Speed and Love Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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Speed and Love Synopsis

Jiang Mu, who lived a pampered life until she was nine. Her brother, Jin Chao, was once the pride of the family. That year, their parents divorced, and her father took Jin Chao to Thailand for a new life. At 19, Jiang Mu discovered the secret of her brother’s adoption and secretly flew to Thailand alone.

When they reunited, the once elegant young man had turned into someone hardened by life—a streetwise mechanic who fought in underground rings and raced in illegal circuits. In a world full of dangers, their bond evolved from strangers to lovers, navigating between light and darkness as they ran toward each other.

Speed and Love Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Jiang Mu's parents were divorced, and her mother, Jiang Yinghan, remarried. Jiang Mu refused to move in with her mother and new husband, clinging to a childhood promise from her brother, Jin Chao, that he would return to see her if she stayed in their old home. Jiang Yinghan tried to persuade Jiang Mu, revealing that Jin Chao had never had a decent job and wasn't her biological brother.

She also mentioned that Jiang Mu's father had remarried and that she and Jin Chao were no longer family, warning her not to associate with them as it wouldn't be good for her. Shocked by this news, Jiang Mu immediately flew to Manshi. On the plane, Jiang Mu met a woman named Nana.

Jiang Mu explained she was looking for someone in Manshi, describing him as a gentle person with excellent grades whose knowledge radiated elegance, whose home walls were once covered with awards, and whose slender, well-defined fingers could write beautifully. She admitted she hadn't seen him in a long time and could no longer remember exactly what he looked like. In Manshi, Jin Chao was involved in underground boxing.

While Jin Qiang, Jiang Mu's father, was drunk, Jiang Yinghan called him to inform him of Jiang Mu's arrival. She urged him to pick her up and prevent her from contacting Jin Chao. Jin Qiang then called Jin Chao, telling him to pick up his sister at the airport. Jin Chao arrived with injuries on his face, idly playing with a lighter. Jiang Mu silently observed him and got into the car.

As they waited at a red light, Jiang Mu asked if he was still studying. Jin Chao revealed he had dropped out after high school, which stunned Jiang Mu, as he used to excel in school and had promised her he would earn a master's degree. During their drive, Jin Chao's friend, Jin Fengzi, who had red hair and wore eccentric clothing, rode past on a motorcycle.

Jin Fengzi warned Jin Chao to be careful of "Snakey" causing trouble, which instantly made Jiang Mu worry. Jin Chao bought Jiang Mu a strawberry juice, bringing back a sweet memory of them sharing strawberries in childhood, with him offering to eat the less sweet parts. Jin Chao took Jiang Mu to his residence, located several flights of stairs up. Jiang Mu was out of breath from the climb, prompting Jin Chao to remark on her fitness.

Inside, a bloody and disoriented Jin Qiang was getting up from the floor, startling Jiang Mu. Jin Qiang’s current wife, Zhao Meijuan, warmly welcomed Jiang Mu and introduced her to Xin, Jiang Mu’s half-sister. At dinner, Jin Chao offered dumplings to Jiang Mu, which Xin complained about. Jin Chao defended his action by saying Jiang Mu was a guest, a comment that visibly displeased Jiang Mu. Later, Sanlai arrived looking for Jin Chao, and they spoke in the stairwell.

Sanlai expressed concern to Jin Chao about a dangerous plan he was considering, questioning if he had truly thought it through and warning him of potential harm. When Jiang Mu emerged, Sanlai introduced himself and, upon learning her name, which meant "yearning day and night," invited her to his shop to tell her a secret. Jiang Mu was left to wonder about Jin Chao's current life, especially seeing blood on his face, and Sanlai's dire warning.

Jiang Mu noticed that Jin Chao's car keys had a keychain with the words "Yearning day and night" inscribed on it. Jin Chao accepted Jiang Mu's friend request via message. Jiang Mu then messaged him that she was hungry, and he told her to come downstairs. As they walked, Jiang Mu skipped, explaining she wanted to get some exercise to eat more. At an intersection, Jiang Mu suddenly darted in front of Jin Chao to speak.

Just then, a motorcycle sped by, and Jin Chao quickly pulled her into his arms to shield her. After a brief, intense moment of eye contact, Jiang Mu quickly pulled away, feeling awkward. Jin Chao took Jiang Mu to a bustling night market, where they settled at the busiest food stall. Jiang Mu clarified that she had not run away from home and had no intention of returning.

She then asked Jin Chao about his life since they last saw each other. He admitted his life hadn't been great, summarizing it as "eat, drink, sleep, take a dump, and have fun." When Jiang Mu asked him to elaborate on the "having fun" part, he struggled to recall specifics, so she suggested they talk about his new sister, Xin. As they ate, Jin Fengzi approached, initially mistaking Jiang Mu for Jin Chao’s new girlfriend.

Jin Chao quickly clarified that Jiang Mu was his sister, visiting for a few days before returning home. Jin Fengzi mentioned a dangerous upcoming meeting involving someone named Lin and also warned Jin Chao to be careful if "Snakey" saw them. Jiang Mu found Jin Fengzi's comments about her distasteful and quickly paid the bill. As they walked away, a group of people rushed towards Jin Chao. Jin Fengzi tried to intervene but couldn't stop them.

Jin Chao quickly subdued his attackers, protected Jiang Mu, and they escaped on Jin Fengzi's motorcycle. As Jiang Mu clung to Jin Chao's back, she found comfort and happiness in his familiar scent. She reflected that while everything seemed to have changed, in a deeper sense, nothing had changed at all.

Episode 2 Recap

As children, Jin Chao gave Jiang Mu a fountain pen, instructing her to practice her handwriting diligently, promising he would return to check on her writing. He assured her he would always think of her as long as she didn't change, and he would remain unchanged too. Over the years, Jiang Mu penned numerous letters to Jin Chao, sharing her life, including her family's move and her anticipation of middle school, hoping he would visit during summer breaks.

However, receiving no replies, she eventually wrote a final letter, expressing her disappointment and feeling like she was writing to thin air. She declared that she would no longer miss him, preparing for a new chapter with new classmates and friends in middle school. After safely taking Jiang Mu home, Jin Chao stepped out.

While he was with Jin Fengzi and other friends, who teased him about being busy on his phone and possibly having a new girlfriend, Jin Chao received a call from Wan Qing. He then went to see Wan Qing, carrying money to resolve Jin Qiang's debt. Upon arrival, he found Jin Qiang had been beaten. Jin Chao questioned if Wan Qing’s men were responsible, but they claimed Jin Qiang had accidentally tripped and fallen.

Jin Chao presented the money, intending to take Jin Qiang. Wan Qing was upset that Jin Chao had ignored her repeated calls and his dismissive attitude, especially after she had spent hours preparing herself and arranged for a chef from Diya City. She offered to clear Jin Qiang's gambling debt if Jin Chao would stay and have dinner with her, perhaps even to stay with her afterward.

Just as Jin Chao was about to pick up a billiard cue, he received a text from Jiang Mu asking if he was asleep. He immediately stated he had something to do and was leaving, telling Wan Qing that Jin Qiang was hers now. Jiang Mu then sent another text, urging him to sleep as it was late.

At home, Jiang Mu approached Mrs. Zhao, asking about Jin Chao's whereabouts and if he often stayed out, to which Mrs. Zhao replied that there was nothing at home for him to return to. Deciding to create a reason for him to come back, Jiang Mu intentionally damaged the water heater pipe, causing a leak. Xin witnessed this but quietly left.

Soon, Mrs. Zhao discovered the leak and, unable to fix it herself, called Jin Chao, urging him to return before the downstairs neighbors complained. Jiang Mu then suggested that Jin Chao should be the one to fix it. When Jin Chao arrived, he worked on the pipe, his face and arms damp, his abdominal muscles briefly visible, which captivated Jiang Mu. When he asked what she was looking at, she playfully replied, "The sun."

Xin again peeked into the bathroom, prompting Jin Chao to send her back to her room. Jin Chao explained that the water had stopped, but the pipe was broken, and the old water heater model made finding a replacement pipe difficult, suggesting they simply replace the entire unit. Mrs. Zhao hesitated about the cost, but Jin Chao insisted he would order a new one and have San Lai install it, as he had other engagements.

Jiang Mu, curious about Jin Chao's "other engagements," pressed him for details, but he rebuffed her questions. Determined to find out, she discreetly followed him to the train station. Jin Chao quickly noticed her, telling her to stop following him. Jiang Mu tried to feign a coincidence, claiming she was just shopping for groceries.

Jin Chao pointed out her mistake about the day of the week for a popular event and the fruit knife she carried, reiterating his demand that she buy her own food and leave him alone. Despite his warnings, Jiang Mu persisted. As she tried to negotiate a cheap fare with a motorized tricycle driver to follow Jin Chao, Jin Fengzi spotted her.

Mistaking her presence as Jin Chao's approval for her to attend, Jin Fengzi excitedly offered her a ride to Peita, mentioning that Jin Chao, whom he referred to by his nickname You Jiu (Brandy), was there, and that he himself was on his way to meet Jin Chao. Jiang Mu eagerly joined him. Jin Fengzi drove Jiang Mu to an underground boxing arena.

Inside, a preliminary match concluded, and the main event was announced: He Zhang from Wan's would fight You Jiu. Jin Fengzi explained that Jin Chao was known as You Jiu (Brandy), a nickname derived from the saying, "Drink while you can." Jiang Mu learned that He Zhang was a formidable boxer working for Wan Shengbang, the owner of Wan's Auto Shop.

Before the fight, someone instructed Jin Chao that he needed to continue the "act" with Wan's regarding the Qingshi mountain roads, meaning he would have to endure a beating in this match and try to avoid serious injury. The arena owner, Lin Sui, and Wan Shengbang both escalated their bets. Wan Qing, who also attended, angrily confronted her father for raising the stakes, expressing concern for You Jiu.

She warned He Zhang not to harm Jin Chao, declaring him "her man." The match began, and Jin Chao took a severe beating, falling to the ground as He Zhang landed multiple punches. Jiang Mu, who had been taken into the venue by Jin Fengzi and was quickly pulled aside by him to prevent distracting Jin Chao, was horrified.

She witnessed the brutal fight with ten times the stake, crying and frantically offering to pay with her bank savings if they would only stop the fight and let her take Jin Chao away. Jin Fengzi explained that once in the ring, fighters were on their own. As the referee counted down, Jiang Mu couldn't hold back and screamed Jin Chao’s name. Hearing her, Jin Chao struggled to his feet at the last second.

Just as he regained his stance, He Zhang launched a flying kick, sending Jin Chao against the ropes. Jiang Mu rushed to the ring's edge, anxiously calling out "Brother." Their eyes met, and suddenly, Jin Chao seemed revitalized. He fiercely retaliated, leaving He Zhang defenseless. Before the match could officially conclude, Jin Chao leaped out of the ring, grabbed Jiang Mu, and ran. Furious, Wan Shengbang ordered He Zhang to pursue Jin Chao and teach him a lesson.

As they fled on Jin Fengzi’s motorcycle, Jin Chao questioned Jiang Mu about how she knew the location and who brought her. Jiang Mu, crying, instead worried about his injuries. He reiterated his question, then asked why she was crying, noting her changed demeanor. He offered to take her back home and book her ticket. However, Jiang Mu refused to go back, asking why he had become like this.

She confessed that she had overheard San Lai discussing Jin Chao's life-threatening endeavors. She poured out her heart, expressing how much she cared despite his likely perception of her as just a childhood playmate. She questioned why he couldn't understand, lamenting that he hadn’t returned or replied to any of her many letters over the years, despite her waiting for him every summer and even leaving her contact information at their old home in case he ever came back.

She revealed her past struggles with academics and tutoring, driven by a fear of disappointing him, and her current fear that his injuries might prevent him from writing, rendering the fountain pen she bought him useless. Realizing her hopes were misplaced, she concluded that she had been foolish to come and announced her intention to return to China the next day, asking Jin Chao to take her to the airport one last time.

As she spoke, a car began chasing them. Jin Chao urged her to sit tight and initiated a high-speed escape, but they were eventually cornered in an alley, while Jin Chao had a fleeting memory of teaching a younger Jiang Mu how to hold a pen and write.

Episode 3 Recap

Jiang Mu, who had grown up around cars and previously served as her father, Jin Qiang's, navigator, was once again in the passenger seat. A memory flashed of her younger self learning about a car's radiator and oil dipstick, and identifying bubbling sounds, as her father taught her the ropes of being a navigator.

In the present, Jin Chao handed her his phone, asking her to open a digital app with the password "1120" to find the pinned group location information and guide him. As Jin Chao sped along, other cars aggressively sandwiched them. Jiang Mu, navigating through the chaos, reported a crash behind them and a fork ahead with three possible routes, though road conditions were unclear.

She directed him to enter the second curve on the east side at a sharp 90-degree angle and later to turn right at an upcoming fork, which Jin Chao agreed to follow. As they approached a critical turn, Jin Chao instructed Jiang Mu to grip the steering wheel on his count of five. Though initially confused, Jiang Mu followed his instructions, allowing Jin Chao to lean out and snatch a bag from a bamboo pole by the road.

She quickly pulled him back inside as an oncoming car sped past, and Jin Chao flashed her a smile. Upon arriving at the race point, onlookers questioned why Jin Chao, known as Brandy, had shown up when he previously said he wouldn't. Jin Chao clarified that Wan Shengbang's minions had aggressively forced him onto the track. He also introduced Jiang Mu as his girlfriend, stating she wasn't an outsider and that he was only there for the money.

He explained that Jiang Mu had suspected him of seeing other people due to his late-night activities and would have broken up with him had he not brought her along. Despite a bystander commenting on how "wrapped around this little girl's finger" Jin Chao was, he openly admitted that he "can't dote on her enough" and would never break up with her.

After winning, Jin Chao handed the prize money to Jiang Mu, who felt a bit overwhelmed by the attention. When Liang Yanfeng drove their car back and asked about the price of Jin Chao's navigator, Jin Chao declared her priceless. Noticing Jiang Mu was cold, Jin Chao immediately embraced her, telling her his girlfriend gets cold easily and he needed to take her home.

Jin Chao opened an envelope revealing the cash prize, explaining to Jiang Mu that everything he does is "for money." He dismissed her worries about potential repercussions from the car crash, assuring her that the other driver wouldn't die and that identifying them would be impossible since the group chat was deleted, all messages were gone, transactions were cash, and there were likely no surveillance cameras.

Jiang Mu, however, struggled to accept this "life on the edge," questioning if he was willing to risk his life for money and urging him to choose a more stable path. Jin Chao countered, asking what kind of life she thought he should live, then recounted the extreme poverty he and Jin Qiang endured when they first arrived.

They lived in a windowless basement that flooded up to their legs whenever it rained, forcing them to sleep on tables amongst dead rats. After Jin Qiang was scammed out of all their money on a promised earthwork job, they became homeless, sleeping on streets and under bridges and in underground passages. For him, money was paramount. Jin Chao continued, explaining how Jin Qiang eventually found stable work as a chef and met Zhao Meijuan.

Despite Jin Qiang being on his second marriage and having no money while raising Jin Chao, they managed to pool enough resources to open a restaurant. They "worked from dawn till dusk," yet their earnings barely covered the rent. Jin Chao also remembered the humiliation of standing at the school gates, unable to ask Jin Qiang for two or three hundred dollars for tuition.

He further revealed that Jin Xin suffers from congenital heart disease, requiring expensive surgery and ongoing treatment, which places an immense burden on Jin Qiang. Jin Chao stated that Jin Qiang never gave up on him, even during their hardest times, so he felt obligated to earn as much as possible, refusing to "stand by and watch him suffer" or "turn his back on" Jin Qiang.

Jiang Mu wanted Jin Chao to change his ways, to stop living a dangerous life. But Jin Chao vehemently told her she had no right to "keep him in check" because she no longer shared the Jin surname, sharply reminding her that her surname was "Jiang Mu." Jiang Mu then asked if his reluctance to visit them stemmed from resentment towards Jiang Yinghan for making Jin Qiang leave with nothing. Jin Chao remained silent.

After Zhao Meijuan called, Jin Chao told Jiang Mu to go home. Jiang Mu refused unless he promised to find a "real job and stop this crap," warning that otherwise, neither of them would go home that night. Jin Chao, at a loss, decided to sleep in the car. Jiang Mu then pleaded with him to return to China with her, to their old house in Nanjing.

She promised to support him, assuring him he could continue his studies and writing, and that she would protect him from pain and fighting. Despite her heartfelt plea and promise of a stable life, Jin Chao, with a complicated expression, simply stated he couldn't go back. Later that night, Jiang Mu woke to find Jin Chao alone by the sea, playing with a lighter. He told her that Jiang Yinghan had arrived.

When Jiang Yinghan confronted Jiang Mu, she stated her firm decision to stay in China after graduation and not move to Canada with her mother and Uncle Chris, emphasizing her desire to stay in their old Nanjing home. Jiang Yinghan, however, revealed she was selling the Nanjing house as she had married Uncle Chris and planned to settle in Canada with his extensive businesses.

Jiang Mu expressed concern that her mother might be deceived, but Jiang Yinghan abruptly ended the discussion, assuring Jiang Mu that money would not be an issue. Jin Chao watched from a distance, despite having previously said he wouldn't meet Jiang Yinghan. Jiang Mu soon noticed him and questioned why he had returned and how he knew their whereabouts.

Jiang Yinghan was displeased, learning that Jin Chao had driven Jiang Mu there, stating that Jin Qiang had promised they wouldn't meet. She warned Jiang Mu to "keep some distance from the opposite sex" and to "not see each other too often," reminding her that she and Jin Chao were "not related by blood," "not siblings," and "not your brother."

Jiang Yinghan went on to criticize Jin Chao as "not even a good person now," echoing her long-held belief that he was "bold as brass" and "bound to get into trouble someday." She confessed to having "warned him already" after he repeatedly called their home, telling him "to be sensible, follow the rules, and stop pestering" Jiang Mu, especially after she started middle school when "he should keep his distance."

This revelation made Jiang Mu realize that this was the real reason Jin Chao hadn't returned to see them all these years. Feeling distraught and confused, Jiang Mu went to Jin Chao's room at the garage. He Zhang also arrived, attempting to pick a fight that they hadn't finished the day before, but Jin Chao, still visibly upset, refused to engage.

As Jiang Mu restlessly threw darts, a hidden compartment opened, revealing numerous letters she had written to Jin Chao over the years. Reading through them, she saw her own adolescent hopes and questions, from asking about his high school exams to expressing sadness when he stopped calling. Her final letter, written before starting middle school, declared she would stop writing as he never replied and she felt she was "writing to thin air," resolving to "never missing you again."

To her astonishment, each envelope contained a drawing of her, indicating that Jin Chao had received and read every single letter. The discovery brought Jiang Mu to tears, realizing that "all these years, Jin Chao has been just like me. He's been thinking of me too." A vivid memory surfaced of her younger self asking Jin Chao, "Brother, will you always be good to me?" to which he had replied, "As long as you don't change, I won't change either."

Episode 4 Recap

Jiang Yinghan and her husband could not wait any longer for Jiang Mu and left. Jiang Mu was found crying silently in her room, and Jin Xin informed her that Jin Chao was at the Speeding Auto House. When Jiang Mu arrived, Jin Chao asked why she hadn't left. Jiang Mu looked at him and wished him a happy birthday.

She then revealed that Jin Qiang had decided, since Jin Chao didn't know his actual birthday, that he and Jiang Mu would celebrate their birthdays on the same day, hoping they would forever be together from dawn till dusk. Jin Chao then wished Jiang Mu a happy birthday as well. Jin Chao noticed Jiang Mu had been crying again, her eyes swollen like walnuts. He teasingly asked if it was his fault, but she kept him guessing.

She then asked if he was doing well and if he felt out of place after Jin Xin's birth. Jin Chao responded, "I'm used to it." He then decided to take Jiang Mu to a place where she could choose a strawberry cake, as the pastry chefs had already left for the night. She also expressed a desire to drink, and Jin Chao agreed, stating that the birthday girl gets what she wants.

As they lit the candles, Jiang Mu encouraged Jin Chao to make a wish. She then asked him for his real birthday, but he dismissed it as unimportant, saying he had lived over two decades without knowing, and now only cared about the day she entered the world. Jiang Mu expressed feeling sorry for him. For her first wish, she openly wished for them to soon discover Jin Chao's real birthday.

For her second, unspoken wish, Jin Chao beautifully verbalized it, expressing a desire for them to experience joy and bliss every year, never to be separated. Jin Chao opened two bottles of beer, and Jiang Mu admitted she did not handle alcohol well and might act wildly if she drank too much. Jin Chao, however, smiled and told her to drink as much as she wanted, assuring her he would be there to take care of her.

Jiang Mu then expressed concern that her mother might be deceived by Chris, whom she described as old and only rich. Jin Chao reassured her, saying that her mother was not one to settle and must genuinely like Chris to consider marrying him again, so Jiang Mu should trust her judgment.

Jiang Mu then pointed out that Jin Chao referred to their parents by their given names, realizing he had long known he was not their biological child, a fact he confirmed he knew even before her birth. Jiang Mu informed Jin Chao that her mother had sold their old house in Nanjing, leaving her feeling homeless, unwanted by her father and mother, and unloved by her brother.

Jin Chao, seeing her intoxicated, wanted to take her home, but she refused, insisting on staying at the garage. Jin Chao thought it was inappropriate, but Jiang Mu persisted, complaining that the water heater at their father's place was broken and she desperately needed a hot shower. Unable to resist her pleas, Jin Chao reluctantly agreed to let her stay for just one night. However, soon after, Jiang Mu discovered she had her period and was experiencing severe stomach pain.

Jin Chao rushed out to buy sanitary pads, and unsure which ones to choose, he grabbed several packs. Unbeknownst to him, while checking out, the proprietress slipped an unexpected item into his bag. After showering, Jiang Mu emerged wearing Jin Chao's clothes, which looked like a short dress on her, and quickly went to bed. Her stomach pain worsened, so Jin Chao looked up remedies on his phone.

He gently warmed her stomach with his hands and pressed on the Guanyuan acupoint to alleviate her discomfort. While doing so, a flashback revealed how Jin Qiang had brought Jin Chao home after his biological father, Charles, Jin Qiang's close friend, died in a racing accident. Jiang Yinghan, pregnant at the time, strongly opposed it but could not change Jin Qiang's mind.

Later, when Jiang Mu was nearly two and still couldn't speak, Jiang Yinghan grew worried, attributing it to Jin Chao's presence and prepared to send him away. But just as they were about to leave, Jiang Mu uttered her first words, calling out "Brother." The next morning, the garage employees arrived and began gossiping, having realized someone had spent the night in Jin Chao's bed, a place he usually strictly forbade others from entering.

Meanwhile, the mechanics were struggling to fix a car. Jiang Mu, having woken up, casually approached and diagnosed the problem as a loose intake pressure sensor, quickly resolving the issue to the surprise of everyone. Jin Chao then emerged, saw Jiang Mu still in his clothes, and quickly shielded her, instructing her to change into long pants before breakfast.

He then made her fried rice, and she asked him to retrieve her suitcase, hoping to extend her stay for a few more nights. Jin Chao, however, flatly refused, despite her attempts to bargain for at least two additional nights. Separately, Lin Sui's subordinates reported on his recent racing encounter with an unknown black car. Surveillance footage only showed a side profile of the driver wearing a baseball cap.

They confirmed the car was not one of theirs and was incredibly powerful, with over 1,000 HP and 2,000 lb-ft of torque, suggesting it might have a rare multi-rotor engine. Despite searching Manshi's largest modified car gatherings, they found no trace of it.

Lin Sui, determined, ordered his team to find the driver, stating there were no more than five people in Southeast Asia capable of fabricating such an engine, and he would turn Manshi upside down to find the individual.

Episode 5 Recap

He Zhang arrived at the auto shop looking for Jin Chao, but Jin Chao was out. San Lai prevented Jiang Mu from leaving, explaining that Jin Chao had worked at Wan's Auto Shop for several years before starting his own business. Since then, people from Wan's had frequently harassed him. He Zhang had brought a large group of men, and San Lai was unable to hold them off alone.

San Lai confronted He Zhang's men, mentioning his father but asserting he was a good citizen. When one of He Zhang's men attempted to smash a car with a hammer, Jiang Mu intervened, quickly overpowering the man. Enraged, He Zhang pushed San Lai aside and advanced on Jiang Mu. When asked if the shop belonged to her family, Jiang Mu boldly confirmed it, then began livestreaming on her phone as a warning, but He Zhang ignored her.

Just then, Jin Chao returned, delivering a flying kick that sent He Zhang sprawling and protected Jiang Mu. He Zhang grabbed a car repair tool and aimed it at Jiang Mu, but Jin Chao bravely stepped in front, taking the blow. The two men fought, creating a chaotic mess in the garage. Concerned for Jin Chao, Jiang Mu announced she had called the police, which finally brought the skirmish to a halt.

After He Zhang and his crew left, Jiang Mu questioned San Lai about why they never called the police in such situations. San Lai explained it was an unspoken rule among them: as long as no lives were at stake, the police would only mediate. He recounted that in high school, when Jin Chao was known as Touqi, he could single-handedly take on ten people.

San Lai added that although Jin Chao could still handle ten men now if he chose to, he usually avoided physical confrontations with Wan's, often dealing with them verbally. Today’s fight was likely provoked by Jiang Mu's presence, as Wan's men typically only sought to disrupt business, not cause serious harm. Jiang Mu asked why Wan's Auto Shop kept bothering Jin Chao.

San Lai elaborated that Jin Chao, a skilled senior mechanic, had left Wan's due to some issues, and Iron Cock, another mechanic, left with him. Many other junior mechanics followed suit, and numerous long-standing clients also switched to Jin Chao’s new shop. This exodus had a significant negative impact on Wan's Auto Shop’s business, which had thrived when Jin Chao was there, leading to their persistent harassment.

Jiang Mu then probed further, asking if Jin Chao was involved in dangerous activities like underground fighting and racing with dangerous crowds. San Lai, looking increasingly uncomfortable, claimed she knew too much and fled, refusing to divulge any more details. Determined to find out more, Jiang Mu decided she would investigate Shakun High School and the nickname Touqi.

Later, while at the garage, Jin Chao had Jiang Mu help organize screws, and she felt underestimated, though San Lai assured her it was a difficult task, pointing out he couldn't do it without fingerprints. Meanwhile, Lin Sui, following a car-related clue, arrived at a pet shop, where San Lai was working. San Lai initially assumed Jin Chao was in trouble and tried to get rid of Lin Sui.

However, Lin Sui showed an interest in a modified pickup truck parked outside, noting its Wankel engine, 1,000 horsepower, and 2,000 torque, which made it faster than supercars on a track. San Lai explicitly claimed the truck belonged to him. Lin Sui then asked where San Lai was last Saturday night, mentioning surveillance footage of a black RX7 driving without headlights before a bend.

San Lai denied it was him and boasted of being the "Racing Legend of Chinatown," Lord Sanlai. Lin Sui continued to ask questions, prompting San Lai to introduce a "membership card" system: a gold card for one question and a platinum card for three. Lin Sui purchased a platinum card, but inadvertently wasted his questions on unrelated topics, such as asking when the pet birds would come down.

San Lai then offered a "Supreme VIP" card for a higher fee, promising unlimited questions. Upon taking Lin Sui's business card, San Lai recognized his name and then showed the card to Jin Chao. San Lai informed Jin Chao about Lin Sui's visit and the challenge for next Saturday. Lin Sui had told San Lai that Jin Chao would know the location, which Jin Chao confirmed was a mountain race at Doi Inthanon.

San Lai, worried about his racing skills, fretted that he would disgrace his title. Seeing San Lai’s concern, Jin Chao offered to take him somewhere to teach him some tricks. In a garage, San Lai recognized a car from Lin Sui’s photo—Fujiwara Takumi's AE86. Jin Chao gave San Lai a basic lesson on modified cars, differentiating between the lightweight, extreme-performance Japanese style and the heavier, rigid, comfortable German style.

Jin Chao explained his own racing style evolution, from a "rule-following straight-A student" (German style) to a "madman with no limits" (Japanese style). San Lai, not understanding much, was excited about the AE86. Jin Chao handed San Lai a cap with a moon symbol, and when San Lai asked its meaning, Jin Chao playfully responded, "In the name of the moon, I'll punish you." They then drove to a closed road for practice.

Jin Chao demonstrated "full-throttle shifting" for faster acceleration, emphasizing flooring the gas and quick gear and clutch changes. When San Lai tried, he struggled, so Jin Chao helped him shift gears while San Lai managed the clutch, instructing him to "launch." Frustrated, San Lai then asked to learn the "fastest, coolest, most awesome drift technique," which Jin Chao demonstrated, thrilling San Lai.

Meanwhile, Wan Qing consulted Nana, a fortune teller known as Little Fortune Teller, to inquire about her romantic fate with Jin Chao, specifically wanting to know if she was his true love and not just another one of his "other women." Nana's reading indicated a moon symbol. Wan Qing misinterpreted this, believing that sleeping with Jin Chao on a full moon would ensure they stayed together forever.

Nana called her a "seductress," which angered Wan Qing, who then referenced Jin Yong's "The Deer and the Cauldron." Nana then elaborated on Wei Xiaobao's seven wives, further infuriating Wan Qing, who hit Nana until she quickly ran away. Later, Nana took Jiang Mu to Shakun High School, where Jin Chao had studied. As they toured the school, Nana showed her the playground, classrooms, dormitories, and cafeteria.

At the honor board, Jiang Mu found a photo of Jin Chao on the sports field. She mused that this image matched her idea of him and wondered what could have led him to abandon his studies. Nana pointed out the unique connection between Jin Chao's name and Jiang Mu's, noting that "Jin Chao" (morning) and "Jiang Mu" (night) together sounded like "morning and night," symbolizing a union like the sun and moon.

Jiang Mu confirmed her desire to study in Manshi with Nana. Jiang Mu decided to stop calling Jin Chao "brother" and would simply use his name. She also candidly admitted she had learned Taekwondo and was a second-degree black belt, though Jin Chao playfully dismissed her moves as "fancy."

After Jiang Mu discovered a box of condoms in her bag (which had been accidentally placed there by the shopkeeper when Jin Chao bought sanitary pads for her), she started avoiding Jin Chao, which confused him. Jin Chao then told San Lai he was going out to meet someone and asked San Lai to drop Jiang Mu off at Jin Qiang's place.

While San Lai drove Jiang Mu, she was preoccupied, pondering the condoms and wondering if Jin Chao had a girlfriend. San Lai, trying to cheer her up, reminisced about their high school days, proudly claiming he was a "campus heartthrob" in Manshi. He recalled how Jin Chao, despite being younger, was exceptionally tall and became the school's star, especially when wiping windows, as girls would eagerly watch his uniform ride up to reveal his waist.

Jiang Mu found this particular anecdote odd. Jiang Mu then directly asked San Lai if Jin Chao had a girlfriend. San Lai hinted that the answer lay in a specific key charm Jin Chao had bought years ago at a night market. Later, Jin Chao met someone at a bar to discuss his racing progress. He was informed that the alliance's points were accumulated based on historical race performance, making it incredibly difficult for outsiders to break into the rankings.

The person reminded him that M-night was already awash with top racers, and achieving a top ten position within six months was nearly impossible, but only the top few racers would truly get noticed. Jin Chao responded that he had done his best, but his car wasn't sufficient and required major modifications, for which he lacked time. When asked if he was giving up, Jin Chao stated that he still had two months and intended to try again. Jin Chao then asked when his acquaintance and his people would return to China, and the acquaintance confirmed they would remain there and await his good news.

Episode 6 Recap

Jiang Mu practiced driving with San Lai at night, remembering how her father, Jin Qiang, used to teach her when she was a child. She pointed out San Lai's mistakes, noting that he was still a bit all over the place. Seeing his struggle, Jiang Mu offered to try herself. Recalling her father's instructions, she expertly drifted the car in a perfect circle, then executed a figure-eight.

San Lai was amazed by her natural talent, realizing her father, Jin Qiang, was once a great racer. Later, Na Na arrived and told Jiang Mu that she had enrolled her in a driving school in Manshi. Na Na then took Jiang Mu to Lin Sui's house, where a lively birthday party was taking place. Jin Chao called Jiang Mu, but she hung up.

Jiang Mu confided in Na Na that Jin Chao, who usually seemed normal, had strangely given her a Durex earlier. She wanted to ask him about it but feared it would be too awkward, potentially even ruining their sibling-like relationship. Na Na suggested she could test him indirectly by making him think she had other men in her life.

Jiang Mu found this idea sensible and agreed to Na Na's plan to ignore Jin Chao's messages and keep him waiting, aiming to regain the initiative in their dynamic. To find a competitive man for their scheme, Na Na selected Lin Sui, her cousin and the birthday boy, describing him as a "showstopper" in every aspect. Na Na then pushed Jiang Mu towards Lin Sui, taking a photo of them together with her phone.

Following Na Na's instructions, Jiang Mu sent the photo and her location to Jin Chao, then quickly recalled the photo, claiming she "sent it by mistake" and her "hand slipped," telling him to "not mind her." Jin Chao, seeing the message and the recalled photo, immediately grew anxious and asked for Na Na's number. As Wan Qing's henchmen approached, Na Na quickly fled, leaving Jiang Mu alone at the bar, playing with a parrot.

Liang Yanfeng approached Jiang Mu, asking if she was "Jin Chao's woman." When Jiang Mu didn't answer, Liang Yanfeng began probing about Jin Chao, but Jiang Mu remained wary. Liang Yanfeng then claimed to know many of Jin Chao's secrets and asked if she was interested in hearing them. After Jiang Mu took a sip of her drink, he mentioned "Xiao Qing She."

Before Jiang Mu could ask who Xiao Qing She was, she suddenly felt dizzy and collapsed into Lin Sui, who had just walked over. Jin Chao arrived at Lin Sui's house and saw Wan Qing's henchmen harassing Na Na. He intervened, helping Na Na escape, and then asked her to lead him to Jiang Mu. Inside the villa, Jin Chao found Lin Sui carrying an unconscious Jiang Mu into the living room and covering her with a blanket.

Enraged, Jin Chao insulted Lin Sui, calling him "trash," and a fight broke out between them, escalating from a previous unfinished boxing match. Jiang Mu soon woke up, prompting Jin Chao to immediately stop fighting and rush to her side. Jiang Mu explained that she had a cocktail and then felt itchy and nauseous.

Jin Chao quickly realized she was having an allergic reaction to peaches and took her to the hospital, telling Lin Sui he'd "return the favor another day." Na Na later told Jiang Mu that it was good to "cause him some trouble every now and then" to stay on his radar. She also pointed out that Jin Chao remembering Jiang Mu's peach allergy after ten years meant that he had been thinking of her all along.

The doctor informed them that Jiang Mu had a peach allergy and was also slightly malnourished, requiring an overnight stay for observation. Na Na playfully scolded Jin Chao for Jiang Mu's malnutrition before making an excuse about tutoring her brother and leaving. Jin Chao didn't seem angry. Jiang Mu then brought up Lin Sui, remarking that he was handsome, to which Jin Chao only grunted.

Jiang Mu admitted she was scared, as it was her first time being hospitalized, and Jin Chao promised to stay with her. Jiang Mu directly asked Jin Chao if he had been out seeing another woman. Jin Chao clarified that he had gone to meet a man, not a woman, which visibly relieved Jiang Mu, and they were both happy.

Later, San Lai arrived at the hospital with some things and relayed to Jin Chao that Jiang Mu had asked him earlier that day if Jin Chao had a girlfriend. Jin Chao then realized Jiang Mu's misunderstanding. He went into her room and told her he didn't have a girlfriend and wasn't looking for one, so she shouldn't worry.

He reassured her that besides Jin Qiang's place, his home was also hers, and that no one would be able to bully her as long as he was there. During the doctor's rounds, Jin Chao used the pen Jiang Mu had given him to sign some papers, which made Jiang Mu smile happily.

The next morning, when Jin Chao offered to take Jiang Mu back to Jin Qiang's place, Jiang Mu feigned pity, saying she was malnourished and would have no one to care for her there, citing Jin Qiang's constant drinking and Mrs. Zhao giving all her energy to Jin Xin, who was still very young. Convinced, Jin Chao brought her back to the garage.

Episode 7 Recap

Following her discharge from the hospital, Jin Chao brings Jiang Mu back to the garage, where she immediately begins searching for a keychain that Sanlai mentioned, but she finds nothing. Later, Jin Chao prepares a nutritious meal for her, including milk and eggs. Jiang Mu expresses her dislike for these foods and complains that he is stricter than her own mother.

Jin Chao reminds her that he signed a hospital form acknowledging his responsibility for her well-being, and he would be ashamed if she were to become malnourished again while staying with him. He also insists she eat the fruit he prepared. Meanwhile, Lin Sui confronts Wan Qing at Wan's, accusing her associates of attempting to kidnap his "sister," Nana, a few days prior.

When one of Wan Qing's men tries to dismiss it as mere "messing around," Lin Sui retaliates by grabbing the man's arm, causing him pain. Wan Qing intervenes, asking what else he wants after physically assaulting her employee. Lin Sui sternly warns her that if she wishes to be friends with Nana, she must be respectful and understand that if Nana is unwilling, she must leave her alone.

He concludes with a threat, stating that if such an incident occurs again, the consequences will be severe. Wan Qing questions his implication. Jiang Mu informs Nana of her decision to stay in Manshi for her studies, explaining that she needs a valid reason to do so and prefers Manshi's vibrant and diverse environment over going to Canada, as her mother wished. She mentions needing to enroll in a language foundation course due to her weak language skills.

Nana excitedly suggests her family's language training institute, which specializes in less commonly taught languages. Impressed by the school's size, Jiang Mu enrolls in an intermediate class, which Nana explains is a medium-sized class for overseas Chinese, foreigners, and Chinese students planning to study abroad.

Nana emphasizes the importance of interacting with locals and teaches Jiang Mu several phrases in the local language, such as "Don't worry," "Don't overthink it," "So beautiful," "Thank you," "Gently," and "Kiss," which Jiang Mu eagerly practices. With the race drawing near, Jin Chao's car is still missing two critical parts that are unavailable anywhere in the city, leading him to believe he is being targeted.

Despite this obstacle, he remains confident, acknowledging the race's importance for him to secure a top-three finish and enter the top ten in overall points. Nana drops Jiang Mu at the garage, only to find it closed. Nana expresses frustration with Jin Chao's insensitivity for not knowing Jiang Mu was returning and suggests Jiang Mu stay with her. Jiang Mu declines, stating her need to speak with her father, Jin Qiang, about future arrangements with her mother.

Nana then takes her to Jin Qiang's house, which is also locked. Walking alone and feeling down, Jiang Mu accidentally steps on someone's hand in a pile of trash. Startled, she discovers it's her drunken father, Jin Qiang, who explains that the house's electrical circuit is burned out, leaving no air conditioning, and it's cooler outside. Jiang Mu calls Mrs. Zhao, who is in the countryside with Xin.

Mrs. Zhao instructs Jiang Mu to ignore Jin Qiang, as he frequently gets completely drunk and sleeps wherever he drops. Jiang Mu expresses concern about his safety and the mosquitoes, but Mrs. Zhao assures her he will return home once he sobers up. Jin Chao arrives and discovers Jiang Mu with a drunken Jin Qiang next to a pile of trash.

Jiang Mu explains she was trying to care for him by covering him to protect him from mosquitoes, but Jin Chao, seemingly accustomed to Jin Qiang's behavior, dismisses her mosquito concern and brings his father home. Jiang Mu asks Jin Chao about Jin Qiang's current state and how he ended up this way, but Jin Chao suggests she inquire directly when he is sober.

Jiang Mu explains that the house's electrical circuit is burned out and Jin Qiang was too lazy to fix it. Jin Chao promptly repairs the circuit. He then helps a partially sobered Jin Qiang into the shower. Looking at Jin Chao and Jiang Mu, Jin Qiang expresses deep regret, apologizing for being a bad father. He promises to stay with them, provide for them, and cook delicious meals.

Late that night, Jin Chao prepares for a trip, explaining to Jiang Mu that he will be driving to Qingshi for "a few days" to search for a crucial car part, and advises her to stay with Jin Qiang. Jiang Mu expresses concern for his safety while driving at night. She then shares her "good news": she has decided to remain in Manshi to apply for school and has enrolled in a language training class through Nana.

Jin Chao questions her decision, suggesting she would be better off in Canada with her mother, claiming Manshi is not as good as she perceives. Jiang Mu firmly disagrees, stating it's "even better than I imagined." When Jin Chao asks for clarification, she playfully refuses. Jin Chao observes that she has many secrets, to which she retorts that he has even more. He admits his "business is nothing but trouble" and it's better if she doesn't know.

Jiang Mu proposes exchanging secrets, but Jin Chao cuts the conversation short, giving her money and instructing her to eat on time. Jiang Mu, who is a fussy eater, hints that Jin Qiang could cook for her and asks Jin Chao to return soon, to which he replies he'll "try." She privately thinks that "money isn't what I want." After sobering up from his shower, Jin Qiang is asked by Jiang Mu for a favor.

Jiang Mu calls Jiang Yinghan, informing her mother that she has decided to stay in Manshi for its favorable environment and good schools, and has enrolled in a language class, planning to take an exam after three to four months. She tells her mother that Jin Qiang is aware and agrees. Jin Qiang then takes the phone and confirms his agreement. After the call, a hungry Jiang Mu asks Jin Qiang to cook for her, saying she'll eat "anything."

As he cooks, Jiang Mu compliments his culinary skills, declaring them far superior to Jin Chao's. Jin Qiang proudly agrees, joking that he was also much more handsome than Jin Chao in his youth. Jiang Mu echoes this sentiment. Jin Qiang dismisses her flattery and tells her to go to bed early, adding that he plans to sleep in the next morning and not to be disturbed for breakfast.

When Jin Chao cannot find the necessary parts, he discusses a connecting rod with a man, who suggests he craft the part himself, as no suitable alternative exists in Manshi. Jin Chao accepts the challenge. During the race, his black car exhibits great potential. A crew member advises caution on the back hill due to numerous blind curves, emphasizing safety. Someone is later seen watering the downhill road, causing concern among observers who question if it's "extra training."

Jin Chao, however, confidently relies on his rain tires. Despite a warning about his thin tires, Jin Chao's car skids on the wet track, allowing an opponent to overtake him. In a dramatic final sprint, he skillfully maneuvers his car, driving backward across the finish line, securing a victory by a car's length and successfully earning a spot in the top ten in points.

Nana takes Jiang Mu to Lin Sui's luxurious garage, where Jiang Mu is impressed by a 1999 GTR34 she'd only seen in movies. Nana explains Lin Sui's perfectionist nature, which extends to his car modifications and maintaining the garage like a sterile ward, hence a faint "hospital smell." Jiang Mu notices the car's small, light, and delicate pedal, speculating it's a custom modification.

While Jiang Mu takes photos, Lin Sui, observing them via surveillance, calls Nana away by dangling a promised guitar. Left alone, Jiang Mu is confronted by Lin Sui, who accuses her of being sent by a rival racing team to use Nana to get close to him. Jiang Mu dismisses his self-importance and denies any ulterior motive, explaining she was simply curious and Nana brought her there.

She then provocatively states that his car collection is "not that impressive" and "nothing special," adding that her friend possesses a "Wankel engine" that is "really impressive," an engine Lin Sui had been actively searching for. Intrigued, Lin Sui's expression changes, but Jiang Mu asserts it's "none of his business" and demands to be let go. Lin Sui agrees to drive Jiang Mu home, but only after she provides her address.

Upon arrival, Jiang Mu slams his car door and warns him that if he provokes her again, she might become the first person to smash his car, to which he playfully agrees to give her "that chance next time." He then makes a comment about a nearby restaurant, which Jiang Mu informs him only sells "extremely salty pickled vegetable filling dumplings."

Later, Mrs. Zhao calls Jin Chao, reporting that she saw Jiang Mu being dropped off by a man in a sports car and believes Jiang Mu is in a relationship. Concerned, she urges Jin Chao to speak with Jiang Mu, noting her stubborn personality. Jin Chao agrees. During a walk, Jin Chao probes Jiang Mu about her activities in the area and then asks her what kind of person she envisions marrying. Jiang Mu finds the question odd.

Jin Chao recounts a cautionary tale of a schoolmate who exploited a girl, leading to her academic decline and a suicide attempt after their breakup, concluding that boys her age often lack responsibility and view relationships as mere "trophies." Jiang Mu challenges his generalization with an example of a successful high school couple who remained together and attended the same university. Jin Chao maintains that "most boys at this age aren't mature enough to shoulder responsibility."

Jiang Mu then directly asks him if he is "that kind of boy." As they navigate a challenging path, Jiang Mu nearly steps into a hole, but Jin Chao quickly catches her. He offers his clothes for her to hold, but she chooses to take his hand, stating she "won't take this kind of path with anyone else either."

Episode 8 Recap

Wan Qing encountered Jiang Mu at Jin Chao's auto shop and immediately questioned her relationship with Jin Chao. Jiang Mu, having learned Wan Qing was the "little green snake" Jin Fengzi had mentioned, denied any romantic involvement, stating she and Jin Chao were not "like that." Wan Qing, amused by Jiang Mu's "bunny-like" demeanor, continued to press, but Jin Chao intervened, telling Wan Qing not to scare Jiang Mu.

Wan Qing retorted, accusing Jin Chao of being heartless for seemingly having a new person in his life so quickly, and then proposed she and Jiang Mu go for pork trotters, ignoring Jin Chao. Later, San Lai prepared chicken soup for Jiang Mu. The chicken had been bought by Jin Chao earlier that morning, and San Lai had stewed the soup for two hours.

Jin Fengzi, in his eagerness, almost took the first bite but was stopped by San Lai, who then instructed him to serve it to Jiang Mu. Jiang Mu found the soup very delicious. Wan Qing then probed Jin Fengzi about Jiang Mu's identity, and he introduced her as "Jin Chao's sister." Wan Qing, surprised, inquired if they were blood-related. The group fell silent, and Jin Chao, taking a drink, stood up and walked away.

Annoyed, Wan Qing tossed a pair of chopsticks at Jin Fengzi, who quickly asserted that it was "biological." San Lai chimed in, swearing on his father that their bond was exceptionally close, which finally satisfied Wan Qing. Jin Fengzi, a worker from Wan's Auto Shop, later boasted to Jin Chao about handling Xiang, who had caused trouble at the shop earlier. Jin Chao dismissed the action as unnecessary.

Wan Qing, noticing Jin Chao cutting pork trotters for Jiang Mu, became visibly displeased. She tried to wipe Jin Chao's hands, but he deftly avoided her. Undeterred, Wan Qing attempted to flirt with Jin Chao by hooking her leg around his under the table in front of Jiang Mu. This prompted Jin Chao to forcefully stab a knife into the table, startling Jiang Mu. Jiang Mu later asked San Lai if Wan Qing was Jin Chao's girlfriend.

San Lai assured her that Jin Chao would never be with Wan Qing because she was the daughter of the owner of Wan's Auto Shop. Wan Qing then directly told Jin Chao that the specific car part he needed was impossible to find in Manshi because her father had acquired all of them. She offered to help him get it if he would just "give in a little."

Jin Chao firmly refused her offer, asserting he could handle it himself, and told her to leave. Jiang Mu asked Jin Chao what "wading into deep waters" meant, referring to Wan Qing's earlier comment. Jin Chao evaded the question, instead urging her to go home. Jiang Mu, however, made an excuse about her air conditioner being broken and the house being too hot to sleep in, implying she wanted to stay at his place again.

Jin Chao, with a helpless expression, watched her go into his room. The next morning, Jiang Mu overslept, and Jin Chao, finding her impossible to wake, allowed her to sleep in. Realizing she was late for her training class, Jiang Mu playfully coaxed Jin Chao into driving her. Jin Chao, pampering her and concerned she might be hungry, packed her some breakfast and drove her to the training class.

As she was leaving, Jiang Mu handed him an invitation to her school's upcoming open house, which required parents to attend. Meanwhile, Lin Sui visited Jin Chao's auto shop, inquiring about a Wankel engine, but was told they didn't have one. He then went to Jin Qiang's restaurant and ordered the only three dishes available. There, he saw Jin Chao restocking beer.

Recalling Jiang Mu's previous remark that Jin Chao's driving style resembled that of her friend who owned a Wankel engine, Lin Sui realized that Jin Chao possessed the very engine he was searching for. Preparing for the open house, Jin Chao retrieved his most treasured school uniform from his home. Auntie Zhao offered to wash it, but Jin Chao insisted on washing it himself at the garage because Jiang Mu wanted to wear it.

Jiang Mu, looking for a keychain, approached Jin Chao while he was repairing a car. Unable to get his attention, she reached into his pocket to retrieve the keys. Jin Chao casually asked, "What are you feeling around for?" startling Jiang Mu, who immediately blushed and ran away, leaving Jin Chao bewildered.

San Lai later asked Jin Chao why he always made her angry, to which Jin Chao replied he didn't know, joking that he should put a coin in his pocket for her to find. During a weekend gathering at the auto shop, Jin Chao presented Jiang Mu with the hand-washed uniform. Jiang Mu was overjoyed.

San Lai emphasized that she must cherish the garment, as it was Jin Chao's most prized possession, one he had never even let San Lai wear. Jiang Mu proudly wore the uniform to school, where her friend Nana immediately recognized its significance. Nana explained that the gold star on the school badge indicated it belonged to a top student who had won a city-level competition or higher, and that only one such uniform had been awarded in recent years.

She concluded that Jin Chao, having been Mr. Ma's "prized student," must be the owner of this "limited edition" uniform. Jiang Mu was surprised to learn of Jin Chao's academic past. Later, Jiang Mu asked Jin Chao for help with some difficult problems. He diligently annotated them with a pen. She inquired about the uniform, and he told her he received it for the city-level physics competition trials.

When Jiang Mu asked why he hadn't taken the college entrance exam after being so successful, Jin Chao avoided the question, instead directing her attention back to the annotated problems. San Lai took Jiang Mu to his pet shop, offering her chocolate-flavored ice cream. There, Jiang Mu met Linda and then saw Xishi's new litter of puppies.

She was particularly drawn to a small, neglected yellow puppy, who, according to San Lai, had been abandoned by its mother at birth and rescued by him. This puppy reminded Jiang Mu of a yellow dog she had found as a child, which she and Jin Chao had hidden and named Lightning, but it had eventually disappeared.

San Lai offered the puppy to Jiang Mu, but she initially declined, citing a lack of a place to keep it, though San Lai suggested asking Jin Chao. Later, Jiang Mu spoke to Jin Chao about adopting the yellow puppy, reiterating San Lai's sad story about its abandonment and how unloved it seemed.

Jin Chao, however, dismissed San Lai's narrative as a trick, suggesting that San Lai was simply giving her an unsold puppy so she would cover its boarding and grooming costs at his shop. He bluntly asked if she was "stupid." Jiang Mu offered to pay all expenses herself and keep the dog temporarily at Jin Chao's place. Jin Chao then asked her what she would do with the dog when she eventually left—take it or abandon it?

He advised her not to adopt it if she planned to leave it, warning that developing an attachment would only make things harder. Jiang Mu, deeply angered, connected his words to their own complicated relationship, accusing him of believing that "since we decided to live separately back then, why should there be too much involvement? Since we're not biological siblings at all, why do we need to have contact?

If we have too much contact and develop feelings, it'll only become more troublesome." She reminded him that she had a name and passionately declared herself and the puppy "a poor little thing, unwanted by its father and unloved by its mother," before storming off. Afterward, San Lai questioned Jin Chao about his feelings for Jiang Mu, asking if he would treat her as coldly as he treated others if she were to "fall for" him.

Jin Chao curtly told him to "Get lost." Later, San Lai brought the yellow puppy to Jin Chao's garage. Jiang Mu, delighted, was informed that Jin Chao had agreed to let her keep the puppy. She joyfully hugged the dog, naming it Lightning, and used its young age as an excuse to stay at the garage to care for it. She formally thanked Jin Chao.

He, in turn, asked how she would thank him, and then playfully told her to call him "Brother." Jiang Mu, beaming, called him "Brother" multiple times, which made him incredibly happy. She then joked about taking her "brother" out to play. Wan Qing arrived at the garage, eating an apple, and attempted to persuade Jin Chao to speak with her father. Jin Chao, however, refused, stating he preferred that her father address him directly.

Episode 9 Recap

After overhearing a conversation between Wan Qing and Jin Chao, Jiang Mu approached Jin Chao and offered him an apple. Jin Chao initially questioned why she thought he would eat something she offered. Jiang Mu then asked if he wanted to be continuously entangled by Wan Qing, to which Jin Chao replied that he was not afraid of being pursued by women, declaring he had never feared anyone in his life.

Jiang Mu, taking a bite of the apple herself, playfully suggested he might encounter someone he truly feared one day. Jin Chao met her gaze, took another bite, and walked away, conceding that if such a day came, he would accept his fate. Na Na, Jiang Mu's friend, arranged for her to have a skilled Chinese-speaking driving instructor, Coach Hua. Under his guidance, Jiang Mu quickly passed her driving test.

Celebrating her success, Na Na called Jiang Mu her "lucky star" and mentioned feeling an "instant connection" with her from their first meeting, describing it as meeting by chance and becoming immediate friends. Meanwhile, Xin's test scores were quite poor. Jin Fengzi attempted to sign her report card as a parent but realized he couldn't remember how to write the character "Jin." San Lai, mocking him, grabbed the paper to sign it himself, leading to an argument.

Jin Chao arrived and noticed the last two questions on Xin's paper were left blank. Xin admitted she intentionally left them blank to avoid getting first place, which would require her to give a speech as the student representative, a task she wanted to skip. Jin Chao signed her paper but advised her to be direct with her teacher next time instead of resorting to such tricks.

He then playfully accused Jin Fengzi and San Lai of often impersonating parents and signing Xin's papers. Later, at a service area, Jiang Mu spotted Lin Sui while buying milk tea. Lin Sui, noticing her purchase, remarked that she had chosen the worst flavor and offered to make her a special strawberry-flavored drink. Jiang Mu mentioned she was waiting for San Lai.

Lin Sui revealed that he had invited San Lai, and since San Lai was currently lost, he offered Jiang Mu a ride up the mountain. Lin Sui also explained a "secret code" used between racers. They soon spotted San Lai's bright pink pickup truck heading up the mountain, an hour behind schedule. Lin Sui wondered aloud why he had even invited San Lai.

Upon San Lai's arrival, he proudly showed off his "spruced up" appearance, including a red scarf for "good luck," but Lin Sui dismissed his efforts as typical of an "underachiever with lots of stationery." Lin Sui suggested they begin their race. To show hospitality, Lin Sui offered San Lai a five-second head start. San Lai accepted, but as the race began, his truck veered, nearly falling into a ditch.

Lin Sui then took San Lai's duckbill hat, promising to return it to its owner. As they prepared to descend, San Lai complained about his bad luck, lamenting his ruined outfit. Jiang Mu corrected him, stating that the downhill road was actually more challenging. Feeling dizzy from the uphill drive, San Lai agreed to let Jiang Mu take the wheel, and she confidently promised to reach the service area within half an hour.

True to her word, she completed the drive in an impressive 23 minutes, earning Lin Sui's admiration. San Lai went to buy cupcakes, specifically requesting cream-free bases for Jin Chao, who disliked cream and sweet foods. Jiang Mu, curious about the hat, asked San Lai whose it was. San Lai replied it belonged to Jin Chao. Overhearing this, Lin Sui smiled, drove away, and discreetly paid for their cakes in advance.

Following Jiang Mu's suggestion, San Lai got a new haircut, shaved his beard, and adopted a more stylish wardrobe, which indeed made him look refreshed and sharp-featured, "like an idol." He went to show Jin Chao, mentioning it was Jiang Mu's idea and boasting that he now looked "more handsome" and had "a slight edge over" Jin Chao. When Jiang Mu returned home, she excitedly praised San Lai's transformation, gushing over his new look and admiring his accessories.

Jin Chao had to call her name twice to get her attention. Jin Chao then asked why she was always inquiring about him. Jiang Mu replied simply, "Because it's you." Jin Chao probed further, reminding her that they were not related by blood and questioned how others, especially Jin Qiang, would perceive her frequent visits. He then leaned closer and explicitly asked if she "wanted something to happen between us."

Startled, Jiang Mu pushed him away and ran out of the room. Later, Lin Sui visited Jin Qiang's Chinese Restaurant. Jin Chao was there, and when Zhao Meijuan stepped out, she left Jin Chao to attend to Lin Sui. Lin Sui found the dumplings too salty, so Jin Chao made him fried rice instead, telling him to eat and leave and not come back. Lin Sui then returned the duckbill hat to Jin Chao.

He revealed that he had been looking for Jin Chao since their previous encounter on the mountain, during which Jin Chao had interrupted his race. Lin Sui also recalled a boxing match and how San Lai had falsely claimed to be the driver that night. Lin Sui challenged Jin Chao to a one-on-one race, but Jin Chao declined, suggesting Lin Sui challenge Liang Yanfeng instead.

Jin Chao brushed off his past win against Liang Yanfeng, attributing it to mere luck and familiarity with the road, reiterating his lack of interest in another race. Jin Chao received news that the next competition would be a cornering speed race. Despite his lack of confidence after almost losing his previous race, he was told that winning first place was crucial.

Achieving this would allow them to transport cargo for Wan Shengbang, thereby disrupting Wan Shengbang's illicit business and securing vital evidence. Seeking guidance, Jin Chao consulted Jin Qiang. Jin Qiang, a veteran racer, shared his philosophy: while calmness, attentiveness, courage, and skill are commonly cited, they are "bullshit." He emphasized "mastery" and viewing the car as "an extension of your body," with the driver becoming "part of the car," understanding its "breathing, rhythm, sound, and temperature."

He elaborated that true skill comes from hands being "faster than your brain," making all actions "muscle memory" and "instinctive" without needing to think. To achieve this, Jin Qiang instructed Jin Chao to assist him with food deliveries the following day. He summarized his advice concisely: "Don't be a coward." Disturbed by Jin Chao's earlier intimate question, Jiang Mu felt annoyed and avoided visiting Jin Chao at the garage.

Jin Qiang noticed her absence and asked Jin Chao if he had said anything to her. Jin Chao admitted that he had. To help Jin Chao practice his driving and embody the philosophy of "man-car unity," Jin Qiang tasked him with delivering takeout orders using his race car. Jin Chao initially worried about getting complaints for slow delivery, especially since his car's rotors were "completely worn out" and might fall apart.

Jin Qiang challenged him to "wreck it" if he could, while urging him to drive fast, turn off the AC to keep the food warm, and return quickly for more orders. Jin Chao faced various challenges on the road, including a customer threatening to complain about slow service, but he skillfully navigated traffic and sped to his destinations. Jin Qiang later hinted at the challenges Jin Chao faced, remarking that if he had arrived earlier, he wouldn't have gotten "splashed."

This implied that Jin Chao's difficult delivery experiences were part of his training to push his limits. That night, Jiang Mu woke up from a dream where she was passionately kissing Jin Chao in a swimming pool. Reflecting on all their physical contact, she felt it was "too much" and tried to control her thoughts, but couldn't stop wondering what Jin Chao truly thought of her. She pondered if she was "overthinking" things or if his words were "serious." She remained awake, lost in thought, until dawn, urging herself to "pull yourself together" to face him in the future.

Episode 10 Recap

In class, Pan Kai, who everyone calls Kai, tried to get Jiang Mu’s contact information, eager to treat her to a meal after school, claiming there were many good restaurants nearby. Jiang Mu ignored him, and after class, he persistently followed her, even to the bathroom door. Inside, Jiang Mu learned from Na Na that Pan Kai was a Chinese expatriate, a rich kid whose family owned a car repair factory.

He repeatedly failed the college entrance exam, aspiring to attend the Agricultural University. Fed up, Jiang Mu jumped out a window to escape him. She then accidentally bumped into Jin Chao, who was in the middle of a discreet transaction with a man with bleached hair, identified as a friend. Pan Kai quickly reappeared, still trying to get Jiang Mu to take the bus home with him, but she pushed past him and ran to Jin Chao.

On their way home in Jin Chao’s car, Jiang Mu asked him what he had been doing, particularly about the man with bleached hair, why he called Jin Chao "Touqi," and what he had been doing these past few days, not coming back often. Jin Chao didn't directly answer her questions, instead asking who the white-clothed man standing behind her earlier (Pan Kai) was. Jiang Mu replied that he was a classmate from her language foundation course.

Jin Chao simply told her to be careful. Days later, Jiang Mu visited the garage looking for Jin Chao. San Lai greeted her, commenting on her patience after not visiting for a while. Jiang Mu claimed she was "just passing by" to see the dog, Lightning. She asked San Lai about the garage's business and where Jin Chao was, expressing confusion as he usually woke up early.

San Lai explained that Jin Chao had resumed normal business hours, but people in the area typically opened around 2 PM. Jiang Mu then expressed her fear that Jin Chao might kick her out if she asked him too many questions directly. San Lai reassured her, saying she was adorable and only a blind person wouldn’t like her, subtly hinting at Jin Chao. Jiang Mu, however, believed Jin Chao might be that "blind person."

When San Lai pressed her on what she would do if Jin Chao really tried to send her away, Jiang Mu jokingly suggested singing, telling jokes, doing magic tricks, or even dancing for him since she had learned ballet as a child. This entire conversation was overheard by Jin Chao, who, from above, challenged her to dance for him, calling her "little swan." Embarrassed and annoyed, Jiang Mu ran off. That night, Jin Chao found himself sketching Jiang Mu.

He reflected that he hadn't expected Jiang Mu to truly come looking for him. Her habits, preferences, and even her tone of voice had become ingrained in his memory without him consciously trying. He mused that he had been thinking about her constantly, not due to any specific event, but simply to confirm her presence. He also acknowledged having many unspoken words for her, just waiting for the right moment to express them.

Meanwhile, Jin Chao continued his high-speed delivery training. His brother, Jin Qiang, removed the anti-lock braking system (ABS) from his race car, instructing him to rely entirely on foot control, emphasizing the importance of stability to prevent fatal rollovers, especially without braking assistance. Jin Qiang also decided against changing the tires, believing a good driver relies on skill, not equipment. Jin Chao's delivery times improved, becoming faster and smoother, with half-hour round trips now the norm.

Later, Jiang Mu stumbled upon Jin Chao’s sketchbook and discovered his drawings of her. She secretly photographed them, planning to surprise him, convinced he would never admit to drawing her if confronted directly. Separately, Lin Sui visited Liang Yanfeng at a hotel, revealing his interest in a driver named Jin Chao. Liang Yanfeng recounted Jin Chao's performance in a previous race where Wan Dayong had "played dirty tricks."

Despite this, Jin Chao’s excellent mental strength and quick reflexes allowed him to finish by driving backward, narrowly avoiding elimination. Liang Yanfeng noted Jin Chao’s exceptional control, power, and adaptability, calling him a formidable opponent whose racing style he hadn’t fully grasped. He admitted that if Jin Chao's "mods" were up to par for the next race, the outcome would be a 50-50 split.

Learning that Jin Chao needed reinforced seals and a reinforced center shaft, which were hard to find due to someone monopolizing the market to prevent Jin Chao from "rising in ranks by accumulating points," Lin Sui decided to "give him a push." He also learned about Jiang Mu, who had been Jin Chao's navigator in a Scramble race, and how well they worked together. Lin Sui then decided to meet her. Lin Sui, accompanied by Liang Yanfeng, found Jiang Mu.

Coincidentally, Jiang Mu needed a manual car to practice her advanced drifting techniques, as automatic cars lacked the shifting efficiency and explosive power she required. Na Na enthusiastically vouched for Lin Sui, calling him the "most impressive driver" she knew. Jiang Mu flattered Lin Sui, saying she believed him to be the best drifter she had ever ridden with, after experiencing his driving twice.

Lin Sui, flattered, agreed to teach her, but only if she promised to keep it a secret from everyone except those present. He lent her his car, deeming hers too heavy for drifting. Before the lesson, he instructed Liang Yanfeng to record everything. Jiang Mu expressed her desire to draw a "horizontal three"—two connected semi-circles with small "tails"—with her tire marks, indicating a desire for precise car control. Lin Sui, finding the request interesting, agreed to teach her.

Concurrently, Jin Qiang continued Jin Chao's training. He tied Jin Chao's right hand to the steering wheel, explaining that this would help him control the steering angle more precisely, making turns faster and developing "muscle memory." Jin Qiang meticulously recorded and analyzed Jin Chao's training data. During Jiang Mu's lesson, Lin Sui demonstrated the "horizontal three" pattern, emphasizing that drifting requires both route design and technique, with a straight approach to gain speed before starting the drift.

Jiang Mu then took the wheel. Lin Sui provided hands-on instruction, placing his hand on her leg to guide her on the accelerator and providing detailed advice on clutch release and smooth acceleration. Liang Yanfeng diligently filmed their interactions. Jiang Mu successfully executed the desired pattern, surprising Lin Sui, who then flirted with her, expressing his fondness for Chinese girls. Jiang Mu responded by saying she liked handsome boys too.

While leaving, Jiang Mu, realizing Lin Sui's intentions, told Na Na that he was "just pretending to pursue" her. Jin Chao, continuing his practice runs, found his car felt unusually easy to drive. Jin Qiang explained it was like running with sandbags and then taking them off, making him "fly."

He also gave Jin Chao a cooking analogy for driving: just as a good dish depends on heat, seasoning, and ingredients, a car's grip is distributed between acceleration, braking, and steering. He advised Jin Chao to avoid being controlled by inertia by delaying braking, thus increasing front wheel load and grip.

For S-curves, Jin Qiang advised treating them as a straight line, braking late or not at all to maintain speed, comparing it to "quick stir-fry with high heat" to lock in moisture and keep meat tender. Jin Chao, applying Jin Qiang's advice, found his driving becoming increasingly stable and effortless. Later, Jin Chao arrived at Jiang Mu's school for an open day.

Jiang Mu, called to the stage by her teacher, gave a confident speech to the parents and students, expressing her happiness with the learning environment and new friends, and her commitment to learning English and the local language to better integrate. Jin Chao watched proudly, impressed by her improved language skills. As evening fell, a sudden, heavy rain poured down. Jin Chao offered his jacket to Jiang Mu, who was cold. She subtly moved her hand closer to his, using the excuse of "warming hands." Jin Chao noticed and clasped her hand tightly.

Episode 11 Recap

After Jiang Mu finished her shower, she asked Jin Chao to blow-dry her hair, and then for some water. Jin Chao playfully remarked that she was so high-maintenance, wondering how she would ever get married. Jiang Mu countered that she was gentle, cute, virtuous, and understanding, but Jin Chao said he didn't know anyone like that. In response, Jiang Mu threw a pillow at him.

Jin Chao sighed, noting her "violent tendencies" and jokingly told her not to cause trouble for anyone else. Jiang Mu then leaned closer, whispering that she would only cause trouble for him. Jiang Mu asked Jin Chao to tell her about their parents' divorce. He explained that the final trigger was a few potted plants. Their father, Jin Qiang, had smashed some potted plants that their mother, Jiang Yinghan, cherished.

Jin Qiang had rationalized his actions by saying the house was too small for such "useless stuff." Jin Chao emphasized the importance of a man taking responsibility and resolving issues rather than avoiding them, labeling avoidance as a sign of cowardice. When Jiang Mu asked if their father had bought new plants, Jin Chao said no. Jin Qiang had considered the plants insignificant, but to Jiang Yinghan, they were crucial, and she never received an apology, leading to their divorce.

Jiang Mu wondered if marriage itself was inherently unhappy. Jin Chao disagreed, stating that while there are no unhappy marriages, there are unhappy couples. He believed marriage itself doesn't bring misfortune, but rather a lack of steadfastness between partners. He asserted that if two people truly love each other, they can overcome any obstacle, adding, "Where there's a will, there's a way."

Jiang Mu told him he would make a good husband, to which Jin Chao replied that such a judgment could only be made by his wife. She then asked when he planned to marry, and he admitted he hadn't thought about it. Jiang Mu reminisced about a childhood argument between their parents, recalling how she hid under the bed.

She confessed that she had actually fallen asleep reading a storybook under the bed and hadn't told him, fearing he would scold her for being naughty or putting herself in danger. Jin Chao playfully called her "precocious for your age," but Jiang Mu insisted she was no longer little. Jin Chao then teased her, comparing her to Sun Wukong's disciple, "sometimes big, sometimes small," and stopped her from leaving the bed.

Alone in the living room, Jin Chao found his mind consumed by thoughts of Jiang Mu. He realized that while she still carried the innocence and cuteness of her childhood, she was now a grown woman, and so was he. They could no longer lie together carefree, letting their imaginations run wild. He acknowledged that he had been deliberately ignoring his feelings for a long time, but now he couldn't.

He thought about how he had spent every New Year's Eve alone for years, and suspected she had too. This year, he decided he didn't want her to be alone anymore. Jiang Mu mumbled in her sleep about a New Year's gift she had prepared for Jin Chao. He gently stroked her head and whispered that he would love anything she gave him. Meanwhile, Lin Sui called Liang Yanfeng, instructing him to send a video to Jin Chao.

Lin Sui mentioned seeing a Panamera with a familiar license plate outside Jin Chao's building, hinting that Jin Chao might have "changed his type" and was now "into married women." Liang Yanfeng questioned why Lin Sui was bringing this up now, to which Lin Sui likened himself to a "mistress deliberately trying to get caught by the wife" in order to "PK her." Liang Yanfeng confirmed he had sent the video.

Lin Sui then cryptically dismissed the Panamera topic, saying, "What's the rush?" Shortly after, Jin Chao confronted Lin Sui, clearly irritated. He told Lin Sui to put away his cream dessert, stating that the sight of cream made him sick. Jin Chao sternly warned Lin Sui to stay away from Jiang Mu. Lin Sui claimed he wasn't interested in her.

When Jin Chao asked what Lin Sui wanted, Lin Sui suggested a fight in the sea, but Jin Chao countered that it could be deadly, and admitted he couldn't swim despite Lin Sui's taunts about his fighting prowess. Jin Chao then threatened to kick Lin Sui into the sea if he approached Jiang Mu again. Lin Sui offered Jin Chao a special gift he had brought from Japan, but Jin Chao refused it.

Lin Sui then proposed a race to the entertainment center: the winner would celebrate with Jiang Mu, while the loser would stay out of her life. Jin Chao accepted. Before the race, Lin Sui probed whether Jiang Mu was the person Jin Chao liked. The race began. Lin Sui offered to wait for Jin Chao at a red light, calling it an "unfair win" if he didn't. Jin Chao retorted that Lin Sui first needed to win to discuss fairness.

Lin Sui complimented Jin Chao's driving, which Jin Chao casually dismissed as "average" and "just for fun." Lin Sui sarcastically asked if Jin Chao understood sarcasm and offered him a chance to concede, but Jin Chao ignored it, reminding him that he had his opportunity to state the rules earlier. Lin Sui was surprised by Jin Chao's fast start and pointed out that Jin Chao's car had many OEM parts and could be lighter.

When Jin Chao inquired about solving the counterweight issue, Lin Sui refused, stating he wasn't Jin Chao's employee. Jin Chao offered to pay, but Lin Sui insisted he didn't sell. They discussed their cars' specifications: Lin Sui's had 500 HP, while Jin Chao's had 600. Lin Sui suggested that Jin Chao's turbo boost could be increased for easier overtaking, but Jin Chao maintained that his current 0. 8 boost was "enough."

Lin Sui's associates attempted to block Jin Chao's path using three-wheeled vehicles, but Jin Chao skillfully navigated past them, a testament to his experience from delivery driving. Lin Sui acknowledged that in terms of pure performance, he was likely to lose, given Jin Chao's Wankel engine had more horsepower and a lighter body, admitting he was racing with a twin-rotor engine at top speed.

He questioned Jin Chao's fixation on rotors and refusal to buy his parts, deducing that Jin Chao intended to hand-make a specific part. As the race continued, Lin Sui praised Jin Chao's responsive brakes, asking if he modified them himself. Jin Chao confirmed he had upgraded his brake discs and calipers.

Lin Sui then pinpointed flaws in Jin Chao's setup, noting that his suspension was too soft, causing a "chain reaction," and that his intake valve was loose, with coilovers and piston calipers being replicas, not an "optimal setup." Jin Chao, surprised by Lin Sui's detailed assessment without having driven the car, was told by Lin Sui that he could "hear it" from the car's sound. Jin Chao admitted he had underestimated Lin Sui.

Lin Sui then pressed Jin Chao about various aspects of his life: why he didn't use headlights before a corner one night, his involvement in car racing and underground fighting, whether he owned a Chinese restaurant, and the identity of a constantly drunk man. He also inquired about how long Jin Chao had been racing and why he hadn't seen him in Manshi before. Jin Chao deflected, asking if Lin Sui was so interested in his business.

Jin Chao then took the lead, demonstrating a rapid cornering technique by accelerating immediately after the turn for a quicker exit. He offered to lead, and Lin Sui agreed. Jin Chao deliberately guided Lin Sui down his old delivery routes. Lin Sui, unable to keep up, got splashed by a bucket of water from an elderly woman, much to Jin Chao's amusement, who noted she splashes water at 7 AM daily.

On the highway, Jin Chao executed a precise drift over a truck, startling Lin Sui, who then angrily chastised him for endangering safety on a public road and disrespecting the sport of racing. Jin Chao conceded, admitting he was impulsive and "lost his sense of proportion," agreeing that public roads were not racetracks and thanking Lin Sui for the lesson.

As Jin Chao was about to leave, Lin Sui invited him to join his racing team to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France the following month. Jin Chao declined, stating he planned to quit racing once he completed his current commitments. Lin Sui asked what he intended to do instead. At a charity event, Jiang Mu was backstage with Nana, who praised her drumming skills. Jiang Mu modestly brushed it off.

Nana then urged her to perform a classic song, her "trump card." Jiang Mu hesitated, wanting to sing it for Jin Chao, who hadn't arrived yet. Nana mentioned that her cousin, Lin Sui, had inquired about their performance time and location, implying Jin Chao was expected. Moments later, Jin Chao arrived. Nana encouraged Jiang Mu, who then went on stage and sang "The Moon Represents My Heart," dedicating it to Jin Chao.

As Jin Chao watched from the crowd, he felt as though they were the only two people in the entire room. After the event, Jin Chao drove Jiang Mu to the beach. Jiang Mu asked him how he typically spent New Year's Eve. Jin Chao replied that he usually forgot about it and didn't celebrate.

Jiang Mu enthusiastically described the festive New Year atmosphere in Manshi, complete with temple fairs and dragon and lion dances, asking if he had ever seen them and if he wanted to go. Jin Chao then asked Jiang Mu what New Year's gift she desired. Jiang Mu inquired if he would truly get it for her if she told him.

Jin Chao joked that he couldn't pluck the moon from the sky, but he would try his best for anything else. Jiang Mu playfully responded that she didn't want the moon because she was "already the moon herself." She then ran towards the sea and loudly declared her New Year's wish: for the person in her heart to understand her song and feelings, to keep her in his heart, and for her to be his moon for a lifetime.

Jin Chao, feigning deafness due to the wind, asked her to repeat it. Jiang Mu, undeterred, stood right beside him and sang "The Moon Represents My Heart" once more. When Jiang Mu asked Jin Chao about his wish, he admitted he hadn't thought of one. As they waited for a meteor shower, Jiang Mu drifted off to sleep. Jin Chao, watching a shooting star streak across the sky, made a silent wish: "Zhao and Mu, never be apart."

Later, Jiang Mu met a friend who warned her to stay away from Zhang Fan, calling him a "bad guy" who "loafs around all day," "never does anything serious," and had been in a foundation course for three years, implying he was involved in street life. The friend then asked Zhang Fan for money. The friend led Jiang Mu to Zhang Fan. Zhang Fan asked if Jiang Mu knew "Brandy Ge" (Brother Brandy), a nickname for Jin Chao.

Jiang Mu confirmed she did. Zhang Fan explained that his brother was closer to Brandy Ge. Jiang Mu then asked about the package Zhang Fan had given Jin Chao the previous day. Zhang Fan revealed they were "complete structural blueprints of a car," which his brother, an automotive engineer working at a car factory, had asked him to deliver to Brandy Ge. Jiang Mu's friend expressed renewed concern, reiterating Zhang Fan's "street guy" status.

Subsequently, Jiang Mu confronted Jin Chao about the blueprints he received from Zhang Fan. Jin Chao asked if she knew Zhang Fan, and Jiang Mu confirmed, stating he was from her school and she wasn't a "nerd." Jin Chao asked if she was "concerned," but Jiang Mu denied it. Jin Chao then mentioned he had to leave the next day for "car-related matters."

Episode 12 Recap

Pan Kai informed Jiang Mu about the person she had asked about, known as Touqi or "Death." He explained that Touqi was a senior student from previous graduating classes who had formed a racing team and often participated in illegal street races. His nickname came from his incredible speed; those who raced him were said to be "doomed," losing so swiftly they couldn't even "pass the first seven days."

Tragically, his car was eventually confiscated, and Touqi himself disappeared a month or two before the college entrance exam, never returning to school, despite having excellent grades. Later, Jiang Mu messaged Jin Chao, claiming she had forgotten her way home and jokingly asking him to pick her up. Jin Chao, engaged in work, initially declined, but Jiang Mu sent him a photo of her water bottle with a crying emoji.

Jin Chao quickly zoomed in, noticing the reflection of a male classmate in the bottle cap. He promptly arrived at the school. There, another student had tried to walk her home, grabbing her hand. When Jin Chao asked who the student was, Jiang Mu identified him as Touqi. Jin Chao, clearly displeased, took Jiang Mu away, asking "Let's go home." Wan Qing approached Jiang Mu and took her to a seaside restaurant where they shared drinks.

Wan Qing revealed her long-standing feelings for Jin Chao. She recalled meeting him at Wan's Auto Shop when he was an apprentice. She was struck by his intense focus on his work, his attractive physique, and his handsome looks, falling for him at first sight. Unlike other mechanics who were always transient, Jin Chao was unique; he constantly read books and filled large notebooks with beautiful handwriting.

Wan Qing often visited the garage, offering coffee and trying to engage with him, even asking him to teach her calligraphy, but Jin Chao always kept his distance, stating he had "no time." Wan Qing further recounted Jin Chao's past struggles. She learned from Jin Fengzi that Jin Chao's younger sister, Jin Xin, had congenital heart disease and urgently needed expensive surgery that their family couldn't afford.

Jin Chao found a way to earn money by buying a cheap used car and modifying it. A buyer promised a higher price if he could significantly improve the car's 0-100 km/h acceleration and other performance metrics. Jin Chao poured himself into researching, designing, and upgrading the car's transmission and powertrain, working through several sleepless nights. The satisfied buyer paid him a large sum, which Jin Chao used to cover Jin Xin's surgery costs.

Jiang Mu, listening intently, added that Jin Chao had always been her role model, capable of complex engineering even as a teenager, and she had seen his excellence in countless ways. She remembered crying when he left, thinking she would never see him again. Wan Qing continued, explaining that Jin Chao told Jin Fengzi he was quitting before the college entrance exam, leading her to believe he was focusing on his studies. However, he never took the exam.

Jiang Mu asked if something had happened. Wan Qing confirmed that the modified car had been in an accident. The driver survived but lost a leg. The investigation concluded that illegal modifications caused the car to lose control, and the victim's family decided to sue Jin Chao for negligent crime, fearing a criminal record would ruin his future. Jin Fengzi desperately tried to raise money for compensation.

Wan Qing sold her newly bought sports car to contribute, but Jin Chao firmly refused her money. Eventually, it was Jin Chao's friend, San Lai, who sold his own fast-food restaurant to gather the necessary funds, allowing the victim's family to settle out of court.

After this ordeal, Jin Chao did not return to school but went back to Wan's Auto Shop as an apprentice, working tirelessly and taking on the most strenuous tasks, as if punishing himself for his perceived mistake. As Jin Chao gained more experience, Wan Shengbang entrusted him with managing the garage.

It was then that Jin Chao uncovered corrupt practices among the senior mechanics who would swap new parts for old ones from customers' cars, selling the new parts for quick cash to buy alcohol. Wan Qing then revealed to Jiang Mu the shocking truth: Jin Chao had been framed. Wan Dayong had tampered with the sensors and actuator components of the car Jin Chao modified.

Wan Shengbang had then privately instructed everyone involved to keep silent to protect Wan's Auto Shop's business, making Jin Chao take the blame. Jin Chao, believing it was his own fault, endured the injustice alone. Wan Qing expressed her regret and sorrow, acknowledging that Wan's Auto Shop had deeply wronged him, and Jiang Mu, deeply saddened, blamed herself for not being there for Jin Chao.

As Jin Chao arrived at the restaurant, Jiang Mu tearfully embraced him, declaring that she was back and would never leave him again, asking to "never be apart again." Wan Qing, also emotional and intoxicated, tried to apologize to Jin Chao for the wrongs committed against him by her father and the garage, offering for him to scold her instead. Seeing that Wan Qing was too drunk to walk, Jin Chao gently carried Jiang Mu away.

Shortly after they left, He Zhang arrived and found Wan Qing. Despite his attempts to stop her from drinking more, she insisted he join her. Later, back at home, Jin Chao noticed bruises on Jiang Mu's leg and immediately suspected Wan Qing. Jiang Mu quickly reassured him it was an accident, saying she had "accidentally bumped into something myself." She then probed him, asking if he liked Wan Qing.

Without waiting for an answer, she firmly stated that no matter how kind Wan Qing was to him, he "can't like her." She then declared, "I'm all grown up now," which visibly flustered Jin Chao. San Lai later informed Jin Chao that Wan Qing had come to his place with He Zhang, intoxicated and trying to break into Jin Chao's garage.

San Lai had stopped her, and she had tearfully recounted her entire history of "secret crush, obvious affection, and her unrequited love" for Jin Chao. He also mentioned that Wan Qing had disclosed Jin Chao's past with Wan's Auto Shop to Jiang Mu, to which Jin Chao replied that Jiang Mu wasn't upset. San Lai then began praising Jiang Mu to Jin Chao, describing her as tall, fair-skinned, with long black hair, a good personality, smart, and a quick learner.

Her only flaw, he noted, was being a picky eater, which he then jokingly spun into a positive, saying she wouldn't gain weight and would look adorable even if she got "plump and fair, with two ponytails." Jin Chao agreed with the descriptions. San Lai then directly asked Jin Chao what he thought of Jiang Mu as a girlfriend. Jin Chao stated he hadn't thought about it, but San Lai urged him to.

Jin Chao, however, insisted he "really shouldn't think about it." San Lai then declared that if any girl could truly enter Jin Chao's heart, it could only be Jiang Mu. Jin Chao just smiled to himself, knowing that Jiang Mu didn't need to enter his heart; she had always been there.

Meanwhile, a frustrated He Zhang, who had long harbored feelings for Wan Qing, was left to punch a sandbag, having just heard Wan Qing drunkenly confess her deep love for Jin Chao. As the New Year approached, Zhao Meijuan decided to return home for the holidays and wanted to take Jiang Mu with her. Jin Qiang, however, confidently stated that Jiang Mu wouldn't go.

Zhao Meijuan, wanting to ensure Jiang Mu had resources while staying, prepared a generous red envelope for her. She told Jiang Mu to use the money to buy whatever she wanted to eat or drink during the New Year. Jiang Mu affirmed that she was indeed staying to spend the New Year with Jin Chao, expressing her strong affection for him. She also gave a red envelope to Jin Xin before Zhao Meijuan and Jin Qiang departed.

Jiang Mu then went to San Lai's where Jin Chao and the garage workers were having a New Year's dinner. She arrived in the rain without an umbrella, making her hands cold. San Lai fussed over her, ensuring she got food, and then Jin Chao pulled her hands into his pocket to warm them.

Jiang Mu explained that Zhao Meijuan and Jin Xin had gone back home, and Jin Qiang drove them, but she chose to stay behind to spend the New Year with him. As her hands warmed in his pocket, she noticed a pendant that Jin Chao wore, which was inscribed with the words "Yearning day and night."

Episode 13 Recap

Jiang Mu remembered San Lai's words, that Jin Chao's heart was entirely focused on the pendant, and a wave of happiness washed over her. She found the fennel dumplings, which she usually disliked, surprisingly delicious. She playfully insisted that Jin Chao retrieve her meatballs and then her soda, requests he gladly fulfilled. Jin Fengzi, observing the scene, reminded Jiang Mu that a navigator is like a lover to a racer, emphasizing that Jin Chao never easily trusted anyone.

The implication was that Jiang Mu, as his former navigator, was uniquely special to him. Later, during a game of mahjong, Jin Chao discreetly sent Jiang Mu a red envelope, wishing her a Happy New Year. San Lai and the others followed suit, each giving her a red envelope. As the countdown to the new year began, fireworks lit up the sky.

Everyone rushed outside to watch the dazzling display, and Jiang Mu, amidst the celebration, wished Jin Chao a Happy New Year. After the festivities, Jiang Mu took the pendant from Jin Chao, telling him he shouldn't need it anymore. When he questioned how she knew, she confidently declared that with her right there, he no longer needed to be yearning day and night.

She then playfully asked him to carry her upstairs, just as he used to when they were younger. Jin Chao, with a fond expression, hoisted her onto his back. At her door, he didn't set her down immediately. Instead, Jiang Mu wrapped her arms around him and stepped onto his feet, letting him open the door. He carefully guided them inside before finally putting down her slippers.

The moment was charged with unspoken emotion, leaving both of them flushed, and Jiang Mu shyly retreated into her room. As Jin Chao turned to leave, Jiang Mu quickly emerged from her room, asking him to stay up with her and tell her stories, reminiscing about their childhood tradition. Jin Chao gently reminded her that she wasn't a child anymore, but Jiang Mu insisted that in his presence, she would always be young.

He eventually conceded, agreeing to tell her stories for an hour. The next morning, Jin Chao waited downstairs for Jiang Mu, having arrived after failing to reach her by phone. He explained he didn't want to disturb her sleep. Jiang Mu, having taken extra care with her appearance, joined him, and they headed to a practice track. There, she demonstrated a drifting technique, skillfully etching a large heart onto the ground.

She presented it as her New Year's gift, asking if he liked it. When Jin Chao asked who taught her, she attributed it to San Lai, who claimed drifting was the best way to impress girls. Jiang Mu confessed she was curious and wanted to try it. Jin Chao, deeply touched, declared it the best gift he had ever received.

He then invited her into the passenger seat and, in turn, drifted another heart beside hers, completing the gesture with an arrow piercing both hearts as his heartfelt return gift. Later, Jin Chao and Jiang Mu explored a lively temple fair with San Lai. San Lai pointed out a wishing tree, known as the Tree God, claiming it was especially potent for matters of the heart.

All three hung their wishes, and San Lai urged Jiang Mu to speak her wish aloud for the Tree God to hear. Jiang Mu's lengthy wish included hopes for everyone's peace and health in the new year, and a special blessing for "Chao and me." San Lai playfully teased her about the length of her wish, implying she had many admirers, but Jiang Mu quickly corrected him, stating she only had one love.

Jin Chao, overhearing this, couldn't suppress a subtle smile. As the lion dance began, Jiang Mu and Jin Chao joined the crowd while San Lai went to purchase a red ornament for his zodiac year. In the throng, Jiang Mu was bumped and instinctively grabbed Jin Chao's hand. Leaning in to speak to him during the dance, she was again pushed by the crowd, causing her lips to brush against Jin Chao's face.

He was momentarily stunned but couldn't help but smile secretly. On their way back, they unexpectedly encountered members of Wan's Auto Shop. The group quickly became confrontational, with He Zhang warning Jin Chao against interfering with Xikouguan's business. Wan Shengbang, the owner, attempted to pressure Jin Chao into becoming his son-in-law. Undeterred, Jin Chao defiantly took Jiang Mu's hand in front of everyone.

Enraged, Wan Shengbang signaled his subordinates to attack, but San Lai, Lai Qide's son, arrived just in time. He openly challenged Wan Shengbang, bringing up his father's old debts and declaring his intention to intervene on Jin Chao’s behalf. As the tension escalated, a group of elderly tourists arrived, seeking someone to take their photos. Jiang Mu seized the distraction, pulling Jin Chao away to happily pose with the seniors, allowing them to make a discreet exit.

Meanwhile, back at a garage, Wan Qing, distraught, took out her frustration on a sandbag. He Zhang, who clearly harbored feelings for her, allowed her to vent, then tenderly bandaged her bruised hands. Through tears, Wan Qing confessed to him, "You can't replace him." Later, He Zhang confronted Jin Chao, accusing him of causing Wan Qing pain and telling him to stay away if he didn't reciprocate her feelings. Jin Chao, however, calmly stated, "Enough. I have someone I need to protect."

Episode 14 Recap

He Zhang confronted Jin Chao at the garage, upset that Wan Qing was crying over Jin Chao. Jin Chao warned He Zhang to stop being reckless, stating that he has someone he needs to protect. Early the next morning, Jiang Mu exited her room and was surprised to see Jin Chao already there. She quickly rushed back inside for an emergency image makeover, reappearing instantly with full makeup, sitting down elegantly for breakfast, acting reserved.

Jin Chao was secretly amused by her transformation. A staff member mentioned that Jin Chao specially prepared some dishes for her since she doesn't like dumplings, offering her rice instead. Jiang Mu thanked them. Later, Jin Chao sat in the stairwell, preparing to smoke. Jiang Mu wanted to try it, asking if it would make her cough, but Jin Chao immediately took the cigarette away.

She remarked that many women who race cars, like Wan Qing, smoke, but Jin Chao told her she was different. Jiang Mu, unsatisfied, pressed him on how she was different and playfully demanded he call her pretty, threatening to no longer be his "sister" if he refused. Jin Chao, amused, just asked what kind of answer she wanted before heading downstairs.

Lin Sui sent Jin Chao some imported car parts, but Jin Chao rejected the package, opting to use his own handmade components instead. After installing them, Jin Chao test-drove his RX7 but found the engine started knocking before he could even accelerate fully, indicating no progress. He sought advice from Jin Qiang, explaining that the engine's high temperature caused the rotors and crank to melt and fuse together.

Jin Qiang pointed out that while a Wankel engine inherently struggles with knocking, the core issue was cooling, especially since Wan Shengbang had monopolized imported parts. Jin Qiang suggested a new approach: utilizing the trunk for a water spray cooling system to increase cooling capacity, emphasizing that car modification is about ingenuity, not just expensive hardware. Jin Chao praised Jin Qiang's cleverness.

Jin Qiang then asked Jin Chao to deliver a takeout order for him and reminded him to ask for a good review. When Jin Chao delivered the meal to Lin Sui, he explained that he no longer needed the imported parts, and the meal was on him. He asked Lin Sui to leave a good review for the restaurant.

Lin Sui, taking Jin Chao's casual "whatever you want" seriously, left a review praising the food but also calling the delivery man "damn hot." Jin Chao immediately called him, asking him to delete the comment, clarifying he meant to review the food, not him. Lin Sui agreed, but only if Jin Chao cooked him fried rice. Jin Chao agreed to make it for him the next night at the Chinese restaurant, just the two of them.

After two days without seeing Jin Chao, Jiang Mu grew worried, fearing he might be involved in dangerous activities again. She tried to reassure herself, saying she had to trust him and that he would return safely. During a race, Jin Chao aggressively overtook several cars until only Liang Yanfeng's 350Z remained ahead. Liang Yanfeng's defense was tight, making an overtake difficult. Lin Sui, watching the race, confidently believed Jin Chao would find a way.

Indeed, Jin Chao turned off his headlights to reduce wind resistance, initiating a full-throttle sprint. As he navigated a bend, he suddenly flickered his headlights, disorienting Liang Yanfeng, successfully overtaking him, and claiming first place. The commentators were amazed by Jin Chao's daring maneuver and noted that his RX7, even without imported parts, pushed past 700 horsepower without any cooling issues, as advised by Jin Qiang.

Lin Sui tried to celebrate Jin Chao's victory, but Jin Chao, having received a message from Jiang Mu, decided to forgo the celebration and drove overnight from Qingshi back to Manshi. The next morning, he waited downstairs to take Jiang Mu to school. Jiang Mu gently complained about him being constantly busy, pouting playfully. At the school gate, she hesitated to enter, staring at Jin Chao.

He affectionately patted her head, promising to make her something delicious at the garage after school, which finally satisfied her, and she entered the school. Jiang Mu and Jin Chao went grocery shopping, as she wanted to cook "squirrel-shaped mandarin fish" for San Lai, a dish she looked up online.

While at the market, Jiang Mu recognized someone who she thought had visited the garage, but Jin Chao claimed not to know him, saying he couldn't remember every customer's face given how busy he was. Knowing Jiang Mu liked strawberries, Jin Chao bought two boxes, despite her concern about the high price. He playfully claimed he wanted them himself. Back in the kitchen, Jiang Mu followed online instructions, but when oil splattered, she was startled and recoiled.

Jin Chao immediately offered to take over, with Jiang Mu assisting him. Later, during dinner with San Lai and friends, everyone praised the food. Jin Chao proudly declared that Jiang Mu had cooked it herself. When San Lai asked about the sauce for the squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, Jiang Mu explained that it included white wine. Jin Chao, noticing her mistake, chose not to correct her, and everyone played along. After finishing a bottle of wine, Jiang Mu's face was flushed.

While Jin Chao was on a phone call, she found him, stood on her tiptoes, and kissed him. Despite Jin Chao asking if she was drunk, Jiang Mu insisted she was perfectly sober.

Episode 15 Recap

Jiang Mu, appearing slightly tipsy, asked Jin Chao for his thoughts on which school she should apply to, now that her foundation course was complete. Jin Chao suggested she discuss it with her mother. Jiang Mu explained that her mother wished for her to move to Canada and live with her, making it clear she didn't want Jiang Mu to stay.

She then asked Jin Chao if he would miss her if she left and wouldn't be able to return for a long time. Jin Chao remained silent, prompting Jiang Mu to lean in and kiss him. Startled, Jin Chao asked if she was "out of her mind." Jiang Mu kissed him again, and this time, Jin Chao reciprocated with equal passion, admitting he was "out of my mind, too," before pulling her into a tight embrace.

Their intimate moment was abruptly interrupted by shouts from San Lai and their friends. Jin Chao and Jiang Mu, both visibly flushed, sat awkwardly, trying to compose themselves. San Lai invited them to go hiking with a cable car in a few days when the weather cleared, and both Jin Chao and Jiang Mu agreed. Jin Chao leaned back, supporting himself with his hand, while Jiang Mu subtly prodded his hand with her little finger.

Na Na then inquired about the reason for the gathering. Crazy Jin jovially announced it was to celebrate Jin Chao's third-place finish in the alliance, though someone lightheartedly clarified it as "top three in drinking," a remark Crazy Jin dismissed as "adult business." As the party continued, Jin Chao's hand found Jiang Mu's, enveloping it, which made her blush even more as she squeezed his hand back. After the party, Jin Chao helped Jiang Mu downstairs.

At her door, he knelt, offering her a piggyback ride, and carried her inside. As he gently set her down, Jiang Mu clung to him, reluctant to let him go, and Jin Chao held her just as tightly. He softly told her she had been drinking and that they should talk when she was sober the next day, suggesting she go home and rest as it was getting late. Jiang Mu, however, pleaded with him not to leave.

Once Jiang Mu had fallen asleep, Jin Chao carefully carried her to bed and covered her with a blanket. She stirred, opened her eyes briefly, softly touched his lips, and then, with a small pout and a contented smile, drifted back to sleep. Jiang Mu woke up in the afternoon with a headache, realizing she had slept until two o'clock.

She replayed Jin Chao's words from the previous night in her mind, worrying he might think their intimate moment was an impulsive act due to alcohol. Although she admitted it was a bit impulsive, she knew she had been conscious of her actions. After pondering what to say, she decided to text him, "I'm awake." Jin Chao promptly replied that he was still busy and asked her to wait for him at the garage, to which she agreed.

Jiang Mu arrived at the garage and waited, even bringing snacks for the staff, and later received a text from Jin Chao saying he would be a bit longer and couldn't leave yet. As the evening drew on, Jin Chao instructed his staff to prepare a car for testing the next day. His employees, seeing Jiang Mu waiting, said goodbye, asking if she was still waiting for Jin Chao before they left. Eventually, Jin Chao returned.

After changing, he sat with Jiang Mu and asked if she was sober now and if she had anything to say to him. He gently probed if she regretted their actions from the previous night, assuring her it wasn't too late to change her mind if she felt it was impulsive. Jiang Mu firmly stated she didn't regret it, though she admitted it was a bit hasty and she hadn't fully "felt anything" due to the confusion.

With a subtle smile, Jin Chao led Jiang Mu to his room. He retrieved a pendant from a drawer, explaining that throughout his life, people had come and gone, and he had never been serious about anyone. He warned her that once he was serious, he wouldn't give her a chance to change her mind. Jiang Mu assured him she wouldn't. Jin Chao then revealed that the pendant was a precious item left to him by his birth mother.

Jiang Mu was deeply touched, asking why he was willing to give her the only thing his parents had left him now. Jin Chao promised to tell her the full story of its origin slowly in the future as he carefully placed the pendant around her neck. Noticing the numerous snacks Jiang Mu had brought, Jin Chao playfully teased her, asking if she was moving in. Jiang Mu then sheepishly asked if she could stay the night.

Jin Chao playfully questioned her, and she admitted it might not be appropriate but expressed her strong desire to stay, humorously claiming it was due to her dad's broken router and a need to "borrow his Wi-Fi." When Jin Chao suggested calling Mrs. Zhao (Jiang Mu's guardian), Jiang Mu worried it would imply a relationship between them.

Jin Chao told her to go home then, but Jiang Mu insisted he just tell Mrs. Zhao she was only there for the Wi-Fi, asking if Mrs. Zhao would believe it. Jin Chao, with a knowing look, said Mrs. Zhao would believe whatever he told her, and Jiang Mu instructed him to tell her exactly that. After he made the call, Jin Chao confirmed that Mrs. Zhao had agreed. Jin Chao then offered Jiang Mu some coffee.

She was surprised to find it sweet, to which he explained that not all coffee is bitter, promising he wouldn't let her experience bitter things. Jiang Mu then playfully tasted Jin Chao's coffee, grimacing at its bitterness. Leaning in close, Jin Chao provocatively asked, "How do you want to taste it? Perhaps. . . like this?" before kissing her passionately and gently pushing her onto the bed, where their fervent kisses continued.

Despite having just parted ways, Jiang Mu found herself intensely missing Jin Chao, a feeling more profound than any previous separation. She messaged him, and he appeared at her home. Jin Qiang, who was unaware of Jiang Mu's presence, asked Jin Chao why he was home so late. Jin Chao quickly fabricated a story about needing to help Jin Qiang redeem his card game points, claiming his own phone was dead, and asked Jin Qiang to wait while it charged.

Jiang Mu was touched that Jin Chao had come back specifically for her. He then revealed that a real estate agent had contacted him because he intended to sell his garage, planning to run it for another month at most. Jin Chao then confessed that he had missed her. Jiang Mu, feigning ignorance, asked when he had said that, but then admitted she missed him too.

Playfully, she dropped a grape, and as Jin Chao bent down to pick it up, she seized the opportunity to quickly kiss him. After helping Jin Qiang redeem his card game points, which Jin Qiang proudly explained had taken months to accumulate for 5 kg of rice, Jin Chao left, promising to return for a meal soon. Following a text from Jin Chao, Jiang Mu went to the balcony.

Jin Chao opened the trunk of his car, releasing a cascade of colorful balloons into the sky – a recreation of the "cloud house trip" she had dreamed of as a child, reminiscent of a promise made by a beloved older brother. Jiang Mu, in a voiceover, reflected on how people often say everything is predestined. She noted that at age 10, she lost a beloved brother, and now at 20, fate had returned him to her.

She then told Jin Chao she had a New Year's gift for him, which he would see soon, but wouldn't reveal what it was. Jin Chao responded by telling her to sleep, assuring her he would like anything she gave him.

Episode 16 Recap

Jiang Mu takes on the role of a chef, with Jin Chao affectionately tying her apron before helping her in the kitchen. As they prepare the meal, Jiang Mu accidentally squirts ketchup onto Jin Chao’s shirt. He heads to his room to change, and she follows him inside. Finding him shirtless, she can’t help but admire his physique. Jin Chao playfully has her sit on his lap to help him into a new black shirt.

Just as they share a kiss, the front door opens—Zhao Meijuan and Jin Qiang have returned home. Panicked that they might be caught with the lights off, Jiang Mu urges Jin Chao to hide under the bed, but he remains calm, telling her he has nothing to be guilty of in his own house. The situation becomes awkward when young Xin comes to Jiang Mu's room looking for her tablet. Jin Chao walks out first, followed closely by Jiang Mu.

Xin watches them silently, appearing to know more than she says. Later, the family gathers for a dinner featuring the fish Jin Qiang caught. Zhao Meijuan remarks that Jin Chao has been coming home much more frequently since Jiang Mu arrived, while Jin Qiang notes that the two have been inseparable since they were children. Xin bluntly asks Jiang Mu if she likes Jin Chao, mentioning a time Jiang Mu cried when she couldn’t find him.

Jiang Mu deflects, claiming she was actually moved to tears by letters she discovered hidden behind an archery target. This revelation of Jin Chao's secret feelings creates a subtle tension, which Jiang Mu heightens by playfully teasing Jin Chao with her foot under the table. The family later heads to the coast for a day on a yacht. While Jin Qiang enjoys a successful catch, Jiang Mu tries her hand at fishing but fails to catch a single fish.

Zhao Meijuan takes the opportunity to ask Jin Chao about his romantic life. He claims he doesn’t have a girlfriend, but Jiang Mu joins the conversation to tease him about Wan Qing, describing her as "hot" in terms of her looks and personality. Jin Chao quietly tells her she talks too much. When they finally find a moment alone to kiss, they are nearly spotted by Zhao Meijuan and Xin.

To avoid a scene, Jin Chao impulsively dives into the sea to hide. After the others move away, Jiang Mu calls him back to the boat. Xin approaches with two ice creams; when Jiang Mu says she only needs one, the girl insists she needs two, clearly seeing through their secret. As Jiang Mu dries Jin Chao off, he pulls a towel over both their heads to share a private "veil kiss."

Back at the garage, Jiang Mu surprises Jin Chao with a hug from behind while he is working. Their moment is interrupted when San Lai bursts in. Thinking quickly, Jiang Mu pretends she was simply pulling out a white hair for Jin Chao. San Lai mocks Jin Chao for "aging prematurely" despite his handsome reputation, but Jin Chao quickly ushers him out.

Determined to have some time alone, Jin Chao finds excuses to send Tie Gongji and Xiao Yang away on errands, specifically demanding cold coconut water and new hardware parts. Once the garage is empty, Jiang Mu pulls Jin Chao into the washroom. They share a passionate moment until San Lai, returning to look for his dog, accidentally discovers them and beats a hasty retreat in shock. That night, the two drive out to watch a meteor shower.

Jin Chao brings a bowl of fresh strawberries and feeds one to Jiang Mu. She takes a bite, and he leans in to finish the rest of the fruit from her lips. As streaks of light fill the sky, Jiang Mu closes her eyes to make a wish for them to stay together forever. When she asks if he made a wish, Jin Chao holds her close and tells her that his wish has already come true.

Jiang Mu soon prepares for a successful charity performance. Before the show, her camera struggles to focus while she tries to take an ID photo, so Jin Chao steps in to help. They eventually capture their first official photo together as a couple. The dance is a triumph, and Jiang Mu is hailed by Nana as the "center-position goddess." Afterward, she goes to a night market with Nana, but her joy is short-lived.

She spots Jin Chao at a nearby bar, drinking and appearing intimate with a foreign woman. When Jin Chao notices Jiang Mu, he tries to stand up and follow her, but a police officer working the mission with him stops him, reminding him of his duty. Jin Chao reluctantly sits back down to continue his assignment. Wandering the streets alone, Jiang Mu breaks down in tears, overwhelmed by the memories of their recent happiness.

Meanwhile, the police ask Jin Chao if he wants to continue the undercover task. He affirms his commitment but requests a competition map to help him move forward. Later, Jin Chao finds Jiang Mu waiting on the road near her home. Seeing him, she strikes him in a fit of grief and anger. Jin Chao pulls her into a tight embrace and repeatedly apologizes, though he cannot fully explain the situation. The emotional scene is witnessed by Zhao Meijuan, who happens to be walking by, leaving her stunned by the depth of their relationship.

Episode 17 Recap

Jiang Mu approached Zhao Meijuan, pleading with her to keep what she had seen a secret from her father. Mrs. Zhao, who had watched Jin Chao struggle for years, knew he was a reliable and hardworking young man. While she truly wished for him to be happy, she warned Jiang Mu that her mother, Jiang Yinghan, would never approve of their relationship.

Jiang Mu confessed that Jin Chao was the sole reason she had come to Manshi and the only reason she chose to stay. Touched by the girl's devotion, Mrs. Zhao relented, promising to pretend she had seen nothing and urging her to get some rest. Meanwhile, San Lai was deeply concerned about the situation and confronted Jin Chao, arguing that he shouldn't keep Jiang Mu in the dark about the dangers he was facing.

Jin Chao was adamant about protecting her, fearing the truth would only leave her living in constant fear. San Lai grew frustrated, dismissing Jin Chao’s "for her own good" excuse as self-righteous and useless. He reminded his friend that Jiang Mu wasn't just a girlfriend to be shielded; she was her own person with her own strength. Despite San Lai's urging for him to be honest, Jin Chao remained stubborn, insisting he had everything under control.

Wan Qing was equally concerned about Jin Chao’s involvement with "the Alliance." When she crossed paths with Jiang Mu, she urged her to intervene, believing Jiang Mu was the only one whose words carried enough weight to stop him. She warned that the people behind the Alliance were dangerous enough to "eat someone alive." Later, Jiang Mu found Jin Chao and made him promise to prioritize his safety.

Suspecting he was taking risks for money, she mentioned that her mother was selling their house and intended to leave her a sum of money, offering it to him if it would help. Jin Chao assured her it wasn't about the money. After his shower, Jiang Mu cautiously brought up the "Alliance" and the race she had accidentally participated in. Jin Chao became evasive, telling her that the less she knew, the better.

He tried to ease her worries by promising he was only in it to make some money and would walk away for good in two weeks. Late that night, Jin Chao joined San Lai by the river. As they fished, Jin Chao admitted he had been arrogant and promised to find an opportunity to explain everything to Jiang Mu.

San Lai shared the burden of his own upbringing, explaining how his father’s silence about his troubles had left his mother terrified for years. He didn't want Jin Chao to follow that same path of secrecy. Their conversation was briefly lightened when a catch turned out to be nothing but trash. The next day, Wan Qing arrived at the repair shop only to find that Jin Chao’s car had been maliciously smashed.

San Lai immediately suspected the people from Wan Ji were behind the attack. When Jin Chao saw Wan Qing, his temper flared, and he harshly ordered her to leave despite her claims that she had come to warn him. Seeing Jiang Mu was frightened by the outburst, Jin Chao’s demeanor softened.

He comforted her with a childhood memory of when he helped her cover up a failed exam to show she could trust him, then sent her back to Jin Qiang’s house for safety. Driven by rage, Jin Chao tracked down He Zhang and delivered a sharp punch to his face. Jiang Mu’s suspicions grew when she spotted Officer Lu at the market. She remembered seeing him with Jin Chao before, even though Jin Chao had claimed not to know him.

She began tailing the officer, and though Lu quickly realized he was being followed, Jiang Mu used her classmate, Pan Kai, as a shield to avoid detection. Later, Lu met with Jin Chao to warn him that He Zhang would be his biggest rival in the upcoming mountain obstacle race, urging him to win while staying safe. Finally realizing that keeping secrets was causing more harm, Jin Chao decided to tell Jiang Mu the whole truth.

He explained that after he was framed by Wan Dayong and forced to leave Wan Ji, Officer Lu from the Anti-smuggling Bureau had approached him. The police were using the street racing organization as a way to infiltrate a massive smuggling gang. Because the Alliance was extremely cautious, the only way to get close to the core members was to earn enough points through racing to be noticed.

Jin Chao was the perfect candidate because his public feud with Wan Shengbang provided a perfect cover for his motivations. He revealed that the racing organization was merely a front for the gang to scout for reckless, skilled individuals who were desperate for money. By winning the mountain race and taking down the gang, Jin Chao could not only stop their crimes but also finally clear his name.

He admitted his car could be fixed, but he needed a reliable repair shop to do the work. Jin Chao confessed that he wanted to be a "clean" man to prove he was truly worthy of her. Though Jiang Mu was terrified by the danger, Jin Chao remained resolute, feeling he was the only one who could put an end to the gang's evil.

Episode 18 Recap

Jiang Mu leads Jin Chao to meet Pan Kai, who introduces them to Ren Guodong, the chief engineer at his father's factory. Since Ren and Jin Chao are already acquainted, Ren provides the technical drawings and solutions needed to restore the car. Jin Chao moves the vehicle to a warehouse at the factory, where he works alongside Iron Cock and Xiao Yang under Ren's guidance.

Pan Kai reveals that he secured the workspace by threatening to fail his college entrance exams again; surprisingly, his father agreed to help despite being aware of Jin Chao's personal feud with the head of the Wan Corporation. While repairs are underway, San Lai acts as the logistics manager, bringing meals to the crew. Unbeknownst to him, a mysterious car lurks in the shadows, following him all the way to the factory.

After dinner, Jin Chao pulls Pan Kai aside to express his gratitude. He firmly insists that he is the one who owes the favor and will be the person to repay it, pointedly stating that it is his debt to settle, not Jiang Mu’s. One evening, Jiang Mu visits the workshop wearing a qipao and bringing late-night snacks. When Jin Chao steps out for some fresh air, she follows him, and the two share a close embrace.

Jiang Mu asks if he would be willing to return to Nanjing with her to open a garage or perhaps a quiet coffee shop at the foot of a mountain lined with phoenix trees. She imagines a happy life where their dog, Lightning, can run through the golden autumn leaves. Jin Chao asks her to wait just a few more days, promising he will give her an answer soon.

Their intimate moment is interrupted when Pan Kai accidentally sees them kissing. Shocked by the revelation of their relationship, Pan Kai quickly takes the hint from Jin Chao’s warning look and promises to keep their secret. Once the car is fully restored, Jin Chao invites Jiang Mu to be his navigator for a trial run. He tells her that while the destiny of the RX7 is the track, his own destiny is to conquer it.

During their drive, they come across a street singer's performance. Jiang Mu joins in to sing an English song while Jin Chao watches her with an affectionate smile. Later, Jin Chao sets off fireworks for her and gives her a brand-new fountain pen, acknowledging that the one she bought with her own performance fees was getting old. Their bond continues to grow when Jiang Mu discovers Jin Chao has been secretly sketching her.

Though he tries to dismiss it as mere doodling, she coaxingly asks him to draw her properly while she sits for him. The peace is shattered when San Lai is suddenly kidnapped. Jin Chao immediately gives chase in his car. It turns out that San Lai’s father, Lai Qide, owes a significant gambling debt, and the creditors have taken San Lai to force a repayment. Jin Chao manages to intercept the kidnappers and rescues San Lai after a physical confrontation.

The incident triggers a memory for San Lai from their school days. He recalls being isolated and often leaving his shoelaces untied because he was afraid that if he stopped to fix them, his classmates would walk away and leave him behind. At the time, Jin Chao had told him that if his laces ever came undone, he should always tie them properly because he would be there to wait for him.

Back in the present, Jin Chao learns the extent of the debt and offers to help raise the money, telling San Lai not to worry. San Lai is deeply moved and mentions his dream of eventually leaving this life behind to open a small restaurant and adopt stray dogs. Despite their efforts, they remain short on funds.

When Jin Chao goes to the pet shop to find him, he discovers a note saying San Lai has gone to find his father. Fearing for his friend's safety, Jin Chao contacts Officer Lu for assistance. San Lai attempts to ransom his father alone. While the creditors are counting the money, he tries to threaten them with a knife, but he is easily disarmed and beaten.

Jin Chao arrives and fights off the thugs, but he is forced to stop when they hold a knife to San Lai’s throat. Jin Chao allows himself to be struck to protect his friend until the police finally arrive. Afterward, a devastated San Lai confronts his father for gambling away their home and his mother's future, declaring this to be the final time he will help him.

Sometime later, Jiang Mu gives Jin Chao a LEGO set of a space rocket. While they discuss the difficulty of the project, they notice that Lightning has rolled in the mud. They work together to clean the dog, and Jin Chao teases Jiang Mu about her and the dog's swimming abilities. Afterward, he helps her find a change of clothes as they share a quiet, sweet moment.

Episode 19 Recap

As Jin Chao helped Jiang Mu pick out her clothes, he found himself captivated by her, eventually drawing her into a tender kiss. Later that night, as they lay together, Jiang Mu expressed her concern about the upcoming mountain obstacle race. Jin Chao tried to reassure her, explaining that he had already obtained a map from Officer Lu detailing the positions of the obstacles.

When Jiang Mu realized there must be others working with the police from within the organization, Jin Chao explained that while he led the charge, he needed support from the shadows. He noted that in their line of work, everyone has a different role and prefers to remain anonymous to avoid exposure. Restless, Jin Chao sat alone outside later that night, looking up at the sky.

He was determined to win the race not just for his own sake, but to finally leave behind the precarious "tightrope" life he had been living. He wanted to offer Jiang Mu a clean, honest future together and prayed to his parents for the strength to return victorious. The following morning, Lin Sui visited Jin Chao with a gift: a high-tech racing suit designed to be fireproof and heat-resistant.

Though Jin Chao claimed he wasn't one for such precautions, Lin Sui insisted it was a necessary safety measure that could buy him a crucial twenty seconds in an emergency. Sensing the importance of the day, Jiang Mu called Jin Chao, who promised he would take her out to have fun the very next day, a vow she made him promise not to break.

By evening, Jiang Mu was waiting anxiously at the garage with San Lai when Liang Yanfeng arrived. He revealed that Officer Lu had sent him with a warning: the alliance suspected an undercover cop was among them. Jin Chao could no longer follow his original route; doing so would immediately identify him as the mole and put him in grave danger. Realizing Jin Chao’s phone was unreachable, Jiang Mu rushed toward the race site.

She was accompanied by San Lai and a man known as Jin the Madman, hoping to intercept Jin Chao before it was too late. Near the mountain, Jiang Mu encountered a blockade held by Wan’s group. Driven by desperation, she faced Wan Qing, who still held a grudge over their past. When Wan Qing demanded she kneel in exchange for passage, Jiang Mu did so without hesitation, shocking Wan Qing with her devotion to Jin Chao.

Though Wan Qing eventually ordered her men to let them through, Wan Shengbang observed coldly that Jiang Mu was too sentimental and warned his daughter that they were likely already too late. The race began with Jin Chao and He Zhang pushing their cars to the limit. Jin Chao quickly pulled ahead, showcasing his superior skill.

Realizing she couldn't catch him on the road, Jiang Mu climbed to a high bridge and lit the "Luminous Pearl" fireworks she had brought along. Seeing the light in the sky, Jin Chao recalled Jiang Mu’s words about racing being like fireworks—both chasing the light but fearing how quickly it vanishes. He realized she was trying to warn him. However, as he reached for the brakes, he found them completely unresponsive.

From a distance, Wan Shengbang had used his phone to remotely force a short circuit in the vehicle's braking system. Unable to slow down, Jin Chao’s car hurtled off a cliff at a sharp turn and erupted in a violent explosion. Jiang Mu’s screams echoed through the mountains before she collapsed in shock. Back at home, a panicked Jin Qiang saw the news of the accident and tried calling his son repeatedly, but there was only silence.

When Jiang Mu finally regained consciousness, she overheard a heartbroken San Lai on the phone, desperately asking his contacts to check every hospital and funeral home in the city. Overwhelmed by grief, Jiang Mu fell to her knees, her world shattered. San Lai eventually persuaded her to go home, suggesting that the lack of news might actually be a good sign since the police hadn't officially notified the family of a death.

Back at the house, Jiang Mu sat in a daze, refusing to sleep. When she finally tried to eat, her movements were frantic and hollow, driven only by the desperate hope that she needed to stay strong to keep looking for him.

Episode 20 Recap

At Wan's Auto Shop, the atmosphere was triumphant as the crew popped champagne to celebrate. Wan Shengbang was in high spirits, knowing that all future smuggling operations would now flow through their garage. Amidst the revelry, He Zhang approached Wan Shengbang to demand the truth behind Jin Chao’s crash. Wan Shengbang dismissively blamed it on Jin Chao’s lack of skill, telling He Zhang that as long as he was now the champion, the process did not matter.

When He Zhang argued that he could have won on his own merit and felt he didn't deserve this victory, the boss coldly reminded him that he was now the garage's top driver and any ungratefulness was misplaced. Meanwhile, San Lai refused to give up hope. He repeatedly called Jin Chao’s phone and noticed it was still ringing. He reasoned that if the car had exploded with Jin Chao inside, the phone would have been destroyed.

He deduced that Jin Chao must have escaped the vehicle before the blast. Seeing a glimmer of hope, Jiang Mu asked Pan Kai to help her investigate. He managed to track down the contact information for Officer Lu. During a tense phone call, Lu confirmed that Jin Chao was alive and undergoing emergency treatment. However, he explained that due to the sensitive nature of the case, no visits were allowed and his location had to remain a secret.

Knowing he was alive finally allowed Jiang Mu to breathe a sigh of relief. Shortly after returning home, Jiang Mu was visited by her stepfather, Chris. He revealed a secret her mother, Jiang Yinghan, had been keeping: she had been diagnosed with cardiovascular narrowing with a seventy-eight percent blockage. Yinghan had undergone coronary artery bypass surgery in Canada after Chris’s friend, a specialist, took her case.

She had hidden the severity of her condition because she didn't want to be a burden, but Chris urged Jiang Mu to go to Vancouver to support her during the recovery and follow-up appointments. Realizing her mother truly needed her, Jiang Mu apologized for her past resentment and agreed to leave. She sent multiple messages to Jin Chao explaining her departure, but he remained in a coma, unable to see them.

A month later, as she prepared to depart, she sent one final message begging him to reply as soon as he could. Eventually, Jin Chao regained consciousness. Officer Lu showed him the long list of messages from Jiang Mu. Despite his weakened state, Jin Chao’s first priority was asking Lu to help him contact San Lai. Before Jiang Mu flew to Vancouver, San Lai drove her to a designated location for a secret meeting.

There, she finally saw Jin Chao standing on a balcony, looking frail and exhausted as he leaned against the railing for support. Once in Vancouver, Jiang Mu stayed by her mother’s side while continuing her education. She enrolled in a natural science program focusing on physics and astronomy, but the coursework was overwhelming. She struggled to understand the technical terms, often feeling like the lectures were a "foreign language."

She shared her frustrations and selfies with Jin Chao, telling him about the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram and O-type main sequence stars, while also updating him on her mother’s improving health. She wondered when his legal troubles would be resolved so he could finally come to see her. Back at home, Lin Sui recommended a rehabilitation specialist named Julia to assist with Jin Chao’s recovery. The process was agonizing, involving grueling hip and knee flexion exercises.

Despite Jin Chao’s determination, the doctors warned San Lai that while he might walk again without a wheelchair, his days of racing were over due to spinal nerve injuries and torn tendons. Feeling like a shadow of his former self, Jin Chao decided that letting Jiang Mu go was the only way to ensure she had a better life.

He refused to be a burden and instructed San Lai to stop contacting her, hoping to return her to a peaceful existence. As her messages continued to go unanswered, Jiang Mu found herself reliving their past memories, weeping as she checked her phone for even a simple emoji in response. Eventually, Officer Lu brought Jin Chao the news that the smuggling case had been solved.

The amount involved was nearly 800 million yuan, and a major breakthrough occurred after He Zhang turned himself in as a witness. He Zhang had previously visited Jin Chao’s hospital room to apologize for his past actions, insisting he had no knowledge of Wan Shengbang's plan to sabotage the car. With He Zhang’s information, authorities arrested everyone involved, including the mechanic known as "Iron Cock," who had been coerced into tampering with the braking system.

During the interrogation, Wan Dayong confessed to the crime from years ago where he had swapped out parts for inferior replacements, finally clearing Jin Chao’s name. Though he was officially exonerated, Jin Chao looked at his legs and still hesitated to reach out to Jiang Mu. Reflecting on the night of the crash, Jin Chao remembered the "Luminous Pearl" firework Jiang Mu had set off.

That signal had served as a warning, prompting him to realize his brakes had been tampered with. It was her quick thinking that allowed him to jump from the vehicle before it went over the cliff, saving his life just before the car erupted in flames.

Episode 21 Recap

After surviving the life-threatening events surrounding the race, Jin Chao and Jiang Mu share a heavy, quiet moment. He thanks her for saving his life, acknowledging that he is no god but an ordinary man who would not be standing there without her. When she tries to check him for injuries, he insists he is fine and urges her to return to Canada.

He reminds her that after her mother’s major surgery, Jiang Yinghan needs family by her side for a proper recovery. Overwhelmed with guilt that they cannot go to Nanjing together as planned, Jiang Mu tearfully asks if he is breaking up with her. Jin Chao avoids a direct answer; he reaches out to wipe her tears but immediately pulls his hand back, maintaining a painful distance.

He encourages her to see the world, telling her she will eventually realize there are many men better than him. Resolute in his decision to let her go, Jin Chao asks San Lai to cancel his phone number and WeChat account. Before the line is cut, he sends a final message to Jiang Mu, claiming he is leaving Manshi to seek new opportunities and will contact her once he is settled.

San Lai finds this approach cruel, but Jin Chao believes he cannot become a burden to her. Six months later, Jin Chao returns to his empty garage one last time. Surrounded by the lingering memories of Jiang Mu’s laughter and presence, he closes the shop for good and decides to return to China to resume his studies. Upon her own return to the country later, Jiang Mu visits Jin Qiang and Zhao Meijuan, but the reunion is clouded by secrets.

Although they feel for her, the couple follows Jin Chao’s wishes and refuses to reveal his whereabouts. Zhao Meijuan explains that since Jin Chao isn't Jin Qiang’s biological son and has lived independently for years, they have no right to interfere in his life. Desperate, Jiang Mu visits the old garage and the neighboring pet shop, only to find both long abandoned.

She calls San Lai, but he maintains the deception, claiming he hasn't heard from Jin Chao in ages and even encourages her to find a new boyfriend in Canada to move on from that "rascal." Three years pass. In Canada, the family gathers at Chris’s home for a Christmas party to celebrate Jiang Yinghan’s full recovery. Jiang Mu prepares a massive feast, reflecting on how she couldn't even cook a single dish back in Manshi.

During the party, Chris’s son, Nick, attempts to pursue her, but she politely declines. She eventually tries to enter the world of blind dating, but the experiences feel hollow. During a date, as she sips bitter coffee, she hallucinates Jin Chao standing before her. In her mind, he asks if the coffee is as good as the sweet brew he used to make and questions if she has forgotten his "flavor."

She vividly remembers his promise never to let her taste anything bitter, and the memory makes her current reality unbearable. At twenty-six, despite seeing much of the world, she finds she still cannot forget him. While studying at the library, Jiang Mu is approached by Gu Zhijie, a senior from Nanjing and an alumnus of Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

Noticing the fountain pen she is using, he is stunned to learn she received it from an ex-boyfriend she only dated for a week. He points out that the pen features an 18k gold nib and a barrel intricately carved from pure silver. Jiang Mu stares at the gift, realizing that even when Jin Chao had nothing, he had given her the very best he possessed.

Gu Zhijie eventually invites Jiang Mu to return to Nanjing to work as his research assistant. At a gathering with colleagues, his mentor, Professor Gan, notices Jiang Mu’s pendant. He explains that it is "Linglong dice with a red bean heart," a traditional token representing love that reaches "to the bone." This realization strengthens Jiang Mu's resolve, and she accepts the job in Nanjing.

Back in China, Jiang Mu visits Jin Qiang again, but he still insists there is no news. However, a chance meeting with Pan Kai finally breaks the silence. Pan Kai reveals that Jin Chao returned early last year to save his father’s factory by securing a supply chain at a price far below the market average. He explains that Jin Chao did this to repay a years-old debt from when Pan Kai’s factory helped him repair his trashed car.

Armed with Jin Chao’s contact information from Pan Kai, Jiang Mu realizes that Jin Chao is not the heartless man he pretended to be and that Jin Qiang has been intentionally hiding the truth. She visits her childhood home, but the neighborhood has been completely redeveloped. Standing amidst the unfamiliar buildings, she wonders if they were always destined to miss one another or if she can still find him in this changed world.

Episode 22 Recap

Jiang Mu has settled into her new life in Nanjing, renting an apartment near the observatory to facilitate her commute. While driving through the city with her colleague, Gu Zhijie, they admire the historic phoenix trees lining the streets. Zhijie explains that the trees were originally planted for the enshrinement ceremony of Sun Yat-sen, chosen by city planners for their elegant form and practical shade. Jiang Mu finds the golden canopy they create in autumn incredibly romantic.

Later, while sharing a coffee, she mentions her preference for a vanilla latte with a subtle hint of cinnamon. When she admits the exact memory of the taste is fading, Zhijie astutely observes that what she truly misses is the person she shared the coffee with. Jiang Mu reveals her dream of opening a coffee shop named "Moon" on a street lined with phoenix trees and the scent of osmanthus.

Although she saved enough money from tutoring in Canada, she feels the timing isn't right because she has one more goal to fulfill first. Her primary objective is to buy back her childhood home. However, her real estate agent informs her that the house was sold last year to a wealthy businessman from Beijing who paid the full price immediately. Determined, Jiang Mu offers a thirty percent premium and begs the agent to arrange a meeting with the buyer.

This struggle brings back painful memories of six years ago when she left for Canada. She had intended to take her dog, Lightning, with her, but her friend San Lai told her the dog had run away because it hadn't been neutered. Jiang Mu was devastated, as Lightning was far more than just a pet; he was a vital emotional anchor in her life. While working on a Jupiter satellite system proposal at the observatory, Jiang Mu continues her search.

During a morning run, she encounters a golden retriever that seems unusually drawn to her. Soon after, Gu Zhijie calls her while on a business trip to Beijing, mentioning that on his way to the airport, he passed a phoenix tree-lined boulevard at the foot of Zijin Mountain and saw a coffee shop named "Moon," exactly like the one she described. Jiang Mu follows the address and finds the same golden retriever.

On a whim, she calls out the name "Lightning," and the dog joyfully rushes toward her, leading her straight to the coffee shop. The shop is secluded, with a small sign partially obscured by trees the owner refused to cut down. Inside, the staff explains that the dog is named Mundan and is usually very reserved, making his affection for her surprising.

Jiang Mu notices a telescope in the shop, and the staff mentions that adding a Baader filter would allow customers to see sunspots during the day. She orders the house special, a coffee called "Moon," and finds the flavor hauntingly familiar. When she learns the owner is currently at a university for a thesis proposal, she asks for his contact information.

The staff asks her to register her request in a guest book, noting she is the twentieth woman to ask for the handsome but aloof boss. Jiang Mu leaves her details and clips her silver pen to the book before leaving. After researching the shop online, she finds photos of the owner that resemble Jin Chao, though comments suggest he is married with a family living abroad.

A week passes without a response, so Jiang Mu returns to the shop to retrieve her pen. The staff informs her that the boss took the pen and wishes to return it to her personally this Sunday. Coincidentally, the house buyer also agrees to meet her that Sunday, and she has an urgent meeting at the research institute that same morning. Following her meeting, Jiang Mu hurries to the coffee shop and is directed upstairs.

There, she finally reunites with Jin Chao. He admits he knew it was her the moment he saw the pen, the way she adjusted the telescope, and the dog’s reaction. He offers her strawberry cake, her old favorite, but she tells him she no longer likes it.

When she asks why he never contacted her, Jin Chao explains that the distance made a relationship too difficult, and he thought it was better for both of them to live more easily apart. Stung by his words, Jiang Mu asks if he is married. When he doesn't answer and asks if she has a boyfriend, she impulsively lies, claiming she is getting married at the end of the year and moved to Nanjing for her fiancé.

Jin Chao simply replies that it is "good," which deeply upsets her. As she prepares to leave, she demands his phone number so she can send him a wedding invitation. Before she walks out, Jin Chao finally admits that he was the one who bought the old house.

After she leaves, both are overcome with emotion; Jin Chao watches her go with a heavy heart, while Jiang Mu sobs as she holds her silver pen, realizing the deep connection they still share.

Episode 23 Recap

Jiang Mu adds Jin Chao on WeChat, noting the symmetry between his sunrise avatar and her own moon profile picture. She reflects on her life choices, realizing she pursued her current professional path to finish the journey Jin Chao was forced to abandon. For her, he has always been her only true ambition, and seeing him succeed now feels like the fulfillment of the dream they once shared. Meanwhile, Jin Chao is pushing himself in the gym.

During a phone call with Julia, he admits that his core muscles still aren't responding properly. Julia warns him that his body cannot handle such intense strain and urges him to be patient, reminding him that haste makes waste. Despite their new digital connection, Jin Chao remains distant in his messages, which frustrates Jiang Mu.

When her colleague Gu Zhijie calls to invite her to their coworker Xining’s wedding, Jiang Mu comes up with a plan to provoke a reaction from Jin Chao. She photoshops her own face onto a wedding photo and sends it to him, claiming she is getting married the following Tuesday.

She insists that he must attend as her "family representative" to ensure the groom's side doesn't look down on her, even demanding he prepare the traditional gold jewelry sets and a large cash gift. On the day of the wedding, a visibly shaken and sweating Jin Chao rushes to the venue, only to discover the whole thing was a prank. He lets out a long sigh of relief once he realizes the truth.

When Jiang Mu playfully asks about his state of mind, he confesses that he had actually prepared both the jewelry and the gift money. Jiang Mu keeps the ruse alive by claiming she had a massive fight with her "boyfriend" and put the wedding on hold, though she insists she will eventually need those gifts.

She teases him about her being easily swayed by men and asks him to keep looking out for her so she doesn't get taken advantage of. Business later takes Jiang Mu to Beijing for a conference on exoplanetary stellar systems and tidal dissipation. While she waits for a message that never comes, Jin Chao is also in Beijing at a different venue.

He delivers a sophisticated presentation on new energy vehicle technology, discussing active suspension and a streamlined body structure limited to 150 parts. He emphasizes a human-centered approach to automotive innovation, appearing confident and radiant as he speaks about reducing the driver's burden through cloud-based data. Back in Nanjing, Jiang Mu visits the café with Beijing specialties for the staff.

She tries to fish for information from the employee, Jia, who accidentally mentions that Jin Chao’s health wouldn't allow him to work a standard nine-to-five job. Jia quickly tries to cover her tracks by claiming the combined stress of the shop and school would be too much for anyone, but Jiang Mu is left suspicious.

Noticing Jin Chao is still ignoring her messages, Jiang Mu decides to take the dog, Lightning (whom the staff calls Mendan), home with her, leaving word that Jin Chao must pick the dog up from her apartment personally. Jin Chao eventually arrives at the Jingyuancheng Residential Community. Although he has her specific apartment number, he chooses to wait outside at the bottom of the stairs.

Looking down at him, Jiang Mu realizes that even after years of meeting various successful men, only Jin Chao has the power to make her heart race. As they walk together, she continues to lie, describing a life with a struggling boyfriend where they bicker over the cost of a new phone because he spends all his money on gaming. Jin Chao is clearly bothered by her stories, especially when she repeatedly refers to herself as his "ex-girlfriend."

When he asks what she could possibly see in a man like the one she described, she dismissively says she is just settling because she is getting older. Jin Chao finally tells her to stop making such jokes, admitting that hearing about her life in that way hurts him deeply. His confession strikes a chord with Jiang Mu, who feels that her own years of longing for him have been just as painful.

The following morning, Jiang Mu receives a weather alert about a cold front. Before she can reach out to Jin Chao, a message from him arrives first, reminding her to dress warmly and carry an umbrella. However, during a later visit to the café, Jia shares some unsettling gossip. Jia claims Jin Chao once mentioned being married with a family abroad to keep admirers away, but she also mentions having seen a beautiful, elegant woman at his house.

Driven by anger and curiosity, Jiang Mu gets Jin Chao’s address and heads to his home. She arrives just as a woman is entering the apartment using the door code. The woman, Julia, invites her in and offers her a pair of slippers, noting they are the only women's slippers in the house. Julia casually mentions she needs to take a shower to get rid of the smell of cigarette smoke from a meeting, confirming she lives there.

While alone in the apartment, Jiang Mu finds a drawing Jin Chao made of her along with a poignant note. In his writing, he expresses his regret for failing to keep his promises and his hope that she would go on to explore a bigger world, offering her his eternal blessings from afar.

Episode 24 Recap

While Julia was taking a shower to wash off the smell of cigarette smoke from an earlier event, Jiang Mu noticed a call on Julia’s phone from "Son." Seeing a wallpaper of a young boy about five or six years old, Jiang Mu’s suspicions flared, and she directly asked if Jin Chao was the father.

Julia was amused, clarifying that she was nearly fifty and her eldest son had already graduated from college; the boy on the screen was her younger son. With the misunderstanding cleared, Julia led Jiang Mu into Jin Chao’s rehabilitation room, where Jiang Mu found an old photo of them as children. Julia introduced herself as Jin Chao’s personal physician, hired by Lin Sui to oversee his recovery.

She revealed that during his first two years after the accident, Jin Chao suffered from agonizing full-body pain. In his most delirious moments under sedation, he would repeatedly call out "Mu Mu." Julia admitted she originally thought he was saying the English word "Moon" until she realized it was the name of the woman he loved.

From Julia, Jiang Mu learned that Jin Chao had spent a year on the edge of death in Chaguo and had stubbornly insisted on returning to Nanjing despite his unstable condition. Julia expressed her relief that Jiang Mu was finally back, noting Jin Chao’s incredible willpower. Driven by a need to know the full truth, Jiang Mu traveled to Manshi to find the hospital where Jin Chao had been treated.

Reading through his medical files, she finally understood the depth of the physical trauma he had hidden from her. Heartbroken by the realization that everyone had conspired to keep his suffering a secret, she sat alone and wept over the records. Later, when Jin Chao called wanting to give her something, Jiang Mu composed herself and suggested they go for a hike at the Purple Mountain Observatory.

When they met, Jin Chao complimented her appearance, saying she looked beautiful both now and in the past. As they started their walk, Jin Chao handed her a brand-new phone, remembering she had mentioned wanting to replace her old one. Jiang Mu teased him, saying he was far too easy for girls to scam, but Jin Chao insisted she was different.

To test him, she claimed her "boyfriend" might be jealous of the gift, but then added that her boyfriend would rather spend money on gaming gear than on her. Clearly affected by jealousy, Jin Chao grew quiet and began walking ahead of her. As the climb continued, Jiang Mu noticed Jin Chao was physically struggling, his face growing pale and his breathing labored.

Whenever she turned to check on him, he would quickly hide his pain by pretending to take artistic photos of "nature's soul." Eventually, Jiang Mu stopped and showed him that she was still wearing the pendant he gave her, asking why he thought she kept it. Instead of answering, she challenged him to a race to the top. At the summit, seeing Jin Chao’s exhausted state, Jiang Mu finally confronted him.

With tears in her eyes, she revealed she had seen his medical reports and knew about his years of suffering. Jin Chao apologized, explaining that he had planned to find her once he was in better shape. He confessed that when the accident first happened, he didn't think he would survive and didn't want her to suffer with him. Even after he improved, he felt he had nothing to offer her.

When Jiang Mu asked if he wanted to reconcile, Jin Chao remained silent, his emotions visible only in his clenched fists. That night, Jiang Mu reflected on Julia’s words about Jin Chao’s desperate return to Nanjing. Meanwhile, Jin Chao was lost in his own memories of the past. He remembered how, shortly after waking up from his coma, he had forced his friend San Lai to take him to see Jiang Mu one last time before she left for Canada.

He had wanted her to see he was "fine" so she could focus on caring for her mother without worrying about him. That brief meeting had caused him to collapse and be rushed back to the hospital, but he had been willing to sacrifice his own health just to ensure her peace of mind. When the Mid-Autumn Festival arrived, Jiang Mu reached out to him. However, the hike had taken a toll, and Jin Chao had developed a fever.

While at the hospital for an IV drip, he pressured the staff to speed up the infusion so he wouldn't be late for their meeting. Later, at the coffee shop, Jiang Mu overheard the staff saying the boss was sick and couldn't eat the crabs they were enjoying. When Jin Chao arrived, he quickly hid the bandage on his hand from the IV. Jiang Mu, seeing through him, asked if he was still feverish. Rather than pulling away, Jin Chao leaned in, inviting her to feel his forehead for herself.

Episode 25 Recap

Jin Chao stood before Jiang Mu, his face slightly flushed from a fever he tried to conceal. After secretly removing the medical tape from the IV drip he had just finished, he leaned in and invited her to check his temperature. The moment her fingers brushed his skin, he instinctively pulled away, the sudden proximity leaving him momentarily unsettled. He then prepared a special "Moonlight" coffee for her—a unique blend not found on the menu.

As she sipped it, the taste evoked memories of the Mid-Autumn Festivals of their childhood when their mother would buy crabs for them. When Jin Chao mentioned he had a box of crabs at his home, Jiang Mu followed him back to his apartment without hesitation. Inside, Jin Chao donned an apron and began preparing the meal while Jiang Mu assisted.

To test his feelings, she spun a tall tale about a past boyfriend in a rock band who once dragged her to a frozen lake in a remote forest and jumped in, demanding she do the same. Jin Chao’s expression soured, his movements stiffening with a jealousy he couldn't quite hide. Their evening was briefly interrupted by a call from San Lai, who wanted to drop by for the holiday.

However, upon hearing Jiang Mu was there, San Lai quickly made an excuse and hung up, leaving the two alone. Jiang Mu insisted on drinking wine while Jin Chao stuck to water. As he meticulously peeled crabs for her, he asked about her mother, Jiang Yinghan. Jiang Mu reassured him that her mother had adjusted well to life in Canada and was recovering nicely. As the wine took hold, Jiang Mu’s mood turned bittersweet.

She chided Jin Chao for hiding his condition for so many years, drunkenly declaring that she was disowning him as her brother. She began to vent about her struggles as a low-paid intern, complaining about rent and a roommate whose strange music at night disrupted her work. When she suggested moving in with him to save money, Jin Chao firmly refused. His refusal was born of a deep-seated fear of letting her suffer.

Jin Chao recalled a time shortly after his car accident when he was still in a wheelchair. He had told San Lai then about how Jiang Mu was born prematurely at eight months, weighing only four jin. He had spent his life protecting her from everything, from tiny insects to the seasonal illnesses that frequently sent her to the hospital.

He had vowed that if she ever married, it must be to someone who truly understood her and would never let her endure hardship. He could not bear the thought of being the one to make her life difficult now. Under the glow of the full moon, Jin Chao confirmed that his father, Jin Qiang, had indeed withheld his contact information from her years ago.

Looking at the sky, he somberly remarked that the sun shines by day and the moon by night—destined to alternate but never meet. Tears welling in her eyes, Jiang Mu embraced him from behind. She reminded him of his promise to wait for her to grow up; she was twenty-six now and ready to take responsibility for her own choices.

She challenged his cold rationality, asking if he could truly be content seeing her married to a man who might mistreat her. She confessed that after all these years of drifting, she still only loved him. When Jin Chao remained silent, a heartbroken Jiang Mu turned to leave. She reached the elevator, but before the doors could close, Jin Chao rushed in, pulled her into his arms, and kissed her.

To ensure she understood the reality of his health, Jin Chao sent his latest medical reports and rehabilitation instructions to Jiang Mu’s email. Jiang Mu consulted Dr. Julia, who explained the gravity of the systemic damage he had suffered—the coma, multiple fractures, and muscle weakness. Julia warned that his recovery would be a slow, arduous process requiring immense patience. Shortly after, Jiang Mu’s senior, Gu Zhijie, asked her to help host a group of visitors at the Purple Mountain Observatory.

While she was explaining the history of the 1929 buildings and the 60-centimeter reflecting telescope to the guests, Jin Chao made a surprise appearance. Jiang Mu introduced Jin Chao to Gu Zhijie as her "ex-boyfriend of one week," while Gu Zhijie introduced himself as her "half-colleague" who had "tricked" her into coming to Nanjing. The rapport between the two sparked a clear sense of jealousy in Jin Chao.

Later, Jiang Mu took him on a private tour, showing him the bronze celestial globe. She admitted that he had been her first "teacher" who introduced her to the stars. She tested him again, asking what he would do if she really had a fiancé who was a womanizer and a gambler. Jin Chao replied that he would make her want to dump the man before the wedding.

Finally, she asked if he was worried she might back out after seeing his medical reports. Her answer was to lead him to a spot where they could see the sun and moon appearing together on the horizon. She explained that just as natural laws aren't absolute, neither was their fate. To her, they were the sun and moon shining together, destined to never be separated.

Episode 26 Recap

Jiang Mu gazes at Jin Chao with tears in her eyes, explaining the profound meaning she finds in their names. She describes how "Chao" represents the morning sun while "Mu" represents the evening moon. To her, their names signify the rare and beautiful phenomenon of the sun and moon shining together in the sky. This "union of sun and moon" is her final answer to him—a promise that they should remain together forever.

Moved by her words, Jin Chao embraces her tightly as they watch the sunset, finally united in their feelings. Later, Jiang Mu introduces Jin Chao to her colleagues at a group dinner. The atmosphere is lighthearted, and her coworkers immediately begin teasing the couple, asking when they can expect to attend a wedding. Jin Chao, looking at Jiang Mu with deep sincerity, promises the group that he will work hard to make that day happen as soon as possible.

As the gathering ends, a sudden downpour begins. Since they had both been drinking and could not drive, they decide to walk. Jin Chao takes off his heavy coat and wraps it around Jiang Mu, shielding her from the rain. By the time they reach his home, Jiang Mu is perfectly dry, while Jin Chao is completely soaked. While Jin Chao goes to clean up, Jiang Mu notices an intricate Lego aerospace rocket in a display case.

Jin Chao explains that he actually assembled it twice. The first time was during his darkest days in the hospital following his accident. While Jiang Mu was away in Canada, he spent his days in a wheelchair, consuming more medication than actual food. The rocket was his only companion, helping him endure the agonizing physical pain and the loneliness of her absence; it was through this project that he regained his confidence and the desire to stand up again.

He had to build it a second time after it was damaged during a move, painstakingly reassembling it from memory because the instruction manual had been lost. Jiang Mu expresses her deep regret for not being there to build it with him, but Jin Chao simply holds her close. He then curiously asks about a man named Thomas. Jiang Mu reveals that Thomas was a brilliant, Australian-French student in her department and one of her many persistent suitors.

Though Jin Chao agrees that Jiang Mu should move in with him, he initially suggests she wait until the next day. However, when she playfully pretends to leave, he finds he cannot let her go. Jiang Mu gently pushes him down onto the sofa, making it clear that she is no longer the child he once protected. Their shared night is filled with tenderness, and the next morning, Jin Chao continues to show his affection despite her newfound shyness.

Early the next day, Jin Chao goes out to buy groceries while Jiang Mu savors the memories of the night before. After enjoying a carefully prepared breakfast, she finds Jin Chao in his rehabilitation room, working hard on his exercises. She watches him for a moment before embracing him from behind.

When she mentions that her current apartment lease isn't up for two months, Jin Chao immediately transfers 30,000 RMB to her, jokingly calling it a "sublet fee" so she can move in immediately. He even arranges for his assistant and driver, Wen Ke, to help with the move. During the move, Jiang Mu admits she finds packing tedious, so Jin Chao takes over the chore. As they work, he shares more about his life.

He recounts his journey from working in a Beijing factory to joining the Automotive Engineering Institute to focus on technical innovations. He now operates as a consultant, which allows him to pursue his own projects but requires frequent travel. Because of his physical condition, the institute provided him with Wen Ke to assist on these trips. While sorting through her things, Jin Chao mistakes a strapless tube dress for a scarf.

When Jiang Mu explains what it is, he playfully asks her to try it on. When she reveals how stunning she looks in the dress, he asks what kind of occasion warrants such an outfit. Jiang Mu teases him, saying she wears it to meet handsome men. This sparks a flash of jealousy in Jin Chao; he promptly sends Wen Ke back to the coffee shop early so he can have her all to himself.

Amidst the boxes, they also find sentimental items, including Jin Chao's old boxing bandages and the math papers he once helped her solve. Finally, Jin Chao takes Jiang Mu to his coffee shop. The staff immediately greet her as the "Boss Lady," and Jin Chao reveals that the shop, named "Moon Coffee," was built entirely as a gift for her. He was involved in every detail, from the name to the interior design.

He confesses that the business struggled and lost money for the first two years, but he persisted because of a suggestion she had made years ago. He describes himself as a simple man who believes that if one takes enough "wrong turns," they will eventually find the right path. As they reminisce about their past encounters, the romantic moment is interrupted by an urgent business call. Jin Chao tells Jiang Mu he must leave on a trip and asks her to wait for him at home.

Episode 27 Recap

While driving Jiang Mu, Wen Ke casually asked how old her child was, assuming she had brought her kid back from abroad. Confused, Jiang Mu learned that during professional dinners, Jin Chao had been telling colleagues that his "wife and child" lived overseas. He had described this "child" as a lazy, picky eater who loved to sleep in. Recognizing herself in the description, Jiang Mu playfully texted Jin Chao to ask why he was playing "two roles" with her identity.

Jin Chao, caught up in work, promised to explain later that night. When Jin Chao finally returned to the company apartment, he found Jiang Mu waiting in his bed. He leaned in for a kiss, teasingly offering to comfort his "upset child." Shyly hiding under the covers, Jiang Mu remarked on how much he had changed. She recalled a time in the past when he would pull her into alleys to tell her that girls shouldn't be so bold.

Jin Chao chuckled, reminding her that back then her values were still developing, but they were both growing into new roles now. The next day, Jiang Mu visited Jin Chao at the university while he was deep in technical discussions with students about wheelbases and fluid mechanics. One female student had even queued since the early morning to bring him "champion coffee," prompting a flash of jealousy from Jiang Mu.

When she shared the news that she had officially been hired as a full-time employee at the research institute, she demanded a hug. Despite the public setting, Jin Chao didn't hesitate; he pulled her close and introduced her to his juniors as his girlfriend. That evening, as they arrived for dinner, they found Wen Ke embroiled in a heated argument with a woman over a tight parking spot. The woman was accusing Wen Ke of discriminating against female drivers.

Stepping in, Jin Chao offered to park the car for her. This was a significant moment, as he hadn't touched a steering wheel since his traumatic accident. As he sat in the driver's seat, the memory of the crash and the sound of frantic honking flooded back. However, he forced himself to stay calm, overcoming his inner fear to successfully maneuver the car into the space.

Inside the restaurant, Jiang Mu was delighted to reunite with San Lai and Jin Fengzi. The atmosphere was warm as the old friends caught up. Jin Fengzi, now working as a technician for Jin Chao, expressed lingering guilt over the "Iron Cock" incident that had led to the accident, but Jin Chao simply reminded him that survival was the greatest victory. They laughed about how Jin Chao had forced Jin Fengzi to earn a degree while recovering.

San Lai, who now ran a successful factory cafeteria, noticed Jin Chao had quit smoking and playfully asked if they were preparing for a baby. Jin Chao met this with a smile, confessing his intention to marry Jiang Mu. Despite their current happiness, Jiang Mu reflected on the painful years of silence. She revealed that she had returned to Manshi every vacation searching for him, unable to resist despite her anger.

Her most harrowing memory was losing her laptop bag at the airport because it held the "Zhao and Mu" leather keychain he had given her. She had been in tears until it was returned to her—unaware that Jin Chao had actually been there, found it himself, and quietly handed it to a staff member to return to her. Hearing her story, Jin Chao held her tight and apologized.

He pulled her onto his lap to offer "compensation," but their private moment was interrupted by the sudden arrival of Lin Sui. Lin Sui, who occasionally stayed at the apartment, arrived hungry and settled in for a bowl of Jin Chao’s egg fried rice. As a partner in Lin Sui's racing club, Jin Chao had been busy training younger drivers, but Lin Sui had a bigger request. He wanted Jin Chao to return to professional racing.

He revealed that Dr. Julia had confirmed Jin Chao's physical recovery was complete; all that remained was for him to overcome his psychological barriers. Later that night, Jiang Mu playfully took compromising photos of Jin Chao while he was in the bathtub, using them as leverage to grill him about his six years away. She was particularly curious if any other women had been in his life.

Though he insisted there were none, she teased him for hesitating, claiming he wasn't being honest. The following morning, Jin Chao and Lin Sui headed to the local market looking like fashion models in their long trench coats. Their cool demeanor was quickly shattered by a crowd of energetic grandmothers who swept them aside. As Jin Chao meticulously selected ingredients—noting that he must avoid green peppers because Jiang Mu disliked them—Lin Sui found himself burdened with heavy bags. Seeing his friend’s domestic devotion, Lin Sui finally asked if Jin Chao was truly planning to marry Jiang Mu.