The Bond Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Bond Synopsis
When Qiao family's mother passed away while giving birth to her fifth child, Qiao Qiqi, as their father, Qiao Zuwang, was a rough and selfish man, Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, Qiao Simei, and Qiao Qiqi, the five children of the Qiao family, relied on each other during difficult times.
As the eldest son, Qiao Yicheng took care of his younger siblings as they grew up, but lived in the shadow of his outstanding cousin, Qi Weimin.
Qiao Yicheng was admitted to a normal university, and his siblings grew up together, gradually breaking free from poverty.
Challenges and care in life were never absent, and Qiao Yicheng was deeply concerned about the education, marriage, and work of his siblings, while his own two marriages also affected the joys and sorrows of the extended family.
They experienced painful trials, as well as moments of hope and warmth, stumbling and bustling along the way. Their lives were far from perfect, and each had their own shortcomings. As Qiao Yicheng felt, although "everyone has their own quagmire," everyone was striving to live for that glimpse of brightness and upward progress.
The Bond Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Qiao Yicheng lay in the earthquake shelter, his younger siblings clinging to him, complaining of hunger. He promised to make them Immortal Soup once they were home. Back at their house, Second Aunt Wei Shufang arrived, searching for Qiao Zuwang. She learned from Qiao Yicheng that his father was at Uncle Li's house, gambling. Furious, Wei Shufang stormed over to confront him.
At the gambling table, Qiao Zuwang was boasting about his youthful good looks, claiming he was no less handsome than a movie star. Wei Shufang burst in, urgently telling him that her sister, Wei Shuying, was at the hospital, about to give birth. She emphasized that at thirty-four or five, her sister was considered a geriatric pregnancy, making complications highly likely. Qiao Zuwang was dismissive, nonchalantly asking what woman didn't give birth and pointing out it wasn't her first child.
His gambling companions, seeing Wei Shufang's distress, urged him to go, offering to take his place. Wei Shufang, desperate, pulled him onto a tricycle to the health clinic. Along the way, she chastised his indifference, reminding him that Wei Shuying had walked to the distant clinic alone to save money. Qiao Zuwang remained unconcerned, suggesting that walking was good for a smooth delivery and even offered to get off and walk if Wei Shufang was in such a hurry.
At the clinic, the staff rushed around, causing Wei Shufang to grow fearful for her sister. Qiao Zuwang, however, remained unfazed. Soon after, a nurse announced that Wei Shuying had given birth to a baby boy, weighing only four catties and eight liang. Wei Shufang immediately worried about the baby's small size, attributing it to Qiao Zuwang's poor care during the pregnancy. Qiao Zuwang quickly named the baby Qiao Qiqi, simply because it was 1977.
While Qiao Yicheng attempted to cook for his hungry siblings, he accidentally cut his hand. The increasing urgency of the doctors and nurses amplified Wei Shufang's anxiety, especially as her sister still hadn't emerged from the delivery room. Aunt Wu, witnessing Qiao Zuwang's continued indifference, openly criticized him for his wife's suffering, noting how Wei Shuying had managed the household and cared for him while heavily pregnant.
Qiao Zuwang retaliated by cruelly bringing up Aunt Wu's deceased husband, sparking a heated argument between them. A neighbor rushed over to the Qiao home, telling Qiao Yicheng to quickly take his siblings to the hospital to see their mother, warning it would be too late otherwise. Upon arrival, the children found Qiao Zuwang furiously arguing with the doctor, in denial that his wife could be gone after giving birth to a child.
While his younger siblings were too young to fully grasp the situation, Qiao Yicheng knew in his heart that his mother was gone. For the memorial, Qiao Zuwang obtained a small, blurry photograph. Wei Shufang wept, lamenting that her sister had never even taken a good photo in her entire life. Neighbors instructed the children to kowtow and cry for their mother. The younger children sobbed openly, but Qiao Yicheng stood silently, leading a neighbor to remark on his hard-heartedness.
Qi Zhiqiang, Wei Shufang's husband, arrived with his son, Qi Weimin. Some neighbors began to gossip about Qi Zhiqiang, mentioning his past in the army, his good job at a car factory with excellent benefits, and his frequent visits to Wei Shuying while she was alive, speculating about his intentions and even the paternity of the new baby.
Upon hearing this hurtful gossip about his mother, Qiao Yicheng pushed the gossiping neighbor away and finally burst into heart-wrenching sobs, while others tried to comfort him, saying it was good for him to cry. Wei Shufang then asked Qiao Yicheng to place his mother’s portrait inside the house. Qi Zhiqiang, ever helpful, took care of the children, even fixing a broken hook on a bed netting.
Wei Shufang urged Qiao Zuwang to take more responsibility for the family, especially with the children being so young. Qiao Zuwang, however, indulged in self-pity, complaining about his "bitter life" and the lack of financial contributions from the many visitors. He pointedly remarked on Qi Zhiqiang's good fortune, which angered Wei Shufang. She reminded Qiao Zuwang of the time and money she and Qi Zhiqiang had already spent helping him.
Wei Shufang asked for a specific red bed netting as a keepsake, explaining that Wei Shuying had saved it for years to make quilts for her daughters' weddings. After some reluctance, Qiao Zuwang agreed. The next day, Wei Shuying was to be cremated. Wei Shufang and Qi Zhiqiang discussed adding money to buy a more respectable urn, but Qiao Zuwang scoffed, stating that a dead person had no need for an expensive ash box.
The next day, the health clinic called Qiao Zuwang, instructing him to pick up Qiao Qiqi and settle the bill. Qiao Zuwang gathered his three older children and even pulled Qiao Yicheng out of school, declaring they needed a larger group to create "momentum" for their argument. At the clinic, he outright refused to pay, shamelessly suggesting they keep the newborn Qiao Qiqi as collateral for the debt.
The nurse angrily rebuked him as a scoundrel, to which Qiao Zuwang retorted that he was "frank and upright." As his younger children cried, Qiao Zuwang angrily kicked Qiao Yicheng for not crying like the others. Just then, Qi Zhiqiang and Wei Shufang arrived. Qi Zhiqiang immediately offered to pay, but Qiao Zuwang refused. Wei Shufang quickly intervened, handing the money to the nurse and apologizing for Qiao Zuwang’s difficult mood.
As they took the children home, Wei Shufang firmly reminded Qiao Zuwang that the money was a loan from them and he must remember to repay it. That evening, Wei Shufang vented her frustration to Qi Zhiqiang, condemning Qiao Zuwang as a "jerk" who had feigned madness and played the victim to avoid his responsibilities.
She revealed that he had used their money to buy only the cheapest urn, pocketing the rest for his own indulgences like alcohol, pork, and gambling, leaving them to bear the financial burden and the gossip. Neighbors expressed pity for Qiao Qiqi, born motherless and saddled with such a negligent father.
Qiao Zuwang refused to buy milk powder or even milk, instead instructing Qiao Yicheng to simply add sugar to rice water and feed it to Qiao Qiqi, cautioning him not to mess it up and burn the baby, which would cost more money. His younger siblings watched longingly as Qiao Yicheng carefully fed the baby. When Qiao Yicheng was done, his siblings took turns licking the spoon.
At night, Qiao Qiqi cried, and Qiao Yicheng was always the one to comfort him, while Qiao Zuwang seemed to pretend not to hear. In the morning, before Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Erqiang left for school, and while Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei were still asleep, Qiao Yicheng reluctantly handed Qiao Qiqi to Qiao Zuwang.
Out of concern, Qiao Yicheng paused to watch as Qiao Zuwang then casually passed the baby over to Aunt Wu, asking her to watch him for "two days." Aunt Wu, though pitying the baby, reluctantly agreed but stated she couldn't take care of him long-term. After Qiao Yicheng left, Qiao Zuwang, who had acted pleasant to Aunt Wu's face, immediately began cursing her for making excuses.
A few days later, Qiao Zuwang returned a small sum of money to Wei Shufang, who immediately pressed him for the remainder of the loan. Qiao Zuwang resorted to emotional manipulation, claiming Qiao Qiqi wouldn't survive and threatening to take the children and jump into Xuanwu Lake if Wei Shufang didn't help him. Wei Shufang dismissed his threats, reminding him he frequently made such claims.
He then proposed that Wei Shufang permanently raise Qiao Qiqi, stating he, as a "male cow," couldn't produce milk and feared for the baby's life. Wei Shufang, citing her own family's financial struggles and her three children, was hesitant. After some haggling, Qiao Zuwang reluctantly agreed to pay her seven yuan a month for Qiao Qiqi's upkeep.
Wei Shufang took the baby, promising to find him a "clean, honest, well-educated family" with good financial conditions, believing it would be better for Qiao Qiqi's future. She immediately scoffed at Qiao Zuwang’s sarcastic offer of thanks. Later, Aunt Wu, unaware of the arrangement, offered Qiao Yicheng some old clothes to make a small undergarment for Qiao Qiqi.
Qiao Yicheng quietly informed her that Qiao Qiqi had been taken to Second Aunt Wei Shufang's house, leaving Aunt Wu to lament Qiao Zuwang's heartless actions. One of their chickens laid an egg. Qiao Zuwang instructed Qiao Yicheng to steam it, giving the children a meager portion before consuming the rest himself. Qiao Erqiang, longing for treats like walnut cake, decided to sell the eggs to buy something tasty. However, after a long wait, no one bought them.
A security officer from the neighborhood committee, Ms. Liu, discovered Qiao Erqiang's makeshift stall, accused him of "illicit trading," and prepared to confiscate their chicken, as raising poultry in the city was illegal. Aunt Wu quickly intervened, appealing to the officer's pity for the motherless children. She offered to slaughter the chicken herself in front of the officers if they would allow the family to keep the meat for soup. Ms. Liu agreed.
The children, knowing Qiao Zuwang's fondness for chicken gizzards, secretly ate them, planning to deny any knowledge of their whereabouts. Later, Qiao Zuwang searched for the gizzards, and upon finding them missing, immediately accused Aunt Wu of stealing them, claiming she habitually marinated salted chicken gizzards. He stormed off to confront her.
Before leaving, he instructed Qiao Yicheng to save a bowl of chicken soup for his noodles the next day, telling the children to eat as much of the rest as they could, leaving nothing behind. Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang sat alone on the roof, crying.
Episode 2 Recap
The neighborhood was abuzz with activity for Aunt Wu's son's wedding, and the air was filled with delicious aromas. Qiao Erqiang, driven by hunger, stealthily went to Aunt Wu's home to snatch some food. Roast duck, braised pork belly, and pork rib soup were among the tempting smells he had identified. Aunt Wu quickly discovered him and, disgusted by his actions, began to scold him.
Other neighbors tried to intervene, suggesting she have some mercy on the poor children, but Aunt Wu retorted that the Qiao children were not fatherless. She complained that Qiao Zuwang made money, yet only spent it on old wine and pig's head meat for himself, never on his children. Despite her initial anger, Aunt Wu's heart softened, and she gave Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei some wedding candy.
When Qiao Yicheng found out, he pulled his younger siblings home and sternly lectured them. Qiao Yicheng, mature beyond his years, felt the heavy burden of supporting his family. When Qiao Sanli developed a fever and needed medicine, Qiao Yicheng was at a loss for how to pay for it. He went to find Qiao Zuwang, who was deeply engrossed in a mahjong game.
Qiao Yicheng explained that Qiao Sanli had stomach flu, had an infusion at the clinic, and that their living expenses for the month were insufficient. Qiao Zuwang, however, was too preoccupied with his winning hand, celebrating "7 dots" and paying no mind to his son's urgent pleas. Adding to their woes, the family's vegetables were stolen, causing Qiao Yicheng immense despair. He ran to the police station and reported Qiao Zuwang for gambling.
At the police station, the gamblers, who had always been careful to keep their activities secret, suspected that a family member must have reported them. Qiao Zuwang attempted to evade punishment by claiming to be a handicapped person missing a toe on his left foot, working at a welfare factory for the handicapped.
He then cried that he had many children, including a "little baby" who couldn't be left alone, and that he was only gambling to earn "milk powder money." The police officers, Comrade Wang and Chief Liu, dismissed his excuses, telling him he could either pay a fine or be detained for fifteen days.
As Qiao Zuwang was being led away, an officer stared at him and remarked that "bad bamboos can still produce good bamboo shoots," implying his children were better than him. Back home, Qiao Erqiang, who had been craving what he thought was plum juice, mistakenly drank Qiao Zuwang's treasured kombucha. Finding it disgusting, he accidentally dropped and shattered the bottle. The four children looked at the messy floor, completely bewildered.
When Qiao Zuwang returned, Qiao Yicheng served him, helping him wash up and bringing him food. Afterwards, Qiao Zuwang dragged Qiao Yicheng into the room, accusing him, "How dare you report your father? !" and began to beat him severely. Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei cried and pleaded for their father to stop, asking him not to hit Qiao Yicheng's head.
Qiao Yicheng, in a moment of desperate pride, broke free and ran out, his siblings chasing after him. They couldn't understand why their father had beaten Qiao Yicheng, especially when Qiao Erqiang felt responsible for breaking the kombucha. Qi Ziqiang, who had heard that Qiao Zuwang had beaten Qiao Yicheng, was heartbroken to see him silently bearing his injuries.
Qi Ziqiang comforted Qiao Yicheng, telling him that life is hard, but he must grit his teeth and endure, and to "have a sun in his heart" and hope, just like his strong mother. He promised to bear the weight for Qiao Yicheng whenever needed. In that cloudy yet bright afternoon, as Qi Ziqiang led the children home, Qiao Yicheng saw a girl he would never forget.
The younger children, captivated by a Western-styled house they passed, wondered about the happy families and delicious food that might be inside. Later, Qiao Zuwang was drinking in his room when Qiao Yicheng bravely confronted him with a list of requests.
He demanded five more yuan for living expenses each month to afford better nutrition, two more yuan a month for their Second Aunt to continue looking after Qiao Qiqi, and new galvanized iron pipes for their heater, as the old ones were rusted and posed a carbon monoxide poisoning risk. Qiao Zuwang, annoyed, retorted, "So you've become my father?" and sarcastically asked what else Qiao Yicheng wanted.
Qiao Yicheng then asked for a pair of white tennis shoes, revealing he knew Qiao Zuwang had received a half-level salary increase from his factory. As the Qiao children grew, cared for mostly by Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Zuwang remained self-indulgent. One morning, Qiao Erqiang asked his father to attend a parent-teacher conference, but Qiao Zuwang, eager to visit a new bathhouse, refused and told him to ask Qiao Yicheng instead.
After school, Qiao Yicheng attended the parent-teacher conference for Qiao Erqiang. There, he learned that Qiao Erqiang's academic performance was unsatisfactory. Furthermore, the teacher reported that Qiao Erqiang had suddenly started wearing fashionable, expensive clothing. Students had observed him changing into this "Hong Kong shirt" in a public restroom before school and changing back into his old clothes afterwards, like "Mike," whom the teacher didn't know.
The teacher questioned the source of the 11 or 12 yuan garment, especially since several students had recently reported money missing—some losing lunch money, and one losing money for study materials. When Li Heman visited the Qiao home, he found only Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei there. He offered to treat them to bean curd pudding and gave money to Qiao Simei, who enthusiastically described the delicious dish.
Qiao Yicheng, having finished the parent-teacher conference, went to Niu Ye's house to pull Qiao Erqiang away from watching TV, intending to seriously discuss his behavior and school issues. However, as they entered their home, they heard Qiao Sanli's terrified screams. Inside, they discovered Li Heman harassing Qiao Sanli. Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Erqiang immediately attacked Li Heman, who fled in a panic, knocking over the freshly bought bean curd pudding on his way out.
Qiao Yicheng told Qiao Zuwang that he had witnessed Li Heman harassing Qiao Sanli with his own eyes. To their surprise, Qiao Zuwang, uncharacteristically enraged, grabbed a knife and stormed off to Li Heman's house. Qiao Yicheng desperately hoped his father would finally secure justice for Qiao Sanli. Qiao Yicheng, still concerned about Qiao Erqiang's new Hong Kong shirt, confronted him in front of their mother's photograph, demanding to know where the money came from.
Qiao Erqiang, tearfully swearing on their mother's spirit, explained that he hadn't stolen anything. He had saved money by skipping breakfast and lunch, and walking to school instead of buying bus tickets, all because he simply wanted a Hong Kong shirt. Qiao Sanli corroborated his story, confirming he had indeed saved money by foregoing meals and bus fares, keeping it hidden in his pillow.
Later, Qiao Zuwang took Qiao Sanli out and bought two baskets of steamed dumplings, allowing Qiao Sanli to eat only after his permission. She thoughtfully asked to bring a basket back for her brothers. The younger children worried that Qiao Zuwang might give Qiao Sanli away, like their classmate's father did with his sister. Qiao Yicheng waited anxiously by the door for their return. When Qiao Zuwang and Qiao Sanli finally came home, the children eagerly ate the dumplings.
Qiao Yicheng, however, knew the true cost of those dumplings. He furiously confronted Qiao Zuwang, declaring him unworthy of being Qiao Sanli's father, and unworthy of being their father. Another incident occurred when Qiao Simei reported that Aunt Wu's pigeons had once again soiled their bed sheets. Qiao Yicheng took the dirty sheets to Aunt Wu, requesting she manage her pigeons.
Aunt Wu dismissed his concerns, saying she couldn't control birds in the sky, and then rudely reminded him how his siblings constantly pestered her for food. In retaliation, Qiao Sanli picked up a stone and threw it at Aunt Wu's pigeon cage. In a fit of anger and frustration, Qiao Yicheng smashed Li Heman's window.
He ultimately decided to report Li Heman to the authorities, and Li Heman was subsequently convicted of lewd behavior and sentenced to three years in prison. Qiao Yicheng went to Qiao Erqiang's school to clear his name, explaining to the teacher that his brother had bought the Hong Kong shirt with money saved from skipping meals and bus fares, and had sworn this on their late mother's memorial photo.
The teacher acknowledged that Qiao Yicheng's mother had passed away, but indicated that an investigation was still ongoing. She assured Qiao Yicheng that if his account was true, she would definitely clarify the situation to the class to protect Qiao Erqiang's reputation.
Episode 3 Recap
Qiao Zuwang instructed his children, Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei, to stay inside and do their homework, as guests were coming and they were not to emerge unless called. He warned them not to eavesdrop on adult matters. Soon, Mr. Shen and Mrs. Fu arrived. Qiao Zuwang invited the teachers inside and offered them freshly brewed tea. He then called Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei out to greet them. Qiao Simei, who was seven, introduced herself.
Later, after the guests left, Qiao Zuwang asked the girls what the couple had talked about. Qiao Sanli said they just looked at them and asked about their age and grade, checking their faces, eyes, noses, hair, legs, and feet. Qiao Yicheng, sensing the underlying meaning, told his siblings it was time for bed. A few days later, Mr. Shen and Mrs. Fu visited again, bringing comic books and candy for the children.
Mr. Shen praised Qiao Yicheng for his good grades and hard work. Qiao Simei complimented Mrs. Fu's perm, and Mrs. Fu responded by admiring Qiao Simei's self-braided pigtails, even offering to braid them for her, mentioning she knew how to do a four-strand braid. Qiao Simei readily agreed. After the couple left, Qiao Zuwang confirmed with Mr. Shen that the adoption was agreed upon and was given the address of Siping Hostel, room 206, where the couple was staying.
He then gathered his children and announced that their family couldn't afford to raise so many, especially since their mother had passed away. He explained that Mr. Shen and Mrs. Fu, who were well-educated high school teachers from Suzhou, had no children and wished to adopt Qiao Simei, not Qiao Sanli.
Qiao Sanli immediately protested, but Qiao Simei, envisioning a life of "White Rabbit candy every day and a perm," declared her willingness to go and even adopted a new name, Shen Jingyi. Qiao Erqiang, however, was distraught, asking his father if Simei would ever return. Qiao Zuwang instructed Qiao Yicheng to pack only Simei's school books, saying the new parents would buy her new clothes and had foreign exchange certificates.
Qiao Yicheng, struggling with his emotions, chastised Qiao Erqiang for being preoccupied with television and poor grades, before lamenting that his siblings could watch TV at "Uncle Shen's" house in the future. He then gave the cake the Shen family had given him to his younger siblings, refusing to eat any himself. Desperate for an opportunity to further his education, Qiao Yicheng went to the Siping Hostel to speak with Mr. Shen and Mrs. Fu.
He pleaded with them to adopt him instead of Simei, highlighting his excellent grades, his role as a Communist Youth League member and class committee leader, and his strong work ethic. He explained that he only wanted a good environment to study and pursue his education, even offering to support himself. Mrs. Fu, with understanding, gently declined, revealing that they had a daughter who died at six years old.
She explained that they felt a strong connection with Qiao Simei because she even resembled their deceased daughter. Mrs. Fu encouraged Qiao Yicheng, telling him that like a lotus flower, he too could rise above his circumstances and achieve great things, becoming a useful person in the future due to his hard work and ambition. As Qiao Yicheng left, heartbroken, Mrs. Fu handed him a cake for his younger siblings. He returned home, filled with unspoken anger and disappointment.
Soon after, Qiao Simei was taken away by Mr. Shen and Mrs. Fu. Qiao Zuwang casually waved her off, telling his remaining children that Simei was now off to live a good life. But Qiao Erqiang was inconsolable, crying out for Simei not to leave. He desperately offered her all his White Rabbit candy and even his fried pork cracklings, pleading with her to stay. His heartbroken cries echoed through the neighborhood as Simei departed.
Meanwhile, Qi Ziqiang expressed his strong disapproval of Qiao Zuwang's decision to give away Simei, arguing that a true father would not "exchange his daughter for money." Wei Shufang, however, defended the adoption, explaining that it was a formal process through the Ministry of Civil Affairs, and that Qiao Simei would be better off with Mr. Shen and Mrs. Fu than with Qiao Zuwang. She also mentioned that Qiao Zuwang was a "sly devil" who would be hard to find.
Shortly after, Qiao Zuwang returned home in a foul mood after a failed investment with a man named Xu. He had lost his money and a bracelet he invested, and received only a small refund, leading to a heated argument and a physical altercation. Upon arriving home, he was confronted by Wei Shufang, who had brought Qiao Qiqi.
She explained that Qiao Qiqi's leg was badly injured and required long-term treatment at a children's hospital, and that a doctor had diagnosed him with congenital polio. Wei Shufang insisted that as Qiao Qiqi was Qiao Zuwang's biological son, he could not shirk his responsibility. Qiao Zuwang tried to blame Wei Shufang for Qiqi's injury, claiming she hadn't watched him properly when he fell in the house.
Wei Shufang countered that she had already spent a lot on Qiqi's medical care and that polio was a congenital condition, not caused by a fall. She sternly warned Qiao Zuwang that if he didn't raise his son, the authorities would intervene. With a tender "Second Auntie," Qiao Qiqi cried out as Wei Shufang regretfully left him with Qiao Zuwang, giving him a packet of candy and promising to visit, explaining she had no other choice.
When Qi Weimin returned home, he anxiously searched for Qiao Qiqi, only to be told by his mother, Wei Shufang, that she had sent Qiqi back to the Qiao family. She explained that a recent checkup indicated Qiqi had polio, a serious condition she couldn't handle, emphasizing that Qiqi's health shouldn't distract Qi Weimin from his important studies. Qi Weimin, however, recalled a classmate mentioning a highly capable Dr. Wei at the children's hospital.
Driven by concern, Qi Weimin went to the Qiao residence. He found Qiao Yicheng washing clothes, who responded with sarcasm when asked about Qiqi's condition and the unused medicine. Qiao Yicheng argued that he lacked the money for proper treatment as his father only provided basic living expenses, and challenged Qi Weimin's "moral high ground." Ignoring Qiao Yicheng's bitter remarks, Qi Weimin gently picked up Qiao Qiqi and announced he was taking him to the hospital.
As they left, Qiao Yicheng, despite his harsh words, secretly slipped his saved money into Qi Weimin's hand. After a long wait, Dr. Wei examined Qiao Qiqi and clarified that he did not have polio. Instead, Qiqi was diagnosed with hip joint bursitis, a treatable condition. Dr. Wei advised hot water compresses and rest, assuring Qi Weimin that Qiqi was healthy and would grow up strong.
She also praised Qi Weimin for his kindness, emphasizing the importance of cherishing sibling bonds. With this good news, Wei Shufang, relieved, came to take Qiao Qiqi back. Qiao Zuwang, visibly delighted, eagerly promised to repay Qi Weimin the money he used for Qiqi's medical expenses, even though Wei Shufang teased him about his happy face being twisted. In Suzhou, Qiao Simei, now sporting pretty pigtails and a dress, longed for her old home.
Alone at the train station, she asked for directions to Nanjing. Lacking a ticket, she cleverly followed an adult onto a train, hiding between the cars. A kind conductor, noticing her, gave her food and, after realizing she was alone and pointing vaguely when asked about her father, escorted her all the way to Nanjing. The railway police then contacted the local police, who brought Simei back to the Qiao household.
The officers praised Simei for her intelligence, as she was able to clearly state her home address and the names of her family members. Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, and Qiao Sanli were overjoyed to see their sister return. Simei happily shared that she had lost a tooth and asked Qiao Yicheng to throw it onto the roof, a traditional childhood ritual.
Wei Shufang, who was also present, chided Qiao Zuwang for the trouble Simei's return caused, but expressed relief that the educated Shen couple chose not to pursue the matter. Qiao Zuwang, however, complained about the financial burden of his four children needing money for school, likening them to leeches "sucking his blood."
Wei Shufang then proudly boasted about Qi Weimin's academic excellence, mentioning his top ranking in a prestigious high school and even his published articles in newspapers, which further deepened Qiao Yicheng's quiet bitterness. The factory manager, Shi Weidong, announced Qiao Zuwang's new "easy job" as food procurement, claiming that Qiao Zuwang's "sly devil" nature made him perfect for it.
However, Qiao Zuwang soon discovered the role primarily involved hard labor, like riding a tricycle with Master Ma for purchases, instead of handling the actual buying. He confronted Shi Weidong, arguing that at his age, he shouldn't be subjected to manual labor, despite Shi Weidong's reminder that many older, even disabled, workers still performed hard tasks.
Qiao Zuwang claimed to be disabled too, having a missing big toe, but Shi Weidong retorted that it never stopped him from running quickly for benefits. Shi Weidong also accused Qiao Zuwang of being a lazy, "fiddling" worker who napped on the job and hinted at suspected theft from the warehouse, stating the factory would not keep idle people.
Qiao Zuwang denied the accusations and refused to do hard labor, but Shi Weidong declared the decision by the factory office was final and unchangeable. Later, Qiao Erqiang, having spent the day with Niu Ye, excitedly described Niu Ye's family's new "Xiangxuehai" refrigerator, which could keep food fresh for three days. Qiao Zuwang, dismissing the idea of their family owning one due to their financial situation and his "greedy eaters," threw down his dirty dishes. Still fuming about his new work assignment, he grabbed a rope and headed to Plant Manager Shi Weidong's house, finding him having dinner.
Episode 4 Recap
Qiao Yicheng diligently prepared for his national college entrance exams while managing the household, much to Qiao Zuwang’s disdain. Qiao Zuwang scoffed that attending college would require an auspicious omen for their ancestral graves, suggesting that Qiao Yicheng was wasting his time and should instead find a job to alleviate his father's burdens. Despite the skepticism, Qiao Yicheng persisted. On exam day, a supportive Qiao Sanli gave him walnuts to boost his brainpower.
Qi Ziqiang drove both Qiao Yicheng and Qi Weimin to the exam site, urging them to do well and not be nervous. After the exams, Qiao Yicheng’s younger siblings, brought by Qi Ziqiang, were waiting to celebrate. Qiao Erqiang appeared with a bruised face, holding a kitten. He explained that classmates, including Wang Jun, had bullied the cat, and he now realized they were the ones who had previously framed him for stealing money to buy a Hong Kong shirt.
Filled with indignation, Qiao Yicheng immediately rushed off and confronted the boys in a fight, avenging Qiao Erqiang. Weeks later, when the postman delivered a letter, Qiao Yicheng’s face lit up with joy; he had passed the exams. Qiao Yicheng’s success made him the first college student from their humble alley, earning him widespread admiration from neighbors and even a noticeable improvement in Qiao Zuwang's attitude.
That evening, Qiao Zuwang specially cooked him noodles, boasting that he would also take Qiao Yicheng to Tong Wang restaurant for soup dumplings. Qiao Zuwang beamed with pride, declaring that a college student in their family was an unprecedented event, truly a sign of "blue smoke from ancestral graves." He even mentioned visiting his ancestors' graves to pay respects. When Qiao Yicheng revealed he was attending Normal University, Qiao Zuwang was even more pleased because it meant no tuition fees.
He proudly presented Qiao Yicheng with a watch he had bought at an auction house, instructing him to wear it carefully. Meanwhile, Qi Weimin also excelled, becoming Nanjing’s top liberal arts student and gaining admission to university. Wei Shufang celebrated lavishly, proclaiming she had spent her "coffin money" on the festivities and that her son’s success made her feel like a "lucky ghost."
Qiao Yicheng visited the celebration to drop off Qiao Qiqi’s monthly living expenses, feeling a pang of imbalance amidst the grandeur. However, Qi Weimin, with genuine warmth, handed him a bag of food for Qiao Erqiang and the younger sisters, telling him not to discard it. As Qiao Yicheng began his university life, he reflected on the year 1983 as a time of hope for China. Soon, the family learned that Qi Ziqiang’s health had deteriorated.
Qiao Yicheng brought yam porridge made by Qiao Erqiang to visit, finding Qi Weimin sweeping the streets in the alley. Qi Weimin revealed that his father was "not too well," and they were awaiting test results, fearing a serious illness. Inside, Wei Shufang informed Qiao Yicheng that Qi Ziqiang had been restless all night and had just fallen asleep. Qiao Yicheng inquired about Qiao Erqiang, and Wei Shufang lamented that he was "not the type for studying."
She recounted his academic failures, like confusing the "Hongmen Banquet" and mistakenly answering that "Journey to the West" was the novel also known as "The Story of the Stone", confirming he had been held back three times. She further explained that Qiao Zuwang had made him drop out without consent, and now he merely "wanders around." She warned Qiao Yicheng to keep a close eye on him, especially with a recent crackdown on crime.
Upon learning from Qiao Yicheng that Qi Weimin was sweeping the streets, Wei Shufang became furious, stating she didn't send him to college to perform such tasks. A reporter from Nanjing Daily arrived, hoping to publicize Qi Weimin as a "new youth" and "number one exam winner who sweeps the streets," promoting civic virtues. Enraged, Wei Shufang aggressively chased the reporter away, refusing to let her son’s activities be seen as an "embarrassment."
Qi Weimin tried to calm her, explaining it was a job assigned by the neighborhood committee and he wasn't ashamed. He reassured his mother that he would still pursue his studies, but Wei Shufang implored Qiao Yicheng to reason with him. Later, Qiao Yicheng found Qiao Erqiang watching television at Niuye’s place. He dragged Qiao Erqiang home, scolding him for wasting time watching "made-up nonsense" and for his irresponsible behavior, warning him he could end up in jail.
Qiao Erqiang, though reluctant, promised to stop hanging out with Niuye and agreed to stay home. The growing children also presented new challenges; Qiao Sanli complained about Qiao Erqiang mixing his dirty clothes with hers, prompting Qiao Yicheng to suggest buying a larger basin. More significantly, Qiao Yicheng proposed that Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei move into Qiao Zuwang’s room to give them more privacy as they grew older, with Qiao Zuwang himself moving in with Qiao Erqiang.
Qiao Zuwang vehemently refused, accusing Qiao Yicheng of eyeing his property and declaring he would rather die in that room than move. He dismissed Qiao Yicheng’s concerns about boys and girls sharing a room, suggesting they simply "close their eyes" or dress appropriately. Nevertheless, Qiao Yicheng insisted that Qiao Erqiang move to sleep in the main room, even if it meant using a cot.
Qiao Erqiang, confused and hesitant, obeyed, much to Qiao Simei's amusement, who teased him about his "stinky feet." Qiao Zuwang, seeing Qiao Erqiang sleeping in the main room, grumbled about his children being "debt collectors." Soon after, Wen Qinghua approached Qiao Yicheng, asking him to tutor her niece, Wen Ju'an, who was 18, repeating her college entrance exams, and known for being rebellious despite her intelligence in math. Qiao Yicheng arrived at Wen Ju'an’s spacious "small Western-style house."
Wen Ju'an was initially aloof, questioning the relevance of learning English, proudly declaring herself Chinese, and calling the pursuit of English "stupid." Qiao Yicheng maintained his patience. During a lesson, Wen Ju'an unexpectedly took a sweet potato from Qiao Yicheng's bag and praised its taste, while unceremoniously discarding a plate of fruit her mother had offered. As the lessons progressed, Wen Ju'an gradually warmed to Qiao Yicheng, even asking about his family and the unique naming convention of his siblings.
Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang attempted to join Niuye’s blacklight dance party but was turned away by Niuye, who referenced Qiao Yicheng’s earlier intervention. Shortly after, the police raided the party, arresting all attendees. Qiao Erqiang, narrowly escaping, returned home visibly shaken, recounting how Niuye and everyone else had been apprehended for the illegal dancing party.
Qiao Zuwang, surprisingly, found Qiao Erqiang a job at Yuhong Machinery Factory, proudly announcing he had exaggerated Qiao Erqiang’s age to "eighteen going on nineteen" to secure the position, celebrating having another income earner in the family. Qiao Simei immediately eyed Qiao Erqiang’s first paycheck, envisioning restaurant meals and a new silk skirt. Qiao Sanli, ever practical, warned her not to take advantage, reminding her of an apprentice's meager salary.
Qiao Yicheng, living on campus, had not been home recently, and both Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei admitted they missed him. At the factory, Qiao Erqiang reported for duty and was assigned to the turning shop under Master Ma Suqin, a kind and respected female worker, amidst playful remarks from other co-workers who called her "a beauty" and teased her about her "cute" apprentice.
Ma Suqin instructed Qiao Erqiang on getting uniforms and bringing his own lunch, emphasizing the need for strength in their demanding work. During a tutoring session, Wen Ju'an continued to display curiosity about Qiao Yicheng's personal life, probing about his father's role and why he worked part-time despite free tuition. Qiao Yicheng explained that he needed money for his own living expenses and to supplement his family's income.
When Wen Ju'an's mother brought grapes, Wen Ju'an tried to discard them, but Qiao Yicheng quickly ate them to prevent waste. After class, Wen Ju'an walked him out, asking about the location of his part-time job, to which he replied, "our school newsstand." Back home, Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei discovered apples, paper stars, and a love poem left on their bicycle.
Qiao Simei was thrilled, imagining a romantic suitor, but Qiao Sanli was disgusted, immediately throwing the gifts and the accompanying bottle into the trash, threatening to never speak to Simei again if she retrieved them. At the factory, when Qiao Erqiang made a mistake with a cart, Ma Suqin promptly stepped in, calmly diffusing the situation with the manager and explaining Qiao Erqiang was a new apprentice.
Later, she checked on him, reassuring him that such mistakes were normal for a beginner. Noticing a faint smell of smoke, she learned he had accepted a cigarette from another master. Ma Suqin sternly warned him against picking up "bad habits" like "smoking, alcohol, prostitutes, and gambling," declaring that succumbing to even one would "ruin your life," and advised him to focus on reading and learning instead.
Episode 5 Recap
At breakfast, Qiao Sanli noticed a persistent boy trying to place fruit on her bicycle. She sternly refused his advances and, dragging Qiao Simei, left without eating, much to Simei's dismay. Simei found his gestures romantic, describing him as dedicated and capable of writing touching love poems. However, Qiao Sanli, recalling painful childhood memories, vehemently rejected his overtures, warning Simei that such actions were not dedication but manipulative and perverse.
She insisted that such people "are worse than anyone," implying they have ulterior motives. Simei teased Sanli for being cold and stricter than Qiao Yicheng, also mentioning that Sanli had threatened the boy with Qiao Yicheng earlier. Qiao Yicheng returned home after several weeks. Qiao Erqiang proudly presented the meal he had cooked, which Qiao Yicheng noted tasted much like their mother's but with an indescribable difference.
Qiao Zuwang, feeling triumphant, announced he had secured a lathe operator job for Qiao Erqiang, bragging about his "connections" as he did so. Qiao Yicheng, largely ignoring his father's self-praise, encouraged Qiao Erqiang to work hard, persevere through difficulties, and learn well from his master. After Qiao Zuwang quickly finished half his meal and left to gamble, Qiao Yicheng turned his attention to his younger siblings. He learned that Qiao Erqiang diligently cooked late every night after work.
Qiao Simei, growing more fashion-conscious, now wore her hair down and experimented with her clothes, which Qiao Yicheng found messy and mismatched. In return, she pointed out how much cleaner and better dressed Qiao Erqiang had become since starting work, causing him to blush when she playfully asked about his love life. Qiao Sanli, on the other hand, was always neat and tidy, giving Qiao Yicheng less to worry about.
Qiao Yicheng was summoned by Qiao Simei's homeroom teacher, who reported her close relationship with an older boy, notorious for being held back twice, and her reading of romance novels. Back home, Qiao Yicheng discovered a "love poem" in Qiao Simei's bag, which turned out to be a jumbled description of a male character from a classic novel, Wu Song.
He sternly lectured her for pursuing such things while neglecting her studies and ordered her to sever ties with the boy. To prevent further early romance, Qiao Yicheng declared he would apply to be a day student and personally escort her to and from school, monitoring her 24/7, regardless of the distance between their schools. True to his word, he pulled her away from the boy who was waiting to give her flowers.
Later, Qi Weimin found a despondent Qiao Simei burying reeds. She wondered if love was as fragile and fleeting as the reeds, echoing Qi Weimin's own sentiment about his withered and dried-up love. To cheer her up, Qi Weimin offered her the latest "Yesterday's Glitter" postcards. Qiao Simei brightened, wishing Qiao Yicheng were as understanding as Qi Weimin, lamenting that her older brother treated her like a prisoner.
Qiao Yicheng's constant sighing over Qiao Simei's romantic entanglement caught Wen Ju'an's attention, making her suspect he was either in love or heartbroken. Qiao Yicheng clarified that his concerns were for his youngest sister, Qiao Simei, who showed "early love tendencies." He worried about the negative impression she might leave on her teachers and classmates, and feared she would suffer significant emotional setbacks in the future.
Wen Ju'an, however, challenged his perspective, arguing that love should not be categorized as "early" or "late." She asserted that "love is love," and the timing of liking someone is irrelevant; sometimes it's the wrong person, and sometimes the timing is simply off. She expressed a longing for meeting the "right person at the right time" and directly asked Qiao Yicheng if he had ever experienced such a love, to which he replied negatively.
Subsequently, she invited him to celebrate her birthday with dinner at her house the following day. Ignoring the curious stares of her classmates, Qiao Simei boldly called Cheng Wei out of class. Cheng Wei, however, revealed that his mother had forbidden their relationship and threatened to transfer him if they continued, a prospect he wanted to avoid before graduation. He asked if they could still be friends, to which Simei reluctantly agreed.
Later, Qiao Yicheng was furious to learn that Qiao Simei had approached Cheng Wei again. Qiao Zuwang and Qiao Sanli worried about the inevitable gossip. Defiantly, Qiao Simei declared she was no longer interested in Cheng Wei, dismissing him as unmanly and "a kindergarten baby." She asserted that her affections were her own business and proclaimed her future preference for a partner who was both "manly and strong," and, crucially, "better looking than Cheng Wei."
Qiao Yicheng argued that good looks were impractical, but Simei countered that they brought her joy. When Qiao Yicheng chided her for openly discussing "like" and "love," she retorted that these were not insults. In contrast to Qiao Simei's forwardness, Qiao Sanli expressed strong disinterest in relationships, declaring she would remain single. When asked about his own romantic prospects, Qiao Erqiang blushed and admitted he didn't know.
On Wen Ju'an's birthday, Qiao Yicheng joined Wen Mama and her uncle to celebrate. Wen Ju'an, however, was in tears, upset because she hadn't achieved her expected score in one subject. Qiao Yicheng presented her with a new set of "excellent essay selections" as a thoughtful gift. Wen Mama, on the other hand, offered a rare Italian chocolate she had specially sourced from Hong Kong, but Wen Ju'an was hesitant to accept it.
When Wen Mama suggested blowing out the candles, claiming everyone was present, Wen Ju'an stubbornly refused, insisting that "we're missing someone" and she intended to invite them. This sparked a heated argument, with Wen Ju'an openly rebelling against her mother's pervasive control. She accused Wen Mama of constantly making decisions for her, from her clothes and hairstyle to her academic performance and even her personal preferences. " I'm a human being. I have thoughts. I'm not your doll!"
Wen Ju'an declared, lamenting that despite all the excellent living conditions and gifts, her mother had "never given me what I want the most." After his shift, Qiao Erqiang, intrigued by some colleagues' secretive behavior, followed them to the bathhouse. There, he found them setting up a ladder to peer through a hole, excited about seeing something they hadn't seen before. However, Qiao Erqiang inadvertently made a noise, startling his colleagues and causing them to flee the scene.
Wen Ju'an sought out Qiao Yicheng at the school's newsstand where he worked part-time. Despite Qiao Yicheng's focus on his job, Wen Ju'an decided to wait for him outside, stating she wanted him to accompany her somewhere after his shift. Her striking beauty quickly attracted the attention of male students, one of whom flirted with her, offering to show her around and inviting her to a dance. Wen Ju'an politely declined, explaining she already had plans.
Meanwhile, Qiao Yicheng, clearly distracted by the ongoing interaction outside, mistakenly handed a customer the wrong newspaper. Once Qiao Yicheng finished his work, Wen Ju'an gave him her bag to carry. Separately, at the factory, Qiao Erqiang found himself drawn to Ma Suqin as she styled her damp hair, and she taught him the Manchu word "Maling" for a hair ornament.
Qiao Yicheng agreed to accompany Wen Ju'an, gently reminding her along the way that even in college, her primary focus should remain on academics, and to avoid distractions from social activities or relationships. They arrived at a secluded alley, where Wen Ju'an, carrying several bags, requested that Qiao Yicheng wait outside, assuring him she would be quick. Trusting her, he waited. Moments later, hearing her scream from inside, Qiao Yicheng rushed in.
Upon seeing a man embracing Wen Ju'an, he instinctively attacked him. In a distressed reaction, Wen Ju'an slapped Qiao Yicheng, revealing that the man was her biological father and pleading with Qiao Yicheng to stop hitting him. Qiao Yicheng, apologetic, expressed his regret, stating he hadn't known. As they walked away, Wen Ju'an explained that her parents were divorcing, and her mother forbade her from seeing her father.
Despite this, she did not want her father to leave, firmly believing that "We're a family. We should be together." She thanked Qiao Yicheng for his company that day. Qiao Yicheng returned home feeling distraught. Qiao Erqiang immediately offered to cook him some freshly wrapped wontons, and Qiao Zuwang, joining them, also requested a bowl. Qiao Simei, ever fixated on appearances, lamented that her brothers were not as handsome as the movie star Chow Yun-Fat.
Qiao Sanli, however, defended Qiao Yicheng's looks, noting his good features but admitting he often looked stern and might benefit from a mustache. Qiao Simei then secretly confided that Qiao Qiqi was, in fact, the "most handsome" male in their family. Meanwhile, Qiao Qiqi, now in elementary school, was struggling with his studies and receiving private tutoring from Teacher Chang. Qi Weimin arrived to visit Qiao Qiqi, bringing fruit.
He was greeted by Teacher Chang's sister, Chang Xinyu, who playfully mistook him for Qiao Qiqi's father. Qi Weimin, clarifying he was Qiao Qiqi's "older cousin," was told that Teacher Chang did not accept gifts from parents and to take the fruit back when he left. Inside, Teacher Chang praised Qiao Qiqi's attentiveness but noted his shyness.
Chang Xinyu later showed Qi Weimin a drawing Qiao Qiqi had made of him, and as Qi Weimin left, Chang Xinyu, after correcting him on her name, took one of the fruits he had brought, smiling brightly. Later that day, Wen Ju'an unexpectedly appeared in Qiao Yicheng's class, interrupting his lecture on "Onegin" and Tatyana. After Qiao Yicheng apologized for earlier bringing up her father, she asked him to spend the afternoon with her, to which he agreed.
Episode 6 Recap
Qiao Yicheng and Wen Ju'an visited a city wall, a place he often went to with his younger siblings. Ju'an shared that she grew up in the countryside, often playing on large threshing grounds, which made her a fast runner. They playfully raced, and when Yicheng's shoes were ruined, Ju'an took off her own, citing the importance of a simple and hardworking life. As they watched the sunset, they discussed literature.
Ju'an asked Yicheng if he would leave Tatyana if he were Onegin, to which he replied he wouldn't. He also added that even if he did, he would not vainly chase her later, unlike Onegin. Ju'an, however, suggested Onegin was atoning for past mistakes. Gently, Ju'an rested her head on Yicheng's arm and asked about his future aspirations.
Yicheng admitted he hadn't decided, but when Ju'an expressed her desire to be carefree and unrestrained, always having a sanctuary where the noise and dust melted away, he declared he would be a tree with an umbrella-like canopy for her. Their youthful affection culminated in a tender kiss.
However, the tender moment was short-lived as Ju'an tearfully revealed that her mother's job was being transferred to Beijing, and she would be taken along, with no plans to return to Nanjing as her mother felt the city didn't suit her. Later that evening, Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei lay in bed, chatting about their idols. Simei was particularly enamored with her idol, Chow Yun Fat, declaring no woman was good enough for him.
Sanli teasingly reminded Simei of her yearly change of idols, while Simei retorted that at least she had an idol, unlike Sanli. Sanli then stated that her big brother, Qiao Yicheng, was her idol. When asked about his idol, Erqiang shyly admitted it was his Master. Meanwhile, Qiao Yicheng, still affected by Ju'an's departure, silently changed his shoes, having wiped away tears.
Unbeknownst to his siblings, Erqiang harbored a secret fondness for small animals, often feeding stray cats at the factory. He also took the initiative to block up a window that allowed peeking into the women's bathroom, though he couldn't quite shake the unsettling feelings he had for his Master, Ma Suqin. Soon after, Wen Ju'an's mother visited Qiao Yicheng, confirming that Ju'an and she had already left for Beijing.
She apologized to Yicheng, but he insisted there was nothing to apologize for, explaining that the emotions between young people are the purest, and their connection was destiny. She gave him the final payment for tutoring and, importantly, handed him Ju'an's address in Beijing. She encouraged Yicheng to carefully consider his future path after graduation, reassuring him that many years later, their current obstacles would seem insignificant.
Qi Ziqiang, confined to his hospital bed, anxiously inquired about his other children, Xiao Ya and Xiao Yi. His wife, Wei Shufang, complained that it often felt as if Qi Weimin was their only son, as the other children rarely visited or called. She recounted how she had encouraged Xiao Ya to save money by not calling and Xiao Yi to excel at the factory. Just that afternoon, Qi Ziqiang passed away.
Wei Shufang wept over his body, recalling their lifetime together without conflict and thanking him for their wonderful children. In stark contrast, Qiao Zuwang was heard cheerfully humming a tune, showing no signs of grief. Qiao Yicheng, shedding tears, consoled Qi Weimin, expressing his anger at Qiao Zuwang's indifference but acknowledging its futility.
He told Qi Weimin that Zuwang, "a person who only lives for themselves, will never understand the significance of a good person," and affirmed Qi Ziqiang's goodness as a father. Yicheng further comforted Qi Weimin, who worried about his mother, by assuring him that Qi Qiqi was fortunate to have him. In the wake of his father's death, Qi Weimin decided to accept his assigned position at a magazine publisher to help his family.
When asked about his own plans, Qiao Yicheng declared his intention to continue his studies, specifically to take the postgraduate exams at his university. He told Qi Weimin he wished to live for himself first, before living for others. Qiao Zuwang was vehemently against this, demanding Yicheng get a job and earn money instead of "spending his youth unemployed."
Yicheng, for once, stood up to his father, stating that he had paid for his Normal University education through odd jobs and asking, "If we're ranking selfishness, if you say you're second, who would dare say they were first!" He also corrected Qiao Zuwang's mispronunciation of "editor." Furious, Qiao Zuwang cursed him as unfilial. Back at home, Qiao Sanli discovered Qiao Yicheng writing a letter addressed to "Ju'an," deducing he had fallen in love.
She then remarked on Qiao Erqiang's similar behavior, noting he had been smiling to himself, wearing different clothes daily, even brushing his teeth at night, and blushing when she complimented his cleanliness, suggesting he might be dating. Yicheng, however, dismissed her concerns, believing Erqiang would confide in him if he were in a relationship. Sanli expressed her own reluctance to date, but Yicheng encouraged her, assuring her that there were many good boys.
Soon after, a distressed Qiao Simei burst in, begging Sanli for help as she had failed her make-up exam. Sanli, unable to lie, told Yicheng the truth. Enraged, Yicheng scolded Simei, reminding her that failing the exam would prevent her from getting her junior high diploma, effectively leaving her with only a primary school education. He threatened to wash his hands of her.
Despite his anger, Yicheng, ever the responsible elder brother, went to the principal to plead for another chance for Simei. The principal refused, citing school rules and criticizing Yicheng for neglecting Simei's education due to his own postgraduate ambitions and for burdening his younger siblings with household chores. At the factory, after taking a shower, Ma Suqin was called by Qiao Erqiang.
As she lingered by the curtain, Erqiang's emotions, which had been stirring since he saw her hair, urged him forward. Just then, the wind blew the curtain open, revealing her bare shoulder, which startled Erqiang. As Ma Suqin was about to leave work, her husband appeared, aggressively demanding money and grabbing her neck. While other factory workers hesitated to intervene, Qiao Erqiang courageously rushed forward, challenging the husband for hitting a woman. In response, the husband beat Erqiang.
The husband then picked up the money, feigned remorse, and hugged Ma Suqin, promising to make a fortune selling "Dongbei's banana pears" so she and their son could have a better life. The factory workers, accustomed to such scenes, merely grumbled about the disruption and dispersed. After they left, Ma Suqin, with tears in her eyes, tended to Erqiang's wounds. Erqiang, crying, questioned why she endured such suffering and offered to avenge her.
Ma Suqin, however, told him not to speak "foolish things," advising him to "laugh for other people to see, keep your crying inside," as "no one cares if you cry, they'll only laugh at you." Erqiang, however, insisted that he cared and cherished her. Ma Suqin dismissed him, telling him not to speak "such things again." As he walked away dejectedly, she called him back, urging him, "Don't speak nonsense and don't do anything foolish in the future.
Your master is still your master and will treat you as well as a master treats her apprentice. Okay?" Qiao Yicheng's hard work paid off, and he successfully passed his postgraduate entrance exams. The news spread, and a neighbor, Auntie Wu, congratulated Yicheng in the street. He flattered her, praising her "good pair of eyes, like the Monkey King," while his father, Qiao Zuwang, was heard muttering about her being a "bootlicker."
Simultaneously, Qiao Simei also received her junior high diploma. Simei excitedly rushed to Wei Shufang's newly opened small store to share the good news with her and Qi Weimin, boasting about her diploma and Yicheng's postgraduate acceptance as "two good things happening on the same day." Yicheng, fulfilling his promise, returned Simei's collection of novels to her. Simei, now feeling grown-up, had even begun practicing drawing her eyebrows.
Despite Simei and Sanli blossoming into elegant young women, Qiao Yicheng continued to worry about Simei. He discovered that she had borrowed money from both Qiao Erqiang and Qi Weimin to travel to Beijing with friends to attend a Fei Xiang concert. Realizing this too late, Yicheng confronted Erqiang, who admitted lending her money.
Yicheng then angrily confronted Qi Weimin at Wei Shufang's store, scolding him for giving Simei money and calling him "stupid" for believing Simei's story about two adults (her classmate's aunt and boyfriend) accompanying her. Yicheng accused Qi Weimin of not caring because Simei wasn't his biological sister, a claim Qi Weimin vehemently denied, asserting he had always treated her as his own sister. Yicheng then threatened Qi Weimin if anything happened to Simei.
Seeing Yicheng's fury, Qi Weimin provided him with the address of the guest house where Simei was staying in Beijing. As he stormed off, Yicheng defiantly declared that he would not repay the money Simei borrowed from Qi Weimin, adding, "This will stop you from having too much money to waste!"
Episode 7 Recap
Qiao Yicheng frantically searched for Qiao Simei in Beijing. He asked a guesthouse attendant about her, describing her appearance and mentioning her pigtail braids, white top, and white skirt. The attendant was suspicious and unhelpful, hinting that Qiao Simei might have run off with someone. Qiao Yicheng angrily clarified he was her brother, stressing his urgency and demanding she speak Mandarin. Although he saw her name in the register, Qiao Simei then suddenly appeared behind him.
Upon returning home, Qiao Simei was reprimanded by Qiao Sanli, who insisted she wait obediently for Qiao Yicheng to come back. Qiao Simei, however, excitedly recounted her experience at the Fei Xiang concert, describing him as even more handsome in person and the atmosphere as incredibly enthusiastic, though she admitted she was too weak to shake his hand, which Qiao Sanli called "heartless."
Later, Wei Shufang called Qiao Yicheng to inform him that Qiao Simei had returned to Nanjing and advised him not to linger in Beijing, mentioning it was a waste of money. Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang, who didn't even remember his own birthday, received a thoughtful gift from Ma Suqin: a walkman and a cassette of Teresa Teng that she had someone copy.
Ma Suqin told him not to listen to it while crossing the road and affectionately teased him for constantly calling her "Master," saying he sounded like Nezha. Qiao Yicheng then visited Wen Ju'an, bringing her sweet potatoes and fruits he bought from a roadside stall. He found her distant and formal, calling him "Teacher Qiao." She mentioned her mother, Auntie Wen, was away in Tianjin on a business trip for a special interview.
Qiao Yicheng congratulated her on getting into college, and she, in turn, congratulated him on his graduate school admission, which he confirmed was a decision he made for himself, stating his desire to continue his studies regardless of others' opinions. When Qiao Yicheng asked why she hadn't contacted him, she replied he hadn't contacted her either. She then stated she had an appointment with a teacher who had helped her significantly, implicitly suggesting a new connection.
Sensing he was intruding, Qiao Yicheng started to leave, but Wen Ju'an suddenly stopped him and requested they meet again that evening, and he agreed to meet later. Back home, Qiao Erqiang was listening to music on his new walkman when Qiao Simei criticized his singing. Noticing the new scarf around his neck, she asked him to buy one for her.
Qiao Erqiang clarified it was a thank-you gift for his Master at the factory, who had given him the walkman and taught him much. When pressed for a description of his Master, he simply said, "like mom." Qiao Simei, ever opinionated about fashion, dismissed his preference for a yellow scarf, deeming it too "girly" and undignified, and cautioned him about attracting mosquitoes, stinkbugs, and bees in summer, remarking on his lack of aesthetic sense.
The girls at Qiao Sanli's school for textiles were excited to listen to a radio show, "Harbin Under the Curtain of Night," but the wired broadcast system was broken. After their attempt to fix it failed, Qiao Sanli volunteered to find Wang Yiding from the auto repair class to repair it. Wang Yiding successfully fixed the broadcast, but accidentally fell and sprained his ankle.
Feeling deeply apologetic, Qiao Sanli insisted on giving him a ride home on her bicycle, marking the beginning of their acquaintance. Qiao Yicheng returned to Nanjing, still fuming over Qiao Simei's escapade. He lay silently in bed, ignoring Simei, who guiltily kept her head down, daring not to breathe.
Qiao Sanli tried to mediate, telling Simei that Qiao Yicheng was constantly getting angry at the mention of Fei Xiang and suggested she put away her posters to avoid provoking him, reminding her that he might say harsh things but was soft-hearted. Simei feigned illness in an attempt to gain sympathy, claiming she felt nauseous, dizzy, and believed she was going to die as "repayment" for her mistakes, but Qiao Yicheng saw through the act and went to eat.
Realizing her "pity ploy" failed, she resorted to clinging to him, begging for forgiveness and offering him food, but he remained annoyed, comparing her to "sticky toffee." He told her to marry Fei Xiang and move far away. He also learned that her admiration for Fei Xiang had shifted to the boy band Xiao Hu Dui, prompting him to remark, "Now there are three" that she liked.
Qiao Erqiang bought a new scarf for Ma Suqin as a "return gift" for the walkman, but she found it in her bag and refused to accept it, telling him to give it to his sister instead. When he insisted, she threw it back at him, and he ran off, upset. Later, at work, Qiao Erqiang enthusiastically invited Ma Suqin to the newly opened skating rink at the Workers' Cultural Palace, eager for her to teach him.
She reluctantly agreed, and as they skated, their colleagues teased them, remarking that the "Master and apprentice" looked like a young couple. Qiao Erqiang was pleased, stating Ma Suqin wouldn't get angry at the comments, and Ma Suqin patiently taught him how to move his feet to skate. Qiao Sanli's bicycle underwent a remarkable transformation at Wang Yiding's hands.
Initially, she was upset, mistakenly believing he had used stolen parts from the school's materials room and told him to dismantle them and return the items. He quickly clarified that he was joking and that the parts were meticulously collected from old bikes he repaired for neighbors and from flea markets, a process he had undertaken over a long period.
Impressed by his ingenuity and skill, Qiao Sanli also admired a self-repaired headlamp he wore, noting its utility for riding at night. Her sister, Simei, even commented that the bike looked "completely new," and asked to borrow it. Qiao Yicheng remained distant from both Qiao Simei and Qi Weimin for two months, especially irritated by any mention of Fei Xiang. One day, while Qi Weimin was teaching Qiao Qiqi to ride a bicycle, they encountered Chang Xinyu.
Simei immediately sweet-talked Chang Xinyu, complimenting her appearance, and Chang Xinyu quickly helped Simei learn to ride as well. Qiao Qiqi, feeling neglected, ran to Qi Weimin to complain that Qiao Simei wouldn't let him ride the bike. Chang Xinyu noticed Qiao Qiqi's mended sleeve, and Qiao Qiqi proudly announced that Qi Weimin had sewn it for him and even made dresses for his "sister Xiao Ya."
Chang Xinyu looked at Qi Weimin with a complex mix of admiration, observing how kind he was. Wang Yiding's foot healed, but he continued to wait for Qiao Sanli after school, offering to push her bike and expressing his gratitude for her rides. He congratulated her on being an outstanding graduate. They soon discovered a fortunate coincidence: they were both assigned to the Jingling Wool Spinning Factory. Wang Yiding accompanied Qiao Sanli all the way home before reluctantly leaving.
However, as Qiao Sanli reached her doorstep, Wang Xuanen confronted her, confessing his long-standing affection and attempting to embrace her. Startled, Qiao Sanli cried for help. Wang Yiding, who had circled back, promptly intervened and chased Wang Xuanen away. Still shaken, Qiao Sanli crouched on the ground and recoiled when Wang Yiding tried to approach.
He then confessed that he had specifically inquired about her factory placement and worked hard to be assigned to the same one, expressing his desire to continue walking home with her. Qiao Sanli nodded, then picked up a piece of candy Wang Yiding had left on her bicycle seat. During a rare family dinner at home, Qiao Zuwang, seeing that Qiao Sanli had also started working, expressed his satisfaction that their lives were improving.
He reminisced about the hardships of raising four children alone, complaining about "Second Aunt" constantly asking for money, and subtly criticized Qiao Yicheng for not working and "studying this and that" instead of helping the family. Qiao Erqiang defended Qiao Yicheng, saying he was "the material for studying." Qiao Zuwang then declared his intention to buy a "real color TV" for the family, emphasizing it would be better than his sister's "fake" one.
He said he would contribute the largest share, 300 yuan, with the remaining cost to be split among the children, and mentioned his "connections" could get them a domestic "Panda brand" TV. Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli each offered 200 yuan. Qiao Yicheng, however, stated he was an unemployed young man and couldn't pay. Qiao Zuwang then pointedly looked at Qiao Yicheng, accusing him of feigning poverty despite earning "manuscript fees" from his writing and tutoring.
When Qiao Yicheng remained silent, Qiao Zuwang angrily berated him, calling him selfish. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli noticed Qiao Yicheng's pale face and asked if he was unwell, to which he replied, "My liver hurts."
Episode 8 Recap
Qiao Yicheng finally purchased a new television for the family, and everyone gathered excitedly around it. While they were enjoying the new set, Qiao Zuwang loudly complained about Qiao Erqiang's frequent trips to the bathroom, calling him "lazy." That evening, Qiao Sanli was scheduled for her first night shift. Qiao Yicheng, concerned, offered to pick her up, noting that the weather forecast predicted rain.
Qiao Sanli assured him she could return home herself, but then revealed she would have a ride from an old classmate, Wang Yiding, who now worked in the machine repair shop at her factory. Qiao Simei immediately recognized him as "the man who repairs your bicycle." Qiao Yicheng, after some thought, decided to invite Wang Yiding over for dinner to thank him for looking after Qiao Sanli.
Qiao Sanli initially hesitated, pointing out that they had never invited a classmate home before. Qiao Simei, however, half-jokingly suggested they simply treat him as a potential suitor, prompting Qiao Sanli to scold her for talking nonsense. Later, Qiao Sanli conveyed the invitation to Wang Yiding, who, despite his shyness, eventually agreed to visit. On the day of the dinner, the family prepared a feast, including chicken and fish.
Seeing the elaborate spread, Qiao Zuwang wondered if it was someone's birthday. Qiao Simei blurted out that it was for Qiao Sanli's "boyfriend," causing Qiao Sanli to again tell her to stop talking nonsense. Qiao Zuwang, however, was intrigued, declaring he wanted to see "which pig is trying to get into my cabbage patch." When Wang Yiding arrived, he quickly impressed the family by fixing a broken wooden shelf and the leaky roof.
A neighbor, Aunt Wu, praised his capability, mistaking him for a handyman. Qiao Simei corrected her, calling him "my sister's colleague," while Aunt Wu suggested he fix her roof too. Qiao Zuwang then jokingly compared Qiao Yicheng's poor repair skills to Wang Yiding's. Qiao Yicheng, observing Wang Yiding, remarked to Qiao Sanli that the young man was honest and skilled.
He encouraged Qiao Sanli to treat him well but warned her to wait until the "age of late marriage" before considering marriage. Qiao Simei accused Qiao Yicheng of being biased, reminding him how he had scolded her for dating while now being lenient with Qiao Sanli. Qiao Yicheng retorted that Qiao Sanli was more discerning than Qiao Simei, whose previous boyfriend was a "repeater."
Qiao Simei then turned her critique to Wang Yiding's appearance, calling it "a bit sorry for the audience." Qiao Yicheng quickly countered that good looks don't guarantee a good person. As dinner continued, Wang Yiding quietly ate while Qiao Zuwang barraged him with questions about his family, asking about his parents' jobs and where he lived. Upon learning Wang Yiding had a younger brother, Qiao Zuwang shook his head dismissively.
Suddenly, Ma Suqin's husband burst through the Qiao family's main door, kicking it open. He smashed household items and overturned the dining table, shouting at Qiao Erqiang for "sleeping with my wife." Qiao Erqiang, in a daze, retaliated by smashing a wine bottle over the husband's head, injuring him. The police soon arrived and took Ma Suqin's husband away.
Qiao Yicheng and Wang Yiding rushed Qiao Erqiang to the hospital, while Qiao Yicheng sent a terrified Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei home to their still-cursing father. At the hospital, Wang Yiding diligently handled Qiao Erqiang's admission procedures and stayed to keep him company. News of the incident quickly spread, with rumors of Qiao Erqiang's "corruption" circulating among the neighbors.
Qiao Simei wondered why Qiao Erqiang would get involved with an "old woman," but Qiao Sanli quickly defended him, insisting he was an "honest person." Back home, Qiao Zuwang, seeing Qiao Sanli making chicken soup for Qiao Erqiang, grumbled about the expense but then scooped all the chicken for himself. Later, Qi Weimin and Wei Shufang arrived to visit Qiao Erqiang.
Qiao Simei, unable to hold back, blurted out the entire embarrassing story, much to the dismay of Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Sanli. Qiao Yicheng was furious, especially after Qi Weimin revealed that his mother, Wei Shufang, had learned about the incident from Aunt Wu at the market.
Qiao Yicheng fumed that Aunt Wu was a busybody who "specialized in dealing with the camel trade in the Nine Countries," to which Qi Weimin calmly responded that as relatives, there was no need to hide such matters. Qi Weimin then offered Qiao Yicheng some money for Qiao Erqiang, but Qiao Yicheng angrily refused. The neighborhood continued to buzz with gossip about Qiao Erqiang. Qiao Yicheng, visibly upset, returned to the hospital.
Qiao Simei, meanwhile, secretly gave Qi Weimin's money to Qiao Sanli, wary of Qiao Yicheng's stern demeanor. Qi Weimin, concerned about Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei being alone at home, offered to drop off Wei Shufang and then check on the girls. Qiao Yicheng responded sarcastically, telling him to go ahead and be the "good brother" to the whole family. Back at home, Wang Yiding crafted several new chairs to replace those broken in the attack.
He declined Qiao Sanli's invitation to stay for dinner, explaining he needed to go to the hospital to help Qiao Yicheng with Qiao Erqiang's discharge, promising to return later for wontons. Qiao Simei, watching him leave, commented that Wang Yiding was a truly good person, adding, "if only he were a little more handsome, it would be better." News then arrived that Qiao Zuwang was furloughed from his factory under a national policy of "suspension of work without pay."
He went to the factory director's house to protest, complaining bitterly about being discarded after a lifetime of hard work and threatening to hang himself. The director, unfazed, offered a thicker rope and said he would hang himself too, explaining it was a national policy due to surplus labor. Defeated, Qiao Zuwang returned home. Oblivious to Qiao Erqiang's impending discharge, Zuwang, after an early dinner, took a rope and left the house again.
At the hospital, Qiao Yicheng sent Wang Yiding home, stating he had "some matters" to discuss with Qiao Erqiang. Qiao Yicheng pressed Qiao Erqiang for details about the incident, but Qiao Erqiang only said that Ma Suqin "treated him well" and "has a good heart." Qiao Yicheng, sighing, tried to persuade him to forget Ma Suqin, dismissing their relationship as a "moment of youthful confusion." But Qiao Erqiang, surprisingly resolute, declared, "I want to be with Ma Suqin."
Enraged, Qiao Yicheng called Ma Suqin a "bad person," prompting the usually quiet Qiao Erqiang to vehemently defend her, shouting, "You are not allowed to say that to her! We are not messing around, it is love!" Qiao Yicheng, further provoked, dared Qiao Erqiang to hit him. He then issued an ultimatum: either Qiao Erqiang gave up on Ma Suqin, or he was "no longer part of the Qiao family," instructing him to "take your things and get out."
Qiao Erqiang defiantly stated he was "going to find her." Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli, Qiao Simei, and Wang Yiding waited anxiously outside their home for Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Erqiang. Qiao Simei, fearing the worst given Qiao Yicheng's temper, even speculated he might have "killed" Qiao Erqiang, which Qiao Sanli quickly refuted. When Qiao Yicheng finally returned, his grim face confirmed Qiao Erqiang was not with him.
Qiao Erqiang went to the factory, where a kind master revealed that an anonymous letter, detailing Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin's ice skating trip and other exaggerated incidents, had been sent to Ma Suqin's husband. This had led to Ma Suqin filing for divorce, being beaten and hospitalized, and ultimately resigning to return to her hometown in Dongbei. The master advised Qiao Erqiang to forget her and find a new job.
Having lost his job, Qiao Erqiang returned home to find Qiao Zuwang in a foul mood. Angry that Erqiang had lost the job he had found for him, Zuwang took his frustration out on Qiao Simei during dinner, angrily overturning her bowl. This finally pushed Qiao Yicheng to his breaking point.
He exploded at Qiao Zuwang, accusing him of never caring for his children: not when they were hungry, not when they were bullied, not about their schoolwork, not about Qiao Sanli's night shifts, not about Qiao Simei going to Beijing alone, and not even about Qiao Erqiang's hospitalization. While acknowledging Qiao Erqiang's wrongdoing, Qiao Yicheng asserted that he had more right to scold and punish Qiao Erqiang than Qiao Zuwang did as a father.
Qiao Zuwang, defeated, mumbled curses and retreated to his room. Only then did Qiao Simei dare to cry, comforted by Qiao Sanli. Having been kicked out, Qiao Erqiang had gone to stay with his aunt, Wei Shufang. Qiao Yicheng later went to their house to find him, interrupting a family celebration for Qi Weimin's acceptance into a graduate program.
Pulling his cousin outside, Qiao Yicheng angrily accused Qi Weimin of helping Erqiang hide from him and go to the Northeast to find Ma Suqin. Qi Weimin tried to reason with him, but Qiao Yicheng, obsessed with the family's "face," refused to listen and made rude insinuations, infuriating his cousin. After searching unsuccessfully for Ma Suqin, Qiao Erqiang finally returned home.
Qiao Yicheng, still stern, announced he had found Qiao Simei a job at a local binding factory, instructing her to work hard and read more. He then took the opportunity to broadly scold his siblings, particularly Qiao Erqiang, for being disobedient and "turning a deaf ear" to his words, warning them not to embarrass the family again or they would be disowned. Qiao Simei, ever quick-witted, broke the tension with a playful retort about his preachy "yin and yang" lecture, which made the other siblings laugh.
Episode 9 Recap
Qiao Yicheng chastised Qiao Simei for being picky about her new job at the book bindery. He reminded her that with only a middle school diploma and no special skills, she was fortunate to have this position, which he and Aunt Wu helped secure through a friend of their late mother. Simei complained that the workshop was full of old ladies and she wouldn't have anyone to talk to.
Qiao Yicheng retorted, asking if she was going to work or to chat, adding that she would also get old someday. Simei declared that everyone looked down on her, but she would find an impressive job one day that would shock them all, a dream Qiao Yicheng dismissed as too early. Simei insisted her life was full of dreams. Later, Qiao Simei observed that Qiao Yicheng was still ignoring Qiao Erqiang.
Meanwhile, Qi Weimin and Chang Xingyu met, discovering they both got into the same university for graduate studies, Qi Weimin in the News Department and Chang Xingyu in the Chinese Department. At the book bindery, the older women gossiped about a neighbor's daughter whose son-in-law was supposedly ugly but a wealthy manager, contrasting it with another who married a pauper.
When one woman declared that being ugly was a crime, Qiao Simei chimed in, agreeing that while other mistakes could be corrected, ugliness could not. Another woman suggested plastic surgery could fix ugliness. Simei then defended Qiao Yicheng, highlighting his academic achievements rather than his appearance, but hesitated when asked about Qiao Erqiang. Later, Qiao Zuwang complained about his former factory being sold to foreigners, calling it a betrayal. He then berated his children for relying on him.
He asked Qiao Yicheng about his job after graduation. Qiao Yicheng revealed he hadn't taken the assigned position but had passed an exam to join the Nanking TV news station, starting tomorrow. Qiao Simei was thrilled, hoping to see celebrities. Qiao Zuwang, though feigning disinterest, was visibly pleased. Qiao Erqiang approached Qiao Yicheng to give him money for living expenses, reassuring his older brother that his relationship with Ma Suqin was "honest" and he had done nothing wrong.
Qiao Yicheng, attributing this attachment to an Oedipus complex due to their mother's early death, told him to forget the past. Qiao Erqiang, however, rejected the term and simply stated he liked Ma Suqin's appearance, praising her as a good woman who treated him well and taught him many things. Qiao Zuwang proudly shared the news of Qiao Yicheng joining the TV station with his neighbors, who expressed admiration for the family's good fortune.
Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding presented Qiao Yicheng with a new suit as a gift, which Qiao Yicheng initially refused due to its cost, but Sanli insisted it was essential for a reporter. Qiao Erqiang contributed a tie and shoes, chosen with Sanli's help. Qiao Simei, unable to afford a gift, promised Qiao Yicheng that she had already rallied all the older women at her factory to watch his news reports, even if they typically didn't.
Qiao Yicheng tried on the new suit. In 1990, Qiao Yicheng officially commenced his career as a journalist, driven by a sense of responsibility to capture the era's vibrant pulse. His first day was not without challenges, including being denied entry to an elevator due to weight restrictions and stepping into white paint. During the new employee orientation, a leader emphasized the historical mission and profound responsibility of journalists.
Qiao Yicheng, having achieved the highest score among the new recruits, was selected along with Song Qingyuan, who had previous photography experience, to go on an assignment. Their supervisor, Teacher Gao, instructed Song Qingyuan to film while Qiao Yicheng's primary task was to safeguard the equipment. During the assignment, an altercation occurred where someone attempted to seize their camera.
Qiao Yicheng, despite initially appearing slow, proved agile and recovered the equipment, impressing Song Qingyuan, who admitted to liking his "weird and candid attitude." Unbeknownst to Qiao Yicheng, while out reporting, he helped an elderly vegetable vendor who was, in fact, Ma Suqin. Back home, Qiao Zuwang insisted on watching the news, declaring it essential to stay informed, especially about new developments, a trait he claimed Qiao Yicheng inherited from him.
When Qiao Yicheng returned from work, he found Qiao Erqiang drinking outside. Qiao Erqiang explained his boss had treated them to drinks and given them bottles of Yanghe Daqu. Qiao Yicheng sternly warned him about alcohol, comparing him to their father, whose lifelong drinking had made him a failure. Qiao Erqiang, despite having recently lost his job, kept this information to himself, merely acknowledging his brother's words and advising Qiao Yicheng to take care due to his demanding work.
Meanwhile, Ma Suqin, seeing her husband nearby, quickly hid with her son, aided by her neighbor, Sister Xu. Later, Sparrow Eye excitedly informed Qiao Erqiang that Niuye had returned and invited him to Niuye's house. On the way, Sparrow Eye inquired if Wang Yiding was Qiao Sanli's official boyfriend, seemingly relieved when Qiao Erqiang stated it wasn't official, implying continued interest in Sanli. At Niuye's, Sparrow Eye highlighted Qiao Erqiang's recent romantic involvement with an older, experienced woman.
Niuye, accepting of Qiao Erqiang's happiness, asked about his employment. Qiao Erqiang admitted he had just lost his job. Sparrow Eye then suggested that Niuye involve Qiao Erqiang in his new business. Niuye initially hesitated, recalling Qiao Yicheng's past disapproval of Qiao Erqiang associating with them. Qiao Erqiang clarified that his eldest brother's past concerns were about his studies, and now, despite lacking a middle school diploma, he was capable of physical labor.
Niuye vaguely promised to reveal details of his business in a few days. Sparrow Eye then inquired about his own role, to which Niuye simply responded with an exclamation, indicating some dismissal of the idea. Wang Yiding brought a new refrigerator to the Qiao family, explaining that his mother had also bought one, and they received a discount for purchasing two. Qiao Simei immediately seized the opportunity to ask Wang Yiding if ceiling fans were on sale.
Later, Qiao Yicheng, noticing Qiao Sanli's hesitation, asked if she and Wang Yiding had "settled down." Sanli admitted they hadn't. Qiao Yicheng praised Wang Yiding as a reliable and honest man whose affection for Sanli was obvious to everyone, even their father. He urged Sanli to clarify their relationship, stating that "cutting losses in time is better than always being ambiguous." Sanli, visibly flustered, insisted she didn't dislike Wang Yiding but felt an inexplicable "awkwardness" in her heart.
Qiao Yicheng advised her to trust her feelings and consider being more proactive. After dinner, Qiao Zuwang, declaring he had "something to do," left to play mahjong with friends, including Old Xu. He remarked that he missed playing with them and dismissed Li Heman as someone who had done "too many bad things." On a news assignment at the Nanking Literature Arts Award ceremony, Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan encountered a female reporter who repeatedly obstructed their camera.
Song Qingyuan was visibly irritated, but Qiao Yicheng advised him to be patient with a young woman. After the event, Qiao Yicheng discovered their microphone cover, bearing the station's logo, was missing—a "serious accident" if lost. He retraced his steps and found the female reporter, Ye Xiaolang, holding it. She admitted she had found it and was holding onto it. Qiao Yicheng thanked her profusely.
Ye Xiaolang, revealing she was from a newspaper and had once applied to the TV station herself, playfully suggested he treat her to a meal as thanks. Qiao Yicheng readily agreed and gave her his name and contact details, mentioning his department at the Nanking TV news station. She then joked that the station "had no eyes" for not hiring her.
Qiao Simei excitedly informed Qiao Sanli that Aunt Wu's son, despite his prestigious job at the power supply bureau, was getting a divorce. Qiao Yicheng overheard and admonished Simei for gossiping, urging her to read more instead of engaging in neighborhood chatter. Simei defended herself, saying she couldn't avoid hearing things but promised not to spread rumors, as Aunt Wu was sensitive about her reputation.
On the Double Ninth Festival, Qiao Zuwang gathered his children, announcing that since they were all adults with jobs and he was now furloughed with dwindling savings, it was their turn to support him. When Qiao Simei protested her meager salary, Qiao Yicheng impatiently demanded a specific amount. Qiao Zuwang, assuming Qiao Yicheng earned a high salary at the TV station, requested 150 yuan from him as the eldest.
Qiao Yicheng clarified he was still an intern and did not earn that much, but Qiao Zuwang dismissed this, citing the TV station's perceived wealth. Qiao Yicheng then allocated fixed contributions: Qiao Erqiang, whom he believed was still working at the restaurant, 20 yuan; Qiao Sanli 30 yuan; Qiao Simei 20 yuan; and Qiao Yicheng himself 80 yuan, totaling 150 yuan.
He then ended the discussion, announcing he had to leave for an afternoon interview and evening work at the station. Separately, Niuye opened his new venture, the "Niuye Boutique," selling imported music from artists like Madonna and Michael Jackson. He introduced Qiao Erqiang as the delivery man and Sparrow Eye as a shop assistant, instructing them to quickly handle deliveries, organize clothes, and be watchful due to the bustling neighborhood, assuring them fair pay.
Qiao Yicheng invited Ye Xiaolang to dinner as promised, bringing Song Qingyuan along. Ye Xiaolang apologized, admitting she had intentionally taken the mic cover. She explained that Song Qingyuan's earlier comment about how "it is hard for a woman to be a news reporter" had made her feel belittled and that he had also disrespected other hardworking professionals in their field.
Song Qingyuan, brushing it off as a "friendly prank," then proceeded to order a lavish spread of expensive dishes, including steamed pork, crispy fried crab, sea cucumber, squirrel fish, Chinese perch, stewed chicken, Nanjing salted duck, duck pancreas and chicken breast stir-fry, and crab roe tofu.
As the bill for 170 yuan arrived, Qiao Yicheng discreetly tried to pay, but Ye Xiaolang quickly intervened, insisting that she pay, asserting that by preventing her, he would be looking down on her as a woman, especially since she had offered to treat them.
Episode 10 Recap
After Song Qingyuan left, Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang walked together. Ye Xiaolang admitted she rarely went out with friends, preferring to stay home, so Qiao Yicheng suggested they sing karaoke. At a street-side stand, Ye Xiaolang enthusiastically picked up the microphone and sang "So Clear is My Heart." While she sang, Qiao Yicheng bought two roasted sweet potatoes, and Ye Xiaolang felt a growing sense of comfort watching him. Elsewhere, Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu continued to grow closer.
Qi Weimin helped Chang Xinyu carry a heavy stand to her dormitory. Inside, Chang Xinyu noticed Qi Weimin attempting to sew a quilt, but his stitches were too large. She kindly pointed this out, and he acknowledged he could learn to do it better. Later, while covering a news story, Ye Xiaolang encountered Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan, who were also there.
Ye Xiaolang's camera reportedly interfered with Song Qingyuan's opportunity, and she narrowly avoided a physical altercation with armed individuals. Qiao Yicheng warned her, as a young woman, to prioritize her safety and run when necessary, reminding her that "if you die, you won't be able to see or say anything." Ye Xiaolang, appreciative of his concern, invited Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan to dinner as a thank you.
Song Qingyuan, however, shrewdly declined, stating he wouldn't go if she was paying. Back home, Qiao Simei tried to find companions for shopping. Qiao Sanli declined, as she had plans to watch "After Separation" with Wang Yiding the next day. Qiao Erqiang also couldn't go, as he was busy watching the restaurant. Qiao Simei jokingly remarked that she didn't want him to come anyway, not wanting people to mistake him for her boyfriend.
Qiao Yicheng then entered, warning Qiao Simei against wandering the streets and telling her to read books instead of going out. Qiao Yicheng then invited Ye Xiaolang to see "After Separation," after a brief argument over who would pay for their dinner. After the film, Ye Xiaolang expressed her desire to re-watch it, comparing her enjoyment of revisiting things she liked to eating roasted sweet potatoes for days.
She interpreted the ending as the female lead ultimately making the right choice to go abroad, despite secretly wanting the male lead to make her stay. Qiao Yicheng disagreed, feeling the female lead was merely swept up by a trend.
He then mused about a heartwarming scenario where the main characters stayed together, raising children and celebrating holidays, only to dismiss it as unrealistic, acknowledging he likely wouldn't have the courage to make someone stay either, though he would hope they would. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding also watched "After Separation." As they stood by the roadside discussing the movie while waiting for the bus, Wang Yiding suddenly leaned in and kissed Qiao Sanli.
Instinctively, Qiao Sanli pushed him away, overwhelmed by painful childhood memories. She immediately told the bus driver to stop and, despite the pouring rain, got off and walked home. Wang Yiding quickly followed her in concern, watching her enter the house with a puzzled and worried expression. Qiao Simei was shocked to see Qiao Sanli return home completely soaked. She quickly got up to help her, asking if Wang Yiding had bullied her.
Qiao Sanli denied it, insisting she didn't blame him. Qiao Simei helped her warm up and then urged her sister to express her unhappiness, emphasizing that she shouldn't let one person ruin her entire life. Qiao Simei later happened upon Niuye's clothing store, where Qiao Erqiang was working. Upon seeing her, Qiao Erqiang tried to hide, but Niuye pulled him out, telling him there was no shame in working. Qiao Simei, surprised, asked why he wasn't at the restaurant.
Niuye, mistaking her for Qiao Sanli at first, quickly corrected himself and generously offered her any clothes as a gift. Qiao Simei was delighted and chose several items. After the incident, Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding had not ridden their bikes home together for a while. Finally, Qiao Sanli initiated a meeting, only to tell him, "Let's break up." Wang Yiding was bewildered, asking if he had done anything wrong and promising to change.
Choked with emotion, Qiao Sanli insisted that it was entirely her fault, explaining that she sometimes didn't know what she was thinking and only realized her actions later. She reiterated that Wang Yiding was a good person and she didn't want to burden him. Wang Yiding expressed his hurt that she never explained anything, but Qiao Sanli only suggested they part ways for a bit and that she would go home by herself from now on.
Later, Qiao Simei, dressed in a new fashionable outfit, encountered Wang Yiding at the doorstep. He asked her to call Qiao Sanli so he could talk to her. However, Qiao Yicheng arrived and immediately scolded Qiao Simei for her revealing "lingerie look," calling it "strange outfits." Qiao Simei defended her fashion choice, stating she wanted a boyfriend who was open-minded, unlike Qiao Yicheng. Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang confronted Qiao Zuwang, accusing him of stealing his hard-earned savings.
Qiao Zuwang initially denied it, then asserted his right as a father to take his son's money, challenging Qiao Erqiang to tell Qiao Yicheng the real reason he needed the money—to find Ma Suqin. Qiao Simei interceded, threatening to involve Qiao Yicheng if the money wasn't returned. Soon after, Wang Yiding confided in Qiao Yicheng about the breakup with Qiao Sanli.
Qiao Yicheng, frowning, explained that Qiao Sanli wasn't being difficult with him, but rather with herself due to shyness, and advised Wang Yiding to be more proactive and not blame himself. Separately, Qiao Zuwang warned Qiao Erqiang against pursuing Ma Suqin with the money, telling him to abandon such "confused thoughts." Filled with anger, Qiao Erqiang left for the clothing store to transport goods.
When Qiao Yicheng questioned his whereabouts, Qiao Simei quickly fabricated a story about a shift change at the restaurant. However, her attempt to cover for him failed, as Qiao Erqiang was soon arrested by the police while transporting goods for Niuye's clothing store, which turned out to be a smuggling operation. Qiao Yicheng had to bail him out. Back home, Qiao Yicheng severely reprimanded Qiao Erqiang, accusing him of being stubborn and acting "evil" like their father.
Qiao Erqiang, feeling helpless and frustrated, retorted that he knew Qiao Yicheng looked down on him. He then poured out his heart, confessing that he desperately wanted to succeed and do well, but every path he tried seemed to be a dead-end, leaving him unable to find what he wanted or the person he desired. He challenged Qiao Yicheng, "You're educated and skilled, so guide me down a path!"
Qiao Yicheng, in turn, berated him for being loud, warning him not to end up like their father, whom he had seen coming out of the police station as a child. Qiao Zuwang was playing mahjong with Old Xu, who mentioned he was working on "his own business" and needed strong tea due to little sleep. Qiao Zuwang, interested in potential earnings, initially asked Old Xu to share his money-making tips, but Old Xu deflected.
Later, while driving with Old Xu, Qiao Zuwang directly inquired about his "capital gathering business." Old Xu explained he could acquire wire rods that could be sold for significant profit. Qiao Zuwang immediately expressed his interest in participating. Old Xu clarified that only his company's General Manager, CEO Liu, could approve new investors.
When CEO Liu called Old Xu to finalize a new deal, Old Xu told Qiao Zuwang he was lucky because a new business opportunity had just opened up. Qiao Zuwang eagerly insisted on being included in the venture. Qiao Simei visited Wei Shufang's convenience store to buy romance novels. There, she learned from Wei Shufang's child that Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu were getting engaged.
Qiao Simei enthusiastically congratulated Wei Shufang, who then expressed her belief that young people should prioritize their careers before marriage. Qiao Simei mentioned that Qiao Yicheng also intended to marry later, citing his commitment to his career at the TV station and a new news column offered by his chief editor.
However, Wei Shufang dismissed Qiao Simei's excuses, insisting that Qiao Yicheng was old enough to settle down and that truly capable individuals could balance both career and family, a sentiment Old Ma concurred with. As Qiao Simei left, promising to pay for the books later, Wei Shufang remarked that she was "just like her dad." Rushing home, Qiao Simei locked the door and began practicing tongue twisters with a book balanced on her head.
Unbeknownst to her, Qiao Erqiang was observing her from the rooftop. After surprising her with a comment, Qiao Simei chastised him for scaring her. The siblings then talked about their missing childhood cat, Little Mianhua. Despite the cat being gone, Qiao Simei habitually put biscuits, usually reserved for special occasions, into its bowl. Qiao Erqiang expressed doubt they would ever find Little Mianhua, but Qiao Simei lamented that she had never been able to keep anything she liked since childhood.
Qiao Erqiang tried to console her, suggesting new blessings would come. Qiao Simei then showed Qiao Erqiang a job recruitment ad from a newspaper, excited by the requirements that seemed to perfectly describe her. She mused about meeting handsome foreign men if she got the job, believing "love doesn't require a language." The siblings then called out for Little Mianhua together, until Qiao Zuwang, annoyed by the noise, yelled at them for shouting and "calling the departed souls."
Episode 11 Recap
Ye Xiaolang waited for Qiao Yicheng outside the television station building, explaining that her roommate had gone home and she was afraid to sleep alone, asking if he could accompany her for the night. Qiao Yicheng stammered, unsure where they would go. The next morning, after spending the night at a movie theater, Ye Xiaolang sat close to Qiao Yicheng at breakfast, stating that food tasted better when eaten together.
As Qiao Yicheng went to buy more food, Ye Xiaolang glanced at a draft in his bag. When he returned, he noticed her change in mood as she watched a mother and child nearby, her eyes reddening with tears. She confided that she felt profoundly alone in the big city of Nanjing. Qiao Yicheng, at a loss, simply offered his shoulder, and their bond deepened.
Later, Song Qingyuan warned Qiao Yicheng not to get too deeply involved with Ye Xiaolang, acknowledging Qiao Yicheng's feelings for her but cautioning him against being blind to her "scheming" nature. Qiao Yicheng, however, was unfazed, assuring him it wouldn't impact their special report. Meanwhile, Old Xu accompanied Qiao Zuwang to the Jinling Restaurant to meet CEO Liu. Qiao Zuwang, looking around with a bumpkin's curiosity, was kept waiting for a long time.
Despite this, a trade company was successfully established under Qiao Zuwang's name, and Old Xu even organized a seminar for him. At the event, Qiao Zuwang, now called Manager Qiao, basked in the attention. Wang Xuanen, also present, eagerly approached Qiao Zuwang, expressing his desire to participate in the fundraising scheme. Qiao Zuwang, however, dismissed him, saying such a profitable venture didn't need promoting and that Wang Xuanen needed capital to invest.
With encouragement from Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Simei attended an interview at a foreign hotel. Despite her initial nervousness, Qiao Simei's natural confidence shone through. When asked about her specialty, she performed an energetic dance, which she admitted was a hobby stemming from her desire to make people happy. She was hired for the position. Later, she encountered Wei Shufang and Old Ma, who were enjoying a romantic stroll. Qiao Simei informed them about her new job, which required learning English.
She initially complained about having to learn English as a Chinese person, lamenting that she had forgotten everything she learned since elementary school due to reading romance novels. However, upon realizing that learning English could help her chase foreign celebrities, she quickly became motivated. Wei Shufang teased her for her obsession, while Old Ma praised the benefits of learning English. Back home, Qiao Simei found Qiao Yicheng scolding Qiao Erqiang.
Qiao Yicheng was upset that Qiao Erqiang was hesitant to accept a stable job he had secured for him, instead preferring to "think it over." Qiao Yicheng accused his brother of still being fixated on "that older sister" and acting like their father, to which Qiao Erqiang retorted that Qiao Yicheng himself was behaving like an unreasonable old man. As their argument escalated, Qiao Simei intervened, brandishing her Huamei Hotel employment letter.
She explained that she disliked working at the binding factory and saw the hotel as her chance to "reach nirvana and get reborn," offering her vacancy at the binding factory to Qiao Erqiang. While this presented a solution, Qiao Yicheng was not pleased. He felt a profound sense of failure as an older brother, seeing Qiao Erqiang nearly come to blows with him over a "stranger" and Qiao Simei keeping her resignation a secret.
Qiao Sanli, however, gently reminded him that they were grown up and had their own aspirations. Qiao Yicheng, though still disappointed, reluctantly agreed, warning Qiao Simei that if she gave up on learning English, she shouldn't come to him for help. Qiao Erqiang subsequently started working at the binding factory, where he was met with playful teasing from the predominantly female staff. Meanwhile, Qiao Simei and Qiao Sanli noticed Qiao Yicheng’s uncharacteristic busyness and early departures.
Qiao Simei concluded that their older brother was definitely in love, imagining his shy smiles and playfully calling him "重色轻妹," meaning his lover was more important than his sisters. Later, Qiao Yicheng had dinner with Ye Xiaolang, Song Qingyuan, and Ye Xiaolang's roommate, Xiaomeng. Xiaomeng openly teased Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang about their relationship.
While in the restroom, Xiaomeng told Song Qingyuan that Ye Xiaolang was typically reserved about her personal life and that her family background might be a contributing factor, a detail Song Qingyuan showed little interest in. The next day, Qiao Yicheng was immediately confronted by Song Qingyuan at work, who showed him a daily newspaper. Ye Xiaolang had published an article using Qiao Yicheng’s research without his permission, listing him as a contributor. Both were reprimanded by their superior, Feng.
The situation further soured Song Qingyuan's opinion of Ye Xiaolang, as he accused her of "plagiarizing" Qiao Yicheng's work, while Feng accused Qiao Yicheng of "siding with his girlfriend." Qiao Yicheng confronted Ye Xiaolang, who tearfully apologized and explained that her chosen topic had been taken, leaving her desperate to submit "Xin Zhong Fu" quickly due to its time-sensitive nature. She tried to appease him by offering to be scolded or even hit, as long as he trusted her.
Qiao Yicheng, still upset about being kept in the dark, pointed out that he wasn't Song Qingyuan and had his own judgment. Ultimately, he agreed to go for hotpot with her, on the condition that she, too, must trust him. Upon returning home, Qiao Yicheng found Qiao Sanli waiting to talk to him. He first asked about her relationship with Wang Yiding, mentioning that he had recently run into Wang Yiding, who still seemed to care deeply for her.
Qiao Yicheng offered advice, suggesting that small conflicts were normal and that both sides should compromise. He even offered to speak to Wang Yiding on her behalf. However, Qiao Sanli stammered and insisted that she felt it was better to be alone. Just then, Qiao Zuwang walked in, dressed in a suit and singing cheerfully.
Qiao Sanli quickly took Qiao Yicheng aside to tell him that she had heard from Wang Xuanen that their father was involved in a fundraising scheme, adding that Wang Xuanen himself had already invested, despite her warning that he should be more cautious because their father was involved. As she was speaking, Qiao Zuwang cheerfully interrupted to ask what was for dinner.
Episode 12 Recap
Qiao Yicheng confronted his father, Qiao Zuwang, about raising funds. Qiao Zuwang, however, dismissed his son's concerns, boasting about his own business experience and connections. He accused Qiao Yicheng of being jealous of his newfound wealth. Qiao Yicheng retorted that he only envied his father's heartless nature, reminding him that he had been deceived twice by the same person, losing not only money but also their mother's jade bracelet.
He further exposed that Qiao Zuwang had quickly squandered money given by Li Heman to Xu Funian, and had even "sold" one of his daughters for a plate of soup dumplings. Qiao Zuwang, taken aback that Qiao Yicheng knew these details, grew agitated. As the argument escalated, Qiao Zuwang cursed his son after he left, vowing to earn money that would make him envious. Qiao Sanli, realizing the truth of past events, broke down in tears.
To help her vent, Qiao Erqiang encouraged her to smash several plates. When Qiao Simei returned home and witnessed the scene, she mistakenly thought Qiao Erqiang was bullying Qiao Sanli. However, Qiao Sanli wiped away her tears and laughed. Qiao Erqiang then cleared the broken shards and recounted advice he once received from Ma Suqin: "Smile in front of people, but cry on the inside, because nobody cares if you cry. They'll only laugh at you.
Only those who truly cherish you will care." He playfully warned Qiao Sanli not to share this with Qiao Simei, fearing her mockery. Later, a troubled Qiao Yicheng found himself outside Ye Xiaolang's dormitory. Ye Xiaolang and her roommate, Xiaomeng, were just returning, loaded with bags. They explained that their unit was hosting a marathon the next day and they needed to be at a sports park in the outskirts early to set up.
Despite Qiao Yicheng's initial hesitation, they convinced him to come inside and then to join them for the event as a "free laborer." Inside the dorm, Ye Xiaolang noticed Qiao Yicheng's grim expression. He confessed to having a massive argument with his father. Ye Xiaolang empathized, sharing that she also often argued with her parents, which led her to move to Nanjing for peace.
She then used the analogy of a circus elephant to explain that true freedom comes from within, not from external circumstances. As they sat by her bed talking, she slowly fell asleep, leaving Qiao Yicheng to spend an awkward night in her room. The next morning, a sudden need for a substitute runner due to a staff member's illness led to Qiao Yicheng being hastily, and somewhat comically, thrown into the marathon.
He won the race, and an ecstatic Ye Xiaolang embraced him in celebration. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli, still holding feelings for Wang Yiding despite their breakup, felt a pang of sadness seeing him eating alone in the cafeteria.
Later, as Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang strolled down the street sharing a roasted sweet potato, Qiao Yicheng reminisced about his siblings and their shared life, describing twenty years of simple living—cooking in a smoky shack, washing clothes under a communal tap, arguing with neighbors over clothesline space, and his sisters taking turns cleaning the toilet. Ye Xiaolang then unexpectedly proposed marriage.
Qiao Yicheng candidly laid out his family's difficult circumstances: his mother's death during the birth of his youngest brother, who was then fostered by his second aunt, his father's selfishness, their poor financial situation, his lack of a house, and his inability to provide a betrothal gift or host a wedding banquet. He concluded by asking if, knowing all this, she was still willing to marry him.
With tears in her eyes, Ye Xiaolang nodded and took a bite of the sweet potato. When Qiao Yicheng shared the news with Song Qingyuan, his friend, though unsurprised, advised him to learn more about Ye Xiaolang's family background. Qiao Yicheng, however, felt that for some people and things, a decision can be made at first glance. Qiao Yicheng gathered his family to announce his impending marriage.
Qiao Zuwang did not object but immediately clarified his own financial expectations, to which Qiao Yicheng responded that he would not use his father's money and planned to rent a place and live separately after marriage. He also confirmed he would continue to pay his share of the living expenses, dismissing Qiao Zuwang's suggestion that Ye Xiaolang should also contribute, and asserted he would continue to be involved in his siblings' lives.
Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli were delighted for Qiao Yicheng. Qiao Simei also shared their happiness but admitted feeling a sense of loss and difficulty accepting the news, as she couldn't bear the thought of him leaving. Qiao Sanli, unlike the outspoken Qiao Simei, hid her sadness, reflecting on her own grief after their mother's passing.
She expressed sincere happiness for her eldest brother, recognizing his many years of looking after the family and his deservingness of a life of ease. She encouraged Qiao Yicheng to invite Wang Yiding to his wedding, hoping they could resolve their strained relationship. That evening, the four siblings conversed from behind a curtain, a rare moment of togetherness. Qiao Yicheng expressed concern for Qiao Sanli, not wanting her to be alone.
Qiao Simei then revealed that Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu's wedding had been postponed because Wei Shufang, their second aunt, was getting married. The news of Wei Shufang's plan to marry Uncle Ma was met with fierce opposition from her son, Xiao Yi, who forcefully expelled Uncle Ma from their home and declared he would not return until his mother abandoned the idea. Xiaoya also disapproved.
Wei Shufang explained to Qi Weimin that she was neither confused nor crazy; she simply desired a different life and was not after Uncle Ma's money, praising him as a kind and well-educated man. Qi Weimin struggled to understand, recalling how well his mother and late father had gotten along, never having a single argument.
Qiao Yicheng advised Qi Weimin to consider his mother's perspective, emphasizing that at fifty, she still had many decades ahead and shouldn't have to live alone after her children had their own families. He assured him that local gossip would eventually fade. An older family member from the Qi side congratulated Qi Weimin on his mother's new chapter, using the idiom "new flowers bloom on an old tree," to which Qi Weimin politely responded.
Qiao Yicheng informed Qi Weimin that he and Ye Xiaolang would not hold a grand wedding banquet. Given Qiao Zuwang's stingy nature and Ye Xiaolang's refusal to accept money from her own family, they simply planned a dinner at a restaurant with both families. Qi Weimin remarked that it was merely a formality.
He playfully teased Qiao Yicheng about getting married before him, but Qiao Yicheng dismissed it as a childish competition, stating that true success lies in who has the last laugh. Ye Xiaolang confirmed that her parents were currently en route, having been picked up by Qiao Yicheng's friend.
Episode 13 Recap
Ye Xiaolang's parents arrived in Nanjing by train, carrying large bags. Her mother proudly presented beautifully embroidered gifts, a gesture that caused Ye Xiaolang a moment of awkwardness. Later, Ye's father pulled Qiao Yicheng aside to explain that they had initially opposed Ye Xiaolang going to university. However, she had promised that once she graduated, she would not ask for any money for her own marriage and would even take care of her younger brother's wedding house.
He even showed Qiao Yicheng a signed promise letter. He elaborated that their old family home was undergoing a new housing policy, and without the funds to secure it, Ye Xiaolang's younger brother would be unable to marry. " If Xiaolang doesn't take care of it, who will? It's her own younger brother," he stated.
Although Qiao Yicheng had been unaware of this arrangement, he assured his father-in-law that he would gather the substantial sum of money and send it over as soon as possible. Ye's father praised him as a "good son-in-law," remarking on Ye Xiaolang's excellent taste in choosing a husband. After the family gathering, Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang returned to their rented apartment. Ye Xiaolang expressed her relief that they were finally alone.
They marveled at the apartment, which was already furnished with paintings, decor, and cabinets left by the landlord. Ye Xiaolang playfully called Qiao Yicheng stingy, but he countered that his savings account now only held a two-digit sum. They began to dream of their future home, planning to buy a hot water heater and speakers for music. Qiao Yicheng shared his childhood experiences of waiting for his turn to bathe due to their large family.
Ye Xiaolang also confessed her fondness for Fei Xiang and Leon Lai, teasing Qiao Yicheng about his own handsomeness. Soon, Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei arrived for a visit. Simei complimented Ye Xiaolang's dress and praised her as honest and outgoing, jokingly crediting it to Ye Xiaolang's promise to introduce her to a handsome boyfriend. They looked through Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang's wedding photos, with Simei remarking that Qiao Yicheng resembled Leon Lai in one of them.
Qiao Sanli presented Ye Xiaolang with a beautiful handmade gift. Following them, Qi Weimin, Chang Xinyu, and Qiao Qiqi arrived, bringing a hot water heater and a rice cooker as practical wedding gifts, fulfilling Ye Xiaolang's earlier wish. While the men were busy in the kitchen, Qiao Erqiang offered his help. After dinner, Qiao Yicheng sent Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei home, but Qiao Erqiang claimed he had something else to do.
On his way, he briefly mistook a passerby for Ma Suqin, apologetically correcting himself. Later, at a skating rink, a mishap caused the walkman Ma Suqin had given him to break. This led to a confrontation, and Qiao Erqiang returned home with an injured face. Back home, Ye Xiaolang confided in Qiao Yicheng that her earlier comment about introducing a handsome boyfriend to Qiao Simei was just a joke to cheer her up.
However, she did have a serious candidate for Qiao Erqiang: Xiao Mo, Auntie Fang's niece, a 23-year-old who worked at Xinhua Bookstore and was both pretty and well-mannered. She urged Qiao Yicheng to ask Qiao Erqiang about it. Later, Qiao Erqiang discussed his aspirations with Qiao Yicheng, expressing his desire to pursue cooking professionally, perhaps starting as a kitchen assistant, as he found a sense of achievement in it.
Qiao Yicheng then brought up Ye Xiaolang's suggestion, and to his surprise, Qiao Erqiang readily agreed to meet Xiao Mo, saying he would "meet her then." The next morning, Qiao Yicheng couldn't find a clean shirt, realizing Ye Xiaolang hadn't washed any. He left for work wearing a jacket.
His colleague, Song Qingyuan, teased him about his "unique styling" and suggested he had entered the "second stage" of marriage, characterized by the "fall after the honeymoon phase" and "the nothingness after bliss," where the wife handles everything while the husband relaxes. Qiao Yicheng corrected him, stating it was "the opposite," and that he felt like the "woman" in the relationship. Song then remarked that it seemed Qiao Yicheng had gained another "younger sister" rather than a wife.
When Qiao Yicheng returned home that evening, he was greeted by a strong, unfamiliar odor. Ye Xiaolang, with a small cut on her hand from preparing dinner, proudly announced she was making him a "feast" of Stinky Mandarin Fish. Despite her enthusiasm, Qiao Yicheng found the fish difficult to eat. He later noted that "there was really something wrong with this fish." Ye Xiaolang, seeing his struggle, offered to either eat out or make noodles.
While attempting to help Qiao Yicheng wash dishes, she accidentally broke a bowl. Frustrated, Qiao Yicheng asked her to leave the kitchen and stop "causing trouble." Ye Xiaolang grew upset, arguing that her day at work was already exhausting and that she felt like a "burden." Qiao Yicheng retorted that if she simply folded his shirts, she would already be "lightening the burden, princess."
They eventually reconciled, with Ye Xiaolang apologizing and explaining her frustration was directed at herself for messing up her plans. Qiao Yicheng reassured her that the fish truly was the problem. Ye Xiaolang then reminded him about arranging a meeting between Xiao Mo and Qiao Erqiang, which Qiao Yicheng promised to do the next day, thanking her for her efforts. Aunt Wu approached Qiao Yicheng, hinting at some unsettling observations about Qiao Simei.
Taking her words to heart, Qiao Yicheng confronted his younger siblings, especially Qiao Simei, about respecting herself. He sternly asked who the "chubby guy" was that she had been seen with. Qiao Simei laughed, explaining that it was Boss Chen, who had invited many colleagues for dinner, not just her. She dismissed the rumors as baseless gossip, comparing it to "when one dog barks at a shadow, a hundred others join in."
Qiao Yicheng, however, continued to reprimand her, contrasting her behavior with Qiao Sanli's, which made Qiao Simei complain about his constant comparisons. Qiao Erqiang intervened, defending Qiao Simei by saying she was not interested in "chubby men" and merely wished to marry a handsome man, assuring Qiao Yicheng that she was "not silly at all." Qiao Simei, feigning hurt from being "wronged," demanded compensation from Qiao Yicheng, asking for money for a sweater she desired.
Qiao Yicheng suggested she ask Qi Weimin instead, as they met often. Qiao Simei demurred, saying she felt shy asking Qi Weimin and that Qiao Yicheng was her "blood brother." She also mentioned reading poetry with Chang Xinyu, mispronouncing Lermontov's name as "Lertov," which Qiao Yicheng corrected. Later, Qiao Yicheng told Qiao Erqiang he needed to talk to him after dinner, leading Qiao Erqiang to wonder if he had done something wrong.
Qiao Simei, using Qiao Erqiang's walkman to learn English, declared she needed it to talk to her "blue-eyed boyfriend." Qiao Sanli then informed Qiao Simei that Qiao Yicheng had already discussed the blind date with Qiao Erqiang, who was set to meet Xiao Mo from Xinhua Bookstore at the Drum Tower the following day. Qiao Sanli declined to join Qiao Simei in secretly observing the date due to her night shift.
Qiao Simei pondered if Qiao Erqiang still harbored feelings for his "master." Qiao Sanli mused that physical appearance was less important in matters of the heart, comparing love to a tree in one's heart, painful to plant or uproot. When Qiao Simei asked if Qiao Sanli's metaphorical tree had been "re-planted," Sanli simply stated she was sleepy and avoided the question. The next day, Qiao Simei, elegantly dressed, left work.
She reiterated her unwavering resolve to marry a "very, very handsome" man, stating that anyone with an "average face" was out of the question. Moments later, on the street, she encountered a man in a military uniform. He approached her, asking for directions, and then recognized her as Qiao Simei, his junior high classmate. He introduced himself as Qi Chenggang.
Qiao Simei remembered him as being "skinny and short" in school, but he explained that he had "started growing a lot" after graduating from junior high. He was a soldier stationed in Tibet, in the "frontier," and was home on leave because his mother was unwell but had to leave again soon. Qiao Simei, instantly smitten, insisted on keeping in touch. When he hesitated due to his rush, she quickly asked for his unit's phone number.
He provided "6820349," which Qiao Simei began to repeat to herself incessantly as she walked home, determined to commit it to memory, even as she was momentarily interrupted by Qiao Sanli heading out for her night shift.
Episode 14 Recap
Qiao Erqiang and Sun Xiaomo went on a blind date, sitting uncomfortably far apart on a bench. Ye Xiaolang was delighted when she returned home, feeling she had successfully handled Erqiang's matter, and Qiao Yicheng treated her as a hero. Ye Xiaolang encouraged Sun Xiaomo and Erqiang to talk, pointing out that Xiaomo already knew Erqiang's situation, and then instructed Erqiang to walk Sun Xiaomo home.
During their walk, Sun Xiaomo inquired about Erqiang's work at the binding factory and if he had any questions for her, but Erqiang remained mostly silent. When Qiao Yicheng praised Ye Xiaolang’s efforts, she playfully called him cheap for suggesting cooking at home over dining out, even though she ultimately agreed to cook. They discussed when to expect news about Erqiang and Sun Xiaomo, and Ye Xiaolang offered to ask Aunt Fang at the daily news agency the next day.
Later, Wang Yiding discreetly followed Qiao Sanli home late at night, ensuring her safety. He offered to walk her home, stating his sister-in-law had told him to, and Sanli eventually agreed. One evening, Qiao Sanli found a heartbroken Qiao Simei crying in the yard, initially thinking someone had bullied her. Simei revealed she had just fallen in love but was now "lovelorn," describing a complex feeling of sadness and happiness, like "boiling congee."
She dramatically lamented the world's separations, missing, and distances. Sanli, annoyed by the late-night poetry, tried to get her to sleep. Simei continued to sigh, wishing she could see her beloved every day, walk with him, watch his profile in the dark cinema, and imagining him comforting her with flowers. She asked Sanli to teach her how to knit a black sweater for him, believing the color would suit his skin.
Simei even envisioned herself breaking up with him if she became too ill, to avoid burdening him, but insisted he would never agree. She wondered why lovers had to part, and Sanli listened empathetically. Simei thanked Sanli for finally understanding her. The next morning, Qiao Simei went to Wei Shufang's small store to make a call to Qi Chenggang. Wei Shufang initially hesitated due to the cost but eventually allowed her to use the phone.
After trying several numbers, Simei finally got through to Qi Chenggang's unit. Meanwhile, Qiao Yicheng received a phone call from his father-in-law. Yicheng quickly interjected, asking his father-in-law not to tell Ye Xiaolang about the money he needed, promising to gather the funds by the end of the month. After the call, Song Qingyuan, having observed Yicheng speaking with his father-in-law on his wedding day, advised Yicheng not to rush and offered his help if needed.
Later, Qiao Yicheng called Ye Xiaolang's old workplace, planning to treat her to lunch, only to discover she had already resigned. When Ye Xiaolang returned home, Qiao Yicheng confronted her. She admitted she had started her new job less than a week ago and kept it from him because she knew he would disagree, but she didn't want to miss the opportunity.
Qiao Yicheng called her new workplace a "fly-by-night organization," but she defended it, claiming their circulation was doubling and her salary was higher, despite losing her "official employee" status. She accused him of being close-minded and lacking ambition, citing others who were changing jobs or going abroad. He argued they should focus on their own lives and questioned the long-term viability of her move. Ye Xiaolang countered that "nothing lasts forever in the world," and "only changes last for eternity."
He called her "opinionated and unreliable," to which she retorted that he "saves face and suffers." Ye Xiaolang retreated to her room without eating dinner, sulking. Qiao Yicheng coaxed her out with a bowl of noodles. She apologized for not immediately informing him about her resignation but firmly maintained her views on life and work. Qiao Yicheng sarcastically acknowledged her right to her views and his right to despise them.
She reminded him that a married couple should support, understand, and encourage each other. He then jokingly apologized for his "misconduct holding her back," and she responded with a playful jab about his "saving face and suffering." As Qiao Yicheng’s birthday approached, Qiao Sanli called Ye Xiaolang, suggesting a lively family celebration at the old house.
However, Ye Xiaolang informed her that she had already booked a private room for a separate, intimate celebration with Qiao Yicheng, and Sanli politely decided not to intrude. Meanwhile, a smitten Qiao Simei secretly wrote a note while Sanli slept, hid it under her pillow, and went to a photo studio to take pictures, which she enclosed in a letter to Qi Chenggang, lost in romantic daydreams.
On Qiao Yicheng's birthday, Ye Xiaolang arrived late but quickly led him from the main hall into a specially reserved private room. Despite his concerns about the cost and minimum charge for just two people, she insisted it was for his birthday, to celebrate and enjoy their "two-person world," having even decorated it. She ordered an extravagant spread and a custom-designed cake, revealing she had received a bonus and had turned down Sanli and the others.
Qiao Yicheng realized Sanli had invited them. He told Ye Xiaolang he didn't blame her, but she sensed he still prioritized his siblings. She then firmly declared that she and Qiao Yicheng were "the closest people" and "the ones who would spend a lifetime together," implying her importance surpassed that of his siblings. During a walk, Sun Xiaomo unexpectedly burst into tears and broke up with Qiao Erqiang. He remained calm, telling her, "It's fine. Don't cry anymore.
Breaking up is fine." His indifference seemed to upset her further, and she promptly hailed a rickshaw and left. Back at the birthday dinner, Ye Xiaolang, full of ideas, proposed that they work hard for another two years, save money, study English, take the TOEFL, and go abroad, possibly to the United States.
She spoke of escaping their past worries and future burdens to find a "brand new world," a concept Qiao Yicheng admitted he had never considered but agreed was "worth thinking over." Happily discussing their future plans while carrying leftover food, they walked home and encountered Aunt Fang, who was visibly anxious and informed them that Qiao Erqiang and Sun Xiaomo had broken up. Both Yicheng and Xiaolang were surprised. Aunt Fang worried about young people breaking up over minor issues.
Qiao Yicheng promised to speak with Erqiang and ensure he apologized if he was at fault. After Aunt Fang left, Ye Xiaolang mused about whether Erqiang had a "first love" he couldn't forget. Qiao Yicheng dismissed the idea, describing Erqiang as "simple," but then seemed to wonder if there was indeed a past love. The next morning, Qiao Yicheng returned home to discuss Erqiang’s situation, while Qiao Zuwang casually left.
Erqiang told Yicheng that Sun Xiaomo had initiated the breakup, that she seemed to have "thought it through," and he himself felt they "didn't suit each other." Qiao Yicheng comforted him, stating they didn't wrong her and he would introduce him to someone better. However, Qiao Erqiang declared he didn't "necessarily need to get married," finding contentment in his cooking class.
Qiao Simei, overhearing, interrupted to assert that "marriage is the ultimate goal in life" and "the highest level of attainment in love." Later, Qiao Yicheng hesitantly asked Qi Weimin for a loan. To his surprise, Qi Weimin revealed he had recently transferred the family property to his half-brother, Xiao Yi, to secure his mother's happiness with Uncle Ma.
Furthermore, he had given his father's pension and the family's savings to his sister, Xiao Ya, who was preparing to study abroad with her fiancé. Qiao Yicheng was shocked and called Qi Weimin "out of his mind," feeling embarrassed to ask for money. Nevertheless, Qi Weimin insisted on lending him some of his wedding savings, requesting only that it be repaid before his own marriage.
The binding factory where Qiao Erqiang worked was closing down, and he was among the first batch of layoffs. Qiao Yicheng called him, relaying that Aunt Fang had spoken with Sun Xiaomo, who seemed to have listened, and advised Erqiang to be "generous" and compromise. Erqiang, however, stated he "can't compromise" due to his impending job loss, a fact he had only just learned. Sun Xiaomo was already on her way to the factory.
She arrived and told Erqiang she still wanted to be with him. She acknowledged his factory was closing but optimistically stated, "Work can always be found," and offered that they could "work hard together." Qiao Erqiang suggested they "take a walk somewhere," choosing a "new place." They were later seen happily skating together, holding hands and talking, indicating a reconciliation. Meanwhile, Qiao Simei anxiously awaited letters from Qi Chenggang in Xinjiang, reading each one countless times.
Her colleagues teased her, commenting that while others sought "American Chinese," "businessmen," or "university students with a chance to go abroad," Simei was pursuing a "soldier who's stationed on the border." Simei retorted that her boyfriend would undoubtedly save his last breath for her. Her ultimate justification for her choice was simply, "He's good-looking."
Episode 15 Recap
Qiao Zuwang proudly unveiled a new telephone he had installed at home, boasting about his capabilities to Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, and Qiao Sanli, who were all fascinated. Qiao Yicheng, however, remained skeptical, cautioning his father not to make his children homeless. Qiao Sanli excitedly called Qiao Simei's workplace to share the news, only to be told that Qiao Simei had taken marriage leave. The revelation sent Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, and Qiao Sanli into a panic.
Qiao Yicheng finally reached Qiao Simei by phone, only to be hit with another bombshell: she was already on a train to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, on her way to marry Qi Chenggang. Furious, Qiao Yicheng cut her off, telling her to do as she pleased. After Qiao Simei arrived in Chengdu, she called again to inform him she would travel by long-distance bus into Tibet, reassuring him not to worry, but he remained angry and dismissive.
Qiao Sanli was bewildered, recalling Qiao Simei’s recent secretive remarks about love and letters, which she had dismissed as mere infatuation with a celebrity. Desperate for information, Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli frantically searched Qiao Simei's bedroom, eventually finding Qi Chenggang's address and phone number. Qiao Yicheng, though outwardly calm, realized the distance was too great to physically pursue her and opted to make a long-distance call to the military unit.
Amidst the family drama, Qiao Yicheng received a letter from his father-in-law, confirming that an apartment for his son had been secured. This development meant his in-laws would no longer trouble him about it. During one of Qiao Simei's calls, Qiao Yicheng’s wife, Ye Xiaolang, questioned his anxious demeanor. He quickly assured her it was just a call from his sister, playfully reminding her not to confuse his wife with his sisters.
After days of travel, Qiao Simei arrived in Xinjiang via a long-distance bus through the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. She immediately called the military unit, reaching the supervisor, who was already aware of her arrival thanks to Qiao Yicheng’s earlier call. However, the supervisor informed her that she was still a long distance from the base and, as it was already dark, advised her to find a place to stay for the night.
Qiao Simei found a guest house and, with a local family, enthusiastically recounted her grand love story with Qi Chenggang, describing him as a tall, broad-shouldered, strong man with eyes like "little sunshines." She eagerly anticipated a spectacularly unforgettable wedding. Back in Nanjing, her siblings worried. While Qiao Yicheng believed she needed to suffer a setback to learn her lesson, Qiao Erqiang admired her bravery for pursuing what she wanted, feeling it was worthwhile even if it ended in heartbreak.
Qiao Simei’s romantic ideals soon collided with the harsh reality of Xinjiang's freezing temperatures and her own severe altitude sickness, which left her struggling for breath and running out of oxygen. Later that night, Qiao Yicheng received a tearful call from Qiao Simei. Crying, she confessed her mistake and declared she was giving up on finding a boyfriend and would buy a ticket home the next morning.
Her distress softened Qiao Yicheng’s heart, and he gently told her to return home. The following morning, unable to reach the military unit by phone due to damaged communication lines, Qiao Simei, stubborn as ever, decided to walk to the base. The kind owner of the guest house provided her with the guesthouse's phone number and a few basic Tibetan phrases to help her hitchhike.
Just as Qiao Simei was about to embark on her journey, Qi Chenggang’s comrade arrived to pick her up, making her immensely grateful and overjoyed. The comrade explained that the supervisor had instructed him to first pick up Qiao Simei and then rendezvous with Qi Chenggang, who was currently on a mission. The two reunited halfway, much to Qi Chenggang's surprise.
The comrade also mentioned that the supervisor had personally purchased some local specialties for Qiao Simei to take back to her family. Though Qiao Simei was euphoric, Qi Chenggang appeared more resigned than pleased. Upon arriving at the military unit, Qiao Simei greeted everyone with a familiar warmth, as the supervisor was waiting for them. Qi Chenggang cautioned Qiao Simei against speaking carelessly, but she immediately asked the supervisor when they could get married.
The supervisor, believing Qi Chenggang had somehow prompted Qiao Simei's cross-country journey, began to reprimand him. Qiao Simei quickly interjected, asserting that coming was entirely her own idea, driven by love, and that no distance was too far. The supervisor then gave her a dose of reality: the unit was not a civil affairs bureau and could not issue marriage certificates.
He further explained that as an active military member, Qi Chenggang was bound by the late marriage and late childbirth policy. Qiao Simei was crestfallen, realizing she had forgotten about the two-year waiting period. Qi Chenggang then bluntly stated that he would not marry her even after two years. The supervisor intervened, explaining that Qi Chenggang was a key member of the unit and had an important mission the next day, limiting their visit to just half a day.
He arranged for Qiao Simei to stay in the family guest house. Qiao Simei attempted to suggest staying with Qi Chenggang in his dormitory, but the supervisor firmly reiterated military discipline and the fact that they were not yet married. Qiao Simei had dinner with the soldiers, where she was simultaneously used as a cautionary tale for her impulsive actions and praised for her remarkable courage as the first and only family member to visit their remote unit.
Throughout the meal, Qi Chenggang remained noticeably uncomfortable. Later, Qi Chenggang brought a blanket to her guest house room. Qiao Simei, overcome with emotion, embraced him, expressing how much she missed him. Qi Chenggang, however, pulled back, stating that they had only recently become acquainted and were merely friends separated by vast distances. He worried that her actions might cause misunderstandings, particularly given his status as a simple soldier.
Undeterred, Qiao Simei passionately reaffirmed her love, declaring that she would follow him even to the moon. The next day, Qi Chenggang saw Qiao Simei off. He told her that if he could get a promotion in just over a year, she would then be able to visit him anytime she wished. Qiao Simei, however, pressed him to promise that they would marry the next time he came home.
He agreed, but made her promise in return not to undertake such "silly things" again. With tears in her eyes, Qiao Simei departed Xinjiang, looking forward to arriving home just in time for the Little New Year. Meanwhile, back home, Ye Xiaolang experienced a sudden bout of vomiting in the morning. She attributed it to chronic gastritis, but Qiao Yicheng couldn't help but worry. Despite feeling unwell, she insisted on attending her TOEFL classes, emphasizing the significant investment they had made and her belief that learning English was essential to "conquering the world."
Episode 16 Recap
On the Little New Year, the Qiao family gathered to make dumplings. Qiao Simei returned, her face flushed from the high plateau. Qiao Zuwang scolded her playfully about her tan, while Qiao Yicheng remained quiet. Qiao Simei quickly apologized to her older brother, who told her to wash her hands and change her clothes before helping with the dumplings. She also brought back matsutake and agaric, which Qiao Zuwang instructed Qiao Sanli to take care of.
Soon after, a man nicknamed Sparrow Eye arrived, ostensibly to visit Qiao Zuwang. He brought wine and cigarettes, which Qiao Zuwang happily accepted, praising him as a promising and thoughtful young man, though Sparrow Eye kept glancing at Qiao Sanli. Suddenly, Aunt Wu called out for Wang Yiding. Qiao Sanli looked towards the door, where Wang Yiding stood shyly, holding some fruits.
He felt his gifts were too humble to bring inside, but Qiao Sanli recognized them as her favorites and urged him to enter. Wang Yiding hesitated, explaining he needed to go home as his mother was alone. When Qiao Sanli asked about his father and brother, he revealed that his brother, Wang Yining, was with his girlfriend for the New Year.
Then, with a somber expression, he disclosed that his father had passed away from gastric cancer before the New Year. Qiao Sanli was shocked and apologetic for not knowing, but Wang Yiding assured her that the funeral was simple, and few people knew. As he turned to leave, Qiao Sanli embraced him.
Seeing this, Qiao Zuwang called Wang Yiding to come inside, showing him much more warmth than he had shown Sparrow Eye, though he still encouraged Wang Yiding to go home to his mother. Later, Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding ate together in the factory canteen, drawing many curious glances. Qiao Sanli noticed how thin he had become and learned he had been eating only steamed bread and salted vegetables for nearly a month.
She pushed her own dishes and meat towards him. Wang Yiding explained that his mother had asked him to give his salary to her to help fund Wang Yining's wedding, since Wang Yining had a girlfriend and he did not. Qiao Sanli chided him for being foolish, suggesting he could have claimed to have a girlfriend himself. Wang Yiding simply replied that he didn't have one, leaving Qiao Sanli exasperated and jokingly implying he lacked common sense.
Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang escorted Sun Xiaomo home. Her mother was clearly against their relationship, openly disapproving of Qiao Erqiang and calling him jobless, urging Sun Xiaomo to break up with him. The next day, Qiao Erqiang and Sun Xiaomo planned to go ice skating, but the rink was closed. Over a meal, Sun Xiaomo offered to help Qiao Erqiang find a job through Xinhua Bookstore's various partner companies, such as binding or printing houses.
Qiao Erqiang said he would consider it. Suddenly, Sun Xiaomo felt unwell and asked Qiao Erqiang to wait for her outside. Moments later, she collapsed, convulsing. Qiao Erqiang rushed to her side, calling for an ambulance. Back at the factory, Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli discussed the declining workforce, with older workers being furloughed and younger ones resigning. Wang Yiding, however, remained unconcerned.
He explained that with his father's recent death and his brother's upcoming wedding, he had already given his savings book to his mother, feeling a responsibility to support his family. Qiao Sanli, pained by his selflessness, gently reminded him that while his reasons were valid, he also needed to consider himself. Wang Yiding apologized, reassuring her that she was very important to him, and Qiao Sanli urged him to take better care of himself.
Qiao Yicheng pressed Qiao Erqiang about his intentions to marry Sun Xiaomo, questioning his hesitation. Under his brother's questioning, Qiao Erqiang reluctantly revealed that Sun Xiaomo suffered from epilepsy. Believing that Ye Xiaolang must have known about this when she introduced them, Qiao Yicheng angrily confronted her upon returning home, accusing her of having a feud with his family.
Ye Xiaolang vehemently denied any prior knowledge, swearing her innocence and expressing her frustration with Qiao Yicheng's tendency to turn on her when it came to his siblings. She declared that if she had known, she would never have introduced Sun Xiaomo to Qiao Erqiang. Qiao Yicheng eventually conceded to believing her but insisted that Qiao Erqiang and Sun Xiaomo should separate. Disheartened and feeling wronged, Ye Xiaolang went to Aunt Fang to get the full story herself.
She then told Qiao Yicheng that from now on, she would never interfere in the Qiao family's affairs again. Qiao Yicheng tried to apologize, but Ye Xiaolang remained resolute. Qiao Erqiang later met with Sun Xiaomo. She was prepared for him to break up with her due to her illness, revealing that her aunt had initially advised keeping it a secret, though she knew it couldn't be hidden forever.
Qiao Erqiang reassured her that he did not mind her illness; he had simply wanted to check on her well-being. Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang continued to push Qiao Sanli to invest with him, mentioning that Sparrow Eye had already put all his money in. Qiao Sanli refused and advised her father to stop his investments, but he dismissed her concerns.
Wang Yiding, following Qiao Sanli's advice, interviewed for a position at a foreign enterprise, which offered good benefits and even paid study opportunities. He passed the interview, but when he told his mother he planned to resign from the factory, she became furious, accusing someone of putting bad ideas in his head and refusing to return his savings book. Qiao Erqiang started his new job at the Xinhua Bookstore warehouse.
As a newcomer, he faced bullying, with older colleagues slacking off and making him do all the heavy lifting. He was even denied a boxed lunch by the food server. Sun Xiaomo, seeing this, brought two pairs of chopsticks to share his homemade meal.
During their lunch, Director Chen approached Sun Xiaomo, requesting her to come to his office after work to discuss "new book arrangements," his tone making Qiao Erqiang remark that the director spoke like "a leavened steamed bun," with a thick outer skin that hid its true flavor. That evening, Sun Xiaomo went to Director Chen’s office.
He subtly threatened her by bringing up her epilepsy, implying that her recent seizure at the restaurant was related to past memories, presumably with him. When he tried to put his arm around her, Sun Xiaomo broke free. She firmly stood her ground, confirming she had a seizure but declaring that Qiao Erqiang was there, covered her, took her to the hospital, and later told her he didn't mind her illness and would marry her.
She told Director Chen that she was doing well and advised him to mind his own business. Director Chen was clearly taken aback by her resolve. Later, Sun Xiaomo invited Qiao Erqiang to her house for dinner, explaining that her mother wanted to meet him and celebrate his new job. Qiao Erqiang was nervous, admitting he had no experience meeting a girlfriend's family and was concerned about his suitability for her.
Sun Xiaomo reassured him, emphasizing that her mother had long hoped to meet her boyfriend, and urged him not to feel pressured. Back home, Qiao Simei was using Qiao Erqiang's walkman to practice English. He was annoyed, but she surprised him by showing that she had fixed his broken tape. She played it, and suddenly, the voice of Ma Suqin, Qiao Erqiang's former mentor, could be heard.
Qiao Erqiang immediately grabbed the walkman and climbed onto the roof, listening to the recording repeatedly. Qiao Simei soon joined him, asking if he still missed Ma Suqin and whether he truly loved Sun Xiaomo or his former master. Qiao Erqiang, feeling lost, pondered the meaning of "liking someone." Qiao Simei vividly described her own romantic ideal of escaping to a snowy cabin with the person she loved.
Qiao Erqiang envied her clarity, admitting he felt like a flashlight beam in the night sky, seeing no hope or end, only darkness. Qiao Simei, ever the optimist, advised him to focus on what was in front of him and assured him he would eventually find his way. The next day, Qiao Erqiang, carrying gifts, arrived at Sun Xiaomo's house. Her mother had invited many relatives, all eager to meet him and openly encourage their swift marriage.
Qiao Erqiang awkwardly greeted everyone. During dinner, he was plied with drinks by the enthusiastic relatives and soon became quite drunk. Prompted by the relatives, Sun Xiaomo went to check on him. Lying in the bedroom, in his alcohol-induced haze, Qiao Erqiang saw Sun Xiaomo attending to him but mistook her for Ma Suqin, calling out for his "Master."
Episode 17 Recap
Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei arrived at Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang’s home. Qiao Simei mentioned that Chang Xinyu had also passed the exam to join the TV station and was now a colleague of Qiao Yicheng's. Seeing Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang diligently studying English, Qiao Simei felt a sense of relief and balance.
Qiao Yicheng explained that as a journalist, he couldn't afford to fall behind, and his wife Ye Xiaolang was also eager to master English for broader reporting opportunities. Later, Qiao Yicheng pulled Qiao Sanli aside into the kitchen, closing the door. He was genuinely happy that Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding had reconciled and promised to find a way to help with Wang Yiding's penalty for breach of contract.
Qiao Yicheng reassured Sanli, acknowledging her past struggles and telling her not to blame herself, even joking that if things didn't work out with Wang Yiding, she might find someone even better. He then subtly criticized someone for a one-sided pursuit, which Sanli quickly told him not to let Qiao Simei overhear. Qiao Sanli then inquired about Qiao Erqiang's wedding, and Qiao Yicheng confirmed it was set for the following week.
Qiao Erqiang and Sun Xiaomo went to the Bureau of Civil Administration to register their marriage. There was a minor hiccup with their photos, as the official noted the background color was a "rosy red" instead of the required "pure red," but ultimately approved their registration. After successfully obtaining their marriage certificate, Sun Xiaomo suggested they celebrate at a restaurant, and Qiao Erqiang agreed to go to the place she previously enjoyed.
As they were about to leave, Sun Xiaomo's hand trembled, and she dropped their new marriage certificate. Qiao Erqiang accompanied her home, where Sun's mother warmly welcomed him and encouraged him to call her "Mom," which he did. As they gathered for a family meal, Sun Xiaomo suddenly had another epileptic seizure. Qiao Erqiang immediately attended to her with care, which deeply touched Sun's mother.
As Sun Xiaomo recovered, she had a fleeting memory of Director Chen comforting her during a past episode. Qiao Yicheng presented Qiao Erqiang with a large red envelope, urging him to establish a good life with Sun Xiaomo, now that he was a married man. Qiao Erqiang, however, confessed to feeling "muddle-headed," describing it as "fear of marriage," but Qiao Yicheng reassured him that it was a common experience.
Qiao Simei, meanwhile, continued her long-distance relationship with Qi Chenggang through letters and phone calls. Qi Chenggang, growing impatient and seemingly facing difficulties in his promotion to Platoon Leader, was annoyed by her constant communication, stating he was busy with an impending transfer to Lhasa and urging her not to visit.
Qiao Zuwang later chastised Qiao Simei over the exorbitant phone bills, accusing her of using the home phone for her calls to Qi Chenggang instead of for him to conduct business. Qiao Qiqi, now a middle school student, was gaining popularity for his handsome looks, which also made him a focal point for girls his age.
One day, Qiao Simei and Chang Xinyu, having initially planned to watch a movie, decided instead to visit Qiao Qiqi, concerned about him being alone at Uncle Ma's house while his mother was on vacation. After waiting for some time, they witnessed a pretty girl affectionately kiss a somewhat bewildered Qiao Qiqi before running off. Qiao Simei, ever the "expert" on romance, playfully interrogated Qiao Qiqi about the girl.
Chang Xinyu, taking a more serious tone, advised Qiao Qiqi to prioritize his computer studies and not let romance distract him. Qiao Simei, however, dismissed Chang Xinyu's concerns, telling Qiao Qiqi it was a "trivial matter" and offering her extensive experience in matters of the heart. Qiao Qiqi, to her surprise, then asked for help with a computer coding question instead of divulging romantic details.
Back at home, Ye Xiaolang noticed the family's savings book was missing and confronted Qiao Yicheng. After a moment of feigned ignorance, Qiao Yicheng admitted he had taken it. Ye Xiaolang then revealed her TOEFL exam results, joyfully announcing her success, but Qiao Yicheng's score unfortunately did not meet the passing mark. She comforted him, suggesting he could simply retake the test, as her own score was barely above the minimum.
Taking advantage of her good mood, Qiao Yicheng confessed that he had loaned the savings book to Qiao Sanli, who needed the money for an emergency. Ye Xiaolang, no longer surprised by such actions, stated she was accustomed to his habit of prioritizing his original family.
She expressed her feeling that in Qiao Yicheng's heart, his family held more weight than their own small family, and even more than her, describing his family as the "rope that can leash a big elephant" like him, causing her to doubt herself. Qiao Zuwang arrived at his workplace one morning, only to find the office entirely deserted. The following day, the Qiao family home was besieged by debt collectors, demanding payment.
Qiao Zuwang hid inside, refusing to face them, while Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei tried to hold them off at the door. Qiao Zuwang eventually called out, naming Qiao Yicheng, a TV reporter, as his eldest son who would return soon to explain the "policy and situation" to the creditors.
At this time, Qiao Yicheng was on a bus, accompanying Ye Xiaolang to Shanghai for her consulate appointment, and deliberately ignored his pager, declaring his wife's escort his top priority. Despite Ye Xiaolang teasing him for being "stingy" for not taking a taxi, he insisted on staying with her. Meanwhile, Maqueyan, dealing with the growing crisis, tried to send Wang Yiding to fetch Qiao Yicheng, but Wang Yiding, upon hearing "Sanli" mentioned, immediately ran off, seemingly prioritizing Qiao Sanli's safety.
Maqueyan then rushed to the TV station, only to find Qiao Yicheng wasn't there. Back at the Qiao home, the debt collectors eventually forced their way in, taking various household appliances, leaving the house in disarray. Qiao Yicheng, finally receiving an urgent pager message, was convinced by Ye Xiaolang to return home.
Upon his arrival, the front door was shut, and Qiao Simei, pointing furiously at Qiao Zuwang, who was cowering in a corner, recounted how he had been "cheated" after engaging in "capital funding," leading to their belongings being confiscated. Enraged, Qiao Yicheng grabbed a stick, intending to strike his father, but Qiao Erqiang and Wang Yiding intervened, holding him back. Qiao Zuwang, declaring he had lost all his money, dramatically offered his life in repayment.
In a fit of anger, Qiao Yicheng violently threw a chair, silencing everyone. Qiao Yicheng instructed his younger siblings to stay at his home, assuring them that Ye Xiaolang wouldn't mind. When Ye Xiaolang arrived back alone, she was surprised to find everyone there. Once inside, she explained to Qiao Yicheng that her visa application had been rejected due to an "immigration inclination."
She expressed her frustration, but Qiao Yicheng tried to console her, suggesting they could try again and that she could retake the TOEFL. Shifting to the family crisis, Ye Xiaolang questioned why Qiao Yicheng and his siblings were bearing the burden of their father's mistakes, arguing that "collective punishment isn't in the law anymore" and that Qiao Zuwang, being "irresponsible" and having ignored her advice, deserved his current predicament.
Qiao Yicheng defended his decision to house his siblings, explaining that the debt collectors didn't know his address, and emphasizing his duty to protect his "own brothers and sisters." Ye Xiaolang acknowledged his affection for his siblings and agreed to their stay, then suggested they inform the siblings about their plans to study abroad. Qiao Yicheng, however, hesitated, saying it was "not the right time yet," which angered Ye Xiaolang, who accused him of "avoiding the situation."
He urged her to keep her voice down, aware that the siblings were just outside. Indeed, Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei had overheard fragments of their conversation, including "immigration inclination" and "studying abroad," leading them to worry that Qiao Yicheng might also leave the country. The next morning, Ye Xiaolang openly announced her and Qiao Yicheng's plans to study abroad, leaving the three siblings stunned and unsure how to react.
Qiao Yicheng confessed to Ye Xiaolang that he was genuinely unsure about wanting to study abroad, but he adamantly didn't want her to go alone, desiring to stay together as a family. When Ye Xiaolang pointed out he wouldn't be happy if he went unwillingly, he responded that happiness didn't matter as they were family. He then proposed they have a child.
Qiao Yicheng admitted to a selfish underlying motive: he wondered if having a child would make Ye Xiaolang reconsider her plans, envisioning a comfortable life in Nanjing in a larger house, watching their child grow old with them. Despite these personal thoughts, he reassured her that he wasn't truly that selfish and was committed to working hard with her to achieve their goal of studying abroad.
Unbeknownst to Qiao Yicheng, Ye Xiaolang had already been pregnant and had undergone an abortion, a fact he was not aware of when he proposed having a child. Later, Qiao Erqiang prepared chicken soup for Ye Xiaolang, and the Qiao siblings, believing she had suffered an accidental miscarriage, were deeply sympathetic and concerned for her well-being.
Qiao Yicheng comforted Ye Xiaolang, who then promised to "definitely give you a child eventually" and to provide it with "the best life" and "lots and lots of love." The family's concern over her "miscarriage" was evident, with Qiao Erqiang advising her to recover properly to avoid "habitual miscarriage" in the future. After comforting his wife, Qiao Yicheng retreated alone into his thoughts, grieving over their shared loss.
Episode 18 Recap
Maqueyan visited the Qiao family's old house late at night, calling out for Qiao Sanli. Aunt Wu caught him and, thinking he was stealing, scolded him for causing trouble. Maqueyan explained he was looking for Qiao Sanli and asked when she would be back. Aunt Wu, frustrated by his questions, told him she didn't know and ordered him to go home. Qiao Simei had secretly used and broken Ye Xiaolang's lipstick.
One morning, Qiao Erqiang, still groggy, accidentally opened the bathroom door while Ye Xiaolang was inside. Though Qiao Sanli was consistently understanding, friction among the family was constant. Ye Xiaolang spent her days intensely studying, so Qiao Yicheng would go out and watch TV with his younger siblings. Qiao Erqiang supported Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang going abroad, while Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei were reluctant for them to leave.
Qiao Erqiang offered Ye Xiaolang coffee that Qiao Simei had brought, but Ye Xiaolang declined, saying she wasn't feeling well. Later, Qiao Yicheng tried to offer her coffee again, but she refused, insisting on studying. He then joined his siblings to watch TV, not wanting to disturb her.
Qiao Erqiang asked Qiao Yicheng if Ye Xiaolang was truly determined to leave and if Qiao Yicheng intended to go with her, encouraging him by saying his intelligence would make studying abroad easy. Qiao Yicheng expressed hope. Qiao Sanli confided in Wang Yiding that she felt Ye Xiaolang had changed and become distant since focusing on going abroad. Wang Yiding, now earning double his previous salary, gave his new savings book to Qiao Sanli.
He explained that his mother had always managed his father's money this way, calling it a family tradition. Later, Wang Yiding's mother demanded his new savings book. Upon learning he had given it to Qiao Sanli, she became furious, but Wang Yiding stood firm on his decision to marry her. His mother's anger subsided after he helped her wash her feet.
Softening, she acknowledged that wives managing finances was a family tradition and instructed him to bring Qiao Sanli to dinner next week when Wang Yining's girlfriend, Xiao Min, would also be visiting. Qiao Sanli awoke one morning to find a notice on the television, a strict rule from Ye Xiaolang forbidding TV viewing after 10 PM. Qiao Simei loudly complained about Ye Xiaolang's strictness, but Ye Xiaolang emerged, defending her need for a quiet study environment.
Qiao Sanli quickly intervened, urging Qiao Simei not to cause trouble for Qiao Yicheng. While Ye Xiaolang was out for her TOEFL class, Qiao Simei gathered everyone for a family meeting to discuss Qiao Sanli's upcoming visit to Wang Yiding's mother. Qiao Yicheng was pleased, but Qiao Simei, having heard rumors, warned that Wang Yiding's mother was a "calculating" and difficult woman, fearing Qiao Sanli would be bullied.
Qiao Sanli, however, dismissed the rumors, stating that as long as Wang Yiding was devoted to her, nothing else mattered. Upon Ye Xiaolang's return, Qiao Erqiang told Qiao Yicheng he intended to stay at his workplace for a few days, but Qiao Yicheng insisted he stay. The next morning, Ye Xiaolang confronted Qiao Simei about her broken lipstick. Qiao Simei retorted defiantly. Ye Xiaolang became enraged, feeling that Qiao Yicheng always sided with his siblings despite saying he understood her.
Qiao Simei then carelessly brought up Ye Xiaolang's lost baby, implying she was careless. In a fit of anger, Ye Xiaolang revealed the truth: she never intended to have the child and wished she could leave the country immediately. Qiao Yicheng, shocked, had to leave for an urgent matter at the TV station, telling her they would discuss it further that night. Wang Yiding and Wang Yining brought their girlfriends home for dinner.
Wang Yiding's mother showed clear favoritism towards Xiao Min, telling her not to help with chores while directing Qiao Sanli to wash the dishes and preventing Wang Yiding from assisting. When Qiao Sanli returned home, she found Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Simei looking worried. Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang's heated argument could be heard from their room. Qiao Yicheng was upset that Ye Xiaolang had made such a significant decision without consulting him.
Ye Xiaolang argued that the constant commotion of his family had prevented any private conversation. Qiao Yicheng, feeling used, accused her of seeing him as a "springboard" for her ambitions and angrily left. Later that night, Qiao Simei complained about Ye Xiaolang, but Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli sternly told her to be quiet. Qiao Yicheng, unable to sleep, spent the night at his workplace.
The next day, Qiao Simei, having replaced Ye Xiaolang's lipstick, covertly returned to the old house. She found it vandalized, with "Repay the money" painted in red on the door and smashed windows, causing her to cry. Among the debris, she discovered two unopened letters from Qi Chenggang, stating he was going to Lhasa but providing no return address. Maqueyan then sneaked in, and Qiao Simei, mistaking him for a debt collector, hit him.
She informed him that the individuals who had swindled their father had been apprehended, and they were planning to move back. Maqueyan expressed delight, but his joy was short-lived as Qiao Simei revealed Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding were engaged and warned him to stop harassing her. Qiao Simei and Ye Xiaolang had another argument.
When Qiao Yicheng returned, Ye Xiaolang informed him of two decisions: first, she had resigned and planned to open a shop in the computer shopping center; second, she would move in with her friend Xiaomeng to study for the TOEFL exam. Qiao Yicheng, despite their conflict, saw her off the following day, giving her money and advising her to concentrate on her studies. Sometime later, after her shop opened, Qiao Yicheng quietly visited, observing from a distance.
Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang visited a new skating rink and encountered Liu Qiang, a former colleague from the factory. Later, Qiao Erqiang heard from a colleague that Director Chen's wife had passed away. Noticing Sun Xiaomo's low spirits, Qiao Erqiang invited her to go skating. Upon arriving at the skating rink, Sun Xiaomo received a message and abruptly canceled their plans, stating she needed to return to the bookstore urgently.
Episode 19 Recap
Sun Xiaomo broke her date with Qiao Erqiang to meet Director Chen, who had claimed to be injured. Director Chen expressed his continued affection for her, telling her he had loved her from the first moment he saw her and his feelings hadn't changed. Sun Xiaomo, however, reminded him she was on a date with her husband and asked to discuss things the next day.
As she tried to leave, Director Chen, claiming to be in a bad mood, held her back and asked her to stay and chat. Sun Xiaomo confronted him, asking if he had ever truly loved her and, if so, why he hadn't married her. She then questioned why he bothered her if he didn't love her, before slapping him and demanding he let her go. Later that evening, Qiao Erqiang drove Sun Xiaomo home.
Her mother was away at her aunt's with her elderly dance group for rehearsals, so she invited him upstairs, mentioning she had made New Year rice-cakes and wanted him to try them. After they ate, Qiao Erqiang again tried to leave, stating it was getting late. Sun Xiaomo, not wanting to be alone, asked him to stay the night, then kissed him. The next morning, Qiao Yicheng caught Qiao Erqiang leaving Sun Xiaomo's house.
Qiao Erqiang explained that Sun Xiaomo's mother was not home. Qiao Yicheng urged them to hold their wedding banquet soon. Qiao Erqiang agreed and also expressed his desire to move in with Sun Xiaomo, noting it was her wish as well. Qiao Yicheng, feeling apologetic that he couldn't provide a wedding chamber for them, was reassured by Qiao Erqiang that he and Sun Xiaomo were content.
While Qiao Erqiang went to the market to buy groceries for their first dinner together, Sun Xiaomo's mother expressed her displeasure to Sun Xiaomo about them getting married so quickly. She admitted that Qiao Erqiang's only virtue was his honesty. She then brought up Director Chen, saying Sun Xiaomo had waited so long for him without a proper status, and even suggested Sun Xiaomo should have kept the baby she was pregnant with.
Sun Xiaomo, however, firmly stated her fear of living a lifetime of turmoil like her mother, of having a child without a name, or her child growing up fatherless. She vowed not to repeat her mother's path. Unbeknownst to them, Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin briefly passed each other at the market while Qiao Erqiang was buying carp and celery and Ma Suqin was asking about clams.
Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei went to watch a movie to give Ye Xiaolang and Qiao Yicheng some space, as Ye Xiaolang was back from Shanghai. Qiao Sanli intended for them to move back to the old house soon. Qiao Simei openly criticized Ye Xiaolang, disdainfully referring to her as "Ye TOEFL" and declaring her unworthy of Qiao Yicheng. Qiao Sanli defended Ye Xiaolang, suggesting that she might have endured hardships.
In a taxi, Ye Xiaolang told Qiao Yicheng that she had performed well in her studies and her visa application was smooth. She then apologized to him, explaining that she had prepared many times to tell him things but the timing was always off, attributing it to a lack of mutual trust. Back at the old house, Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, and Qiao Simei were cleaning up.
Qiao Sanli informed Qiao Erqiang that she and Wang Yiding had decided against a traditional wedding banquet, opting instead for a wedding trip since she had never traveled outside Nanjing. After they obtained their marriage certificate, Qiao Sanli gifted Wang Yiding a new pager, explaining that she thought of getting it for him when he took her father back to their hometown.
Wang Yiding was hesitant, considering it too expensive, but Qiao Sanli insisted, saying it would make communication easier for them. Wang Mother later asked Wang Yiding if he and Qiao Sanli would live at home first. She then requested he give his new character-displaying pager to Wang Yining for his date with Xiao Min, to help him "maintain appearances" as Xiao Min's family was wealthier.
Wang Yiding explained it was a wedding gift from Qiao Sanli and he would need to discuss it with her first. This angered Wang Mother, who accused him of being controlled by his wife, putting her before his family, and slammed her chopsticks down. Wang Yiding reluctantly agreed to give the pager to Wang Yining. Upon hearing this, Qiao Sanli was furious and vowed to retrieve it, complaining that Wang Yining was a "parasite."
Despite Wang Yiding's attempts to appease her and promise a better pager, Qiao Sanli was hurt, emphasizing it was the first expensive gift she had ever given him. She even questioned if Wang Yiding was truly his mother's biological son, comparing the preferential treatment Wang Yining received. Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang, who had been avoiding creditors by staying in another city, scurried back upon hearing of Qiao Sanli's wedding. At the restaurant, Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding nervously awaited Qiao Yicheng.
Qiao Sanli, after much hesitation, informed Qiao Yicheng that their father had returned. Qiao Yicheng immediately turned to leave, but Qiao Sanli stopped him, pleading that it was her wedding day and despite Qiao Zuwang's past actions, he was still their father. With tears in her eyes, she explained how their mother had passed away early, and how deeply wronged she would feel if no elder was present.
Qiao Yicheng ultimately relented, and though his expression remained stiff upon seeing Qiao Zuwang, he did not make a scene. During the wedding dinner, Qiao Zuwang presented "local specialties," including "wild hornet honey," which Wang Yining recognized as products from their hometown that were "export rejects," implying lower quality goods sold domestically. Qiao Zuwang also inquired about Ye Xiaolang, to which Qiao Erqiang responded that she was busy with her drafts and couldn't attend.
Separately, Qiao Qiqi met his girlfriend, Yang Lingzi, after class. She told him her parents were out of town for a wedding and she was scared to be alone at home, inviting him over to watch videos. Once there, Yang Lingzi provocatively suggested they watch "something special." Qiao Yicheng woke up early to find a note from Ye Xiaolang. As he was late for work, Song Qingyuan rushed him to his office, stating that "creditors" were waiting.
To Qiao Yicheng's surprise, it was Ye Xiaolang's parents, who, only knowing he worked at the TV station, came to him to settle their son's legal issue. Their son had assaulted someone, and they demanded money to resolve the matter privately. Ye Xiaolang was furious when she heard about her parents' visit.
She told Qiao Yicheng she had wanted to borrow money from Xiaomeng, planning to pay it back in USD from her future earnings abroad, to ease his financial burden. Qiao Yicheng, who had always disliked borrowing money, reluctantly agreed. She sternly warned him not to use their savings to bail out her brother, urging him to harden his heart. Song Qingyuan also advised Qiao Yicheng not to pay, but Qiao Yicheng felt obligated because they were Ye Xiaolang's parents.
He then discreetly asked Song Qingyuan for a loan, not for her parents, but to exchange for more USD given the favorable exchange rate. Qiao Yicheng went to the guest house and gave money to Ye Xiaolang's parents, also offering to arrange their return tickets. Despite his help, her parents showed no gratitude, instead plotting to keep him and Ye Xiaolang as their "money trees."
Back home, Qiao Zuwang spent his days playing mahjong and smoking, filling the house with noise and fumes. Qiao Simei, unable to bear it, argued with him. Qiao Zuwang, feeling disrespected, told her to "get out" if she was annoyed, so Qiao Simei stormed out of the house. Qiao Yicheng, returning home, found Qiao Simei squatting outside, complaining that living with Qiao Zuwang was like "living in hell." Inside, they found Ye Xiaolang also squatting on the floor, visibly distressed.
She explained her parents had called, feigning heart problems to get her to visit, but she knew they simply wanted to stay in Nanjing and depend on her. Qiao Yicheng, with his soft heart, inadvertently revealed that he had just been to the guest house. Ye Xiaolang erupted in anger, accusing Qiao Yicheng of having a "problem" and recklessly giving away their hard-earned, frugally saved money to bail out her "good-for-nothing" brother again.
She ran into her room, crying, lamenting how she had sacrificed for the TOEFL exam and worked secretly to save money, only to have to give it all to her family because of blood ties. She desperately wished to live for herself for once. Qiao Yicheng patiently comforted her, assuring her she was not wrong and that he would find a way to send her parents away. Ye Xiaolang's mood quickly lifted, and she even spoke kindly to Qiao Simei, who, after hearing about Ye Xiaolang's family struggles, found herself unexpectedly admiring her.
Episode 20 Recap
Qiao Erqiang went to pick up Sun Xiaomo, who had been working late and getting home increasingly later. Sun Xiaomo, feeling stressed and exhausted, reacted with tension and frustration, even accusing Qiao Erqiang of deliberately trying to worry her and seeking a "sense of purpose" by helping. Qiao Erqiang patiently explained he was genuinely concerned for her safety and offered to stop picking her up unless she specifically asked.
Despite his calm demeanor, Sun Xiaomo called him "spineless" for enduring her anger without complaint. She announced she had a business trip with Manager Chen that weekend, and then advised Qiao Erqiang to think about his own future, suggesting he couldn't spend his entire life moving books. Qiao Simei consoled Ye Xiaolang about their difficult parents, remarking that while good people are similar, bad people are bad in a "thousand different ways."
She jokingly nicknamed Qiao Yicheng "Auntie Qiao" for his nagging and stinginess. She then asked Ye Xiaolang when Qiao Yicheng would join her in America. Ye Xiaolang confessed a premonition that he wouldn't go, expressing worry about how they would maintain their relationship across such a vast distance. Qiao Simei dismissed these concerns, reassuring her that love has a powerful life of its own, just like her love for Qi Chenggang.
However, Ye Xiaolang countered that love comes and goes unpredictably and admitted she was worried because Qi Chenggang hadn't been in touch. Soon after, Ye Xiaolang fell asleep. The next morning, Qiao Simei and Ye Xiaolang left for work hand-in-hand, waving goodbye to Qiao Yicheng. Early one morning, after Qiao Erqiang saw Sun Xiaomo off to the bus stop for her trip, Qiao Simei was on the phone trying to get Qi Chenggang's contact information.
Inside Wang Yiding's home, his mother instructed a pregnant Qiao Sanli to mop the floor, causing both of them to slip and fall. Wang Yiding, who had been asleep, immediately rushed them to the hospital. There, they discovered Qiao Sanli was pregnant and had nearly suffered a miscarriage. Qiao Yicheng arrived swiftly, confronting Wang Yiding about allowing his pregnant wife to mop, especially while he was asleep.
Qiao Sanli defended Wang Yiding, explaining he had been working late shifts and that they wouldn't have known about the pregnancy otherwise. Qiao Yicheng remained stern, reminding them he wasn't as easily fooled as Qiao Erqiang. Wang Yiding apologized repeatedly, and Qiao Sanli urged him to check on his own mother, who had also fallen and possibly twisted her back.
After getting medicine for Qiao Sanli, Qiao Yicheng encountered Qiao Simei, who had brought their aunt, Wei Shufang, to the hospital for sudden stomach pain. Doctors suspected a benign tumor and planned further tests. Learning of Qiao Sanli's pregnancy, Qiao Simei was overjoyed, though Qiao Yicheng appeared less enthusiastic.
Later that evening at home, Wang Yiding returned with olive oil, explaining that during Qiao Sanli’s tests, he was so frightened he spent his time reading pregnancy information on the hospital walls. He diligently applied the oil to Qiao Sanli's belly, calves, thighs, and waist, determined to prevent stretch marks, fearing she might dislike her body otherwise.
He also vowed to work more overtime to save money so they could eventually move into their own place, promising to use their canceled wedding trip money for a future family trip with their child. Meanwhile, Song Qingyuan drove Ye Xiaolang's parents, telling them Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang were busy. He then surprised them by taking them to a hospital for check-ups, despite their protests.
Ye Xiaolang's parents accused him and Qiao Yicheng of tricking them, but Song Qingyuan insisted it was the best hospital and Qiao Yicheng was a rare, good son-in-law. Song Qingyuan explained that humans, like machines, need regular check-ups to prevent minor issues from becoming serious. To everyone's relief, a hospital director acquainted with Song Qingyuan informed them that Ye Xiaolang's parents were in excellent health.
Afterward, Song Qingyuan told Qiao Yicheng that Qi Weimin would be back next week, and they should have a farewell dinner for both Ye Xiaolang and Chang Xinyu, as Chang Xinyu was also leaving for a six-month exchange program in America from the TV station.
Qiao Yicheng later urged Ye Xiaolang to see her parents off, emphasizing that they didn't yet know about her plans to go to America, and her presence would offer them peace of mind, preventing them from feeling deceived. After her business trip, Manager Chen drove Sun Xiaomo home but stopped near her house to avoid being seen. She got out of the car resentfully and in tears.
At school, Qiao Qiqi tried to talk to Yang Lingzi, but she was surrounded by other boys, playfully dismissing Qiao Qiqi and stating her mother's advice to be selective. Qiao Yicheng and Qi Weimin picked up Wei Shufang from the hospital. Wei Shufang thanked Qiao Yicheng for his help, feeling she was a burden, but Qiao Yicheng assured her it was his duty as her nephew.
Qiao Qiqi was home instead of at school, claiming the computer lab was being upgraded. Wei Shufang's husband invited Qiao Yicheng and Qi Weimin for dinner, but Qiao Yicheng declined, reminding Qi Weimin of their plan for Chang Xinyu's farewell dinner. As Qi Weimin would also be out of Nanjing, he advised Qiao Qiqi to contact Qiao Yicheng for urgent matters and gave him Chang Xinyu's email.
Qi Weimin then suggested to Qiao Yicheng that he should personally take care of Qiao Qiqi rather than relying on others, subtly criticizing Qiao Yicheng for not visiting often enough. He further implied that Chang Xinyu, like a "star" moving into a wider "universe," would soon leave Qiao Yicheng's "orbit" and reminded him of his wedding day advice: "The ultimate winners are the people who can maintain their laughter until the very end."
Qiao Yicheng retorted that Ye Xiaolang had long desired to go abroad, and he would not hinder her. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli, despite being pregnant, was still doing housework. Wang Yiding's mother focused her attention on her other son, Wang Yining's, wedding, demanding that Wang Yiding hand over his and Qiao Sanli's wedding and travel money for Wang Yining and his fiancée Xiao Min's expenses.
On the day of Ye Xiaolang's departure, Qiao Yicheng gave her numerous instructions and well-wishes, while Ye Xiaolang advised him to consider his own needs more. She insisted that neither Qiao Yicheng nor Song Qingyuan see her off, as she disliked emotional goodbyes. Qiao Yicheng tried to help her with her luggage, but Ye Xiaolang firmly refused, telling him to stay in the car. Qiao Yicheng reluctantly watched her walk away alone.
On the way home, he discovered Ye Xiaolang had left her savings book in the car. Song Qingyuan remarked that Ye Xiaolang had her "own ways of affection," a rare compliment that Qiao Yicheng noted. Unbeknownst to them, on the plane, Ye Xiaolang found a guarantee letter she had written years ago, with a note on the back confirming her father had received money for her brother's affairs.
Qiao Sanli received a letter from her old admirer, nicknamed "Sparrow Eye," who informed her he was leaving Nanjing to pursue business in the south and would likely not return, wishing her happiness. At a skating rink, Qiao Erqiang accidentally bumped into Ma Suqin’s son, Zhiyong. Looking up, he saw Ma Suqin, and his eyes lit up with visible joy at the reunion. Qiao Yicheng and Ye Xiaolang continued to communicate via email.
Ye Xiaolang informed him that she was doing well in America; the first semester was challenging but manageable. The money Yicheng had borrowed from Xiaomeng for Ye Xiaolang's family was quickly repaid. Xiaomeng then invited Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan to dinner, playfully suggesting it could be a farewell for Qiao Yicheng before he went to America. Qiao Yicheng clarified he was not going abroad.
Song Qingyuan refused the dinner, stating that Xiaomeng wouldn't be herself if she didn't criticize Ye Xiaolang. Qiao Yicheng admitted he was increasingly confused about whether Xiaomeng and Ye Xiaolang were truly friends. Following his reunion with Ma Suqin, Qiao Erqiang began frequently visiting her tofu shop, buying vegetables for "two families" and helping with repairs.
Ma Suqin urged him to spend more time with his own family, but Qiao Erqiang insisted that as her disciple, it was his duty to help her. He also noted that she never accepted money for his tofu purchases. Later, Manager Chen invited Sun Xiaomo to dinner again. She called home only after Qiao Erqiang had already prepared dinner, claiming she lost track of time on her computer.
Back at their home, Sun Xiaomo's mother expressed her disapproval of Sun Xiaomo's constant late returns. She advised Qiao Erqiang to change his approach, suggesting he shouldn't always be so accommodating and should use a "stick and carrot" method to keep the relationship interesting. She criticized him for eating tofu every day for a month, declaring she wouldn't last a day if she were Sun Xiaomo.
Episode 21 Recap
Director Chen invited Sun Xiaomo to a restaurant they frequently visited. He recalled how she once ate an entire fish by herself, expressing his surprise at her appetite. He then offered her some nourishing soup with ginkgo, claiming it was good for her health, but Sun Xiaomo, feeling unwell, declined the food. Director Chen then presented her with a gift, a watch.
Upon opening it, Sun Xiaomo found a receipt from a year ago and realized it was a gift originally intended for his wife. She confronted him about it, stating that he shouldn't try to deceive her with someone else's gift. Director Chen dismissed her concerns, insisting that what was his was hers and questioning her lack of trust. It was then that Sun Xiaomo calmly revealed she was pregnant.
Director Chen immediately feigned happiness for Qiao Erqiang, saying he thought Sun Xiaomo was infertile, which he called one of his mistakes, and now her "knot" was untied. Sun Xiaomo shared her mixed feelings of joy and worry, but Director Chen reassured her, mentioning that doctors confirmed her illness was not hereditary and that she shouldn't overthink. He then asked if Qiao Erqiang knew, suggesting Sun Xiaomo was trying to surprise him.
Sun Xiaomo understood his implication and accused him of not acknowledging the child as his own. Director Chen coldly distanced himself, stating that her marriage, husband, and pregnancy had nothing to do with him and advised her to think clearly about her situation. In anger, Sun Xiaomo splashed him with a glass of cold water, calling him Chen Junliang. Later, Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan went singing, then sat on a roadside bench drinking.
Song Qingyuan remarked that Qiao Yicheng was always chattering, even without alcohol, unlike others who became talkative only when drunk. He also noted how much more alcohol they could buy with the price of one drink from the bar. Qiao Yicheng eventually relaxed and admitted he felt refreshed. On their way back, Qiao Yicheng stumbled upon Wang Yiding selling handmade, light-up bracelets at a street stall. Wang Yiding was startled and pleaded with Qiao Yicheng not to tell Qiao Sanli.
Qiao Yicheng assured him he wouldn't, revealing he knew Wang Yiding wanted to save money to move out with Qiao Sanli and their unborn child, anticipating increased expenses after the baby's arrival. Qiao Yicheng encouraged him, saying it was good to earn extra money with a skill. Song Qingyuan, noticing the interaction, joked about Qiao Yicheng's brother-in-law, Wang Yiding, being a big guy with a "girlish feeling" for handicrafts.
Qiao Yicheng then tried to pay for a bracelet, but Wang Yiding insisted it was cheap and offered it as a gift. Sun Xiaomo took the watch from Director Chen to a store, requesting to exchange it for a simple men's watch without asking for the price difference. The salesperson explained that the watch was a limited edition from a year ago and there were no equivalent items available for exchange, but she insisted.
Meanwhile, Yang Lingzi was in a bad mood and rejected Qiao Qiqi's invitation to go skating and see a movie. She told him to go away, then angrily confronted another boy who was harassing her. Qiao Qiqi, unable to stand by, stepped in to protect Yang Lingzi. Later, he brought her Meiziwu Rice to cheer her up. As he sat shyly beside her, the bold and passionate Yang Lingzi suddenly hugged and kissed him.
Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, and Qiao Sanli gathered for a meal at home. Qiao Simei complained about Qiao Sanli's mother-in-law, calling her greedy and biased, and even blaming her for almost causing Qiao Sanli's miscarriage. However, Qiao Sanli defended her, saying that while her mother-in-law was indeed fond of petty gains, she didn't have malicious intentions or plot against people.
They realized Qiao Zuwang wasn't home; he was out visiting neighbors, which Qiao Erqiang said was good as he drank less and could often get free meals. Qiao Simei then pointed out that none of them had brought their partners home. Qiao Yicheng mentioned that Ye Xiaolang was too busy to reply to his emails, and Qiao Sanli confirmed Wang Yiding was also very busy with overtime.
When Qiao Yicheng asked about Sun Xiaomo's health, Qiao Erqiang quickly responded that she was stable. Just then, Qiao Zuwang returned home and immediately chastised his children for not being able to bring their partners home, warning them to be careful of being cuckolded. Qiao Yicheng dismissed his father's words, but Qiao Zuwang retorted that the most "honest and dedicated" people often made the biggest mistakes.
While the others paid little attention, Qiao Simei excused herself from the table, claiming she was full and needed to study English, but her uneaten food suggested otherwise. Qiao Zuwang speculated she was on a diet, remarking that she ate less than a cat. Later, Qiao Erqiang, mistaking Qiao Simei's mood for dieting, offered her a baked sweet potato, but she refused.
Qiao Simei confessed her worries about Qi Chenggang, who hadn't replied to her letters in a long time, and his phone calls were always cold and brief. Despite Qiao Erqiang's suggestion that Qi Chenggang might have found someone else, Qiao Simei firmly believed he was simply too busy and exhausted from his missions in a high-altitude, cold region, possibly even ill, and without anyone to care for him.
She decided to request leave from work to go to him and take care of him, brushing aside Qiao Erqiang's concerns about her foreman position. When she remarked that Erqiang couldn't just leave because he was married and had a family, she wistfully wondered if she truly had one of her own. A few days later, Yang Lingzi’s mother and relatives stormed into his aunt and uncle's home, slapping Qiao Qiqi and accusing him of hooliganism.
Wei Shufang and Old Ma were bewildered by the commotion until Yang Lingzi’s mother declared that Qiao Qiqi had gotten her daughter pregnant. The relatives demanded accountability, threatening to take Qiao Qiqi to the police. Wei Shufang and Old Ma, overwhelmed by the responsibility, stated that Qiao Qiqi was their deceased sister’s child, whose father was absent, and they had raised him as their own. They admitted they couldn’t handle such a serious matter.
When pressed by his aunt, Qiao Qiqi finally admitted his involvement. Wei Shufang and Old Ma sought Qiao Yicheng’s help. Qiao Yicheng found Qiao Qiqi disoriented and bruised, muttering "Brother, help me," and immediately rushed him to the hospital. The next day, Qiao Yicheng met with Yang Lingzi's family.
He acknowledged that the situation was already muddled and proposed marriage as the only solution, despite the fact that both Qiao Qiqi and Yang Lingzi were below the minimum age for late marriage, which meant they couldn't get a certificate from the residential district. Qiao Yicheng suggested they sincerely explain the situation to the residential district and pay any fines.
He also emphasized that Qiao Qiqi needed to balance his studies and his new marriage to be able to support his family, while Yang Lingzi should stop her classes due to her pregnancy. Yang Lingzi’s mother, seeing no other option, reluctantly agreed to the marriage. She later visited Qiao Qiqi at the hospital, admitting she didn’t particularly like him, as no mother would accept such circumstances.
However, as they were soon to be family, she urged Qiao Qiqi to be good to Yang Lingzi, to which Qiao Qiqi promised to treat her well. On the wedding day, Qiao Qiqi appeared somewhat dull and dazed, being teased into drinking with Yang Lingzi. Qiao Simei, more joyful than the newlyweds, playfully smeared cake on Qiao Yicheng’s face, and in the ensuing chaos, Qiao Erqiang also ended up with cake on his face.
Qiao Zuwang, Qiao Yicheng, and Qiao Simei all drank heavily. Qiao Erqiang offered to go back to the old house to care for them but was rebuffed. As they walked home, Qiao Zuwang hummed a tune while Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Simei stumbled behind, bickering in their drunken state.
Qiao Yicheng lamented making a "great mistake" by having Qiao Qiqi marry, while Qiao Simei asked when she and Qi Chenggang would marry, prompting Qiao Yicheng to tell her to ask "the lord." Qiao Simei then drunkenly told Qiao Yicheng that every time she tries to like him, he does something she dislikes, making him a "pain in the neck." She then hugged him, professing her love. Qiao Yicheng tried to shake her off, telling her to let go.
The night before, Qiao Simei was still wondering when she would marry Qi Chenggang. The next morning, Qi Chenggang appeared at her door, announcing he wouldn't be returning to his post. Qiao Yicheng, surprised, stared at him, questioning how long he had served. But Qiao Simei, overwhelmed with joy at seeing her beloved, didn't care about the details of his service.
She immediately offered him money to go to the bathhouse to wash up, promising to cook noodles for him at home. Qi Chenggang accepted the money and went to the bathhouse while Qiao Simei prepared a meal for his return. Later, Chang Xinyu and Qi Weimin learned about Qiao Qiqi’s marriage after it had happened. Qi Weimin, in a fit of worry, lashed out at Chang Xinyu.
Chang Xinyu, though aware of Qiao Qiqi's relationship beforehand, felt unfairly blamed, arguing that they had been good enough to Qiao Qiqi and that they shouldn't be the ones feeling guilty. She shared that she only learned the news after returning from her business trip and immediately came to comfort him, barely sleeping out of fear of his agitation.
Episode 22 Recap
Song Qingyuan delivered good news to Qiao Yicheng one morning: they had both won the annual China News Award. Qiao Yicheng’s celebratory mood was cut short when Qi Weimin abruptly dragged him away, accusing him of harming Qiao Qiqi by pushing him into marriage. Qi Weimin asserted that any decision could have been discussed, but Qiao Yicheng’s actions had instead hurt Qiao Qiqi. Qiao Yicheng responded with sarcasm, which pushed Qi Weimin to his limit.
Qi Weimin retorted that Qiao Yicheng was becoming the very person he used to despise, and declared that from then on, they should go their separate ways, with Qiao Yicheng handling his own family matters. Later, Song Qingyuan, curious about the argument, tried to prod Qiao Yicheng for details. Qiao Yicheng explained that his family's affairs were too complicated to explain quickly and then asked Song Qingyuan for help in inquiring about Qi Chenggang in Tibet.
Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang woke up and immediately ate the noodles Qiao Simei had prepared, mistakenly believing they were for him, while Qiao Simei fretted that they were for her boyfriend. Upon hearing that Qiao Simei’s boyfriend had returned, Qiao Zuwang’s thoughts immediately turned to Qi Chenggang's severance pay, advising Qiao Simei to make sure she secured the money.
When Qi Chenggang returned from showering, Qiao Simei introduced him to her father and asked Qiao Zuwang to lend Qi Chenggang his silhouette jacket, as Qi Chenggang had no clean clothes. As Qiao Zuwang went to fetch the jacket, Qi Chenggang fell asleep on the sofa. Qiao Zuwang then left for a bath, and Qiao Simei was about to kiss Qi Chenggang when Aunt Wu arrived with stewed chicken gizzards, interrupting the moment.
While Qi Chenggang ate the noodles, Qiao Simei cautiously asked if he had returned early, noting her careful calculation of the days. Qi Chenggang stopped eating, tears welling up, and confessed that he had been discharged from the army. He admitted his fault, explaining he had dozed off while driving on the high plains, causing an accident. He expressed fear of telling his parents and pleaded with Qiao Simei not to leave him, emphasizing his newfound lack of prospects.
Qiao Simei, unfazed by the news, comforted him and proposed they get their marriage certificate as soon as possible if he was willing. Qiao Qiqi was living at Yang Lingzi's home, learning to manage household chores and care for the pregnant Yang Lingzi at a young and impressionable age. Qi Weimin visited, finding Qiao Qiqi silent and withdrawn. Qiao Qiqi eventually broke down, asking Qi Weimin to hit or scold him, acknowledging his mistakes.
Qi Weimin, despite his initial anger and helplessness, assured Qiao Qiqi he didn't blame him, reminding him that young people are given chances to make mistakes, especially a brother. When Qiao Yicheng returned home, he found Qi Chenggang waiting outside the door while Qiao Simei and Qiao Zuwang were arguing inside. Qiao Zuwang vehemently opposed Qi Chenggang staying in their home, as he had been discharged from the military but refused to go home.
Qiao Zuwang insisted that their unmarried cohabitation would make them a laughingstock and threatened to charge rent. Qiao Yicheng sided with Qiao Zuwang. Angered, Qiao Simei left the house with Qi Chenggang. Outside, Qi Chenggang repeatedly sought reassurance from Qiao Simei that she wouldn't leave him, lamenting that he had nothing left. Unable to bear it, Qiao Yicheng brought them back inside. He then arranged for Qi Chenggang and himself to sleep outside, while Qiao Simei slept in the bedroom.
Later, while Wang Yiding was selling goods at his street stall, he got into a heated argument and fight with a difficult woman who accused him of encroaching on her business. Qiao Sanli was shocked to see Wang Yiding return home with injuries. He initially tried to lie, claiming a work-related accident, but Qiao Sanli saw through his excuses and threatened to inquire at his company. He then reluctantly confessed that he was fighting at his stall.
Qiao Sanli pressured him further, making him admit that he was trying to earn money to help Wang Yining buy a house for his marriage. Elsewhere, Qiao Yicheng questioned Qi Chenggang about his early discharge. Qiao Simei, eavesdropping from the doorway, quickly fabricated a story: Qi Chenggang had performed excellently on a mission in Tibet but suffered a lung injury, leading to an early discharge with full benefits and a new job as an officer at a public transportation company.
Qi Chenggang went along with the lie, adding that he wanted to earn more money while young to plan for marriage. Hearing the word "marriage," Qiao Simei excitedly rushed out and hugged him. Separately, Xiao Mo, embracing Qiao Erqiang, asked if he loved her and how deep his feelings were.
Qiao Erqiang responded that he was grateful for her not disliking him, for finding him a job, and for agreeing to marry him, but he did not explicitly say he loved her. The next morning, Qiao Yicheng woke to find Qiao Simei and Qi Chenggang gone, leaving only a letter. In it, Qiao Simei explained that they were going to her old house to retrieve her household registration card, then to Qi Chenggang's parents to obtain his, before getting married.
After that, they planned to travel to the "ends of the earth" to let nature witness their love, asking Qiao Yicheng not to pursue them, as she feared nothing with her beloved by her side. That same morning, Xiao Mo began cooking, as it was Qiao Erqiang’s birthday and she had the day off. She planned to cook dinner to celebrate.
Qiao Erqiang tried to decline, stating he never celebrated birthdays and that Xiao Mo, being tired from work, shouldn't bother. However, Xiao Mo insisted on celebrating his birthday and asked him to return home early after work. Meanwhile, Wang's mother demanded rent from Qiao Sanli first thing in the morning, citing it as an old family rule. Qiao Sanli calmly produced a savings book containing six months' worth of rent.
She explained that while she and Wang Yiding were willing to help Wang Yining buy a house for his marriage, Wang Yining was perfectly capable and shouldn't rely solely on his older brother and sister-in-law. She also asserted that with her and Wang Yiding's own growing family, their household was no longer solely a "Wang" family matter, emphasizing their shared responsibility. Xiao Mo specifically went to Qiao Erqiang's favorite tofu shop, only to coincidentally encounter him there.
She saw Qiao Erqiang giving Ma Suqin skating rink tickets as a birthday gift, saying he wanted to skate with her again, just once. Xiao Mo, witnessing this from outside, left angrily. Later, at dinner, Xiao Mo remained strangely quiet but eventually presented Qiao Erqiang with an expensive watch as his birthday gift, remarking that a good watch helps a man live more decently and holds its value.
Qiao Erqiang expressed self-reproach, regretting his inability to provide Xiao Mo with a more dignified life or better things. Xiao Mo's mother made a cutting remark about his lack of concrete actions, but Xiao Mo stated that she didn't care for material possessions, only that Qiao Erqiang cooked for her every day and treated her well. Eventually, Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, and Qiao Sanli all received letters from Qiao Simei, each containing a blank postcard and a note.
The notes, though sent from different addresses, all asked them to write a message of blessing on the postcard, warning that otherwise, Qiao Simei and Qi Chenggang would never return. Qi Weimin and Qiao Qiqi also received these postcards. Despite his initial dismissal of it as "formalism" and "petite bourgeoisie romance," Qiao Zuwang eventually wrote a blessing.
Qiao Qiqi, along with Yang Lingzi, wrote a message, with Yang Lingzi making lighthearted remarks about her pregnancy and comparing Qi Chenggang’s looks to Qiao Qiqi’s. Qi Weimin penned a heartfelt wish for eternal love. Qiao Erqiang contributed a brief but loving message. Qiao Sanli wrote a practical message, urging Qiao Simei to return and clarify things with Qiao Yicheng, and to build a good life if her love for Qi Chenggang was true. In the end, even the reluctant Qiao Yicheng contributed his own blessings to the postcard.
Episode 23 Recap
At the skating rink, Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin were enjoying themselves. Ma Suqin teased Qiao Erqiang about his awkward skating, remarking he still looked like it was his first time. Qiao Erqiang then confronted a friend, asking if he was the one who had exaggerated and slandered them to Ma Suqin's husband years ago. The friend admitted to it, apologizing and blaming his youth and quick tongue.
Later, as they continued to skate, Qiao Erqiang helped Ma Suqin up after she fell, to which she playfully reminded him she was over eight years older. Qiao Erqiang, however, confessed that he didn't see her as old, but rather respected and loved her. Outside the rink, Sun Xiaomo was shouting and banging on the glass. She accused Qiao Erqiang of being "mother-obsessed" and pursuing an older woman.
Qiao Erqiang tried to defend Ma Suqin and his late mother, explaining that Ma Suqin was merely his former master at the factory who had taught him many things. Sun Xiaomo twisted their relationship, claiming their public displays were signs of a "nasty" affair and insinuating Ma Suqin was pregnant with his child. Despite Qiao Erqiang taking all the blame and trying to calm her, Sun Xiaomo became even more agitated, demanding a divorce.
When Qiao Erqiang finally agreed, Ma Suqin slapped him. Sun Xiaomo, in turn, called them both disgusting and shameless. This distressing scene left a lasting mark on her young son, Zhiyong, who witnessed it. Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang visited his old factory, only to discover it had long been shut down and replaced. Early that morning, Qiao Yicheng received a call from Qiao Simei, excitedly informing him that she and Qi Chenggang had returned.
She mentioned Qiao Yicheng was treating them to dinner at Jinling Restaurant, with Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli also invited, adding that her eldest brother always doted on her. Shortly after, Qiao Zuwang called Qiao Yicheng, insisting he bring his siblings home for lunch. Qiao Yicheng, however, refused, stating he already had plans. Feeling neglected, Qiao Zuwang then staged a suicide attempt with a rope, ensuring Aunt Wu would see him.
Qiao Yicheng later received a second call, which he initially mistook for Qiao Zuwang's, expressing his frustration about being busy, before realizing it was Song Qingyuan. At the dinner, only Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Simei, and Qi Chenggang were present, as Qiao Yicheng had told the others not to come. Qiao Yicheng spoke with a sarcastic tone, implicitly criticizing Qi Chenggang.
When Qi Chenggang defended Qiao Simei, Qiao Yicheng threw water on him and exposed that Qi Chenggang had been expelled from the army due to "misconduct." Qiao Simei was visibly shocked for a moment but quickly composed herself, claiming she already knew. Qiao Yicheng then left, calling Qiao Simei shameless for standing by Qi Chenggang. After he departed, Qiao Simei slapped Qi Chenggang before leaving herself.
Aunt Wu summoned the children back to their old home, where Qiao Zuwang was threatening to hang himself. He explained his old factory was gone and he worried about his future without a pension. Qiao Yicheng quickly realized his father was only interested in money. Qiao Zuwang then demanded 2,000 yuan a month, justifying the amount by detailing each child’s financial situation.
Qiao Yicheng countered with 900 yuan (200 each from Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, Qiao Simei, and 300 from himself). Still unsatisfied, Qiao Zuwang also demanded 200 yuan a month in rent from Qi Chenggang. Qiao Yicheng sternly warned Qiao Zuwang not to gamble the money away, stating that if he did, they wouldn't provide any more, and anyone who secretly paid his gambling debts would be solely responsible for his future expenses.
Qiao Zuwang also tried to get money from Qiao Qiqi, but his attempt was met with indifference from everyone. Back at the house, Qiao Simei retreated to her room after Qi Chenggang arrived. She told Qiao Yicheng that she would not look back or question Qi Chenggang about what happened, choosing instead to trust him. She explained that romance novels were unrealistic and that finding someone you love and marrying them was truly difficult.
Qiao Yicheng warned her that if things went wrong, he would not pity her. Despite this, she still asked for his blessing, but he remained silent. Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang was resolute about divorcing Sun Xiaomo. Despite her mother's fury, Qiao Erqiang left his watch and the clothes Sun Xiaomo had given him, departing their home. Qiao Zuwang vehemently opposed Qiao Erqiang’s relationship with Ma Suqin, swearing she would never enter their house and calling Qiao Erqiang shameless.
Qiao Erqiang, however, declared he wanted to live for himself for once and felt no shame. Qiao Yicheng offered Qiao Erqiang a place to stay, but Qiao Erqiang insisted on remaining in their childhood home, offering to pay rent and utilities, just as Qiao Simei did. During this family argument, Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu arrived with wedding gifts for Qiao Simei, including a large color TV, a cabinet, a dressing table, and a fabric sofa.
Qiao Zuwang tried to claim the new television for the living room, but Qiao Simei firmly asserted it was her wedding gift. Not long after, Qiao Qiqi and Yang Lingzi welcomed their daughter. Yang Lingzi, tired and irritable from childbirth, asked for water. Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu visited, accompanied by Qiao Yicheng, who mentioned that Qiao Sanli was also on the same floor, expecting her baby.
Qiao Yicheng pulled Qi Weimin aside, revealing he had saved money for both Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei, treating them equally. He clarified that he hadn't given Qiao Simei a dowry because he was upset by her impulsiveness, not out of stinginess. Qiao Yicheng then tried to return the money Qi Weimin had given for Qiao Simei's dowry. Qi Weimin was offended, questioning why Qiao Yicheng would bring up such a long-past matter now, calling it "disgusting."
He insisted he had never wronged Qiao Yicheng or the Qiao family. Chang Xinyu intervened, telling Qiao Yicheng he was in the wrong and affirming their genuine care for both Qiao Simei and Qiao Qiqi. She suggested Qiao Yicheng accept the gift from her instead, which he did. After calming Qi Weimin, they all went to visit Qiao Sanli.
It was only then that Qiao Zuwang learned Yang Lingzi had given birth, making an inappropriate comment about her delivery and the Qiao family's "efficiency." Qiao Sanli gave birth to a healthy baby boy weighing seven pounds, two ounces, bringing a sense of relief to Qiao Yicheng. Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli asked Qiao Yicheng to name their son, and he promptly chose the name Wang Ruoxuan. Meanwhile, Sun Xiaomo's belly began to visibly grow.
Qiao Erqiang found new employment as a chef in a restaurant. Qi Chenggang also secured a job as a second driver with a friend, promising Qiao Simei he would work hard to earn money and treat her well. He fulfilled Qiao Simei's long-held wish to wear a wedding gown and take wedding photos, making her very happy during this period.
In 1997, as Hong Kong returned to China, the Qiao siblings, like many others, were filled with inspiration and continued to push forward, striving for growth and progress in their lives.
Episode 24 Recap
Qiao Sanli faced parenting disagreements with Wang Yiding's mother. When Qiao Sanli arrived home, she found Wang's mother feeding Xuan Xuan a bun and candy, which Qiao Sanli immediately stopped, explaining the high salt and sugar content was unsuitable for the baby. Wang's mother dismissed her concerns, claiming she raised Wang Yiding the same way and he grew up tall and strong.
She then suggested Qiao Sanli quit her night shift job to stay home and care for Xuan Xuan, arguing that Wang Yiding, now a senior specialist with apprentices, earned significantly more, and Qiao Sanli's earnings, which she kept for herself, were not essential to the household. Qiao Sanli firmly countered that work and parenting methods were separate issues, stating that in modern times, women could balance both.
She further asserted that if she earned more than Wang Yiding, he wouldn't be expected to quit his job. She admitted that neither she nor Wang's mother was happy with the current childcare arrangement, but both she and Wang Yiding had demanding jobs. Angered, Wang's mother accused Qiao Sanli of wanting to establish her own household and challenged her to leave immediately.
Qiao Sanli refused to move out but declared that she would personally oversee Xuan Xuan's meals every day, removing Wang's mother from the responsibility. Meanwhile, Qi Chenggang was driving his taxi, with Qiao Simei joining him on his way to work. Qiao Erqiang, having caught Qiao Simei taking a bite from his lunchbox, chased after their car, demanding an explanation.
Qi Chenggang intervened, explaining that Qiao Simei had recently been promoted to housekeeping manager, leading to increased work stress and a larger appetite. Despite this, Qiao Erqiang continued to argue with Qiao Simei from the back seat, eventually getting out of the car to take a public bus. Shortly after, Qiao Simei felt a sudden wave of nausea.
Qi Chenggang, calculating the dates, suspected she might be pregnant and decided to take her to the hospital for a check-up, much to Qiao Simei's surprise that he figured it out before she did. At the hospital, Qiao Simei's pregnancy was confirmed. Qi Chenggang expressed his surprise and admitted he felt unprepared for fatherhood, prompting Qiao Simei to playfully remind him that if Qiao Qiqi could be a father, so could he.
Concurrently, Qiao Qiqi was struggling to care for his sick, newborn daughter, Xiao Zhi, as Yang Lingzi had gone to Shanghai. Yang's mother, who was also unwell, anxiously tried to help, but her efforts were met with Qiao Qiqi's criticisms about her feeding methods. She, in turn, blamed Yang Lingzi's absence for Xiao Zhi's predicament. Soon after, Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu arrived for a visit.
Seeing Xiao Zhi's condition and hearing that she had vomited her medicine all night, Qi Weimin promptly decided to take her to the hospital with Qiao Qiqi, while Chang Xinyu offered to stay and comfort Yang's mother. Later, Qiao Sanli visited Qiao Simei, bringing a collection of baby clothes, some new and some inherited, including some that Ye Xiaolang had left before going abroad.
Qiao Simei inquired about Qiao Yicheng, and Qiao Sanli relayed his happiness for her, advising her to let the men in her life handle any wishes she had. Qiao Sanli also shared her anxieties about Wang's mother and Xuan Xuan. Qiao Simei expressed a feeling of growing distance from her siblings since her marriage, to which Qiao Sanli retorted that Qiao Simei should be content, living with her father and Qiao Erqiang, and without a difficult mother-in-law.
Yang Lingzi returned from Shanghai and directly informed Qiao Qiqi that she wanted a divorce. She revealed she had fallen for a client, who was aware of her situation and accepted Xiao Zhi. Yang Lingzi confessed that she wasn't sure what "true love" was, but she knew she no longer loved Qiao Qiqi and desired to be with this new person. She characterized their marriage as a haphazard beginning, concluding that separation would be for the best.
Qiao Qiqi, initially emotional, quickly composed himself. He admitted his own uncertainty about loving Yang Lingzi but expressed gratitude for meeting her, as she had made him feel useful. He stated his intention to live with Xiao Zhi and requested time to find a new home. Yang's mother, having overheard the conversation, intervened, asserting that Qiao Qiqi did not need to move out.
She and Yang's father would help raise Xiao Zhi, and Yang Lingzi was free to go wherever she pleased. Qiao Sanli returned home from work only to find Wang's mother had pushed Xuan Xuan, leaving the child in distress. Infuriated, Qiao Sanli immediately took Xuan Xuan back to her parents' home. Qiao Zuwang quickly took Xuan Xuan to comfort him, while Qiao Simei discreetly called Wang Yiding.
Wang Yiding rushed over to the Qiao family home, apologizing and promising that he would stop financially supporting his sister Yining and that they would save money to move out as soon as possible. Qiao Sanli, understanding that it wasn't his fault, quickly reconciled with him. Qiao Qiqi and Yang Lingzi finalized their divorce. Qiao Qiqi accompanied Yang Lingzi to the station.
She expressed no objection to him continuing to live at her parents' home, believing they could still be considered family, even if no longer married, and wished for him to continue caring for Xiao Zhi and her parents. Qiao Qiqi agreed. However, upon returning home, he found his suitcases missing, and Yang's parents, feigning ignorance, firmly placed the house keys in his hand, implicitly signaling their desire for him to stay.
Meanwhile, Qiao Simei, now pregnant and feeling like a "winner in life," encountered Aunt Wu after work. Aunt Wu offered effusive congratulations and praised Qi Chenggang's earnings. Qiao Simei enthusiastically agreed, highlighting his good looks and his habit of giving her all his money. However, as Qiao Simei departed, Aunt Wu gossiped to herself, implying that Qi Chenggang was "no good." Qiao Yicheng signed the divorce papers he received from Ye Xiaolang.
In her message, she requested his swift signature, apologized, and explained that after long suppression, she had made her choice. She felt their marriage effectively ended at their airport farewell and took full responsibility for the outcome, asking him to "fulfill" her and not to hate her. She reflected that he was the only one she considered true family, and wished for them to remain "closest family" across the oceans.
Qiao Yicheng then walked through familiar streets, buying a roasted sweet potato and passing the KTV where Ye Xiaolang had once proposed, reflecting on his solitude. Later, Qiao Yicheng received a distressing call from Qiao Erqiang, informing him of Wang Yiding's serious accident. At the hospital, Qiao Sanli was inconsolable, declaring she would not live if anything happened to Wang Yiding.
Qiao Erqiang explained that a forklift worker's negligence in the workshop had caused five or six injuries, with Wang Yiding suffering the most severe impact to his lower body. Chang Xinyu and Qi Weimin arrived, and Chang Xinyu assured them that her mother's former student, a renowned surgeon, was operating on Wang Yiding. Wang's mother arrived, surprisingly calm, but expressed bewilderment that even a "senior specialist" could face such life-threatening dangers, drawing a frustrated shout from Qiao Sanli.
Qiao Yicheng took charge, arranging for the siblings and Qi Weimin to take turns guarding the hospital and providing care after Wang Yiding awoke, instructing Qiao Simei to take a weary Qiao Sanli to the old house, and Qi Chenggang to stay at his place for the night. Wang Yiding's surgery was successful, and he eventually regained consciousness. Qiao Sanli was immensely relieved and attended to him, despite her evident exhaustion.
Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Simei arrived shortly after with porridge, and the siblings continued to take turns at his bedside. Qiao Yicheng later overheard colleagues making vulgar comments about women who go abroad, implying they engaged in unsavory acts to remain overseas. Enraged, Qiao Yicheng confronted and punched the offending colleague. Both men were reprimanded by their superior for fighting at work and for letting personal issues affect their professional conduct.
The superior suggested Qiao Yicheng let Song Qingyuan share his workload. As Qiao Yicheng had an urgent interview with Minister Xiang Nanfang, Song Qingyuan, noticing Qiao Yicheng's torn jacket from the fight, lent him his own. Song Qingyuan, still unaware of the divorce, inquired if Ye Xiaolang was facing problems abroad. Qiao Yicheng then revealed that he and Ye Xiaolang were divorced. At the interview venue, Song Qingyuan excused himself for the restroom just as Minister Xiang Nanfang arrived.
Qiao Yicheng commenced the interview. Upon Song Qingyuan's return, Qiao Yicheng learned that Xiang Nanfang was Song Qingyuan's childhood friend and had initially mistaken Qiao Yicheng for Song Qingyuan due to the borrowed jacket. During the interview, Xiang Nanfang discussed the importance of imagination and broad-mindedness in leadership and cultural exchange, complimenting Qiao Yicheng's thoughtful questions. She also acknowledged his interest in the artist Chagall.
Episode 25 Recap
Wang Yiding was discharged from the hospital and returned home, but his mood was anything but cheerful. He quickly found himself in a dispute with Qiao Sanli over their son, Xuanxuan, being a picky eater. Wang Yiding felt Qiao Sanli was overly tense and magnified minor issues, while Qiao Sanli insisted she was teaching Xuanxuan proper eating habits, recalling Qiao Yicheng's strict lessons about not wasting food.
His irritation escalated, culminating in him slamming the table and telling Qiao Sanli to "shut up" before retreating to his room. Witnessing the constant arguments, Wang Mother expressed sympathy for Qiao Sanli as a fellow woman but declared she could no longer tolerate the daily strife, suggesting Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding find their own place and move out. Feeling reflective after Wang Yiding's accident, Qiao Simei sat with Qiao Erqiang, lamenting that unpredictable events could strike at any moment.
She urged him to seize the present and openly express his feelings to anyone he liked, as affection cannot be suppressed. Qiao Erqiang, initially more focused on his meal, eventually asked how he should approach the person he liked, to which Qiao Simei simply advised honesty. Their conversation was interrupted by a sudden, heavy downpour. Qiao Erqiang immediately worried about Ma Suqin.
As Qiao Zuwang and Qi Chenggang arrived home, soaked to the bone, Qiao Simei handed Qiao Erqiang clothing and encouraged him to go check on Ma Suqin if he was worried, assuring him that his love was strong enough to withstand any obstacles. Qiao Erqiang promptly put on a raincoat and hurried to Ma Suqin’s tofu shop. He found the shop inundated with rainwater and immediately helped Ma Suqin and her son, Zhiyong, clear the standing water.
After Zhiyong went to bed to prepare for an exam, Qiao Erqiang offered Ma Suqin a cup of hot water. He sat beside her and, with some hesitation, confessed, "Master, I like you. I want to marry you." He explained that after so many years, he could no longer lie to himself, recalling Qiao Simei's advice to voice one's heart if it caused no harm.
Ma Suqin, however, remained silent, then warned him not to follow her tumultuous path, wishing him a good life instead. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli cautiously turned on the light to find Wang Yiding calmer. He apologized for his earlier outburst. He then suggested they get a divorce, revealing that his recent injury had resulted in him losing his fertility and that he felt he was a burden on Qiao Sanli, who was still young.
Qiao Sanli firmly rejected the idea of divorce. She playfully chided him for his gentle approach to "forcing" a divorce, suggesting he should be more "ruthless." She reminded him that they were no longer newlyweds, and whether they could have more children was not a defining factor for their love. She emphatically stated that she already had two brothers and certainly didn't need him to become another "brother."
Qiao Simei prepared a health drink for Qi Chenggang, then reflected on love, concluding that genuine affection, like Qiao Erqiang's, was beautiful regardless of appearance. She expressed concern for Qiao Sanli, but Sanli reassured her that their upcoming move would resolve her issues with Wang Mother. Simei then suggested that Wang Yiding consider starting his own business, noting the current favorable economic climate.
Later that evening, at dinner, Qiao Zuwang dramatically opposed Qiao Erqiang's relationship with Ma Suqin, comparing their situation to classical opera and threatening to hang himself at their doorstep if they dared to register their marriage. Undeterred, Qiao Erqiang left home and went to Ma Suqin’s. He reiterated his desire to marry her, suggesting they look for a two-bedroom apartment for their new family, though Zhiyong voiced a preference for living on campus in high school.
Ma Suqin, worried about Qiao Erqiang's potential future regrets, suggested they simply live together without a marriage certificate. Qiao Erqiang stubbornly refused, pulling out a wedding ring and declaring his unwavering commitment to be with her, even without the support of others. Ma Suqin was deeply moved, and they agreed to marry, deciding against a banquet. Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli were busy renovating their newly purchased house.
Qiao Erqiang packed his bags, ready to move in with Ma Suqin, but Qiao Zuwang made sarcastic remarks about losing his rental income. Ma Suqin and Zhiyong came to meet him as he left the alley. Qiao Simei, waiting for Qi Chenggang every evening, endured Qiao Zuwang’s complaints about his children's supposed wealth and his demand that she secure Qi Chenggang’s military severance pay. Simei vaguely stated that Qi Chenggang had given his severance pay to his parents.
To appease her father's incessant grievances, Qiao Simei reluctantly agreed to increase his monthly living expense by two hundred yuan, hoping Qiao Yicheng would not find out. Meanwhile, Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli’s attempt to quietly leave for their new home was discovered by Wang Mother. Qiao Sanli confessed they had bought a house and were busy with renovations. Wang Mother reacted with outrage, sarcastically accusing them of making major life decisions without consulting her.
She lamented that she had raised a son only for him to prioritize his own family, feeling abandoned and fearing she would die alone. Qiao Sanli, exasperated by her mother-in-law’s dramatic manipulations, argued that their financial independence and move did not diminish their care for her. Unable to listen further, Qiao Sanli walked away, with Wang Yiding following to try and reason with her, but Qiao Sanli was unwilling to let Wang Mother control their lives.
After an interview, Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan met Xiang Nanfang, her colleague Qi Weimin, and his wife, Chang Xinyu. Xiang Nanfang suggested they all have dinner and drinks. However, Qi Weimin and Chang Xinyu had a prior commitment to watch a movie and excused themselves. Xiang Nanfang then invited Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan for drinks. Song Qingyuan, initially reluctant due to their equipment, eventually agreed, advising Qiao Yicheng to catch up on sleep during their travel.
Meanwhile, Wang Mother feigned illness to garner sympathy, lamenting her deceased husband and Wang Yining’s decision to marry into his wife’s family, leaving her with no one to rely on. Wang Yiding patiently reassured her that he would always care for her, regardless of where they lived, emphasizing that being a family extended beyond sharing a home. Later, Qiao Yicheng, Song Qingyuan, and Xiang Nanfang emerged from their drinks, with a tipsy Song Qingyuan singing loudly.
Xiang Nanfang and Qiao Yicheng reminisced about their childhood, including how Qiao Yicheng was often punished by his strict father for mischief caused by Song Qingyuan. Qiao Yicheng described his highly structured upbringing, contrasting it with Xiang Nanfang’s free childhood, which she admitted to envying. As Song Qingyuan became increasingly rambunctious, playing with an expensive camera, Xiang Nanfang and Qiao Yicheng playfully tricked him into a race, leaving him behind, with Xiang Nanfang remarking on Song Qingyuan's often "fun" nature.
Episode 26 Recap
Xiang Nanfang went to see fireflies, and Qiao Yicheng, leaving Song Qingyuan behind, followed her. Xiang Nanfang shared that she didn't need a specific reason or a plan to want to see fireflies, she simply wanted to. Qiao Yicheng was surprised by her spontaneous and carefree nature, especially given her background from a high-ranking family and her military education. He noted that if he didn't know her well, he wouldn't have guessed her upbringing.
When Xiang Nanfang sneezed, Qiao Yicheng put his coat over her shoulders. As it was winter, he pointed out that they wouldn't see any fireflies until dawn, and suggested they go home since he had interviews scheduled for the next day. Xiang Nanfang apologized for the fruitless trip. To fulfill her wish, Qiao Yicheng used a camera, creating a silhouette and adjusting the focus to make it appear as if there were fireflies, which Xiang Nanfang fondly named "heart-shaped flies."
Meanwhile, Song Qingyuan, waking up from his drunken state on the roadside, realized he was abandoned. He later playfully scolded Qiao Yicheng for ditching him to spend time with Xiang Nanfang, joking about them "messing around" together, a claim Qiao Yicheng quickly dismissed, stating they were merely work friends. Qiao Sanli was busy with the renovation of their new home when Wang Yiding came to apologize.
He admitted he was wrong for his earlier outburst and mentioned that his mother had cried, fearing she would grow old alone. Qiao Sanli, however, remained firm, arguing that if his mother continued to use such reasons to control him, their future life together would be unsustainable. Qiao Sanli decided that she would return to Wang Mother’s house every day to cook for her, and they could communicate by phone.
Wang Mother initially reacted with sarcasm, noting how quiet the house was and musing about opening a mahjong hall. Despite her passive-aggressive remarks, and after Wang Yiding assured her they would continue to provide for her living expenses and utility bills, she reluctantly agreed to their moving out. The couple then happily decorated their new small home.
Separately, Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin led a simple, ordinary life, often picking up Zhiyong together, enjoying small moments like Erqiang teasing Suqin about his cycling speed. Qiao Simei, waiting for her prenatal checkup, had to use a public phone since she forgot her pager. She complained to the phone owner about her husband, Qi Chenggang, missing her appointment.
When she finally reached him, he abruptly canceled, explaining he had a "big client" going to Shi Jiuhu and had to leave in ten minutes, telling her to take a taxi home. Upset, Qiao Simei visited Qiao Sanli, rambling about her life and suggesting Wang Yiding open his own car repair shop, a business idea Sanli noted she was still considering due to being busy with moving and renovating.
Sanli also subtly dismissed Simei's concerns about marital disharmony, implicitly referring to Simei's own relationship issues. Wang Yiding, observing Qiao Sanli's plan to cook daily for his mother, believed it was just to provoke her and suggested that they should bring his mother to live with them instead. Wang Yiding then announced that he had resigned from his job.
Qiao Sanli supported his decision, seeing it as a new beginning, and even brought out a bottle of wine Qiao Simei had given them to celebrate their new house and his fresh start. Wang Yiding, however, was impatient and had no immediate plans. When Qiao Sanli suggested he open his own shop and become his own boss, he became angry, dismissed the idea, and stormed off to stay at his old home with his mother for a few days.
Qiao Simei grew increasingly uneasy about Qi Chenggang’s recent behavior. One night, when he returned late, she found a woman's hair on him. Qi Chenggang calmly explained it away, stating that as a taxi driver, he interacts with dozens of men and women daily, implying the hair was from a passenger. He asked her to trust him and promised to massage her legs, leaving her unable to argue further.
Wang Yiding's sudden return home late at night further upset Wang Mother, who immediately accused Qiao Sanli of instigating him to distance himself from his family. At the same time, Qiao Sanli was busy caring for a crying Xuanxuan. While Qi Chenggang was showering, Qiao Simei secretly jotted down his recent phone numbers and then went to his car with tape, trying to find more evidence. Although she found nothing, her heart remained unsettled.
She even called a taxi call center to ask about "Hongfa Restaurant," which she suspected was related to his recent activities, claiming to be his wife. Qiao Erqiang had cooked wontons, and after he went to his room, Zhiyong secretly ate them. Qiao Erqiang, observing this from his doorway, was relieved.
Qiao Simei made a lace-trimmed lumbar support belt for Qi Chenggang, hoping that its unique design would make other passengers realize he was a married man with a skillful wife. She expressed her guilt to Qiao Sanli for suspecting Qi Chenggang of cheating. Qiao Sanli, however, found Simei's suspicions completely normal, remarking that if she were in Simei's position, she would have suspected him much earlier.
When Simei asked if Sanli suspected her own husband, Wang Yiding, Sanli firmly said no, stating that love required one hundred percent trust. She concluded that people ultimately believe what they want to believe, and trust is born from love. Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan conducted an interview at an after-school tutoring agency.
Song Qingyuan voiced his skepticism, questioning the need for such tutoring and criticizing the sly nature of those who ran them, claiming he became successful without ever attending one. Qiao Yicheng, however, responded that he started caring for children a long time ago, implying his understanding of parental pressures. Their interview with the agency's director, where they exposed discrepancies between the agency's claims and regulations, provoked an angry parent. During the confrontation, Qiao Yicheng was kicked, sustaining a work injury.
In the hospital, Song Qingyuan lightheartedly gossiped about Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang, even suggesting Yicheng might become his "half brother-in-law." Just then, Xiang Nanfang arrived, causing Song Qingyuan to discreetly excuse himself. Qiao Yicheng appeared visibly uncomfortable as Xiang Nanfang kindly checked on him and offered him fruit and snacks. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli accompanied Qiao Simei for a check-up. The doctor informed Simei that she had moderate swelling. Downstairs, they encountered Song Qingyuan, who comically mixed up their names.
Hearing about Qiao Yicheng's injury, they rushed to his ward. However, pausing outside the door, they overheard Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang talking and, seemingly happy for the developing connection, decided not to go in. Xiang Nanfang offered Qiao Yicheng kumquats, explaining a traditional remedy for a hoarse voice, further highlighting her care. Qiao Simei asked Song Qingyuan for a ride to Huamei Restaurant, leaving Qiao Sanli to return alone.
Sanli reflected on her earlier conversation with Qiao Yicheng, reiterating his words that siblings, having grown up, should learn to handle their own life and problems. Back at his old house, Wang Mother demanded that Wang Yiding hand over his compensation money, suggesting it be used for his brother's business and to retrieve his payroll card. Wang Yiding then calmly revealed to her that he had already resigned.
Wang Mother immediately blamed Qiao Sanli, yelling that it must have been her idea and accusing her of deceiving him and trying to alienate him from the family. Qiao Sanli arrived during the heated argument, calmly asserting her clear conscience. Wang Yiding defended Qiao Sanli, stating she only learned of his resignation a few days prior, but his mother dismissed his words, continuing her tirade. At this point, Qiao Zuwang arrived, carrying a crying Xuanxuan.
He complained loudly about the "torture" of babysitting, declaring he wouldn't do it again even for money, and called the baby a "little ancestor" who shortened his life. Amidst the chaos, Wang Yiding revealed his true intentions to his mother: he would not give her the compensation money. Instead, he planned to use that money to open his own repair shop and "establish his own household," starting from scratch.
Episode 27 Recap
Qi Chenggang gave Simei a large sum of money, telling her he had made good money this month and expected even more next month. Simei offered to prepare water for him to wash his feet, but he simply asked for a hug. Wang Yining, who hadn't visited his mother for a long time, returned home and immediately began massaging her shoulders and legs.
His mother noted his late appearance, asking if anything was wrong and why he only showed concern now after she was supposedly upset by his brothers. He quickly pitched a business idea, claiming he had reliable friends and a supply of popular brand-name shoes, but needed capital. His mother, however, insisted she had given him all she could and had no more money.
Yining's demeanor changed instantly; he became angry, demanding money and asserting he was the one who would support her in old age, unlike Wang Yiding who "gets bossed around all the time." He further blamed Qiao Sanli for bringing discord into their family. When his mother tearfully explained her inability to help, Yining roughly pushed her aside and stormed out. Moments later, Wang Yiding arrived home to find his mother collapsed on the floor.
He rushed her to Drum Tower Hospital. He called Wang Yining to inform him, but Yining was dismissive, stating he was busy and would come to the hospital "when I have time," showing no immediate concern. At the hospital, Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli tried to persuade his mother to undergo a checkup and be hospitalized, but she stubbornly refused, claiming she was fine and insisting she wanted to die in her own bed, not in a hospital.
They couldn't change her mind. Qiao Zuwang visited a job market, where he playfully evaded questions about his job search, remarking that he wasn't "looking for a babysitter." While there, he ended up helping catch a thief. Upon returning home, he immediately complained of a terrible backache and instructed Simei to buy him some Musk Strengthen-Bone plasters. Heavily pregnant, Simei went out to buy the plasters. To her shock, she witnessed Qi Chenggang embracing another woman.
Chenggang then told the woman to take a taxi home and that he would pick her up the next day. Simei walked home in a daze, and upon entering the house, burst into tears, completely unresponsive to Qiao Zuwang's attempts to speak with her. When Qi Chenggang returned, Simei suddenly cried out that the baby wasn't moving. They rushed her to the hospital.
In the delivery room, a terrified Simei wept, expressing her fear of dying like their mother did during childbirth. Qiao Yicheng, reassuring her, mentioned that the delivering doctor was a highly experienced obstetrician and a good friend of Xiang Nanfang. Simei then furiously grabbed Chenggang's collar, accusing him of getting what he wanted and telling him that if she died, he'd have to wait until her "body was cold" before finding another woman.
Qiao Sanli overheard this heated exchange and was deeply troubled. Chenggang received a phone call and left. Sanli started to follow him, but Wang Yiding stopped her, urging her to rest and reminding her that worrying wouldn't help Simei. Wei Shufang and Ma Yulin also arrived at the hospital, but in her haste, Wei Shufang collapsed again, indicating her illness was worsening. Outside her ward, Qi Weiyi and Qi Xiaoya began to argue.
Weiyi criticized Xiaoya for not visiting their mother, while Xiaoya retaliated by accusing Weiyi of only calling their mother to ask for money. Qi Weimin suggested they take turns looking after Wei Shufang, but Weiyi and Qi Xiaoya vehemently refused, claiming that since their mother chose to remarry Ma Yulin, he bore the most responsibility and should care for her alone. Enraged, Qi Weimin was about to retort when Ma Yulin stepped out of the ward.
Overhearing their argument, he apologized for Wei Shufang's condition, accepting full responsibility and assuring them he would care for her himself, so they wouldn't have to worry about their lives being disturbed. Without a word, Qi Weiyi and Qi Xiaoya turned and left, leaving Qi Weimin deeply disheartened by their callousness.
Qiao Yicheng approached Ma Yulin to offer comfort, and Ma Yulin mused that while some families fight but remain united, others, like his own, had "hearts that were never together." Simei gave birth to a daughter. Qi Chenggang's parents visited, expressing their joy for their grandchild before leaving to prepare soup for Simei. Chenggang himself appeared very happy, declaring his love for daughters and joking that he preferred them over "stinky" boys.
Qiao Yicheng sought to comfort Qi Weimin, reflecting on the situation with his siblings, stating that while the matter wasn't major, it was "quite good" because it "shows you their true colors." Weimin, still feeling the sting of his siblings' words, expressed his distress. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli accidentally overheard Qi Chenggang making a highly ambiguous phone call. He was telling someone he missed them and had been thinking of them "every minute I don't see you."
Horrified, Sanli immediately informed Qiao Yicheng. Qiao Yicheng stormed back into the ward and immediately confronted Qi Chenggang, hitting him. However, Simei intervened, pleading with Yicheng to stop, convinced that Chenggang would truly change this time. Although still furious, Yicheng looked at Simei and their crying newborn daughter, then helped Simei up.
He told her that Qi Chenggang was "not someone you can depend on" and naturally "restless," urging her to "be mindful" and "save a path for yourself in the future" to avoid being drowned by him. But Simei stubbornly maintained that Chenggang would change. Later, Sanli spoke to Yicheng, confirming Simei was "determined to be devoted to Qi Chenggang." Yicheng, resigned, acknowledged that they couldn't do anything more for her right now.
As Qiao Yicheng was leaving the hospital, he encountered Xiang Nanfang, who appeared unwell with a fever and was about to collect her medication. Yicheng, concerned, insisted she rest and went to retrieve the medicine for her himself. Back at home, Qi Chenggang's phone continued to ring incessantly, pushing Simei to her breaking point. She erupted in a fit of rage, smashing several items and angrily asking if he was "finished" with his affairs.
Chenggang, in tears, apologized profusely, blaming the other woman for "clinging onto" him. He begged Simei for forgiveness, promising to "peacefully live with you in the future" and truly change. Later, Simei's second brother brought her chicken soup. Qiao Yicheng escorted Xiang Nanfang back to her unit-allocated apartment, which she explained was where she typically stayed during the week, only returning home on weekends.
Inside, while looking at her childhood photos, Yicheng felt a strong sense of familiarity, as if they had truly met before. Nanfang informed him her fridge was empty except for instant noodles, as she rarely cooked at home. Yicheng decided to go out and buy groceries to prepare her a meal. When Nanfang questioned if he didn't have to work, he replied that he was particular about "picking his friends" to care for.
After Simei was discharged, Qiao Sanli diligently cared for her during her confinement, meticulously reminding her to stay warm, providing soft-soled shoes, and generally fussing over her well-being, all while pointedly ignoring Qi Chenggang. Simei, however, complained to Sanli that she shouldn't have told Qiao Yicheng about Chenggang's infidelity. Sanli became furious, sarcastically agreeing that she was "nosy" and warning Simei she would "taste the consequences in the future."
Sanli then returned home and asked Qiao Zuwang to help Simei, but he dismissed her concerns with his usual refrain: "Which woman doesn't have a child?" He even added a dismissive comment about Simei having a "money-losing daughter." Wang Yiding's mother, now seriously ill and staying at Qiao Sanli's new home, confessed to Sanli.
Knowing her end was near, she admitted that Qiao Sanli was a good person and she had treated her and Wang Yiding poorly, for which she was deeply sorry. Tearfully, she revealed that Wang Yiding was not her biological son. After years of being unable to conceive with her husband, she adopted Yiding when he was barely three years old, hoping it would help her conceive, as her sister had suggested.
Initially, she was genuinely good to him, but after she became pregnant with her biological son, Wang Yining, her affections shifted. Sanli grew increasingly indignant on Wang Yiding's behalf, accusing the mother-in-law of knowing Yiding was an honest child yet treating him so badly, forcing him to work for the family's income before he was twenty.
She angrily declared that the mother-in-law was now facing "retribution" for her lack of a heart, as her biological son wouldn't even visit her in her severe illness. The mother-in-law, acknowledging her wrongdoings, begged Sanli not to leave Wang Yiding and to live well with him and Xuan Xuan. Moved by her heartfelt confession, Sanli assured her that she would never abandon Yiding, as meeting him was her "fortune," and vowed to stay with him.
She also promised to "send her off in the funeral service." Simei's current nanny, Auntie Liu, proved unhelpful, refusing to cook pork liver noodles and insisting her role was solely to care for the baby. Simei called Qiao Sanli for help, who, still furious about Qi Chenggang's behavior, initially scolded Simei for not asking Chenggang to find a solution. Despite her anger, Sanli discreetly contacted a "Sister Chen" to secure a reliable confinement nanny.
Qiao Yicheng soon arrived at Simei's old home with Auntie Yang, a highly experienced moon nanny. Simei was delighted, and they named her newborn daughter Qi Qiaoqiao. As Yicheng prepared to leave, Simei chased after him, begging him not to be angry with Qi Chenggang anymore, claiming Chenggang was genuinely changing and now treated her "exceptionally well," coming home early to help with the baby.
Yicheng responded that whether he forgave Chenggang or not was irrelevant, as it was Simei who had to live her life with him. He wished for Qiaoqiao to be "smarter than her mom in the future."
Episode 28 Recap
Qiao Yicheng distributed red eggs to his colleagues, celebrating the birth of his younger sister Qiao Simei's daughter, Qiao Qiao. While discussing Qiao Simei's difficult confinement, Ma Suqin offered to help Qiao Erqiang with cooking if he was busy, and she also presented him with a soft, handmade outfit for the baby. Qiao Simei was delighted with the outfit, praising Ma Suqin's skillful hands, and asked Qiao Erqiang to invite Ma Suqin to Qiao Qiao's one-month-old celebration.
Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang, overhearing this, was visibly displeased. Qiao Simei called Qi Chenggang to hurry him home. Qi Chenggang, who was with his mistress, received the call and, after hanging up, abruptly ended their affair, leaving her by the roadside. Xiang Nanfang's brother, Xiang Beifang, sought out Song Qingyuan to gather information about Qiao Yicheng.
Song Qingyuan defended Qiao Yicheng, highlighting his backbone, his status as a senior reporter, and a pillar of their news center, arguing that "heroes don't ask about their origins" and even reminding Xiang Beifang of their own father's humble beginnings. Xiang Beifang, however, dismissed this, stating that their potential relationship was still uncertain and he was merely inquiring. Qiao Yicheng overheard this conversation.
Later, Song Qingyuan found Qiao Yicheng, reassuring him that the Xiang family, including Xiang Nanfang's kind parents and modest older sister, were wonderful people. He clarified that only Xiang Beifang, who had a TV University diploma and married a cadre's daughter, was pretentious and overly proud. Song Qingyuan urged Qiao Yicheng not to overthink the social differences, as long as Xiang Nanfang herself didn't mind, calling him "not a man" if he continued to hesitate.
Qiao Simei called Qiao Sanli to invite her to Qiao Qiao's one-month celebration, and Qiao Sanli agreed to come. Qiao Simei also called Qiao Yicheng, but he hung up on her. Separately, Xiang Nanfang's family discussed her relationship. While Xiang Beifang expressed reservations about Qiao Yicheng's modest family background and his previous divorce, Xiang Nanfang confirmed she was serious about him, a journalist whom she described as a "very good person" with excellent character and education.
Her mother concurred that good character was paramount, and economic differences were minor, ultimately trusting Xiang Nanfang's judgment despite initial qualms about the divorce. On the day of Qiao Qiao's one-month celebration, Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei waited anxiously for Qiao Yicheng, who eventually arrived with a "little tiger" gift for the baby. After the meal, Qiao Yicheng pulled Qi Chenggang aside for a private conversation, which made Qiao Simei very uneasy.
Qiao Yicheng asked Qi Chenggang what he thought of him, to which Qi Chenggang responded that Qiao Yicheng was an intellectual who always looked out for them. Qiao Yicheng acknowledged this but emphasized that he grew up in the alleys and, as a reporter, had encountered "unreasonable people." He issued a stern warning: if Qi Chenggang didn't settle down and treat Qiao Simei well, he would arrange for people to break his legs. Qi Chenggang stammered out an agreement.
Qiao Yicheng then pointed out that Qi Chenggang's daughter was crying and told him to go to her. Soon after, Wang mother passed away. Wang Yiding proposed buying a double burial plot for her and their father, but Wang Yining and his wife, Xiao Min, citing financial concerns, deemed it unnecessary, suggesting the crematorium or a tree burial instead. Wang Yiding insisted on honoring his promise to their mother for a proper burial.
Wang Yining then asked if their mother left any belongings, as she had been living with Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli. Qiao Sanli presented a box of their mother's packed items, which contained a tape recorder.
They played a recording of Chen Guilan's will, stating that her 20,000 yuan in savings and her property at 382 Shuiximen Street were to be left entirely to her eldest son, Wang Yiding, and his wife, Qiao Sanli, with the property deed held by her cousin, Jiang Lihua, for transfer.
Upon hearing this, Wang Yining and Xiao Min flew into a rage, accusing Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli of caring for their mother with ulterior motives and calling the will a "trick" lacking legal validity without witnesses. Qiao Sanli calmly retorted that neither she nor Wang Yiding had any prior knowledge of the tape. She firmly declared that what was rightfully theirs, no one would be able to seize, and she welcomed a lawsuit if necessary to clarify everything.
Qiao Yicheng cooked a meal for Xiang Nanfang, including spare ribs stewed with pickled vegetables he had prepared himself. Xiang Nanfang praised the soup, saying she could drink three bowls of it. Qiao Yicheng then looked at her and asked, "Would you be willing to drink this for the rest of your life?" Xiang Nanfang, after a moment, replied, "I'd be willing." She then asked Qiao Yicheng to meet her parents, to which he agreed.
Dressed in a suit and carrying a painting as a gift, Qiao Yicheng went to Xiang Nanfang's home, a Western-styled house, which triggered a childhood memory. He explained to Xiang Nanfang's parents that the painting was from an artist he had interviewed. Xiang Nanfang's father noted that Zen paintings, like jades, were priceless and required a true connoisseur. Qiao Yicheng mentioned that Xiang Nanfang's love for paintings was influenced by her father.
Xiang Nanfang's mother confirmed this, and her father added that a good match, like good art and friends, comes from destiny and is "never too late." While Xiang Nanfang's mother inquired about his work, Xiang Nanfang noticed Qiao Yicheng's nervousness and reassured him by taking his arm as they left. Later, Song Qingyuan was overjoyed to hear about the successful meeting, jokingly reminding Qiao Yicheng about the matchmaker's custom of receiving a new pair of shoes.
Qiao Yicheng, however, expressed his concern, realizing the Xiang family's "cadre" status was far more significant than he had previously understood. Song Qingyuan dismissed his worries, asking if cadres were somehow fundamentally different from others, and humorously flirted with Qiao Yicheng, asking if he wanted to marry him instead. In the new year, the Qiao siblings embarked on new ventures.
Qiao Erqiang, encouraged by Ma Suqin to elevate his career, decided to open his own restaurant after she found a suitable storefront and helped address his concerns about money and experience. Qiao Simei, believing Qi Chenggang's taxi work was too risky, decided to open a bookstore with him, also scouting storefronts. Qiao Qiqi, accompanied by Qi Weimin, found a location for his "Qiqi Internet Cafe." All three businesses successfully opened, marking a period of improved fortunes for the family.
When Xiang Nanfang visited the Qiao family home for the first time for dinner, Qiao Sanli and Qiao Simei repeatedly warned Qiao Zuwang to mind his manners, reminding him that Xiang Nanfang was a civil servant from a prominent family and they couldn't embarrass Qiao Yicheng. Qiao Zuwang, however, was unfazed, exhibiting a pompous attitude and boasting about seeing a foreign leader in 1971. Upon Xiang Nanfang's arrival, Qiao Yicheng introduced her to everyone.
Xiang Nanfang politely greeted Qiao Zuwang and presented him with tea and a ceramic teapot, knowing his fondness for tea. Qiao Zuwang inquired about her parents' retired civil servant status and her siblings. Later, he asked about her own work, his eyes widening with interest when she mentioned working at the Municipal Party Committee and living on the prestigious Jiangsu Road, an area he acknowledged as desirable. Xiang Nanfang then asked about his hobbies.
Qiao Zuwang proudly stated his love for Chinese chess, using an incorrect term "qie cha qie cha," which Qiao Yicheng gently corrected to "qie cuo qie cuo," meaning "to learn from each other." Qiao Zuwang quickly covered it up as common slang. As Xiang Nanfang prepared to leave, Qiao Erqiang gave her homemade sausages and salt-cured chicken, suggesting they would be convenient given her busy work schedule.
After she left, Xiang Nanfang told Qiao Yicheng she found his family "pretty cute," specifically calling Qiao Zuwang "an interesting person." She also admired the strong bond between the siblings, noting it was rare to see an adult family that still gathered so often, and concluded that his family was "great." Qiao Zuwang, however, immediately pressed Qiao Sanli for more details about Xiang Nanfang's family's "cadre" ranking, complaining that Qiao Yicheng had kept their prominence a secret.
Qiao Sanli simply urged him to practice his chess skills for his future in-law. At the bookstore, a 21-year-old girl applied for a job. Despite Qi Chenggang's initial declaration of only hiring male staff, she impressed him with her confident demeanor, good Mandarin (having been a school radio announcer), and strong academic background, explaining she had to leave school due to poverty but would have aimed for university. Qi Chenggang, instantly attracted to her, offered her a three-month trial period.
Simultaneously, Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang began their wedding preparations. The other Qiao siblings continued to lead bustling and successful lives with their new businesses. On the day of the wedding, Qiao Zuwang, meticulously dressed, once again boasted about his son marrying into a prominent family. Qiao Erqiang attended the celebration with Ma Suqin and Zhiyong, a presence Qiao Zuwang could not openly object to.
Episode 29 Recap
The day of Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang's wedding arrived, filled with celebratory cheers. Qi Weimin, Chang Xinyu, and Qiao Qiqi extended their congratulations to Qiao Yicheng. Encouraged by Xiang Nanfang's parents, Qiao Zuwang rose to give a speech. He began by expressing his joy and pride in his eldest son, Qiao Yicheng, and his new daughter-in-law, Xiang Nanfang, describing them as upright young people who love their country.
However, his speech soon veered into an elaborate and patriotic monologue about the party and national prosperity, before finally concluding with well wishes for the couple and all guests. Qiao Zuwang was pleased with his performance, which was praised by Xiang Nanfang's parents. Qiao Simei had worried he might make a scene, but he genuinely exceeded expectations, performing exceptionally well.
During the reception, Qiao Zuwang, who typically didn't drink, asked Qiao Sanli to swap his wine for water so he could toast everyone. At one point, Qiao Simei reminisced about Qiao Yicheng's earlier, clumsy days. That day marked a significant milestone for the Qiao family as they took their first-ever full family photograph. After the wedding, Qiao Yicheng moved into Xiang Nanfang's home. On his wedding night, he felt a bit out of place.
Later, he had a meal with his siblings. During dinner, he advised them to minimize visits to Xiang Nanfang's home to avoid troubling her parents and ensure the Qiao family was not looked down upon. He told them to approach him directly for any issues, rather than involving Nanfang. Qiao Sanli and Qiao Erqiang nodded in understanding, but Qiao Simei misconstrued his words, believing he saw them as a burden and a source of embarrassment.
She tearfully accused him of favoring Qiao Sanli and always finding fault with her and Qiao Erqiang, claiming they were the ones who brought him down. Qiao Sanli tried to console her, explaining that Qiao Yicheng wasn't trying to cut ties but merely expressing a concern, and that Qiao Simei was just seeking attention. Later, Qiao Yicheng visited Qi Weimin, bringing diapers for his child. He confided that Qiao Simei always ran to Qi Weimin whenever they argued.
Qi Weimin urged Qiao Yicheng to comfort Qiao Simei, acknowledging that his words had genuinely hurt her pride, and reminded him that all his siblings were just as proud as he was. Qiao Yicheng, however, explained that his caution stemmed from his own pride and a fear that their unintentional actions could lead to misunderstandings or trouble, especially with someone like their father. Qi Weimin suggested addressing their father directly rather than generalizing.
Qiao Yicheng retorted that he always spoke plainly with his family and didn't understand why his honesty was suddenly problematic. Qi Weimin, frustrated, eventually told Qiao Yicheng to leave, needing to wash his child's diapers. Meanwhile, Qi Chenggang's illicit relationship with Xiaomeng, an employee at the bookstore, continued to fester.
One rainy evening, Qi Chenggang called Qiao Simei, telling her he was sheltering at the store and asked her to put their daughter, Qi Qiaoqiao, to sleep without waiting for him, which Qiao Simei unsuspectingly agreed to. Even while out shopping with Qiao Simei and Qi Qiaoqiao, Qi Chenggang was preoccupied, taking a suspicious phone call he claimed was from a "store shareholder," and later secretly arranging a meeting for the evening.
As Qi Qiaoqiao grew older, Qi Chenggang and Xiaomeng maintained their secretive affair. Xiaomeng's behavior at the store became bolder, openly referring to herself as the "boss's wife." She also showed signs of jealousy when attractive schoolgirls frequented the store, drawn by Qi Chenggang's looks. When Qi Chenggang tried to leave to be with Qi Qiaoqiao one evening, Xiaomeng grew agitated, questioning if he was tired of her and accusing him of forgetting his past promises.
She then confessed her feelings for him, demanded he divorce Qiao Simei, and shocking Qi Chenggang, revealed she was pregnant. Qi Chenggang immediately rejected her demands, stating unequivocally that he would not divorce Qiao Simei or be with Xiaomeng. Despite Qi Chenggang's firm refusal, Xiaomeng pursued him to his home that very night, loudly calling for Qiao Simei. Qi Chenggang tried in vain to silence her, but Qiao Simei heard the commotion and came out.
Xiaomeng tearfully pleaded with Qiao Simei to grant her and Qi Chenggang their wish. Qiao Simei, her eyes brimming with tears, stared defiantly at Qi Chenggang, but he cowardly abandoned her and fled. Shortly after, Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli arrived to find Qiao Simei distraught and crying inconsolably, while Qiao Zuwang cursed Qi Chenggang. Despite her pain, Qiao Simei begged Qiao Sanli not to call Qiao Yicheng, fearing for Qi Chenggang's safety if her eldest brother found out.
The next day, Xiaomeng's parents arrived at the Qiao family home, demanding 150,000 yuan in compensation and threatening to report Qi Chenggang for rape if they didn't comply. Qiao Simei, enraged, grabbed a broom and forcefully drove them out of the house, while Qi Chenggang remained silent and hidden. Upon receiving a desperate, tearful phone call from Qiao Simei, who claimed she no longer wanted to live, Qiao Yicheng rushed to the old house.
He immediately grabbed a knife, intending to confront Qi Chenggang. Qiao Sanli desperately tried to stop him, warning him not to ruin his life for such a man. To everyone's surprise, Qiao Erqiang grabbed an axe, declaring he would join Qiao Yicheng in confronting Qi Chenggang, prepared to face legal consequences together. Fortunately, Wang Yiding intervened and managed to disarm both brothers, calming a terrified Qi Qiaoqiao who had started crying amidst the chaos.
Meanwhile, at her office, Xiang Nanfang confided in Qi Weimin about a secondment opportunity in a local area. She admitted to being torn, eager for the professional growth but worried about leaving Qiao Yicheng, especially given the history of his first marriage. Qi Weimin, a colleague and a close acquaintance of Qiao Yicheng, advised her to speak with Qiao Yicheng without delay, to seize the opportunity, and to trust in their relationship.
He also subtly revealed that the secondment was a competitive "one-out-of-two" selection between her and him. Later, Qiao Yicheng, waiting outside Xiang Nanfang's office, called her. She suggested he not pick her up, citing the inconvenience of transporting his bicycle. As he waited, he overheard Xiang Nanfang and Qi Weimin discussing the secondment opportunity again, before choosing to leave without being seen. Qi Chenggang, now hiding at a friend's house, pleaded with Qiao Simei for help.
She revealed she had saved some money for Qi Qiaoqiao's future education, but it was insufficient to meet the Meng family's demands. Desperate to prevent Qi Chenggang from going to jail, Qiao Simei implored Qiao Yicheng for a loan. However, Qiao Yicheng adamantly refused, firmly stating he would not lend her any money and forbidding Qiao Sanli and Qiao Erqiang from doing so either.
He declared that Qi Chenggang should bear the consequences of his own actions, even if it meant jail time, and should not burden his wife with his mistakes. Qiao Sanli, furious at Qi Chenggang's cowardice, urged Qiao Simei to divorce him immediately, questioning why she would stay with a man who abandoned her in such a crisis.
Qiao Simei, however, stubbornly refused, crying that she had given Qi Chenggang her heart and life, and couldn't understand why he would treat her so cruelly. Qiao Sanli tried to make her see the painful truth: Qi Chenggang treated her that way because he simply didn't love her, asserting that "because he doesn't love, he is able to hurt." Despite this, Qiao Simei defiantly refused to divorce, vowing to "drag it on" and not let Qi Chenggang escape.
Exasperated, Qiao Sanli walked away, declaring she would no longer interfere. Later, Qiao Erqiang secretly handed a sum of money to Wang Yiding, asking him to give it to Qiao Simei, believing the situation needed a resolution. Qiao Yicheng later heard that Qi Chenggang had been beaten by members of the Meng family, and coldly remarked that he deserved it. He kept these troubles from Xiang Nanfang.
However, Xiang Nanfang sensed his recent preoccupation and offered her help, reminding him that as his wife, she was now a part of the Qiao family and should assist with their difficulties. Qiao Yicheng remained evasive, dismissing his worries as mere "household squabbles." The situation escalated when the Meng family renewed their threats, explicitly targeting Qi Qiaoqiao. This desperate new threat sent Qiao Simei rushing to Qiao Yicheng's home in a fit of rage and despair. Xiang Nanfang, completely unaware of the developing crisis, was startled by Qiao Simei's distraught appearance and frantic pleas for help, asking what had happened to her husband.
Episode 30 Recap
Xiang Nanfang tried her best to comfort Qiao Simei and promised to help her. Qiao Yicheng, however, was worried about the potential negative impact on Nanfang, fearing that others would gossip about her marrying someone with a troubled family, and insisted on handling everything himself. Nanfang was hurt, noting that for a long time in their marriage, Yicheng seemed to unconsciously exclude her from his world and his family's affairs, even when major issues arose.
Yicheng denied this but then sarcastically brought up Nanfang's upcoming temporary work assignment, mentioning Qi Weimin. Nanfang explained that she was not going with Qi Weimin and had hesitated to tell Yicheng because she was afraid he would overthink it, linking it to the failure of his previous marriage due to distance and estrangement. The couple argued, and Nanfang decided to sleep in the guest room to cool down. Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli pooled some money for Qiao Simei.
Erqiang warned Simei to tell Qi Chenggang that the money was a loan that he had to repay. He added that even if they got through this crisis, it didn't mean everything was fine, and if Chenggang ever reoffended, he would break his legs. Simei, head bowed, promised on Chenggang's behalf that he wouldn't.
Qiao Yicheng then handed Simei a bank card, advising her to talk to the Meng family properly, but also to remember they could sue the Meng family for intentional assault. Simei, however, pulled him back, pleading with him to do her one last favor and go talk to them herself, admitting she was too timid and muddle-headed to handle it. Qiao Yicheng went to the guest house where the Meng family was staying.
He confronted Xiaomeng's father, stating that he knew Xiaomeng was never pregnant and that he had proof. Yicheng warned them that since they had taken the money and beaten Chenggang, they should leave and stop causing trouble, or he would call the police. Xiaomeng, still unable to let go of Chenggang, seized an opportunity when her father wasn't looking and ran to the Qiao family home, kneeling and begging Qiao Simei to let her be with Chenggang.
Simei pointed at Chenggang, who was cowering in the corner, and asked Xiaomeng if he was worth it. Xiaomeng insisted she loved him and it was worth it. Qiao Zuwang, unable to listen any further, angrily yelled at Xiaomeng, calling her shameless and a homewrecker. Xiaomeng was eventually dragged away by her father. Xiang Nanfang prepared to leave for her temporary work assignment. She and Qiao Yicheng agreed to have a serious talk when she returned.
As she left, she advised him to take care of his throat with the tea bags she packed. Later, Qiao Simei and Qi Chenggang arranged to meet Qiao Yicheng. Yicheng immediately told Chenggang that he had three years to repay the money the family had lent him, or he would disregard their family connection. Chenggang submissively nodded.
Yicheng, exasperated by Simei's self-deprecating attitude, spoke harshly, telling her he only intervened because of her, and if she insisted on "wallowing in this mud pit," he couldn't help. He reminded her that their mother wouldn't want to see her daughter belittle herself. Yicheng sternly warned them not to get pregnant or cause any more life-threatening, money-losing trouble, stressing that Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli worked hard for their money and she shouldn't drag the entire family down.
He then left abruptly. Qiao Sanli lamented Qiao Simei's stubbornness, but Wang Yiding calmly pointed out that whether something was "worth it" was for Simei to decide, not outsiders; it would only truly be "not worth it" when she herself felt that way. Qiao Yicheng returned home late that night. Auntie Sun, the housekeeper, had left the door open for him and offered him food, which he politely declined. He then took a walk to Qiao Qiqi's internet cafe.
Qiqi shared updates about his mother-in-law's sprained back and his father-in-law investing in his business after selling his factory, admitting he was nervous about running things. Yicheng advised him to consult his colleagues and to always conduct business ethically, especially not allowing children in. Qiqi agreed, admitting he regretted not studying well himself. Yicheng then told Qiqi to visit the Qiao family home when he had time. That year, atypical pneumonia, or SARS, broke out.
Qi Chenggang received a message from Xiaomeng, informing him that she was getting married and asking him to meet her in Chuzhou, questioning if he truly could part with her. Meanwhile, Qiao Sanli brought Qiao Yicheng some Isatis root tea, and Yicheng, in turn, provided masks to the family, including Wang Yiding, whom he earnestly warned about the severity of the virus and the need for strict precautions.
Qi Chenggang told Qiao Simei that his aunt was gravely ill and he needed to go to Wuhu to care for her, emphasizing his filial duty. Simei worriedly saw him off, helping him put on gloves and urging him not to remove his mask. However, as soon as he boarded the bus, Chenggang removed both his mask and gloves.
Back at the Qiao family home, Qiao Yicheng arrived with more Isatis root tea and masks, while Qiao Erqiang was also present. Qiao Sanli returned with disinfectant and vinegar. Qiao Zuwang dismissed the severity of the virus, comparing it to cholera, which he had survived. Shortly after, Qiao Qiqi arrived with a UV light for disinfection, having come to check on everyone due to the "desperate times."
Just as the family gathered, a public health official arrived, announcing that Qi Chenggang was hospitalized for observation and the entire Qiao household was being placed under quarantine. Qiao Zuwang protested being locked up, while Qiao Simei was terrified, fearing the worst for Chenggang. Qiao Sanli tried to reassure her, explaining it was only observation, not a confirmed diagnosis. During the quarantine, Qiao Zuwang and Qiao Yicheng were forced to share a room.
Qiao Qiqi, staying at the Qiao home for the first time, felt a mix of emotions. Qiao Simei lay silently in bed, not eating or sleeping for a day and a night, causing Qiao Sanli immense worry. In the kitchen, Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Qiqi reminisced about Qiqi's infancy, with Erqiang admitting they hadn't cared for him well. Qiqi offered to teach Erqiang how to use a computer for his restaurant, sparking a lighthearted moment between the brothers.
Qiao Zuwang, meanwhile, had asked a neighbor to buy him lottery tickets, promising to treat everyone if he won. To his surprise, he won 600 yuan, much to the family's delight. Late that night, Qiao Yicheng sat alone in the courtyard. Qiao Simei, who Qiao Sanli had given Estazolam to help her sleep, joined him, explaining she had something she could only tell him.
She recalled a childhood fear of their old house's ceiling and praised Wang Yiding for building her a proper one when they married, highlighting his reliability. However, she defended Qi Chenggang, acknowledging his charm but lamenting his restless heart. Simei then made a heartfelt request for Yicheng to take care of Qi Qiaoqiao.
She revealed her resolve to go to the hospital to stay by Chenggang's side, even if it meant facing death, saying she intended to "stand guard over him." She laid out her wishes for Qiaoqiao's future: a basic life, a good education through college, a stable job, and a dependable, honest partner like Yicheng, Erqiang, or Wang Yiding, or even remaining unmarried if suitable. Most importantly, Qiaoqiao must not live a foolish life like Simei herself.
Yicheng, frustrated, pointed out that she "knew" she was being foolish and asked if she intended to continue. Simei simply responded, "You're right." The following day, the quarantine was lifted. Qiao Simei declared her intention to go to the hospital to be with Qi Chenggang, stating she would be there for him whether he recovered or died, even to "collect his body." Her family was shocked and tried to dissuade her, reminding her of Qiao Qiaoqiao.
Qiao Zuwang angrily called Simei a "stupid girl" and "unfilial." Realizing she could not be stopped, Qiao Yicheng agreed to take Qiao Qiaoqiao with him. Simei thanked Yicheng for taking care of her daughter, saying they would discuss everything else later. Qiao Yicheng then suggested they all go out for lunch to celebrate Qiao Zuwang's lottery win, despite Zuwang's attempt to postpone it since Simei was leaving. Simei said her goodbyes, telling them not to worry, and departed for the hospital.
Episode 31 Recap
Qiao Erqiang and Qiao Sanli worried that Qiao Simei might not be eating at the hospital, so they prepared food to take to her. Qiao Sanli was puzzled by Qiao Yicheng's decision to remain uninvolved, as he usually acted tough but was soft-hearted. Qiao Yicheng, however, knew that this situation was beyond Simei's control.
Simei had pestered the doctors all day, even signing a waiver, but they refused to let her care for Qi Chenggang, citing hospital policy and national regulations. Eventually, the hospital called the neighborhood committee, who then escorted Simei back home. Qiao Erqiang had searched for Simei all afternoon at the hospital to no avail, only to find her home, where Qiao Zuwang was holding a "criticism meeting" about the shame she had brought upon him.
Despite this, Simei remained resolute, insisting she must see Qi Chenggang. The next morning, Simei again left with her luggage, but found the neighborhood committee women waiting at her door, as they had been instructed by the police to ensure she wouldn't return to the hospital. Heartbroken and feeling helpless, Simei saw a text message from Xiaomeng on Qi Chenggang's phone, which brought tears to her eyes.
Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang went to buy wine and olive oil, then returned to find the committee women still at the house. Qiao Yicheng arrived home with Qiao Qiao. Simei sat on the roof, drinking, and called Xiaomeng. Xiaomeng, mistaking the call for Qi Chenggang, spoke to her intimately about how much she missed him.
Simei calmly identified herself and informed Xiaomeng that Qi Chenggang had atypical pneumonia, and as they had been in close contact, Xiaomeng should seek medical attention if she felt unwell. Xiaomeng, in disbelief, then began crying, blaming herself for Qi Chenggang's suffering and declaring her love, stating she couldn't go on without him.
Simei, perhaps advising both Xiaomeng and herself, gently told her that no one should have to die, that Qi Chenggang also bore some responsibility, and that despite her love for him, Xiaomeng should prioritize loving herself. Simei then muttered to herself how foolish she had been. Qiao Zuwang later visited the Xiang family with gifts, but they were not home.
He instructed the housekeeper to give the items to Xiang Beifang, boasting that the olive oil was imported and limited edition. When Qiao Yicheng returned to the Xiang residence, he saw the gifts his father had brought. Clearly upset, he took the liquor but left the olive oil, remarking to his brother-in-law, Xiang Beifang, that he would surely appreciate the "homemade taste" of the oil, a subtle jab at his father's boastful gift.
Qiao Yicheng then informed the housekeeper of his intention to move back to his previous rented apartment due to his demanding work schedule. Back at his father's house, Qiao Zuwang, feeling unwell, asked Qiao Yicheng to take him to the hospital.
Qiao Yicheng, enraged, demanded that his father immediately quit the affiliated position and return all benefits and income he had received, forbidding him from making any more unreasonable requests to the Xiang family, as his actions trampled on Yicheng's dignity. Qiao Zuwang dismissed it as a minor issue, claiming he understood social etiquette and that his father-in-law considered them family. Qiao Yicheng pleaded with him to rectify the situation and stop embarrassing him.
Qiao Zuwang retorted that he was old and had never "ridden Yicheng's coattails." Qiao Yicheng then issued a stern warning: if Qiao Zuwang continued to act unilaterally, he would cut off his living expenses, prevent the other siblings from giving him money, and even take him to court to sever all ties. He further warned his father against going to the hospital while the atypical pneumonia threat persisted.
Xiang Nanfang called Qiao Yicheng to comfort him, assuring him that the matter with Qiao Zuwang was insignificant and that her father understood boundaries. Qiao Yicheng, still feeling ashamed, could not fully express his feelings before Nanfang had to hang up due to a work call. As the atypical pneumonia crisis concluded, Qi Chenggang was discharged from the hospital. Qiao Yicheng, though at the hospital, turned and left upon seeing Qi Chenggang emerge.
At Wei Shufang's house, where the Qiao siblings had gathered, Wei Shufang initially preferred to stay alone, a habit she had developed since Old Ma's death. However, upon hearing Qiao Yicheng had arrived, she promptly joined the family. Simei had meticulously cared for Qi Chenggang, and he recovered quickly. They went out for a meal, during which Simei remained composed and gentle, while Qi Chenggang appeared ill at ease.
On their walk home, Simei's memories of their time together flashed through her mind. Qi Chenggang embraced her, crying and stating that his illness had been like "dying once." He promised to settle down and live a good life with her, asking her to trust him. Simei, in turn, pulled out the old letters he had sent from Tibet, declaring she no longer wanted them and returned them.
She spoke of how she used to push her affections onto him, something Qiao Yicheng had called "belittling herself," and she no longer wished to do so. As Qi Chenggang cried, Simei felt a brief glimpse of the young, handsome man she had met that afternoon many years ago, the one she had abandoned everything for and loved wholeheartedly. She considered those years well spent.
Qi Chenggang shook his head, lamenting that he was unworthy and promising to repay her and Qiao Qiao doubly, wanting to continue their life together. Simei, however, told him she no longer wanted to be with him. Simei calmly proposed divorce to Qi Chenggang. Qiao Zuwang, angered by this, called her "two hundred and fifty," stating that if she had divorced him earlier, she wouldn't have "died once" with him.
He lectured her on how to live, but Simei countered that the only thing she learned from him was never to rely on a man. She reminded him of his absence during their childhood struggles—when they were hungry, bullied, or when their home was vandalized by creditors—and stated that he had no right to teach her how to live now. Qiao Zuwang was left speechless.
Later, he gathered his children to announce his intention to choose a burial plot for their mother for the upcoming Qing Ming Festival, a decision the children accepted. Qiao Zuwang then proposed that the children, including Qiao Qiqi, should share the cost. Qiao Yicheng, rolling his eyes, asked his father to reveal his true plan. Qiao Zuwang, as expected, wanted a "double plot" so he could be buried alongside their mother after his death.
Qiao Yicheng refused, insisting on two "single plots." Qiao Zuwang reluctantly agreed to a single plot for their mother for now, but emphasized that it must be dignified and have good Feng Shui. Xiang Nanfang returned home for the holiday, surprising Aunt Sun, who then revealed that Qiao Yicheng no longer lived there. Later, as the family prepared for the grave relocation, Qiao Zuwang proudly announced that he had arranged a spacious Coaster from the Xiang family.
Qiao Yicheng, furious, confronted his father, reiterating that the Qiao family should never trouble the Xiang family for any matter. He then instructed Qiao Erqiang to buy cigarettes for the driver and send him away. As Qiao Yicheng was once again emphasizing his stance to his family, Xiang Nanfang, having just returned, appeared. Qiao Yicheng was surprised she hadn't told him of her return so he could pick her up.
Nanfang explained she arrived the previous night and had intended to surprise him, adding that the Coaster was a rented vehicle that had already been paid for, so there was no need to send the driver back. She questioned why he was being so dramatic and deliberately trying to upset her. Qiao Yicheng denied this, explaining that he simply wanted to avoid repeatedly troubling her family, referencing past incidents.
Nanfang then asked if he considered living in her home also a burden. Qiao Yicheng denied this, attempting to explain his desire for their own space by mentioning "his home" (the rented place), then correcting himself to "our home." Before their discussion could continue, Qiao Zuwang rushed out, asking if they were ready to leave for the grave relocation. As it began to rain, Qiao Zuwang commented on the "misty rain during Qing Ming Festival" and went to retrieve some items.
Episode 32 Recap
While in the car, Qiao Zuwang thanked Xiang Nanfang for her crucial assistance during Qiao Simei’s childbirth, noting that she helped contact hospital staff. He then complained of chest tightness and shortness of breath, lamenting the inconvenience of a young woman accompanying an old man for medical tests, and asked Xiang Nanfang to arrange for a hospital expert for a thorough checkup. Xiang Nanfang readily agreed.
Later, Qiao Yicheng took Xiang Nanfang to his rented apartment, admitting he had planned to tell her about it after her vacation, not wanting to conceal it. He explained his long-held desire for a private space. Observing the apartment, Xiang Nanfang expressed concern about the cold in winter, despite Qiao Yicheng’s assurance that he was accustomed to it. She suggested they purchase heaters, thick curtains, and a decorative floor lamp, all of which Qiao Yicheng accepted.
At the hospital, after Xiang Nanfang went to speak with a doctor friend, Qiao Zuwang complained about the extensive check-up but asserted he would undergo one annually. He also insisted that Qiao Yicheng, being no longer young, should do the same. Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang, discussing Zhiyong's future, expressed his commitment to funding Zhiyong's education as far as he wished, emphasizing that their earnings were for their children. He then encountered Sun Xiaomo and her young son.
When the boy stated he was eight years old, Sun Xiaomo quickly corrected him to seven, claiming he forgot his age, but the boy firmly insisted he was eight, born in the Year of the Rat. Sun Xiaomo then hastily departed. Separately, Qiao Sanli gifted Wang Yiding a knitted item and encouraged him to stop commuting for treatment, fearing for his health. Despite his annoyance, she firmly stated her decision to accompany him to Beijing to consult multiple doctors.
She pledged to stay by his side, regardless of the outcome, affirming that her patience and devotion mirrored his past care for her. Moved, Wang Yiding expressed his gratitude, and Qiao Sanli proposed they turn the trip into a long-overdue wedding celebration. Troubled by the discrepancy in the child's age, Qiao Erqiang, unable to sleep, found Zhiyong in the kitchen. Zhiyong offered Qiao Erqiang expensive cigarettes, explaining he bought them with money earned working at a vegetable stall.
He then revealed that he and Ma Suqin had decided he would change his surname to Qiao at the police station the next day, committing to care for Qiao Erqiang in his old age. Zhiyong confided that his past negative views of fathers changed after Qiao Erqiang entered his life, leading him to believe that a true father is not always a biological one.
Qiao Erqiang, however, insisted Zhiyong should take Ma Suqin's surname instead, out of gratitude for her enduring struggles in raising him. Zhiyong accepted, and Qiao Erqiang advised him to avoid tobacco and alcohol during his college years. Qiao Simei unveiled a new short hairstyle, which she playfully revealed to Qiao Sanli and Qiao Yicheng was merely a wig, asserting that life should be embraced with a mix of drama, reality, and fun.
Qiao Sanli announced her and Wang Yiding's imminent departure for Beijing, entrusting Xuan Xuan to Qiao Simei. Qiao Yicheng, despite his concern and offer to connect her with friends in Beijing, was reassured by Qiao Simei that his sister was determined and would manage. After Qiao Sanli's departure, Qiao Erqiang's anxieties deepened as he observed Sun Xiaomo's son playing downstairs, leading to frequent sleepless nights.
The following morning, as Qiao Zuwang practiced tai chi, Qiao Simei struggled to get Qi Qiaoqiao and Xuan Xuan ready for school. Qi Chenggang arrived, having learned she was caring for two children, and offered his assistance with childcare. Shortly after, Qiao Erqiang departed for the market, politely declining Ma Suqin's offer to accompany him. Qiao Erqiang rushed back to the old family home after a phone call, finding Qiao Zuwang in the yard, distraught and surrounded by concerned neighbors.
The neighbors explained that Qiao Zuwang had left a kettle of water on the stove, forgotten it, and it had nearly caused a fire after the water boiled dry and the kettle exploded, highlighting the danger to the old neighborhood. Qiao Zuwang, demanding a quick resolution, accused his children of plotting against him, but Qiao Yicheng firmly stated that they would collectively hire a live-in nanny, with Qiao Zuwang retaining the right to choose the person himself.
As they left, Qiao Erqiang, overwhelmed with guilt, confided in Qiao Yicheng that he might have a son who was already eight years old. Qiao Yicheng and Qiao Simei expressed skepticism, arguing that Sun Xiaomo's shrewd mother would not have kept such a secret if the child were truly his.
Qiao Erqiang, despite his self-reproach, asserted that he would not evade his responsibilities, distinguishing himself from his biological father, but struggled with how to inform Ma Suqin without causing her worry or pain, while also acknowledging Sun Xiaomo's difficult journey as a single mother. Qiao Erqiang visited Sun Xiaomo's home, where Sun's mother informed him that the child was born in 1996, a few months after his divorce from Xiaomo.
She demanded he reflect on how to compensate Xiaomo, her grandson, and their family for their prolonged suffering. When Qiao Erqiang presented a savings book, Sun's mother scoffed, asserting that money cannot replace the true compensation due. Meanwhile, Qiao Simei accompanied a finicky Qiao Zuwang through three nanny agencies. Qiao Zuwang was fixated on the nannies' appearance, stating they would be serving him.
Just as Qiao Simei expressed her exasperation and refusal to continue the search, they encountered an old acquaintance, Qu Aying, seeking employment. Qu Aying, recognizing Qiao Zuwang as "Big Brother," was quickly brought back to their home. There, she displayed an almost excessively solicitous demeanor towards Qiao Zuwang, offering him fruit and pre-brewed tea, then preparing warming Lycium chinense water to replace evening tea. Qiao Simei, observing this, found it unsettling.
When Qiao Simei asked Qu Aying to hang laundry, Qiao Zuwang interjected, reminding Simei that the nanny was exclusively for him, not her. Despite Qu Aying's dismissive "no trouble," Qiao Simei, feeling increasingly awkward, retreated to her room with Qi Qiaoqiao, commenting on Qiao Zuwang's unusual favoritism towards the nanny. Qiao Yicheng confided in Qi Weimin about Qiao Erqiang's predicament, criticizing his brother's naivety and suggesting a DNA paternity test.
As they spoke, Qiao Erqiang called Qiao Yicheng for advice, revealing that Sun's mother was now demanding he remarry Sun Xiaomo. Qiao Erqiang explained Sun Xiaomo's alleged reason for concealment: not wanting the child to burden him, as his heart was with another woman. Qiao Yicheng probed Qiao Erqiang's true feelings, cautioning that any decision would inevitably cause pain. Later, Sun's mother confronted Ma Suqin at the restaurant, revealing Qiao Erqiang's secret son, leaving Ma Suqin visibly heartbroken.
Meanwhile, Qiao Zuwang and Qu Aying were seen enjoying each other's company over drinks and TV, with Qu Aying displaying attentive care. Qiao Zuwang even reprimanded Qiao Simei for asking Qu Aying to do laundry, emphasizing that the nanny's duties were solely for him. The next day, a melancholic Ma Suqin proposed they take a day off to have fun. After going ice-skating and having a meal, they went to the cinema and unexpectedly encountered Qiao Zuwang and Qu Aying.
Qiao Erqiang paid for all four tickets, and they watched "Harry Potter" together in a rather humorous and awkward atmosphere. On their way home, Qu Aying expressed embarrassment to Qiao Zuwang, but he, asserting his paternal authority, dismissed her concerns, stating that a son being filial to his father was natural and no one could dictate his actions. Qiao Erqiang then asked Ma Suqin if she considered it a date, before suggesting they choose a different cinema next time to avoid such encounters.
Episode 33 Recap
The day after their date, Ma Suqin left. Qiao Erqiang woke to find only a note on the table, informing him she had signed the divorce papers. In the note, she expressed her lasting wish for his well-being, reminding him of his child and the family that needed him. Distraught, Qiao Erqiang immediately decided to find her. Before he could leave, Qiao Zuwang called a family meeting to announce his decision to marry Qu Aying.
Qiao Simei was furious, questioning Qiao Zuwang’s sudden interest in love, given his past vices, and suspected Qu Aying was after his money. She angrily declared her right to stay in their family home, as her name was on the property deed, and refused Qiao Yicheng’s offer for her to stay at his place. Qiao Erqiang, however, expressed his support, stating that older individuals also have the right to pursue happiness. Qiao Zuwang was touched by his words.
Seizing the moment, Qiao Yicheng then agreed to the marriage but announced that the children would stop providing Qiao Zuwang with living expenses, which visibly angered Qiao Zuwang, though he remained silent. Qiao Yicheng even playfully offered to arrange a Cadillac for the wedding. Despite the family drama, Qiao Erqiang reaffirmed his unwavering determination to find Ma Suqin, believing that his responsibilities to his son and as a good person did not conflict with his love for her.
He vowed to search for her in Dongbei if she was not in Nanjing. That evening, Qu Aying quickly brought up her son, Wenbin, to Qiao Zuwang. She explained that Wenbin, who was tired of farming, wanted to move to the city for work but lacked a place to stay. Qiao Zuwang, pleased with Qu Aying's attentiveness, readily agreed to let Wenbin stay at their home.
Qu Aying then revealed what she had overheard about Sun Xiaomo's child to Qiao Zuwang, who, upon learning the news, commanded Qiao Erqiang to divorce Ma Suqin and remarry Sun Xiaomo. Qiao Simei vehemently opposed this, demanding a scientific DNA test for the child. Qiao Erqiang firmly stated his resolve to remain with Ma Suqin.
Enraged, Qiao Zuwang shattered a cup and declared that neither Qiao Erqiang nor Ma Suqin would ever be welcome in his house again, "unless he was dead." A couple of days later, Qu Aying informed Qiao Zuwang that she had to return to her hometown to assist her son and daughter-in-law, promising to be back by New Year's Day, which disappointed Qiao Zuwang.
Meanwhile, Qiao Erqiang was preparing to close his shop and travel to Dongbei to find Ma Suqin, when unexpectedly, her voice rang out from outside the shop, calling him to help with groceries. Ma Suqin had returned. She told Qiao Erqiang that she had thought things through and would not divorce him. She vowed to share the financial and parental responsibilities towards Sun Xiaomo's child, stating she understood the immense difficulty a woman faces raising a child alone.
Overjoyed, Qiao Erqiang readily agreed, only asking if she felt it was unfair to herself. Later that night, after the shop closed, Sun Xiaomo arrived. Qiao Erqiang cooked her a bowl of noodles, and she returned his savings book. He told her he trusted her, that there was no need for a DNA test, and he would raise the child, but he would not remarry her.
To his surprise, Sun Xiaomo then confessed that the child was not his; it was the son of her former superior, with whom she had been involved before meeting Qiao Erqiang. She clarified that she had severed ties with the child's father and intended to raise her son herself. Sun Xiaomo apologized for her past actions towards Qiao Erqiang and expressed gratitude to him and Ma Suqin, stating she could not wrong them again.
New Year's Day arrived, and Qiao Zuwang spent his days gazing out the door, longing for Qu Aying's return. Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang picked up Qiao Sanli and Wang Yiding. Qiao Zuwang, still angry, refused to allow Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin into the house, so they celebrated elsewhere. Qiao Simei openly criticized Qiao Zuwang for being infatuated with Qu Aying, much to Qiao Sanli’s confusion.
Elsewhere, Ma Suqin spoke with Zhiyong on the phone, reassuring him that she was celebrating at the Qiao family home to prevent him from worrying, though she was in reality only with Qiao Erqiang. Soon after, Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Sanli, Qiao Simei, and their families gathered at Qiao Erqiang's home. Around the same time, Qu Aying returned to Qiao Zuwang’s home with her son, Wenbin, delighting Qiao Zuwang.
The siblings enjoyed a festive meal at Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin's house. Qiao Simei remained resentful that they could no longer gather at their old family home because of Qu Aying. Qiao Yicheng suggested that Qiao Simei and Qi Qiaoqiao stay at his place for the night, hoping to make Qiao Zuwang realize the consequences of his actions. During the meal, Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang spoke with Wang Yiding and Qiao Sanli.
Wang Yiding assured Qiao Yicheng of his renewed commitment to Qiao Sanli after their trip to Beijing. The children played happily while the adults shared a joyful New Year. The next day, Qiao Simei returned home to find Wenbin sleeping in the main room on a fold-out bed. She immediately confronted him and Qu Aying, swinging a broom in anger. Qiao Simei remained furious, speculating that Wenbin's wife would soon follow, leading to Qu Aying's entire family occupying their home.
Despite her anger, she refused to move out, determined to "kick out the invaders." She declared her intention to constantly challenge Qu Aying and her son, feeling that Qiao Zuwang consistently sided with the "outsiders." Taking advantage of the situation, Qu Aying later approached Qiao Zuwang, complaining that Wenbin’s employer had withheld his wages. She cleverly suggested that Wenbin quit his job and work at Qiao Erqiang’s restaurant.
Qiao Zuwang, though initially reluctant, was coaxed into agreeing and called Qiao Erqiang. When Qiao Erqiang arrived, both Qiao Zuwang and Qu Aying displayed unusually pleasant attitudes, praising Ma Suqin and Zhiyong. Despite sensing something was amiss, Qiao Erqiang agreed to take Wenbin back to his shop. Wenbin, for his part, expressed eagerness to learn and even offered to work for free for the first month as a trial, as long as meals were provided.
Later, Qi Weimin, who had recently been promoted to Deputy Bureau Chief, met with Qiao Yicheng for tea. They discussed Qiao Zuwang's marriage, with Qi Weimin asserting that the elderly have the right to seek happiness, especially given that their children are often busy with their own lives. Qiao Yicheng, however, expressed his deep concern about Qu Aying, stating that unlike Uncle Ma, Qu Aying did not have good intentions.
Qi Weimin playfully accused Qiao Yicheng of always thinking the worst of people, to which Qiao Yicheng readily agreed that he was merely a "person of low character," while Qi Weimin was a "saint."
Episode 34 Recap
Qiao Simei visited Qi Weimin, asking him not to be upset with Qiao Yicheng. Chang Xinyu, however, supported Qiao Yicheng's stance on a family matter and advised Qiao Simei to be more cautious, giving her a new silk quilt. Later, Qiao Erqiang and Ma Suqin were invited to the old house for dinner, seemingly due to a situation involving Wenbin.
Qiao Simei, returning with Qiao Qiao, saw the gathering and immediately went to her room without eating, accusing Qiao Erqiang of being a "traitor" for socializing with "the enemy." Ma Suqin, who was with Qiao Erqiang, reassured Simei not to worry, stating she was much smarter than him and would not be taken advantage of by Qu Aying's family, who were clearly trying to get Qiao Erqiang to teach Wenbin culinary skills.
As a TV show about Xinjiang played, Qiao Simei's thoughts drifted back to when she traveled alone to Xinjiang to find Qi Chenggang. Chang Xinyu was promoted to director of the provincial radio station's news center. Qiao Yicheng and Song Qingyuan celebrated her success. As Chang Xinyu and Song Qingyuan were leaving, Qiao Yicheng stumbled. Despite his protests, they insisted Song Qingyuan drive him home.
Feeling unwell, Qiao Yicheng went to the hospital for a check-up, where he unexpectedly ran into Qiao Qiqi and Xiao Zhi. Qiao Qiqi explained that Xiao Zhi, whose quiet personality resembled his own, had been diagnosed with autism after her teacher suggested a check-up. She had been undergoing treatment for almost half a year. Both Qiao Qiqi and Qiao Yicheng decided to keep their respective health issues a secret from the rest of the family to avoid causing worry.
Qiao Qiqi feared distressing Qi Weimin, and Qiao Yicheng did not want to burden his siblings. A few days later, Qiao Simei returned from a business trip to find Meiqin, Qu Aying's daughter-in-law, living in her home with Qiao Zuwang's permission. Meiqin was drying the silk quilt Qi Weimin had given Qiao Simei, claiming they needed a quilt and found one "unused" in Qiao Simei's room.
Enraged, Qiao Simei confronted them for entering her room and taking her precious quilt without asking. Qiao Zuwang, however, was surprisingly generous, giving Qu Aying a few hundred yuan to buy new quilts for Meiqin and Wenbin. Qiao Sanli later revealed to Qiao Simei that Qu Aying had already moved in with Qiao Zuwang, acting as if she were his wife.
Qiao Simei, undeterred, declared she would never move out of the old house, vowing to disrupt Qiao Zuwang's potential wedding to Qu Aying. Qiao Sanli cautioned her not to tell Qiao Yicheng, as he had been busy, looked unwell, and was appearing bloated, while Qiao Zuwang, ironically, seemed to be thriving. Wenbin, after a few months of working under Qiao Erqiang, expressed his desire to open a restaurant and asked to learn more culinary skills.
Ma Suqin quickly suggested he enroll in a culinary school for systematic training instead. Meiqin, in a seemingly more docile manner than Qu Aying, addressed Qiao Simei as "Sister" and offered her home-grown vegetables and dried goods, but Qiao Simei maintained a distance. Before receiving his test results, Song Qingyuan advised Qiao Yicheng to take a break, noting that his family issues had been constant since they met, always interfering with his attempts to live his own life.
Qiao Yicheng confessed that he now only wished for a peaceful life with Xiang Nanfang. When Song Qingyuan asked if he wanted children, Qiao Yicheng instinctively replied that in his heart, he already felt like he was a father of both sons and daughters. The doctor confirmed Qiao Yicheng's diagnosis as chronic nephritis and strongly recommended hospitalization to prevent it from progressing into uremia. As Qiao Yicheng stood alone on the city wall, contemplating his diagnosis, his phone rang.
It was Qiao Simei, informing him that Qiao Zuwang was planning a birthday banquet for Qu Aying, which Qiao Simei suspected was a thinly veiled wedding celebration. She angrily pointed out that Qiao Zuwang had never celebrated his late wife's or his children's birthdays. Qiao Yicheng, however, decided not to intervene this time, telling her to let Qiao Zuwang do as he pleased and to stop gathering in person for such discussions.
That evening, Qiao Zuwang discussed Qu Aying's birthday with her. He offered to give her a large red envelope from the bank. Qu Aying, however, pushed further, expressing her deepest wish for a home in the city, a suggestion Qiao Zuwang deliberately ignored, changing the subject to the heavy rain. Meanwhile, a tipsy Qiao Erqiang, at his restaurant, told Wenbin they could go into business together.
The next morning, regretting his drunken promise, Qiao Erqiang was advised by Ma Suqin to simply play dumb. On Qu Aying's birthday, Qiao Zuwang was hit by a car while on his way to the bank, sustaining a comminuted fracture. Doctors warned the family that due to his age, recovery would be slow, and paralysis was a possibility, advising them to prepare for the worst.
Qu Aying, along with her son and daughter-in-law, rushed to the hospital, pushing Qiao Zuwang's own children aside to dramatically weep by his bedside. Qiao Zuwang's constant complaints day and night disturbed other patients in his ward, prompting Qiao Yicheng to arrange for him to be moved to a room with a vegetative patient. Qu Aying, worried about losing her chance at the house, grew visibly distressed by Qiao Zuwang's condition. Qi Chenggang took Qiao Qiao to her dance class.
Back at the hospital, Qiao Zuwang, disturbed by the death of his vegetative roommate, began clamoring to go home and demanded his children come to the hospital. Qiao Yicheng, without argument, arranged for his discharge. When Qiao Simei returned home, Qi Chenggang had already dropped off Qiao Qiao. Meiqin, finding Qi Chenggang handsome, appeared shy.
Qu Aying's attitude towards Qiao Zuwang underwent a complete reversal; from attentive, she now refused him even a simple pear, criticizing Qiao Erqiang in the process. While cooking, Meiqin asked Qiao Simei if she and Qi Chenggang would ever reconcile. Qiao Simei sighed, noting that one couldn't judge a man solely by his looks, hinting at Meiqin's own arranged marriage experience. The conversation also briefly touched on the possibility of Meiqin being pregnant.
Qiao Zuwang's condition worsened, and doctors stated that recovery was impossible. Qiao Yicheng took charge, proposing that each sibling contribute a monthly sum of money to Qu Aying as compensation for her care, with Qiao Sanli managing the payments. He instructed them not to give Qu Aying any additional money privately and encouraged them all to visit Qiao Zuwang regularly. All the children except Qiao Yicheng frequently visited Qiao Zuwang.
During one visit, Qiao Erqiang tried to feed Qiao Zuwang a banana, but Qu Aying quickly snatched it away, fearing Qiao Zuwang would make a mess and she would have to clean it. When Qiao Erqiang expressed his displeasure, Qu Aying defensively claimed that even if she received no credit, she deserved recognition for her hard work. Qiao Sanli then arrived to deliver the monthly expenses to Qu Aying. After Qiao Erqiang left, Qu Aying assured Qiao Sanli she would take good care of Qiao Zuwang.
Episode 35 Recap
Qu Aying pushes Qiao Zuwang outside to enjoy the sun; she has bickered with their neighbor Wu Yi for most of her life, and now she sees Zuwang's health deteriorating day by day. Qu Aying tells Zuwang that her daughter-in-law, Meiqin, is pregnant. She suggests that Meiqin sleeping in the damp and cold living room is bad for her health and proposes swapping rooms with Zuwang, having him move into the living room. To her surprise, Zuwang agrees.
Meiqin feels uneasy and thinks they should wait for Qiao Simei to return and ask for her opinion, but Qu Aying seizes the opportunity while Simei is away and has people switch the rooms. When a sick Qiao Yicheng is found sleeping in the living room, Qiao Simei returns and is furious. Zuwang, however, tells her to get out. Meiqin, on the other hand, secretly follows Simei out to apologize, saying she didn't know it would turn out this way.
Acting like the lady of the house, Qu Aying flaunts her position in front of Yicheng and Simei, declaring that Zuwang agreed to the room swap. She justifies her actions by citing her care for the elderly and the need for her pregnant daughter-in-law to have a place to stay. Yicheng calmly asks Zuwang just one question: if he agreed to the move. Sitting listlessly in his wheelchair, Zuwang gives a noncommittal response, which chills Yicheng's heart.
He remembers years ago when the siblings had grown up and were crammed into one room; he had suggested Zuwang switch rooms, but his father had adamantly refused, saying he would die in that room. Now, he has easily given it to an outsider. Without another word, Yicheng tells Simei to pack her things and move in with him, and to vacate her current room as well.
Meiqin runs out to apologize to Simei, who is kind to her, reassuring her that it's not her fault and to focus on her pregnancy. Simei gives Meiqin some money, asking her to take good care of Zuwang and make sure he doesn't fall again. Meiqin urges Simei to come back, fearing Qu Aying will completely take over.
She confides that she dislikes the city and just wants to return to the countryside to grow vegetables and earn her own money. While Simei is sympathetic, she remains angry about the house situation and at Yicheng for hiding the fact that he had long been renting his own apartment. Qiao Sanli, however, remains sympathetic to Yicheng, feeling he has been burdened by his siblings for years. Yicheng takes leave to visit Xiang Nanfang.
Before leaving, he gives Qi Weimin a sum of money, asking him to deliver it to Qiao Zuwang and to say it's from him (Weimin), not to mention Yicheng. Weimin complains about Yicheng's strained relationship with his father and notes his poor complexion. Qiao Qiqi visits Zuwang, who is no longer as spirited as before.
When Qiqi casually remarks that the house is nice, Zuwang says he will leave it to him, adding that Qiqi resembles his mother with a unique kind of good looks. Qu Aying and Meiqin return from a shopping trip with bags in hand. Qiao Erqiang accompanies Ma Suqin on a trip back to her hometown in the northeast, as she hasn't been back in years. Simei also plans a solo trip to Tibet.
She tells Sanli that Qi Chenggang proposed getting back together, but she refused, explaining that she misses her past self, not him. Yicheng arrives with his luggage at the place where Xiang Nanfang is temporarily working, only to witness another man giving her a bouquet of flowers. Following Yicheng's instructions, Weimin gives the money to Zuwang, who remarks that Weimin is a good person and that "family harmony is the source of all prosperity."
Qu Aying greets Weimin, claiming her care for Zuwang isn't a burden but a matter of "sincere hearts exchanging sincerity." Meanwhile, Yicheng cooks a homemade meal for Nanfang. She explains the flowers were an early birthday gift from a business partner and that she is not interested in others' affections, preferring the pickled vegetables Yicheng makes. Looking down, Yicheng says he will teach her how to make them while he has time.
She playfully refuses, insisting she only wants to eat the ones he makes. Yicheng jokes that he regrets marrying her and says that in their next life, he’ll be her older brother and nag her for a lifetime. Back at home, Zuwang wants a bigger bed, but Qu Aying uses it as an excuse to replace all the old furniture, hinting for more money. Zuwang only agrees to a new bed.
Annoyed, Qu Aying storms back to her room, leaving Zuwang to sleep alone in the living room. Later, Zuwang sends Qu Aying and Meiqin away and summons Yicheng. He tearfully complains that his children are ignoring him and throws the money from Weimin on the floor, revealing he knows it was from Yicheng. He accuses Yicheng of no longer seeing him as a father by sending money through an "outsider."
Yicheng retorts that Weimin is their cousin, not an outsider, and reminds Zuwang that their uncle was the one who cared for them during his years of vice. Yicheng confronts him about letting an outsider take over the house while never once caring about the hardships his children faced. As Yicheng is about to leave, Zuwang tearfully asks if the feud between them will ever be resolved.
With red eyes, Yicheng quietly says it's too late, revealing his own health is failing, and tells Zuwang to live a long life, as from now on, they will each fend for themselves. Yicheng meets with Qi Weimin again, his tone now polite instead of sarcastic. He reveals his illness—kidney problems—and that he's been undergoing dialysis with a poor prognosis. He asks Weimin, as if entrusting his last wishes, to help his younger siblings if they ever face insurmountable difficulties.
Weimin scolds him for being fatalistic, insisting modern medicine can cure anything, but Yicheng replies that some illnesses are curable and some are not, and it's a matter of fate. Weimin admits he has always been jealous of Yicheng because of the siblings' close bond, while Yicheng confesses he was jealous of Weimin for having such a good father.
Yicheng asks Weimin to keep his illness a secret, which angers Weimin again over him hiding such a big secret from his family. Weimin reveals he is the second person to know, as Yicheng had already told Zuwang. Weimin then hands Yicheng the property deed, explaining that Zuwang had given it to him during his last visit, with "Family Harmony is the Source of All Prosperity" written on it. When Xiang Nanfang returns home, Yicheng is gone.
He has left only a letter in which he asks for a divorce. To address this, Song Qingyuan meets Yicheng for a meal. Song Qingyuan notes Yicheng's tendency to act unexpectedly and relays a message from Nanfang: she does not agree to the divorce and doesn't want to press for a reason yet, willing to wait for Yicheng to tell her himself what has happened.
Yicheng tells him to tell her not to wait, but Song Qingyuan refuses to act as their messenger anymore. He asks Yicheng why he lives such a tiring life. Yicheng simply replies, "It is tiring."
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
As Qiao Zuwang's health declined, Meiqin grew concerned and suggested calling Qiao Simei and the others. However, Qu Aying sternly told her not to act on her own, fearing it would disrupt her plans. Qu Aying and Wenbin, with thoughts of the house in mind, had already inquired about marriage procedures. That same day, Qu Aying pressed Qiao Zuwang for a formal status. On the verge of death, Qiao Zuwang agreed, even expressing a desire to drink.
Qu Aying retrieved a bottle, and as Qiao Zuwang grew disoriented, he called out "Xiao Ying," declaring her a hero of the Qiao family. He rambled about their first child being a boy, naming him Yicheng, and then repeatedly murmured the names of Qiao Yicheng, Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, Qiao Simei, and Qiao Qiqi. That night, Qu Aying heard a noise outside but disregarded it and went to sleep.
The next morning, she opened her door to a shock: Qiao Zuwang had fallen to the floor and passed away at some point during the night. Qu Aying frantically called Wenbin to gather the children before she finally broke down in tears. Looking at a youthful photo of Qiao Zuwang, the siblings realized that Qiao Yicheng bore the strongest resemblance to him.
Qiao Sanli mused that Qiao Zuwang's fall from the bed seemed like a deliberate act to seek release from his suffering, seeing death as a way to free himself and his children. Qiao Yicheng ate buns alone, recalling how Qiao Zuwang had promised to treat him to them when he got into university, a promise that remained unfulfilled for years. He also remembered a watch Qiao Zuwang had given him, which he secretly cherished and still wore.
After a period of grief, Qiao Yicheng confronted Qu Aying. He offered her a sum of money as a token of gratitude for looking after Qiao Zuwang and informed her that Qiao Simei would be moving back into the old house. Qu Aying, however, acted as if she owned the place, insisting that part of the house belonged to her and refusing to leave.
Qiao Yicheng calmly produced the property deed, explaining that he and his siblings had collectively renounced their inheritance rights, assigning the house entirely to Qiao Simei and her daughter, Qi Qiaoqiao. Qu Aying rejected this, claiming a "de facto marriage" and vehemently denying ever receiving money from Qiao Zuwang. Qiao Yicheng then read from a list Qiao Zuwang had secretly given to Qiao Qiqi before his death, detailing every payment made to Qu Aying, totaling 50,000 yuan.
Enraged, Qu Aying argued, but Qiao Yicheng warned her that if she refused to leave, the government and Public Security Bureau would intervene legally. He revealed, based on information from his cousin in government, that the area was slated for demolition within a year. In that scenario, she and her family would be forcibly evicted without receiving any compensation or new housing. Witnessing this, Wenbin became furious and lunged at Qiao Yicheng, but Meiqin held him back.
Before Qiao Yicheng could even leave the Qiao family's old house, he collapsed. He woke up in the hospital, with Qiao Sanli weeping beside him. Song Qingyuan quickly brought Xiang Nanfang back. Qi Weimin, despite his evident concern, berated Qiao Yicheng for being foolish, arrogant, and for trying to shoulder his illness alone, calling him both insecure and conceited. Meanwhile, realizing their efforts to claim the house were futile, Qu Aying and her family decided to move out.
Qu Aying, still yearning for city life, began searching for a job as a caregiver. Qiao Simei gave Meiqin some clothes, urging her to live a good life back home and for Wenbin to treat Meiqin and their child well. Qiao Yicheng's condition worsened rapidly. Doctors stated that a kidney transplant was the only option. Qi Weimin urgently called everyone to the hospital for matching, and Qiao Qiqi also arrived.
Xiang Nanfang gently comforted the pain-ridden Qiao Yicheng, promising a trip once he recovered. Qiao Yicheng, sensing his mortality, told her he was content simply to have met her in his lifetime. The matching results revealed that only Qiao Qiqi was a match, but Qiao Yicheng vehemently refused, stating he would accept a kidney from any other sibling but not from Qiao Qiqi, uttering, "I won't accept, I won't take."
Wei Shufang, with her hair now white, arrived with Qiao Qiqi and tearfully pleaded with Qiao Yicheng not to give up. Qi Weimin took Wei Shufang for a walk, leaving Qiao Qiqi to speak with Qiao Yicheng. Qiao Qiqi, not understanding the four-word refusal, insisted that Qiao Yicheng was his brother and he didn't want him to die.
He then compared Qiao Yicheng to Qi Weimin, saying Qi Weimin was smart and didn't have so many "twists and turns" in his mind, living a more relaxed life. Hearing this, tears streamed down Qiao Yicheng's stubbornly turned face. Qiao Qiqi decided to donate his kidney to Qiao Yicheng, and Qi Weimin did not try to stop him.
Qiao Qiqi expressed his gratitude to Qi Weimin, who had carried him since childhood, and vowed to "cultivate himself well" in this life to be Qi Weimin's biological brother in the next. Outside the operating room, the entire Qiao family waited anxiously. Inside, Qiao Yicheng closed his eyes, his mind drifting back to childhood memories of him and his siblings washing clothes under an old tree, fantasizing about their lives as adults.
In 2005, with society rapidly developing, the old house was slated for demolition. Qiao Erqiang, Qiao Sanli, Qiao Simei, and Qiao Qiqi gathered at the old house, reminiscing about Qiao Yicheng and their childhood. Soon, Qiao Yicheng and Xiang Nanfang also arrived. The area was apparently to be redeveloped into a shopping mall, and the siblings, who had grown up there, expressed sadness about losing their gathering place.
However, Qiao Yicheng asserted that their family bond was unbreakable, likening the demolition to a "cicada casting off its shell," with the house as merely an outer shell. He declared that where the family was, there was home, and they would continue to gather frequently. Having recently returned from Tibet, Qiao Simei had become an avid photographer. She brought out her camera to capture the Qiao family's last reunion at the old house.
Amidst cheerful calls of "cheese," the scene was warm and touching. Each family member had weathered life's storms, and looking back, the Qiao children had grown up. Their future days, they knew, would remain filled with mutual companionship.
