The Silence of the Monster Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Silence of the Monster Synopsis
The main story revolves around locksmith He Chufeng and appraiser Luo Bin.
The four main characters meet in a Chinese antique shop. Although they have different identities, they start a shared life for different reasons. Four lonely souls change subsequently.
The Silence of the Monster Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Luo Bin, an appraiser renowned for his unwavering honesty, found himself in a precarious situation during a gem authentication for a client. He identified a cornflower sapphire as fake, explaining that genuine ones possess a purplish deep blue hue with a velvet, hazy, dream-like glow, and unique mineral identity, whereas the client's stone was unnaturally perfect. He flatly refused to authenticate the fake gem as real.
The client, unnerved, decided not to buy it, but the seller, a formidable figure, angrily insisted on the purchase, threatening that no one would leave without the transaction completed. Luo Bin, fearing for the client's safety, vehemently advised against the purchase, repeatedly shouting that the gem was fake. As the situation escalated, Luo Bin tried to pull the client away to flee, but they were both apprehended by the seller's thugs.
Feeling his life was truly in danger, Luo Bin sent a desperate SOS message to his roommate, He Chufeng, emphasizing, "I'm not joking this time. I'm really going to die." The leader of the thugs confronted Luo Bin, accusing the "appraiser who only tells the truth" of ruining his business. Luo Bin, defiant, asserted that few people dare to speak the truth in this era and that people should not be too greedy.
Infuriated, the leader threatened to blind Luo Bin, declaring that a blind man could not be an appraiser. Just as the threat was about to be carried out, He Chufeng arrived, swiftly intervening and working with Luo Bin to fend off the attackers. On their way home, He Chufeng maintained his usual composed demeanor, while Luo Bin, still agitated, peppered him with questions about a heavy box He Chufeng was carrying and why he was dressed in a certain way.
He Chufeng simply told him to keep a meter's distance, and Luo Bin joked about 80cm being sufficient. Back at Monster Vintage, the shop owned by Granny Mi and where He Chufeng and Luo Bin reside along with a cat named Bean Bun, Luo Bin found himself once again awakened by the irritating sound of He Chufeng grinding keys. He complained about the "360-degree surround sound" but He Chufeng merely wanted him to be quiet.
Granny Mi visited the shop, already aware of Luo Bin's latest "trouble," and despite Luo Bin urging her to check the business accounts, she expressed implicit trust in him, stating that his management allowed her to be at ease. Meanwhile, Sui Yi, a law intern, spent her day at a street stall, acting more as a civil mediator for local residents.
She was swamped with mundane domestic disputes: a man seeking help for his snoring problem, a couple arguing over cheating at mahjong, and a woman detailing her son's meal preferences and oddly sized eggs. Overwhelmed, Sui Yi yearned to finish work quickly, as she had promised to attend Su Xiaoyue's performance that evening. At the venue, a fervent fan managed to bypass security and enter Su Xiaoyue's dressing room, demanding a photo.
Su Xiaoyue's manager swiftly removed the fan, expressing exasperation at the fans' increasing audacity. Despite the disturbance, Su Xiaoyue composed herself and delivered an electrifying performance, captivating the audience, including a thrilled Sui Yi. However, the shadow of sasaeng fans continued to loom over Su Xiaoyue's life. Even after changing her phone and moving to a new address with an undisclosed door password, she found her privacy invaded.
Disturbing messages appeared on her phone, showing the sasaengs knew her new address, criticized her home decor as cheap, and even listed her photos and clothes for sale online. To address her security concerns, Su Xiaoyue placed an order with Monster Key, He Chufeng's locksmith service. He Chufeng arrived and, adhering to industry regulations, requested Su Xiaoyue to fill out a form and present her ID. She reluctantly complied, removing her mask and sunglasses to confirm her identity.
Initially, Su Xiaoyue expressed skepticism about He Chufeng's "primitive" lock, preferring a more advanced electronic one. However, her doubts vanished when He Chufeng effortlessly demonstrated his skill by quickly unlocking a combination lock in under a minute, earning her approval. Sui Yi, in her capacity as an intern lawyer, attended a meeting at Su Xiaoyue's agency to discuss a new case.
She presented how sasaeng fans had grossly infringed upon the artist's portrait rights, generating over eight million yuan in illegal profits, and also damaged her reputation. Sui Yi argued for litigation, proposing two comprehensive plans. During the meeting, Su Xiaoyue walked in, sending a jolt of excitement through Sui Yi, who was overjoyed to see her idol up close.
Later, Sui Yi relived the encounter, calling Su Xiaoyue "my daughter" in her mind and renewing her resolve to pass her lawyer's examination to better protect her idol. That evening, as Su Xiaoyue prepared for a shower, she heard a disturbance. Upon investigating, she found no one, but discovered her personal space had been violated, with some of her things rearranged, leaving her feeling utterly unnerved.
The next day, she called He Chufeng, claiming the new lock he installed had been "forced open," and arranged to meet him at the community gate. Luo Bin insisted on accompanying He Chufeng, bringing his phone to "record life," despite He Chufeng's irritation at being filmed. At the community gate, Su Xiaoyue arrived heavily disguised.
Sui Yi, seeing Luo Bin filming and mistaking He Chufeng and Luo Bin for sasaeng fans harassing her idol, rushed forward and tackled them both to the ground. After the misunderstanding was cleared, Sui Yi, while secretly thrilled to be interacting with her idol, adopted a professional tone, acting as Su Xiaoyue's counsel. Su Xiaoyue reiterated that someone had entered her 46th-floor apartment, insisting the lock must be faulty.
He Chufeng confidently maintained his lock was secure, jokingly suggesting the intruder might be "Spider-Man." Sui Yi warned against slandering her client's mental state after Luo Bin suggested Su Xiaoyue might be experiencing mental stress due to work pressure. Sui Yi also questioned the legitimacy of Monster Key, even threatening a lawsuit. Luo Bin, in turn, defended their company's legitimate status and police registration. Despite Su Xiaoyue mentioning a friend's recommendation, Sui Yi considered seeking another locksmith.
He Chufeng ultimately proposed inspecting the apartment. The group proceeded to Su Xiaoyue's home. He Chufeng examined the lock, confirming it had not been forced. Inside, Luo Bin noticed a pot of white Balloon flowers, reciting their symbolic meanings of "eternal love" and "hopeless love." Su Xiaoyue initially thought her manager might have placed them, but wasn't certain. They discussed Su Xiaoyue's practice of keeping curtains drawn for privacy, even on a high floor, to avoid paparazzi and persistent fans.
He Chufeng then checked her room, identifying a specific Gundam and Hello Kitty collaboration figure. Suddenly, Su Xiaoyue's phone buzzed with chilling messages from the sasaeng fan: "Hello, sister. Do you like the flowers I gave you? I want to be with you forever. This is a gift set. Look carefully. There's a surprise waiting for you." Terrified, Su Xiaoyue cried out in despair.
To gather more information, He Chufeng and Luo Bin went to the building's security room to review surveillance footage. Luo Bin, attempting to maintain a cover, jokingly inquired about their lost cat, Bean Bun, but their true purpose was to check for unusual activity around Su Xiaoyue's apartment. The security guard explained that due to Su Xiaoyue's specific request for privacy, the cameras did not cover her apartment's entrance.
Furthermore, the footage was only stored for seven days, and no anomalies were detected in the hallways or elevators. He Chufeng reaffirmed that the lock was not the issue, pondering how the intruder could have entered or exited undetected, while Luo Bin mentioned he had searched the room but found nothing unusual.
Episode 2 Recap
Emotionally distressed by the relentless harassment from a sasaeng fan, Su Xiaoyue found comfort in Sui Yi’s presence at her home. Su Xiaoyue's father called, his tone anything but warm, demanding she return home immediately. He chastised her for "dreaming of being a star," insisting that "the Su family won't have this fate," and accusing her of "making a scene on the news," which brought shame upon the family.
He declared he had found her a "decent job" as a "county kindergarten teacher." Su Xiaoyue, however, stood her ground, declaring, "I won't go back," despite her father's insistence on the connections he had leveraged. Meanwhile, He Chufeng and Luo Bin returned to Su Xiaoyue's apartment. After checking the surveillance footage, which only covered seven days and didn't capture Su Xiaoyue's actual house, they found no problem with the lock.
He Chufeng inquired if the room had been thoroughly searched, and Luo Bin confirmed he had searched but found nothing. Pondering the sasaeng's whereabouts, Luo Bin wondered if he had gone out, yet the surveillance showed no exit. He Chufeng then suggested they all go out for dinner to relax. Sui Yi, frustrated, confronted He Chufeng, pointing out that "the lock problem is still unsolved" and that as professionals, they should "take responsibility."
He Chufeng retorted that as a locksmith, he was "only responsible for my lock," and questioned if a break-in necessarily meant a faulty lock. He dismissed Su Xiaoyue's distress as "psychologically stressful" from being overworked. Sui Yi, exasperated, suggested calling the police, believing they couldn't rely on He Chufeng and Luo Bin. However, Su Xiaoyue decided against it and, agreeing to try He Chufeng's method one more time, booked a hotel suite.
Sui Yi, still worried, gave Su Xiaoyue her name card, offering her help anytime. Sui Yi confided in Su Xiaoyue, acknowledging the stark difference between her sparkling, carefree stage persona and her real-life struggles, expressing her wish for Su Xiaoyue to live a tranquil life without such burdens. Su Xiaoyue thanked her, moved by her sincerity. Later, Sui Yi's mother called, expressing concern for her unanswered calls and asking if she needed money. Sui Yi reassured her everything was fine.
She then asked her mother about lock stores located in fancy buildings rather than on the roadside, a detail her mother dismissed as nothing unusual. Back at their office, Luo Bin and He Chufeng were still trying to figure out where the sasaeng could have hidden and how he got in. He Chufeng remained adamant, asserting, "He must still be in the room." Luo Bin wondered why they couldn't find him then.
Sui Yi, in her role as an intern lawyer for Junhao Law Firm, was providing legal aid services in the community, alongside Chen Xiaoyuan, the community's newly regularized person in charge, and Jia Xiaoguo, a new police officer. As He Chufeng walked past, Chen Xiaoyuan excitedly pointed him out to Sui Yi and Jia Xiaoguo as one of the community's two handsome men. Sui Yi accurately guessed the other was Luo Bin.
Chen Xiaoyuan clarified that He Chufeng, a "great locksmith," was there to give a class. After the class, Chen Xiaoyuan formally introduced Sui Yi to "Mr. He, He Chufeng," suggesting Sui Yi visit his vintage shop. He Chufeng briefly acknowledged Sui Yi and then departed. The sasaeng fan eventually revealed himself when Su Xiaoyue's apartment was empty. He was caught talking to Su Xiaoyue's picture, stating he would wait for her at home.
He Chufeng, Luo Bin, and Sui Yi then confronted him, with He Chufeng announcing, "We're back." They apprehended the sasaeng, who attempted to lock the door, and took him to the police station. Su Xiaoyue's manager arrived at the police station, immediately scolding Sui Yi for Su Xiaoyue’s unannounced departure from an event, lamenting the "penalty" they faced and the number of shows they would have to perform to cover the losses.
Sui Yi passionately argued that her artist's "safety is in danger," a more pressing concern than contractual fees. The manager threatened to report Sui Yi to her senior, Mr. Zhou, for her handling of the situation, reiterating that Su Xiaoyue was a "public figure" and implying Sui Yi didn't understand the entertainment industry's rules. Sui Yi insisted that public figures, too, had a right to security.
The manager then attempted to persuade the police officer not to take the case to the station. At the police station, Sui Yi was infuriated by the online rumors and baseless speculations. She pressed He Chufeng and Luo Bin on how they were so certain the sasaeng had remained hidden in Su Xiaoyue’s apartment. He Chufeng confidently stated, "Because my lock can't be broken."
Luo Bin then elaborated on their deductions: Su Xiaoyue's room was spotless despite her hurried move, implying constant cleaning, and a wet towel was found in a dry room, indicating someone had showered recently. Combining this with He Chufeng’s lock being impenetrable and Su Xiaoyue living on the 46th floor, they concluded the sasaeng must have already been inside before He Chufeng changed the lock. Sui Yi found the details "disgusting."
When asked why they hadn't immediately apprehended him when they knew he was there, Luo Bin humorously claimed it was "to keep a suspense," like a detective's reveal. He Chufeng clarified that they had indeed checked under the bed, but the sasaeng had managed to flatten himself against the underside for half an hour, exceeding normal physical limits. They had initially overlooked this possibility, falling into a "cognitive bias" that no one would act so "abnormal" for "selfish desires."
Luo Bin further explained their strategy: they made the sasaeng believe Su Xiaoyue would return that night, prompting him to emerge from hiding, only to find himself locked in as Su Xiaoyue was secretly at a hotel. They waited until the next afternoon when Su Xiaoyue had an engagement because they knew the sasaeng would be "very vigilant" after their initial visit and more likely to "let his guard down" during her working hours.
Regarding the lock, He Chufeng revealed Su Xiaoyue "didn't set the password." Later, a police officer informed He Chufeng that the sasaeng had "finished his sentence" and advised He Chufeng to "be careful" as they weren't sure if he would seek revenge. After leaving the police station, He Chufeng and Luo Bin went for a late-night meal. There, they overheard Zhen discussing online rumors that "Su Xiaoyue was arrested."
Luo Bin clarified it was a "rumor," explaining that Su Xiaoyue was a victim who had called the police and gone to the Public Security Bureau to make a statement, a "normal procedure." He criticized the internet's "wild speculations and non-objective emotional remarks." Luo Bin noted that Sui Yi was "in big trouble" for causing "a lot of trouble to her client."
Indeed, Sui Yi was being reprimanded by Mr. Zhou for acting on "impulsiveness" without a proper strategy, causing everyone to be "caught up." She was subsequently removed from the case due to her fan status, deemed "inappropriate" for involvement. Sui Yi questioned whether she was "really wrong." Later, Sui Yi called Chen Xiaoyuan, revealing she had forgotten her keys and was locked out of her apartment.
Chen Xiaoyuan suggested asking He Chufeng for help, but Sui Yi declined, preferring to "figure it out myself." He Chufeng, having overheard their conversation, found Sui Yi waiting at her door. He opened her lock, which took him "four seconds at most," even though he claimed such locks could be opened in "six seconds." Sui Yi thanked him and apologized for her previous "misunderstanding." He Chufeng then borrowed her phone to add his WeChat, formally introducing himself as He Chufeng.
Puzzled by how "easily" Sui Yi's lock had opened, He Chufeng wondered if it was "the same as what happened to Su Xiaoyue." He returned to Sui Yi's apartment, despite her belief that she was not a "big star like Xiaoyue" and nothing would happen to her. She also mentioned that her landlord, though scary, was nice and had left her new furniture. He Chufeng then discovered a hidden, advanced "pinhole camera" disguised within a painting.
He explained its sophisticated features, including a passive infrared motion detector and 4K resolution, which was not a common commercial item. When Sui Yi asked about a memory card, He Chufeng revealed that this type of camera used "real-time transmission signal," meaning "live streaming." Sui Yi was horrified, realizing her life for the past "few months" had been "live-streamed." Overwhelmed and crying, she muttered that "a disaster doesn't just happen," to which He Chufeng firmly stated, "Let's call the police."
Episode 3 Recap
At the police station, the middleman landlord, Kong, was questioned about the pinhole camera found in Sui Yi's apartment. He admitted that he had been foolish and drunk on the day he mistakenly returned to his old address. Using a master key, which he had for easy house viewings, he entered the apartment, expecting to find a rich lawyer's home, but only found twenty yuan, which he then put back.
He vehemently denied installing the hidden camera or taking any videos. Sui Yi, furious at his audacity, pounded on the table. The police explained that they had searched all of Kong's online and offline purchase records and found no evidence linking him to the camera. They suggested that as Kong was only a middleman landlord, the principal landlord or previous tenants could also be suspects. Sui Yi proposed tracking the signal reception source of the real-time camera.
The police confirmed they had already filed a case and would conduct a comprehensive investigation to bring her justice. Outside, He Chufeng told Luo Bin that the camera's configuration was highly sophisticated, likely beyond Kong's means. Sui Yi, still fuming, declared her intent to find the pervert and break their limbs. Luo Bin tried to calm her, and then offered their antique shop, Monster Vintage, as a place for her to stay.
Sui Yi politely declined, asserting she had many friends in Zhaonuan she could stay with. Seeing through her pretense of strength, He Chufeng discreetly put Luo Bin into a taxi, sending him off on a fabricated blind date to "30 Square," and then silently followed Sui Yi. Sui Yi, walking alone on the street, broke down in tears. She returned to her old apartment to pack her belongings, startled by footsteps in the hallway.
Relieved to find it was He Chufeng, she quietly said, "How come it's you? I saw that you came back alone. Thank goodness it's you." He Chufeng helped her find a temporary hotel room. He thoroughly checked the room for any hidden cameras, explaining common hiding spots in bathrooms and for electronic devices. Assuring her that everything was safe, he told her to live at ease and remember to lock the door.
Sui Yi thanked him profusely, asking why he was helping her. He Chufeng replied simply, "I'll help anyone. Suit yourself." Overwhelmed, Sui Yi sobbed uncontrollably, feeling that the day had stretched longer than a year. Just as she found a moment of release, a colleague called, requesting her help with an urgent agreement, forcing Sui Yi to quickly compose herself and face her responsibilities. The next day, Sui Yi tirelessly searched for a new place to live.
Her friend, Chen Xiaoyuan, called, enthusiastically offering a perfect co-living arrangement in their community. " I helped you save the agency fees. I found you a perfect place. You can move at once. I'm sure you'll like it." Sui Yi agreed, asking about the location. The place turned out to be Monster Vintage, where He Chufeng and Luo Bin lived and worked.
Luo Bin and He Chufeng had a brief exchange about Sui Yi moving in, during which Luo Bin questioned He Chufeng's motives for letting her stay. He Chufeng then reminded Luo Bin that it was Luo Bin who had suggested offering space. Luo Bin, surprised by He Chufeng's accurate recollection, insisted he had no problem with a girl moving in, but implied that He Chufeng, as a roommate, had given up his own room for Sui Yi.
Luo Bin then gave Sui Yi a tour of Monster Vintage, explaining that Granny Mi was the owner, landlord, and boss but rarely visited, leaving him in charge. He proudly showcased the shop's valuable collections and antique treasures like "Louis XIV's necklace" and "the coins used for praying on the 25th year during the reign of Emperor Qianlong," cautioning her not to touch them. He assured her that security was paramount, crediting He Chufeng for implementing comprehensive safety measures.
He also introduced Bean Bun, their mascot cat, explaining the rotating responsibility for cleaning its litter box, much to Luo Bin's dismay when Sui Yi reminded him that he had lost a bet to He Chufeng and was therefore responsible for cleaning the litter box for a month. They went upstairs, where Luo Bin showed her his room and He Chufeng's new studio and bedroom.
He announced that Sui Yi would no longer have to worry about oversleeping, as they provided a morning call service, gesturing to He Chufeng already making breakfast. He then led her to what would be her new room – He Chufeng’s former attic room, now vacated for her. Sui Yi felt it was too much trouble, but He Chufeng assured her it was no problem, as they were happy to have a tenant to share rent.
Granny Mi later visited, bringing Sui Yi a new latex pillow and a quilt cover, delighted to finally have a girl living in the house to break up the boys' constant antics. Later, Sui Yi encountered He Chufeng at the bathroom entrance while looking for a hair dryer. Luo Bin suddenly appeared, holding up his phone to show that Su Xiaoyue was trending again, with public opinion shifting to support her against sasaeng fans.
Sui Yi expressed her empathy, stating that only after experiencing something similar herself could she truly understand the pain and fear Su Xiaoyue endured. She thanked He Chufeng and Luo Bin for their help, then cautiously inquired about co-living arrangements, such as whether they would bring girls home, the need for mutual respect for privacy, and if she needed to report when friends visited.
Luo Bin quickly confirmed that He Chufeng would never bring a woman home, quipping that He Chufeng could only mock his single status once he turned a blind date into a girlfriend. He Chufeng remained silent, while Luo Bin headed off to bed. That night, Sui Yi was tormented by nightmares of online comments degrading her, mirroring those targeting Su Xiaoyue. She woke up, teary-eyed, to a new day. In the kitchen, He Chufeng was already preparing breakfast.
Sui Yi, on her laptop, desperately searched for her secretly filmed videos on various websites, explaining to a curious Luo Bin that a friend suggested they might be sold there. He Chufeng gently took her laptop and handed her a plate of breakfast, telling her to eat and that Luo Bin would help with the search. Luo Bin reluctantly began sifting through graphic videos, lamenting that he felt ready to renounce worldly life and become a Buddhist.
Sui Yi noticed He Chufeng reading a letter at the table, finding his old-fashioned habit puzzling. Sui Yi received a call from the police, leading to a meeting with her principal landlord, Li Jun. He offered an unnervingly polite apology for her experience, promising full cooperation with the police investigation. As Sui Yi left, she got into a taxi, intending to follow Li Jun, but He Chufeng and Luo Bin intercepted her.
They revealed that the camera in her apartment was identical in specifications to the gastroscopy capsules used by medical gastroscopists, and Li Jun was, in fact, a gastroscopist. The next day, He Chufeng and Luo Bin visited Li Jun at the hospital, with Luo Bin undergoing a gastroscopy. Li Jun, with a knowing smile, cryptically advised them, "When you handle a thing, don't get to the bottom of it.
If you dig too deep, you might fall into the hole easily." Luo Bin was furious at the veiled threat, feeling violated after having a "monitor" (gastroscopy capsule) in his body. Luo Bin diligently investigated Li Jun's background. He was a 32-year-old male from Wenzhou, who graduated from Wenzhou Medical School with a degree in Medical Imageology. His life was described as single, disciplined, and low-key, with few friends but good relations with colleagues.
While his parents were laid-off workers, Li Jun had funded their move to the city three years prior and supported his sister's university education in Panzhou, who had recently started wearing luxury brands. Though Li Jun had a history of dating different young women, he never brought them home. Colleagues confirmed he had no bad habits or enemies. His newfound wealth, Luo Bin discovered, came from reselling domain names and fortunate investments in two bull markets.
Luo Bin expressed his exasperation, asking He Chufeng about easy ways to get rich. He Chufeng pointed him to the criminal law. Later, their online investigation yielded a social media account with a profile picture matching Li Jun's old Renren. com profile, registered in 2007 and following Wenzhou No. 2 High School. Although a related QQ account had been canceled, He Chufeng believed there was "another channel" to pursue.
Amidst their intense investigation, Luo Bin and He Chufeng found moments of levity, playfully bickering over their electricity bill and a missing bottle of shower gel, highlighting their evolving dynamics as co-tenants.
Episode 4 Recap
Luo Bin found another avenue to trace Li Jun's online activities. In the early hours of the morning, while He Chufeng and Sui Yi were still awake, Luo Bin successfully located a forum account that Li Jun had registered using a QQ number he had since deleted.
Although Li Jun hadn't updated the account in a long time, and had deleted all his own content, old comments from fans remained, praising his "high-quality and reasonably priced works," which Luo Bin noted as a "promising lead." When questioned by the police about this forum account, Li Jun vehemently denied any knowledge. He Chufeng was jolted awake from a nightmare, covered in a cold sweat. Shortly after, he received a phone call from the police.
They had discovered another property belonging to Li Jun, registered under a relative's name, and inside, a safe. The police suspected this safe contained direct evidence to convict Li Jun. However, they were legally required to release Li Jun in just one hour, and he already had a flight booked to Vancouver for three hours later. The lock on the safe was complex, and the police requested He Chufeng's expertise.
He Chufeng and Luo Bin promptly arrived at the police station with their tools. They encountered Li Jun, who provocatively remarked, "Fancy seeing you again." He Chufeng retorted, explaining his way of relieving stress was by "putting bad guys in jail," which Li Jun dismissed. Inside, He Chufeng began to work on the five-digit safe. As two hours passed, the police grew anxious, wondering how long it would take.
Luo Bin calmly explained that a normal locksmith would need at least ten hours for such a lock, but asserted that He Chufeng was no ordinary locksmith. Just minutes before Li Jun's flight to Vancouver was scheduled to board, He Chufeng successfully unlocked the safe. Li Jun was then swiftly arrested for invasion of privacy and summoned for legal proceedings. Sui Yi rushed to the police station after receiving a call.
She questioned the police about the fate of the videos from her apartment. The police reassured her that the surveillance camera found in her old apartment had lost its signal source long ago and was incapable of storing or transmitting data, meaning no footage of her had been leaked. Sui Yi expressed immense relief. The police confirmed that with the evidence they now possessed, Li Jun would be convicted whether he confessed or not.
Officer Xiao Guo thanked He Chufeng for his vital assistance, acknowledging him as extraordinary. Feeling a sense of relief and accomplishment, He Chufeng and Luo Bin took Sui Yi home for dinner. On the way home, He Chufeng reminded Sui Yi that despite her recent personal ordeal, she shouldn't neglect her work. Sui Yi countered that she couldn't focus on work when He Chufeng and Luo Bin had gone to such lengths to help her.
At home, seeing how tired He Chufeng was, Sui Yi offered to cook dinner. He Chufeng guided her through preparing beef with potatoes and tomatoes, giving precise instructions, then went to rest. Sui Yi found He Chufeng asleep on the sofa and gently covered him with a blanket. As she reached to remove his glasses, He Chufeng instinctively awoke and grabbed her wrist. The sudden ring of the kitchen timer for the stew broke the awkward tension.
During dinner, Luo Bin playfully revealed He Chufeng to be a hidden culinary master, suggesting Sui Yi would get her rent's worth from his cooking. When Sui Yi brought up splitting meal expenses, Luo Bin realized he had been enjoying He Chufeng's cooking for free for a year, even calculating the accumulated cost. He Chufeng joked that Luo Bin should pay for his glasses first, to which Luo Bin promised to pay as soon as he received his salary.
The conversation then shifted to Sui Yi's background; she explained her martial arts skills came from childhood training with her grandfather for self-defense. She used to frequently get into fights for justice but learned to prioritize reason over force after studying law. Luo Bin then asked how He Chufeng and Sui Yi knew each other. Luo Bin initially claimed they were childhood sweethearts, but He Chufeng corrected him, stating they were high school classmates.
As He Chufeng and Luo Bin bickered over who should do the dishes, Sui Yi offered to do them herself, but both men emphatically stopped her, declaring, "Girls shouldn't do the dishes." Luo Bin suggested buying a dishwasher, but He Chufeng rejected it, claiming handwashing was better, though he playfully admitted he just wanted to see Luo Bin wash. He Chufeng eventually decided he would wash the dishes that night and cook the next day.
The sasaeng fan incident involving Su Xiaoyue continued to escalate in the media. News revealed the fan was a top-ranking high school student who had been accepted into Chaonuan University's Department of Biological Engineering, surprising everyone who knew him as a quiet, model student. The fan had used Su Xiaoyue's father's birthday as a password to her old keyless entry system, and later, exploited "scissors hands" photos to recreate her fingerprints for her new lock.
Sui Yi received a call from Su Xiaoyue's company, who suspected Sui Yi might be involved in Su Xiaoyue's disappearance. Sui Yi, deeply worried, lamented the volatile nature of public opinion on the internet, especially after the fan's mother claimed Su Xiaoyue had accepted a 3,000-yuan bracelet, turning public sentiment against her. Sui Yi expressed her concern to He Chufeng, who cautioned her about making "V" signs in photos.
Sui Yi then asked He Chufeng and Luo Bin for their help. They went to visit Su Xiaoyue's father, who, to their dismay, denied knowing his daughter. Sui Yi was distraught, feeling a profound connection to Su Xiaoyue, having endured similar terrifying experiences. She noted that while she had He Chufeng and Luo Bin for support and protection, Su Xiaoyue was all alone, fueling Sui Yi's determination to help.
Determined to help, Sui Yi sent an emotional message to Su Xiaoyue, who cried silently upon reading it. In her message, Sui Yi expressed unwavering support and her belief in Su Xiaoyue's bright, warm heart, urging her not to give up on her dreams.
She recounted Su Xiaoyue's journey as a dedicated performer, always giving her all on stage, and referenced a past social media post by Su Xiaoyue about "burying her heart in the soil" not for disappearance, but for better growth. Later, He Chufeng coincidentally spotted Su Xiaoyue working at a roadside stall while on his way home and immediately messaged Sui Yi. Sui Yi rushed to the stall to find her.
Su Xiaoyue was emotionally vulnerable, expressing disillusionment with her company, which she felt only viewed her as a product and continued to manage her image even in her absence, even posting a 'see you tomorrow' update despite her disappearance. She confronted Sui Yi, questioning if she was just another fan who would invade her privacy, spread defamation, or expose her 24-hour life.
Sui Yi, in turn, revealed herself as a devoted fan and shared her own recent traumatic experience of having a pinhole camera installed in her apartment, emphasizing her empathy for Su Xiaoyue's plight. She confessed that thinking of Su Xiaoyue, who was enduring even greater pressures, helped her overcome her own despair and the feeling that her life was over. Sui Yi passionately declared that her life was continuing, and so would Su Xiaoyue's.
She promised to always respect and support Su Xiaoyue, no matter what choices she made. In a lighter moment, Luo Bin and He Chufeng engaged in a friendly debate about their living arrangements, with Luo Bin feeling like an "old father" to He Chufeng, who viewed Luo Bin as a peer.
They also briefly discussed the intelligence of characters Wei Cheng and Ye Wenjie from the novel "The Three-Body Problem," highlighting their contrasting analytical styles; Luo Bin favored Wei Cheng's intuitive mathematical genius, while He Chufeng argued for Ye Wenjie's comprehensive intelligence and strategic impact. Luo Bin then playfully suggested they should create an online account to boost their business, to which He Chufeng humorously declined involvement.
Luo Bin also pondered the absence of a female presence in their home, noting even their cat was male, and teased He Chufeng about finding a girlfriend. He Chufeng, maintaining his cool, simply told Luo Bin to mind his own business and wash the dishes.
Episode 5 Recap
Su Xiaoyue found herself contemplating whether she truly wished to continue her life as a celebrity. Although she was a star, she felt no happier than when she worked in a shop, perceiving herself merely as a wage earner. A shop owner kindly told her that if she ever decided to return to an ordinary life, she would always be welcome, but then asked if she would truly quit willingly.
This inner turmoil was exacerbated by the escalating sasaeng fan incident, which had shockingly revealed the fan to be a high-achieving student. Public opinion intensified, and Su Xiaoyue went missing, with her agency unable to contact her. Sui Yi, deeply concerned and empathetic due to her own past traumatic experiences, felt that while she had friends like He Chufeng and Luo Bin by her side, Su Xiaoyue was facing this alone.
Determined to help, Sui Yi asked He Chufeng and Luo Bin for assistance. The next morning, Sui Yi woke to find breakfast prepared by He Chufeng, along with a note reminding her to eat. She felt a genuine warmth in her heart. As she left for work, Sui Yi couldn't stop thinking about her idol, hoping she would reappear, especially with the Star Moon Girls' performance approaching and public opinion on Su Xiaoyue's disappearance escalating, while Su Xiaoyue remained lost.
He Chufeng, later that day, spotted Su Xiaoyue at a roadside stall. He had previously spoken to Su Xiaoyue's father, who had initially denied knowing her, but then confided that he knew his daughter was not as the public portrayed her. Her mother had passed away early, and he, feeling incapable of much, had called her back only to protect her from suffering outside. He truly loved his daughter.
He Chufeng then used this information to speak with Su Xiaoyue, revealing that her father kept a notebook filled with photos of her since her debut in a drawer at the security booth, and would hum her latest songs when alone, proving he was a true fan. He Chufeng pressed her, asking if she was truly willing to abandon her passion when she had such supportive fans and a loving father.
In the final moments before the Star Moon Girls' performance, Su Xiaoyue, with renewed determination, returned to the stage. Her father arrived just in time to cheer her on, visibly moved by her presence. After the show, Su Xiaoyue delivered a heartfelt speech, thanking everyone for their presence and unwavering support, and her teammates for their tolerance, admitting she wouldn't be there without them.
She apologized for causing worry and declared her resolve to bravely stand up for herself and protect those she loved, using proper means. She proudly displayed a bracelet, a non-expensive gift from her father, symbolizing his hope, and clarified that all gifts from sasaeng fans had been returned by her agent. She promised to strive harder, and become a better version of herself, to be their pride.
Sui Yi, who chose not to attend the concert but was happy knowing Su Xiaoyue was back on stage, soon received a grateful text message from Su Xiaoyue, thanking her and her two friends for helping her regain strength, and inviting them to dinner sometime. Sui Yi was ecstatic at the prospect of dining with her idol. As life continued, He Chufeng pondered on the unpredictable nature of existence.
He believed there was no singular "truth" in life; everyone faced their own unique challenges and strived to overcome them. No one was forewarned of the surprises, pains, accidents, or heartaches ahead. When confronted, one had to exert all their strength to resolve it, move forward, and become stronger and more capable.
Meanwhile, at the police station, officers, including Jia Xiaoguo, were reviewing a video of He Chufeng, marveling at his ability to pick a lock in just 56 seconds, even appearing to slow down deliberately. They wondered about his origins and training, especially if such a skilled individual might use his abilities for illicit purposes. Captain Chen then revealed a shocking fact: He Chufeng was the one who sent his own master to prison.
With the clock ticking, He Chufeng and Luo Bin rushed to the police station, confronting Li Jun. He Chufeng successfully picked the lock of a critical safe box just before Li Jun was to board his flight, leading to his arrest.
Sui Yi, who had rushed to the scene after receiving a call, was reassured by the police that the cameras in her rental apartment had long lost signal and were not transmitting, putting her mind at ease; ultimately, the wrongdoers would be brought to justice. Relieved, He Chufeng and Luo Bin took Sui Yi home for dinner.
Seeing He Chufeng cooking, Sui Yi felt apologetic and offered to take over, but He Chufeng, concerned, meticulously instructed her on the tasks before leaving. He Chufeng soon fell asleep on the sofa, prompting Sui Yi to gently cover him with a blanket. As she reached to remove his glasses, He Chufeng instinctively woke and grabbed her wrist, a tense moment broken by a timer. It was revealed He Chufeng was a hidden culinary master.
Sui Yi then proposed sharing food expenses, a suggestion that also enlightened Luo Bin, who had been eating for free for a year. Sui Yi displayed impressive combat skills, explaining her grandfather taught her self-defense as a child. Sui Yi and Luo Bin, both chatty and outgoing, created a lively atmosphere, even with the usually quiet He Chufeng.
When He Chufeng and Luo Bin started courteously declining to do the dishes, Sui Yi offered to do them herself, only to be stopped by both men exclaiming in unison, "Girls don't wash dishes!" The night his master was taken away remained He Chufeng's never-fading nightmare, and now, that nightmare had returned from prison. In early autumn, Granny Mi announced her plans for a trip to Paris.
Luo Bin informed He Chufeng that he had secured a major appraisal contract with the Qianhe Art Museum. Granny Mi then explained that the museum was originally founded by Meng Qianhe, a renowned collector celebrated for his good reputation and for discovering many contemporary artists. However, after Meng Qianhe's death from an illness, his business was inherited by his spendthrift son, Meng Ziyang, who had run the museum's finances into the ground, forcing them to sell off valuable collections.
Granny Mi then mentioned a peculiar sculpture named "One & Only," created by sculptor Dong Li. Its contents remained a mystery, but a sinister rumor claimed it could allow people to see the deceased, or even drag people away. Luo Bin, intrigued, mused that if it truly allowed one to see the dead, he would be very interested. He Chufeng, too, expressed a desire to witness such a phenomenon.
Luo Bin later met with Director Han at the Qianhe Art Museum to discuss the various collections for sale. He specifically inquired about "One & Only." Director Han grew visibly uneasy, admitting the item was "too weird." He recounted an incident where movers, hired to transport the sculpture for a buyer, suddenly went mad, a problem that remained unresolved.
Director Han further explained that "One & Only" was encased in a strange, unopenable lock that emitted a chilling aura, and its key was long lost. The museum was at its wits' end, worried about damaging the valuable piece. Luo Bin, sensing an opportunity, insisted on seeing it, confident he had someone who could solve their predicament. Luo Bin then brought He Chufeng to the museum.
Curator Meng Ziyang stressed the immense value of "One & Only" as Dong Li's final masterpiece, expressing deep concern that the internal contents might be damaged during the unlocking process. He Chufeng identified the ornate lock as a "magpie lock." Luo Bin and Meng Ziyang discussed the popular, auspicious legend associated with such locks, where they symbolized distant lovers reuniting like the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl over the Magpie Bridge.
However, He Chufeng then elaborated on a lesser-known, darker legend: ancient women would lock themselves with a magpie lock on the Qixi Festival; if the lock failed to open by itself by morning, the woman would fall into despair, eventually dying of grief, leading to a spiritual reunion in the afterlife. Meng Ziyang found this unsettling, lamenting his father's choice to collect such an item.
He Chufeng calmly stated that locks themselves held no good or evil; only humans brought about various misfortunes. As He Chufeng began to work on the lock, he suddenly fell into a trance, experiencing vivid hallucinations where his name was repeatedly called in a misty, disorienting void. Luo Bin quickly snapped him out of it. Meng Ziyang, concerned, asked if He Chufeng could proceed.
He Chufeng declined to open it that day, stating that despite its antique appearance, the lock was a modern replica requiring special preparation. Meng Ziyang insisted it be opened regardless. Luo Bin offered He Chufeng a strong, double-iced Americano to help him regain focus, teasing him about saving his life. Luo Bin then tried to persuade He Chufeng to abandon the job, given the lock's eerie reputation.
However, He Chufeng firmly refused, declaring his intention to open it, hinting at a discovery. Luo Bin handed He Chufeng the cloth he had subtly used to wipe the lock earlier, then left for a blind date. He Chufeng often observed Luo Bin's frequent blind dates. However, Luo Bin, in an internal reflection, clarified that he attended these dates out of filial obligation, not genuine interest, as his mother pressured him.
He recounted past blind dates: one where he, as an appraiser, truthfully informed Miss Liu that her designer bag was fake, advising her to be wary of certain boutiques. Another date, with Miss Huang, ended abruptly when Luo Bin, again being truthful, stated he had never been in a relationship and felt no need to lie, prompting Miss Huang to feel insulted.
Luo Bin, admitting his shyness and difficulty in communication, mused that he had a "cleanliness" for both truth and emotions. He believed in love at first sight, describing himself as a "cracked egg" among many, outwardly similar but intrinsically different. He held a deeply romantic view of love, seeing it as an occasional, patternless, untraceable phenomenon. He imagined that upon meeting the right person, his heart would race, birds would sing in his head, and a hundred butterflies would flutter in his stomach.
Episode 6 Recap
Sui Yi checked He Chufeng’s WeChat Moments, but his feed contained no posts. After work, she found herself without a key to their apartment and waited outside until He Chufeng arrived home. That evening, he thoughtfully provided her with a new house key. Meanwhile, Luo Bin met a female childhood friend, a beauty blogger, at a popular instagrammable restaurant. She expressed a desire for them to be a couple, noting their mothers' close relationship.
However, Luo Bin gently declined, stating that if they were meant to be together, it would have happened in childhood. His friend remarked that he didn't have a family to support, to which Luo Bin replied that he had himself to support. During their meal, Luo Bin’s friend noticed a man staring at them. This man was Wang Wenxin, an exhibition commentator whom Luo Bin had encountered earlier that morning.
Wang Wenxin approached Luo Bin with an unusual request: he wanted Luo Bin to appraise his fiancée, believing she was an alien. Luo Bin, who typically appraised only objects, was surprised by this peculiar demand. The next morning, Luo Bin was awakened by He Chufeng knocking on his door, informing him that Wang Wenxin was downstairs. Wang Wenxin persistently insisted on the appraisal.
He explained that he and his fiancée, Olive, were about to marry, and he desperately needed to understand who she truly was and if she loved him before they committed to a lifetime together. Luo Bin, recalling his own mother's words about marrying for her son's sake despite lacking affection for her husband, sympathized with Wang Wenxin’s plea and reluctantly agreed to take the case with his partner, He Chufeng.
Wang Wenxin recounted meeting Olive three years prior at an Interstellar Team discussion event. She was quietly sipping an iced Americano, just like him, by the window. Despite his usually reserved nature, he found the courage to speak about his belief in parallel worlds and how people might suddenly disappear into them, eventually returning. Olive approached him, resonating with his ideas. She declared them "the same kind," sharing interests like black coffee, high-collar sweaters, and aliens.
He felt she offered him unconditional time, encouragement, trust, and support, giving his existence meaning. However, after their engagement, Olive changed dramatically: she stopped discussing parallel worlds, no longer drank coffee, ceased wearing high-collar sweaters, and began buying clothes she previously disliked. Wang Wenxin believed she was no longer the woman he knew and must be an alien. Luo Bin and He Chufeng then visited Wang Wenxin’s home.
Wang Wenxin demonstrated his meticulous attention to quality of life, revealing he handled all household chores and cooking, even preparing Olive's lunch in a thermos for her job at an art store near a primary school. He Chufeng observed that Wang Wenxin seemed to dote on Olive. The couple slept in separate rooms, with Olive's room being locked. Upon leaving, Wang Wenxin seemed hesitant to reveal Olive's real name, promising to send it later.
He Chufeng then told Luo Bin that the results of the check he requested were ready and asked him to come see them, but then left, stating he had to go. Luo Bin, left to track Olive alone, was frustrated and asked what he was supposed to do. Luo Bin followed Olive to a restaurant. She quickly noticed him, confronting him about why he was trailing her since the third-floor elevator.
Caught off guard, Luo Bin frantically messaged He Chufeng and Sui Yi for help, claiming his friends were just running late. He Chufeng and Sui Yi arrived, quickly fabricating a story where they pretended to be a couple having an argument, with Luo Bin as a friend who had been stood up for a blind date.
A child in the restaurant called Sui Yi "Madam" but He Chufeng "Brother," prompting He Chufeng to quip that children often speak the truth, much to Sui Yi's annoyance.
During a restroom break for Sui Yi to clean her dress, Luo Bin and He Chufeng discussed their assessment that Olive seemed to have medical training and exhibited severe mysophobia, like wiping her hands with wet tissues after trying on clothes, avoiding germ-prone surfaces, using a medical grip on her steak knife, and having clean, unadorned nails, even tying her belt with a surgical knot.
They noted this was curious as Wang Wenxin had never mentioned her working in the medical field. Sui Yi, confused about the situation but playing along, later shared her observations from the restroom: she had seen Olive change out of her "good-looking clothes," remove her lipstick, and wash her hands using a meticulous seven-step method. That evening, Olive returned home, appearing distant and cold towards Wang Wenxin when he offered her dinner.
Later, as Luo Bin meticulously attempted to parallel park, taking an unusually long time to achieve perfect alignment, He Chufeng and Sui Yi walked away. Sui Yi asked if Luo Bin had always been so particular. He Chufeng confirmed it, recalling their first day of high school when Luo Bin's precise bicycle parking blocked his way, causing them both to be late and subsequently punished. This shared experience marked the beginning of their friendship.
He also mentioned that his younger sister, He Chunian, used to pick him up after school. Sui Yi then pressed He Chufeng with several questions, inquiring about when he learned lock-picking, when he moved to Chaonuan, and, crucially, the whereabouts of his sister. He Chufeng's demeanor instantly shifted, and he curtly told Sui Yi that her questions were annoying and she should not pry into his private affairs. Luo Bin later received an astonishing 12.
5GB of data from Wang Wenxin, all just for Olive's real name. He discovered her birth name was Li Yun, a very common name, with no fewer than five people named Li Yun in their community. Luo Bin wondered why someone named Li Yun would choose an English name like Olive, speculating if she perhaps harbored affection for Popeye.
He Chufeng then revealed the results of the analysis on the lock he had handled at the art museum, confirming it contained psilocybin, a hallucinogen found in mushrooms that causes sensory distortions and spatial disorientation. This explained his earlier hallucination. Reflecting on He Chufeng's sudden mood swings, Sui Yi found him unpredictable.
Meanwhile, at the office, a colleague suggested Sui Yi might have feelings for He Chufeng or Luo Bin, given her sneezing whenever she was around them, interpreting it as a "signal" from destiny. Sui Yi, however, dismissed it as a simple allergy or cold.
Later, Luo Bin told Sui Yi that despite being frequently sent on blind dates by his mother, he has never been in love, believing in love at first sight and refusing to pursue relationships where initial feelings are absent. He confessed that he does it to keep his mother happy. He Chufeng contacted Meng Ziyang, the curator, expressing his desire to purchase the "magpie lock."
Meng Ziyang indicated he would set a high price for the lock, cautioning He Chufeng not to be surprised, as it held sentimental value as a family heirloom despite being a modern imitation.
Episode 7 Recap
He Chufeng wanted to acquire the magpie lock and offered to waive his unlocking fee. Meng Ziyang, the curator, contemplated setting a high price for the lock. However, his assistant, Old Han, urged him to sell it quickly due to its "weird" nature, suggesting a reasonable price for mutual benefit, as the valuable item was the collectible inside. Meng Ziyang reluctantly agreed to let his assistant handle the pricing.
Meng Ziyang then informed He Chufeng and Luo Bin that the buyer, Mr. Jin, was a prominent collector who intended to purchase several artworks from the Qianhe Art Museum, including "One & Only," necessitating extreme caution to finalize the lucrative deal. Sui Yi arrived at the museum alongside Ms. Su, Mr. Jin's agent, which surprised He Chufeng and Luo Bin. Ms. Su introduced herself as a lawyer.
When Sui Yi attempted to record the unlocking process for their absent client, Luo Bin stopped her, explaining the highly confidential nature of lock-picking techniques. Sui Yi and Ms. Su understood, agreeing to take notes after the lock was opened. He Chufeng successfully opened the lock. As Meng Ziyang prepared to access "One & Only" with his staff, Ji Xiuyi, the art director, abruptly intervened.
Ji Xiuyi declared that Meng Ziyang lacked the authority to sell "One & Only," clarifying that it was a work by artist Dong Li, entrusted to the Qianhe Art Museum for safekeeping for his lover. Meng Ziyang, asserting his position as curator and Meng Qianhe's son and sole heir, challenged Ji Xiuyi's claim. Ji Xiuyi maintained that the artwork belonged neither to the museum nor to Meng Qianhe, and therefore not to Meng Ziyang, but to Dong Li's lover.
When pressed for the lover's identity and the custody agreement, Ji Xiuyi explained the agreement was likely lost during Meng Qianhe's rushed funeral three years prior, while Ji Xiuyi was abroad. Nevertheless, he insisted on upholding their commitment. Ji Xiuyi then apologized to Ms. Su, stating the artwork could not be sold.
Ms. Su countered by pointing out that a contract for three artworks had already been signed and the initial payment made, making the museum's withdrawal a breach of contract. She expressed hope that the museum would not make things difficult for her client, though she acknowledged that Mr. Jin would not buy an artwork with disputed ownership. She promised to convey Ji Xiuyi's apology to Mr. Jin.
As Ms. Su and Sui Yi prepared to leave, Meng Ziyang attempted to persuade them to stay, offering double Mr. Jin's commission, but Ms. Su politely declined, citing professional ethics. Disregarding everyone, Meng Ziyang proceeded to open "One & Only," revealing a fish bone inside. He Chufeng and Luo Bin were perplexed by the fish bone. Luo Bin, who had initially guessed the artwork might contain Dong Li himself, noted the artist's signature dark style.
He and He Chufeng questioned why hallucinogenic drugs were present on the fish bone and who placed them there. He Chufeng speculated that if Dong Li himself applied the drugs, it was to deter others from opening it, but if someone else did, it signaled a deeper problem. Luo Bin wondered if they should continue their involvement, to which He Chufeng responded that the lock concealed a "huge abyss" that needed to be uncovered.
When Luo Bin asked why He Chufeng was so insistent on buying the lock, He Chufeng simply affirmed his desire. Ms. Su and Sui Yi stayed behind to discuss the situation with Meng Ziyang. Meng Ziyang tried to convince them to proceed, arguing that despite Ji Xiuyi's official title, Meng Ziyang effectively ran the museum because Ji Xiuyi was rarely in China.
He dismissed the existence of Dong Li's lover, reasoning that if she cared, she would have appeared in three years, and claimed no legitimate custody agreement had ever been seen. Ms. Su reiterated that they needed to consult Mr. Jin before proceeding and then departed with Sui Yi.
Meng Ziyang and Ji Xiuyi then engaged in a heated argument, with Meng Ziyang asserting his control over the museum and his father's estate, while Ji Xiuyi countered that Meng Ziyang could not erase Ji Xiuyi's relationship with Meng Qianhe, and that Ji Xiuyi's name was also connected to the Qianhe Art Museum. Separately, He Chufeng's master visited a phone store.
Unable to find a charger for his old phone, he purchased a new 5G model to transfer his data and intended to call He Chufeng. In a phone conversation, Ms. Su informed Sui Yi of Mr. Jin's unwavering desire to purchase "One & Only" despite the complications. Sui Yi volunteered to search for Dong Li's lover, believing the Qianhe Art Museum, which had often auctioned Dong Li's works, would be a good starting point.
Ms. Su, while appreciating Sui Yi's ambition, cautioned her against taking on unnecessary problems, warning that if things went awry, even if not her fault, the blame could fall on her. Sui Yi, though understanding, remained resolute. Later, Ms. Su mentioned Sui Yi in a phone conversation, noting her ambition and remarking that everyone faces struggles in life. Later, Mi Popo shared some rumors with He Chufeng and Luo Bin.
She mentioned that Ji Xiuyi was rumored to be Meng Qianhe's illegitimate son and that he was allegedly connected to the death of Meng Ziyang's mother. Mi Popo, a former semi-figure in the collecting world, revealed she knew these details from her time in the industry. Meanwhile, Luo Bin learned that Lee Wen had discovered his personal information. At home, He Chufeng had left soup for Sui Yi.
She happily consumed it and sent a photo to her mother, Ms. Wu. Ms. Wu, recognizing the non-homemade meal, immediately realized Sui Yi had moved and, concerned about her financial well-being, sent her some money. Sui Yi thanked He Chufeng for the soup and then sought his advice on a professional dilemma: whether to pursue a challenging task despite uncertain and potentially negative consequences.
He Chufeng advised her that if she believed it was worthwhile, she should proceed, as no one could dictate her choices. Sui Yi then confronted He Chufeng about his unpredictable moods, expressing her belief that he was a good person due to his kindness (leaving soup and keys, offering help) and her desire for friendship. He Chufeng, however, abruptly moved closer, gripped her hands, and quietly warned her not to let her guard down on any man easily.
Wang Wenxin, still distressed about his fiancée, Lee Wen, met Luo Bin. Luo Bin informed him that Lee Wen was a perfectly normal individual. However, Wang Wenxin refused to believe it, expressing his anguish that Lee Wen, who once loved him deeply, now remained silent for days even when they were in the same room, making her seem like a stranger. Luo Bin, feeling sympathetic, agreed to continue helping Wang Wenxin.
He Chufeng received a call from Officer Chen, who reported no new information on He Chufeng's master, suggesting the master did not wish to be found. Later that night, He Chufeng's master took a taxi, instructing the driver to circle the riverside before checking into a hotel suite, his hands visibly trembling as he held a drink. Sui Yi, determined to find answers, met with Ji Xiuyi to inquire about Dong Li's lover.
Ji Xiuyi explained he had only seen Dong Li's artworks, never met the artist in person due to Dong Li's reclusive nature, and that Dong Li had only met with Meng Qianhe privately. He admired Dong Li as a true artist for his passionate exploration of space and time, which Meng Qianhe fully supported. However, Ji Xiuyi had no further information regarding Dong Li's real name, burial place, or family.
Disappointed, Sui Yi was about to leave when Wang Qian, a colleague, approached her. Wang Qian expressed admiration for Sui Yi and Ms. Su, and gratitude for her involvement in the Qianhe Art Museum's young talent program. Sui Yi mentioned a "sudden accident" in her current work. Wang Qian then recalled details about Dong Li, remembering him as an alumnus of a project at the Qianhe Art Museum.
Later, Sui Yi found herself frequently sneezing and worried she might be falling ill. Despite confirming her good health and normal temperature, she wondered if her new living arrangements were causing it or if she had an unknown allergy, considering a hospital check-up.
Episode 8 Recap
He Chufeng approached Director Ji Xiuyi at the Qianhe Art Museum, expressing his desire to purchase the magpie lock. Ji Xiuyi stated that the lock, along with the artwork "One & Only," belonged to Dong Li's lover, not the museum. He noted that Meng Ziyang, however, claimed the lock belonged to the museum, suggesting a discrepancy in knowledge. Ji Xiuyi admitted he was merely a nominal director with limited information.
He Chufeng questioned the circumstances surrounding the deaths of both Dong Li and Curator Meng Qianhe, and the true nature of "One & Only." He pointed out that the box for "One & Only" clearly didn't fit the fish bone found inside, wondering what the box was truly meant to contain. Ji Xiuyi initially deflected, asking why a locksmith like He Chufeng was so concerned. He Chufeng then revealed that the magpie lock was coated with psilocybin, a hallucinogen.
He recalled the museum's old slogan, "Qianhe Art, the genuine fantasy," and boldly suggested that Curator Meng Qianhe might have intended to put Dong Li's actual body in the box. Ji Xiuyi quickly denied any wrongdoing by the curator, asserting that the box contained only sculptures. He Chufeng reiterated his request to know the lock's origin and to purchase it. Ji Xiuyi then divulged what he knew.
He recounted a past conversation where Dong Li, whose real name was Li Zhe, had proposed a shocking idea to Meng Qianhe: after his death, he wanted his body preserved and given to his lover, Li Yun. Meng Qianhe, surprised by this "shocking idea," did not agree, advising Li Zhe to see a doctor for his condition.
Li Zhe, who believed he only had a month left and was nearing completion of his final work, offered half his money for the arrangement, but Meng Qianhe declined any illicit earnings and insisted Li Zhe focus on his health. Ji Xiuyi further recalled an incident where he drove a sickly Li Zhe home.
During the drive, Li Zhe appeared unwell and dismissed Ji Xiuyi's concern about seeing a doctor, stating his condition was an "old problem that can't be cured." When Ji Xiuyi dropped him off, he noticed Li Zhe heading towards a medical university. This raised a crucial question for Ji Xiuyi: why would Li Zhe go to a medical university, especially since Wang Wenxin's fiancée, Li Yun, was also a medical student? He wondered if there was a connection between them.
Sui Yi received some materials about Dong Li that Wang Qian had found. She then sought out Professor Liu Zhengzheng from the Fine Arts Academy. Liu Zhengzheng harbored deep resentment towards the late Meng Qianhe. He accused Meng Qianhe of using the "young talent project" as a trap, fraudulently acquiring artists' works, and then aggressively hyping them.
Liu Zhengzheng recounted how Meng Qianhe orchestrated a plagiarism scandal against him by commissioning a similar painting, tarnishing Liu Zhengzheng's reputation with accusations of plagiarism that were, in fact, untrue. When Sui Yi asked about Dong Li, Liu Zhengzheng confirmed he knew the famous artist, acknowledging Dong Li was far more renowned than himself, despite being a dropout.
Liu Zhengzheng revealed that Dong Li's real name was Li Zhe and that he was two years his junior at the Fine Arts Academy. Liu Zhengzheng was shocked to learn from Sui Yi that Li Zhe had passed away two years prior. Sui Yi then cautiously inquired if Liu Zhengzheng knew Li Zhe's lover.
Liu Zhengzheng recalled that during their college days, Li Zhe had a girlfriend from a neighboring medical university who was an excellent student, possibly studying surgery, and was planning to intern at a hospital. Luo Bin initially dismissed the idea of a connection between Li Zhe (Dong Li) and Li Yun as far-fetched, based solely on their shared surname and Li Yun's additional name, Olive.
However, He Chufeng presented a compelling case: Wang Wenxin worked at Qianhe Art Museum and met Li Yun there; coincidentally, Li Zhe was also an artist at the museum. He Chufeng argued that these seemingly improbable connections, including Li Zhe's link to a medical university and Li Yun's medical background, pointed to an inevitable truth that needed to be proven. He emphasized that names were merely labels, and their focus should be on the person connecting to the world.
Luo Bin pondered their potential relationship—siblings, friends, or lovers—and whether Li Yun's demeanor had changed due to these events. Meanwhile, Sui Yi found a significant clue in a college photo that depicted Li Zhe. At the same time, He Chufeng made a similar discovery, confirming their need to confront Li Yun. Luo Bin went to meet Li Yun at the flower shop where she worked, and he posed a series of pointed questions.
He began by asking if constantly switching between identities might lead to losing oneself, subtly hinting at her dual names. Li Yun, sensing she was being followed, accused Luo Bin of tracking her on behalf of Wang Wenxin, asserting that Wang Wenxin had no secrets from her. Luo Bin acknowledged his presence was due to Wang Wenxin's inability to directly address their relationship issues.
He then directly questioned Li Yun: "Why would a top graduate from a medical university become a shop assistant in this flower shop? And, Miss Li Yun, is Li Zhe your lover?" While He Chufeng and Sui Yi continued their search for Dong Li's lover, they met with a Clinical Medicine professor. He Chufeng showed the professor a photo of Li Yun, who the professor recognized instantly.
The professor recalled Li Yun as the top student in their eight-year clinical medicine program. Although the professor wanted Li Yun for scientific research, Li Yun chose to follow Professor Jiang into clinical practice. During her sixth academic year, Li Yun and Professor Jiang were involved in a tragic car accident that killed Professor Jiang. Li Yun, deeply affected, dropped out of university for a period and was not seen again by the professor.
It was later revealed that Professor Jiang had been financially supporting Li Yun, who was an orphan raised in an orphanage. After their meeting, Sui Yi offered to pay for the meal, but He Chufeng discreetly settled the bill first. The restaurant owner told Sui Yi that He Chufeng always pays when they're together and welcomed Sui Yi, a new tenant of Granny Mi, to frequent her establishment.
Luo Bin tried to recount Sui Yi's rough first encounter with them, but Sui Yi quickly interrupted, not wanting the embarrassing story of her "knocking them down" to be widely known. That night, Wang Wenxin found Li Yun awake and tried to offer her money, food, and rest, expressing his concern for her well-being. He pressed her about their impending marriage, asking if she had anything to discuss, but Li Yun remained silent.
Wang Wenxin, unable to get a response, suggested they go to bed. Luo Bin contacted He Chufeng and Sui Yi, arranging to meet them at their usual spot. He Chufeng emphasized that their immediate goal was to get Li Yun to admit she was Dong Li's lover, as this was the only way for the Qianhe Art Museum to release "One & Only." Luo Bin, however, worried about the subsequent challenges even if she admitted it.
He Chufeng stated that completing this first step was crucial to eventually help Wang Wenxin and provide Mr. Jin with an answer. He announced his intention to visit the orphanage the next day. Sui Yi, eager to help, offered to join them, asking them to wake her up as she was often busy.
After a playful debate about their departure time, they settled on 9:30 AM, with Sui Yi asserting her legal experience by saying she had already been in court and was preparing for another case soon. The next morning, He Chufeng and Sui Yi arrived promptly at Luo Bin's apartment. While waiting for him to wake up, they engaged in some morning exercises.
A groggy Luo Bin eventually emerged, lamenting that they hadn't woken him and complaining about having no time to style his hair. He surprised them by revealing he had a driver's license and offered to drive to the orphanage, with He Chufeng driving back. During the car ride, Luo Bin continued to talk, and Sui Yi felt a pang of sympathy for He Chufeng, who usually spoke so little.
Luo Bin, appreciating the beautiful weather, suggested they take a group photo. At the orphanage, they met the director, who provided more details about Li Yun. She was abandoned at birth, spent time in a local asylum, and was then adopted by a couple unable to conceive. Though her early years with her foster parents were good, they later abandoned her when the foster mother unexpectedly became pregnant. Fortunately, Li Yun found a friend at the orphanage: Li Zhe.
The director also revealed that Li Zhe had been abandoned due to a heart condition. Li Yun, despite finding her passion after meeting Professor Jiang and being sponsored by her, had abandoned her aspirations after Professor Jiang's sudden death in the car accident. He Chufeng and Sui Yi lamented her decision, understanding that sometimes people choose to escape when tragedy strikes.
They discussed the nature of pain and the need to face it, acknowledging that while it takes time, one shouldn't have to endure it alone, and often, people simply haven't found someone to share their burdens yet. Granny Mi returned home and was joined by Aunt Liu, who immediately started chatting about the young men in the house. Aunt Liu initially expressed concern about He Chufeng, a locksmith, given the valuable items in Granny Mi's antique shop.
Granny Mi quickly defended He Chufeng as a righteous and decent man, warning Aunt Liu against gossiping. Aunt Liu then admitted she liked He Chufeng and had even considered him for her daughter, wondering if He Chufeng and Luo Bin were a couple. When He Chufeng, Luo Bin, and Sui Yi arrived, Granny Mi and Aunt Liu greeted them warmly.
Aunt Liu, upon meeting Sui Yi, immediately inquired about her name, profession as a law intern, age, zodiac, and relationship status. Granny Mi intervened, noting Aunt Liu was overwhelming Sui Yi. Aunt Liu then enthusiastically offered to set Sui Yi up with a suitable young man, pointing out the two "handsome boys" in the house and directly asking Sui Yi whom she liked between He Chufeng and Luo Bin.
Luo Bin quickly clarified that he and Sui Yi were just friends, and Sui Yi echoed that she didn't have romantic feelings for Luo Bin. Aunt Liu then suggested that He Chufeng and Sui Yi would make a good match, a sentiment Granny Mi seemed to agree with. Looking displeased, He Chufeng quietly walked upstairs. After He Chufeng went upstairs, Luo Bin playfully teased Sui Yi about whom she might like, referencing a joke about sneezing indicating affection.
He suggested she observe if she sneezed around He Chufeng or Luo Bin, or if either of them caught a cold, as a sign of mutual feelings. Later, Luo Bin joked that Sui Yi must have "hurt her brain" and suggested He Chufeng prepare chicken soup or steamed bass to help her recover, even playfully suggesting He Chufeng learn Northeastern Chinese cuisine.
When He Chufeng offered to "build up his health" too, Luo Bin quickly declined, saying it was only for Sui Yi. Later that night, He Chufeng's master stood outside the antique shop, gazing silently, as if pondering if this was truly what He Chufeng desired.
Episode 9 Recap
Wang Wenxin frantically reported to the police that his fiancée, Li Yun, was missing. Officer Jia, seeing Wang Wenxin dressed in an astronomical suit, tried to calm him, explaining that Li Yun had left a message and that since they weren't married, it wasn't a criminal case. However, Wang Wenxin insisted, asking the police to use big data to find her. He Chufeng and Sui Yi arrived and took over comforting Wang Wenxin.
He Chufeng questioned Wang Wenxin about his communication with Li Yun. Wang Wenxin recounted telling Li Yun things like, "You bought so many things. Dinner is ready. You must be hungry today. I made all your favorite dishes today." He also mentioned reminding her to eat more vegetables for her skin and setting a wedding photo appointment.
He Chufeng pointed out that this wasn't true communication, but rather Wang Wenxin unilaterally sending messages, to which Li Yun only replied without ever proactively initiating a conversation. He Chufeng also noted that Wang Wenxin never inquired about Li Yun's past, assuming she would tell him if she wished. He Chufeng then revealed insights into Li Yun's past, explaining that she was once a beautiful and excellent medical student.
However, after witnessing her benefactor, Professor Jiang, die in a car accident, Li Yun left medical school and started working in an art store, adopting a plainer appearance. Wang Wenxin believed he and Li Yun shared a spiritual connection, particularly in their discussions about parallel worlds. Yet, He Chufeng observed that this wasn't Li Yun's complete self. He noted her recent changes—dressing up and wearing dresses—as her attempt to reclaim her former self.
He Chufeng acknowledged that Wang Wenxin did influence her, but suggested there might be another door in her heart that remained unopened. Wang Wenxin expressed his deep love for Li Yun, whom he called "Olive," and his despair over her disappearance. He reminisced about their happy times and his efforts to make her happy, feeling he had failed.
Luo Bin offered a comforting metaphor about starlight traveling for light-years, suggesting that even if contact is lost, the love shared is not meaningless. After Wang Wenxin eventually fell asleep in the police station, He Chufeng and Sui Yi decided to continue their investigation. Luo Bin also set off to assist. He Chufeng and Sui Yi first went to the orphanage, speculating Li Yun might be there since Professor Jiang was headed there when his accident occurred.
As He Chufeng and Sui Yi drove, Sui Yi asked about He Chufeng's parents, but he remained silent, suggesting a painful memory. When their phone lost signal, they decided to check another location, and eventually found Li Yun at the site of a photograph taken with Professor Jiang, which was his grave.
Sui Yi approached Li Yun, introducing herself as a lawyer and explaining that an artist named Li Zhe (also known as Dong Li) had left an artwork for her. Li Yun reacted coldly, stating she didn't know Dong Li and dismissed the matter as past. She insisted she had moved on and accused them of disturbing her life. However, He Chufeng challenged her, saying, "Time has passed, but you didn't let it go."
Li Yun then emotionally recounted the trauma of witnessing Professor Jiang's death, highlighting her helplessness as a medical student. He Chufeng, in turn, revealed his own painful memory of seeing his mother die in a fire when he was a child, and urged Li Yun to go see the artwork before making a final decision. Later, as Sui Yi remained quiet during their drive back, Li Yun recalled a vivid memory of her past with Li Zhe.
She had fallen while they were riding a bicycle, leaving a fishbone-shaped scar on her arm. Feeling disfigured, Li Zhe comforted her by drawing a similar fishbone on his own arm, proudly declaring himself a "born artist." Back at the art museum, Sui Yi spoke with Mr. Su, confirming she had found "Dong Li's lover" but was unsure if she would attend. Mr. Su encouraged her to proceed as planned, regardless of the outcome.
Meanwhile, Meng Ziyang and Ji Xiuyi were arguing, while He Chufeng, Luo Bin, and Sui Yi waited anxiously for Li Yun. Luo Bin shared his distress from the previous day, recounting how Wang Wenxin had broken down and cried like a child after learning he was the "latercomer" in Li Yun's "love triangle" involving Li Zhe. As time ticked by, everyone grew nervous, but Li Yun eventually arrived, appearing more composed and ready to face the past.
Ji Xiuyi then presented Dong Li's will and diary to Li Yun, causing Meng Qianhe to become enraged and storm out. Li Yun began reading the diary, which revealed the truth about Li Zhe, who had renamed himself Dong Li because of his congenital heart disease, metaphorically living only in winter.
He wrote about his heart failure and the difficult decision to break up with Li Yun, making her believe he abandoned her to spare her the pain of his impending death. Li Zhe expressed his gratitude for her presence in his short life, recounting how she made him feel special despite his condition. He wished Li Yun a better life, urging her to be strong, embrace her own life, and to see the spring sun he would never witness.
He emphasized the importance of staying true to herself, not changing for anyone, and never giving up. Overcome with emotion, Li Yun cried profusely. Sui Yi then confirmed that the will was legally binding, designating Li Yun as the sole inheritor of Li Zhe's legacy, including the artwork. Li Yun, finally at peace, agreed to sell the art piece to Mr. Jin.
As they awaited Wang Wenxin, Luo Bin observed Sui Yi and He Chufeng, noting that Sui Yi hadn't made eye contact with He Chufeng. He teased He Chufeng, asking if he had done something to displease her and if he had feelings for Sui Yi. Separately, He Chufeng discovered he was allergic to cat hair from Bean Bun, but the symptoms were mild.
Sui Yi suggested he get some medicine, and He Chufeng agreed, reflecting that he had experienced similar allergies in the past, and resolved to continue caring for his cat, Bean Bun.
Episode 10 Recap
Luo Bin directly asked He Chufeng if he was interested in women like Sui Yi. He Chufeng remained silent, so Luo Bin encouraged him to pursue true love, advising him to open his eyes because the person he liked might like him back. He Chufeng replied enigmatically that he was just a fox taming Luo Bin. Meanwhile, Wang Wenxin arrived in a hurry. Li Yun apologized to him, admitting that she had used him during her most sorrowful period.
She explained that when they first met, she was at her lowest, having broken up with a serious boyfriend and then enduring the death of her teacher, Professor Jiang, in a car accident on the way to an orphanage. It was Wang Wenxin who comforted her by telling her about parallel worlds, and she selfishly leaned on him through her most difficult time.
Wang Wenxin asked if she had ever liked him, to which Li Yun replied that it no longer mattered. She praised him as a very good and simple person who deserved a better life. She encouraged Wang Wenxin to be himself, not to care about others' opinions. She thanked He Chufeng and Luo Bin for helping her take this step to start over.
She declared that her past identities, Li Yun and Olive, were behind her, and she now wanted to find her future self. She also hoped that Wang Wenxin and He Chufeng could both move forward and let go of their pasts. Wang Wenxin did not immediately chase after Li Yun, believing he had no chance because she didn't love him.
He held up a key, stating it was for her apartment door, a door he felt she always kept him locked out of due to deep misunderstandings. He Chufeng told Wang Wenxin that the door was never truly locked; it was Wang Wenxin himself who had kept himself outside. Realizing this, Wang Wenxin found his courage and ran after Li Yun.
He caught up to her and asked if she would accompany him to an aerospace exhibition the next day, stating his desire to truly understand her. Li Yun smiled and readily agreed. Later, Sui Yi's boss, Mr. Su, praised her competence, noting Mr. Jin, the client from the Qianhe Art Museum, expressed his satisfaction with the successful acquisition of the artwork. This made Sui Yi very happy.
As a token of gratitude, Mr. Jin gave He Chufeng a magpie lock from the art gallery. He Chufeng learned that the curator had bought it years ago from a powerful locksmith but didn't know the locksmith's name. Holding the lock, He Chufeng felt he had completed another task assigned by his master. He then found his master’s current address, noting that his master still lived in the same place and looked much the same, though his hair was longer.
A flashback to ten years earlier showed He Chufeng at Gu's Lock Shop, learning from his master. He Chufeng once told his master he had opened a lock in five minutes, though it could have been done in three, because he worried the client would think it was too easy. His master advised him that a locksmith's value should not be judged by others.
Sui Yi had been reflecting on He Chufeng's earlier confession to Li Yun, where he revealed he had witnessed his mother's death. She had been avoiding He Chufeng due to guilt, as she had previously, and thoughtlessly, asked him about his parents. When He Chufeng encountered her while grocery shopping and sensed her unusual behavior, he asked if she pitied him, assuring her it was unnecessary. Sui Yi clarified that she didn't pity him but felt deep guilt.
She explained that she could only imagine the pain he felt when recounting his mother's death and her own inability to respond appropriately at the time made her feel remorseful. He Chufeng reassured her that his past and his sadness were his own, unconnected to her, and she bore no responsibility or need for apology. He didn't want it to become a burden between them.
He then stated that friendship didn't need to be forced, and Sui Yi, relieved, eagerly affirmed that she still wanted to be friends, grabbing his arm. As they walked, a child suddenly darted between them. Back at their apartment, He Chufeng discovered that his new magpie lock was missing. Luo Bin and Sui Yi were worried. He Chufeng remained calm, observing that the child who bumped into them earlier had been too composed.
Sui Yi suggested the person had no ill intentions, and He Chufeng stated that the person would appear on their own. The next morning, Sui Yi, still half-asleep, mistakenly walked into the bathroom where He Chufeng was showering. Startled by the sight of him, she ran out in a panic. At breakfast, He Chufeng, observing Luo Bin and Sui Yi chatting happily, became silently jealous and even threw away his bread.
Throughout the day, Sui Yi couldn't stop hiccupping, seemingly due to the shock from He Chufeng's "tempting" scene. Luo Bin, noticing her persistent hiccups, suggested various remedies, from drinking water to holding her breath and pressing acupressure points, but nothing worked. He jokingly asked if she had seen anything "stimulating," which made Sui Yi recall the "tempting" sight of He Chufeng from the morning, and she tried to suppress a smile while denying it.
Luo Bin then suggested that Sui Yi let him startle her or even hit her to stop the hiccups, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. Sui Yi, desperate, even tried putting her head in the refrigerator. Just then, He Chufeng appeared, stared intently at her for a few seconds, and her hiccups immediately stopped. The intense eye contact left Sui Yi with a lingering impression.
Later, as Sui Yi and Luo Bin were taking out the trash, Sui Yi spotted the child who had bumped into them earlier, recognizing him as the one who likely stole He Chufeng's magpie lock. She immediately chased after the child, with a bewildered Luo Bin following close behind. Their pursuit led them to the police station again, where they realized they had left He Chufeng at home.
After He Chufeng arrived, the girl insisted on seeing him, asking why he had only now come to meet her, prompting Luo Bin and Sui Yi to jokingly wonder if she was his illegitimate child. Previously, this same girl had approached He Chufeng, wanting him to teach her locksmithing, but he had refused.
Episode 11 Recap
Sui Yi and Luo Bin found the young girl who stole He Chufeng's magpie lock while taking out the trash and brought her to the police station, realizing they had left He Chufeng at home. The girl, Liu Xingyu, remained remarkably calm, asking why He Chufeng still hadn't appeared. When He Chufeng arrived, Luo Bin and Sui Yi immediately suspected Liu Xingyu might be He Chufeng's illegitimate child, given their similar appearance and her insistence on seeing him.
Luo Bin joked, "Is he your illegitimate son? An illegitimate son? He looks like 12 years old. Did you have a love trauma before meeting me?" He Chufeng quickly dismissed these remarks as nonsense. Liu Xingyu questioned why it took him so long to see her. Soon after, Liu Xingyu's uncle arrived, immediately attempting to physically chastise her. He also pulled off her baseball cap, revealing that Liu Xingyu was a girl who had been dressing like a boy.
He Chufeng intervened, blocking the uncle and reminding everyone they were in a police station. The uncle angrily called Liu Xingyu a "money loser" like her mother, to which Liu Xingyu retorted that he had no right to mention her mother. The uncle revealed that Liu Xingyu's mother suffered from cerebral thrombosis two years prior, resulting in hemiplegia, and could no longer work. He and his wife were now her guardians.
A police officer suggested that since both parties were present, they should negotiate compensation for the stolen lock. Liu Xingyu, however, claimed the lock wasn't expensive and that she only "took" it to get He Chufeng's attention because he had been ignoring her. He Chufeng then picked up her hat and told her that if she wanted to learn locksmithing, she had already made a fundamental mistake. When Liu Xingyu asked why, He Chufeng simply turned to leave.
She persisted, asking if he wouldn't teach her because she was a girl. He Chufeng then gave her three questions to ponder: "First, you need to think carefully why you want to learn how to pick locks. Second, you still don't know what you did wrong. Lastly, whether I accept you or not has nothing to do with your gender." He advised her to go home and think about these.
In response, Liu Xingyu defiantly cursed him, wishing he would have no customers for three months. Luo Bin noted Liu Xingyu's "tough" personality. Back home, Luo Bin was still curious about the girl's relationship with He Chufeng, to which Sui Yi mentioned He Chufeng doesn't share everything with him despite being best friends. The next morning, Liu Xingyu was already at the antique shop door, calling out for He Chufeng.
Luo Bin intercepted her, telling Sui Yi to go to work while he handled it. Sui Yi later discussed the situation with Chen Xiaoyuan, learning that the girl's name was indeed Liu Xingyu. Chen Xiaoyuan explained that Liu Xingyu's parents were divorced, and she lived with her mother, uncle, and aunt. Her mother's partial paralysis prevented her from working, leaving them to rely on basic living allowances.
Liu Xingyu had stopped going to school after middle school and was looking for work in the community despite being a minor. Liu Xingyu insisted on learning locksmithing from He Chufeng, refusing to acknowledge any wrongdoing regarding the stolen lock. He Chufeng reiterated his disappointment and sent her back to contemplate the three questions he had posed earlier. This interaction reminded He Chufeng of a moment in 2011 when he first began learning locksmithing from his master.
His master had asked him why he wanted to open locks. He remembered his master's reply: "Because the moment I pick it, it feels good." His master then invited him to try, and it took He Chufeng twenty minutes to open his first lock, an experience that ignited his passion for the craft.
Meanwhile, Mr. Su, a lawyer, presented Sui Yi with a gift from Mr. Jin, a client who wished to thank her for her hard work on a case. Sui Yi was initially unconcerned, believing it was not valuable after taking a photo and showing it to Luo Bin. However, Luo Bin later identified the fan pendant as valuable agarwood, specifically top-tier Qi'nan agarwood from Nha Trang, Vietnam, known for its deep aroma, smooth texture, and rarity.
Including the accompanying top-quality shredded fan bag, he estimated its value to be at least 160,000 yuan. Shocked by its cost, Sui Yi worried it was inappropriate to accept such an expensive gift, wondering if the gifts for her and her boss had been swapped. He Chufeng, who had been observing them discussing the gift with a hint of jealousy, tried to get their attention, but they were too engrossed.
Sui Yi was also avoiding He Chufeng, making him wonder why. As Sui Yi struggled with how to address the situation with Mr. Su, He Chufeng, noticing her distress, advised her to return the gift and express her genuine feelings. When Sui Yi got up abruptly, they had a close physical contact. Luo Bin, seeing their flushed faces, remarked on the unusual heat. Back in his room, He Chufeng shyly smiled, having forgotten his box downstairs.
Luo Bin brought the box up to him, along with a letter. This reminded He Chufeng of his master, who had found a disused ship with a locked box, but whose hands now trembled too much to pick locks as he once did. Later, Sui Yi gathered her courage and returned the gift to Mr. Su, who, to her relief, was not offended and even asked her to return his gift to Mr. Jin as well.
Sui Yi gratefully thanked He Chufeng for his advice, acknowledging that her previous overthinking had led to misunderstandings and that honest communication was better. She also thanked him for coincidentally curing her hiccups earlier. On their way home, Sui Yi offered to buy He Chufeng bread, reminding him that she still owed him money, but He Chufeng insisted she only buy for him, not Luo Bin.
He Chufeng shared that he had visited his old neighborhood in Zhaobei that day, where he had lived for several years before moving to the antique shop more than a year ago. Back at the shop, Luo Bin was enthusiastically decorating a new Christmas tree. Sui Yi was curious about how He Chufeng and Luo Bin, who were only high school classmates and not close, had reconnected.
Luo Bin explained that He Chufeng had found Bean Bun, the cat, and then Luo Bin found He Chufeng. He Chufeng, who was then alone and seeking a place to live, was brought by Luo Bin to Granny Mi's antique shop, where he was welcomed and found a home. He Chufeng jokingly complained about Luo Bin's talkativeness, wishing his friend could be silenced.
As Luo Bin stepped aside to answer a phone call from his mother, Sui Yi wondered about his seemingly close relationship with his family, especially given that his mother arranged his blind dates. Later, Liu Xingyu was talking to a police officer, who explained that she became a police officer because she loved it.
She recounted an incident where she chased and caught a thief who was stealing a wallet, missing a track and field competition but feeling a deep sense of purpose when the victim thanked her. Inspired by this, she decided to serve the people. Liu Xingyu then revealed her own deep motivation for wanting to learn locksmithing: to protect her mother.
She vividly recalled a distressing day when she had forgotten her keys, leaving her sick, bedridden mother unable to eat because Liu Xingyu couldn't get into their house. The memory of her mother's helplessness deeply saddened her, fueling her desire to prevent such situations in the future.
Episode 12 Recap
Luo Bin visited his mother, who had just returned home with her husband, Uncle Lu, after watching a movie. His mother excitedly spoke about the handsome leading man in the film. When she saw Luo Bin, she affectionately called him "Binbin" and playfully chided Uncle Lu for getting stuck in traffic and driving the wrong way, making them late to see her son.
Luo Bin asked about the movie, to which his mother declared that no movie was as good as her son. Uncle Lu went to the kitchen to prepare noodles and boiled eggs for them. Luo Bin's mother then asked him about his blind dates, saying that she understood he hadn't experienced "love at first sight."
Luo Bin lamented that finding love was "much harder than certification," and when his mother pressed him to keep meeting people, he dryly remarked on the sheer number of people in the world. As Luo Bin prepared to leave, his mother expressed her wish for him to stay longer, but he explained he had to return for work. She suggested he arrange a family dinner with his brother when he was free.
Before he left, Luo Bin presented his mother with a small gift, a trinket for her to wear, which she adored. As he departed, his mother urged him to visit more often. Later, Luo Bin confided in He Chufeng about his visit. He noted that his mother and Uncle Lu seemed very happy, but he felt an invisible barrier separating him from their world, unable to truly belong.
He always tried to make her happy, doing whatever she asked, but he admitted, "I'm not happy. It's like an invisible crack on an egg. No one can see that crack. But I know it's always there." He Chufeng responded philosophically, "It's still an egg if you remove its shell." Back at the antique shop, He Chufeng and Sui Yi were watching TV, enveloped in a tense, ambiguous atmosphere.
Sui Yi’s thoughts drifted to a conversation she had with her colleagues, Jia Xiaoguo and Chen Xiaoyuan, who suspected that He Chufeng and Luo Bin, two handsome, single men living together for years, might be in a relationship. Jia Xiaoguo believed Luo Bin liked He Chufeng, citing Luo Bin’s many failed blind dates and his constant presence with He Chufeng. Sui Yi initially dismissed the idea, asserting He Chufeng was straight.
However, Jia Xiaoguo pointed out their long-standing high school friendship and continued singleness. Chen Xiaoyuan added that Luo Bin’s belief in love at first sight, combined with his inability to find "the one," seemed suspicious with He Chufeng always by his side.
When pressed by her colleagues to describe He Chufeng and Luo Bin's daily interactions, Sui Yi recalled instances of Luo Bin making specific demands for toast, asking He Chufeng for help with toilet paper shopping, and general reliance on him, concluding it was mostly "Luo Bin unilaterally making demands of He Chufeng." Unable to shake the doubt, Sui Yi decided to directly ask He Chufeng, "Do you like boys or girls?"
He Chufeng was visibly surprised, secretly wondering if Sui Yi harbored feelings for him and was considering a future together. He answered vaguely, "I like boys and girls." Sui Yi internally rationalized that this meant He Chufeng was open-minded, giving her a "fifty-fifty chance," but then felt she couldn't compete with Luo Bin. He Chufeng then turned the question back to her, and Sui Yi promptly replied, "I like boys. . . men."
Emboldened, she pressed further, "Do you like Robin?" He Chufeng was taken aback, finally grasping the true intent behind her earlier questions. He clarified, "I like women." He then questioned why she would ask such a thing. Sui Yi explained her suspicion stemmed from his close relationship with Luo Bin, his apparent jealousy whenever Luo Bin was mentioned, and their prolonged singleness.
He Chufeng countered that over 240 million people in the country were single, and he never found her situation strange. Sui Yi expressed relief, now feeling assured of his preference. Returning to the earlier conversation, He Chufeng asked Sui Yi if Luo Bin was her type. She quickly denied it, stating neither of them was the other's type. He Chufeng seemed to relax, then leaned in closer and asked, "Am I your type?"
Sui Yi offered no verbal answer, but as they drew nearer, a kiss seemed imminent until Luo Bin unexpectedly returned, asking what they were doing. Luo Bin, seeing a movie on, suggested they watch something else as he had already seen it. Blushing deeply, Sui Yi quickly excused herself, claiming tiredness and heading to bed. Puzzled, Luo Bin asked He Chufeng what was going on between them. Later, He Chufeng and Luo Bin sat on the stairs, sharing a drink.
He Chufeng mused that if he weren't a locksmith, he'd be an art teacher, fondly recalling teaching his late sister, Chunian, how to draw. Luo Bin imagined himself as a rich second-generation, inheriting his stepfather’s business and becoming "a rich man with good taste." When He Chufeng suggested he could do that now, Luo Bin declined, saying his younger brother could inherit the business and being a freelance appraiser suited him better.
He Chufeng then urged Luo Bin to visit his mother more often. Luo Bin reiterated his earlier sentiment about feeling happy for his mother but being unable to truly integrate into her new family, describing his unhappiness as "an invisible crack on an egg." He then asked He Chufeng if he missed his sister.
With a pained expression, He Chufeng acknowledged how suddenly misfortunes can strike, stating that when it comes to family or loved ones, people often delay expressing their feelings, only to find it's "too late" when they finally wish to say "I love you." He then advised Luo Bin to cherish his mother. Meanwhile, Sui Yi was seen returning a gift to Mr. Jin's butler, leaving it at his doorstep as Mr. Jin was not home.
Simultaneously, Liu Xingyu was at home taking care of her sick mother when her uncle arrived, aggressively demanding they sell the house. He claimed they owed him money from her mother's treatment and insisted on selling the property to repay it. Liu Xingyu fiercely retorted, accusing him of being a "robber" and a "criminal" intent on stealing their home.
Her mother tried to silence her, reminding her that he was her uncle, but Liu Xingyu challenged her mother to stop being bullied. The next morning, Liu Xingyu, carrying the property certificate, arrived at the antique shop to consult Sui Yi, the lawyer. He Chufeng and Luo Bin decided to go grocery shopping to allow Sui Yi and Liu Xingyu some privacy.
While out, Luo Bin jokingly speculated if Liu Xingyu was there for He Chufeng again, to learn lock-picking, and wondered how he would refuse her. He Chufeng, however, was concerned about Liu Xingyu, given her distress at the police station earlier, and the gravity of her wanting to sue her uncle over a property dispute. Sui Yi carefully reviewed the property certificate and explained the legal situation to Liu Xingyu.
She confirmed that the house belonged solely to Liu Xingyu's grandmother. Since the grandmother had passed away without a formal, notarized will, the house would be co-owned by her direct heirs: Liu Xingyu's mother and her uncle, each inheriting half. Liu Xingyu protested, arguing that her uncle hadn't cared for her grandmother, while her grandmother had verbally told her that the house was for her and her mother.
Sui Yi gently informed her that this oral declaration was legally invalid, as it wasn't made in an emergency and lacked witnesses. Liu Xingyu, distraught, questioned why the law wouldn't protect them, the vulnerable party. Sui Yi patiently explained that the law upholds fairness and the legitimate rights of all individuals, whether "good or bad people," and therefore, Liu Xingyu could not sue her uncle based on the current facts.
She further clarified that the decision on how to handle the house ultimately rested with Liu Xingyu's mother and uncle. Despite Liu Xingyu's departure, Sui Yi remained uneasy, expressing to He Chufeng that his words had been "too harsh" and she was "still worried about her emotions." He Chufeng, however, was resolute, arguing that "Emotions are the most useless things" and that offering comfort was merely "an act of avoidance."
He maintained that problems and conflicts would not disappear with gentle words and that, like Sui Yi, he wanted to genuinely help Liu Xingyu and her mother by facing them with "the truth and the facts." Sui Yi conceded his point but gently insisted that given Liu Xingyu's young age, a "milder way" of communication was preferable, reiterating that He Chufeng's approach was "too cruel" and they needed to "protect her."
He Chufeng firmly countered that during his own teenage years, he had desperately needed someone to reveal "how much I would pay for the mistakes I made," rather than offering "so-called protection." He then retreated to his room with a somber expression, leaving Luo Bin, who had overheard their conversation, looking utterly perplexed. Luo Bin went to comfort Liu Xingyu, who was sitting on the floor.
He asked why she called herself "Big Force" and noted that her original name, Liu Xingyu, was quite pleasant. Liu Xingyu explained she disliked her birth name, deeming it "childish" and given by someone she despised, and wanted to appear tough because she had been bullied. Luo Bin empathized, sharing that he too was bullied in high school and disliked his own name, Luo Bin, given by someone he detested.
He even tried calling himself "Robin" for a period to completely detach from his past, though he later found that attempt rather "ridiculous" as "Robin is actually Luo Bin, isn't it?" He Chufeng then prepared a meal and invited Liu Xingyu to eat with them. She casually asked if locksmiths needed to know how to cook, to which Luo Bin jokingly confirmed it as an "essential skill."
Liu Xingyu then revealed her true motivation for wanting to learn locksmithing, believing it to be a highly profitable profession after witnessing He Chufeng open a safe filled with cash. He Chufeng unequivocally rejected her, stating he would not teach her because her intentions were "not pure." He accused her of wanting to "make quick money."
He further exposed her deceitful behavior of pretending to go to school while actually taking free items like napkins and straws from businesses to bring home. When Liu Xingyu defended herself by saying these items were free and she hadn't stolen anything, and that He Chufeng had no idea about her mother's difficult life, He Chufeng delivered a stern lecture.
He criticized her "ignorance" for attempting to sue her uncle over an invalid will and for stealing things to gain his attention. He challenged her claim of wanting to protect her mother, asking, "How can you protect her? By being ignorant?" Liu Xingyu tearfully asked what she should do. He Chufeng firmly told her, "You need to get strong first to protect others."
As Liu Xingyu left, He Chufeng made her remove the tissues she had secretly put in her backpack. Luo Bin, worried, asked if they should check on her, but He Chufeng maintained that if she truly loved her mother, she would go home. On her way, Liu Xingyu encountered a suspicious man, later revealed to be her "master," who seemed aware of her nickname "Big Force" and her desire to learn locksmithing from He Chufeng.
Later, Sui Yi was with her colleagues, Jia Xiaoguo and Chen Xiaoyuan, who were discussing their career aspirations and romantic interests. Jia Xiaoguo playfully asked Sui Yi if she had updated her "treasury book" detailing Luo Bin's romantic "battle" records, which Sui Yi had initially dismissed as a joke. Jia Xiaoguo then pressed Sui Yi on whether she was "really not interested in boys at all."
Sui Yi firmly stated her current focus was solely on completing her internship, obtaining her lawyer's license, and becoming a full-fledged lawyer. Chen Xiaoyuan added that her goal was to be a good cop. The three women light-heartedly teased each other about their romantic lives and career ambitions.
Episode 13 Recap
Sui Yi was once again bewildered by He Chufeng's erratic emotions. He Chufeng, reflecting on his own past, believed that when he was a teenager, he needed to be shown the painful consequences of his wrong actions, rather than being shielded from them. He had previously told Liu Xingyu that locksmiths must be reliable, loyal, trustworthy, and above all, honest; whether dealing with acquaintances or strangers, people entrusted their trust to a locksmith.
He believed that if one's intention was merely to satisfy curiosity or earn more money, they should never pursue this profession. Calming down later, He Chufeng felt a pang of regret, worried that Sui Yi might be upset with him. Sui Yi, for her part, puzzled over the rapid shifts in his mood. She concluded that their unequal footing, due to her owing him money, prevented genuine dialogue.
Resolving to work harder and repay her debt, she aimed for a more balanced relationship. In a flashback to his training, He Chufeng recalled his master teaching him the intricate steps of lock picking. His master carefully explained the process, then challenged him to a speed test, pushing them both to improve. He Chufeng, through his dedication, mastered the skill, eventually surpassing his master. Luo Bin's friend, Lily, visited his shop with bags to sell.
Luo Bin immediately noticed that the bag her boyfriend had given her for their anniversary was a counterfeit, but Lily initially refused to believe it. He meticulously pointed out the subtle flaws in the logo and stitching, confirming it was indeed fake. Noting an injury on Lily's face and her frequent visits to sell bags, Luo Bin asked if she was in trouble, but she dismissed his concern.
Soon after, Lily approached Luo Bin, asking to borrow 20,000 yuan, claiming to be in a financial bind for which she promised to provide an IOU and repay quickly. Luo Bin, without hesitation, transferred the money to her. Having lent the money, Luo Bin found himself in need, so he asked He Chufeng to lend him 10,000 yuan to cover a certificate exam. He Chufeng transferred the money, gently urging Luo Bin to curb his habit of frequent borrowing.
Luo Bin quipped that at least he had no expensive hobbies, unlike He Chufeng, who humorously retorted that he should try to control his own habits for a while. Lily immediately met her boyfriend, Fu Shuai, and handed him the money she had just borrowed. Fu Shuai, however, remained unsatisfied, pressing her to sell another bag he had given her, suggesting she ask her friend to offer a high price.
When Lily hesitated, explaining that the bag was fake and she couldn't sell it to her friends, Fu Shuai's demeanor turned cold. He accused her of changing and not loving him, reminding her of her perceived shortcomings—lack of looks, an indecent job, no education, and no money—insisting that only he would love her. To "prove" her love, he cruelly demanded she kneel down on the street. As Lily prepared to comply, Luo Bin happened upon this scene and rushed forward.
He confronted Fu Shuai, asking why he would make his girlfriend kneel. Fu Shuai arrogantly dismissed Luo Bin, claiming it was none of his business. Lily, trapped in the manipulation, weakly insisted she was fine and that she was doing it voluntarily, attempting to diffuse the escalating tension by saying they were just "kidding." Enraged by Fu Shuai's abusive behavior and Lily's desperate defense of him, Luo Bin started a fight.
He Chufeng and Sui Yi, arriving just then, intervened, helping Luo Bin subdue Fu Shuai and chase him away. After the altercation, Lily apologized for the trouble, but stubbornly defended Fu Shuai to Luo Bin and He Chufeng. She claimed he wasn't usually like that, attributing his behavior to stress, and dismissed her facial injury as an accident. He Chufeng warned her that violence, once it starts, rarely stops.
Lily, however, clung to the idea that they were soon to be married and that Fu Shuai's impatience stemmed from his desire to provide her with a better life. She expressed feelings of inadequacy, believing her poor background, lack of education, plain looks, and "indecent" job meant only Fu Shuai would want her. Luo Bin passionately argued against this self-deprecation, recognizing Fu Shuai's manipulative words, and pointed out his deceit in giving her a fake bag.
Lily minimized the fake bag's significance, prioritizing "his love." Despite their appeals, Lily remained convinced, stating she trusted Fu Shuai and believed he would make her happy. Just as Luo Bin and He Chufeng were about to give up, Lily, with a pained expression, asked Luo Bin to lend her more money, fabricating a story about a sick parent.
Luo Bin, though expressing his disbelief and suspicion that the money was for Fu Shuai, ultimately relented, lending her what he could, explaining it was all he had left. After Lily departed, He Chufeng somberly remarked to Luo Bin that Fu Shuai would likely make her cry again. Meanwhile, Fu Shuai, still playing the victim, reiterated to Lily that his actions were for their future, showing off his bruised face and claiming he took the hits for her.
They returned home together, seemingly harmonious. Back at the shared residence, Luo Bin asked He Chufeng to help him apply medicine to his bruised face, admitting he wasn't good at fighting. Luo Bin then teased He Chufeng, suggesting Sui Yi was upset because of his harsh words earlier. He advised He Chufeng to be gentler and friendlier when speaking to girls, rather than always being stern and philosophical.
He Chufeng, in turn, again cautioned Luo Bin about his habit of lending money, expressing doubt that Lily was truly borrowing for her parents and stating that he would not lend him money again. The next morning, Sui Yi went out to meet her childhood friend, Zheng Xingchuan, who was now a Navy officer. Initially, Sui Yi didn't recognize him in his uniform, teasing him about his weight loss.
Zheng Xingchuan, noticing her evasiveness, playfully pointed out that she still touched her hair when lying, sensing she had a crush. Sui Yi confided in him about He Chufeng, describing his confusing hot-and-cold behavior. Zheng Xingchuan immediately diagnosed it as "playing hard to get" and offered to help her test He Chufeng's feelings. He presented her with a large bouquet of red roses, assuring her they were not for her, but for the man she liked.
His plan was simple: place the flowers where He Chufeng would see them and post a photo on her social media visible only to her roommates, promising that this "playing hard to get" strategy would surely win him over. Sui Yi, though a bit skeptical, agreed, finding a prominent spot in the living room for the roses. Later, Luo Bin discovered the roses and their accompanying card, which was signed "Zheng Xingchuan" and expressed unwavering support for "My dear Yisi."
He brought the card to He Chufeng, who initially dismissed it, but then noticed Sui Yi's social media post featuring a photo with Zheng Xingchuan. Luo Bin, comparing Zheng Xingchuan's handsome appearance and Navy uniform to He Chufeng's profession as a locksmith, lightheartedly teased He Chufeng, remarking that Zheng Xingchuan seemed like a formidable rival. He Chufeng’s casual demeanor quickly shifted to concern. As He Chufeng descended the stairs, Sui Yi feigned indifference while watering flowers, hoping for a reaction.
However, He Chufeng remained impassive, continuing to ignore her. The tension persisted until dinner, when Luo Bin finally broke the silence by asking Sui Yi about her "good friend" from earlier in the day. Luo Bin then sought Sui Yi's "female perspective" on a hypothetical scenario: a woman about to marry suddenly becoming preoccupied with her appearance. He probed whether this indicated she was seeing another man, or potentially revealed issues with her fiancé.
Sui Yi, using her logical and lawyer-like reasoning, offered numerous innocent explanations, such as a change in mood or a desire to indulge herself, and cautioned against presupposing infidelity. Luo Bin, frustrated by her overly rational approach and her assertion that "we are humans first, and then we are women and men," asked if she had ever been in a relationship. Sui Yi retorted indignantly, questioning whether a lack of personal experience invalidated her ability to discuss modern emotional issues.
She then parried by asking if he was so sensitive about "cheating" because he had been cheated on, which he denied. Exasperated, Luo Bin suggested she ask He Chufeng for his "male thinking" on relationship problems, implying his own "male thinking" could help solve them. Sui Yi responded that He Chufeng's "male thinking" was "scarier" and declined Luo Bin's offer to analyze his hypothetical problem further. Finally, she turned to He Chufeng, asking if he, the seemingly detached He Chufeng, had any "emotional problems."
Episode 14 Recap
Luo Bin started to subtly gather information about Zheng Xingchuan from Sui Yi, who remembered Zheng Xingchuan's earlier advice to maintain an air of mystery. Luo Bin found the noodles unappetizing and soon departed, leaving He Chufeng and Sui Yi alone. He Chufeng immediately apologized for the previous day's events, following Luo Bin's tips to be sincere and look into her eyes. He expressed regret for speaking harshly to Big Force and letting his emotions out on Sui Yi.
Sui Yi kindly responded that it was alright and that she had also acted poorly. Following another piece of Luo Bin's advice to subtly move items closer to her to symbolize their relationship, He Chufeng then poured half a bottle of vinegar into his bowl, revealing his preference for sour foods. Luo Bin, observing from afar, silently shook his head at the young man. That evening, after receiving her salary, Sui Yi promptly repaid the money she owed He Chufeng.
He Chufeng, curious, inquired about Zheng Xingchuan, whose name Sui Yi confirmed, explaining that he was merely a senior martial arts brother from her childhood, having trained with her grandfather. They had lost touch for a long time and only met up because he was in town for a business trip. Sui Yi then spontaneously asked He Chufeng if he would like to join her that weekend to buy Christmas and New Year decorations and plants.
Fearing rejection, she quickly tried to retract the invitation, but He Chufeng agreed to go with her. As the warmth of December settled in, Sui Yi fretted over what to wear for her outing with He Chufeng, finding outfit selection harder than a law exam. Luo Bin, seeing her dilemma, quickly intervened.
Though Sui Yi was initially dressed in a formal, bright outfit, Luo Bin insisted she change, stating that while he might not know her style, he certainly knew He Chufeng's. After Sui Yi changed into an elegant skirt that beautifully complemented the soft light from the window, making her look radiant, He Chufeng came downstairs. He suggested Luo Bin join them for decoration shopping, but Luo Bin declined, stating he had customers at his shop and had to stay.
As He Chufeng and Sui Yi left, Luo Bin mused about how a date should involve only two people, jokingly wishing he could "break open" He Chufeng's "safe-like" head. He hoped they understood the proper steps of a date and wouldn't return immediately after just buying decorations. He Chufeng and Sui Yi went shopping, then decided to eat first before heading to the decoration market. He Chufeng mentioned that Luo Bin needed a large gift box.
During dinner, He Chufeng confessed that he sometimes visited the barbecue restaurant. Sui Yi proudly shared her talent for grilling, a skill she discovered after her mother gave up on teaching her to cook due to her burning two pots in two days. She invited He Chufeng to try her grilled meat, and he found it surprisingly good.
Meanwhile, at his shop, Luo Bin felt bored and frustrated, receiving a call from a friend asking him to go shopping, which he declined. He complained to himself about being stuck working while He Chufeng and Sui Yi were on a date, feeling it was "too much." His friend called again, and Luo Bin reiterated he couldn't leave the shop. After dinner, they went to watch a movie. He Chufeng considerately bought popcorn and drinks for them.
However, during the movie, He Chufeng received an urgent phone call. He stepped out to answer it, and upon returning, he apologized to Sui Yi, explaining he had an urgent client request and couldn't stay. He told her to enjoy the rest of the movie and be careful on her way home. Sui Yi was left alone to watch the remainder of the film, feeling a sense of disappointment, and returned home by herself, carrying all the shopping bags.
Upon her return, Luo Bin noticed her subdued mood and asked where He Chufeng was. After a playful argument where Luo Bin helped her with the bags, he learned that He Chufeng had left her alone at the cinema. Sui Yi insisted it was fine, as she was used to watching movies alone. Luo Bin then directly asked if she liked He Chufeng. After some hesitation, Sui Yi admitted that she did.
Luo Bin advised her to be prepared, explaining that He Chufeng's dangerous job often involved sudden, urgent calls and business trips, meaning their time together might frequently be interrupted. He emphasized that if she wanted to be with He Chufeng, she would need to understand and accept this aspect of his life. Sui Yi shared that she simply felt He Chufeng carried many unspoken burdens.
Luo Bin acknowledged this, describing He Chufeng as someone who, having experienced pain, actively sought to protect others from it. Sui Yi then turned the tables, asking Luo Bin why he wasn't in a relationship and if he didn't have a girl he liked, noting his failed blind dates. Annoyed, Luo Bin retorted that Sui Yi was becoming as irritating as He Chufeng, and they bickered further over the bags before he retreated upstairs.
Later that night, He Chufeng returned, looking weary. Sui Yi, who had been waiting for him, prepared a bowl of instant noodles, recalling He Chufeng's previous comment that she made delicious instant noodles. He Chufeng apologized again for leaving her at the cinema, to which Sui Yi replied that work was more important and she would have done the same.
He had a small injury on his hand, which Sui Yi noticed with concern, gently taking his hand to apply medicine while he ate. He Chufeng, clearly upset, confessed that he had witnessed something disturbing that day and felt quite distressed, asking her to stay with him. He asked if she had ever felt utterly powerless, watching things unfold before her eyes without being able to do anything. He Chufeng then recounted a painful memory from his childhood.
At ten years old, he opened his first lock, a password-protected savings pot belonging to his younger sister, Chunian. He realized that a brute-force approach would take too long, so he guessed Chunian would use their mother's birthday as the password, which proved correct. Both Chunian and his mother praised him as a "genius," though his mother warned him not to tell his father. He became fascinated with lock-picking, but this fascination soon led to trouble.
One day, his father discovered him opening a box at home and severely punished him, accusing him of trying to steal and warning that he would become a thief if not disciplined. Despite this, under his mother's secret encouragement, He Chufeng continued to hone his skills, opening various locks around the house, including Chunian's savings pot, the bookcase, and even his own room door.
He then moved on to the iron gate of their home, believing he could pick it without leaving a trace, and felt immense joy and accomplishment each time a lock yielded to his skill. This profound sense of achievement was his greatest childhood pleasure. However, this joy soon turned into a nightmare.
One day, a fire broke out at their home, trapping his mother and Chunian inside because the very lock he had expertly picked had been damaged and could not be opened from the inside, preventing their escape. He Chufeng returned home to a chaotic scene of fire and smoke, and by the time firefighters rescued his mother and sister, it was too late. He was haunted by the memory of their screams, calling for his help as the door remained shut.
Episode 15 Recap
He Chufeng, his eyes welled up with tears, confessed that his father had blamed him for his mother's death. His father believed that He Chufeng’s constant practice on their home’s door had caused the lock core to deform during a fire, making the door impossible to open. Overwhelmed by guilt, He Chufeng left home and vowed never to touch locks again.
It was only after he met someone who told him that unlocking wasn't inherently wrong, that it could save lives, and that its moral implication—whether to harm or to save— depended entirely on one's belief. This encounter motivated He Chufeng to systematically study and diligently practice locksmithing, hoping to atone for his past mistakes. He would accept any unlocking request, no matter how small, believing he had found the purpose of his existence.
However, he soon realized that simply opening a lock and rescuing people didn't end their suffering; they still faced harsh realities, and he felt powerless to provide any further help. Sui Yi, wiping away her own tears, asked He Chufeng what kind of life he truly wanted. She passionately declared that being alive is a gift, and no matter the hardships, her instinct would always be to live sincerely.
She acknowledged that one person cannot help everyone, but questioned if that meant they should choose not to help at all. She emphasized that while an individual’s strength might be insignificant, the thought that even such a small effort could bring a glimmer of hope or temporary comfort to others made it meaningful, and therefore, they should persevere.
Sui Yi credited He Chufeng for helping her overcome her own dark period and expressed that she could feel the strength he imparted to her. When she reiterated her question about his desired life, He Chufeng responded that he yearned for a life where he didn't need to overthink, where he could follow his inner voice and truly be himself, a life lived with integrity, unburdened by the opinions of others.
The next morning, Sui Yi was hanging clothes in the yard when He Chufeng came downstairs to join her. He apologized for returning late the previous night, concerned that he had disturbed her rest. Sui Yi reassured him that it was not a problem. Later, Lily rushed to Luo Bin, anxiously asking to borrow money. She disclosed that she was receiving numerous calls about Fu Shuai owing money, and she couldn't find him.
She insisted that Fu Shuai was not a scammer, attributing the situation to a misunderstanding related to his investments with friends. When Luo Bin inquired about the amount, Lily admitted she didn't know precisely, but mentioned amounts ranging from tens of thousands to several million. Luo Bin was astonished, questioning if she was truly willing to pay off such a substantial debt for Fu Shuai. Just then, an angry caller demanded money, threatening Lily.
He Chufeng, present during the conversation, took her phone and promptly hung up. Lily, distressed, asked what she had done wrong. He Chufeng calmly told her she was innocent, had done nothing wrong, and should not bear the consequences of Fu Shuai's mistakes. He advised her to leave him and cut her losses. Sui Yi stepped in, offering her professional help as a lawyer. Lily saved Sui Yi’s contact as "Counselor Sui."
Luo Bin offered to drive Lily home, but she received a call from Fu Shuai and abruptly declined Luo Bin's offer, hurrying away. Lily found a distressed Fu Shuai, crying and distraught, fearing he would abandon her. Fu Shuai comforted her, explaining he was in hiding because a man named Min had scammed them both and absconded with their money.
Sui Yi had previously advised Lily that if Fu Shuai contacted her, she should immediately report it to the police, emphasizing it was her only way to protect herself, especially as Fu Shuai's actions likely constituted illegal fundraising. Despite this, Lily angrily confronted Fu Shuai about the lawyer's warning regarding illegal fundraising, but quickly softened when he began to manipulate her.
He denied deceiving anyone, claiming he merely recommended investment opportunities and the money only passed through his hands to Min. He then used emotional blackmail, recalling past sacrifices and reminding her of her own past, making her believe that no one else could love her as he did and that they were inseparable. Under his sway, Lily promised not to call the police.
Meanwhile, Luo Bin expressed his concern about Lily, suspecting it was Fu Shuai who had called her earlier and that she was now blindly following his lead, having lost her ability to make independent judgments. He suggested asking Officer Chen to investigate Fu Shuai. Following Fu Shuai's instructions, Lily and Fu Shuai tracked down Min. Min initially claimed he was also a victim, scammed by someone named Wang through an investment platform.
However, Min quickly turned aggressive, tying up Fu Shuai and Lily. He also tied up his girlfriend, Lingzi, accusing her of betrayal after Fu Shuai, in a desperate attempt to save himself, falsely claimed Lingzi had brought them to Min for shelter. Lily, seeking their release, offered to get Min some money. After some negotiation, Min demanded 200,000 yuan.
Lily then called Sui Yi, feigning a casual invitation for drinks and a party, subtly indicating she needed 200,000 yuan in cash for an urgent situation. Sui Yi, He Chufeng, and Luo Bin, detecting the distress in Lily's voice and the strange context of the call, immediately set out to rescue her. As they arrived in the vicinity, they called Lily's phone. Min, seeing "Counselor Sui" on the caller ID, mistakenly assumed Lily had called the police.
He immediately switched off her phone, poured gasoline, and set the warehouse on fire, abandoning the three—Lily, Fu Shuai, and Lingzi—inside. He Chufeng spotted the distant flames, and the sight instantly triggered his childhood trauma: vivid memories of the fire that had taken his mother and sister, Chunian. Overwhelmed, he froze, instinctively crouching to the ground, helpless. Sui Yi and Luo Bin frantically tried to open the locked warehouse door, but it wouldn't budge.
Frustrated and desperate, Luo Bin sharply rebuked He Chufeng, urging him not to let history repeat itself and reminding him that Chunian would never want to see her brother so weak and trapped by the past. He Chufeng looked at Sui Yi, remembering her words about the meaningfulness of even a small act of help. Finally, overcoming his deep-seated fear, he stood up, took his tools, and skillfully opened the warehouse lock. Shortly after, the police arrived, and Lily, Fu Shuai, and Lingzi were rescued from the burning building.
Episode 16 Recap
He Chufeng successfully unlocked the warehouse door, which also seemed to unlock a burden in his heart. That night, he dreamt of his mother and He Chunian. His mother reassured him that none of it was his fault and that everything would be alright. She promised that he would find love and love others in return, ultimately living the life he desired. He Chufeng murmured in his sleep, repeating, "I'll live the life I want."
Meanwhile, Sui Yi and Luo Bin stayed by his bedside, watching over him throughout the night. News reports confirmed that Min, the suspect involved in the Caixin Pay bubble incident and the intentional arson, had been arrested and detained according to law. Lily, having fully seen through Fu Shuai's manipulative nature, decided to return home to regroup and embrace a better life.
As Luo Bin offered to drive her, Lily spoke about Fu Shuai facing a three-to-five-year sentence, but she declared it no longer concerned her. She reflected on her past foolishness, believing his love was genuine, only to realize he used and controlled her, constantly belittling her. Luo Bin affirmed she was not lame, and Lily, empowered, stated she was good and would return stronger. After thanking them, Lily departed.
Luo Bin mused on Lily’s past, her habit of bringing him bags for authentication, yet clinging to fake ones given by Fu Shuai. He understood she wasn't truly naive; she simply sought someone to shield her from life's storms, only to discover that person was the source of all her troubles. Yet, even in illusions, a sliver of truth and fleeting warmth in a cold, endless winter could be precious.
Sui Yi confided in Chen Xiaoyuan and Jia Xiaoguo about her feelings for He Chufeng. Chen Xiaoyuan encouraged her to bravely confess, emphasizing that finding someone you like is rare. Jia Xiaoguo insisted the man should take the initiative, but Chen Xiaoyuan countered that in this day and age, who cares who confesses first? Sui Yi, however, worried about He Chufeng's feelings.
Chen Xiaoyuan outlined three possible outcomes: if he liked her, they would happily get together; if he didn't, he might accept out of politeness, leading to an awkward relationship; or if he rejected her, they might not even remain friends, and she would have to move out of the vintage store, incurring significant costs for rent, moving, and new furniture. Chen Xiaoyuan and Jia Xiaoguo were amused by Sui Yi's practical, precise calculations for such an emotional decision.
Later, after Zheng Xingchuan had messaged her, Sui Yi was on the phone, expressing her frustration to someone about how difficult it was to decipher a man's intentions. Luo Bin also took an interest in He Chufeng and Sui Yi's burgeoning romance. Noticing He Chufeng’s hesitant demeanor, Luo Bin playfully suggested that Christmas was approaching, an excellent opportunity to act, or “even Cupid wouldn't be able to shoot you.”
He Chufeng asked how to get Cupid's arrow to hit him, prompting Luo Bin to launch into "Mr. Robin's class" on confessions. He explained that the approach should be tailored to the girl's personality. For an enthusiastic girl, a grand, public spectacle with flowers, gifts, music, and candlelight would be ideal. He Chufeng noted Sui Yi wasn't like that.
Luo Bin then described a scene for a delicate and sensitive girl: a private, intimate setting where, as night falls and the city glows, He Chufeng would gently call Sui Yi's name, slowly approach her, hold her hands, gaze into her eyes, and amidst the quiet stillness, utter the words of confession. Just as he was vividly detailing the romantic scene, Sui Yi unexpectedly walked in, interrupting him mid-sentence. He Chufeng blurted out, “I’m back.”
Sui Yi asked what they were doing, and Luo Bin quickly denied anything suspicious. Sui Yi then invited He Chufeng to decorate the Christmas tree with her, prompting Luo Bin to make a swift exit. Later, He Chufeng couldn't resist asking Luo Bin if he thought Sui Yi liked him.
Luo Bin, initially evasive, finally admitted he was just testing He Chufeng earlier and advised him to "just wait and see" and "be yourself," because "someone who likes you will like you no matter what you do." He Chufeng realized Luo Bin had been trying to gauge his feelings. Luo Bin, with a mischievous grin, threatened to call He Chufeng’s ex-deskmate, causing He Chufeng to quickly apologize and beg Luo Bin for help in pursuing Sui Yi.
A short while later, Chen Xiaoyuan questioned He Chufeng and Luo Bin about their actions towards Sui Yi, mentioning that Sui Yi was now looking to move. Soon after, a large package arrived for Sui Yi. Luo Bin opened it to reveal a large teddy bear and a card from Zheng Xingchuan. The note read: "Dear Yisi, I'm sorry I can't be with you for the time being. Let this spend this winter with you for me. I miss you.
By the way, there's a hidden surprise. Look for it. Yours, Zheng Xingchuan." The bear also had a voice function, wishing "Good morning, Yisi" and "Good night, Yisi." He Chufeng looked visibly displeased. Luo Bin remarked that the bear seemed to be laughing at them, especially He Chufeng, noting how the bear's smile, aided by Zheng Xingchuan's uniform in the attached photo, seemed even more charming. He Chufeng defensively mentioned he also owned a suit.
Luo Bin dismissed his suit as insufficient, declaring that Zheng Xingchuan clearly had romantic intentions toward Sui Yi. He Chufeng brought up Sui Yi's assertion that Zheng Xingchuan was just a childhood friend she practiced martial arts with. Luo Bin countered that a woman's words shouldn't always be fully trusted, warning He Chufeng that Zheng Xingchuan was a formidable rival with bad intentions.
He urged He Chufeng to be on "level one alert" and to act, or else "next time, the one sitting here will not be this bear." Luo Bin then told He Chufeng to wear his suit. Upon returning home, Sui Yi saw the large bear and initially assumed He Chufeng and Luo Bin had bought it. However, He Chufeng's sullen expression made her realize it was from Zheng Xingchuan. She appeared a bit embarrassed by the overly conspicuous gift.
Clearly upset, He Chufeng declared their cooking pot broken and told them to sort out their own dinner. Luo Bin simply advised ordering takeout, stating he couldn't help. Sui Yi later called Zheng Xingchuan, expressing her embarrassment over the "exaggerated" gift, noting that "everyone saw it." Luo Bin and He Chufeng were caught eavesdropping outside her door, pretending to check "safety measures" and lightbulbs. Luo Bin directly questioned Sui Yi about Zheng Xingchuan.
Sui Yi explained that he was a childhood friend. She reminisced about his transformation from being fat to handsome, prompting Luo Bin to playfully ask if she preferred "fat boys." Growing increasingly uncomfortable, Sui Yi told them it was "just a gift for the festival" and to "not think too much." Luo Bin slyly remarked that he hadn't said anything, implying He Chufeng’s unspoken disapproval.
Later that night, He Chufeng took out his frustration on the bear, playfully punching and kicking it, demanding if it was "convinced" and warning it not to "tell on him." The next morning, as He Chufeng sat at the table, Sui Yi came downstairs and commented that the bear was "too obvious." While He Chufeng agreed, Sui Yi still found it "pretty," though she admitted it took up too much space.
He Chufeng eagerly offered to call a "garbage recycling, on-site service" to dispose of it. However, Sui Yi decided to keep it, considering it "a token of appreciation." To He Chufeng's delight, Sui Yi then asked him if he wanted to have dinner together that evening, instantly lifting his spirits.
For the evening date, He Chufeng carefully selected a suit, but Luo Bin quickly mocked his choice, asking if he was going for a job interview or if the law firm was hiring locksmiths. Luo Bin insisted that He Chufeng's "simple suit" couldn't compare to Zheng Xingchuan's "ultimate level uniform" and urged him to change. He Chufeng then switched to his usual, more casual attire, which Luo Bin approved.
Luo Bin inquired about their dinner plans, and He Chufeng admitted Sui Yi had asked him out, but he hadn't made any reservations, simply saying, "Let it be." After this, He Chufeng seemed to have second thoughts and decided to change out of even the casual clothes. As He Chufeng passed a flower shop, the vendor asked if he wanted to buy flowers, but He Chufeng declined, remembering Zheng Xingchuan’s grand gesture.
He arrived punctually at Sui Yi's law firm, waiting downstairs. Meanwhile, inside, Sui Yi's colleague teasingly remarked that Sui Yi, dressed so nicely, must be rushing off for a date, but Sui Yi denied it. Just as Sui Yi was preparing to leave, her boss approached with an urgent task that "must be done" that night, asking her to stay and work overtime. Sui Yi called her mother, apologizing that she would be late for dinner.
She then called He Chufeng, explaining the unexpected workload and that it would take a long time, suggesting he go home first. She worried he might be angry, but He Chufeng remained waiting downstairs.
Episode 17 Recap
After a long day, Sui Yi was leaving work, surprised to find He Chufeng still waiting for her. She had asked him to go home earlier, but he told her he waited because she had invited him out. Sui Yi apologized, noting that the restaurant she booked was probably closed by now due to her overtime. He Chufeng joked that he should be the one to choose their dining spot then.
As they walked, Sui Yi commented on the ruined Christmas Eve atmosphere, lamenting how her overtime had interfered with her elaborate date plans, which included a restaurant with a live band, a thoughtful gift, a romantic movie, and a breathtaking night view from a city rooftop. He Chufeng, without further preamble, asked her directly if she liked him. After a brief pause, Sui Yi bravely confirmed that she did.
He Chufeng then playfully distracted her, telling her to look away, before surprising her with a quick kiss. Sui Yi, caught off guard, admitted she wasn't prepared for such a sudden gesture. He Chufeng teased her about what else she needed to prepare, listening as she recounted her detailed romantic itinerary. He kissed her again, then declared that their immediate task was to find food.
Meanwhile, at his shop, Luo Bin was lamenting his own single status, wishing for a sweet love like He Chufeng seemed to be experiencing. His musings were interrupted when a young woman, Fang Qi, her face smeared with what appeared to be blood, stumbled into his shop. She urgently requested, "Can you appraise me? Don't call the police," before collapsing into his arms. He Chufeng and Sui Yi found a barbecue stall.
Over their meal, Sui Yi sought to clarify their newfound relationship, confirming their boyfriend-girlfriend status. She wanted to be upfront, assuring He Chufeng that she had no other emotional entanglements or marriage history since meeting him. He Chufeng, in turn, joked about Zheng Xingchuan’s previous attempts to woo her with flowers and a bear, to which Sui Yi insisted those were "objective factors" that no longer existed and wouldn't reappear.
He Chufeng then stated he had no marriage history or emotional disputes either, adding that his background was on file at the police station for her to verify if she wished. Sui Yi playfully declared that checking his file would be the first thing she did after her internship. Though their first official date as a couple was at a humble barbecue stall, Sui Yi found it unexpected but special. Back at Luo Bin's shop, Granny Mi arrived.
Luo Bin nervously explained how Fang Qi had collapsed, emphasizing her plea not to involve the police. Granny Mi quickly assessed Fang Qi, wiping her face to reveal the "blood" was merely ketchup, though she did have minor abrasions on her hands. Granny Mi, unfazed, shared a similar story of how her late husband, Grandpa Mi, had dramatically "fallen" before her. He Chufeng and Sui Yi returned, surprised to see Fang Qi.
Luo Bin quickly denied knowing her, but Granny Mi clarified that a woman named Sister Song had sent Fang Qi there because she had lost her memory. Reassured, Granny Mi left Christmas gifts for them and advised Luo Bin to handle the situation, then departed.
Luo Bin, still perplexed by his unexpected guest and his supposed ability to "appraise people," declared his intention to specialize in human appraisal and asked He Chufeng and Sui Yi for help finding a certification course. That night, Luo Bin settled Fang Qi in his own room, then tried to convince He Chufeng to let him sleep in his room, but He Chufeng firmly refused, even ignoring Luo Bin's attempt to hold a "vote."
Luo Bin was left to sleep on the sofa with a thin blanket, complaining about the cold. Upstairs, Sui Yi was too excited to sleep. She considered changing He Chufeng's contact name on her phone, then decided against it, fearing she might seem too eager. She typed out "Are you asleep?" to He Chufeng but quickly retracted it, regretting her impulsiveness.
Unbeknownst to her, He Chufeng had already seen the message; he, too, was wide awake from happiness and had already changed her contact name to "Sui Sui." Sui Yi, unable to sleep, crept out to He Chufeng's room. Just as she approached, Luo Bin, still freezing, emerged from downstairs, about to go upstairs to ask He Chufeng for a thicker blanket.
He Chufeng quickly pulled Sui Yi into his room, closing the door and leaving Luo Bin to his fate on the sofa. After a quick goodnight kiss, Sui Yi returned to her room, leaving Luo Bin with his thin blanket for the night. The next morning, He Chufeng was astonished to find Luo Bin busy preparing breakfast. Fang Qi, meanwhile, woke up in Luo Bin’s room, disoriented by the unfamiliar surroundings.
Sui Yi came downstairs, initially thinking her clock was broken seeing Luo Bin up so early, but He Chufeng confirmed her clock was fine, and Luo Bin was simply acting unusually. Luo Bin's breakfast sandwiches were not particularly appetizing, but he enthusiastically described them as embodying "precious love and friendship," expecting payment for his "early morning labor." Sui Yi jokingly declined, prioritizing her life and claiming to be penniless.
Fang Qi eventually joined them downstairs, explaining that a "sister" had brought her here, but she didn't know her own name. Luo Bin, eager to impress, offered extensive help, even preparing pink toiletries for her. He Chufeng and Sui Yi exchanged knowing glances at Luo Bin’s overly solicitous behavior. Luo Bin expressed a strong desire to help Fang Qi, emphasizing her helpless situation.
Sui Yi mentioned her plans for legal aid work in the community, and He Chufeng stated he had a class, offering to pick her up afterward. He Chufeng then questioned Fang Qi about her memory. She could only recall falling from some place and having a TIKI kerosene lighter of Austrian origin, but not whether she smoked. He Chufeng suggested she go to the police station for answers.
Fang Qi, however, adamantly refused, explaining that the phrase "Don't call the police" echoed relentlessly in her mind, and she instinctively trusted that feeling. When Fang Qi offered to leave to avoid causing trouble, Luo Bin uncharacteristically intervened, passionately insisting she stay, citing the dangers outside and promising to protect her. Despite Luo Bin's objections, He Chufeng discreetly called Officer Jia Xiaoguo, requesting a gentle approach given Fang Qi's resistance.
Sui Yi tried to reassure Fang Qi that she would be safe. Soon after, Officer Jia Xiaoguo arrived with her team to collect a DNA sample from Fang Qi for identification. As she was leaving, Officer Jia noticed a large bear and complimented its cuteness and the "handsome" man in uniform pictured on its accompanying card. He Chufeng's face visibly tightened, though he maintained a strained smile, stating the man was "not my friend."
Officer Jia then casually asked He Chufeng if "Dali" (Popeye) had contacted him recently, which he denied. He Chufeng then mockingly pushed the bear face down, claiming it was "sleepy." Before He Chufeng left for his class, Sui Yi asked him if he remembered a specific incident from high school where he unlocked her bicycle. He Chufeng vaguely recalled it, and Sui Yi commented on his transformation into a "cool" professional locksmith. He Chufeng revealed he had a "master" who was "an excellent person."
Episode 18 Recap
He Chufeng headed to class, instructing Luo Bin to keep Fang Qi company at the shop.
While Sui Yi provided legal aid services in the community and He Chufeng taught a class on the basics of lock cylinders—explaining the three safety levels: Class A, B, and C, noting that Class A is designed to be anti-bug, anti-wax, anti-collision, and anti-pry—Luo Bin gave Fang Qi a tour of the vintage boutique, detailing that the first floor housed vintage items, some from Granny Mi’s collection, and others consigned by customers.
After their respective duties, He Chufeng arrived to pick up Sui Yi. Sui Yi, conscious of their budding relationship, asked him to walk a few steps ahead of her, suggesting they maintain a slight distance. As they walked, Sui Yi counted off ten paces, ensuring they were sufficiently separated. However, Chen Xiaoyuan, a colleague of Sui Yi's, spotted He Chufeng.
She immediately intervened, playfully scolding Sui Yi for still being at work when He Chufeng was waiting, insisting she go home with him. Chen Xiaoyuan took over Sui Yi's remaining tasks and, along with Jia Xiaoguo, watched the couple depart, speculating on who had confessed their feelings first. Chen Xiaoyuan believed it was He Chufeng, while Jia Xiaoguo thought Sui Yi had made the first move, concluding they were both equally transparent about their affections.
Back at the shop, Luo Bin provided Fang Qi with his old phone and helped her register a WeChat account, assuring her that she would eventually regain her memories. Meanwhile, He Chufeng and Sui Yi enjoyed a leisurely trip to the supermarket, browsing items like "Peach and red grapefruit" juice and "Rainbow cereal." Sui Yi admitted to eating the cereal to avoid gaining weight, a detail He Chufeng had noticed from her room.
She playfully made him choose between her and the cereal, to which he enthusiastically chose her. Separately, a group of men, including one named Wen, were discussing Fang Qi, whom they referred to as "Qiqi." They were concerned about her whereabouts, especially since her "Uncle Fang" was expected to return soon, and they needed to find Qiqi before his arrival.
That evening, Sui Yi tidied up a room and invited Fang Qi to share her bed, which Fang Qi gratefully accepted. Later, as Luo Bin attempted to impress Fang Qi with his cooking, He Chufeng pointed out his culinary shortcomings, criticizing his overcooked ribs. He Chufeng instructed Luo Bin, via a phone call, to procure a detailed list of ingredients for dinner, including specific dishes and snacks, along with toiletries.
Luo Bin dramatically complained about He Chufeng's demands, threatening to leave, but He Chufeng reminded him that Fang Qi was waiting for the meal. Luo Bin, feeling unappreciated, suggested they just buy pre-made food or order takeout instead. Elsewhere, Liu Xingyu, referred to as Dali, was working at a barbecue restaurant. She repeatedly asked her boss for her wages, which the boss continuously deferred, telling her to come back another day or to get back to work.
Observing this interaction was Dali's master, Gu Nan, who was having dinner at the shop. He offered to help Dali, noting her young age and the boss's exploitation. Dali confided in Gu Nan that she was owed 600 yuan for ten days of work, having been promised 60 yuan a day, and she was determined to reclaim her rightful earnings. The group celebrated Christmas. Luo Bin announced the traditional gift exchange, the first one for their shop.
Fang Qi, having no gift, had one prepared for her by Luo Bin. They decided to play rock-paper-scissors to determine the order of gift selection. Luo Bin won, but then playfully asserted his authority as the organizer to influence the gift choices, much to He Chufeng's annoyance. Fang Qi received a note as a gift. She recognized the meaning of Luo Bin's name from a bird painting, "Robins never do bad things. They only sing for someone kindly," impressing him.
She then wrote a note stating, "I owe Robin a gift," but without a name, which prompted Luo Bin to suggest they all come up with a name for her. After they each wrote down a suggestion, Luo Bin picked "An," which Fang Qi liked and accepted. The final gift was a cat tree from Luo Bin for Bean Bun, which the cat adored, bringing joy to everyone.
Luo Bin captured the heartwarming scene with photos, though He Chufeng grumbled about the cost of photo paper. The festive mood was interrupted when He Chufeng received a phone call informing him that Dali had assaulted the barbecue shop owner, sending him to the hospital. Unsure of the full situation, He Chufeng and Sui Yi went to investigate. They found Dali, apparently unharmed, accompanied by Gu Nan.
Upon seeing He Chufeng, Gu Nan attempted to leave, but He Chufeng called out to him, stopping him. Gu Nan remarked on the coincidence of their reunion at a police station. A flashback to 2011 showed a young He Chufeng working at an auto repair shop. He skillfully unlocked a scrapped car without a key, impressing Gu Nan, who was watching nearby. Recognizing He Chufeng's natural talent, Gu Nan offered to teach him locksmithing, leaving him a business card.
Initially hesitant due to a painful memory, He Chufeng eventually decided to join Gu Nan after seeing him rescue a child locked inside a safe. Gu Nan explained that locksmithing itself wasn't good or bad; its morality depended on the locksmith's intentions, whether to save or harm. Motivated by Gu Nan's ability to help people, He Chufeng expressed his desire to become a locksmith like him.
Back in the present at the police station, He Chufeng reflected on a past incident during a heavy rain where Gu Nan had helped him get into a car, only for Gu Nan to be surprised later to see He Chufeng standing with the police when they arrived. He also recalled going to pick up Gu Nan upon his release from prison, only to find he had already left.
He Chufeng had kept Gu Nan’s letters safe for him over the years. Gu Nan dismissed the items as unimportant, thanking He Chufeng for his care. Jia Xiaoguo informed He Chufeng and Sui Yi that the barbecue shop owner was accusing Dali of assault, but there was no clear surveillance footage, and Dali herself was vague about what happened. As Dali was a minor without a guardian, the police felt limited in their actions.
He Chufeng then asked Gu Nan why he was with Dali. Gu Nan explained that he had gone to the barbecue shop for dinner and witnessed Dali demanding her rightful wages. He described how the boss was extorting Dali, who merely wanted her money. During the confrontation, the boss pushed Dali, then slipped and fell himself, but blamed Dali for hitting him. Gu Nan confirmed that Dali did not physically assault the boss.
He admitted to telling the police his account, but expressed concern that his credibility might be doubted, given he had just been released from prison. Sui Yi acknowledged the challenge, confirming that the alley was a surveillance blind spot, making it difficult to find conclusive evidence.
She reiterated her belief in Dali's innocence, and He Chufeng stated that he and Gu Nan had known each other for a long time, validating Gu Nan's character to Jia Xiaoguo before she took Gu Nan to give a formal statement.
Episode 19 Recap
Sui Yi went to visit Liu Xingyu’s mother. The distraught mother believed her daughter was beyond saving, expressing sorrow that the money she painstakingly saved for Liu Xingyu's tuition had been used for petty theft. She tearfully recounted how Liu Xingyu had been a thief behind her back and even cut her hair short, wondering if her daughter looked like a girl at all.
She felt she was dying but Liu Xingyu still behaved this way and declared she could no longer control her, urging Sui Yi not to visit again. Sui Yi explained the real reason behind Liu Xingyu's actions: her mother was her only reliance, her entire world.
She pointed out that Liu Xingyu dressed like a boy to appear strong and avoid being bullied, working at the grill house to earn money because she believed financial strength would enable her to protect her mother. Sui Yi criticized the mother for judging Liu Xingyu with prejudice, saying that she had failed in her duty as a guardian by leaving her daughter alone at the police station without knowing what truly happened.
She urged Liu Xingyu's mother to be strong, emphasizing that only then would Liu Xingyu truly have someone to depend on. Moved by Sui Yi's words, Liu Xingyu's mother cried out her daughter’s name, realizing she had misunderstood her. Meanwhile, He Chufeng took Gu Nan to a barbecue restaurant they used to frequent. Gu Nan savored the food, remarking that it still tasted the same and was what he missed most in prison.
He praised He Chufeng, saying he knew him best. Gu Nan asked about He Chufeng's relationship with Liu Xingyu (also referred to as Big Force by Gu Nan). He Chufeng clarified that he only knew her. Gu Nan, who had spent a long time in prison, shared his astonishment at how much society had changed, finding everything new and exciting, from advanced cat houses to other modern conveniences.
He confessed that seeing He Chufeng was the happiest thing that had happened to him recently and gave He Chufeng his old phone number, which he hadn't changed. He Chufeng reciprocated the sentiment. Sui Yi, accompanied by Liu Xingyu's mother, arrived at the police station to pick up Liu Xingyu. Liu Xingyu, concerned for her mother's health, worried she might catch a cold.
Her mother, now understanding Liu Xingyu’s earnest intentions, expressed her biggest wish for her daughter to cheer up, stating that adults would handle matters. Jia Xiaoguo informed them that after an all-night effort, CCTV footage was found, confirming Liu Xingyu had not assaulted the grill house owner, who admitted he had slipped. With her name cleared, Liu Xingyu prepared to leave. He Chufeng then spoke to Liu Xingyu, apologizing for his previous harsh words and asking for her forgiveness.
He asked her what she thought it meant to be strong. Liu Xingyu replied that it meant making a lot of money, to which He Chufeng agreed that it was one aspect but not the most important. He explained that just as Sui Yi’s knowledge of law helped her sue her uncle, and his locksmith skills allowed him to help her mother, everyone possesses unique skills.
He advised Liu Xingyu, whom he found to be very smart, to continue her education, read widely, and find her area of expertise, as that was the true path to becoming strong enough to protect herself and her mother, and eventually help others. Later, as He Chufeng and Sui Yi walked home after a long night, He Chufeng reflected on his past.
He admitted that he had always lived a solitary life, rarely paying attention to the emotions of those around him. It wasn't until Sui Yi entered his life that he began to truly notice how everyone in the world struggled to live, each in their own distinct way. Back at their residence, He Chufeng found an old photo of himself with Gu Nan, a picture Gu Nan had insisted on taking years ago, featuring Gu's Lock Shop in the background.
Luo Bin, noticing that He Chufeng had been awake all night, expressed concern, suggesting he come down to eat. Fang Qi, also known as An, mused aloud to Luo Bin that she felt she might be older than him. When she mentioned being hungry, Luo Bin enthusiastically listed a myriad of cuisines. Luo Bin ordered a large variety of takeout food for lunch, but He Chufeng did not come downstairs to eat.
Sui Yi questioned Luo Bin about He Chufeng's family, mentioning a man in his early forties—Gu Nan—who had testified for Liu Xingyu, and how their interactions had seemed subtle. Luo Bin, however, did not recognize the man. He playfully accused Sui Yi of being in a relationship with He Chufeng, despite her feigned deafness. Sui Yi went upstairs to He Chufeng’s room, finding him about to sleep.
He invited her to join him, to which she playfully retorted about things moving too fast. They lay on the large bed together, initially unable to sleep, simply gazing at each other. He Chufeng confessed that he wanted to keep looking at her, and Sui Yi acknowledged that she was not as good as he imagined, but He Chufeng insisted he only believed in facts and evidence. Eventually, they drifted off to sleep, holding hands.
Later, a client arrived at Luo Bin's seeking an appraisal. Fang Qi (An) surprised everyone by immediately and accurately identifying a 1960s Barcelona enamel pocket watch, detailing its specific features like its large balance wheel and gold inlays, calling it very rare. Luo Bin confirmed her assessment after examining the watch and estimated its value at around 3,000 yuan, noting its price could increase with a certificate or if it belonged to a celebrity.
After the client left, Luo Bin, intrigued, asked Fang Qi (An) how she knew so much. She replied that the information just popped into her mind, leading Luo Bin to wonder if she was faking amnesia or was perhaps a highly skilled professional. Fang Qi (An) confirmed she wasn't colorblind, noting the color of Luo Bin's eyes, and passed his general knowledge tests but failed to recall her own name or if she spoke German.
Luo Bin, increasingly fascinated, called her "something special" and declared his affection for her. The next morning, He Chufeng left early after covering the sleeping Sui Yi with a blanket. Sui Yi later woke up to a message from him saying he had an appointment. He had also informed Luo Bin that he would not be joining them for dinner at Song's that night, which Luo Bin had arranged. Upon waking, Sui Yi stretched.
Luo Bin, Sui Yi, and Fang Qi (An) later went to Song's for skewers. When Song asked about He Chufeng's whereabouts, Sui Yi vaguely mentioned he was busy. Song also warned the two women to be careful due to recent robberies targeting female students. Meanwhile, He Chufeng arrived at an arcade, carrying his toolbox, to meet Gu Nan, who was engrossed in a game and hadn't noticed He Chufeng's calls.
Gu Nan, happy to see the toolbox, thanked He Chufeng for keeping it. They then played an arcade game together, with Gu Nan, in a casual tone, suggesting that they play just for fun, without worrying about winning or losing. At Song's, Luo Bin asked how she had met Fang Qi (An). Song recounted finding Fang Qi (An) wandering the streets, asking for a place where she could confirm her identity without involving the police.
Luo Bin playfully chided Song for sharing that he could "identify people" and then joked that Fang Qi (An) also had an "upright" face. Back at their shared house, Fang Qi (An) demonstrated her surprising skills by fixing a broken light and then a washing machine. Impressed, Luo Bin suggested taking Fang Qi (An) to the movies, while Sui Yi proposed taking her shopping, leading to a lighthearted competition between them over who would spend time with her. Luo Bin, having bought two movie tickets, then suggested they all go, but ultimately decided to go by himself when his companions declined.
Episode 20 Recap
Just three days into their relationship, Sui Yi was feeling down because He Chufeng hadn't replied to her messages. She told Fang Qi that men are all chameleons, complaining that she couldn't even find He Chufeng. Sui Yi gave her bed to Fang Qi, insisting she get proper rest due to her recent injury. Fang Qi initially declined, offering to sleep on the floor, but Sui Yi reassured her, mentioning she had changed the bedding and prepared clothes for her.
He Chufeng was with Gu Nan. Gu Nan remarked on how much He Chufeng had changed over the past two years, becoming taller and more handsome but quieter, like a man of few words. Gu Nan explained that he had become chatty from talking to himself during his time "in there." He Chufeng then revealed he was working as a locksmith.
Gu Nan reacted with a strange mix of emotions, but smiled and said it was a good profession, adding that He Chufeng was talented and he finally had a successor. He Chufeng invited Gu Nan to see his studio, and Gu Nan enthusiastically agreed, asking for the address. However, He Chufeng's phone died before he could send it, so he promised to send it later.
Later, Gu Nan had a brief, discreet conversation with someone inquiring about his progress, to which he replied he was close to his objective and would be done soon. Later that night, Sui Yi couldn't sleep, still worried about He Chufeng's lack of response. Fang Qi was also awake, musing that sometimes it felt good not to remember anything.
She described a vague, tall, and scary figure in her mind that would press down on her chest, making it hard to breathe, whenever she tried to recall her past. A voice within her warned that remembering would lead to terrible things. Sui Yi comforted her, assuring her she was safe and that both she and Luo Bin would protect her.
He Chufeng eventually sent Sui Yi a message, apologizing for his phone's dead battery and wishing her good night, which finally allowed Sui Yi to fall asleep. The next morning, He Chufeng woke Luo Bin early for a big cleaning day, excluding Sui Yi and Fang Qi from the task. Luo Bin protested, noting He Chufeng's favoritism and complaining about the short time limit to clean and put away the Christmas tree.
Sui Yi overheard their bickering and offered to help, but He Chufeng refused, explaining a friend was visiting his studio. Sui Yi, eager to make a good impression, quickly rushed off to change her clothes and put on makeup. When she came downstairs, looking primped, she offered to help again, but He Chufeng dismissed her, still disliking the large bear in the living room.
Sui Yi and Fang Qi, however, insisted the bear was cute and that Fang Qi liked it, so He Chufeng relented but told them to sit on the sofa if they weren't helping. Granny Mi arrived, delighted by the clean house, and took Fang Qi out, much to Luo Bin's frustration, as he was the only one unaware of their destination.
Gu Nan arrived at the antique shop, and He Chufeng introduced him to Sui Yi and Luo Bin as his master. He Chufeng then showed Gu Nan around his studio. Gu Nan expressed surprise and delight at how He Chufeng had transformed the lock shop into such a "fashionable" and bright space, much better than their old one. However, his words also carried an underlying tone of resignation, lamenting that his generation was "too old" and "out."
Luo Bin and Sui Yi found the interaction odd. Luo Bin noted He Chufeng's excessive preparations for Gu Nan's visit and observed that He Chufeng hadn't touched the drink offered to him, recalling He Chufeng's habit of not drinking in front of those he didn't fully trust. Sui Yi remembered He Chufeng mentioning someone who helped him when he first moved to Zhaonuan, surmising it was Gu Nan.
He Chufeng offered to help Gu Nan find a place to live nearby, but Gu Nan firmly refused, saying he didn't need He Chufeng's "charity" or pity. Gu Nan acknowledged He Chufeng's unspoken apologies but stated they were unnecessary, believing He Chufeng had made the right choices, while he himself had erred. He declared that after his time away, he had thought things through and wanted to let bygones be bygones and start anew.
He Chufeng apologized again, but Gu Nan insisted he could take care of himself. Luo Bin was puzzled, as He Chufeng had never mentioned Gu Nan before. His suspicions grew. He Chufeng then received an urgent call for a lock-picking job and asked Sui Yi and Luo Bin to look after Gu Nan, promising to return for dinner. Gu Nan initially wanted to leave with him, but Sui Yi persuaded him to stay.
Meanwhile, Granny Mi took Fang Qi to the police station. Fang Qi shared everything she knew, only to learn that no missing person report had been filed for her. Granny Mi reassured Fang Qi that she could stay at the antique shop safely and that "everything is the best arrangement." Back at the shop, as Sui Yi chatted with Gu Nan, Luo Bin subtly observed him and eventually asked about Gu Nan's other students.
Gu Nan revealed that He Chufeng was his only disciple, and he had stopped working as a locksmith a long time ago due to issues with his hands, which he showed them. Luo Bin, ever cautious, then asked if Gu Nan and He Chufeng knew each other previously, to which Gu Nan replied they were high school classmates, but he had transferred, explaining why He Chufeng might not have mentioned him.
Jia Xiaoguo informed Chief Chen that she had seen He Chufeng with his former teacher, Gu Nan, whom He Chufeng had previously reported for theft, leading to an eight-year sentence. Chief Chen was surprised and instructed her to keep a close eye on Gu Nan.
Jia Xiaoguo clarified that Gu Nan was at the police station to testify for a child he had saved and that he seemed like a kind person, with no apparent animosity between him and He Chufeng. Chief Chen reiterated his order to monitor Gu Nan, emphasizing that "bad guys don't have it written on their faces."
He Chufeng returned home with groceries, but Gu Nan had already left, telling Luo Bin he didn't want to disturb He Chufeng while he was working. Luo Bin then mentioned that Gu Nan had bought cat food for He Chufeng's cat, Bean Bun, and playfully complained to the cat about being easily swayed by treats. He Chufeng silently reflected on Gu Nan's earlier words, his heart filled with mixed emotions.
Later, Fang Qi returned with Granny Mi, having bought new clothes and daily necessities. She expressed her desire to try and regain her memories, but Luo Bin encouraged her not to force it, explaining that memory recovery takes time. He assured her she could stay as long as she needed, promising to protect her. He Chufeng and Sui Yi went for a walk, holding hands. Sui Yi felt she didn't know He Chufeng well enough and proposed a quick quiz.
She asked him about his favorite color, his preference for short or long hair (he chose long hair like hers), his dream country (Samoa, for its casual nature), and his college major. When asked about his past relationships, He Chufeng revealed that Sui Yi was his first girlfriend, much to her disbelief.
Sui Yi then admitted to having two boyfriends: one in high school who only wanted to copy her homework, and another in college who dated her to get closer to her roommate. They then playfully argued over who made the first move in their own relationship. That evening, Fang Qi, Sui Yi, and Jia Xiaoguo gathered for a skincare session.
Fang Qi, demonstrating surprising expertise, lectured them on the importance of knowing one's skin type, exfoliating weekly, and following the correct steps for applying masks, including using toner, essence, steaming the face, and sealing in nutrients with various creams and serums afterward.
She specifically advised Jia Xiaoguo, who has oily skin, to focus on hydration and exfoliation, and Sui Yi, who has mixed skin and works long hours on her computer, to pay attention to T-zone cleansing and hydrating the corners of her eyes. She stressed that proper application was crucial to prevent wasting the masks.
Episode 21 Recap
Gu Nan applied for a job at Song's skewers restaurant, and He Chufeng vouched for him. Gu Nan revealed he had recently been released from prison after serving a six-year sentence for theft (originally eight years, reduced by two). Chufeng was surprised that Gu Nan was willing to work so close to him, but Gu Nan explained that it would be convenient for them to look out for each other.
Gu Nan, being observant, noticed Sui Yi, the female lawyer, was Chufeng’s girlfriend and expressed his happiness for Chufeng, calling him smart, kind, and reliable. Chufeng then presented Gu Nan with a new set of clothes, which Gu Nan gladly accepted, commenting on how much he liked the color. Later, while Sui Yi was at the bookstore, her nephew asked if she liked He Chufeng.
When she didn't deny it, the nephew excitedly told He Chufeng that Sui Yi liked him. The bookstore owner, Zheng, overheard and offered to help Sui Yi pursue Chufeng, assuming Chufeng didn’t have a girlfriend. However, Chufeng publicly declared he had a girlfriend and then took Sui Yi's arm, leading her out. As they walked through the community, their relationship became the talk of the neighborhood.
Song and other acquaintances were surprised, and one neighbor, Mrs. Liu, even commented on their matching dimples as a rare stroke of fate. Overwhelmed by the sudden attention, Chufeng and Sui Yi quickly made their escape. Meanwhile, Luo Bin was helping An repair her washing machine. After he finished and turned away, An unexpectedly kissed him on the cheek. Startled, An tried to run but slipped, almost falling.
Luo Bin caught her and jokingly demanded she take responsibility for the kiss. Their moment was interrupted by the arrival of He Chufeng and Sui Yi, with Chufeng playfully asking if they were dancing. Luo Bin, having learned of Chufeng and Sui Yi's public declaration, then jokingly interrogated them, noting how their "high-profile" announcement had tripled the customer traffic at his shop, with everyone coming to gossip.
Sui Yi admitted she was the one who pursued Chufeng, though Chufeng tried to claim responsibility. When it was An and Luo Bin's turn, An downplayed the incident, claiming she merely slipped and feigned memory loss. Luo Bin, however, vividly recounted the kiss and near-fall, insisting An take responsibility. An, deflecting, went to check on the washing machine. Feeling dejected and ignored, Luo Bin told Chufeng and Sui Yi to leave him alone.
Later that evening, Chufeng lovingly kissed Sui Yi in the stairwell, leaving her heart pounding. The next morning, Sui Yi carried the homemade lunch He Chufeng had prepared for her to work, feeling incredibly happy. At the antique shop, Luo Bin, exhausted, asked Chufeng to do the dishes, and to his astonishment, Chufeng readily agreed. Chufeng then surprised both Luo Bin and An by bringing out after-meal fruit for them.
Luo Bin was completely bewildered by Chufeng’s uncharacteristically domestic and caring behavior, remarking that the He Chufeng he knew would never act this way. Chufeng, meanwhile, confessed to Luo Bin that he simply wanted to be nice. Later, Chufeng went to pick Sui Yi up from work, continuing his attentive gestures. On New Year's Eve, the four friends – He Chufeng, Sui Yi, Luo Bin, and An – decided to go on a trip.
Luo Bin, eager to impress An, insisted on driving, but An simply wanted to enjoy the scenery quietly. At the resort, Chufeng booked a luxurious "forest room" for Sui Yi and An, while he and Luo Bin settled for a standard room that was half the price. While Sui Yi and An enjoyed their spacious room, Luo Bin tried to present his meticulously planned itinerary, but Chufeng found it exhausting.
The two men then bickered playfully, comparing Sui Yi and An's looks. Unbeknownst to them, the girls overheard their childish banter and found them both immature and shallow, criticizing them as one being boring and noisy, and the other pretentious and boisterous. An even teased Luo Bin about his navigation skills. Sui Yi then decided she needed to return to their room to handle some urgent work emails, and Chufeng, wanting more alone time with her, offered to accompany her.
While Chufeng and Sui Yi enjoyed their private time, Luo Bin and An found themselves lost on a path in the woods. An twisted her ankle, so Luo Bin gently took her hand and helped her walk slowly. An, still grappling with her memory loss, asked Luo Bin if he would still accept her if her true self were completely different from who she was now.
Luo Bin reassured her, telling her that he didn't know her past or future self, but he loved her for who she was in the present. As they found their way back, An playfully teased Luo Bin about his "appraising" skills and suggested he get an IQ test for getting them lost. Luo Bin, however, countered that sometimes forgetting is a form of happiness, while a good memory can be a burden.
Luo Bin then expressed his newfound desire to travel the world with An. Later, He Chufeng gave Sui Yi a unique necklace made from a key. An, feeling reflective, expressed how much she missed her family and wondered why they hadn't reported her missing. Sui Yi comforted her, explaining that every parent expresses love differently, and some are just not good at saying it.
Sui Yi then asked An if she liked Luo Bin, to which An replied that he was "cute" and she enjoyed being with him. In turn, An asked Sui Yi why she liked He Chufeng, and Sui Yi simply answered, "Because he is He Chufeng." After dinner, the four friends gathered to light fireworks and share their New Year wishes.
Chufeng called Gu Nan, who was busy working at Song's restaurant but sounded cheerful, expressing his gratitude to Chufeng for vouching for him and making him feel useful and accomplished. They both wished each other a Happy New Year. Later that night, He Chufeng and Sui Yi, both unable to sleep, secretly met up. Sui Yi expressed her joy, calling it her first time traveling with a boyfriend.
As they talked, Chufeng revealed he keeps a notebook and has dedicated a page to Sui Yi as his first entry. Meanwhile, Luo Bin sent An a text message asking if she was asleep. Receiving no reply, he quietly went to her room door and knocked repeatedly, but there was no response.
Episode 22 Recap
He Chufeng and Sui Yi shared a sweet moment, with Sui Yi remarking that this was her first time going out with a boyfriend and that she was happy to be with him. Meanwhile, Luo Bin went to An's room. After getting no response, he was about to leave when An opened the door. Luo Bin confessed he couldn't sleep because he missed her, and An responded by leaning in to kiss him.
She playfully noted how much bigger his hand was than hers and told him she liked him very much. Later, He Chufeng returned to his room, where Luo Bin, full of joy, announced his newfound belief in love. He enthusiastically described feeling Cupid's arrow pierce and cycle through his heart, eventually tying a knot. He Chufeng questioned the details, but Luo Bin, wishing to savor his romantic moment alone, dismissed him.
Gu Nan, speaking on the phone, confirmed he had successfully made contact with He Chufeng and was now working nearby for an acquaintance of He Chufeng. He admitted He Chufeng seemed to have a slight suspicion of him, but Gu Nan asserted it was not an issue, as he held significant leverage over He Chufeng.
He planned to allow He Chufeng a few more days of happiness, surrounded by his loved ones, before making him suffer immensely by taking everything away. The person on the other end of the line commended Gu Nan and promised to deliver what he desired. He Chufeng took Sui Yi to a cemetery to visit his parents and sister.
He introduced Sui Yi to their graves, sharing the tragic story of his sister Chunian's suicide due to depression, and how he returned to find his father, an alcoholic, surrounded by empty bottles. His father later died in a car accident. Sui Yi offered comfort, assuring him that he still had her, Luo Bin, and his teacher as family. He Chufeng expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Sui Yi for coming into his life and accepting him for who he was.
Luo Bin went out to buy milk tea for An. While he was gone, a customer entered the antique store, attempting to pawn a small, silver-plated, engraved shell-handle knife. A female employee offered 1,000 yuan. The customer was dissatisfied with the offer and left. After Luo Bin returned with the drinks, An expressed curiosity about the store's profitability.
Luo Bin explained that Granny Mi operated the shop not for financial gain but to share beautiful, collectible items with unique histories, as many people didn't understand the value of vintage pieces. An appreciated his perspective. During their conversation, An revealed that her favorite flowers were roses. Sui Yi, Jia Xiaoguo, and Chen Xiaoyuan visited Liu Xingyu at her home.
Jia Xiaoguo shared the good news that, thanks to Sui Yi's efforts, Liu Xingyu's mother's community welfare fund had been approved. This would provide monthly subsidies and regular visits from community doctors, giving her a chance at recovery. Liu Xingyu and her mother expressed profound gratitude. Privately, Sui Yi asked Jia Xiaoguo when An had learned her true identity. Jia Xiaoguo replied that An was informed before New Year's Day, and Granny Mi had taken her to find out.
He Chufeng brought daily necessities and food to Gu Nan. Gu Nan mentioned he was adjusting well to his job, performing various tasks and chores. He thanked He Chufeng for vouching for him. Later, Song told He Chufeng that while she initially had reservations, Gu Nan had proven himself by fixing items in the shop and assisting in a recent incident where he helped A-Zhen. She concluded that everyone has a past.
He Chufeng reiterated his commitment to his guarantee for Gu Nan, and Song assured him she would continue to observe Gu Nan. At the antique store, Luo Bin, in high spirits, arrived with a large bouquet of roses for An, unaware of the conversation unfolding inside. He Chufeng and Sui Yi were questioning An, asking if she had enjoyed her time there and if she missed home. Sui Yi then directly asked An if she already knew her true identity.
Jia Xiaoguo entered with a man who introduced himself as Cheng Wen, Fang Qi's fiancé. Luo Bin was stunned by the revelation. Cheng Wen presented photos and an engagement ring as proof, explaining that Fang Qi was his fiancée, the daughter of Fang Tianyu, chairman of Qitian Group, and an auctioneer at Boya Auction House. They had known each other since childhood and got engaged last October.
He apologized for his past oversight, thinking Fang Qi had simply gone to clear her head, and said he was there to take her home. Luo Bin tried to object, claiming the evidence could be fake and that Fang Qi couldn't leave since she didn't remember. However, Jia Xiaoguo confirmed Fang Qi's identity had been verified through fingerprints.
An, now identified as Fang Qi, tearfully apologized to Luo Bin, admitting she had known her identity for some time but hadn't remembered her past. Luo Bin, hurt by her deception, reiterated that withholding the truth was still a lie. Heartbroken, Luo Bin watched as Fang Qi changed into her previous attire. She thanked everyone for their care, stating she had been very happy there, and apologized to Luo Bin once more before leaving with Cheng Wen.
The roses Luo Bin had brought were strewn across the floor. Luo Bin retreated to his room, refusing to eat or speak. He Chufeng and Sui Yi tried to encourage him with offers of food and conversation, but he remained despondent, so they advised him to rest. Sui Yi noted how Luo Bin's short, clipped responses now resembled He Chufeng's communication style.
On the first day of his heartbreak, Luo Bin was listless at the shop, even struggling with simple tasks like appraising an antique knife. He got agitated when a customer mentioned "An," indicating his deep distress. Granny Mi offered him water and wise words, reminding him that good things and relationships cannot be forced, and that every separation is an arrangement of fate for a better reunion. Back home, He Chufeng observed Luo Bin frantically beating eggs in a bowl.
Sui Yi expressed concern for Luo Bin's well-being, but He Chufeng, though saying little, believed in Luo Bin's strong ability to heal himself. Later, Sui Yi mentioned to He Chufeng that An had not replied to her messages and showed him some information about Fang Qi. He Chufeng immediately told her to put it away.
He explained that Luo Bin was so sensitive to the names "An" or "Fang Qi" that even hearing or seeing them would send him into a rage. Sui Yi realized the depth of Luo Bin's pain. On the second day after the breakup, Luo Bin declared he was "expanding his business ability" by "strengthening his analysis of wine."
This involved him tasting various alcoholic beverages, identifying their characteristics, such as the fruity scent of Chivas, the mud coal smell of a single malt whisky like Glenfiddich, and the savory aroma of white wine. He proclaimed himself a genius and enjoyed beer. Despite his claims of professionalism, He Chufeng recognized it as a way for Luo Bin to drown his sorrows.
Luo Bin confessed that he used to enjoy being free and unburdened by others' feelings, but now he felt tired and disliked the person he had become. He then tried to initiate a playful fight with Sui Yi and He Chufeng, who, adhering to his belief in reasoning over physical confrontation, playfully deflected the challenge.
Episode 23 Recap
Having been heartbroken, Luo Bin no longer found solace in being alone; the freedom he once cherished now felt like a burden. He expressed that Cupid had tied a "dead knot" in his heart that he couldn't untie, stating that he thought of countless possibilities but never anticipated this outcome, making it impossible to accept.
He had fallen in love too quickly and plummeted just as fast, leaving him no time to truly savor the experience before Fang Qi left him, taking his love with her. Luo Bin was reluctant to call Fang Qi, reminding He Chufeng that she had a fiancé. He then realized that Fang Qi had even taken his phone, a used one at that, and he wondered if she had taken more than just his phone.
He Chufeng and Sui Yi discussed the profound impact of heartbreak. Sui Yi mentioned having read about several stages of a breakup, with varying expressions between men and women. He Chufeng then listed these stages: "heartbreak, attempting to recover, trying to save the relationship, letting go and moving on." Sui Yi speculated that Luo Bin, in his current crazy and distraught state, was still in the first stage: heartbreak.
Both He Chufeng and Sui Yi admitted they had never truly experienced a breakup. Sui Yi decided to have a serious discussion about their relationship and asked He Chufeng for his honest feedback, promising not to get angry. After some hesitation and reassurance from Sui Yi, He Chufeng objectively pointed out that she was a bit careless in her daily life and hadn't finished any of the books he had recommended.
Sui Yi immediately became annoyed, accusing him of doing it on purpose and insisting these were not real problems, to which He Chufeng maintained they were. On the third day of his breakup, Luo Bin, in a frenzied state, declared it was time for a "big clean-up," enthusiastically offering to wash clothes, fix items, or appraise objects for free.
He Chufeng provided him with a pile of dirty laundry, while Sui Yi mischievously loosened a light bulb and collected other broken household items for him to repair. Luo Bin proudly embraced these tasks, feeling indispensable. He then directed He Chufeng and Sui Yi to clean, and after half an hour, announced it was time for "rest," which surprisingly turned into broadcast gymnastics and eye exercises.
Fed up with his antics, He Chufeng and Sui Yi resorted to tying him up with a necktie and escorting him back to his room. The next morning, the fourth day of his heartbreak, Sui Yi was surprised to find Luo Bin appearing somewhat more normal. She attempted to dissuade him from bothering He Chufeng, who had classes and work to attend.
However, Luo Bin angrily lashed out, accusing them of being selfish and caring only for their own happiness, especially now that they were a couple and he was alone, making him feel like a burden. He then recounted his school days, mentioning he came second in an idiom competition to Liu Feng.
He Chufeng inquired about a letter in his mailbox, which prompted Luo Bin to reveal that He Chufeng frequently received love letters from various girls in high school, even enlisting Liu Feng to help him collect them. Sui Yi grew visibly upset and demanded an explanation about the letters and Liu Feng. Before she could press further, she had to leave for work, promising to confront He Chufeng later.
Luo Bin, feeling a sense of satisfaction after his outburst, retreated to his room, where he continued to long for Fang Qi, wondering how he could possibly move on. Later, as He Chufeng was organizing his mail, Luo Bin suddenly entered and discovered a stack of anonymous letters. He Chufeng explained that he had been receiving these identical, blank letters for several months.
The two roommates then tried to uncover any hidden messages on the Dongba paper, a traditional paper used by Nakhi priests, known for its thickness, durability, and moth-resistant properties due to canescent wikstroemia. Luo Bin confidently boasted about his appraisal skills but admitted a slight chance of failure. They experimented with common invisible inks like starch and baking soda, but no writing appeared. Luo Bin then suggested using potassium thiocyanate and ferrous sulfate, which also yielded no results.
Meanwhile, an elderly woman arrived at the antique shop, seeking a lost pen. Luo Bin, still emotionally distraught, became confrontational, demanding she prove ownership of the expensive pen. He Chufeng intervened, suggesting she check for a purchase receipt or any distinguishing marks. The woman then remembered that the Chinese character "Xiong," her son's name, was engraved on the pen cap. To Luo Bin's astonishment, the engraving was indeed there. He had held the pen all day without noticing it.
He wondered if he had been swapped by aliens, and after He Chufeng commented that such lapses were normal due to heartbreak, Luo Bin mused if he truly needed an IQ test. During this time, Sui Yi's superior, Mr. Zhou, reinstated her on a crucial game company case, praising her recent performance and noting the case's critical stage. He mentioned that the previous lawyer, Yu, had become "slack" and needed a break, so Yu would now assist Sui Yi.
Yu, clearly upset by this demotion, later made a point of expressing his frustration to his assistant, Wang Qing, for including irrelevant foreign cases. Sui Yi later observed Wang Qing being overly apologetic and submissive to Yu, even when she wasn't at fault. Sui Yi advised Wang Qing to stand up for herself and learn to refuse demands, emphasizing that being kind did not equate to being a doormat.
Wang Qing, however, confided in Sui Yi that she felt incompetent and could only find happiness in assisting others. After work, Sui Yi bought three cups of osmanthus oolong milk tea. The cashier, noticing Sui Yi's cat smell, warned her that someone in the community was abusing cats, advising her to keep her own cat safe. Sui Yi felt a surge of unease.
Upon arriving home with the milk tea, Luo Bin reacted strongly, ordering her to throw it away, refusing to let anything from that particular store into the house. He Chufeng also suggested she discard it. Annoyed by their unexplained refusal and still silently fuming over He Chufeng's lack of explanation regarding the love letters, Sui Yi defiantly drank all three cups herself.
The next morning, Sui Yi, still upset, refused He Chufeng's breakfast and opted to bring her own rainbow oatmeal to work. She repeatedly tried to provoke He Chufeng into addressing the love letter issue, hinting at her puffy face from the previous night. However, He Chufeng, oblivious to her hints, merely offered her coffee to reduce swelling or milk for her oatmeal. Frustrated by his lack of understanding, Sui Yi informed him she would be working overtime and left, leaving He Chufeng puzzled by her behavior.
Episode 24 Recap
Gu Nan takes a break from his work, preparing skewers at Song's shop. Song asks if he would consider becoming a chef, citing the good salary and respected position. Gu Nan expresses interest, noting he thought about it during his time in jail, but shows his injured right hand, explaining he can only handle lighter tasks like preparing skewers.
Song praises his optimistic outlook, to which Gu Nan replies that life must continue, promising to improve his speed by practicing with his left hand. Song encourages him to keep up the good work. Sui Yi sighs, confiding in Chen Xiaoyuan that she believes her boyfriend is keeping something from her. Chen Xiaoyuan, however, quickly discerns that Sui Yi is referring to her own relationship issues. Sui Yi then admits her concern about a love letter.
During their conversation, Sui Yi mentions that Luo Bin informed her it was a love letter. Jia Xiaoguo, also present, questions Luo Bin’s reliability, suggesting he might have been joking and reminding Sui Yi about the importance of evidence in her profession. Chen Xiaoyuan adds that He Chufeng is quite popular and likely receives many such letters, noting that men rarely volunteer explanations. Sui Yi expresses frustration, feeling that falling in love has only increased her worries.
Chen Xiaoyuan advises her not to be overly anxious, to cherish her current happiness, and to trust herself, while also preparing for decisive action should a serious issue arise. Luo Bin presents He Chufeng with a newly acquired invisible ink formula, claiming it's a sophisticated technique used by diplomats. They try various chemicals, including tartaric acid, potassium ferrous chloride, and sodium sulfate, on the anonymous letter, but none yield results. Luo Bin then suggests using fire.
He Chufeng, initially hesitant, explains the chemical process of using sodium nitrate to reveal fire writing, but remains cautious. Luo Bin proceeds to ignite the letter, inadvertently burning a significant portion of the paper without revealing the complete message. Frustrated, He Chufeng leaves the lab. Later, at home, He Chufeng prepares dinner for Sui Yi and asks if she is bothered by the letter.
Sui Yi assures him that it is fine, acknowledging that everyone has their secrets and that she will wait until he is ready to share. Luo Bin finally manages to reveal the hidden message on the letter using a modified Lumino reagent, discovering it is written in blood. The cryptic text reads, "The Gate of Dark Games opens to you." Alarmed, Luo Bin warns He Chufeng to avoid dangerous involvements.
He Chufeng is genuinely puzzled by the letter’s content, stating it's his first time seeing it, but he recognizes the unique envelope, having previously seen identical ones at Gu Nan's place. Later, Gu Nan visits He Chufeng, gifting him an owl sculpture for his upcoming birthday, explaining that owls symbolize happiness, wisdom, and good fortune, and wishes him a long and fulfilling life. He Chufeng considers asking about the envelopes but decides against it.
Luo Bin, learning that He Chufeng didn't question Gu Nan, expresses deep concern, emphasizing the need for quick resolution to avoid future danger, especially now that He Chufeng is in a relationship. Sui Yi overhears their conversation and questions them. He Chufeng reassures her that the letter is not a love letter but cannot yet reveal its true nature.
To convince her, he drags a sleepy Luo Bin from his bed to corroborate, much to Luo Bin's exasperation, who laments his sleepless and heartbroken state. He Chufeng apologizes to Sui Yi for not realizing the extent of her concern about the letters and promises to be more direct if she ever feels upset. Sui Yi admits she is primarily angry with herself for becoming overly sensitive and prone to suspicion since they started dating, a change she dislikes.
He Chufeng reassures her, stating that her concern indicates she cares, and it is his responsibility to provide her with a greater sense of security. Later, as Luo Bin finally attempts to sleep, a female friend calls to remind him of their scheduled exhibition visit the next day, asking him to dress in warm colors to match her outfit. The following day, at the exhibition, Luo Bin acts as a reluctant photographer for his friend, clearly disengaged from the artwork.
He then spots Fang Qi with her fiancé, who is attempting to apologize to her. Overwhelmed by the sight, Luo Bin quickly retreats from the exhibition. Sui Yi treats her colleagues to juice tea at the law firm. Her colleagues commend her dedication and thoroughness as an intern, noting her strong work ethic compared to another intern, Yu, who is criticized for being disorganized and only passing her law exam through an expensive "pass-guaranteed" class.
Meanwhile, back at home, He Chufeng prepares to feed Bean Bun but discovers the cat is missing. He, Sui Yi, and Luo Bin search extensively for Bean Bun throughout the night without success. The next morning, a crowd gathers around the deceased body of a cat, evidently a victim of abuse, shocking He Chufeng, Sui Yi, and Luo Bin.
Community residents voice their fears and speculate about the abuser, with some suspecting Tuda from the market, Old Gao from the skewer shop, or even the new assistant chef, Gu Nan, for whom He Chufeng had vouched. Some residents also hint at He Chufeng himself due to his locksmith skills. Others point to a girl from the milk tea shop known for her strong dislike of cats.
As He Chufeng and Luo Bin begin their search for clues, Sui Yi, despite being at work, is visibly distracted and anxious about Bean Bun's fate, making phone calls to Chen Xiaoyuan and Jia Xiaoguo, urging them to address the escalating cat abuse issue that has panicked the community. Jia Xiaoguo assures her they will do their utmost to help.
Episode 25 Recap
The community is agitated by recent cat abuse incidents, with neighbors openly speculating that Gu Nan, who was recently released from prison and has a "not so kind" appearance, is the most likely culprit, also implicating He Chufeng who vouched for him. Luo Bin confronts the gossiping neighbors, asserting that He Chufeng is not involved.
However, he then privately confesses to He Chufeng that he also suspects Gu Nan, citing the discovery of Bean Bun's bell near Song's grill house and the blood found at Gu Nan's door as compelling evidence. He Chufeng cautions Luo Bin against making hasty judgments without concrete proof, mentioning that even Zhen, who witnessed the blood, was not entirely certain.
Luo Bin, growing increasingly frustrated, accuses He Chufeng of not being concerned enough about Bean Bun's disappearance and insists that He Chufeng should confront Gu Nan directly. He Chufeng defends himself, stating that as the one who found Bean Bun, he is more worried than anyone. Luo Bin, still angry, storms off, vowing to search for Bean Bun himself. Just then, He Chufeng receives an urgent call for a car lockout on the highway.
Luo Bin is further incensed, questioning He Chufeng's priorities, and asks if He Chufeng would similarly prioritize work if Luo Bin were in trouble. He Chufeng leaves to take the job. Sui Yi, distracted by the ongoing events, mistakenly reported the wrong meeting time, leading to Ms. Su's tardiness. Sui Yi later goes to Ms. Su's office to apologize, taking full responsibility for her error.
Ms. Su, however, reprimands her severely, explaining the significant ramifications a similar mistake would have had in a formal trial, affecting the judge, clerks, clients, opposing lawyers, and the entire firm. Ms. Su explicitly states that no excuse justifies such an error and warns Sui Yi that she will "carefully consider" her internship appraisal report, implying her chances of becoming a permanent employee are now slim.
Meanwhile, colleagues in the office express sympathy for Sui Yi, recalling her kindness, but Sui Yi, despite her distress, continues to diligently carry out her tasks, focusing on finding files and evidence for a game company case. He Chufeng visits Gu Nan, who has returned home from his night shift to get a warmer coat. He Chufeng asks if Gu Nan has seen Bean Bun, then directly questions him about the bloodstains at his door.
Gu Nan, infuriated by the implied accusation, smashes a glass bottle and angrily asks if he is suspected of every bad thing just because he was imprisoned. He vehemently denies abusing or killing any cats and states he has no idea where Bean Bun is. As Gu Nan is about to leave for work, Luo Bin arrives, further escalating the tension.
Luo Bin threatens to expose Gu Nan's past if he doesn't cooperate in finding Bean Bun, but Gu Nan defiantly retorts that he isn't afraid. Luo Bin, still fuming from his encounter with Gu Nan and He Chufeng, decides to visit the milk tea shop with Sui Yi. There, they overhear the owner arguing with a staff member.
The staff member expresses her frustration with the owner's rude behavior and her intention to quit, dismissing Luo Bin's concern about an injury on her forehead. Luo Bin mentions the recent cat abuse cases and the disappearance of Bean Bun. The staff member denies seeing Bean Bun and reacts with visible disgust when Luo Bin recounts finding a pen with cat hair and blood, which belonged to the milk tea shop owner.
The owner then urges them to leave if they are not buying anything, as she is closing up. Luo Bin and Sui Yi conclude that something is definitely amiss at the shop. However, due to his ongoing conflict with He Chufeng, Luo Bin refuses to discuss their findings with him. Shortly after, He Chufeng returns home and receives a call from Song, who asks him to come to her grill house immediately, and he leaves alone.
At Song's grill house, Song shows He Chufeng CCTV footage from the night Bean Bun went missing, revealing Gu Nan acting suspiciously near the entrance. Song cautions that the video alone isn't conclusive, noting Zhen's uncertain reports of blood and cat meows from Gu Nan's room. Luo Bin arrives, sensing impending confrontation. He Chufeng directly confronts Gu Nan again, who quickly becomes defensive, accusing them of presuming his guilt due to his past.
He questions if his past imprisonment means he's now denied basic freedoms, like going out at night, and insists they wouldn't believe him regardless of his explanations. He Chufeng clarifies that he is not targeting Gu Nan but is seeking the truth, regardless of where the evidence leads. Gu Nan challenges He Chufeng to understand his perspective. He Chufeng counters by asking Gu Nan to reveal what truly happened. Gu Nan asks if He Chufeng regrets vouching for him.
He Chufeng reaffirms his commitment, apologizing for the events of six years ago and his lingering guilt. He explains his desire for Gu Nan to have a new life but reiterates that he needs to know the truth. He Chufeng delivers a stark warning: if Gu Nan is responsible, even for harming a cat, his actions will be the same as they were six years ago. The scene shifts to a flashback in 2014.
Gu Nan is working at a gold shop, attempting to open a lock. The arrogant owner belittles him, calling him a "lowly person" and boasting about his wealth, even making Gu Nan touch gold bars as if he'd never seen such luxury. Gu Nan, insulted and furious, later drinks at home with He Chufeng, expressing his deep anger at the owner's taunts and vowing revenge.
On a stormy night, Gu Nan claims he has an emergency call to repair a safe, and despite his attempt to go alone, He Chufeng insists on joining him. Along the way, Gu Nan notices police sirens and becomes anxious. He stops the car, tells He Chufeng to wait, and confesses his true intention: to "teach a lesson" to the gold shop owner by proving he can open all the shop's locks.
He Chufeng pleads with Gu Nan, warning him that this path is wrong and not worth ruining his life for. However, Gu Nan, convinced that geniuses like them are meant to defy rules, ignores He Chufeng, locks him inside the car, and heads towards the gold shop. Observing the heavy rain and Gu Nan's determination, He Chufeng, after a moment of agonizing internal conflict, makes the difficult decision to call the police.
Following He Chufeng's call, the police surround the gold shop and apprehend Gu Nan as he is taking gold from the safe. He stares at He Chufeng with a look of surprise as he is led away, while He Chufeng, burdened by guilt, keeps his head down. A police officer offers help to a distressed He Chufeng, who declines, claiming he just forgot his umbrella.
Later, Gu Nan, now in custody, tells He Chufeng that He Chufeng did nothing wrong six years ago; it was Gu Nan who made the mistake. He admits trying to make amends. He praises He Chufeng as a good, upright, and kind person. Gu Nan then reveals his deepest hurt: the belief that He Chufeng will always perceive him as a bad person. Meanwhile, Liu Xingyu arrives at Gu Nan's place, carrying a small injured kitten.
She asks Gu Nan if it's time to change its dressing, explaining that Gu Nan found the kitten two nights prior in the back alley, bleeding, and has been caring for it and bandaging its wounds. This reveals that the bloodstains and cat meows at Gu Nan's door were from this injured kitten, not Bean Bun. Back home, He Chufeng discovers that Bean Bun has returned, bringing another small cat with it.
Sui Yi and Luo Bin are present, relieved by Bean Bun's safe return. Sui Yi expresses her feelings by saying "it's a long story," but she is just glad Bean Bun is home. He Chufeng instructs them to keep doors and windows closed and plans to take the new kitten to the vet. They playfully suggest names for the new cat, settling on "Beancurd Jelly" for its "domineering" sound.
Luo Bin, still feeling uneasy, wonders about the secrets He Chufeng might be keeping. Later, He Chufeng is seen drinking beer, and Sui Yi joins him. Both carry unspoken worries, choosing not to burden each other. As He Chufeng carries a tipsy Sui Yi home, he reassures her that making mistakes is acceptable, as long as one learns from them, likening it to twisting a key in a lock.
He also expresses his guilt and internal conflict over again suspecting Gu Nan, explaining his fear that Gu Nan might repeat past errors. Sui Yi encourages him to trust Gu Nan for now, reiterating his key metaphor. Elsewhere, Luo Bin is confronted by his childhood friend who openly confesses her affection and urges him to be with her. Luo Bin repeatedly declines her advances. Suddenly, Fang Qi appears, boldly claiming to be Luo Bin's girlfriend, which Luo Bin eagerly confirms.
Fang Qi then gives Luo Bin's persistent friend three options to leave. The friend retreats, albeit confused. Luo Bin's childhood friend later confronts him about ignoring her at a museum. Separately, Luo Bin meets an acquaintance, Zheng, who seeks a reliable handwriting appraiser. Luo Bin readily provides a contact, offering free services for any future appraisals and musing about the viability of a career as an intermediary given the downturn in the publishing industry.
Episode 26 Recap
Fang Qi confronted Luo Bin, asking why he ignored her at the museum when he clearly saw her. Luo Bin explained he didn't want to disturb her and her fiancé. Fang Qi admitted she hadn't slept well since returning home and just wanted to get a good night's sleep, then went upstairs. Luo Bin finally smiled, seeing her at peace.
He Chufeng found himself struggling with involuntary doubts about Gu Nan, questioning why he couldn't trust him completely as he once did. Meanwhile, Gu Nan was confronted by a handler who chastised him for his lack of progress, reminding him that the money he received wasn't for a comfortable life and ordering him to destroy He Chufeng.
Gu Nan asserted that he had been waiting for the right moment and would succeed, fueled by the memory of who took everything from him. Later, a taxi driver, who had been helping Gu Nan acquire safes, arrived with another one. The driver noticed Gu Nan was only paying him 200 yuan for a 300-yuan item and also recognized the safe Gu Nan was currently working on as one he’d previously delivered.
He lightheartedly reminded Gu Nan about his earlier comment of wanting to "hide someone" in the safes, even joking that the current one might be too small and he'd find a bigger one next time. Moments later, Gu Nan, with a dagger, attacked and killed the driver, murmuring to himself that only the dead can keep secrets forever. He Chufeng noticed Sui Yi had an allergic reaction after drinking milk tea, reminding him of her cat dander allergy.
This led him to suspect the milk tea shop. The two men visited the milk tea shop, where they encountered an employee with a facial injury, seemingly from an argument with her boss. He Chufeng then asked the employee if she had a cat abuse video. She confessed she had filmed the owner abusing a cat after an incident where the cat scratched her dress, adding that she was leaving the next day and wasn't afraid to expose her.
He Chufeng persuaded her to reveal the truth, emphasizing the panic the abuse caused in the community. Luo Bin then contacted Zheng Xingchuan, asking him to disseminate this information to the entire neighborhood. News of the milk tea shop owner's cat abuse and use of expired ingredients quickly spread, making the shop a public enemy and leading to an investigation by relevant authorities.
Seeing the community's outrage, Sui Yi, who had consumed three cups of the milk tea, suddenly felt nauseous and unwell. A beautiful young woman named Xia Shi arrived at the vintage store looking for He Chufeng. She seemed intimately familiar with the shop and even Bean Bun, causing Sui Yi to eye her suspiciously. When Luo Bin returned, he recognized Xia Shi, who expressed delight at seeing him and inquired about his recent activities.
Shortly after, He Chufeng arrived, and Xia Shi greeted him affectionately as "Fengfeng." This familiar address triggered Sui Yi's jealousy, prompting her to adopt an overly sweet tone while offering He Chufeng a glass of water, remarking, "Honey, you must be tired." Xia Shi then mentioned needing help opening a door as she’d forgotten her keys, confidently stating that He Chufeng would always help her.
Sui Yi, subtly competitive, suggested a password lock to avoid such issues, though Xia Shi retorted that He Chufeng preferred traditional locks for security. Noticing the tension, He Chufeng introduced Xia Shi as the previous tenant of the vintage store, who had lived in the attic for three years, explaining that his current room used to be hers. Xia Shi then revealed she had come to ask Sui Yi for a favor.
Sui Yi, pleased to be asked, readily provided Zheng Xingchuan's contact information, and Xia Shi departed, stating that "the timing of meeting is important." Sui Yi received a phone call from Aunt Liu, who was calling to claim her cat, Angel, which Bean Bun had brought home.
During the conversation, Aunt Liu unexpectedly revealed that Gu Nan had a past criminal record and had been to jail, but praised He Chufeng for vouching for him, especially since Gu Nan had saved a cat, not abused one as some had suspected. Discovering He Chufeng's concealment, Sui Yi angrily confronted him, demanding to know why he, as her boyfriend, had kept such vital information from her.
He Chufeng argued that he didn't deem it necessary, likening it to Sui Yi not telling her mother about their relationship. Luo Bin, equally upset, pointed out that he and Sui Yi, as He Chufeng's closest friends, were the last to know, even after the entire community. They emphasized that their anger stemmed not from concern for themselves, but from He Chufeng's lack of trust and honesty.
He Chufeng, still struggling to grasp the depth of their frustration, promised to clarify Gu Nan's situation, asking for some time, before heading upstairs. Luo Bin, reflecting on the conversation about deception, confided in Fang Qi (whom he addressed as An) that he hated being lied to, but hated lying even more himself. He pondered if someone could truly forgive a past lie, especially if it involved someone they cared about.
Expressing his deep fear that Fang Qi might suddenly disappear from his life again, he asked for her assurance. Fang Qi firmly took his hand, promising she would not leave and would always remain by his side. Luo Bin then told He Chufeng that he was no longer angry about the Gu Nan situation, respecting He Chufeng's decision and assuring him he could share details whenever he was ready.
Alone, Luo Bin was tormented by memories of his father's culpability in the death of He Chunian, He Chufeng's younger sister, recalling his father’s remorseful words, "It's all my fault." Still fuming from He Chufeng's secrecy, Sui Yi was unable to sleep.
She complained to Fang Qi that He Chufeng, "that dull block of wood," kept too many secrets, emphasizing that her anger wasn't about the facts of Gu Nan's past, but about He Chufeng’s refusal to confide in her and share burdens in their relationship. Fang Qi gently advised her that happiness was the most important aspect of a relationship. The next morning, Sui Yi woke everyone abruptly, announcing her mother's imminent arrival.
She insisted that He Chufeng, Luo Bin, and Fang Qi (addressed as An) change into respectable clothes and project an image of "upright, kind, and righteous young people" to prevent her mother from thinking she lived in an "absurd place." Luo Bin privately expressed his concern for He Chufeng, noting how unprepared he was for a sudden parental meeting.
When Sui Yi's mother arrived, she revealed she had seen He Chufeng in a video on Sui Yi’s phone and decided to come in person, prompting Sui Yi to formally introduce He Chufeng as her boyfriend and apologize for not telling her parents sooner. Sui Yi's mother questioned He Chufeng about his zodiac sign, ascendant, and blood type, suggesting their signs might not be compatible, and revealing her own interest in these traits.
He Chufeng, clenching his fists nervously, truthfully disclosed his difficult family history: his mother died in a fire, his sister Chunian committed suicide due to depression, and his father died in a car accident. He expressed his understanding if she had concerns due to his background and special profession, but sincerely conveyed his deep admiration for Sui Yi, who had changed him for the better, and how lucky he felt to know her.
Sui Yi's mother asked for a tour of her daughter's room, inquiring about the number of floors in the building and how Sui Yi and Fang Qi shared a bed. She advised them to be careful not to catch a cold and expressed her unending concern for Sui Yi. The mother then asked about Sui Yi's work, which Sui Yi described positively, despite still being an apprentice lawyer.
Sui Yi's mother encouraged her to pursue her dreams but assured her that she could always return home if things got tough. Sui Yi reassured her mother that she was very satisfied with her job at the law firm and her living situation, even planning to redecorate her room. However, her mother dampened her enthusiasm, suggesting that there was no need to decorate too much, as relationships can end, and it would be inconvenient to move too many things. She then asked Sui Yi pointedly if she truly loved He Chufeng.
Episode 27 Recap
Sui Yi's mother pressed her daughter about her feelings, and Sui Yi confidently told her mother that she truly loved He Chufeng. Meanwhile, Luo Bin asked He Chufeng what Sui Yi's mother had inquired about. He Chufeng mentioned questions about his zodiac sign, blood type, and family situation, feeling apprehensive about her potentially minding his background. Luo Bin explained that parents naturally worry about their children's partners, having cared for them for over two decades.
He advised He Chufeng to approach this like the most challenging task in his work, maintaining confidence and finding the "password" to convince her. Sui Yi's mother then asked He Chufeng for a tour of his studio, deliberately leaving Sui Yi outside the door to speak with him privately. Sui Yi and Luo Bin tried to eavesdrop, but the door was too soundproof.
He Chufeng eventually caught them, leading to an awkward moment, and jokingly told Luo Bin he could teach him how to handle meeting parents next time. Sui Yi's mother decided not to stay for lunch, despite He Chufeng's offer to cook the sausages her father sent. She complimented the lively and earnest atmosphere, describing it as befitting "four-haves young people" (having ideals, morals, culture, and discipline), which Luo Bin noted must be a reference to Sui Yi’s politics teacher father.
Before leaving, she specifically told Sui Yi and Fang Qi (An) to take good care of themselves while living together, a subtle hint about Sui Yi's relationship with He Chufeng. She also reminded He Chufeng of their private "promise." After her mother left, Sui Yi pressed He Chufeng about the promise, but both Luo Bin and Fang Qi sided with He Chufeng, emphasizing the importance of integrity, much to Sui Yi's frustration.
Later, in the kitchen, Sui Yi initially remembered she was supposed to be angry with He Chufeng, but his kiss quickly diffused her annoyance. He Chufeng playfully reassured her, saying she had a "smart little head." Reflecting on their private conversation, Sui Yi's mother had told He Chufeng she appreciated his honesty and trusted him as someone Sui Yi could rely on, especially given how well he managed his life despite his past.
She acknowledged Sui Yi's willfulness and many bad habits, which she and her father had indulged, and asked He Chufeng to be tolerant and help her correct them. He Chufeng promised to care for Sui Yi and always apologize first if they quarreled. Late that night, He Chufeng called Gu Nan to apologize for his previous actions, admitting he should have trusted him. Gu Nan, though initially upset, accepted the apology.
He Chufeng then showed Gu Nan a letter—an invitation to a secret, world-class locksmith competition. Gu Nan recognized it, having received a similar one years ago but not attending. He explained the rigorous entry process, marveling at He Chufeng's ability to decode the invitation. He Chufeng, however, was uninterested, citing Gu Nan's own philosophy that opening locks isn't about winning or losing. Gu Nan argued that such a competition could significantly enhance professional skills and urged him to reconsider.
After He Chufeng left, Gu Nan called his "Sir," lamenting that He Chufeng had burned the portion of the invitation containing the competition date. Gu Nan, determined to participate, declared he would ensure He Chufeng willingly handed over the letter to him. Meanwhile, Fang Qi confided in Luo Bin about her father, feeling he didn't care for her because he hadn't searched for her when she was missing and wasn't present when she returned home.
Luo Bin suggested that parents express their care in different ways. Fang Qi then asked Luo Bin about his relationship with his father, to which he replied, "Which father do you mean?" hinting at his own complex family situation. Fang Qi's fiancé, Cheng Wen, repeatedly called her, trying to convince her to return, but she firmly stated she needed to stay for a few days and was no longer his fiancée.
A flashback showed her father threatening to disown her if she didn't marry Cheng Wen. Cheng Wen, anxious about Fang Qi potentially regaining her memories, instructed his subordinate to bring her back before her father returned, emphasizing that she must not remember anything. Back at his shop, Luo Bin was studying a book, finding its initial chapters to be well-structured and imaginative, but the ending felt strangely disjointed. His online research revealed a significant controversy surrounding the author.
He discovered a video of Zheng Xiuyuan disrupting a book signing, publicly accusing the author, Jiang Lu, of plagiarizing the work of Bai Tianhuan. Luo Bin immediately went to Zheng Xiuyuan's bookstore, arriving as Jiang Lu was attempting to persuade Zheng Xiuyuan to delete the online posts and sell him the rest of the manuscript, offering lucrative publishing and film adaptation deals.
Zheng Xiuyuan furiously refused, calling Jiang Lu a shameless plagiarist and warning him that he had evidence and surveillance footage of their encounter. Jiang Lu, dismissing Zheng Xiuyuan as jealous, stormed out. Zheng Xiuyuan then explained to Luo Bin that he, Jiang Lu, and Bai Tianhuan were close friends and aspiring writers ten years ago. Bai Tianhuan was the most talented, for whom writing was his entire life. The three had struggled to get their works published.
Two years later, Bai Tianhuan was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Even on his sickbed, he continued to write his final masterpiece, a story he had conceived at sixteen but never had the time to finish. He preferred writing by hand, believing it fostered his inspiration. After Bai Tianhuan's death, Zheng Xiuyuan found the complete manuscript among his belongings and kept it safe.
Last year, he was shocked to discover Jiang Lu had published the book under his own name, even using Bai Tianhuan's original ideas for the book's jacket. Zheng Xiuyuan tried to confront Jiang Lu, but he was ignored and publicly dismissed at a book signing. He was outraged that a plagiarist could enjoy recognition while the true author was silenced.
Zheng Xiuyuan deduced that Jiang Lu must have acquired the initial parts of the manuscript when they shared a residence and had "dog-tailed" the ending, completely ruining Bai Tianhuan's original vision, which explained the book's jarring narrative inconsistencies that Luo Bin had noted. He confirmed that his bookstore had surveillance footage of Jiang Lu's recent visit, serving as crucial evidence.
Episode 28 Recap
Zheng Xiuyuan, realizing the surveillance cameras in his bookstore didn't record audio, lamented that he hadn't thought to record Jiang Lu's recent confession. Jiang Lu had said many infuriating things, even attempting to bribe Zheng and insult Bai Tianhuan's work with money, and had explicitly admitted that the novel was indeed Bai Tianhuan's creation. Meanwhile, Sui Yi received a new case.
After being asked by a colleague to draft a statement based on information sent by a publishing house, she was surprised to find Zheng Xiuyuan's name among the case materials. Upon learning about the situation, Luo Bin immediately returned home to find Sui Yi, hoping she could assist Zheng Xiuyuan. However, Sui Yi, a lawyer, was unable to help.
She explained that her director was the legal advisor for Blue Sky White Clouds Press, the publisher of Jiang Lu, who was a signed author with them. This created a conflict of interest, preventing her from taking Zheng Xiuyuan's case. She then established a "barrier" to avoid discussing any work-related matters, including Zheng Xiuyuan's case, with Luo Bin. She even refused Luo Bin access to An's room.
He Chufeng, finding Luo Bin upset by this, rationalized Sui Yi's stance, stating that her leader's work was her work and it deserved respect. Luo Bin then recounted the full story to He Chufeng: Jiang Lu had published Bai Tianhuan's novel under his own name, but the book had a noticeable shift in style, leading Zheng Xiuyuan to accuse Jiang Lu of plagiarism and reveal that Bai Tianhuan had written the first part, while Jiang Lu had written the ending.
Luo Bin, still frustrated, continued to argue with Sui Yi at the dinner table. He tried to bring up details about Zheng Xiuyuan's bookstore, but Sui Yi quickly reminded him of their agreement not to discuss work. Luo Bin then shifted to hypotheticals, asking what was most important to Sui Yi as a lawyer, to which she replied, "the sense of glory and justice of winning the case."
He Chufeng intervened, siding with Sui Yi by stating that talking while eating was unhealthy and that they should change this "bad habit." After dinner, He Chufeng assigned Luo Bin the task of cleaning up. While doing dishes, Luo Bin and Fang Qi discussed the concept of competitiveness. Luo Bin teased Fang Qi about her strong "desire to win," referencing an incident where she asserted their relationship to another girl.
Fang Qi corrected him, identifying it as "possessiveness," a term Luo Bin found quite appealing. Fang Qi then apologized for previously concealing her identity. Luo Bin acknowledged his initial anger but assured her that he understood and that it was in the past. Fang Qi clarified that the man referred to as her fiancé was not her fiancé in her current memories, which were entirely those of An.
She expressed her sole desire to fulfill An's wishes, which were to be with Luo Bin. She questioned if Luo Bin truly didn't mind her amnesia, the potential problems if her memory returned, or the risk of her forgetting everything again and becoming a different person. Luo Bin admitted his fears, primarily of her transforming back into her old self and returning to her fiancé, or disappearing entirely.
However, he emphasized the unpredictability of the future, advocating for enjoying the present moment as long as they were together and happy. Gu Nan visited He Chufeng, presenting him with the schedule for a secret lockpicking competition. He Chufeng initially declined, stating he was content and picked locks to help others, not for personal triumph. Gu Nan, however, probed He Chufeng's motivations, questioning if he still found joy in lockpicking now that it had become effortless for him.
Gu Nan urged He Chufeng not to suppress his exceptional talent, reminding him that he deserved to stand at the pinnacle of his craft and that, despite his self-deception, he inherently desired to win. Challenged by Gu Nan's assertion of his own ambition to win, He Chufeng ultimately agreed to a competition between them. Zheng Xiuyuan publicly released a video, explicitly accusing Jiang Lu of plagiarizing Bai Tianhuan's novel.
He detailed how Jiang Lu had published Bai Tianhuan's manuscript as his own, with chapters from 15 onwards being Jiang Lu's own inferior continuation. Zheng Xiuyuan presented Bai Tianhuan's original notes as proof and a judicial forensic report confirming the manuscript in his possession was indeed Bai Tianhuan's handwriting. He also defiantly declared that Jiang Lu was unworthy of ever seeing Bai Tianhuan's original ending.
In response, the publisher issued a statement, observing that public opinion largely favored them and that if Zheng Xiuyuan took no further action, the controversy might subside without impacting their promotional plans. However, Jiang Lu was not content with this passive approach, questioning why they couldn't retaliate. Zhou lawyer advised against proactive measures unless Zheng Xiuyuan initiated a lawsuit, promising to monitor the situation.
Later, Jiang Lu sought Sui Yi's counsel privately, inquiring what precautions he should take if Zheng Xiuyuan were to approach him again. Sui Yi advised him to be cautious about what he said, avoid physical altercations, and, most importantly, prevent any encounters from being audio or video recorded, as such recordings could serve as evidence. She suggested avoiding face-to-face or even phone conversations with Zheng Xiuyuan. Both Sui Yi and Zhou lawyer suspected Jiang Lu was not being entirely truthful.
Sui Yi felt compelled to investigate further, but Zhou lawyer dismissed the idea, reminding her that her role was to defend her client, regardless of potential wrongdoing, a principle she had learned in law school. Unconvinced, Sui Yi then consulted a colleague, Xiao Yu, who shared a similar experience where a client had concealed crucial information.
Xiao Yu advised Sui Yi on "luring out the truth" by building trust and explaining the full spectrum of consequences that lies could incur, emphasizing that the way questions are posed can significantly alter the outcome. Zheng Xiuyuan, having installed new cameras capable of recording audio, discovered his bookstore had been vandalized and his safe broken into, with his manuscript stolen.
However, it was later revealed by Jiang Lu that the stolen manuscript was Zheng Xiuyuan's own writings, not Bai Tianhuan's, a discovery that greatly frustrated Jiang Lu. Meanwhile, Sui Yi revisited the publisher to inquire about the book. The publisher explained that they had enthusiastically signed Jiang Lu for his compelling first half of the novel, even without a complete ending, a common practice in their industry.
Addressing concerns about the altered writing style in the latter half, the publisher attributed it to the unpredictable nature of an author's inspiration, asserting that it didn't diminish the work's overall quality. Sui Yi then obtained the proofreading script from the publisher. Back at home, Luo Bin worried intensely about He Chufeng, who had secluded himself in his room all day, fearing he might be preparing for the dangerous "secret game."
He Chufeng clarified that he was merely preparing for a competition with Gu Nan, and requested not to be disturbed. Sui Yi arranged a meeting with Jiang Lu at a cafe, where He Chufeng and Luo Bin also happened to arrive. Sui Yi, seeing them, quickly refocused on her client.
She earnestly pressed Jiang Lu to reveal the complete truth, explaining that his continued secrecy could lead to severe consequences, including criminal charges and imprisonment, if Zheng Xiuyuan produced more evidence. Faced with this stark reality, Jiang Lu finally disclosed the full story to Sui Yi, leaving her visibly overwhelmed.
Luo Bin, curious about Jiang Lu's confession, repeatedly tried to coax information from Sui Yi, even offering to keep it secret, but she steadfastly refused to reveal any details, stating she was too flustered. Later that night, after Zheng Xiuyuan had left his house, Jiang Lu retrieved a hidden key from under the doormat and entered. Zheng Xiuyuan's son, Curly, awoke and, seeing Jiang Lu, curiously asked who he was.
Jiang Lu falsely claimed to be Zheng Xiuyuan's friend, sent to retrieve a manuscript. Curly, however, mentioned that his father had been carrying the manuscript with him every day recently. Jiang Lu then inquired about the book, and Curly, who had read it three times, surprising Jiang Lu by stating he found the latter part more interesting, citing the adage that "there are a thousand Hamlets in a thousand people's eyes." Simultaneously, Zheng Xiuyuan went to a vintage store and shared the original, true ending of the story with others.
Episode 29 Recap
Bai Ye, who was reading a book, confidently told Jiang Lu that the latter part of the story was more interesting. When Jiang Lu expressed that many thought the opposite, Bai Ye invoked the wisdom, "There are a thousand Hamlets in a thousand people's eyes," asserting that even a child like him understood such a concept. Later, Jiang Lu approached Bai Ye, still curious about what was written in Zheng's manuscript.
When He Chufeng arrived and called him "Curly," Bai Ye corrected him, stating his name was Bai Ye. This surprised Jiang Lu, who then learned that Bai Ye's father was Bai Tianhuan. Bai Ye told Jiang Lu that his father, Bai Tianhuan, had greatly admired ""Jiang Lu's writing"", believing ""it"" would one day "shake the world" and make a name for himself. He also mentioned that the name "Bai Ye" was given by his father's best friend.
Meanwhile, Zheng Xiuyuan came to Luo Bin and He Chufeng for advice, feeling overwhelmed by the publisher's statement and legal action. He admitted he hadn't thought of hiring a lawyer. Luo Bin suggested he seek legal representation and asked Sui Yi to recommend a trustworthy lawyer. However, Sui Yi, bound by professional ethics, initially refused, explaining that recommending a strong lawyer to Zheng could potentially harm her current client, Jiang Lu, whose interests were her top priority.
Luo Bin appealed to her sense of justice, pointing out that Jiang Lu had plagiarized Bai Tianhuan's work and Zheng was on the side of righteousness. Sui Yi, torn, agreed to consider it. After some thought, Zheng Xiuyuan decided he no longer needed Sui Yi's help, understanding their conflicting positions. Sui Yi was deeply conflicted, understanding that Jiang Lu was the wrongdoer, yet bound by professional ethics, she did not want to see Zheng bullied.
Grappling with this dilemma, she found herself unable to sleep and called He Chufeng, expressing her frustration without revealing the specifics. He Chufeng offered unwavering emotional support, assuring her he would help in any way he could. Later, Sui Yi called Luo Bin, asking him to check Zheng Xiuyuan's handwriting identification records for her, specifically how many samples he had submitted. Luo Bin confirmed there were 70 pages. This information prompted Luo Bin to confront Zheng Xiuyuan.
He pointed out the discrepancy between the 70 pages submitted for authentication and the 300-plus pages Zheng showed in his video. Zheng confessed that he only possessed the last 70 pages of Bai Tianhuan's original manuscript and had copied the remaining 200-plus pages himself. He explained he was desperate to seek justice for Bai Tianhuan and thought this deception would force Jiang Lu to admit his wrongdoing.
Luo Bin criticized Zheng's naive plan, emphasizing that a published book undergoes extensive revision and proofreading, making it easy to expose copied pages. Despite Zheng's plea that he had no other option and didn't want to burden anyone, Luo Bin expressed his disappointment at Zheng's deceit. Deeply affected by his conversation with Bai Ye and the child's father's past admiration for his writing, Jiang Lu went to Zheng Xiuyuan's bookstore. There, he tearfully admitted to plagiarizing Bai Tianhuan's work.
He confessed to feeling creatively uninspired and repeatedly rejected after numerous submissions. Upon seeing Bai Tianhuan's manuscript, he was in awe of the talent he lacked and, in a moment of weakness, submitted it as his own. He acknowledged that one lie led to countless others. He apologized to Bai Tianhuan and Zheng Xiuyuan for his actions. Subsequently, Jiang Lu publicly apologized online, admitting his plagiarism and returning the manuscripts he had taken from Zheng's safe.
With the permission of Bai Ye's mother, the publisher decided to re-release the novel under Bai Tianhuan's name. With the plagiarism case resolved, the "barrier" upstairs was lifted, allowing Luo Bin to visit An. Sui Yi thanked He Chufeng for finding a lawyer for Zheng, which had relieved her moral conflict. He Chufeng explained he intervened because he saw her struggle, noting that their role was merely to provide a "push," and individuals ultimately resolve their own issues.
Sui Yi reflected on her internal struggle between her personal sense of justice and her professional duty to her clients. She asked He Chufeng for advice on how to handle similar situations in the future. He Chufeng advised her to choose her clients, declining cases she genuinely couldn't accept, but cautioned against judgment, reminding her that "there are no absolute good people, nor absolute bad people," and appearances can be deceiving.
He encouraged her, believing she had the potential to be a powerful lawyer because her eyes "sparkled" when she discussed legal matters. Sui Yi expressed her joy and comfort in being able to lean on him. Later, while getting food from Song's instant boiled spicy hot pot shop, Luo Bin overheard Jia Xiaoguo reveal that He Chufeng was the one who reported Gu Nan years ago.
Jia Xiaoguo described Gu Nan as a legendary "lock king" who could open any lock but strayed into theft, a serious taboo for locksmiths, ruining his life. Luo Bin, having been unaware of this, was shocked by the revelation about He Chufeng's master. Luo Bin then searched online for information about Gu Nan, finding old news articles about his theft.
He later met with Gu Nan, treating him to drinks and cautiously questioning his motives for challenging He Chufeng to a competition after years of inactivity. Gu Nan admitted to wanting to win against He Chufeng, stating it was a form of respect. He further explained his desire to ignite He Chufeng's competitive spirit to encourage him to participate in the "secret game," claiming He Chufeng also wanted to win, and that the competition was He Chufeng's idea.
In the restroom, Luo Bin overheard Gu Nan on the phone, reassuring someone that he had a plan and would proceed with the competition against He Chufeng as previously agreed. Back home, Luo Bin saw Fang Qi reading a novel. He inquired about it, learning it was written by Bai Ye, a second-grader. Fang Qi said Bai Ye had specifically instructed her not to show it to Luo Bin because Bai Ye "didn't like him."
Luo Bin later spoke with Gu Nan. When Gu Nan asked Luo Bin what kind of person He Chufeng was, Luo Bin described him as "extremely righteous" yet "inflexible" and "sometimes too righteous." Gu Nan responded by questioning if being "too righteous" was always good, musing that people are quick to label someone "bad" for a single misstep, and that maintaining righteousness for a lifetime is an impossible feat.
Luo Bin then directly asked Gu Nan why He Chufeng had reported him. Gu Nan dodged the question, advising Luo Bin to ask He Chufeng directly, emphasizing that as best friends, they should be able to openly discuss anything. Luo Bin then had an internal monologue, reflecting on his long friendship with He Chufeng since they were sixteen, knowing all his secrets, his family's struggles, and his experiences.
Yet, He Chufeng still kept more secrets from both Sui Yi and him. Luo Bin wondered what He Chufeng was hiding and, in turn, what he himself was concealing, questioning why he, who once valued truth above all, was now telling "terrible lies" to his best friend.
Episode 30 Recap
He Chufeng and Gu Nan prepared for their lock-picking competition. Gu Nan presented the complicated lock he had used in a secret competition, telling He Chufeng he would not go easy on him. He Chufeng, reflecting on his twenty-eight years, acknowledged a miserable past but yearned for a life worth looking forward to. He admitted his intense desire to win, and to achieve a happy life with his supportive friends and the work he loved.
As the countdown began, He Chufeng won the competition. Gu Nan, after a great effort, successfully opened his own lock, briefly smiling in triumph. However, his expression soured when he realized He Chufeng's earlier victory meant He Chufeng had been letting him win. Enraged, Gu Nan accused He Chufeng of pitying him, mocking him, and letting him win.
He reminded He Chufeng that he was the one who taught him all his lock-picking skills, saving him from a life as a greasy car mechanic. Gu Nan then venomously questioned He Chufeng's self-proclaimed justice, asking if he truly believed everyone, especially the appraiser Luo Bin, was sincere with him and had no hidden motives. He dropped a bombshell: Zhao Chengqiu was Luo Bin's biological father, and Lu Chengli was just his stepfather.
Luo Bin's surname was Luo because he took his mother's name after their divorce. Gu Nan revealed that Luo Bin knew everything, including how He Chufeng's sister, Chunian, could have lived but died due to Zhao Chengqiu and He Chufeng's father. Yet He Chufeng, unaware, had considered Zhao Chengqiu's son his best friend. Gu Nan’s words devastated He Chufeng.
He Chufeng returned home to a dark apartment, only to be surprised by Luo Bin, Sui Yi, and Fang Qi holding a birthday cake, singing "Happy Birthday." The celebratory gesture felt hollow. He Chufeng didn't blow out the candles. Instead, he placed the cake aside and confronted Luo Bin, asking when he learned about Chunian's death and who Zhao Chengqiu was. Luo Bin admitted Zhao Chengqiu was his biological father.
He Chufeng then accused Luo Bin of knowing all along how and why Chunian died, yet hiding it from him, treating him like a fool. Luo Bin tried to explain that he had wanted to tell him but didn't know how to speak.
He Chufeng, overwhelmed with anger, stated that he felt like a clown being watched, his ten years of trying to forget his mother and sister, and convincing himself that jailing his former mentor was right, now shattered by Luo Bin's betrayal. He stormed upstairs, leaving Luo Bin distraught and tearful. Luo Bin, unable to reach He Chufeng, left their shared apartment and didn't show up at the shop the next day, instead calling his friend Roger to help out.
Fang Qi, seeing no point in staying without Luo Bin, decided to return home. Sui Yi, trying to mediate, suggested that He Chufeng and Luo Bin might be misunderstanding each other, but He Chufeng stated there was nothing to discuss. The community members also noticed Luo Bin's absence, leaving He Chufeng feeling increasingly isolated. Sui Yi stayed for dinner, but He Chufeng noted the excess of food for just the two of them.
Sui Yi mentioned she would be going home after the Minor Spring Festival to visit her grandfather, leaving He Chufeng to put on a brave face and assure her he would be fine alone, though his loneliness was palpable. Luo Bin was consumed by memories from ten years ago. His father, Zhao Chengqiu, drunkenly confessed to him that he was a murderer and had caused Chunian's death.
Luo Bin remembered the day He Chufeng's father brought Chunian to Dr. Zhao, who diagnosed her with depression. He Chufeng's father, however, refused to believe it, insisting Chunian was "acting up" and begging Dr. Zhao to allow her to go to school. Dr. Zhao initially advised treatment but later, believing it might help Chunian's spirits, issued a fake certificate permitting her to attend school. After that, he never saw Chunian again.
He later went to He Chufeng's father's home to plead for Chunian's treatment, but He Chufeng's drunken father angrily dismissed him, claiming he could manage his own child and distrusting doctors. Without the necessary care, Chunian tragically committed suicide a month later. Meanwhile, He Chufeng sat by the river, drinking alone. He imagined Chunian next to him, reflecting on her life. She noted that if she were alive, she would be nearly twenty.
He Chufeng blamed himself for not being there for her during her suffering. Chunian's voice expressed her admiration for him, seeing him as a shining protagonist, while she felt like an invisible supporting character trapped in a black hole of despair. She recounted desperately trying to find meaning and dreams like her brother's but failing, all while hiding her pain to avoid worrying him and their mother.
She wished for a chance to start over, to openly express her sadness, fear, and sensitivity. She promised to live well if given another chance, to tell him everything. She felt she had only lost the key he gave her, knowing he would always open the door for her. She urged him to live his life fully for her.
Episode 31 Recap
Luo Bin informed Granny Mi that Roger, his friend and a reliable appraiser, was now looking after the shop, and any issues should be directed to Luo Bin himself. Granny Mi expressed her hope for reconciliation between Luo Bin and He Chufeng, but Luo Bin felt helpless, admitting he didn't know how to bridge the gap.
He explained that he had always known the truth about Chunian's death and He Chufeng's ongoing pain, but couldn't bring himself to reveal that his biological father, Zhao Chengqiu, was the doctor who issued Chunian's fake medical certificate, which prevented her from receiving active treatment and ultimately led to her suicide.
He pondered how he could possibly tell He Chufeng that his own father, Zhao Chengqiu, issued the fake certificate, or worse, suggest that He Chufeng's father was the real culprit for forcing Zhao Chengqiu. Luo Bin had thought countless times about contacting He Chufeng to express his guilt but hadn't dared. He felt it was fate when he coincidentally met He Chufeng again, viewing it as a divine instruction to make amends.
Fearing He Chufeng might succumb to despair like Chunian, Luo Bin had invited him to live together, doing everything he could to compensate him. He acknowledged an initial element of pity, but clarified that through their time together, He Chufeng had become his true brother and friend. He genuinely felt happy seeing He Chufeng smile and finding love with Sui Yi. Granny Mi sighed, believing that they needed time, and that fated individuals would eventually reunite.
He Chufeng later encountered Wang Wenxin, who excitedly shared that he had married Li Yun, affectionately called Yun. Wang Wenxin thanked He Chufeng and Luo Bin for their past guidance, crediting Luo Bin's advice to "do what you want and don't hesitate" for his courage to take Li Yun to see the aurora.
Noticing He Chufeng was alone, Wang Wenxin inquired about Luo Bin, then promised to visit the shop to thank Luo Bin directly, calling them his and Li Yun's matchmakers. That evening, Sui Yi, having gone out of her way to buy sweet dumplings, told He Chufeng they should eat them on Kitchen God's Day for peace and reunion.
He Chufeng wondered if some places ate malt sugar, which Sui Yi had never tried, so he promised to get her some next year. After their meal, He Chufeng insisted on washing the dishes, saying girls shouldn't. Meanwhile, Luo Bin spoke with Fang Qi, who told him she didn't need him to explain his actions, as everyone has their own reasons. Luo Bin asked about her father, how she was settling back home, and about her fiancé, Cheng Wen.
Fang Qi stated that her home had nothing to do with Cheng Wen and that "who he is has nothing to do with me." She further explained that without Luo Bin at the vintage shop, there was no reason for her to stay there either. Luo Bin then accompanied Fang Qi to her house.
Fang Qi admitted she felt unfamiliar with her own home, pointing out misplaced items like a printer in the kitchen and a coffee machine in the bathroom. She lamented finding no family photos and that no one had looked for her when she went missing and lost her memory, leading her to believe she must have been unpleasant in the past.
She told Luo Bin he was different from He Chufeng, and that he, He Chufeng, and Sui Yi were admirable friends who would surely reconcile. Turning to Cheng Wen, she expressed her dislike for him, noting no photos of them together and only replying to his work messages.
She declared that regardless of whether she was the "remembering Fang Qi" or the "amnesiac An," she would not marry Cheng Wen because she did not love him; she only wanted to be with the person she loved. After Luo Bin briefly kissed her, Fang Qi questioned his hesitation, suggesting that in such moments, the man should be more proactive. Luo Bin then took the initiative to deepen the kiss. Later, Sui Yi observed He Chufeng's low spirits.
She spoke to him about Luo Bin, acknowledging she didn't fully understand his intentions and wasn't defending him, but she pointed out his sensitive and meticulous nature, his cautiousness around He Chufeng, and his tendency to always defend him. She refuted the idea that Luo Bin's kindness was merely compensation, asserting that genuine feelings could not be faked for long.
He Chufeng, still vulnerable, asked if Sui Yi would also leave him one day, expressing his fear of bringing misfortune to others. Sui Yi playfully teased him for trying to "chase her away" before reassuring him that she would always be by his side, ready to face any problems together. In early spring, Sui Yi prepared to go home for the New Year, giving He Chufeng numerous instructions.
He Chufeng, putting on a brave face, assured her he would be fine alone. Sui Yi reminded him to tell her mother about her special gift and promised to call him if he got bored on the bus. Around the same time, Granny Mi entrusted the vintage shop to He Chufeng, explaining that she would be away for a while to fulfill a thirty-year-old pact with her late husband, Grandpa Mi, to travel and experience many things.
She encouraged He Chufeng to follow his heart. He Chufeng later went to see Gu Nan but couldn't find him. Jia Xiaoguo, an officer, approached He Chufeng, asking if he had seen Gu Nan. She informed him about a recent murder case where the deceased had close ties to Gu Nan. Jia Xiaoguo revealed that Gu Nan had vanished without a trace, abandoning his job and salary, and asked if He Chufeng had any information.
He Chufeng confirmed their last meeting was five days prior, during which they practiced lock-picking, and Gu Nan had been emotional but hadn't revealed any plans. Jia Xiaoguo urged He Chufeng to report any new leads immediately and, before leaving, reiterated her trust in him, imploring him not to do anything "bad." Fang Qi joined her family for a New Year's dinner.
She attempted to tell her father about her recent disappearance, but he was preoccupied with a business call and seemed unaware and indifferent to her ordeal, which deeply disappointed her. Her father discussed giving the critical California shipping route to Cheng Wen once he married Fang Qi, praising Cheng Wen's experience in Canada. Cheng Wen, despite feigning modesty, accepted the offer, and Fang Qi's father promised to hasten their wedding. Luo Bin spent New Year's with his own family.
His younger brother, eager for a limited edition Lego set, received a red envelope from his stepfather, Lu Chengli, as did Luo Bin, though Luo Bin initially declined before his mother insisted he accept it. The brother then convinced Luo Bin to give him his red envelope to buy the Lego set. As his family laughed and bickered playfully, Luo Bin felt a sense of isolation.
His mother, seizing the opportunity, explained her past to Luo Bin: she and Lu Chengli were junior high classmates but lost touch. She then met Luo Bin's biological father, Zhao Chengqiu, and had Luo Bin, but their relationship didn't last as Zhao Chengqiu prioritized his career, leading to a peaceful separation. She later reconnected with Lu Chengli, and they fell deeply in love.
She acknowledged Luo Bin's discomfort at home but assured him that Lu Chengli also felt a sense of responsibility and treated Luo Bin as his own son, always respecting his decisions. During this family gathering, Luo Bin silently pulled out his phone, scrolled to He Chufeng's contact, but hesitated and did not make the call. He Chufeng ate his New Year's Eve dinner alone.
At the stroke of midnight, Sui Yi called to wish him a Happy New Year amidst her own family's celebration. He Chufeng looked out at the falling snow, hoping it would bring a good year. A flashback showed a younger He Chufeng leaving a hospital with antidepressants. On the street, he encountered a stray cat, "Qiuqiu," and pondered if the cat, like him, was homeless and struggling to survive. Living, he reflected, was incredibly difficult. It was then that Luo Bin appeared, calling his name and inviting him for a drink, sensing He Chufeng needed companionship. In that moment, Luo Bin became He Chufeng's light.
Episode 32 Recap
Sui Yi returned from her hometown, bringing an end to He Chufeng's solitude. He Chufeng playfully remarked that he felt like a "pig breeder" after Sui Yi, on her first day back, declared her desire for ten dishes for lunch. At the law firm, Wang Qing appeared distracted. Sui Yi prompted her for some files she had requested, and Wang Qing, apologetic, went to retrieve them. Hesitantly, Wang Qing then inquired if Sui Yi's boyfriend was a skilled locksmith.
Sui Yi confirmed this and asked if Wang Qing needed help, but Wang Qing quickly dismissed the idea, claiming it was merely a casual question before excusing herself. Later that day, Wang Qing’s distracted demeanor persisted, prompting Sui Yi to offer her assistance. Wang Qing, after some hesitation, finally confessed her need for a locksmith's help.
Sui Yi, accompanied by He Chufeng, then went to the home of Professor Xu Chenghuan, a renowned appraiser and a close friend of Wang Qing’s late father, Wang Jian. To their surprise, Luo Bin was already there, having arrived with Professor Xu, his teacher. He Chufeng exchanged a brief, somewhat tense greeting with Luo Bin, who stated he was "not too bad." He Chufeng examined the item Wang Qing needed unlocked: a double-sided box.
He explained that this unique lock required two people to open it simultaneously, demanding perfect synchronicity, consistent breathing, coordinated strength, and ideally, similar finger lengths. He cautioned that they only had three attempts before the lock mechanism would permanently seize. Wang Qing suggested Sui Yi, as He Chufeng's girlfriend, might have the necessary synchronicity. However, Sui Yi admitted she didn't know how to pick locks and turned to Luo Bin for help.
Luo Bin, acknowledging he had encountered and opened such a lock once before, expressed doubt about his ability to assist He Chufeng, citing the latter's advanced technique and the need for mutual trust and reliance. He Chufeng pressed him, asking if he remembered the procedure. Their first attempt failed. He Chufeng, clearly still upset with Luo Bin, attributed the failure to Luo Bin's distraction and lack of trust. Luo Bin retorted by questioning He Chufeng's trust in him.
For their second attempt, they coordinated their actions and, with a click, successfully opened the box. Inside the box was a leaf teacup. Professor Xu carefully inspected it and, with all due respect, declared it wasn't Wang Jian's work. He pointed out the incomplete leaf, blurry veins, and unclear stem, emphasizing Wang Jian’s reputation for perfection and his habit of destroying any flawed pieces.
Luo Bin, however, questioned whether judging solely on a habit was sufficient, especially with no signature on the cup. He then mused if Wang Jian might have lied, keeping an imperfect, non-original cup, and presenting it as his best work. He Chufeng reacted with visible anger, admonishing Luo Bin for immediately jumping to deception. He passionately stated that there could be many reasons for the teacup's presence, and not everyone resorted to lying, especially to those they cared about.
Sui Yi quickly interceded, suggesting they shouldn't comment on such a family matter and apologizing for He Chufeng's outburst. Luo Bin apologized for his earlier comment. Later, He Chufeng confronted Sui Yi, asking if she had orchestrated the meeting with Luo Bin. Sui Yi denied it, explaining Wang Qing’s last-minute request and her own surprise at Luo Bin's presence.
She admitted wanting them to reconcile, believing they had a strong connection, and pointed out that He Chufeng's public argument showed he still cared deeply for Luo Bin. She urged him to talk things through, but He Chufeng refused, insisting there was "nothing to talk about." Sui Yi stressed the rarity of a true friendship and how tragic it would be to lose it, telling He Chufeng to reflect on his feelings.
Sui Yi subsequently called Luo Bin, who also denied intentionally arranging the meeting. Luo Bin revealed his ongoing bewilderment about the Jian Zhan's appraisal. He had thoroughly researched Wang Jian's work and remained convinced the teacup was indeed Wang Jian’s, finding its craftsmanship and materials consistent with the master’s style. He found Professor Xu's firm insistence on his initial judgment, despite their usual practice of reaching a consensus, to be quite strange.
Sui Yi speculated that Professor Xu might be withholding the truth to protect Wang Jian’s reputation, given the teacup’s flaws. Luo Bin, however, dismissed this, asserting that Professor Xu was known for his unwavering honesty, even when it cost him. Despite this, Luo Bin admitted the appraisal felt odd to him.
When Sui Yi asked if he had spoken to He Chufeng, Luo Bin sighed, complaining about a headache and recalling He Chufeng's icy stare, which made him feel "like he was going to eat me." Luo Bin decided to "go with the flow." Sui Yi approached He Chufeng again, asking if he would talk to Luo Bin and suggesting there might be a misunderstanding.
He Chufeng, however, remained resolute, stating there was "nothing to talk about" and that the "result is just this." Sui Yi pressed him, urging him to at least give himself the chance to understand the full truth, emphasizing her wish that he wouldn't lose an important friend due to a possible misunderstanding. Meanwhile, at the law firm, colleagues noted Wang Qing's unprecedented absence, highlighting the inconvenience her departure caused. Sui Yi defended Wang Qing's invaluable contributions.
Wang Qing later sent Sui Yi the files she had requested, explaining she was taking personal leave to handle important family matters but would be available for remote assistance. She sincerely thanked Sui Yi and He Chufeng for opening the wooden box, stressing its significance to her family.
Wang Qing’s mother reiterated her belief that the Jian Zhan could not be Wang Jian's, despite his deathbed declaration of it being his best work, as he would never leave a flawed piece. Wang Qing, however, firmly believed it was her father’s creation and that he would never substitute another’s work. She was convinced he had a profound reason for preserving it.
She recalled a conversation with her father, where he praised her own flawed Jian Zhan, saying its natural and lively form possessed more vitality than perfectly uniform ones. He had told her that "something with defects may be the one that has a soul." Carrying this conviction, Wang Qing visited Sui Yi and He Chufeng at the vintage store. She requested Sui Yi’s help in contacting Luo Bin for a re-appraisal, noting his initial differing opinion from Professor Xu.
Understanding the potential awkwardness, she offered to contact Luo Bin herself if Sui Yi found it difficult. Sui Yi called Luo Bin, who returned to the vintage store, carrying his dog, Bean Bun. He Chufeng questioned why Luo Bin hadn't replied to his messages, to which Luo Bin vaguely attributed to forgetting. Luo Bin then reiterated his firm belief that the Jian Zhan was indeed Wang Jian’s work, a conviction reinforced by further research.
He mentioned that part of his initial uncertainty stemmed from Professor Xu’s conclusion, and he now suspected Professor Xu might be concealing something. He Chufeng, still holding onto past grievances, immediately retorted, "Someone also said he never lied, but in the end, he lied." Following this exchange, Luo Bin made a phone call to Professor Xu. Wang Qing expressed her affection for the vintage store and her admiration for Sui Yi’s talented friends.
She confided her feelings of inadequacy, as her entire family, including her father, was skilled in making Jian Zhan, yet she, his daughter, felt she had inherited none of his talent, believing he must have been saddened by this. She reminisced about a cherished childhood tradition with her father: every autumn, they would collect the "first falling leaf" from their yard’s tree.
Her father had once shared a secret, telling her that leaf teacups crafted from the first fallen leaf were the most beautiful and unique, extending nature's beauty onto the cup. He imparted a profound philosophy, explaining that flawed leaves, when transformed into a teacup, could better embody the "meaning of time" and integrate the "beauty of nature." He often reminded her that perfection wasn't always paramount, and that "something with defects may be the one that has a soul."
Wang Qing then noted this romantic sentiment of her father's, recognizing that while many perceived him as rigidly pursuing perfection, she understood his deeper appreciation for the soulful beauty found in imperfection.
Episode 33 Recap
He Chufeng was secretly listening from upstairs. After much internal conflict, he came downstairs under the pretense of looking for Bean Bun. Sui Yi smiled helplessly at his obvious excuse, while Luo Bin merely glanced at him without speaking. Wang Qing firmly believed the leaf teacup was her father, Wang Jian's, work. Professor Xu confirmed her belief, admitting he had lied during the previous appraisal. Wang Jian had shown Professor Xu the teacup before his death.
Wang Qing had always been distressed that she couldn't make Jian Zhan bowls and thus couldn't inherit her father's legacy. However, Wang Jian never wanted her to inherit his business; he only wished for her to live happily and be herself. That was why Professor Xu had lied. Wang Qing had also shared that her father was a very romantic person, despite many calling his pursuit of perfection harsh.
She knew he believed that sometimes perfection isn't the most important thing, and that "those with defects are likely to have soul." Wang Qing was deeply moved by Professor Xu's benevolent lie and thanked him before leaving. Professor Xu then tried to get Luo Bin to introduce his friends, but Luo Bin quickly pulled him away, claiming he had urgent business, leaving Professor Xu to tease him about blushing and having a guilty conscience, wondering if he was hiding something.
Sui Yi asked He Chufeng if he thought Professor Xu's words made sense. She elaborated that if lies had an antidote, it would be the kindness within them. Professor Xu's lie to Wang Qing might lead to a better life for her from that day forward. Later, Wang Qing invited Sui Yi for coffee.
She had submitted her resignation and planned to return home to organize her father's materials and write books about Jian Zhan, hoping to help more people understand the art form and its culture. Sui Yi noticed that Wang Qing was completely transformed, looking radiant and different from before. Sui Yi later recounted this to He Chufeng, marveling at how wonderful it was for Wang Qing to find something she truly loved.
Sui Yi also shared that she was nearing the end of her internship and would soon be appearing in court herself. She reiterated to He Chufeng that finding good friends is a rare and precious thing, emphasizing that she, He Chufeng, Luo Bin, and Fang Qi were all kindred spirits, driven by a deep affection, and whose hearts could never truly turn to stone, regardless of the challenges they faced.
Meanwhile, Cheng Wen proposed to Fang Qi, but she firmly rejected him, declaring that she loved Luo Bin, not Cheng Wen. Mr. Jin was the person behind Gu Nan, with Gu Nan having taken care of Mr. Jin during their time in prison, and Cheng Wen was Mr. Jin's business partner. Cheng Wen had severely injured Fang Qi in an attempt to force her into marriage, causing her memory loss.
Cheng Wen complained to Mr. Jin and Gu Nan about Fang Qi's insistence on marrying Luo Bin, expressing his frustration. Having received a deposit from Mr. Jin and eager to marry Fang Qi, Cheng Wen was desperate for a solution. Gu Nan suggested that he simply kidnap Luo Bin, beat him up to vent his anger, and if convenient, eliminate him altogether. Mr. Jin approved of this plan. Luo Bin received a request for an on-site appraisal.
To his surprise, the client was Mr. Jin, the same boss with whom he had a previous conflict over fake goods. Luo Bin tried to make an excuse to leave, claiming he had allergies and needed fresh air. Mr. Jin stopped him, remarking on Luo Bin being a freelance appraiser and offering him a position as his exclusive appraiser with a generous salary. Luo Bin politely declined, stating his satisfaction with his current work and his preference for his freedom.
Mr. Jin grew angry, asserting that he always got what he wanted, and ordered his men to seize and beat Luo Bin. He Chufeng felt restless and immediately called Sui Yi, who reassured him she was safe at the law firm. During the call, Sui Yi shared the exciting news that she would soon make her first court appearance. While organizing documents, Sui Yi discovered information about agarwood, recognizing a piece Luo Bin had shown her.
Realizing it was fake yet expensively sold, she immediately called Mr. Jin's office. Mr. Jin's associate invited her to come to their location to discuss it in person, a voice Sui Yi found disturbingly familiar. Luo Bin was bound. Cheng Wen arrived and ranted at him, accusing Luo Bin of being the reason Fang Qi wouldn't marry him, and reminding him of his humiliation when Fang Qi declared her love for Luo Bin.
Luo Bin defended Fang Qi's honor by telling Cheng Wen to clean his mouth, then challenged Cheng Wen. Despite being drugged, Luo Bin managed to secretly free himself and beat Cheng Wen. However, the effects of the drug quickly overwhelmed him, and he collapsed again. Mr. Jin arrived, dismissed Cheng Wen's complaints, and had Luo Bin re-tied. Mr. Jin began to exact his revenge, repeatedly punching Luo Bin, explaining that "every debt has its debtor."
Mr. Jin then stopped hitting him, proposing a partnership to Luo Bin, revealing that many of his "artworks" were fake and that he intended to mix real and fake items to maximize profits. He wanted Luo Bin, an appraiser, to help him monopolize the market. Luo Bin tried again to untie himself, but Mr. Jin warned him that the new ropes were impossible to open. Mr. Jin offered a 10% commission on each transaction.
Luo Bin scoffed at the low offer, demanding 50%, and demonstrated his insight by revealing Mr. Jin's fear that Ji Xiuyi would discover his illicit dealings and misuse of funds. Furious, Mr. Jin rejected Luo Bin's demand for 50% commission, offering 30% and then 35%, eventually grabbing a syringe, threatening to take Luo Bin "to hell with him." Separately, at an auction, Mr. Jin aggressively bid six million yuan for a Northern Song Dynasty Jun Porcelain Bowl. When asked about his unique insights into the piece, he simply replied that he was rich and "happy to," further showcasing his extravagant and arbitrary nature.
Episode 34 Recap
Mr. Jin, frustrated that Luo Bin refused to cooperate, menacingly reached for a syringe. He declared that since Luo Bin wouldn't join him, he would drag Luo Bin to hell with him. Before Mr. Jin could act, Ji Xiuyi suddenly arrived. Someone had informed Mr. Jin that his boss was there, prompting him to step outside. Ji Xiuyi confronted Mr. Jin and accused him of enjoying himself too much during Ji Xiuyi’s absence.
Ji Xiuyi expressed his anger about Mr. Jin buying artworks from Qianhe Gallery and then selling counterfeit versions at double the price, hinting there were even more hidden schemes. Mr. Jin desperately tried to explain, claiming he only wanted to make more money for Ji Xiuyi and promising to clean up any mess. However, Ji Xiuyi responded that this "mess" was actually good. Meanwhile, He Chufeng arrived at the location Ji Xiuyi had provided.
He Chufeng's only concern was Luo Bin's safety. Ji Xiuyi, however, immediately tried to engage He Chufeng in a business discussion, pointing out that Luo Bin was "being well taken care of" by Mr. Jin. He Chufeng demanded to know Luo Bin's whereabouts, but Ji Xiuyi, a pragmatic businessman, spoke only of profit, contrasting it with He Chufeng's focus on justice, friends, and affection, which Ji Xiuyi saw as weaknesses.
Ji Xiuyi offered He Chufeng two conditions to save Luo Bin: either pay a ransom or join him. When He Chufeng rejected the idea of joining "bad guys," Ji Xiuyi challenged his perception of good and bad, suggesting the police were merely using He Chufeng.
Ji Xiuyi urged He Chufeng to join him, promising vast riches for both He Chufeng and Luo Bin, arguing that in a dirty, dog-eat-dog world, money and desire were paramount, and only the strong working together could truly succeed. He even tantalized He Chufeng by comparing those with money but no password to those who could open any lock but had no wealth, implying He Chufeng could easily gain immense riches.
He Chufeng dismissed Ji Xiuyi's worldview, repeatedly asking for Luo Bin's location. Ji Xiuyi then changed tactics, musing about brotherhood and reminding He Chufeng of a good friend who committed suicide. He revealed that all of this was Gu Nan's idea—to bring He Chufeng's "good friend" here. Ji Xiuyi, finding He Chufeng "interesting" and Gu Nan "stupid and worthless," expressed a desire to talk further with He Chufeng.
He Chufeng firmly stated they were not the same kind of people and had nothing to discuss. This deeply offended Ji Xiuyi, who was sensitive about being an illegitimate child and being looked down upon. Believing He Chufeng scorned him, Ji Xiuyi angrily attacked He Chufeng with a stick, declaring He Chufeng his enemy if he refused to join him. Despite Luo Bin's struggles, Mr. Jin injected him with an unknown drug.
After fending off Ji Xiuyi, He Chufeng frantically searched the abandoned factory for Luo Bin. When He Chufeng finally found Luo Bin, Luo Bin was disoriented but managed to angrily question why He Chufeng hadn't called him, reminding him they were partners. He Chufeng responded that even without a call, he had still come. The door to their room suddenly locked, trapping them inside.
He Chufeng looked for tools to pick the lock, but the room was filled only with foam plastic. Luo Bin noticed some nails from the boxes and suggested using them. He Chufeng agreed to try and asked Luo Bin to straighten the nails and twist them together, assuring him that theoretically, it was feasible. Luo Bin insisted on helping, injuring his hands in the process.
While they worked, He Chufeng told Luo Bin that if they escaped, Luo Bin could return to the vintage store anytime he wished. Luo Bin paused, then quietly accepted. Luo Bin continued to help, despite his bleeding hands, as He Chufeng worked to open the lock. Just as He Chufeng succeeded, Ji Xiuyi and Mr. Jin launched another surprise attack from behind with their men.
He Chufeng and Luo Bin fought them off until the police arrived, leading to the arrest of Ji Xiuyi and Mr. Jin. After the arrests, He Chufeng asked Luo Bin if he was afraid the captors would have killed He Chufeng. Luo Bin, seemingly disoriented, asked what if that had happened. He Chufeng replied that Luo Bin would have had to pray for good fortune.
Later, at the hospital, Fang Qi rushed in, her face etched with worry, and broke into tears upon seeing Luo Bin's injuries. Luo Bin, reflexively, tidied his messy hair. He consoled Fang Qi, telling her he was okay and that she was his best doctor. Exhausted, Luo Bin embraced Fang Qi, apologizing for making her worry and promising that it would never happen again. Fang Qi warned him she wouldn't forgive him if it did.
He Chufeng tried repeatedly to call Sui Yi but couldn't get through, as her phone was busy. Shortly after, he received a call from Gu Nan. Gu Nan, mockingly asking why He Chufeng no longer called him "master," hinted that he had Sui Yi. He informed He Chufeng that he wanted Sui Yi dead, reasoning that since He Chufeng was responsible for his family's demise, one more life wouldn't matter.
He Chufeng pleaded for Sui Yi's innocence, but Gu Nan declared that no one associated with He Chufeng was innocent and that all of them would suffer. Gu Nan demanded He Chufeng come to him in person to beg. He Chufeng, without informing Luo Bin, abruptly ended a call with him, saying he had something to do and would call back later. He Chufeng rushed to the location Gu Nan sent.
Upon confronting Gu Nan, He Chufeng pinned him to the ground and demanded to know Sui Yi’s whereabouts. Gu Nan chastised He Chufeng for his lack of humility while begging, then angrily recounted how He Chufeng, whom he had trusted and given hope, had ruined his life. Gu Nan bitterly recalled how He Chufeng had sent him to prison, crippled his hand so he could no longer pick locks, while He Chufeng himself lived a glorious life.
He Chufeng, overwhelmed with guilt, repeatedly apologized and begged Gu Nan to direct all his resentment and anger at him, offering himself to be beaten or to do anything Gu Nan desired, just so he wouldn't harm anyone else. He acknowledged that his presence had brought Gu Nan all this pain and suffering, and wanted it to end with him. He offered to return everything Gu Nan had taught him, even his own life, in exchange for Sui Yi's release.
Sui Yi, who had been struggling against her binds nearby, asserted that it was enough for He Chufeng to suffer alone and questioned why Gu Nan would inflict such pain on another. She bravely declared that Gu Nan was wrong for blaming He Chufeng and for ever picking that lock, emphasizing that He Chufeng's destiny could not be controlled by Gu Nan or anyone else.
Gu Nan then instructed He Chufeng to go to an abandoned factory at the intersection of Chengjia Road and Minghe Road, open a specific safe, retrieve its contents, and deliver them to someone waiting in the forest. As He Chufeng processed this, he remembered the words of a police officer showing him a dangerous, drug-like substance, popular in North America but illegal to sell, capable of making people lose their minds.
Gu Nan reiterated that He Chufeng could never repay what he owed. He Chufeng, now resolute, determined that he would personally resolve everything. He declared that he would take care of what started with him and end it with him. He vowed to find Sui Yi, no matter where she was, and urged her to wait for him.
He Chufeng reflected on the kind of life he truly desired: one where he could follow his inner voice, be himself without overthinking, and live with integrity, unconcerned by the judgment of others.
Episode 35 Recap
He Chufeng delivered the items Gu Nan had demanded to the designated location. Shortly after, he received a text message stating that Sui Yi had been rescued and was at Zhongnan Hospital. He Chufeng immediately called the hospital to confirm. The nurse who answered explained that a phone had been left at the front desk and initially thought he was calling about it. He Chufeng urgently asked if a girl named Sui Yi had been admitted.
The nurse confirmed that Sui Yi had just been sent to the operating room and asked if he was her family. He Chufeng then rushed to the hospital. Luo Bin and Fang Qi were waiting anxiously outside Sui Yi's operating room; Luo Bin had tried to call He Chufeng but couldn't reach him. He Chufeng then went to the police station for questioning. At the police station, He Chufeng cooperated with the interrogation.
He revealed that he had realized the items Gu Nan asked him to transport were drugs the previous day at the warehouse, recalling seeing stamps and Gu Nan's tacit admission that he intended to "ruin" He Chufeng. He also stated that Gu Nan had sent him an address and threatened Sui Yi's life if he did not comply. He confirmed receiving the text message about Sui Yi's hospitalization from an unfamiliar number.
When asked why Gu Nan didn't simply kill him, He Chufeng admitted he didn't know. He Chufeng pleaded to see Sui Yi, promising to return promptly. Chief Chen allowed him thirty minutes. He Chufeng then rushed back to the hospital, where he saw Sui Yi was still undergoing surgery. Luo Bin informed him that her condition "seems not very optimistic." He Chufeng felt a deep sense of self-blame. Fang Qi, however, was unaware of most of what had transpired.
After his allotted time, he reluctantly entrusted Sui Yi's care to Luo Bin and Fang Qi and returned to the police station. The interrogation continued, and He Chufeng reiterated that he hadn't told anyone about Sui Yi's kidnapping and had no knowledge of Gu Nan's whereabouts after leaving the hospital, nor did he notice anyone following him when he opened the safe.
An officer then informed Chief Chen that, based on DNA evidence, Gu Nan was a prime suspect in the murder of a taxi driver. He Chufeng was shocked by Gu Nan's depravity. He also confessed that six years prior, he had reported Gu Nan to the authorities, which led to Gu Nan's imprisonment and inability to continue picking locks.
He Chufeng had believed he was doing the right thing at the time and later wished to make amends, but admitted he was unsure if he hated Gu Nan. The police then confirmed that Gu Nan was dead and that the phone number used to text He Chufeng about Sui Yi's rescue was registered to Gu Nan and had remained within Zhaonuan City for the past month.
At the hospital, Luo Bin decided to go to the police station, worried about He Chufeng, and left Sui Yi with Fang Qi. He Chufeng, still at the police station, repeatedly thought about the text message, wondering who truly sent it. Three days later, He Chufeng visited Sui Yi at the hospital, where her mother was by her side. He Chufeng tearfully apologized, blaming himself for not protecting Sui Yi.
Sui Yi's mother comforted him, assuring him it was not his fault but the bad person's. She then urged him to protect Sui Yi with all his might in the future. He Chufeng stayed by Sui Yi's bedside for many days. When Sui Yi finally woke up, He Chufeng asked her about Gu Nan, but she was unable to speak.
The doctor explained that Sui Yi was fortunate; while her brain was unaffected, prolonged pressure on her neck had severely damaged her vocal cords, making future speech difficult. Sui Yi communicated by typing on her phone, telling the police that she had heard Gu Nan on the phone with another person who was neither Mr. Jin nor Ji Xiuyi. She also typed a message to He Chufeng, smiling, assuring him it wasn't his fault and that she would get better.
Luo Bin expressed his concerns about this "other person," worrying they might harm He Chufeng, and wanted to ask friends for information. Fang Qi tried to persuade Luo Bin to complete a full body check-up he had missed earlier. Luo Bin dismissed her concerns, insisting he was fine and that his injuries were superficial. Fang Qi confronted him about his increasingly strange behavior and unresponsiveness to her messages since Sui Yi's incident.
Luo Bin appeared disoriented and vaguely stated that his time was running out. He Chufeng, observing Luo Bin's peculiar actions, began to develop suspicions. After Sui Yi was discharged, still unable to speak, He Chufeng, touched by her resilience, met with Luo Bin. He Chufeng suggested that the "other person" Sui Yi heard might not have been Gu Nan's accomplice, but rather the individual who saved her.
He Chufeng then directly confronted Luo Bin, asking if he had killed Gu Nan. Luo Bin admitted he had. He Chufeng was distressed, believing Luo Bin had become entangled because of him. However, Luo Bin vehemently denied it, stating he hadn't done it for He Chufeng or Sui Yi, but for himself, and insisted it was none of He Chufeng's business. Luo Bin reiterated his stance, stating that as adults, he could take responsibility for his own actions.
In a moment of reflection, Luo Bin believed that He Chufeng was a righteous man who deserved to remain in the light and continue living the good life he had finally built for himself. He recalled fighting Gu Nan, and when he regained consciousness, Gu Nan was dead. Gu Nan had warned that someone would avenge him. Luo Bin resolved to find that avenger and thwart any revenge or conspiracy, determined to protect He Chufeng. He knew he had to stop that person, whoever they were, and ensure they would not succeed in their plots against He Chufeng.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
Luo Bin remained determined to uncover the individual behind Gu Nan, convinced there was an accomplice planning revenge or conspiracy. He had clearly heard Gu Nan speaking on the phone, detailing plans to another person, and knew that Gu Nan was always aware of his and He Chufeng’s movements. Luo Bin vowed to find this person to protect He Chufeng and Sui Yi. He returned to the shipyard where Gu Nan had previously worked, searching for clues.
He Chufeng then arrived and, understanding Luo Bin's intent, insisted that there was no other person. He explained that it was always just Gu Nan acting alone, having developed a split personality during his time in prison. He Chufeng played a recording from Gu Nan’s phone, revealing Gu Nan conversing with himself.
Gu Nan’s obsession, fueled by his injury in prison that prevented him from picking locks again, led him to seek He Chufeng and, subsequently, Luo Bin and Sui Yi, to destroy He Chufeng. Overwhelmed, He Chufeng expressed deep self-reproach, feeling responsible for the misfortunes that befell Luo Bin and Sui Yi, especially after they had given him a chance at a new life. Luo Bin, however, reassured him, saying, "You did nothing wrong. Don't blame yourself."
He told He Chufeng, "You're a good friend. That's what I thought since high school. No matter what happens in the future, don't blame yourself and don't feel lonely." When He Chufeng considered pretending to know nothing, Luo Bin firmly stated, "True is true. Fake is fake." Luo Bin then affirmed their bond, declaring, "I'll always be your best partner," and "You are my best friend forever."
Later, Luo Bin visited Fang Qi at her home, bringing information about her motorcycle accident. He revealed that Cheng Wen had arranged for his men to follow her after an auction and orchestrate her injury, intending to play the hero and marry her to gain access to her family's art transportation routes. Fang Qi realized how close she had come to marrying someone she didn't love and living a life she despised, grateful to Luo Bin for intervening.
Luo Bin apologized for not having spent enough time with her recently, to which Fang Qi affectionately replied, "It's enough that I know you love me." Luo Bin then confessed, "I love you so much," and expressed a bittersweet hope: "If one day, you meet someone whom you like more, I hope you are happy from the bottom of your heart."
Luo Bin then drove to a spot where he could see his home from a distance and called his mother. She excitedly told him about a fantastic house she and Uncle Lu had found for him, perfectly located in the city center with excellent schools nearby. Luo Bin's voice cracked with emotion as he told her he wouldn't need a house for now. He tearfully confessed, "Mom, I've always loved you."
His mother, unaware of his plans, reminded him that his birthday was next month and suggested they celebrate together. Luo Bin, barely holding back his emotions, explained that he had somewhere to go and wouldn't be able to celebrate with her this year. Soon after, Luo Bin walked into a police station and surrendered. The court, acknowledging his self-surrender, sentenced him to six years in prison for negligent homicide.
Sui Yi, still unable to speak, used her phone to type messages to He Chufeng. Noticing his weight loss, she insisted, "Eat well. You've lost weight. You won't look good if you keep losing weight." He Chufeng promised to eat and offered to get her food. Sui Yi then typed, "Chufeng, I'm a little tired. I want to leave for a while. We're not breaking up. I just want to leave for a while."
He Chufeng, with tears in his eyes, offered to close the lock shop and go wherever she went, but Sui Yi silently conveyed that being by his side would hold him back, as she wanted to be alone for a while. Sui Yi then moved to Chen Xiaoyuan's house. Alone in the vintage shop, He Chufeng was overcome with despair, feeling he had lost everyone.
He packed his bags, believing their lives would have been better if he had remained alone from the start. As he prepared to leave, Granny Mi stopped him, saying that if he left, they would experience true loneliness when Luo Bin and Sui Yi returned to an empty shop. He Chufeng paused, his gaze lingering on the shop filled with their cherished memories. Tears streamed down his face, yet he smiled.
He decided to stay, vowing to wait for them, no matter how long it took—one year, two years, or even fifteen years. He knew he had to remain there so they could find him when they returned. He Chufeng reflected on his good friend and the girl he loved, acknowledging his own awkwardness and how they had patiently stayed with him, healed him, loved him, and cherished him.
He affirmed that despite life's injustices, he would never give up the hope they had instilled in him, believing they would definitely return and they would meet again. Six months later, as summer's heat began to settle, He Chufeng continued to meticulously care for the vintage shop alone, keeping it spotless, demonstrating that he was living well.
He set up a Christmas tree, fulfilling a past wish to celebrate Christmas in summer, and bought a four-serving strawberry cake from a bakery. Upon returning home, he found the front door ajar. Sui Yi stood in the yard, cheerfully waving a key and saying, "Luckily, I have the key you gave me." Six years later, He Chufeng, Sui Yi, and Fang Qi were gathered at the vintage shop, awaiting Luo Bin's return. The familiar chime of the bell announced his arrival. Luo Bin stood in the sunlight, a warm smile gracing his face, as the lonely beasts were finally reunited.
