The Wonderful World Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Wonderful World Synopsis
Xu Xian, a young man from Hangzhou, leads a quiet life until an autumn downpour creates ripples. He crosses paths with Zhou Tong, a stranger who bears a striking seven-tenths resemblance to him. This encounter ignites an obsession in the introverted Xu Xian, who lost his mother at a young age, prompting him to search for this similar stranger.
Through a blind date, Xu Xian meets Shi Diandian, who readily agrees to help him find Zhou Tong. The two travel to Beijing together to watch the ballet "Legend of the White Snake," starring young ballet dancers Wen Xiaoyao and Qiao Mi. On the night of the premiere, Zhou Tong rushes from the airport to the theater to see his girlfriend Wen Xiaoyao's performance but is involved in a car accident on the way. The love stories of both couples take a dramatic turn that day.
After experiencing life's reunions and partings, and the beauty and bitterness of love, these young people finally come to understand the rich flavors of life. Xu Xian gradually opens his heart while spending time with Diandian, and the two lovers eventually find their happy ending. Wen Xiaoyao also emerges from her darkest hour, becoming a true ballet artist through tireless effort.
The Wonderful World Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Xu Tian has few memories of his mother but distinctly remembers her running a qipao shop in Haier Lane and her love for Yue Opera, especially 'The Legend of the White Snake'. She often took him to performances where he'd fall asleep to the music. Since her passing eighteen years ago, he feels closest to her at Thunder Peak Pagoda, which he associates with the legend of the White Snake being trapped there.
He visits the pagoda weekly, asking staff how many visitors climbed it that day, believing that more people mean the tower is heavier, pressing down harder. The staff, thinking he's too caught up in the myth, repeatedly tell him not to take the legend literally. One spring afternoon, as Xu Tian walked home from the pagoda around 2 PM, the sky suddenly darkened, a fierce wind blew, and a heavy rainstorm began.
After buying some food from a convenience store, Xu Tian returned home soaked. As he was about to change, he saw a familiar face at his window – a face identical to his own. Since the lights were off inside, the person outside couldn't see clearly into the room. The face stayed briefly before leaving. Xu Tian was stunned but quickly rushed out to look, searching the area without success.
Returning home, he was surprised to find the same person inside his house, seemingly taking shelter from the rain. The room was still dark, and the other man couldn't see Xu Tian's face clearly, politely asking the owner to turn on the light. As Xu Tian went upstairs to do so, the rain suddenly stopped, and sunlight filled the room. By the time he came back down, the man was gone.
Xu Tian regretted not asking for his name and searched the street again, but the person had vanished. Unable to find the look-alike, Xu Tian suddenly remembered the convenience store owner, referred to as Shi Laoban, had previously introduced him to a girl named Shi Diandian who worked at the City Road Information Collection Center, a job that could potentially allow her to access city surveillance footage.
Xu Tian returned to the convenience store and asked Shi Laoban to arrange another meeting with Shi Diandian, explaining he needed to ask her for a favor related to the look-alike encounter he'd just experienced. Shi Laoban initially advised Xu Tian to get married to curb his apparent "groundless fantasies" but agreed to contact his relative, Shi Diandian, who readily accepted.
At a theatre school, Wen Xiaoyao and her friend Joey arrived late for rehearsal, worried about facing the director, nicknamed "Steel Auntie". They hurried to warm up before being called to the stage. The dancer scheduled to play Bai Suzhen, Sister Yun, was absent. Joey suggested Wen Xiaoyao stand in temporarily. Driven by a desire to become a principal dancer, Wen Xiaoyao practiced Bai Suzhen's movements intensely.
Steel Auntie observed her and told her that her performance lacked emotional depth, explaining that while good technique makes a dancer, a rich inner world cultivated through life experiences like love is essential to become a true artist. Wen Xiaoyao decided she needed to enrich her emotional life and declared she would start by falling in love, which Steel Auntie found amusing, noting Wen Xiaoyao had no specific person in mind.
Zhou Tong returned to Beijing, where his mother Song Guanwang helped him unpack. She expressed concern about his belongings being wet and questioned if he had fallen into water, then urged him to find a formal job. Zhou Tong defended his work as a travel blogger and big influencer. He showed her photos from his trip to Hangzhou.
Song Guanwang noticed a person in the photos who looked exactly like Zhou Tong and asked if he had taken pictures of himself. Zhou Tong looked closely and realized it was someone else who looked just like him. Song Guanwang continued to press him about getting married soon, but Zhou Tong, wanting to continue his travels to Malaysia, said he didn't have time.
The next day, Song Guanwang faked a fever for Zhou Tong by heating a thermometer in hot water, preventing him from leaving. Wen Xiaoyao, determined to pursue love, went to Joey's place and wrote down her commitment. Joey, thinking of her well-connected father, Qiao Guanghui, offered to arrange a date. Joey called Qiao Guanghui and gave him the task, which he found unbelievable, questioning if he was a matchmaker.
Later, on his way back to the company, Qiao Guanghui received a call from Song Guanwang asking him to find a suitable girl for her son for a serious relationship, specifically someone innocent from a trustworthy background. Qiao Guanghui realized Wen Xiaoyao, his daughter's close friend who also wanted a relationship, would be a perfect fit. Zhou Tong felt no symptoms of fever and suspected the home thermometer was faulty. He bought a new one at a pharmacy.
Seeing he bought cold medicine, Song Guanwang advised against taking it without need. She then brewed him traditional Chinese medicine and secretly manipulated the new thermometer by dipping it in the hot tea before taking his temperature again, which showed a high reading of 41. 2 degrees. Zhou Tong maintained he still planned to leave, but his flight was postponed by a day.
Song Guanwang used the topic of filial piety, specifically mentioning that having no descendants is the worst unfilial act, to push him to agree to a blind date she had arranged for the following morning before his flight. Zhou Tong reluctantly agreed to meet the date before leaving the country, arriving early at the restaurant, Guangming Pavilion, for the 9:30 AM meeting. Song Guanwang and Qiao Guanghui sat hidden on the second floor, observing.
Song Guanwang confirmed to Qiao Guanghui that she had already sent Zhou Tong's photo to the girl so she would recognize him. Qiao Guanghui then sent a photo of Zhou Tong to Joey, who was accompanying a nervous Wen Xiaoyao to the date. Wen Xiaoyao began doing relaxation exercises out of nervousness, and Joey took her photo. Song Guanwang saw Joey's photo of Wen Xiaoyao and found the girl very satisfying, describing her as beautiful like a fairy.
Episode 2 Recap
Wen Xiaoyao arrived at the restaurant for her blind date. Zhou Tong saw her and couldn't look away, finding it hard to believe someone so pure and beautiful needed to go on a blind date. As they sat down, both felt some tension. Zhou Tong nervously bounced his leg before breaking the ice and introducing himself. He explained that his father had passed away when he was very young, and his mother had raised him alone through considerable hardship.
Because of this, he tried his best to follow his mother's wishes, and the blind date was her insistent request; he agreed to meet just once hoping it would give her peace for a while.
Wen Xiaoyao smiled slightly at his honesty and then explained her own reason for the date: she was doing it for "life experience" to help her better portray the role of Bai Suzhen in 'Legend of the White Snake,' who falls in love with Xu Xian.
Finding her reason rather far-fetched, and seeing that neither was genuinely seeking a romantic connection, Zhou Tong quickly stated that they had nothing further to discuss, as they were both being disingenuous, and he needed to leave to catch an afternoon flight. As he walked towards the exit, he tripped on a mop, falling awkwardly. Song Guanwang and Qiao Guanghui rushed down to help him up, checking if he was injured.
Meanwhile, Xu Tian met with Shi Diandian, arranged by Lao Shi. He brought a qipao he had made as a gift. However, the message relayed to Shi Diandian by Lao Shi was that Xu Tian was interested in a relationship. Upon receiving the qipao, Shi Diandian went immediately to the restroom to try it on. It fit her perfectly, as if custom-made, which eased Xu Tian's worries about the sizing.
Shi Diandian returned to the table and immediately laid out her life plan: marriage at 28, baby at 29, maternity leave until 30. She stated they had already wasted too much time, implying they should move quickly. Observing Shi Diandian's directness, Xu Tian suspected Lao Shi had given her a wrong impression.
He excused himself to use the restroom and called Lao Shi, who explained that Shi Diandian was a typical science-minded woman, logical and stubborn, and that having decided on Xu Tian, she wouldn't give up easily. Fearing further misunderstanding, Xu Tian quietly left the tea house and went home without returning to the table. Xiaomi asked Wen Xiaoyao about her impression of Zhou Tong.
Wen Xiaoyao indicated she wasn't interested, but felt bad that he had fallen so hard during their first meeting. She decided they should buy some hairy crabs and visit him, asking Xiaomi to go with her. Xiaomi called Qiao Guanghui to get Zhou Tong's address. Qiao Guanghui, who was at a jewelry store buying a diamond ring and didn't want Xiaomi to know, quickly sent the address and urged Xiaomi to pay the bill for him at the jewelry store.
Shi Diandian waited at the tea house for over an hour. Seeing that Xu Tian wasn't coming back, she went to his tailor shop to return the qipao. Xu Tian felt incredibly awkward. Shi Diandian had already figured out that Xu Tian's invitation wasn't for a blind date and asked him directly what he needed.
Xu Tian explained that he wanted her help finding someone, likely using security footage, but now felt too embarrassed to trouble her and would find another way. Shi Diandian appeared unfazed, and they said goodbye. Shi Diandian then went to Lao Shi's convenience store. Lao Shi advised her not to take it personally, saying that relationships couldn't be forced and that she could look for other people since Xu Tian didn't seem interested.
However, Shi Diandian had made up her mind about Xu Tian and insisted Lao Shi arrange another meeting. She planned to agree to help him with his request, believing that repeated interactions would eventually lead to feelings. Lao Shi felt conflicted by her unwavering, logical approach. Just then, Xu Tian called Lao Shi to apologize for leaving abruptly that morning and asked Lao Shi to arrange an apology dinner with Shi Diandian. Lao Shi readily agreed to arrange a meeting.
After Shi Diandian left the immediate vicinity, Lao Shi immediately called her mother, Fang Fang, to inform her about setting up another meeting, explaining his good intentions but also his concern that Xu Tian didn't seem to like her. Shi Diandian, who had returned to the store to pay for a bottle of water, overheard Lao Shi's conversation with her mother, including Lao Shi mentioning Xu Tian by name.
Back at Zhou Tong's place, Song Guanwang applied ice to his injury, probing him about his impression of Wen Xiaoyao. Zhou Tong reiterated that he had been completely honest with her about his intentions to be filial, and she had also admitted to using the date for experience. Song Guanwang probed him, clearly suspecting he was interested in the young woman, but Zhou Tong insisted he couldn't be someone's "practice partner."
As they talked, Wen Xiaoyao and Xiaomi arrived downstairs with the hairy crabs. Song Guanwang went down first to assess the situation and guide Wen Xiaoyao inside. On the ground floor, she asked Wen Xiaoyao's age, zodiac sign, and birthday. Hearing that Wen Xiaoyao had never had a boyfriend made her particularly happy, noting that Wen Xiaoyao's rabbit sign was compatible with Zhou Tong's. Since Zhou Tong was hesitant to come down, Song Guanwang invited Wen Xiaoyao upstairs.
Feeling awkward going alone, Wen Xiaoyao motioned for Xiaomi to follow, but Xiaomi declined to be a third wheel. Wen Xiaoyao went upstairs by herself, feeling self-conscious. Upstairs, Zhou Tong was even more nervous than at their first meeting. Despite his discomfort, he again spoke candidly to Wen Xiaoyao. He shared a traumatic experience from when he was fifteen: during a cycling trip with his father, they encountered danger and fell into a deep ravine.
He had witnessed his father die in front of him, a moment that made him deeply aware of the impermanence of life. Because of this, he saw dating and marriage as potentially leading to pain and a waste of time given life's unpredictability. Qiao Guanghui arrived at Song Guanwang's house with the diamond ring he had purchased. Seeing him, Xiaomi quickly tried to hide.
Song Guanwang, having heard from Xiaomi downstairs about Wen Xiaoyao's earnest preparations for the date, worried that Zhou Tong was again saying discouraging things upstairs. She rushed up, forgetting about Qiao Guanghui and the ring. Wen Xiaoyao was preparing to leave upstairs. Song Guanwang guessed that Zhou Tong had once again spoken insensitively and looked exasperatedly at her son. Downstairs, as Qiao Guanghui saw Wen Xiaoyao out, he spotted Xiaomi, who was holding the diamond ring.
Unable to explain the situation clearly, a frustrated Qiao Guanghui left shortly after. Song Guanwang confronted Zhou Tong, giving him instructions to cancel his flight immediately and explain himself properly to Wen Xiaoyao. She reminded him that Wen Xiaoyao had lost both her parents at a young age – her mother at three and her father later – yet remained positive.
Song Guanwang urged Zhou Tong to stop using his father's accident as an excuse for being world-weary and avoiding life and relationships, pointing out Wen Xiaoyao's positive outlook despite her own hardships.
Episode 3 Recap
Xu Tian met Shi Diandian in a park near her workplace to apologize for leaving abruptly during their previous encounter. Shi Diandian accepted his apology without dwelling on it, noting the location was convenient for her shift. She directly asked him who he was looking for and how, explaining that accessing public information required legitimate reasons and wouldn't compromise public safety, similar to police procedures.
She asked if he had brought his ID, and he said no. She advised him to bring his ID or a photocopy next time for the paperwork. Xu Tian explained the situation: on the afternoon of the 6th, around 1 or 2 o'clock, during a strange weather event with strong wind, hail, and then sun, he felt confused.
He had been carrying a large bag but couldn't remember where he went or how he got back, worrying he might have done something bad. Shi Diandian commented that forgotten things are usually bad. She mentioned his grandfather told her he has lived alone since the year Leifeng Tower was rebuilt, suggesting he should live a more lively life and that loved ones might exist in another dimension (adding she was just kidding).
Xu Tian apologized again for running off without paying at the teahouse. Shi Diandian playfully asked what he was afraid of, and he admitted his mind went blank. She confirmed it wouldn't happen again and stated it was fine if he didn't like her, as they could still be friends, and more friends meant more opportunities.
After leaving the park and having a phone conversation where he mentioned Uncle Shi and seeing Leifeng Tower, Xu Tian and Shi Diandian added each other on WeChat. Later, perhaps triggered by seeing the tower, Xu Tian reflected on his mother, who passed away the year the tower was rebuilt (2002), recalling her words about walking his own journey alone and not thinking about her. Later, Shi Diandian initiated another meeting, calling out to Xu Tian.
He arrived at her workplace, and she told him not to be nervous. She mentioned her red eyes were from her night shift and explained she had been checking surveillance footage from over a hundred cameras around the tailor shop in Hai'er Lane since noon. Xu Tian apologized for causing so much trouble. Shi Diandian reassured him it was fine as she had the next day off and promised to handle it, saying they didn't need to rush.
She had him fill out application forms, noticing he was left-handed. When he reached the section for family members, he asked if he could leave it blank, explaining that they were all gone. A colleague, Ms. Jiang, and their manager then spoke with Shi Diandian. The manager urged Shi Diandian to be nicer to Ms. Jiang, commenting on the difficulties of life and marriage.
The manager then spoke about her "own" plans to marry at the end of the year and take maternity leave. The manager asked Shi Diandian if she would quit her job after finding a partner, which Shi Diandian denied.
Colleagues speculated if Xu Tian was her boyfriend, commenting on his appearance, how she found him through "fate," noting she had never brought a man to the workplace before, and wondering if she would get into a relationship and potentially move away. Shi Diandian simply stated, "Whatever he says." Meanwhile, under Song Guanwang's watch, Zhou Tong contacted Wen Xiaoyao. He introduced himself and mentioned he got her number from his mother and Uncle Qiao.
He told her he was not going to Malaysia for now. Wen Xiaoyao was rehearsing but later mentioned she was eating the delicious crab he sent, which his mother cooked. Discussing food, Wen Xiaoyao said she liked hot pot, and Zhou Tong offered to treat her that night. She agreed and asked him to add her on WeChat for the address. Wen Xiaoyao then directly asked if he was treating dating as a life experience.
He confirmed, adding that his next step was to "dance as White Snake," explaining he wanted to know what love felt like. They acknowledged they both had ulterior motives. He mentioned his mother was threatening to disown him, and he felt showing some filial piety was necessary. They agreed it was a perfect arrangement where they could both get what they wanted. Separately, Jiaomi spoke with Qiao Guanghui, asking about Wen Xiaoyao's date.
Qiao Guanghui offered to buy Jiaomi a car, finding it inconvenient for them to travel by subway. Jiaomi countered by asking who he truly had in his heart, to which he replied, "Only you." She then pressed him to transfer the apartment they lived in to her name. When he asked why, she pointed out he couldn't bear to part with it. He claimed it would be hers eventually and asked why the rush.
Jiaomi wanted it sooner, remarking its value was only that of "two or three diamond rings," saying she wanted some freedom. He agreed to get the household register and go to the property bureau with her the day after tomorrow, as he was off. Later, Shi Diandian took Xu Tian to review the surveillance footage.
Shi Diandian narrated his movements: leaving Children's Lane after 12 o'clock, being on a bus on Fengqi Road at 12:20 PM, caught vaguely on a camera at a traffic light at Longxiang Bridge, getting off at the Provincial TCM Hospital, walking through Orioles Singing in the Willows Park (near Scholar Park) and the Leifeng Pagoda scenic area, spending over an hour there, and leaving at 2:17 PM via the entrance camera.
She surmised he took a bus back but wasn't captured again by the Longxiang Bridge cameras. As the wind picked up and it got very dark, the camera at Fenglin Community intersection at Grandpa's convenience store recorded him walking north into the vicinity at 2:41 PM. At 3:51 PM, after the rain stopped, he emerged from Hai'er Alley. She pointed out that at the intersection, with his raincoat hood, he wouldn't have been recognizable if he hadn't looked up.
Xu Tian remembered leaving Mr. Stone's shop and arriving at that spot at 3:51. He asked if anything was recorded in between, but Shi Diandian said the darkness prevented capture before the streetlights came on. Xu Tian mentioned the streetlight at his doorway was on, but Shi Diandian stated that specific camera broke during the wind on the 6th and hadn't been fixed. He looked at the footage again, asking if he had been at "that" intersection before.
Shi Diandian confirmed it was him in the footage. Xu Tian then mentioned he had been carrying a large backpack, but Shi Diandian insisted the footage showed him wearing only a raincoat and no backpack. Shi Diandian, exhausted from reviewing footage for over six hours since getting off her morning shift, suggested Xu Tian buy her a meal as thanks, leading them to dinner. At the same time, Zhou Tong and Wen Xiaoyao were having their hot pot date.
It was crowded, and Wen Xiaoyao asked if he came often. Zhou Tong said he didn't dare eat there too often, usually going once a month with Jiaomi, who was his best friend and danced the Xiaoqing role in his dance company. They discussed different types of hot pot, with Zhou Tong displaying surprising knowledge despite rarely eating it, noting he also knew planes could fly without piloting one.
Finding the place too crowded, Zhou Tong suggested they go somewhere else, perhaps street food, which he ate when traveling for work. At a street food stall, Wen Xiaoyao began drinking heavily. Zhou Tong commented on her constant drinking. She explained she didn't know what else to talk about, but staying longer made her mother happy. He asked if she was an alcoholic; she denied it, saying she didn't drink when traveling and usually didn't drink much.
Zhou Tong suggested taking a photo for his mom (Joey), using his phone and demonstrating how to use the timer and angle effectively, considering himself a "professional." He took photos of them together. Zhou Tong asked Wen Xiaoyao about her father, whom she hadn't seen since she was little. He then asked about her mother.
Wen Xiaoyao said she didn't remember her mother's appearance well, but there were only two photos she found online, which were production stills of her mother playing Lady White Snake. She wished she could dance the White Snake role to be like her mother. Zhou Tong asked why she needed to fall in love first. Wen Xiaoyao then asked Zhou Tong if he had been in love.
He admitted he had, just once, but she broke up with him, finding him weird. Wen Xiaoyao proposed they "play along" and pretend to date, producing online dating dialogues she had prepared. Zhou Tong agreed on one condition: since she was a ballet dancer and he'd never seen real ballet, she had to show him a "super difficult" ballet move.
Despite commenting that her training at her place wasn't "legit" (referring to training kids), Wen Xiaoyao agreed to demonstrate, standing on one leg on a stool while pouring drinks and asking if it was a "high difficulty" move, impressing Zhou Tong. Men at a nearby table noticed and made appreciative comments, calling her cool. They began the scripted dialogue. Zhou Tong asked for a moment first.
He then said, to be honest, he had genuinely liked her from the first time he saw her, calling it "love at first sight," a feeling that resurfaced after seeing her again yesterday at Guangming Pavilion. He felt each day was an eternity. Wen Xiaoyao seemed flustered, noting his red face (he claimed hers was redder and he'd been drinking).
They continued the script: she asked if they would always be together; he replied, "If you don't fall for someone else." She said she wouldn't, and he responded, "But I'm not entirely sure, life is unpredictable." Wen Xiaoyao interpreted his response as not liking her that much, but he insisted he truly liked her "right now."
The script continued with her asking hypothetically if he would look for her if she disappeared (to which he asked where she was going and why he would look). When it was her turn to ask if he loved her and would keep looking, he sensed she was taking it seriously. She denied it, finding the dialogue way too "mushy" and saying they couldn't continue with this.
The men from the nearby table approached, asking what game they were playing and wanting to join, making comments about Wen Xiaoyao. Zhou Tong became angry and physically confronted them, leading to a fight. Wen Xiaoyao quickly called the police. Later, back outside the hotel after dinner, Shi Diandian was waiting for a designated driver, still drinking. Xu Tian brought up wanting her help checking surveillance again.
Shi Diandian, affected by the alcohol, emotionally stated she "did" remember what happened on the 6th – she saw someone who looked "exactly like her" enter her shop. She wanted to find where "that person" came from, where they were going, and where they lived, which was why she needed the surveillance checked. She mentioned the discrepancy about the large backpack Xu Tian insisted he carried.
She said she would definitely find him a "time tunnel," claiming this is what "science girls" do, although "Lao Shi" always said she had "delusions." Reverting to her earlier topic, she declared she didn't have to get married this year and could wait, giving him more time. She affirmed she was "certain" she liked him and would pursue him, assuring him he didn't need to feel pressured and could run away anytime, just like he did at the teahouse.
Following the fight, Zhou Tong accompanied Wen Xiaoyao back outside her building/home. He commented that her place didn't look like a typical woman's home and suggested adding flowers would make it better or more like a home. He noticed a photo and asked if she had seen it. She confirmed, explaining it was a group photo taken every New Year, with her mother changing the frame for her each time. Zhou Tong told her she lived more authentically than he did. He thanked her for her help and prepared to leave.
Episode 4 Recap
Qiao Mi went to the police station to pick up Wen Xiaoyao. Puzzled why dating seemed connected to being at the station, Qiao Mi joked that Wen Xiaoyao must be under love's spell. As she playfully twirled a ring in her hand, it accidentally fell into the roadside grass, causing them both to search frantically. Wen Xiaoyao clarified that she hadn't been involved in any trouble; others were drunk and causing problems, but she had remained sober.
Wen Xiaoyao then told Qiao Mi she would not see Zhou Tong again. Qiao Mi asked if she was heartbroken, and Wen Xiaoyao admitted she was a little sad at first but felt fine now. Despite Qiao Mi asking what would happen if Zhou Tong came looking for her, Wen Xiaoyao insisted she still wouldn't see him. Meanwhile, Song Guanwang asked Zhou Tong about the outcome of his date.
Zhou Tong informed her that he would not be going to Malaysia for the time being and would instead spend time dating Wen Xiaoyao to help her experience real life, noting her performance was in just a week. Song Guanwang believed her son had developed genuine feelings for Wen Xiaoyao. Zhou Tong returned to his room to admire photos of himself and Wen Xiaoyao and asked his mother not to disturb him.
With the weekend approaching, Qiao Mi told Wen Xiaoyao they needed to take time off to transfer the property deed for their home into Qiao Mi's name. She expressed concern that Qiao Guanghui, now dating, might give the house away again and felt she needed to keep an eye on him. During a rehearsal at the dance school, Yang Yun was late again.
When he did participate, he interpreted the role based on his own understanding, which frustrated the artistic director, Zhao Gang. Zhao Gang stopped the rehearsal, criticizing Yang Yun's approach and telling him he needed to embody the character, not expect the character to embody him. Yang Yun argued that the traditional choreography was outdated and he sought a modern interpretation. The argument escalated, with Zhao Gang stating Yang Yun didn't have to dance if he didn't like the direction.
Yang Yun challenged the director's authority and asked the other dancers who wanted to dance the principal role. Qiao Mi muttered quietly that Wen Xiaoyao had already learned all the steps. Yang Yun became angry and left. Wen Xiaoyao wanted to follow Yang Yun to explain, but Qiao Mi stopped her.
Qiao Mi then told Wen Xiaoyao that her mother was Bai Suzhen and she should be too, believing that if Wen Xiaoyao took on the role, her mother would somehow know. Wen Xiaoyao hesitated, noting her mother was no longer aware of such things, but Qiao Mi insisted taking the role would make it known. Later, someone accused Qiao Mi of meddling, which she denied. The decision was made to replace the principal dancer.
Later, Zhao Gang complained to Qiao Guanghui that Qiao Mi was making decisions based on his influence and the yearly 3 million sponsorship, which Zhao Gang felt was a mere drop in the bucket compared to the trouble. Qiao Guanghui was distracted, announcing excitedly that he had just started dating a woman who ran a dance training program. He asked Zhao Gang, the ballet company's legitimate director and former Swan Prince, to help him make a good impression.
Qiao Guanghui warned Zhao Gang that if he didn't help and he failed to impress Song Guanwang, next year's 3 million sponsorship would be gone. Zhao Gang seemed surprised upon hearing Song Guanwang's name. Zhao Gang expressed skepticism, noting Song Guanwang wasn't much older than Qiao Mi and questioning if Qiao Guanghui's daughter would approve of a young stepmother. As Song Guanwang arrived, Qiao Guanghui urged Zhao Gang to look presentable. They visited the Guanwang Children's Ballet Training Center.
Song Guanwang mentioned her business upstairs was losing money and relied on the downstairs for subsidy. Qiao Guanghui introduced Zhao Gang as the artistic director and former Swan Prince. Song Guanwang introduced herself and her business, pointedly stating she was older than Qiao Guanghui. Qiao Guanghui declared his sudden obsession and love for her, which Song Guanwang found confusing.
Qiao Guanghui stated his simple motivation: he just wanted her to be healthy, successful, and in good spirits, believing "when you're good, I'm good." Song Guanwang then commented on Zhao Gang, calling him arrogant and referencing his company's five years of sponsorship at 3 million annually before suggesting he teach part-time at her center, even just once a week, as parents would be thrilled to see the 'Prince'.
Zhao Gang took offense, demanding to know what she meant by "joke," specifically regarding his teaching there for parents' happiness. Feeling agitated, Zhao Gang announced he was leaving, having trouble breathing. Song Guanwang called him ridiculous and questioned Qiao Guanghui about bringing such a seemingly "effeminate" person. Qiao Guanghui defended Zhao Gang's masculinity despite his ballet background.
Zhao Gang confronted Song Guanwang, arguing that ballet was a refined art often misunderstood by those who only used its name to make money. Song Guanwang countered that she did need to make money, but her businesses weren't profitable yet, stating she was there for fun as her business registration was for 'entertainment and games'. She mentioned her son loved fun even more and needed something "cutting-edge" like dating. Zhao Gang, still present, asked what cutting-edge meant.
Song Guanwang asked why he hadn't left. Zhao Gang stated he would never teach at her establishment. Song Guanwang challenged his status, calling him over fifty and still unsettled, holding his breath and stressing himself out. Zhao Gang found her comments ridiculous. Qiao Guanghui told Zhao Gang to ignore Song Guanwang. Qiao Guanghui then turned to Song Guanwang, asking if she agreed to date him, referencing her comment about dating being cutting-edge.
Song Guanwang clarified she was referring to her son when she mentioned cutting-edge dating, stating that she and Qiao Guanghui were too old. Qiao Guanghui accepted this, saying he just wanted to visit her often and take care of her. Song Guanwang sensed he was "up to something." As Qiao Guanghui exited, he found Zhao Gang still waiting outside and told him to go home.
Outside, Zhao Gang complained about Song Guanwang and Qiao Guanghui, noting Qiao Guanghui had chosen someone his own age despite claiming to be with a younger woman earlier. Qiao Guanghui reiterated his purpose in bringing Zhao Gang was for him to earn money teaching part-time. Zhao Gang disparaged this as making money in the name of art, leading to a heated argument about the value of their respective artistic pursuits and Qiao Guanghui's financial support.
Qiao Guanghui warned Zhao Gang again not to jeopardize his relationship with Song Guanwang, stating the sponsorship would cease if he did. Zhao Gang refused to discuss money. Qiao Guanghui suggested Qiao Mi could handle the discussion about the White Lady role because Song Guanwang was connected to the ballet company (implying through the children's center). Zhao Gang revealed Qiao Mi had already told him to let Wen Xiaoyao try the role.
Qiao Guanghui defended his family's company, dismissing Zhao Gang's high-mindedness and reminding him he started as a chorus dancer, which offended Zhao Gang. Qiao Guanghui brought up their shared history and care for Qiao Mi and Wen Xiaoyao over the years. Zhao Gang defiantly declared the ballet company didn't want the 3 million sponsorship, but Qiao Guanghui insisted he needed it, mentioning his closed business and dwindling savings. He questioned Zhao Gang's loyalty to art compared to his own.
Qiao Guanghui pressured Zhao Gang to stop being stubborn and asked if he was willing to swallow his pride and beg Yang Yun to return and perform. Shi Diandian asked her Uncle Lao Shi to take her to Xu Tian's qipao shop and introduce her, despite Lao Shi's embarrassment about his niece actively pursuing a man. Lao Shi, using the excuse that a relative needed a custom qipao, introduced Shi Diandian to Xu Tian's shop.
After Xu Tian took her measurements, Shi Diandian spotted a classic qipao and wanted to try it on. Xu Tian explained it was made by his mother years ago for herself, intended for Teacher Jia Sulan, a famous Yue Opera performer known for playing Bai Suzhen, who had fainted on stage years ago and then vanished, so the qipao was never given to her.
Shi Diandian, referencing what she'd learned about Xu Tian, attributed his current state to childhood trauma from losing his mother, suggesting he relied on past memories and an imaginary world. She proposed changing the shop's layout and replacing the two old qipaos displayed in the window with new items, offering to buy one herself. She took the classic qipao down and went to try it on, despite Xu Tian suggesting another style might fit her better.
Asking if they were good friends, she offered two "remedies" for his psychological issues: a gentle one involving transferring emotions to a new romantic relationship, or an intense one involving replacing everything old in the shop and forcing himself to forget unhappy things by focusing on the future. Xu Tian noted she had given him similar advice before. Shi Diandian went upstairs to look around.
Upstairs, Shi Diandian saw a photo of Xu Tian as a child with his mother and Teacher Jia Sulan in character as Bai Suzhen. Xu Tian mentioned the photo and the room had been unchanged for twenty years. She saw his mother's room, where a bedside lamp was kept constantly lit, which Xu Tian explained he kept on purpose.
Shi Diandian entered the room and turned off the lamp, instructing Xu Tian not to turn it on again for two days before leaving the shop to change. Reaching the crossroads, Shi Diandian suddenly remembered her ID card and returned to the shop. She found Xu Tian putting the two old qipaos back in the window.
She retrieved her ID and offered to stay and help expand the search for the person he was looking for, checking surveillance footage from days around the 6th, acknowledging the hundreds of hours of footage involved. Xu Tian expressed his gratitude, and Shi Diandian insisted it was unnecessary formality between friends. Noticing several bags of sweets on his table, she told him eating too much was bad for his health and asked if she should help him put them away. After Shi Diandian departed again, Xu Tian promptly gathered the bags of snacks and threw them into the trash can.
Episode 5 Recap
Concerned about being isolated and afraid of being replaced, Yang Yun chose to practice in the collective training room. Director Zhao noticed her and asked Joey to find the male principal dancer, Yin Ye, who dances the role of Xu Xian. When Director Zhao arrived, Yang Yun apologized for her rude behavior the previous day in the theater. Director Zhao responded graciously, saying no one dances White Snake better than her.
Yang Yun then expressed her frustration, stating she couldn't dance the Director's version of White Snake because she wanted to dance her own. She argued that the ballet company's audience is dwindling because they cling to outdated concepts, repeating the same core stories for years instead of reinterpreting them for modern audiences. Yin Ye arrived during this discussion. Director Zhao asked Yin Ye's opinion on Yang Yun's desire to reinterpret "The Legend of White Snake" from Xu Xian's perspective.
Yin Ye stated he believed in democracy. Director Zhao then proposed they hold a vote to decide the matter. The company gathered in the theater. Director Zhao reiterated Yang Yun's differing opinions and asked the actors on stage what "The Legend of White Snake" meant to them, encouraging open discussion.
After some hesitation and an awkward musical interjection from Wen Xiaoyao, Yang Yun presented her perspective, contrasting Bai Suzhen's thousand-year bond with Xiaoqing against her roughly ten years with Xu Xian and questioning which relationship represented deeper love. Director Zhao suggested a vote by having dancers physically stand on different sides to represent their support for a focus on either the Bai Suzhen/Xiaoqing relationship or the Bai Suzhen/Xu Xian relationship. Yin Ye was asked to choose, as was Joey.
Wen Xiaoyao stated she supported Yang Yun's idea. The majority sided with the traditional Bai Suzhen/Xu Xian interpretation. Yang Yun, visibly unhappy with the outcome, stated she didn't want to rehearse that day and needed a temporary break to regroup. Director Zhao, appearing frustrated by her attitude, immediately announced Wen Xiaoyao as the understudy for Bai Suzhen after Yang Yun left.
Around this time, Zhou Tong formulated a plan for daily outings, which Song Guanwang approved of, seeing her son taking dating seriously. Wen Xiaoyao began focusing on training for the role, receiving coaching from Director Zhao alongside Yin Ye. Director Zhao repeatedly instructed Wen Xiaoyao to concentrate on the character and trust Yin Ye completely during partner work, emphasizing that an immortal who gives up everything for love should not be afraid of falling.
He noted that her lack of belief couldn't be fixed by mere effort. Rehearsal was cut short due to Wen Xiaoyao's inability to fully commit. Later, Director Zhao sought out Yin Ye, asking about Yang Yun's whereabouts and their relationship status. Yin Ye confirmed they were seeing each other but described their connection as inconsistent, noting Yang Yun was only affectionate when she was in a bad mood and cold when things were going well.
Director Zhao asked Yin Ye to tell Yang Yun he was looking for her. Zhou Tong contacted Wen Xiaoyao, proposing daily outings for "dating practice," complete with a schedule, and asked her to meet him at the Forbidden City's Shenwu Gate despite it closing soon. Wen Xiaoyao questioned if he was serious, referencing a silly conversation they had while drinking the previous day. Zhou Tong claimed neither took it seriously and suggested they continue practicing.
He assured her he could arrange entry after hours because he had done photography work for them. Meanwhile, Joey visited her Aunt Song Guanwang and presented her with a ring from Joey's father, Qiao Guanghui. Joey inquired about Song Guanwang's feelings for her father. Song Guanwang admitted to liking him somewhat but felt she was too old to consider a romantic relationship seriously, stating her focus was on her son's happiness.
She expressed skepticism about Qiao Guanghui's persistent attention, believing his enthusiasm would eventually fade, leaving them as friends. She returned the expensive ring to Joey and mentioned that she had heard her son was on a date. Zhou Tong and Wen Xiaoyao entered the deserted Forbidden City.
As they walked, Zhou Tong joked about injuries he sustained the two times they had met, suggesting their destinies might clash and the third encounter could be dangerous, unless, he quipped, she was his destiny. Wen Xiaoyao responded that she was his destiny and asked him to be romantic since it was a date. Zhou Tong deflected, talking about the humidity and potential for creepy things, although he claimed not to be trying to scare her.
Wen Xiaoyao grew increasingly uncomfortable as it got late and dark and due to his behavior. When she asked him to stop trying to scare her and expressed a desire to leave, he seemingly left but then started giving her a remote tour via video while hiding. Wen Xiaoyao, scared and confused, repeatedly called out for him to show himself. While preparing to reveal himself, Zhou Tong got another cramp and fell, delaying his emergence.
A staff member found Wen Xiaoyao alone and escorted her out, informing her the area had been cleared. Zhou Tong left later after the area was cleared. Later, on her way home, Wen Xiaoyao received a text message from Zhou Tong, along with a collection of photos he had secretly taken of her during their outing.
In the message, he admitted that while he had initially just planned to accompany her in experiencing life, he had genuinely developed feelings for her, which made him feel awkward and unable to face her. Because of this, he wrote, he was canceling their plans. Shortly after, Joey met Wen Xiaoyao, walking home and visibly upset.
Joey shared her concerns about her father's interest in Song Guanwang, her own strictness towards him, and mentioned that Auntie Song also felt the relationship wasn't ideal. Having heard from her aunt that her son was on a date, Joey asked Wen Xiaoyao about her outing with Zhou Tong. Wen Xiaoyao showed Joey Zhou Tong's message explaining his feelings and cancellation.
Joey warned Wen Xiaoyao not to become romantically involved with Zhou Tong, suggesting she would end up just like her mother, unable to dance the role of Bai Suzhen and instead getting married and starting a family before getting the chance, losing her artistic opportunity. Director Zhao visited Yang Yun at her home, first sending Yin Ye away.
Director Zhao softened his stance initially, telling Yang Yun that Wen Xiaoyao was too inexperienced to take on the role of Bai Suzhen and he needed Yang Yun's expertise. He reminded Yang Yun of his long history of supporting her career, promoting her from lead dancer to principal, and suggested this major choreography might be his last with the company. He appealed to their past collaboration and urged her to help him by performing the role well.
Yang Yun maintained her stance, and Director Zhao then emphasized the importance of her support at this stage. The next day, preparing for rehearsal, Yang Yun told Yin Ye that Director Zhao's choreography for Bai Suzhen still felt uncomfortable to her. She asked Yin Ye to convey this feedback to the Director, stating she was too embarrassed to repeat it herself.
She even instructed Yin Ye to blame it on him and say she had no chemistry with him as Xu Xian. During rehearsal, Director Zhao observed that both Yang Yun and Yin Ye seemed off-balance. He directly asked Yin Ye if he had something to say, guessing that Yin Ye was being guided by someone. Yin Ye then voiced the feedback as Yang Yun requested, stating that she seemed strange and lacked connection and chemistry with him as Xu Xian.
Director Zhao asked Yang Yun directly if she could still dance; she replied no. Director Zhao then instructed Yang Yun to take a break and wait for him on the rooftop. He immediately turned to Wen Xiaoyao and told her to step in as Bai Suzhen, continuing the rehearsal with Yin Ye and Joey.
As Yang Yun left, she exchanged a few pointed words with Director Zhao, acknowledging him as her teacher but also referencing the finite time they both have in the company at their respective ages (54 for him, 31 for her).
Episode 6 Recap
A discussion takes place regarding the upcoming ballet. Yang Yun presents her view that the beauty of ballet originates from the characters' state of mind, which is rooted in their relationships. She highlights the thousand-year bond between the White Snake and Xiao Qing, suggesting Xu Xian is a transient figure in their long history. Yang Yun feels that with three characters, Xiao Qing is often marginalized, reducing the production to a conventional love story akin to Swan Lake or Giselle.
Zhao Gang expresses concern about the limited time before the premiere for implementing new choreography ideas. Yang Yun proposes that significant changes are only needed for the lake and broken bridge scenes, suggesting they could choreograph it themselves as the White Snake and Xiao Qing characters have a strong foundation. She suggests observing Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao's relationship, considering them embodiments of Bai Suzhen and Xiao Qing. Zhao Gang tells Yang Yun to return to the rehearsal hall.
Amidst this, Qiao Guanghui calls Zhao Gang, reminding him about his commitment to teach part-time at Song Guanwang's training center and encouraging him to ensure the children are happy. Zhao Gang, already stressed, calls Qiao Guanghui a "hick" but is instructed to visit Song Guanwang after work. Later, after work, Yang Yun shows frustration towards Yin Ye, refusing her a ride and referencing her not getting in the car the previous day. Yin Ye leaves determinedly on her own.
Qiaomi observes this interaction and finds it amusing. Zhao Gang arrives at Song Guanwang's training center, where Song Guanwang is openly critical and unwelcoming. However, a dance teacher named Tiantian recognizes Zhao Gang and requests an autograph. Zhao Gang confronts Song Guanwang about her persistent sarcasm. She explains it's because he showed disdain for her training center during his first visit. Song Guanwang clarifies that taking the part-time job requires following procedure, which, like for Tiantian, involves dancing.
Challenged, Zhao Gang agrees to perform. Without warming up and due to his age, he injures his foot while dancing shortly after starting. Song Guanwang teases him about needing insurance before dancing and comments on his age. She eventually tells Tiantian to take him home and jokes to Zhao Gang not to worry about the "gift" being damaged. The following day, Zhao Gang arrives at the rehearsal space in a wheelchair.
He instructs Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao to remain and improvise a three-minute duet on any theme within ten minutes, using basic training music, to assess their chemistry. He sends the rest of the company to the performance hall.
Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao are perplexed by the sudden request but speculate that Yang Yun might have influenced Zhao Gang to shift the choreography's focus to the White Snake and Xiao Qing relationship, potentially offering Qiaomi a chance to be promoted from understudy. Yang Yun and Yin Ye are in the changing room preparing. Yang Yun offers Yin Ye practice clothes and asks again why she didn't get in the car the day before.
Yin Ye responds that everyone has a temper and that tempers eventually subside. Zhao Gang calls Yang Yun and asks her to stay and observe the ten-minute improvisation he's requested from Wen Xiaoyao and Qiaomi. Qiao Guanghui visits Zhao Gang at the training center and is surprised to see him in a wheelchair. Zhao Gang jokingly attributes his ailment to anger causing liver pain and suggests walking more. Qiao Guanghui presses for details about the injury.
Zhao Gang dramatically claims Qiao Guanghui's "heroine" injured him, challenging Qiao Guanghui to push him from a height. He angrily accuses Qiao Guanghui of abandoning their friendship for a woman, then gets up from the wheelchair and walks away, telling Qiao Guanghui not to leave. Qiao Guanghui calls Song Guanwang to inquire about Zhao Gang's injury. Song Guanwang confirms Zhao Gang is limping but denies directly causing it.
She explains that Qiao Guanghui sent Zhao Gang as a "gift" for the part-time job, which required an audition dance. Song Guanwang feels bad that his "old arms and legs" got injured when he immediately jumped in, but states he was responsible for his own actions. Qiao Guanghui expresses relief, having worried about being forced to choose between romance and friendship, insisting he is indeed that type of person.
Song Guanwang tells him to stop talking nonsense and suggests Qiao Guanghui invite Zhao Gang over for dinner so she can apologize and resolve the misunderstanding. Qiao Guanghui agrees, thinking Zhao Gang seems quite pitiful. Song Guanwang instructs him not to buy medicine, only to make sure Zhao Gang comes. At the training hall, Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao perform their improvised duet.
Yang Yun observes their performance, noting their excellent chemistry, which she believes stems from their genuine relationship and couldn't be conveyed by a different pair relying solely on physical movement. Zhao Gang disagrees, asserting that the Legend of the White Snake fundamentally depicts the unchanging love between Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian. Yang Yun counters that nothing in life is unchangeable.
Zhao Gang reveals he deliberately orchestrated this improvisation specifically for Yang Yun, hoping to convince her to abandon her alternative choreographic ideas, as rehearsals and leadership reviews are approaching. He again tells her to go back to the theater. As Zhao Gang prepares to leave, Yang Yun offers to push his wheelchair. Wen Xiaoyao visits her mother's grave at Babaoshan, as she does every seventh day of the lunar month.
Before heading there, she receives a call from Zhou Tong, who is waiting for her near the subway entrance. Although she was on her way to Babaoshan, she agrees to meet him first. They meet near the subway, and their conversation is somewhat awkward. Wen Xiaoyao asks if he still considers dating and marriage burdens and questions if his previous declaration of falling for her at first sight while drunk was merely a joke.
He denies it was just a joke. Wen Xiaoyao reflects that her mother couldn't dance the White Snake role because she fell in love with her father, and states she will not make the same mistake. They briefly discuss philosophy, including the concept of meeting someone exactly like oneself. Wen Xiaoyao mentions her intention to go to Babaoshan to visit her mother. Zhou Tong asks if he can accompany her, and she agrees.
Descending from Babaoshan, Wen Xiaoyao and Zhou Tong engage in playful banter, including a lighthearted argument about why going downhill seems faster than uphill. Wen Xiaoyao reminds him of a prank he played on her at the Forbidden City the previous day and declares she will seek revenge. Her chosen revenge involves him pretending to be blind on the subway, with her acting as his guide. He finds the idea awkward but agrees, using her scarf to cover his eyes.
On the crowded subway, Wen Xiaoyao guides him. At one point, she leans her head on his shoulder, and he briefly puts his arm around her, but they quickly return to their separate standing postures. Despite the playful arguments and the unusual situation, the day appears to have been a source of happiness for Wen Xiaoyao. Later, Qiaomi is with Qiao Guanghui at what appears to be an arcade or internet cafe.
She tells him a story involving a landlord, a ring, and a woman to illustrate a point relevant to his situation with Song Guanwang. Qiaomi explains that the "auntie" (Song Guanwang) reached a definitive conclusion the previous day that she is not suitable for him and specifically conveyed this message to Qiaomi to deliver. Qiaomi believes Song Guanwang was being direct and honest. Qiao Guanghui tells Qiaomi to stop referring to Song Guanwang as "auntie" and instructs her not to seek Song Guanwang out again in the future.
Episode 7 Recap
At the training center, Zhou Tong watched Song Guanwang cleaning and took some photos. As they looked through the pictures, they came across some photos of Wen Xiaoyao. Song Guanwang asked about Zhou Tong's relationship progress with Wen Xiaoyao. Zhou Tong admitted he genuinely liked her, rating his feelings around seven or eight out of ten, and no longer felt bothered by his mother's previous attempts to set him up.
He confessed he felt anxious, worrying the relationship might not last, especially given Wen Xiaoyao initially described dating as an experience. Song Guanwang encouraged him, reminding him of his father's philosophy that life is short but should be complete, suggesting Zhou Tong should pursue the relationship seriously. Zhou Tong decided to be more direct with Wen Xiaoyao moving forward.
Song Guanwang also mentioned feeling down herself, as Yang Yun had openly told her she was outdated and wanted to do her own choreography. Qiao Guanghui planned to take Zhao Gang out to sing. While waiting, he asked Zhao Gang to accompany him to dinner with Song Guanwang, hoping Zhao Gang could help him understand Song Guanwang's feelings for Qiao Mi. Zhao Gang, whose foot was broken, was reluctant and found KTV tacky, wanting only to go home.
Qiao Guanghui pleaded, saying Zhao Gang had a broken foot but he had a broken heart because Song Guanwang had told Qiao Mi that she wasn't right for him. Zhao Gang finally agreed to the dinner. Shi Diandian, feeling confident about Xu Tian, went to buy a large amount of snacks, batteries, and napkins, announcing she was having a picnic with him that night. She even bought mouthwash in anticipation of kissing.
Lao Shi expressed concern, feeling Shi Diandian was moving too fast and might get hurt, suggesting she wait for her mother's return for guidance and help in vetting him. Shi Diandian dismissed her worries, stating she knew what she was doing. Lao Shi asked if Xu Tian had any bad habits or health issues. Shi Diandian called Xu Tian. Xu Tian was visiting Leifeng Tower, as he did weekly to remember his mother.
He noticed a poster for a "Legend of the White Snake" performance in Beijing. A staff member recognized him, noting he had been visiting the tower every week for the past eleven years, making him their most loyal visitor. As a gesture of appreciation, the scenic area leadership decided to give him two tickets to the Beijing premiere and two round-trip flight tickets.
He received the confirmation form and was instructed on how to collect the tickets from a travel agency. Soon after, he received a call from Shi Diandian. Shi Diandian told Xu Tian that a friend had checked highway records near Xiaoshan Airport and found someone who looked exactly like him exiting the airport on the 4th and entering again on the 7th.
Xu Tian maintained he had never been on a plane or left Hangzhou, sticking close to home unless necessary. Shi Diandian had his ID card and suggested they go to the airport themselves to check the surveillance footage, warning that the video storage might be cleared soon. Despite his denial of ever having been there, Xu Tian agreed to meet her at Leifeng Tower to go to the airport.
On the drive to Xiaoshan, Shi Diandian claimed her blood sugar was low as she hadn't eaten lunch. Since Xu Tian was driving, he helped her find cookies in the car. Later, he peeled tangerines he had bought near Leifeng Tower and fed them to her piece by piece. Shi Diandian also started humming a Beijing folk song she had just learned, although Xu Tian found her off-key.
Meanwhile, Wen Xiaoyao accompanied Qiao Mi and Qiao Guanghui to the property office to sign documents for a property transfer. To their surprise, when it was time to sign, Qiao Mi insisted that Wen Xiaoyao also sign. Qiao Guanghui was taken aback. Qiao Mi had brought Wen Xiaoyao's ID card. The staff noted that since Wen Xiaoyao's household registration was in Zhejiang, some additional procedures were required, which would cause delays.
While waiting, Wen Xiaoyao felt uncomfortable and excused herself to wait outside. Inside, Qiao Guanghui questioned Qiao Mi's decision to transfer the property to Wen Xiaoyao. Qiao Mi explained that while they were like sisters, Wen Xiaoyao had no assets of her own in Beijing, and she worried what would happen if their relationship changed or if Wen Xiaoyao was ever alone.
Qiao Guanghui acknowledged the sentiment but felt giving away the apartment was too impulsive, especially since he had treated Wen Xiaoyao like a daughter for years and considered her family. Qiao Mi remained resolute. Qiao Guanghui went outside to speak with Wen Xiaoyao. He first asked if she had ever been to Hangzhou, which she denied, though she expressed excitement about potentially performing there if their upcoming show was successful.
Qiao Guanghui then brought up Qiao Mi's intention to transfer the property to her. Wen Xiaoyao expressed that she already felt significant pressure from the kindness the Qiao family had shown her over the years and absolutely could not accept the apartment. Qiao Guanghui was torn between his headstrong daughter and his sensible foster daughter. Wen Xiaoyao went back inside to talk to Qiao Mi, explaining her feelings.
However, Qiao Mi insisted, saying that refusing the apartment meant Wen Xiaoyao was treating her like an outsider and ruining their close relationship. Under pressure, Wen Xiaoyao picked up the pen, hesitated, and signed the document, marking it as "disagree" before quickly leaving the office. The staff mentioned the notarization process would require the parties to return two more times over about two weeks.
Back inside, Qiao Guanghui reprimanded Qiao Mi for making such a major decision without consulting him, pointing out that giving away property affected her future assets. Qiao Mi accused him of being stingy. Qiao Guanghui became angry, telling her he had spoiled her into believing the world revolved around her. Qiao Mi recalled Song Guanwang saying something similar and felt both of them were targeting her. Angrily, she also left.
Later, Qiao Mi messaged Wen Xiaoyao, singing a Beijing folk song, which Wen Xiaoyao praised, indicating they had reconciled. Wen Xiaoyao and Zhou Tong were enjoying time together, appearing comfortable and happy as they climbed what Zhou Tong noted was a rough path. Shi Diandian and Xu Tian arrived at the airport.
Shi Diandian presented Xu Tian's ID and asked staff to check surveillance footage, falsely claiming Xu Tian was her boyfriend who suffered from intermittent amnesia and needed to verify his whereabouts. The staff called out for Xu Tian to verify the request, which startled a man nearby who then tried to run. The staff apprehended the man and discovered he had a criminal record. Xu Tian was taken to the monitoring room separately.
His account differed from Shi Diandian's; he explained that on the 6th, a stormy day, he believed he saw someone who looked just like him briefly at his shop, and he was curious about the person's identity after they disappeared. The staff informed them that Shi Diandian would face disciplinary action for misusing public resources to violate someone's privacy by fabricating the story. Xu Tian apologized for the trouble caused by the situation.
On the way back, Shi Diandian seemed unconcerned about the impending discipline. Xu Tian offered to explain the situation at her workplace, but she declined, saying it would only confirm they were dating and make things more complicated to explain. As they drove, Shi Diandian wondered about the identity and destination of the man who had been apprehended.
Episode 8 Recap
Zhou Tong and Wen Xiaoyao stood atop the Great Wall. Zhou Tong confessed his deep feelings, revealing he had been drawn to her since their first meeting but had kept his emotions hidden. He shared that witnessing his father's death in a car accident as a child cast a significant shadow over him.
He had even studied psychology in college for seven years hoping to heal, but the shadow only grew larger, driving him to travel widely seeking beautiful places and things to fill the void. Meeting Wen Xiaoyao, he explained, felt like finding that most beautiful thing. When it was Wen Xiaoyao's turn to speak her truth, she found it difficult. She suggested they exchange phones and simultaneously text each other their current feelings, ensuring honesty by texting from the other's device.
They both typed messages expressing a desire to spend every minute and second together from that moment on, wanting to waste no time apart. Zhou Tong, upon seeing Wen Xiaoyao's words, was overjoyed, confirming that her feelings matched his own. He walked over to her side and embraced her. As dusk settled, neither of them wanted to leave. Meanwhile, Shi Diandian and Xu Tian stopped by a lake.
Shi Diandian claimed their car had broken down and she needed to call for roadside assistance, but she had already prepared folding chairs, which she set up by the water. On the drive there, Xu Tian had reflected on his intense curiosity about a stranger and felt he was being too persistent, deciding it was time to let go of that memory.
However, Shi Diandian believed it was necessary to persist, hoping that finding the look-alike might resolve years of unresolved feelings. She then asked Xu Tian honestly if he had "never" liked her at all. After giving it some thought, Xu Tian replied that being with her was very reassuring. He proposed they treat this moment as their first meeting and start over, forgetting everything that happened before.
Shi Diandian wondered if he could genuinely do that, and he thought he could. Shi Diandian consulted airport information by analyzing surveillance footage they had seen. She noted the man resembling Xu Tian was near Gate B46. By checking flight information, she determined the flight at B46 at that time (4:10 PM) was to Beijing, and people seemed to be boarding.
Considering security camera placement and the man's likely actions (not queuing), she concluded he had likely taken the flight to Beijing. By now, it was dark. Shi Diandian suggested they head home, mentioning she had barely slept the previous night reviewing surveillance footage. Xu Tian told her she should get some sleep and rest right there by the lake. He took off his jacket and covered her with it.
As Shi Diandian slept, Xu Tian quietly reflected aloud that he had never encountered anyone who treated him as she did. He realized it would be foolish to let go of the person she is now because of past events. Later, as Zhou Tong and Wen Xiaoyao descended some stairs, Wen Xiaoyao missed a step and stumbled, falling into Zhou Tong's arms. Overcome with emotion, they kissed.
In that moment, Wen Xiaoyao felt she finally understood what her mother had experienced. Responding to a suggestion from Song Guanwang, Qiao Guanghui organized a dinner to offer an apology to Brother Gang. Qiao Guanghui's daughter, Xiaomi, joined them at the restaurant. Ms. Song applied liniment to Brother Gang, and despite the gesture, their banter remained prickly.
Qiao Guanghui chose that awkward moment to bring up the diamond ring he had bought, explaining he had planned to formally propose to Ms. Song but had been interrupted by his daughter earlier. He reiterated his feelings for her and hoped she would seriously consider his proposal. Xiaomi's arrival just as he spoke added to the existing tension, making everyone uncomfortable. Ms. Song responded that the situation was becoming awkward and clarified her stance.
She stated that she didn't feel they were right for each other. She wasn't saying he was a bad person or that she was interested in someone else; she simply believed it would be better for them to remain friends. Qiao Guanghui asked if "just friends" was acceptable, and after she confirmed, he resignedly agreed to be friends. Brother Gang accepted the liniment Ms. Song had brought.
Meanwhile, Yin Ye was busy conducting her overseas shopping business, selling items to customers at the dance studio. Yang Yun, a dancer playing Bai Suzhen, expressed her frustration to Yin Ye, who plays Xu Xian. Yang Yun questioned if Yin Ye's behavior was appropriate for a lead dancer like her, especially when Yang Yun was trying to connect with her own role.
Yang Yun questioned their relationship and Yin Ye's lack of respect, contrasting Yin Ye's messy side hustle with her own artistic aspirations. She asked if they could separate their personal life from their acting, but Yin Ye said she couldn't. Yang Yun stated that if that's how Yin Ye felt, then they should break up.
Yang Yun added that Yin Ye shouldn't take out her frustration about not getting the main Xu Xian part on her, suggesting Yin Ye didn't even look like the character anyway. Zhou Tong went to the theater looking for Wen Xiaoyao, taking photos of the dancers practicing. When a teacher asked if he was Song Guanwang's son, he corrected her, stating that Song Guanwang was his mother. Later, he waited for Wen Xiaoyao at a bookstore.
Xiaomi found Wen Xiaoyao sitting alone and learned she had been on a date with Zhou Tong and he had just left. Wen Xiaoyao confided in Xiaomi that she and Zhou Tong had kissed on the Great Wall the previous day. Xiaomi reacted dramatically, saying Wen Xiaoyao was "completely finished." Wen Xiaoyao explained that she finally understood how her mother had felt back then, referencing how her mother couldn't play the White Snake role after falling in love.
Wen Xiaoyao seemed indifferent to the possibility of losing the Bai Suzhen role, noting she was only an understudy and felt Yang Yun danced it well anyway, despite Xiaomi reminding her how much she had always wanted the part. Wen Xiaoyao mentioned the director had spoken of experiencing love's sweetness and bitterness to inspire performance, but she found only sweetness with Zhou Tong, who was "more genuine than pearls" in his feelings. Xiaomi expressed jealousy and emotional turmoil.
Wen Xiaoyao jokingly offered to have Zhou Tong come "pay respects" to Xiaomi, bowing and kowtowing to gain her approval, daring her to run away with him if he didn't pass Xiaomi's test. Wen Xiaoyao responded that running away was impossible. Xiaomi suggested they go see Zhou Tong at the bookstore, but Wen Xiaoyao felt it was more appropriate for him to come to her.
Xu Tian visited Shi Diandian's workplace to deliver the qipao he had made at his tailor shop. He spoke with Ms. Jiang, Shi Diandian's manager, offering his qipao tailoring services. Ms. Jiang mentioned that their boss had talked to Diandian because of a mistake her boyfriend made. Xu Tian acknowledged it was because of him. Ms. Jiang asked if he was officially Shi Diandian's boyfriend, and Xu Tian confirmed he was committed.
Ms. Jiang seemed relieved and told Xu Tian how lucky he was. She revealed that Shi Diandian is the only daughter of the prominent Shi Group in Keqiao, describing it as a big family with all the relatives worth several billion. Xu Tian responded that Shi Diandian's background had nothing to do with him; all he knew was that she was good to him, and he would be good to her in return.
Ms. Jiang urged him not to break Shi Diandian's heart. Shi Diandian tried on the qipao, and everyone present admired how beautiful it looked on her. Xu Tian asked if she was free at noon and invited her to meet him at Leshui Pavilion. Shi Diandian agreed. Xu Tian then left, saying goodbye to Ms. Jiang. Ms. Jiang later shared with Shi Diandian that she had told Xu Tian she was the only daughter and that he must never break her heart.
Episode 9 Recap
After finishing work, Shi Diandian met Xu Tian at Leshui Pavilion as they had agreed. Xu Tian stated clearly that he would no longer continue investigating the surveillance footage. With that task behind them, they decided to formalize their relationship, reintroducing themselves to each other. Shi Diandian was more forward, asking how he felt about her. Xu Tian described his feelings as being like Xu Xian's affection for Bai Suzhen, adding that he would be good to her for life.
Shi Diandian was pleased with the comparison, noting that like Bai Suzhen, she had been the one to fall for Xu Tian first. Xu Tian stated he wasn't good with sweet talk but could offer stability, which Shi Diandian confirmed was exactly what she desired, feeling secure that someone belonged to her now.
When two women walked by, Xu Tian glanced at them twice, prompting Shi Diandian to immediately assert her claim over him and tell him not to look at other women now that he was hers. He agreed. Meanwhile, Qiao Guanghui sought comfort from Zhao Gang regarding his romantic disappointment.
Zhao Gang was blunt, pointing out that Qiao Guanghui's life had been "too smooth" and he had always had someone to date, unlike his own experience at 36 when a relationship ended abruptly, leaving him alone. Qiao Guanghui, still nursing his feelings for Song Guanwang, questioned her perceived wisdom. Qiao Guanghui then instructed Zhao Gang to continue interacting with Song Guanwang at her training center once his leg recovered and to put in good words for him.
Qiao Mi returned home to find Qiao Guanghui in high spirits, singing and treating their apartment like a karaoke bar, asking her to pour drinks. Qiao Mi, however, was upset, lamenting that Wen Xiaoyao was now dating someone and spent less time with her. She and Qiao Guanghui briefly exchanged complaints, comparing their respective miseries.
Wen Xiaoyao met Zhou Tong at a bookstore, having previously arranged a "coffee debriefing" via WeChat where they would pretend to be meeting for the first time again to talk things through. Zhou Tong began by formally ending things, explaining that he had only agreed to the blind date at his mother's insistence as a filial gesture and felt guilty continuing the pretense.
Wen Xiaoyao reacted, seemingly taking it seriously, stating she would cancel their planned activity and suggesting they end things there. Zhou Tong, visibly confused and concerned, chased after her, reminding her of their agreement to just talk it through. Wen Xiaoyao, however, maintained her act, listing her commitments as an actress and dancer and offering him tickets to her upcoming premiere as the understudy for White Snake, implying that other connections between them would cease.
Zhou Tong was genuinely taken aback by her seriousness. Seeing his reaction, Wen Xiaoyao suddenly burst out laughing, revealing that she was just getting "payback" for him having seemingly scared her first with his initial bluntness by making her believe he was seriously ending things. Relieved, they immediately shifted to planning dinner. Zhou Tong suggested she come to his place to try his mother's cooking.
Wen Xiaoyao agreed but added a condition: Zhou Tong would need to get approval from Qiao Mi, stating that if Qiao Mi didn't approve, he would be out. Zhao Gang found Song Guanwang participating in square dancing. He confronted her about publicly rejecting Qiao Guanghui, suggesting it hurt his pride and caused Qiao distress.
Song Guanwang countered that it would have been more irresponsible to prolong the ambiguity when he was already so infatuated and she had to "throw cold water on it." She called Qiao Guanghui an "old-timer" who could handle such a setback and would be fine. Zhao questioned her "wisdom," and then he spoke philosophically about life's cycles of blooming and withering, joy and sorrow.
Song then shifted the conversation, commenting on Zhao Gang's well-being and unconventional dancing, before reminding him to spend more time with Qiao Guanghui and ensure he applied his medicine. Filled with frustration, Qiao Mi went looking for Song Guanwang and Zhou Tong at their place, feeling that Song had "stolen" her father and Zhou Tong had "taken" Wen Xiaoyao from her side. Someone named Xi, recognizing Qiao Mi's distress, offered to play pool with her.
Just then, Zhou Tong and Wen Xiaoyao arrived. After a brief interaction where Wen Xiaoyao mentioned wanting to spend more time with "Xiaomi," Wen Xiaoyao left. Qiao Mi then stopped Zhou Tong, addressing him as "Zhou Butong" and demanding he come with her to eat, despite his mentioning his mother's whereabouts and their plans for Wen Xiaoyao to meet his mother the next day. Later, Qiao Mi and Zhou Tong were having dinner.
Qiao Mi was clearly angry and questioned how his relationship with Wen Xiaoyao had developed so quickly ("acted without permission"). Zhou Tong nervously tried to explain, mentioning that to be with Wen Xiaoyao, he needed Qiao Mi's approval. He then cited the moment at Guangming Pavilion during their first meeting when Wen Xiaoyao leaned forward from a stool to pour a drink, a moment that completely "dazed" him and constituted "love at first sight."
Qiao Mi was skeptical, dismissing the idea that such an action could be so impactful and calling Zhou Tong foolish for being "dazed." To demonstrate, she climbed onto a stool herself, mimicking the action. Wen Xiaoyao unexpectedly arrived, saw Qiao Mi on the stool, and immediately intervened, pulling her down and expressing concern for her safety, especially with rehearsals approaching.
Despite Wen Xiaoyao's presence, Qiao Mi continued to express her grievances, demanding that Zhou Tong "pay respects" to her as the "boss" and get her approval as Wen Xiaoyao had required, reiterating her anger towards both him and his mother, Song Guanwang, whom she had initially come to confront. Back at home with Wen Xiaoyao, Qiao Mi was still distraught.
She hung upside down, complaining about the rapid development of Wen Xiaoyao's relationship with Zhou Tong, which she had only intended to be "practice" that she herself had set up. She lamented how quickly things became serious in just a few days. She demanded that Wen Xiaoyao say she would break up with Zhou Tong and recite specific lines declaring he was just practice.
To placate the exhausted Qiao Mi, Wen Xiaoyao recited the words Qiao Mi wanted to hear, stating that she was using Zhou Tong for practice and had already moved on to playing Bai Suzhen. Shi Diandian went to a store to buy ingredients to cook for Xu Tian, declaring that Xu Tian was hers now and she was cooking for him. Lao Shi, the store owner, questioned the freshness of the ingredients and suggested going to a supermarket.
Lao Shi also expressed concern about the speed of her relationship with Xu Tian, wanting to hear confirmation from Xu Tian himself. As Shi Diandian was about to leave for the supermarket, Lao Shi removed a withered pineapple flower from display. Shi Diandian dismissed his worries, stating that she was different now and felt secure because someone belonged to her. Lao Shi invited both her and Xu Tian over for dinner that night.
Later, Lao Shi visited Xu Tian at his home, confirming the dinner invitation and their relationship status (Shi Diandian said Xu Tian belonged to her, and Xu Tian confirmed they were officially dating, that it was mutual). Lao Shi then proceeded to share information about Shi Diandian's past. He described her unique personality and a past relationship where she was intensely possessive, treating her boyfriend "like her personal property."
When the boyfriend left because he "couldn't take it anymore," Shi Diandian experienced selective amnesia, forgetting him and everything from that year. Lao Shi explained that this was diagnosed as psychological trauma, rooted in the sudden death of her mother when Shi Diandian was nine.
He recounted the traumatic event, including her mother being taken straight to the crematorium and cremated, and Shi Diandian locking herself in her mother's room where she stared at a vase of flowers for nine days until they withered and died. Lao Shi revealed that since then, Shi Diandian has become increasingly insecure.
He explained that this childhood trauma is the root of her insecurity and possessiveness, helping Xu Tian understand her past actions and perhaps why she had helped him turn off the light in his mother's room.
Episode 10 Recap
When Shi Diandian discovered one of her purchased flowers was wilting, it was something she couldn't accept. She drove back to the flower shop to return the bouquet, insisting the owner didn't need to refund her money. Lao Shi later told Xu Tian that he had just seen Shi Diandian at the convenience store and noticed a light shining in her eyes again, the same light he'd seen three years prior.
Xu Tian confidently declared that he was the reason for that light in Shi Diandian's eyes. Shi Diandian came to his place for dinner that night, and Xu Tian asked Lao Shi to join them. At the dance academy, a rehearsal was underway, attended by several directors, chiefs, and secretaries. Yang Yun struggled, failing to keep pace with Yin Ye multiple times.
During a transition, Qiaomi saw Wen Xiaoyao in the wings studying a recipe and, getting distracted herself, made two clear errors. After the rehearsal, the Director, Zhao Gang, called Yang Yun and Yin Ye into his office to scold them. Although Yang Yun was unhappy, she defiantly stated she would rehearse with Yin Ye the next day. Qiaomi was also summoned to the office. Zhao Gang asked why she made basic mistakes.
Qiaomi explained she was influenced by Wen Xiaoyao during the transition, stating Wen Xiaoyao was diligently experiencing life for her role as Bai Suzhen, studying dating techniques, analyzing preferences, and even going to Zhou Tong's mother's home that night to cook braised bamboo shoots as part of trying to please the 'rival's mother,' relating it to the family life in the third act of the White Snake story. She claimed seeing this dedication had completely stunned and shamed her.
Zhao Gang dismissed these as excuses, stating he couldn't tell when Qiaomi was telling the truth. Meanwhile, Song Guanwang arrived at the dance academy looking for Zhao Gang. She was directed to wait outside his office, as it wasn't open to everyone, but she told the staff she would wait there and asked them to pass a message as she had important business.
As she waited, she heard Qiaomi mention Wen Xiaoyao was preparing to be a guest at her home that night, which made Song Guanwang decide to leave for home directly instead of waiting. Zhao Gang exited his office just as Song Guanwang was leaving and greeted her. Song Guanwang informed Zhao Gang she had partially overheard mention of Wen Xiaoyao dating Zhou Tong as a way to experience life for her role. She asked him directly if this was true.
Zhao Gang confirmed he had asked Wen Xiaoyao to do this initially but hadn't known who the person was at the time and was unaware it was Song Guanwang's son, Zhou Tong, adding that Qiao Guanghui had facilitated the connection. Song Guanwang expressed her belief that both Zhao Gang and Qiao Guanghui were extremely unreliable. She stated she had come specifically to ask, as Zhou Tong's mother, if his relationship with Wen Xiaoyao was genuine, playful, or just for practice.
Zhao Gang defended that while it started as an assignment, it's hard to say where it developed, and sometimes truth can emerge from fiction. Song Guanwang, unimpressed, concluded that the only course of action was to stay far away from people like them. At Xu Tian's home for dinner, Shi Diandian insisted on doing all the cooking and told Xu Tian to chat with Lao Shi.
Shi Diandian had brought a box, which piqued Xu Tian's curiosity, but Lao Shi also didn't know what was inside. Lao Shi asked Xu Tian if he truly liked Shi Diandian and which was more important, fate or feelings. Xu Tian said feelings were useless without fate but admitted he liked her more and more. Once the dishes were served, Shi Diandian mentioned her desire to buy an expensive, multi-functional food processor.
She described in detail all the different meals she could make for Xu Tian every day but explained she was waiting for it to go on sale due to its high price (over 10,000), calling it her "life dream." At Zhou Tong's home, Wen Xiaoyao served the braised bamboo shoots dish she had just cooked. Song Guanwang tasted it and found the taste not bad, noting its authentic Hangzhou flavor, but Zhao Gang's earlier words weighed on her mind.
Qiaomi sent messages urging Wen Xiaoyao to take photos to show affection. Wen Xiaoyao complied, taking pictures with Zhou Tong and the food, which further upset Song Guanwang, making her feel disrespected and believing it was all staged or an "on-site situation report" for Qiaomi. Song Guanwang directly asked Wen Xiaoyao who she would be most reluctant to part with, implying a ranking.
Wen Xiaoyao candidly replied that Qiaomi's mother and Qiaomi were ranked first or second, and Zhou Tong was "Third place, obviously." This frankness displeased Song Guanwang even more. Qiaomi repeatedly called Wen Xiaoyao during the meal, explaining that her father, Hui (Qiao Guanghui), was in a bad mood after being dumped by Song Guanwang, making their home feel bleak. Feeling awkward, Wen Xiaoyao eventually took the call.
After Wen Xiaoyao left, Song Guanwang threw away the leftover food, saying "Better a short pain than a long one." She sternly reiterated to Zhou Tong that Wen Xiaoyao's relationship with him was merely for experiencing life for her role and reporting back, urging him not to get further involved. Zhou Tong stated he had known about the initial research arrangement but felt things had changed as they got to know each other better.
Song Guanwang dismissed this, thinking her son was being naive and warning him that he was getting too deep and wouldn't be able to handle it when Wen Xiaoyao inevitably said goodbye to him. That evening, Shi Diandian decided to stay over at Xu Tian's place. She had secretly retrieved the discarded tickets for the White Snake performance. She also booked two round-trip flights to Beijing for the next day.
Shi Diandian told Xu Tian she would accompany him to Beijing to see the show, clarifying that it had nothing to do with parallel universes or someone who looked like him, but simply to see the performance that his mother had loved most. Xu Tian was deeply touched by her gesture. Xu Tian arranged for Shi Diandian to sleep in his mother's room. Later that night, he noticed the bedside lamp was still on and quietly stood outside the doorway.
Shi Diandian sensed his presence and asked if he was going to turn off the lamp. She then told him that from now on, he would have to be the one to turn off that lamp himself. Despite his mother's warnings, Zhou Tong felt unsettled. Early the next morning, he went to Qiaomi's building to meet Wen Xiaoyao, planning to go to Dajue Temple together.
He immediately voiced his anxiety from the previous night, confirming that his mother, Song Guanwang, had officially told him it was over and had even met with Wen Xiaoyao's director the day before. He asked Wen Xiaoyao directly if their relationship was an assignment from her team, stating he needed her to give him a straight answer "in broad daylight," even claiming he could handle it. Wen Xiaoyao became emotional and moved away, asking him "Do you understand now?" .
Zhou Tong replied "I understand, yes." They then decided to go upstairs so Zhou Tong could "pay respects" to Qiaomi. Upon meeting Qiaomi, Zhou Tong immediately began bickering with her. Wen Xiaoyao prepared to leave with Zhou Tong, but then felt it was wrong to leave Qiaomi behind and wanted to go back inside to have a word with her.
Zhou Tong volunteered to go back alone to apologize to Qiaomi, insisting he could handle it and would charm her within three minutes. He went back inside, while Wen Xiaoyao waited downstairs. Zhou Tong told Qiaomi he had come up mainly to apologize. Qiaomi then brought up the words "Fall in love" written outside her window on the 8th.
She explained that Wen Xiaoyao wrote that before she even knew Zhou Tong, as a commitment to experiencing life for her Bai Suzhen role. Qiaomi stated that Zhou Tong hadn't gotten a straight answer downstairs because those three words written again still meant the same as they did on the 8th. She then showed Zhou Tong a message or video where Wen Xiaoyao bluntly stated, "Zhou Tong, you're such an idiot.
I'm just using you for practice, I've told you several times already but you still take it seriously. Goodbye. I got the White Snake role, thanks for your cooperation." Zhou Tong was stunned by this revelation.
Episode 11 Recap
Zhou Tong met Wen Xiaoyao, who offered to keep him company. As they walked, Wen Xiaoyao suggested taking the subway, commenting on how crowded it was. Zhou Tong stopped and stated that the location didn't matter, as life was all about one's mindset. He spoke about accepting gains and losses calmly, letting go of things that were never truly yours, finding peace in impermanence, and how desperately wanting something unobtainable leads to daily uncertainty. Wen Xiaoyao found his perspective profound.
Meanwhile, Xu Tian and Shi Diandian arrived in Beijing. They took the subway to their hotel after their planned ride-sharing vehicle broke down. Shi Diandian remarked that their relationship seemed to be progressing very quickly, noting they hadn't even had a proper date yet. Xu Tian suggested they could make up for it later and admitted he was a "blockhead." Shi Diandian replied that she liked him just the way he was.
After exiting the subway, Xu Tian and Shi Diandian began searching for their hotel. Xu Tian was looking at a map while Shi Diandian used phone navigation. Shi Diandian went ahead but then realized Xu Tian wasn't with her. She called him, expressing her worry and instructing him to stay put while she looked for him. After they reunited, Shi Diandian playfully accused Xu Tian of intentionally leaving her behind and teased him about staying close.
As they continued looking for directions, Xu Tian again went in a different direction while Shi Diandian was distracted by her phone. She walked ahead onto a pedestrian overpass, then realized Xu Tian was gone. She looked up and searched for him, spotting a figure nearby she believed was Xu Tian. She rushed over and grabbed the person's hand, only to discover it was Zhou Tong, who reacted with surprise and asked if she was crazy.
Wen Xiaoyao arrived and confronted Zhou Tong, demanding to know why he had left her so abruptly at the subway. Zhou Tong told her that their pretense was over, as his goal had been achieved now that her performance was scheduled for the next day, and she needed to focus.
He revealed that Qiaomi had told him everything, mentioning a video, and admitted he felt like a fool for taking their interactions seriously, believing Qiaomi had confessed she was only using him for practice from the beginning. He reiterated his plan to proceed with his trip to Malaysia. Unaware of the full details, Wen Xiaoyao called Qiaomi immediately.
Qiaomi informed her that Yin Ye had accidentally injured Yang Yun's back during a lift and that the troupe was frantically looking for Wen Xiaoyao, urging her to return quickly as leaders were present and an ambulance was there. As Wen Xiaoyao absorbed this news, Zhou Tong walked away without looking back. Shi Diandian, having witnessed the exchange after mistaking Zhou Tong for Xu Tian, discreetly followed Zhou Tong and took several photos.
Xu Tian called Shi Diandian, who was still near the overpass area. Distracted by the unfolding events, Shi Diandian told Xu Tian to go to the hotel and check in by himself, providing instructions over the phone and promising to join him later. She then followed Wen Xiaoyao and found her entering the dance school. Due to Yang Yun's injury, the directors decided that Wen Xiaoyao would immediately take over the lead role of Bai Suzhen.
Deeply upset by her emotional turmoil regarding Zhou Tong, Wen Xiaoyao initially told the director, Zhao Gang, that she was unable to dance at the moment. Zhao Gang sternly challenged her, demanding to know if she could handle the responsibility as an actress, and she ultimately agreed. Having just experienced strong emotions related to love, Wen Xiaoyao's subsequent performance during rehearsal was exceptionally moving, greatly impressing Zhao Gang and other leaders.
They decided to announce the change and arrange television interviews right away. Backstage, Wen Xiaoyao remained unhappy despite the significant career opportunity. Qiaomi spoke enthusiastically about the promising future, but Wen Xiaoyao confessed that she was in love with Zhou Tong and wanted to be with him, asking Qiaomi for help. While waiting on stage for the pre-arranged interview, Shi Diandian arrived at the theater, having followed Wen Xiaoyao.
She signed in and sought out Wen Xiaoyao, who initially mistook her for one of the arriving journalists. As they talked, Wen Xiaoyao mentioned her mother was a Yue Opera actress who also played Bai Suzhen. Shi Diandian was surprised and correctly named her mother as Jia Sulan. When Wen Xiaoyao, surprised, asked who she was, Shi Diandian introduced herself as Shi Diandian.
Before Wen Xiaoyao could inquire further about how she knew her mother's name, Zhao Gang arrived with the reporters and began the interview, formally introducing Wen Xiaoyao as the new lead. Wen Xiaoyao also took a brief call from Qiao Guanghui, informing him about Yang Yun's injury and her taking over the role. Meanwhile, Xu Tian waited in the hotel lobby for over two hours.
He called Shi Diandian, expressing his frustration about the long wait, but she reassured him she would arrive soon. An assistant approached Xu Tian and asked him to come upstairs to meet Fang Fang, identifying her as Shi Diandian's mother. Xu Tian, who had not yet checked in, was told his check-in would be processed later. He followed the assistant upstairs, where Fang Fang welcomed him, offered tea, and introduced herself as Shi Diandian's mother.
Episode 12 Recap
Shi Diandian returned to the hotel and, while preparing to enter her room with her assistant, overheard her mother and Xu Tian talking inside. She paused, then handed Xu Tian's room card to her assistant for delivery. Later, Fang Fang called Shi Diandian to meet. During their conversation, Shi Diandian expressed her anxieties about Xu Tian. She suspected Xu Tian might be deeply in love with Wen Xiaoyao and that his visit to Beijing was primarily to see her.
Noting that Xu Tian's mother particularly liked the character Bai Suzhen, Shi Diandian reasoned Xu Tian might also favor the actress playing the role, who was Wen Xiaoyao. To prevent them from meeting, she had decided to cancel their planned outing to see the performance of 'Legend of the White Snake'. While they were talking, Xu Tian called Shi Diandian.
Shi Diandian was jumpy, worrying Xu Tian might regret her decision, but Fang Fang urged her to answer, suggesting it was better to face the possibility head-on; if Xu Tian met Wen Xiaoyao and showed no strong reaction, Shi Diandian could feel more secure in their relationship. Shi Diandian went out, then returned to Fang Fang and showed her a photo she had taken of Zhou Tong.
Fang Fang and her assistant were stunned by the exact likeness between Zhou Tong and Xu Tian. Shi Diandian asserted that Xu Tian and Zhou Tong were the same person. Hearing this, Fang Fang instructed her assistant to search for all ballet companies in Beijing. On the way to meet Xu Tian in the hotel lobby, Shi Diandian was close to collapse and briefly vented by shouting.
Upon meeting Xu Tian, who was near a subway exit and heading towards the hotel via an overpass, Shi Diandian became visibly distressed when she briefly lost sight of him. Upon finding him, she expressed her panic, emphasizing that she didn't know anyone in Beijing and urging him not to wander off. She requested he stay within a very close distance of her from then on.
Meanwhile, Qiao Guanghui took Qiaomi to the hospital to visit Yang Yun after she suffered an injury. Zhao Gang and others were also visiting Yang Yun. Yang Yun later called Wen Xiaoyao, telling her to fully dedicate herself to the performance the next day and mentioning she planned to attend. Wen Xiaoyao repeatedly apologized for not visiting.
Later, Qiao Guanghui also spoke to Wen Xiaoyao by phone, informing her about Yang Yun's injury and the change in casting, emphasizing that Wen Xiaoyao needed to focus entirely on her performance the next day. Around the same time, Song Guanwang noticed Zhou Tong seemed troubled, guessing it was due to a breakup. She encouraged him to join her for some square dancing. Downstairs, people were hanging decorative lights for an opera, and Zhou Tong helped hang them.
Wen Xiaoyao rode a shared bike to Zhou Tong's home (near the opera location), hoping to find him, but was told by someone there that he had gone home. Qiao Guanghui drove Zhao Gang back to the ballet troupe premises, where staff were changing promotion posters to feature Wen Xiaoyao.
Zhao Gang loudly expressed concern that Wen Xiaoyao was not at the troupe right before the premiere and instructed Qiao Guanghui to find her and ensure her safety for the performance. Fang Fang simultaneously arrived at the troupe looking for Wen Xiaoyao. She signed in at the entrance and, after hearing Zhao Gang and Qiao Guanghui's conversation, decided to follow Qiao Guanghui when he left to search for Wen Xiaoyao.
Qiao Guanghui drove to Song Guanwang's training center, where he thought he might find Wen Xiaoyao. As he prepared to leave after not finding her, Song Guanwang and Zhou Tong returned face-to-face. Qiao Guanghui asked Zhou Tong if he had seen Wen Xiaoyao, and Song Guanwang informed him that Wen Xiaoyao had just been there by bike. Fang Fang followed Qiao Guanghui's car and stopped at the training center entrance, observing from a distance without getting out.
Zhou Tong noticed her unfamiliar car parked near his home's entrance and approached it out of curiosity. Fang Fang saw him clearly from inside her car and was very surprised, confirming the striking resemblance to Xu Tian. Wen Xiaoyao later rode her bike to the hospital, arriving at the entrance. She met Qiaomi there, who advised her that she didn't need to go upstairs to visit Yang Yun. Wen Xiaoyao insisted on seeing her.
Yin Ye then came out of Yang Yun's room, explaining that Yang Yun preferred not to have visitors at the moment but planned to attend the performance the next day. Outside the hospital, Wen Xiaoyao confronted Qiaomi, asking what she had done to Zhou Tong. Qiaomi seemed concerned Zhou Tong might have spoken to Wen Xiaoyao about her, asking if he had said anything. Wen Xiaoyao replied that she hadn't found him, prompting Qiaomi to abruptly end the conversation by declaring it was "enough" and ride away on her bike.
Episode 13 Recap
Shi Diandian brought Zhou Tong to the residential complex where Wen Xiaoyao lived, insistent that he meet her. Unsure who Wen Xiaoyao was, Zhou Tong waited downstairs on a bench. After waiting for some time without seeing anyone, Shi Diandian went into the complex to look for Wen Xiaoyao. She went upstairs and found no one home at the apartment number she expected.
Zhou Tong then took the opportunity to ask Shi Diandian why he needed to meet a stranger and where she had gone earlier. Shi Diandian explained that on an overpass that day, she had unexpectedly seen someone who looked exactly like Xu Tian.
She had followed him, taken photos, and then followed the person he was with, learning her name was Wen Xiaoyao and that she was a dancer playing the lead role of Bai Suzhen in 'Legend of the White Snake'. Shi Diandian admitted it seemed incredible, but it was true. Around this time, Wen Xiaoyao and Zhou Tong had a heated conversation that ended with Zhou Tong declaring their relationship was over.
He expressed that their connection felt like a roller coaster and was too intense for him. He felt foolish because Wen Xiaoyao had told him from the start that she was just using him for practice, something he hadn't believed until receiving information from Qiaomi. He stated his schedule was finished, allowing Wen Xiaoyao to focus on her performance the next day, and that he would be flying to Malaysia.
He ended the conversation by wishing her well, suggesting no goodbye was cleaner. Shortly after, Wen Xiaoyao received urgent news via a phone call from Qiaomi, telling her to return to the troupe immediately because dancer Yang Yun had suffered an injury. At the dance troupe, Wen Xiaoyao was informed that she would be stepping in to play the lead role of Bai Suzhen.
During a rehearsal for the trio and duet performances, Wen Xiaoyao initially stated she couldn't dance, struggling under the pressure and sudden change. Another dancer expressed fear of dropping her again, indicating a previous incident. The director pressed Wen Xiaoyao to confirm she could handle the lead role, and she ultimately affirmed that she could. Troupe management discussed the unexpected change, acknowledging Yang Yun's injury was not serious but would prevent her from performing in this round.
They made plans to update the posters and prepare for arriving reporters, announcing the change on the company website. After the tense rehearsal and meeting, Qiaomi spoke with Wen Xiaoyao, congratulating her on getting the lead role and noting that she would become a principal dancer after just three performances, calling it great news. However, Qiaomi observed that Wen Xiaoyao didn't seem happy and asked if Zhou Tong was ignoring her.
Wen Xiaoyao confirmed he was but insisted she would not break up with him and stated her love for him. She prioritized finding Zhou Tong before doing scheduled interviews or visiting the injured dancer, telling Qiaomi that nothing else mattered at that moment but Zhou Tong, and asking for Qiaomi's help. While still waiting at the complex, Zhou Tong spoke to Shi Diandian about his thoughts.
He explained that he had lived alone for over a decade, and Shi Diandian's sudden appearance and thorough care had brought him unprecedented warmth. He understood she was afraid of losing him but emphasized that he cherished their connection even more. He clarified that his only interest was in meeting the person who looked like Xu Tian, and everyone else was irrelevant to him. Hearing this, Shi Diandian felt relieved.
She still wanted to wait a little longer, and Zhou Tong agreed, allowing her to rest her head on his lap while they waited. After some time, seeing that the light in Wen Xiaoyao's apartment had been turned off, Shi Diandian concluded they had missed her, and they returned to the hotel together. Later, Shi Diandian was with Xu Tian. They engaged in philosophical conversations about life's unpredictability and impermanence, and how wanting something never possessed makes every day uncertain.
Referencing the story of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian, Shi Diandian commented on the pace of their relationship. She expressed how seeing him made her happy and that no two people were the same, finding deep meaning in impermanence. They went towards the hotel, with Shi Diandian expressing concern if she couldn't find him and insisting he stay close to her, not wandering off in Beijing where he knew no one. Shi Diandian attended events at the theater.
While at the theater, she met Wen Xiaoyao during interviews. Shi Diandian asked Wen Xiaoyao personal questions, including her address (Park Avenue, Building 2, Apartment 201), her role as Bai Suzhen, and her background from Hangzhou, mentioning her mother had played Bai Suzhen in Yue Opera. Shi Diandian then revealed her identity and introduced Wen Xiaoyao to various reporters. Qiao Guanghui called Wen Xiaoyao, who updated him on Yang Yun's injury and her taking over the lead role.
Qiao Guanghui asked about Qiaomi and invited Wen Xiaoyao over for dinner with Qiaomi. While Shi Diandian was at the theater, Xu Tian waited for her in the hotel lobby. Shi Diandian called him and directed him to go upstairs to meet her mother, Fang Fang, who would help him check in. Xu Tian went up, met Fang Fang, and she assisted him with the check-in process before inviting him to sit down.
Preparing for his flight to Malaysia the next day, Zhou Tong packed his luggage. He spoke with his mother, Song Guanwang, after preparing breakfast for her. He advised her to find companionship, suggesting Qiao Guanghui as a good option, and shared that her happiness was important to him, noting his own maturity. Song Guanwang acknowledged his newfound maturity but expressed that she wanted him to find his own happiness.
During their conversation, he also looked over her medical report, noting her low blood pressure and slightly high cholesterol, and mentioned he would monitor her diet. Zhou Tong later found his phone and saw a message from Wen Xiaoyao inviting him to watch her performance, to which he sent a polite reply. On the morning of the show, Qiao Guanghui and Zhao Gang picked up Wen Xiaoyao to take her to the theater.
Wen Xiaoyao noticed Qiaomi wasn't with them and repeatedly asked where she was. Qiao Guanghui informed her that Qiaomi had gone to find Zhou Tong. Qiaomi went to Zhou Tong's place, planning to apologize. She called him downstairs. When he appeared, she found it difficult to humble herself and wanted him to make the first move. Zhou Tong, unaware of the specific reason for her visit, exchanged a few terse words with her, and they parted unhappily.
A moment later, Zhou Tong thought about trying to talk to Qiaomi again, but she had already left for her rehearsal. At the rehearsal, Qiaomi arrived late and was reprimanded by Zhao Gang before joining the practice. Meanwhile, Fang Fang made plans to have dinner with Xu Tian and Shi Diandian.
Shi Diandian decided that she and Xu Tian should attend the performance and aimed to meet Zhou Tong there, stating she wanted to watch 'Legend of the White Snake' and ensure they had no regrets about their trip to Beijing. Fang Fang respected her decision, and Xu Tian agreed to the plan.
Episode 14 Recap
Zhou Tong finished packing his luggage and went downstairs to say goodbye to his mother, Song Guanwang. Seeing his reluctance, she suggested he call Wen Xiaoyao again. Zhou Tong mentioned he had already sent a message, but Wen Xiaoyao hadn't seen her phone and was unaware. Feeling further contact was unnecessary, he accepted his mother's final instructions and left with his backpack. Having promised Wen Xiaoyao he would watch the performance, Zhou Tong made a detour to the theater.
He stopped at the entrance to message her, hoping to meet. Meanwhile, inside, Wen Xiaoyao and Yin Ye were doing stretches, and Zhao Gang instructed her not to be distracted by her phone. Zhou Tong waited for a while but received no reply and didn't see her, so he decided he had to proceed to the airport. Wen Xiaoyao finally got a moment to rest in the makeup room as arranged by Zhao Gang.
She quickly checked her phone and saw Zhou Tong's message saying he was waiting at the entrance. Excited, she rushed towards the door. Song Guanwang, understanding her son's lingering feelings, felt uneasy about him leaving the country unsettled. Midway to the airport, she called Zhou Tong, suggesting he return and start over if he still felt Wen Xiaoyao was worth it. Her words swayed Zhou Tong, and he prepared to turn back.
Song Guanwang was downstairs when she saw Zhou Tong arriving back home, accompanied by a stranger. Song Guanwang didn't know the person was Xu Tian and initially thought Zhou Tong was joking, believing he hadn't gone to the airport after all. Xu Tian politely introduced himself, but Song Guanwang informed him Zhou Tong was not home, explaining he had gone to the airport.
Upon seeing how similar Xu Tian's face was to her son's, Song Guanwang invited Xu Tian inside to sit for a while, while Shi Diandian waited in the car. Meanwhile, near the boarding gate, Zhou Tong was preparing to send a final message to Wen Xiaoyao. Wen Xiaoyao, who was about to start an interview, managed to connect with him via video call.
During the interview, she addressed a previous video recorded by Qiaomi, explaining it was a joke, and openly stated that even though they had only known each other for six days, she was certain she had fallen in love with Zhou Tong. She added that she wouldn't be able to perform the character of Bai Suzhen in this state if not for meeting Zhou Tong.
Hearing her words, especially after initially feeling foolish about the video, Zhou Tong's mood shifted dramatically, and he immediately turned around, determined to head to the theater to see the performance. Shortly after Zhou Tong's change of heart, the ballet company faced an unexpected crisis: the principal dancer playing Bai Suzhen, Yang Yun, suffered a back injury. Fortunately, Wen Xiaoyao's performance in rehearsals had been outstanding, and she was chosen to take over the lead role.
Back at the house, Song Guanwang asked Xu Tian about his life experiences. She learned his mother had passed away when he was very young, and he had lived alone since, which must have been difficult. Xu Tian didn't complain, feeling he had gained a lot, especially since meeting his girlfriend, Shi Diandian. After chatting for a while, as they were preparing to leave, Xu Tian asked if he could see upstairs.
Song Guanwang replied that Zhou Tong's room was messy and there wasn't anything to see, so Xu Tian didn't press further. After Xu Tian and Shi Diandian left, Song Guanwang called Zhou Tong, asking if he had boarded the plane. To her complete bewilderment, Zhou Tong suddenly declared that he had decided Wen Xiaoyao was the one for him, that he wouldn't go anywhere else in the future, and would stay by his mother's side to fulfill his filial duties.
At the theater, Wen Xiaoyao was getting ready for her second interview, keeping her phone line open with Zhou Tong. Zhao Gang came into the makeup room, insisting that Wen Xiaoyao stop external contact and focus on getting into character for the performance. Qiao Guanghui and Qiaomi tried to enter the makeup area but were also treated as outsiders and told to leave by Zhao Gang.
Wen Xiaoyao asked Qiao Guanghui if he would leave a ticket for Zhou Tong at the entrance. Qiaomi, hearing that Zhou Tong had cancelled his trip abroad, felt some relief from her guilt. Xu Tian and Shi Diandian were planning to eat before returning to Hangzhou. Shi Diandian asked if he would come back to Beijing in the future, and Xu Tian replied that he would live peacefully in Hangzhou from now on.
They decided to have Peking Duck and parked their car near a restaurant. Zhou Tong was on the Fourth Ring Road but got stuck in severe evening traffic. With the cars barely moving and the performance time approaching, he decided to take the subway instead. Wen Xiaoyao messaged Qiao Guanghui via WeChat to remind him about leaving a ticket at the door. Xu Tian listened as Shi Diandian explained Beijing's complicated traffic, finding it overwhelming.
He said he would follow all of Shi Diandian's arrangements and later even covered his eyes, letting her lead him. Zhou Tong exited the subway station and was crossing an intersection when he unexpectedly came face to face with Shi Diandian and Xu Tian. Shi Diandian saw Zhou Tong directly but dared not remove Xu Tian's blindfold. As the two pairs walked past each other face to face, Zhou Tong was completely distracted.
Seeing the green light turn on but failing to move off the pedestrian walkway, he was struck by an approaching truck. Shi Diandian was terrified and pulled Xu Tian, quickening their pace. After entering a nearby restaurant, Shi Diandian became restless. Using the excuse of going to the restroom, she left the restaurant and accompanied Zhou Tong onto the ambulance.
On the way to the hospital, Song Guanwang called, and Shi Diandian informed her that Zhou Tong had been in a car accident. Xu Tian waited in the restaurant for a long time for Shi Diandian to return and called her phone, only to realize she hadn't taken it with her.
Episode 15 Recap
As the performance was set to begin, Qiao Guanghui found that Zhou Tong had not yet arrived. He called Song Guanwang and learned that Zhou Tong had been in a car accident, prompting him to rush to the hospital. Zhou Tong briefly regained consciousness in the emergency room, disoriented and unsure of what had happened, especially seeing a stranger present. Song Guanwang and Qiao Guanghui soon arrived, and Shi Diandian, who was also there, quickly left.
Meanwhile, Shi Diandian was traveling with Xu Tian and appeared anxious. She had not slept well and couldn't sleep on the plane. She looked at Xu Tian's medical report, noting his low blood pressure and slightly high cholesterol, and told him she would monitor his diet, suggesting he eat oatmeal cookies daily. They had planned to go to Dajue Temple, where Shi Diandian intended to pray for Xu Tian's long life and safety.
A moment of panic occurred near the hotel overpass when Shi Diandian wandered off, and Xu Tian frantically searched for her, worried because he didn't know anyone in Beijing. When he found her, he told her not to wander off and insisted she stay close, no more than two meters away, "forever." Shi Diandian later brought Xu Tian to a hotel where Mr. Fang was staying, introducing Mr. Fang as her mother to the person handling check-in.
She provided Xu Tian's ID and reservation form for processing. At the ballet troupe, an accident occurred during rehearsal where Yang Yun was injured, implied to be caused by Yin Ye. Leaders gathered in the training hall, discussing the situation. It was decided that Yang Yun's injury, while not serious, would prevent her from performing in this run, and the understudy would take over. With no time for the full group dance, they focused on trio and duet performances.
Wen Xiaoyao was informed she would be playing Bai Suzhen, initially hesitant but ultimately accepting the role. Amidst these events, Zhou Tong called Wen Xiaoyao, telling her he was tired of their games and their schedule was finished so she could focus on her performance. He expressed the relationship was over, stating she was like a "roller coaster, too intense" and calling her "insane" and "crazy."
He revealed Qiaomi had told him everything, including about a video, and he felt foolish for taking their connection seriously when she had told him multiple times she was just using him for practice, which he had refused to believe until now. He mentioned he would still head straight to Malaysia.
Wen Xiaoyao reacted by calling Qiaomi, asking what she had told Zhou Tong, calling him an "idiot," and telling Qiaomi to return to the troupe quickly because Yin Ye had injured Yang Yun. The performance went very smoothly, and Wen Xiaoyao was a great success, receiving acclaim even from Yang Yun watching from the audience. During the curtain call, Wen Xiaoyao did not see Zhou Tong and repeatedly asked Qiaomi about him.
After the performance, Qiaomi met Wen Xiaoyao and commented that it was good she hadn't been at Dajue Temple. Wen Xiaoyao stated that "It's over," possibly referring to the Dajue Temple plan or the overall situation. Qiaomi asked about Zhou Tong, noting Wen Xiaoyao didn't seem happy despite getting the lead role. Wen Xiaoyao confirmed Zhou Tong was ignoring her but added they had achieved their goal anyway. Qiaomi praised Wen Xiaoyao's dancing, saying she was very moved.
Wen Xiaoyao insisted she wouldn't break up with Zhou Tong, wanting to talk after the three premiere performances, and declared she loved him. Backstage, she was told to wait for an interview but stated she needed to find Zhou Tong first, then visit Yang Yun in the hospital, prioritizing Zhou Tong above all else at that moment.
Qiaomi commented, perhaps pointedly, that nothing else mattered now, only Zhou Tong was important, and Wen Xiaoyao affirmed her love for Zhou Tong while also saying Qiaomi was the most important. Wen Xiaoyao rushed to the hospital after learning Zhou Tong was in the emergency room from Qiao Guanghui. Just before she reached the entrance, Zhou Tong called her. When she got there, she saw him looking weak.
Zhou Tong had insisted on Song Guanwang helping him stand up to meet her at the hospital entrance. As Wen Xiaoyao approached to support him, Zhou Tong still joked, remarking that ever since their first meeting, he'd been "knocked out," immediately after which he collapsed. Despite efforts, Zhou Tong was pronounced dead. Wen Xiaoyao was devastated, remaining seated at the hospital entrance until 2 AM, unable to accept it.
Zhao Gang tried to persuade her to leave and rest for the next day's performance, saying Zhou Tong would have wanted her to live well. Song Guanwang handled the necessary procedures and collected Zhou Tong's belongings. As Song Guanwang left the hospital, Wen Xiaoyao, still sitting at the entrance, quickly approached her and apologized.
Song Guanwang tearfully confronted Wen Xiaoyao, questioning if she had truly loved Zhou Tong and why she repeatedly suggested breaking up, ultimately telling her never to appear before her again. Qiaomi, feeling responsible as the instigator, followed Song Guanwang, continuously apologizing, but Song Guanwang completely ignored her. Qiao Guanghui followed the two in his car. Seeing Song Guanwang's distress and her dismissal of Qiaomi, Qiao Guanghui told Qiaomi to return to the hospital to look after Wen Xiaoyao.
Wen Xiaoyao had deleted the video that Qiaomi used to trick Zhou Tong and told Zhao Gang she didn't want to perform anymore. Qiao Guanghui caught up to Song Guanwang, offering to help carry her bag, but she refused, walking aimlessly on the street. Qiao Guanghui deliberately provoked her with sharp words, hoping to get her to accept a ride home safely. Once home, Song Guanwang attempted to unlock Zhou Tong's phone without success.
Remembering a hint from his computer password settings, she eventually gave up and broke down in tears, clutching her son's belongings. Qiaomi remained remorseful. She found Wen Xiaoyao sitting on a chair downstairs, reluctant to go inside or sleep. Qiaomi urged her to go home and rest for the upcoming performance the next day.
Wen Xiaoyao replied that she could perform two shows even without sleep, but then stated she had fulfilled her mother's wish by playing Bai Suzhen and decided she would not dance anymore because Zhou Tong was gone and she would not dance again in the future.
Episode 16 Recap
Xu Tian and Shi Diandian were in Hangzhou preparing for their engagement. Shi Diandian's mother, Fang Fang, arrived to help with arrangements, including moving new furniture into Xu Tian's home. Shi Diandian had also added some greenery to the house. Xu Tian's father, Lao Shi, got out his best suit for the occasion. At one point, Xu Tian experienced a recurrence of his delusion and went upstairs to take medication.
Looking at old photographs of his mother and her friend Jia Sulan, Xu Tian reflected on how both women had passed away in the same year, eighteen years ago, finding it a reminder of life's unpredictability and signaling a new phase in his own life. Fang Fang prepared a dowry for Shi Diandian and offered to pay for the engagement banquet, but Xu Tian insisted on covering the cost himself.
Later, they went to a store to try on engagement rings. Shi Diandian found the diamond ring expensive and expressed concern about pressure on Xu Tian, who maintained that for a once-in-a-lifetime event, price shouldn't be the primary consideration. Meanwhile, at the ballet company in Beijing, Yang Yun, having recovered, proposed changing the repertoire to "Jin Se" with his own choreography. The artistic bureau encouraged artistic innovation and supported Yang Yun, seeking input from director Zhao Gang.
Zhao Gang opted for a democratic vote, which passed with support from Yin Ye and Qiao Mi. Zhao Gang inquired about Wen Xiaoyao's recent absence, and Qiao Mi gave a limited explanation. Zhao Gang criticized Wen Xiaoyao for not valuing her artistic achievements and stated he was unwilling to mentor the new production without her full commitment.
Wen Xiaoyao, who was in Hangzhou teaching dance and planning to visit Leifeng Pagoda before returning to Beijing, had a tense conversation with Zhou Tong. Zhou Tong stated their relationship was over, citing two reasons: her not truly accepting the director's vision for Bai Suzhen, and his belief that she didn't love him, perhaps only using him for practice as she had mentioned when they first met. He also mentioned he was flying to Malaysia the following day.
Wen Xiaoyao later told someone, likely Qiao Mi, that she would not break up with Zhou Tong and that she loved him. Before meeting Shi Diandian's parents at a hotel in Beijing, Xu Tian and Shi Diandian took the subway, planning to visit Dajue Temple. While coordinating their arrival near the hotel, they got slightly lost at an overpass, leading to a brief disagreement. During this time, they also discussed life's unpredictability and the concept of impermanence.
Shi Diandian noted Xu Tian was a "blockhead" but that she liked that. Xu Tian also looked at his medical report, noting some health issues. Upon arriving at the hotel, Xu Tian was initially confused, thinking "Mr. Fang" referred to Shi Diandian's father before learning it was her mother. Fang Fang spoke with Xu Tian, asking about his feelings for Shi Diandian. Xu Tian affirmed his complete love for her and commitment to having no reservations towards her.
Fang Fang then expressed her hope that Shi Diandian would also be fully transparent with Xu Tian in the future. This suggestion made Shi Diandian uneasy, but she decided it was best to address any lingering issues if raised. Shi Diandian confessed that about a month prior, as she was preparing to return to Hangzhou from Beijing, she had encountered Zhou Tong after his car accident. At the time, Xu Tian's eyes were covered.
Seeing Zhou Tong, who bore a striking resemblance to Xu Tian, Shi Diandian instinctively pretended not to know him, left Xu Tian behind, and took Zhou Tong to the hospital. She admitted she wasn't aware of Zhou Tong's condition afterward. Hearing about Zhou Tong seemed to distract Xu Tian, causing Shi Diandian to worry he might want to go to Beijing.
Xu Tian reassured her that Zhou Tong didn't have a significant connection to him; he simply found the coincidence of fate remarkable, encountering someone who looked like himself and learning that his mother's friend Jia Sulan's daughter was now playing Bai Suzhen. Events at the ballet troupe escalated dramatically when Yin Ye injured Yang Yun during rehearsal, rendering Yang Yun unable to perform in the premiere of "Bai Suzhen" the following day.
Zhao Gang urgently called Wen Xiaoyao back to the troupe. Despite initially stating she couldn't dance at that moment, and another dancer expressing fear of partnering with her, Wen Xiaoyao ultimately accepted the principal role of Bai Suzhen, stating she could handle it. There was a rush to update posters and prepare for press interviews.
During an interview on stage, Wen Xiaoyao confirmed she was playing Bai Suzhen, gave her Beijing address, and revealed she was from Hangzhou and that her mother, Jia Sulan, had also played Bai Suzhen in Yue Opera. The person conducting this "interview" was Shi Diandian, who, upon hearing Jia Sulan's name, introduced herself. Later, Qiao Guanghui picked up Qiao Mi. They discussed the recent events at the troupe, including Yang Yun's injury and Wen Xiaoyao getting the lead role.
They also discussed how a woman named Shi Diandian had been at the troupe looking for Wen Xiaoyao the day of Zhou Tong's accident and had also been seen in the hospital with Zhou Tong, leaving when Song Guanwang arrived, leading to their surprise at finding her name on the guestbook. After Zhou Tong's accident, his mother, Song Guanwang, became noticeably quiet and withdrawn, a stark contrast to her previously talkative nature.
Qiao Guanghui, concerned, made it a point to spend time with her each day, though she spoke little. One evening, as they were leaving the square, Song Guanwang changed her usual route, and Qiao Guanghui followed. Misinterpreting her actions, he impulsively threw his car keys into the grass by the river, thinking she disliked him driving. Song Guanwang immediately began meticulously searching for the keys in the grass.
Qiao Guanghui watched her, finding a sense of ease in her focused effort, a rare moment of quiet from her, reflecting on how he usually struggled to keep up with her witty banter. Noticing the weather was getting colder, Qiao Guanghui decided to take Song Guanwang and Zhao Gang out for hot pot, which had been Zhou Tong's favorite.
At the restaurant, Zhao Gang vented his frustrations about the success of "Bai Suzhen", a production he had poured his efforts into, only to have Yang Yun seemingly benefit and Wen Xiaoyao quit unexpectedly. Song Guanwang was visibly moved, reflecting that it had been years since they last shared a hot pot meal with Zhou Tong.
Qiao Guanghui suggested Zhao Gang consider training at Song Guanwang's center, advising him to adapt to a semi-retired life now that Yang Yun was taking over the lead roles. When Zhao Gang expressed reluctance, Qiao Guanghui offered to use his connections at the troupe or even go to Hangzhou to persuade Wen Xiaoyao to return, contingent on Zhao Gang assisting Song Guanwang in recovering her spirits.
Later, after finishing her classes, Wen Xiaoyao received a text message from Qiao Mi informing her that a woman named Shi Diandian had been the one who took Zhou Tong to the hospital after his accident. Wen Xiaoyao asked Qiao Mi to find Shi Diandian's contact information as soon as possible.
Episode 17 Recap
During a rehearsal for the upcoming premiere, dancer Yang Yun sustained an injury, causing immediate concern among the troupe leaders. An ambulance was called, and the focus shifted to the performance scheduled for the following day. It was determined that Yang Yun would be unable to perform in this round, and the understudy would need to step in. During a run-through of the 'Broken Bridge' duet, Wen Xiaoyao, the designated understudy, initially stated she could not dance.
The director pressed her, questioning if she was truly an actress at this critical moment, reminding her of her ambition and intense preparation. Separately, the male dancer, Yin Ye, also expressed that he could not dance, stating he was afraid of dropping Wen Xiaoyao again. Despite her emotional distress and apologies, Wen Xiaoyao ultimately affirmed she could perform. Following the performance crisis, Wen Xiaoyao was confirmed as the lead dancer for the role of Bai Suzhen.
The troupe decided to change the posters and prepare for receiving reporters. Concurrently, Wen Xiaoyao had a difficult conversation with Zhou Tong. He told her their relationship was over, stating it was one-sided and they were never truly together. He mentioned he was flying to Malaysia the next day and felt relieved. Zhou Tong revealed that Qiao Mi had told him "everything," specifically mentioning a video.
Feeling like a fool, he recounted how Wen Xiaoyao had told him she was just using him for practice, a statement he had taken seriously despite her repeating it multiple times. He maintained that it was fine and no time was wasted. Wen Xiaoyao then contacted Qiao Mi, who was apparently still with Zhou Tong.
Qiao Mi urged Wen Xiaoyao to return to the troupe immediately, mentioning Yang Yun's injury (caused by Yin Ye) and stating that "Auntie Gang" wanted her back urgently. Zhou Tong then provided Wen Xiaoyao with instructions to meet him at the hotel lobby or check in first, giving details about her reservation and suitcase. Elsewhere, and at other times surrounding these events: Zhao Gang decided to teach classes at the Guanwang Training Center.
He later discussed Zhou Tong's belongings with Song Guanwang and spoke about moving forward in life. Zhao Gang informed Song Guanwang that he would be going to Hangzhou the next day to bring Wen Xiaoyao back to the troupe and would bring her to see him. Yang Yun choreographed new movements for a dance piece called 'Jin Se' focusing on the sisterhood between Bai Suzhen and Xiao Qing, working with Qiao Mi and encouraging her to improvise.
Wen Xiaoyao, while in Hangzhou, visited Leifeng Pagoda alone to remember her mother. While resting, she saw a message from Qiao Mi containing the 'Jin Se' duet part and looked through photos Qiao Mi had taken before calling Shi Diandian. Meanwhile, in Hangzhou, Xu Tian had been drinking heavily, feeling unsettled, and was searching for old photos. Unable to find them, he called Shi Diandian, who had them in her bag. Shi Diandian rushed over by car.
On the way, she reflected on seeing a photo of Xu Tian's mother and Jia Sulan (Wen Xiaoyao's mother), which made her think of Wen Xiaoyao and Zhou Tong; she had witnessed a disturbing incident involving Zhou Tong. She found Xu Tian vomiting by the road and stopped the car. A police officer noticed them and suspected Xu Tian of drunk driving, but surveillance confirmed Shi Diandian had been driving and had stopped recently.
While waiting in the police car, Xu Tian explained he wasn't normally a drinker but felt unsettled. Shi Diandian initially thought he was upset about the photo involving Wen Xiaoyao's mother and suggested they go to Beijing to see Wen Xiaoyao. Xu Tian clarified he was concerned about Zhou Tong, realizing Shi Diandian was jealous, and hugged her, acknowledging she cared for him.
After being cleared by the police, Xu Tian told Shi Diandian to return to her hotel while he took a taxi home. Later, Xu Tian took Shi Diandian to the airport. During the ride, Shi Diandian suggested they register their marriage in Hangzhou in three days, which Xu Tian agreed to.
To understand his thoughts better, she played a game involving making sentences with "lucky" and "unlucky," through which Xu Tian mentioned Beijing twice, suggesting he still wanted to go there again. Shi Diandian got on her plane, and Wen Xiaoyao called her before she could turn off her phone, causing Shi Diandian to become nervous upon hearing it was Wen Xiaoyao. After returning to the troupe and securing the lead role, Wen Xiaoyao spoke with Qiao Mi.
Qiao Mi noted Wen Xiaoyao didn't seem happy despite the good news, and Wen Xiaoyao admitted it was because Zhou Tong was ignoring her. Qiao Mi praised her dancing, acknowledging they had achieved their goal. Wen Xiaoyao confessed her love for Zhou Tong and her desire not to break up, asking Qiao Mi for help. Later, Wen Xiaoyao participated in an interview about the upcoming premiere.
When asked about her background, she shared that she was from Hangzhou, although she hadn't visited recently, and that her mother had played Bai Suzhen in Yue Opera, revealing her mother's name was Jia Sulan. One of the interviewers, Shi Diandian, recognized the name, revealed her own identity, and introduced Wen Xiaoyao to the other reporters, highlighting her debut as Bai Suzhen.
Wen Xiaoyao also spoke on the phone with Qiao Guanghui, whom she called Uncle Hui, confirming that she got the role and that Yang Yun was injured, though not severely. At some point, Shi Diandian and Xu Tian were in Beijing. Near a subway station and hotel, they briefly became separated.
Shi Diandian expressed distress at losing sight of Xu Tian in the unfamiliar city and told him he needed to stop wandering off, insisting he stay close, no more than two or three meters away, forever. They also discussed visiting Dajue Temple and what they would pray for there, with Shi Diandian stating she would pray for Xu Tian's long life and safety.
Later, Shi Diandian waited for Xu Tian in the lobby of the InterContinental Hotel for over two hours. When he arrived, she instructed him to come upstairs, mentioning that her mother, Fang Fang, was already there. Xu Tian had not checked in, but Shi Diandian took his ID and reservation form, stating she would handle the check-in later. They proceeded upstairs, where Fang Fang greeted Xu Tian and offered him tea.
Episode 18 Recap
Shi Diandian received a phone call from Wen Xiaoyao, who inquired why Shi Diandian had taken Zhou Tong to the hospital the day he passed away. Wen Xiaoyao emphasized she only wanted to understand what had happened. Through this conversation, Shi Diandian learned that Zhou Tong had not survived. Shocked, she quickly asked Wen Xiaoyao where she was. Wen Xiaoyao replied that she had left the ballet troupe, returned to Hangzhou, and was currently near the Leifeng Pagoda.
Knowing that Xu Tian was also planning to go to the Leifeng Pagoda, Shi Diandian was stunned into silence. Her assistant, Xiao Yue, quickly ended the call. Meanwhile, the ballet troupe was preparing for their new show. Qiao Mi and Yang Yun were rehearsing, but Qiao Mi was distracted, missing Wen Xiaoyao. In the dressing room, Qiao Mi called Wen Xiaoyao and expressed her intention to visit her in Hangzhou soon.
During their video call, Wen Xiaoyao saw Xu Tian walk by and felt compelled to follow him. Wen Xiaoyao followed Xu Tian for a while. Xu Tian seemed aware he was being followed but didn't say anything. He went into a building to submit a leave request for Shi Diandian. Wen Xiaoyao waited outside, sitting on a bench. Qiao Mi called again to say she had booked a flight for the next day.
Before Wen Xiaoyao could ask for details, she urgently told Qiao Mi that she had just seen Zhou Tong, but he hadn't responded to her. Inside the building, Xu Tian handed over the leave request. The person receiving it noted that Xu Tian didn't look happy, despite supposedly being about to get married. When Xu Tian exited the building, he saw Wen Xiaoyao waiting. Neither spoke at first. Xu Tian started walking home, and Wen Xiaoyao continued to follow.
After walking a significant distance, Wen Xiaoyao stopped. Xu Tian, finding her sudden stop unusual, returned to her and asked why she was following him. Wen Xiaoyao didn't explain the reason for following but asked Xu Tian some personal questions. She mentioned she was new in Hangzhou. As Xu Tian was about to leave, he asked her name, and she told him she was Wen Xiaoyao. In Guangzhou, Shi Diandian appeared preoccupied upon arrival.
Fang Fang, having heard from Xiao Yue about the phone call Shi Diandian received before boarding, asked what was wrong. Shi Diandian explained that she had only just learned about Zhou Tong's death and was terrified to tell Xu Tian, fearing he would be devastated. She had a premonition that Xu Tian was with Wen Xiaoyao at that very moment. Fang Fang suggested calling Xu Tian directly. Wen Xiaoyao bought some furniture.
While waiting for the delivery vehicle outside the furniture store, a heavy rain started. She engaged in a bit of negotiation with the driver to save some money. Suddenly, Xu Tian appeared holding an umbrella. He told Wen Xiaoyao that he knew some things about her.
He explained that he had recently been to Beijing with plans to see Zhou Tong and also attend the performance of 'Legend of the White Snake', where Wen Xiaoyao was now performing in the lead role, but he had missed both and ended up returning directly to Hangzhou. He then asked how Zhou Tong was doing. Wen Xiaoyao did not reveal Zhou Tong's death, only saying he was fine but they had broken up.
The delivery driver finally agreed to lower the price but refused to carry the furniture upstairs. Wen Xiaoyao then asked Xu Tian to help her move it. Xu Tian helped Wen Xiaoyao carry the furniture up to the second floor. As Wen Xiaoyao began assembling it, Xu Tian mentioned that his mother was a big fan of the Yue Opera artist Jia Sulan and even had a photo with her.
Wen Xiaoyao consistently avoided looking directly at Xu Tian throughout this time. After all the furniture was moved upstairs, Xu Tian left Wen Xiaoyao's rental apartment. Wen Xiaoyao received a call from Qiao Mi. She was distraught, feeling she had now missed Zhou Tong three times, including the day he died. Qiao Mi suggested that Wen Xiaoyao was experiencing hallucinations. Wen Xiaoyao then heard a knock at the door and ended the call.
Xu Tian, realizing he had left his umbrella at Wen Xiaoyao's place, hadn't left because the rain continued. He heard the sound of furniture collapsing upstairs and figured Wen Xiaoyao was having trouble assembling it. Since it was still raining, he decided he could go back and help. Shi Diandian was extremely worried in Guangzhou and urged Fang Fang to try and book them an earlier flight back to Hangzhou.
Fang Fang reassured her, suggesting she call if she was so concerned. After contemplating, Shi Diandian decided to call Xu Tian. The person who answered identified himself as Xu Tian. He was, in fact, Zhou Tong, helping Wen Xiaoyao assemble her bed.
Answering the call from Shi Diandian, Zhou Tong, pretending to be Xu Tian, mentioned that he had just coincidentally met Wen Xiaoyao at the Leifeng Pagoda – confirming it was the same Wen Xiaoyao Shi Diandian had met in Beijing – and was now helping her move and settle in.
Shi Diandian became even more anxious but maintained a facade of calmness, telling the person she believed to be Xu Tian to help Wen Xiaoyao properly and even offering things from her own dorm if Wen Xiaoyao needed them. After finishing the assembly, the person posing as Xu Tian told Wen Xiaoyao that he would visit again when Shi Diandian returned to Hangzhou to help her arrange things. Wen Xiaoyao asked how she could contact him in the future, and he replied that she could contact him through Shi Diandian.
Episode 19 Recap
After Xu Tian left, Shi Diandian called Wen Xiaoyao to explain that she helped send Zhou Tong to the hospital the day he had the accident. Because Zhou Tong and Xu Tian looked so alike, she didn't want anything to happen to Zhou Tong. Wen Xiaoyao understood Shi Diandian's intentions, feeling the same way herself. After hanging up, Wen Xiaoyao noticed Zhou Tong's ring at home and put it in her bag, planning to return it to him later.
Qiao Mi and Zhao Gang's flight was delayed. Zhao Gang expressed his frustration. Qiao Mi comforted him, advising him not to have high hopes about Wen Xiaoyao returning to Beijing. She explained that her own purpose for the trip was different; she felt responsible for Zhou Tong's death and wanted Wen Xiaoyao to blame her to alleviate her guilt.
Additionally, with Zhou Tong gone, Wen Xiaoyao would no longer dance Bai Suzhen, and Qiao Mi preferred performing Yang Yun's choreography of "Jinse." Wen Xiaoyao was teaching her class as usual. After boarding her flight, Qiao Mi called Wen Xiaoyao, who stated she wanted to spend more time with Xu Tian. Qiao Mi found this surprising and resolved to see what was so special about Xu Tian upon arriving in Hangzhou.
While waiting to process her Z visa, Shi Diandian was video chatting with Xu Tian when Wen Xiaoyao called. Wen Xiaoyao inquired about Xu Tian's address, explaining she needed to return a ring he had left behind while assembling furniture the previous night. Shi Diandian provided the address for the ring counter, suggesting she return it there. Shi Diandian then called Xu Tian, who hadn't realized he had lost his wedding ring.
He was somewhat embarrassed by the oversight, but Shi Diandian was understanding, saying it was fine as long as she was in his heart. After ending the call, she decided to return to Hangzhou immediately, abandoning her visa application process. Meanwhile, Qiao Guanghui accompanied Song Guanwang to a crosstalk performance. Song Guanwang had begun to recover from the loss of her son and reflected on moments that seemed premonitory.
She recalled that the morning of the accident, Zhou Tong had told her to find a companion and suggested Qiao Guanghui would be a good choice, as if entrusting his life to him. Qiao Guanghui was intrigued and proposed that Song Guanwang consider Zhou Tong's words, but Song Guanwang dismissed the idea, asserting their relationship was purely platonic, like buddies. Losing interest in the show, Qiao Guanghui waited in the car.
When Song Guanwang joined him later, he told her that Zhao Gang was going to Hangzhou to persuade Wen Xiaoyao to return to Beijing, and mentioned Qiao Mi had told him Wen Xiaoyao met someone in Hangzhou named Xu Tian who looked exactly like Zhou Tong. Song Guanwang revealed she had met Xu Tian herself on the day of Zhou Tong's car accident, as he had visited their home. Xu Tian went to the shopping mall to retrieve the ring.
Wen Xiaoyao waited outside, and upon seeing him, bought a balloon to catch his attention. They walked together, chatting about everyday things. Wen Xiaoyao looked at Xu Tian's profile, feeling as if Zhou Tong had returned. She shared some of Zhou Tong's past words with Xu Tian, cherishing the moment. Having returned the ring, Wen Xiaoyao asked Xu Tian to take her to the place where her mother used to perform.
They traveled by subway, and Wen Xiaoyao was reminded of the first time she rode the subway with Zhou Tong, when he was blindfolded and she couldn't help but embrace him. Xu Tian knew nothing of this experience. Wen Xiaoyao chose not to tell him but observed Xu Tian's familiar face reflected in the subway window. Arriving near the theater, Xu Tian explained that the old venue was now an abandoned cultural center, frequently locked.
Xu Tian squeezed through a gap in the door to check inside, then called Wen Xiaoyao to join him. Venturing through the dressing room, Wen Xiaoyao found the side room and stepped onto the stage, instinctively striking a Bai Suzhen pose. Xu Tian located a switch and turned on the lights, explaining that he had taken a photo with Ms. Jia Sulan in the side room as a child.
He speculated that Ms. Jia Sulan might have been pregnant with Wen Xiaoyao at the time she fainted on stage during the "Water Flooding Jinshan" scene. Xu Tian asked Wen Xiaoyao if she still performed "Legend of the White Snake" and if Zhou Tong had ever seen her perform. Wen Xiaoyao replied that he had not. Xu Tian then moved offstage. Wen Xiaoyao recalled Zhou Tong taking pictures of her at the ballet theater and began to sob softly.
She then returned to the dressing room, looked at Jia Sulan's old mirror, and spoke her thoughts aloud. Subsequently, during a rehearsal at the ballet company, Yang Yun sustained an injury. Consequently, the company leadership decided that Wen Xiaoyao would take over the lead role of Bai Suzhen. Initially hesitant, Wen Xiaoyao eventually accepted the challenge. This change necessitated immediate preparations, including altering promotional materials and arranging interviews for Wen Xiaoyao.
In interviews, Wen Xiaoyao discussed portraying Bai Suzhen and mentioned her background, including her mother, Jia Sulan, having been a Yue Opera performer of the same role. Around this time, Zhou Tong, seemingly informed (possibly by Qiao Mi mentioning a video or discussion), felt betrayed and foolish. He confronted Wen Xiaoyao, stating that he believed she had only used him for practice, as she had claimed when they first met.
He declared their relationship was "over," suggesting it was never truly established, and that he would go to Malaysia. Distraught by his reaction, Wen Xiaoyao called Qiao Mi to clarify what she had told Zhou Tong, reiterating her love for him and asking for Qiao Mi's assistance.
Episode 20 Recap
Before the performance, Wen Xiaoyao and Zhou Tong had a conversation. Zhou Tong stated their relationship was over, explaining that she didn't truly accept the director's vision for her role as Bai Suzhen and didn't love him, believing she loved herself the most. He felt these two reasons made everything awkward and mentioned he would be flying to Malaysia the next day. Events at the theater took a dramatic turn when Yang Yun, the dancer playing Bai Suzhen, was injured.
With the premiere the next day, the understudy would need to take over. Wen Xiaoyao, who aspired to the role, initially expressed she couldn't dance at that moment, but when challenged about handling the responsibility, she affirmed she could. The lead role of Bai Suzhen was hers. This unexpected development meant changing posters and preparing for reporters, with the ballet company announcing the role change. After the events at the theater, Wen Xiaoyao left, followed by Xu Tian.
She went into a pub and began drinking. Xu Tian found her and urged her to drink less. Wen Xiaoyao confessed that seeing Xu Tian, who resembled Zhou Tong, was difficult. Despite knowing he wasn't the same person, she couldn't control her desire to spend more time with him and wondered if he would look for her if she were to disappear. Xu Tian confirmed he would.
Soon after, Xiaomi located Wen Xiaoyao using her phone's GPS and arrived with Zhao Gang (also known as Uncle Hui and Mr. Qiao). Xiaomi tearfully implored her not to abandon her dance career, especially alone in Hangzhou without family, and urged her to return to Beijing. Wen Xiaoyao remained unresponsive. As they argued outside in the rain, their dispute was interrupted by the sudden crash of a car nearby that had lost control.
Meanwhile, back at the pub, Xu Tian learned about Zhou Tong's death and was stunned. He finished the drink Wen Xiaoyao had left behind before leaving the pub feeling dejected. Shi Diandian arrived by plane, feeling anxious about seeing Xu Tian. She took some medicine and in the taxi practiced explaining her feelings to him. She was met at a hotel lobby and directed upstairs to see her mother, Fang Fang (referred to as Mr. Fang in the subtitles).
While in another taxi later, Shi Diandian practiced what she would say to Wen Xiaoyao, intending to state that she and Xu Tian were just beginning their relationship and she hoped Wen Xiaoyao would leave Hangzhou soon. Feeling unwell and disoriented, Xu Tian went into Lao Shi's convenience store. He asked for two identical bottles of water, presenting them as a choice, which caused Lao Shi concern about his state of mind.
Xu Tian explained that he had seen a person who looked exactly like him (Zhou Tong), feeling that this person represented a connection for him in the world. Learning that this person had disappeared from the world had deeply upset him, leading him to drink heavily. Shi Diandian went to the convenience store to buy some items. Inside, by the shelves, she unexpectedly encountered Xu Tian.
He asked her why she had returned so suddenly, and she replied that she came simply to see him. As they walked back, Shi Diandian cautiously inquired if the old ring had been sold. Xu Tian told her that Wen Xiaoyao had returned it that very day and that he had later coincidentally met Wen Xiaoyao on the street, leading to them visiting the theater where Jia Sulan performed.
Hearing this seemed to make Shi Diandian more uneasy, and she forgot the things she had just bought until Lao Shi reminded them. They continued walking back towards the tailor shop. When they arrived, Shi Diandian seemed to forget the door code, and Xu Tian had to open it. As they entered, the plastic bag containing their purchases suddenly broke, scattering the food on the ground. Later, Wen Xiaoyao, Xiaomi, and Zhao Gang were together in a rental house.
Zhao Gang expressed frustration at their childish behavior and his wasted efforts over the years. He tried to reason with Wen Xiaoyao about her life and career choices, reminding her of her dedication to dance, the lessons she should have learned from loss (like her mother's death), and how quitting now would be a waste of decades of practice. When Wen Xiaoyao remained unresponsive, Zhao Gang became angry and prepared to leave.
Wen Xiaoyao followed him to a hotel and transferred her remaining funds to him. Zhao Gang then chased after her again, trying to persuade her not to give up dancing altogether, even if it wasn't the White Snake role. He suggested they could re-rehearse Yang Yun's 'Jin Se' instead, acknowledging Wen Xiaoyao was a rare talent he didn't want to see wasted. Shi Diandian prepared a meal for Xu Tian.
During dinner, the power suddenly went out, which reminded Xu Tian of the day Zhou Tong had arrived in Hangzhou, creating a sense of fated connection despite Zhou Tong's death. Shi Diandian revealed that she had only learned of Zhou Tong's death while she was about to board her plane and that she had rushed back specifically because she worried Wen Xiaoyao would take Xu Tian away.
She recalled how her mother, Fang Fang, had summarized the situation during Shi Diandian's engagement, suggesting that while Shi Diandian could provide Xu Tian with security, there was no real affection between them, and perhaps Wen Xiaoyao might be a more suitable partner for him. Feeling that she wouldn't be able to control the situation in the long run, Shi Diandian decided it might be better to allow Xu Tian and Wen Xiaoyao to be together sooner rather than later. With that, she placed a photograph of Xu Tian's mother with Jia Sulan on the table, turned the power back on, and quietly left.
Episode 21 Recap
Shi Diandian boarded a bus without looking back, ignoring Xu Tian's calls. Meanwhile, Wen Xiaoyao also wandered aimlessly through the streets for a long time. Song Guanwang, while tidying Zhou Tong's room, was moved to tears by seeing a video screen saver. Afterward, she called Wen Xiaoyao and explained that Xu Tian had visited their home the day Zhou Tong had his accident and that he was a very sensible young man, although ultimately not Zhou Tong.
She admitted that her previous refusal to engage with Wen Xiaoyao was out of stubbornness and hurt but now seemed unnecessary. Song Guanwang then informed Wen Xiaoyao that Zhou Tong's burial was scheduled for the fifteenth and urged her to return to Beijing to attend. Upon returning to the rental, Xiaomi sincerely inquired how many days she would be staying. Wen Xiaoyao replied that she was returning to Beijing the next day and invited Xiaomi to come along.
Xiaomi reconfirmed this, becoming excitedly incoherent and expressing how happy she was, calling Wen Xiaoyao a very nice person. Wen Xiaoyao decided to inform both Xu Tian and Shi Diandian of her plans. Shi Diandian suffers from memory loss when triggered, which led her to leave her phone on the bus and get lost, unable to find her way back home. Xu Tian went to Shi Diandian's dorm but couldn't find her and calls to her phone went unanswered.
He urgently called Fang Fang, who learned that Shi Diandian had been distressed by Wen Xiaoyao. Fang Fang advised Xu Tian to immediately check surveillance footage, explaining that Shi Diandian loses her memory when stimulated and likely couldn't find her way back. Wen Xiaoyao called Shi Diandian's phone. A bus company employee cleaning the vehicle found the phone just as Shi Diandian, who had been wandering nearby, repeatedly passed by. The employee kindly returned her phone.
After the call, Wen Xiaoyao and Xiaomi quickly located Shi Diandian. Shi Diandian remained troubled and encouraged Wen Xiaoyao and Xu Tian to be together and happy. Wen Xiaoyao tried to reassure Shi Diandian, telling her not to overthink things as Xu Tian and Zhou Tong were fundamentally different people. She also mentioned her impending return to Beijing the next day, which surprised Shi Diandian, who confessed her anxieties about relationships.
To give them privacy, Xiaomi went to the subway station alone. There, she noticed a young male street singer. Xiaomi approached him, discovered he was also from Beijing, and found his attempt to cultivate a melancholic artist image amusing, noting that he was just as quick-witted as she was. They exchanged contact information. After conversing, the three (Wen Xiaoyao, Shi Diandian, and Xiaomi) took the same bus back home.
On the way, Wen Xiaoyao declared that she would not return to Hangzhou and wished Shi Diandian and Xu Tian happiness. Xiaomi took a photo of Wen Xiaoyao and Shi Diandian together as a memento. When Shi Diandian returned to her dorm, Xu Tian was waiting at the entrance. He asked with concern why she had been so late returning home.
He then gently chided her for letting her thoughts wander, reassuring her that there was absolutely nothing between him and Wen Xiaoyao. Reassured, Shi Diandian found peace in his embrace. Hearing that Wen Xiaoyao was returning to Beijing the next day, Xu Tian stated that he also needed to go there. He felt he could not simply act as if nothing had happened regarding Zhou Tong's death and needed to visit his family or grave to find some peace.
Wen Xiaoyao soon returned to Beijing. Xiaomi suggested they watch Yang Yun's choreography for "Jin Se" together. Wen Xiaoyao said she didn't need persuasion regarding the show but thought Xiaomi should focus on finding a boyfriend. Just as they were speaking, the street singer sent Xiaomi a message. Meanwhile, Song Guanwang drafted a contract and discussed substitute teaching arrangements with Zhao Gang.
Zhao Gang, who already felt teaching children's ballet was a step down, became even more resistant upon reviewing the contract details. Qiao Guanghui drove Song Guanwang to Babaoshan Cemetery. Shi Diandian packed clothes for Xu Tian's trip to Beijing, giving him a few instructions before pleading with him not to go. Xu Tian was resolute, stating he had to visit Zhou Tong's home. Unable to dissuade him further, Shi Diandian conceded.
On the way to the airport, Shi Diandian insisted that Wen Xiaoyao meet him for his arrival in Beijing. Xu Tian felt it was unnecessary to trouble Wen Xiaoyao, but Shi Diandian was determined to have her way. Song Guanwang and Wen Xiaoyao attended Zhou Tong's burial together. Having accepted the tragedy, Song Guanwang was much more open.
She invited Wen Xiaoyao to her home for lunch, mentioning it would be the first time they had cooked there since Zhou Tong's accident. Jia Sulan's grave was nearby, and Wen Xiaoyao wanted to visit her mother. Song Guanwang waited in Qiao Guanghui's car while Wen Xiaoyao paid her respects. After visiting Jia Sulan's grave, Wen Xiaoyao felt utterly exhausted by life. She walked to the highest point of the rockery in the cemetery, contemplating suicide.
Suddenly, Shi Diandian called, informing her that Xu Tian had flown to Beijing and asking Wen Xiaoyao to arrange to pick him up at the airport. Shi Diandian went to the hotel where her parents were staying. Her mother, Fang Fang, advised her not to worry excessively, suggesting she take a hot bath to fully relax and then patiently await Xu Tian's return. While bathing, Shi Diandian removed her ring, clutching it tightly in her hand.
After her parents left, Shi Diandian returned to her dorm. She discarded all her medication, called Wen Xiaoyao to confirm that she had picked up Xu Tian, then deleted Wen Xiaoyao and Xu Tian's contact information. Finally, she turned off her phone, removed the battery from her alarm clock, resolved to completely forget Xu Tian.
Episode 22 Recap
After landing in Beijing, Xu Tian was quietly followed by Wen Xiaoyao for a while before he noticed her. He tried to message Shi Diandian to let her know he arrived safely but found he was blocked and couldn't reach her by phone. Wen Xiaoyao told him that Shi Diandian had informed her two hours prior about the need to manage her schedule in Beijing, and that he could still catch a flight back to Hangzhou if he left immediately.
However, Xu Tian expressed his intention to spend three days experiencing Zhou Tong's life. Xu Tian asked Wen Xiaoyao about things Zhou Tong liked to do. Wen Xiaoyao shared details about some of their past interactions, including planning to go to Dajue Temple to pray. She recounted conversations where she questioned if their relationship was moving too quickly and called him a "blockhead." Xu Tian then went alone to Guangmingge, a venue that seemed to be for crosstalk performances.
Qiao Guanghui happened to be there to make a payment and, seeing a man who looked exactly like Zhou Tong, sat at the same table. Although the staff mistook Xu Tian for Zhou Tong, Qiao Guanghui recognized he was not. Qiao Guanghui inquired about Xu Tian's identity and learned he had met Zhou Tong, but questioned why he felt the need to come to Beijing since they weren't close.
Xu Tian admitted he understood the logic but felt uncomfortable and needed to make the trip, finding a kindred spirit in Qiao Guanghui, who confessed he also felt awkward about the situation. Meanwhile, Song Guanwang had prepared a large meal and was having dinner with Wen Xiaoyao.
Wen Xiaoyao was still very upset, recounting her difficult journey learning ballet, the sacrifices she made, finally finding hope for building a life and a family with Zhou Tong in Beijing, only for him to leave first. Song Guanwang tried to comfort her, acknowledging her own grief as Zhou Tong's mother, but emphasizing that life must continue.
She urged Wen Xiaoyao not to give up on her career, particularly her role as Bai Suzhen, which was a promise to her mother, and not to let down those who had supported her like Zhao Gang. Wen Xiaoyao became emotional, saying she couldn't dance at the moment, but when pressed by Song Guanwang, she affirmed she could handle the pressure.
She later confided that the relationship was "over," clarifying it wasn't a breakup but rather one-sided love as they were never officially together. She said she would fly to Malaysia the next day and could now rest easy knowing she had achieved her goal with the ballet role, despite Zhou Tong ignoring her. After Wen Xiaoyao helped clean up, Song Guanwang suggested she look at Zhou Tong's room, but Wen Xiaoyao declined.
Before leaving, Wen Xiaoyao mentioned Xu Tian had come to Beijing. After their meeting at Guangmingge, Qiao Guanghui insisted on driving Xu Tian. Seeing Xu Tian's low spirits, Qiao Guanghui commented on his own situation, feeling like his efforts benefited someone else. He then suggested they go sing at a KTV, mentioning that Zhou Tong often frequented such places, which piqued Xu Tian's interest. At the venue, Qiao Guanghui coached Xu Tian on singing, and Xu Tian soon relaxed.
During their session, a drunk man stumbled into their room by mistake. Qiao Guanghui, frustrated by his own troubles, became aggressive towards the man, and staff quickly intervened to separate them. Xu Tian stayed at Qiao Guanghui's place overnight. The next morning, Xu Tian confided that he hadn't slept all night and had been looking at Zhou Tong's medical report, noting issues with blood pressure and cholesterol. Qiao Guanghui suggested monitoring his diet and eating oatmeal cookies daily.
At Xiaomi's building, a male singer played and sang downstairs. Xiaomi went down to meet him, and he expressed their clear mutual feelings, wanting to come up to her apartment. Xiaomi, not wanting to cause a stir, found excuses not to let him in. Wen Xiaoyao, observing from upstairs, seemed to understand their relationship but pretended not to have seen anything when Xiaomi returned. The next morning, Wen Xiaoyao prepared breakfast.
Xiaomi told her they needed to go to the ballet troupe after eating. She stressed Wen Xiaoyao's importance as a backbone for Zhao Gang and insisted she see the new show and give input regarding the leadership changes at the troupe. Wen Xiaoyao accompanied Xiaomi to the troupe meeting. While Xiaomi changed, Wen Xiaoyao brought up seeing her with the singer that morning, advising her not to let the opportunity pass.
Xiaomi responded that Wen Xiaoyao should screen him for her and not let him get away easily. Wen Xiaoyao emphasized that love is fleeting and should be cherished. Xiaomi later returned home and was stunned to see Xu Tian there. Qiao Guanghui mentioned he planned to take Xu Tian to see his mother, Song Guanwang. However, Xiaomi stated she had a crucial meeting at the troupe concerning Zhao Gang's future and needed Qiao Guanghui to accompany her.
Qiao Guanghui agreed, packing clothes and asking Xu Tian to wait for him at the house. Qiao Guanghui then attended a meeting with Mr. Yang and Zhao Gang. Mr. Yang had made his decision, stating that Zhao Gang would retain his title but would actually assist Yang Yun. Qiao Guanghui supported this arrangement. Mr. Yang then announced that 'Legend of the White Snake' would be kept in the repertoire, and they would begin rehearsing a new production called 'Jin Se'.
A significant event occurred when Yang Yun suffered a back injury, reportedly caused by Yin Ye. This injury made her unable to perform in the upcoming shows. As the understudy, Wen Xiaoyao stepped into the lead role of Bai Suzhen for the premiere the next day. The troupe faced pressure to make quick adjustments and inform the media due to the sudden change. Still unable to reach Shi Diandian, Xu Tian called Qiao Guanghui.
Qiao Guanghui said he was busy but put Wen Xiaoyao on the phone. Wen Xiaoyao explained the situation: Yang Yun had injured her back, and the good news was that Wen Xiaoyao would be playing Bai Suzhen in the premiere the next day. Qiao Guanghui invited Wen Xiaoyao and Xiaomi for dinner, and Wen Xiaoyao accepted before leaving to check on Yang Yun. Wen Xiaoyao was subsequently interviewed about taking on the lead role.
She confirmed she lived in Beijing and stated that although she had never been to Hangzhou, her mother, Jia Sulan, was from Hangzhou and had played Bai Suzhen in Yue Opera. During this time, Shi Diandian arrived. Shi Diandian was introduced to the waiting reporters, and she in turn introduced Wen Xiaoyao to them, mentioning she would be playing Bai Suzhen in the premiere tomorrow.
Xu Tian later went to the hotel where he was supposed to stay and was directed to the lobby to check in. There, he met Shi Diandian's mother, Mr. Fang, who was waiting for him. Mr. Fang offered him tea.
Despite her earlier statement about the relationship being over and planning to fly to Malaysia, Wen Xiaoyao later confided to Xiaomi that she wouldn't break up with Zhou Tong after all and needed to talk to him after the three premiere performances. She stated she loved Zhou Tong and planned to find him first before visiting Yang Yun in the hospital.
Episode 23 Recap
Xu Tian, intending to visit places associated with Zhou Tong, took a taxi to the wild Great Wall in Huairou. On the way, Fang Fang called, distraught because Lao Shi couldn't find Shi Diandian, and she wasn't in the dormitory. Fang Fang asked if Xu Tian and Diandian had argued, which Xu Tian denied, saying they were fine when he left, though he expressed frustration about Diandian blocking him right after his arrival in Beijing.
Fang Fang rushed to Hangzhou, promising to contact him once Diandian was found. Feeling unable to remain at the dance troupe, Wen Xiaoyao also went to the Great Wall. Upon reaching the familiar scenery, she had a vision of Zhou Tong, engaging in a conversation with him there. Wen Xiaoyao climbed onto a beacon tower. When Xu Tian arrived, he found her alone, talking to herself and appearing ready to jump from the tower.
He quickly ran and pulled her down. Afterward, he tried to encourage her to see things positively, even imitating Zhou Tong's mannerisms, having seen a stand-up show the previous day. Annoyed, Wen Xiaoyao pushed him, causing Xu Tian to miss his step and fall down the steps. Wen Xiaoyao then ran to apologize. Despite his fall, Xu Tian continued to persuade Wen Xiaoyao not to be discouraged.
As she sat on the steps, Wen Xiaoyao had another hallucination of Zhou Tong echoing the same comforting words. Xu Tian shared his own struggles, explaining he didn't know why he returned to Beijing, having lost his mother early and understanding life's hardships deeply. He had hoped he and Shi Diandian could rely on each other and build a home, but it didn't seem to be working out, leading him to feel Zhou Tong was his only remaining family.
Listening to him, Wen Xiaoyao realized they shared a similar fate. Xu Tian encouraged her to continue dancing, but Wen Xiaoyao felt she had lost value as the troupe was preparing a new production. Xu Tian insisted that any production would be new to him. Meanwhile, in Hangzhou, Fang Fang arrived at Shi Diandian's dormitory. The administrator unlocked the door, but Diandian was not inside. Her phone was off on the bed, and the alarm clock battery had been removed.
Recognizing these signs, Fang Fang understood that Shi Diandian was experiencing another episode of stage-based memory loss. As Xu Tian and Wen Xiaoyao traveled back towards Beijing, Xu Tian confessed that his relationship with Shi Diandian was exhausting because she constantly worried about losing him and lacked basic trust. Wen Xiaoyao countered that Diandian's fears stemmed from her deep affection for him, and if Xu Tian loved her just as much, he would understand.
Xu Tian tried calling Shi Diandian again, and this time Fang Fang answered. She stressed that finding Diandian was the immediate priority. Xu Tian informed her he planned to go directly to Qiao Guanghui's place to pack his belongings and return to Hangzhou, meaning he would miss his planned visit to Song Guanwang. He asked Wen Xiaoyao to send his regards to Song Guanwang and urged her to live well.
Separately, Qiao Guanghui was comforting Zhao Gang, lightheartedly suggesting he could set him up with Song Guanwang, which Zhao Gang found ridiculous. Qiao Guanghui then called Song Guanwang to arrange a dinner gathering, but Song Guanwang mentioned she was just about to call him herself to invite Qiao Guanghui and Xu Tian to her house for dinner. Wen Xiaoyao and Xu Tian arrived back home. Zhao Gang saw Wen Xiaoyao and scolded her for leaving the troupe without notice.
Wen Xiaoyao quickly explained that Xu Tian was planning to return to Hangzhou. Fang Fang then video-called Xu Tian. She had searched the tailor shop in Haier Lane but hadn't found Diandian. Xu Tian suddenly remembered Leshui Pavilion near the flower and bird alley and directed Fang Fang to search there. Lao Shi arrived at Leshui Pavilion first and found Shi Diandian, but she looked at him as if he were a complete stranger.
Fang Fang then approached Diandian and was relieved to find that Diandian still recognized Wen Xiaoyao. Fang Fang immediately called Wen Xiaoyao, who was on her way to the airport with Xu Tian. Fang Fang told Wen Xiaoyao to relay a message to Xu Tian: if being with Diandian was too tiring, now was a good time to leave, as Diandian would eventually forget the person who caused her pain.
Xu Tian, overhearing this, immediately declared he couldn't bear to leave Diandian. Fang Fang advised Xu Tian not to return to Hangzhou for the time being. After hanging up, Xu Tian, unsure of what to do, got out of the car and wandered in a wild area. Qiao Guanghui, who had heard about Shi Diandian's condition from Wen Xiaoyao, also got out of the car to comfort Xu Tian, assuring him it was not a major issue.
He reasoned that if two people were truly committed to each other, they would care for one another even through disability. He suggested that Diandian's temporary forgetting was merely an opportunity for them to get to know each other again, a chance for a renewed romance. Hearing Qiao Guanghui's words was very stress-relieving for Xu Tian, and he felt much more relaxed. Afterward, Qiao Guanghui took Xu Tian to meet Song Guanwang.
Meanwhile, Qiao Mi and the street musician went to a bar to watch a performance. They bantered and ate fried chicken while watching the show. When Wen Xiaoyao called, Qiao Mi quickly rushed outside the bar to answer. During a phone call, Qiao Mi urged the person she was speaking with (likely Wen Xiaoyao) not to bother with Zhou Tong anymore and to return to the troupe quickly.
She mentioned that Brother Yin had injured Sister Yun and that Auntie Gang wanted her back at the troupe immediately because leaders were there. At the troupe's training hall, discussion ensued about Yang Yun's back injury, confirming she wouldn't be able to perform in the upcoming shows and that the understudy would take over. Wen Xiaoyao was given the lead role of Bai Suzhen.
During rehearsal, Yin Ye expressed concern about partnering with Wen Xiaoyao, fearing he might drop her again. Wen Xiaoyao initially stated she couldn't dance, but later affirmed she could handle the role. Wen Xiaoyao confided in Qiao Mi, expressing her love for Zhou Tong and asking for help regarding him. She decided she would go find Zhou Tong first before visiting Sister Yun in the hospital.
Later, at what appears to be a theater or rehearsal space, Shi Diandian was present as Wen Xiaoyao was introduced and interviewed about taking over the role of Bai Suzhen. During the interview, Wen Xiaoyao mentioned that her mother, Jia Sulan, had played Bai Suzhen in Yue Opera. Shi Diandian, who was introduced as being present at the interview, recognized the name Jia Sulan upon hearing it. Meanwhile, Xu Tian went to a hotel and waited in the lobby. He was met by a staff member or representative and then introduced to Mr. Fang, who was identified as Diandian's mother. Mr. Fang welcomed Xu Tian into the hotel room.
Episode 24 Recap
Wen Xiaoyao went to see Qiao Mi at a bar. She told Qiao Mi she was planning to start over, keeping Zhou Tong in her heart but focusing on living well and dancing again, even if it meant starting as a background dancer. Qiao Mi asked why she had left the dance group so abruptly the day before.
Wen Xiaoyao explained she had gone to the Great Wall by herself early in the morning and ran into Xu Tian, saying that if it hadn't been for him, she wouldn't be alive. Qiao Mi was surprised that Xu Tian had saved her and insisted she would do anything for him from now on. Wen Xiaoyao mentioned that Xu Tian's girlfriend, Shi Diandian, was coming to Beijing the next day and asked Qiao Mi to help them get back together.
As they discussed Shi Diandian, Qiao Mi became engrossed in listening to a singer called "Little Ears," prompting Wen Xiaoyao to comment on her seemingly being in love. Qiao Guanghui drove Xu Tian and Zhao Gang to Song Guanwang's place. Before going in, Qiao Guanghui told Xu Tian to wait downstairs in the first-floor billiard room, while he stayed in the car with Zhao Gang.
Qiao Guanghui urged Zhao Gang to express his feelings for Song Guanwang, insisting she was clearly "his," despite Zhao Gang's protests that he didn't like her at all and that women are independent. Qiao Guanghui kept pushing, calling Zhao Gang a hypocrite for pretending reluctance while secretly wearing cologne, and highlighting that Song Guanwang needed him now that he was a retired artist. Zhao Gang felt pressured and frustrated by Qiao Guanghui's insistence.
Song Guanwang came down to meet Xu Tian at the entrance. She asked why he didn't come upstairs. Xu Tian explained he had to leave soon because his girlfriend was arriving in Beijing the next day. Song Guanwang invited him upstairs anyway and suggested he could see Zhou Tong's room, which was open. Xu Tian agreed and went up. As he entered the house, someone nearby seemed visibly emotional and accidentally broke a glass before Xu Tian went upstairs.
Xu Tian went to Zhou Tong's room. He found Zhou Tong's computer on, his phone charging, and his belongings untouched. He was able to unlock Zhou Tong's phone using facial recognition, surprising Song Guanwang, who noted that the phone was useless without him. Song Guanwang observed that Xu Tian was very different from Zhou Tong, finding him awkward compared to Zhou Tong who was very talkative and could "convince you black was white."
Xu Tian told Song Guanwang his reasons for being in Beijing: he was delivering a qipao and a photo to Wen Xiaoyao (the qipao had been customized by his mother for Wen Xiaoyao's mother, Teacher Jia Sulan, who was also in the photo with young Xu Tian and his mother), and he wanted to visit Song Guanwang, who felt like family. He explained he wasn't leaving Beijing immediately because Shi Diandian was arriving and might stay for a while.
He shared that Shi Diandian suffered from episodic amnesia, which he had researched online and learned was related to childhood experiences and her subconscious protecting her from pain. Song Guanwang suggested that Shi Diandian's forgetting him meant he had hurt her before, even if subconsciously. She offered her help once Shi Diandian arrived, suggesting Xu Tian bring her over and introduce Song Guanwang as his aunt, promising to help them start over.
Song Guanwang advised Xu Tian to look forward, love those around him, and learn from Zhou Tong's seemingly casual approach to difficult things. She also expressed how empty the house felt without Zhou Tong, despite his laziness. Xu Tian said he would visit her often from now on and asked for help with Zhou Tong's phone again, specifically how to keep it from locking.
Song Guanwang suggested listening to music, noting it would still lock but the music would continue if it had power. Xu Tian told Song Guanwang he had decided to change himself starting tomorrow and start over with Shi Diandian. After Qiao Guanghui left, Song Guanwang spoke with Zhao Gang who was waiting downstairs.
Zhao Gang explained that since he was almost retired from the ballet company and no one there would talk to him, and he couldn't stand being home or going to the office, he came to her place for comfort. He directly asked if she had told Qiao Guanghui that she liked him.
Song Guanwang confirmed she had, but clarified she only said it to get back at Qiao Guanghui, accusing him of being unable to speak directly and always bringing Zhao Gang into things when she started being nice to him. Zhao Gang felt used by their tactical games, protesting that he was a pure person who treated them as friends and had accomplished everything they asked him to do. He expressed his frustration and hurt at being treated like a weapon.
Song Guanwang commented on how tragic it was but said she couldn't let him keep working so hard. Zhao Gang left angrily. Meanwhile, Fang Fang and Xiao Yue made arrangements for Shi Diandian in Beijing. Xiao Yue found a small two-bedroom apartment in the same complex as Wen Xiaoyao's. They closed off one room and meticulously arranged all of Shi Diandian's belongings exactly as they were before, emphasizing that nothing should be replaced with new items.
Fang Fang gave Xiao Yue instructions to give the key to Wen Xiaoyao, keeping it in her large bag with her wallet. Fang Fang also reminded Xiao Yue to bring cold medicine as it was getting colder. Fang Fang took Shi Diandian for a hair appointment before she left for Beijing.
Shi Diandian insisted on transferring the money for the treatment to Fang Fang, saying she had savings and didn't need Fang Fang to spend money on her, feeling Fang Fang had already taken great care of her. Xu Tian and Wen Xiaoyao went to the airport to meet Shi Diandian, but Xu Tian waited out of sight.
After Wen Xiaoyao met Shi Diandian and they were on the subway, Shi Diandian revealed she had forgotten some things, likely unhappy ones, but she remembered Wen Xiaoyao. She suspected Wen Xiaoyao was connected to the things she had forgotten and, while thanking Wen Xiaoyao for picking her up, stated she preferred not to meet again because she didn't want any connection to her past at all. Wen Xiaoyao expressed concern as Shi Diandian had just arrived.
Shi Diandian replied that she lived in Beijing and preferred to be alone, assuring Wen Xiaoyao that she knew where she lived. They parted ways after exiting the subway. Wen Xiaoyao immediately called Xu Tian, who was following them. Xu Tian asked Wen Xiaoyao which direction Shi Diandian went after leaving the subway exit, and Wen Xiaoyao told him she went east. Xu Tian then began to follow Shi Diandian from a distance.
Episode 25 Recap
Shi Diandian, feeling tired, sat on a bench. Xu Tian approached and, with her permission, helped her open a bottle of water. He immediately told her he wasn't a bad person. Shi Diandian explained that she had recently experienced memory loss and possessed a unique ability to selectively forget people or events that caused her harm. Xu Tian expressed interest in learning this method of forgetting.
Shi Diandian elaborated on how she believes the past isn't real, only the present moment, which makes it easier to discard painful memories. She then asked Xu Tian for directions to the Park Avenue residential area, and he gave her accurate directions. Before they parted, Xu Tian mentioned that she looked exactly like his ex-girlfriend and introduced himself by name, Xu Tian. At the ballet company, Yang Yun and Joey were rehearsing "Jin Se," struggling with a particular movement.
Zhao Gang sat watching from the audience. Song Guanwang walked down to the seating area, stating he came to see how truly miserable it was there. Wen Xiaoyao returned to the stage late and was scolded by Yang Yun, who questioned who had approved her leave, insisting she was in charge despite Wen Xiaoyao having informed both her and the director. Zhao Gang intervened, pointing out that the movement didn't feel right and criticizing the choreography.
He contrasted the emotional depth of "The Legend of White Snake," which was built on romantic love, with "Jin Se," based on sisterhood forged over a thousand years. He argued that simply choreographing movements without actors feeling the emotion resulted in empty performance. Song Guanwang then clarified that the leadership had decided Yang Yun would choreograph "Jin Se," not Zhao Gang.
Zhao Gang, feeling sidelined, stopped the rehearsal and asked the lead performers to come down to talk, reminding everyone he was still the director and hadn't retired. Yang Yun walked off stage followed by Yin Ye. A woman from the bureau, introduced as Zhou Tong's mother, spoke critically to Yang Yun and Yin Ye, questioning Yang Yun's role and her inability to accept feedback.
When Yin Ye introduced himself as a lead dancer, the bureau person questioned his credentials and respect for the rules, predicting that he, too, would one day face stepping down. She praised Zhao Gang's attitude and criticized Yang Yun's lack of foundation and unclear direction, suggesting management would eventually replace her. Song Guanwang, introducing himself as Zhao Gang's friend, told Yang Yun she should respect her teachers.
Yang Yun denied being disrespectful, but the bureau person characterized her as insecure and proud, trying to do both choreography and dancing without mastering either. She advised Yang Yun to secure Zhao Gang's position. Song Guanwang described the situation backstage as chaotic. Yang Yun expressed feeling unlikable, and Yin Ye attempted to comfort her, though Yang Yun felt the support wasn't genuine. The rehearsal ended for the day.
Meanwhile, Zhao Gang was in his office packing, feeling he could no longer show his face and everything had been taken over. Song Guanwang was with him, trying to convince him to accept retirement as an inevitable part of life. Zhao Gang felt miserable stepping down after dedicating himself to his job. Song Guanwang persisted, following Zhao Gang outside (implied to a rooftop or high place), noting he was packing but unable to let go.
Song Guanwang shared that everyone faces struggles and advised Zhao Gang to accept his situation, comparing retirement to birth, aging, illness, and death. He suggested Zhao Gang could step aside for younger choreographers like Yang Yun and quietly offer guidance from the background, implying Yang Yun was struggling because she tried to do both choreography and performing. Song Guanwang jokingly called it bad luck to have run into Zhao Gang in his time of distress.
At Qiao Guanghui's house, he was working out, visibly frustrated. Someone mentioned that Song Guanwang had gone to the dance company and spoken up for "Auntie Gang" (Zhao Gang). Qiao Guanghui seemed agitated by this. He told Wen Xiaoyao to take a ring to the "regiment" for Zhao Gang, but she refused. Qiao Guanghui insisted he would remain loyal to his buddy Zhao Gang. Qiao Mi then revealed she was planning to date a "stray kid."
Qiao Guanghui immediately voiced his disapproval, insisting that if they were to be together, their assets must be clearly separated, as he wouldn't save money for strangers. He demanded to know the boyfriend's name, reacting negatively when told it was "Little Ears." Qiao Mi told her father not to interfere, mentioning that she and Little Ears were getting along well.
Wen Xiaoyao spoke privately with Qiao Guanghui, pointing out his insensitivity in front of her, as Xu Tian looked exactly like Zhou Tong, and she was still processing her feelings while having to watch him with someone else. Qiao Guanghui dismissed this, suggesting she needed therapy if she couldn't differentiate them.
Wen Xiaoyao asked about his situation with Ms. Song (Song Guanwang), and Qiao Guanghui said nothing had happened between them, despite his mental preparation, because Song had ended up with Zhao Gang, jokingly calling it an act of charity. Downstairs, Xu Tian called Wen Xiaoyao to ask for Shi Diandian's building number, learning she was in Building One, though Xiaoyao couldn't recall the specific unit. Qiao Guanghui took the phone and invited Xu Tian over for dinner and drinks.
Xu Tian politely declined, saying he had something important to do – winning Diandian back. Qiao Guanghui offered unsolicited dating advice, suggesting physical exercise like push-ups and squats until dizzy, followed by immediate action, concluding that the outcome was ultimately dependent on fate. Later, Fang Fang called Xiaoyue to check on Diandian. Xiaoyue confirmed Diandian had arrived safely but revealed she didn't recognize Xu Tian even after they had met and spoken.
Xu Tian spoke with Fang Fang, reiterating that Diandian didn't recognize him. He decided to pretend this was their first meeting and pursue her, noting that previously she had pursued him. Fang Fang observed that Xu Tian seemed like a different person. Xu Tian recalled Fang Fang's past doubts about their relationship. He assured Fang Fang he loved Diandian and was ready to start dating from scratch.
Fang Fang was relieved and reminded him of Diandian's upcoming birthday on the 19th, urging him to celebrate it with her even though Diandian herself wouldn't remember. Fang Fang provided Diandian's exact address: Building 1, Unit 2, Apartment 2109. Xu Tian initially told Xiaoyue to go home while he waited, but then decided against waiting, feeling overthinking was unproductive, and went up to Diandian's apartment directly.
On the 21st floor, Xu Tian encountered a delivery person with food for apartment 2109. Xu Tian took the food, claiming it was for his girlfriend, Shi Diandian, and asked for a good review. He knocked on Diandian's door. When she opened it, she saw Xu Tian standing there awkwardly with her food. He explained he met the delivery person and brought it up, assuring her he hadn't opened it and offering to order a replacement.
Seeing her name on the packaging, Diandian said she would eat it. She asked if he was stalking her. He admitted he had followed her there, stating it was "love at first sight," adding that calling the police wouldn't help as they don't arrest people for wanting to date. Diandian told him she didn't want to date at the moment, preferring a quiet life.
Xu Tian accepted this, offering his friendship and company whenever she might need someone to talk to or just be with. He said he just wanted to be with her and noted that everyone needs friends. He mentioned he had her phone number from the order form and would call.
After saying goodbye and as she was about to close the door, Xu Tian declared he had changed his mind and wouldn't leave, planning to sit downstairs until she came out so he could be the first person she saw the next day. He explained this irrational decision by referencing her earlier feeling of déjà vu and his fear of missing a chance if he became rational later. Back at Qiao Mi's place, Little Ears had arrived.
Qiao Mi let him in, lamenting to herself that she must be crazy. She mentioned ordering food and intended to send him away soon. Little Ears shared that he had been dreaming about her for several nights in a row, with the dreams connected like a TV series – the first night they rushed for a ride, and the second they caught it and went to Yunnan.
He gave her Jade Dragon snow pine seeds he had brought back from a previous trip to Yunnan, symbolizing purity. Qiao Mi mentioned her father's condition about keeping their assets separate if they dated. Little Ears claimed to be from a wealthy family and spoke philosophically about the wind needing no money because it is free, leading Qiao Mi to call him the "man like the wind."
Later that night, Shi Diandian periodically looked downstairs, seeing Xu Tian exercising earlier but not seeing him at night. Curious, she went downstairs and found him sheltering from the cold. She asked why he wasn't leaving. He explained he would be alone and afraid of loneliness if he returned to his hotel. Diandian asked about his previous relationship.
Xu Tian described his ex, rating her a nine out of ten, praising her dedication and thoughtfulness, attributing part of the high rating to his need for companionship after growing up alone making qipaos. He explained his past coping mechanism of imagining himself as a hallucination until meeting his ex, who made him feel safer. He added that compromise was part of the score. When Diandian suggested his ex probably loved herself more, he agreed that people should love themselves.
He denied hating his ex and stated he would not get back with her, as it was over and he was ready to start over. Diandian felt he didn't understand her and reiterated they couldn't be together now, suggesting they take things slowly. Xu Tian reminisced about a past moment with his ex, watching stars with a flashlight, and how he thought she was the one forever, contrasting it with being with Diandian now.
Diandian perceived this as him still wanting his ex, but Xu Tian insisted he only wanted to be with Diandian now. Diandian mentioned having a job interview the next day, thanked him for the food, and explicitly asked him not to come back or call her. Xu Tian refused, saying he couldn't stop thinking about her since they met and wouldn't be able to sleep without hearing from her.
Diandian told him to find his ex again, but Xu Tian said she was gone. Diandian urged him to go home because it was cold. Xu Tian asked her to call or message him before bed, but she refused. Finally, Mrs. Fang called Wen Xiaoyao to ask if Xu Tian and Diandian were together. Xiaoyao confirmed they were and commented that Xu Tian seemed like someone in love.
Episode 26 Recap
Qiao Guanghui drove to Song Guanwang's building. He called Zhao Gang, who seemed busy and uninterested in talking. Qiao Guanghui went up alone and found Song Guanwang mopping the floor. She welcomed him, saying food and drinks were ready upstairs. Qiao Guanghui offered to help, noting she didn't have staff and that both her businesses were losing money, but she declined his help and urged him upstairs.
The table was set with a feast, and Qiao Guanghui sensed an announcement was coming, possibly related to Zhao Gang. Song Guanwang proposed they drink first. After three toasts, one of which she drank on behalf of Zhao Gang, she made her announcement: there was absolutely nothing romantic between her and Zhao Gang, and he was not the type of man she wanted. She told Qiao Guanghui to stop trying to set them up from now on.
Qiao Guanghui had brought a ring, intended for Zhao Gang to give her, and had placed it on the table. Hearing her announcement, he moved to take it back, but Song Guanwang insisted that once given, it could not be taken back. Realizing her words implied she might be accepting him, Qiao Guanghui became overjoyed and, needing to release his excitement, grabbed the mop and started enthusiastically cleaning upstairs. Yin Ye was visiting Yang Yun.
Feeling neglected due to Yang Yun's lack of conversation, Yin Ye expressed her frustration, accusing Yang Yun of being self-centered and having no feelings for anyone, even her boyfriend. She confessed she had loved Yang Yun for years but still didn't know how Yang Yun felt. Yin Ye argued that love was about giving, but Yang Yun seemed incapable of letting go, especially of herself.
Yin Ye pointed out that Yang Yun's lack of femininity was incompatible with playing purely feminine roles like Bai Suzhen or directing a piece about two women. Yin Ye left angrily, throwing out the trash. Later, Zhao Gang arrived. Yang Yun sought his advice regarding her career struggles. Zhao Gang echoed the sentiment that trying to do both dancing and choreography would lead to failure.
He advised her to stop dancing and focus solely on being a choreographer, suggesting her student Wen Xiaoyao was better suited for performance due to her ability to deeply inhabit characters. Yang Yun was reluctant to give up dancing after over twenty years, offering Zhao Gang the concept for her "Jinse" production if he would direct while she danced.
Zhao Gang refused, preferring to direct "The White Snake," a production Yang Yun said she couldn't dance in, again suggesting Wen Xiaoyao for the role. Zhao Gang stressed that the hardest obstacles to overcome were emotional ones, advising Yang Yun to reconsider her attachment to the stage. Qiao Guanghui returned home drunk that night. Xu Tian was waiting outside, having been invited to stay there.
Qiao Guanghui, unsteady on his feet, announced he had just celebrated his own "wedding banquet" with Song Guanwang, claiming it was a secret for now and would become official when they were living together. Xu Tian mentioned seeing Shi Diandian, noting she still didn't remember him. Qiao Guanghui suggested she see a doctor but also told Xu Tian he was responsible for her condition and advised him on winning her over again.
Qiao Guanghui told Xu Tian to forget their past relationship and treat Shi Diandian as a new person, dating her and winning her over again by being persistent and going "full throttle," suggesting that good things can happen unexpectedly, just like his own situation with Song Guanwang. Shi Diandian went out looking for a job, and Xu Tian followed her.
At the subway station, Shi Diandian tricked Xu Tian by pretending to get off the train but staying on, leaving him on the platform. She confirmed she was getting off at the next stop for an interview. She agreed to add him on WeChat and sent him the interview address. Xu Tian met Shi Diandian near the office building where her interview was. He brought coffee and noted she seemed nervous.
Shi Diandian admitted she hadn't interviewed since she worked in Ningbo for three years after college and hadn't had one since resigning two years ago. Xu Tian offered to go with her to help calm her nerves. He waited outside while she went in. The male interviewer, seeing Xu Tian through the glass door, invited him in, mistakenly believing he was her boyfriend and stating the company valued employees' personal lives.
When Xu Tian clarified they had only just met the day before and were "just starting dating," the interviewer began asking intrusive personal questions, including marriage and children plans, presenting them as part of the interview process. Finally, he asked if Shi Diandian would give him a massage, citing a shoulder issue. Shi Diandian reacted decisively, hitting or grabbing him and running out of the room. Xu Tian verbally confronted the interviewer before leaving.
He met Shi Diandian in the elevator, where she expressed excitement about the confrontation and offered to buy him lunch, although he insisted on treating her. Little Ears took Qiao Mi out on a date, with Wen Xiaoyao accompanying them out of concern for Qiao Mi's safety. Little Ears drove them to a seemingly abandoned factory building, which made Qiao Mi and Wen Xiaoyao nervous. He led them inside and locked the door.
He then revealed a repurposed open-top truck bed set up as a stage. He introduced the performers as wandering musicians gathered there. Little Ears had arranged a special music festival just for them, performing "for our love." The unexpected event touched and excited Qiao Mi and Wen Xiaoyao. Later, Xu Tian and Shi Diandian had lunch. Shi Diandian used her own portable utensil set, which she had sterilized.
She offered Xu Tian a set and suggested he buy his own, mentioning cute designs were available online. Xu Tian offered to buy her a set if she liked him, but she refused, stating she disliked gifts because they made her sad, reminding her that objects last longer than people. She showed him a Doraemon keychain given to her by her birth mother twenty-three years prior, explaining it made her sad to see but she couldn't part with it.
After lunch, Xu Tian offered to take Shi Diandian home. She suggested they go to the supermarket first as her fridge was empty. They went shopping together, their relationship developing quickly. Deeply moved by Little Ears' gesture, Qiao Mi decided she wanted him to meet her father. Qiao Guanghui informed Zhao Gang that Song Guanwang had explicitly told him there was no chance between her and Zhao Gang and that she was now with him.
He expressed hope this wouldn't create awkwardness between them. Zhao Gang replied that he was never interested in Song Guanwang in the first place and felt Qiao Guanghui's matchmaking had caused the confusion, suggesting Song Guanwang was only using him to provoke Qiao Guanghui. Qiao Guanghui dismissed this, believing he understood Song Guanwang better and she was direct. Zhao Gang reiterated his lack of interest and concern that Qiao Guanghui might get hurt.
Qiao Mi and Wen Xiaoyao arrived at Qiao Guanghui's house. Wen Xiaoyao mentioned wanting to visit Auntie Song. Qiao Guanghui, appearing lost in thought, also indicated he wanted to go visit Song Guanwang. However, Qiao Mi stopped him, saying she needed to have an important talk.
She presented a scenario about a wealthy landlord (clearly referencing her father) whose daughter falls in love, describing three negative potential reactions from the father: rage, disowning the daughter, or violence leading to the daughter running away. By outlining these options, she conveyed the seriousness of her relationship with a "wandering performer" and asked how he would react.
Qiao Guanghui immediately reacted negatively upon hearing what Little Ears did for a living, threatening physical harm and life-long care for the performer. Qiao Mi challenged him, saying he understood love better and pleading for him to meet Little Ears. Qiao Guanghui refused outright, firmly stating his opposition to the relationship and forbidding her from dating or marrying him.
Episode 27 Recap
Xu Tian helped Shi Diandian carry her groceries into the apartment. He offered to help her put them away, suggesting he could even eat some. Shi Diandian was preoccupied, perhaps searching for jobs online. Xu Tian mentioned he had eaten some pizza earlier and offered to heat up a couple of slices for her. He commented that cooking more varied dishes would be easier if they had a food processor, describing its many functions.
When Shi Diandian asked about the cost, Xu Tian admitted it was expensive, over 10,000, prompting her to dismiss the idea, stating she already had a microwave. Wen Xiaoyao visited Song Guanwang, who was about to go square dancing. Song Guanwang invited Wen Xiaoyao to join her, but Wen Xiaoyao declined, explaining she had only come to visit. Song Guanwang mentioned that her daughter, Xiaomi, was out on a date.
She suggested Wen Xiaoyao go upstairs to relax while she was gone, even offering that Zhou Tong's room was open. Song Guanwang said she would be back in about ninety minutes and they could make dinner together. Wen Xiaoyao went upstairs and into Zhou Tong's room, seeing his computer screen saver and photos, which brought a mix of fond memories and sadness. Later, Qiao Guanghui arrived looking for Song Guanwang.
Finding Wen Xiaoyao there, he learned Song Guanwang was dancing and offered to pick her up. Before leaving, Qiao Guanghui inquired about Xiao'erduo, the young man who had previously drugged Xiaomi. He asked Wen Xiaoyao to contact him and arrange a meeting, specifically requesting she get his phone number from Xiaomi without her knowledge. Noticing the empty second bedroom in Shi Diandian's apartment, Xu Tian proposed they share the unit as roommates.
He suggested splitting the rent equally while he would cover all the utility costs, like heating, water, and electricity. He explained this would be mutually beneficial, saving her money while she was looking for a job and allowing him to stop paying for expensive hotel stays.
Shi Diandian seemed taken aback and hesitant, initially saying no. Xu Tian then softened his proposal, asking only that she send him a WeChat message before bed each night, perhaps with a photo, before saying he would leave. A while later, Shi Diandian came downstairs and found Xu Tian still outside. He explained he couldn't bring himself to leave as he would just be alone at the hotel.
She asked if he was cold, and he replied he wasn't when he was with her. When she asked if he was always so smooth-talking, he told her he was practicing because life was short and his urgent task was to make her fall in love with him. She was surprised and found his declaration too sudden and unlike her idea of a relationship.
They discussed her ideal of two people who are not strangers but not too familiar, working hard, having small arguments that resolve quickly, and experiencing a mix of happiness and unhappiness. He agreed it sounded about right, but she suspected he was lying. He insisted he never lies, though he admitted he was cold. Shi Diandian gave him her scarf. She then asked if he missed his ex-girlfriend. He said he didn't, especially since she was right next to him.
When she pressed, asking what if she wasn't there, he simply stated, "I love you, it's as simple as that." Shi Diandian felt deeply touched and said she needed a moment to adjust. After a brief, playful exchange, she asked if she could go back upstairs. He asked why she came down in the first place, and she confessed it was to see if he had left.
He told her to go ahead and watch her leave, and she told him to keep the scarf on. At the square, Qiao Guanghui sat with Song Guanwang watching the dancers. He asked her when she began to feel something for him. She revealed it was on the night Zhou Tong died; she was walking alone feeling suicidal when he got out of his car and yelled at her, effectively saving her.
Song Guanwang then brought up Zhao Gang, whose mind seemed consumed by ballet, suggesting he needed help breaking free. She proposed he join the square dancing group as a way to fully detach from his past artistic life and find liberation, a suggestion Qiao Guanghui found amusing but potentially effective. Qiao Guanghui then shared a significant concern: his daughter Xiaomi was dating a wandering street performer and had declared she didn't want any inheritance, even talking about eloping with him.
He asked for Song Guanwang's advice on how to handle the situation and control his temper. Wen Xiaoyao sent Xiao'erduo, whose full name is Lian Cuihua, the location of KTV Room 9. Qiao Guanghui was waiting there with two friends, instructing them to maintain composure but be ready to intimidate. Lian Cuihua arrived, and Qiao Guanghui introduced himself as Xiaomi's father.
After Lian Cuihua stated his full name, Qiao Guanghui laid out three straightforward questions about his intentions and ability to care for Xiaomi, whom he had raised like a princess. First, he asked if Lian Cuihua could indulge her and cater to her whims. Lian Cuihua honestly replied he could not, stating that love required equality and mutual respect.
Qiao Guanghui pressed further, detailing the financial realities of life, including bills, raising children, education, and insurance, asking if he could afford these things. Lian Cuihua admitted he could not, but insisted that these material concerns were irrelevant; only love mattered. Qiao Guanghui then asked if he could promise to love Xiaomi for the rest of his life. Lian Cuihua again answered honestly, saying he could not, explaining that love, like all beautiful things, was fleeting and temporary.
However, he added that Xiaomi would always hold a place in his heart. Enraged by Lian Cuihua's responses, particularly his admission about the temporary nature of love, Qiao Guanghui gave a signal, and his two friends began to physically assault Lian Cuihua. That evening, Xiaomi was talking to Wen Xiaoyao, mentioning that Xu Tian had come by earlier, seeming very happy after experiencing love with Shi Diandian and wanting to thank Wen Xiaoyao.
Suddenly, Qiao Mi received a call from Qiao Guanghui, who informed her that Lian Cuihua had gotten into a fight with him and was now at the police station. Xiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao rushed to the station. After Qiao Mi angrily confronted her father about hitting Lian Cuihua and insisted on her independence, threatening never to marry if he interfered, Qiao Guanghui retorted that she shouldn't get married then. Xiaomi then retrieved Lian Cuihua from the station.
Outside, Qiao Guanghui expressed his deep frustration and hurt to Wen Xiaoyao, feeling that after eighteen years of raising Xiaomi, he was less important to her than someone she had only known for two days. He referred to Lian Cuihua as a "wolf" who had even fought his two friends.
Wen Xiaoyao comforted Qiao Guanghui, assuring him that he was always the most important person to both her and Xiaomi, and promising that she, Wen Xiaoyao, would not get married without his approval. Later that evening, while Shi Diandian was showering, the power suddenly went out. Startled, she heard someone knocking at her door. Frightened, she called Xu Tian, explaining the power outage, the knocking, and her inability to see who was outside.
He instructed her to stay put and assured her he was coming immediately. Xu Tian quickly packed his luggage, intending to move into Shi Diandian's apartment. On his way there, he met Wen Xiaoyao downstairs. He told her about his plan to become roommates with Shi Diandian, admitting they hadn't fully agreed yet. He asked if she could watch his luggage for him briefly in case he needed to move it back out if Shi Diandian refused. Wen Xiaoyao agreed.
Xu Tian then gave her two qipaos and a photo he had brought from Hangzhou. He explained that his mother had made the qipaos for Wen Xiaoyao's mother over twenty years ago, and the photo was of her mother and himself, with Wen Xiaoyao visible in her mother's belly. He mentioned he had intended to give them to her sooner but forgot. After asking if he could have the photo back later, he headed upstairs.
As Xu Tian arrived at Shi Diandian's door, the property manager was already there. The manager explained he was delivering the electricity card Shi Diandian had charged earlier but accidentally left at the property office, which was the reason for the power outage. He confirmed the card was inside her door. Shi Diandian retrieved the card, restoring the power. She mentioned her hot water had run out during her shower.
Xu Tian, having brought his multi-cooker, offered to help by heating water for her hair. He used the appliance to boil water. After providing her with hot water, he reiterated his proposal to live together as roommates, splitting the rent, while he would help her find a job during the day and cook for her at night. He confidently stated, "So it's settled then." Overcome, Shi Diandian responded by kissing him, accepting his proposal.
Xu Tian went back downstairs to get his luggage from Wen Xiaoyao. He excitedly shared that Shi Diandian had agreed to be roommates and had just kissed him, something that had never happened before. He expressed his overwhelming happiness, feeling that he had been foolish previously and that this new beginning felt wonderful. Wen Xiaoyao commented that she envied Shi Diandian.
Xu Tian clarified that this was a new Shi Diandian and he had also become a new person, suggesting that his old self wasn't good enough, which was why the past Shi Diandian wanted to forget him. Wen Xiaoyao reflected that she and Zhou Tong had also made mistakes and were also starting over in their own way. Xu Tian apologized, realizing he might have brought up painful memories for her.
Wen Xiaoyao assured him it wasn't his fault and asked where Zhou Tong was buried. Xu Tian told her he was buried at Babaoshan and that he planned to take Shi Diandian to visit Mrs. Song the next day and then visit Zhou Tong's grave together. Wen Xiaoyao asked if she could keep the photo overnight, and Xu Tian agreed. He then asked Wen Xiaoyao if she would ever dance the role of White Snake again.
Wen Xiaoyao shared that dancing White Snake reminded her of Zhou Tong. Xu Tian reminded her that her mother, Teacher Jia Sulan, stopped performing White Snake not due to romance, but because she was pregnant with Wen Xiaoyao. He encouraged her to keep dancing the role for her mother, adding that Zhou Tong would certainly want her to continue dancing happily. He spoke of the wonderful, magical transformation of performing on stage.
Wen Xiaoyao felt the performance itself was too short, to which Xu Tian responded that a person's life was also very short. Wen Xiaoyao noted that Xu Tian was becoming more and more like Zhou Tong. Xu Tian realized Shi Diandian was waiting for him and said he should go. He returned upstairs and greeted Shi Diandian, wishing her goodnight.
Episode 28 Recap
Life's journey continues, and Wen Xiaoyao's friend, who she calls Little Ears, invites Qiaomi to join her in wandering far away. Little Ears emphasizes freedom, suggesting they could go anywhere, with her singing and Qiaomi dancing, making happiness under the open sky. Qiaomi expresses hesitation, worried about her father, Wen Xiaoyao, and giving up her ballet career.
Little Ears dismisses these concerns, believing Qiaomi can leave them behind for love and for "us," describing free love as beautiful but also acknowledging it might fade. Despite finding Little Ears' bluntness understandable, Qiaomi finds the idea unreliable but still believes in it somehow. Little Ears announces they will leave for Yunnan from West Railway Station at 10 AM the next day, telling Qiaomi she won't need any luggage.
Qiaomi voices her doubt that she could truly abandon her loved ones and the stage, but Little Ears confirms the plan regardless. Back home, Qiaomi asks Wen Xiaoyao if Zhou Tong ever spoke about leaving to wander. Wen Xiaoyao says the opposite is true; after meeting her, Zhou Tong decided he didn't want to wander anymore and wanted to settle down with her in Beijing.
Wen Xiaoyao then presents Qiaomi with a qipao that belonged to her mother, explaining she has one for each of them. Meanwhile, Xu Tian helps Diandian prepare for a job interview by going over common HR questions he found online.
They practice answers to questions about why she chose the company, why they should hire her (she says honestly, because she needs to pay rent), her personal qualities (she calls herself ordinary, but Xu Tian calls her the prettiest), and her motto. When asked about her family, Xu Tian suggests she include him, adding "Dad, mom, you, and me" to her answer.
Later, at a coffee shop, after buying drinks, Diandian suddenly tells Xu Tian they didn't pay and urges him to run. Unwilling to do anything wrong, Xu Tian returns to the shop and finds out Diandian had paid, realizing she simply played a prank on him. Diandian is later heard on the phone with her mother, saying she's doing well in Beijing and has made new friends, ending the call as Xu Tian appears.
The next day, Qiao Guanghui drives Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao to West Railway Station. Qiao Guanghui speaks dramatically, warning that if Qiaomi leaves with "that guy," he will confront him aggressively, even facing prison, to protect her, while still emphasizing his love for Wen Xiaoyao too. As Qiaomi exits the vehicle, stating her intention to go to Yunnan, Wen Xiaoyao calmly tells Qiao Guanghui that Qiaomi isn't actually leaving because she brought no luggage.
They decide to drive around the block and return for her. Qiaomi speaks to Little Ears, suggesting she will be fine once she matures. Little Ears asks if Qiaomi isn't coming, and Qiaomi says she will wait for Little Ears to stop wandering and take her home. Little Ears counters that they may never meet again, not because of distance, but because their hearts have drifted apart. Little Ears professes her love, which Qiaomi finds simultaneously unreliable and believable.
After they part, Wen Xiaoyao finds Qiaomi and confronts Little Ears, accusing her of hurting Qiaomi and calling her harmful. Wen Xiaoyao states she and Qiaomi are like one person and dismisses Little Ears' view that sometimes one must let go to gain something else. Qiao Guanghui picks up Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao.
Qiao Guanghui, clearly stressed, later complains to Wen Xiaoyao about his work troubles, including a recent talk with Director Yang about the need to support younger artists like Yang Yun, who wants to dance and choreograph, feeling overwhelmed by the demands and the irony that one of his lead performers almost left the troupe. Wen Xiaoyao dismisses his complaints as predictable petty problems. Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao decide to take the subway home.
On the subway ride, Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao share their saddest moments, including Wen Xiaoyao's sorrow over her mother's departure and Qiaomi's grief over Zhou Tong and complex feelings involving Xu Tian. Wen Xiaoyao admits she is still heartbroken about Little Ears despite seeing no future with her. Qiaomi expresses a sudden urge to dance, realizing she feels this way when she is sad as well as happy.
Wen Xiaoyao gives Qiaomi a gift, telling her it's from Little Ears and she should open it when she gets home. Diandian has successfully secured the job she interviewed for, sharing details of the salary and benefits. Xu Tian asks if she plans to return to Hangzhou, being from the south. Diandian asks his plans, and he replies that he will be wherever she is, stating that location doesn't matter as long as they are together, which makes her happy.
Passing a flower shop, the owner suggests Xu Tian buy Diandian flowers, noting how happy they look. Xu Tian declines, mentioning he's never bought flowers, but Diandian finds them beautiful and goes inside to choose a bouquet herself. She asks Xu Tian when he started liking her, and he says it was when they first met on the street, feeling a connection like meeting an old friend, even though he is a man.
Diandian then asks to film him, remarking that they look like the characters White Snake and Xiaoqing in the human world. In the ballet studio, Yin is assisting Yang Yun, who seems to be dealing with a physical issue, possibly a back injury. Yin gives Yang Yun a massage. Wen Xiaoyao and Qiaomi arrive intending to practice but apologize for interrupting Yang Yun and Yin, initially trying to leave.
Yang Yun stops them and suggests Wen Xiaoyao try the role of White Snake in 'Jinse'. Wen Xiaoyao is hesitant, saying she doesn't know the choreography, but Yang Yun encourages her to just imagine the characters White Snake and Xiaoqing and dance based on her own interpretation and feeling. Diandian and Xu Tian are in a taxi on their way home, Diandian holding a pillow they purchased.
Xu Tian asks if they should tell her mother about their living arrangement, clarifying they are just roommates. He then reveals he is an orphan and now considers Diandian his only family. Diandian tells him that despite the sadness of that, she doesn't feel sad having met him. Upon arriving, Diandian, also holding a bouquet, asks the driver to wait a moment as she wants to stand with Xu Tian a little longer.
After their visit, presumably to Zhou Tong's grave, Qiaomi and Wen Xiaoyao discuss Zhou Tong's thoughts on individuality and the idea that no two people are the same, concluding they should try to be happier. Impatient to know what's inside, Qiaomi opens the gift Wen Xiaoyao had given her from Little Ears. It is a beautiful wind chime. Holding the wind chime, Qiaomi starts dancing, visibly cheered. Wen Xiaoyao is happy to see her friend's spirits lifted.
They briefly talk about Little Ears being on a train to Yunnan and sending a photo, and Wen Xiaoyao admits she is heartbroken by her feelings for her, reaffirming their bond and mutual dependence. Mr. Song is reviewing the financial state of the space operated by Xi, noting the lack of profit and the need to update equipment amidst competition. Recognizing Xi's hard work and considering her family, Mr. Song decides to waive the rent to help her.
Qiao Guanghui arrives and, seeing their discussion, proposes a different business structure. He suggests Xi continue to operate, Mr. Song provide the space as an asset, and Qiao Guanghui act as the investor, covering all costs like rent, utilities, and equipment upgrades, describing himself as a wealthy individual with money to spare. He proposes they become equal partners, splitting profits while he absorbs any losses, which Mr. Song agrees to after Xi expresses her surprise at the offer.
Qiao Guanghui then suggests expanding this plan to the second floor, converting it into a ballet arts training center. Leveraging his position as a sponsor of the ballet company, he outlines plans to attract students, gain official recognition, and even have the recently retired Zhao Gang teach there, positioning it as a place to train future talent for the ballet company. Mr. Song acknowledges Qiao Guanghui's business sense.
Qiao Guanghui insists he's not doing it solely for business but because he can't bear to see Mr. Song struggling. He envisions a successful operation that allows Mr. Song to enjoy life on the third floor with hired staff. Mr. Song is skeptical, suspecting Qiao Guanghui is scheming, but Qiao Guanghui states his scheme is to have a good life with Mr. Song. A student named Tiantian approaches Qiao Guanghui about getting involved with the new dance group connection.
Qiao Guanghui offers her options, including becoming Master Zhao's assistant, which Tiantian eagerly accepts. As Mr. Song prepares for square dancing, Qiao Guanghui proposes a plan for the third floor as well, suggesting they create a map of all the places Zhou Tong traveled and retrace his steps by visiting them together.
When Mr. Song expresses regret that Zhou Tong never joined him for square dancing, Qiao Guanghui immediately calls Xu Tian, explaining they are good friends despite their age difference, and asks him to come urgently to the square dancing area, presumably to join Mr. Song.
Qiao Guanghui also mentions he will be meeting Zhao Gang there, who is upset about being forced into retirement by the bureau, and plans to clarify their new business arrangement to him, suggesting this pressure might help Zhao Gang rise again. Qiao Guanghui proposes they draft a contract to formalize the new partnership structure for the space.
Episode 29 (Ending) Recap
Yang Yun is busy overseeing preparations for the ballet performance, asking about Xiaoyao and Joey who were in the dressing room. She learns Xiaoyao left, causing Joey to look for her. Xu Tian is running late, so a ticket is left for him at the front desk. He arrives and retrieves the ticket. Old Shi, who is with Xu Tian, is enthusiastic about the performance.
He takes pictures with the principal dancers, Xiaoyao and Joey, and then captures a photo of Xu Tian, Xiaoyao, and Joey together. During the performance, Xu Tian sits with two tickets, leaving the seat beside him empty initially. Shi Diandian arrives later and takes the seat next to him. The ballet captivates the audience. Separately, Zhao Gang waits in a plaza at Qiao Guanghui's instruction.
He becomes frustrated when Qiao Guanghui and Song Guanwang arrive late and attempts to leave, but Qiao Guanghui stops him. Xu Tian and Shi Diandian also join them at the plaza. Xu Tian spontaneously runs into the crowd to dance, while Shi Diandian talks with Song Guanwang. Song Guanwang tells Shi Diandian that relationships aren't easy and advises her to treat Xu Tian well. Later, Xu Tian joins Song Guanwang.
Song Guanwang remarks that he reminds her of her son and tells him to find happiness with Shi Diandian. Qiao Guanghui announces publicly that he and Song Guanwang are officially together. He then challenges Zhao Gang to dance as a way to celebrate. Zhao Gang is initially reluctant, finding the idea demeaning, but eventually embraces the performance wholeheartedly, drawing everyone's attention as Qiao Guanghui cheers him on.
As Xu Tian and Shi Diandian prepare to leave, Song Guanwang tells Xu Tian that Shi Diandian remembered her instantly. This leads Xu Tian to suspect that Shi Diandian never actually lost her memory regarding him either. During their drive home, Xu Tian presses Shi Diandian, asking if she remembered or if she never forgot in the first place.
Shi Diandian responds evasively, suggesting that meeting him was both fortunate and unfortunate because they had met before, and she seemingly forgot. She implies that not forgetting is the real issue and makes comments about whether he likes the version of her from the past three days. Xu Tian directly asks if she hasn't forgotten anything and if she came to Beijing specifically to find him.
She doesn't give a direct answer but hints that she feels he has divided her into two people and implies her "old self" has returned. Shi Diandian gets out of the car before Xu Tian and goes into the building first. Inside their home, Shi Diandian is visibly anxious as she waits for Xu Tian. She calls someone she refers to as "Mom" and confesses her fear of losing Xu Tian forever.
She reveals that when Xu Tian first arrived in Beijing, she had decided to forget him, but awoke the next day remembering everything. She admits she came to Beijing and planned everything deliberately because she didn't want to lose him. However, she worries that Xu Tian only likes the person she's been for the past three days and that he, like herself, dislikes the "old" Shi Diandian. Later, Xu Tian arrives home carrying a cake.
Shi Diandian seems flustered and starts tidying up. Xu Tian surprises her by turning off the lights and lighting candles, revealing he was late because he went to buy a cake for her birthday. Shi Diandian makes a wish by the candlelight, reflecting on how meeting Xu Tian brought color into her life.
As they share the cake, she confesses the truth: she remembers everything, including their journey to Beijing to find Zhou Tong and her worry about Wen Xiaoyao, which led her to pretend to forget and call Wen Xiaoyao to Beijing. She admits she wished she "could" forget, but couldn't bear the thought of losing him.
Xu Tian reassures her, telling her she doesn't need to overthink things and that he loves both the person she was before and the person she is now. Some time afterward, Xu Tian visits Zhou Tong's grave. He updates his friend, sharing that Wen Xiaoyao and Joey are now starring dancers in the ballet company's new show and dance beautifully. He mentions that Song Guanwang is happily together with Mr. Qiao and that they are both doing well.
Xu Tian tells Zhou Tong that he has married Shi Diandian. He reflects on how they, two individuals who grew up without mothers, have found mutual support and genuine love with each other, and that they are going to be alright.
