Remembrance of Things Past Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Remembrance of Things Past Synopsis
Qiao Xichen, who has been smart and motivated since childhood. She studied hard all the way and was admitted to the College in Beijing and later she worked in Beijing. She worked diligently and pragmatically and lived a good life.
The sudden death of her best friend, Hu Jingjing, shattered her peaceful life. Qiao Xichen faced the loss of Hu Jingjing together with her best friend Xu Yan and Hu Jingjing’s cousin Ji Nanjia and continued to live with her memory of Hu Jingjing.
Qiao Xichen’s company parachuted in the leader Jian Yifan and announced layoffs. While the project she was in charge of had a sudden situation. With her own efforts and the help of her colleagues, she got through it and got together with Jian Yifan.
The former boss returned, Qiao Xichen was transferred from the core position, she was not anxious, did her job well, but also found a new career direction.
Ji Nanjia’s company had an operational crisis due to changes in market demand, she searched for new business opportunities from her life and went to a new peak in her career while gaining true love.
Xu Yan stayed in Beijing for her local boyfriend but broke up with him due to differences in consumer attitudes. She eventually waked up and gave up her pursuit of glitz and glamour to find her true value in life.
All of them understood the meaning of optimism and hard work and move on to a new life.
Remembrance of Things Past Recap
Episode 1 Recap
A woman plummeted from an overpass after receiving a mysterious phone call that seemed to shatter her last hopes. The tragic event unfolded quickly, catching Jian Yifan, who was driving by, off guard. He was forced to brake, his expression a mixture of shock and disbelief, as the bustling intersection momentarily froze in silence. The day of the incident was Hu Jingjing's twenty-sixth birthday.
Having strived for years in the city, she had learned to navigate adversity, always maintaining a cheerful facade despite life's pressures. Her cousin, Ji Nanjia, a few years older and a successful entrepreneur, ran her own event planning company, though it often operated with a deficit. Meanwhile, their friend Qiao Xichen, academically accomplished since childhood, led a more comfortable life, primarily dealing with her demanding female boss.
Even Xu Yan, the youngest of the group, followed a steady career path and enjoyed a typical young adult romance. Ji Nanjia faced a significant crisis when a client for a high school alumni gathering unexpectedly requested a change from 2017 vintage wine to a more expensive 2012 vintage on short notice. The change presented a major financial strain and logistical challenge for her company.
Determined to resolve it, Ji Nanjia immediately contacted her network, offering to personally cover the additional cost if necessary. Later, she successfully procured three boxes of the rare 2012 wine.
Meeting with the clients, Mr. Zhang and Mr. Wang, Ji Nanjia skillfully navigated the situation by proposing a seating rearrangement to honor the attending teachers and two medical workers who had served in Wuhan, ensuring they received the premium wine as a special gift, accompanied by a heartfelt card from the alumni. The remaining tables would be served the original wine, a solution that was well-received by the clients.
At Qiao Xichen's office, colleagues gossiped about a new director replacing their pregnant boss, Lu Yining, amid rumors of a divorce between Mr. Jiang and President Han Jr. , suggesting corporate power struggles. Qiao Xichen diligently helped a colleague correct an inventory report and later chatted about the possibility of menstruation leave.
During this time, Ji Nanjia received a call from her mother, who was trying to set her up on a date, stressing about her age and playfully calling her "ugly" for not finding a partner. Back at Qiao Xichen's company, Lu Yining, despite being heavily pregnant, conducted a demanding meeting, critiquing promotional proposals and insisting on a new, more aggressive cold brew promotion by the end of the day, even as her team highlighted the increased production costs.
In a dramatic turn, Lu Yining's water broke during the meeting. With incredible composure, she immediately called her husband, instructing him to go home for her packed hospital bag and meet her at the hospital, while simultaneously giving last-minute work instructions to her astonished team about the 818 product details. Her colleagues were deeply impressed by her unwavering dedication to work. Jian Yifan was swiftly appointed as the new marketing director, filling the temporary vacancy left by Lu Yining.
In his introduction, he emphasized two core principles: "do what you're supposed to do" and "enjoy," encouraging informal interactions outside of work, including tennis matches. However, he also laid down strict new rules, explicitly forbidding eating at desks or in meeting rooms, promoting a work-life balance that some found ironic given his next announcement.
He then dropped a bombshell: everyone must submit a detailed work report for the past six months, including work scope, projects, and an ROA analysis, by the end of the day. He further declared that an "elimination system" would be implemented, resulting in one-third of the marketing department being let go next month. Noticing Qiao Xichen, who had brought her lunch into the meeting, he called on her to introduce herself.
Amidst Jian Yifan's startling announcement, Qiao Xichen received an urgent text about her home being broken into, likely by her landlord. During her introduction to Jian Yifan, she hastily requested emergency leave. She immediately called Hu Jingjing, who, upon hearing the news, offered to come help. At Qiao Xichen's apartment, she found her furniture being removed by movers at the landlord's instruction.
The landlord accused Qiao of not paying rent for three months, but Qiao insisted she had paid six months' rent upfront to an agency. The landlord claimed he never received the money and that the agency's office was deserted. Qiao tried to contact the agency but found she had been blocked, realizing she had been scammed.
The landlord, frustrated by his son's delayed house loan, demanded Qiao pay or move out immediately, as he had a viewing scheduled for the afternoon. Hu Jingjing arrived at the chaotic scene and fiercely confronted the landlord and movers, even grabbing a cleaver from the kitchen to defend Qiao Xichen. Police were called, and Officer Tan mediated the dispute. The landlord agreed not to press charges, and the police confirmed the agency's actions constituted fraud, promising an investigation.
Qiao Xichen was given three days to move out. While checking Hu Jingjing's ID, Officer Tan noticed it was her birthday and offered a thoughtful "Happy Birthday" along with a caution against rash actions, a gesture that deeply touched Hu Jingjing. Despite her own troubles, Hu Jingjing insisted Qiao Xichen return to work to fix a document, assuring her she was free to handle the packing and would take care of things.
She even playfully encouraged Qiao to go change for the evening's birthday party. In reality, Hu Jingjing was grappling with her own job loss. Earlier, her HR manager had forced her to resign, coercing her by threatening to terminate her under an "elimination system," which would both deny her severance pay and leave a blemish on her record. The manager cited her lack of overtime and unwillingness to help other colleagues as reasons, which Hu Jingjing vehemently disputed.
After this upsetting encounter, Hu Jingjing visited a playground, where she helped children retrieve a ball stuck in a tree. After playfully correcting them to call her "Sister" instead of "Aunt," she left her blazer behind, attempting to find a moment of fleeting joy amidst her growing despair. Meanwhile, Xu Yan, despite being a self-proclaimed "month-end spender," planned to buy an expensive handbag for Hu Jingjing's birthday. However, when she attempted to purchase it, her payment failed.
She called her boyfriend, Shen Zichang, only to discover he had used their shared Alipay funds to buy a pair of sport shoes, sparking a heated argument. A saleswoman tried to suggest a smaller, cheaper waist bag, but Xu Yan, upset and frustrated, left without buying anything. Later, Xu Yan's mother called, lamenting that a relative had criticized a previous bag Xu Yan gifted her, calling it cheap and boasting about a more expensive one she had received.
Xu Yan offered to buy her mother a new bag, but her mother advised against such vanity, urging her to save money. The argument between Xu Yan and Shen Zichang continued, with Shen Zichang suggesting he would drive everyone home from the party. However, Xu Yan, angered by his insensitivity and financial irresponsibility, walked away from him and took the subway instead.
Hu Jingjing arrived early at the hotpot restaurant, which Ji Nanjia had thoughtfully chosen to be conveniently located near Qiao Xichen's apartment. Upon arrival, she received a bouquet of flowers. She recorded a video message for her friends, playfully acknowledging that she had "ruined their surprise" by arriving early. She pointed to the 26 flowers, implying one for each year of her life, and cheerfully declared herself beautiful for them. After sending the video, her cheerful facade crumbled.
Crying uncontrollably, she went home, carefully applied her makeup, and changed into her favorite white dress before walking to the overpass. There, after a mysterious phone call, Hu Jingjing’s phone slipped from her grasp and shattered into pieces on the ground. Overwhelmed by complete despair, she looked out into the distance, a faint smile gracing her lips, before she tragically leaped. A brief moment of silence was quickly followed by the horrified screams of onlookers.
Episode 2 Recap
Officer Tan arrived at the scene, crossing the police line, and was struck by the tragic innocence of the death. Just hours earlier, the young woman had been with friends at the police station, receiving birthday wishes, and now, her life was unexpectedly over. Qiao Xichen, Xu Yan, and Ji Nanjia rushed to the location. As Hu Jingjing's cousin, Ji Nanjia was required to identify the body.
Hu Jingjing lay cold and pale in the mortuary, her life having ended in the most unfortunate way. This outcome was shocking, as everyone remembered Hu Jingjing as an optimistic and cheerful person. While the answers to their questions seemed frozen in the air, only Ji Nanjia's heart-wrenching cries could be heard. Qiao Xichen and Xu Yan were reduced to tears, unable to turn back.
Jian Yifan, who had witnessed Hu Jingjing's fall from the overpass, was deeply disturbed by the close encounter with death and felt overwhelmed, needing to step away from the scene to compose himself. Later, he saw Officer Tan speaking with Qiao Xichen about Hu Jingjing's life, inquiring if she had exhibited any unusual behavior. Qiao Xichen could only recall that it was Hu Jingjing's birthday, and they had been happily chatting in their group, planning a hotpot celebration that evening.
She remembered Hu Jingjing joking around that morning, making everyone laugh, and even helping her move out in the afternoon, appearing cheery. Later, sitting by the window, Qiao Xichen remembered a brief moment of quiet from Hu Jingjing that seemed uncharacteristic, a detail she hadn't noticed at the time. She regretted not being more attentive, thinking that perhaps things could have been different. She also questioned, "Who'd commit suicide on their birthday? I don't get it."
The police classified the case as a suicide, and Hu Jingjing's body was sent back to her hometown for the funeral. Photos showed a younger Hu Jingjing with her usual radiant smile, a smile now gone, leaving her parents with endless grief. Her mother clung to the urn, crying inconsolably. Ji Nanjia struggled to offer comfort, while Qiao Xichen and Xu Yan were also overcome with sorrow. After the funeral, the three friends returned to Beijing.
Xu Yan was the quickest to recover from the shock, reconciling with Shen Zichang. She was enjoying the comfort of their relationship while also seeking material satisfaction. At Xu Yan's insistence, Shen Zichang bought her a designer bag as a gift. Initially thrilled, Xu Yan took numerous photos to post online. However, she soon discovered a discount voucher inside the bag, realizing Shen Zichang had bought a replica online, unwilling to spend the full amount.
This led to another argument, and they parted ways again, with Xu Yan yelling at Shen Zichang, "You might as well not buy! Why did you get me a fake bag? I've already posted online and told everyone I bought a branded bag!" Meanwhile, Ji Nanjia, always busy with work, was approaching forty and still single. Her mother repeatedly pressed her to marry, but Ji Nanjia always declined, stating she preferred to wait for the right person.
Unbeknownst to her family, Ji Nanjia's reluctance to date stemmed from a secret: she had been diagnosed with Stage II cervical cancer five years prior. She kept her treatment a secret from most, with only her doctor and Hu Jingjing, her cousin, aware. Hu Jingjing's support helped Ji Nanjia through the toughest times, and her surgery was successful, with follow-up checks showing good results.
Receiving her latest positive report, Ji Nanjia felt a mix of joy and sadness; joy for her recovery, and sorrow that she couldn't share the news with Hu Jingjing, who "almost could have seen this." She remembered Hu Jingjing telling her, "Nan Jia, I won't tell anyone, don't worry. But, you have to promise me this. Call me if something happens to you, okay? Let me keep you company, okay?"
At work, the company re-evaluated employee performance, leading to the dismissal of the lowest-ranked employee, Ye Zi. Su Qing, second to last, felt threatened. She approached Qiao Xichen, offering to treat her to a meal and expressing her desire to join Qiao Xichen's 818 project, mentioning she was "still new here" and would be Jian Yifan's "easiest target." Qiao Xichen sympathized with Su Qing's plight, especially after Hu Jingjing's death, and agreed to help.
While tidying Hu Jingjing's belongings, Qiao Xichen found her damaged phone and visited several repair shops, pleading with technicians to restore it, emphasizing that "What's inside there is really important to me" and that "She's passed away." Qiao Xichen's kindness, however, was not reciprocated. Su Qing proved to be two-faced, often slacking off and engaging in underhanded tactics. Jian Yifan, Qiao Xichen, and Su Qing went to meet a client.
As they waited anxiously for a response, Qiao Xichen received a phone call from the client, informing them that a rival company had secured the deal. The change in the client's decision was suspicious, as Yann Coffee should have had the advantage. Jian Yifan returned to the office to investigate and discovered that an internal "quotation list" had gone missing, allowing a competitor to learn their pricing and undercut them.
Upon hearing this, Su Qing immediately produced her copy of the quotation list, claiming her innocence. Qiao Xichen, however, couldn't find hers and repeatedly asserted that she hadn't gone to the washroom where the document was reportedly found. She tried to question Su Qing, but Su Qing, appearing nervous, made excuses and quickly left. Feeling betrayed, Qiao Xichen felt she now understood the fable of the farmer and the snake.
Without proof to clear her name, she sought solace in alcohol on her balcony, spending 800 yuan of her 1,000 yuan savings on whiskey. The remaining 200 yuan represented her last shred of determination to stay in Beijing. Jian Yifan, passing by, found her there.
Qiao Xichen explained her dedication to work since before graduating from college, working "during work hours, non-work hours, and overtime," and how hard everyone her age worked, making it impossible to "dare to take a break." Jian Yifan responded that she didn't "have to walk so fast." Qiao Xichen then shared how important Beijing was to her, seeing it as a "big and tolerant" city where talented people succeed and diligent people can make a decent living.
She then revealed the tragic truth to Jian Yifan, saying, "A few days ago, there's. . . there's a girl who stood at an overhead bridge and jumped down. . . That girl was my friend. Her name was Hu Jing Jing. On her birthday, she. . ." Later, Ji Nanjia, Qiao Xichen, and Xu Yan went to Hu Jingjing's apartment to pack her belongings. To their surprise, they discovered male toiletries, a blood-stained mattress, shattered ceramic pieces, and a man's plaid shirt hanging on the balcony.
Episode 3 Recap
An elderly woman faced a troubling situation at the supermarket when a cashier demanded mobile payment for her 15. 80 yuan purchase, stating she had no change. The elderly woman, unfamiliar with such technology, confessed she didn't know how to use mobile payment. A woman in line quickly intervened, reminding the cashier that refusing cash was illegal and chastising her for putting an elderly person in such a predicament.
The cashier tried to suggest the old lady buy more items to reach 60 yuan for a full change, but the old lady insisted she only wanted two cartons of milk. Seeing the argument, Hu Jingjing offered to pay for the elderly woman, scanning her own mobile payment. Grateful, the old lady insisted on repaying Hu Jingjing and rushed home to retrieve the money, asking Hu Jingjing to wait for her.
Hu Jingjing reluctantly agreed, waiting patiently on the steps outside. As evening fell and the supermarket closed, Hu Jingjing remained. She called a friend, expressing her bewilderment, wondering why the old lady would lie to her after she had offered to waive the debt. Her friend urged her to go home, convinced the old lady wouldn't return, but Hu Jingjing decided to wait ten more minutes.
Her trust was rewarded when the old lady finally appeared, profusely thanking Hu Jingjing for waiting. The old lady explained that she had forgotten to turn off her tap at home, causing the delay, and handed Hu Jingjing the money along with a homemade mung bean cake. Hu Jingjing was touched by the gesture, praising the cake's aroma and urging the old lady to be careful on her way.
Meanwhile, Ji Nanjia, Qiao Xichen, and Xu Yan continued their investigation into Hu Jingjing's death. Ji Nanjia found a photo belonging to Hu Jingjing's ex-boyfriend, Gao Yang, in her apartment. They confronted him, asking about their relationship and if he had physically harmed her. Gao Yang denied ever hitting women, especially Hu Jingjing, and identified himself as her ex-boyfriend. He described their three-month relationship, from April to late July, as a bizarre experience.
He and Hu Jingjing met through private messages on a website, and she was the one who initiated their relationship. However, Hu Jingjing became increasingly distant during their time together, often distracted on dates and secretly taking mysterious phone calls, sometimes returning in tears, claiming she was fine. Gao Yang tried to offer support, but she always refused to open up.
The day before her death, she suddenly proposed to break up, leading to an argument during which Gao Yang admitted to breaking a coffee mug but insisted he never laid a hand on her or said anything cruel. He found it implausible that a three-month relationship could lead to suicide. After Gao Yang left, Xu Yan confessed she hadn't known about Hu Jingjing's boyfriend but understood why she kept it private, noting Hu Jingjing's tendency to hide her personal matters.
Ji Nanjia questioned if they truly knew Hu Jingjing, feeling that the person Gao Yang described was different from the lively friend they knew. Qiao Xichen suggested Hu Jingjing's suicide might have been triggered by the breakup compounded with losing her job. She had taken Hu Jingjing's phone for repair, hoping to find more clues once it was fixed. In a different development, Xu Yan's boyfriend, Shen Zichang, attempted to reconcile with her after a disagreement.
He bought her a designer bag, assuring her it was authentic, unlike a previous fake. Their colleagues, however, mistook the new bag for another replica, leading Xu Yan to confront Shen Zichang. She recounted how he had chosen a 288 yuan imitation over a 688 yuan one for their third anniversary, making her feel undervalued. Qiao Xichen defended Xu Yan, but also pointed out Shen Zichang's limited income.
Xu Yan clarified that as a Beijing local living at home, Shen Zichang's salary was essentially disposable, suggesting he simply didn't care enough. After Shen Zichang made a public spectacle, dressing in a mascot costume and pleading for forgiveness, presenting the purportedly authentic bag, Xu Yan's perspective shifted.
She realized that even if Ji Nanjia carried a replica, people would assume it was real due to her status, whereas an authentic bag on her, an ordinary office worker, would be seen as fake. This made her understand that some things are not worth chasing for vanity. She hugged Shen Zichang, telling him she liked him more than handbags.
Qiao Xichen, still anxious about her job after the Su Qing incident, tried to obtain surveillance footage to clear her name, but the security guard only mocked her with a brief glimpse of a blank screen. She learned that Jian Yifan had already retrieved the relevant footage. Jian Yifan confronted Su Qing, who tearfully apologized, admitting she lost her quotation list and blamed Qiao Xichen out of fear.
Jian Yifan, however, deemed her actions "cruel and vile," emphasizing that her dismissal was due to her malicious behavior, not simply being on a layoff list. Qiao Xichen, despite being the victim, felt a twinge of pity for Su Qing, lamenting the harsh reality for "outlanders" striving for a career in Beijing. She hoped no one else would suffer a similar fate to Hu Jingjing.
Later, Su Qing approached Qiao Xichen, sarcastically declaring her "grievances redressed" now that she was fired. Qiao Xichen corrected her, calling it "God's justice," and chastised Su Qing for her betrayal after she had offered help. Su Qing, defensive, claimed she acted out of desperation at the age of 30, afraid of losing her job. Qiao Xichen countered that an easy life comes with a price, urging Su Qing to face the consequences of her choices.
Following this, Qiao Xichen approached Jian Yifan on the rooftop, thanking him for vindicating her and apologizing for misjudging his intentions. She admitted her initial belief that he wanted to fire her. Jian Yifan affirmed his commitment to evaluating performance over layoff lists, asking if she still felt incompetent. Qiao Xichen admitted to her cynical view of workplace dynamics, where leaders often speak ambiguously, but acknowledged Jian Yifan as a man of his word.
She explained that her previous outburst was due to immense emotional pressure, feeling she needed to vent to anyone or anything. Jian Yifan, observing her, expressed that he would intervene if he saw her in such distress on the street, believing everyone needs an outlet for their emotions. He even offered her a few days off, which Qiao Xichen misinterpreted as a subtle hint of dismissal.
Jian Yifan clarified his genuine concern for her well-being, worried she was exhausted and stressed. Despite his reassurances, Qiao Xichen privately worried about her job security and discretely started sending out resumes to other companies. During an interview at Damei, she unexpectedly encountered Jian Yifan, who fortunately did not seem to pursue the matter. Ji Nanjia, despite her recent recovery from cervical cancer, threw herself back into work, leading to a relapse of her old illness.
Her doctor reprimanded her for overworking. On the eve of Chinese Valentine's Day, as her employees left for dates, Ji Nanjia reminisced about a promise she made with Hu Jingjing: to find a passionate love once she was cured. That evening, elegantly dressed, she visited a bar, but felt out of place. To mask her discomfort, she impulsively took a drink and chugged it, only to realize she had taken someone else's.
She quickly apologized and offered to pay, then hastily departed. Ou Yang, witnessing her hurried exit, found it amusing, but his focus remained on his new role as the marketing director's assistant at Yann Coffee, where he had earlier mistakenly addressed Jian Yifan as a junior employee before realizing his true position. Later, Ji Nanjia opted for a more traditional approach to dating, signing up with a matchmaking agency for a substantial fee.
Her consultant, Xiao Tang, presented her with various bachelors, but Ji Nanjia found them to be odd characters: an ostentatious nouveau riche, an overconfident driver, and a cosmetic surgeon who used the date to push his services. After several unsuccessful dates, Ji Nanjia's standards plummeted. Finally, she met someone who seemed interested in marriage, but he exhibited severe male chauvinism, demanding his wife embody traditional virtues and focus on home and family.
Exasperated, Ji Nanjia, drawing on her five years of Muay Thai training and straightforward Northeastern personality, confronted him with a detailed list of minor injuries that wouldn't incur criminal charges, effectively scaring him away. Xiao Tang later admitted that Ji Nanjia's excellent qualities—age, high income, and single status—made her the hardest female client to match, as most men preferred women under 30 and found it embarrassing if a woman earned more.
She even stated that divorced women over 30 were more appealing, as their past marriages offered a "validation." Reflecting on Qiao Xichen's words that she was the least likely of their friends to "yield to life," Ji Nanjia decided to terminate her contract with Xiao Tang. Meanwhile, Yann Coffee faced a crisis when a delivery truck carrying their new osmanthus series products for an upcoming event crashed on the highway, destroying all the goods.
With no time for factory replenishment, Jian Yifan decided to use existing store inventory of classic lattes and cold brews as substitutes, removing all new product branding from the event. Qiao Xichen, unable to hail a taxi to transport the goods to the warehouse, called Ji Nanjia for help, accidentally discovering her friend was on a blind date. At the warehouse, Qiao Xichen worked tirelessly into the night.
Her mother called, expressing concern about the cold weather and urging her to go home safely. Qiao Xichen assured her she was fine, though her voice hinted at exhaustion. Eventually, Jian Yifan and other colleagues arrived to help, staying until dawn to finish the work. The next morning, Qiao Xichen retrieved Hu Jingjing's repaired phone from the shop. Upon switching it on, she was drawn to Hu Jingjing's contact list, which contained numerous debt collection messages.
Episode 4 Recap
Qiao Xichen, Ji Nanjia, and Xu Yan were alarmed after discovering numerous loan messages on Hu Jingjing's phone. They struggled to understand why she would owe such a significant amount of money to various platforms, including third-party debt collectors. The messages were threatening, mentioning "unheeded" calls and plans to "lodge a police report."
Ji Nanjia questioned if the debt was the reason for Jingjing's suicide, but Qiao Xichen dismissed the idea, believing Jingjing wouldn't take her life over less than 200,000 yuan. They then recalled how Jingjing used to secretly answer calls, leading them to suspect these were from debt collectors. To uncover the truth, Ji Nanjia decided to obtain a letter of authorization from Jingjing's parents to check her bank account transaction records.
While discussing the debt, Qiao Xichen received a call from a pet hospital. Upon arriving, they learned that Jingjing had rescued a stray kitten, named Gou Dan, two months prior. Gou Dan was being fostered at the clinic, with Jingjing promising to take it home once it recovered, but she never returned. Ji Nanjia, being allergic to pet dander, couldn't take the cat, and Xu Yan, admitting she wasn't ready for the responsibility, also declined.
The responsibility of caring for Gou Dan naturally fell to Qiao Xichen. As Qiao Xichen was living in a shared apartment, she decided to consult her roommate before bringing the cat home. Ji Nanjia, in the meantime, offered to cover Gou Dan's extended stay at the clinic. Qiao Xichen's living situation, however, was far from ideal. Her roommate frequently brought her boyfriend home to stay overnight, disregarding their co-rental agreement which stipulated one person per room and no male guests.
This constant intrusion severely affected Qiao Xichen's privacy. After enduring the situation for a long time, Qiao Xichen finally confronted her roommate when the behavior escalated. She pointed out the roommate’s lack of public etiquette, such as leaving trash and unwashed dishes piled up, occupying common areas with personal belongings, and regularly using up Qiao Xichen’s toiletries, even involving her boyfriend.
The roommate, in turn, was defiant, arguing that the living room was a public space and accusing Qiao Xichen of being petty and jealous, suggesting she move out if she couldn't tolerate it. Qiao Xichen, however, firmly stated that she wouldn't move, and her roommate could if she wished. Meanwhile, Ji Nanjia received a notice from property management about a water leak affecting her bathroom and walls, stemming from the unit above.
Knowing her apartment was old and poorly renovated, Ji Nanjia contacted her overseas landlord, Mr. Zheng, suggesting a full bathroom renovation and offering to pay for any costs exceeding the compensation from the upstairs tenant. The landlord agreed. However, the property management refused to permit the renovation without the landlord's physical presence or original property documents, dismissing Ji Nanjia's WeChat authorization as insufficient proof. Her plans were thus put on hold.
When she called her mother to discuss the issue, her mother strongly disagreed with Ji Nanjia's intention to pay for renovations in a rented property, citing it as a waste of money and warning that landlords might exploit the situation by asking her to move out after the upgrades. Frustrated, Ji Nanjia quickly ended the call. At work, Qiao Xichen was increasingly anxious about potential layoffs, especially after eight colleagues had already been dismissed since Jian Yifan's arrival.
She confided in Xu Yan over the phone, recounting how Jian Yifan had coincidentally seen her at an interview for another company, Damei. She felt incredibly unlucky, as her new fall products were also underperforming, and suspected Jian Yifan was deliberately hindering her job search. She described him as "petty" and a man who "doesn't do any real work." Jian Yifan, who had overheard her conversation from nearby, approached her.
Assuming she was about to be fired, Qiao Xichen bluntly asked if she was the last person on the dismissal list. Jian Yifan, amused by her directness, asked her why he would dismiss her. She listed past incidents where she felt he had treated her unfairly, such as making her take leave over a quotation list and giving her project to a colleague.
He then revealed he had witnessed Hu Jingjing's suicide, which had given him a new perspective on things. He explained that the presentation he asked for regarding the new fall products was not to "find fault" but to "tackle it" and identify solutions. Realizing Jian Yifan's true intentions, Qiao Xichen apologized for her assumptions and promised to complete the presentation that night. Jian Yifan, in turn, granted her a few days of leave to recover emotionally.
Moved by Jian Yifan's understanding, Qiao Xichen used her days off to swiftly move out of her shared apartment and find a new place. She spent time viewing various apartments, weighing factors like elevator access, natural light, and modern appliances against her budget. She eventually settled on a place she liked, despite its distance from work, reasoning that the good amenities and convenient subway access would make the commute worthwhile.
Ji Nanjia and Xu Yan helped her move in, and she finally brought Gou Dan home. Once settled, Qiao Xichen playfully suggested Xu Yan move in with her to ease her loneliness, but Xu Yan's boyfriend, Shen Zichang, immediately objected, wanting to preserve his private time with Xu Yan. Meanwhile, Xu Yan was grappling with her own anxieties about her appearance. She asked Shen Zichang how he would feel if she became "old, fat, and ugly."
Despite his reassurances, she remained worried, influenced by a recent visit to a beauty clinic with a colleague. There, a beauty consultant had praised "anti-aging" treatments and even suggested bone contouring for Xu Yan, claiming it was a minor procedure. With the company announcing an upcoming promotional video to update its CI system—an opportunity many female colleagues saw as a "stepping stone" for career advancement—Xu Yan seriously considered undergoing bone contouring surgery during her holiday break.
Ji Nanjia celebrated her 36th birthday with Qiao Xichen and Xu Yan. The group donned playful costumes, reminisced, and took photos, keeping the mood light to prevent Ji Nanjia from dwelling on Hu Jingjing's absence. The friends then shared a heartfelt moment, offering their wishes for Ji Nanjia's happiness and finding a compatible partner to "bicker with until she grows old." Jian Yifan also made a brief appearance at a pre-holiday staff dinner.
Though Qiao Xichen initially attempted to discuss work, Jian Yifan firmly redirected the conversation, emphasizing the holiday spirit and advising everyone to enjoy their time off safely. After a company dinner, Qiao Xichen, needing to get to the subway station late at night, opted for a shared ride. However, a road blockage forced her to get out and walk alone.
Fearing she was being followed, she called Jian Yifan, who instructed her to find an open store and send her location, emphasizing she should not leave until he arrived. Qiao Xichen sought refuge in a convenience store, but feeling awkward about lingering as they were closing, she eventually left. Moments later, a man in black accosted her. Jian Yifan arrived promptly, having also called Officer Tan.
It turned out the man was simply a local resident buying milk for his pregnant wife, and Jian Yifan had mistakenly assumed he was a stalker. Embarrassed by the misunderstanding, Jian Yifan apologized to Qiao Xichen and promised to personally drive her home anytime they were out together, no matter how late it was.
Some time later, Ji Nanjia, sharing her good news with Qiao Xichen and Xu Yan, announced her decision to buy a house, a revelation that Qiao Xichen envied. Ji Nanjia explained that while Hu Jingjing had often encouraged her to buy a property, it was the recent bathroom leak and a growing desire for a stable, permanent home that ultimately cemented her decision. Later, Qiao Xichen and Xu Yan retrieved Hu Jingjing's bank transaction records. As they examined the extensive list of transactions, Ji Nanjia received a message from her family. Upon reading it, she finally understood the true reason behind Hu Jingjing's significant debt.
Episode 5 Recap
After discovering several large transfers from Hu Jingjing's bank account to a man named Bai Fan, her friends Qiao Xichen, Ji Nanjia, and Xu Yan tried to contact him. His phone number was out of service, and his WeChat messages had been deleted, leaving them no choice but to send him a voice message in hopes of a reply. Soon after, Ji Nanjia, Qiao Xichen, and Xu Yan found Bai Fan at a gym.
It turned out he was Hu Jingjing's financial advisor, and their relationship was purely professional. He claimed that after a stock market downturn, he lost his own money as well as hers, and her suicide attempt led to his dismissal from his job due to a private contract they had signed. Meanwhile, Mr. Jiang questioned Jian Yifan about his views on Yann Coffee's marketing department.
Jian Yifan initially offered cautious praise but then candidly described the department's heavy workload and the need for fresh talent, rather than continued layoffs. He also pointed out that the previous director, Lu Yi Ning's, strong leadership style had fostered a culture where subordinates merely followed orders instead of growing into leaders themselves.
When Mr. Jiang suggested Lin Rui, who had overseas experience, Jian Yifan acknowledged his advantages but noted that many returnees are often overly ambitious, with high expectations for position and salary. Later, Qiao Xichen brought Jian Yifan a "heroic help" cake as a thank you for his assistance in the past. She asked him why he bothered to help since the police were already involved, and Jian Yifan explained that no event was more important than a human life.
He then asked Qiao Xichen to accompany him to a client dinner that evening to discuss a collaboration for new autumn products. At the dinner, the client, Mr. Jia, insisted on excessive drinking, following traditional business drinking culture. Qiao Xichen felt compelled to participate to secure the deal.
Although Jian Yifan typically preferred tea and cited health reasons for not drinking, he took over for Qiao Xichen after Mr. Jia became aggressive, insisting that Qiao Xichen was a marketing specialist, not a "drinking companion." Having a very low alcohol tolerance, Jian Yifan drank several small cups of liquor on her behalf and quickly became intoxicated.
Waiting for a car on the street, a heavily intoxicated Jian Yifan leaned on Qiao Xichen, thanking her for drinking and promising that no one would ever force her to drink again. His words, despite his drunken state, resonated with Qiao Xichen. Just then, Ou Yang arrived to pick Jian Yifan up, witnessing the intimate moment. The next morning, Jian Yifan was quite hungover.
Ou Yang playfully reminded him of his drunken antics the previous night, though he reassured Jian Yifan that he would keep it a secret. Ou Yang also mentioned Qiao Xichen's impressive alcohol tolerance, noting she had outdrunk the client. Hearing this, Jian Yifan asked Ou Yang to print out Lin Rui's resume again, deep in thought. Elsewhere, Xu Yan intervened when male colleagues made derogatory comments about their coworker Qin Weiwei's appearance.
Qin Weiwei later confided in Xu Yan about her struggles with body image and failed attempts at weight loss, from strict dieting to acupuncture. Xu Yan encouraged her to embrace self-confidence and not conform to others' beauty standards. Initially, Xu Yan had planned to undergo liposuction with Qin Weiwei. However, Qin Weiwei unexpectedly cancelled her surgery, realizing that inner confidence was more important than superficial changes. This prompted Xu Yan to also cancel her appointment.
During a subsequent conversation with Shen Zichang, he candidly admitted that he found her recent fixation on appearance and branded items "fussy," preferring her simpler, carefree self from their college days. This realization, coupled with Qin Weiwei’s newfound perspective, prompted Xu Yan to decide she would no longer care about societal beauty standards, choosing instead to prioritize her happiness. Shen Zichang reassured her that he found her beautiful just as she was.
Meanwhile, Ji Nanjia was trying to buy an apartment but found herself short on the down payment. She attempted to call in debts from friends, including a man named Brother Wu, who owed her a significant amount. During their meeting, Brother Wu tearfully explained his own financial difficulties, successfully convincing Ji Nanjia to give him a two-month extension. After he left, she was shocked to discover he had stuck her with his expensive bar tab.
Feeling foolish, she drank the liquor herself and became heavily intoxicated. Ou Yang found her drunk on the street and drove her home. Seeing her vulnerable side, he was overcome with emotion and kissed her, leading to them spending the night together. The next morning, a hungover Ji Nanjia couldn't recall the events clearly and awkwardly rushed off to work, hoping to avoid Ou Yang. Later that night, Qiao Xichen was startled awake by a noise in her living room.
A thief had broken in and stolen her laptop and phone. Her neighbor, A Le, heard the commotion and promptly called the police. The thief was apprehended downstairs, and her belongings were recovered. A Le also pointed out the ineffectiveness of her fake security camera and told her to simply knock on his door if she ever needed help. Shaken by the incident, Qiao Xichen's friends, Ji Nanjia and Xu Yan, along with Shen Zichang, rushed to her side.
Shen Zichang even installed a new anti-theft door to enhance her security. The three women squeezed onto Qiao Xichen’s bed, reminiscing about their old times together, while Shen Zichang slept in the living room like a protective knight. During this time, Ji Nanjia had a profound realization that owning a house did not automatically bring a sense of security. She decided against buying the expensive apartment she had been considering. Instead, she contacted her current landlord, Mr. Zheng, who lived abroad, to obtain the necessary documents to finally renovate her leaky bathroom.
Episode 6 Recap
Ou Yang, after the drunken night, became persistent in pursuing Ji Nanjia, often walking his dog near her home in the mornings, hoping to encounter her. Ji Nanjia, however, made it clear she wished to forget what happened and treat each other as strangers. Ou Yang refused, stating that he desperately needed a girlfriend and proposed they try dating.
Ji Nanjia firmly rejected the idea, asserting that their acquaintance stemmed from an accident and would not develop into a relationship, then promptly left. Meanwhile, a department restructuring at Yann Coffee was announced, creating two project group leader positions from outstanding employees. Jian Yifan introduced Lin Rui as a new colleague joining the marketing department.
He appointed Wu Tianqiang as the temporary leader for the first group, leaving the second group leader position open for competition between Qiao Xichen and Lin Rui. Qiao Xichen was taken aback by Lin Rui’s sudden return to China and joining Yann Coffee, which not only disrupted her current peaceful life but also brought back unpleasant memories of their breakup in college, when he secretly took a spot to study abroad that she had also been competing for.
In a conversation with Ji Nanjia and Xu Yan, Qiao Xichen claimed to have no feelings about seeing Lin Rui again, but Xu Yan reminded her of how distraught she was after their breakup. Qiao Xichen asserted that her exes shouldn't be more successful than her. When Lin Rui later tried to talk to her, she used the timely arrival of Jian Yifan to escape the awkward conversation.
Overwhelmed by her new project, Qiao Xichen decided to delegate a large reception event for Yann Coffee to Ji Nanjia's company. During a tennis match, Lin Rui attempted to discuss new product development ideas with Jian Yifan, but Jian Yifan deferred the discussion to working hours. He warned Lin Rui that while he appreciated smart people who take shortcuts, taking too many could lead one astray.
Back in the office, Ou Yang, now Jian Yifan's assistant, offered to help Qiao Xichen with the reception planning. He had taken the role specifically to be closer to Ji Nanjia and revealed that Jian Yifan had already given his approval, much to Qiao Xichen’s surprise. She eventually accepted and sent him the relevant documents. Ji Nanjia met with Jian Yifan, who introduced Ou Yang as his assistant. Ji Nanjia was visibly stunned upon seeing Ou Yang.
Despite the awkwardness, Ji Nanjia presented two proposals for the event, earning Jian Yifan’s admiration for her efficiency. During their subsequent interactions, Ou Yang, pretending to offer suggestions while shadowing Ji Nanjia, criticized her initial plan as "boring," suggesting more "atmosphere and venue-specific" elements, like a Hulunbeir Grassland theme to immerse guests. Inspired by a past conversation with Hu Jingjing about her love for the galaxy, Ji Nanjia proposed a "Night Sky in the Pole" theme.
Ou Yang was impressed, though his suggestion to use M&M bean-like coffee beans for decoration was gently dismissed. Xu Yan continued her impulsive spending habits, purchasing an expensive travel package despite outstanding loans. Shen Zichang repeatedly urged her to be more frugal, but she grew angry. His mother, concerned about their modest financial situation, advised Shen Zichang to invest in a financial product.
When she discovered his recent salary was already gone, she immediately suspected it was spent on Xu Yan. She wanted to meet Xu Yan to discuss their spending. Shen Zichang initially defended Xu Yan but eventually lost patience with her constant overspending on unnecessary items, leading him to walk away from their argument. As Ji Nanjia finalized the event setup, her ex-boyfriend, Mr. Jiang, arrived with his wife to inspect the venue.
He was now a high-ranking executive at Yann Coffee. His wife, strong-willed and dismissive of the "Night Sky in the Pole" theme, insisted it be changed to a "Tropical Rainforest" theme immediately, stating it needed to be lively for their old clients. Despite the extremely tight deadline, Ji Nanjia, maintaining her professionalism, assured them it was possible. The day of the project presentation, Qiao Xichen, exhausted from consecutive sleepless nights, struggled with nervousness.
Her mind went blank, making it impossible to articulate her well-prepared content. She eventually fled the meeting room, distressed. Jian Yifan found her and offered comfort, giving her tissues. He told her not to be too hard on herself, reminding her that it was just a job and that losing wasn't a big deal. Qiao Xichen, feeling defeated, shared that she felt she had reached her limit, questioning her own capabilities after dedicating four years to Yann Coffee.
Jian Yifan reassured her, praising her proposal and sharing that he too had faced failures, revealing his humble beginnings in Hua Qiang North where his parents sold computer parts. He emphasized that like her, he was an ordinary person, and that defeat wasn't the end, but an opportunity to win back. His words helped her regain composure, and he offered her a bottle of wine, assuring her he was always there if she needed to talk.
Later, a colleague, Xiao Jia, collapsed from overwork, suffering an acute myocardial infarction. He was rushed to the hospital and, fortunately, survived. This incident prompted Qiao Xichen to reflect on the fragility of life. She confided in Jian Yifan, sharing that she had previously lost a dear friend at that very spot. This experience, coupled with Xiao Jia’s collapse, made her realize that the pursuit of career success at the expense of health and happiness was not worth it.
Back in her apartment, Ji Nanjia was sorting through Hu Jingjing's belongings. Memories flooded her mind as she looked at old photos. Among the items, she found a vitamin bottle that Hu Jingjing used to take, but noticed that the pills inside were entirely different from the ones she herself consumed.
Episode 7 Recap
After a thorough examination by the doctor, it was confirmed that what Hu Jingjing commonly referred to as "vitamins" was actually Paroxetine, an antidepressant, indicating a moderate to severe level of depression. The attending physician, Dr. Zhao, expressed relief after repeatedly confirming Ji Nanjia's physical and mental health.
He handed her the medical report and reiterated that if she still desired to have children, she should prepare soon, as conceiving would become increasingly difficult with age, suggesting it would be ideal to get pregnant within the next two years. Her two best friends, Qiao Xichen and Xu Yan, could hardly believe that someone as optimistic as Hu Jingjing could suffer from depression. They began sorting through Jingjing's belongings again, hoping to find her medical records for more clues.
Qiao Xichen recalled that Jingjing had a crush on Gao Tianyang, the basketball club president, during college, often watching him play from the sidelines. However, Qiao Xichen was unaware that Jingjing's true affection was for Lin Rui. Now, Xu Yan discovered a necklace Jingjing had intended to give Lin Rui among her possessions. Out of consideration for Qiao Xichen, Xu Yan discreetly tucked the necklace into her pocket.
Later, at home, she carefully examined the chain, which featured a key and a small lock. Jingjing had saved money for a long time to buy it as a birthday gift for Lin Rui, but sadly, she never managed to give it to him. Meanwhile, Lin Rui's product proposal was found to involve plagiarism of a foreign product, leading to his defeat against Qiao Xichen in the competition and likely costing him the group leader position.
Despite Qiao Xichen's performance being somewhat underwhelming during the presentation, Jian Yifan found her proposal to be innovative and excellent, thus deserving adoption. When Lin Rui inquired about the new product development, Jian Yifan explained that he would not tolerate plagiarism, referencing a popular foreign brand, Sanders Coffee, that used a similar concept. He warned Lin Rui that shortcuts could lead one astray. Qiao Xichen accepted the project, grateful for Jian Yifan’s trust.
The R&D department promptly commenced work on the new project. Ou Yang approached Ji Nanjia for assistance, and after much persistence, he finally convinced her to take on the task, despite her initial reluctance due to previous negative experiences with Yann Coffee. That evening, Lin Rui met up with old friends. Seeing their professional achievements while he, an overseas elite, felt he had accomplished nothing, he used laughter to mask his embarrassment.
After the gathering, Lin Rui sought out Qiao Xichen. Qiao Xichen had just seen Xu Yan off, so they went to a nearby coffee shop. Lin Rui expressed his regret for the past and his current dejection. Qiao Xichen responded with grace, offering him comfort and letting go of the past.
She reminded him that she had grown up and that love was no longer her entire life, having many important people and things she cared about, even though her new life had its share of sadness, like Jingjing’s passing. She encouraged him to grow up too and find his own new life. It was unclear if they would become friends, but for now, they were colleagues.
Later, due to the company's existing Fu Ping persimmons unexpectedly spoiling, Ji Nanjia urgently needed to find an alternative. Fortunately, Ou Yang appeared just in time. He drove Ji Nanjia to a familiar vendor's stall, where his "Uncle Wei" sold Zhang Fang Mopan persimmons, successfully resolving the crisis. Ji Nanjia, impressed by Ou Yang's resourcefulness, offered him a ride to the team-building hotel. There, she coincidentally encountered Qiao Xichen.
At the hotel, Qiao Xichen and Ou Yang managed to persuade Ji Nanjia to stay and relax. With Xu Yan also joining Qiao Xichen, the four of them gathered around a table to play mahjong. As evening approached and the company team-building activities were about to begin, Qiao Xichen found Shen Zichang before going to help Ou Yang host the event.
She explained to him the real reason behind Xu Yan's past "overspending" on overseas purchases – Xu Yan was actually buying a pair of shoes for Shen Zichang, who couldn't afford them, hoping to reconcile the two. Shen Zichang was surprised and apologized, and they made up. Jiang Hao, representing the company's senior management, arrived at the team-building site. After a brief speech, he departed, but saw Ji Nanjia downstairs and decided to confide in her about his unhappy marriage.
Ji Nanjia, as his ex-girlfriend, was unimpressed by his lamentations. She asserted that his career success stemmed largely from his wife's family help, and there was no need for him to act as if he had been wronged after gaining power. She advised him that if there were marital problems, he should seek solutions and be fair. Ou Yang, who had been hiding nearby, overheard their conversation and couldn't resist asking Ji Nanjia about their breakup.
Perhaps emboldened by a few drinks, Ji Nanjia revealed that she had cervical cancer five years prior and was the one who initiated the breakup to spare him the burden. She explained that she didn't want him to waste five years, as neither of them could guarantee their feelings wouldn't change. Ou Yang was deeply moved, realizing Ji Nanjia was far stronger and more admirable than he had imagined.
She asked him not to tell Qiao Xichen or their friends about her past with Jiang Hao or her illness. The team-building activities continued with enthusiasm. Qiao Xichen and Lin Rui teamed up and won their game. Jian Yifan, observing from a distance, appeared displeased and retreated to the lobby to reflect. Qiao Xichen noticed Jian Yifan's strange behavior and was about to offer comfort when Lin Rui called her away.
Finding a moment alone, Lin Rui, once again, mustered the courage to confess his feelings and asked Qiao Xichen to restart their relationship, promising he would never leave her again. Later, Xu Yan recounted the story of the lock necklace to Ji Nanjia.
She revealed that Jingjing’s true affection was for Lin Rui, not Gao Tianyang, and that Jingjing had often helped Lin Rui with various tasks after his breakup with Qiao Xichen, even taking his parents on tours around Beijing. Both Ji Nanjia and Xu Yan became enraged, realizing that Lin Rui had been exploiting Jingjing's feelings and treating her as a backup. They decided to confront him, regardless of Qiao Xichen's presence.
Lin Rui attempted to defend himself, claiming he faced many difficulties abroad and Jingjing, as a friend, merely helped him care for his family and handle social engagements in China. He even shockingly suggested that Jingjing's suicide might be related to him not reciprocating her feelings, not solely his fault. Lin Rui’s brazen excuses infuriated everyone, especially Qiao Xichen, who was deeply hurt by his callous remarks.
Jian Yifan, who had witnessed the entire scene from the doorway, quickly called Qiao Xichen away, but she collapsed, overwhelmed by grief and exhaustion. She was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with acute appendicitis. After the doctor explained that chronic appendicitis can be problematic and the appendix has no other function, Qiao Xichen, tired of constant pain, decided to have it removed.
Episode 8 Recap
Upon returning to work shortly after minimally invasive surgery, Qiao Xichen found her peaceful life disrupted by the unexpected arrival of her demanding uncle and aunt. Despite her discomfort, she patiently catered to their every whim, prioritizing her parents' wishes. The couple's visit was for her uncle to get an examination at You Hao Hospital, as a recent check-up indicated liver issues, possibly related to heavy drinking.
They insisted on seeing a renowned specialist, Dr. Zhang, whose appointments were notoriously hard to secure. This left Qiao Xichen sleepless for several nights, waking early to queue, which left her exhausted at work. During a meeting, the R&D department criticized the quality of coffee beans Qiao Xichen had sourced for a new product, giving her two weeks to find a high-quality replacement. Observing her fatigue, Jian Yifan discreetly offered support.
He overheard Qiao Xichen discussing her struggle to book the hospital appointment and found an excuse to suggest they go to the hospital together, claiming he also had an appointment there. Once at the hospital, Jian Yifan offered to get the registration for her, insisting she rest in the car due to the long queues. Qiao Xichen, misinterpreting his concern as a need for privacy for his own appointment, reluctantly agreed and fell asleep in the car.
Though Dr. Zhang's appointment was indeed fully booked, Jian Yifan successfully secured a consultation with Dr. Liu Yan, a well-regarded attending physician and Dr. Zhang's mentee. Relieved, Qiao Xichen profusely thanked him, praising his efficiency. Encouraged by his actions and their growing closeness, she boldly asked Jian Yifan if he liked her. To her surprise, he openly confessed his feelings, explaining he had intended a more romantic proposal but this spontaneous moment seemed to override his plans.
He declared his belief that she was the right person for him and asked if she felt the same. Overwhelmed by the sudden intensity, Qiao Xichen, making an excuse about feeling carsick, quickly fled, later regretting her cowardice when confiding in Xu Yan over the phone. Meanwhile, Ji Nanjia received a frantic call from her mother and rushed back to her hometown.
She learned that her 52-year-old aunt, Lin Li Fang, was determined to undergo artificial insemination to have another child, a decision that had become the talk of their conservative small town.
Ji Nanjia's uncle desperately sought her help to dissuade her aunt, explaining how Lin Li Fang had been profoundly changed by the loss of their only daughter, Hu Jingjing, now spending her days staring out the window, even asking if she could die before him because she couldn't imagine living alone. He lamented that a child, even without expectations of elderly care, represents a "longing" for parents, and he was at a loss.
Ji Nanjia understood her aunt's need for a new "spiritual pillar" to prevent a complete breakdown. Ji Nanjia inquired with her uncle about any unusual behavior from Hu Jingjing before her death. Her uncle recalled that Hu Jingjing always spoke to her mother, reporting only good news and rarely expressing her true emotions.
He was surprised when Ji Nanjia revealed that Hu Jingjing had not, in fact, borrowed 20,000 yuan from her for her aunt's cholecystitis surgery three years prior, as Hu Jingjing had claimed. Ji Nanjia denied lending her any money, realizing Hu Jingjing had lied. This prompted Ji Nanjia to press further, asking if her uncle had noticed any "off" behavior from Jingjing. Her uncle again said he only knew what his wife told him: that Jingjing was fine.
Ji Nanjia then disclosed that after Jingjing's passing, she learned her cousin had suffered from depression. Her uncle was aghast, associating depression with a "mental disorder" and refusing to believe it, citing Jingjing's "outgoing" nature. Ji Nanjia clarified that depression is a psychological condition, not psychosis, and can be triggered by sudden stress or long-repressed emotions. Ji Nanjia's mother later explained that their family, especially the elder siblings, always supported Lin Li Fang as the youngest.
Knowing Ji Nanjia was in Beijing and financially secure, Jingjing, too proud to directly ask her cousin for money to help her parents, invented the story. She had, in fact, been secretly supporting her parents for years, funding her aunt's surgery, their new house, and various family expenses, which explained her apparent frugality and inability to save money. Ji Nanjia was heartbroken and regretful for not having paid closer attention to her cousin's struggles.
Meanwhile, Shen Zichang impulsively proposed to Xu Yan while they were watching a wedding video. Xu Yan, feigning annoyance, jokingly kicked him out, but secretly felt flustered. After talking to Qiao Xichen, who advised her to consider Shen Zichang's quirky nature and her own desire for marriage, Xu Yan decided to give him another chance. The next morning, Qiao Xichen called Shen Zichang, offering encouragement.
Inspired, Shen Zichang went to buy a diamond ring and meticulously decorated his room for a romantic surprise proposal. However, in an unexpected twist, he hid the ring in a box containing 101 chocolates, leading to a prolonged search. Despite the comical chaos, Shen Zichang eventually found the ring, delivering a heartfelt speech about how meeting Xu Yan was the culmination of his life's luck. Xu Yan, though initially flustered and claiming she wasn't ready, ultimately accepted his proposal.
They then planned to visit his parents to discuss wedding arrangements. Shen Zichang's parents were initially delighted by the news. However, when Xu Yan mentioned her desire for a wedding home and suggested both families contribute to the down payment, Shen's mother reacted furiously. She refused to provide any funds and insisted that the couple live with them in their existing two-bedroom apartment. She gave them an ultimatum: either marry and live with them, or break up.
Xu Yan was incensed by Shen's mother's domineering attitude and further frustrated by Shen Zichang's passive agreement, which led to a bitter argument between the couple. Unable to return home due to her extended family's presence, Qiao Xichen checked into a budget hotel. There, she shockingly discovered a hidden camera in her room and immediately called the police. Jian Yifan, having been alerted, rushed to the police station.
His swift concern deeply moved Qiao Xichen, who, overcoming her earlier hesitation, confessed her feelings to him, solidifying their romantic relationship. Jian Yifan then offered to accompany her home to face her relatives and take responsibility for any trouble they had caused. However, Qiao Xichen, wanting to spare her parents from feeling guilty, insisted on keeping their relationship a secret for the time being, playfully telling Jian Yifan they could officially start dating after "one hour."
Qiao Xichen's benevolent intentions towards her relatives were not reciprocated. Her uncle and aunt escalated their unreasonable demands, culminating in them unilaterally throwing Qiao Xichen's cat, Gou Dan, out of the apartment. This act was the final straw for Qiao Xichen, who, in a fit of rage, confronted them.
Even Qiao Xichen's father, who had previously tried to maintain peace, was enraged by his brother's disrespectful actions and fiercely defended his daughter, chastising his brother for plaguing Qiao Xichen, especially her early morning efforts to book the specialist's appointment. The entire family then went downstairs to search for Gou Dan. Finding the lost cat in the bushes, Qiao Xichen was overcome with joy, realizing the profound and selfless love her parents held for her.
Simultaneously, at her hometown, Ji Nanjia's aunt, Lin Li Fang, in the midst of another argument with her husband about wanting a baby, was told by her furious husband that "Jingjing was crazy, and so are you." Shocked, Lin Li Fang pressed him for an explanation. Her husband, trying to backtrack, eventually revealed that Ji Nanjia had told him about Hu Jingjing's depression. Lin Li Fang was left stunned, finally understanding the tragic truth behind her daughter's death.
Episode 9 Recap
Hu Jingjing's mother called her, expressing her frustration and disappointment over her daughter's financial situation. She questioned why Hu Jingjing owed so much money, especially since she was living with her cousin in Beijing and earning a decent salary. Her mother worried if Hu Jingjing had been scammed and threatened to call the police, lamenting, "Why can't you stop making me worried? If I knew you would end up like this, I wouldn't have let you go to Beijing!"
These harsh words from her loved one crumbled Hu Jingjing's last pillar of emotional support. Her mother's regret over her words came too late. Ji Nanjia comforted her aunt, explaining that Hu Jingjing was sick and had a difficult time in Beijing, being headstrong and not wanting to burden her family. Ji Nanjia assured her aunt that Hu Jingjing loved her deeply and would not blame her.
She gently told her aunt that she understood her desire for another child stemmed from missing Hu Jingjing, and reminded her that she still had Ji Nanjia. After reassuring her aunt, Ji Nanjia prepared to return. Her father gave her a drawing of Zhong Kui, a mythical guardian, telling her to frame it and hang it on the wall for protection, even though Ji Nanjia jokingly called it superstitious.
Her mother added, "You didn't even bring a down jacket, take it. If you don't like it, throw it away when you reach Beijing." Her mother also encouraged her to visit her aunt often, just to listen to her. Before leaving, Ji Nanjia meticulously listed all her bank account numbers, corresponding passwords, insurance policies with contact details, and even Alipay and WeChat Pay passwords on a piece of paper for her parents.
Her father initially protested, saying it sounded like she was arranging her final wishes and worried something had happened to her. Ji Nanjia reassured them she was fine, but that one never knew what tomorrow might bring, and having everything organized would give her peace of mind. Her parents eventually relented, promising to remember all the details.
At Yann Coffee, Lin Rui approached Jian Yifan, proposing coffee beans from a former colleague at a 15% discount, arguing their good cost performance. However, Jian Yifan revealed he had already decided to use Qiao Xichen's beans. When Lin Rui pressed for a reason, stressing the importance of quality, Jian Yifan disclosed that the R&D department's report showed Lin Rui's friend's beans were not the AA grade Kenya coffee they claimed, but were actually sourced from Yunnan.
Lin Rui vehemently denied this, insisting his friend only dealt with Kenya and there must be a misunderstanding, requesting more time to clarify. Jian Yifan, however, calmly stated that the R&D department rarely made mistakes and the decision was final. After this conversation, Lin Rui chanced upon an intimate moment between Jian Yifan and Qiao Xichen, realizing they were in a relationship. Later, Qiao Xichen met Jian Yifan after work. She suggested a "very authentic and cheap" Northeastern cuisine restaurant.
Jian Yifan playfully held her hand, asking, "What's wrong with me holding my girlfriend's hand?" Qiao Xichen, wanting to keep their relationship low-key at work, gently chastised him, saying, "Keep it on the down-low, Look, that was so close!" Over dinner, Jian Yifan shared a poignant memory of a neighbor bringing him glutinous rice dumplings on a festival when he was alone, prompting Qiao Xichen to search for recipes to make him a delicious bowl.
Qiao Xichen also, using his title "Mr. Jian" in a professional manner, asked him to approve Miao Miao joining her project. She explained that with tight deadlines and the new beans, she needed help, praising Miao Miao's excellent social skills across departments. Qiao Xichen admitted to a "selfish motive," hoping to help Miao Miao, who joined at the same time and was still a third-level employee, to earn more year-end bonuses.
Jian Yifan questioned her, reminding her about the situation with Su Qing and asking if "there are pure friendships in the workplace." Qiao Xichen dismissed this as "TV series" thinking, insisting such friendships could exist. Jian Yifan, with a slight smirk, responded, "In principle, there can be."
Qiao Xichen thanked "Mr. Jian" for his approval, and when he jokingly called it a "feast with an agenda," she denied it, saying it was a date with her boyfriend, and they clinked glasses. Shen Zichang was in a deeply "downcast" state after his quarrel with Xu Yan, even skipping work and talking back to his parents. His father confronted him, remarking on his "downcast" demeanor and accusing him of blaming his parents for his relationship problems.
Shen Zichang lashed out, claiming his parents never approved of Xu Yan and were trying to "screw up" their marriage. Exasperated, his father laid out their family's finances: their combined life savings amounted to only about 500,000 yuan, explaining that as an elementary school teacher and a logistics worker, they simply couldn't afford a down payment for a house in Beijing.
When Shen Zichang suggested selling their current home, his father firmly rejected the idea, questioning where he and his mother would live. Shen Zichang was stunned, admitting he "didn't know our family was so broke." His father further explained that his mother "hates being looked down on" and would never reveal their financial struggles to Xu Yan.
He even suggested they could sell their current home, buy two smaller apartments (one in the city for Shen Zichang and Xu Yan, and one in Yan Jiao for them), but Shen Zichang refused, unwilling to make his parents move from their long-time residence for his marriage. He promised to find a solution himself. Determined to make things right, Shen Zichang went to Xu Yan's apartment to apologize.
He explained that his mother didn't intend to insult her, but their family truly couldn't afford another house. He suggested they rent a nice, large apartment, quoting, "Renting a house doesn't mean renting the life." Xu Yan, however, was skeptical. Despite her reservations, Xu Yan declared they would "forget about getting married for now" and instead save for a down payment themselves.
She outlined a strict budget: with both their mothers contributing some savings, they could save two million yuan for a down payment in five years if they were extremely frugal. Shen Zichang was taken aback by her ambitious plan, especially since he earned only 8,000 yuan a month but would have to save 6,000, leaving him with only 2,000 for personal expenses.
Xu Yan, living at home and using public transport, would save 5,000, bringing their combined monthly savings to over 10,000 yuan. Xu Yan vowed to work hard, asserting that they would buy their own house someday without anyone's help. Despite Shen Zichang's initial reluctance to embrace such extreme frugality, even forgoing their planned restaurant meal for instant noodles at home, Xu Yan's determination seemed to reignite his hope, and he called her "great."
Lu Yining made a dramatic return to the company shortly after giving birth, greeting everyone with cheerful confidence. Colleagues in the break room gossiped, wondering if she was back to challenge Jian Yifan, some speculating she wouldn't have returned without "absolute confidence." Lu Yining immediately asserted her presence, presenting a work plan to Jian Yifan where they would serve as co-directors, dividing the marketing department into two groups.
She claimed extensive knowledge of Yann Coffee, comparing it to "another child" of hers, and offered Jian Yifan her assistance as he was new. Jian Yifan subtly countered, stating his familiarity with Yann Coffee from his time at Wake Coffee, where they were "opponents." In a power play, Lu Yining "generously" offered Jian Yifan her existing office, asking for a temporary meeting room for herself.
Jiang Hao later explained to Jian Yifan that the original intention was for him to be a temporary replacement to avoid upsetting a pregnant Lu Yining. Jiang Hao and Lu Yining then met, discussing their shared goal of undermining Jian Yifan.
Jiang Hao, acknowledging his position was tied to his wife Han Yiting, expressed his desire to make Old President Han realize he "bet on the wrong horse" by recruiting Jian Yifan, and stated that he and Lu Yining "must join hands." Lu Yining, feeling immense pressure with limited job protection during her lactation period, readily agreed to the alliance, affirming her determination to win this "last chance."
Meanwhile, Lin Rui, after failing to secure a managerial position and being put under Jian Yifan as a specialist, began to view Jian Yifan as a rival who suppressed him due to Qiao Xichen. He listened intently to the office gossip about Lu Yining's return. When Lu Yining needed help with her office belongings, Lin Rui eagerly offered his assistance, praising her as a "discerning leader."
Ji Nanjia, considering preparing for pregnancy, visited a doctor to inquire about using a sperm bank. She learned that non-marital artificial insemination is not legally permitted in China, and the doctor advised her to try natural conception first. This seemed to prompt a shift in her perspective. Previously dismissive of Ou Yang's advances, she accepted his invitation to a 'script-kill' game. Although she felt awkward and out of place among his friends, it marked a potential new beginning for them.
The couple's saving plan quickly created new friction. Xu Yan enforced extreme frugality, scolding Shen Zichang for minor expenses like a can of soda, making him miserable. To do her part, Xu Yan reluctantly sold one of her prized designer bags. Feeling down, she called Shen Zichang for support, only for him to lie that he was busy at school. In reality, he was out with his friends.
When Xu Yan discovered his deception, she was furious, feeling her sacrifices were being disrespected. She angrily left him, refusing to hear any explanation. News of a sexual harassment accusation against Jian Yifan by a female subordinate at Yann Coffee quickly spread, making national headlines. Qiao Xichen, hearing Lin Rui's advice to "stay out of it," was called into a meeting with HR.
She firmly defended Jian Yifan, stating he never acted disrespectfully, but HR refused to disclose the whistleblower's identity. Given the virality of the scandal and its negative impact on the company's reputation, HR asked Jian Yifan to take a break, framing it as "protection" for him and the company. The Pink Ribbon project was temporarily reassigned to Lu Yining due to its sensitive nature with a women's rights organization.
Jian Yifan, believing it was a disguised punishment, refused the break and requested one week to prove his innocence, offering to resign if he failed. HR agreed. Qiao Xichen confronted Jian Yifan in the parking lot, expressing her unwavering trust in him and her belief that he was framed. Jian Yifan, touched by her support, reassured her he would find a way to clear his name within the week.
He urged her to focus on her work and avoid conflicts, fearing Lu Yining might target her due to their relationship. His friend Ou Yang, echoing his grandpa's saying, "Evil never wins," offered his help, including a friend who specialized in audio analysis. The analyst quickly identified that the incriminating audio was "obviously edited" with "unsmooth editing points."
Jian Yifan then asked his friend to revert the audio to its original, unedited state, hoping to trace the source of each clip and determine if they all came from the same person. Back at the office on a weekend, Qiao Xichen found Miao Miao chatting with another colleague. When asked, Miao Miao gave evasive answers, claiming she had a cold and hadn't replied to Qiao Xichen's calls or messages. Qiao Xichen directly asked Miao Miao, "Are you the whistle-blower?"
After initial hesitation, Miao Miao confessed, "It's me. I passed the recordings and chat records to the HR department." Qiao Xichen was shocked, denying Miao Miao's claim that Jian Yifan had harassed her. Qiao Xichen, deeply hurt, reminded Miao Miao of their shared journey at Yann Coffee and how she considered Miao Miao her "best friend." She then revealed Jian Yifan was her boyfriend and again demanded to know if Miao Miao had lied to her.
Miao Miao justified her actions, confessing, "Yi Ning made me do this." Lu Yining had promised her a project manager promotion if Jian Yifan left. Miao Miao argued that with her own abilities, she would "never get a promotion" and admitted that despite her outwardly carefree demeanor, she "longed for" career advancement.
She cynically stated that "the cruelest thing" was seeing what you want "within reach" and implying that in the workplace, making more money was the ultimate goal, not integrity. She then advised Qiao Xichen to "not get involved" for her "own good." The sudden shift in Miao Miao's demeanor and her cynical view of workplace loyalty deeply unsettled Qiao Xichen.
As Jian Yifan and Ou Yang drove away, Ou Yang repeated his earlier question, "Do you still insist that there are pure friendships in the workplace?" Jian Yifan's silence and expression suggested he was reflecting on the harsh realities of corporate life. He realized that the business world was a battlefield, where sincerity could be exploited, and seemingly trustworthy colleagues could deliver a fatal blow.
This abrupt turn of events nearly overwhelmed Qiao Xichen, but Jian Yifan's mind remained clear, quickly deducing that Lu Yining was behind the scheme, likely involving Lin Rui. While Lin Rui's betrayal was despicable, Jian Yifan understood that his hard work going unrewarded made him susceptible to Lu Yining's manipulations.
He knew that the manipulated audio evidence alone wouldn't directly prove his innocence to the public, who often just wanted to see a clear victory of good over evil, rather than the complex truth itself.
Episode 10 Recap
Ji Nanjia found her recent date with Ou Yang unsatisfying, feeling a lack of common interests that made further connection difficult. However, Ou Yang was determined to accommodate her every need, even integrating into her daily life.
In one attempt to show he could be as savvy as her, he proudly showed off a basket full of "bargains" from a store, only for Ji Nanjia to meticulously break down the deceptive marketing tactics, sagely advising him to guard his wallet against such tricks. Later, to impress her, Ou Yang took Ji Nanjia to a familiar noodle shop, revealing he knew it was a place she frequented during her early career, a detail he learned from Qiao Xichen.
Ji Nanjia was pleasantly surprised by the authenticity of the dish. Ou Yang then tried to connect their shared enjoyment to growing compatibility, but Ji Nanjia artfully steered the conversation to his desires. Ou Yang confessed that his deepest desire was her. He also shared a poignant memory of his 18th birthday, where despite planning a wild night, he ended up cherishing his grandmother's simple, albeit cold, longevity noodles, which touched Ji Nanjia.
Meanwhile, Lu Yining, having achieved her goal, victoriously took charge of the marketing department. Soon after, she promoted Lin Rui to lead the second group and assigned Miao Miao to the Pink Ribbon project. Qiao Xichen, realizing she was being marginalized, resolved to help Jian Yifan clear his name. She approached Lin Rui, feigning an interest in reconciliation, and arranged to meet him at the Si Ji Hotel after work. Lin Rui, hopeful for a reunion, booked a restaurant.
However, Jian Yifan's presence at the meeting quickly shattered his illusion. Jian Yifan explained that his earlier criticisms of Lin Rui were purely professional, aimed at making him acknowledge his lack of domestic work experience and focus on practical skills over academic achievements. Qiao Xichen also expressed her disappointment in Lin Rui's actions. While the meeting concluded abruptly, it seemed to have made an impression on Lin Rui, somewhat easing the misunderstanding between him and Jian Yifan.
As they left, Qiao Xichen worried if Lin Rui would testify, but Jian Yifan believed they had said what was necessary and the decision was now Lin Rui's. He suggested taking a relaxing break, expressing gratitude for Qiao Xichen's unwavering trust. Their bond deepened, culminating in a passionate kiss in the rain.
Jian Yifan then informed Qiao Xichen that he had already disclosed their relationship to Sai Wen, expecting the entire marketing department to know by the end of the day. The next morning, Lin Rui, after careful consideration, called Sai Wen. He admitted that Lu Yining had manipulated him and provided the original, unedited recording. Jian Yifan’s reputation was restored, and he returned to the marketing department. Lu Yining suffered a complete defeat, her future in the industry looking bleak.
Jiang Hao also resigned, leaving the company with nothing after his divorce. Jian Yifan, though vindicated, expressed a profound sense of weariness with the corporate infighting, wondering why people wasted so much time on such futile power struggles. Soon after, Lin Rui approached Jian Yifan, humbly requesting another chance to prove his capabilities. Jian Yifan, recognizing Lin Rui's talent, agreed to give him a week to develop a new project proposal.
Separately, Xu Yan, after another quarrel with Shen Zichang, mistook a human-sized doll at her company's entrance for him, assuming he was trying to apologize. It turned out to be a misunderstanding. Concerned by Shen Zichang's silence, she tracked his phone to a restaurant. There, she overheard his friends calling him stingy while he was in the restroom. To defend his pride, Xu Yan joined the table, extravagantly ordering numerous expensive dishes.
Later, she realized she couldn't afford the bill and desperately called Qiao Xichen for help, who transferred her the money. On their way home, Xu Yan and Shen Zichang re-evaluated their financial strategy, agreeing that merely saving was insufficient; they needed to actively seek ways to earn more. Xu Yan, inspired, began searching for online side jobs and stumbled upon "click farming" advertisements promising attractive rewards. Driven by the dream of buying a house, she quickly became engrossed in it.
Initially, she made small profits, but soon the required upfront payments escalated, forcing her to ask Qiao Xichen for a 5,000 yuan loan. Qiao Xichen, sensing danger, immediately contacted Ji Nanjia. Together, they pressed Xu Yan for details, realizing she was caught in a scam. They urged her to stop, warning her that easy money was a myth. However, Xu Yan was infatuated with the idea, dismissing their concerns as being "too old" to understand.
She ignored their warnings and even took out all her bank savings to invest more. Shortly after the scammer blocked her on WeChat, she received a call from the police, confirming she had been scammed. The day escalated into a series of unfortunate events. After losing all their savings, Xu Yan and Shen Zichang had a devastating argument that ended in their breakup.
At the same time, Ou Yang confronted Ji Nanjia about her desire for a child without a father, feeling used and angrily ending their relationship. Meanwhile, Miao Miao, distraught over her dismissal from work and her failed long-distance relationship, which she learned had ended due to her boyfriend falling for someone else, found herself on the same pedestrian bridge where Hu Jingjing had died, contemplating suicide.
Qiao Xichen arrived just in time, delivering an impassioned plea, reminding Miao Miao of her parents and loved ones, and successfully talked her away from the edge. That evening, instead of finding solace in each other, the three friends erupted in a bitter argument. Xu Yan, reeling from losing 80,000 yuan and her relationship with Shen Zichang, lashed out emotionally.
She accused Qiao Xichen of using Hu Jingjing as a mere "tree hole" for her problems, never truly understanding others' feelings, and even shockingly blamed Qiao Xichen for Hu Jingjing's death. Xu Yan then turned on Ji Nanjia, questioning her role as an older sister, claiming Ji Nanjia only cared about Hu Jingjing after her death. The accusations flew, escalating into a chaotic shouting match. Xu Yan declared she never wanted to see them again before storming out.
Ji Nanjia, distraught, announced that if their friendship was too much of a strain, they should just let it go, watching silently as it crumbled. Their planned dinner of dumplings lay forgotten and overcooked in the pot, while Qiao Xichen was left to reflect on the painful truths revealed.
Episode 11 Recap
After a heated argument, Qiao Xichen dreamt of her school days with Xu Yan and Hu Jingjing, their bond seemingly unbroken, only to awaken and realize it was just a dream. Sleepless, she arrived at work in a daze. Jian Yifan, noticing her unusual mood, tried to comfort her.
Qiao Xichen admitted to him that she had quarreled with Xu Yan, and more accurately, all three of them, including Ji Nanjia, were estranged, with no one speaking in their chat group. She laughed bitterly, reflecting on her own perceived selfishness and tendency to dump her worries on Hu Jingjing, believing that Hu Jingjing, in turn, had no energy left to worry about her own issues. Meanwhile, Ouyang had spent the night contemplating Ji Nanjia’s desire for a child.
He approached her, acknowledging her initial surprise at seeing him, as she had thought he might block her on social media. He then shared his extensive research on parenthood, emphasizing that raising a child is a profound responsibility, not a whim or a substitute for something else. He detailed the immense physical and emotional toll childbirth takes on women, the long commitment until a child becomes an adult, and the potential for unexpected challenges.
Ouyang asked Ji Nanjia if she truly loved children or if her desire was merely for herself. He then explained that his own positive upbringing, filled with parental love, allowed him to approach life with confidence. If Ji Nanjia genuinely wished for a child, he hoped they could offer the same kind of love, indicating his willingness to build a family with her.
He suggested they commit to a proper relationship first, and once both were truly ready, that would be the best time to bring a child into the world, stating that the best gift to a child is loving parents. Xu Yan faced a relationship crisis. Her mother called, noticing her distress and suggesting she spend time with Qiao Xichen. Xu Yan's mother pointed out that with Hu Jingjing gone, Xu Yan should cherish her friendship with Qiao Xichen.
Xu Yan then confessed to her mother that she felt she had been treating Shen Zichang poorly and had become too dependent on him. Deciding to end their cold war, Xu Yan went to Shen Zichang, humbly apologizing for her bad habits and sharp tongue, and promising to change. However, Shen Zichang responded by proposing a breakup, explaining that he had spent days contemplating it.
He recounted their shared history from their first meeting to her staying in Beijing for him, but expressed their fundamental differences in life goals. He desired a simple, happy life with a stable job, while she pursued a more materialistic lifestyle. He revealed that his own mother had even offered to sell their house to help them buy a place, which made him realize he couldn't give Xu Yan the life she wanted.
He concluded that neither of them was wrong, but their differing aspirations made them incompatible. Despite Xu Yan’s pleas, promises, and attempts to stop him, Shen Zichang, with an apology, walked away, leaving her heartbroken. The heartbreak of her breakup led to several mistakes at work. Her manager, noticing her poor performance, kindly granted her annual leave. Shortly after, a mysterious package arrived for Xu Yan.
It contained kiwis, triggering a bittersweet memory of Hu Jingjing, who had ordered them months ago as a New Year's gift for her friends. Ji Nanjia also received her box of kiwis, reminiscing about Hu Jingjing's words that the fruit would last until 2021. The arrival of the gifts served as a poignant reminder of their missing friend as the new year approached.
As the annual leave began, Ji Nanjia and Qiao Xichen each had their own plans, both involving dining out. Jian Yifan, eager to formalize their relationship, subtly proposed meeting Qiao Xichen's parents during the holidays. However, Qiao Xichen, still seeing herself as her parents' "little princess," wasn't ready to disclose her relationship and politely declined, to Jian Yifan's disappointment. Ji Nanjia, too, had not responded to Ouyang’s suggestion, as she had considered having a child but never truly contemplated marriage.
The three friends, Qiao Xichen, Ji Nanjia, and Xu Yan, all traveled back to their hometowns. Coincidentally, they each brought gifts to visit Hu Jingjing’s parents, bringing smiles to the elderly couple’s faces amidst the festive season.
Ji Nanjia, in particular, brought a thoughtful array of gifts: a seven-day pillbox for her aunt's high blood pressure, a fascia gun for muscle relaxation, a humidifier for the dry air, and a mink fur coat for her aunt, as well as a down jacket for her uncle. Ji Nanjia explained these were useful items she bought for them, not mere gifts. Hu Jingjing’s parents were visibly touched by their thoughtfulness.
After leaving Hu Jingjing's home, Ji Nanjia headed to a class reunion. Finding the venue proved challenging, as her old reference point, the department store, was now considered an "old people's place." Her classmates greeted her warmly, making her drink three glasses for being late. One friend, Da Dong, humorously announced his third wedding after New Year's, inviting everyone and promising to return their wedding gift money if he divorced again.
Ji Nanjia described her busy life in Beijing, contrasting it with the slower pace of their hometown. Her classmates urged her to visit more often if she ever felt tired, reassuring her they were always there. Later, they decided to go to the newly opened Huaqing Hot Springs for a spa night. Meanwhile, Qiao Xichen joined her parents at the same Huaqing Hot Springs. Her mother, seeing the luxurious buffet, was impressed, commenting on how much the hometown had changed.
The atmosphere was light until her mother started pressing her about finding a boyfriend, even making jokes about Qiao Xichen's dad testing a potential son-in-law's drinking capacity. Unprepared to reveal her relationship with Jian Yifan, Qiao Xichen feigned needing a sauna, escaping into the steam room, only to stumble upon Ji Nanjia and Xu Yan there. Just as they reunited, Ji Nanjia received an urgent phone call from her mother, informing her that Hu Jingjing's mother was missing.
The three friends immediately put aside their brief reunion, and along with Qiao Xichen's mom who also received the news, mobilized relatives and friends to search. Xu Yan suggested checking by the riverside, while Qiao Xichen considered the cemetery and their old school. However, the cemetery was quickly ruled out, as Ji Nanjia had already confirmed it was locked. They eventually found Hu Jingjing’s mother sitting on a street bench, dressed unusually.
She seemed disoriented but insisted she was fine and had merely forgotten her phone. Ji Nanjia and Xu Yan, upon seeing her, broke down crying. Hu Jingjing's mother gently reassured them, saying she understood her daughter's struggles with depression and that it wasn't their fault. She told them that Hu Jingjing wouldn't want to see them cry and considered them all her children.
With a profound understanding, she stated that those who are gone are gone, and those who are alive must continue living, urging them to be happy and healthy. On the drive home, Xu Yan overheard their classmate, who was driving, boast about his spacious, affordable apartment in their hometown. He mentioned that a 200 square meter house cost less than a million yuan, with a down payment under 100,000 yuan, a stark contrast to Beijing prices.
This made Xu Yan, still reeling from her breakup and financial pressures, visibly interested. The three friends decided to return to Huaqing Hot Springs. Back by the pool, they playfully confronted each other about not sharing their holiday plans, then Qiao Xichen thanked Xu Yan for helping find Hu Jingjing's mother, and Ji Nanjia urged them to look forward.
Xu Yan bravely broke the silence, apologizing for her behavior during their previous argument and acknowledging that their concerns had been for her own good. Qiao Xichen, in turn, admitted Xu Yan's words were valid and she felt responsible for Hu Jingjing's fate, while Ji Nanjia, as Hu Jingjing's cousin, also took some of the blame. Ji Nanjia then gently reminded them that Hu Jingjing wouldn't want them to blame themselves.
They then promised to be "tree holes" for each other, sharing all their joys and sorrows, vowing never to keep worries to themselves again. The bathhouse manager, who they recognized as a street vendor from earlier, then announced that it was officially 2021. They raised their beers in a toast, wishing for all unhappiness of the past year to vanish.
They marvelled at how much their hometown had evolved, now offering amenities similar to big cities, making the idea of returning home more appealing to Xu Yan. As the New Year celebrations concluded, everyone reflected on growing a year older. Qiao Xichen's parents discussed her future, reiterating their unconditional support for her choices.
They emphasized that they didn't raise her to depend on them or to be extremely successful, nor did they expect her to buy a big house in Beijing. Their only wish was for her to live a happy life, whether in Beijing, back home, or elsewhere, as long as she lived for herself. This heartfelt message deeply moved Qiao Xichen.
Xu Yan's mother, on the other hand, pressed her about her marriage plans with Shen Zichang and offered to meet his parents. Unable to reveal their breakup, Xu Yan deflected the conversation with a forced "Happy New Year, Mom! I love you!" In the span of just a few days, the three friends realized how much their once-familiar hometown had changed.
Despite the presence of beloved family, old friends, and familiar flavors, the unfamiliar streets and new conversations constantly reminded them that their memories no longer aligned with reality, leaving them to wonder if they could ever truly return to the hometown they once knew.
Episode 12 (Ending) Recap
After a brief holiday, it was time for Qiao Xichen, Xu Yan, and Ji Nanjia to return to their work lives in Beijing, bidding farewell to their families. Qiao Xichen, after much deliberation, decided to finally reveal her boyfriend, Jian Yifan, to her parents and promised to bring him home for the upcoming Spring Festival.
Her parents were overjoyed, but Qiao Xichen had to explain that she waited to share the news because their relationship was new and personal matters at home had been consuming her attention. She then said her goodbyes to her parents and her dog, Mo Mo. Meanwhile, Xu Yan’s mother, before Xu Yan left, cautioned her daughter to control her temper and not let it ruin her relationship with Shen Zichang, urging her not to repeat her mother's past mistakes.
As Xu Yan was leaving, she noticed her mother hastily answering a phone call, seemingly trying to avoid her daughter's notice. Xu Yan asked about the caller, and her mother vaguely claimed it was a colleague seeking help. Xu Yan teasingly suggested her mother might have a new boyfriend, which her mother quickly dismissed. Soon after, Shen Zichang arrived with his parents to pick up Xu Yan.
Ji Nanjia, absorbed in her work, was busy preparing for the Spring Festival, giving detailed instructions for the menu and ingredients. She was caught off guard when Ou Yang called her, complaining about her lack of response to his messages. He declared he was at the airport, threatening to leave Beijing since she was ignoring him. To prove his point, he initiated a video call.
Panicked, Ji Nanjia immediately rushed to the airport, begging him not to leave, admitting her pride and indecision. Ou Yang then playfully claimed he had already checked his luggage, prompting Ji Nanjia to insist he retrieve it. Finally, he revealed it was all a joke and he hadn't checked any luggage. Ji Nanjia, furious that she had rushed through traffic, realized he was merely picking up his mother, who was returning to Beijing.
Ou Yang explained that his family had a tradition of bringing flowers to greet someone at the airport. He then sincerely confessed his feelings for Ji Nanjia, promising to pamper her even more if she accepted him. He pointed out that her rush to the airport indicated her true feelings for him. Ji Nanjia, seeing his genuine emotions, finally acknowledged her feelings and they shared a tender moment.
Back at the office, Qiao Xichen learned from a colleague that Jian Yifan had submitted his resignation. Her colleague also informed her that Jian Yifan wanted her to meet him on the rooftop to discuss a "Spring Festival event." Annoyed by his absence when she arrived, Qiao Xichen was further frustrated when Jian Yifan finally appeared, presenting her with a gift of coffee beans from Yunnan and telling her to open them later.
She confronted him about his resignation and his plans to go to Yunnan without consulting her. Jian Yifan explained that his independent upbringing had shaped his decision-making process, and he apologized for not discussing his resignation with her. He clarified that he hadn't made a final decision about Yunnan and would need her consent.
He then revealed the real reason for his resignation: following a recent incident involving a colleague, President Han was strictly enforcing a no-office-romance policy, and since Qiao Xichen was his subordinate, one of them had to leave. Jian Yifan, who had previously considered leaving after an earlier incident to clear his name, saw this as an opportunity to allow Qiao Xichen to stay.
Although Qiao Xichen was still upset about his secrecy, Jian Yifan emphasized that he didn't want either of them to sacrifice their aspirations for the relationship. He passionately described his dream of starting his own coffee brand with Mu Mu in Yunnan, a place free from corporate politics and stress, which he felt suited him perfectly. Qiao Xichen, however, admitted she hadn't considered leaving Beijing, which felt like home to her.
Jian Yifan urged her to at least consider Yunnan as an option. Xu Yan later called her mother to share the exciting news of a potential promotion at work. While her mother was happy, she also expressed concern about a potential increase in workload. During the call, Xu Yan realized her mother was at the hospital and pressed her for details.
Her mother reluctantly admitted she had undergone a minor operation for a liver cyst, but had kept it secret to avoid worrying Xu Yan, timing the surgery after Xu Yan had returned to Beijing. Distraught, Xu Yan offered to book a ticket home, but her mother insisted she was fine and had ample support from relatives and colleagues, urging Xu Yan to focus on her work, which would ease her mind the most.
Xu Yan, feeling guilty, apologized to her mother. Ji Nanjia arranged to meet Ou Yang's mother, Ada. Ou Yang thanked Ji Nanjia for welcoming his mother, and Ji Nanjia shared details about her career journey, from import-export to event planning, highlighting the stability she had built in Beijing. Ada then dropped a bombshell, announcing her plans to sell Ou Yang's grandparents' house and bring them abroad to live with her family, implicitly suggesting that Ou Yang should also leave Beijing.
Ou Yang immediately protested, stating his independence. Ada then tried to persuade Ji Nanjia to join them abroad, arguing that Ji Nanjia's industry had global potential. Ji Nanjia admitted the suggestion was sudden and needed time to think. Later, Ou Yang, reflecting on his mother's words, expressed his worry to Ji Nanjia about his ability to provide security as a mere assistant.
Ji Nanjia reassured him that she didn't need him to provide security; she was capable of providing it for herself and simply wanted him to be himself. She then took Ada to visit familiar places in Beijing, sharing her deep connection to the city. Ji Nanjia explained how Beijing had given her opportunities, a dream, and confidence, making it impossible for her to leave.
She challenged Ada's assumption that Ou Yang would find more opportunities abroad, arguing that Beijing offered a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with abundant job opportunities. She passionately conveyed her belief in Ou Yang's distinct love for the city, which transcended any material motives, and stated that he was a reliable man, not just a playful kid. Ji Nanjia's heartfelt words successfully convinced Ada to let Ou Yang stay in Beijing.
Later, Xu Yan messaged Shen Zichang, requesting to meet him at the basketball court for the last time. As Shen Zichang headed to the court, he recalled their past, including his confession to her while dressed in a bear costume. Xu Yan appeared at the court in the same bear costume she used to wear, reminiscing about his past grand gestures and how she once dreamed of a lifelong happiness with him. She then told him, "Let's break up."
She expressed no regrets about their relationship, thanked him for his love and support, and wished to create one last beautiful memory. She asked him not to forget her too soon. Shen Zichang, deeply saddened, apologized, confessing he didn't understand how their relationship had reached this point, still caring for her but acknowledging their inability to stay together.
Xu Yan affirmed they had both tried very hard, and despite the finality of their meeting, they should both move forward with courage. She left the bear costume with him as a farewell gift. Qiao Xichen and Jian Yifan met for dinner, and Qiao Xichen, slightly tipsy, reiterated that she could not leave Beijing with him. She expressed her strong attachment to the city, her career, and her friends, finding comfort and ease there.
Jian Yifan offered to stay for her, but Qiao Xichen, seeing the passion in his eyes when he spoke of his coffee brand dream in Yunnan, encouraged him to pursue it. She declared that she didn't want either of them to compromise their dreams or feel resentment in their relationship. Instead, she proposed they try a long-distance relationship, believing they were young enough to embrace the possibilities and challenges.
Jian Yifan, appreciating her understanding, agreed, admitting that meeting her had made him yearn for a home. They both promised to miss each other. Ou Yang surprised Ji Nanjia by showing her a coffee shop he had recently acquired from a friend. He proudly brewed her a cup of coffee, explaining that he had also bought a second-hand car and registered for a barista certificate.
He told Ji Nanjia that while she might not need him to provide a sense of security, he wanted to give it to her. He assured her that, regardless of his past, he now had a clear plan for their future, and this coffee shop represented both his dream career and his promise to her. Finally, the three friends gathered, with Xu Yan confirming her imminent departure from Beijing to return to her hometown.
She reflected on her realization that true success wasn't about "winning" in Beijing but finding a place where she felt at ease, surrounded by family and free from superficial pressures. Both Ji Nanjia and Qiao Xichen fully supported Xu Yan's brave decision. They reaffirmed their enduring friendship, promising that distance would not diminish their bond. One year later, Qiao Xichen, Ji Nanjia, and Xu Yan visited the Great Wall.
They took a moment to reflect on their journeys and lovingly address the memory of their dear friend, Hu Jingjing, who had passed away. Qiao Xichen shared how everyone had changed, and how much they missed her. Xu Yan proudly announced her success in her hometown, having been named the "Most Outstanding Employee." Ji Nanjia expressed her love and resolve to live a good life. They all reaffirmed their enduring love for Hu Jingjing.
The narrator reflected on the journey of seeking a foothold in the city, the hesitations between staying and leaving, and the ultimate realization that "home" is wherever one finds ease and belonging. While the city offered excitement and opportunities, the warmth of family and hometown roots held a powerful pull.
The experiences, both challenging and rewarding, ultimately taught them that home is a place filled with love and family, and that life's choices, embraced without regret, lead to a fulfilling path. Hu Jingjing's heartfelt message, left behind for her dearest friends, reminded them that even in life's most difficult moments, they are never alone and hope will always prevail.
