Xi Song inside her room. Xi Song planned to wait until Song Dad fell asleep around 4 AM before sneaking out. However, Song Miduo didn't want him to leave, fabricating a story that her parents had argued, and her dad was sleeping on the living room sofa and often stayed up late.
In reality, Song Dad was already fast asleep next to Song Mom. Song Miduo suggested Xi Song stay the night in her room. Xi Song, flustered, told her to be quiet, not look at him, not laugh, and to keep her head down, threatening to leave if she didn't comply. Song Miduo, though confused, obeyed. To pass the time, she taught him how to use his new phone, including how to unblock numbers.
They played games late into the night until Xi Song eventually fell asleep beside her. Song Miduo then secretly took photos of him and changed his contact name in her phone to "my goddess" before falling asleep herself, resting against him. Meanwhile, online, a fierce battle erupted over the public comments about Song Miduo and Xi Song's relationship. Xiao Mi and Lu Yiyou furiously defended Song Miduo against the keyboard warriors, using their phones and computers.
Song Miduo's parents also joined the fray, organizing a fan support group from home, with Song Dad instructing them to "persuade people to be kind" rather than attack. Even Aunt Gu began monitoring the situation. Unaware of the online commotion, Song Miduo and Xi Song continued to revel in their blossoming romance, enjoying sweet dates, sharing meals, and exchanging goodnights. Their affection grew stronger.
Later, Aunt Gu visited Song Mom, expressing concern about Xi Song's upcoming Huaster Piano Competition, a contest he had been preparing for for many years. She emphasized that their relationship should not interfere with his crucial preparation. Song Mom, also recognizing the importance of the competition, agreed to collaborate with Aunt Gu to limit the couple's time together.
She boasted about knowing Xi Song's favorite dishes, insisting Aunt Gu stay for lunch, which Aunt Gu accepted as a challenge to see whose cooking Xi Song truly preferred. Song Miduo was disheartened when she checked her university results and discovered she hadn't been admitted to Sitian due to changing her college major. She called Lu Yiyou to complain. Unbeknownst to her, Lu Yiyou had applied to Sitian because of her and had been admitted.
He was currently confined by his parents, who were furious about his choice, and his mother had fallen ill. He was devastated to learn that Song Miduo hadn't even applied there, feeling completely "cheated." He told her he couldn't help her, wishing her luck before hanging up. Pondering her future, Song Miduo contemplated repeating the year to attend Sitian and be with Xi Song, but she worried about failing again.
She didn't want to endure four years of a long-distance relationship, separated by a thousand kilometers, fearing they would just become "idol and fan." Liang Ge then approached her, congratulating her on her decent exam scores and asking why she was out strolling. Song Miduo tried to enlist his help, knowing he was an alumnus and faculty member at Sitian and had mentored Xi Song.
She asked if he could put in a good word for her during the interview process. Liang Ge firmly rejected the idea, refusing to be involved in any "shady dealings." He expressed his exasperation, observing that Song Miduo was oblivious and fearless, ignoring opposition from friends and family, strong rivals, and online criticism, and now even her own academic future, all for Xi Song.
Song Miduo then asked Liang Ge to keep her decision to repeat a secret from Xi Song. Liang Ge promised he wasn't a gossip, but moments later, he called Xi Song and revealed her plan to him.
Episode 23 Recap
Song Miduo and Xi Song shared a sweet, playful kiss over a bedsheet. While Xi Song practiced the piano, Song Miduo sent him incessant messages, which he found bothersome. He told her to stop sending inexplicable messages and to curb her idol drama-fueled fantasies. Song Miduo retorted, playfully calling him an "unearthed cultural relic" who wouldn't understand. Xi Song, intrigued, asked if she was a Pisces, surprising her with his knowledge of constellations, only to then call her old-fashioned.
Song Miduo then told him she planned to perform the piano at the school's welcome party and wanted him to come, fantasizing about him arriving in a suit with nine hundred ninety-nine roses. Xi Song, however, dismissed her romantic vision as too much, and even suggested her romance novels might not be popular, prompting her to playfully defend herself again.
Liang Ge could not keep Song Miduo's secret, informing Xi Song about her decision to repeat a year to get into Sitian. Liang Ge expressed his concern, remarking that young people often act on whims, treating their studies lightly, and noted Song Miduo’s firm resolve. This news clearly unsettled Xi Song. Song Miduo gathered her parents to announce her decision. She revealed she had been accepted into Novartis's Chinese Department but wished to repeat a year to enroll in Sitian.
Her parents were vehemently against the idea. Song Mom immediately rejected it, explaining that repeating would set her back a year in her education and future career. Song Dad supported his wife, emphasizing that repeating was a serious matter not to be approached impulsively. Song Mom pointed out that Song Miduo had previously been determined to attend Novartis, leading her to believe that Song Miduo's sudden change of heart was solely due to Xi Song.
Her parents jointly vetoed the plan, making it clear there was no room for discussion. Frustrated, Song Miduo tossed the remote control. Xi Song then sought out Song Miduo, having learned of her plans from Liang Ge. Song Miduo, calling Liang Ge a traitor, explained her reasoning: Novartis was too distant, Xi Song rarely used his phone, and four years was ample time for someone to be forgotten.
Xi Song playfully held her face, joking about his own forgetfulness and telling her to take a good look, then reassuring her that he wouldn't forget her. Song Miduo countered, teasing that she might forget him given the many handsome guys at university, to which Xi Song responded he would keep a close eye on her. Mistaking his words as a desire to stay together, Song Miduo was happy, but Xi Song denied it.
He urged her to go to Novartis and abandon the idea of repeating. Song Miduo stood firm, declaring her intention to repeat for Sitian, stating that while she liked writing novels, she liked him more and wouldn't risk their relationship. Xi Song advised her that if she didn't want to take risks, she should go to Novartis, warning against pinning hopes on others for emotional matters.
When Song Miduo pressed him, asking if he would break up with her if she insisted on repeating, Xi Song remained silent. Interpreting his silence as an answer, a heartbroken Song Miduo declared she understood. Xi Song then told her to think things through and not contact him until she had made up her mind. At home, Song Miduo wrestled with her emotions, torn between wanting to reconcile with Xi Song and her determination to repeat for Sitian.
She resolved not to seek him out, telling herself that if he didn't care for her as much as she thought, then breaking up wasn't a significant loss. Meanwhile, Aunt Gu noticed the unusual quietness in the house, hinting at a quarrel between Song Miduo and Xi Song. She suggested a farewell dinner before Xi Song left for his piano competition, but he declined, stating he would leave right after breakfast.
When Liang Ge arrived to pick him up, he urged Xi Song to clarify things with Song Miduo, warning against any emotional turmoil affecting his upcoming competition. Xi Song went upstairs to pack, carefully placing the cup Song Miduo had given him into his suitcase. He then messaged her to meet on the balcony. There, he asked if she had thought things through, to which she replied she hadn't, and he simply told her to continue thinking.
He then informed her that he was leaving in half an hour, first for a performance in the United States and then directly to Italy for a competition, and wouldn't return until late September, meaning he wouldn't be able to see her off. Song Miduo was furious, accusing him of making decisions without ever considering her feelings, asking if her opinions were unimportant, just like with the repeating issue.
In an emotional outburst, she wondered if he would have spoken to Lin Shihan the same way. She then angrily told him to leave, wishing him success in the competition. Distraught, Song Miduo ran back to her room in tears. A moment later, hearing the sound of Xi Song's car driving away, she couldn't help but rush out to chase after it, but he did not look back.
Song Dad took Song Miduo to the seaside for a heart-to-heart talk, asking if she had quarreled with Xi Song. He affirmed his belief that Xi Song was a good man, stating that repeating a year for love was too reckless, and a daughter should never gamble her future on a man's heart. Song Miduo admitted that her sadness wasn't about the inability to repeat, but rather Xi Song's perceived lack of support.
Song Dad then explained that women often focus on a man's words, tone, and expressions instead of understanding their true intentions. He reminded her of Xi Song's character—mature, rational, and far-sighted, much like himself—a man of ambition who offered solid reliance rather than constant romantic gestures. After this conversation, Song Miduo felt much better. Song Mom went to Aunt Gu’s house for a farewell visit. Despite their initial polite standoff, a few drinks loosened their tongues.
Aunt Gu hinted at her observation that Song Miduo and Xi Song had argued. Aunt Gu then described Xi Song’s true feelings, noting how he pretended indifference despite caring deeply, calling him naive. She recounted how Xi Song had stood silently at their gate for a long time before leaving, showing his reluctance. She shared that since his mother's death, Xi Song had become withdrawn, hating the phrase "all good things must end."
Aunt Gu expressed her joy that Xi Song was with Song Miduo, feeling that Song Miduo had made him more grounded. Song Mom, a staunch admirer of Xi Song, declared she would never forgive Song Miduo if she ever wronged him. However, Aunt Gu surprisingly took Song Miduo's side, urging Song Mom to show more affection to her daughter and not just focus on her admiration for Xi Song.
Later that night, Song Miduo, after having some wine with her father, found herself still troubled. Drunk, she wandered into Xi Song’s empty house and lay down on his bed. The house was quiet, with no sound of his piano. Alone in his room, she reflected on her earlier behavior, wondering if he would blame her, considering her ignorant or worthless.
She wrestled with the thought that she was "asking for trouble," no matter whether she chose to repeat or not. Eventually, she fell asleep. The following morning, she awoke to the sound of her father calling her name from her own balcony, catching her red-handed as she stepped out of Xi Song's room.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
Song Miduo’s connection with Xi Song began even before she was born. While pregnant with Song Miduo, her mother was already a devoted fan of Xi Song. Her parents would play piano music for her prenatal education, hoping their daughter would grow up to be elegant, quiet, and graceful, often telling her stories of Xi Song as an inspiring role model. During one of Xi Song’s childhood piano competitions, Song Miduo’s parents were there to support him.
Her mother expressed how much she adored him, telling him that even the little baby in her belly was a fan. A polite young Xi Song thanked them both, and then gently touched Song Miduo’s mother’s belly, asking if he could shake hands with the unborn baby. Upon discovering Song Miduo had spent the night in Xi Song’s bedroom after climbing over the wall, her father was initially displeased.
However, to Song Miduo’s surprise, her mother was not angry; instead, she seemed excited and even praised Song Miduo, questioning when she and Xi Song had become so close. Song Miduo, embarrassed, vehemently denied her mother's implications. The sudden change in their family's plans was due to her maternal grandfather’s high blood pressure, prompting an earlier return to Shanghai.
Although her mother initially suggested Song Miduo stay behind to say goodbye to Xi Song, Song Miduo immediately went to pack her bags, knowing how much her grandfather doted on her. She tried calling Xiao Mi and Lu Yiyou to say goodbye, but both were preoccupied with their own issues. With a hopeful heart, she then dialed Xi Song’s number, but it didn't connect, so she sent him a message instead.
As her family prepared to leave, Aunt Gu, who had developed a strong friendship with Song Miduo’s mother, lovingly prepared many desserts and fruits for their journey. The two women, now very close, made plans to visit each other in Shanghai, having confided in each other about Xi Song's feelings and their support for the young couple. Feeling a sense of loss, Song Miduo lingered outside Xi Song’s house.
Just then, a luxury car pulled up, and a well-dressed middle-aged man stepped out. He looked Song Miduo up and down, complimenting her, saying she was even cuter than her pictures online. Song Miduo, bewildered, asked who he was. The man, introducing himself as Xi Hengyuan, Xi Song’s father, expressed his displeasure that Xi Song hadn’t mentioned him to her. Xi Hengyuan then warmly greeted Song Miduo’s parents.
Aunt Gu playfully hinted that they might be future in-laws, which only made Xi Hengyuan beam brighter. Aunt Gu explained to Song Miduo’s parents that Xi Song chose to live alone because his father was so boisterous. Moved by Xi Hengyuan’s unexpected kindness and his genuine affection for her and her parents, Song Miduo reflected that even without seeing Xi Song at that moment, their story was still just beginning.
As the days turned into weeks, it was time for university. Lu Yiyou proudly entered Sitian University, showing off his acceptance letter to the security guard, much to Xiao Mi's delight. Meanwhile, Xi Song successfully won the gold medal in his piano competition, a triumph celebrated by Song Miduo’s parents, who rang bells at a temple. However, for Song Miduo, these were weeks of despair. She had lost all contact with Xi Song; her calls went unanswered, her messages unread.
She felt as though their story had ended with the start of university, finding solace only in old candid photos on her phone and the occasional whispers of gossip around her, which confirmed that her experiences were not just a figment of her imagination. At her new university, the whispers about her past connection with Xi Song were not kind.
Students openly mocked her, claiming she was a "toad wanting to eat swan meat" and that a relationship with Xi Song was impossible. Heartbroken, Song Miduo walked away from the classroom, tears streaming down her face as she stood alone by the roadside. Unbeknownst to her, Xi Song, who had been away at his piano competition, had left his phone at home and had been incredibly busy with various commitments, causing the communication blackout.
He had just returned and was setting his own plans in motion. At the university's freshman welcome party, Song Miduo took to the stage to play the piano, her mind drifting to her memories with Xi Song. As whispers about her and Xi Song’s rumored past circulated among the audience, a figure in a suit, holding a single rose, walked into the hall. It was Xi Song, who removed his mask and steadily approached the stage.
Song Miduo stood up, deeply moved, as he handed her the rose. All the past difficulties and the murmurs of others faded away; in that moment, only they existed. Overwhelmed, Song Miduo questioned why he hadn’t contacted her, leaving her to wait like a fool and not even informing her of his award. Xi Song explained that he had forgotten his phone at home when he went to his competition and had been incredibly busy with various commitments.
He lightly pointed out that they had only been apart for three weeks, not years, as she made it seem. Song Miduo worried that he would disappear again during their four years of university, but Xi Song then pulled out a set of keys. He revealed that he had bought an apartment in Hualuyuan, right next to her school, and would be living there permanently to be near her. Song Miduo burst into tears, touched by his gesture.
Xi Song embraced her, comforting her as he reiterated his promise to always watch over her. He then playfully teased her, saying he was even more outstanding now and that the path ahead would be more challenging, asking if she was ready. Song Miduo smiled through her tears, confidently assuring him that she was "always ready." They then shared a sweet, intimate kiss.
