The Brightest Star in the Sky Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> The Brightest Star in the Sky

The Brightest Star in the Sky Synopsis

Xingkong Entertainment is one of the top entertainment companies in China. The owners, Chen Tianhao and Du Wanqing, were once a loving couple who fell into a marital crisis because of their different business philosophies towards the company.

Yang Zhenzhen, who loves music, joins Xingkong Entertainment and becomes the assistant of the popular singer Zheng Baixu. Zheng Baixu is an idol singer with an arrogant and uncontrollable personality.

Yang Zhenzhen gradually gets to know Zheng Baixu as she gets along with him, and helping him to correct his shortcoming and develop his strengths, eventually becoming a singer with great ability. Yang Zhenzhen has also transformed from a rookie to a mature agent.

Du Wanqing sets out to train newcomer Yu Zirui, whose innate musical talent puts tremendous pressure on Zheng Baixu, but also serves as motivation for Zheng Baixu to keep moving forward.

The young people who love music encourage each other, pushing the limits and looking for their own direction in life. After experiencing many difficulties and challenges, they all eventually receive career and emotional rewards.

The Brightest Star in the Sky Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Yang Zhenzhen, a young woman passionate about music, found herself at a crossroads a year after failing a talent show. While job hunting, she discovered that Zheng Baixu, a contestant from the same show, had successfully signed with Star Entertainment. This news made her reflect on her own stalled progress, but she held onto hope that Star Entertainment might become her "music heaven." She applied for an assistant position in the PR department at Star Entertainment.

During her interview with Chief Manager Yu Hong and Chief PR Manager Liu Yinan, Yang Zhenzhen passionately recounted her lifelong love for music, from humming songs before she could talk to secretly writing lyrics in college. She admitted that after failing multiple talent shows, she realized she might lack the talent to be a singer and now sought a music-related job, highlighting her background as a top computer science graduate.

Liu Yinan was skeptical, viewing her as just another aspiring singer, but Yu Hong seemed impressed by her persistence. After the interview, Yang Zhenzhen volunteered to help carry sponsor clothes to a filming studio, where she accidentally bumped into a dancer and disrupted a shoot. The director angrily scolded the dancer, but Zheng Baixu, the star of the shoot, interjected. He criticized the director for being unprofessional and disrespectful toward the dancers, insisting on an immediate apology.

Later, Yang Zhenzhen approached Zheng Baixu to apologize for the interruption and asked if he remembered her from their talent show, but he curtly dismissed her. This encounter left her with an unfavorable impression of the arrogant star. While still at the company building, Yang Zhenzhen overheard that President Du Wanqing's computer was broken. Using her computer science skills, she offered to fix it.

She was led to Du Wanqing’s office and began working on the computer while Du Wanqing was on a private call, discussing her troubled marriage to Chen Tianhao and her disillusionment with love. Surprised to find Zhenzhen in her office, Du Wanqing questioned if she had overheard the personal conversation. Zhenzhen denied it, and after she successfully fixed the computer, the impressed president offered her a job.

Zhenzhen later celebrated with her friend, Xia Yuan, who staged a small ceremony to wish her a future "flower road" to success. Upon reporting for work, Yang Zhenzhen found the office in turmoil. Liu Yinan was furiously reprimanding his staff over Zheng Baixu's recent defiant Weibo posts, in which Baixu criticized the crew of his MV shoot and wished for a "professional team." Liu complained that Baixu was a magnet for scandal who spoke without thinking.

Baixu's assistant, Xiao Jian, revealed that Baixu deliberately posted freely because Liu restricted his online activity. Given Baixu's rebellious nature and Zhenzhen's unexpected hiring by President Du, Liu assigned Zhenzhen the challenging task of convincing Zheng Baixu to stop posting on social media. Yang Zhenzhen went to Zheng Baixu's home, but he recognized her from the filming studio incident and was annoyed to learn she was sent by Liu Yinan.

He told her to leave, stating that Liu should come himself. Undeterred, Yang Zhenzhen shouted Liu Yinan's message through the closed door, instructing Baixu to refrain from posting on Weibo and to let the PR team draft any statements. Back at the company, Liu Yinan was enraged to discover that Zheng Baixu had not only ignored the message but had intensified his activity, posting hourly and announcing a "bomb" of a secret before going incommunicado.

Liu blamed Yang Zhenzhen for provoking Baixu by shouting at him and threatened to fire her. He gave her an ultimatum: find Zheng Baixu and stop his next post, or she was out. Unfazed, Zhenzhen accepted the challenge. As the 4:00 p. m. deadline for Baixu's post approached, the office staff buzzed with anticipation. However, the time came and went with no new post.

When questioned by Liu Yinan, Yang Zhenzhen calmly explained that she had simply changed Zheng Baixu's Weibo password, a simple trick she knew from her university days. Liu Yinan was both surprised and impressed by her unconventional but effective solution. Moments later, a furious Zheng Baixu stormed into Star Entertainment, demanding to know who had hacked his account. He confronted Liu Yinan and the PR team, who feigned ignorance.

Liu Yinan tried to diffuse the situation, attributing the hack to a "newbie" and leading Baixu to his office. To placate the star, Liu acknowledged the new girl's audacity but promised to reprimand her, which only confirmed Baixu's suspicion that Zhenzhen was responsible. Shortly after, Zhenzhen received a call to deliver milk tea to the recording studio. As she went inside, Zheng Baixu appeared behind her and slammed the door shut.

Episode 2 Recap

Following the summons to the recording studio, Yang Zhenzhen arrived with the requested drinks, only for Zheng Baixu to angrily slam the door shut behind her. He confronted her, furious that her hacking of his Weibo account made him look like a liar to millions of fans. Yang Zhenzhen initially feigned ignorance but then cheekily admitted to changing his password for his account's safety, advising him that professionals recommend quarterly password changes.

She turned the tables, questioning his distrust of those close to him and accusing him of conspiring with Liu Yinan. When Zheng Baixu threatened to fire her, Yang Zhenzhen retorted that he and Liu Yinan should resolve their issues face-to-face like men. She delivered an eloquent lecture on the importance of respect and kindness, warning that his arrogance would only hurt him in the long run.

Having said her piece, she left a stunned Zheng Baixu, who could only mutter that she was a "crazy woman." Later, Zheng Baixu's father, Zheng Weijun, feigned illness to lure his son home. Though concerned, Zheng Baixu's visit quickly soured when his father brought up the recurring topic of him taking over the family company, Lai Shen Tong Ling.

Zheng Baixu insisted he had no interest in power or money, finding happiness in his music career and his dream of making C-pop a global phenomenon. Zheng Weijun dismissed this as foolishness, reminding his son of his failure at business school in America, where he squandered tuition money on hip-hop and car racing. He gave Zheng Baixu an ultimatum: he could "play" for a few more months but must return after the New Year to become the company's chairman.

Unwilling to abandon his passion, Zheng Baixu left, leading to another tense parting between father and son. Meanwhile, Yang Zhenzhen, sent to the lobby to retrieve a package for her manager Sun Yuqi, took some selfies and inadvertently captured an intimate exchange between Chen Tianhao and an investor named Marina. Unable to brush Marina off in public, Chen Tianhao brought her to his office to discuss business.

Marina commented on his wife's photo having a "so-so aura" and revealed that her investment firm, Hua Yue, had little interest in Star Entertainment due to its lack of top-tier talent. She presented draconian terms for an investment, which Chen Tianhao immediately rejected as insincere. Seizing the moment, Marina propositioned him, but he politely rebuffed her, citing his wife and daughter, and suggested future meetings take place in a more professional setting outside the office.

The company's focus on commercial interests led them to assign Zheng Baixu a series of generic, low-quality pop songs. Disgusted, Zheng Baixu argued with his music coach, Changran, that the "garbage" songs were not his style and demonstrated how he could transform them with a rap and C-pop flair. While Changran was intrigued, he insisted they stick to the original arrangement.

Du Wanqing later voiced her concerns to Chen Tianhao, arguing that Zheng Baixu's new album was "way too average" and that the company was producing "spiritual garbage" in its pursuit of profit. However, Chen Tianhao, stressed by financial pressures, dismissed her. The constant pressure to perform music he disliked caused Zheng Baixu to begin doubting his own talent, wondering if his fame was due only to his wealthy father. Zheng Baixu's frustration with his team mounted.

His manager, Sun Yuqi, was neglectful, providing incorrect clothing sizes, while his assistant, Xiao Jian, seemed incompetent. After complaining about the overly expensive Presidential Suite Xiao Jian had booked, he was ambushed by reporters accusing him of rigging a talent show and relying on his father's money. Zheng Baixu erupted at Xiao Jian for failing to handle the reporters, and the overwhelmed assistant finally resigned.

She was the fourth assistant to quit in six months, and due to his difficult reputation, no one else wanted the job. In a bind, Yu Hong assigned the newcomer, Yang Zhenzhen, as his new personal assistant. Xiao Jian tearfully warned Yang Zhenzhen not to take the job, describing Zheng Baixu as odd and difficult. Intimidated, Zhenzhen tried to get out of the assignment by asking Zheng Baixu to tell their bosses she was unsuitable.

However, tired of the constant turnover, Zheng Baixu unexpectedly decided to keep her. He ironically praised her cleverness in hacking his Weibo and offered to teach her. He listed his demands: be quiet, stay out of his way, manage his schedule, and keep the fridge stocked. When she asked him to repeat the list, he refused and immediately began critiquing her "small-town" appearance and a bag that resembled a "Christmas tree." Before dismissing her, he pointed her to the "maid's door," setting a contentious tone for their new working relationship.

Episode 3 Recap

Yang Zhenzhen reluctantly began her first day as Zheng Baixu's assistant, only to be verbally attacked by him almost immediately. Feeling frustrated, Zhenzhen called her best friend, Xia Yuan, to vent. Xia Yuan suggested she quit if she was unhappy, but Zhenzhen explained she was chosen from thousands to work at Star Entertainment and, having given up on her dream of singing once, she couldn't afford to give up a second time.

Xia Yuan tried to lift her spirits by highlighting the perks of the job, but Zhenzhen dismissed these, feeling like a "servant girl" despite the glamour. Soon after, Zhenzhen received a call from her boss, Liu Yinan, who welcomed her to the "landmine-filled assistant life" and instructed her to turn Zheng Baixu into an "obedient, beautiful, young man." Trying to sound confident, Zhenzhen falsely claimed that Zheng Baixu was quite satisfied with her.

Following instructions from Teacher Changran, the company's music director, Zhenzhen went to a bar to find Yu Zirui to record a demo for Zheng Baixu's new single. Upon entering, she was captivated by Yu Zirui's singing. They recognized each other from a past singing competition, where Zhenzhen had developed a crush on him. On his break, Yu Zirui approached her, and they reminisced, with Zhenzhen admitting she had given up on singing.

Zhenzhen then revealed her purpose, explaining that Teacher Changran had specifically requested him to record a demo for Zheng Baixu's new song, praising his unique style. Zhenzhen urged him to seize the opportunity, but Yu Zirui initially hesitated, citing a past rivalry and "high hostility" from Zheng Baixu. However, Zhenzhen's sincere belief that his singing was superior and he just lacked an opportunity eventually persuaded him to agree.

At the studio, as Yu Zirui looked at the musical score for the demo titled "Oh, Love," credited to Zheng Baixu, his demeanor changed. He abruptly declared he couldn't sing the song and stormed out. A confused Zhenzhen followed him, and he furiously revealed that the song was his own original composition, for which he possessed the original file. He expressed disbelief that a major company like Star Entertainment would plagiarize an unknown artist's work.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Zhenzhen promised to help him fight for his rights. She then confronted Zheng Baixu at his home, accusing him of plagiarism. Their discussion quickly became a heated argument, as Zheng Baixu denied ever claiming the song as his own and asserted he had no idea why his name was on it. He angrily told her not to interfere, blaming Liu Yinan for making him a "scapegoat."

Though Zhenzhen suspected he might also be a victim, she still pressed him on the copyright issue, but he defiantly retorted that "an unknowing one does not have any faults." Later, Yu Zirui discussed the plagiarism with a friend at the bar. His friend saw it as a chance to gain fame by leveraging Zheng Baixu's notoriety, but Yu Zirui was adamant about simply reclaiming his rights and was wary of the media.

His friend then suggested an independent music critic named Wu Gong, known for his harsh criticism of Zheng Baixu. Meanwhile, Zhenzhen called Yu Zirui to explain there might be a misunderstanding, but he angrily refused to meet, stating he could tolerate anything but plagiarism. His friend, however, saw the call as a sign of guilt from Star Entertainment and an opportunity to negotiate.

He urged Yu Zirui to "strike while the iron is hot," advising him to meet with a lawyer instead of Zhenzhen to pressure the company. Meanwhile, Du Wanqing, the company's CEO, learned about the plagiarism allegations. She confronted the chairman, Chen Tianhao, appalled that he and Teacher Changran would knowingly allow such an act.

Chen Tianhao admitted to it, explaining that Liu Yinan had suggested repackaging Zheng Baixu as a "singer-songwriter" to create a "large impact" and aid the company's IPO, and had assured him it was safe. Du Wanqing scoffed at Liu Yinan's "cheap tricks," revealing that the original writer had already contacted Wu Gong and planned to sue.

An enraged Chen Tianhao then confronted Liu Yinan, who confessed he had simply heard the song at a bar and thought the issue could be "solved with some money." Zheng Baixu also learned of the situation and approached Chen Tianhao, asserting that he would not sing "Oh, Love" and proposed releasing his own C-pop music instead. He argued that the songs provided by the company did not suit his style.

Chen Tianhao rejected the idea, emphasizing the niche market for C-pop and prioritizing commercial interests. He advised Zheng Baixu to accumulate more fans before attempting different styles. Disheartened, Zheng Baixu went to Yu Zirui's bar, where he was spotted by Yu Zirui's friend, who secretly called the paparazzi. The friend then approached Zheng Baixu, introducing himself as Yu Zirui's manager. He provocatively suggested Zheng Baixu's past talent show victory was rigged and that Yu Zirui was the true champion. When Zheng Baixu dismissed Yu Zirui's talent as "too average," the friend sharply retorted, "Then, why did you copy his work?"

Episode 4 Recap

At the bar, Zheng Boxu learns from Yu Zirui’s friend, Binzi, that the company’s new song for him, "Love," was actually written by Yu Zirui. Convinced that Yu Zirui wants to use his fame, Zheng Boxu scoffs that he wouldn't sing such a "trashy song." Yu Zirui, who has overheard, confronts him. Binzi, having already called reporters to the scene, eggs on the fight by provoking Zheng Boxu about getting famous through his father's influence.

As the confrontation escalates into a brawl, Yang Zhenzhen arrives and rushes to intervene. She steps in front of Zheng Boxu to block a thrown bottle, injuring her arm in the process. Despite Zheng Boxu’s concern, Yang Zhenzhen remains cold toward him, upset that he hit Yu Zirui, whom she secretly admires. At the police station, the officers issue a warning, noting that both parties admitted their mistakes and that Star Entertainment agreed to cover all damages.

Binzi insists to Yu Zirui that calling reporters was necessary for them to fight back against bullying. Meanwhile, Zheng Boxu brushes off his own minor injuries, remarking to his assistant that he is used to fights. Elsewhere, Binzi suggests to Yu Zirui that Yang Zhenzhen has a romantic interest in him, which Yu Zirui quietly dismisses, only expressing concern for her injury. Soon after, Zheng Boxu’s father, Zheng Weijun, rushes to his son’s side, overly concerned about his minor injury.

He emphasizes that Zheng Boxu's body is a "precious gem" and admonishes him for resorting to violence, reminding him that problems are solved with intelligence, not fists. Zheng Boxu promises it will be the last time. Zheng Weijun also brings up Zheng Boxu’s sister, Fang Yiran, who has recently won an award for her jewelry design, wishing his son was half as responsible.

Liu Yinan, Director of Star Entertainment's Marketing Department, is under immense pressure due to the widespread negative news, sensationalized as "Idol Zheng Boxu demonstrated violence." During a department meeting, Yang Zhenzhen suggests that Zheng Boxu should apologize publicly to show honesty, but Liu Yinan angrily rejects her idea. Blaming her for the incident, he assigns her to supervise Zheng Boxu 24/7 at his home to prevent further trouble.

Meanwhile, Star Entertainment's CEO, Chen Tianhao, is distraught after several hesitant investors withdraw their offers following the scandal. His associate, Marina, reveals that her former employer, Wansheng Company, is now interested in investing, but on one condition: she becomes Star Entertainment's executive vice president. Chen Tianhao feels conflicted but knows the company needs the investment. Yang Zhenzhen arrives at Zheng Boxu’s residence with her luggage.

At the same time, Zheng Boxu is with his sister, Fang Yiran, whom he just picked up from the airport. He insists she help him rehearse a script to prove he can succeed through his own hard work. Unbeknownst to them, Yang Zhenzhen overhears their dramatic dialogue—a scene depicting a man abandoning a pregnant woman—and mistakenly believes Zheng Boxu is a real-life "scumbag." Fang Yiran quickly clarifies the misunderstanding, introducing herself as Zheng Boxu’s sister.

Before leaving, Fang Yiran playfully entrusts her brother’s care to Yang Zhenzhen. Afterward, Yang Zhenzhen criticizes Zheng Boxu’s acting, leading to another argument where she insists he was wrong to hit someone and should apologize publicly. Separately, Liu Yinan meets Yu Zirui at a bar.

He claims Star Entertainment legitimately acquired the song and was unaware of any plagiarism, then promises Yu Zirui that the company will never use the song and will prevent any other company from using it, effectively burying the music to "protect" the copyright. He further intimidates Yu Zirui by claiming Zheng Boxu was the real victim of the fight but chose not to press charges because Yu Zirui couldn't afford the damages.

Yu Zirui remains outwardly composed, but the injustice of the situation weighs heavily on him. Back at Zheng Boxu’s home, he practices piano through the night and dozes off on the sofa. In the morning, Yang Zhenzhen kindly tries to tidy his piano, accidentally re-injuring her arm. Noticing her pain, Zheng Boxu insists on taking her to the hospital, despite her protests. At the hospital, the doctor confirms a soft tissue injury.

During the examination, Zheng Boxu and Yang Zhenzhen continue to bicker. Star Entertainment's financial woes persist. Chen Tianhao learns that a crucial loan payment cannot be postponed and instructs his staff to arrange more appearances for Zheng Boxu to generate income. Shortly after, Chen Tianhao receives his medical report, revealing a diagnosis of colon cancer. He asks his doctor to keep the information confidential.

Overwhelmed, he calls Marina and agrees to the Wansheng investment and her appointment as executive vice president. Meanwhile, Yang Zhenzhen sees that Zheng Boxu is trending online again. A colleague informs her that the Marketing Department successfully spun the incident into positive publicity. Yang Zhenzhen then reads a newspaper headline proclaiming, "Zheng Boxu acts bravely to save a fan. Fights off offender courageously," and throws the paper down in frustration at the manufactured narrative.

Episode 5 Recap

Liu Yinan manipulated the media, twisting the narrative around the recent fight to frame Yu Zirui as the aggressor. Zheng Baixu was consequently portrayed as a hero who protected his fans and bravely confronted gangsters, with these fabricated stories even making entertainment headlines. Witnessing this distortion of truth, Yang Zhenzhen angrily confronted Liu Yinan in his office, accusing him of making things up and deceiving the public.

Liu Yinan dismissed her concerns, defending his actions as "PR crisis management" and reminding her that in the entertainment industry, whoever has the power to speak dictates the truth. He advised her to always act for the company's benefit and be mindful of her attitude towards her senior. Despite this, Yang Zhenzhen maintained her stance against twisting the truth. Later, Yang Zhenzhen vented her frustration to Yu Zirui about the unfair portrayal.

Yu Zirui, while appreciative of her anger on his behalf, calmly advised her to be less "glass-hearted" if she wished to survive in the industry. He drew a parallel to the protagonist in "The Shawshank Redemption", who had to endure a dirty underground tunnel to gain freedom, implying that sometimes one must compromise to achieve a greater goal. He stressed that they must first survive before they can hope to change the industry. Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu summoned Yang Zhenzhen.

Instead of reprimanding her for confronting Liu Yinan, he lauded her actions, saying he needed someone like her and even encouraged her to scold Liu Yinan daily, promising to be her backup. He also showed a softer side by asking her to deliver a forgotten cup and a congratulatory brooch to Xiao Jian, his former assistant whom Liu Yinan had dismissed.

He clarified that Xiao Jian was "worth it" and, despite being a little "dumb," was very obedient, a trait he advised Yang Zhenzhen to learn. He then complimented Yang Zhenzhen on her rap skills, saying they sounded "pretty good." Separately, Du Wanqing was deeply hurt after seeing a selfie on Yang Zhenzhen's social media showing her husband, Chen Tianhao, in close proximity with another woman in the background.

Upon returning home, she found Chen Tianhao had prepared an elaborate meal, which made her suspect he intended to confess something. Chen Tianhao indeed wanted to discuss a new investment opportunity for the company's IPO, mentioning that an international company was willing to invest a large sum on the condition that they could send one of their experienced executives to join Star Entertainment as vice-president. Du Wanqing immediately guessed the new executive was a woman.

As Chen Tianhao grew defensive, Du Wanqing confronted him with the selfie. He identified Yang Zhenzhen in the foreground, then instructed his wife to zoom in on the background, revealing himself with the other woman. Overcome with anger and feeling betrayed, Du Wanqing stormed away from the dinner table before he could explain. Yang Zhenzhen, Xia Yuan, and Yu Zirui were enjoying a meal at a street food stall.

Xia Yuan openly praised Yu Zirui and tried to play matchmaker between him and Yang Zhenzhen. Considering Yu Zirui's future, Yang Zhenzhen expressed her intention to recommend him to Teacher Changran at their company once she had established herself. Yu Zirui, however, was more laid-back about his prospects. Xia Yuan then brought up the smear campaign, angry that the company had twisted the story to suggest Yu Zirui and his friend were harassing fans.

Yang Zhenzhen defended Zheng Baixu, asserting he was unaware his name had been used for the song and was not a "bullying tyrant." Later, on a day off, Yang Zhenzhen invited Yu Zirui to Grandpa Gu's Lan Fang Yuan tea house. Grandpa Gu, a close friend of Yang Zhenzhen, immediately started teasing them and trying to set them up. Later, Yu Zirui revealed that Teacher Changran had called and wanted to meet him.

Yang Zhenzhen, momentarily mistaking his serious tone for a romantic confession, was initially flustered but quickly encouraged him to meet Teacher Changran, assuring him of the latter's professionalism. Yu Zirui emphasized that her opinion was very important to him. Yang Zhenzhen accompanied Zheng Baixu through his busy schedule. While filming the drama "Fenghuajuedai", he was constantly pestered by his co-star, Wenwen. She repeatedly flirted with him, suggested increasingly intimate script changes, and took selfies with him despite his obvious discomfort.

Later, in his trailer, she confessed to being his fan and proposed they start a relationship for publicity. Annoyed by her attempts to leverage their work for personal gain, Zheng Baixu rejected her and told her to focus on the script. Meanwhile, crew members gossiped about Wenwen's known habit of fabricating dating scandals to gain fame. Soon after, a scandal erupted when Wenwen, after being rejected, intentionally leaked their selfies, sparking rumors of a romantic relationship.

Yuhong and Liu Yinan called Yang Zhenzhen into the office. They reprimanded her, holding her responsible for allowing Zheng Baixu to be alone with Wenwen, which led to negative press that could affect his popularity and commercial value. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Yang Zhenzhen felt a deep sense of guilt. The company then instructed her to immediately go to Zheng Baixu's home to protect him and prevent any further mishaps.

As Yang Zhenzhen headed to Zheng Baixu's residence, a swarm of reporters had already gathered outside, blocking his exit. Their relentless questioning and the constant flashing of camera lights triggered a severe panic attack in Zheng Baixu, stemming from a childhood trauma involving a fire. He struggled to breathe and stumbled back inside, his face pale with fear.

Yang Zhenzhen arrived just in time to prevent the reporters from entering the private residence, but she and Zheng Baixu found themselves trapped inside. Zheng Baixu's breathing became increasingly labored, and he vomited before collapsing, leaving Yang Zhenzhen terrified and helpless.

Episode 6 Recap

When Zheng Baixu collapsed, Yang Zhenzhen panicked, wondering if he needed CPR. Just as she considered it, Zheng Baixu woke up, teasing her about wanting an excuse to kiss him. Though Zhenzhen was relieved he was fine, persistent reporters remained camped outside his home, trapping them inside. Meanwhile, the scandal was escalating as the actress Wenwen gave an interview implicitly confirming their relationship. At Star Entertainment, this new development prompted a crisis meeting.

Executive Liu Yinan noted that the scandal, while negative, had boosted Zheng Baixu's name on trending lists and argued they should capitalize on the publicity. Chen Tianhao initially considered this strategy, but a sudden, long-awaited call from potential investor Zheng Weijun, who offered to meet, changed his mind. Understanding that a deal with Zheng Weijun required a pristine image for his artist, Chen Tianhao immediately reversed course.

He ordered Liu Yinan and Yu Hong to disperse the reporters and ensure Zheng Baixu was marketed as a top idol with an absolutely positive image. To further manage the crisis, he decided to send Baixu to Mexico ahead of schedule for his music video shoot. The police were subsequently called to clear out the reporters. Meanwhile, Chen Tianhao's wife, Lu Wanqing, had moved back to her father's home following a conflict in their marriage.

Chen Tianhao went to her and explained that the investment from a company introduced by Ma Lina was currently his only viable option. He admitted Ma Lina was interested in him but insisted he had always maintained a professional distance, and that the investors' sole condition was making her a vice-president. Wanqing listened to his explanation, and though she didn't reply, she seemed to accept it. Before leaving, Yang Zhenzhen learned that Chang Ran had contacted Yu Zirui.

She rushed to the bar to breathlessly ask about the meeting. Yu Zirui explained that while Chang Ran was impressed, he was hesitant to sign him, feeling his position at the company would be awkward given Zheng Baixu's immense popularity. However, he promised to do his best to help. Touched that she came just to ask about him, Zirui called her his "lucky star."

Zhenzhen then told him she was heading to Mexico with Baixu, and they agreed to keep in touch online. Upon arriving in Mexico, a cameraman discreetly complained to Zheng Baixu that Zhenzhen’s clothing looked unprofessional on camera. Annoyed, Baixu dragged her to a high-end clothing store, mocking her "tacky" taste and insisting her image reflected poorly on him.

Zhenzhen was pleased, thinking it was a gift, but was stunned at the checkout when he expected her to pay for the expensive outfit. To save face, she paid herself. Once they settled in, Baixu's on-site manager, Sun Yuqi, promptly left to see a friend. Zhenzhen, determined to prevent a repeat of the Wenwen scandal, stuck to Baixu like glue. Frustrated by her constant shadowing, Baixu deliberately threw his phone into a trash can.

While she was distracted searching for it, he slipped away to go street racing with friends. Left alone, Zhenzhen went to the Grand Canyon filming location and met the crew. She apologized for Baixu's absence, explaining he would arrive by 1:30 PM and offered to stand in for him during the morning rehearsal. As the day wore on, Baixu never showed up. The director, furious at the unprofessionalism, packed up and left with his crew.

When Zhenzhen finally reached Sun Yuqi by phone, the manager berated her for losing track of Baixu and demanded she find him. Worried for his safety, as she knew he was normally very serious about work, Zhenzhen spent the entire night searching for him alone in the unfamiliar city. Despairing on a street corner, Zhenzhen was approached by Eva, a friend of Chen Tianhao.

Eva explained that Zheng Baixu had been arrested for illegal street racing and that her husband, a lawyer who handles Chen Tianhao’s overseas affairs, was already arranging his bail. Zhenzhen rushed with Eva to the police station. They learned the racers were being investigated for endangering public safety, facing serious charges, but Zheng Baixu appeared entirely unconcerned.

With the music video shoot postponed for two days while the location was rescheduled, Eva suggested they use the time to visit Chen Tianhao's daughter, Xiaoxiao, who lived with her and was Zheng Baixu's number one fan. Zheng Baixu happily agreed. At Eva's home, Xiaoxiao was overjoyed to see her idol. She introduced her friend, Carrie, who promptly declared Justin Bieber more handsome, much to Xiaoxiao's annoyance. Xiaoxiao then pulled Zheng Baixu aside, saying she had something important to discuss with him in private.

Episode 7 Recap

Yang Zhenzhen and a companion followed Zheng Baixu to Eva's beautiful villa in Mexico to visit Xiaoxiao. As they admired the ocean view, Xiaoxiao, who was also present, observed that Zheng Baixu seemed happy when talking about Yang Zhenzhen and openly stated her belief that he was attracted to her. Both Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen vehemently denied this, with Zheng Baixu trying to assert that it was Yang Zhenzhen who was attracted to him.

Soon after, Eva arrived with Mexican pies and shared good news: Zheng Baixu's speeding case was mostly resolved with a lawyer's help, but he would still have to pay a fine and complete three days of community service. Later, both privately reflected on Xiaoxiao's comment.

Zheng Baixu dismissed the idea as a joke, while Yang Zhenzhen concluded that his insults were not a sign of affection but a result of his "dirty mouth," reaffirming her preference for a "nice, warm guy" like Yu Zirui. During the MV reshoot, the director displayed a lack of seriousness, still upset about Zheng Baixu's previous absence that had wasted an entire day of filming. Zheng Baixu, a perfectionist, became infuriated by the subpar camera work and insisted on re-filming.

When the producer explained that another take was at the director's discretion, Yang Zhenzhen stepped in to mediate the escalating dispute. She successfully communicated with the director, convincing him to agree to re-take the scenes. However, after the shoot concluded, the crew intentionally left Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen stranded in the wilderness as an act of petty revenge.

Left with no other choice, the two had to walk for a long time, bickering along the way, until Zheng Baixu eventually took Yang Zhenzhen's heavy bags and they managed to hitchhike back to the city. Zheng Baixu began his three days of community service at a Mexican nursing home, where Yang Zhenzhen accompanied him. One day, they witnessed the passing of an elderly man named Donald.

Donald's wife, though saddened, explained that her husband was a singer who loved sunshine, flowers, and children, and wished to leave this world with happy songs. She mentioned that Donald, though once the hottest singer in their area about 40 years ago, had chosen a simpler life over fame and wealth. Moved by the story, Zheng Baixu picked up a guitar and played a song for the deceased.

In that moment, he felt a profound understanding of music's true essence—it wasn't about the stage, applause, or awards, but a powerful force that touched the heart and blended with the lives of friends and family, achieving eternity. Upon their return to China, Yang Zhenzhen brought gifts for her friends. At the airport, she briefly mistook someone for Yu Zirui. As Yang Zhenzhen distributed gifts, her friend Xia Yuan noticed a particularly well-wrapped present clearly intended for Yu Zirui.

Xia Yuan advised Yang Zhenzhen that while Yu Zirui was a nice guy and a great friend, a "rich and handsome guy like Zheng Baixu" would be a better choice for a boyfriend, admiring his "swagger." Yang Zhenzhen vehemently disagreed, calling Zheng Baixu a narcissist and describing a relationship with him as a "disaster film."

Despite her objections, Xia Yuan pushed her to confess her feelings to Yu Zirui, suggesting she give him the gift if he won his upcoming talent show. Meanwhile, Du Wanqing and Chen Tianhao discussed Zheng Baixu's latest MV. Chen Tianhao believed it was better than expected, while Du Wanqing still questioned his suitability as Star Entertainment's top artist. Chen Tianhao revealed that Zheng Baixu's father, Zheng Weijun, had agreed to invest in their company.

This major investment would resolve their funding issues, making it unnecessary for Ma Lina and her investors to join. Seeing his investment in Zheng Baixu paying off, Chen Tianhao then took the opportunity to ask Du Wanqing to move back home, reaffirming her irreplaceable position in the company. Later, Zheng Baixu summoned Yang Zhenzhen to iron a shirt for an upcoming job.

He sarcastically asked for her opinion on his outfit, only to dismiss her suggestion, reaffirming his belief that her aesthetic sense was low. He then connected this poor taste to her affection for Yu Zirui, whom he considered inferior in every aspect. Zheng Baixu expressed his profound confusion and annoyance that Yang Zhenzhen could like Yu Zirui instead of him. Irritated by his arrogance, Yang Zhenzhen retorted that he was conceited and that any normal person would dislike him.

Amidst their heated exchange, Yang Zhenzhen accidentally burned the shirt. He was furious, explaining it was a limited-edition gift from his sister, Fang Yiran, and demanding to know how she would compensate him. During this confrontation, Yu Zirui called Yang Zhenzhen to share the good news: he had made it to the finals of his talent show.

Yang Zhenzhen, delighted, congratulated him and promised to attend the final to support him, mentioning she had a gift ready for him if he won. Shortly after, Yu Zirui received a call from his friend Binzi, who informed him that a woman named Sister Li had booked an entire bar for a party to support him. Binzi suggested that Sister Li was trying to "claim" Yu Zirui before he could become too popular after the competition. Uncomfortable with her intentions, Yu Zirui decided not to attend the party.

Episode 8 Recap

Xia Yuan sat crying by the roadside, disheartened after a talent show where the judges criticized her singing. Her friend, Yang Zhenzhen, called, seeking comfort for her own troubles. Putting aside her sadness, Xia Yuan hurried home. The two dispirited friends sat together, commiserating over their respective misfortunes. Xia Yuan, weary from repeated failures in singing competitions, decided to abandon her musical dreams and look for a new job.

Yang Zhenzhen then revealed her own predicament: she had to pay ¥17,000 in monthly installments for a year and five months for a limited-edition, tailor-made blouse of Zheng Baixu's that she had accidentally ruined. Both lamented their unfair fate, but the ever-optimistic Yang Zhenzhen found joy in hardship by painting on the damaged blouse and wearing it herself, declaring it perfectly suited her current "aura."

Yang Zhenzhen then attended the finals of a singing competition to support Yu Zirui, bringing a gift she had bought for him in Mexico. Zheng Baixu also discreetly arrived at the venue. Despite Yu Zirui's strong performance, he only secured fifth place due to what was implied to be behind-the-scenes manipulation. Chang Ran comforted him, assuring him that the results did not reflect his true ability, especially given the audience's enthusiastic applause for his singing.

Yang Zhenzhen waited to give Yu Zirui his gift, but he was urgently called away by the judging panel and left after a brief greeting, causing her to forget to present it. When she finally remembered, Zheng Baixu snatched the gift, and during the ensuing struggle, he accidentally broke the crystal ball.

Returning to the bar, an already upset Yu Zirui became even angrier after being ridiculed by a friend of Sister Li, who questioned his arrogance for not securing first place. In a fit of rage, he smashed his most cherished guitar. His friend, Binzi, tried to persuade him to leverage Sister Li's connections for fame and then discard her, but Yu Zirui vehemently pushed him away.

Yu Zirui declared his unwavering resolve to forge a successful path solely through his own talent and integrity, refusing to compromise his feelings or engage in any transactional relationships. He affirmed his commitment to his music dream, vowing not to become a "disgusting person" or "play with his own feelings."

Chang Ran, who had recently discovered Yu Zirui as a highly promising talent, offered him an opportunity to perform at Zheng Baixu's upcoming new single press conference, intending to cultivate him comprehensively. Despite his usual aloofness, Yu Zirui readily accepted, recognizing the importance of the event where many media and investors would be present. As Zheng Baixu's new single press conference approached, the entire company mobilized with full effort.

Chen Tianhao invited Du Wanqing to participate, but she misinterpreted his gesture, feeling he saw her merely as a prop. She also declined his request to move back home. Instead, Du Wanqing expressed her desire to establish a new talent unit within the company to pave the way for discovering new artists, specifically requesting a segment for newbies at the end of the press conference. Chen Tianhao, admiring her dedication, agreed to let her handle the matter entirely.

Zheng Baixu assigned Yang Zhenzhen to oversee the preparations at the press conference venue. Upon arrival, Yang Zhenzhen discovered critical issues: large props had not arrived due to a lack of authorization from the Fire Department, and the lighting and sound systems were problematic. This press conference was crucial not only for Zheng Baixu but also for the entire company, as it aimed to attract investors and aid in the company's IPO.

Star Entertainment descended into chaos, quickly convening an emergency meeting. At this critical juncture, Zheng Weijun, Zheng Baixu's father, called his son and offered his company's jewelry exhibition hall, which boasted top-tier lighting and setup, as an alternative venue. Although the audio system required work, Zheng Weijun's intervention saved the event, allowing the press conference to proceed as scheduled. Chen Tianhao expressed his profound gratitude to Zheng Weijun.

Director Liu immediately took the PR team to the new venue to secure photos and contacted VIPs and the media to inform them of the change. Yu Zirui was also confirmed to perform on stage. Following Chen Tianhao's suggestion, Du Wanqing arrived at the venue. She noticed Ma Lina, an investment chief, with a potential investor.

Du Wanqing immediately approached Chen Tianhao and linked arms with him, introducing herself as "Chen Tianhao's wife and also the Executive VP of Star Entertainment," subtly asserting her position. Ma Lina responded with seemingly complimentary remarks that carried a veiled condescension, mentioning her mother, who was almost 60, was a fan of Du Wanqing's old songs, implying Du Wanqing was outdated.

Du Wanqing retorted that Chen Tianhao was against her resuming her singing career because he was no longer capable of writing the kind of love songs for her that he used to.

Episode 9 Recap

Lai Shen Tong Ling Jewelry's Chairman, Zheng Weijun, hosted a new single release event for his son, Zheng Baixu, at his company's venue. Star Entertainment's CEO, Chen Tianhao, introduced Zheng Baixu as the company's secret weapon and thanked Zheng Weijun for providing the meaningful location, hoping it would also showcase Star Entertainment's mission. Zheng Baixu delivered an energetic performance on stage. Meanwhile, in the waiting area, Yu Zirui was preparing to perform.

His mentor, Chang Ran, encouraged him to seize the opportunity, emphasizing that Star Entertainment was actively seeking new talents and many influential figures were present. Yu Zirui then performed a love song with Star Entertainment's Executive VP Du Wanqing, a piece Chen Tianhao had written for her over ten years prior. This performance showcased his outstanding talent. Du Wanqing was impressed and expressed her immediate desire to sign him.

However, Chen Tianhao, facing financial constraints within the company, advised against rushing, explaining that the current focus was on Zheng Baixu and they shouldn't invest in similar-style artists yet. He indicated that once Zheng Weijun's promised investment came through, he would sign many artists.

Later, Du Wanqing thanked Chen Tianhao for his past support, and Chen Tianhao clarified that Ma Lina, who was helping with funding, was merely an investor with whom he would cut ties once the money was secured.

Soon after its release, Zheng Baixu's new single faced fierce criticism from music critic Wu Gong, known as "Centipede," who wrote a scathing review claiming Zheng Baixu was a "karaoke-level singer propped up by investment money" and that his song lacked technique, talent, and substance, even demanding a refund. Zheng Baixu was incensed by the article, which also negatively impacted his song's attention and click-through rates.

Director Liu Yinan summoned Zheng Baixu's assistant, Yang Zhenzhen, to his office to discuss the criticism. Liu Yinan suggested Zhenzhen hack Wu Gong's post to delete it, but Zhenzhen refused, stating she wasn't a hacker and wouldn't engage in such unethical behavior, adding that the widely circulated article couldn't be deleted anyway. Later, Zheng Baixu, still upset about the criticism, returned to his father's home.

Zheng Weijun seized the opportunity to reiterate his wish for Zheng Baixu to abandon his music career and return to the family business. Zheng Weijun proposed buying Star Entertainment and letting Zheng Baixu manage it, but Zheng Baixu showed no interest in business, emphasizing his passion for singing and the difficulty of running an entertainment company, referencing the hard work of Chen Tianhao and Du Wanqing.

Zheng Weijun then tried a different approach, inviting Zheng Baixu to a dinner with old friends and their children, but Zheng Baixu saw through his father's matchmaking attempt and refused to attend. Zheng Baixu also shared his lingering feelings about his mother's death and his father's new relationship. Zheng Weijun met with Chen Tianhao, offering a significant investment in Star Entertainment but insisting on a 51% controlling stake.

Chen Tianhao furiously rejected this, calling Zheng Weijun an "old fox" and emphasizing that Star Entertainment was his brainchild, like his child, which he would never hand over. Facing a critical funding shortage after rejecting Zheng Weijun, Chen Tianhao decided to accept the funding introduced by Ma Lina, stating he would fight for any possible financial source. In the company, veteran singer Amanda argued with Chen Tianhao, upset by his perceived favoritism towards newcomer Zheng Baixu.

She accused Chen Tianhao of being unfair, but he countered that true strength doesn't need resources and that artists are easily replaced. Amanda stormed off, refusing to sing. Chen Tianhao then decided to sign more "obedient" new talents. Du Wanqing and Chang Ran again recommended Yu Zirui. Chen Tianhao agreed to sign him but insisted on a strict 10-year contract with high penalties for violations, determined not to groom talents for other companies.

He mentioned that he had already accepted Wansheng's investment, making this new strategy possible. Later, Ma Lina confirmed with Chen Tianhao that Wansheng's first investment installment would arrive soon. Meanwhile, Yang Zhenzhen sought out critic Wu Gong, introducing herself as Zheng Baixu's personal assistant. Wu Gong immediately assumed she was there to buy off his review, emphatically stating it was "not for sale."

He dismissively told Zhenzhen he was busy and advised her to change jobs before the "cesspool" of the entertainment industry swallowed her. Star Entertainment held a meeting to address the poor performance of Zheng Baixu's song. Liu Yinan proposed buying click rates, but Du Wanqing vehemently rejected this, stating it would ruin their reputation as the company aimed to be an industry benchmark, not one with a "bad record."

Yu Hong suggested having Zheng Baixu guest on variety shows with veteran artists. As they discussed, Ma Lina unexpectedly entered, introducing herself as the new Executive Vice President, Lina. Chen Tianhao was annoyed that she had disrupted his plan for a proper announcement, but Ma Lina asserted that her position was officially part of the investment contract and her immediate presence would speed up management for their IPO. She then insisted on taking the office directly next to Du Wanqing's for convenience.

Episode 10 Recap

As Ma Lina arrived at Star Entertainment to assume her role as Vice President, she deliberately chose an office located directly opposite Du Wanqing's, citing convenience for communication. Meanwhile, Du Wanqing confronted her husband, Chen Tianhao, about their future at the company. She expressed a desire to be actively involved in daily management and demanded that her responsibility for artist development be formally enshrined in the company's articles of association.

She also insisted on clear definitions of their shares and their daughter Xiao Xiao's shares once the company went public, leaving Chen Tianhao feeling a distinct sense of distrust and finding his wife suddenly unfamiliar. Determined to showcase Zheng Baixu's dedication, Yang Zhenzhen tracked down music critic Wu Gong at a student cafeteria. She presented his demanding daily schedule and recordings from various stages of his career, hoping to prove his progress and hard work.

However, Wu Gong remained unimpressed, dismissing Zheng Baixu's efforts and questioning Yang Zhenzhen's motives, suggesting she was merely engaging in a crisis public relations stunt for the company. Yang Zhenzhen defended herself, clarifying her genuine intention to shed light on the truth, and countered that as a professional music critic, Wu Gong's constant criticism without constructive suggestions demonstrated a lack of professionalism. During this time, Yu Zirui was trying to make ends meet by street peddling.

Xia Yuan stumbled upon him and purchased some items, even getting a small bear for Yang Zhenzhen. Yu Zirui confided that he had left the bar after offending a "Sister Li" and was now focused on creating his own music, despite receiving no responses from the music companies he'd sent demos to. Xia Yuan encouraged him, believing this new path would ultimately foster his growth.

Shortly after Yang Zhenzhen returned home from her encounter with Wu Gong, Zheng Baixu summoned her angrily. Wu Gong had published a scathing new article, explicitly accusing Yang Zhenzhen of repeatedly harassing him and reiterating his belief that Zheng Baixu lacked musical talent and should simply change professions. Zheng Baixu was furious, feeling Yang Zhenzhen's well-intentioned actions had only exacerbated the situation and made him look foolish.

Yang Zhenzhen, disheartened by the unintended consequences, lamented her consistent bad luck despite her earnest efforts. Her friend Xia Yuan, now happily working at her newly established company, Blossom, suggested Yang Zhenzhen resign and join her. However, Yang Zhenzhen, recalling her past struggles as an aspiring singer, steadfastly refused to give up, insisting she must confront Wu Gong again to clear her name.

A company meeting was convened to address Zheng Baixu's stagnating song performance and the loss of sponsorships following the recent controversies. Ma Lina seized the opportunity to propose her involvement in artist development, presenting a meticulously prepared plan that emphasized a market-driven, profit-oriented approach crucial for the company's upcoming IPO. Chen Tianhao agreed to review her proposal. Later, Zheng Baixu's fans, incensed by Wu Gong's persistent negative comments, organized and confronted the critic, physically attacking him in public.

Yang Zhenzhen, coincidentally present at the scene, was mistakenly accused by Wu Gong of instigating the mob. Back at the company, Liu Yinan severely reprimanded Yang Zhenzhen, presenting video evidence of her presence during the attack and accusing her of intentionally worsening the situation with Wu Gong. Unexpectedly, Zheng Baixu stepped in, openly claiming he had instructed Yang Zhenzhen to "hit" Wu Gong, effectively shielding her from further blame.

He then passionately articulated his long-held dream of pioneering C-Pop and taking Chinese music to a global audience, regardless of industry skepticism. That evening, Zheng Baixu found a despondent Yang Zhenzhen listening to music alone in the studio. He comforted her, telling her not to dwell on the virtual world's criticisms and acknowledging her sincere efforts. As a gesture of gratitude and to make amends, he gave her a snow globe, stating he always repays what he owes.

The next day, Du Wanqing stormed into a meeting, furious at Ma Lina's perceived interference in the artist development sector, which Du Wanqing considered her exclusive domain. Ma Lina calmly defended her stance, presenting her market-driven artist development plan and asserting the importance of profitability for the company's IPO. The two women engaged in a fierce verbal battle, each challenging the other's authority and approach.

Caught between them, Chen Tianhao ultimately announced the creation of two separate artist development departments, Team A and Team B, with Du Wanqing and Ma Lina each at the helm, stating that their success would be judged solely by results. Following this, Du Wanqing began her work leading Team A by holding auditions. Yu Zirui was invited to meet with her, and she offered him a contract.

While Du Wanqing praised his singing, Yu Zirui expressed reservations about the strict terms, particularly the ten-year contract term and the high penalty for breach, though he agreed to consider it. That same evening, as Yu Zirui continued his street vending, a man approached him, recognizing him from his singing videos. The stranger offered to buy all of Yu Zirui's merchandise, encouraging him to stop street peddling and dedicate himself entirely to music, suggesting a new path was open for him.

Episode 11 Recap

While running his street stall, Yu Zirui was unexpectedly approached by Yang Jian, the head of Blossom Entertainment. Impressed by Yu Zirui's talent, Yang Jian offered him a contract. When Yu Zirui visited Blossom Entertainment, he was greeted by Xia Yuan and realized she had recommended him, for which he was very grateful. Yang Jian, who had recently returned to China after growing up in the U. S. , explained his passion for music and his vision for the company.

He saw Yu Zirui as their most promising artist and promised to fully support his career. Drawn to the company's free-spirited atmosphere and his immediate rapport with Yang Jian, Yu Zirui decided to sign with Blossom. He informed Yang Zhenzhen, who was happy he could quit his stall but felt a slight disappointment that he hadn't joined Star Entertainment. Meanwhile, Malina had a private dinner with Chen Tianhao to discuss work.

She mentioned that investors were unhappy with Zheng Boxu's single sales and suggested packaging him to raise funds for new artists. When Du Wanqing called Chen Tianhao, Malina made a suggestive comment, causing an angered Du Wanqing to hang up. Du Wanqing felt that Chen Tianhao had become a stranger, prioritizing power and status over their life together. Later, Zheng Boxu's livestreamed dinner with a lucky fan, Zhang Xiaohui, was a huge success.

During their chat, he candidly shared childhood anecdotes, including his love for fighting and skipping school in the U. S. to make music, where he felt truly free. He also joked that he was too handsome for a girlfriend as it would break too many hearts. Yang Zhenzhen, who managed the broadcast, was exasperated by his unfiltered honesty, but the stream significantly boosted his popularity.

While she worried about anti-fans exploiting his words, Zheng Boxu insisted on the importance of sincerity. On her day off, Yang Zhenzhen visited Yu Zirui at Blossom Entertainment and was relieved to see him thriving. However, her friend Xia Yuan discreetly revealed that the real investor behind Yu Zirui was Sister Li. This news immediately unsettled Zhenzhen, who questioned Sister Li's motives. Coincidentally, Zheng Boxu fell ill on Zhenzhen's day off.

He called and demanded she come over without explaining why. Though initially annoyed, Zhenzhen's concern grew, and she went to his apartment that evening. She found him with a high fever but refusing to go to the hospital. He insisted she find his panda costume, explaining that his mother used to dress him in it when he was sick, promising he would be better after sleeping.

Zhenzhen diligently cared for him, forcing him to take medicine and secretly taking photos of him looking adorable in the costume. The next morning, Zheng Boxu had fully recovered and watched the sleeping Zhenzhen, exhausted from taking care of him, feeling a growing affection for her. During a magazine cover shoot, the sponsor's clothing shipment was discovered to contain only womenswear. Zheng Boxu, citing professionalism, intended to cancel the shoot.

In a desperate move, Zhenzhen threatened to leak the panda costume photos, successfully coercing him into wearing the women's clothing. The cross-dressing look was an unexpected hit, earning praise for its unique appeal. Seizing the momentum, his manager, Sun Yuqi, immediately filled his schedule with more engagements. Zhenzhen expressed concern to Sun Yuqi about the demanding schedule, pointing out his recent illness and lack of time for singing practice.

Sun Yuqi, however, contemptuously dismissed his singing ability as unremarkable and insisted that he follow company orders, telling Zhenzhen her only job was to keep him healthy. Meanwhile, the online critic Centipede wrote another malicious article attacking Zheng Boxu for wearing women's clothes. Enraged, many of his fans organized a protest outside Centipede's building. As Zheng Boxu fumed at home over the relentless personal attacks, Yang Zhenzhen arrived with medicine. She advised him to remain calm and not act impulsively, explaining that Centipede was likely trying to provoke him and he shouldn't fall for the tactic.

Episode 12 Recap

Music critic Wu Gong was violently attacked between midnight and 1:00 a. m. , sustaining a severe head injury from a brick and remaining unconscious in the hospital. The police, after reviewing surveillance footage, suspected the assailant was a fan of Zheng Baixu and called Zheng Baixu and his team, including Yang Zhenzhen, to assist the investigation. Yang Zhenzhen clarified that during a previous, less severe attack on Wu Gong, she had been present trying to stop the fans.

A young girl named Zhang Xiaohui, who had previously dined with Zheng Baixu, arrived at the police station to confess, claiming she attacked Wu Gong because he "bashed my Xu." However, the police dismissed her confession, stating that the attacker was a 180cm tall man and that Zhang Xiaohui was the third person to attempt to give a false confession, admonishing her for her lack of legal knowledge and for obstructing justice.

Zhang Xiaohui admitted that all members of her fan group had wanted to hit Wu Gong with a brick. Although Wu Gong was recovering well and the actual assailant, confirmed to be a fan of Zheng Baixu, had been apprehended and detained for 15 days, Star Entertainment agreed to cover all related financial compensation. This incident prompted Star Entertainment, which was preparing for an IPO, to address their public image.

The company decided to hold a press conference to apologize to Wu Gong and the public, aiming to establish an image of being both aggressive and socially responsible while refuting rumors that they hired the culprit. Zheng Baixu, however, internally resented the idea of apologizing to Wu Gong, whom he felt had consistently smeared him.

Liu Yinan explained to Zheng Baixu that, regardless, it was his fan who committed the attack, and his public persona influenced his fans' behavior, making an apology necessary to calm public pressure. The continuous problems caused by Zheng Baixu began to overwhelm Chen Tianhao. He noted a decrease in Zheng Baixu's market value, with three companies already threatening to withdraw collaborations, although Zheng Baixu still held advertising influence.

Chen Tianhao consulted with Du Wanqing about the possibility of selling Zheng Baixu, along with his four-year contract, while his market value was still high. Du Wanqing was surprised by Chen Tianhao's sudden change of heart, as Zheng Baixu had previously been his prized asset, making her suspect external influence.

During their conversation, Chen Tianhao also expressed regret over failing to sign Yu Zirui, who had instead joined Blossom Entertainment, a new company run by a former IT professional named Yang Jian. Chen Tianhao dismissed such new, inexperienced companies, but Du Wanqing suggested that Yang Jian at least had a discerning eye for talent. At the press conference, Yang Zhenzhen tried to get Zheng Baixu to rehearse his apology speech, but he dismissed her, insisting he knew what to say.

Liu Yinan opened the conference with a summary report. Then, Du Wanqing, as Managing Director, apologized on behalf of Star Entertainment for their flaws in managing and guiding fans. Yang Zhenzhen, as Zheng Baixu's manager and fan group administrator, also apologized on behalf of his fans for their impulsive actions. However, when it was Zheng Baixu's turn to speak, he deviated from the prepared script.

He started by expressing sympathy for Wu Gong being attacked and apologized to his fan who lost 15 days of freedom because of him. Then, to the shock of the company executives, Zheng Baixu defiantly questioned why he should apologize to Wu Gong, arguing that Wu Gong had continuously smeared him without any public response from his side. He asserted that it was Wu Gong who should apologize to him.

Amidst the ensuing chaos, reporters brought up old scandals, asking about his alleged violation of local laws in Mexico and the pregnancy of actress Wen Wen. Zheng Baixu's emotional reaction escalated the situation, causing a major disruption. In the aftermath, Zheng Baixu's public appearances and commercial endorsements were canceled, causing significant financial losses for the company. Liu Yinan expressed his frustration, even considering resignation, and blamed Yang Zhenzhen for not ensuring Zheng Baixu followed the script.

Yang Zhenzhen felt immense guilt, believing that if she had confirmed the speech with Zheng Baixu one more time, the disastrous outcome might have been avoided. Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu had disappeared without a trace. The company, specifically Liu Yinan, pressured Yang Zhenzhen to find him. Yang Zhenzhen searched for three days, checking all possible locations and even calling Zheng Baixu's sister, Yiran, who also hadn't heard from him.

After returning to the office empty-handed, Liu Yinan chastised her, demanding she find Zheng Baixu, even if she had to bring back his corpse, as he considered Zheng Baixu a "gold mine" for the company and calculated potential earnings from a funeral. From a colleague, Yang Zhenzhen then learned a disturbing rumor: the company's high-level executives, led by Chen Tianhao, were planning to sell Zheng Baixu's remaining four-year contract to another company, leveraging his current market value.

This revelation made Yang Zhenzhen feel even more sympathetic towards Zheng Baixu. Determined, she went to the Lai Shen Tong Ling Group, Zheng Baixu's father Zheng Weijun's company. There, Secretary Qian, Zheng Weijun's assistant, denied Zheng Baixu was missing, stating he was safe and advising Yang Zhenzhen not to spread unconfirmed information. Yang Zhenzhen was then politely but firmly escorted out.

Undaunted, Yang Zhenzhen sought out Jason, Zheng Baixu's stylist, who initially tried to sell her shampoo but eventually revealed that Zheng Baixu had been there for a perm the day before. Jason, under the condition of secrecy, reluctantly disclosed Zheng Baixu's whereabouts. Yang Zhenzhen finally located Zheng Baixu at a racetrack, where he had just won a race, seemingly regaining some confidence. She secretly took photos, but Zheng Baixu confronted her.

To ensure his cooperation, she informed him that she had uploaded the photos to the cloud, and they would automatically become public in thirty minutes if she didn't delete them. She urged him to return to the company, but Zheng Baixu scoffed, asking if she thought she was his guardian. He refused, reiterating that the press conference incident was not his fault. Yang Zhenzhen then relayed the company's offer: he could buy his freedom for 80 to 100 million.

Zheng Baixu dismissed it, stating he didn't have that kind of money and his father wouldn't agree, and even if his father did, he wouldn't. Yang Zhenzhen insisted he only had one choice: return to the company. When Zheng Baixu tried to leave, she shamelessly clung to him, declaring she would follow him wherever he went. Zheng Baixu, annoyed but resigned, took Yang Zhenzhen to a nightclub.

He offered her red wine or whiskey, but she refused, saying she had never drunk alcohol and preferred soda. She mentioned Liu Yinan had spoken of a potent drink called "Deepwater Bomb" and expressed interest in trying it, but Zheng Baixu refused to carry her home, calling her too heavy. He then ordered Absinthe, describing its extremely high alcohol content. Yang Zhenzhen, wary of his intentions, warned him not to involve her and jokingly threatened to call emergency services. Zheng Baixu then offered her a choice between "drink" and "no," to which she chose "no."

Episode 13 Recap

Following his escape from the press conference, Zheng Baixu is finally tracked down by Yang Zhenzhen at a racetrack. To avoid returning to the company, he drags her to a nightclub, insisting on a drinking contest. As they bicker, their loud conversation attracts the attention of Xu Zhan, Zheng Baixu's high school classmate. Xu Zhan is accompanying Yan Kexin, the daughter of America's Hong Ding Corporation's owner, on a project inspection.

Yan Kexin is a huge fan of Zheng Baixu, having seen him perform in Los Angeles, and she excitedly asks for a photo, but he coldly refuses. When Xu Zhan mistakes Zhenzhen for Baixu's girlfriend, they both quickly clarify that she is merely his personal assistant. After Xu Zhan and Yan Kexin depart, Zheng Baixu continues to pressure Zhenzhen to drink. To get him to return to the company, Zhenzhen downs a glass of strong liquor.

Unfazed, Baixu suggests they use larger cups to stall for time. Zhenzhen immediately calls a waiter for the biggest glasses available. When two massive beer mugs arrive, she fills them both with liquor and finishes hers in one go. Zheng Baixu, whose alcohol tolerance is poor, passes out after drinking his. Yang Zhenzhen struggles to get the unconscious Zheng Baixu to a hotel room. Worried he might run off during the night, she ties his foot to the bed.

The next morning, however, Zheng Baixu seizes the opportunity to escape when a hotel employee delivers breakfast, leaving Zhenzhen bewildered once again. He retreats to his old family home, where he is haunted by childhood memories of a fire and the loss of his mother, seeking solace in drawing. A frustrated Yang Zhenzhen returns to Star Entertainment with a splitting headache.

Her dismay deepens as she overhears other artists gossiping about Zheng Baixu, calling him arrogant and speculating that his career is over. Seeking the truth, Zhenzhen speaks with President Chen Tianhao, who reassures her that the company invested heavily in Zheng Baixu and will not abandon him. He praises Zhenzhen's resilience and encourages her to continue supporting Baixu, advising her to stay calm and ignore rumors.

Their meeting is interrupted by the arrival of Zheng Baixu's fan representatives, and Zhenzhen volunteers to handle the situation. Fans from all over the country, calling themselves the "Rising Suns," have gathered in the lobby to demand the resignation of his manager, Sun Yuqi, whom they blame for his tarnished image. Yu Hong, the director of artist management, tries to reason with them, but the fans are adamant and demand to see Zheng Baixu.

Cornered, Zhenzhen impulsively promises them that Zheng Baixu will hold a live broadcast within three days. Yu Hong is dismayed by the rash promise, as no one even knows where Baixu is. Meanwhile, Ma Lina presents Chen Tianhao with a financial report showing a sharp drop in revenue due to the scandal. She again urges him to sell off Zheng Baixu, but their conversation is cut short when Chen suddenly feels ill and begins dry-heaving.

He dismisses her concern and refuses to go to the hospital. Yang Zhenzhen repeatedly sends voice messages to Zheng Baixu, pleading with him to meet and discuss the live broadcast. As he continues to ignore her, her desperation grows. Her pay has been docked due to his absence, leaving her unable to make rent. She and her roommate, Xia Yuan, are forced to hide from their landlady.

Xia Yuan suggests that Zhenzhen quit, but Zhenzhen, despite her frustrations, is determined to succeed, viewing the difficult artist as a "sharpening tool" that will prepare her for a future in management. She confides in Xia Yuan about the immense pressure she is under, having promised the fans a live broadcast. Xia Yuan warns that if more trouble arose, the company would likely make Zhenzhen the scapegoat.

Back at the old family home, a delivery man arrives with a package addressed to a "Mr. Batman." Remaining hidden inside, Zheng Baixu instructs the man to leave the package, confirming he is still holed up in his sanctuary.

Episode 14 Recap

Zheng Baixu had been isolating himself at an old house, avoiding everyone. His older sister, Fang Yiran, finally managed to convince him to come home, revealing that even Yang Zhenzhen had been searching for him everywhere. Upon his return, Zheng Baixu’s father questioned his prolonged absence and reclusive behavior. He sternly informed Zheng Baixu that Chen Tianhao was already planning to sell him off at a discounted price, comparing him to "rotten cabbage."

This news deeply affected Zheng Baixu, who became visibly upset. His father, however, then softened, reassuring his son that despite the harsh words, he would always be there for him and would plan everything to help him overcome this difficult period, provided Zheng Baixu promised to listen to him. Meanwhile, Yang Zhenzhen and Jason conspired to lure Zheng Baixu out of hiding.

Yang Zhenzhen devised a fabricated story about a horoscope expert named Jennifer Lawrence, claiming that Geminis were destined for a period of extreme bad luck. She specifically warned that yellow and white colors would bring misfortune. Jason then called Zheng Baixu, earnestly trying to convince him to visit his workshop for a hair color change to ward off the supposed bad luck. Zheng Baixu, however, quickly discerned that Yang Zhenzhen was coaching Jason through the call.

Annoyed but resolute, Yang Zhenzhen took the phone, chastising Zheng Baixu for making her search the world over for him and ordering him to attend a fan live broadcast with the company in three days. Zheng Baixu remained silent, his lack of response signaling his refusal, as he suspected this was merely a step in the company’s plan to sell him.

At Star Entertainment, Vice-President Ma, having found a potential new company for Zheng Baixu, sought to claim credit from Chen Tianhao. Her conversation was interrupted by Du Wanqing, who arrived to oppose the immediate sale. Du Wanqing argued that selling Zheng Baixu now, while his popularity was spiraling due to negative publicity, would result in significant losses for the company, given the substantial effort invested in training him.

Vice-President Ma countered, asserting that it was a simple economic principle to cut losses on "garbage stocks" before their value depreciated further. Du Wanqing retorted that artists required careful promotion and management, and that premature sales would make the company appear to be "trading humans." Chen Tianhao intervened, urging both Vice-Presidents to prioritize the company’s revenue and avoid impulsiveness. He concluded that the matter of Zheng Baixu’s future would be planned for the longer term.

Separately, Nu Fang, a smaller entertainment company, took on a commercial gig to stay afloat, with all their artists, including Yu Zirui, performing. During the event, Xia Yuan called Yang Zhenzhen, requesting her to purchase iodophor and cotton swabs to treat Yu Zirui, who had injured his leg while helping move props. Yang Zhenzhen quickly arrived to assist. Unbeknownst to her, Zheng Baixu had returned to his home, which Yang Zhenzhen had meticulously cleaned.

He found numerous handwritten notes from her, playfully demanding he contact her and detailing how she had tampered with his home systems, like shutting off the swimming pool's water inlet. He called her, but Yang Zhenzhen, engrossed in Yu Zirui's performance despite his injury, did not notice. Xia Yuan, witnessing Yang Zhenzhen’s admiration, encouraged her to seize the moment and confess her feelings to Yu Zirui, emphasizing that opportunities are for the prepared.

After the performance, Nu Fang's artists gathered to celebrate. The conversation naturally shifted to Zheng Baixu, given Yang Zhenzhen's role as his assistant. Xia Yuan jokingly suggested Yang Zhenzhen abandon Star Entertainment and join them at Nu Fang. However, Yu Zirui defended Yang Zhenzhen, stating she would never abandon Zheng Baixu during his difficult period. Yang Zhenzhen began drinking heavily, hoping to muster the courage to confess to Yu Zirui.

Unfortunately, Gu Bin repeatedly brought up "Sister Li," whom he regarded as a wealthy "stepping stone" for Yu Zirui's career, despite Yu Zirui's visible discomfort. This persistent and crude discussion about Sister Li spoiled the mood, and Yang Zhenzhen was ultimately unable to confess her feelings to Yu Zirui. Yang Zhenzhen then accompanied a heavily intoxicated Xia Yuan home.

On their way, Xia Yuan continued to push Yang Zhenzhen to confess to Yu Zirui, even suggesting she simply say "I like you." Yang Zhenzhen, however, lamented that Gu Bin's persistent interjections had prevented her from confessing. Only after returning home did Yang Zhenzhen recall her primary objective: continuing her search for Zheng Baixu.

She discovered multiple missed calls from him on her phone and, realizing how late it was, sent him a voice message promising to call him back the following morning. Zheng Baixu listened to her message, then stumbled upon alarming entertainment news on his television. The report stated that numerous of his city advertisements were being prematurely taken down due to the public boycott sparked by his recent press conference outburst.

This news plunged him back into despair, and he began to ignore Yang Zhenzhen's subsequent calls, hanging up on her repeatedly. Meanwhile, Xia Yuan, still advocating for Yang Zhenzhen's confession, warned her about Gu Bin's influence on Yu Zirui and the possibility of him being swayed to pursue Sister Li. The next morning, Yang Zhenzhen received a call from Du Wanqing, summoning her to the office.

Episode 15 Recap

VP Du summoned Yang Zhenzhen to Star Entertainment, initially testing her by having her critique a song VP Du herself sang two decades prior. Impressed by Zhenzhen’s astute musical observations, the conversation shifted. Zhenzhen expressed concern about potential layoffs and apologized for her failure to secure Zheng Baixu for a fan live broadcast. VP Du reassured Zhenzhen, commending her for effectively managing the fans' disappointment and revealed that Zheng Baixu was no longer the company's main focus.

VP Du then inquired about Yu Zirui, having heard from Chang Ran that Zhenzhen was close to him. After Zhenzhen described the limitations of Blossom Entertainment, Yu Zirui's current company, VP Du stated her long-standing desire to sign him. She explained that with the company's artist lineup undergoing a significant restructuring, securing Yu Zirui to replace Zheng Baixu would be mutually beneficial. Loyal to her artist, Zhenzhen questioned Zheng Baixu's fate.

VP Du acknowledged the recent negative rumors but encouraged Zhenzhen to consider her own future. While the company was still debating whether to sell Zheng Baixu, it was certain he would no longer be a core artist. VP Du urged Zhenzhen to focus on bringing Yu Zirui to Star Entertainment, promising her a better opportunity regardless of Zheng Baixu’s situation. Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu aimlessly wandered the streets, bombarded by public chatter about his appearance and career.

His isolation deepened when he went to a restaurant and hallucinated a full conversation with Zhenzhen, imagining her playfully critiquing his stingy food order. Later, while watching a street performer, he again imagined Zhenzhen’s voice scolding him for not being charitable. This fantasy abruptly ended when he was recognized and mobbed by a few fans. Back at Blossom Entertainment, Zhenzhen anxiously sought out Yu Zirui.

Before she could broach the subject, he was hastily called away by his superior, Yang Jian. Zhenzhen waited until late in the evening for his return. He explained that a key investor, Sister Li, had abruptly pulled her funding from his MV project, citing his "coldness" towards her. This left Blossom Entertainment in severe financial distress and potentially facing legal action, though Yang Jian had vowed to protect him. Grateful for Zhenzhen's patience, Yu Zirui treated her to dinner.

There, Zhenzhen revealed Star Entertainment’s renewed interest in him with significantly more lenient contract terms. Yu Zirui quickly deduced that Star Entertainment was marginalizing Zheng Baixu and needed a replacement. He then proposed that if he were to join Star Entertainment, he would want Zhenzhen as his manager. Zhenzhen, though honored and admitting her ambition to cultivate artists, firmly stated she could not abandon Zheng Baixu at his lowest point.

Understanding her principled stance, Yu Zirui agreed they could work together once she had ensured Zheng Baixu was settled. Their conversation was interrupted by a public marriage proposal at a nearby table. Zhenzhen found the display heartwarming but also awkward, though she admired the proposer's courage. As a romantic atmosphere settled between them, Zheng Baixu called, asking Zhenzhen to come and pay his restaurant bill because he had forgotten his wallet.

Exasperated, Zhenzhen muttered about Zheng Baixu being the "bane of her existence" before reluctantly leaving to help him. Upon arriving, Zhenzhen paid the bill and urged Zheng Baixu to return to the company for a fan live broadcast, revealing she had promised his fans he would appear within three days. Zheng Baixu resisted, unwilling to follow company directives. In her frustration, Zhenzhen blurted out that the company was on the verge of giving up on him.

Though Zheng Baixu appeared indifferent, asking if she thought he couldn't survive without singing, Zhenzhen saw through his bravado. She told him she understood that being unable to sing would be devastating for him, a sentiment that visibly touched him. Just then, Zheng Baixu seized Zhenzhen's phone and saw a caring text from Yu Zirui. Consumed by jealousy, he mockingly called Yu Zirui "warm" and sent a rude, dismissive reply from her phone.

Zhenzhen was furious at this invasion of privacy and burst into tears, distraught that he had sabotaged her budding rapport with Yu Zirui. The next day, a somber Zhenzhen apologized to her superiors, Liu Yi'nan and Yu Hong, for failing to bring Zheng Baixu in for the live broadcast. After she left, a concerned Yu Hong remarked to Liu Yi'nan that Zhenzhen seemed dejected and had clearly tried her best.

Unbeknownst to them, Zheng Baixu initiated his own live broadcast from home. His unconventional approach—sharing tips on mopping and cooking before promising a new song—quickly garnered massive viewership, delighting Zhenzhen when she learned of it. Despite this success, company executive Ma Li'na insisted on selling him, arguing he was a high-risk artist. The CEO, Chen Tianhao, refused to sell at the low price offered, suggesting they "freeze" him instead.

Soon after, Zhenzhen was informed by Liu Yi'nan that she was being transferred back to the Publicity Department, as Zheng Baixu no longer required an assistant. Zhenzhen grew worried, realizing this was a clear sign the company was indeed giving up on him.

Episode 16 Recap

Following his successful livestream, Zheng Baixu's future at Star Entertainment remains uncertain. Liu Yinan unexpectedly transfers Yang Zhenzhen back to the Publicity Department, confirming her fears that the company is abandoning Baixu. When she argues his case, Liu Yinan dismisses her concerns, stating it is a management decision and that Baixu brought the situation upon himself. Frustrated, Zhenzhen vents to her roommate, Xia Yuan.

She is also agitated by Yu Zirui's lack of response after Zheng Baixu jealously sent a rude text from her phone. After discovering the message, Xia Yuan theorizes that Baixu has feelings for Zhenzhen. Zhenzhen scoffs at the idea, calling him a sadist who enjoys her misery. Xia Yuan insists his actions stem from jealousy and warns that trying to explain will only complicate things with Zirui.

Zhenzhen later confirms to Xia Yuan her transfer, finding it baffling that she feels unhappy despite being freed from her difficult assistant role. Unable to reach Zhenzhen, an impatient Zheng Baixu finds her apartment. While a starstruck Xia Yuan snaps photos with him, Zhenzhen tries to make him leave. Unfazed, Baixu demands she restock his fridge. Their argument is interrupted by the landlord, who demands 15,500 yuan in overdue rent and threatens eviction. Without hesitation, Baixu pays the full amount.

A grateful Xia Yuan hails him as "passionate, sunshine, and warm," and adds him on WeChat. The next day, Zhenzhen goes to Baixu's apartment to repay him, but he refuses the money, insisting she use it for his groceries and to hire a housekeeper. Zhenzhen quickly finds one online and formally informs him that she has been transferred. Baixu dismisses this, asserting he will protect her job.

She remains resolute about returning the money, and during their struggle, the cash falls into the pool. Zhenzhen rushes to retrieve it but slips and falls in. Unable to swim, she panics in the waist-deep water. Baixu pulls her out and performs CPR. Upon waking, a furious Zhenzhen declares she is glad to no longer be his assistant and storms off.

Back home, Zhenzhen’s spirits lift when she receives a comforting text from Yu Zirui, who says Xia Yuan has explained everything. She resolves to start fresh. Meanwhile, at the company, VP Du Wanqing clashes with Ma Lina over a spot in an elite agent training program, rejecting Ma Lina’s attempt to use it as a favor and revealing she has chosen Zhenzhen.

Director Yu Hong summons Zhenzhen and encourages her to become an agent, sharing an inspiring story from her own past on the red carpet. Motivated, Zhenzhen eagerly accepts the chance to pursue a new career supporting artists.

Episode 17 Recap

Though no longer Zheng Boxu’s assistant, Zhenzhen remained emotionally invested in his well-being. This was tested when Zhang Xiaohui, a self-proclaimed "bonehead fangirl" and Boxu's fan, ran away from home and broke into Zhenzhen’s apartment by picking the old door lock. Xiaohui immediately made herself at home, using Zhenzhen's belongings, drinking her water, and even her toothbrush, all while claiming she had nowhere else to go.

Despite Xia Yuan’s strong objections and her disgust at the girl’s entitled behavior, Zhenzhen, worried about a minor wandering the streets, reluctantly allowed Xiaohui to stay. Xia Yuan made it clear she wanted Xiaohui gone immediately, sarcastically pointing out Zhenzhen's continued involvement with Boxu's fans. At work, Zhenzhen overheard colleagues discussing that Zheng Boxu was no longer Star Entertainment's core artist and the company was considering selling him, which made her uneasy despite her outward indifference.

Meanwhile, Zheng Boxu's agent, Sun Yuqi, was in Yu Hong's office, complaining about Boxu's lack of assignments and her resulting financial woes. She declared Boxu's career "pretty much over" and demanded a new artist. Yu Hong sharply criticized Sun Yuqi's pragmatism, emphasizing the cyclical nature of an artist's career and the crucial partnership between agent and artist.

She reminded Yuqi that an agent's success is tied to their artist's well-being and that constantly seeking a "better" artist would lead to failure. Determined to send Zhang Xiaohui home, Zhenzhen tried to find her address through the company's fan records but found only a phone number. Sun Yuqi, when asked, dismissed Xiaohui as "not in her right mind" and warned Zhenzhen to ignore her to avoid trouble.

Zhenzhen then encountered Luoluo, Zheng Boxu's fan leader, who revealed that Xiaohui was a full-time fan who had dropped out of school to chase stars. Luoluo admitted she had no choice but to ask Sun Yuqi to arrange a spot for Xiaohui at a dinner with Boxu, simply to stop her constant harassment. Unbeknownst to Zhenzhen, Xiaohui was hosting a raucous party at her apartment, treating it as her own home.

Xiaohui boasted to other fans about her "inseparable" relationship with Zhenzhen, claiming it would grant them easy access to Boxu, especially if Zhenzhen became his agent. She proposed forming a new fan association, "Diamond Rising Sun," to rival Luoluo's group, which she accused of selling fake merchandise and stalking, and even suggested a physical confrontation. Xia Yuan returned home to find the apartment in disarray and a room full of strangers planning a fight.

Enraged, she immediately threw everyone out, then called Zhenzhen home to witness the chaos and scold her for bringing such disruptive "trouble" into their lives. Later, Zhenzhen called Xiaohui's phone, only for her hostile mother to answer and blame Zhenzhen for the situation. An argument between mother and daughter erupted over the phone, revealing their troubled family dynamic. With Xiaohui finally home, Xia Yuan firmly warned Zhenzhen never to involve herself in such matters again.

Meanwhile, at Nufang Company, morale was low due to severe financial difficulties, with dancers complaining about unpaid salaries. Yu Zirui tried to motivate them, assuring them that the situation was temporary and they should focus on honing their skills. Xia Yuan later confirmed to Yu Zirui over the phone that Nufang hadn't paid salaries for months and that Yang Jian was desperately "looking for money."

Yang Jian himself admitted the company was in a dire situation and had tried to shield Yu Zirui from the truth. He revealed that a "big company" was attempting to poach Yu Zirui and expressed understanding if he chose to leave. However, Yu Zirui, demonstrating his loyalty, suggested that Yang Jian consider partnering with other companies instead. Despite her recently strained relationship with Zheng Boxu, Zhenzhen found herself checking his social media for updates, wondering if he had blocked her.

Back in the PR Department, she prepared materials for Amanda. A colleague, Sister Youlan, who had wanted to manage Boxu herself, implied Zhenzhen was now idle and tried to get her to perform menial tasks. However, another agent defended Zhenzhen, leading to an argument. Chang Ran intervened by giving Zhenzhen a new assignment, effectively ending the dispute. He then informed her that Yu Zirui would be coming to the company to record a song.

Zhenzhen's spirits immediately lifted, and she eagerly waited for him. When Yu Zirui arrived, Zhenzhen clarified their past misunderstanding, explaining it was a prank orchestrated by Zheng Boxu. Yu Zirui, having learned Zhenzhen was no longer with Boxu, commented that it was "good news" she had left that "troublemaker," and Zhenzhen admitted she felt "more relaxed." As instructed by his father to look after a business partner's daughter, Zheng Boxu hosted a birthday party for Kexin at his apartment.

Kexin was charmed by his apartment, finding it perfect for parties. She playfully noted his generosity, which Boxu humorously attributed to her being a girl. Kexin clarified that the special treatment was because their fathers were close friends and Boxu's family had recently acquired the dealership rights for the "Leysen 1855" jewelry brand in China. As Kexin's numerous friends arrived, Boxu grew visibly uncomfortable with the crowd of strangers in his home.

Kexin, wanting to impress him, revealed she had invited DJs from a club, suggesting Boxu improvise a rap with them while passionately expressing her love for hip-hop. Boxu then presented Kexin with another gift: a stunning jewelry piece from "Leysen 1855" that had not yet been released. Kexin eagerly asked him to put it on her, but Boxu curtly told her to do it herself.

Episode 18 Recap

During a recording session, Du Wanqing expressed her appreciation for Yu Zirui's talent and inquired about his plans to potentially join Star Entertainment. Yu Zirui stated his loyalty, explaining that he did not wish to abandon Blossom Entertainment or his friend Yang Jian during their difficult times. Instead, he proposed a collaborative partnership between the two companies as a win-win solution.

Both Du Wanqing and Teacher Chang found this to be an insightful suggestion, acknowledging Yu Zirui's grasp of both artistry and business. Meanwhile, a distraught fan, Zhang Xiaohui, called Zhenzhen in tears, revealing she was in a heated argument with her mother over her idol worship. Fearing she might never see Zheng Baixu again, she asked Zhenzhen to convey her love to him.

At the office, Zhenzhen's colleagues, Director Yu and Sun Yuqi, advised her not to intervene, warning it could create a scandal for the company and Zheng Baixu. They urged her to draft a press release distancing the company from the fan's personal issues. However, Zhenzhen, deeply concerned for the girl's safety, felt she couldn't ignore someone in distress and decided to go herself.

On the way, she sent an urgent message to Zheng Baixu, who immediately abandoned his own birthday party, leaving his friend Kexin and his guests, to rush to the scene. Zhenzhen and Zheng Baixu arrived to find Zhang Xiaohui on a rooftop, threatening to jump due to her mother's disapproval of her devotion.

After Zheng Baixu persuaded Zhang Xiaohui to step back to safety by telling her a true fan would listen to him, her distraught mother then threatened to jump herself, feeling rejected by her daughter. As Zhenzhen and Zheng Baixu rushed to pull her back, a struggle ensued, and Zhenzhen lost her footing and fell from the building. Without hesitation, Zheng Baixu leaped after her, embracing her to cushion the impact. They landed on an inflatable cushion deployed by firefighters.

While Zhenzhen was mostly unharmed, Zheng Baixu suffered multiple injuries, including a fractured hand and leg, and both were hospitalized. Upon waking, Zhenzhen learned from doctors that Zheng Baixu's injuries were a direct result of protecting her. Overwhelmed with guilt, she went to his room to apologize and offered to care for him. Zheng Baixu, irritable from his injuries, chided her for her reckless interference, claiming she was more of a hindrance than a help.

Despite his complaints, Zhenzhen saw a new side to him—his profound care for his fans—and began diligently looking after him, even helping him with an awkward trip to the bathroom. Yu Zirui, having seen the news of the accident, messaged Zhenzhen to check on her. He was in a car with his new manager, who had arranged a dinner for him to network with advertising contacts.

Yu Zirui expressed unease about a business decision that had negatively impacted Yang Jian’s company, but his manager urged him to focus on building new relationships. News of Zheng Baixu's heroic act made national headlines, effectively ending the media's unofficial boycott against him. Chen Tianhao seized the opportunity to orchestrate a strategic comeback. However, a complication arose when Zheng Baixu suffered a severe allergic reaction to a medication, causing him to struggle for breath.

Zhenzhen admitted she had briefly removed his IV drip to help him to the bathroom. Doctors intervened swiftly and stabilized his condition, after which Zhenzhen became even more meticulous in her care. The incident drew a large crowd of fans to the hospital, disrupting its operations. Fang Yiran and other managers arrived to apologize to the hospital president for the commotion.

Later, in Zheng Baixu’s room, Fang Yiran remarked to Zhenzhen how much he had changed from his previously self-centered ways. While cooking for him, Zhenzhen was teased by her friend Xia Yuan, who suggested that Zheng Baixu's selfless act proved how important Zhenzhen was to him. Zhenzhen playfully dismissed this, but then mused to Fang Yiran that perhaps her influence had played a part in his transformation.

Episode 19 Recap

Following the rooftop incident, Fang Yiran visited the hospital and shared stories about Zheng Baixu's childhood with Yang Zhenzhen. She expressed surprise at his recent heroic actions, noting a significant positive change in his personality, which she attributed to Zhenzhen's influence. Yiran observed that he now cherished his fans and had become more caring, a stark contrast to his past self.

She recalled that as a child, Baixu was short, skinny, and timid, often bullied and requiring her to defend him. Their father was frequently away on business, and after their mother, who was in poor health, sent Yiran to boarding school, she was left to care for Baixu by herself. During a blackout in their newly built villa, a candle their mother forgot to extinguish caused a fire.

Six-year-old Zheng Baixu was rescued by neighbors, but his mother tragically died in the blaze. The subsequent interviews by journalists, with their flashing lights and probing questions, terrified the young boy, who could only cry loudly, instilling in him a deep fear of fire and a lasting dislike for reporters.

Yiran further revealed that Baixu had never had a girlfriend, largely because his father had taught him that "a man must be strong" and "never admit he's wrong," which hindered his ability to communicate effectively. Despite this, Yiran had noticed a significant transformation in him lately; though he often spoke negatively about Zhenzhen, he consistently acted according to her suggestions, revealing a "sharp mouth but a soft heart."

Yiran concluded that Zhenzhen truly understood him and held an important place in his heart. While Zheng Baixu was recovering, his father, Chairman Zheng, visited, brought by a young woman named Kexin. Though gruff, Chairman Zheng encouraged his son to stay in touch with Kexin, hoping she would be a positive influence. Soon after, Zhang Xiaohui and her mother arrived to express their sincere gratitude.

Xiaohui’s mother, lamenting their past foolishness, implored Baixu to persuade her daughter to return to school. Having seen Xiaohui's dancing video, Baixu recognized her talent and felt responsible for her dropping out around the time of his debut. Xiaohui confessed that growing up in a single-parent home with a hot-tempered mother made her feel useless, and that seeing Baixu’s perseverance gave her strength.

Moved, Baixu shared his own deep wish that his mother were still alive, even if it meant being scolded by her. He urged Xiaohui to treasure her mother and return to school, insisting she must not only dance but also get into university. He promised to pay for her cram school and a private tutor but warned he would not see her again if she didn't comply.

Later, a passerby recorded Xiaohui and her mother on the street, where the mother praised Baixu's generosity, declared herself a "Xu fan," and likened meeting him to winning the lottery. The video went viral, leading to an outpouring of positive media attention for Baixu. Following this surge in public support, the company held a meeting.

Vice-President Ma Lina, who had previously pushed to sell his contract, reluctantly agreed to keep him but insisted on taking over his management to maximize his commercial value, a proposal Director Liu Yinan supported. Vice-President Du Wanqing vehemently opposed Ma Lina's rigid approach, highlighting Baixu's recent heroic act as proof of his character and potential. President Chen Tianhao was caught between them.

Acting quickly, Ma Lina and Liu Yinan, along with Yu Hong, secured a charity commercial for Baixu and visited him in the hospital. Baixu firmly refused, citing his professional integrity and declaring he wouldn't film "garbage" using doubles or CGI while his bone injury needed 100 days to heal. Frustrated, Ma Lina tasked Yu Hong with changing his mind. Yu Hong then instructed Zhenzhen to persuade him by any means necessary.

Zhenzhen cleverly appealed to his newfound popularity with the public, but more importantly, revealed that the company wasn't being paid and that a benefactor had promised to donate 1,000 wheelchairs to charity if he filmed the commercial. This incentive finally persuaded Baixu. Later, Du Wanqing and Liu Yinan discussed Baixu's full cooperation on set, noting he performed every shot himself, and were amazed by Zhenzhen's unique ability to influence him.

Impressed by Zhenzhen’s remarkable ability to manage Baixu and her moral integrity, Chen Tianhao and Du Wanqing decided to promote her to his manager. Zhenzhen, however, expressed a lack of confidence in her ability to handle the new role. Baixu encouraged her, telling her to "pretend you know everything" and insisting she could handle both manager and assistant duties, even rejecting an offer for a new assistant.

When Zhenzhen returned to the office, she was met with enthusiastic congratulations from her colleagues, including Liu Yinan, who lauded her unprecedented promotion from an assistant to the manager of a top star. Feeling a mix of surprise and gratitude, she was then escorted to her new, private "VIP of VIP" manager’s office, a clear recognition of her achievements.

Episode 20 Recap

Following her promotion, Zhenzhen moves into her new office, where she is congratulated by Director Liu. He reminds her to stay humble, revealing that Ma Lina personally vouched for her. Soon after, Ma Lina meets with Zhenzhen, confirming that Director Chen intends to cultivate her talent.

Ma Lina announces that she, Zhenzhen, and Yuhong will now form a team to manage Zheng Boxu, setting a monumental goal to make him generate an annual value of one billion for the company, leaving Zhenzhen stunned by the ambitious target. Meanwhile, Zheng Boxu, recuperating in the hospital, notices Zhenzhen’s absence. Zhenzhen seeks advice from Mr. Gu, who serves her his infamous "secret recipe" dish, ironically named "The Life of a Manager."

He warns her that being a manager is vastly different from being an assistant, requiring intelligence and flexibility to navigate the many challenges ahead. Despite the daunting prospects, Zhenzhen expresses her determination. Embracing her new responsibilities, she begins studying industry documents, and with Xia Yuan's help, gets a professional makeover to suit her new role. Concurrently, Blossom Company faces severe financial difficulties, with unmotivated employees and no funds for wages.

The head of the company, Yang Jian, desperately seeks new investments. Xia Yuan is overwhelmed managing the company's finances and fears its impending collapse. Over drinks, Yang Jian confides in Yu Zirui that their funding has ceased. Yu Zirui suggests a collaboration with Star Entertainment, but Yang Jian vehemently rejects it, seeing it as an acquisition that would compromise his core philosophy of creating soulful, high-quality music distinct from mainstream pop.

He believes merging would mean abandoning the very dream he fought to build. Hearing about Blossom's troubles from Xia Yuan, Zhenzhen meets with Yu Zirui to ask about his future. Yu Zirui admits the company is collapsing and that joining Star Entertainment seems like the only logical option, though he is reluctant to leave the creative freedom he cherishes at Blossom. Believing he is only one opportunity away from success, he tentatively asks Zhenzhen if she would wait for him.

Their conversation is cut short by a call from Zheng Boxu, and Zhenzhen rushes back to the hospital for his physical therapy. Upon arrival, Zhenzhen sees Zheng Boxu charismatically interacting with a fan while preparing for his therapy. Later, Ma Lina summons Zhenzhen to discuss his career plan. Zhenzhen proposes a strategy focused on quality over quantity—top-tier variety shows and selective film roles to enhance his artistic credibility. Ma Lina dismisses her ideas, insisting the company's profit is paramount.

She orders Zhenzhen to create a new plan that maximizes Zheng Boxu's revenue, regardless of his personal or artistic development. Dejected, Zhenzhen confides in Yuhong, who explains that neither she nor Ma Lina is wrong; they simply have different priorities based on their roles. Yuhong advises Zhenzhen to learn how to protect herself, compromise without abandoning her principles, and navigate the "gray areas" of her new position. This advice gives Zhenzhen a new perspective.

Still trying to save his company, Yang Jian proposes a "horizontal cooperation" to Yu Zirui, suggesting they merge with other small, like-minded companies to "withstand the cold winter." Yu Zirui is skeptical, arguing that combining several failing businesses would only lead to a faster collective demise. Desperate, Yang Jian then suggests selling Yu Zirui's song demos for quick cash.

Yu Zirui refuses, convinced his best work would be wasted by a small company and that the money would only be a temporary fix. He believes his songs need a major platform to achieve their true potential. Later, Yu Zirui recounts this blunt conversation to Zhenzhen. She agrees that Yang Jian's plan is unreliable, concluding that both artists and their companies must partner with a major entity like Star Entertainment to truly succeed. The episode ends with Zheng Boxu continuing his rehabilitation, learning to walk without a crutch as Zhenzhen supports him.

Episode 21 Recap

After being discharged from the hospital, Zheng Baixu refused to use a crutch, instead playfully calling his manager Yang Zhenzhen his "crutch" and a "handy tool." He also voiced his strong preferences for future work, stating he only wanted to film dramas and focus on music, rejecting movies, reality shows, and performances. Yang Zhenzhen, while trying to accommodate his demands, also reminded him of the company's interests, aiming to build him into a top artist.

Meanwhile, Xia Yuan approached Yu Zirui, conveying Yang Zhenzhen's affection for him. Yu Zirui admitted his mutual feelings but explained his reluctance to pursue a relationship. He felt that Yang Zhenzhen's current success would create pressure, and he firmly believed in providing the woman he loved with the best life, not wanting her to suffer hardship because of him. Xia Yuan argued that such a mindset only caused pain for everyone involved.

Soon after, Yu Zirui officially signed with Star Entertainment, where he was warmly welcomed by Teacher Chang. He then presented Yang Zhenzhen with a beautiful scarf as a gift, which she cherished and wore almost daily. However, Xia Yuan, now aware of Yu Zirui's reservations, advised Yang Zhenzhen against being too forward, warning that too much pressure might drive him away.

When Yang Zhenzhen pushed back, recalling Xia Yuan’s previous encouragement, Xia Yuan explained that circumstances had changed, as Zhenzhen's new role as a celebrity manager might create an unintended distance. Back at Star Entertainment, Zheng Baixu made his first public appearance since the Wu Gong incident. Yang Zhenzhen had advised him to adopt a softer, more amiable attitude, encouraging him to share the passion he showed his fans with his colleagues.

To everyone's surprise, Zheng Baixu took her advice, greeting his colleagues with "Good morning" and even high-fiving some, leaving them bewildered by his uncharacteristic friendliness. Later, VP Ma and Yang Zhenzhen discussed Zheng Baixu's career, with VP Ma proposing to repackage his image through charity work. A key project was an African food fundraising program, where Zheng Baixu would collaborate with international film star Vivian Han to improve his public perception and pave the way for a potential international career.

At the same time, Du Wanqing began planning Yu Zirui's debut, appreciating his unique, albeit niche, musical style. Yu Zirui expressed his desire to debut as a producer singing his own songs. Du Wanqing assigned Yu Hong as his manager, explaining that while she had considered Yang Zhenzhen for the role, Zheng Baixu needed her dedicated support. Later, Zheng Baixu and Yu Zirui had a tense encounter at the company, marked by subtle jabs.

Yu Zirui commented on seeing Zheng Baixu frequently, and Zheng Baixu sarcastically thanked him for a past reply sent through Yang Zhenzhen’s phone. Yang Zhenzhen quickly intervened, pulling Zheng Baixu away. He then confronted her about her relationship with Yu Zirui. When Yang Zhenzhen stated her focus was solely on work, Zheng Baixu smugly took it to mean she was focused on him, but then instructed her to report all of Yu Zirui's activities.

He dismissively criticized Yu Zirui's appearance and talent, but Yang Zhenzhen countered that Yu Zirui was "outstanding and had a lot of potential," prompting Zheng Baixu to call her "blind" and lacking "taste." Despite his ongoing recovery, Zheng Baixu began intense physical training. He expressed complete trust in Yang Zhenzhen's judgment, allowing her to select his charity events.

Later, as Yang Zhenzhen was getting ready to go out, Zheng Baixu playfully took over her makeup, adding some color and declaring her "too pretty." Afterward, when Yang Zhenzhen asked about the silk scarf from Yu Zirui, Zheng Baixu casually admitted he had used it as a "rag" to wipe his leather shoes before throwing it away, dismissing it as a "dog collar." A dismayed Yang Zhenzhen rushed to search the garbage bins but found nothing, returning home upset.

Upon seeing her distress, Xia Yuan concluded that Zheng Baixu's possessive act confirmed his feelings for Yang Zhenzhen, interpreting it as an attempt to "erase all traces of other men." Yang Zhenzhen dismissed the idea, asserting she wouldn’t be a "filler" during his lonely "window period." Xia Yuan then shared her own bad news: her company, Blossom Entertainment, had gone bankrupt, leaving her unemployed.

Yang Zhenzhen suggested Xia Yuan apply to be Yu Zirui's assistant at Star Entertainment, an idea that thrilled Xia Yuan. Xia Yuan and Yu Zirui met with a departing Yang Jian. He expressed his deep belief in Yu Zirui's talent and Star Entertainment's ability to help him succeed, entrusting Yu Zirui with "both of their dreams" and urging him to charge forward. After Yang Jian’s departure, Yu Zirui agreed to Xia Yuan's interest in the assistant position.

He then declined an invitation to dinner with her and Yang Zhenzhen, stating he needed to practice and dedicate himself completely to fulfilling his and Yang Jian’s dreams. Later, Du Wanqing noticed Yang Zhenzhen’s cheerful demeanor and teased her about dating. Zhenzhen credited her happiness to her thriving career.

When Du Wanqing playfully asked about her "boyfriend that's not yours yet," clarifying she meant Zheng Baixu, Zhenzhen admitted that while he was still troublesome, she had found a way to "tame" him. Du Wanqing then expressed interest in listening to Zheng Baixu's music, so Yang Zhenzhen asked to borrow her collection of rare CDs to help him find his musical direction. Du Wanqing flatly refused, calling the CDs her "treasures" that she wouldn't lend to "outsiders."

Episode 22 Recap

Vivian Han, an award-winning international film actress, was set for an upcoming collaboration with Zheng Baixu and had specifically requested Jason's studio for styling. Upon her arrival, everyone realized she was Wenwen, an old acquaintance rumored to have dated Zheng Baixu. Wenwen arrived late and bragged about her international success and busy schedule, prompting sarcastic remarks from Zheng Baixu about her shifting accents and her hometown, Tieling.

Afterwards, Yang Zhenzhen apologized to Zheng Baixu for not having verified the collaborator's identity, but he assured her it wasn't her fault and professionally completed the photoshoot. Meanwhile, the PR Department discussed Wenwen's radically changed appearance and how to capitalize on the renewed hype surrounding her and Zheng Baixu. Seeing Zheng Baixu's popularity return, Sun Yuqi approached Yuhong, demanding to be his manager again. Yuhong refused, reminding Sun Yuqi that she had previously abandoned the role.

Instead, Yuhong suggested she become an assistant to the company's new talent, Yu Zirui, an offer Sun Yuqi flatly rejected as a "slap in the face." Yuhong advised her to stop being picky and reflect on her own shortcomings, pointing to Yang Zhenzhen's hard work as an example and noting that a person's insight and class determine their destiny. Meanwhile, Yu Zirui was exceptionally diligent, tirelessly practicing in the recording studio.

He offered suggestions for chord and lyrical adjustments, which music producer Mr. Chang encouraged. Elsewhere, Chen Tianhao spoke with his doctor and decided to postpone a necessary surgery for six months to focus on company matters, asking that his condition be kept secret. He then met with Yu Zirui to lay out his expectations, defining idol stars as "commercial products" who are forbidden from dating.

He presented the contract, highlighting the restrictive clauses and severe financial penalties for breaking them, making it clear that Zirui's career depended on his compliance. Later, Zhenzhen ran into Yu Zirui, and they made plans to have dinner to celebrate his contract. As Zhenzhen watched Zirui sing with admiration in the studio, Zheng Baixu observed them from the doorway. Visibly jealous of Zirui's talent and Zhenzhen's attention, he left for home in a foul mood.

Zhenzhen followed him, bringing him vitamin C. She insisted he accompany her to a "Yarn Sorting Organization," a place where people patiently untangle yarn by hand. After they successfully completed the task, Zheng Baixu felt a sense of accomplishment. Zhenzhen used the moment to encourage him, saying that instead of sulking over talented rivals like Yu Zirui, he should focus on improving himself. Moved, Zheng Baixu called her the best assistant he'd ever had.

Xia Yuan successfully secured the position of Yu Zirui's new assistant. On her first day, she excitedly told Zhenzhen and asked for advice about company personnel like Director Yu and Liu Yinan. Zhenzhen offered her honest assessment of their personalities. The two arranged to have dinner, but Zhenzhen revealed she already had a date with Yu Zirui. Chen Tianhao, Du Wanqing, and Changran gathered to discuss Yu Zirui's first title track.

Du Wanqing and Changran praised its artistic quality, but Chen Tianhao dismissed it as too niche for the mass market. Focused on commercial success and wary of risks after Zheng Baixu's past controversies, he asserted his final say and pressured a distressed Yu Zirui to accept a more mainstream song. Later, at a restaurant, Yu Zirui confessed his feelings for Zhenzhen. However, he tearfully explained that he could not pursue a relationship.

He cited the company's strict no-dating clause and his desire to first achieve success before committing to anyone, stating that to make the world hear his music, he was prepared to give up everything, including her. Stunned, Zhenzhen felt she was looking at a stranger, as the Yu Zirui she knew would never sacrifice his principles or their connection for commercial success.

Episode 23 Recap

Yu Zirui confessed his true feelings to Yang Zhenzhen, admitting he genuinely liked her but could not pursue a relationship. As an artist under contract with Star Entertainment, he explained that he was forbidden from dating and was determined to sacrifice everything, including her, for the sake of his career, hoping the world would hear his music. A stunned Zhenzhen remarked that the Yu Zirui she knew would never say such things.

While acknowledging his selfishness and the pain he caused, he expressed a desperate hope for someone to understand him in a world full of deceit. Zhenzhen firmly rejected this, stating she would not be that person, and left. As Zhenzhen wandered the streets heartbroken, Zheng Baixu called and heard that she was crying. Worried, he asked where she was, but she only requested the next day off before hanging up.

Zhenzhen went home and drowned her sorrows in alcohol, passing out after finishing an entire bottle. Concerned for her, Zheng Baixu went to her apartment and found her asleep. Guessing her distress was because of Yu Zirui, he gently covered her with a blanket and left a glass of water by her bed before departing quietly. The next morning, a hungover Zhenzhen was awakened by her roommate, Xia Yuan, who had just returned after being out all night.

Zhenzhen told Xia Yuan that Yu Zirui had said they were "better off as friends." Xia Yuan was furious on her behalf, but Zhenzhen was resigned to her fate, used to her crushes ending poorly. Zhenzhen mentioned she vaguely recalled someone taking care of her during the night, but Xia Yuan dismissed it as a dream induced by heavy drinking. At the office, Zheng Baixu politely declined an invitation to eat from Kexin, citing a meeting.

When Yang Zhenzhen arrived, he asked about her well-being and played a melody he claimed was from a friend, asking for her opinion. Zhenzhen listened and bluntly called it "average" and "missing something," advising him not to sing it. She correctly deduced that Zheng Baixu had written it himself, though he denied it. Shortly after, Ma Lina summoned them to a meeting to discuss a proposal from Wenwen's agency for Zheng Baixu to collaborate with Wenwen on charity work.

Ma Lina emphasized the lucrative offer and strong PR support, seeing it as beneficial for his image. Zheng Baixu, remembering his past conflicts with Wenwen, flatly refused, accusing Ma Lina of seeing him not as a person but as a collection of parts to be exploited for scandals. When he stood to leave, Ma Lina declared she would finalize the details with Zhenzhen. However, Zhenzhen stood firmly with Zheng Baixu, stating her disagreement with the plan.

An infuriated Ma Lina threatened to fire her, but Zhenzhen remained unfazed, asserting that she had always insisted on doing what she believed was right and would continue to do so. Pleased by her loyalty, Zheng Baixu announced he was treating the team to lunch. Furious, Ma Lina stormed into Chen Tianhao's office, complaining about Zheng Baixu's defiance and Zhenzhen's insubordination, demanding Zhenzhen's dismissal.

The company boss, Chen Tianhao, calmly advised her to learn how to communicate with and appease artists, noting that different personalities require different approaches. He refused to fire Zhenzhen and told Ma Lina to be patient. News of the confrontation spread quickly through the company. At home, Xia Yuan warned Zhenzhen to be cautious of Ma Lina, who had strong backing. To their surprise, Ma Lina called Zhenzhen to apologize for her earlier behavior.

She claimed to have reconsidered and dropped the collaboration proposal with Wenwen, asking Zhenzhen to pass on her apologies to Zheng Baixu. Xia Yuan remained suspicious, believing Ma Lina's apology was a strategic retreat rather than a sincere change of heart. The next day, Luo Luo, the leader of Zheng Baixu's fan club, visited Zhenzhen's office. Under the guise of discussing fan club matters, she praised Zhenzhen and presented her with an expensive gift.

Zhenzhen tried to refuse, finding it too extravagant, but Luo Luo insisted. Moments later, Zhenzhen discovered a large sum of cash hidden inside the gift box. She immediately chased after Luo Luo to return it, but Luo Luo refused to take it back, threatening to give the money to the company instead. Left with no other choice, Zhenzhen took the money back to avoid causing more trouble.

Later, at a celebrity basketball game, Xia Yuan revealed that Luo Luo had also given her a necklace, which Xia Yuan believed was an attempt to get closer to Zhenzhen through her. Zhenzhen, understanding Luo Luo's true motive, told Xia Yuan to return it immediately. She realized that with Yu Zirui's rising popularity, Luo Luo was trying to curry favor with his new assistant, Xia Yuan, to secure future influence.

Episode 24 Recap

Zheng Boxu and Yu Zirui each led their teams in a reality show basketball game, both eager to impress Yang Zhenzhen. The intense competition ended in a tie, with a final score of 42 to 42. Yu Zirui hurried off to record a song, while Zheng Boxu exchanged playful banter with him, demanding he return a necklace. As Zheng Boxu and Yang Zhenzhen exited, they were immediately swarmed by enthusiastic fans.

One fan presented Zhenzhen with a pet seal as a gift. Suddenly, Xiaohui's mother, a self-proclaimed "ginseng among fans" and the "oldest among the fans," stepped forward to manage the crowd, instructing them to disperse. She then confidently made her way into Zheng Boxu's luxurious car, much to his surprise. Inside, Xiaohui's mother revealed that her daughter, Xiaohui, had been diligently studying, a change she attributed to Zheng Boxu's influence.

Zheng Boxu expressed his pleasant surprise and promised to treat Xiaohui to a meal if she successfully enrolled in university. Later, Yu Zirui sent Zhenzhen a text message, inviting her to listen to his newly recorded theme song and provide feedback. Seeing the message, Zheng Boxu immediately launched into various tactics to prevent Zhenzhen from leaving, feigning a sudden stomachache and demanding freshly squeezed fruit juice. He even attempted to critique her acting skills, claiming she needed more training.

Despite his efforts, Zhenzhen managed to leave. Unknown to them, the pet seal gifted by the fans contained a miniature camera, recording their every move. The video feed was being received by Luo Luo, the leader of Zheng Boxu's fan club. Although Zhenzhen left Zheng Boxu's home, she did not go to meet Yu Zirui. Instead, she went to the restaurant owned by a seasoned chef. Yu Zirui soon arrived, finding Zhenzhen there.

He spoke about the sacrifices an idol must make, including giving up personal relationships for the sake of their career, reaffirming his past decision to give up on her. However, he still expressed a desire for someone to truly understand him in a deceptive world, to which Zhenzhen replied that it wouldn't be her. Yu Zirui then sought her advice on his new song, which had been altered to suit market trends against his initial preference.

Zhenzhen provided insightful feedback, suggesting a change in his vocal delivery, which Yu Zirui found valuable. Just as their conversation deepened, Zheng Boxu unexpectedly arrived, claiming his stomachache had miraculously disappeared. He nonchalantly sat down, interrupting their meeting, and proceeded to critique the restaurant owner's cooking. This audacious behavior prompted the owner to offer him a "black card," a gesture used to ban customers. Amused by his nerve, the owner began to see the young man in a new light.

Vice President Ma Li Na later approached Zhenzhen, feigning goodwill and apologizing for their previous contentious conversation. She then subtly warned Zhenzhen about the spreading rumors concerning her and Zheng Boxu, sending her a video. Zhenzhen watched the video, shocked, and immediately rushed back to Zheng Boxu's house. She located the hidden camera inside the pet seal and threatened to call the police.

However, Zheng Boxu, displaying his characteristic nonchalance, dismissed the severity of the situation, stating he didn't feel any loss, and prevented her from taking action. It was later revealed that Luo Luo and Sun Yuqi were behind the scheme, their goal being to ruin Yang Zhenzhen's reputation and restore Sun Yuqi to Zheng Boxu's manager position. Sun Yuqi, for her own benefit, even provided intimate photos of Zhenzhen and Zheng Boxu, extracted from the video, to Ma Li Na.

The astute Ma Li Na, understanding Sun Yuqi's intentions, implied that she would only act if presented with conclusive evidence. The scandal involving Zhenzhen and Zheng Boxu quickly became a trending topic online, with public opinion turning strongly against Zhenzhen. Director Liu advised Zhenzhen to learn how to protect herself and her artist from such attacks, emphasizing that a clear conscience alone is not enough for a professional agent.

Zhenzhen, realizing the true orchestrator of the incident, tracked Luo Luo down to her home by cross-referencing Sun Yuqi's delivery receipts. Zhenzhen directly confronted Luo Luo about the hidden camera and the defamatory rumors. Luo Luo, unapologetic, admitted her involvement and asserted that she had evidence of Zhenzhen accepting gifts. She then frankly stated her desire for Zhenzhen to step down, arguing that she and Zheng Boxu were incompatible, and that Sun Yuqi would be a better manager.

Luo Luo admitted her actions were motivated by money rather than fanatical devotion. After Zhenzhen left, Luo Luo intentionally spread more rumors online, inciting fans to surround Zhenzhen at the company's entrance. Upon learning of the fans' agitated plans from online posts, Zheng Boxu immediately called Zhenzhen, urging her to tell him her location so he could rush to her aid.

Episode 25 Recap

Yang Zhenzhen found herself surrounded by Zheng Boxu's enraged fans, who screamed at her, calling Zheng Boxu "everyone's husband" and demanding she quit. Yang Zhenzhen tried to reason with them, warning about the legal consequences of assault and the presence of a nearby police station. As the situation escalated, Yu Zirui intervened, identifying himself as Zheng Boxu's junior from Star Entertainment, and asserted that the circulating videos were manipulated. He warned the fans not to touch Yang Zhenzhen.

Yu Zirui then helped Yang Zhenzhen, who had sprained her ankle in the commotion, by carrying her away from the crowd and taking her home. On the way, Yu Zirui mentioned that Zheng Boxu had called him, unusually concerned for Yang Zhenzhen. Yu Zirui reassured Yang Zhenzhen that he believed in her, not the rumors.

He then shared the news that Teacher Chang had offered him a mini-concert where he planned to perform the song "Love," once opposed by Liu Yinan. Arriving at Yang Zhenzhen's apartment, they found Zheng Boxu already there. Zheng Boxu acted possessively, curtly thanking Yu Zirui for saving "my manager" and dismissing him, declaring the apartment "my home." Yang Zhenzhen offered to cook for Yu Zirui, prompting Zheng Boxu to demand she cook for him as well, claiming he was starving.

Sensing the tension, Yu Zirui declined the meal and left. Zheng Boxu sarcastically offered to see Yu Zirui off himself before pulling Yang Zhenzhen back inside, annoying her. She scolded him for scaring Yu Zirui and complained about her injured leg preventing her from cooking. Zheng Boxu retorted that she didn't cook with her foot, accusing her of laziness for only offering to cook for Yu Zirui. He ordered takeout, including pig's feet for her injured leg.

A disheartened Yu Zirui visited his friend at the bar, sharing the news that he could finally perform on stage. His friend congratulated him but subtly asked about his romantic progress with Yang Zhenzhen, which Yu Zirui dismissed. Later, Chen Tianhao confronted Yu Zirui about the fan posts depicting him as Yang Zhenzhen's "knight in shining armor." Yu Zirui stated he simply wanted to prevent Yang Zhenzhen from being hurt.

Chen Tianhao advised him to focus on making good music and gaining popularity, reminding him the industry was "not just music, it's a business." He instructed Yu Zirui to adhere to company policies, avoid dating or rumors, and prevent any trouble that could affect the company. Afterward, Chen Tianhao criticized Yang Zhenzhen for causing an incident involving Zheng Boxu and Yu Zirui, unacceptable for a manager.

Yang Zhenzhen clarified that she had no romantic relationship with Zheng Boxu and that Yu Zirui had only helped as a bystander. Chen Tianhao accepted her claim about Zheng Boxu but pressed her about Yu Zirui, suggesting their relationship remain strictly business. Yang Zhenzhen insisted they were just friends.

Chen Tianhao revealed he had already spoken with Yu Zirui and expected him to understand, advising Yang Zhenzhen to maintain distance from Yu Zirui, as he was slated to become a "future core artist" for the company. Yang Zhenzhen assured him she understood, and Chen Tianhao tasked her with resolving the situation quickly. Yang Zhenzhen then planned to expose Luoluo's past in retaliation for the "smear campaign" against her. Her colleague cautioned her, suspecting Luoluo had outside support.

At a fan meeting, Luoluo publicly accused Yang Zhenzhen of selling Zheng Boxu's resources to Yu Zirui, having a romantic relationship with him, and extorting bribes from fans. Yang Zhenzhen calmly waited for Luoluo to finish, then began her rebuttal.

Regarding the fan gifts, she revealed that she regularly reported all gifts for herself and Zheng Boxu to Management Director Yu Hong, providing a verifiable list, and the company converted the gifts into cash and donated them to the fan club under the name "Really Love Xuxu." Addressing the bribery accusation, Yang Zhenzhen played an audio recording of Luoluo attempting to give her a gift, which Yang Zhenzhen refused.

Yang Zhenzhen then presented evidence that the supplier company for Zheng Boxu's merchandise was owned by Luoluo's maternal uncle, selling the merchandise at double the industry standard price. Finally, to discredit the rumors of her seducing Zheng Boxu, Yang Zhenzhen displayed a plush toy given to Zheng Boxu by a fan, revealing it contained a hidden pinhole camera. She identified Luoluo as the "most terrifying sasaeng fan."

Later, Director Yu Hong praised Yang Zhenzhen for her decisive handling of the situation, and Yang Zhenzhen explained that the police had traced the illegal hidden camera sales back to Luoluo. Chen Tianhao was under pressure because the Securities Regulatory Commission initiated an investigation into Star Entertainment in preparation for its IPO, citing issues with the company's "tax situation."

He asked Du Wanqing to seek her father's assistance, but Du Wanqing refused, citing her father's poor health and insisting that Chen Tianhao should fix his own problems. Du Wanqing reminded him of the risks her father had taken to help establish Star Entertainment, accusing Chen Tianhao of wanting her father to "take the bullet." Chen Tianhao argued that his sole priority was getting Star Entertainment on the stock market, which Du Wanqing interpreted as his willingness to "sacrifice anyone."

Despite her refusal, Du Wanqing consulted her father about Chen Tianhao, concerned that his actions "could be illegal." Her father reassured her that it might not be that severe, suggesting Chen Tianhao might only want him to "take a look" and influence the Securities Regulatory Commission. He agreed to help solely for Du Wanqing and Xiaoxiao's sake. Zheng Boxu and Yang Zhenzhen attended a filming event to support educationally disadvantaged students.

A young boy asked if Zheng Boxu's rich father also skipped university, implying one could make money without higher education. A reporter tried to encourage Zheng Boxu to engage more with the children, but Zheng Boxu prioritized the children's comfort, suggesting they rest due to the heat. Yang Zhenzhen noticed surprisingly few students, and a staff member explained they had chosen "smart and sensible kids" for filming. Reporters were offered drinks and praised Zheng Boxu.

When a reporter asked about an upcoming concert involving "young newbies," Zheng Boxu expressed his dislike for the term. Yang Zhenzhen intervened, clarifying that Zheng Boxu valued focusing on music and creating quality work over rapid productions, and emphasized the event's focus should be on the underprivileged children. During a break, Yang Zhenzhen chided Zheng Boxu for his blunt remarks, but he defended himself. Zheng Boxu confided that he found the children "strange," doubting they were genuinely "education deprived."

Yang Zhenzhen suggested the school might have chosen presentable children for the video. They overheard a reporter scolding a child for a comment about making money without schooling, as the event was to raise money for education, and the child claimed the reporter had instructed him to invent a reason. Elsewhere, a teacher was coaching children on how to behave for the "superstar" filming, saying their good behavior would lead to aid.

Yang Zhenzhen and Zheng Boxu then overheard reporters apologizing for using their own children to "pretend to be migrant workers' children." The reporters argued no one was harmed, asking Yang Zhenzhen to persuade Zheng Boxu. Yang Zhenzhen acknowledged their apology, telling them to cease such practices. The reporters agreed but requested to see the actual underprivileged children. Zheng Boxu then entered the classroom where the real children were, greeting them and taking pictures. The teacher expressed gratitude, and Zheng Boxu encouraged the children to "study hard" and discover their passions, assuring them that with a dream and persistent effort, anything was achievable.

Episode 26 Recap

After a charity event, Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen discussed his song choice for an upcoming concert. Zhenzhen expressed concern that his chosen song, "Collateral Love," was too difficult, suggesting he pick something that better suited his strengths. Frustrated by her constant comparisons and the implication that he was inferior to Yu Zirui, Baixu grew upset and angrily forced her out of the car.

Stranded, Zhenzhen attempted to hitchhike and was coincidentally picked up by Xu Zan, a former classmate of Baixu's. In the car, Xu Zan's behavior quickly turned inappropriate as he made unwanted advances. Just as the situation escalated, a concerned Zheng Baixu, who had turned back for Zhenzhen, arrived. He intervened, furiously beating Xu Zan for assaulting her. Back in Baixu's car, however, Zhenzhen faced his continued anger.

Despite her shaken state, Baixu scolded her for getting into a stranger's car before offering her a clean shirt. Feeling humiliated and unjustly blamed, she refused, prompting him to throw the shirt out the window. Their argument escalated, ending with her getting out of his car again. During a company meeting, concerns were raised about Baixu's ability to hit the high notes in his song.

The situation became more complicated when it was announced that the concert would only allow one act from their company. This sparked a heated argument between Vice Presidents Du Wanqing and Ma Lina. Yu Hong stepped in, proposing a compromise: Zheng Baixu and Yu Zirui would perform a duet. Though initially resistant, Baixu saw that his manager, Zhenzhen, had agreed to the arrangement and reluctantly complied.

Following the meeting, Yu Hong privately spoke with Zhenzhen, hoping that as both Baixu's manager and Zirui's friend, she could act as a mediator in the future. Zhenzhen confessed her decision was not only to help Zirui gain exposure but also to support Baixu, ensuring a smoother performance of his desired song. Meanwhile, Baixu, still in a foul mood, was urged by his sister, Fang Yiran, to come home for dinner.

Upon arriving, he discovered his father had invited Kexin and her father, hoping to arrange a marriage between them. Adding to his distress, his father also introduced his long-term partner, Teacher Guo, and asked for his acceptance of their relationship, which brought back painful memories of his deceased mother. Overwhelmed, Baixu harshly rejected both the matchmaking attempt and his father's request before storming out.

Later, Du Wanqing's father visited her home and admonished her husband, Chen Tianhao, to treat his daughter better. Chen Tianhao asserted he had done nothing wrong. Determined to ensure his daughter's happiness, Du's father then threatened Chen Tianhao, revealing he had evidence of past financial irregularities at Star Entertainment that he had helped conceal. He made it clear he would expose them and jeopardize the company's IPO if Du Wanqing wasn't happy, leaving Chen Tianhao visibly uneasy.

The next day, the head of publicity, Liu Yinan, showed his team a viral video about a woman searching for the owner of an expensive "love confession" shirt she had found. After Xia Yuan showed her the video, Yang Zhenzhen was stunned, suspecting the shirt was the one Zheng Baixu had thrown out of his car.

Episode 27 Recap

Yang Zhenzhen sought out Zheng Baixu, unable to believe he would have feelings for her after discovering the luxurious custom-made shirt she had seen online might be his. Trying to save face, Zheng Baixu lied and claimed the expensive shirt was a gift from a fan, rather than admitting he had ordered it as a confession to her. After Yang Zhenzhen left, he secretly contacted Miss Liu, the woman who had found the shirt, to retrieve it.

He urged her not to post about its return online, explaining he wanted to surprise the intended recipient. Miss Liu, recognizing the subtle romantic intent behind the embroidered initials on the shirt's inner collar, encouraged him to bravely express his feelings. After seeing an online post that the shirt had been returned, Yang Zhenzhen immediately called Miss Liu.

When she heard the shirt's initials were "ZZY"—the pinyin initials of her own name, Yang Zhenzhen—she suddenly understood the depth of Zheng Baixu's feelings. Recalling his past actions, she found the courage to confront him again. However, a defensive Zheng Baixu, desperate to maintain his composure, vehemently denied everything.

He then angrily called Yu Zirui to his home for a practice session, but when Yu Zirui arrived, Zheng Baixu—unable to sing due to a sore throat—stubbornly used Yu Zirui's late arrival as an excuse to cancel the practice. Sensing the tension between Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen, Yu Zirui did not argue and instead offered to drive Yang Zhenzhen home. Although a flustered Yang Zhenzhen denied anything was wrong, Yu Zirui’s observations suggested otherwise.

Chen Tianhao expressed growing confidence in Yu Zirui's potential, intending to use the company's full resources to promote him. During a strategy meeting, Liu Yinan proposed that Zheng Baixu sing backup for Yu Zirui at an upcoming concert. Liu Yinan argued this would significantly elevate Yu Zirui’s status by having an established star support a newcomer, creating a hot topic for publicity. Given that Zheng Baixu was managed by Ma Lina, Chen Tianhao took on the task of convincing her.

Yang Zhenzhen informed Zheng Baixu of the company's decision, which he immediately rejected. Ma Lina also opposed the idea, calling the plan "unscientific" during a meeting with Chen Tianhao and insisting she would never agree. Chen Tianhao countered that a successful company cannot rely on a single artist and must constantly create new stars. He pointed out that Zheng Baixu's vocal style was not well-suited for the current pop music trends, suggesting his singing career might not last.

He advised Ma Lina to have Zheng Baixu transition to other ventures while he was still popular and to actively train new artists as replacements, calling a continuous stream of new talent the ultimate "killer move" for controlling artists. He then assigned Yang Zhenzhen the task of persuading Zheng Baixu. Meanwhile, Xia Yuan deduced from Yang Zhenzhen's behavior that she had feelings for Zheng Baixu but was either unaware or afraid to acknowledge them.

Xia Yuan encouraged her to seize the opportunity and not overthink. Yang Zhenzhen expressed her reservations, believing she and the famous Zheng Baixu belonged to different worlds and that his interest might just be a fleeting whim. Distracted by her feelings for Zheng Baixu, Yang Zhenzhen's work performance suffered. Ma Lina reprimanded her, reiterating that she must convince Zheng Baixu to sing backup for Yu Zirui. Ma Lina then assigned Zheng Baixu an extensive workload, including assessing multiple movie scripts.

Concerned, Yang Zhenzhen questioned how he could manage so many projects alongside his concerts and new album, and noted that a professional film crew would not agree to such a demanding schedule. Ma Lina sternly dismissed her concerns, reminding Yang Zhenzhen of her subordinate position and telling her to quit if she couldn't handle the job.

Episode 28 Recap

Zheng Baixu was diligently practicing, but Yang Zhenzhen immediately noticed his voice was cracking and unwell. She urged him to stop, suggesting Yu Zirui could sing if he was unable to. Zheng Baixu stubbornly retorted that if Yu Zirui could do it, so could he, dismissing her concerns. Unconvinced, Zhenzhen took him to Grandpa Gu's restaurant for an impartial evaluation.

After hearing Baixu sing, Grandpa Gu was blunt, criticizing his high notes and advising him to switch to an easier style like rap. He even half-jokingly recommended Baixu leave the music industry. Angered, Zheng Baixu insulted Grandpa Gu's cooking, claiming his music was beyond ordinary appreciation. Grandpa Gu retorted that Baixu's dream was merely "daydreaming" and handed him a "black card," signaling for him to leave. Back at the agency, Zhenzhen again suggested Baixu try rap.

Just then, Ke Xin arrived, surprising them both. She presented Baixu with an original hip-hop track she had recorded for him in the U. S. and playfully extracted a promise for a future meal as a reward. As Baixu listened to the track, Zhenzhen found herself mesmerized by how handsome he looked. She internally scolded herself for being so easily captivated, concluding a relationship with him was impossible.

Later, Zhenzhen received an anonymous email warning her to have Zheng Baixu's vocal cords checked at a hospital immediately. Meanwhile, Yu Zirui discussed his performance with Teacher Chang, who praised his character, calling him a "polished piece of jade" destined for success. Before the concert, backstage was chaotic with a shortage of makeup artists. Desperate, Yu Zirui tried to get help from Zheng Baixu's stylist, Xia Yuan, but she refused, citing professional etiquette.

Just before going on stage, a visibly unwell Zheng Baixu admitted his throat was bothering him and asked Yu Zirui to sing the main vocals while he provided backup. Yu Zirui graciously accepted. The performance was a resounding success. Afterward, reporters surrounded Yu Zirui, who humbly credited Zheng Baixu as his senior. Chen Tianhao seized the moment to officially introduce Yu Zirui, announcing the company would heavily promote him and that Star Entertainment's IPO application had been approved.

At the company's celebration party for Yu Zirui, Zhenzhen was absent, desperately trying to locate a missing Zheng Baixu. Yu Zirui watched her leave, understanding she was growing more distant. Zhenzhen eventually found Baixu and urged him to go to the hospital, but he refused. Instead, he took her to a racetrack and began driving at high speed. Impressed but undaunted, Zhenzhen challenged him to a bet: if she could drive better, he had to do one thing for her.

Zheng Baixu agreed. Zhenzhen took the wheel, and her expert driving skills astonished Baixu. She revealed that her father, a truck driver, had taught her and that she once saved his life by racing him to the hospital during an appendicitis attack. While Baixu playfully teased her, he was clearly impressed. With his mood improved, Zhenzhen reminded him of their bet and pressed him to get his vocal cords checked.

Accusing her of setting a trap, Baixu stubbornly refused, cheekily proclaiming "I'm a woman" to get out of his promise before driving off. Separately, Du Wanqing, feeling unwell, asked her husband Chen Tianhao to deliver health supplements to her father, Du Yuan. During the visit, Du Yuan again pressured Chen Tianhao to fire VP Ma. Chen Tianhao refused, explaining it would be a breach of contract and bad for the company's image before its IPO.

The argument escalated, with Du Yuan bringing up Chen Tianhao's past, accusing him of throwing a competition for money. Chen Tianhao admitted to losing for money but denied betraying his teacher. Chen Tianhao insisted his hard work was for his wife and daughter, but Du Yuan remained suspicious. He threatened to expose "problematic" information from Star Entertainment's founding account books to the CSRC, which would destroy the company's chance of going public.

Infuriated, Chen Tianhao declared that his family and company were more important than his life and that he would fight anyone who tried to take them away, even his father-in-law. As Chen Tianhao stormed out, Du Yuan collapsed from a heart attack. A subsequent call from the hospital confirmed that Du Yuan had passed away.

Episode 29 Recap

Du Wanqing vehemently confronted Chen Tianhao, accusing him of agitating her father, leading to his fatal heart attack. She asserted that her father's last interaction was with him, implying his words had caused the relapse. Chen Tianhao denied responsibility, claiming no one could have predicted the sudden heart attack, but Du Wanqing remained unconvinced and refused to be touched. Xia Yuan sought comfort from Yang Zhenzhen after receiving an uncharacteristically harsh reprimand from Yu Zirui.

She recounted how he had aggressively yelled at her over a minor oversight: forgetting to distribute transportation fees to the media after an event. Xia Yuan expressed her shock at his drastic change from his formerly gentle demeanor, feeling deeply hurt despite acknowledging her carelessness. Yang Zhenzhen, while empathizing, advised Xia Yuan to view Yu Zirui as a professional artist rather than just a friend, suggesting his intensity stemmed from newfound opportunities after past frustrations.

Later, in his new company-provided apartment, Yu Zirui personally apologized to Xia Yuan, acknowledging his harshness and presenting her with a scarf as a gift. He stressed the importance of their shared future in the industry and the severe consequences of such mistakes. Xia Yuan accepted the apology and gift, promising to be more careful, but also asked for his patience, admitting she wasn't as capable as Yang Zhenzhen.

Under Chen Tianhao's leadership, Star Entertainment initiated an aggressive plan to promote Yu Zirui. Chen Tianhao decreed that the new album must be released within two weeks to build momentum for the company's IPO. He planned for Yu Zirui to represent all the artists and ring the bell at the stock exchange listing, explicitly stating Zheng Baixu would not be chosen due to his own actions and perceived lack of a future.

Yu Zirui demonstrated strong ambition, actively suggesting changes to his image during photoshoots and expressing a desire for a heavier workload. In a company meeting, he articulated his vision for a positive and optimistic public image, stating his disinclination to be humorous. Chen Tianhao highly praised Yu Zirui's cooperativeness, contrasting him with other less compliant artists.

While Director Liu found Yu Zirui exceptionally cooperative, Yu Hong observed his unusual steadiness for his age, expressing concern that he seemed to be "overthinking." Chen Tianhao, however, saw Yu Zirui's cautiousness as a positive trait for an artist without a strong background, making him modest and controllable. Separately, Yu Zirui visited Zheng Baixu to thank him for the concert opportunity. Zheng Baixu dismissed his sincerity, stating he only gave up the chance due to unforeseen circumstances, not goodwill.

Unfazed, Yu Zirui offered throat medicine, but Zheng Baixu retorted that Yu Zirui was merely putting on a show since Yang Zhenzhen wasn't present. Yang Zhenzhen sought advice from Grandpa Gu on finding a new musical style for Zheng Baixu. Inspired by music playing in the shop, she tried to call Zheng Baixu, but he could only make unintelligible sounds before hanging up and texting that he was asleep. Concerned, Yang Zhenzhen insisted on taking him to the hospital.

The doctor diagnosed him with vocal nodules, attributing it to vocal cord overuse and improper singing techniques, and warned that continued misuse could permanently alter his voice. This news devastated Zheng Baixu. His father, Zheng Weijun, seemed pleased, interpreting the illness as a sign for Zheng Baixu to stop "playing" and join the family business. His fiancée, Kexin, arrived and offered support, even suggesting she could manage the business if they married so he could continue singing.

Zheng Baixu, upset by their insensitive reactions, rejected their proposals and left to be alone. Believing Du Wanqing was out, Chen Tianhao went to his deceased father-in-law's spiritual tablet. He tearfully apologized for his loss of control, confessing he had said many things he shouldn't have after his father-in-law threatened to derail Star Entertainment's IPO. He expressed deep regret, explaining that the company was crucial for their family's future.

Unbeknownst to him, Du Wanqing was home and overheard his entire confession. She emerged and confronted him with profound disappointment, confirming her suspicion that he had triggered her father's heart attack. Despite his attempts to explain, Du Wanqing emotionally ordered him out of the house, severing their relationship. Zheng Baixu secluded himself in his room for over twenty-four hours, watching movies and refusing to eat.

His sister, Fang Yiran, entered, urging him to eat and informing him she had scheduled an appointment with a top throat specialist, but he refused. He confided in her, revealing he had often contemplated quitting music due to constant criticism that he only succeeded because of his family's wealth. He questioned if his vocal condition was a sign to finally give up. Fang Yiran told him not to blame fate, reminding him to take responsibility for his own future. Later, his father also tried to coax him into eating and playing golf, which Zheng Baixu vehemently refused, deepening his despair.

Episode 30 Recap

Following his diagnosis, Zheng Baixu's father attempts to rouse him, suggesting breakfast and golf, but Baixu dismisses him. His father tries to encourage him, recommending Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and assuring him that the best doctors from the US will treat his vocal nodules. Zheng Baixu, however, remains pessimistic about potential side effects and leaves for his own apartment. Meanwhile, Chen Tianhao discusses Zheng Baixu's diagnosis with Zhenzhen, emphasizing the need for absolute secrecy.

He instructs her to arrange treatment and keep Baixu's mood stable, leaving the artist in her care. A worried Fang Yiran calls Zhenzhen, recounting Baixu's uncharacteristic depression—not eating and watching only tragedies. She notes this setback has hit him harder than any before and implores Zhenzhen to watch over him and make sure he eats. Zhenzhen finds Baixu at his apartment, distracted while playing video games.

She teases him into a match, which she lets him win, before confronting him about his distress over the vocal nodules. To get him to eat, she offers to treat him, and he mischievously takes her to an extremely expensive restaurant. As Zhenzhen nurses a single bowl of soup, Baixu orders lavishly. During the meal, Zhenzhen tries to comfort him, but he feels everyone is just reminding him of his illness.

She then suggests he create a "bucket list" of things he's always wanted to do, inspired by the movie of the same name, framing it as a well-deserved vacation. The idea seems to resonate with him. Later, Xia Yuan gushes to a preoccupied Zhenzhen about Yu Zirui's rising popularity and new "wolf-like" charisma, showing off a scarf he gave her as an apology.

Zhenzhen, meanwhile, discovers an anonymous email with a document on throat diseases that accurately describes Baixu's vocal nodules. She replies to the sender asking for more specific advice and asks a university senior to trace the email's IP address, insisting no illegal methods be used as the sender is a good person. At the same time, Baixu researches online and finds a post claiming that kissing a girl at the peak of a Ferris wheel ride guarantees eternal love.

For the first item on his wish list, busking, Zhenzhen accompanies a nervous Zheng Baixu to a subway station. Paralyzed by stage fright, he can't bring himself to sing. They move to a quieter area where they encounter a street artist whom Baixu had previously encouraged. The artist reveals that singing with Baixu had restored his own confidence in music.

After they exchange words of encouragement about persisting in their dreams, Baixu finally picks up his guitar and successfully performs, completing his first wish. With his spirits lifted, Zheng Baixu takes Zhenzhen to an amusement park. After a roller coaster ride, they board the Ferris wheel, where Zhenzhen reveals her fear of heights. As he distracts her, he playfully mentions it's Chinese Valentine's Day and brings up the online post about kissing at the ride's peak.

When their cabin reaches the highest point, he surprises her with a passionate kiss. Startled but delighted, Zhenzhen playfully threatens to report him. The kiss solidifies Zheng Baixu's feelings. Back at his apartment, he takes out a cherished sketchbook and his mother's diamond, ready to design a ring for the person he now knows he loves. Zhenzhen, flustered and with a racing heart, goes to Grandpa Gu's shop and furiously washes dishes to calm down.

Her turmoil is interrupted by a furious call from Chen Tianhao, who can't reach Baixu. Frustrated with Baixu's inability to work, Chen Tianhao announces he is halting Baixu's new album and reallocating its budget to other artists, citing a company-wide shortage of advertising funds. Zhenzhen's protests that the album is already in production are dismissed. Chen Tianhao instructs her to tell Baixu and suggests he should voluntarily step aside to avoid public disclosure of his illness.

After the call, Grandpa Gu feigns ignorance about Chen Tianhao, prompting Zhenzhen to explain the situation. He then reveals that Chen Tianhao was once a famous songwriter who, with his singer wife Du Wanqing, formed a perfect duo before he became a boss focused on business.

Episode 31 Recap

Feeling awkward after the Ferris wheel incident, Zhenzhen hesitated to personally deliver a folk remedy that Grandpa Gu had given her for Zheng Baixu’s throat. Grandpa Gu, while preparing the remedy, called Zheng Baixu a "yellow-haired parrot" and explained he was only doing it for Zhenzhen's sake. To avoid a direct encounter, Zhenzhen enlisted a young neighbor boy to deliver the medicine.

When the boy arrived, Zheng Baixu, realizing it was an attempt to avoid him, deliberately left the medicine outside his door. As Zhenzhen approached to retrieve it, Zheng Baixu unexpectedly pulled her inside, questioning why she was avoiding him. He declared they were dating, a claim Zhenzhen immediately denied. Unfazed, Zheng Baixu insisted they needed to talk. Inside, Zhenzhen tried to dismiss their encounter on the Ferris wheel as an embarrassing moment that should be forgotten, but Zheng Baixu disagreed.

Adopting a professional tone, Zhenzhen, as his manager, stated that while she strongly protested his "irresponsible behavior," she would "forgive" his actions given his poor health, on the condition that he never mention the incident to anyone. Zheng Baixu readily agreed, promising to be easy-going and do whatever she said, calling himself her "wishing tree." Zhenzhen then laid out her terms: he must actively pursue treatment for his throat and treat his colleagues with respect.

Zheng Baixu agreed to all conditions, but only if Zhenzhen remained by his side throughout his treatment. Internally, Zhenzhen found herself wishing he would fall in love with her, or that she could love him less. Meanwhile, Du Wanqing returned to work, showing a cold demeanor towards Chen Tianhao and asserting that their interactions would be strictly business-related. She took personal charge of all matters concerning Yu Zirui.

Chen Tianhao later visited her, expressing concern, but she firmly stated she needed space and asked him not to come home for a while. Yu Zirui contacted Zhenzhen, mentioning he was recording new songs. Hearing that Zheng Baixu was in secret training, he asked about his throat. Yu Zirui then revealed that the company planned to take Zhenzhen to Hong Kong for the upcoming listing ceremony.

He also confided that he had to give up "the last thing" he wanted to, prompting Zhenzhen to encourage him. Concerned about Zheng Baixu’s throat, Zhenzhen accompanied him for a medical consultation. The doctor explained that his vocal nodules, while not life-threatening, were difficult to cure. He presented two options: medication or surgery, but cautioned that surgery had only a 70% success rate and risked irreversible damage to his vocal cords.

The doctor therefore recommended traditional medicine for recuperation, though it would be a lengthy process, and advised Zheng Baixu that a calm mind would aid his recovery. The day arrived for Star Entertainment's listing ceremony. Chen Tianhao delivered a speech, thanking his employees and specifically his wife, Du Wanqing, as a co-founder.

He then officially announced Yu Zirui’s first self-produced album as the company’s most important upcoming project, proclaiming Yu Zirui as China’s first singer-songwriter idol who would revolutionize the music industry. In the company offices, images of Zheng Baixu were replaced with those of Yu Zirui. At the celebratory party that followed, Yu Zirui, unable to find Zhenzhen despite having invited her, messaged her, wondering where she was.

At that moment, Zhenzhen was with Zheng Baixu at Grandpa Gu's restaurant, seeking more of his herbal medicine. To get the remedy, Zheng Baixu uncharacteristically praised Grandpa Gu's cooking. Grandpa Gu saw through the facade, playfully calling Zheng Baixu Zhenzhen's "parrot" and noting the significant change in his attitude. Zheng Baixu attributed the change to the Ferris wheel incident, after which they hadn't fought. Grandpa Gu shrewdly asked if they were in a relationship.

Zheng Baixu deferred to Zhenzhen, who quickly denied it, calling the Ferris wheel moment an "accident." Exasperated, Zheng Baixu asked for the prescription. Grandpa Gu revealed he had the formula but lacked the raw materials, advising them to travel to Inner Mongolia to seek help from the doctor who originally provided it. Unbeknownst to them, Zheng Baixu’s father, Zheng Weijun, was well aware of Star Entertainment’s listing and Yu Zirui’s rise.

He dismissed Yu Zirui as a rival, stating his son was destined to take over their family business, Lai Shen. He instructed a subordinate to secretly acquire a large amount of Star Entertainment stock, aiming to eventually take over the company. He also confirmed that arrangements were in place for Zheng Baixu's treatment in the US.

Later, when Zheng Baixu returned home, he surprised his father by explaining that his new manager, whom he "quite liked," had instructed him to be obedient. Meanwhile, Xia Yuan confessed her feelings for Yu Zirui to Zhenzhen. Exhausted from work, she brought Zhenzhen egg tarts and expressed jealousy, feeling Zhenzhen was growing closer to Zheng Baixu. After Zhenzhen tried to reassure her, Xia Yuan admitted she had fallen for Yu Zirui.

She explained that he had "completely changed" since joining Star Entertainment, becoming "resolute, domineering but mild as well," which was perfectly her type. Zhenzhen, surprised by the news, said she needed time to process it. Later, Zhenzhen brought homemade egg tarts to Yu Zirui. He enjoyed them and shared a new song he was working on, which was about the beginning of a love story, singing a portion of it for her.

Episode 32 Recap

Zheng Baixu was at home with his father, Zheng Weijun, who was discussing Zheng Baixu’s new manager, Yang Zhenzhen. Zheng Baixu expressed his satisfaction with Zhenzhen, noting how much he liked her way of handling things. Soon after, Zheng Weijun revealed he was waiting for someone, and Kexin arrived, immediately greeting Zheng Weijun warmly and then hugging Zheng Baixu. Uncomfortable with the display, Zheng Baixu called out for his sister, Fang Yiran, who quickly came to his rescue.

Kexin then informed Zheng Weijun that she had found a highly prominent private doctor in the United States for Zheng Baixu's treatment and had already secured an appointment for the following month. Despite Zheng Baixu’s attempts to defer to his manager regarding his health matters, Zheng Weijun insisted on the trip. Pulling Fang Yiran aside, Zheng Baixu expressed his frustration with his father's persistent efforts to force him into a relationship with Kexin.

Fang Yiran, while acknowledging Kexin as a good, committed girl and understanding their father's determination, gently probed Zheng Baixu about his true feelings. She quickly guessed he was in love with Yang Zhenzhen. Zheng Baixu confirmed his deep affection, admitting his uncertainty about Zhenzhen’s feelings in return, as it was his first time experiencing love. Fang Yiran cautioned him that their family, particularly their father, would likely not accept Zhenzhen.

Unfazed, Zheng Baixu declared his resolve to be with Zhenzhen, even if it meant joining her family or forming their own. To emphasize the sincerity of his emotions, he showed Fang Yiran a set of jewelry designs he had drawn, asking her to craft them into real pieces.

He specifically requested that the ring feature the "Blue Flame" diamond, a precious heirloom from his mother, noting its unique cut creates a heart shape at the bottom, symbolizing "A true heart for true love," a message explicitly intended for Yang Zhenzhen. Fang Yiran, seeing the depth of his devotion, realized just how deeply her brother had fallen in love.

Later, Zheng Weijun approached Fang Yiran and instructed her to keep a close watch on Yang Zhenzhen, expressing concern that Zhenzhen might try to take advantage of Zheng Baixu. Fang Yiran, however, dismissed her father's worries, believing Zhenzhen to be an innocent girl. Kexin continued to press the issue of the US trip, urging Zheng Baixu to allow her to accompany him.

Zheng Baixu, however, insisted he would only go if Zhenzhen joined him, playfully flirting with Zhenzhen by suggesting another Ferris wheel ride. Internally, Zhenzhen wrestled with her emotions, unsure if Zheng Baixu’s flirtations were genuine expressions of affection or merely playful teasing, yet she found herself increasingly falling for him. Kexin later visited Zheng Baixu’s home and was surprised to see Zhenzhen there. Zheng Baixu clarified that Zhenzhen was no longer just his assistant but his manager.

Kexin then announced that she had already booked Zheng Baixu's flight and hotel for the US trip, arranging for them to travel together. Zheng Baixu deftly deflected, stating that such arrangements were his manager's responsibility. Kexin then offered her services as a US-certified nutritionist and assistant, but Zheng Baixu subtly prompted Zhenzhen to respond. Understanding his unspoken cue, Zhenzhen politely declined Kexin's offer, explaining that it was Zheng Baixu’s private matter and he could manage for now.

Zheng Baixu then thanked Kexin for her friendship, expressing his great happiness to have Zhenzhen as his manager. Observing their exchange, Zhenzhen again questioned Zheng Baixu's true intentions, wondering if he was using her to test Kexin, or if he genuinely held feelings for both of them, grappling with how she could possibly compete with Kexin.

Meanwhile, Yu Zirui called Yang Zhenzhen, inviting her to dinner to share some new songs he had completed, mentioning he had moved into the company apartment. Zhenzhen agreed to meet on the weekend and, wanting to create an opportunity for her friend, suggested bringing Xia Yuan along, to which Yu Zirui agreed, promising to cook them steak.

As they prepared for the outing, Zhenzhen and Xia Yuan discussed outfits, with Xia Yuan assuring her she would simply be a "foil" to Zhenzhen. Unbeknownst to them, Zheng Weijun finalized the arrangements for Zheng Baixu's trip to the United States with his assistant, Brother Qian, emphasizing the need for absolute secrecy from Fang Yiran and Kexin.

He also instructed Brother Qian to investigate Yang Zhenzhen, noting Zheng Baixu's position as the company's successor and the importance of his personal life. Zheng Weijun then called Zheng Baixu home under the pretense of a health emergency, a lie that greatly angered Zheng Baixu. Zheng Weijun then revealed that a friend was flying to the US on a private jet that night and suggested they seize the opportunity to leave immediately.

Despite Zheng Baixu's prior arrangements to fly with Zhenzhen a few days later, Zheng Weijun insisted on leaving sooner, telling Zheng Baixu that Zhenzhen could fly separately and meet them there. As they drove to the airport, Zheng Baixu called Zhenzhen, informing her of the sudden change in plans and asking her to proceed as scheduled and meet him in the US.

Later, as Zhenzhen and Xia Yuan were walking to meet Yu Zirui, Fang Yiran urgently called Zhenzhen from Belgium. Fang Yiran revealed Zheng Weijun’s true, sinister intention: to use the trip to detain Zheng Baixu in the United States after his surgery, forcing him to take over the company and preventing him from ever continuing his singing career.

Fang Yiran implored Zhenzhen to go to the airport immediately and stop Zheng Baixu from boarding, as her own calls to him were not connecting. Zhenzhen quickly left a bewildered Xia Yuan and rushed to the airport, struggling to locate the private jet boarding gate. In a desperate attempt to prevent Zheng Baixu from leaving, Zhenzhen reported him to the police, falsely claiming he was carrying prohibited drugs.

After a thorough check, the police confirmed Zheng Baixu had no illegal substances and reprimanded Zhenzhen for her irresponsible actions. Zheng Baixu was initially furious at Zhenzhen’s drastic intervention, but Zhenzhen quickly whispered to him about his father's plan to restrain him in the US and end his singing career. Realizing the truth, Zheng Baixu confronted his father, who admitted he had no other option.

Zheng Weijun then sternly ordered Zhenzhen to stay away from his son, but Zhenzhen defiantly stated that as his manager and client, she could not simply abandon him. Ignoring Zheng Weijun's threat of disownment, Zheng Baixu, now cleared by the police, defiantly pulled Zhenzhen away from the airport. Back home, Zheng Baixu, overwhelmed by his father's manipulative actions, confided in Zhenzhen that he was scared and didn't know who he could trust.

He broke down in her arms, and Zhenzhen gently comforted him, promising to stay by his side. Meanwhile, Yu Zirui, frustrated by Zhenzhen's absence, began drinking heavily, a behavior uncharacteristic for him. Xia Yuan, observing his evident sadness and continued feelings for Zhenzhen, tried to comfort him. She noted his significant transformation since joining Star Entertainment, praising his newfound "bossy CEO" demeanor. Yu Zirui admitted he still loved Zhenzhen but felt he lacked the "capital" or qualification to pursue her.

Xia Yuan then bravely confessed her own feelings for Yu Zirui and, hoping to help him overcome his misery, courageously kissed him. However, he remained emotionally closed off, internally reflecting on the strict limitations of an idol's life, where relationships and scandals must be sacrificed to achieve the goal of sharing one’s songs with the world. The next morning, Zhenzhen woke to find Zheng Baixu had already prepared breakfast.

Zheng Baixu, having decided against the US trip, told her he intended to travel to Inner Mongolia to find the doctor Grandpa Gu had mentioned. He explained that Chinese doctors were just as good as those in the United States, and this particular route would allow him to seek treatment without his father's interference, noting that the medicine he had previously received from Grandpa Gu had significantly helped his throat. He felt it was a worthwhile endeavor, even if it didn't guarantee a complete cure.

Episode 33 Recap

Zheng Baixu, despite his father’s actions, found comfort in Yang Zhenzhen’s presence and decided to seek treatment in Inner Mongolia. He intended this journey as a concrete demonstration of his determination to forge his own path. He confided in Zhenzhen that he felt much better after taking medicine from Grandpa Gu, and that going to Inner Mongolia was the only way to find a doctor his father didn't know.

Zheng Baixu admitted that he was accustomed to his father disregarding his feelings, but he was resolved to prove his independence and achieve something significant. He credited his optimism to Zhenzhen staying by his side all night. Meanwhile, Qian Gang submitted his resignation to Chairman Zheng Weijun, admitting he was the one who informed Fang Yiran of the plan to confine Zheng Baixu in the United States.

Despite Zheng Weijun’s attempts to brush off the incident, Qian Gang insisted on resigning, feeling he had betrayed his chairman's trust. Qian Gang explained that Zheng Baixu had loved singing since childhood and that music had been his primary source of comfort after his mother's passing. He expressed his reluctance to see Zheng Baixu’s spirit shattered by being forced to give up singing. Moved by his long-time subordinate, Zheng Weijun conceded, acknowledging that his son had garnered significant support.

Declaring that he had been defeated by his son and his supporters, he surrendered. Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen set off to visit Grandpa Gu for the Inner Mongolia doctor's address, with Zhenzhen meticulously reminding Baixu to be polite and sincere. Shortly after their arrival, Zheng Baixu’s cousin, Fang Yiran, appeared, having heard about his father’s attempts to send him abroad.

She offered to take him to the United States for treatment, but Zheng Baixu politely declined, reassuring her that he never blamed her. Grandpa Gu acknowledged that the medicine he provided had helped Zheng Baixu's throat. He warned them that the Inner Mongolia doctor had a difficult temperament and rarely agreed to see patients, but this only made Zheng Baixu more intrigued.

Impressed by Baixu's unwavering dedication, Grandpa Gu shared his philosophy: a truly good song doesn’t rely on the singer's voice but on their soul, encouraging him to sing from his heart. Elsewhere, Xia Yuan directly expressed her feelings to a flustered Yu Zirui. She clarified that she simply desired a natural, healthy relationship. Yu Zirui affirmed that seeking happiness was not wrong, but regretfully stated that he could not be her source of happiness.

He explained that as a Star Entertainment artist, company regulations strictly prohibited him from being in a relationship, limiting them to a professional colleague dynamic. Though Xia Yuan questioned his apprehension, Yu Zirui maintained his stance before departing. Due to Yu Zirui’s burgeoning career, Du Wanqing proposed transferring Yang Zhenzhen to assist his overwhelmed manager, Yu Hong. Chen Tianhao informed Zhenzhen of this decision, but she unequivocally refused.

Zhenzhen explained her lingering guilt over having left Zheng Baixu at a low point in his career on company orders. She vowed that since becoming his manager, she had resolved to stand by him through thick and thin. Declaring that Zheng Baixu was her sole career objective, she passionately countered Chen Tianhao's warning about staying with a "sinking ship," insisting she would salvage it and continue their voyage.

Impressed, Chen Tianhao approved her request to accompany Zheng Baixu but issued a stern warning: if Zheng Baixu failed to recover, the company would suspend him indefinitely. Unaware of this, Baixu excitedly prepared for their "vacation." Later, Manager Ma confronted Chen Tianhao, furious that Zhenzhen's leave was approved without her consent and that Zheng Baixu's album budget had been reallocated. Chen Tianhao calmly suggested her own management style might be the reason for their insubordination.

Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen embarked on their journey to the Inner Mongolian prairie to find the doctor, Old Bao. Their car ran out of gas, leaving them stranded. A young boy directed them to Old Bao’s yurt, describing him as a "Miracle Doctor" with a difficult temperament who had cured his brother's scarlet fever. They arrived at Old Bao's empty yurt, where another patient advised them to wait inside, as Old Bao often left his door unlocked.

While waiting, Zheng Baixu playfully handled Old Bao’s traditional bow and instrument, drawing Zhenzhen's disapproval. Upon his return, Old Bao admonished Zheng Baixu for touching his belongings but agreed to examine him the following morning. The next day, Old Bao examined Zheng Baixu’s throat, revealing a tiny, non-malignant tumor on his vocal cords.

He explained that while Western medicine might blame overuse, he believed the root cause was Zheng Baixu singing without proper guidance during his voice change period around age 12 or 13, creating a "hidden danger." Old Bao assured him it was curable but stated that Zheng Baixu had to rely on himself for his recovery. He reassured Zhenzhen that she was not at risk, as girls' vocal cords are more stable during this phase.

When asked, Old Bao revealed he was nearly seventy. Zhenzhen then mentioned that Grandpa Gu had referred them, but Old Bao claimed no recollection of the name. Finally, Zhenzhen pressed Old Bao for a timeline on his recovery.

Episode 34 Recap

Yang Zhenzhen sought out Old Bao to understand the truth about Zheng Baixu's illness. Old Bao confirmed it was curable but explained that Zheng Baixu's stubbornness, pride, and tendency to hold back his feelings were hindering his recovery by affecting his throat. Recognizing Zhenzhen's significant influence over Zheng Baixu, Old Bao urged her to persuade him to release his mental burdens, as dwelling on problems can manifest as physical sickness.

He also noted that as a singer whose voice is his most crucial asset, this was a particularly difficult period for Baixu. Later, Old Bao and the villagers hosted a grand bonfire party. Initially, Zheng Baixu was visibly uncomfortable with the fire, but Zhenzhen gently took his hand, encouraging him to stand farther away and assuring him of her presence. With her support, Baixu overcame his fear and joined the celebration, moved by the villagers' "free spirit" and happiness.

Under the stars, Baixu likened the constellations to his mother's "Blue Flame" diamond and confessed that his long-held dream of becoming the brightest star now seemed out of reach. Zhenzhen comforted him, reminding him that every star shines beautifully in its own way. They then heard the ethereal sound of Khoomei, which Baixu described as the purest music he had ever heard. He resolved to learn this unique singing style, noticing its similarity to the music at Grandpa Gu’s restaurant.

Baixu expressed deep gratitude to Zhenzhen for her unwavering support and vowed that once his voice healed, he would become the brightest star in the sky, with her as his guiding small star. As their departure neared, Zheng Baixu lamented leaving the grassland's freedom and the genuine nature of its people, apprehensive about returning to a city where he couldn't sing from his heart.

Before they left, Old Bao gave him medicine and a Khoomei instrument, a gift to remember the sound of the grassland. Meanwhile, Yu Zirui's new album surpassed a million downloads, solidifying his position at Star Entertainment. Du Wanqing planned to have him represent the company in a prestigious US singing competition, aiming to make him an international superstar. However, she found him to have "too much on his mind," preferring Zheng Baixu's simpler, purer approach to music.

Yu Zirui expressed his own desire to be a "fixed star" with a unique personal style, not a fleeting idol. He also proved adept at navigating company politics, earning praise for his high emotional intelligence and humble attitude while interacting with colleagues, including the skeptical VP Ma and senior artists Shi Yuxi and Amanda. Zhenzhen and Zheng Baixu discovered online that their neighbor, Grandpa Gu, whose real name is Jeff, was a Grammy Award winner.

This revelation connected the dots regarding the rare music in his restaurant, and Zhenzhen immediately decided Baixu must become his disciple. Just then, Yu Zirui called Zhenzhen. As she congratulated him, a jealous Zheng Baixu childishly interrupted, calling her "baby" to make her hang up. He then teased her for being harsh with him but gentle with Zirui, admitting he had fabricated the new discovery about Grandpa Gu just to end the "embarrassing conversation" between her and Yu Zirui.

Their banter ended in a playful scuffle. As Yu Zirui's star continued to rise, his manager informed him of plans to transfer Zhenzhen to his team, though she noted Zhenzhen's growing feelings for Zheng Baixu. Privately, Zirui confessed to a friend, Little Bin, that his success felt hollow, as every step was dictated by the company, stripping him of the freedom he once had.

When Zheng Baixu and Zhenzhen went to formally ask Grandpa Gu to be his mentor, they found his restaurant closed. Zhenzhen frantically called him, but the calls went unanswered. She speculated that Grandpa Gu might have intentionally left Beijing after their trip to Old Bao inadvertently exposed his hidden identity. Unwilling to give up, Zheng Baixu sent a heartfelt text message requesting an apprenticeship, declaring his approach was "a true heart for a true heart."

Finally, Zhenzhen returned home, where Xia Yuan was stunned to learn she had been on the grassland with Zheng Baixu, even joking if they had eloped to Las Vegas. Zhenzhen gave her handmade cheese but kept the true purpose of their journey a "secret."

Episode 35 Recap

Zhenzhen met with Chen Tianhao to discuss Zheng Baixu's future music direction. She shared her belief that while Zheng Baixu might not possess the best vocal technique, his exceptional musical sensibility and ability to connect with music deeply would make a hip-hop style a successful path for him. Chen Tianhao acknowledged Zhenzhen's dedication but revealed his decision to give up on Zheng Baixu, explaining that the company no longer saw value in him.

He stated that with Yu Zirui already serving as a young idol singer with a similar style, the company had no need to develop another. Chen Tianhao then reiterated his offer for Zhenzhen to become Yu Zirui's manager, which she promptly rejected. Zhenzhen received an update from her college senior regarding the anonymous email about Zheng Baixu's throat.

Both Zhenzhen and Zheng Baixu quickly realized the sender must be Grandpa Gu, who had known about Zheng Baixu's vocal issues even before his official diagnosis. Following the address provided by her senior, they found Grandpa Gu's home. Grandpa Gu, having already received numerous text messages from Zheng Baixu, anticipated their visit and immediately tried to turn them away, claiming there was little he could do and that he simply wanted to live a quiet life.

However, Zhenzhen and Zheng Baixu worked together to persuade him. Zhenzhen reminded Grandpa Gu that she had saved his life, a favor he acknowledged was significant. Though initially reluctant, Grandpa Gu finally agreed to take Zheng Baixu on as a student, warning him of the difficult path ahead. To show her gratitude, Zhenzhen presented Grandpa Gu with a Jew's Harp she had brought back from Inner Mongolia. Grandpa Gu, a lover of pure music, was delighted by the gift.

Meanwhile, Yu Zirui was preparing for a fan meeting when his makeup artist, Jason, arrived late. Yu Zirui angrily confronted Jason about his lack of punctuality. Jason, already upset, retorted that he was "born to go against" Yu Zirui and stormed off. Xia Yuan, Yu Zirui's assistant, tried to mediate, but the damage was done. Feeling helpless, Xia Yuan later approached Zhenzhen, knowing she was friends with Jason.

Xia Yuan explained the situation and asked Zhenzhen to call Jason and smooth things over, expressing her frustration with constantly having to deal with such "meaningless" issues as an assistant. Zheng Baixu began his training with Grandpa Gu by presenting a composition he had written. Grandpa Gu harshly criticized his work, calling it "rubbish" and "cliche." However, he then demonstrated musical concepts using water in cups, explaining the importance of understanding subtle changes in pitch and rhythm to capture emotion.

Moved by Grandpa Gu's profound insights, Zheng Baixu tearfully acknowledged his own shortcomings and pleaded with Grandpa Gu to be his master, vowing to dedicate himself fully to learning. Grandpa Gu warned him that the training would be exceptionally demanding, requiring far more effort than other students, but Zheng Baixu adamantly promised to persevere. The training commenced with basic breathing exercises, like blowing a feather to keep it airborne, with a penalty of 20 push-ups for failure.

Later, Grandpa Gu moved on to blowing candles, requiring Zheng Baixu to control the flame's size without extinguishing it. Zheng Baixu found the repetitive exercises frustrating and argued with Grandpa Gu about his teaching methods, but despite the intense mental and physical challenge, he refused to give up. Elsewhere, Yu Hong was wondering about Liu Yinan's whereabouts when he suddenly appeared in her office.

After some playful banter, Liu Yinan surprised Yu Hong by getting down on one knee and proposing marriage with a ring. Yu Hong, overjoyed, accepted his proposal. Liu Yinan then mentioned their pre-arranged date night. Struggling with the rigorous training, Zheng Baixu called Zhenzhen for comfort. When she arrived, he complained about Grandpa Gu's demanding nature, referring to Zhenzhen as his "powerhouse." Despite his complaints, he acknowledged Grandpa Gu's profound skill and declared his ambition to surpass him.

Zhenzhen encouraged him, noting his renewed spirit, before preparing to leave for an important promotional event. Zheng Baixu, wanting her to stay longer, playfully tried to detain her by faking a stomachache. Unbeknownst to them, Secretary Qian secretly photographed their affectionate interaction. Secretary Qian later presented the photos to Zheng Weijun, who saw them as confirmation of his suspicions about Zhenzhen's intentions.

However, he decided against direct intervention, viewing the relationship as a youthful infatuation that Zheng Baixu would eventually tire of. He instructed Secretary Qian to continue monitoring the situation, determined not to let the relationship become serious.

Episode 36 Recap

Zheng Weijun, observing Star Entertainment's stock rise due to Yu Zirui's burgeoning success, noted Chen Tianhao's capabilities but perceived him as immature and lacking long-term vision, believing he was inadvertently paving the way for others. He instructed his secretary, Qian, to continue their covert acquisition of Star Entertainment shares from the secondary market with utmost caution, wary of any potential retaliation from Chen Tianhao as their plan neared completion.

Chen Tianhao convened a meeting with company managers to formalize the status of Zheng Boxu. He revealed that Zheng Boxu had sustained a severe throat injury that could end his singing career and explained that he had kept this confidential to prevent stock fluctuations. Citing Zheng Boxu's uncertain recovery and Yu Zirui's rapid ascent, Chen Tianhao announced his decision to allocate all company resources to Yu Zirui while "freezing" Zheng Boxu.

He dismissed disagreements from VP Du and other managers, who felt the move was premature. Chen Tianhao revealed his deeper resentment, stating that the Zheng family had "set him up" during Star Entertainment's past difficulties and that he would not work with Zheng Boxu even if he recovered. He declared the decision was final and not open for discussion.

Away from the corporate turmoil, Zheng Boxu continued his intense training with Grandpa Gu, who shifted their focus to drumming to master rhythm, a foundation for singing. Grandpa Gu pushed Zheng Boxu relentlessly, criticizing his inability to maintain a proper tempo. Despite the grueling demands, Zheng Boxu secretly vowed to persevere. Yu Zirui waited for Yang Zhenzhen outside her home, having sent her assistant away to speak with her privately.

He confessed that despite his booming career, he was miserable without her and regretted giving her up out of fear of being frozen by the company. Pleading for a second chance, he asserted that his growing influence would soon allow him to negotiate with Chen Tianhao and make her his girlfriend publicly. When Yang Zhenzhen insisted their past was over, Yu Zirui questioned if her rejection was due to Zheng Boxu.

He then revealed Chen Tianhao's plan to publicly announce Zheng Boxu's freeze, which would leave her with the choice of becoming his manager or being fired. Despite the ultimatum, Yang Zhenzhen firmly refused to be either his manager or his girlfriend. Star Entertainment held a press conference where Chen Tianhao publicly announced the decision to freeze Zheng Boxu's activities, citing health issues and past dissatisfaction.

Watching the broadcast, an enraged Zheng Weijun vowed to make Chen Tianhao pay for insulting his son and himself. Yang Zhenzhen tried to intervene, but was rebuffed by VP Ma and told by VP Du that Chen Tianhao's decision was unchangeable, hinting at a deep-seated conflict between Chen Tianhao and Zheng Weijun. Directors Liu and Yu confirmed that with the public announcement, nothing could be done, though they admired Yang Zhenzhen's loyalty.

Zheng Boxu learned he was being frozen from a phone call with his sister, Fang Yiran, who had watched the news with their furious father. He immediately confronted Yang Zhenzhen, demanding to know why she kept it from him while he endured grueling training. He despaired that being frozen meant he was contractually bound for four years, unable to perform or even busk, while others surpassed him.

Yang Zhenzhen explained she hid the truth to protect his positive momentum, as he was making great progress, and urged him to stay hopeful. Feeling betrayed, Zheng Boxu accused her of lying and allowing him to be tortured for nothing. Despondent, Zheng Boxu shut himself away at home. At Yang Zhenzhen's request, his sister, Fang Yiran, came to visit. Upon her arrival, Zheng Boxu apologized for his earlier outburst, explaining it was due to suppressed emotions.

Fang Yiran reassured him and asked about his throat, which he confirmed was nearly healed. She then urged him to return home and reconcile with their father, promising that Zheng Weijun would not repeat his past mistakes. She also appealed to him for the sake of 'Brother Qian,' a loyal family associate who was caught in their conflict and had nearly resigned over it. Finally, Fang Yiran asked for the 'Blue Flame diamond' their mother had given him, explaining she needed to send it to their European headquarters.

Episode 37 Recap

Following the events of the previous episode, Xia Yuan confronts Yu Zirui, feeling that he has been deliberately distancing himself from her since her confession. Yu Zirui insists he doesn't hate her and suggests they remain friends, but when pressed, he explains that as a singer for Star Entertainment, he is contractually forbidden from falling in love. Xia Yuan grows frustrated with his restrained, "wooden man" demeanor, pointing out his unresponsiveness towards Yang Zhenzhen's past feelings for him.

Overwhelmed by her persistence, Zirui apologizes and confesses he cannot lie to her; there is already someone else in his heart. When she asks if it is Yang Zhenzhen, his lack of denial confirms her suspicions. Determined to support Zheng Baixu, Yang Zhenzhen resigns from Star Entertainment. She tells a colleague that she is the "engineer of this ship" and refuses to let it sink, expressing her unwavering belief in Baixu's talent.

After officially completing her resignation and declining an offer from Director Yu to return to the publicity department, Zhenzhen comes home to find Xia Yuan moving out. Xia Yuan admits that while she knows Zhenzhen is not to blame for Zirui's rejection, she cannot control her anger and can no longer live with her. In a single day, Zhenzhen loses both her job and her best friend, leaving her to sit alone in the now-empty apartment.

Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu takes his sister's advice and returns home to reconcile with his father, Zheng Weijun. In the study, Zheng Weijun admits he was wrong to try and send Baixu to America but criticizes his son for humiliating the family. He offers a deal: he will use his influence to have Star Entertainment lift Baixu's indefinite freeze and continue promoting him, on the condition that Baixu marries Kexin as soon as possible.

Baixu firmly rejects the offer, declaring that he only loves Yang Zhenzhen and will stay with her no matter the obstacles. Infuriated, Zheng Weijun orders his assistant to cut off all of Baixu's financial resources. Unfazed, Baixu tells his father he won't take threats made in anger seriously and leaves. As Zheng Baixu is leaving, he is stopped by Kexin, who overheard the entire argument.

Baixu apologizes sincerely, explaining that he cannot be with her because his heart belongs to someone else. Kexin gracefully accepts this, revealing she already knew it was Yang Zhenzhen. She lets him go, wishing him happiness. Touched by her understanding, Baixu expresses his guilt and assures her she will find someone better. After he leaves, Zheng Weijun comforts a tearful Kexin, vowing that as long as he is alive, Yang Zhenzhen will never marry into the Zheng family.

Zheng Weijun makes good on his threat, immediately cutting off Baixu's credit cards and terminating the lease on his apartment. Suddenly homeless and penniless, Baixu is unable to even check into a hotel and has no choice but to go to Zhenzhen's place. While he waits outside her locked door, Zhenzhen is at Grandpa Gu's restaurant, working off her frustrations.

Baixu is accosted by the neighborhood watch patrol, who mistake him for a suspicious character, but the situation is defused when the landlord, Xiaoqing, recognizes him. When Zhenzhen finally returns, Baixu offers a sincere apology for his recent harsh behavior, admitting it is the first time he has truly "given in." After she forgives him, he reveals his true purpose for being there: he has nowhere else to go and intends to sleep on her sofa.

Episode 38 Recap

After Star Entertainment's successful listing, Chen Tianhao moves to consolidate his power. He informs a disappointed Ma Lina that her involvement in company affairs will be limited, assigning the Global Idol Contest to a colleague, Liu Yinan, effectively marginalizing her. When Lina confronts Chen Tianhao about freezing Zheng Baixu, he admits that beyond Baixu’s vocal issues, the primary motive is to retaliate against his father, Zheng Weijun.

Chen callously states he wants to prove he can destroy Baixu’s career just as easily as he built it, a move Lina condemns as a ruthless sacrifice of a young artist. Later, a beleaguered Lina is seen postponing necessary surgery for her various health problems to continue her work. Meanwhile, Chen Tianhao meets with Wu Gong, an esteemed music authority, to persuade him to judge the contest, hoping his reputation for fairness will validate Yu Zirui’s inevitable victory.

Pressure mounts on Yu Zirui as the competition nears, and his emotional turmoil over Xia Yuan moving out begins to affect his vocal performance. A concerned Yang Zhenzhen calls Zirui to see if she was the cause of Xia Yuan leaving. Later, Xia Yuan confesses to Zirui that she left because she was overwhelmed by her jealousy of Zhenzhen.

Admitting she can no longer pretend to be friends, she asks him not to be kind to her, as it gives her false hope. Forced out of the spotlight for four years, Zheng Baixu moves in with Zhenzhen. He sells his car and adapts to a simpler life, enjoying domestic activities like cooking and telling a neighbor he plans to marry Zhenzhen. While frustrated with his career suspension, his passion for music remains strong.

He begins training with the skeptical Teacher Gu, who is eventually impressed by Baixu's improved breath control and suggests he pursue hip-hop to best showcase his talent. Inspired, Baixu reaffirms his dream of forging a new path for Chinese pop music, confidently declaring that if he were allowed to compete, Yu Zirui would be no match for him. Moved by Baixu's unwavering dedication, Zhenzhen resolves to secure him a spot in the competition but faces formidable obstacles.

She is summoned by Baixu's father, Zheng Weijun, who dismisses music as a hobby and reveals he has already arranged a marriage for Baixu to serve his business interests. He demands Zhenzhen convince Baixu to quit music and accept his responsibilities. Zhenzhen stands her ground, refusing to interfere with Baixu's dream or his heart. Undeterred by the threat, she seeks out Wu Gong, pleading with him to let Baixu participate.

In a private moment, Baixu's sister, Fang Yiran, meets with him and learns that a ring he had custom-made for Zhenzhen is nearly ready, even though he has yet to formally confess his feelings.

Episode 39 Recap

With Star Entertainment now publicly listed, Chen Tianhao decides his use for Ms. Ma is over. He bluntly tells her that while he was grateful for her investments, she knows nothing about the entertainment business. He offers to let her keep the title of Vice President but orders her to stay out of company affairs, reminding her that he is the boss.

Feeling used and marginalized, Ms. Ma laments that even when she had Zheng Boxu in her department, he wouldn't listen to her, blaming Yang Zhenzhen for his defiance. Heartbroken, she asks Chen Tianhao if he ever had feelings for her. When he doesn't answer, she leaves, warning him not to be so arrogant, as his actions could lead to his own ruin. Undeterred and confident in the company's rising stock, Chen Tianhao summons Yu Zirui to his office.

He praises Yu Zirui's ambition and pragmatism, suggesting he use his album's established title track for the domestic trial to secure a win. This, he explains, will save a brand-new, personalized song for the international finals, where it will have a greater impact. He promises to clear all obstacles to ensure Yu Zirui's victory. Immediately after, Chen Tianhao coldly rejects Zheng Boxu’s request to participate in the same competition.

He questions why an established singer would risk losing face and points out that Zheng Boxu is still recovering. Zheng Boxu calmly accepts the rejection, stating he never begs, but pointedly remarks that Chen Tianhao is the one who seems like the "patient." Unfazed, Zheng Boxu later tells Yang Zhenzhen that he will never give up. He explains that his teacher taught him to treat music not just as a dream, but as a belief.

He vows that he will one day return with his signature C-Pop style to defeat Chen Tianhao and everyone who doubts him. Moved by his resolve, Yang Zhenzhen decides to help him. She tracks down and ambushes Mr. Wu Gong, a key figure in the Universal New Idol Competition, and pleads with him to let Zheng Boxu participate.

She argues that excluding a singer of his caliber would be the competition's loss, but Mr. Wu Gong vehemently refuses, insisting he has no interest in knowing Zheng Boxu and physically resisting her as he tries to get away. Later, Zheng Boxu’s father, Mr. Zheng, invites Yang Zhenzhen to his home. He asks her to call him "Uncle" and apologizes for his son's difficult nature.

Recounting the history of their family’s jewelry business, Lai Sheng Tong, he expresses his disappointment that Zheng Boxu chose music over inheriting the company. Insisting music is merely a hobby unfit for a lifelong career, he asks Yang Zhenzhen to persuade Zheng Boxu to quit. When she firmly declines, stating her role as his manager is to support him, Mr. Zheng shifts tactics.

He reveals that he has already arranged a suitable marriage for his son, which is part of his larger business strategy, and orders Yang Zhenzhen to keep her distance. Unintimidated, she retorts that her personal life is her own and that a person's heart cannot be controlled by anyone. The conversation ends acrimoniously. After Yang Zhenzhen leaves, Mr. Zheng’s friend, Professor Guo, arrives to find him angrily practicing calligraphy. He confides in her about his frustrations.

Professor Guo, a psychology professor, explains that Zheng Boxu’s intense dedication to music stems from the guilt and trauma of his mother’s death, as he was the only one present and unable to save her; music became his solace. She advises Mr. Zheng to wait until his son has healed and can accept her into their lives before discussing marriage. Taking her advice to heart, Mr. Zheng impulsively proposes to Professor Guo.

She teases him for being too "macho" and trying to plan everyone's lives but reassures him she will consider marriage when the time is right. Meanwhile, Zheng Boxu has a meal with his sister, Fang Yiran. She reveals that the custom ring he ordered for Yang Zhenzhen, crafted from their mother’s remarkable diamond with a "Blue Flame" cut, is almost complete.

Zheng Boxu admits he hasn't confessed yet, wanting to win Yang Zhenzhen over with his charisma rather than her pity. He jokes about spending her money and planning to pay her back for a lifetime. He then returns home to confront his father. He calmly states that he views the loss of his apartment and credit cards as a life experience but criticizes his father for hurting Yang Zhenzhen.

Mr. Zheng dismisses his son’s current lifestyle as beneath them, but Zheng Boxu counters that these challenges have taught him commitment and brought him genuine happiness. He leaves after making it clear he will not abandon his chosen path or the woman he cares for. Elsewhere, Yu Zirui is under immense pressure for the upcoming competition. Insomnia is affecting his voice, particularly his high notes.

Learning of his struggles, Xia Yuan unexpectedly arrives at his home, announcing that she will take care of his daily needs so he can focus entirely on his music. When Yu Zirui says it is inappropriate for them to live together, Xia Yuan playfully challenges him, asking if he’s afraid she has ulterior motives.

Episode 40 Recap

While having dinner with friends, Wu Gong discussed his role as a judge for the upcoming Global Idol Singer Contest hosted by Star Entertainment. Despite a past unpleasant experience with Star Entertainment, he accepted the invitation due to the contest's high-level nature, which would gather talented singers worldwide. He stressed the importance of strict judging to ensure Chinese candidates would be competitive on the global stage.

During the conversation, he heard a compelling song, which Zhenzhen revealed was by Zheng Baixu. Wu Gong vehemently expressed his disbelief. Convinced of Zheng Baixu's talent, Zhenzhen made a bet with Wu Gong: if she could prove Baixu's ability, Wu Gong would grant him a spot in the contest, and Wu Gong agreed. Zhenzhen then brought Wu Gong to Grandpa Gu’s place, where Zheng Baixu was under strict vocal training, forbidden from speaking.

Zheng Baixu voiced his frustration, mentioning he was already banned from the contest by Chen Tianhao. Wu Gong, however, was drawn to a poster of "Jeff" and discovered that Jeff was actually Grandpa Gu. Wu Gong shared his deep admiration for Jeff, explaining that 25 years ago, Jeff was a groundbreaking artist who introduced hip-hop to China and profoundly influenced Wu Gong’s own decision to pursue music, calling him his "guide in music" and "mentor for my soul."

He recounted how Jeff abandoned his prestigious position in the music industry to stay true to his musical style but disappeared during a contest in the U. S. amid rumors of a drug-dealing case, which abruptly ended his career. Convinced of Zheng Baixu's potential after learning of Jeff's mentorship, Wu Gong went to Star Entertainment.

He advised Chen Tianhao to unfreeze Zheng Baixu's contract and allow him to compete, citing an impressive original song by Baixu that Jeff had confirmed as authentic. Skeptical, Chen Tianhao questioned Baixu's songwriting ability. Wu Gong then revealed that Baixu's new teacher was Jeff, the renowned musician who was also Chen Tianhao's former mentor. Du Wanqing, passing by, overheard this revelation. She immediately decided to visit her long-lost mentor, whom she had been searching for for decades to apologize.

Despite Chen Tianhao's attempts to stop her, Du Wanqing accused him of framing their teacher. Chen Tianhao defensively argued his sacrifices were for the company and their family, but Du Wanqing was undeterred. Du Wanqing found Grandpa Gu and tearfully apologized. She revealed that she had forced Chen Tianhao to confess that he had deliberately lost a contest for money and then framed Grandpa Gu by reporting him for hiding drugs, which led to the end of his music career.

Grandpa Gu showed no resentment, stating it had been many years. He enthusiastically recommended Zheng Baixu, explaining that he had worked to strip away Baixu's bad habits to unearth his raw talent. Grandpa Gu noted Baixu's suitability for rap and the emotional depth of his music, which reminded him of the song "Pure White" that Chen Tianhao had once written for Du Wanqing. He concluded that Baixu was likely in love, because "Music never lies."

Upon returning to Star Entertainment, Du Wanqing convened a high-level meeting and demanded they unfreeze Zheng Baixu's contract, threatening to use her authority to terminate it otherwise. Faced with overwhelming support for her from other directors, Chen Tianhao was forced to agree. Later, he sought out Grandpa Gu to apologize and offer repayment. Grandpa Gu refused any deals, asserting that he had lost nothing because "music is on my side."

He handed Chen Tianhao the sheet music for "Pure White," implying that Chen, despite his wealth, had lost far more valuable things. Zhenzhen accompanied Zheng Baixu to a follow-up hospital appointment, where the doctor confirmed his vocal nodules were "almost gone." Overjoyed, Zheng Baixu sincerely thanked Zhenzhen for her unwavering companionship during his "darkest and hardest time." As they left, Zhenzhen discovered that Zheng Baixu had sold his car.

Unfazed, she happily rode on the back of his bicycle, playfully asking him to buy her a watermelon as thanks. Returning to Grandpa Gu's restaurant, they found a "Transfer" sign at the entrance. Inside, they discovered a farewell letter. Grandpa Gu explained that his music career had ended years ago, but the music in his heart never stopped.

He saw a reflection of his younger self in Zheng Baixu, who was pursuing the kind of music he had wanted to make but couldn't. This, not just Zhenzhen's plea, motivated him to teach Baixu. As a final gift, he revealed he had asked his friend Justin, a renowned artist in the U. S. , to be Baixu's referee, securing him direct entry into the international contest. He signed the letter, "Your friend, Jeff."

Puzzled by Grandpa Gu's departure, Zheng Baixu expressed regret for not spending more time with him. They decided their priority was to find Justin in Cancun. Zhenzhen recalled that Justin had moved to a beach town to care for the family of a deceased friend who was also a musician. Planning to go there first, they took a taxi. The driver, Carlos, mistook them for a honeymooning couple, a suggestion that amused Zheng Baixu.

Episode 41 Recap

Upon arriving in Cancun, Zheng Baixu and Zhenzhen took a $120 ride to Askew, the town where Justin was rumored to be. The driver, impressed by their Chinese origin, dropped them off in what appeared to be an old town. They inquired about Justin, or "Justino" as the locals called him, from an elderly woman named Betty. Betty confirmed that Justin had been there a few days prior but left in a hurry, and she didn't know his current whereabouts.

She explained that Justin, a friend of her deceased son, visited her every year. As a gesture of goodwill, Zhenzhen offered Betty a gift they had brought from China. Feeling disheartened, they later went to a bar. A local man, recognizing Baixu as a musician, invited him to perform. Baixu took the stage and sang a new C-pop song, which was well-received. Impressed, the man humorously offered one of his two daughters for Baixu to take back to China.

Baixu politely declined, claiming Zhenzhen was his wife, a playful declaration the man accepted with good humor. After checking into their hotel, where Baixu initially suggested saving money by sharing one room until Zhenzhen insisted on two, Baixu playfully mused about skipping the competition to live a happy life with Zhenzhen, singing and having children. Zhenzhen, however, remained focused on their primary "task one" – finding Justin.

They inquired about him at the hotel, and a part-time student named Bob, who worked there, recognized Justin as a famous music producer and offered to find someone who might know his location. Later, the hotel manager informed them that Justin had indeed been scheduled to be a judge for the global idol singing contest but had left abruptly the previous day, with rumors suggesting he had quit for no reason.

Zhenzhen speculated about a possible conspiracy behind his withdrawal, to which Baixu, comparing Justin's eccentricity to that of Mr. Gu, declared he would quit the competition too if such a conspiracy existed. Sitting by the sea, Zhenzhen and Baixu enjoyed the comfortable atmosphere, feeling like an old married couple.

Zhenzhen shared her aspiration for a senior life similar to that of the Donalds, an elderly couple she had observed in a nursing home who shared interests and remained together through all circumstances, making even death seem less frightening. Baixu then earnestly asked Zhenzhen if she appreciated him as much as he appreciated her growth from a novice assistant to a professional manager. Zhenzhen chuckled, remarking that the boy within him hadn't grown up yet.

Their conversation was interrupted by a fire performance by local artists. Seeing the flames, Baixu visibly tensed, confessing his fear of fire and feeling useless. Zhenzhen quickly intervened, dismissing the performers and comforting him. She reminded him that his mother's death was an accident and that she had been protecting him, assuring him that he would become fearless too when he found someone he wished to protect. Baixu tightly gripped Zhenzhen's hand, grateful for her presence.

The next morning, the hotel manager delivered a letter and a musical arrangement from Justin to Baixu. Justin had returned to America but indicated that Baixu could find him later, providing the new music for practice. However, Baixu found Justin's arrangement "strange" and felt it would compromise his song's personality and the essence of C-POP.

Zhenzhen advised him to give it a chance, acknowledging Justin's expertise and suggesting that this wasn't the final version, encouraging Baixu to communicate his opinions to find a balance between their styles. Meanwhile, Yu Zirui arrived in Cancun for the contest, accompanied by Xia Yuan. Zhenzhen, upon seeing Xia Yuan, eagerly tried to pull her away to the beach.

However, Xia Yuan was still feeling down, openly admitting to Zhenzhen that she was angry with herself, feeling unlikable, petty, bad-tempered, and unreasonable due to her jealousy over Yu Zirui's affection for Zhenzhen. Zhenzhen attempted to comfort her, but Xia Yuan insisted on being left alone. Later, Zheng Baixu found Xia Yuan by herself and sat down to console her.

He reminisced about first meeting her, finding her adorable and outgoing, and told her that young girls were entitled to be capricious. He playfully claimed Xia Yuan was much cuter than Zhenzhen, whom he described as not being a "real woman" and lacking "female tenderness," but quickly explained that Zhenzhen's bluntness stemmed from caring deeply for those close to her. He advised Xia Yuan to communicate more with Zhenzhen and to cherish her family, friends, and love.

Concurrently, Yu Zirui approached Zhenzhen, asking about Xia Yuan. Zhenzhen explained that Xia Yuan was avoiding her and that her current emotional state was different from her past dramatic relationships, indicating a deeper hurt. She urged him, if he couldn't reciprocate Xia Yuan's feelings, to treat her kindly so she could heal. Yu Zirui then directly asked Zhenzhen if she was in love with Baixu. Zhenzhen confirmed, "Yes."

Yu Zirui admitted that he had realized his hopes were impossible the moment he saw her in Cancun, noting that the "light" in her eyes when she looked at him was gone, replaced by an ease that signified his defeat. He then declared his intention to win the contest championship against Baixu. Later, Baixu confronted Zhenzhen, demanding to know what she and Yu Zirui had discussed, displaying clear jealousy and accusing her of potentially leaking "confidential intelligence" as his manager.

Zhenzhen dismissed his concerns, leading to a brief argument where she told him that her private matters with Zirui were none of his business and that she wouldn't answer his calls the next day. That night, Zhenzhen, unable to sleep, wrote a list of Zheng Baixu's "Shortcomings," which included "Arrogance, Pride, Loose lips, Egoistic, Low EQ, Not likable, Nitpicking," before starting a list of his "Strengths."

Episode 42 Recap

A group of local taxi drivers, noticing Zheng Baixu's expensive attire, learn he is the heir to an international jewelry company whose father's company produced a valuable diamond recently stolen in Hollywood. Realizing the potential for a massive payday, they begin to conspire to kidnap him, seeing it as a way to secure their financial futures and quit their jobs.

Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu's friends throw a welcome party for him and Yang Zhenzhen on a yacht to celebrate his participation in a major competition. Before the party, Baixu pockets a special ring he designed for Zhenzhen. Despite the festive atmosphere, he repeatedly loses his nerve and fails to confess his feelings. After the party, he takes Zhenzhen to a unique natural formation called the "Sky Pit."

There, he finally presents the ring, explaining that he designed it himself and that the diamond, which has a heart shape inside, is the only memento his mother left him. He asks Zhenzhen to keep it for him, but she hesitates, overwhelmed by the suddenness and the uncertain future it implies. As she instinctively pulls her hand away to stop him, the ring is knocked from his hand and falls into the water.

Zhenzhen panics and urges him to retrieve it, but Baixu refuses. He states that the ring is meaningless if she doesn't accept him and decides to leave it there, protected by the pit's "blue eye," until the day she truly accepts him. He internally reflects on the depth of his love for her, affirming that the "Blue Flame" ring would only ever be for the one person he truly loves.

Elsewhere, Yu Zirui apologizes to Xia Yuan for being unable to reciprocate her feelings, admitting his immaturity. However, Xia Yuan has already come to terms with the situation. She reassures him that her feelings are her own business and require no apology. She reveals her new goal is to forget him to make space in her heart for someone new, asserting her right to pursue happiness.

Her maturity and resolve deeply move Zirui, who quietly considers that perhaps he should also "empty the spot" in his own heart. Zheng Baixu has a crucial meeting with the renowned music producer Justin. Speaking through his Chinese-speaking assistant, Justin immediately tests Baixu, stressing that past achievements mean nothing; only talent and hard work matter in the international market. Baixu's initial performance impresses Justin, who notes a resemblance to his old friend, Jeff (Grandpa Gu).

Unsatisfied with merely performing Justin's arrangement, Baixu asks to showcase his own style—a Chinese-style rap that represents "the voice of China." Justin is captivated by the fresh, mysterious Asian vibe of the music. Baixu explains his dream of making C-Pop known globally. Deeply impressed, Justin gives Baixu a cherished necklace from Jeff, remarking on how Baixu shares Jeff's talent and passion.

Justin reveals he once quit the industry when it was "infringed upon by the business of music" and insisted the current competition be fair. He also praises a song Baixu wrote about a girl, sensing the heart and soul within it. Baixu confirms his deep love for this girl, crediting her for his inspiration, for helping him overcome a past illness, and for his eventual acceptance into the competition via a wild card.

As the competition nears, Yu Zirui prepares with his manager, who arranges new outfits and fan support, though Zirui insists on maintaining his "independent swag." Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu publicly declares his love for Yang Zhenzhen during a media interview, which helps convince her of his sincerity. Later that night by the sea, he asks why she refused the ring. Zhenzhen confesses that his constant joking makes it hard to know when he's serious.

She admits she felt his genuine emotions but was scared by the immense value of his mother's most precious memento and the perceived distance between them—him a star, and her an ordinary person. Baixu reaffirms his unwavering conviction that she is the one he wants to spend his life with.

Finally understanding and trusting him, Zhenzhen agrees they will retrieve the ring together after the competition, at which point she will willingly wear it, confessing that after all they've been through, she is now certain of who she truly cares about.

Episode 43 Recap

Following their kiss on the beach, Zheng Baixu reaffirms his love for Yang Zhenzhen. He explains the significance of the "Blue Flame" pendant, his mother's only legacy, as a symbol of his deepest affection reserved only for the one he truly loves. He tells her that after everything they've been through, he is certain she is "the one." Yang Zhenzhen reciprocates his feelings, solidifying their relationship before the contest.

On the day of the Global Idol contest, the atmosphere is tense. Yu Zirui admits to Xia Yuan that he is nervous and jet-lagged. She promises to get him some congee and offers her support. Meanwhile, Zheng Baixu also feels anxious, worrying that Yang Zhenzhen might disappear. She reassures him she will stay in a specific spot visible from the stage, and he declares he is singing his song just for her.

While Yu Zirui enjoys a private room and encouragement from his team—including a message from Du Wanqing relayed by Xia Yuan, promising her full support regardless of the outcome—Zheng Baixu is in the public makeup area. He openly boasts that his music is superior and that he will defeat Yu Zirui, intending to put C-pop on the map.

Meanwhile, Du Wanqing receives a distressing call from Dr. Xiao, Chen Tianhao's physician, who reveals that Chen Tianhao has stage 2A colon cancer. The doctor explains that Chen has been postponing a necessary major surgery in America and urges Du Wanqing to ensure he goes, while also asking her to keep the diagnosis a secret from Chen.

This news causes Du Wanqing profound grief, as she now realizes his relentless push for the company's IPO was not about greed, but a desperate attempt to secure the future for her and their daughter. Later, in a meeting, Chen Tianhao fires Yuqi, Yu Hong's cousin, for ethical breaches, brushing off protests from Yu Hong and Liu Yi'nan.

Before a video call to encourage Yu Zirui, Chen jokes that he was the last to know about Yu Hong and Liu Yi'nan's relationship, prompting a devastated Du Wanqing to murmur that she is truly the last to know about his own secret. Zheng Baixu's situation improves when Mr. Zhao, an associate of his sister Fang Yiran, arrives. Unable to attend in person, Fang Yiran has booked a private rest and makeup room for him.

Mr. Zhao also gives Zheng Baixu a local bank card linked to his sister's account for any needs, which he reluctantly accepts. Just before his performance, Zheng Baixu's anxiety causes him to lose his voice. Yang Zhenzhen rushes back to their hotel to retrieve his medicine. The taxi she hails is driven by Carlos, who, unbeknownst to her, has been planning to target them. Relieved to see a familiar face, she gets in.

During the ride, she confirms Baixu is her boyfriend and the song is for her. Carlos then feigns a dead phone and takes hers under the pretense of calling his wife. Backstage, Zheng Baixu grows frantic as his turn approaches and Yang Zhenzhen hasn't returned. His worry turns to terror when Carlos calls from Yang Zhenzhen's phone. With Zhenzhen held captive, Carlos demands a ransom of three million dollars.

In the background, Zhenzhen screams for Baixu to call the police, but she is silenced. Carlos warns him not to involve the authorities. Without hesitation, Zheng Baixu abandons the competition. He follows the kidnapper's instructions to a waiting car and urgently calls his sister, Fang Yiran, demanding she transfer the money to the card she gave him, refusing to explain why. Sensing the extreme danger, Fang Yiran immediately contacts the police. As Zheng Baixu speeds toward the designated location, he hears Yang Zhenzhen's faint voice over the phone, confirming he is getting closer, while Yu Zirui takes the stage to perform.

Episode 44 (Ending) Recap

Following his abduction of Yang Zhenzhen during a crucial competition, Carlos demanded money for her release. Zheng Baixu, after confirming with the kidnapper that he would see Zhenzhen after payment, transferred three million dollars. However, once the transaction was confirmed, Carlos’s men set fire to the building as they retreated, leaving Zhenzhen trapped inside.

Overcoming a deep childhood fear of fire, Zheng Baixu bravely rushed into the blaze, calling out to Zhenzhen and reassuring her that he was there to save her. The police later arrived and apprehended Carlos's group. The life-threatening ordeal solidified their bond. Zheng Baixu dove into the water to recover the Blue Flame diamond ring, a cherished family heirloom.

When he presented it to Zhenzhen, she unhesitatingly put it on her finger, vowing not only to stay by his side for life but also to help him become "the brightest star in the sky." With Zheng Baixu out of the competition, Yu Zirui won the championship. However, Zheng Baixu arguably achieved greater success. On Zhenzhen's brilliant suggestion, he released a music video for his new single based on the real-life kidnapping event.

The song and its topical video shattered multiple records. Meanwhile, Yu Zirui's victory also earned him significant acclaim as a talented new singer. Using the pretense of negotiating an international collaboration for Zheng Baixu, Chen Tianhao prepared to leave for the United States for medical treatment, placing Du Wanqing in charge of Star Entertainment. Before he left, Du Wanqing revealed she knew about his illness and his true reason for traveling.

Having already forgiven him for his past mistakes, she offered to accompany him to the U. S. to care for him, asking only that he write her a new song upon his recovery. Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen then went to see his father, Zheng Weijun. Zheng Weijun sternly questioned Zhenzhen, asking if she felt any guilt over Baixu nearly dying for her. Zhenzhen frankly admitted she would have done the same for him.

Although her sincerity moved him, the proud father couldn't bring himself to approve their relationship immediately. Unfazed, Zhenzhen declared her intention to visit weekly until he changed his mind. Baixu, knowing his father's "knife-mouth, tofu-heart" personality, was confident that he had already tacitly accepted them. In a heartfelt conversation, Zheng Baixu told his father that his music and Zhenzhen were the two things he could never give up.

He argued that the true family legacy wasn't about inheriting a business, but about the unyielding spirit to forge one's own path and pursue one's dreams—a spirit symbolized by the unchanging heart shape of the Blue Flame diamond. Deeply moved, Zheng Weijun realized his son had matured. That night, he reflected on Baixu's words and decided to let him follow his own path, confident, as Secretary Qian noted, that with Zhenzhen’s support, Baixu would thrive.

Sometime later, a recovered Chen Tianhao returned to the company with Du Wanqing. Zheng Baixu and Yang Zhenzhen also made their official return to Star Entertainment, where Baixu was appointed the new director of the managing department. He announced to his colleagues that he and Zhenzhen were married and invited everyone to their future wedding ceremony. Yu Zirui warmly greeted Baixu, and the two former rivals agreed to a friendly future competition.

Later, while interviewing candidates for Baixu's new assistant, Zhenzhen met a young woman whose passion and drive reminded her of her own beginnings, signaling a bright and hopeful future for them all at the company.