Sunshine by My Side Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Sunshine by My Side Synopsis
Jian Bing is a well-known advertising director in the industry, and Sheng Yang is a newcomer to society.
They meet by chance at a restaurant. One has just ended her marriage and the other is waiting for love in vain. The two strangers bond and embark on a wonderful, romantic journey of love and growth.
With the company of Sheng Yang, Jian Bing regains her confidence in life and love; with the guidance and encouragement of Jian Bing, Sheng Yang grows up from a young and reckless teenager.
They heal each other, grow together and gradually fall in love.
However, reality gets in the way. Faced with differences in status and experience, family opposition and rumours in the workplace, Jian Bing and Sheng Yang decide to leave their future to time.
Three years have allowed them to grow and change. They have dedicated much to each other.
It is this trust and experience that allows them to become better versions of themselves. They go round and round and move towards each other again.
Sunshine by My Side Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In 2012, Sheng Yang was deeply inspired by a poised and impressive female advertising director, which led him to pursue a career in advertising design. Now working at an advertising company, Sheng Yang wakes early for an urgent morning meeting, rushing to the metro station without eating. On the platform, he witnesses a couple’s heated breakup, where the boyfriend rudely dismisses his crying girlfriend before boarding the train.
Once on board, the man immediately calls his friends, bragging about the breakup and making plans to play video games. Disgusted, Sheng Yang later confronts the man for carelessly tossing a finished drink bottle, sternly ordering him to pick it up. The experience reinforces Sheng Yang's belief in the value of sticking to one's original intentions in a fast-paced world. Arriving at the company first, Sheng Yang meticulously tidies the meeting room.
As colleagues and his boss gather, the discussion turns to the Shuming packaging box case. The client, suffering a business downturn, is using budget concerns to delay payment. However, they refuse to change design teams or lower their standards, essentially wanting to reduce costs without it being obvious. As Sheng Yang prepares to offer his insights, his team leader, Wang Youde, sends him to buy coffee for everyone.
While Sheng Yang is gone, Wang Youde takes his prepared notes and presents the ideas as his own. Upon Sheng Yang's return, the boss, unaware of the plagiarism, invites him to share his thoughts. Sheng Yang presents the same eco-friendly design concept, surprising his colleagues. The boss praises Wang Youde, remarking that Sheng Yang, as his apprentice, clearly shares the same brilliant ideas.
Sheng Yang realizes he was deliberately sent away so his idea could be stolen, but he keeps his composure as the meeting concludes. Meanwhile, renowned advertising director Jian Bing is on set for a knife advertisement. Known for her meticulous approach, she is unsatisfied with the lighting and calls for retakes. The client, Mr. Zhang, and his associate gossip about Jian Bing’s strained marriage to Director Xue, her former mentor and now husband, with whom she co-founded their company.
At the same time, Sheng Yang’s college classmate, Song Chen, begs for help with a design, admitting he missed a deadline after playing games all night. He guilt-trips Sheng Yang by reminding him of a past favor, and Sheng Yang reluctantly agrees to help.
Spotting a female director filming downstairs, Song Chen points her out, but Sheng Yang confirms it isn't the woman who inspired him years ago, cynically remarking that his single status is due to poverty, not a distant crush. After the shoot, the client, Mr. Zhang, expresses dissatisfaction with the ad, claiming it lacks the "vibe of a masterpiece." He proposes an outlandish sci-fi concept, which Jian Bing politely deflects.
She agrees to shoot an additional, more artistic version focusing on the knife itself, but firmly tells Mr. Zhang to respect her and stop discussing her private life. Furious, her husband Xue Yiming calls and berates her for agreeing to do extra work for a single fee, accusing her of indulging her artistic whims at the company's expense.
As they argue, a young actress approaches Xue Yiming to add him on WeChat, and he asks her to see Mr. Zhang off. Back at Sheng Yang's office, the client accepts the proposal. Wang Youde is tasked with finishing it by the weekend but immediately delegates the entire workload to Sheng Yang, despite Sheng Yang's protest that his notes were a rough draft needing refinement. Later, while driving, Jian Bing spots Xue Yiming with another woman.
She remains indifferent and drives past. Shortly after, her friend Liang Shanshan calls, sympathizing with her situation. Sheng Yang is then urgently summoned to a supermarket by his mother, Luo Meijuan. She pressures him to try on a new shirt she picked out, instructing him to keep the tag on so she can return it and repurchase it at a discounted price.
She then ambushes him with a blind date, revealing that the girl is set to intern at his company. Worn down by his mother's persistence and her metaphor comparing him to an "out of fashion" sale item, Sheng Yang goes to the designated restaurant and complains to his mother on the phone as he waits for his perpetually late date. At home, Xue Yiming tries to apologize to Jian Bing, but she cuts him off.
In a calm, measured speech, she sarcastically apologizes for not being a traditional wife, thanks him for being her mentor, and then expresses her long-suppressed bitterness, stating that he has "stabbed her too many times" and that they are now even. Declaring that she can no longer tolerate his constant infidelity, she proposes a divorce. Xue Yiming vehemently refuses, accusing her of being "brainwashed by feminism" and insisting she cannot succeed without him.
Unswayed, Jian Bing offers three conditions to stay together: he must stop pursuing other women, they must have a weekly date, and he cannot interfere with her projects. When he deems the conditions impossible, she walks out, declaring herself free. Jian Bing enters the very same restaurant where Sheng Yang is still waiting. He looks up, instantly recognizes the director who inspired him ten years ago, and is left utterly speechless.
Episode 2 Recap
Sheng Yang was waiting for his blind date at a restaurant when he noticed Jian Bing dining alone. His heart raced, but he hesitated to approach her, only stealing glances in her direction. Meanwhile, Liang Shanshan, having heard about Jian Bing's impending divorce from Xue Yiming, frantically called her from a KTV, urging her to send her location and not to do anything foolish. Jian Bing, visibly intoxicated, drank heavily.
Noticing Sheng Yang watching her, she mistakenly thought he was eyeing her sirloin steak and generously offered it to him. She then stumbled out of the restaurant without paying, leaving Sheng Yang to settle her 1,980 yuan bill, along with his own, totaling 2,148 yuan. As Sheng Yang rushed after her, his mother, Luo Meijuan, called him, but he hastily hung up. On the street, a drunken Jian Bing mistook Sheng Yang for a stalker and called him a "hooligan."
Sheng Yang tried to remind her that they had met before, ten years ago, at a bus stop on Jiefang Road. Amused, Jian Bing playfully suggested they get a room, but Sheng Yang awkwardly insisted he had no ulterior motives. Realizing her mistake, Jian Bing apologized, and Sheng Yang offered to walk her home since it was late. She complained about feeling old and the world's unfairness as he carefully guided her through the streets.
Sheng Yang then called his friend Song Chen for help finding a nearby hotel, vaguely explaining that he had gotten someone drunk. Song Chen teased him, assuming he was with his blind date. Sheng Yang booked the largest available room for the night, paying the 880 yuan fee and deposit and telling the front desk that Liang Shanshan would settle the bill later. Inside the room, Jian Bing, still disoriented, declared her desire to sing her signature karaoke song.
Ten years earlier, a sixteen-year-old Sheng Yang was waiting at a bus stop after a fight. He watched a public service announcement featuring his father, Sheng Xiangqian, a forty-five-year-old sanitation worker. The film detailed his father’s 23-year career cleaning New West Road multiple times daily. Sheng Yang was captivated by the beautifully shot PSA when Jian Bing, passing by, proudly revealed that she had filmed it.
Noticing Sheng Yang's injuries, she gently wiped blood from his face, leaving a lasting impression on the young boy. She remarked that he reminded her of her own sister, who also fought frequently, and expressed her pride in the film and the work of "city beauticians" like his father. Later that night, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian grew increasingly worried as Sheng Yang remained unreachable.
Sheng Xiangqian fretted that his son might unexpectedly "bring home a grandson," while Luo Meijuan worried if he had taught Sheng Yang about consent and responsibility. Meanwhile, in the hotel room, Jian Bing’s phone rang. Since she was in the bathroom, she told Sheng Yang to answer it. It was Liang Shanshan, who was with Xue Yiming.
Xue Yiming immediately demanded to know who Sheng Yang was and sternly warned him to behave, reminding him that Jian Bing was married and that there were security cameras everywhere. Liang Shanshan quickly took the phone and, after confirming she was Jian Bing's top WeChat contact, received the hotel's address from Sheng Yang. Just then, Jian Bing emerged from the bathroom and, clinging to Sheng Yang, vomited on his shirt.
Noticing the 599 yuan price tag, she promised to buy him a new one and called him the most special man she had met. She drunkenly asked him to play the song "I Really Love You." Sheng Yang gently told her she was drunk and advised her not to drink so much. He explained that he had sent the address to her friends and then introduced himself as Sheng Yang.
As Liang Shanshan and Xue Yiming arrived, Sheng Yang quietly left the hotel. He returned home stealthily, much to the relief of his anxious parents. However, Sheng Yang was filled with regret, realizing he hadn't left his phone number for Jian Bing and fearing he might lose touch with her forever. The next morning, Sheng Yang arrived at work and found himself sharing an elevator with Pan Rou, the new intern.
Pan Rou was on the phone, loudly complaining to her mother about terrible blind dates, including one where she was stood up by someone named "Sheng Yang or Sheng Niu." Sheng Yang, realizing he was the person she had deliberately ditched, remained speechless. In the office, Song Chen prodded him for details about his night, but Sheng Yang deflected, pointing out the new intern. The boss, Wang Youde, introduced Pan Rou to the team.
Pan Rou, a third-year college student, immediately recognized Sheng Yang as a senior from her university and apologized for standing him up, blaming her mother. Sheng Yang, however, brusquely told her to focus on work and handed her a stack of documents. He explained the demanding work process, warning her about frequent overtime and inevitable client abuse. He grimly advised her to prepare for hair loss and remarked that with their job, she would have no time for romance.
Song Chen interjected, lightheartedly summarizing the internship requirements: "be contactable 24/7, respond to group messages immediately, and don't stand anyone up." Meanwhile, Jian Bing woke up in the hotel room and found a glass of water and her fully charged phone by the bed. Her memory of the previous night was a complete blank. She called Liang Shanshan, who explained that the "silly boy" had only sent the location without the room number.
Jian Bing inquired about the mysterious young man, speculating she had "picked him up on the way." Liang Shanshan called him a "hooligan," but Jian Bing defended him as a "righteous kid," recounting how he had left her water and even rented a power bank to charge her phone. Liang Shanshan suggested she reimburse him for the room, wondering if he was a student using his living expenses. When she pressed Jian Bing on whether anything "happened" between them, Jian Bing scoffed, implying that if anything had occurred, she would hardly be calling him righteous.
Episode 3 Recap
Pan Rou explained to Sheng Yang why she had not shown up for their meeting the previous night, stating she was unwilling to be forced by her parents into an awkward chat with a stranger. Sheng Yang, however, was not convinced, questioning her commitment to their upcoming six months of collaboration. He probed why she was so sure she would leave after six months, noting his own determination when he started as an intern.
Sheng Yang suggested Pan Rou was merely there to earn credits through connections, a suspicion supported by the fact that the company had no recent intern recruitment plan. He warned her about the demanding nature of their industry and advised her to quit if she lacked genuine passion.
Pan Rou then asked Sheng Yang if he ever regretted choosing his career path, to which he responded that his major was dictated by his college entrance exam scores, leaving him feeling directionless. She admitted that her mother had arranged the internship and that she hadn't studied design, but she wanted to try and promised to work hard and not be a burden. Sheng Yang offered words of encouragement.
Afterward, Pan Rou offered to treat Sheng Yang to dinner that night, but he politely declined. Pan Rou countered that it was a team rule for newcomers to have a welcoming dinner, as dictated by their team leader. Later, Sheng Yang’s phone rang. Song Chen, curious, urged him to answer, suggesting it might be a client, though Sheng Yang believed clients would use WeChat.
It was Jian Bing, calling to thank him for the previous night and to apologize for her intoxicated state. She informed him she had added him on WeChat to transfer money. Sheng Yang tried to refuse, but Song Chen, close by, insisted he accept the friend request. Jian Bing transferred 5,000 yuan, explaining it covered dinner, the hotel, and a deposit, with the rest as gratitude for his "courageous behavior."
Sheng Yang denied any heroic acts, but Jian Bing insisted that keeping her safe all night counted. As Sheng Yang persisted in refusing the money, Song Chen, listening in, interjected. He lied to Jian Bing, claiming Sheng Yang had sustained a large, bleeding gash on his head that morning, was dizzy, and possibly concussed. Song Chen then dramatically suggested Jian Bing take Sheng Yang to the hospital.
Jian Bing, expressing concern, sent Sheng Yang her home address and invited him to come there so she could take him to the hospital herself. Song Chen playfully commented on Jian Bing’s "domineering" voice, noting that he and Sheng Yang seemed to have similar taste in women. At home, Jian Bing was packing her things to move out and live separately from Xue Yiming. He confronted her, accusing her of having a one-night stand for revenge.
He tried to stop her from leaving, reminding her he hadn't agreed to a divorce, but Jian Bing asserted that if he didn't agree, they would proceed with a lawsuit. When he suggested she was seeing someone else, Jian Bing confirmed it, playfully hinting it was "the one from last night" before adding, "There are so many of them," to provoke him.
She argued that he was the one destroying their family, not an outsider, and criticized his "degraded" mindset as a director. When Xue Yiming challenged what could have happened with her and a man alone for a night, Jian Bing calmly revealed she had given Sheng Yang their home address and he was coming, daring Xue Yiming to wait for him. Feeling trapped and unwilling to remain his "accessory," Jian Bing rejected Xue Yiming's plea to talk things over.
When he advised her to be a "bigger person" and a "good wife and mother," Jian Bing retorted that if a word only described women, it was a "guilt trip," explaining she wasn't the type of woman who found happiness solely by dedicating herself to family life. Regarding their company, Jian Bing stated that if Xue Yiming respected her and stayed out of her projects, they could continue as partners.
She referred to their company, Jian Yi, as their child, since they had none of their own, emphasizing it was their collective creation. Xue Yiming then confessed his deep love for her, admitting he had "crossed the line" and felt directionless, like a "walking dead" from his repetitive work. Jian Bing acknowledged his struggles but stated she couldn't solve his problems. She decided to go to the beach, asking him for time to make his own decision.
Sheng Yang arrived at Jian Bing's address, finding her leaving with a large box of items she intended to throw away. She briefly offered to take him to the hospital, but Sheng Yang assured her he was fine and his friend had been joking. Sheng Yang then offered to dispose of the box for her and carried it away. Clearly preoccupied, Jian Bing quickly dismissed him, telling him to be careful on his way back.
Later, Jian Bing was drinking heavily at a bar when Liang Shanshan arrived. Jian Bing informed her that she and Xue Yiming had broken up. Concerned, Liang Shanshan asked how they would divide their assets. Jian Bing explained they would split everything equally. Liang Shanshan called her generous, noting Xue Yiming was the "guilty party" in their marriage, but Jian Bing philosophically mused on the difficulty of assigning blame.
Liang Shanshan then expressed deep concern for their company, stating she would hate to see it fall apart due to their divorce, as it represented years of their collective effort. Jian Bing reassured her that the company would not be affected. As Jian Bing celebrated her "new life," Liang Shanshan acknowledged the pain of a divorce after more than a decade but promised to support her.
As Jian Bing became increasingly intoxicated, Liang Shanshan went to the restroom, only to return and find Jian Bing had disappeared. Concurrently, at a team dinner welcoming Pan Rou, team leader Wang Youde formally welcomed her. Pan Rou, curious, asked about Sheng Yang's work style. Wang Youde described Sheng Yang as capable and quick-witted, but "immature" and "opinionated," with a "not-so-great personality."
He lectured Pan Rou on the importance of being "observant" and "adaptable" in the workplace, citing Song Chen as a good example. Pan Rou argued that work capacity should be the priority, but Wang Youde insisted on his point. When Sheng Yang arrived late, Wang Youde chastised him for being absent that afternoon and demanded he drink three glasses as punishment. Pan Rou tried to intervene and offered to drink for him, but Wang Youde dismissed her.
As Wang Youde continued to pressure him, Sheng Yang received a message from Jian Bing asking for her trophy. Sheng Yang promptly finished his drinks, announced a "family emergency," and abruptly left, much to Wang Youde's fury. To placate him, the team suggested going for karaoke, where Wang Youde asked Pan Rou to sing "The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau." Meanwhile, Liang Shanshan, unable to find Jian Bing, called Xue Yiming for help.
He confessed he was planning a business trip to avoid the divorce conversation. Scolded by Liang Shanshan for his infidelity, Xue Yiming defended himself, claiming that long-term relationships are difficult and that socializing and facing temptations were normal for a man. He insisted he would never divorce Jian Bing because she was the closest person to him besides his parents. Outside the bar, in the heavy rain, Sheng Yang found a heavily intoxicated Jian Bing.
He had brought her golden trophy, explaining that he hadn't thrown it away as she'd requested because his own mother often threw things after arguments with his father, only to ask him to retrieve them later. In the taxi, a very drunk Jian Bing repeatedly questioned who Sheng Yang was and why he always appeared when she was intoxicated. Sheng Yang then asked if she remembered a public service advertisement about sanitation workers she had filmed ten years ago.
He showed her the trophy, which his family humorously used as a bottle opener, and a video of the ad on his phone. He recounted meeting her at a bus stop a decade prior and confessed that he chose his current profession because of her. He shared how he used to be ashamed of his father, who was a sanitation worker, but watching Jian Bing's advertisement made him understand the true value and greatness of the profession. Jian Bing, however, was too drunk to fully comprehend his heartfelt confession.
Episode 4 Recap
Sheng Yang braved the heavy rain to get a drunk Jian Bing home, where she collapsed, dizzy, into a chair. After she thanked him for saving her twice, Sheng Yang lingered, advising her to be kinder to herself and drink less. He acknowledged that she seemed to be going through a tough time, like a divorce, and recounted how an old advertisement she directed had deeply impacted him by making him realize the greatness of his father, a street cleaner.
Jian Bing vaguely remembered the ad, and Sheng Yang, feeling a strong connection, expressed his desire to work hard so that one day, she might see her former, passionate self reflected in him. Meanwhile, Jian Bing's husband, Xue Yiming, arrived outside her apartment with her friend, Liang Shanshan. Spotting a pair of men's shoes by the door, Liang Shanshan quickly intervened to stop Xue from going up, claiming Jian Bing was already asleep.
Inside, Jian Bing briefly awoke to find Sheng Yang looking at one of her books. She told him to leave and, on his way out, he took the book with him. After Xue left, Liang Shanshan grumbled about how Jian Bing's disappearance had caused them to worry. The next morning, Liang Shanshan called Jian Bing, pressing her about the mysterious man.
Jian Bing, irritated, insisted nothing happened and that her new "target" was not a man but her career, declaring her days of drinking to cope were over. Later, on the set for a knife advertisement, Jian Bing was surprised when the client, Mr. Zhang, questioned her presence, stating that Xue Yiming was supposed to take over the project. Jian Bing firmly insisted it was her project and called Xue, warning him not to interfere.
She reminded him that a set can only have one director and that his absence would be the greatest respect he could show her. Back at his office, Sheng Yang was engrossed in Jian Bing's book. His colleague, Song Chen, teased him, prompting Sheng Yang to admit he had met the director he had admired for years.
When Sheng Yang revealed she was getting a divorce, Song Chen cautioned him against pursuing a complicated, divorced woman, advising him to find a "normal" girl like their colleague Pan Rou, who was attempting to give Sheng Yang breakfast. Sheng Yang politely declined Pan Rou's offer, joining Song Chen in a joke about his preference for more "pungent" tastes. At the shoot, Mr. Zhang continued to insist that Xue, as promised to the client, should film a specific long shot.
Jian Bing refused, questioning if he doubted her capabilities. Mr. Zhang subtly implied that the client's preference for Xue stemmed from Jian Bing's personal situation. When Jian Bing retorted that the client could see Xue elsewhere but not on her set, an associate director tried to mediate, reminding them of their reputation as a "model couple" and urging them to resolve their marital issues privately.
Jian Bing corrected him, stating her problems with Xue were no longer internal but external, making a clear separation between her projects and his. During a morning meeting, Team Leader Wang Youde announced their team had met its performance target, guaranteeing bonuses. He specifically praised Sheng Yang for his diligence and willingness to work overtime.
Then, Wang Youde announced that the company's biggest project of the half-year, the Park Hyatt Mid-Autumn gift box design, would be assigned to Sheng Yang, breaking the tradition of giving such accounts to their senior colleague, Liu. Despite Sheng Yang's hesitation, Wang Youde insisted, and as the meeting ended, a disgruntled Liu pointedly ignored Sheng Yang. After the shoot, Jian Bing's team offered to take her for drinks to de-stress, but she declined, citing the need to edit.
Her assistant, Lin, then advised her to reconsider the divorce, pointing out that while Xue, at 40, still attracted young women, Jian Bing, at 36, was losing her "age advantage." Lin questioned who Jian Bing would rely on without a husband or child and suggested she find a "backup plan" before finalizing the divorce. Annoyed by the old-fashioned advice, Jian Bing dismissed her.
Sheng Yang realized that completing the Park Hyatt project in three days while managing his other duties was an impossible task. He correctly suspected Wang Youde was setting him up to fail, forcing him to admit incompetence so the project could be reassigned to Liu, thereby manipulating both of them. While Song Chen advised him to concede, Sheng Yang refused to back down, vowing to seize the opportunity even if it meant not sleeping for three days.
Pan Rou enthusiastically offered to stay and help. Sheng Yang worked late into the night. Pan Rou brought him a snack but her attempts to help were useless, as she admitted she only knew how to use basic photo editing apps. Seeing her as a distraction, Song Chen politely but firmly sent her home. Meanwhile, Sheng Yang's mother, Luo Meijuan, was overjoyed.
She told her husband, Sheng Xiangqian, that Pan Rou's mother, an old classmate she always felt inferior to, had called to praise Sheng Yang. Feeling triumphant, Luo Meijuan insisted on meeting her at a fancy Western restaurant, making Sheng Xiangqian practice cooking steak and drinking nearly-expired grape juice at home to prepare. Later, while reviewing footage, Jian Bing received a call from Liang Shanshan, who reported that gossip about her divorce had spread throughout their company.
Exasperated by the societal judgment, Jian Bing hung up, declaring that her true passion was her work. Simultaneously, at Sheng Yang's home, his parents, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, were reminiscing in his room. They stumbled upon a box containing women's high heels and lingerie, leading them to excitedly suspect Sheng Yang has a serious girlfriend.
Episode 5 Recap
Jian Bing woke up and noticed that Sheng Yang had not accepted the 5,000 yuan she had transferred. Annoyed and unwilling to owe anyone, she sent him an impatient message. Sheng Yang, having calculated the precise cost, insisted on only accepting 2,480 yuan. Despite Jian Bing trying to send 3,000 yuan and suggesting he use the extra for snacks or to treat his colleagues, Sheng Yang remained firm, prompting Jian Bing to eventually transfer the exact amount.
When Sheng Yang asked what to do with the box of things Jian Bing had left with him, she reiterated her instruction to throw it away or sell it as junk. When he considered splitting the proceeds, she playfully called him an odd kid, telling him to keep any earnings and treat her to dinner if they ever ran into each other again, which he agreed to do.
That same evening, Sheng Yang treated Jian Bing to dinner, and she took him to a food stall she frequented when working long hours. She ordered her usual: Luosifen noodles with pickled bamboo shoots, beef, and a fried egg, requesting it extra spicy with two spoons of vinegar and extra tofu skin. Sheng Yang ordered the exact same.
While eating, Jian Bing explained that although the noodles are pungent, they taste delicious, and the strong, spicy flavor helped her stay awake and energized during late-night shoots. She also hinted that she had overheard Sheng Yang's intoxicated comments a few nights prior, saying she needed to work hard to avoid being "looked down upon by kids." Suddenly, Jian Bing spotted a cockroach and impulsively grabbed Sheng Yang's bag to swat it, accidentally smashing his laptop inside.
Feeling apologetic, she took him back to her apartment and offered him her own laptop, which she assured him had all the necessary software. Sheng Yang offered to fix his own laptop, but Jian Bing insisted he tell her the cost afterward. Before he started working, Sheng Yang warned her not to delete any files on the desktop.
While Sheng Yang worked on his design, Jian Bing took a call from Xue Yiming, who was furious that she had made their divorce public within the company. Accusing her of forcing the issue, he complained that everyone knew and reminded her he hadn't agreed to the divorce. As Xue Yiming ranted, claiming he had edited her videos only out of concern for her workload, Sheng Yang silently passed Jian Bing a note, asking for advice on his design.
Jian Bing, trying to cut Xue Yiming off, cited a bad signal and promised to call him back. She then turned her attention to Sheng Yang's work, critiquing his design as "familiar," "ordinary," and "boring." When Sheng Yang humbly asked for guidance, Jian Bing showed him a room filled with gift boxes from various brands to illustrate how hard it is to stand out.
She then gave him four art books by David Hockney, suggesting that art could provide design inspiration. As it was late, Sheng Yang asked about the last bus, and Jian Bing offered him a ride home. He declined, prompting her to tease him by expressing concern for his safety, calling him a "girl" who shouldn't be out alone so late. When Sheng Yang returned home, his parents, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, were waiting up.
Sheng Xiangqian confronted him with the large box, demanding an explanation and accusing him of treating their home like a hotel. Sheng Yang explained he had simply picked up the discarded box from outside. He then asked if they truly believed his design was "that bad." While Luo Meijuan thought it was good, Sheng Xiangqian deferred to Jian Bing's professional opinion. Seeing his son’s habit of bringing home discarded items, Sheng Xiangqian playfully commented, "genes never lie."
Determined, Sheng Yang promised to prove himself to them. After he shooed them out, Luo Meijuan whispered to her husband that she suspected Sheng Yang might be in a relationship, suggesting the box belonged to a girlfriend. Sheng Xiangqian dismissed the idea, joking that if their son found a girlfriend, he'd become a vegetarian for a year. Despite his efforts, Sheng Yang struggled to create a satisfactory design, discarding multiple attempts as "too ordinary."
His colleague Song Chen advised him to rest, reminding him of their goal to "embarrass Wang." Pan Rou then revealed that Wang Youde had privately asked her to prepare a backup plan, accusing Wang of merely "playing with" Sheng Yang. Song Chen mockingly called Pan Rou an "old hen" for hovering, leading to a heated argument that Sheng Yang had to loudly interrupt.
Meanwhile, Jian Bing arrived at the company to find that Xue Yiming had already edited a rough cut of her project. She refused to accept his work, stating they needed to settle things. Misinterpreting her, Xue Yiming thought she wanted to split the company and urged her to consider its stability. Jian Bing clarified that she wanted to separate from him, not the company.
When he argued that their resources were too intertwined, she blamed the situation on his repeated betrayals of their trust, stating she was tired of their "match made in heaven" image. She asserted that they would both be fine without each other and urged him to "be a man" and face reality. While using Jian Bing's computer, Sheng Yang stumbled upon a video of Jian Bing accepting her first Best Director Award.
In it, she thanked Xue Yiming, emphasizing they were a team. Xue Yiming, standing beside her, boasted about giving her "a little guidance" at work while claiming to be "totally led by her" in life, possessively calling her "my wife." Sheng Yang, annoyed, closed the video. Shortly after, Jian Bing and Xue Yiming called a company-wide meeting to announce their divorce.
Xue Yiming reassured the team that the company would operate as usual, no one would be forced to choose sides, and they would remain friends, partners, and family. Later, Sheng Yang watched another interview with Jian Bing where she discussed the profound impact of light and shadow in filmmaking. She explained that by making light and shadow "move," they could effectively create atmosphere and evoke emotion. This concept sparked a brilliant idea for his Mid-Autumn Festival gift box.
He was immediately inspired by the concept of moving light and began sketching a new design. On the day of the presentation, as the deadline loomed, Wang Youde was preparing to have Liu, another team member, present her backup plan. Just as Liu began, Sheng Yang rushed in, apologizing for his delay.
He began his presentation with an anecdote about a friend who receives dozens of gift boxes each year only to discard them, posing the challenge of creating a box that truly stands out. With that, Sheng Yang unveiled his "Moonlight Treasure Box," a design that transformed an ordinary paper box into an exquisite art piece.
He demonstrated how, through the ingenious use of light and shadow, the box created an illusion of a lunar platform, allowing the stars and moon to appear to change positions and be held "in the palm of your hands." The entire room watched in awe. The boss was thoroughly impressed, praising the "good idea" and acknowledging the "hidden talent" in Sheng Yang's team. When Wang Youde attempted to take credit, Liu subtly called him out.
The boss, however, clearly recognized Sheng Yang, repeating his name and stating he would remember him. Celebrating his success, Sheng Yang bought himself a bowl of Luosifen, ordering it with all the same spicy, flavorful ingredients Jian Bing enjoyed, a subtle nod to the inspiration she had provided.
Episode 6 Recap
Reluctant to proceed with the divorce, Xue Yiming is met with Jian Bing's firm resolve. He gathers his belongings, agreeing to finalize the paperwork the following week. Before leaving, Xue Yiming asks to take their "Best Husband" trophy as a keepsake. After he insists, Jian Bing relents but struggles to detach a bottle opener from it.
When she finally gets it off, he jokes that a bottle opener is all he ended up with from their marriage, then soberly apologizes for having let her down. Sheng Yang arrives at Jian Bing's apartment to deliver Luosifen noodles but spots Xue Yiming moving out and quickly hides to avoid being seen. After Xue Yiming drives away, Sheng Yang presents the noodles to Jian Bing as a gesture of gratitude for her professional guidance.
Seeing she isn't in the mood to eat, Sheng Yang takes her to a rooftop overlooking the cityscape. He shares his dream of one day showcasing his designs on the massive advertising screens of the city's skyscrapers. He reminisces about how he used to dislike advertising but has since come to appreciate its potential for beauty and artistry.
As Jian Bing's latest advertisement plays on a nearby building's glass curtain wall, Sheng Yang counts down and cheers loudly for her, encouraging her to release her pent-up emotions. His boyish enthusiasm makes her smile. Meanwhile, Jian Shuang, Jian Bing's younger sister and the only female ice hockey player at her school, receives a message from Jian Bing's assistant about the divorce.
Immediately suspecting Xue Yiming was unfaithful, she is filled with fury and channels her anger into her game, leading her team to victory. Later, as Xue Yiming parks his car in an underground garage, two assailants on a motorcycle attack him. One strikes him with a baton, knocking him unconscious before they flee. Liang Shanshan visits a recovering Xue Yiming in the hospital. He can't identify his attackers, only recalling they wore black and helmets.
Liang Shanshan speculates that he might have provoked a jealous partner by sleeping with the wrong person, but Xue Yiming dismisses the idea. Despite his injuries—an arm in a cast and an IV drip—Xue Yiming is pressured by his client, Mr. Hu, to continue editing the advertisement from his hospital bed. Indignant on his behalf, Liang Shanshan takes it upon herself to finish the work at the company.
Jian Bing, who was waiting downstairs, is relieved to hear from Liang Shanshan that Xue Yiming’s injuries are not life-threatening and leaves. Liang Shanshan reports the assault, and the police soon identify Jian Shuang and her teammate, Hao Junjie, as the primary suspects.
Fang Mu, a music academy professor and Hao Junjie's uncle, learns of the arrest and visits Jian Bing, pleading with her to ask Xue Yiming for leniency, as a criminal record would ruin Hao Junjie's chances of studying abroad. Realizing her sister is involved, Jian Bing accompanies Fang Mu to the police station. She explains the situation and secures their release. Fang Mu suggests they apologize to Xue Yiming, but Jian Shuang flatly refuses.
Jian Bing takes Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie to dinner, where she warns Hao Junjie to stay away from her sister. She scolds Jian Shuang for her impulsiveness, but Jian Shuang defiantly argues she was simply standing up for her. Hao Junjie also defends Jian Shuang's actions. Later, Fang Mu advises his nephew to quit the ice hockey team, distance himself from Jian Shuang, and focus on his music career to protect his future.
Elsewhere, Sheng Yang's mother, Luo Meijuan, shows off an expensive dress she bought for a class reunion, admitting she plans to return it afterward by keeping the tag on. Sheng Yang finds it unflattering, but she insists it looks high-end.
Episode 7 Recap
Luo Meijuan took two hours off work, asking her colleague Yang to cover her shift, and went to the supermarket wearing a new dress. Her colleagues, including Li, complimented her, saying she looked elegant and pretty, a rare sight compared to her usual work attire. Meanwhile, Xue Yiming was discharged from the hospital after suffering a wrist injury that left his joint half-dislocated. He refused to stay longer, despite the doctor's recommendation.
Jian Bing was there to pick him up, and he sarcastically asked her to apologize, complaining that their daughter, Jian Shuang, could have seriously injured him with her ice hockey skills. He then probed Jian Bing, asking if she feared he would change his mind about the divorce. Jian Bing asserted he was not the type to cling and could find someone ten times prettier and younger.
In response, Xue Yiming advised her against pursuing an age-gap relationship, claiming such trends are fleeting and an immature partner would only cause trouble. Jian Bing retorted that men never truly grow up. She then handed him the divorce agreement, instructing him to sign it and reminding him of their scheduled appointment the following Wednesday, which surprised him as she had already checked his schedule without his knowledge.
Later, Luo Meijuan attended a class reunion, where she was praised for her beautiful dress. Her classmates also complimented her son, Sheng Yang, for his successful career at a big company. Limei arrived late with gifts for everyone and quickly steered the conversation to her daughter, Pan Rou. She eagerly tried to set up Pan Rou with Sheng Yang again, asking Luo Meijuan if he was interested and explaining that Pan Rou regretted missing their previous date.
As the classmates admired Limei's soft, well-cared-for hands, Luo Meijuan grew self-conscious about her own rough hands and quickly hid them. Concurrently, Liang Shanshan was working late with Director Deng, editing an advertising film for Xue Yiming. Liang Shanshan complained about Xue Yiming's demanding nature, contrasting it with her own "gentle elder sister" persona, and mentioned she had turned down many invitations to help him.
When Director Deng commented on their close friendship, Liang Shanshan dismissed the notion, revealing she had witnessed Xue Yiming "destroy countless nice women." Just then, Xue Yiming entered, having overheard her remarks, and jokingly threatened to expose her "dark past." He sent Director Deng home and asked Liang Shanshan to stay and drink with him, admitting he preferred socializing to editing. Feeling dejected after the reunion, Luo Meijuan returned to the supermarket.
A colleague noticed her low spirits, and Li bought her a hand cream, encouraging her to take care of herself now that Sheng Yang was grown. Luo Meijuan was grateful for the kind gesture. At the office, Xue Yiming drank heavily with Liang Shanshan, thanking her for visiting him in the hospital and for her years of help with clients.
He then somberly declared that he would be single again by Wednesday, a "free-flying bird," but confessed to a deep sadness. He recounted his disappointment that Jian Bing had come to the hospital not just to pick him up, but to deliver the divorce papers. He lamented losing his home and feeling he had nothing to show for the past decade but "losing hair and gaining weight."
Liang Shanshan cut him short, accusing him of feeling sad only because "the one who always cleaned up your messes is gone." She criticized his desire to have both external glamour and internal comfort, expecting someone to take care of him into old age. Luo Meijuan arrived home still in her new dress, but Sheng Yang and her husband, Sheng Xiangqian, were too preoccupied with eating dumplings to notice. When she prompted them, they made clumsy remarks.
Later, Sheng Xiangqian scrolled through her social media post of the dress and mocked her for being vain at her age. Sheng Yang's attempt to defend her by saying she "used to" be pretty only made things worse, causing Luo Meijuan to leave the table in anger without eating. Back at the office, Liang Shanshan berated a drunken Xue Yiming, ordering him to sober up, clean the messy room, and finish the film for the next day's deadline.
She reminded him that his work was his most valuable and only respectable quality. She called him lazy and said Jian Bing hadn't disciplined him enough, to which he replied that was what he liked most about her. Liang Shanshan then accused him of thinking he could fix his infidelity with simple gifts, unlike Jian Bing, who sought deep "emotional value" and a lasting connection.
She told him to throw himself into the "hazardous waste" bin, asserting that he was not good enough for Jian Bing. At home, Luo Meijuan’s frustration boiled over when Sheng Xiangqian casually asked why she hadn't washed the dishes. She vented about having served the two of them for years. Later, Sheng Xiangqian complained to Sheng Yang about how difficult women become as they age, never stating their desires clearly.
Sheng Yang correctly deduced that his mother wanted a very expensive, designer dress like the one she wore. Though Sheng Xiangqian dismissed it as impractical, Sheng Yang explained that for his mother, "life is not just about daily trifles, but also about poems and dreams." Sheng Xiangqian then borrowed 1,200 yuan from Sheng Yang to buy the dress. Sheng Yang briefly considered texting Jian Bing for fashion advice for a 50-year-old woman but deleted the message.
On Wednesday, Jian Bing and Xue Yiming finalized their divorce at the Civil Affairs Bureau. After the procedure, they parted ways, both feeling a bittersweet sense of finality. Deciding to take the day off, Xue Yiming saw a woman applying for a certificate of single status and impulsively asked if she wanted to have a flash marriage with him, prompting her to call him insane.
Later, Sheng Yang texted Jian Bing that his computer was fixed and offered to return hers. Jian Bing then messaged Liang Shanshan, who invited her to a karaoke bar where she was entertaining a client, Mr. He. When Jian Bing arrived, Mr. He immediately pressured her into drinking. Despite Liang Shanshan's attempts to intervene, Mr. He praised Jian Bing’s films and promised future collaborations, persuading her to down several glasses of alcohol.
At Sheng Yang's advertising company, the boss was searching for a director for a new project. A colleague, Wang Youde, suggested the experienced but stylistically "old" Director Chen. When the boss asked Sheng Yang for a young person's perspective, Sheng Yang recommended a director not on their list—someone with extensive advertising experience, a unique style, and fresh ideas perfectly suited for their product.
Episode 8 Recap
During a business dinner, Jian Bing displays her formidable drinking capacity, handily outdrinking Mr. He and his associates. As his colleagues succumb to the alcohol, a defeated Mr. He retreats to the restroom. Liang Shanshan urges a defiant Jian Bing to stop, but Jian Bing, drunkenly referring to her companions as her "seven dwarfs," insists the group isn't complete. Later, with both Jian Bing and Mr. He heavily intoxicated, Liang Shanshan has the incapacitated director taken home.
She then brings Jian Bing, who deliriously demands to find a "forest cottage" to use the bathroom, to her own apartment for the night. Meanwhile, the ice hockey team is in disarray over Captain Hao Junjie's absence. Jian Shuang argues with teammates who feel they can't practice without their forward. The coach intervenes, announcing that Hao Junjie has officially quit and a new captain will be elected.
Elsewhere, Hao Junjie is being closely monitored by his uncle, Fang Mu, who has confiscated his phone and is restricting his movements. When some students arrive seeking Fang Mu's help, Hao Junjie seizes the chance to slip away. Jian Shuang enters the captaincy election and secures the position with her superior skill. She immediately goes to find Hao Junjie, who has just borrowed a classmate's phone to contact her.
Jian Shuang takes him to the ice rink, urging him not to abandon the team. Hao Junjie explains that his musician parents want him to audition for an overseas orchestra and he feels pressured to focus on his piano practice. Knowing he dislikes the piano, Jian Shuang challenges him to a one-on-one game. After an intense match, she implores him not to be swayed by his family and to stay with the team, warning that it will disband without him.
That evening, Sheng Yang packs his computer and rushes out of work. His colleague, Pan Rou, correctly guesses he is interested in Jian Bing, the director he recommended. She pesters their coworker, Song Chen, who eventually recounts the story of Sheng Yang and Jian Bing's first meeting ten years prior, explaining that Sheng Yang has been captivated by her warmth and sincerity ever since. Sheng Yang hurries to Jian Bing's apartment, but she isn't home.
He waits patiently by her door, eventually falling asleep. The next morning, Jian Bing wakes up at Liang Shanshan's and rushes home to find Sheng Yang at her doorstep. He lies, claiming he just arrived, and returns her computer. He then pitches a lipstick advertisement project to her. Feeling obligated, Jian Bing offers to treat him to a meal, but Sheng Yang insists on cooking for her instead, impressing her with a "Sunshine Breakfast."
Jian Bing reviews the ad materials and likes the brand's concept of breaking free from labels, but finds the target audience too narrow. Sheng Yang promises to negotiate better compensation for her. When Jian Bing jokingly asks if he expects a kickback, he earnestly explains his only motivation is to deliver a successful project and earn his boss's respect.
Elsewhere, Luo Meijuan's dissatisfaction with her husband, Sheng Xiangqian, since a class reunion is placated when he gifts her an expensive silk dress. At work, Sheng Yang shows Jian Bing's portfolio to his boss, Mr. Yu, who is impressed and wants to meet her. Team leader Wang Youde tries to stall, suggesting they wait until after Mr. Yu's upcoming business trip. Fearing the opportunity will be lost, Sheng Yang promises Jian Bing will come that afternoon.
Unable to reach her by phone, he rushes to her apartment. Jian Bing agrees to the meeting and arrives at the company by 5 PM. In the meeting, Jian Bing's confident demeanor impresses Mr. Yu. When asked how she knows Sheng Yang, she strategically states they "aren't familiar" and have only met twice, humorously adding that he came to "block" her at home to get her to come.
Wang Youde voices concerns about budget and the risks of hiring a new director. In response, Jian Bing presents a sample video she shot on her phone on the way over. While Mr. Yu is impressed, Jian Bing dismisses it as a mere technical exercise, arguing a strong creative concept is more important.
When Wang Youde brings up the high cost of her team, Jian Bing cleverly uses an analogy with instant versus pour-over coffee to argue that quality is worth the initial investment to avoid costly reshoots. Convinced by her sharp reasoning and thorough preparation, Mr. Yu agrees to the collaboration on the spot.
As Sheng Yang walks her out, Jian Bing explains she claimed they weren't familiar to protect him from office politics, preventing people like Wang Youde from accusing him of having ulterior motives. She advises Sheng Yang to be wary of his team leader, noting that a boss always knows who is truly working hard. Before leaving, she reassures him that he performed exceptionally well that day.
Episode 9 Recap
Pan Rou, seeing Jian Bing in person for the first time, was impressed by her elegant demeanor and powerful presence. After learning that Jian Bing, a director of many award-winning films, had secured the company's advertising project on her own merit, Pan Rou felt a pang of regret for Sheng Yang. She mentioned that online, Jian Bing and her husband were lauded as the "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" of the advertising world.
Sheng Yang clarified that Jian Bing was divorced, insisting it had nothing to do with him, which prompted teasing from his colleague Song Chen. Shortly after, Wang Youde summoned Sheng Yang to his office, accusing him of using company resources for personal gain. Reminding Sheng Yang of their long history, Wang Youde claimed he had tried to promote him but was blocked by management and the poor business environment.
He then offered Sheng Yang a promotion and a raise from 5,000 to 6,000 yuan if he would convince Jian Bing to withdraw from the project. Sheng Yang refused, explaining he only recommended Jian Bing because she was a perfect fit for the brand's new direction, a decision the boss had approved. Wang Youde dismissed the explanation, belittled Sheng Yang's talent, and threatened that he could be easily replaced if he did not accept the offer.
Furious, Sheng Yang went to the bathroom, where Song Chen followed to console him. Moments later, Wang Youde entered with a colleague, Zhao. Angry that the contract with Jian Bing was signed, Wang Youde began to loudly disparage Sheng Yang, mocking his parents as a vegetable seller and a street cleaner and calling him ungrateful. He then made an offensive remark about Jian Bing, implying she was promiscuous.
Unable to tolerate the insults against his family and Jian Bing, Sheng Yang erupted and physically assaulted Wang Youde, with Song Chen joining the fray. Wang Youde reported the incident to his superior, Mr. Yu, demanding that Sheng Yang and Song Chen be fired for the assault. Exaggerating his injuries, he framed it as a "great humiliation" for a senior employee. Song Chen countered by listing Wang Youde's abuses of power.
Wang Youde then issued an ultimatum: either he or the two young men must leave the company. Meanwhile, Sheng Yang's mother, Luo Meijuan, proudly wore a new silk dress she believed her husband, Sheng Xiangqian, had bought for her. However, her neighbor, Qiao, recognized it as one of her own discarded dresses. Qiao then brought over more of her old clothes for Luo Meijuan, explaining she had gained weight and couldn't wear them anymore.
Deeply humiliated, Luo Meijuan immediately took off the dress. When Sheng Xiangqian returned, he tried to explain he had simply seen an opportunity to get her the dress she wanted, but Luo Meijuan felt deceived and insulted. She was furious that after happily showing it off all day, she was made to feel like a "clown."
Sheng Xiangqian's attempt to placate her by mentioning he had gotten money from their son to buy her a new dress failed to soothe her. Later, Sheng Xiangqian complained to Qiao about his wife's reaction, passionately defending his hobby of "turning waste into treasure." He gave examples, such as turning a chipped decoration into a flowerpot that Sheng Yang once drew for a school project, and repurposing old CDs into decorative models.
He lamented the wasteful habits of young people, prompting a loud, disapproving cough from Luo Meijuan, who was listening from inside. The conflict escalated when Sheng Xiangqian found a 3,000 yuan dress in Luo Meijuan's closet. He berated her for the extravagance, but she tearfully retorted, recounting years of scrimping and saving, from eating discounted food to living with handmade furniture in a second-hand house. She criticized him for not helping with chores, unlike their son who contributed financially.
Sheng Xiangqian argued that his recycling hobby gave items "new life," while her shopping only served to "extend her own life." Hearing his parents' heated argument as he arrived home, a dejected Sheng Yang turned around and left. Elsewhere, Jian Bing was struggling to unclog her kitchen drain. Her friend Liang Shanshan called and offered to send Jian Bing's ex-husband, Xue Yiming, to help, but Jian Bing firmly refused, stating it was inappropriate.
Sarcastically, Jian Bing asked Liang Shanshan to send one of her many "little brothers" instead, before clarifying she was joking. Just then, Sheng Yang arrived. He skillfully fixed the drain and cooked a delicious dinner for her. Jian Bing noticed the cuts on Sheng Yang's face and, upon learning he had fought Wang Youde, commended him, saying, "some people just need to be taught a lesson."
Although Sheng Yang was reluctant to lose his job after three years of work, Jian Bing encouraged him to resign. She advised that if he couldn't handle the consequences of his actions, he should have thought twice, but since he had acted, he shouldn't regret it.
She argued that continuing to suffer under a man like Wang Youde was a far greater loss than finding a new job, assuring him that a young, capable person like him would have no trouble starting over. At the same time, Xue Yiming arrived downstairs with his tools, only to be called by Liang Shanshan and told his help was no longer needed. He still wanted to see Jian Bing, but Sheng Yang had already resolved the issue.
Jian Bing then shared some wisdom with Sheng Yang, telling him, "To become a big tree, don't fight with grass," and "A general has a sword, but doesn't kill flies." She compared Wang Youde to an annoying fly, explaining that engaging with such a person only lowers one's own dignity and wastes energy. She urged Sheng Yang to quit his job and start a new chapter in his life, just as she had done by getting divorced at thirty-six.
Episode 10 Recap
Jian Bing and Sheng Yang were having dinner when Jian Bing’s ex-husband, Xue Yiming, arrived to fix her water pipe. Sheng Yang, fearing misunderstanding and trouble for Jian Bing, quickly picked up his bag and utensils and hid. Jian Bing tried to turn her ex-husband away, claiming the pipe was already fixed. However, he suspected someone was inside and, under the pretext of checking a swaying pendant light in the kitchen, pushed past her objections and entered the apartment.
He curiously searched various rooms, even checking the bathroom tap, but found nothing amiss. Not satisfied, he lingered, offering to stay and keep Jian Bing company, but she impatiently sent him away. Once he was gone, Jian Bing called Sheng Yang out from his hiding spot, and they resumed their dinner. Meanwhile, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian were engaged in a cold war at home, neither willing to yield.
Sheng Xiangqian ended up sleeping on the living room sofa that night. After dinner, Sheng Yang thoughtfully washed all the dishes and tidied up the kitchen. Unwilling to return home and face his parents' ongoing conflict, he asked Jian Bing if he could stay a little longer.
He claimed his facial injury would raise too many questions from his parents, potentially exposing that he had fought someone at work and might lose his job, so he wanted to wait until they were asleep before sneaking back. After careful consideration and Sheng Yang's earnest plea not to "leave a friend in need," Jian Bing reluctantly agreed, allowing him to stay on her living room sofa. Sheng Yang then opened his laptop to work overtime, organizing copywriting.
Jian Bing also pulled an all-nighter, revising a proposal. She worked until very late, eventually noticing Sheng Yang had fallen asleep on the sofa, and gently covered him with a blanket. That night, both Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Sheng Xiangqian finally turned on the TV, which greatly irritated Luo Meijuan. She deliberately made noise in the bedroom to protest, prompting Sheng Xiangqian to turn off the TV.
The next morning, Jian Bing woke up to find Sheng Yang had already left for work. He had, however, prepared a thoughtful breakfast for her, which warmed her heart. Sheng Yang’s absence all night worried Sheng Xiangqian, who asked Luo Meijuan to call their son. She ignored him and instead returned his salary card, declaring that from now on, they would live financially separate lives. Sheng Xiangqian tried desperately to appease her, but she remained unmoved.
Sheng Yang, having anticipated being fired, went to Mr. Yu early that morning to plead his case. He requested to stay long enough to complete the three projects he was currently managing, believing it would provide closure for himself and minimize losses for the company. He also earnestly asked Mr. Yu to give Song Chen a chance to finish his own projects, explaining that Song Chen had intervened in the fight because of him.
Moved by Sheng Yang’s sincerity, Mr. Yu decided to let both of them remain at the company. Wang Youde, who had been injured during the incident, strongly protested, but Mr. Yu advised him to take some time off to rest instead. When Sheng Xiangqian went to work, his colleague Qiao inquired if he and Luo Meijuan had reconciled.
Sheng Xiangqian poured out his frustrations, and Qiao speculated that Luo Meijuan might have been upset by someone at a recent classmate reunion. At the supermarket, Luo Meijuan vented to her colleague, Li, expressing her sadness that despite a lifetime of frugality, she felt she had nothing to show for it. In a fit of pique, she went on a shopping spree, maxing out her bank card. Li arrived just in time to help her pay the bill.
Luo Meijuan soon began to regret her extravagant purchases, and Li, seeing her distress, gently advised her to be kinder to herself. Sheng Xiangqian later visited the supermarket and, from a distance, observed Luo Meijuan confiding in Li, who was offering comfort and patted her hand. Sheng Xiangqian secretly took a photo of the scene. When Luo Meijuan asked Li for help returning the items, Sheng Xiangqian quickly slipped away.
Sheng Yang returned home to find his parents still in a bitter standoff. Sheng Xiangqian accused Luo Meijuan of having an affair, producing the photo as proof. Fueled by anger, Luo Meijuan declared she would divorce Sheng Xiangqian. Despite Sheng Yang's desperate attempts to mediate, their argument escalated. Luo Meijuan turned her fury on Sheng Yang, calling him a "pot-stirrer," which provoked Sheng Xiangqian into again threatening divorce.
Episode 11 Recap
Sheng Yang found himself caught in the midst of a tense standoff between his parents. His father, Sheng Xiangqian, having had a loud quarrel with Luo Meijuan, refused to sleep in his own bed, opting instead to doze on the living room sofa despite Sheng Yang's concerns about his back. Sheng Yang tried to convince his father to sleep in his room, but Sheng Xiangqian insisted he was fine and used to it.
Later that night, a troubled Sheng Yang reached out to Jian Bing via text message. Jian Bing, relieved to hear he hadn't been fired, made Sheng Yang's continued involvement a condition for her taking the project, telling him to inform his boss that she wouldn't sign the contract if he were replaced. She reminded him to prepare for their upcoming work, as she would be signing the contract at his company the next day.
The following morning, Sheng Xiangqian pulled Sheng Yang out for breakfast while Luo Meijuan listened from behind the door. Sheng Yang tried to assure his father that his mother's recent interaction with another man was insignificant, but Sheng Xiangqian, asserting his son's inexperience, demonstrated his point by startling a server with an unwanted touch to show how a woman would react negatively if uninterested. He recounted how Luo Meijuan had been beaming for ten minutes during her conversation.
Sheng Yang offered to move out, believing his absence would give them space and stop their arguments. Sheng Xiangqian strongly objected, arguing that Sheng Yang was the "lubricant" in their marriage and that Luo Meijuan, still emotionally dependent, hadn't matured enough to accept his independence, comparing her to someone not yet "weaned." He also cited her menopause as a factor in her volatile emotions, explaining that Sheng Yang's presence prevented their fights from escalating into vicious insults.
Sheng Xiangqian ultimately stated that if Sheng Yang truly wanted to move out, he must first find a girlfriend; otherwise, Luo Meijuan would throw a fit while also being furious that he was wasting money on rent. When Sheng Yang asked about their divorce plans, Sheng Xiangqian replied that it depended on Luo Meijuan, adding that there was no point in forcing a marriage that wasn't working.
Meanwhile, Xue Yiming was frustrated with a client's vague feedback on his latest advertisement. Liang Shanshan tried to calm him, suggesting he call Jian Bing for inspiration. Xue Yiming was hesitant, stating that the best ex-husband is a "dead" one and that he needed to learn to manage without her. Concurrently, Jian Bing arrived at Sheng Yang's company, where his overly enthusiastic colleague, Song Chen, praised her previous work.
She then met with Mr. Yu and officially signed the contract for her new project, solidifying their partnership. Knowing Jian Bing was busy with her new venture, Liang Shanshan advised Xue Yiming not to disturb her. Later, Mr. Chen called Xue Yiming, pressing him to deliver the ad sample. Caught off guard, Xue Yiming lied that he was on a business trip and about to take off on a plane.
Liang Shanshan quickly improvised a fake airport announcement to make the lie convincing. Afterwards, she questioned if he could deliver the video that night, to which Xue Yiming joked that "tonight" could extend to three in the morning. He then recalled how he and Jian Bing used to find inspiration by watching numerous videos with the lights off and drinks in hand. Sheng Yang presented his initial concepts and storyboards for a makeup brand to Jian Bing.
She commended his diligent work but suggested broadening the product's appeal beyond young women. Citing the client's concept that "beauty is a right and freedom," Jian Bing proposed challenging the singular female stereotypes of past advertisements by creating a "group portrait" showcasing the diverse beauty of women across different ages and backgrounds. She then noticed Sheng Yang's extreme fatigue and red eyes, correctly guessing something was wrong.
Sheng Yang confessed that his parents had a severe fight and were discussing divorce, triggered by his father's unfounded suspicion that his mother was having an affair. He expressed his frustration with them for using divorce as a "weapon" to hurt each other, recounting how as a child he always braced himself to choose between them, only for them to reconcile like "two kids."
Jian Bing offered a different perspective, suggesting that both marriage and divorce are ultimately pursued for the sake of happiness. Sheng Yang admitted his parents loved each other but their hurtful communication was detrimental. He described his mother's fiery temper and his father's inability to manage it. Jian Bing countered that men should seek to understand and comfort women, explaining that a woman's anger is rarely whimsical but a buildup of "pent-up disappointment and frustration."
Sheng Yang agreed his father was at fault but still felt helpless. After confirming that an actor in Sheng Yang's proposal was around fifty, Jian Bing suddenly had an idea and announced they were going to his house. With a small film crew, she made an unscheduled trip to Sheng Yang's home, believing that people are more likely to speak genuinely when nervous or facing strangers, and noted the seventh-floor apartment had no elevator.
Upon arrival, Sheng Yang introduced Jian Bing as the director working with his company. Sheng Xiangqian immediately recognized her from a commercial she directed for him ten years prior, calling it the "highlight of his life." He excitedly called for Luo Meijuan, who warmly greeted the crew. Jian Bing explained their surprise visit was to shoot a realistic makeup commercial featuring "a real loving couple" instead of professional actors, and asked them to participate.
Sheng Yang admitted he had signed them up without asking. Luo Meijuan expressed concern about their casual appearance, while Sheng Xiangqian humorously retorted that they were hardly a "loving couple" and it was a "miracle we haven't strangled each other." Jian Bing appealed to them for a favor, citing a tight budget, and they were convinced to participate after being promised professional makeup and beautiful clothes. Sheng Xiangqian was interviewed first.
Asked when his wife looked most beautiful, he unexpectedly said, "When she cooks in the kitchen," and went on to recount a touching memory of Luo Meijuan giving water to an old woman picking up trash, a moment that made him feel "very lucky" to have married her. He shared that she was once the "prettiest girl in her class" with many suitors, but she chose him because he "stuck it out."
Sheng Xiangqian confessed that Luo Meijuan had been unhappy recently because she perceived him as "stingy." He explained his lifelong frugality was due to their humble financial situation, burdened by supporting their parents and the exorbitant cost of his father-in-law's imported medicine. He blamed himself for not providing a better life for his family.
When asked if he would buy his wife cosmetics if he had the money, he emphatically said yes, adding that she "deserves someone better" and "has been through a lot" with him. Watching her husband's heartfelt interview off-camera, Luo Meijuan was moved to tears. Noticing her crying, Sheng Xiangqian concluded that for their family to be happy, they needed to make her happy first. In the editing room, Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan watched a movie.
He reminisced about watching "Pride and Prejudice" in high school and observed that she had become much more feminine. As he pointed out a transition in the film, Liang Shanshan accused him of using such explanations to "make girls fall for you." He retorted by accusing her of seducing men by getting drunk and throwing herself at them.
He asserted they were "birds of a feather," and claimed he knew she'd had feelings for him since middle school, which she acknowledged. After a brief intimate moment, Liang Shanshan insisted it "didn't mean anything" and the secret must be "taken to the grave," to which Xue Yiming agreed.
Episode 12 Recap
Luo Meijuan, radiant in the setting sun, transformed beautifully for the commercial shoot, and Sheng Xiangqian was visibly captivated by her charm. Jian Bing, the director, was very pleased with Luo Meijuan's performance and gifted her the outfit she wore, leaving Luo Meijuan overwhelmed with gratitude. As Sheng Yang walked Jian Bing out, she complimented his parents' loving relationship and his reliable nature, attributing it to a good family environment. He then asked for her WeChat contact.
Before she left, Sheng Yang gave her a "Moonlight Treasure Box," a gift inspired by an idea he got from her. Jian Bing’s assistant, Yuan, who was waiting downstairs, remarked on Sheng Yang's gesture. Later, Jian Bing opened the box to find a digital Mid-Autumn Festival greeting from Sheng Yang, which brought a warm smile to her face.
Meanwhile, with the ice hockey league's group stage set for the 15th of the following month, the coach announced intensive training and appointed Jian Shuang as interim captain. Team members, led by a vocal Luo Tianliang, immediately questioned her leadership. Hao Junjie arrived just in time to defend Jian Shuang, citing her superior scoring rate and perfect penalty record. While unable to play in the tournament, he offered to act as an "external assistant" and oversee their training.
He then publicly handed Jian Shuang the captain's jersey, and she immediately instructed the begrudging team to begin drills. At home, Luo Meijuan prepared a large dinner. Sheng Xiangqian attempted to charm her, and though she was initially resistant, their tense relationship began to soften, a sight that filled Sheng Yang with quiet happiness. Upon returning from a trip, Sheng Yang's boss, Wang Youde, learned of his promotion to Chief Designer.
In a team meeting, Wang Youde claimed credit for Sheng Yang's advancement before assigning him a notoriously difficult project: the Park Hyatt's traditional offline promotional event. A concerned colleague, Song Chen, tried to signal Sheng Yang to refuse the assignment, but Sheng Yang accepted the challenge, later admitting to Song Chen that he knew it was a setup.
Jian Shuang called Jian Bing for help, explaining that their captain, Hao Junjie, was being held at home by his uncle, Fang Mu, to study piano. With the team on the verge of disbanding after graduation, she stressed how crucial his presence was. Jian Bing agreed to help on several conditions: Jian Shuang must pass all her courses, complete her academic credits, secure an internship, and pass her CET-6 exam.
Despite her trepidation, Jian Shuang agreed and promised to put it in writing. Jian Bing went to Fang Mu’s house. While he made coffee, she discreetly told Hao Junjie to feign a stomach ache to his piano teacher and escape. Jian Bing then distracted Fang Mu with Jian Shuang’s transcript, showing him her three failed courses. As Fang Mu became absorbed in the problem, Hao Junjie slipped out.
When Fang Mu realized, he erupted in anger, but Jian Bing apologized and offered to accompany him to the school to find them. At the rink, the team was complaining about Jian Shuang's training methods until Hao Junjie’s arrival silenced them. He and Jian Shuang began running a play they designed, and the team fell into line. Jian Bing and Fang Mu arrived and watched the scrimmage.
Fang Mu worried about the sport's danger, while Jian Bing found it interesting and pointed out Hao Junjie, number 17, scoring a goal and Jian Shuang, number 32, playing well. To smooth things over, Jian Bing offered her company's professional studio for Hao Junjie's interview video and they exchanged WeChat contacts.
Fang Mu continued to argue that hockey was a waste of time, but Jian Bing countered that youth is for challenging limits and that forcing someone to abandon their passion is akin to "killing" a part of them. When the halftime whistle blew, Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie spotted their guardians and fled. As Fang Mu gave chase, Jian Bing jokingly told him to scold Jian Shuang on her behalf before leaving.
Episode 13 Recap
Sheng Yang arrived early at the film site, eager to observe and learn from Jian Bing. Though Jian Bing initially questioned his presence, she agreed, stating it was her duty to serve the client. She introduced Sheng Yang to her assistant, Lin, and instructed Lin to teach him the basics of a film set. Jian Bing quickly immersed herself in her work, demonstrating calm and authoritative control.
She guided an actress portraying a woman in labor, emphasizing that the beauty of childbirth lies in the raw effort, not makeup. Captivated by her professionalism, Sheng Yang diligently took notes on filming techniques and even showed familiarity with set etiquette, like not sitting on lens boxes and understanding the classification of props versus costumes. He confirmed he was the client for the "July Advertisement" project and had written the script himself.
Later, Lin confided in Sheng Yang about Jian Bing's demanding career, explaining that despite her talent, she often faced harsh criticism from clients and brands. Lin also revealed Jian Bing’s severe stomach problems, caused by irregular meals and the cold, oily food on set. Hearing this, Sheng Yang left, rushing home to prepare a proper meal for her. Liang Shanshan called Jian Bing, suggesting an evening of shopping, dinner, and a spa.
Once filming wrapped, Jian Bing left to meet her. Sheng Yang returned to the set with the food he prepared, only for Lin to inform him that Jian Bing had already left with another "boss," leaving him disappointed. Over dinner, Jian Bing noticed Liang Shanshan was distracted and unusually sensitive, though Liang Shanshan denied it. She casually mentioned she had lent Jian Bing's recording studio to one of Jian Shuang’s classmates for a day.
This, combined with Liang Shanshan's strange behavior and her subsequent lavish gift of expensive clothes, made Jian Bing highly suspicious that she was hiding something. Despite being questioned directly, Liang Shanshan remained evasive and instead took Jian Bing to a bar with a large group of friends. Meanwhile, Sheng Yang's colleagues pressured him into treating them to Luosifen noodles to celebrate his promotion to chief designer.
While at the bar, a bored Jian Bing saw Sheng Yang's social media post and invited him to join them. Sheng Yang declined, citing an early workday, but they began texting, with him sharing his admiration for her work on set earlier. At home, Sheng Xiangqian’s attempts to reconcile with Luo Meijuan, including a clumsy analogy to the Lantern Festival, were met with a cold shoulder.
Later, while picking her up from the supermarket, he witnessed a rude customer cut in line and verbally abuse Luo Meijuan, calling her a "lousy vegetable seller." Enraged, Sheng Xiangqian leaped to her defense, driving the man away and threatening to classify him as "harmful garbage." Afterward, he showed Luo Meijuan the advertisement Jian Bing had filmed, praising her performance and reciting the powerful line about a woman's worth: "She only owes herself a happy look."
When Luo Meijuan questioned where he learned such words, he credited Jian Bing. He then offered a sincere, heartfelt apology, admitting his failure to empathize with her and acknowledging that her contributions to their family far outweighed his own. Touched by his genuine remorse, Luo Meijuan’s anger melted away, and they reconciled. Sheng Yang and his friend, Song Chen, watched the finished advertisement.
Song Chen was impressed by how beautifully Jian Bing had captured Luo Meijuan's spirit and suggested Sheng Yang treat Jian Bing to a meal, subtly hinting at his deeper feelings for her. Separately, Fang Mu and his nephew, Hao Junjie, arrived at Jian Bing's company, Jian Yi, to use the recording studio. Hao Junjie was instantly captivated by a large photograph of Jian Bing.
As a thank you, Fang Mu brought Jian Bing hand-ground coffee, invited her to dinner, and proposed that his tutor also help her sister, Jian Shuang, an offer Jian Bing gratefully accepted. Just as Jian Bing and Fang Mu were about to leave for dinner, Sheng Yang rushed in. He exuberantly invited Jian Bing to his home, claiming his parents had reconciled thanks to her and were already preparing an eight-course meal to express their gratitude.
Feeling she couldn't refuse such a heartfelt family invitation, Jian Bing apologized to Fang Mu and accepted, promising to treat him another time. Her assistant then called her away to approve an urgent client request for subtitle changes. While she was occupied, Sheng Yang and Fang Mu introduced themselves. Sheng Yang then urgently called his mother, giving her a two-hour heads-up that Jian Bing was coming for an eight-course dinner.
Initially panicking at the sudden request and an empty fridge, Sheng Xiangqian rallied them, treating the challenge like preparing a New Year's feast. Working together with renewed cooperation, the couple scrambled to prepare a lavish meal for their guest.
Episode 14 Recap
Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, having spent over an hour preparing a grand feast, patiently awaited the return of Sheng Yang and Jian Bing. Dressed in a new silver outfit, Luo Meijuan playfully sought reassurance from Sheng Xiangqian about her appearance. He teased her about the lingering cooking smells, prompting her to playfully chide him before they settled into a nostalgic conversation.
Sheng Xiangqian fondly recalled their first meeting, particularly her almost chopping off her hand while trying to cook for his parents, and how he impulsively kissed her for the first time that day. Both lamented the passage of time, reminiscing about caring for their elders and now their son, wishing for a time when their children would care for them.
Upon Sheng Yang and Jian Bing's arrival, Sheng Xiangqian and Luo Meijuan executed an elaborate "highest etiquette" welcome, involving dramatic gestures and loud greetings, which amused Jian Bing. Luo Meijuan, having prepared eight dishes, expressed mild annoyance upon realizing Sheng Yang had only brought Jian Bing, as she had expected more colleagues. Despite her initial surprise, they warmly invited Jian Bing inside. Meanwhile, Fang Mu returned home, having been stood up by Jian Bing for their evening plans.
His nephew, Hao Junjie, encouraged him to be more proactive in pursuing a relationship, reminding him of his long single status since his divorce from Hao Junjie's ex-aunt. Fang Mu, already in a foul mood, snapped at Hao Junjie, expressing frustration over the years spent prioritizing Hao Junjie's upbringing, which had left him no time for a personal life. Hao Junjie quickly backed down.
During dinner, Sheng Xiangqian warmly welcomed Jian Bing, noting the "fate" between her and the Sheng family, since she knew him from an advertisement ten years prior and now worked with Sheng Yang. Luo Meijuan effusively thanked Jian Bing for helping her fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming an actress, revealing that Jian Bing's use of her raw footage in the advertisement had made her "shine."
Jian Bing humbly credited Sheng Yang for sharing details of his parents' relationship, which inspired the ad, and praised Luo Meijuan's natural acting. Luo Meijuan beamed, expressing how Jian Bing had made her feel "over the moon" and asking Sheng Xiangqian if she resembled Audrey Hepburn. Luo Meijuan then shared her feelings of "emptiness" in her unchanging life now that Sheng Yang was grown.
Jian Bing thoughtfully responded with a quote from "The Moon and Sixpence," explaining that Luo Meijuan, unlike others, looked beyond ordinary material life to a "charming spiritual world," likening her to someone who "looked up at the moon when there were sixpence everywhere." Luo Meijuan was deeply moved, feeling completely understood, and declared Jian Bing her "sworn friend," to Sheng Xiangqian's amusement. When Luo Meijuan asked about her personal life, Jian Bing calmly revealed she had recently divorced.
Jian Bing explained her divorce was a normal outcome of "different pacing" in their "love marathon," where running alone could be "more comfortable and happy," allowing one to enjoy the scenery. She emphasized her focus on self-love over loving others. Luo Meijuan was so impressed that she exclaimed Jian Bing made her "want a divorce too," before Sheng Xiangqian quickly interjected. Concurrently, Hao Junjie, trying to set up Fang Mu and Jian Bing, asked Jian Shuang about Jian Bing's preferences.
Jian Shuang mused that Jian Bing preferred "scoundrels," concluding that Fang Mu was "not bad enough" for someone who valued the journey over a constant companion. Luo Meijuan pulled out a photo album, showing Jian Bing childhood photos of Sheng Yang and remarking how much he resembled a girl. Concerned about Sheng Yang's lack of a romantic partner at 26, she asked Jian Bing, as his leader and an elder, to help find a suitable girlfriend for him.
Luo Meijuan also revealed she knew Sheng Yang had tickets to a David Hockney art exhibition, assuming he planned to go with Pan Rou, the daughter of her friend Limei. Sheng Yang quickly denied any interest in Pan Rou. Later that night, Sheng Yang called Jian Bing, urgently clarifying that he and Pan Rou were just colleagues and hoped she hadn't taken his mother's matchmaking seriously. Jian Bing calmly acknowledged his mother's suggestions.
As he pressed on, she politely ended the conversation by feigning a work call. The next day, Pan Rou confronted Sheng Yang with the David Hockney tickets, explaining that his mother had given them to her mother, who then passed them to her. Sheng Yang was taken aback, realizing his mother had given away the tickets he intended for Jian Bing.
Seeing his predicament, his colleague Song Chen posed a series of "soul-searching questions" about love and jealousy to help Sheng Yang understand his feelings. Sheng Yang then discreetly messaged Jian Bing, asking for first-date etiquette for a "colleague." Jian Bing provided practical advice. At the exhibition, Pan Rou was disappointed to find Song Chen, who explained Sheng Yang had "important business."
Annoyed that she had wasted her elaborate makeup and that Sheng Yang had stood her up, Pan Rou tried to leave. Song Chen, attempting to stop her, accidentally tore her expensive bag. He apologized profusely and promised to replace it. Meanwhile, Liang Shanshan becomes heavily intoxicated at a bar after a client meeting. As a male waiter helps her, Xue Yiming, who is there with his girlfriend, intervenes and claims to be Shanshan's husband.
When his girlfriend appears, Shanshan plays along, calling herself his wife. The girlfriend, furious, calls Xue Yiming a scumbag and storms off. To compensate Pan Rou, Song Chen took her to a high-end store. Pan Rou selected a new bag for 16,800 yuan. Then, in a playful spree, she picked out expensive clothing and accessories for both of them, insisting on paying the 40,828 yuan total herself.
Shortly after, her mother, Limei, called, having received a bank alert for the large transaction, and scolded her for the exorbitant spending. Song Chen advised Pan Rou to return most of the items. She agreed, keeping the new bag for herself and leaving Song Chen with a white T-shirt.
Episode 15 Recap
Sheng Yang arrived at Jian Bing's film set, having carefully dressed up, and invited her to eat Luosifen noodles. Jian Bing, citing work commitments, declined his invitation, but Sheng Yang seized the opportunity to express his feelings. He confessed that he had known her for ten years and had chosen to study art and then advertising design because of her.
He admitted that while the idealized image of her in his mind had subtly changed, the real Jian Bing—with her imperfect marriage, stubborn temper, and harsh attitude towards work—felt more authentic and vivid to him. He then pledged to work diligently and earn money to become someone who could match her both mentally and materially. Jian Bing was taken aback by Sheng Yang's sudden and intense confession.
She gently cut him off, explaining that they were not suitable, particularly given their ten-year age difference and his lack of relationship experience. She suggested he was perhaps idealizing her based on a film she made years ago. Sheng Yang, however, dismissed the age gap, insisting that she was the one he liked and that he would not give up easily. Despite his earnest plea, Jian Bing firmly reiterated that she did not like him.
Sheng Yang, though anticipating her refusal, thanked her for the chance to express himself, stating he did not want to miss an opportunity he had waited ten years for due to his own cowardice. Later, Sheng Yang returned home and immediately secluded himself in his room, appearing dejected. His parents, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, were perplexed by his behavior. Meanwhile, Liang Shanshan sent a message inviting Jian Bing out for dinner, but Jian Bing preferred to stay home.
Liang Shanshan arrived at Jian Bing's apartment with an abundance of takeout, which Jian Bing found suspicious. Observing Jian Bing's somber demeanor, Liang Shanshan quickly deduced that Sheng Yang had confessed his feelings and Jian Bing had rejected him. Jian Bing explained her reservations, citing Sheng Yang's youth and their age gap, admitting that his intense gaze frightened her. She also revealed that she was not ready for a new relationship after her recent divorce from Xue Yiming.
Having spent over a decade with him, she felt she had just escaped the "walled city" of marriage and cherished her newfound single life and independence. Jian Bing also expressed her fear of witnessing the light in Sheng Yang's eyes dim over time, much like she had seen in Xue Yiming's. She stressed that she now found solace and reliability only in work and money, not in relationships.
Liang Shanshan empathized, agreeing that work and money were the only things that would not betray them, and they toasted to this realization. Meanwhile, Hao Junjie was advising Fang Mu on his thesis and encouraged him to ask Jian Bing out. Fang Mu was hesitant, citing awkwardness since they weren't close. Hao Junjie suggested a double date with Jian Shuang to ease the tension, even offering to do a month's worth of dishes if the plan succeeded.
Elsewhere, Jian Bing went to sign a contract with Mr. He but was instead met by Project Manager Huang. Huang falsely claimed Mr. He was in a board meeting and attempted to push his niece, an influencer with hundreds of thousands of followers, for a lead role in the project. Jian Bing, maintaining her professionalism, insisted on reviewing the niece's information and arranging an audition. Displeased, Huang suddenly claimed there were issues with the contract and dismissed Jian Bing.
Frustrated, Jian Bing immediately called Liang Shanshan to vent about Huang's blatant attempt to force his niece into the cast and his use of the contract as leverage. Jian Bing then returned to the company, where she found Mr. He with Huang. Mr. He clarified that he had not been in a meeting, apologized for the misunderstanding, and promised to personally ensure the revised contract was sent to her company the next day.
Huang then awkwardly tried to disavow his niece, stating she wasn't his. Separately, Liang Shanshan met with Xue Yiming and firmly stated that their relationship would now only be professional. Xue Yiming advised her to choose her next partner wisely and to avoid younger men. Liang Shanshan retorted, criticizing his choice of partners and accusing him of harming Jian Bing. Annoyed, Xue Yiming then inquired if Jian Bing had found someone new.
Concurrently, Sheng Yang and his team were meticulously preparing for the Mid-Autumn Platinum promotion. Sheng Yang presented the detailed exhibition design to Mr. Chen, the CEO of Platinum, explaining his choices in lighting, product integration, and visitor flow, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and aesthetic appeal. Mr. Chen was highly impressed, and Wang Youde praised Sheng Yang's dedication, remarking that he hadn't slept for a week due to his meticulous attention to detail.
Sheng Yang then sent his team home, insisting he would oversee the final touches. Song Chen, observing Sheng Yang's exhaustion, offered advice about his heartbreak, suggesting that Jian Bing's rejection was understandable given their differences in age and social status, and that Sheng Yang might have scared her with his intensity. Later, Fang Mu and Jian Bing met at a cafe while waiting for Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie.
Unbeknownst to them, Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie were observing from a distance. Jian Shuang, unimpressed by Fang Mu, openly critiqued his appearance to Hao Junjie, who attempted to steer the conversation towards his uncle's character and values, explaining that Fang Mu, though divorced, is a very sentimental person. From a different vantage point, Pan Rou spotted Jian Bing and Fang Mu and immediately called Sheng Yang to inform him.
After waiting an hour, Jian Bing, citing work commitments, decided to leave. Fang Mu quickly followed her, attempting to engage her in conversation about her work, celebrities, and daily life. He also offered to help Jian Shuang with her studies and asked Jian Bing for a ride, as his car was being serviced. As they descended, Sheng Yang, who had arrived after Pan Rou's call, discreetly hid behind a pillar, watching Jian Bing and Fang Mu leave the mall together.
Episode 16 Recap
Hao Junjie intended to set up Fang Mu and Jian Bing, so he and Jian Shuang deliberately stayed out of sight to observe them. However, Jian Bing did not wait for Jian Shuang and quickly left after excusing herself from Fang Mu. Knowing the matchmaking had failed, Hao Junjie decided to take Jian Shuang back for tutoring. Jian Shuang, seeing a youth hockey team training, eagerly joined them to offer guidance, and Hao Junjie reluctantly accompanied her.
They enjoyed a vigorous game, but Jian Shuang, still wanting to play, was eventually forced back to tutoring by Hao Junjie. Meanwhile, Song Chen and Pan Rou's relationship deepened. While shopping, Pan Rou casually mentioned Sheng Yang's recent low spirits, suspecting that Jian Bing had rejected his confession. Song Chen confirmed this was true, leading Pan Rou to finally give up on Sheng Yang.
She playfully complained that Song Chen wasn't wearing the shirt she bought for him, unaware that he was wearing it as an undershirt. Jian Bing considered sending Sheng Yang a message but ultimately refrained, deleting her typed words. At the same time, Sheng Yang also contemplated messaging Jian Bing, only to delete his own draft. Sheng Yang immersed himself in work to numb his sadness, a coping mechanism Pan Rou and Song Chen both observed.
Pan Rou remarked on Sheng Yang’s intense work ethic, describing him as the type who works himself to death when heartbroken. Jian Bing worked late into the night on a shoot. Her staff urged her to rest, but she insisted on continuing to adjust the settings. Mr. Jia, a client on set, expressed his impatience with the unpredictable weather and the child actor's inconsistent performance.
Jian Bing firmly stated that her job was to get the shot right and asked Mr. Jia to wait elsewhere. Suddenly, a downpour began, sending the children and parents scattering for cover. Amidst the chaos, a wire on the ground was accidentally snagged, causing a light rig to topple.
Jian Bing, seeing a little girl named Lele separated from her mother and in the path of the falling lights, bravely rushed forward to shield her, sustaining a heavy blow to her head. The Mid-Autumn Boyue Tea promotion event proceeded as planned, featuring a popular rock band. Wang Youde, Sheng Yang's team leader, praised Sheng Yang's hard work and urged him to rest at the coffee shop upstairs. Song Chen followed him, advising him to move on from his heartbreak.
While scrolling through his phone, Sheng Yang saw a post about Jian Bing's injury on her video account and immediately left the event. Liang Shanshan and Xue Yiming rushed to the hospital. A doctor confirmed Jian Bing suffered a minor concussion with no serious damage and advised bed rest. Meanwhile, some parents from the shoot demanded compensation and CT scans for their children.
Xue Yiming stepped forward, identifying himself as the company's boss, and assured everyone he would take full responsibility. When Jian Bing woke up, she immediately asked about Lele and was relieved to hear the girl was unharmed. Lele's mother profusely thanked Jian Bing, who accepted full responsibility for the accident. Xue Yiming then instructed Liang Shanshan to take Jian Bing home to rest while he handled the upset parents.
Later, Liang Shanshan and Xue Yiming discussed the negative publicity the incident was generating online. Xue Yiming revealed his plan to use his personal funds, money he received from his divorce with Jian Bing, to cover the company's financial losses, asking Liang Shanshan not to tell Jian Bing. Sheng Yang waited outside Jian Bing's building. He spoke to Pan Rou on the phone, confirming Jian Bing was alright but admitting it would be too awkward to see her.
Inside, Jian Bing called her assistant and learned that several parents were still at the hospital demanding payment. Deciding she had to go back, she left her apartment and was surprised to find Sheng Yang downstairs. Unable to drive due to her injury, she asked him to take her to the hospital. At the hospital, Jian Bing saw Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan in a close conversation, during which Liang Shanshan transferred money to Xue Yiming's account.
Seeing her ex-husband and best friend in such an intimate moment, Jian Bing felt a complex mix of emotions. Without a word, she turned and left, asking Sheng Yang to take her for Luosifen noodles. Back at the promotional event, Pan Rou covered for Sheng Yang's absence. As the host announced lucky fans, overly enthusiastic members of the crowd rushed the stage, causing it to suddenly collapse. Amid the chaos and injuries, Song Chen frantically tried to call Sheng Yang. Reaching him via a WeChat voice call, he yelled, "The stage collapsed!"
Episode 17 Recap
Sheng Yang was having dinner with Jian Bing when he received repeated calls from Song Chen. Answering, he learned that the exhibition stage had collapsed, injuring many people, including the spokesperson and audience members. Concerned about Sheng Yang driving while dizzy, Jian Bing urged him to be careful, but he insisted on heading back immediately, promising to call a designated driver. At the accident site, department head Wang Youde angrily confronted Sheng Yang, holding him fully responsible.
Wang Youde stated that the construction company had followed the design schematics perfectly, implying Sheng Yang's design was the source of the failure. Later, in a meeting with their boss Mr. Yu, Wang Youde reported that an evaluation team found the design was top-heavy with a mismatched center of gravity. Sheng Yang accepted the blame.
Song Chen tried to defend him, noting Sheng Yang's lack of experience with offline events and reminding Wang Youde that he himself had approved the design. Song Chen also argued they were not informed that so many fans would be on stage, but Wang Youde dismissed this as a foreseeable event, underscoring the design's inadequacy. The client brand demanded accountability, forcing the company's hand.
Wang Youde announced that Sheng Yang, Song Chen, and Pan Rou would be dismissed, while others on the team would receive penalties. Sheng Yang immediately stepped forward, taking sole responsibility for the entire project from design to execution. He pleaded with Mr. Yu to only fire him, arguing that dismissing the whole team would disrupt other projects and that his colleagues shouldn't suffer for his mistakes. Moved, Mr. Yu encouraged Sheng Yang to see this as a minor setback.
As Sheng Yang packed up his desk, he confessed to an upset Song Chen that he had begged management to only dismiss him. He gave Song Chen a box of his things to hold onto, asking him to help conceal the job loss from his parents. Disheartened, Song Chen told Sheng Yang he would also quit, seeing no point in staying without him. Meanwhile, a worried Jian Shuang wanted to check on her sister, Jian Bing.
She asked to borrow Hao Junjie's motorcycle, but he insisted on driving her there himself. They arrived at Jian Bing's home just as her ex-husband, Xue Yiming, was leaving. Xue Yiming had just informed Jian Bing that their current project was being paused because the client, angry about the accident where she was injured, demanded to replace their company and have their deposit returned. Jian Bing refused to return the non-refundable deposit, citing their contract.
She even offered to finish the shoot and only get paid upon the client's satisfaction. When Xue Yiming urged her to be diplomatic, she radically proposed quitting her own company so he could take over as director, thus saving the project. Xue Yiming firmly rejected the idea, refusing to let his ex-wife take the fall, which would ruin his own reputation. Instead, he declared he would lend the company his own money to cover the potential losses.
Inside, Jian Bing was dismissive of Jian Shuang’s concern, chiding her for the late visit and telling her not to skip classes. She quickly sent her younger sister away. On the way back, Jian Shuang explained her sister's difficult life and their family motto to Hao Junjie: "In this world, you can't rely on anyone but yourself." Sheng Yang arrived home just as his parents, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, were serving dinner.
As they lovingly fussed over him and served him his favorite food, Sheng Yang was overcome with emotion and lowered his head to hide his tears. In the following days, Sheng Yang pretended to go to work as usual, leaving and returning home at the same time every day. His mother, Luo Meijuan, grew suspicious of his new punctuality and lack of overtime. She called Song Chen, who was at his apartment playing video games, to inquire.
Song Chen lied, claiming Sheng Yang was busy in a meeting. However, Luo Meijuan heard a train whistle in the background, realizing Song Chen was not at the office. Connecting his obvious lie with her son’s recent strange behavior, she deduced the truth: Sheng Yang had lost his job.
Episode 18 Recap
Suspicious of Sheng Yang's sudden punctuality, Luo Meijuan calls Song Chen to inquire about him. Though Song Chen avoids direct answers, his vague responses and the background noise of a train lead Luo Meijuan to infer that Sheng Yang has lost his job. The next morning, she secretly follows Sheng Yang, witnessing him seeking employment at various companies. She observes him in an interview confidently discussing design principles and later sees him receive a book from a former colleague.
That evening, Sheng Yang finds an unusually large dinner prepared by his mother, who attributes the feast to a supermarket promotion. Finding her behavior odd, he refrains from asking questions. Luo Meijuan arranges a meeting with Jian Bing, admitting she sought her out because she's the only person she knows in the industry. She reveals Sheng Yang has been secretly unemployed for two weeks, pretending to go to work daily and losing weight, which deeply worries her.
Luo Meijuan asks Jian Bing to help Sheng Yang find an interview through her connections. Acknowledging Sheng Yang's strong work ethic from their past collaboration, Jian Bing assures Luo Meijuan that her company is hiring and a rigorous assessment for Sheng Yang would be legitimate talent acquisition, not a favor. Overjoyed, Luo Meijuan proposes they become close friends, a suggestion Jian Bing graciously accepts. Sheng Yang confronts Song Chen, suspecting he was the source of his mother's knowledge.
Song Chen denies it and encourages Sheng Yang to pursue Jian Bing, urging him to seize the opportunity to "melt the vulnerable ice." After Sheng Yang describes his mother's unusual kindness, they realize they are both putting on a brave face for their families. Song Chen then reveals his dire financial situation: after using his father's 30,000 yuan to pay off debts, he has only 10,000 yuan left.
He proposes a risky plan to spend 5,000 yuan treating former clients to drinks, hoping to secure new jobs. Sheng Yang strongly advises against it, but Song Chen, desperate to avoid returning to his hometown, emotionally pleads for his help, and Sheng Yang reluctantly agrees. At the bar, Song Chen socializes with clients while Sheng Yang remains disengaged. When an escort tries to get him to drink, he claims an alcohol allergy.
Jian Bing calls, and as he tries to answer, the escort's attempts to get his attention cause a commotion, prompting him to move to a quieter area. Jian Bing reveals she heard he is looking for a job and offers him an interview, which Sheng Yang firmly declines. The escort follows him, complaining loudly and interrupting the call. Misunderstanding the situation, Jian Bing tells him to "have fun" and hangs up. Sheng Yang then firmly dismisses the escort.
Later, a heavily inebriated Song Chen vomits, blaming bad wine and apologizing to Sheng Yang for the failed evening. Sheng Yang reassures him, takes him home, and puts him to bed. The next morning, Sheng Yang confesses his unemployment to his mother. He explains it stemmed from an on-site accident on a project he supervised and that he is waiting for an investigation to clear his name. He reassures her he has savings and is freelancing to cover expenses.
Overwhelmed, Luo Meijuan breaks down, pained that her son is shouldering such immense pressure alone. Sheng Yang comforts her, insisting he can handle it himself and asks her not to involve Jian Bing. He explains that precisely because Jian Bing is "different," he cannot impose upon her. Meanwhile, Jian Bing, now recovered from her injury, presents a new plan for the problematic project to Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan.
She reveals she spent all night creating new concept designs and proposes to fund the reshoot of the children's rain scene herself to avoid further company losses. While Xue Yiming worries about the "gamble," Liang Shanshan offers her full support. On set, crew members volunteer their time to help with preparations. Later, Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan arrive with food for the team.
When it begins to rain, Xue Yiming instinctively shields Liang Shanshan with an umbrella, an action Jian Bing quietly observes. Afterwards, she pulls Liang Shanshan aside and directly asks when she was planning to tell her about their relationship.
Episode 19 Recap
Jian Bing confronted Liang Shanshan, asking why she had kept her relationship with Xue Yiming a secret. Liang Shanshan admitted they had been drunk, attributing their encounter to a biological impulse. Jian Bing scoffed, expressing her disappointment and sense of betrayal, especially after her recent divorce. She reminded Liang Shanshan that she had always relied on both of them as her strongest support and now felt as though she had lost them both.
Liang Shanshan profusely apologized, taking full responsibility, but Jian Bing dismissed her apology as a mere public relations tactic and demanded a real explanation. Liang Shanshan then emotionally confessed her long-standing feelings for Xue Yiming. She recalled the moment he introduced Jian Bing as his fiancée while Jian Bing introduced her as a "sworn brother." Liang Shanshan admitted that's when she realized her affection for him but chose to bury it.
Jian Bing brought up a memory of Liang Shanshan physically defending her from an ex-boyfriend. Liang Shanshan explained that this act was deeply meaningful, as it was the first time anyone had ever protected her, solidifying Jian Bing as her only female friend. She tearfully insisted that both Jian Bing and Xue Yiming were the most important people in her life and she never intended to hurt them. Moved by her sincerity, Jian Bing called Xue Yiming into the room.
She told him to treat Liang Shanshan well from now on and affirmed that their company would continue as before, putting the matter to rest. Meanwhile, Hao Junjie was practicing the piano. His uncle, Fang Mu, played an improvisational piece, claiming it was his own composition. Hao Junjie effortlessly played it back and pointed out its flaws. Impressed, Fang Mu gave him a challenging piece, which Hao Junjie performed flawlessly, earning high praise.
As Hao Junjie prepared to go to the ice hockey rink, he offered to help Fang Mu pursue Jian Bing, but Fang Mu was hesitant, fearing another rejection. At the ice hockey rink, Hao Junjie overheard his teammates gossiping about him and Jian Shuang, calling her "sister-in-law." Jian Shuang, wearing headphones, was oblivious to their comments. Upon seeing Hao Junjie, the teammates quickly dispersed.
Hao Junjie joined Jian Shuang for practice, advising her not to take their words to heart, but Jian Shuang was genuinely unconcerned. Sheng Yang received an interview invitation from an advertising agency and was thrilled. He inquired about his background check and learned that Mr. Yu from his former company had highly recommended him, securing him the opportunity. He tried to call Jian Bing to share the good news, but her phone was unreachable.
He then contacted Lin, Jian Bing's assistant, who informed him that the film set urgently needed help. Sheng Yang promptly arrived at the set, finding Jian Bing frustrated because the child actors couldn't visualize animal clouds in the sky. During a break, Sheng Yang's mother was seen expressing concern about his quiet nature. Later, child actor Xu Le playfully asked Sheng Yang if he was the director's boyfriend.
Sheng Yang explained their story wasn't "finished" yet, implying he hadn't won Jian Bing's heart. During an intense practice, Jian Shuang injured her leg and Hao Junjie rushed her to the hospital. The doctor diagnosed a meniscus injury, recommending a month of rest. Distraught, Jian Shuang refused to miss her upcoming competition. She stated she would risk never playing ice hockey again just to participate, especially since Hao Junjie planned to study abroad after graduation.
Back on set, with the child actors still struggling, Sheng Yang stepped into the artificial rain and began waving animal pictures. This instantly captured the children's attention, and the shoot was completed successfully, leaving Sheng Yang drenched. Afterward, Jian Bing invited Sheng Yang to dinner. He suggested Luosifen noodles, but she took him to an upscale restaurant. When Sheng Yang tried to pay, Jian Bing stopped him, saying he was too "young" to treat her.
She asked about his job search, and he offered to create the special effects for her film. He quoted a surprisingly low fee of 8,000 yuan, promising to keep her updated and allowing her to cancel if unsatisfied. She agreed, and he reminded her she owed him another meal. When he once again requested Luosifen, she playfully agreed to treat him to a "hotchpotch" version, which he interpreted as a full month of Luosifen.
Episode 20 Recap
Sheng Yang dedicates himself to his work, often returning home late and continuing his design tasks. His parents observe his improved mental state and positive mood, correctly guessing that he has found a job, which fills them with joy. Sheng Yang continues to provide his mother, Luo Meijuan, with monthly living expenses. Although she initially resists, Luo Meijuan ultimately accepts the money, promising to save it for his future marriage.
Later, Sheng Yang completes a rough draft of a design project and brings it to Jian Bing for review. Jian Bing expresses satisfaction with his work and invites him to continue the project at her company, as her equipment is better suited for large files. Sheng Yang hesitates, expressing concern about encountering Xue Yiming and the potential awkwardness given their past.
Jian Bing reassures him by explicitly stating that she and Xue Yiming are divorced and that the previous incident where Sheng Yang confessed his feelings is in the past. She stresses the importance of professionalism and cherishing their collaboration, regardless of their personal relationship. Sheng Yang, slightly relieved, agrees to her terms, and they proceed upstairs. Meanwhile, Team Leader Wang Youde takes charge of a new project and outlines detailed arrangements for his team.
Pan Rou openly questions the qualifications of the construction team, recalling the previous safety incident that led to Sheng Yang and Song Chen being unjustly blamed. She urges Team Leader Wang to promptly investigate the cause of the past accident, but he defensively evades her questions, making excuses and promising to personally supervise the entire construction process.
Later, Liu Jiale advises Pan Rou to drop the matter, revealing that Team Leader Wang has a relative on the construction crew, implying a conflict of interest. Pan Rou grows increasingly suspicious, believing Team Leader Wang framed Sheng Yang. She calls Sheng Yang to share her concerns and expresses her desire to resign from July Advertisement. However, Sheng Yang advises her against impulsive decisions, stating he is doing well now and does not wish to pursue the matter further.
Undeterred, Pan Rou seeks out Song Chen and lays out her full suspicions about Team Leader Wang's involvement in the previous accident, asserting her intention to uncover the truth. Song Chen, recognizing her deep concern for Sheng Yang and guessing she had already approached him, reluctantly agrees to help investigate before he leaves for his hometown. Pan Rou tries to persuade him to reconsider moving back, highlighting his talent and potential.
Separately, Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan begin a passionate relationship, though both harbor underlying insecurities about each other's past romantic entanglements. They engage in a playful but serious exchange, agreeing to delete all ambiguously related contacts of the opposite sex from their phones as a sign of commitment.
Liang Shanshan pushes Xue Yiming to publicize their relationship by posting a photo of them on his social media, to which he agrees, setting his own conditions for her in return, including specific demands about their online and real-life interactions. Later, Liang Shanshan attempts to cook for Xue Yiming, but the resulting dish is almost inedible, much to his dismay. The next day, Mr. He calls Xue Yiming, wanting to see the completed advertising film and commend Jian Bing.
Liang Shanshan, who answers the call on speaker, privately scoffs at Mr. He's perceived opportunism, but politely agrees to arrange a viewing for the following day. As Sheng Yang prepares for work, his mother, Luo Meijuan, advises him to find a girlfriend soon, while his father, Sheng Xiangqian, emphasizes focusing on his career first.
Sheng Yang arrives at the office to find Jian Bing absent, but she has left detailed modification notes for his design pasted on his computer screen, which he diligently reviews. Later that day, the college ice hockey league hosts a game, with Jian Bing and Fang Mu arriving early to cheer on Jian Shuang. Hao Junjie, the team captain, reassures Jian Shuang about her recovery from a recent nerve block and encourages her.
Hao Junjie and Jian Shuang soon demonstrate their seamless teamwork, with Hao Junjie scoring the first goal of the game with Jian Shuang's help, eliciting cheers from Jian Bing and Fang Mu. Meanwhile, at the office, Xue Yiming arrives early and requests to see Jian Bing's newly shot footage. He is informed that the files are with Sheng Yang, "the new guy" in effects.
When Liang Shanshan joins him, she reveals Sheng Yang is the same person who had taken Jian Bing to a hotel and with whom Xue Yiming had previously spoken on the phone, immediately sparking Xue Yiming's jealousy.
Episode 21 Recap
The hockey match neared its conclusion, with the Jiangbei Music Academy facing off against the Jiangnan Joint University Team. As the first round was ending, Jiangnan Joint University's No. 33, Pei Liwei, scored, tying the score at 1-1. The second round saw continued fierce competition. After Hao Junjie's long shot was blocked, his teammate Jian Shuang skillfully stole the puck, advanced, and scored, bringing the score to 2-1 in their favor. During the match, Xue Yiming persistently called Jian Bing.
Unable to hear over the stadium noise, she eventually stepped outside to answer. An agitated Xue Yiming demanded she return to the company, criticizing her for dating a younger man and bringing him into their workplace without notice. Jian Bing explained Sheng Yang was there for professional work, but Xue Yiming continued his tirade, accusing Sheng Yang of using her for money.
Citing the age difference and speculating about Sheng Yang's ordinary background, he contemptuously predicted Sheng Yang would abandon her in three months once he felt he had gotten his money's worth. Jian Bing, hurt, called him cruel, but he insisted he was only trying to protect her. Worried, Jian Bing left the game, asking Fang Mu to stream the rest for her. Back at the office, Xue Yiming dismissed other employees to confront Sheng Yang alone.
He introduced himself as Jian Bing's inseparable family member and business partner, pointedly calling Sheng Yang an outsider. He aggressively questioned Sheng Yang about his age and background. Sheng Yang calmly stated he was 26, a visual design graduate with several years of experience, and also revealed his father is a cleaner and his mother a saleswoman. He defended Jian Bing’s character against Xue Yiming’s dismissive remarks and made it clear he was there to work, not to socialize.
Frustrated, Xue Yiming offered to pay Sheng Yang double to leave, but Sheng Yang refused. Jian Bing arrived and pulled Xue Yiming aside, insisting Sheng Yang was there for a project. Xue Yiming berated her for choosing a partner who allegedly lacked a stable job and relied on her financially. When he declared that romantic relationships were forbidden in the workplace, Jian Bing highlighted his hypocrisy by referencing his own relationship with Liang Shanshan.
Xue Yiming then accused Jian Bing of divorcing him because she had already met Sheng Yang. Enraged, Jian Bing defiantly declared her feelings for Sheng Yang, admitting she intentionally brought him to the company so she could see him every day, before storming out. Meanwhile, the third round of the hockey match grew more intense. Jian Shuang was taken down by an opponent in what was ruled a "reasonable collision."
She sustained a fractured ankle and a full-layer meniscus tear, ending her game and likely her hockey career. The match continued, and Jiangnan Joint University tied the game at 2-2. After a scoreless overtime, the game went to a penalty shootout. Under immense pressure, Hao Junjie faked out the opposing goalie and scored the winning goal, securing a 3-2 victory for Jiangbei Music Academy. At the office, Liang Shanshan found Xue Yiming fuming.
He complained about Jian Bing's choice of partner, dismissing Sheng Yang's looks as useless and disapproving of his background and the age gap. Sensing Xue Yiming's lingering attachment to Jian Bing, Liang Shanshan accused him of using her as a backup and demanded he choose between them. When he failed to respond, she left in frustration. At the hospital, Fang Mu told Hao Junjie the severity of Jian Shuang's injury.
Despite Fang Mu's suggestion to return to his studies, Hao Junjie insisted on staying to tell her the good news himself. He joyfully informed a recovering Jian Shuang that they had won 3-2 and that he had scored two goals. When Jian Shuang needed the restroom, Hao Junjie immediately helped her, to the amusement of their visiting teammates. Later, the client, Mr. He, expressed great satisfaction with the new advertisement, commissioning an additional version and offering to pay for two.
He invited Jian Bing to a celebratory dinner, but she declined, citing editing work and a mild concussion. Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan went in her place. Jian Bing then shared the good news with Sheng Yang and transferred him an advance payment. Sheng Yang hesitated to accept, but she insisted. She then suggested they celebrate with dinner, casually mentioning they would have to take the subway.
At the hospital, Fang Mu, as Jian Shuang's uncle, insisted that Hao Junjie must inform Jian Bing about the injury. Hao Junjie resisted, explaining Jian Shuang's desire not to burden her sister, but Fang Mu was firm. Elsewhere, Pan Rou reluctantly attended a blind date, only to spot her acquaintance Song Chen at another table with a woman. Song Chen playfully intercepted Pan Rou as she tried to leave, teasing her about being on a blind date.
Annoyed, she retorted about his own date, and he jokingly chalked up their constant encounters to fate. Returning to the office for a bottle of wine, Liang Shanshan overheard Jian Bing and Sheng Yang planning to take the subway to dinner. She pulled Jian Bing aside, questioning why she brought Sheng Yang into the company after previously rejecting him.
Noting that Jian Bing never takes the subway and remarking on the intensity in Sheng Yang's eyes when he looks at her, Liang Shanshan advised her not to let unimportant things get in the way of a real connection.
Episode 22 Recap
Sheng Yang brought Jian Bing to an expensive, high-rise restaurant, where they could enjoy a panoramic view of the city lights. Jian Bing felt her spirits lift as she looked out at the distant scenery. Just as she was about to order, Jian Bing received an urgent call from her assistant, Lin, informing her that the miniature city landscape model, scheduled for tomorrow's shoot, had collapsed.
Jian Bing immediately decided to return to the studio, and Sheng Yang offered to accompany her to find out what happened. Meanwhile, Pan Rou, following her mother Limei's instructions, went on a blind date. She unexpectedly encountered Song Chen at the same restaurant, who was meeting a woman he connected with online. Song Chen quickly dismissed his date and left with Pan Rou.
Pan Rou then called her blind date, Mr. Lu, to reschedule, but he insisted he was almost there, just two kilometers away. Pan Rou, unwilling to wait, decided to cancel. Mr. Lu became furious, yelling at her over the phone. Song Chen, overhearing the commotion, snatched the phone and reprimanded Mr. Lu, pretending to be a waiter. He criticized Mr. Lu for his rudeness and for leaving a "young lady" waiting all night.
Pan Rou, feeling validated, then formally rejected Mr. Lu and canceled any future meetings. She remarked to Song Chen that while he wasn't the weirdest person she'd met, she finally understood what it felt like to be stood up. Jian Bing and Sheng Yang rushed back to the company, where they learned that the miniature city landscape model had been damaged when a boom lift operator made a mistake while hanging lights.
Sheng Yang, having taken art landscaping as a subject in university and made similar models, confidently offered to help with the repairs. Meanwhile, Pan Rou, intrigued, asked Song Chen why he was always single. Song Chen explained that dating was too tiring, requiring too much time and effort to understand a girl, taking them out, buying gifts, and constantly trying to please them. He preferred the simplicity of playing games or watching live streams.
Pan Rou agreed, acknowledging that they both seemed destined to stay single, and suggested they form a "Lonely but Brave Warriors Aiming to Live On Alliance." As they discussed their newfound "alliance," Pan Rou brought up the unresolved issue of the stage collapse and the suspicion surrounding Wang Youde. She wondered if they could get his phone to find evidence. Song Chen suggested a strategy to "stir the waters" and "bait him" into revealing himself.
Soon after, Xue Yiming and Liang Shanshan arrived at the studio, offering their help. However, Jian Bing intercepted them, telling them that work was already underway inside and she would oversee it. Xue Yiming, noticing Jian Bing's unusual protectiveness, suspected Sheng Yang was inside. Liang Shanshan urged Xue Yiming to leave, reminding him it was Jian Bing's project and she could handle it.
Frustrated, Xue Yiming confirmed Sheng Yang's presence and left with Liang Shanshan, complaining about Jian Bing's apparent newfound closeness with Sheng Yang, asking Liang Shanshan if Sheng Yang was Jian Bing's brother (to which Liang Shanshan clarified Jian Bing had a younger sister, not a brother). Despite his irritation, Xue Yiming acknowledged Sheng Yang's skill, remarking on how unusual it was for Jian Bing to stay so late for a project.
Inside, Sheng Yang diligently worked on repairing the model, even skipping dinner. Jian Bing, unable to assist with the technical repairs, prepared supper for him and quietly sat by his side, keeping him company. Sheng Yang eventually urged Jian Bing to go home and rest, so she would have energy for the next day's shoot. Jian Bing returned home, but unable to sleep, she simply dozed on the sofa.
Sheng Yang and two prop masters worked tirelessly through the night, finally completing the repair by dawn. Sheng Yang then woke Jian Bing, who was astonished to see the miniature landscape perfectly restored. Overjoyed and deeply grateful, she profusely thanked Sheng Yang, praising his reliability, and urged him to go home and rest. Sheng Yang, visibly exhausted, returned home. Despite his fatigue, he thoughtfully brought breakfast for his parents, Sheng Xiangqian and Luo Meijuan.
They were alarmed by his tired appearance, questioning where he had been all night and playfully asking if he had been on a date or digging in a mine. Sheng Yang simply stated he was happy to have helped a friend and quickly went to bed. His parents, touched by his gesture, ate their breakfast quietly, careful not to disturb his much-needed rest.
At the set, as Jian Bing prepared for the day's shoot, she sent another message to Sheng Yang expressing her thanks, but he was asleep and did not see it. Zheng, the art director, was incredibly impressed by Sheng Yang's work, wanting to meet him in person to thank him. Meanwhile, Song Chen went to check the surveillance footage of the incident.
He spoke to a manager, claiming a new intern had damaged their copy of the footage, and requested a new one for the period from the 7th to the 12th. However, he discovered that all surveillance files for those dates were missing and there were no backups. Song Chen immediately concluded that the stage collapse was not an accident but a deliberate act, strongly suspecting Wang Youde's involvement.
With the evidence gone, he asked Pan Rou to help him identify the construction supervisor from that day, emphasizing that justice was more important than his job. Later that morning, Liang Shanshan arrived at the studio with a bag of toiletries for Jian Bing, inquiring about her and Sheng Yang. Jian Bing explained that Sheng Yang had worked all night to repair the model.
Liang Shanshan suggested Jian Bing pay Sheng Yang from the company's project funds, as he was currently unemployed and his help was crucial. However, Liang Shanshan quickly changed her mind, advising against a direct payment, saying it would be like "slapping him with your shoes." Instead, she proposed a different idea: recruiting Sheng Yang to the company's art team. Jian Bing was hesitant, concerned about complicating the company environment, especially given Xue Yiming's earlier complaints.
But Liang Shanshan highlighted Zheng's high praise for Sheng Yang, calling him a "potential talent," and pointed out that the company was already recruiting. She even lightheartedly suggested that Sheng Yang's presence alone would boost company morale and attendance. Finally, Liang Shanshan revealed her underlying motive: if Jian Bing and Sheng Yang were to get together, it would finally make Xue Yiming completely give up on Jian Bing, as he still harbored feelings for her.
Jian Bing, after considering everything, agreed to arrange an interview for Sheng Yang for the day after tomorrow, leaving the final decision to him. Liang Shanshan then called Sheng Yang, who readily agreed to the interview. Meanwhile, Song Chen located Foreman Wang, the head of the construction team responsible for the exhibition stage.
Song Chen introduced himself as a manager from July Advertising and informed Foreman Wang that the headquarters was investigating the stage collapse, implying it was not an accident but deliberate. He falsely claimed that Wang Youde was under investigation and offered Foreman Wang leniency if he provided evidence. Foreman Wang nervously denied any involvement, asserting they followed blueprints. Song Chen then threatened legal action, stating they would meet in court. Foreman Wang immediately panicked and called Wang Youde.
Wang Youde, in his office, was busy on the phone approving a contract when Pan Rou entered, bringing him some files. He quickly dismissed her, though Pan Rou slyly left a voice recorder in her contract. Wang Youde then told Foreman Wang over the phone that he had personally "erased all CCTV footage that day" and reminded him that they were "in the same boat."
He instructed Foreman Wang to delete all chat and transfer records and ensure the financial books were clean in case of an investigation. Pan Rou, claiming she had left her contract, re-entered Wang Youde's office and retrieved her files, which now contained the recording of his call with Foreman Wang. She promptly sent this incriminating audio, detailing Wang Youde's conspiracy to destroy evidence and manipulate finances, to the "July Advertising Agency group chat." Messages quickly appeared, including one stating, "Sheng Yang was wronged." Upon seeing the recording and the messages, Wang Youde flew into a rage.
Episode 23 Recap
After resolving the misunderstanding and clearing Sheng Yang's name, Song Chen and Pan Rou invited him to celebrate. Pan Rou announced her decision to resign from July Advertisement, citing the unfavorable working environment and the demanding nature of their profession. She believed that since art and life often demand everything, it was better to embrace a complete fresh start. Together, she and Song Chen proposed that the three of them establish their own independent design studio.
Sheng Yang readily agreed, stating he felt obligated to them, as their current situation was a direct result of helping him. Confident in their unity, they toasted to their new venture, with Sheng Yang contributing design and creativity, Pan Rou providing the initial capital, and Song Chen offering his manpower. Meanwhile, Ms. Qiao expressed immense satisfaction with Jian Bing's recently completed advertisement, praising it for exceeding her expectations. Jian Bing, in turn, thanked Ms. Qiao for her trust and support.
Ms. Qiao even complimented them as a "perfect couple" who supported each other in both life and work, before playfully inquiring who made the decisions between them on set. Early the next morning, Liang Shanshan arrived at the office, noting that Sheng Yang was the only candidate who hadn't shown up for his interview. Shortly after, Xue Yiming discovered Sheng Yang's name on the recruitment list and confronted Jian Bing, expressing his strong disapproval.
Their discussion quickly escalated into a heated argument, beginning with a dispute over a milk powder project where Xue Yiming insisted on compromising with a demanding client. Jian Bing vehemently argued for maintaining their principles and integrity, reminding Xue Yiming of their original pact when they founded Jian Yi Advertisement—that service did not equate to endless compromise. The argument intensified, with Xue Yiming making pointed remarks about Jian Bing potentially letting personal affections influence recruitment decisions.
As their voices rose, Sheng Yang arrived at the company. He calmly informed Mr. Zheng and Liang Shanshan that he was not there for an interview but had instead started his own studio, Moses Advertising, with friends and offered their services for future projects or urgent assistance. Overhearing Jian Bing and Xue Yiming's escalating quarrel at the door, he quietly departed. Later, Jian Bing encountered Liang Shanshan, who informed her that Sheng Yang had indeed started his own studio.
Realizing his departure, Jian Bing hurried after him. Sheng Yang then appeared, thoughtfully bringing her pear juice, anticipating her sore throat from the argument. Jian Bing, concerned, questioned his impulsive decision to start a business, contrasting it with the careful planning she and Xue Yiming had undertaken when they established Jian Yi. Sheng Yang asserted his professional aspirations, explaining his desire for an independent design studio and his belief that participating in competitions was the best way to gain recognition.
He then boldly invited Jian Bing to direct their entry film for an upcoming competition. Jian Bing challenged him to pitch his creative concept within one minute, emphasizing the crucial need for conciseness in advertising. Unprepared, Sheng Yang fumbled through an idea for a public service advertisement about garbage classification told from the trash's perspective, incorporating personification and Unreal Engine 4 effects, but he ran out of time and failed to articulate his vision clearly.
Jian Bing declined, cautioning him against acting solely on passion. Undeterred, Sheng Yang persisted, explaining that he saw his new studio as an "accelerator" to bridge the gap between their respective achievements. He promised to deliver a detailed creative script and budget. Jian Bing, in turn, offered him encouragement and wished him luck, cautioning him about the evolving industry landscape where quality and creativity often took a backseat to direct promotion by influencers.
Meanwhile, Liang Shanshan relayed Sheng Yang's new entrepreneurial venture to Xue Yiming. Xue Yiming immediately expressed concerns, misinterpreting Jian Bing's earlier defense of Sheng Yang as a sign of developing affection and fearing that Sheng Yang might be trying to exploit Jian Bing for his own advancement.
Liang Shanshan dismissed his worries, urging him not to meddle and reminding him that Jian Bing was an adult capable of making her own decisions, having already overcome significant challenges, subtly implying his own past actions had been more hurtful. Concurrently, Hao Junjie was diligently caring for Jian Shuang at the hospital.
Fang Mu arrived with a wheelchair to pick her up, explaining to Jian Shuang that her bone fracture would heal in about ten days, and her third-degree meniscus injury, though serious, fortunately wouldn't require removal and would recover with proper rest and rehabilitation, though her ice hockey days were over. He had thoughtfully brought her dresses suitable for wearing with a cast and a tool to scratch under it.
A nurse, clearly smitten with Fang Mu, attempted to give him her contact information, but he subtly directed her to Hao Junjie, indicating his disinterest. After Jian Shuang was settled, Jian Bing returned home, visibly shocked to see her sister in a wheelchair, only then learning about her injury from a week prior. Fang Mu calmly reiterated the details of Jian Shuang's condition and reassured Jian Bing about her recovery.
Jian Bing worried about Jian Shuang's studies, but Fang Mu had already anticipated this, retrieving all her books from school, coordinating with her professors, and arranging for lecture notes to be emailed, ensuring her academics wouldn't be delayed. Jian Bing attempted to transfer money to Fang Mu for the hospital expenses and his extensive care, but he gently refused, stating the school's insurance would cover it. Jian Bing insisted, uncomfortable with owing favors.
Fang Mu then expressed his deep admiration for Jian Bing's advertisements, claiming to have watched them "countless times," meticulously studying each frame. He described her as an artist with a childlike heart and vivid imagination, asserting that her films were not merely product promotions but a silent act of defiance against the world, reflecting her unyielding spirit. He suggested that despite her mature exterior, she harbored a powerful inner drive and discontent, seeking a kindred spirit through her art.
Fang Mu also shared a personal anecdote about a past mistake that led to his nephew Hao Junjie being sent to his care, explaining that it taught him the meticulousness he now applied. Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie discreetly overheard this intimate conversation.
Later, Jian Shuang playfully pressed Hao Junjie about Fang Mu's past relationships, speculating that his long-term singleness might stem from a deep emotional wound, similar to Jian Bing's own past, and even half-jokingly suggested he might be using Jian Bing out of a desire for "revenge." Hao Junjie quickly shut down her gossip, urging her to focus on her recovery.
Later, at Sheng Yang's home, he convened a brainstorming session with Song Chen and Pan Rou for their new studio's first project. Sheng Yang proposed focusing on garbage, specifically from the perspective of the trash itself. Pan Rou initially found brainstorming challenging. Song Chen then pitched a "dark" and cinematic concept: garbage sorting as a divine judgment by humans, who act as "proctors" manipulating the fate of each piece of trash.
He envisioned a scenario where a slight misstep could trigger a "butterfly effect," leading to all the world's trash uniting to rampage through the city. As they delved into how to realize this concept, Sheng Yang's mother, Luo Meijuan, along with his father, prepared a lavish meal for them. Despite his mother's insistence, Sheng Yang remained engrossed in his work, prompting Luo Meijuan to bring the food directly to his study, highlighting his intense dedication to his new venture.
Episode 24 Recap
Sheng Yang, Pan Rou, and Song Chen founded Moses Advertising. With Pan Rou providing the initial funding, the trio decided to participate in an advertising competition, believing that winning an award would establish their company. They worked tirelessly on a public service advertisement proposal, with Song Chen and Pan Rou eventually falling asleep from exhaustion. Sheng Yang, however, stayed up all night, completing the copywriting before dawn.
He immediately sent the proposal via express delivery to Jian Bing, emphasizing the urgency of its delivery. Jian Shuang woke up early and heard Jian Bing preparing breakfast in the kitchen. Fearing her sister's disapproval, Jian Shuang secretly called Hao Junjie for help. She worried Jian Bing would "settle the score" with her. Hao Junjie assured her that his uncle, Fang Mu, was on his way to tutor Jian Shuang and provide an excuse for her.
Meanwhile, Pan Rou and Song Chen went to purchase office supplies for their new company, selecting items worth 19,500 yuan. When Song Chen tried to pay with his bank card, it was declined. He soon discovered that his mother had frozen all his bank accounts, leaving them without funds.
Pan Rou was concerned about how to explain this to Sheng Yang, but Song Chen decided they should keep it a secret for now, believing Sheng Yang already had too much on his mind. Pan Rou agreed to try and find another solution. Early that morning, Xue Yiming arrived at the office. Noticing a package addressed to Director Jian Bing at the reception, he took it for himself.
Shortly after, Xue Yiming called Sheng Yang, introducing himself and inviting him to meet. To Jian Shuang's surprise, Jian Bing was not angry. Instead, she was uncharacteristically gentle and caring, expressing her fatigue from cooking after many years, all for Jian Shuang. Jian Bing told her to study diligently at home, asserting that her job allowed her the freedom to devote the entire month to Jian Shuang, allowing them to strengthen their sisterly bond.
Jian Bing even prepared free-range chicken soup, emphasizing its benefits. Jian Shuang found Jian Bing's excessive gentleness unsettling, preferring to be scolded. Just then, Fang Mu arrived, and Jian Shuang, seeing him as a savior, eagerly welcomed him into the house for tutoring, which Fang Mu confirmed. Jian Bing also extended a warm welcome, inviting him to share breakfast.
Back at their office, Sheng Yang proudly showed Pan Rou and Song Chen the finished proposal, which he had completed the previous night and sent to Jian Bing that morning. He urged them to provide honest feedback, not just flatter him, so he could improve. Sheng Yang confidently declared that with Pan Rou's investment, their creative copywriting, and Jian Bing joining their team, they were guaranteed to win the competition.
Pan Rou and Song Chen, however, behaved oddly, offering only vague praise. Sheng Yang met Xue Yiming as arranged. Xue Yiming, holding Sheng Yang's proposal, asserted his close working relationship with Jian Bing. While claiming he wouldn't leak the idea, Xue Yiming questioned Moses Advertising's qualifications, scale, and lack of government resources or broadcast platforms, implying the project was too expensive and wouldn't gain traction, therefore being a waste of Jian Bing's time and talent.
Sheng Yang countered that cost was not an issue and that they planned to use the film for a competition, with industry recognition as their primary return. Xue Yiming mocked this as an unrealistic "angel" investment idea, then bluntly stated that Jian Bing was too shy to refuse Sheng Yang herself, so he was doing it for her. He returned the proposal, advising Sheng Yang to find another director.
As he left, Xue Yiming extended an invitation to an industry gathering the following night, suggesting Sheng Yang bring his project to meet potential contacts. At his university's piano department graduation ceremony, Hao Junjie was receiving his report card when he suddenly received a frantic text message from Jian Shuang, urging him to come to her house immediately because she was "going crazy."
Without waiting for the ceremony to conclude, Hao Junjie quickly excused himself, claiming to have diarrhea, and rushed to her aid. Sheng Yang, still seething from his encounter with Xue Yiming, contemplated messaging Jian Bing for an explanation but ultimately decided against it. He then headed to Jian Bing's home, but upon seeing Hao Junjie arrive, he chose not to intrude and silently left.
Inside, Jian Bing was watching a movie while Jian Shuang, clearly miserable, was forced to study, complaining to Hao Junjie that she had never studied so intensely since primary school and felt monitored by both Jian Bing and Fang Mu. Jian Shuang desperately asked Hao Junjie to distract them from her and shift their attention to each other. Hao Junjie tried searching for online relationship tips, but Jian Shuang dismissed them as impractical.
Meanwhile, Jian Bing discussed Jian Shuang's academic struggles with Fang Mu, who reassured her he would help Jian Shuang improve. Pan Rou and Song Chen were still grappling with their company's financial crisis, Pan Rou's bank card having been frozen. Pan Rou felt they should inform Sheng Yang, but Song Chen argued against it, insisting that Sheng Yang had enough to worry about and that they should try to resolve it themselves without giving up.
They debated how to pay the director, with Song Chen humorously suggesting they might not have to if Sheng Yang and Jian Bing became a couple. Meanwhile, Jian Shuang put her plan into action, asking Fang Mu to play a piano piece she claimed was Jian Bing's favorite, hinting at a romantic story behind it. Fang Mu played beautifully, but Jian Bing, engrossed in her movie, remained oblivious to the performance. As evening approached, Fang Mu prepared to leave.
Jian Shuang quickly intervened, urging Jian Bing to invite him for dinner. Jian Bing initially hesitated, claiming she couldn't cook and usually ordered takeout, but Jian Shuang insisted on her sister's cooking prowess, mentioning the chicken she had made earlier. Jian Bing clarified that she had simply followed an online recipe to prepare soup for Jian Shuang's leg. Fang Mu then offered to cook, stating his own culinary skills, and Jian Shuang eagerly accepted.
Fang Mu proceeded to prepare a lavish meal. During dinner, Hao Junjie "accidentally" broke Jian Bing's old speaker, which she explained was a prop from a film shoot. He then asked Fang Mu to fix it, praising his talent for fixing things. Fang Mu agreed to repair it later, noting it wasn't complicated.
Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie continued their matchmaking efforts, extolling Fang Mu's versatility and popularity among women, mentioning a nurse from the hospital who had shown interest in him, subtly implying that Jian Bing was equally desirable. Jian Bing, however, saw through their transparent attempts, calling them "fool kids" for meddling in adult affairs and telling them to focus on eating.
Sheng Yang, still seething from his encounter with Xue Yiming, contemplated messaging Jian Bing for answers but ultimately decided against it. Meanwhile, Pan Rou and Song Chen were deep in despair, having exhausted all options to solve their company's financial woes. Pan Rou expressed immense guilt, feeling "useless" for being unable to provide the promised funds, despite her earlier commitment to support their venture financially. She even pondered desperate measures like seeking crowdfunding or meeting venture capitalists.
Song Chen tried to reassure her, admitting his own feelings of inadequacy compared to Sheng Yang, who had always helped him secure jobs and internships while he himself had simply "played games and fooled around." Song Chen apologized for painting "a bright future" and convincing her to quit her previous job without considering the practical difficulties. Pan Rou then emphasized that they couldn't always rely on Sheng Yang to handle every problem, pondering what they, as a team, could contribute.
Episode 25 Recap
After dinner, Jian Bing bade farewell to Fang Mu and Hao Junjie. Outside, Fang Mu complained to Hao Junjie about their interference, fearing he wouldn't be able to face Jian Bing tomorrow. Hao Junjie, however, expressed surprise at Jian Bing's directness, criticizing Fang Mu for relying on "dirty tricks" from online articles. Fang Mu retorted that Hao Junjie shouldn't meddle in his affairs. Meanwhile, inside the house, Jian Bing confronted Jian Shuang about her matchmaking attempts.
Jian Shuang tried to push Jian Bing towards Fang Mu, stating she didn't want her sister to be lonely. Jian Bing rejected the idea, accusing Jian Shuang of randomly pairing her with someone.
Jian Shuang insisted Fang Mu was a good person and even better than Xue Yiming, but Jian Bing remained unconvinced, asserting her preference for "strong tastes" and hinting she might have someone in mind, which Jian Shuang immediately picked up on, asking if she knew the person and if it was another colleague. Jian Bing then scolded Jian Shuang for her nosiness, reminding her to reflect on herself.
Later, Fang Mu texted Jian Bing to apologize for the earlier incident, assuring her that Hao Junjie was just kidding and not to take their actions seriously. He then shared a piano piece, along with philosophical thoughts about music, calling it the "only common language in the universe" and highlighting a memorable part of the song. Jian Bing replied simply, "It's nice." While Fang Mu's messages arrived, Jian Bing was preoccupied because she hadn't received Sheng Yang's advertising creative.
She typed out a message to him asking about its whereabouts, only to delete it before sending. Meanwhile, Pan Rou and Song Chen resorted to setting up a street stall. Pan Rou attempted to sell her luxury bags and cosmetics, claiming they were authentic and carried from Hong Kong. Potential customers found flaws like scratches and crooked stitching, refusing to pay her asking price of 5,000 yuan, or even 500 yuan.
Song Chen offered interior design services for 100 yuan, despite apps providing similar services for free. Unfortunately, no one bought anything. Unexpectedly, Liu Jiale, their former colleague, spotted them. Song Chen quickly claimed they were "experiencing life" as part of their startup. Liu Jiale suggested they return to July Advertisement, mentioning the boss missed them, but Song Chen politely declined, stating they preferred to build their business step by step rather than "reaching the sky in one step."
After Liu Jiale left, Pan Rou and Song Chen admitted the difficulty and awkwardness of street vending, reflecting on the challenges of making money compared to their parents' generation and their current lack of sales experience. The next morning, Fang Mu arrived early at Jian Bing's house to tutor Jian Shuang. Jian Shuang, eager for romance, cornered him, urging him to boldly pursue Jian Bing and take immediate action.
Fang Mu, however, expressed a preference for a gradual, "long-lasting" love rather than a "passionate" one, stating he wished to express his affection in his own way without interference from others. Despite Jian Bing's attempts to decline, Fang Mu insisted on fixing her sound system, constantly glancing at Jian Bing while working, who pointedly ignored his presence. Elsewhere, Wang Youde, having been fired from his company, was preparing for a new job interview when passing by a night market.
He spotted Pan Rou and Song Chen at their stall. He mockingly addressed Song Chen as "big boss" and "team leader," blaming them for his current predicament. He then proceeded to inspect Pan Rou's bag, questioning its authenticity and provoking Song Chen. An enraged Song Chen retaliated, physically assaulting Wang Youde. The police, observing the incident via surveillance, intervened and took Song Chen, Wang Youde, and Pan Rou to the police station. Sheng Yang rushed to the police station.
He explained to the police that Song Chen was his friend and Wang Youde was a former colleague, offering to mediate for a settlement. He then confronted Song Chen and Pan Rou, initially scolding them for their street stall venture that landed them in trouble, but quickly understood their plight. Pan Rou admitted her mother had frozen her bank accounts, severing their capital chain, prompting them to try earning money independently.
Realizing they aimed to help with studio funding, Sheng Yang apologized for not managing finances himself, promising to secure the needed tens of thousands of yuan for rent, filming, and staff. He then attended an advertising salon where Xue Yiming introduced him to industry veterans like Mr. Zhang from Dacheng Film & Television and Mr. Ji and Mr. Yang from Shisheng Film & Television Company. Sheng Yang distributed his "Moses Advertisement" studio business cards, promoting their cost-effective services.
Xue Yiming advised him to add clients on WeChat for better networking, emphasizing the importance of building private relationships before work relationships, then escorted him upstairs to meet Ms. Qi, a prominent figure in the industry, before discreetly leaving them alone. Back at Jian Bing's home, Fang Mu successfully repaired her sound system and played a classic Chinese music piece, "High Mountains and Flowing Water."
He subtly expressed his admiration, comparing their connection to the rare bond of "bosom friends," but Jian Bing, understanding his underlying meaning, feigned ignorance and remained silent. Simultaneously, Sheng Yang presented his public service advertising proposal to Ms. Qi. He explained their studio's new establishment, cost-effectiveness, and how the project, being for a competition, didn't generate profit, leading to a financial tight spot. Ms. Qi, visibly impressed, praised his youthful appearance and strong foundation in advertising.
She promised him funding and encouraged him to drink, engaging him in conversation, occasionally touching his shoulder. Sheng Yang, feeling increasingly uncomfortable, tried to navigate the situation with forced smiles and toasts. During this exchange, someone discreetly captured a photo of Ms. Qi with her hand on Sheng Yang's shoulder and sent it to Song Chen. Song Chen received the disturbing photo of Sheng Yang with Ms. Qi.
Pan Rou expressed concern, suggesting Sheng Yang might have drunk too much while trying to secure funding. Song Chen tried to call Sheng Yang, but his phone was off. Realizing they needed an invitation to enter the exclusive ad salon, Song Chen called Jian Bing for help, explaining Sheng Yang had sent a "help" message before his phone died, and they feared for his safety.
Jian Bing, possessing an invitation, immediately rushed to the venue, leaving Jian Shuang bewildered at home. Upon arrival, Jian Bing confronted Xue Yiming, asking about Sheng Yang's whereabouts. Xue Yiming attempted to dissuade her from going upstairs, claiming Sheng Yang was with Ms. Qi and implying that Sheng Yang, lacking money, background, or family, was manipulative, seeking shortcuts by using Jian Bing and taking advantage of his connection to Ms. Qi for career advancement.
He insisted he only helped Sheng Yang for Jian Bing's sake, but his help backfired as Sheng Yang over-drank with Ms. Qi. Jian Bing dismissed his accusations, reminding him that the only one who had lied to her was him, and that their divorce terms stipulated mutual respect. As they argued, Ms. Qi appeared, helping a visibly inebriated Sheng Yang downstairs and leading him out to her car. Jian Bing watched in shock as Ms. Qi drove Sheng Yang away, realizing it was too late to intervene.
Episode 26 Recap
Jian Bing urgently called out Sheng Yang's name, concerned he had left with Ms. Qi, but was surprised and relieved to find him right downstairs. He had not gone with Ms. Qi at all. As Jian Bing rushed to support him, Sheng Yang pushed her hand away, refusing her help.
Clearly inebriated and upset, he vented his frustration, questioning why Jian Bing had given his diligently crafted ad copy, for which he had sacrificed days and nights of sleep, directly to her ex-husband, Xue Yiming, who then humiliated him without even reading it. Jian Bing, bewildered, explained that she had never seen his work and was still awaiting his delivery.
Overwhelmed by alcohol, Sheng Yang then disregarded their "work-only, no feelings" rule, emotionally confessing his longing and affection for her, pulling her into a tight embrace. Though deeply touched, Jian Bing struggled to manage him as Sheng Yang abruptly declared a race up the stairs, boasting about his childhood speed, only to stumble and fall due to his intoxication.
With considerable effort, Jian Bing helped him up and managed to get him back to her home, where he immediately collapsed into a deep sleep. From his bag, Jian Bing retrieved the ad copy, and upon reviewing it, was profoundly impressed by his creativity, spending the entire night refining it. The next morning, Jian Shuang, needing to use the bathroom, called for Jian Bing but received no reply.
Struggling on her crutches, she made her way out of her room and was startled to see a groggy Sheng Yang emerging from the bathroom, prompting her to quickly retreat. After this initial shock, Jian Shuang confronted Sheng Yang about his overnight stay, pointedly asking where she was supposed to sleep since he had occupied her bed. Sheng Yang, apologetic, admitted he had drunk too much the previous night.
Jian Bing then handed Sheng Yang the revised ad copy, subtly hinting at his late return and urging him to go home to prevent his parents from worrying, jokingly asking if he wanted to become her "little aunt." Sheng Yang quietly slipped back into his house, where Song Chen and Pan Rou immediately cornered him, eager for news about potential investors.
Sheng Yang informed them that he hadn't secured investment from Ms. Qi, but shared the exciting news that Jian Bing had agreed to direct their public service advertisement. Their initial relief quickly turned into speculative questioning about his relationship with Jian Bing, which Sheng Yang promptly dismissed as "filthy." He defended Jian Bing's professional fees as entirely justified and proposed using his home as their temporary office to cut costs, to which they enthusiastically agreed, ready to begin preparations immediately.
Meanwhile, Jian Shuang persistently questioned Jian Bing about Sheng Yang's presence in their home. Jian Bing explained that Sheng Yang was a drunk colleague she had helped, firmly denying any romantic involvement and emphasizing his younger age relative to her. Jian Shuang, however, dismissed Sheng Yang as merely "young" and "a handsome puppy," deeming him unsuitable for Jian Bing. Shortly after, Fang Mu arrived, bringing breakfast for Jian Bing and offering to continue driving Jian Shuang to school.
Jian Bing, however, decided she would take Jian Shuang herself starting the next day. Seizing a moment alone, Jian Shuang discreetly warned Fang Mu that Jian Bing now had a "competitor"—a tall, young, and handsome man. She urged Fang Mu to be more proactive in pursuing Jian Bing and promised to keep him updated on her sister's activities.
Later that morning, Xue Yiming arrived with several lucrative projects for Jian Bing, but she steadfastly insisted on prioritizing Sheng Yang's public service advertisement. Despite Xue Yiming's persistent attempts to persuade her to take on the more profitable ventures, Jian Bing reiterated her firm belief in Sheng Yang's creative vision, stating that directing his project made her happy, even though his "studio" was currently just a small "stall" with minimal resources.
She reminded Xue Yiming that their own company, Jian Yi, also started from humble beginnings. Faced with Jian Bing's unwavering resolve, Xue Yiming eventually conceded. As Song Chen and Pan Rou began scouting for filming locations and equipment, they quickly encountered the harsh reality of exorbitant costs. They visited various photo studios, with one quoting 15,000 yuan per day, and found specialized equipment like the telescopic crane to be prohibitively expensive.
Despite the financial strain, they agreed that compromising on equipment quality would detrimentally impact the visual aspects crucial for an advertisement. Song Chen even suggested they forego their own salaries to save money, a sacrifice Pan Rou indicated she had already implicitly accepted.
When Song Chen floated the idea of asking Jian Bing for a discount on her directing fee, Sheng Yang firmly rejected it, emphasizing that her agreement to direct was already a significant favor, and her fee should be paid in full. To further cut costs, Sheng Yang offered to personally handle the visual effects. Unbeknownst to Sheng Yang, his mother, Luo Meijuan, confronted Sheng Xiangqian about his hidden "private coffer."
She meticulously counted the money, confirming it to be precisely 30,000 yuan, and firmly insisted he support their son's entrepreneurial venture. She reminded a hesitant Sheng Xiangqian of her unwavering support during his own past failed restaurant business, highlighting her willingness to go to great lengths, even donating blood, for their son's well-being. She then presented the 30,000 yuan to Sheng Yang, assuring him it came from their family savings and encouraging him to use it without worry.
Sheng Yang was profoundly moved, expressing his deep gratitude and his ambition to strive for higher goals, admitting his fear of stagnation more than failure. Luo Meijuan gently reassured him that she and Sheng Xiangqian's primary wish was for his safety, health, and happiness, not necessarily for him to achieve fame or fortune, and pledged their unwavering support.
Sheng Yang, tears in his eyes, affectionately called his parents the "best chefs" and promised never to disappoint their expectations, accepting their financial support as the essential "ingredients" for his future endeavors. Later, Sheng Yang arrived at a cafe with Song Chen and Pan Rou to meet Jian Bing. He proudly introduced his team to the "famous Director Jian Bing," expressing his gratitude for her previous help, humorously implying she had prevented him from a "heroic sacrifice."
They promptly delved into discussing the public service advertisement. Jian Bing confirmed she had read Sheng Yang's revised script, praising its quality. She then raised concerns about their visual effects, noting their reference to Hollywood standards, and questioned if they had adequately budgeted for such high-level CGI.
Sheng Yang affirmed their budget and reiterated his offer to personally handle the visual effects to cut costs, but admitted that their main challenges lay in the preparation and shooting periods, which would incur daily expenses of tens of thousands of yuan. Jian Bing emphasized that for their first independent, public-service film, the content held more importance, and her involvement already served as a significant resource.
She advised them to seek out real-life abandoned factories for their sci-fi-themed garbage disposal site instead of constructing expensive sets. As they discussed casting a "pure and natural" child actor for the film, Jian Bing suggested they review her detailed director's presentation. Later, when the waiter approached to settle the bill, Jian Bing attempted to pay, but was informed that Sheng Yang had already made prior arrangements, insisting that only he would cover the cost for their table.
Episode 27 Recap
Jian Shuang, learning of Jian Bing's meeting with Sheng Yang, had Fang Mu drive her and Hao Junjie to stake out the restaurant. At the restaurant, Sheng Yang's attempt to pay the bill was overridden by a waiter, who informed him that someone else had already covered their table, prompting Sheng Yang to muse about the reasons for expensive places. Afterwards, Sheng Yang offered to drive Jian Bing home.
However, as they exited, Jian Shuang reminded Jian Bing of her forgotten dinner appointment with Fang Mu, her university teacher, whom Jian Bing needed to treat for his assistance following Jian Shuang's leg injury. Sheng Yang, understanding the situation, stated he would take a taxi home. Jian Bing then turned to Jian Shuang, claiming she still had work to do, and insisted Jian Shuang take Fang Mu to dinner herself, labeling Jian Shuang "immature." Jian Shuang, visibly annoyed, reluctantly acquiesced.
Before the shoot, Song Chen painstakingly secured an abandoned mall location. Pan Rou, after much persuasion due to their limited budget, managed to rent the necessary filming equipment. Song Chen humorously suggested that his hundreds of yuan spent on public transport to find the location should count as the site fee. The team enjoyed a meal, then hurried to finish setting up for the shoot. Later that night, Sheng Yang brought Jian Bing to the abandoned mall.
He enthusiastically showed her around the dark, dilapidated building, emphasizing how he, Song Chen, and Pan Rou had spent an entire day cleaning up all the garbage. Jian Bing, however, pointed out the irony, as their film was supposed to be about garbage, and instructed him to put it all back. Sheng Yang readily agreed to restore the set before shooting began the next day and discussed the reference heights for the "monster" in their film.
Jian Bing then inquired about the name "Moses" for his new company. Sheng Yang explained it was inspired by Grandma Moses, an artist who began painting at 76. He relayed her belief that as long as one pursues what they love, success can come even at an old age, emphasizing that life's present moment is the most beautiful, and every moment is youthful and timely.
Sheng Yang then jokingly remarked that Jian Bing resembled Grandma Moses because she was an "old woman." Jian Bing, feigning anger, retorted that she was fifty-six, not forty-eight, and playfully chased him, threatening to beat him until he was "48 again." The next day, as formal shooting began, Jian Bing meticulously directed from behind the monitor. However, technical issues quickly arose: the camera lens couldn't focus, and the microphone's sound was intermittent.
Before they could troubleshoot, a security guard abruptly stormed in, demanding to know who authorized their filming. He insisted that the building was his responsibility and ordered them to leave immediately. Jian Bing pleaded for more time to pack their equipment. In a moment of urgency, she messaged Xue Yiming for help, then quickly instructed everyone to pack up and prepare to move locations. Xue Yiming graciously offered his company's studio, allowing them to continue shooting.
Jian Bing expressed her gratitude, while Sheng Yang, having witnessed their interaction from a distance, quietly slipped away. As Pan Rou and Song Chen helped move equipment, they discussed how Sheng Yang lost his previous job at Jian Bing's old company. Pan Rou explicitly stated that Sheng Yang had prioritized Jian Bing's well-being over his job when she had an accident at an amusement park.
Jian Bing overheard this conversation and finally understood the true reason behind Sheng Yang's termination, realizing he had taken responsibility for a booth collapse that was initially caused by the team leader's men, but he couldn't explain it because he rushed to the hospital to see her. Later, the team faced another setback as the rented equipment continued to malfunction, forcing the shoot to halt.
When Jian Bing asked Xue Yiming if they could use his studio again the next day, he firmly declined, stating his company needed it. Sheng Yang confronted Tiger, the equipment rental shop owner, accusing him of providing faulty equipment. Tiger vehemently denied this, claiming Sheng Yang had damaged the equipment himself, and demanded immediate compensation, producing the contract Pan Rou had signed as proof. Sheng Yang argued back, but Tiger was unyielding.
Jian Bing arrived at the scene, taking the contract from Pan Rou. She carefully examined the equipment and pointed out its clear defects, such as loose gears, a microphone mended with glue, and a broken filter, arguing that these were signs of aging and disrepair, not damage from their use. Tiger initially refused to budge. However, when Jian Bing presented her business card from Jian Yi Advertising, Tiger's demeanor instantly shifted.
Recognizing Jian Yi Advertising and their Director of Photography, Peng Yuan, Tiger's attitude became remarkably deferential. He expressed a long-standing desire to collaborate with Jian Yi and immediately offered to treat Jian Bing and Peng Yuan to dinner. Jian Bing, seizing the opportunity, demanded the immediate return of their deposit. Tiger quickly complied. Jian Bing then confronted Sheng Yang, expressing her disappointment that he hadn't informed her about their difficulties. Sheng Yang explained he didn't want to burden her.
Understanding his struggles as a new entrepreneur, Jian Bing reassured him, offering her resources and support, and reminded him that they were a team. Sheng Yang was deeply moved by her words. Song Chen expressed his regret for not thoroughly checking the equipment, feeling responsible for the troubles. Pan Rou gently reassured him, reminding him that it wasn't entirely his fault.
Sheng Yang messaged them, telling them to go home, stating he would handle the equipment and studio issues, and that the shoot would resume on schedule in two days. As heavy rain began to fall, Sheng Yang drove Jian Bing home. During the drive, Sheng Yang confessed his reluctance to accept Xue Yiming's help. Jian Bing told him his actions were immature and that personal feelings should not interfere with professional work.
Sheng Yang still wanted to use the abandoned mall set and suggested shooting the rest of the film with a mobile phone due to budget constraints. Jian Bing, however, insisted on using professional equipment from her company, citing quality concerns. She then proposed a formal collaboration: Moses Studio would be responsible for creativity and design, while Jian Yi Advertising would handle all production, including equipment rental. They would split the profits, with Jian Yi taking 70% and Moses 30%.
Sheng Yang, eager to work with Jian Bing, immediately accepted, even signing a contract she produced without reading it, stating his trust in her. Jian Bing, however, revealed it was an invalid contract, emphasizing the importance of reading agreements before signing, and promised to send him a proper one. Meanwhile, Jian Shuang, who had been eavesdropping outside, observed their enthusiastic conversation and contract signing. She noted Jian Bing's obvious infatuation and expressed her concern for Fang Mu, implying Jian Bing might stay overnight at Sheng Yang's place.
Episode 28 Recap
Sheng Yang, Song Chen, and Pan Rou established their studio with limited funds, and Jian Bing offered to provide shooting equipment. Not wanting to borrow a studio through Jian Bing's ex-husband, Sheng Yang persuaded the security captain of a deserted commercial building to let them use the space, bringing braised stews and roast chicken to win him over.
After learning they were filming a public service advertisement, the captain agreed on the strict condition that they finish within one day, a term Sheng Yang eagerly accepted, also promising to clean up all props afterward. During the shoot, Jian Bing and her team worked tirelessly to complete the advertisement. As everyone celebrated the wrap, some suggested going to a nightclub.
Jian Bing declined, explaining she needed to review the footage and wasn't one for such lively events, instructing Sheng Yang to take the others. Watching them interact, Pan Rou and Song Chen playfully commented that they were now fans of the couple. Later that evening, Jian Bing was confronted at home by her sister, Jian Shuang, who expressed deep concern about her association with the recently unemployed Sheng Yang, highlighting their significant age gap.
Arguing that Jian Bing shouldn't pursue another unstable relationship after a failed marriage, Jian Shuang adamantly pushed her to consider the more reliable Fang Mu. An irritated Jian Bing told her sister to stop, asserting her right to be a wealthy, happy, single woman who could enjoy dating. Invigorated by their talk, she felt too young to stay home and defiantly changed clothes to join the team at the club.
At the nightclub, Jian Bing learned Sheng Yang hadn't come, but she joined the others for drinks anyway. Meanwhile, Sheng Yang was at home with his parents when he received a message from Song Chen that Jian Bing was at the club. He immediately rushed over. Upon seeing him, Jian Bing excitedly pulled him onto the stage, and their synchronized dancing quickly became the center of attention.
The rest of the crew soon joined them, and everyone reveled in the celebratory atmosphere. Concerned about how much she was drinking, Sheng Yang pulled Jian Bing aside and offered her milk. She playfully complained, preferring wine and questioning why he always sounded like an old man, joking about who was actually closer to forty.
Sheng Yang complimented her, not just for being the most beautiful woman in the club, but for her strong personality, independence, and sharp mind, adding that she even looked good when angry. Their conversation was interrupted by a call from Sheng Yang’s mother, Luo Meijuan, who insisted he bring Jian Bing to their home for dinner the next day to thank her. Though hesitant, Jian Bing accepted the invitation.
The next day, Jian Bing arrived with gifts of tea, honey, and face masks. Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian had prepared a lavish meal to welcome their son's "benefactor." Luo Meijuan insisted Jian Bing call her "sister" and then, over Sheng Yang's strong protests, instructed him to address Jian Bing as his "little little aunt." During dinner, Luo Meijuan eagerly tried to play matchmaker using dating apps.
Sheng Xiangqian suggested Jian Bing might want to enjoy her single life, but his wife passionately argued that not all women want to get married, as some are meant to soar freely. Feeling overwhelmed, Jian Bing escaped to the bathroom while a frustrated Sheng Yang confronted his mother for trying to arrange Jian Bing's life. When she returned, Luo Meijuan resumed her efforts, prompting Jian Bing to lie that she already had a boyfriend—a university teacher.
After vaguely answering questions, Jian Bing feigned an urgent work meeting and quickly left. Later, Sheng Yang, mistakenly believing Jian Bing was now in a relationship with Fang Mu, sent her a flurry of messages. When Jian Bing called him back, he confronted her, demanding to know if she had made things official with Fang Mu without telling him or if she was just placating his mother.
Annoyed, Jian Bing retorted that their relationship didn't grant him the right to such information. She explained it was a spur-of-the-moment lie to escape the matchmaking attempt. Sheng Yang, however, artistically interpreted this as a sign of her subconscious feelings, suggesting her heart had an answer even if her mind hadn't realized it. Frustrated, Jian Bing ended the call. Jian Shuang, overhearing the argument, wrongly assumed they were fighting, reinforcing her belief that Fang Mu was a better match.
Meanwhile, Xue Yiming taunted Jian Bing for dedicating so much effort to Sheng Yang's minor project, calling her "lovesick." She sharply retorted and focused on her work, quickly finishing Sheng Yang’s ad before tackling a company project that required a shoot on a snow mountain. Soon after, Jian Bing sent the completed demo to Sheng Yang. Song Chen and Pan Rou were stunned by the quality and her fast editing, certain the ad would win awards.
Sheng Yang, however, was too preoccupied to watch and immediately left, with Song Chen speculating he was going to treat Jian Bing to a meal. At the same time, Fang Mu showed off an expensive new suit he had bought for a special visit to Jian Bing's set. His plans were foiled when Jian Shuang revealed Jian Bing was leaving for a three-day business trip to Fairy Mountain.
Seizing the opportunity, Hao Junjie borrowed the suit from Fang Mu, resolved to confess his feelings to Jian Shuang before he had to leave. Despite Fang Mu's warning that it could ruin their friendship, Hao Junjie insisted on making a move. Meanwhile, Sheng Yang arrived at Jian Bing's empty apartment. After knocking unanswered, he sent her a series of heartfelt messages, apologizing for his and his family's behavior. Stating he now understood her awkward position, he pleaded for a chance to talk with her alone.
Episode 29 Recap
Sheng Yang, looking dejected, sought out Song Chen and discovered Song Chen had Jian Bing's WeChat contact. Using Song Chen's phone, Sheng Yang messaged Jian Bing, posing as Song Chen to inquire about the status of their latest film. Jian Bing quickly replied, stating she was heading to the filming location. Sheng Yang then realized Jian Bing had been intentionally ignoring his messages. Meanwhile, Jian Shuang managed to find out Jian Bing’s filming location and immediately informed Fang Mu.
Fang Mu, accompanied by Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie, drove to the location, having already reserved a restaurant down the mountain. Jian Shuang expressed her hopes for Fang Mu's success in pursuing Jian Bing, and Fang Mu exuded confidence. Back at the set, Lin Lin, Jian Bing’s assistant, confided in Jian Bing that she had recently broken up with her boyfriend and had developed feelings for Sheng Yang, asking Jian Bing to help facilitate a connection.
Jian Bing, however, warned Lin Lin against such romantic notions and urged her to focus on work. Lin Lin, startled, made a quick joke about loving work before preparing for the next shot. Fang Mu, Jian Shuang, and Hao Junjie soon arrived at the set, intending to wait for Jian Bing to finish filming and join her for dinner. After wrapping up a shot, Jian Bing went to her room to change.
While Fang Mu, Jian Shuang, and Hao Junjie patiently waited outside, Sheng Yang unexpectedly showed up. He feigned concern, claiming his "sister" (Jian Bing’s mother) had sent him to check if Jian Bing had enough warm clothes for working in the cold mountains. He admitted he had pleaded with Lin Lin to reveal Jian Bing's location. Jian Bing was displeased and angrily threatened to fire Lin Lin for divulging her location to him.
Undeterred, Sheng Yang even offered to become Jian Bing's assistant if Lin Lin was dismissed. As Jian Bing took her time getting ready, Jian Shuang prompted Fang Mu to go urge her. Mustering his courage, Fang Mu ascended the stairs but then tumbled down, claiming a backache from the long drive. Jian Shuang loudly called out for Jian Bing.
Sheng Yang, trying to prevent Jian Bing from going to Fang Mu, insisted she stay, even referring to her familiarly as "my little aunt." Jian Bing, however, was determined to go see Fang Mu. Just then, Lin Lin appeared, reminding Jian Bing about the crew's wrap-up red wine barbecue. Fang Mu confirmed he had already booked a restaurant down the mountain.
Seizing the opportunity, Sheng Yang pointed out the heavy fog and unsafe mountain roads, suggesting it would be safer to stay and eat with the crew. After some consideration, Jian Bing agreed to join the crew's barbecue, and Fang Mu’s group, having no other choice, decided to accompany them. At the crew barbecue, Sheng Yang and Fang Mu immediately began competing for Jian Bing's attention, offering her food and drinks.
Jian Shuang formally introduced Fang Mu as the youngest and most promising associate professor from their university's music education department, highly popular among students. In return, Jian Bing introduced Fang Mu to several single female crew members, including Lin Lin, Youyou, and Shanshan. Lin Lin then proposed a game called "I Have, You Don't," where participants drink if they have done something others haven't.
When it was Sheng Yang's turn, he declared, "The person I like is sitting right here at this table," clearly implying Jian Bing, and took a drink. Fang Mu followed, stating, "The person I want to spend my life with is also at this table," also directing his gaze towards Jian Bing, and took a drink. Later, Sheng Yang left with some crew members to get more food.
Fang Mu seized this chance to pull Jian Bing aside for a private conversation. He expressed that they both had "lost their way in life" and he wished to be her "navigator," guiding her back to a normal life and helping to plan her future. Jian Bing politely rejected his advances, explaining that she felt she had not been lost, believing her chosen path was the right one and that she had already found her desired direction.
She added that, especially given her career and personality, she preferred not to have her life planned out. Despite the rejection, Fang Mu insisted he understood her desire to focus on work and still hoped to become a part of her life without disturbing her career. He then suddenly felt unwell, attributing it to drinking too fast and the cold mountain air. Jian Bing, concerned, helped him return to the main group.
As Sheng Yang came back with the food, he noticed Jian Bing and Fang Mu had been talking privately, which visibly displeased him. Jian Shuang, worried about Fang Mu and curious about the situation, decided to pull Hao Junjie along to find Jian Bing and Fang Mu. Jian Bing eventually excused herself from the party, with Sheng Yang and Fang Mu quickly following. Fang Mu confirmed his luxurious suite was in Zone A of the hotel.
Jian Bing and Sheng Yang, however, proceeded towards Zone B, indicating they were staying in separate sections and not on the same path. Fang Mu watched, pounding his chest and stomping his feet in frustration, as Sheng Yang walked off with Jian Bing. Meanwhile, Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie, unable to find Jian Bing and Fang Mu, sat down by the roadside to rest. Hao Junjie confessed his feelings for Jian Shuang.
Jian Shuang, a staunch advocate for single life, argued that love was a "luxury" and that enjoying its sweetness inevitably led to bitterness and pain. Citing Adam and Eve's fall into a "sea of suffering" due to love, she declared her preference for remaining single for "safety," believing it unnecessary. Hao Junjie countered that she was "timid" in matters of love, unlike her boldness on the ice hockey rink. He then leaned in and kissed her.
Startled, Jian Shuang immediately fled, inadvertently dropping her crutch, which revealed her leg had completely healed and she no longer needed it. Hao Junjie called out her name repeatedly as she ran away.
Episode 30 Recap
Sheng Yang led Jian Bing to a suburban beach, where he surprised her with a romantic setup. He turned on colorful lights from his crew's set, transforming the area into a vibrant spectacle that amazed Jian Bing. He also brought out a "lie detection bear," hoping to gauge her true feelings. During their playful interaction, Sheng Yang asked the bear if Jian Bing dreamed of him last night, to which the bear "responded" that she was lying, implying she did.
Jian Bing soon realized Sheng Yang held the remote control for the bear, revealing his playful deception. Sheng Yang then prepared a fireworks display. Jian Bing remarked that no one had set off fireworks with her since she was ten. Sheng Yang explained his persistence, recalling the first time he saw her ten years ago in a public service advertisement.
He remembered her radiant, happy smile and expressed a desire to see her genuinely happy again, feeling she was often too tense and like an "invulnerable tough girl." Jian Bing described him as a "kid who is a little mature," highlighting his "sunny, pure, ambitious, and bold" nature. She saw her twenty-something self in him and hoped he would delay entering the "complicated and boring adult world." She chose "the red, the highest one" firework, which they both enjoyed.
Suddenly, real snow began to fall, delighting Sheng Yang and bringing a rare, genuine smile to Jian Bing's face. The next morning, during an ad shoot, a snowflake machine was used, and Jian Bing's genuine smiles continued, prompting the director to wonder if they were real or just for the camera. After the ad shoot concluded, Fang Mu suffered a painful kidney stone attack.
Although Sheng Yang offered to take him to the hospital, Fang Mu insisted Jian Bing drive his car, claiming he didn't trust Sheng Yang's driving. Jian Bing agreed, asking Sheng Yang to return to the city to check on the submitted film. In the hospital, Fang Mu, after receiving treatment, expressed his feelings to Jian Bing.
He mentioned his past unsuccessful marriage and his initial desire for a stable life, but now believed a mature person is someone with love in their heart who will eagerly please the one they love, listing examples like standing on the outside while walking or preparing hot water. He explicitly stated his desire to make her happy and to officially date her.
Jian Bing firmly yet politely responded that she was "very willing to be friends with" him, emphasizing "just friends." Fang Mu referenced her earlier comment about him being her "GPS," but Jian Bing countered that sometimes taking the "wrong path" or "most difficult path" is "more interesting." She then excused herself to check on the nurse.
Worried about Jian Bing, Sheng Yang returned home briefly, only to find his mother, Luo Meijuan, relentlessly trying to get his father, Sheng Xiangqian, to accompany her for supermarket inventory. After a brief exchange, Sheng Yang announced he was going out again and quickly left, eager to check on Jian Bing. Meanwhile, Hao Junjie took Jian Shuang home and confessed his feelings for her.
He said he felt compelled to tell her out of respect, noting their similar backgrounds as both their parents were not always around. He mentioned her struggles and fears of intimacy due to past hardships. He acknowledged his confession might be selfish but gave her complete control over her decision, including remaining just friends. Jian Shuang accused him of being selfish for putting her in such a difficult position, but then admitted she didn't dislike him.
As he turned to leave, she pulled him back, suggesting he shouldn't go and teasing him about a previous kiss. Later that night, Sheng Yang arrived at Jian Bing's door, inquiring about Fang Mu's condition. He then declared his love for Jian Bing, expressing his strong affection and his belief that she reciprocated his feelings. They shared a kiss, which Jian Shuang unexpectedly witnessed upon opening the door, exclaiming in surprise.
Jian Shuang then pressed Jian Bing for details about her relationship with Sheng Yang. Jian Bing, in turn, addressed Jian Shuang, expressing her approval of her relationship with Hao Junjie, noting his reliability. Jian Shuang voiced concerns about long-distance relationships and the impermanence of human relationships, referencing past experiences. Jian Bing countered that while people change, Jian Shuang shouldn't fear forming intimate connections or facing separation.
She urged Jian Shuang to embrace growth and experience, encouraging her to fully engage in dating Hao Junjie before he left for his studies abroad, ensuring they create beautiful memories. Jian Bing even jokingly questioned if Jian Shuang would date Hao Junjie if he wasn't going abroad, and when Jian Shuang hesitated, Jian Bing teased her about him possibly returning with a foreign girlfriend, which Jian Shuang vehemently rejected.
Jian Bing then summoned Hao Junjie and Jian Shuang together, affirming that as adults, they were responsible for their feelings and actions. She sternly warned Hao Junjie not to bully Jian Shuang and only to treat her well. She then announced she would not be returning home that night, leaving them to enjoy their time together. Sheng Yang followed Jian Bing out, and she initially told him to go home.
However, he insisted on taking her to his house to show her a gift, assuring her that his parents were out for supermarket inventory and wouldn't be home. Sheng Yang suggested they go for Luosifen, and Jian Bing playfully agreed to both the gift and the food. Upon arriving at Sheng Yang's apartment, he proudly welcomed her to his "dream room," which doubled as his art studio.
He pointed out his high school paintings, including one that won an award, and showed her the furniture—the bed, cabinets, and sofa—that he and his father had built together. Jian Bing praised his father's handiwork, prompting Sheng Yang to playfully ask about her opinion of him, teasing her about her liking his father and his own lack of his father's humor.
When she inquired about her gift, Sheng Yang admitted it was "really tacky," explaining he learned his style from his father because she admired him. As he offered her slippers for his carpet, Jian Bing playfully remarked that he should have sought help from his male colleagues for certain tasks, to which he playfully responded that he wouldn't dare. However, their intimate moment was abruptly interrupted when his parents, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, unexpectedly returned home, catching Sheng Yang off guard.
Episode 31 Recap
Sheng Yang’s parents, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian, returned home unexpectedly early, much to Jian Bing’s alarm. Jian Bing, who was hiding in Sheng Yang’s room, worried about how she would leave, prompting Sheng Yang to reassure her and ask why she was so nervous. Jian Bing, calling herself Sheng Yang’s aunt, warned him not to cause trouble by speaking nonsense.
Sheng Yang, who had already drawn the curtains, then addressed his parents, telling them he had a very important announcement, which he presented with a theatrical flair. His parents, curious but cautious given Luo Meijuan’s high blood pressure, pressed him for details. Sheng Yang then falsely announced that he was planning to get a cat. Both Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian immediately rejected the idea, citing the smell and mess, and saying that raising Sheng Yang was already difficult enough.
Sheng Yang quickly agreed not to get a cat and retreated to his room, telling his parents he was tired. Once in his room, he quietly informed Jian Bing that he had "handled" his parents, asking her why she hadn't wanted him to reveal their relationship earlier. Meanwhile, inside Sheng Yang’s room, Jian Bing discovered an album filled with her portraits, each capturing different expressions, along with a large, framed photograph of her.
Deeply moved, she admired Sheng Yang's artistic talent. Luo Meijuan, suspicious of Sheng Yang’s strange behavior, including the drawn curtains, and having overheard him speaking, approached his room, followed by Sheng Xiangqian. Despite Sheng Yang’s attempts to pretend he was sleeping, his parents pushed open the door. Jian Bing froze, terrified of being discovered.
Sheng Yang tried to dismiss his parents, claiming he was watching a movie and demanding privacy, but his father teased him about "ordinary movies" and advised moderation. Sheng Xiangqian then distracted Luo Meijuan by mentioning his repaired recorder, eventually convincing her to leave Sheng Yang's room. After Sheng Yang’s parents left, Jian Bing continued to admire the detailed portraits, asking why he had only drawn her.
Sheng Yang confessed he had been drawing her for ten years, always trying to capture her beauty, and stating his desire to draw her for his entire life. He likened his enduring affection to Brahms’ four-decade-long secret love for Clara, the wife of his mentor Schumann. Although Brahms wrote many love letters, he never sent them, instead pouring his deepest sentiments into his Symphony No. 1 in C Major, which took him 21 years to compose.
Moved by his deep sincerity, Jian Bing, after some hesitation, agreed to be his girlfriend, suggesting they "try running together" since their "pace was the same." That night, Jian Bing made herself comfortable in Sheng Yang’s bed, placing the sketchbook beside her pillow, while Sheng Yang slept on the sofa. Sheng Yang, having sworn he had never been in a relationship before, stood guard at the door, ensuring his parents wouldn't re-enter.
Jian Bing eventually asked him to turn off the light so she could sleep, and they exchanged goodnights. Separately, Jian Shuang tentatively suggested to Hao Junjie that they "try" being boyfriend and girlfriend. Hao Junjie, excited, misinterpreted her meaning, leading to a humorous exchange about passing the time together, during which he enthusiastically offered to teach her a new mobile game, much to her exasperation.
The next morning, Jian Bing, needing to go to work after her business trip, prepared to leave. Sheng Yang, ever vigilant, cautiously checked the situation with his parents. He found his father, Sheng Xiangqian, in the kitchen preparing breakfast and his mother, Luo Meijuan, relaxing with a facial mask that Jian Bing had given her.
Taking advantage of his mother’s closed eyes, Sheng Yang volunteered to take out the trash, using it as a cover to escort Jian Bing out of the house. Outside, Sheng Yang tried to get a kiss goodbye from Jian Bing, who was cautious about being seen by neighbors.
However, just as they shared a hug and a quick kiss, Luo Meijuan emerged from the house to take out the trash and paused, making eye contact with Jian Bing for a tense three seconds before returning inside without a word. Jian Bing, worried about Luo Meijuan’s reaction, urged Sheng Yang to go back and pacify her. Sheng Yang returned home cheerfully, but Luo Meijuan ignored him completely.
Sheng Xiangqian, feeling confused and stating that his wife's attitude was the family's attitude, advised Sheng Yang to bide his time, suggesting that later he could threaten to move out to force Luo Meijuan to accept his relationship with Jian Bing, though he also scolded Sheng Yang for frightening his mother. Meanwhile, Jian Bing received an urgent message from Jian Shuang, informing her that their father, Jian Zhongde, had been hospitalized due to a sudden myocardial infarction.
Jian Bing rushed to the People's Hospital. The doctor recommended bypass surgery, but Jian Zhongde stubbornly refused, declaring he was tired of living and wanted to die. He demanded that his "son-in-law," Xue Yiming, be brought to him for a drink. Jian Bing, deeply angered by her father's selfish attitude and his mention of her mother, vehemently told him he had no right to speak of her mother.
Jian Zhongde continued to cause a scene, yelling for a private room with a private bathroom and demanding restaurant-quality food instead of the hospital’s fare. The next morning, Sheng Yang prepared breakfast for his parents, but they refused to come out, so he left for work. Meanwhile, Hao Junjie informed Fang Mu about Jian Bing’s father being hospitalized.
Hao Junjie urged Fang Mu to visit Jian Bing at the hospital, but Fang Mu firmly refused, explaining that Jian Bing had already clearly rejected him previously, and he didn't want to cause her any more trouble or give her false hope. Hao Junjie, however, kept pressing him, highlighting Jian Bing’s tough situation, as she was forced to care for her "scumbag" father who had made her cry. Later, Sheng Yang, hiding in his room, called Jian Bing.
During their conversation, Sheng Yang reassured her that his parents were "fine" and that their family decision would follow his choice. Jian Bing, however, expressed insecurity, fearing Sheng Yang might abandon her for someone better due to his exceptional qualities.
Sheng Yang playfully responded by saying if she did leave, he would work hard, earn a lot of money, and "fool around with girls" to spite her, then jokingly warned her that he was a "diamond in the rough" and she’d regret not holding onto him. Jian Bing, in turn, teased him, asking if she was merely attracted to his good looks.
Just then, Luo Meijuan called Sheng Yang out of his room, making him suspect she wanted praise for a new dress. Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian then sat Sheng Yang down for a serious discussion. Luo Meijuan, after much thought, told him it was time for him to move out. Sheng Yang was shocked, asking why they were suddenly so against Jian Bing being his girlfriend when they had previously seemed to like her.
His parents argued that he and Jian Bing were fundamentally incompatible due to their significant age and experience gap. Luo Meijuan painted a picture of a challenging future, citing financial disparities where Jian Bing was accustomed to first-class travel and Michelin-starred restaurants, while Sheng Yang could only offer economy flights and roadside stalls. Sheng Xiangqian added that Jian Bing, as a successful director and boss, was too accomplished for Sheng Yang, suggesting she would have to be "patronizing" in conversation.
He reiterated the importance of being "a good match," a traditional concept passed down through generations, although he humorously conceded that age gaps, even significant ones, were becoming more common, citing figures like Vera Wang. Luo Meijuan ultimately expressed her deep concern that Sheng Yang, being strong-willed, would overwork himself trying to bridge the gap, leading to immense personal suffering. Despite their arguments and worries, Sheng Yang remained resolute.
He declared that his relationship with Jian Bing was his choice and his destiny, stating that he would willingly endure any hardship to be with her, regardless of their approval. Luo Meijuan concluded the discussion by stating it was a decision, not a negotiation, and that he should move out so they could be out of sight and mind, leaving him to walk his own path from now on.
Sheng Xiangqian emotionally lamented this decision, questioning how a child could be expected to walk their own path after being guided by their parents for so long, and expressed his sadness at the thought of separating.
Episode 32 Recap
Fang Mu visited Jian Zhongde in his hospital ward, expressing his desire to help Jian Bing after hearing about her recent difficulties from Hao Junjie. He assured Jian Bing that he was not a clingy person and that he just wanted to be a supportive friend, especially since Hao Junjie was soon leaving to study abroad. Jian Bing appreciated his offer but stated that her father's condition was stable and just awaiting surgery.
Fang Mu noted that despite Jian Zhongde's past as an absentee father, Jian Bing was still fulfilling her obligation to care for him, which he found commendable. He then confessed that he had another motive: he had recently been rejected and needed some time to recover, asking Jian Bing for a chance to help her if she ever became too busy. Jian Bing accepted the items he brought and promised to call him if she truly needed assistance.
Fang Mu confirmed he would be available via message at any time. Meanwhile, Luo Meijuan continued to pressure Sheng Yang to leave Jian Bing, causing a rift between them. Sheng Yang's father, Sheng Xiangqian, tried to mediate, suggesting Sheng Yang stay for another week until he found a new place. However, Sheng Yang felt that Luo Meijuan was avoiding him, hiding in her room, and feared she would make herself ill.
He believed moving out would give his parents space to breathe and live normally. He told his father to take care of himself, avoid quarreling with Luo Meijuan, and be more accommodating to her. As Sheng Yang prepared to leave, he called Song Chen, who was waiting downstairs. Song Chen suggested Sheng Yang stay at his place for a week, as the studio he had found for Sheng Yang was still occupied.
Sheng Yang, seeing the mess in Song Chen's current shared room, sighed but agreed to clean it himself, accepting his temporary living situation. The small, messy room, located by a noisy road, made it difficult for Sheng Yang to sleep due to constant car sounds. He declined to share Song Chen's bed, opting for the sofa, and jokingly complained about Song Chen's unwashed socks.
Before Sheng Yang left, Sheng Xiangqian urged him to eat well and hugged him goodbye, prompting Sheng Yang to promise that he would work hard and never disappoint his parents. Early the next morning, the landlady confronted Song Chen, reprimanding him for having an overnight guest, which violated their contract, and for leaving boxes in the common area. She threatened to withhold his deposit, also complaining about his consistently late rent payments.
Song Chen tried to smooth things over, explaining that Sheng Yang was only staying for two nights and that other residents also had guests. The landlady remained firm, demanding he leave and clean the place. Sheng Yang realized he couldn't stay there any longer. Song Chen suggested they go to an internet cafe, joking that it felt like returning to a battlefield. Sheng Yang agreed but made Song Chen swear not to tell Jian Bing about his living situation.
Back at the hospital, Jian Zhongde refused to eat or drink, resisting the nurse's attempts to feed him. Hao Junjie and Jian Shuang arrived and observed the scene from outside. Jian Shuang admitted she felt unfamiliar with her father, having only met him a few times when she was very young because Jian Bing had prevented her from seeing him due to her deep-seated hatred.
Jian Shuang recounted Jian Bing's long-held hatred, as her sister had described their father as an "old scoundrel" who had angered their mother to death, a situation Jian Shuang herself linked to Xue Yiming. Jian Shuang found it strange that Jian Zhongde had her phone number and even listed her as an emergency contact.
Despite her sister's narratives, Jian Shuang felt conflicted, unable to truly hate him now that she saw him in such a vulnerable state, despite his current unreasonable behavior. She confided in Hao Junjie, wondering if her father's character would affect their relationship. Hao Junjie reassured her, stating he was dating her, not her father, but playfully noted that her temper seemed to come from Jian Zhongde.
Sheng Yang spent the entire night at the internet cafe, bothered by a nearby smoker. In the morning, he messaged Jian Bing, who immediately asked about Luo Meijuan's reaction to their relationship. Sheng Yang lied, claiming his mother was delighted and even wanted to go shopping with Jian Bing. He then proposed a date that night. Jian Bing replied that her filming would run late, but Sheng Yang insisted he would wait for her.
At the film set, Jian Bing’s team faced delays as their actress, who was also the client’s girlfriend, was running an hour late. Jian Shuang called Jian Bing, offering to stay with Jian Zhongde in the hospital, but Jian Bing firmly dismissed her, instructing her to focus on her university studies, her dating life, or leisure activities, but to stay out of her father's care.
Jian Bing reiterated that Jian Zhongde had never cared for Jian Shuang, so there was no reason for Jian Shuang to show filial piety now. When the actress finally arrived, Jian Bing and her team began shooting. The actress struggled with her lines and energy, repeatedly making mistakes, confusing phrases like "better self," "best self," and "most beautiful self," despite claims that post-production dubbing would resolve any issues.
Jian Bing grew increasingly frustrated, eventually resorting to a large prompt board to help the actress. Meanwhile, at the internet cafe, Song Chen received new design requirements from Mr. Qian for a larger logo with less plain colors, needed that very night. Despite the noisy internet cafe environment, Sheng Yang quickly revised the design and called Mr. Qian. Mr. Qian was impressed by the speed and the quality of the revised logo.
Sheng Yang, seizing the opportunity, offered Moses Design's services for business cards, book design, shop design, and short video posters at a discounted price. Mr. Qian agreed to refer more jobs and promised to transfer the payment via WeChat. Sheng Yang was ecstatic, celebrating the new prospects with Song Chen, who suggested hotpot to celebrate. Sheng Yang, however, urged caution, wanting to ensure the payment was received first.
As they were packing up, Sheng Yang suddenly realized his work laptop was missing. After checking with other users, he spotted a suspicious person and, with Song Chen, gave chase. They mistakenly confronted a young man playing a game, who denied taking the laptop. It turned out the real thief was wearing a mask and hat, a "regular thief." Sheng Yang apologized to the wrongly accused man.
Despite the loss, Sheng Yang reassured Song Chen that all his important files were uploaded to the cloud, so their work wouldn't be affected. He optimistically stated that they would buy a new laptop, as they were "going to be rich soon." However, when Sheng Yang tried to contact Mr. Qian for the payment and future work, he discovered that Mr. Qian had blocked his number. Song Chen also found himself blocked.
Sheng Yang was devastated, realizing they had done the work for nothing. Later, amidst the chaotic shoot, Jian Bing received a call from Mr. Qian. When she tried to clarify an issue, he abruptly told her to find someone else, stating he would no longer work with them, then rudely hung up and blocked her number.
Back at the hospital, Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie were struggling to care for Jian Zhongde, who had deliberately feigned incontinence and soiled his bed. Jian Bing arrived, quickly sending Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie back to school, despite Jian Shuang's offer to have her uncle help. Jian Shuang then innocently asked about Sheng Yang.
Jian Zhongde overheard and deduced that Jian Bing had divorced Xue Yiming, expressing his anger and assuming Jian Bing had been dumped due to her "temper." Jian Bing ignored his taunts and confronted him about faking his condition, but he defiantly claimed he liked wetting the bed. Jian Bing, exasperated, tried to get him out of bed to change the soiled sheets. Later, Sheng Yang and Song Chen reeled from Mr. Qian's sudden betrayal.
Song Chen couldn't believe Mr. Qian would block them over 2,000 yuan, especially after promising future collaborations. Sheng Yang dismissed Mr. Qian's earlier promises as mere polite talk, lamenting that despite their good work, the client clearly didn't value it. Sheng Yang instructed Song Chen to take his phone, containing their chat histories, and confront Mr. Qian at his company the next morning, recording the entire conversation.
Sheng Yang then reflected on the situation, choosing to look forward rather than be bogged down by this setback. He philosophically noted that this experience, while painful, taught them a valuable lesson. Unlike their previous company, "July," where they had backing, they now only had themselves.
This incident forced them to consider their "irreplaceability" and how to ensure they would always receive final payment for their designs in the future, striving to be recognized as a reputable, large company rather than a "small workshop."
Episode 33 Recap
Jian Bing remained at the hospital to care for her father, Jian Zhongde, while Jian Shuang and Hao Junjie had departed. Xue Yiming called Jian Bing, reminding her of a crucial client meeting for a cabinet advertisement scheduled at their company, a meeting Jian Bing had completely forgotten. She apologized, explaining she was tied up and couldn't leave as the nurse had gone for dinner. She asked Xue Yiming to record the meeting for her, which deeply frustrated him.
He accused her of prioritizing her relationship over work. Meanwhile, Xue Yiming was on a film set, directing a crew member to follow the storyboard while he dealt with the client. Just then, Fang Mu arrived at the hospital, immediately offering to stay and care for Jian Zhongde so Jian Bing could attend her meeting. Jian Bing, initially hesitant due to the nurse's absence, profusely thanked him and hurried off.
Elsewhere, Pan Rou brought bubble tea to an internet cafe where Song Chen and Sheng Yang were engrossed in work. She urged Song Chen to go home, concerned about his well-being. Song Chen, however, was consumed by anxiety after a client he had secured ran off, making him feel like a complete failure. Pan Rou took his phone, pointing out how his contact list, once filled with girls, was now dominated by clients, a testament to his growth.
She reassured him that the client's irresponsibility was not his fault and stressed that both Sheng Yang and the studio needed him. Song Chen, feeling like a burden, resolved to try his best. Sheng Yang then asked Song Chen if he was important to the studio; Song Chen affirmed, and Sheng Yang reciprocated, adding that they must not give in to self-pity or despair.
Sheng Yang acknowledged Pan Rou's maturity compared to them and encouraged Song Chen to stay positive, focus on recovering their losses, and work harder as men, just as Pan Rou, a woman, was so strong. They all recommitted to hard work. At Jian Yi company, Mr. Tang arrived punctually for the meeting, but Jian Bing was still absent. Xue Yiming was incensed, convinced she was neglecting work for her relationship.
Liang Shanshan, however, revealed that Jian Bing was at the hospital accompanying her hospitalized father, Jian Zhongde, whose condition was quite serious. Surprised, Xue Yiming realized Jian Bing hadn't told him about her father's illness. Liang Shanshan simply stated there was no reason for Jian Bing to inform him since they were divorced, suggesting they simply cover for her. Xue Yiming then called Jian Bing, telling her not to bother coming, as he and Liang Shanshan would handle everything.
Jian Bing, already on the subway and just entering the station, expressed her apologies for forgetting the meeting due to her father's stressful situation. Xue Yiming awkwardly tried to clarify that while they could manage, they would still wait for her, especially since the proposal was hers and it would be improper to discuss it without her. He assured her that Liang Shanshan was effectively placating Mr. Tang, who had already forgotten Jian Bing was even expected.
Sheng Yang finished work late and messaged Jian Bing, stating he couldn't meet. Jian Bing, on her way to the company meeting, replied that she was also busy and couldn't meet. Despite their messages, they unexpectedly encountered each other at the subway station. Sheng Yang playfully remarked on Jian Bing's beauty, though she felt disheveled. She noticed his smoky smell, and he claimed he had just met a chain-smoking client and was heading to meet another.
When Jian Bing asked about his work, he exaggerated his success, saying he had too many orders to count. She then told him to work hard and save up to treat her to dinner, which he gladly agreed to. Noticing she hadn't eaten, he pulled an apple from his bag for her, telling her to eat it on the way. He playfully told her to "recharge" on him, calling her his hardworking and beautiful "girlfriend" and complimenting his own taste.
She called him "cringy" in return. Jian Bing then expressed a desire to rest her head on his shoulder, wishing the next train would never arrive. They shared a long embrace, reluctant to part. However, when the train finally arrived, Jian Bing, mindful of her tardiness and forgotten meeting, urged him to let go. They bid a reluctant farewell, with Sheng Yang reminding her to be careful and asking if she had eaten.
Meanwhile, Luo Meijuan complained to Sheng Xiangqian about Sheng Yang's lack of communication and concerns about his eating habits since he moved out. Sheng Xiangqian, visibly worried, pressed her on his living situation and well-being. Luo Meijuan, though seemingly less concerned, eventually admitted her true intentions. She explained that her seemingly harsh treatment and pushing Sheng Yang to live independently was not due to his age difference with Jian Bing, but rather to foster his growth.
She admired Jian Bing's "extraordinary" understanding of life, gleaned from their past conversation about "marathons and sixpences," and felt Sheng Yang needed to gain similar life experience to bridge the gap between them. Luo Meijuan believed Sheng Yang had to overcome this personal "hurdle" to ensure their relationship could "advance and progress together." Sheng Xiangqian was deeply touched by her profound foresight and wisdom, showering her with praise and expressing his good fortune in having her as his wife.
Sheng Yang eagerly contacted Song Chen about the office space, which was ready for viewing. Song Chen led him to a decent office within an office building, which they planned to tidy up immediately, ready to "get to work." Sheng Yang's new company quickly gained momentum. He was later seen picking up Jian Bing from work, bringing her "love lunch" and warming her hands.
His dedication to his business was evident as he impressed a client by already having an "upgraded version" of a booth design proposal ready, securing a new order. Another scene showed Sheng Yang signing a contract with a client, solidifying his company's success. He and Jian Bing were also seen at a restaurant, where Sheng Yang playfully claimed her art book, reasoning it was his because she only drew him.
He then jokingly offered her a "life drawing" in return, referencing a scene from "Titanic", which Jian Bing playfully rejected. Back at Jian Bing's home, Jian Zhongde was discharged from the hospital. Fang Mu congratulated him on his recovery, and Jian Zhongde, in an attempt to add Fang Mu on WeChat, was embarrassed by Jian Bing who quickly intervened.
Once home, Jian Bing discovered Jian Zhongde had thrown his medicine in the trash and was secretly smoking in Jian Shuang's room. She sternly reprimanded him, reminding him of the no-smoking rule and Jian Shuang's ownership of the room. She declared that if he refused to comply with his treatment, he could simply "lie down flat" during an attack. Jian Zhongde retorted that he was a "patient," not a "criminal," and criticized her attitude.
Jian Bing sarcastically wished he were a criminal so someone could keep him in line. Jian Bing then found him with empty wine bottles, revealing he had been secretly drinking. Jian Zhongde adamantly refused the upcoming surgery, complaining about his restricted diet and inability to smoke.
He threatened a hunger strike if forced to eat "grass" instead of his preferred greasy foods like braised pork with preserved vegetables and spicy chicken, lamenting that Jian Bing had brought him home only to make him suffer. During this time, Sheng Yang, with his business thriving and his relationship with Jian Bing deepening, made plans for a date.
He called Jian Bing, who had just finished work, to suggest dinner and a movie, as they both had a few hours free. Jian Bing, mindful of time, suggested they buy snacks at the cinema. Sheng Yang agreed and canceled their restaurant reservation. As they enjoyed their snacks at the cinema, Sheng Yang received news: a client wanted to sign a long-term contract and had arrived early.
Sheng Yang reluctantly informed Jian Bing, who, understanding the importance of the opportunity, encouraged him to go. Despite his desire to stay with her, she prioritized his budding business and advised him to go home to his parents after finishing work, as she also had evening work to do. Sheng Yang apologized, explaining his hard work was "to better hold" her, confident in her understanding. She affirmed her understanding, and they said their goodbyes.
After signing the contract with the client, Sheng Yang called Song Chen to confirm the details and requested that the necessary documents be sent from his computer. He decided not to return to the studio for dinner, instead choosing to go home and see his parents, whom he hadn't seen in days. Sheng Yang arrived home, where Sheng Xiangqian playfully scolded him for not announcing his arrival, joking that he would have prepared a feast.
Sheng Yang asked for his mother, Luo Meijuan, who Sheng Xiangqian said would be home soon. Sheng Xiangqian called Luo Meijuan, teasingly suggesting their son was back because he couldn't "survive on his own." Sheng Yang denied it, while Sheng Xiangqian remarked on his son's youth.
Sheng Yang presented the gifts he had bought: an air fryer for Luo Meijuan, which she had long wanted but hesitated to buy, and a cervical spine massager for Sheng Xiangqian, to alleviate his neck discomfort. He also brought fruits and supplements for them.
Sheng Xiangqian immediately took photos of the gifts to send to Luo Meijuan, exclaiming that it felt like New Year's and teasing that Sheng Yang was doing so well he might not want to live at home anymore. Sheng Yang corrected his father, confirming he was indeed doing well. Sheng Xiangqian then asked about his relationship with Jian Bing, and Sheng Yang happily confirmed they were "getting along pretty well," much to his father's delight.
Later, Jian Bing received a call from the doctor confirming Jian Zhongde's surgery for next Wednesday. She confirmed that he was taking his medication on time, his routine was monitored, and his blood pressure and heart rate were stable. She thanked the doctor profusely. Jian Zhongde continued his defiant behavior, refusing to lower his voice and expressing his desire to die due to his restricted lifestyle. Jian Bing, frustrated, insisted the surgery was mandatory.
Jian Zhongde stubbornly refused again, demanding specific, greasy dishes for dinner and threatening a hunger strike if he was given healthy food. He lamented that Jian Bing had brought him home only for him to suffer. As Jian Bing stepped out to buy his dinner, she encountered Luo Meijuan waiting at her doorstep.
Episode 34 Recap
Luo Meijuan arrived at Jian Bing's door late at night, hearing Jian Zhongde yelling inside. Jian Bing came out to explain that her father was upset and refusing a heart bypass surgery. Luo Meijuan stated her purpose directly: she believed Sheng Yang and Jian Bing were too different and incompatible. She admitted to kicking Sheng Yang out of their home, hoping he would give up, as she feared he would be hurt and his future relationships would suffer.
Sheng Yang, however, proved to be very stubborn, so much so that he didn't even tell Jian Bing he had been kicked out. Luo Meijuan expressed her anger, not about Jian Bing and Sheng Yang's relationship itself, but because Jian Bing, whom she considered a best friend and sister, had hidden such a significant matter from her. Luo Meijuan questioned why Jian Bing, given her excellent eligibility, wouldn't find someone more equally matched in all aspects.
Jian Bing explained that she hadn't intended to start a new relationship at that time. Sheng Yang, however, had remembered her from an advertisement she filmed for his father over a decade ago, believing she brought light into his life. Jian Bing felt a sense of fate in their unexpected reunion after so many years, noting Sheng Yang's persistent presence in her life. She stated they were "just trying" to date.
Jian Bing elaborated that while a young man might have just one reason to like an older woman, a woman needs many reasons to decide to date a man ten years her junior. She acknowledged Sheng Yang was a good man and her decision was difficult, but she promised not to hurt him, regardless of their relationship's outcome.
Luo Meijuan, though still slightly concerned as a mother, affirmed that as an elder, she respected their feelings and understood Jian Bing's perspective as a woman. She had primarily come to assess Jian Bing's determination. While acknowledging their strong connection, she cautioned about the significant age and financial disparities, foreseeing many difficulties. She stressed that if either of them hesitated, it would deeply hurt the other, and as Sheng Yang's mother, she feared for her son.
However, after observing Sheng Yang's efforts, she realized he was not weak; he was working hard and actively planning their future, not just talking about it. She urged Jian Bing to be honest about her commitment, promising her blessing if Jian Bing was truly determined. Luo Meijuan then inquired if Sheng Yang knew about Jian Zhongde's condition, to which Jian Bing replied he didn't.
Though Jian Bing insisted she could manage with a hired nanny and nurse, Luo Meijuan suggested Sheng Yang could provide more meticulous care, but Jian Bing quickly dismissed the idea, stating she hadn't planned for Sheng Yang to care for her father. Meanwhile, Sheng Yang had a heart-to-heart talk with his father, Sheng Xiangqian, detailing his relationship with Jian Bing.
He described it as the kind of relationship he had always desired—one built on mutual respect, independence, and devoid of suspicion or jealousy, where he cherished every moment. After dinner, as Sheng Yang was leaving with Sheng Xiangqian, they encountered Luo Meijuan at the door. Luo Meijuan urged him to move back home, which he promised to do that night. She then instructed him to go to Jian Bing's house to help.
Sheng Yang immediately agreed, despite Luo Meijuan playfully scolding him for seemingly forgetting his mother after getting a girlfriend. At Jian Bing's home, she attempted to serve Jian Zhongde a light meal. However, Jian Zhongde refused, insisting he had a dinner appointment and would not eat her bland food, even calling it "pig's food." He boastfully threatened to call his "son-in-law" to pay for a hot pot meal. Jian Bing sternly warned him against calling.
Just then, Sheng Yang arrived, witnessing Jian Bing's frustration. He questioned her harsh tone with her father and suggested they resolve their differences calmly. Jian Bing, exasperated, told Sheng Yang that he couldn't help her with this issue and that she needed to handle it alone. Sheng Yang persisted, reminding her that his mother hadn't tried to break them up and that he had told her they were "just trying."
Jian Bing reacted with dismay, questioning what he meant by "just trying" and "uncertain," before walking away from him. Dejected, Sheng Yang returned home and shut himself in his room, looking dispirited. Sheng Xiangqian, seeing his son's gloomy mood, sat by his door to comfort him and share his secrets for pursuing women.
Sheng Xiangqian used the analogy of a mortise and tenon joint, explaining how parts fit together perfectly without nails or glue, similar to how two people adapt to each other in a relationship. He then offered four simple points about love: first, if they are both single, his wife Luo Meijuan would approve; second, if they truly love each other, nothing else matters, and Luo Meijuan would also approve.
He emphasized that true love is visible in one's eyes and actions, not just in deceptive words, urging Sheng Yang to look for love in Jian Bing's gaze and her actions. He then recalled how, when he pursued Luo Meijuan, he faced opposition and was beaten by other students and hooligans but never retaliated because "making the first hit costs money," which amusingly led to them affording their first color TV.
He stated that all obstacles to a simple and pure emotion are "evil forces" that should never be yielded to. Third, if the first two points are met, one should pursue love relentlessly, never turning back even when facing immense obstacles, as long as they remain true to their original intentions. Fourth, he admitted his experience was limited and Sheng Yang would have to figure out the rest.
He added a practical tip about soaking feet in hot water, suggesting Sheng Yang could do it with Jian Bing to promote both health and intimacy. Sheng Xiangqian concluded by advising Sheng Yang to face the relationship's outcome with a "normal mindset." Sheng Yang thanked him, feeling comforted. The next morning, Sheng Yang showed up at Jian Bing's house, surprising her with meat and vegetables.
He promised not to ask any questions and offered his full support, explaining that his studio was running smoothly, giving him ample free time to care for Jian Zhongde. He insisted on pulling Jian Bing out of her negative state, declaring he would come every day and that Jian Bing could focus on work or friends, but she shouldn't shoulder the burden alone.
As her boyfriend, her problems were his, and he felt obligated to make her happy and alleviate her stress. Jian Bing doubted his ability to handle Jian Zhongde, warning that her father was mischievous and could be very troublesome. Sheng Yang confidently reassured her, urging her to go to her photoshoot and promising to manage everything at home, reporting any issues immediately.
Jian Zhongde soon appeared, mockingly calling Sheng Yang Jian Bing's "toy boy" and questioning if Jian Bing paid him, unfavorably comparing him to Xue Yiming. He dared Sheng Yang to stop pretending since Jian Bing wasn't around and proposed a deal: if Sheng Yang left him alone and didn't follow him, he wouldn't tell on him.
Sheng Yang calmly reiterated that he was there for Jian Bing and to ensure Jian Zhongde didn't cause trouble, stating he would remain by his side. Frustrated by Sheng Yang's unwavering presence, Jian Zhongde retreated to his room. Sheng Yang prepared a light meal for Jian Zhongde, consisting of porridge, tomatoes with eggs, and onions. Jian Zhongde complained about the lack of meat and demanded braised pork with preserved vegetables or spicy chicken for dinner.
He again tried to dissuade Sheng Yang, stating that Jian Bing would never love him and their relationship had no future. Despite Jian Zhongde's attempts to discourage him, Sheng Yang prepared braised pork with preserved vegetables for dinner. Jian Zhongde ate it eagerly, praising Sheng Yang's cooking and declaring him better than Xue Yiming.
When Jian Bing returned home, she was displeased to see Jian Zhongde eating such a greasy dish, reminding Sheng Yang that her father was about to undergo surgery and needed to avoid fatty foods. Jian Zhongde, however, defended Sheng Yang, stating he had requested the dish. Sheng Yang diligently continued to care for Jian Zhongde, giving him a heart rate monitor watch, checking his blood pressure, administering medication, and even offering to help him bathe.
Jian Zhongde, despite his initial resistance, seemed to enjoy the meticulous care. One day, while Sheng Yang was cooking, Jian Zhongde secretly slipped out. Sheng Yang followed discreetly, leading him to a cemetery where Jian Zhongde stood before a tombstone, proclaiming that he would soon be reunited with his wife. Later that evening, after Jian Zhongde had gone to bed early, Jian Bing confided in Sheng Yang about a painful memory.
When she was twelve, she came home early from school with a stomachache and discovered Jian Zhongde with another woman on her parents' bed. Scared and unsure what to do, she ran to her mother and told her everything. From that day on, her mother was never happy and passed away around the time Jian Shuang was in kindergarten. Jian Bing explained that she had deeply resented Jian Zhongde, believing he was responsible for her mother's early death.
However, after experiencing her own marriage, she began to understand the complex, unspoken secrets within adult relationships. She started to wonder if her mother had known all along but had pretended ignorance for the sake of maintaining a complete family for her and Jian Shuang. This thought led Jian Bing to hate herself more, believing her mother’s death was ultimately her fault for revealing the truth.
She admitted she had never shared this story, not even with Xue Yiming, which explained why Sheng Yang might find it strange that she was now caring for Jian Zhongde, as she believed her mother would have wanted her to. Sheng Yang comforted her, urging her not to blame herself and assuring her that she had always done exceptionally well, regardless of her age or past circumstances.
He expressed his profound gratitude for her presence in his life, likening her to a "little sun" that illuminated his world. Jian Bing, however, remarked that only he would think that and apologized for him appearing in her life when she felt she was "most like Jian Bing," implying a darker, more troubled version of herself.
Sheng Yang, whose name means "exuberant sun," gently reassured her that he could light up her shadows, promising to be her "little sun" forever so she could continue to be herself. Jian Bing agreed, promising to try and walk towards the sunlight.
Episode 35 Recap
Jian Zhongde was scheduled for heart bypass surgery. Sheng Yang arrived early to accompany Jian Zhongde, who appeared unusually quiet and nervous about the procedure. Jian Bing had meticulously arranged for his favorite, quiet caregiver, along with a seemingly young but highly experienced Dr. Qin, to assist. At the hospital, Sheng Yang observed Song Chen and Pan Rou engaging in playful banter, exchanging "Girlfriend" and "Boyfriend" greetings.
Jian Shuang soon arrived, noting her father's quiet demeanor, which she attributed to nervousness. Sheng Yang then shared a deeply personal message with Jian Bing, explaining how he carried the digital single-lens reflex camera she gave him everywhere, using it to capture beautiful moments and thinking of her. He expressed his desire to be a part of her every emotion and to show her how much she was loved.
He showed her a photo he had accidentally taken of Jian Zhongde visiting a tomb, suggesting it might hold significance for her, and gently urged her to separate her own narrative from her parents' past entanglements. Moved by his words, Jian Bing called Jian Shuang to the hospital. Shortly after, the doctor announced that Jian Zhongde's surgery was a success, bringing a wave of relief to the sisters.
Later, Sheng Yang headed to Jian Bing's filming set, where he found her working with Xue Yiming, who was acting as a producer, specifically requested by the client. Jian Bing explained the arrangement, and Sheng Yang assured her he would wait. Nearby, Sheng Yang overheard Mr. Jia, the brand client, and his assistant, making disparaging remarks about Jian Bing's private life and appearance, including implying she was "keeping a young man" and discussing her past marriage with Xue Yiming.
Unable to tolerate the insults, Sheng Yang offered them water, then confronted them, telling them to stop their inappropriate conversation. Mr. Jia, furious, demanded to know who Sheng Yang was and threatened him. Xue Yiming intervened, attempting to de-escalate the situation and clarifying that Sheng Yang was a friend of Jian Bing, not an employee of their company. However, Mr. Jia escalated his demands, insisting that Sheng Yang publicly apologize and bow to him.
When Sheng Yang refused, Mr. Jia became even more aggressive, belittling their work and insulting Jian Bing and Xue Yiming's personal relationship. Infuriated by Mr. Jia's crude remarks, Xue Yiming lost his temper and punched Mr. Jia, despite a warning from someone about his back. In the aftermath, Liang Shanshan was promptly informed that the brand intended to halt filming and would not renew their contract.
Meanwhile, Sheng Yang expressed deep concern and apologized to Jian Bing for causing trouble, admitting he started the altercation and couldn't control himself. Jian Bing, however, reassured him, downplayed the incident, and even asked him for a comforting hug, then tasked him with preparing dinner for Jian Zhongde.
Later, during a meeting with Mr. Jia, Liang Shanshan learned that Mr. Jia had his assistant record the video of Xue Yiming assaulting him and had no intention of backing down without a formal apology, stating, "If you don't show your sincerity, let's just wait." Mr. Jia, known to be vindictive, made it clear he would not be easily placated.
Recognizing the severity of the situation and unwilling to further implicate Jian Bing and Liang Shanshan, Xue Yiming passionately announced his resignation from the company. He stated that the problem could not be resolved with mere apologies or banquets and that he refused to continue yielding to unreasonable clients, asserting his desire for dignity.
He apologized for leaving them with the "mess" and declared his intention to ride his beloved motorcycle to Tibet, seeking personal freedom and inspiration after years of humble servitude in the industry. Liang Shanshan desperately tried to stop him as he departed. As the video of Xue Yiming's altercation spread, fueled by Mr. Jia's hired internet trolls, Jian Yi's reputation suffered significantly.
Clients began to withdraw, citing reasons like budget constraints or simply refusing to rent out locations that had previously been secured, clearly trying to distance themselves from the beleaguered company. Liang Shanshan informed Jian Bing that Mr. Jia was now specifically targeting Sheng Yang's studio and advised Jian Bing to warn Sheng Yang to be cautious. The company faced a dire situation, with no new contracts materializing.
Zheng, the art director, also approached Jian Bing, explaining his need to take a temporary position as an art director for a friend's film due to family financial pressures, given the lack of work at Jian Yi. Jian Bing, understanding his predicament, graciously granted him leave, assuring him his position would remain open. Facing these mounting challenges, Sheng Yang and Song Chen decided to seek assistance. They met with Mr. Yu, their former boss, at July Advertisement.
After congratulating them on starting their own studio, Moses Advertisement Design, Mr. Yu was presented with their portfolio. Sheng Yang seized the opportunity to address the negative rumors surrounding Jian Yi, vouching for Jian Bing's integrity and competence. He then revealed that Jian Bing was now his girlfriend, assuring Mr. Yu that he trusted Mr. Yu to judge based on competence, not rumors, and that both he and Jian Bing would prove their worth through their work.
Mr. Yu stated he would consider their request. Jian Bing subsequently called a company-wide meeting. She apologized for the recent turmoil and expressed deep gratitude to those who had remained loyal. She gave employees the option to resign with full redundancy pay, while firmly reiterating Jian Yi's core values of professionalism, dignity, and refusing to cater to unreasonable client demands.
She hoped they would find personal value in their work and emphasized that only like-minded individuals could truly advance the company. Many employees affirmed their commitment, expressing their unwavering support and willingness to continue working without new recruitment, a display of loyalty that deeply moved Jian Bing. Before his actual departure for Tibet, Xue Yiming visited Jian Bing. He observed her newfound strength and leadership, remarking that she had truly become a capable boss.
He admitted his initial doubts about her ability to manage the company alone but now felt assured by her principled stance, toughness, and the loyalty of her staff. He also spoke highly of Sheng Yang, acknowledging that he had proven himself reliable through recent trials. Xue Yiming conveyed that Sheng Yang hoped Jian Bing would relax more and reminded her that he, too, liked her smile, expressing his relief at leaving her affairs in Sheng Yang's capable hands.
Later, Jian Bing interviewed Yang Yang from Jiaoyang Advertisement Design Studio, a young and promising art team. Yang Yang, along with his two teammates, presented their mature student work and offered a three-month free probation period to prove their worth, despite their limited project experience. Impressed by their creativity and the talent from Chuanjiang Media Advertising College, Jian Bing asked them to submit a preliminary proposal and concept images before signing a formal project contract.
Unbeknownst to Jian Bing, Yang Yang's interview was orchestrated by Sheng Yang, who secretly called Jian Bing during the meeting, pretending it was a normal call, while Yang Yang later confirmed to Sheng Yang that he had successfully kept their secret from her.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
Song Chen, after some hesitation, confessed his long-standing feelings to Pan Rou, asking her to be his girlfriend. Pan Rou revealed that she had heard his earlier musings on the bus, noting that all her "firsts"—setting up a stall, starting a business, even visiting a police station—had been with him. She playfully concluded that if things continued this way, marriage would be the natural outcome, implicitly accepting his proposal. They then decided to go shopping.
The ice hockey team gathered for Hao Junjie's farewell dinner. During the toast, when someone offered to drink for Jian Shuang, Hao Junjie quickly intervened, explaining that her leg hadn't fully recovered and he would drink in her stead. This drew playful remarks from teammates about his obvious affection. Hao Junjie, though admitting he wasn't good with words, expressed his deep reluctance to leave his teammates and wished them all successful careers and bright futures.
When pressed by a teammate about his formality, Hao Junjie became more direct, confirming that he and Jian Shuang were indeed dating and that he could take good care of her himself. He then officially announced Jian Shuang as his girlfriend and their new "sister-in-law," prompting cheers and toasts from everyone present. After the celebration, Jian Shuang, having had too much to drink, was carried by Hao Junjie. He playfully warned her not to drink with others after he left.
Jian Shuang, feigning that her dorm was closed, was offered a ride to Jian Bing's place by Hao Junjie. This suggestion immediately annoyed her, and she suddenly became more sober, confessing that she would miss him deeply and revealing he was the second person she liked most in her life, after her sister.
She then abruptly told him to leave and walked off, leaving her bag behind, which he called her back for, telling her to take good care of it. Earlier, Sheng Yang had invited Song Chen and Pan Rou to his home for New Year's celebrations. As Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian prepared a grand dinner, Sheng Yang received a call from Mr. Yu.
To his delight, Mr. Yu informed him that Jian Bing's public service advertisement had been shortlisted for an award and expressed interest in collaborating with her on a new project. As Hao Junjie was packing for his departure, his uncle, Fang Mu, reminded him that his parents were eagerly awaiting his arrival at the airport. Hao Junjie confessed feeling like he had made a mistake, though Fang Mu stated it was too late to change his mind.
Fang Mu then posed a profound question, asking if Hao Junjie truly loved music. Hao Junjie admitted that his decision to go abroad was largely influenced by his parents' expectations. His uncle then shared his own life philosophy, explaining he had chosen a stable teaching career over societal competition because he preferred security and a peaceful life, questioning the constant pursuit of being first.
Hao Junjie, seeing his uncle as his idol and the best teacher, opened up about his true desires: to travel across the country with Jian Shuang, exploring places on his motorcycle, camping, hiking, visiting various spots from quiet libraries to bustling streets, or simply relaxing and observing life. He revealed how exhausting it felt to constantly live up to his parents' expectations.
Surprisingly, Fang Mu encouraged him to take a year off to truly enjoy himself, emphasizing that life is meant to be lived on one's own terms. He reassured Hao Junjie that he would handle any backlash from his parents, which Hao Junjie gratefully accepted, offering to wash the dishes in return. Jian Shuang went to the airport to see Hao Junjie off, confused about his earlier departure date.
He explained his parents wanted him to adapt to the new language and environment sooner. As they said their goodbyes, he gave her the long-distance relationship manual she had asked him to compile, promising to study it, though she preferred he call her instead. When he asked if she had anything to tell him, she admitted she didn't want him to leave.
He playfully suggested he would stay for her, then she urged him to go, bantering about how the moon abroad might be rounder, but her face in China certainly was. After a tearful farewell, Hao Junjie actually walked away, with Jian Shuang calling after him to be careful with his jacket. However, he suddenly returned, declaring that "a piece of diamond like him can shine anywhere" and he didn't need to go abroad.
Jian Shuang, tears streaming down her face, asked if he was staying for her, to which he affirmed he was staying for "their moon." He explained it was a sudden decision, and Jian Shuang, overjoyed, embraced him tightly, asking if he was teasing her again. He assured her he was serious this time, suggesting they go retrieve his luggage immediately. Jian Shuang regularly visited her grandfather, Jian Zhongde, reading stories to him.
One day, she read a passage about childhood memories with his grandfather Yaosheng, focusing on the simple life, the elder's teachings, and the lasting impact of his grey sculpture art and thriftiness, quoting, "Diligence can compensate for what one lacks. Frugality can support integrity." Meanwhile, a new teacher, Gao Yitong, approached Fang Mu for directions to a building in Zone B, which was actually in Zone A.
Gao Yitong introduced herself as a new teacher there to lecture, and Fang Mu, from the same department, offered to guide her. They quickly connected, discussing her graduation from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and her adjustment to the local spicy cuisine, with Fang Mu offering to take her to a good Shanghai restaurant. They exchanged WeChat contact information. Later, Jian Shuang confronted Sheng Yang about a "visuals team" she had been collaborating with.
She noted that the team's leader was mysterious and always absent, and she had recognized Sheng Yang's unique artistic style when an individual from the team, whom she referred to as "that chubby guy," came for an interview, speaking lines that sounded distinctly like Sheng Yang's coaching. Sheng Yang, caught red-handed, confessed that he had indeed set up the arrangement, explaining he only wanted to help her, knowing she would reject his direct assistance.
He jokingly blamed the individual for being unreliable. Jian Shuang playfully accused him of watching too many romance dramas, to which Sheng Yang replied that she was, in fact, the female lead of his own drama. On the day of the awards ceremony, Jian Bing expressed concern about Sheng Yang's casual attire, insisting that as the "male lead," he needed to look handsome and that she had prepared something for him.
Upon arriving at the bustling venue filled with cameras, Jian Bing advised Sheng Yang to compose himself and not appear overwhelmed, to which he chuckled that it was indeed his first time. She playfully chided him for not dressing in a way that matched her, but he asserted that their personal connection mattered more than their outfits. Despite his argument, she insisted he change into the clothes she brought, and they then walked in hand-in-hand.
Meanwhile, at home, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian were watching the pre-show on television. A nosy neighbor approached Luo Meijuan, enthusiastically trying to set Sheng Yang up with various young women, highlighting their impressive qualifications, such as graduating from top universities and earning high salaries. Initially humoring the neighbor, Luo Meijuan eventually revealed that Sheng Yang already had a girlfriend and that they would both appear on television during the upcoming awards ceremony.
The neighbor, surprised, remarked that Sheng Yang's girlfriend looked like a big star, though she questioned her age. Luo Meijuan proudly agreed and invited the neighbor to watch the broadcast together and offer her opinion. The 19th Youth Advertising Competition Awards Ceremony commenced, and the "Best Production Award" was announced, with the honor going to Jian Bing from Jian Yi Advertisement Studio and Moses Advertisement.
As Jian Bing ascended the stage to accept the award, Luo Meijuan proudly pointed her out as "my daughter-in-law" to the neighbor, who was taken aback by Jian Bing's celebrity-like appearance and mused about her age. In her acceptance speech, Jian Bing thanked the organizers and expressed deep gratitude to her long-time partner and best friend, Liang Shanshan, for her unwavering support that allowed her artistic freedom.
She also acknowledged her mentor, Director Xue Yiming, urging him to return from his creative sabbatical. Admitting her discomfort with public speaking, Jian Bing then dedicated a significant portion of her speech to Sheng Yang. She recounted how he had shared his aspiration to use design to positively influence the world and change people, noting that he had already achieved this by profoundly impacting her.
Attributing the true soul and inspiration of their award-winning film to him, she invited Sheng Yang to join her on stage, stating she couldn't accept the award alone. Sheng Yang, surprised, walked onto the stage to the excited cheers of Luo Meijuan watching from home. He humbly thanked Jian Yi Advertisement Studio for their support and specifically acknowledged Moses Advertisement and his partners, Song Chen and Pan Rou, crediting them for his presence there.
Turning to Jian Bing, Sheng Yang referenced her wisdom, recalling her advice not to waste time on trivial matters and her emphasis on dignity for both established figures and young people. He then declared that meeting Jian Bing was the best thing that had ever happened to him. Reflecting on her previous analogy of love as a marathon where mismatched paces lead to separation, he passionately asserted that once he began running, he would never regret it.
He vowed that even if he ran slowly, grew tired, or could no longer run, those would not be reasons to let go. His sole goal, he declared publicly, was to run to the very end of this road with her. A visibly moved Jian Bing, tears welling up, playfully remarked that she wouldn't have called him up had she known what he was going to say, before sharing a heartfelt embrace with him on stage.
Watching the emotional embrace on television, Luo Meijuan and Sheng Xiangqian were deeply moved. Sheng Xiangqian commented on how wonderful it was to see the couple openly display their affection for each other, and Luo Meijuan playfully asked if he was jealous, then stated he should be. Sheng Xiangqian then jokingly asked who had initially opposed their relationship, prompting Luo Meijuan to admit her past reservations, expressing joy and pride in having such a good son.
Meanwhile, Hao Junjie and Jian Shuang embarked on their journey, riding a motorcycle. When Hao Junjie asked where they were headed, Jian Shuang simply replied she would go wherever he went, solidifying their adventurous path together, as Hao Junjie humorously remarked their public display of affection was "inappropriate for kids."
