Use for My Talent Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Use for My Talent Synopsis
Gu Renqi lives an isolated and closed life because of his dysfunctional family and has a fetish for cleanliness.
Shi Shuangjiao has a beautiful family but suffered a car accident, loses her mother, and has been unkempt ever since.
These two person who does not fit in, become the same cleaning company’s superiors and subordinates, just like a pair of a happy couple.
After getting to know each other in the workplace, they begin to sympathize with each other.
Under the influence of Gu Renqi, Shi Shuangjiao gradually overcomes the pain of losing her mother and faces herself again, and their relationship gradually heats up.
One day, Shi Shuangjiao learned that her mother’s death was not an accident, but the culprit might be Gu Renqi’s grandfather.
Gu Renqi is plunged into guilt and breaks up with Shi Shuangjiao.
Gu Renqi cooperates with the police investigation and discovers that the perpetrator of the accident was the Gu family’s driver and Gu Renqi’s grandfather was framed by the driver.
The misunderstanding is solved, Shi Shuangjiao and Gu Renqi get back together.
They realize that a clean and positive mind is the key to a better life.
Gu Renqi changes himself and becomes a young man who can embrace life.
They grow and bring the high-end cleaning service into the homes of ordinary people together, becoming the hygiene guards of thousands of households and regaining their dreams and values in life.
Use for My Talent Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Shi Shuangjiao, a sweet and lively fresh graduate, diligently balances several part-time jobs to help her father, Shi Yingxiong, support their family. Her father, a sanitation worker, keeps the streets spotless but often leaves their home kitchen in disarray. Her younger brother, Shi Junjie, is repeating his college entrance exams, making him the focus of the family's attention, although Shi Shuangjiao often steps into a maternal role to supervise his studies.
Gu Renqi, the young and successful CEO of Kelin Zhishang, a cleaning company, suffers from extreme mysophobia. He is obsessed with modernizing all cleaning processes through robotics, believing machines are more efficient and reliable than humans. Shi Shuangjiao, who had applied to Kelin Zhishang, admired Gu Renqi after seeing him interviewed on television. His dedication to cleanliness meant daily disposable towels and immediate disinfection for any perceived contamination, even changing car washes if they didn't meet his standards.
One day, while racing to make a delivery, Shi Shuangjiao is knocked over by a group of children and accidentally puts her hands on Gu Renqi's car, leaving distinct handprints on the window. Overcome with disgust, Gu Renqi has his assistant, Li Dongxian, immediately take the car for a complete disinfection.
Later, Gu Renqi reluctantly goes on a blind date with news anchor Wang Qianqian, but his attention is fixated on a single dog hair on her collar, leading him to find an excuse and leave abruptly. As he exits the restaurant, Gu Renqi encounters Shi Shuangjiao, who is working as a server. Excited, she enthusiastically introduces herself, hoping to be hired by his company. However, Gu Renqi finds her "dirty" due to her messy appearance.
When she is about to sneeze, he quickly shoves a piece of bread into her mouth to block it and then flees in panic. Back home, Gu Renqi tests his latest robotic invention, the Top X series, when his mother unexpectedly arrives. She scolds him for abandoning his blind date and insists he reschedule, but Gu Renqi refuses, citing his busy schedule. He then notices his apartment door is ajar and realizes his Top X robot has escaped.
Meanwhile, Shi Shuangjiao, on a food delivery, finds the unpowered Top X robot near a trash bin. Mistaking it for discarded junk, she puts it into her large backpack. Gu Renqi rushes downstairs to search for his robot. Shi Shuangjiao mistakes him for her customer and approaches him with the food delivery, but in her haste, she bumps into him, spilling the contents. Gu Renqi’s mysophobia prevents him from helping her up.
Instead, he apologizes and places sterilized cash on the ground as compensation before leaving. Shi Shuangjiao finds his behavior peculiar compared to his suave television persona. Though initially disinclined to take the money, she picks it up after he leaves and calls the customer to apologize and arrange a new delivery. Concerned about his experimental Top X falling into competitors' hands, Gu Renqi raises the reward for its return to 50,000 yuan.
Shi Junjie sees the reward notice and realizes his sister has found the valuable item. He decides to secretly negotiate with Gu Renqi, keeping his sister in the dark. That evening, their father, Shi Yingxiong, is too intoxicated to work. Shi Shuangjiao and Shi Junjie play rock-paper-scissors to decide who will cover his shift. Shi Shuangjiao intentionally loses, knowing her brother always throws rock, allowing her to take the shift so he can stay home to study.
While collecting trash, Shi Shuangjiao is hit by a discarded can thrown by a young man. She angrily confronts him but is mortified to see her school senior, Liu Make, approaching with the man's group. Embarrassed, she grabs a paper mouse head from a trash can, puts it on, and attempts to flee, only to crash into Gu Renqi's car, which is parked nearby for the planned robot exchange. Her trash spills everywhere, with some landing on his pristine vehicle.
Enraged, Gu Renqi puts on disposable gloves, confronts her, and pulls off her headpiece. During the struggle, Shi Shuangjiao accidentally presses him against his car, and a bead of sweat from her nose falls into his mouth. Gu Renqi recoils in disgust. Humiliated, Shi Shuangjiao defiantly leaves her contact information, promising to cover the repair costs. Shi Junjie, having witnessed the incident, perceives Gu Renqi as a bully and refuses to return the robot, blocking Gu Renqi's contact.
Gu Renqi later reviews the building's surveillance footage from the night Top X went missing and spots Shi Shuangjiao. Recalling their multiple encounters, he begins to suspect she is intentionally trying to approach him. The next day, as Shi Shuangjiao prepares to apologize, Li Dongxian arrives with a jaw-dropping bill of 5,000 yuan for the car cleaning. As she expresses her disbelief, Gu Renqi appears from inside the car and immediately asks about the Top X robot.
Episode 2 Recap
When Gu Renqi exited his car, he demanded Shi Shuangjiao return his robotic vacuum cleaner, offering to waive the repair costs and pay the full reward. Shi Shuangjiao was confused until Gu Renqi showed her a phone number, accusing her of being part of a group fraud with Shi Junjie as her accomplice. Recognizing her brother's number, Shi Shuangjiao insisted she had found the robot, not stolen it, and promised to return it intact.
She asserted that despite the difference in their positions, her integrity was not to be questioned or intimidated. Upon returning home, Shi Shuangjiao furiously confronted Shi Junjie, beating him until her best friend, Zhu Yan, intervened. Later, Shi Shuangjiao accepted a live-streaming eating job from her senior. The food was extremely spicy, but despite her sensitive stomach, she ate a large amount to not let him down.
However, while vomiting in the restroom, she overheard her senior boasting to a colleague about how he had underpaid her, calling her desperate for money and easy to dismiss with a few hundred yuan. Feigning ignorance, Shi Shuangjiao left after informing her senior that she had found a permanent job and would no longer work for him. Meanwhile, upon learning that HR had approved Shi Shuangjiao's hiring, Gu Renqi went to the department to demand they rescind the offer.
He planned to dissolve the manual cleaning department in favor of a fully automated system. However, Uncle Jin, the head of HR and a long-time colleague of Gu Renqi's grandfather, disagreed, arguing that machines could not replace human connection. Citing a prior three-month agreement, Gu Renqi conceded but declared that if the department failed to generate profit within that period, it would be disbanded, a challenge Uncle Jin accepted.
Gu Renqi’s obsession with machine-like perfection and his severe germophobia stemmed from his grandfather’s strict upbringing. His grandfather would criticize anything less than a perfect score, calling him a "dirty" and "useless thing," and had forced him to study business management over his interest in AI, fueling Gu Renqi's desire to replace human workers.
Shi Shuangjiao returned the robotic vacuum cleaner to Gu Renqi, along with the two hundred yuan she had earned, promising to repay the car repair costs gradually. Gu Renqi accepted the robot with visible disgust, immediately spraying it with disinfectant. At that moment, Shi Shuangjiao fainted from stomach pain. Gu Renqi reluctantly took her to the hospital, covering his car seats and her face with disposable disinfectant towels, showcasing his extreme aversion.
At the hospital, Gu Renqi was repeatedly mistaken for Shi Shuangjiao's boyfriend by nurses. Forced to handle her admission, he wore a protective mask and disposable gloves, demanding other patients maintain a significant distance, which led them to suspect he had a contagious disease. While searching for her ID, he found a photo of a mother and daughter in her wallet, which stirred an unfamiliar feeling of warmth in him. Her friend Zhu Yan later arrived to take her home.
Sometime after, Shi Shuangjiao had a humorous misunderstanding with her new neighbor, Lu Xian, whom she mistook for a motorcycle taxi driver. Meanwhile, seeking revenge for his sister, Shi Junjie smeared feces on the roof of Gu Renqi's car. Fortunately, Li Dongxian discovered and cleaned it before Gu Renqi saw it, though Gu Renqi still detected a faint, unsettling odor in the car. On her first day at work, Shi Shuangjiao organized her desk, placing a family photo on it.
When Gu Renqi arrived, a foul smell permeated the office, which he traced to something he had stepped on. Disgusted, he threw the shoe away and went to his private office to change. Unaware, Shi Shuangjiao entered to thank him for the hospital trip. Both were flustered, but she casually tried to ease his embarrassment by mentioning that the men in her family often walked around shirtless.
As she left, she pointed out that he had misbuttoned his shirt, and he rejected her offer to clean his shoe. Later, while washing his hands, Gu Renqi overheard colleagues gossiping about him ironically stepping in trash. When the person exited the restroom, he saw it was Shi Shuangjiao, wearing headphones. This strengthened his suspicion that she was deliberately orchestrating these events, including her fainting spell.
He was about to call HR to fire her but remembered the three-month agreement with Uncle Jin. When the celebrity Wang Qianqian arrived for an interview, Gu Renqi, seeing Shi Shuangjiao cleaning his office, made pointed remarks about people who use deceitful means to get ahead and his disdain for those who expect to gain without effort. Shi Shuangjiao, however, seemed completely absorbed in her work and oblivious to his comments.
Later, while she was cleaning outside a laboratory, Gu Renqi observed her from inside. He accidentally stepped on a mechanism that caused a glass barrier to retract. Startled by his sudden appearance, Shi Shuangjiao stumbled backward and fell into a bucket of water.
Episode 3 Recap
Shi Shuangjiao began her work in the Manual Cleaning Department, where she quickly encountered an unexpected situation after falling into a bucket of water. Gu Renqi instructed Hu You to help her, emphasizing that work in the Manual Cleaning Department required constant attention to sudden occurrences and deeming her initial performance substandard. Shi Shuangjiao acknowledged his words, promising to be more careful.
As she cleaned, Hu You from the R&D Department introduced himself and then introduced her to Wu Yu from the Technical Department, noting that Wu Yu was usually silent, living up to his name. Despite finding Gu Renqi a bit strange, Shi Shuangjiao felt her new colleagues were quite friendly. As she finished her first day, she overheard a colleague remarking how happy one would be to have her as a roommate.
On her way home, Shi Shuangjiao witnessed another girl crying as she left Lu Xian’s place, seemingly ending their relationship. When Lu Xian then appeared, playfully asking why Shi Shuangjiao hadn't waited for him to pick her up, she scornfully called him a playboy. She explained that she had seen a different girl crying at his house just two days prior, solidifying her belief that he was a scoundrel.
Lu Xian tried to rationalize his behavior with a "forget the old lover for a new one" theory, which Shi Shuangjiao dismissed as typical "playboy logic." She threatened to make sure her brother, Shi Junjie, stayed away from him. In response, Lu Xian confronted her about working as a cleaner, threatening to expose her secret to her father and Shi Junjie if she dared to reveal his own exploits.
Later, at Shi Shuangjiao's home, Lu Xian, who had been invited by her father, expressed his loneliness and declared his intention to often join them for meals, promising to take on chores in exchange. Shi Shuangjiao teased him about the constant stream of different girls visiting him daily, while her father served them a unique "Mung Bean Crayfish" dish, praising its nutritional value. Shi Shuangjiao, however, mockingly called it "dark cuisine," feeling their family was being "brainwashed."
Her father encouraged her to eat, noting her hard work. When asked about her job, Shi Shuangjiao claimed to be a sales representative at a technology company, implying it was easy work with good pay, avoiding the truth about her physically demanding job. Shi Junjie then threatened not to buy new textbooks if there wasn't enough money, prompting Shi Shuangjiao to tell him to focus on his college entrance exams.
Lu Xian, meanwhile, subtly probed Shi Shuangjiao's father about the pressures of sales work, hinting at his concern for her safety. After returning home and showering, Gu Renqi found his thoughts drifting to Shi Shuangjiao. He reflected on her presence, likening her to an unremovable "bunch of bacteria" yet admitting he was growing accustomed to her being around. He even found himself thinking of her and wanting to see her when alone, questioning what was happening to him.
The next day, Shi Shuangjiao arrived at the office to find colleagues distraught over a terrible smell emanating from a box of rotten oysters that someone had forgotten. Unfazed, Shi Shuangjiao calmly volunteered to clean it up. Her efficient work earned her praise, with colleagues suggesting she take on the department's most challenging "five-star" cleaning tasks. To secure these jobs, Shi Shuangjiao boldly claimed to have no sense of smell.
Gu Renqi, however, immediately challenged her, pointing out that she had enjoyed braised intestines previously. He asserted that a sensitive sense of smell was a fundamental requirement for a cleaner, crucial for distinguishing good items from bad. Shi Shuangjiao countered that lacking a sense of smell would allow her to handle "garbage without any psychological obstacles."
Gu Renqi, suspicious of her claim, stated that the company's philosophy was built on integrity and that any deception to gain projects or improve performance would result in immediate termination. After dismissing the other employees, he directly confronted Shi Shuangjiao, vowing to expose her lie. Gu Renqi relentlessly tried to test Shi Shuangjiao's supposed lack of smell. He first offered her an "extra meal" that turned out to be incredibly foul-smelling, causing her to flee.
Next, he deliberately dropped a sock, claiming it was from a tramp's feet and horribly smelly, asking her to pick it up and throw it away, which she did. Finally, he presented her with a fragrant chicken drumstick, challenging her to resist it if she truly had no sense of smell. Shi Shuangjiao, however, simply stated that while she had no sense of smell, she did have a strong appetite and chose the tastiest-looking item.
She then confronted him about his persistent "tricks." Despite the ordeal, when Lu Xian arrived to pick her up, colleagues commented on the strange smell emanating from Shi Shuangjiao. Lu Xian, putting a helmet on her, questioned if her nose was truly fine. Gu Renqi, observing them leave, pondered her actions, recalling her earlier declaration of wanting to pursue him and questioning her true intentions.
After enduring Gu Renqi's tests, Shi Shuangjiao headed home with Lu Xian, who offered his place for her to change and even washed her smelly clothes, assuring her he would keep her company's affairs secret. He then teased her, calling her a "sugarcane man" – sweet at first but all "scraps" when spit out. Gu Renqi, still fixated on Shi Shuangjiao, mused on her resilience and questioned her true motives.
Meanwhile, Shi Shuangjiao discovered Shi Junjie was working part-time instead of attending a supposed tutoring class. Enraged, she rushed out to confront him but twisted her ankle in her haste. Shi Junjie admitted his liberal arts grades were too poor for a second-tier university, so he was working to earn money, considering a junior college and early work experience.
Shi Shuangjiao, highlighting the sacrifices made for his education, implored him to focus on studying, even promising to help him with liberal arts. As she argued with her brother, Lu Xian appeared and chastised Shi Junjie for not being home. Zhu Yan, who was with Shi Junjie, intervened, trying to calm Shi Shuangjiao by claiming they were on a date.
However, Lu Xian pointed out Shi Shuangjiao's injured foot, and he then carried her back, playfully asking if she expected him to care for her indefinitely. Shortly after, Gu Renqi and Li Dongxian arrived at the scene, having been alerted to Shi Shuangjiao's location after she had abruptly hung up on Li Dongxian's call. Shi Shuangjiao, assuming they were there to make her work overtime, asked if she would receive triple pay.
Her brother, Shi Junjie, defended her, asserting that employees deserved rest and leaders shouldn't exploit them. Gu Renqi, observing Shi Shuangjiao's injured foot, sternly told her to go home and rest, adding that she shouldn't yell on the phone. Despite his stern words, Li Dongxian noticed Gu Renqi's unusually high level of concern for Shi Shuangjiao, a point Gu Renqi quickly denied, insisting he felt nothing for her.
Li Dongxian then probed further, asking if Gu Renqi's mysophobia had worsened and if he had contacted the psychologist Aunt Meihua had recommended, to which Gu Renqi told him to focus on driving. Back home, Lu Xian gently applied a compress to Shi Shuangjiao's injured foot.
He noted that Gu Renqi seemed to care about her, but Shi Shuangjiao dismissed him as an arrogant "megalomaniac and psycho," detailing his exaggerated obsession with cleanliness, his constant handwashing, and his strange fixation on her supposed lack of smell. Lu Xian then playfully asked her who was more handsome, him or Gu Renqi.
Shi Shuangjiao found the question amusing but eventually declared that while Lu Xian was indeed handsome, it was "useless to be handsome" if he behaved like a playboy, reminding him of the girls who cried leaving his house. That evening, Gu Renqi consulted his private psychologist, describing his newfound, unusual interest in a particular girl. He confessed to being fixated on her despite her "unrefined" lifestyle, admitting he often dreamed of her, even having nightmares.
The psychologist advised him to consciously limit contact, warning that his prolonged self-protection made him vulnerable, and a sudden intense connection could trigger a severe "rebound effect" on his mysophobia. The therapist reiterated that such intense focus on another person stemmed from either love or hate, a thought that weighed on Gu Renqi.
The next day at work, Gu Renqi couldn't help but continuously observe Shi Shuangjiao, a behavior that Li Dongxian noticed, even asking if the pain relief patch Gu Renqi bought that morning was for her. Gu Renqi, feigning indifference, claimed it was merely a leader's concern for an employee's well-being. At the office, Gu Renqi learned from Uncle Jin that Shi Shuangjiao was part of the team cleaning Guoyun Entertainment, prompting him to leave quickly.
Meanwhile, Liu Make, a senior from Shi Shuangjiao's past, tried to persuade her to participate in a live stream with popular host Wang Qianqian. Shi Shuangjiao firmly refused, stating she was on duty and liked her current job, also accusing Liu Make of privately taking a percentage from previous jobs he arranged for her. When she walked away, Liu Make, talking on the phone, complained about Shi Shuangjiao being "ungrateful."
Gu Renqi, overhearing this, confronted Liu Make and sprayed him with disinfectant. Later, Shi Shuangjiao had to return to Guoyun Entertainment. There, Liu Make again tried to coerce her into the live stream, falsely telling Wang Qianqian that Shi Shuangjiao had agreed and pressing her to nod in front of Gu Renqi. Gu Renqi, who was also present, had seen enough.
He asserted his authority as Shi Shuangjiao's superior, stating that while he would never prevent her from doing what she wanted, no one had the right to force her. He then dramatically pulled Shi Shuangjiao to his side, surprising Wang Qianqian given his known germophobia, and led her away, rejecting Liu Make’s proposal on her behalf. As they entered the elevator, it unexpectedly lurched, causing them to fall forward and their lips to accidentally meet.
Moments later, a stunned Wang Qianqian arrived and witnessed the intimate encounter. Flustered, Shi Shuangjiao quickly clarified to Gu Renqi that she had been loyal to the company and hadn't taken any private jobs since joining.
Episode 4 Recap
Following their accidental kiss at Guoyun Entertainment, spectators reacted with shock. Shi Shuangjiao immediately tried to explain she wasn't doing private work, but Gu Renqi, becoming agitated, collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. At the hospital, Shi Shuangjiao approached Gu Renqi's bedside to apologize again, but Wang Qianqian quickly intervened, telling her to leave. Wang Qianqian accused Shi Shuangjiao of crossing a line, highlighting Gu Renqi's well-known mysophobia, which causes him distress upon physical contact.
She angrily demanded that Shi Shuangjiao compensate for all medical and mental damages, as his hospitalization affected all company business. To give Gu Renqi some quiet, Li Dongxian stepped in to escort Wang Qianqian out. As he held her, he thoughtfully used his suit jacket to cover her short skirt. Before they left, he also warned her about the danger of rushing into an elevator.
Later, he drove her home on his motorcycle, and Wang Qianqian, initially surprised by his chivalry, found his thoughtfulness endearing. Feeling immense guilt, Shi Shuangjiao decided to make bone broth for Gu Renqi's recovery. She had her younger brother, Shi Junjie, taste-test the soup. Despite initially finding it unappetizing, he eventually declared it delicious, though Shi Shuangjiao suspected he was just comforting her. She sternly reminded him the broth was for Gu Renqi, as she felt responsible for his well-being.
As Shi Shuangjiao approached Gu Renqi's hospital room, she overheard his grandfather scolding him. His grandfather criticized Gu Renqi's management skills, suggesting he fire a reckless employee like Shi Shuangjiao and questioning his ability to run a company. He pushed Gu Renqi to recover and return to a "proper life path" befitting a grandson of the Gu family. After his grandfather left, Shi Shuangjiao entered with the soup.
Despite Gu Renqi's initial protest, she insisted on her responsibility and promised to bring broth daily until he recovered. Gu Renqi accepted the soup, and Shi Shuangjiao left after affectionately reminding him to drink it while it was hot. Later, alone, Gu Renqi pondered her kindness and called his psychologist, describing the accidental kiss and subsequent interactions, noting a lack of his usual adverse reactions.
The psychologist, however, advised him to maintain distance, warning that repeated contact without professional guidance could lead to a more severe stress response. Meanwhile, Gu Renqi's company, Kelin Zhishang, was in a precarious situation. Their major proposal for the Buju project, which Gu Renqi had worked on for over half a year, was at risk due to his injury.
He instructed Li Dongxian to request a postponement, but upon overhearing this, Shi Shuangjiao learned that competitors could seize the opportunity if they delayed. She promptly gathered Li Dongxian, Wu Yu, and Hu You, rallying them to secure the project in Gu Renqi's absence. The team proceeded to the Buju Group's offices, discreetly observed by rival CEO Jiang Wenchi. While waiting, Hu You and Wu Yu suffered from stomach issues after eating refreshments and rushed to the restroom.
Subsequently, Li Dongxian was stopped by security and denied entry to the high-security office area due to a past criminal record. With her team incapacitated, the responsibility fell solely on Shi Shuangjiao. She nervously began her presentation, introducing herself as a cleaning staff member and struggling to articulate the company's sensor technology. Just as board members began to question her, Gu Renqi dramatically arrived, apologizing for his delay.
He seamlessly took over, using his injury and her forgotten words as examples of human fallibility to reinforce the benefits of Kelin Zhishang's intelligent cleaning machines. Shi Shuangjiao expertly assisted him by operating the presentation. Afterward, Gu Renqi encountered Jiang Wenchi, who cynically commented on Gu Renqi's privileged upbringing. Gu Renqi countered that Kelin Zhishang was built without his family's money and urged Jiang to use his talents ethically.
As Shi Shuangjiao returned to retrieve a forgotten USB drive, they found the elevator out of order and took the stairs. In a dimly lit stairwell, an unknown assailant threw a bucket of dirty water at them. Shi Shuangjiao, without hesitation, shielded Gu Renqi, taking the full splash herself. Her immediate concern was whether he had been splattered. For the first time, Gu Renqi took off his own suit jacket and draped it over her soiled clothes.
In the parking lot, as Li Dongxian instinctively reached for a disposable cover for the car seat, Gu Renqi stopped him. Inside the car, Gu Renqi meticulously wiped the dirty water from Shi Shuangjiao's hair and even picked off a stray vegetable leaf, much to Li Dongxian's astonishment. They drove Shi Shuangjiao home, where they were met by her neighbor, Lu Xian.
Seeing her drenched state, Lu Xian protectively pulled her to his side and confronted Gu Renqi, questioning why she had to suffer such indignities for her job. Gu Renqi firmly stated that it was an internal company matter and that he would ensure justice for his employee. Lu Xian retorted that it was "easy for Mr. Gu to say so," highlighting the disparity in their perspectives.
Episode 5 Recap
Following the splashing incident, Lu Xian quickly comes to Shi Shuangjiao's aid, insisting on taking her away to get cleaned up. Gu Renqi asserts that as her leader, he will seek justice for his employee and that an outsider like Lu Xian need not interfere. Lu Xian, frustrated, argues that delaying only makes Shuangjiao more uncomfortable.
After helping Shuangjiao dry her hair and ensuring she drinks ginger soup, Lu Xian cautions her about Gu Renqi, calling him "abnormal" and advising her to limit contact with him. Shuangjiao defends her boss, noting Lu Xian has only met him a few times. Gu Renqi soon returns with new clothes for Shuangjiao, declaring them compensation for a work injury. This sparks another terse exchange between the two men, both insisting the other should leave, before they finally depart together.
Gu Renqi has chosen a white dress for Shuangjiao, leaving a note that the color suits her and a warning not to get it dirty. The next morning, Shuangjiao arrives at work in the pristine dress. Lu Xian initially praises its beauty, but upon learning Gu Renqi bought it, he quickly dismisses the dress as "just so-so," asserting that Shuangjiao herself is far prettier. Hu You is captivated, calling her a "hidden flower" he'd never noticed before.
Li Dongxian, however, prefers her previous flowered dress and advises her to improve her aesthetic sense. When Gu Renqi sees Shuangjiao, he notices a loose thread on her neck and gently removes it. Later, he has Li Dongxian buy him bone soup from a specific shop but is repulsed by the smell, wondering if his adverse reactions are now specific only to things "not" associated with Shuangjiao.
When Shuangjiao returns his borrowed clothes, freshly washed and ironed, he not only accepts them but also wears the shirt. Shortly after, Shuangjiao requests leave to "meet a very important person." Gu Renqi, who had hoped she was about to ask him out, is dismayed and mutters to himself about being "foolishly sentimental." Shuangjiao's "very important person" is her mother; she is visiting her grave on her birthday with her favorite chestnut cake.
She confides in her mother about her father's improving health, Shi Junjie's upcoming college entrance exam, and her own anxieties about her department potentially being dissolved. Elsewhere, Shi Junjie waits for Zhu Yan outside her home, seeking comfort. Later, at Shuangjiao’s house, Lu Xian helps her retrieve an item from a high shelf, joking about her height.
This simple act triggers an epiphany for Shuangjiao: her difficult client, the former tennis player Li Chao, is in a wheelchair, and his frustration likely stems from objects being placed inconveniently out of his reach. Energized, she rushes back to the company, where Uncle Jin praises her insightful solution. Gu Renqi, about to leave, spots her returning and quickly retreats to his office. There, he takes her water cup to test if he is now "immune" to others' belongings.
He drinks from it without issue and takes it home. That evening, Gu Renqi's mother visits unexpectedly and casually drinks from the cup Shuangjiao used. She insists he watch a program featuring Wang Qianqian, where an expert discusses the psychology of love. The expert explains that being in love can impair judgment, make one cherish the beloved's trivial belongings, and lead to contradictory behavior—acting dismissive in person while secretly missing them and changing one's own habits.
Gu Renqi dismisses it all as "nonsense," but his uncomfortable reactions suggest otherwise. Meanwhile, Shi Junjie, suffering from "pre-exam syndrome," confides his feelings of uselessness to Zhu Yan. When the power goes out, he expertly fixes the lights, and Zhu Yan sees him in a new, admirable light. The next morning, as Zhu Yan drives a nervous Junjie to his exam, he asks for a "lucky charm."
She gives him a comforting hug, which he calls his "talisman," leaving her with a new, profound feeling. Believing she has the perfect solution for Li Chao, Shuangjiao presents him with a detailed cleaning plan tailored to his needs. However, Li Chao furiously rejects it, accusing her of pity and telling her to get out. His refusal results in a formal complaint against the cleaning department, worrying her colleagues that it will hasten their department's elimination.
Shuangjiao takes full responsibility and promises to explain everything to Gu Renqi. While cleaning the office, she overhears Li Dongxian telling Gu Renqi that, based on the TV program's signs, he has fallen for Shuangjiao. Gu Renqi vehemently denies it, claiming he only watches her to find faults and fire her, asserting she joined the company with "impure motives." Unable to listen anymore, Shuangjiao stands up and confronts him directly, asking if he truly wants to fire her that badly.
Episode 6 Recap
Li Dongxian observed Gu Renqi's recent intense focus on Shi Shuangjiao, suggesting Gu Renqi had fallen for her based on a TV program's "law" that eager denials indicate deep feelings. Gu Renqi adamantly refuted this, claiming he only monitored Shi Shuangjiao to find grounds for dismissal, believing she had impure motives for joining the company. Shi Shuangjiao, overhearing this, tearfully admitted her poverty and love for money.
She acknowledged she might appear untidy in his eyes but stressed she was striving for a decent life in her own way and questioned why he wanted to drive her away. She apologized for bothering him and left, leaving Gu Renqi feeling an unexpected sense of loss. He called out to her, attempting to clarify that he did not genuinely intend to fire her.
Later that day, Shi Shuangjiao returned home, where her family and friends, including Lu Xian and Zhu Yan, had prepared fireworks and a feast to celebrate her brother Shi Junjie's completion of his college entrance exams. Despite the joyous atmosphere, Shi Shuangjiao remained withdrawn, dismissing her teary eyes as irritation from a stray piece of confetti. Shi Junjie, looking remarkably mature in a borrowed suit, was celebrated as an adult entering a "wonderful adult world."
Haunted by Gu Renqi's words, Shi Shuangjiao internally reaffirmed to herself that she earned money solely through her own efforts and simply desired a respectable life. As evening fell, Gu Renqi went to the manual cleaning department looking for Shi Shuangjiao, but Li Dongxian informed him she had already clocked out. Li Dongxian then questioned the sincerity of Gu Renqi's earlier words to Shi Shuangjiao, to which Gu Renqi dejectedly replied that the truth no longer mattered.
Meanwhile, after the party, Shi Junjie walked Zhu Yan home. He playfully startled her and then embraced her from behind, comforting her by promising he would never let her feel tired. Zhu Yan, though flustered, tried to maintain her composure. Back at Shi Shuangjiao's home, Lu Xian helped clean up and inadvertently touched a book her mother had left unfinished. Shi Shuangjiao reminisced about how her mischievous childhood with her brother often prevented her "superwoman" mother from finishing books.
She lamented her own struggles, feeling disliked and constantly facing setbacks at work. Lu Xian consoled her, urging her not to underestimate herself and reminding her that her efforts had supported Shi Junjie's path to college. He expressed that her mother would surely want her to be happy. This conversation sparked a realization in Shi Shuangjiao; she understood her mother would see her as a "loser" if she gave up.
Asserting her resilience, Shi Shuangjiao resolved to fight back against Gu Renqi, whom she dramatically likened to the oppressive landlord Huang Shiren from a classic story, vowing to "fight him to the very end." The next morning, Gu Renqi was pleased to see Shi Shuangjiao at the company and tried to explain himself, but she ignored him and launched her retaliation.
She slyly placed a foul-smelling sock in Gu Renqi's suit pocket, which he unknowingly pulled out during a meeting, mistaking it for a handkerchief. Later, she sprayed a noxious odor in the changing room. Frustrated by Shi Shuangjiao's persistent avoidance, Gu Renqi decided to create an opportunity to speak with her. He called Uncle Jin, requesting Shi Shuangjiao be sent to clean his office under the pretense of it being dirty.
To his disappointment, Shi Shuangjiao was out on fieldwork, and Sister Wang was sent instead, finding his office already spotless. Separately, Wang Qianqian, frustrated by Gu Renqi's continued indifference, met with Mr. Jiang. Mr. Jiang cordially invited her to host his company's program, recognizing her as the "Top 1 of Guoyun." Later, Wang Qianqian confronted Mark, a junior colleague and Shi Shuangjiao's schoolmate, criticizing him for unprofessionally bringing Shi Shuangjiao in for a previous program and causing issues.
She refused to sign his regularization form. Subsequently, Wang Qianqian met Li Dongxian at a fried chicken shop, expressing her anger over Gu Renqi's behavior. Li Dongxian, who admitted to watching her live streams and admiring her dog, showed clear adoration for her. When paparazzi suddenly appeared, Wang Qianqian grabbed Li Dongxian's bucket of fried chicken and fled. Li Dongxian hid her, confronted the photographers, and ensured their pictures were deleted.
Upon returning, he found Wang Qianqian had devoured all the chicken. That evening, Gu Renqi couldn't stop thinking about Shi Shuangjiao. He received a call from Li Dongxian, who was at a hot pot dinner with Wu Yu and other colleagues. They were playing a "civil" version of the card game "Fight the Landlord," where each person took turns listing complaints about Gu Renqi – his obsession with cleanliness, his intimidating demeanor, his strictness, and his cryptic communication style.
Li Dongxian then received another call from Gu Renqi, who asked to be picked up early the next morning. After the call, the mood shifted. Wu Yu began defending Gu Renqi, praising him for his mentorship, for sharing credit for patents, and for treating everyone equally regardless of their past or status. The others agreed, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to the company, causing Li Dongxian to reconsider his own perceptions of his boss.
Later, Gu Renqi placed a bottle of milk on Shi Shuangjiao's desk as a silent apology. Moments later, Shi Shuangjiao returned from an outing, also carrying a bottle of milk. Seeing Gu Renqi's office light on, she placed her milk on his desk as a peace offering. When Gu Renqi returned to his office and saw the milk, he mistakenly assumed Shi Shuangjiao had returned his apology gift, believing she was still angry.
At the same time, Shi Shuangjiao saw the milk on her desk and drew the same conclusion. They then confronted each other in the hallway, both holding the milk they thought had been rejected, and simultaneously questioned why the other had returned it, leading to a humorous misunderstanding.
Episode 7 Recap
Following their misunderstanding, Shi Shuangjiao and Gu Renqi coincidentally bring milkshakes for each other, clearing the air as they both work late. Shi Shuangjiao offers Gu Renqi dumplings her father made. Despite claiming not to be hungry, he eats them with relish, even feeding one to her. Observing her cheerful demeanor, Gu Renqi admits that his earlier misunderstandings were likely his fault, a sentiment his Uncle Jin had shared with him.
Later, as Gu Renqi's stomach audibly growls, Shi Shuangjiao insists he eat more of the dumplings. Shi Shuangjiao shares her frustration about her proposal for an athlete client, which failed despite her efforts. Gu Renqi points out that her solutions, like lowering storage shelf height, could inadvertently highlight the athlete's disability and feel like pity, which can be a form of discrimination.
He explains that the athlete, whose career ended due to an accident, likely misses sports and doesn't want to be treated as helpless. Instead, he suggests increasing the demands on the athlete to make him feel involved, needed, and capable. Impressed by Gu Renqi's newfound empathy, Shi Shuangjiao agrees with his perspective. The next day, Shi Shuangjiao revisits the athlete's home.
Despite his resistance and an elderly woman's attempts to send her away, Shi Shuangjiao begins cleaning and enlists the athlete's help, challenging his pride by asking if a tennis player like him lacks strength. When he complains about having to help, she argues that cooperation will speed up the process. She encourages him to try, asserting he has the ability and isn't disabled. Revealing she was also an athlete, she reminds him of their "never admit defeat" spirit.
Her words resonate with him, and he begins to help with the cleaning. While trying to buy strawberry milkshakes, Shi Shuangjiao is told they aren't for sale but are free for her as a "lucky customer." Unbeknownst to her, Gu Renqi had purchased the store's entire stock, showed the staff her photo—describing her as "not tall, very cute, and with a sweet smile"—and instructed them to give the milkshakes to her for free under any pretext.
The staff, charmed by his romantic gesture, comment on the sweetness of "office romance." Elsewhere, Zhu Yan accompanies Shi Junjie on a photoshoot and notices how much he has matured. When they run into his classmates, they mistake Zhu Yan for his girlfriend. She clarifies that she is his sister's childhood friend who watched him grow up. They all go out for a meal, where Shi Junjie, goaded by his friends, starts drinking beer despite Zhu Yan's disapproval.
Later, heavily intoxicated, he grabs Zhu Yan, rejects her "sister" role, confesses his feelings for her, and forcibly kisses her. Shocked, Zhu Yan pushes him away and leaves. Back at the office, a power outage occurs while Gu Renqi and Shi Shuangjiao are working. Shi Shuangjiao explains she must leave immediately to grab a shared bike before they're all taken, as taxis are too expensive.
Disappointed when Gu Renqi only tells her to go home early instead of offering a raise, she leaves. However, Gu Renqi secretly goes to the bus stop and tries to save a bike for her, even pretending one is broken to deter others. Shi Shuangjiao arrives on a bike her brother lent her. Feigning that his car is being repaired, Gu Renqi acts surprised to see her. Realizing he can't ride a bicycle, she offers him a ride.
As she pedals, he helps push with his feet on uphill sections. The lie is later exposed when a colleague, Li Dongxian, reveals Gu Renqi's car is in perfect condition. Upon returning to the office, Shi Shuangjiao, now aware of Gu Renqi's scheme but playing along, joyfully presents him with a milkshake, claiming she "won" another one. Gu Renqi accepts it, preoccupied. Li Dongxian reveals that the BG Group project has been awarded to a company run by Jiang Wenchi.
Unwilling to accept defeat, Shi Shuangjiao and her colleagues devise a "combat plan" to confront BG Group's Mr. Lin. Gu Renqi rejects their over-the-top plan, showing them that Jiang Wenchi's proposal is nearly identical to theirs, proving their plan was stolen. Li Dongxian locates Mr. Lin at a KTV. Shi Shuangjiao rushes there and confronts Mr. Lin and Jiang Wenchi's associate, Liu Make, accusing them of plagiarism. An angry Liu Make shoves her to the ground.
Gu Renqi arrives, helps her up, and escorts her away. Outside, he explains that a direct confrontation would only embarrass Mr. Lin and that such business matters aren't so straightforward. He reveals that Jiang Wenchi is a former employee who left over philosophical differences and that while their plan can be stolen, the talent within their company cannot be. Hearing Gu Renqi's stomach growl, Shi Shuangjiao insists on taking him to her home for dinner.
There, her father, Shi Yingxiong, and brother, Shi Junjie, welcome him warmly. Gu Renqi, used to a sterile environment, appears uneasy. Lu Xian arrives and provokes Gu Renqi, suggesting the home-cooked meal is beneath him. Undeterred, Gu Renqi joins the dinner. Lu Xian needles Gu Renqi about raising Shi Shuangjiao's salary, to which Gu Renqi calmly replies he ensures the best for his employees. The banter continues until Shi Yingxiong gets drunk and vomits. As Shi Shuangjiao cleans up, Lu Xian subtly blocks Gu Renqi from helping. The evening concludes with Lu Xian asking Gu Renqi for a private conversation.
Episode 8 Recap
Following their dinner at Shi Shuangjiao's home, Lu Xian pulls Gu Renqi aside for a private conversation. He formally introduces himself as Daniel Lu, Gu Renqi's psychiatrist, revealing that Gu Renqi's symptoms are worsening. Lu Xian advises him against close physical contact with Shi Shuangjiao to prevent more severe stress reactions. Feeling deceived, Gu Renqi expresses his distrust and decides to terminate their treatment sessions. Lu Xian warns that without trust, his condition will spiral.
He then probes Gu Renqi about his unique immunity to Shi Shuangjiao, questioning whether he is drawn to her simply because she doesn't trigger his mysophobia, or if he genuinely likes her as a person. Lu Xian emphasizes that failing to clarify this would be a form of exploitation and would ultimately hurt her. Gu Renqi convenes a high-level company meeting to address financial issues, including a lost order.
He requests ten more days to secure new business before a vote is held on the manual cleaning department's future. Simultaneously, a manipulated video from weeks prior, showing Gu Renqi appearing disgusted by Shi Shuangjiao in her sanitation worker uniform, goes viral. The video sparks public outrage, with netizens accusing him of capitalist bullying. A concerned Shi Shuangjiao rushes to Gu Renqi before his meeting and grabs his arm.
Li Dongxian instinctively moves to spray disinfectant, but Gu Renqi stops him and calmly reassures Shuangjiao that the company will handle it. Meanwhile, Jiang Wenchi, the orchestrator of the smear campaign, meets with Wang Qianqian under the guise of business. He shows her a photo of Gu Renqi and Shi Shuangjiao, implying Gu Renqi is not worthy of her, but she dismisses his attempts to meddle in her personal life.
Later, Wang Qianqian starts a live stream to defend Gu Renqi, but she is met with hostility from online trolls. One user threatens her, claiming to know where she lives. Alarmed, Li Dongxian, who was watching the stream, rushes to protect her. He finds her being pursued by the stalker and is stabbed in the arm while defending her. Afterward, a grateful Wang Qianqian tends to Li Dongxian’s wound.
He boasts about his first-aid skills, learned as a captain of a wilderness survival club in college. Charmed, Wang Qianqian playfully asks him to pick her up the next morning, an offer he enthusiastically accepts. Feeling responsible for the negative publicity, Shi Shuangjiao decides to record a video to clarify the situation, even donning the mouse headwear she wore in the original video to prove her identity. As she practices her speech, Gu Renqi appears.
He notes how cute she looks when she's flustered and encourages her to relax more, then spontaneously kisses her on the forehead. Elsewhere, Shi Junjie confides in Lu Xian about his unrequited feelings for Zhu Yan. Lu Xian advises him to use the "exposure effect," suggesting he frequently appear at the coffee shop near Zhu Yan’s office to build familiarity. Shi Junjie takes the advice to heart and gets a job at the coffee shop.
Gu Renqi's kiss leaves Shi Shuangjiao distracted at work, causing her to break lab equipment. She confronts Gu Renqi, who explains his action by saying, "Because I don't dislike you." When Li Dongxian enters, Shi Shuangjiao impulsively asks if Gu Renqi dislikes him, to which Gu Renqi says no, leaving her more confused. Later, Shi Junjie finds his sister acting strangely and she asks him a hypothetical question about a sudden kiss.
He advises her to be patient and let the man be the one to confess his feelings. The next day, Shi Shuangjiao is disappointed to find Gu Renqi absent from work. Uncle Jin then assigns her the "difficult task" of cleaning Gu Renqi's house, as his cleaning robot is broken and he specifically requested her. While cleaning, she finds a childhood photo of Gu Renqi and remarks aloud how handsome he was.
Gu Renqi, having entered unnoticed, startles her and catches her as she stumbles. He playfully asks if she was speaking ill of him, and she deflects by complimenting his clothes. As she moves to clean the kitchen, Gu Renqi rushes to shut a cabinet door, hiding the drinking cup of hers that he had secretly kept. Meanwhile, Zhu Yan visits the coffee shop and is surprised to see Shi Junjie working there. He persuades her to stay by offering to make her a free latte, hoping to create more opportunities to see her.
Episode 9 Recap
As Shi Shuangjiao prepares to wash dishes in Gu Renqi's home, he, fearing she might discover the cup of hers he secretly kept, hastily fabricates a story about having no water and a broken faucet. He claims he had to clean with mineral water and urges her to leave early, but Shi Shuangjiao is confused by his insistence.
On her way home, Shi Shuangjiao is intercepted by Lu Xian, who offers her ice cream and questions her loyalty to Kelin Zhishang, citing her complaints about Gu Renqi and the stress of hiding her job from her father, Shi Yingxiong. Lu Xian offers her a higher-paying position, but Shi Shuangjiao refuses, explaining that the company is in financial trouble and she wants to help.
She teasingly calls him a "vagrant," to which he clarifies that he is a psychologist and the women visiting his home are clients. Taking the opportunity, Shi Shuangjiao asks if a man would kiss a woman he doesn't like and then pretend it never happened. Before he can answer, she dismisses the thought, convinced Gu Renqi could not like her, and brushes off Lu Xian's reassurances as mere flirting.
The next day, Shi Shuangjiao is delighted to see Gu Renqi in a blue suit, a color she had once recommended for him. He coldly dismisses her compliment, claiming his other clothes are at the dry cleaner's, though his assistant later whispers to Shi Shuangjiao that he has five other suits available. Shortly after, Gu Renqi instructs his assistant to process Shi Shuangjiao's promotion to a full-time employee.
Her happiness is short-lived, however, as she overhears Gu Renqi’s mother, Meihua, discussing an arranged lunch for him with Wang Qianqian. Meihua praises his blue suit, assuming he dressed up for the date. Gu Renqi agrees to go, stating he has something to discuss with Wang Qianqian, leaving a disappointed Shi Shuangjiao to conclude she had been overthinking his gestures.
At the lunch, Gu Renqi thanks Wang Qianqian for her support, but she clarifies she has no romantic interest in him and considers them better as friends. She also mentions that Li Dongxian saved her from an attacker, considering any debt settled. Pleased, Gu Renqi instructs Li Dongxian to gift Wang Qianqian a large selection of the company's cleaning products.
As Li Dongxian is carrying the gifts, he runs into Shi Shuangjiao and confirms they are for Wang Qianqian, adding that Gu Renqi wore the blue suit specifically for the lunch date, deepening her disappointment. Meanwhile, Lu Xian plans to pick up Shi Shuangjiao, but her father, Shi Yingxiong, insists on joining to get a key and see her workplace. To protect Shi Shuangjiao’s secret, Lu Xian feigns a broken motorcycle, but her father insists they take a taxi.
At the office, they find Shi Shuangjiao cleaning. Lu Xian quickly embraces her, using his jacket to hide her uniform. Shi Yingxiong misinterprets the scene as them dating and gives his blessing. Gu Renqi witnesses the entire exchange and is visibly unsettled. Later, Zhu Yan sees Shi Junjie talking with another girl at his coffee shop and leaves, feeling betrayed. Shi Junjie, seeing her depart, is equally frustrated, mistakenly believing she already has a boyfriend.
Elsewhere, a troubled Shi Shuangjiao confronts Gu Renqi, accusing him of toying with her feelings by kissing her while pursuing Wang Qianqian. Still upset from what he witnessed, Gu Renqi retorts by questioning her own relationship with Lu Xian. Shi Shuangjiao clarifies they are just friends, which seems to surprise him. Shi Shuangjiao confides in Zhu Yan, who suggests the situation might be a misunderstanding.
When Shi Junjie arrives, Shi Shuangjiao asks his opinion on whether pure friendship can exist between men and women. Looking pointedly at Zhu Yan, he declares it's impossible after acts of intimacy like kissing, and that the relationship can only move forward from there. Meanwhile, while Li Dongxian demonstrates a voice-controlled robot for Wang Qianqian, it identifies them as "Mr. and Mrs. Li." When she later slips while pouring water, she falls into his arms.
At that moment, Gu Renqi calls, telling Li Dongxian to fire his "incompetent" psychologist and find a new one. Later, Gu Renqi calls Shi Shuangjiao while she is practicing a rap song with a client. Hearing her shout "Don't come here!" repeatedly, he panics—thinking she is in danger—and rushes to her location, breaking down the door and injuring his hand, only to find her safe. After compensating the client, he drives her away.
In the car, she remarks on his impulsiveness and says that the bone broth she made for his previous injury would be wasted if he keeps getting hurt. Surprised she made the soup, Gu Renqi listens as she explains that Lu Xian was her taste-tester. Instantly jealous, he criticizes the soup as greasy and poorly made.
Angered, Shi Shuangjiao tells him to ask his "girlfriend" Wang Qianqian to cook for him, declares she won't do anything extra for him anymore, and gets out of the car. Separately, Jiang Wenchi corners Wang Qianqian at a bar and deceptively offers her a drink, claiming it's juice, while ominously telling her she won't be able to refuse him.
At the same time, Meihua calls Li Dongxian, complaining about her son's passivity, and instructs him to deliver a gift to Wang Qianqian on Gu Renqi's behalf to feign his affection.
Episode 10 Recap
Li Dongxian arrived to find Jiang Wenchi attempting to take the unconscious Wang Qianqian. He confronted Jiang Wenchi, demanding he release her. Li Dongxian questioned if Gu Renqi had sent Jiang Wenchi, calling him Gu Renqi's "dog." Li Dongxian asserted that Wang Qianqian had asked him to take her home, but Jiang Wenchi retorted that Wang Qianqian was his girlfriend and he could take her himself.
Jiang Wenchi then provoked Li Dongxian, challenging him to strike him and threatening him with another three years in prison, implying he might not see his grandmother again. Angered, Li Dongxian punched Jiang Wenchi and took Wang Qianqian back to his home. The next morning, Wang Qianqian woke up, confused about her whereabouts. Li Dongxian explained she had been drunk and mistaken his place for her own, and that he had slept on the couch.
Wang Qianqian expressed deep regret about her judgment, realizing Jiang Wenchi was a "jerk." Meanwhile, Shi Junjie, Shi Shuangjiao, their father Shi Yingxiong, and Zhu Yan were discussing Shi Junjie's future major. After considering options like Civil Engineering, Finance, and Mechanics, Shi Junjie declared his decision to study at a Normal University to become a teacher and support his family. Shi Shuangjiao, having become a regular employee, offered to cover his expenses, but Shi Junjie insisted on taking responsibility.
Shi Yingxiong chimed in, stating the family's burden was still his. Zhu Yan generously offered her savings for Shi Junjie’s education, an offer the Shi family politely declined. A recent incident, where Gu Renqi had entered a client's home believing Shi Shuangjiao was in danger, was distorted by rumors. News spread that Gu Renqi had trespassed and falsely accused a client of sexual harassment, damaging the company's reputation.
Frustrated that this negative news was suppressed, Jiang Wenchi instructed an underling to investigate someone's background, promising a promotion in return for loyalty and discretion. Internally, Gu Renqi and Li Dongxian discussed the leak, concluding that such sensitive information could only have come from within the company. Gu Renqi expressed his complete trust in Li Dongxian and tasked him with identifying the "traitor."
Later, Shi Shuangjiao approached Li Dongxian, expressing her desire to take responsibility for the negative publicity, as it stemmed from the incident involving her. Gu Renqi overheard and intervened, telling her that if she truly wished to help, she should focus on her own job and not meddle in other matters. The board of directors held a vote and unanimously decided to abolish the Manual Cleaning Department.
Gu Renqi offered Shi Shuangjiao a transfer to another department, but she declined, choosing to leave with her colleagues. While finishing her work, an athlete she had previously helped arrived with a banner to thank her. He credited her for inspiring him to do more housework and train harder, mentioning he might even participate in the Paralympics. He also expressed surprise that the company would let such a good employee go.
Shi Shuangjiao showed him an old, stolen proposal that was now useless. As Shi Shuangjiao left with her belongings, Gu Renqi followed her home. Unable to control his feelings, he hugged her, expressing his reluctance for her to leave. He then sarcastically congratulated her on finding love with Lu Xian and escaping a "malicious boss." Shi Shuangjiao denied viewing him as such and admitted that, as an employee, she liked him very much.
Pleased, Gu Renqi replied that, as a leader, he also liked an employee like her. Shi Shuangjiao then admonished him, stating that since he had a girlfriend like Wang Qianqian, he should stop saying things that could be misunderstood. Gu Renqi retorted, questioning why she would mislead other men if she was dating Lu Xian, and clarified that he and Wang Qianqian were not a couple.
Shi Shuangjiao explained she had never been in love with Lu Xian and had only pretended to be to hide her cleaning job from her father. Just then, Shi Yingxiong emerged, having overheard their conversation. Furious about being lied to, he grabbed a broom and chased a fleeing Shi Shuangjiao, while Gu Renqi couldn't help but smile. To expose the mole, Gu Renqi and Li Dongxian set a trap.
They pretended to prepare for a crucial financing meeting, intentionally printing a "wrong version" of the proposal. When Li Dongxian left, the secretary, who offered to help, secretly called Liu Mark to confirm the leak and ask about her payment. Later, Gu Renqi confronted her, revealing the meeting was a ruse. The secretary confessed, admitting her actions were driven by credit card debt.
Gu Renqi instructed her to warn Liu Mark and his associates to stop their schemes, or he would retaliate. It was later revealed that the athlete client was the son of the BG Group's president. Following a news report about a corrupt executive at BG Group being fired, the athlete helped facilitate the renewal of the partnership between BG Group and Kelin Zhishang.
The company lauded Shi Shuangjiao for her contribution, and Gu Renqi, observing her empty seat, went to find her. He encountered Lu Xian, who told him to leave Shi Shuangjiao alone, stating her previous job only brought her pain and vowing to take care of her himself. Gu Renqi countered that Lu Xian was also unqualified to offer her pity, as Shi Shuangjiao had always been the one helping others. Meanwhile, Meihua visited Wang Qianqian, worried about Gu Renqi.
Wang Qianqian reassured her that he was improving and could now hold hands with someone. Meihua, assuming it was with Wang Qianqian, was shocked to learn it was someone else and advised her that love is selfish. Wang Qianqian clarified her feelings for Gu Renqi were admiration, not love. Meihua then found Shi Shuangjiao and offered her a live-in housekeeper position for her son, whom she described as a "young and talented" man with a "cleanliness obsession and many problems."
Promising triple the salary and her full support, Meihua persuaded a hesitant Shi Shuangjiao to accept the offer. Gu Renqi meticulously arranged his clothes, striving to look his best for Shi Shuangjiao’s arrival. As Shi Shuangjiao prepared for her "business trip," her family expressed their concerns. Lu Xian promised to look after her father and brother. He gave her a power bank as a gift, hoping they could stay in constant contact. As Lu Xian briefly stepped away, Shi Shuangjiao's car arrived, and she departed. Upon arriving at Gu Renqi's residence, she formally introduced herself as his new live-in housekeeper.
Episode 11 Recap
Shi Shuangjiao arrived at Gu Renqi's home, introducing herself as the new live-in cleaner. Gu Renqi greeted her but immediately insisted on a strict full-body disinfection and shoe change. He then offered her water, observing her intently as she drank. Noticing her small luggage, he remarked that she must not plan to stay long.
He quickly corrected himself, emphasizing that she would likely be staying for a long time, as she would be responsible for his entire household, just as Dongxian managed his company affairs. He then launched into a detailed explanation of his rigorous "thirty-point law" for house cleaning. This included strict daily disinfection protocols, high-temperature sterilization of tableware, and detailed cleaning instructions for every surface and hidden corner.
He also outlined how clothes should be washed, organized, and covered, and that bathroom fixtures needed disinfection every six hours, presenting her with a printed table for daily sign-ins. Finally, he commented that her current attire was unsuitable and surprised her with a new set of home clothes that fit her perfectly, much to her surprise and Gu Renqi's own delight. Meanwhile, Shi Junjie confided in Lu Xian during his lunch break, fixated on whether Zhu Yan liked him.
Shi Junjie desperately sought Lu Xian's advice, believing him to be a "lady-killer" due to the constant presence of women around him, whom Lu Xian clarified were merely clients. Lu Xian, a psychological consultant, insisted he didn't do "emotional counseling," but Shi Junjie pleaded for help, convinced that Lu Xian's experience with many cases could guide him. Back at his house, Gu Renqi researched online how to determine if someone liked him, focusing on a test involving eye contact.
He then went to the kitchen where Shi Shuangjiao was chopping chili peppers. Feigning a need for water, he instructed her to always keep her phone with her and reply to notifications within three minutes. As Shi Shuangjiao’s eyes began to sting from the chili, she flailed and accidentally knocked over a bowl of flower petals, which rained down on them. Gu Renqi was momentarily captivated, recalling his research that prolonged eye contact signaled affection.
However, the test also stated that if the person kept staring, it meant there was dirt on his face. When Shi Shuangjiao apologized and clarified she was just trying to pick petals off his face, Gu Renqi's hopes were crushed. Annoyed, he chided her for leaving "rubbish" on the table and left the kitchen. Shi Shuangjiao later called Zhu Yan, describing Gu Renqi's increasingly strange behavior and wondering if he might like her.
Zhu Yan dismissed the idea, suggesting Gu Renqi was merely bored. When Shi Shuangjiao countered with examples like him wiping her face, Zhu Yan speculated that his condition might have worsened, making Shi Shuangjiao worry about her ability to keep the job. Later, Shi Junjie took Zhu Yan and a high school classmate named Lulu to the movies. Shi Junjie openly doted on Lulu, to Zhu Yan's irritation.
Lulu provocatively called Zhu Yan "sister" and then asked if "auntie" was more appropriate. When Zhu Yan commented on Lulu's short dress, Lulu retorted by asking if Zhu Yan was wearing long underwear, implying she was old-fashioned. Meanwhile, Wang Qianqian and Li Dongxian also finished watching a movie. Wang Qianqian was crying, moved by the film's romance. When Li Dongxian said movies were fake, she accused him of not understanding love.
He responded with a line from a song, "Men should not make women cry," and promised he wouldn't make a girl he liked cry. She then playfully accused him of making her cry right then, before bursting into laughter. Outside the cinema, Shi Junjie gave his coat to a shivering Lulu. When Lulu asked him to take her home, claiming her streetlights were out, an annoyed Zhu Yan abruptly left on her own.
Shi Junjie, frustrated, wondered if Lu Xian’s advice had backfired. Later, Li Dongxian, after dropping off Wang Qianqian, visited Gu Renqi's house. The visit was preceded by an awkward shopping trip where Gu Renqi himself decided to purchase a set of "couple pajamas" for him and Shi Shuangjiao, leading a sales assistant to mistake them for a couple.
Back at Gu Renqi's home, after he gave Shi Shuangjiao a lengthy lecture on washing all newly purchased items, she emerged from the bathroom wearing the new pajamas. Li Dongxian arrived at that exact moment and saw her, immediately jumping to the conclusion that they were a couple who had just been intimate. He quickly apologized for disturbing them and tried to flee. Shi Shuangjiao's attempt to clarify that she was "working" was lost on him as he retreated.
After Li Dongxian left, Gu Renqi advanced on a retreating Shi Shuangjiao, cornering her against the sofa until she ducked under his arm and fled to her room, heart pounding. Gu Renqi mused to himself, wondering if he had "gone too far." That night, Shi Shuangjiao dreamt of Gu Renqi confessing his feelings and kissing her. She was woken by a call from her father, Shi Yingxiong, with Lu Xian by his side.
When they asked about her life in Beijing, Shi Shuangjiao lied, claiming the weather was lovely and she was about to go out, before hastily ending the call. Moments later, a TV weather forecast announced heavy rain and thunderstorms in Beijing. Realizing she had lied, a suspicious Lu Xian went to her former workplace and discovered she had recently resigned, solidifying his concern. Soon after, Lu Xian appeared unannounced at Gu Renqi's house.
Shi Shuangjiao apologized for hiding her new job and pleaded with him to keep it a secret from her father. Lu Xian agreed on one condition: he would stay. Gu Renqi objected, but Lu Xian, identifying himself as Gu Renqi’s former psychological consultant, insisted on staying to monitor Gu Renqi's health and ensure Shi Shuangjiao's safety. To prove Gu Renqi's recovery was incomplete, Lu Xian proposed a test, with Shi Shuangjiao as the scorer.
Gu Renqi failed after Shi Shuangjiao corrected his answers about his daily habits and Lu Xian noted his compulsive behaviors and hesitation. Shi Shuangjiao concurred, revealing she knew Gu Renqi secretly re-tidied her room every night and still frequently used disinfectant. When Gu Renqi adamantly refused Lu Xian as his consultant, Lu Xian implied it was because his presence would disrupt his developing relationship with Shi Shuangjiao. Stung by the accusation and not wanting to appear afraid, Gu Renqi agreed to let Lu Xian stay for one week, challenging the consultant to cure him.
Episode 12 Recap
Following his previous encounter with Lu Xian, Gu Renqi is presented with a comprehensive desensitization plan. Lu Xian explains that it requires changes in daily habits, detailing strict rules such as showers not exceeding fifteen minutes and flushing the toilet no more than twice per visit. Feeling targeted, Gu Renqi questions if Lu Xian is intentionally making things difficult. However, Shi Shuangjiao intervenes, praising the plan as practical and manageable, assuring Gu Renqi he can handle such minor adjustments.
Wanting to prove himself, Gu Renqi agrees. Lu Xian then declares Shi Shuangjiao the referee but mandates that Gu Renqi must maintain distance from her, as his "immunity" to her presence means she cannot be part of the exercises. He suggests Gu Renqi train with him instead. Gu Renqi immediately declines, but Lu Xian argues that if Gu Renqi can become desensitized to someone he dislikes, it would signify true improvement.
Shi Shuangjiao supports this logic, urging Gu Renqi to cooperate. At dinner, Lu Xian strategically sits next to Gu Renqi for "desensitization training." When Gu Renqi tries to push him away, Lu Xian insists on the training, threatening to prolong his stay if Gu Renqi doesn't comply. He presents Gu Renqi with braised pig intestine and warns him not to vomit, or the day's training will be a failure.
Encouraged by Shi Shuangjiao, who calls the dish tasty, Gu Renqi reluctantly eats it. When Lu Xian then remarks that the dish is a favorite of both his and Shi Shuangjiao's, Gu Renqi's demeanor changes. He quickly claims the dish is delicious and not at all a challenge, competing with Lu Xian for it. Concerned Gu Renqi might feel unwell, Shi Shuangjiao later brings him porridge.
He initially feigns disinterest, but when she offers it to Lu Xian instead, Gu Renqi immediately stops her and eagerly accepts the bowl. He praises its taste and insists that she save the entire pot for him. Zhu Yan visits the coffee shop where Shi Junjie works. He gives her an upgraded coffee and some sweets, remarking that his "sister" enjoys them when she's upset.
Zhu Yan, stating she isn't angry, advises him to focus on his own girlfriend and not send messages to other girls. As she leaves, a flustered Shi Junjie follows after her. Gu Renqi notices Shi Shuangjiao washing dishes without gloves and warns her that the dish soap could harm her hands. He becomes flustered, reminding himself of his desensitization training. Just then, Lu Xian approaches, asserting his professionalism.
Gu Renqi counters that training with both of them separately might be more effective. He then observes Shi Shuangjiao blushing and asks why. Before she can answer, Lu Xian interrupts by firmly grasping Gu Renqi's hands, offering to help him desensitize "in one go." As the two men struggle, Shi Shuangjiao excuses herself to get back to work. Gu Renqi instructs Li Dongxian to buy a women's hand cream.
Unsure of what to get, Li Dongxian calls Wang Qianqian for advice. Assuming it is for her, Wang Qianqian happily suggests a brand, saying the thought is what counts. However, when Li Dongxian reveals it's for another woman at Gu Renqi's request, her mood sours, and she angrily tells him never to ask her for such advice again.
Gu Renqi leaves the hand cream for Shi Shuangjiao with a note, instructing her to apply it twice daily and threatening to deduct her salary if she doesn't finish it. The next day, as he prepares to leave for work, he overhears Shi Shuangjiao and Lu Xian making plans to visit a new burger shop. Annoyed, Gu Renqi abruptly decides to work from home.
While they prepare lunch, Gu Renqi and Lu Xian compete to assist Shi Shuangjiao, bickering over whose egg beater is better until she, frustrated, opts to use chopsticks instead. Shi Shuangjiao receives a call from Zhu Yan, who presents a hypothetical situation about a "friend" who likes a boy but is afraid to confess, especially now that another girl is in the picture.
Shi Shuangjiao advises her friend to be brave and express her feelings directly, reasoning that it's better to risk rejection than live with regret. Nearby, Gu Renqi and Lu Xian are visibly engrossed in her conversation. During a dinner date, Li Dongxian uses Wang Qianqian as an excuse to fend off an unwelcome acquaintance. He apologizes, but she reassures him she understands. Their meal is cut short by an urgent call that sends Li Dongxian rushing to a nursing home.
Wang Qianqian insists on driving him. They arrive to find his grandmother ill and her room in disarray. As Li Dongxian tends to her, Wang Qianqian offers him a wipe but instinctively recoils from touching his hand. Sensing her discomfort, Li Dongxian asks her to wait in the hallway. When someone then carelessly discards a bucket of foul-smelling waste nearby, he instinctively pulls her into an embrace, urging her to leave quickly. Gu Renqi's mother pays an unexpected visit.
After noting his improved condition, which she credits to Shi Shuangjiao, she suggests that Gu Renqi should dismiss her once he is fully recovered. He immediately objects, explaining that his consultant says he still requires training with Shi Shuangjiao. His mother presses him, asking what reason he could possibly have to keep Shi Shuangjiao by his side once his treatment is complete, leaving him to ponder her words.
Shi Shuangjiao gazes sadly at a brochure featuring a chestnut cake, explaining to Lu Xian that it was her and her late mother's favorite. Seeing her sorrow, Lu Xian goes out to buy one for her. At the shop, he recalls Shi Shuangjiao's earlier advice to confess one's feelings before the opportunity is lost and asks for a card to write a message.
Meanwhile, Gu Renqi drives home, preoccupied with his mother's question about what reason he will have to keep Shi Shuangjiao around. Lu Xian presents the cake to a delighted Shi Shuangjiao before excusing himself to take a client call. As she unwraps the cake, the card with Lu Xian's message slips out and falls to the floor unnoticed.
The taste of the cake transports her to a cherished memory of her mother lovingly baking one for her, promising to always make her favorite foods. Overwhelmed by memories, Shi Shuangjiao curls up in a corner and weeps. Gu Renqi returns home and, hearing her sobs, rushes to her side. He embraces her tightly, and she cries that she misses her mother. Misunderstanding, he suggests she go home to visit her, but she reveals that her mother has passed away.
Realizing his mistake, Gu Renqi apologizes and pulls her closer, comforting her tenderly. Distracted by thoughts of Shi Junjie, Zhu Yan makes mistakes while playing the piano. Annoyed by his persistent messages, she turns off her phone, only for him to appear at her door. When he tries to playfully pull her into a piano duet, she accuses him of two-timing and dismisses him as a childish joker.
She declares that she needs a reliable man, not a boy, and orders him to leave. Later, Shi Shuangjiao shares memories of her mother, describing her as a kind, optimistic woman who was like a "little sun" to their family. Gu Renqi tells her she is just like her mother and confesses that before meeting her, his world was cold, but she has become his "little sun." He takes her hands, and she mistakes it for another desensitization exercise.
He clarifies that his feelings are real, admitting he's never met a girl like her and has been trying to find ways to talk to her ever since they met. He confesses his clumsy attempts at teasing were due to his inexperience with romance and even admits to taking her porcelain cup, explaining that a "love expert" said that when in love, even a small item belonging to the beloved becomes precious.
He tells her his actions were not born of dislike, but because he genuinely likes her. Stunned by his confession, Shi Shuangjiao is speechless as Gu Renqi leans in and kisses her. She reciprocates, her mind replaying their moments together. Unseen, Lu Xian, who had been observing from a distance, quietly departs, realizing his chance has passed. Emerging from the kiss, Gu Renqi asks if she likes him too. With a radiant smile, Shi Shuangjiao replies, "I don't hate you." Understanding the affection behind her words, Gu Renqi breaks into a bright smile, and they embrace for another passionate kiss.
Episode 13 Recap
Following Gu Renqi's heartfelt confession, Shi Shuangjiao feels as if she is truly falling in love, a sensation she finds incredible. Having completed his week of "training" with Gu Renqi, Lu Xian sends him a message, urging him to treat Shi Shuangjiao well. Gu Renqi replies that ensuring Shi Shuangjiao's happiness is now the most important thing in his life. The next morning, Shi Shuangjiao wakes to find Gu Renqi beside her.
Believing she is dreaming, she playfully pinches his cheek, only for him to pinch her back, proving it's reality. Flustered, she hides under the covers. Gu Renqi, having already made breakfast, affectionately coaxes her out of bed and even accompanies her while she brushes her teeth, instructing her on the proper technique. Their morning radiates the warmth of a new romance. Meanwhile, Shi Junjie finds a dejected Lu Xian and assumes he is heartbroken.
Lu Xian clarifies that his affection for Shi Shuangjiao was a one-sided crush and not a real relationship. He explains that since Gu Renqi is the one who makes her happy, he will willingly step aside. Later, during a lie detector session Lu Xian designed, he tries to list Shi Shuangjiao's faults but finds he can only praise her kindness and enthusiasm, with the machine confirming his true feelings.
For Lu Xian, true affection means respecting a person's choices and giving without expecting anything in return. Later, Shi Shuangjiao discovers Gu Renqi's notebook filled with "sweet tips for romance"—his detailed strategies for winning her over. Amused, she reads his notes aloud, including plans to buy couple's items and even kiss during tooth brushing. A flustered Gu Renqi tries to snatch the notebook, leading to a playful chase that ends in a warm embrace.
During a live stream, Wang Qianqian addresses her admirer, confirming she is single and encouraging him to be brave and confess. She emphasizes that she values integrity and responsibility over superficial qualities. Watching this, a hopeful Li Dongxian prepares to go to her, but he is intercepted by the police. Jiang Wenchi had reported Li Dongxian for assault.
To protect Wang Qianqian's reputation from being dragged into the matter, Li Dongxian takes full responsibility for punching Jiang Wenchi over "unpleasant words," and accepts a seven-day detention. With Li Dongxian detained, Gu Renqi needs an assistant for an upcoming business trip, and Shi Shuangjiao volunteers to go. While packing, Gu Renqi prepares an extensive array of cleaning supplies.
He asks if she finds him troublesome, but she reassures him it's just a "special habit" and promises to help him overcome it. On the drive, Gu Renqi attempts to play classical music to seem sophisticated, as per his notes, but Shi Shuangjiao takes over the playlist, teasingly critiquing another singer while praising Gu Renqi's own vocal talents. At a rest stop, Shi Shuangjiao buys fried chicken and a hamburger.
Gu Renqi initially refuses the "dirty" food, but she distracts him by pointing at a plane and shoves a chicken leg in his mouth. To his surprise, he finds it acceptable. He then hesitantly eats the hamburger she gives him, making a visible effort to overcome his aversion. Upon arriving at their destination late at night, Shi Shuangjiao suggests staying overnight.
At the hotel, the receptionist assumes they are a couple needing one room, but Shuangjiao quickly clarifies they are on business and require two. However, Gu Renqi deems his room unsatisfactory due to its cleaning standards. When Shi Shuangjiao offers to switch, he refuses and pulls her into his room instead. He reveals he had anticipated this, having already disinfected the room for her, brought her favorite aromatherapy, and even packed his own bedding from home.
He then persuades her to watch a horror movie with him. During the film, he is visibly frightened, much to her amusement. Afterward, as a tired Shi Shuangjiao tries to leave, Gu Renqi stops her, insisting she stay in his room by making the excuse that her assigned room isn't clean enough.
Episode 14 Recap
After their movie night, Gu Renqi convinced Shi Shuangjiao to stay in his room by pulling her back as she tried to leave. The next morning, a concerned Shi Shuangjiao asked Gu Renqi if she snored or ground her teeth in her sleep. Gu Renqi playfully teased her before reassuring her that she had slept silently and looked very cute, adding that he wished to hold her like that forever.
He had also thoughtfully prepared breakfast, which Shi Shuangjiao found even more delicious when eaten with him. Later, Gu Renqi presented her with a freshly dry-cleaned shirt, claiming he had bought it because she didn't bring spare clothes and that his own matching shirt couldn't be sold separately as it was part of a set. He then suggested they visit an aquarium since it was the weekend, and Shi Shuangjiao readily agreed.
At the aquarium, they admired various sea creatures, including sharks and small yellow fish. Shi Shuangjiao asked Gu Renqi to take photos, but the results were disappointing, making her look short or capturing her with her eyes closed. A friendly staff member then offered to take their picture, instructing them to pose closer and form a heart with their hands, noting how good they looked in their matching outfits.
As they continued through the exhibit, Gu Renqi shared an analogy about jellyfish and "shepherd fish." He explained that jellyfish cannot live alone and must coexist with the shepherd fish, which helps them find food while the jellyfish provides protection. Only the shepherd fish can skillfully avoid the jellyfish's poisonous tentacles. He then affectionately told Shi Shuangjiao that he had finally found his own "shepherd fish." On their way back, Shi Shuangjiao fell asleep in the car.
To avoid disturbing her, Gu Renqi stepped out to call Uncle Jin and inquire about Li Dongxian. He learned that Li Dongxian had been detained for seven days following a fight and that Jiang Wenchi had been present at the scene. Gu Renqi decided he would visit Li Dongxian the following day. Unbeknownst to him, Shi Shuangjiao had woken up and overheard his conversation.
Upon arriving home, Gu Renqi revealed he had changed his door password to Shi Shuangjiao's birthday, much to her delight. However, when they entered, they found Gu Renqi's mother already inside, having used a backup key. Thinking she was there to disapprove, Shi Shuangjiao braced herself as his mother mentioned her previous offer of one million yuan for Shi Shuangjiao to leave her son.
But her feigned disapproval quickly melted away; she expressed how much Shi Shuangjiao had changed Gu Renqi for the better and praised her as a good person. Privately, she told Gu Renqi she was happy about his relationship but was concerned about how his grandfather would react. She alluded to her own past, which had disappointed her father, and the harsh upbringing Gu Renqi endured from his grandfather, who had once called him an "unsatisfactory dirty thing."
Later, Gu Renqi confronted Jiang Wenchi, warning him to stop targeting the people around him. Gu Renqi stated that he had investigated the incident with Li Dongxian and knew Jiang Wenchi had a doctor's report and surveillance footage showing Li Dongxian striking first. However, Gu Renqi countered that he had a witness to prove Li Dongxian was not the aggressor. Jiang Wenchi scoffed, doubting Wang Qianqian would testify for a driver with a criminal record.
Gu Renqi firmly stated that Li Dongxian was his friend and gave Jiang Wenchi his first and final warning not to cross his boundaries. Meanwhile, Shi Shuangjiao, having discovered a treatment plan left by Lu Xian, devised a strategy to help Gu Renqi overcome his mysophobia. The plan included steps like discarding disinfectant wipes and reducing handwashing, which Gu Renqi had already largely accomplished. The third step involved desensitization therapy in crowded places, for which she suggested an amusement park.
When Gu Renqi asked if the outing was a date or treatment, Shi Shuangjiao happily replied, "Both." Gu Renqi's grandfather learned of the relationship and, furious after seeing photos of the couple, confronted Gu Renqi's mother. He scolded her for her "unrestrained indulgence" of her son, accusing her of allowing Gu Renqi to bring shame to the family, just as she had with her own past relationship.
Deeply hurt, Gu Renqi's mother defended her past love as genuine and pleaded with her father not to interfere in her son's happiness. Unable to sway his daughter, the grandfather confronted Gu Renqi directly. He berated him for his relationship with a "mere cleaner," calling it a disgrace to the family name and questioning if Shi Shuangjiao was just after his money.
When he brought up Gu Renqi's mother's past "disgraceful incident," a pained Gu Renqi retorted, asking if his grandfather considered his mother a disgrace, or if it was his own birth that was the true disgrace. Following the difficult confrontation, Gu Renqi was visibly distressed. He rejected Shi Shuangjiao's offer to comfort him, asking to be left alone.
A sad Shi Shuangjiao then received a call from her brother, Shi Junjie, who claimed their father was injured and urged her to come home. Surprised, as her father had just texted her, Shi Shuangjiao left a note for Gu Renqi and rushed home. She found her father's injury was just a sprained ankle and discovered the house was a mess.
She called Zhu Yan for help, who, upon arriving, confessed to Shi Shuangjiao that she had fallen for someone she felt she shouldn't like. Shi Shuangjiao encouraged her friend to pursue love bravely. Accompanied by a lawyer, Gu Renqi visited Li Dongxian, who apologized for fighting. Gu Renqi understood he had acted to protect Wang Qianqian but urged him to let her testify as a witness. Li Dongxian refused to involve her.
He then remarked on how much Gu Renqi had changed, attributing the positive transformation to Shi Shuangjiao. Gu Renqi agreed, admitting that Shi Shuangjiao was wonderful but that he often felt he wasn't doing enough and made her unhappy. Later, Shi Shuangjiao visited Uncle Jin to learn more about Gu Renqi's relationship with his grandfather.
Uncle Jin explained that while the grandfather was extremely strict and had groomed Gu Renqi to be his successor since childhood, they both cared deeply for each other but were unable to express it, causing the rift between them. Later, Gu Renqi apologized to Shi Shuangjiao with a bouquet of flowers, promising to never shut her out again and to share everything with her. He also agreed to communicate his discomfort during his treatment and to buy her flowers often.
Subsequently, Gu Renqi held a meeting and announced the re-establishment of the Manual Cleaning Department. Explaining that he now understood its indispensable value, he reinstated Uncle Jin as its leader, who accepted with gratitude and delight.
Episode 15 Recap
Following the reinstatement of the Manual Cleaning Department, Shi Shuangjiao joyfully returned to work. She thanked Gu Renqi for his decision, admitting that the department's previous dissolution made her truly appreciate the significance of manual cleaning. However, she requested they keep their relationship private to prevent their colleagues from treating her differently. Gu Renqi agreed, and Shuangjiao playfully asked for a reward before heading off to work.
Lu Xian visited Shi Shuangjiao’s home with groceries, including a pot of kelp and trotter soup he had prepared for her father, Shi Yingxiong. Grateful for Lu Xian's dedicated care for her father, Shuangjiao and Shi Yingxiong insisted he stay for dinner. During their meal, Shuangjiao asked Lu Xian for his professional opinion on Gu Renqi's condition.
She noted his significant improvement, such as eating with colleagues and feeling less anxious in large supermarkets, expressing her confidence in his full recovery. Meanwhile, a worried Wang Qianqian went searching for Li Dongxian. She ran into Shi Shuangjiao, who informed her that Dongxian was not at the company and hinted at his recent troubles. Determined, Wang Qianqian went directly to the detention center to wait for his release.
The moment Li Dongxian walked out, he saw Wang Qianqian, rushed over, and swept her up into his arms, confessing his love and vowing to never let her get hurt again. Gu Renqi demonstrated his attentiveness by memorizing all of Shi Shuangjiao's favorite foods from her old social media posts. During a supermarket trip, he precisely selected all her preferred items, touching her heart. He also bought nourishing supplements for her father.
To maintain their secrecy, they shared a quick, affectionate kiss downstairs before she went inside, a moment witnessed by her brother, Shi Junjie. Already aware of their relationship, he helped Shuangjiao with the groceries and subtly asked about Zhu Yan’s well-being. Shi Shuangjiao was assigned a challenging new project: a home with three children. Feeling apprehensive as she had no experience with kids, she sought advice from Gu Renqi.
He reminded her that while she wasn't a mother, she was a daughter and could understand a mother’s needs from that perspective. Initially, the client was dissatisfied, complaining that Kelin Zhishang’s smart cleaners kept getting jammed by toys, causing arguments with her husband. However, Shuangjiao won her over by skillfully calming the children.
She then advised the mother to create more personal space for herself, pointing out that the home was so child-centric that it lacked a dedicated area for the parents. Sharing her own wish that her mother had prioritized her own happiness, Shuangjiao explained that children want to see a mother who loves herself. This resonated deeply with the client, who praised the Manual Cleaning Department for its insightful approach.
Shi Junjie finally met with Zhu Yan, apologizing for his past immaturity and admitting his insecurity had caused him to test her. He embraced her tightly, confessed his love, and asked for another chance, promising to never deceive her again. Zhu Yan accepted but set two conditions: their relationship must not interfere with their work, and he was on a three-month probation period. Shi Junjie eagerly agreed, confidently vowing to pass early.
Later, Lu Xian arrived with ice cream for Shi Shuangjiao, only to find her and Gu Renqi on a swing set. Seeing the pure happiness on Shuangjiao’s face as Gu Renqi pushed her, Lu Xian stood frozen as his ice cream melted and dripped to the ground, and he left quietly, dejected. On the swing, Gu Renqi continued to push Shuangjiao as she stood on it. She then turned around, lovingly embraced him, and they shared a kiss.
Gu Renqi and Shi Shuangjiao went on a date to an amusement park, where they tried a claw machine. Despite Gu Renqi’s detailed theoretical explanation of how to win, they failed repeatedly while other couples succeeded easily. Gu Renqi apologized, feeling he had failed to give her a fun date. Shuangjiao reassured him that she was very happy and that they would have plenty more opportunities for dates in the future.
Concerned for Wang Qianqian's safety as a public figure, Li Dongxian decided to teach her self-defense. While they were practicing boxing, a group of fans recognized them and rushed over for photos. To shield her from the crowd, Li Dongxian swiftly picked her up and ran away. Shi Shuangjiao and Zhu Yan attended a high school reunion.
When her classmates learned she worked at Kelin Zhishang, they gushed about its handsome and talented CEO, Gu Renqi, and envied her good fortune. During the gathering, Shi Junjie arrived just as a classmate was pressuring Zhu Yan to drink. He immediately stepped in, took the glass from her, and drank it himself.
Episode 16 Recap
To help Zhu Yan avoid drinking, Shi Junjie unexpectedly introduces himself as her boyfriend, claiming he fell for her at first sight. The friends are surprised, admiring the romantic gesture, especially since Zhu Yan had long ignored another suitor. After the gathering, Shi Shuangjiao confronts Shi Junjie, who explains it was just a ruse to help Zhu Yan. He insists he only sees her as an older sister, as his ideal type is a mature woman.
While Shi Shuangjiao accepts his excuse, Zhu Yan playfully notes that Shi Shuangjiao is the one radiating the glow of a new romance. Meanwhile, a still-obsessed Jiang Wenchi instructs an associate to leak Li Dongxian's past criminal record online, believing that ruining Wang Qianqian's career is the only way for the associate to get an opportunity.
As gossip spreads, an enraged Li Dongxian intends to physically confront Jiang Wenchi, but Gu Renqi intervenes, promising to handle it and immediately launching an investigation into the source of the leak. Concurrently, Wang Qianqian's manager, Mr. Kang, reprimands her for the negative impact on her rising career. He demands she issue a public statement clarifying her relationship with Li Dongxian, threatening to suspend her work or terminate her contract.
Defiantly, Wang Qianqian refuses, asserting that her love isn't wrong and that Li Dongxian shouldn't be defined by past mistakes. Overhearing her unwavering commitment from outside the room, a conflicted Li Dongxian quietly leaves, texting her that he cannot pick her up. She tries to call him, but his phone is off. Later, while visiting her mother's grave, Shi Shuangjiao encounters Lu Xian.
He reveals he returned to repay her mother's past kindness and wonders if he should stay now that she has found love. He asks if she remembers "Xiaocaibao," a nickname that triggers a memory of her mother comforting a bullied boy. Realizing Lu Xian is that boy, she playfully chides him for disappearing years ago. He explains his father's sudden move abroad left no time for goodbyes and that upon returning, he discovered her mother had passed away.
Worried about her, he moved in next door. Shi Shuangjiao confides that while she doesn't fully understand love, she feels a deep need to be by Gu Renqi's side, to care for him and bring him happiness. Lu Xian advises her not to always be strong, assuring her that "Xiaocaibao" will always be there for her. The investigation confirms that an employee named Mark leaked the information.
Gu Renqi confronts him, warning that if he gets fired for this, he will lose all value to Jiang Wenchi. Gu Renqi then suggests there is a better path for Mark. Meanwhile, a frantic Wang Qianqian goes to Li Dongxian's apartment. She pleads through the door, assuring him she doesn't care about his past or the rumors and would even quit her job for him.
Her knocking eventually disturbs a neighbor, who tells her no one is home, forcing her to leave. At the company, Uncle Jin discusses the Manual Cleaning Department's success with Gu Renqi and proposes promoting Shi Shuangjiao to deputy team leader to help with the expanding workload. Though Gu Renqi questions her youth, Uncle Jin passionately defends her work ethic, innovative ideas, and potential. Convinced, Gu Renqi approves the promotion.
During a meeting, the official announcement sparks whispers among colleagues, who suspect her promotion is due to connections. A surprised Shi Shuangjiao later asks Gu Renqi about it, and he clarifies it was Uncle Jin's recommendation. Grateful, she playfully promises to take care of all his meals. Shi Junjie arranges a romantic surprise for Zhu Yan, but she has already made plans with Shi Shuangjiao.
When Shi Shuangjiao arrives and finds the romantic setup, they awkwardly pretend the surprise was for her promotion. However, Shi Shuangjiao spots them secretly holding hands and ties Shi Junjie's shoelaces together as a prank. After he trips, they confess their relationship. Feigning disappointment, Shi Shuangjiao returns the flowers to Zhu Yan and gives Shi Junjie a playful but stern warning to treat Zhu Yan well, to which he exasperatedly reminds her he's her brother.
In her new role, Shi Shuangjiao faces insubordination. An experienced colleague, Zhao, admits to informally reassigning an order, citing old habits. The recipient, Li, flatly refuses to do the work, stating he is there for technical support, not cleaning up messes, and criticizes Shi Shuangjiao's management. Later, Gu Renqi finds an exhausted Shi Shuangjiao doing the work herself. He advises her to delegate and learn to manage, suggesting she learn from colleagues and even himself.
When she asks for guidance, he playfully requests she treat him to dinner since it is after hours. At a hot pot restaurant, he shares his management philosophy: the "carrot-and-stick policy." He advises that older employees like Zhao primarily want respect and suggests she sincerely consult Zhao the next day.
As Shi Shuangjiao struggles with the spicy food, she rejects Gu Renqi's offer of milk, playfully claims to have a better remedy, and leans in to kiss him, declaring it very effective.
Episode 17 Recap
In Gu Renqi's office, he and Shi Shuangjiao share a close moment, nearly kissing when Hu You unexpectedly walks in. Hu You notices Shi Shuangjiao's flushed face and asks if she has a fever. After Shi Shuangjiao quickly denies it and leaves, Hu You confronts Gu Renqi, revealing he saw Gu Renqi cupping Shi Shuangjiao's face. Hu You dismisses the implied excuse of grit in her eye and physically demonstrates their close proximity, voicing his suspicion.
Later, Hu You questions Li Dongxian about any changes in Gu Renqi or Shi Shuangjiao, but Li Dongxian is evasive, simply stating that one is male and the other is female. Meanwhile, Gu Renqi expresses his relief to Shi Shuangjiao that they weren't discovered. Shi Shuangjiao suggests they could just make their relationship public, but Gu Renqi hesitates.
He explains that as a newly appointed deputy team leader, he fears going public now would make colleagues think she advanced through connections, undermining his hard-earned authority. Lu Xian notices a troubling detail when he sees Gu Renqi meticulously wiping his car handle with a disinfectant wipe after dropping Shi Shuangjiao off, a habit linked to his mysophobia.
Concerned, Lu Xian consults a professional, Teacher Bai, asking if someone with mysophobia pretending to be better is actually in a more severe state. Teacher Bai confirms this, explaining that suppressing psychological issues can cause them to rebound more strongly. Lu Xian had noted Gu Renqi's apparent progress—eating with colleagues and being less anxious in public—and knows Shi Shuangjiao is dedicated to his recovery, but Teacher Bai's expert opinion leaves him deeply worried.
To quell office gossip about his love life, Gu Renqi makes a stunning announcement. Interrupting his colleagues' speculation, he declares that he has been in love with Shi Shuangjiao for a long time, pursued her extensively, and that she is now officially his girlfriend. The news, however, sparks a heated argument between Gu Renqi's grandfather and Shi Yingxiong.
The grandfather confronts Shi Yingxiong, bluntly stating that the two are not a suitable match and that Shi Shuangjiao's "impure motives" are damaging the Gu family's reputation. Enraged by the insult to his daughter, Shi Yingxiong retorts that Gu Renqi initiated the pursuit and showed up at their home uninvited, which damaged Shi Shuangjiao's reputation among the neighbors. He tells the grandfather to discipline his own grandson. Calling Shi Yingxiong's reasoning absurd, Gu Renqi's grandfather leaves in a huff.
Though he defended his daughter, Shi Yingxiong is now against the relationship, sensing the Gu family's disdain. When Gu Renqi plans a date with Shi Shuangjiao, Shi Yingxiong feigns illness, complaining of chest tightness and dizziness to keep her at home. When Shi Shuangjiao sees through the act, he drops the pretense, admitting he faked it because he believes Gu Renqi is not worthy of her and they should not be together.
When she protests that they work at the same company, he unreasonably tells her to find a new job. At school, Shi Junjie, known as the most handsome student, captivates the audience with his singing and is asked to perform the finale at the upcoming welcome party. Afterward, he is mobbed by adoring female students asking for his contact information and a photo.
He politely declines, announcing he has a girlfriend before confidently taking Zhu Yan's hand and leading her away, affirming their relationship publicly. Wang Qianqian visits Li Dongxian's grandmother in the hospital, but Li Dongxian, not wanting to involve her in his troubles, coldly tells her to leave. When she asks if she did something wrong, he insists that she is good and he is the problem.
His grandmother urges him to go after her, but he refuses, telling her they aren't suitable and he isn't good enough for her. Shi Yingxiong continues to block Shi Shuangjiao from seeing Gu Renqi, locking her in her room. When Gu Renqi arrives, Shi Yingxiong tries to send him away and accidentally falls, spraining his waist.
Gu Renqi hesitates to help due to his mysophobia, and Shi Yingxiong chastises him for his inaction just as Lu Xian arrives to help him up. Refusing to believe the explanation about his condition, Shi Yingxiong reveals that Gu Renqi's grandfather visited and accused Shi Shuangjiao of tarnishing their family's name. Furious, he tells Gu Renqi to leave and inform his grandfather that the Shi family has no interest in their status.
Following the confrontation, Gu Renqi reassures Shi Shuangjiao they will face the opposition together. Determined, Shi Shuangjiao tells Lu Xian she will prove their love is pure to both her father and Gu Renqi's grandfather. During their talk, Lu Xian questions the two-million-yuan compensation offered by the "ordinary driver" in her mother's car accident, which her frugal father refused.
Shi Shuangjiao also worries about Gu Renqi's grandfather, a ruthless man whose strict, elite upbringing may have contributed to Gu Renqi's mysophobia. Independently, Gu Renqi calls Shi Junjie for help, while Shi Shuangjiao calls Zhu Yan to strategize about her father. Distraught and intoxicated, Wang Qianqian calls Li Dongxian, confessing her uncontrollable feelings for him. Simultaneously, the police call Li Dongxian, informing him a drunk woman calling his name is in the street.
He rushes to her side, where she clings to him, pouring out her heartbreak. Deeply moved, Li Dongxian apologizes for hurting her, admitting he thinks of her constantly but kept his distance to protect her. He confesses that if he could start over, he would love her without hesitation. Their emotional barriers finally crumble as they share a passionate kiss.
Gu Renqi buys a large selection of facial masks for Shi Shuangjiao and has Shi Junjie deliver them with a cake. However, Shi Yingxiong confiscates all the gifts. Later, Shi Junjie reveals to Shi Shuangjiao that he had a backup plan and managed to deliver a hidden gift, scoring a small victory against her father's blockade.
Episode 18 Recap
Following their night together, Li Dongxian wakes to find Wang Qianqian already dressed and ready to leave. She dismisses his offers to drive her, stating it's inappropriate and that she drank too much the previous night to remember anything. Reminding him that he dislikes her coming to his home, she leaves despite him calling her name. At the office, Li Dongxian advises Gu Renqi against further confrontation with the recently fired Jiang Wenchi, whom he calls a vindictive "mad dog."
Gu Renqi disagrees, asserting that avoiding Jiang Wenchi won't stop him from seeking revenge and targeting Kelin Zhishang. Knowing Shi Shuangjiao's father, Shi Yingxiong, is keeping her at home, Lu Xian lures him away with the pretext of a chess game that requires his expertise. He then takes a reluctant Shi Shuangjiao out, convincing her by mentioning expensive, non-refundable tickets for a place he wants to visit.
Trusting Lu Xian, Shi Yingxiong agrees, and Lu Xian promises to have her home by dinner. On the way, Lu Xian reveals that he knows Gu Renqi's mysophobia training is not progressing well and that Gu Renqi is likely faking his improvement to reassure her. While expressing concern for their future challenges, he praises Shi Shuangjiao's inherent optimism and strength, confident she can overcome anything.
At a scenic spot, he encourages her to walk ahead to an even better view, explaining that he won't accompany her as he needs to find his own path. He hints at a pleasant surprise waiting for her and urges her to stay happy. Shi Shuangjiao then meets up with Gu Renqi. They share a cake, and she teases him about the sour strawberries, which he claims make the cake sweeter.
She confesses how much she has missed him, feeling like a day apart is a year. Regarding her father, Shi Shuangjiao explains she understands his anger, admitting she wouldn't be at ease either in his position. Gu Renqi acknowledges the hurt his grandfather caused and, while he can't apologize on his behalf, vows to convince both their families to accept their relationship. Before parting, they playfully record custom phone alerts for each other.
Gu Renqi records practical "good morning," "good afternoon," and "good night" messages, while she insists on recording "I love you" for him to hear throughout the day. After their date, Lu Xian has a private word with Gu Renqi. He admits that while he would prefer they weren't together, he respects Shi Shuangjiao's choice. He warns Gu Renqi never to make her cry, a promise Gu Renqi firmly makes.
With Shi Shuangjiao still unable to work, a despondent Gu Renqi sees an employee folding paper stars to wish for her long-distance boyfriend's return. Inspired, he enlists Li Dongxian to help him fold a jar of stars, wishing for Shi Shuangjiao to come back soon. Meanwhile, Lu Xian visits Shi Yingxiong, delivering pain patches sent by Gu Renqi and speaking highly of him.
Later, Shi Shuangjiao reassures her father she can take care of herself and that Gu Renqi treats her well. Touched and admitting his own oversight, Shi Yingxiong finally relents, allowing her to return to work. As she leaves, he playfully tells her to stop her act and, handing her a pillow, jokes that she should dream of her father every day and drink more milk to stay healthy.
Lu Xian receives an update on his investigation into the car accident that killed Shi Shuangjiao's mother. The driver, Liu Xiaowei, received two million yuan three days after the crash, which his son, Liu Li, immediately withdrew. For several months after, Liu Li's account received additional, irregular payments from an unknown source. The investigation also reveals that another party has recently started looking into the same case. Shi Shuangjiao’s return to the office delights Gu Renqi.
She congratulates him on passing the "first stage" of her father's approval and notices the jar of stars. She teases that the stars worked, as they are said to bring long-distance lovers together, playfully insisting his absence counts as "long-distance." Li Dongxian tries to win over Wang Qianqian with flowers, but she rejects them, explaining she is rushing home to buy a limited-edition MAC product online.
Misunderstanding, Li Dongxian later presents her with a gigabit router to boost her internet speed. After Hu You scolds him for being a "stupid straight man" and advises him to get her what she actually wants, Li Dongxian finally understands. He queues up and buys the makeup product for her, earning an affectionate "woodhead" label from a pleased Wang Qianqian. Worried about her father's opposition, Gu Renqi's mother meets with Shi Shuangjiao to ask for her help.
She reveals her own painful past: her father had forced her and Gu Renqi's father apart, and she raised Gu Renqi alone against her family's wishes. This led her father to be excessively strict with Gu Renqi, hoping to prevent him from being "reckless" like her. The constant criticism and pressure to be perfect caused Gu Renqi to develop a sick perfectionism. Though they care for each other, they now act like enemies.
Shi Shuangjiao agrees to help mend their relationship, and Gu Renqi's mother encourages her to call him "Renqi," promising to share childhood photos. To secretly get Shi Shuangjiao's ring size, Li Dongxian devises a plan. He first explains to a colleague, Wu Yu, that Gu Renqi wants to commend outstanding employees by having them press a fingerprint.
After Wu Yu praises the "creative" idea, Li Dongxian approaches Shi Shuangjiao, complimenting her work and asking her to be the first to try it. Immediately after she presses her fingerprint, Gu Renqi is overheard on the phone, confirming his "fiancée's" finger size has been measured and ordering a specific ring to be sent to his address.
Episode 19 Recap
Gu Shiheng, Gu Renqi's powerful grandfather, is publicly confronted by Liu Li, the son of his former driver, Liu Xiaowei. With his father serving a prison sentence for a hit-and-run, Liu Li accuses Gu Shiheng of using him as a scapegoat, declaring that money will not solve the issue and that the guilty party must pay for their mistakes. Meanwhile, Lu Xian's investigation uncovers that the death of Shuangjiao's mother may be connected to the Gu family.
This discovery deeply troubles Lu Xian, who resolves to protect Shuangjiao from the painful truth. Learning of Liu Li's protest, Lu Xian poses as Gu Shiheng's representative to meet with him. During their meeting, Liu Li claims Gu Shiheng was the one who was actually driving and killed someone, forcing his father to take the blame. He gives Lu Xian a three-day ultimatum: if Gu Shiheng does not meet his financial demands, there will be serious repercussions.
Shi Junjie, wanting to earn money without relying on his sister, sells a coffee maker he invented to Lu Xian. Later, his plans to celebrate Zhu Yan's birthday are ruined when her demanding director forces her to work overtime. Frustrated, Junjie pretends to send an angry message to the director, causing Zhu Yan to snatch her phone back. She scolds him for his immaturity, fearing his actions could jeopardize her career. Hurt by her words, Junjie leaves.
Afterward, Zhu Yan discovers he never sent the message. She then finds a heartfelt birthday video he recorded for her, expressing his love and promising to be better. Moved to tears, she tries to call him, but his phone is switched off. At a clothing store, Wang Qianqian has Li Dongxian try on outfits she is buying for a gift, noting his similar physique to the recipient. When a sales assistant mistakes them for a couple, Li Dongxian quickly clarifies.
Later at the office, wearing one of the new outfits, a delighted Li Dongxian attempts to announce his and Wang Qianqian's "good news," but Gu Renqi interrupts to declare his intention to propose to Shuangjiao, adding that all his future earnings will be managed by her. He asks Li Dongxian, Shi Junjie, and Zhu Yan for help planning a romantic proposal.
A protective Junjie immediately challenges Gu Renqi, questioning if he has the family's permission and who will handle domestic responsibilities after marriage. The group brainstorms elaborate ideas, while Gu Renqi scouts a beautiful hotel for the event. Shortly after he leaves, Jiang Wenchi arrives, posing as Gu Renqi's assistant to take over the arrangements. Lu Xian, knowing about Liu Li's three-day deadline, grows concerned when he sees Junjie hiding proposal plans from a blissfully happy Shuangjiao.
She confides in him that as long as she and Gu Renqi are happy, nothing else matters. Unwilling to destroy her happiness, Lu Xian decides to keep the truth about her mother's death a secret. However, he suddenly realizes the proposal date coincides with Liu Li's ultimatum. Fearing for their safety, he rushes to the hotel. At the venue, Zhu Yan has tricked Shuangjiao into attending under the guise of a high-end banquet, insisting she wear a beautiful new dress.
As Shuangjiao is led into the meticulously decorated space, a child presents her with flowers, and she sees Wang Qianqian and Junjie among the guests. As fireworks light up the sky and a spotlight lands on Gu Renqi, Shuangjiao begins to suspect it is a proposal.
Episode 20 Recap
Gu Renqi knelt and proposed to Shi Shuangjiao, expressing how her unexpected presence had transformed his life, guiding him through tears, sweat, and adversity. He felt he must have saved the galaxy to have met her and wished to sign a lifelong treaty with her. Shi Shuangjiao, overjoyed, accepted, affirming that he had already made her the happiest person in the world and she desired to give him perfect happiness as his wife.
However, their joyous moment was shattered by the sudden appearance of a man named Liu Li, who accused Shi Shuangjiao of marrying into the family responsible for her mother's death. He claimed that Gu Renqi's grandfather, Gu Shiheng, had fatally struck Shi Shuangjiao's mother with his car and then paid his father, Gu Shiheng's driver at the time, two million yuan in hush money to be a scapegoat.
Both Shi Shuangjiao and Gu Renqi initially dismissed the claims, but Liu Li presented a photograph of his father with Gu Shiheng as proof. Believing Gu Renqi had concealed the truth, a devastated Shi Shuangjiao confronted him, asking if his grandfather’s accident victim was indeed her mother. Gu Renqi claimed ignorance. Furious, she refused to listen and asked Lu Xian to take her away.
Shi Junjie, equally enraged, lashed out at Gu Renqi, warning him to stay away from his sister. Zhu Yan, however, urged calm, suggesting there might be a misunderstanding and advising Gu Renqi to clarify the situation with his grandfather. Overwhelmed with guilt, Shi Shuangjiao cried before her mother's portrait, lamenting that she had nearly married into the family of her mother's killer.
Lu Xian offered quiet support, reminding her that no final conclusion should be made until the truth is fully revealed. Meanwhile, a frantic Gu Renqi confronted Gu Shiheng, demanding to know the truth about the accident and accusing him of being cold-blooded. Before Gu Shiheng could fully respond, police officers arrived to take him in for questioning regarding the accident. Riddled with guilt, Gu Renqi rushed to Shi Shuangjiao’s home to apologize.
While admitting his family’s wrongdoing, he maintained he had been unaware of the truth. Shi Shuangjiao refused to open the door, explaining that with her mother's blood flowing through her veins, she could not be with the grandson of the man responsible for her death, as it would mean a lifetime of torment. Liu Li's taunts calling his family "dirty" and "dark-hearted" severely trigger Gu Renqi's mysophobia.
His distress is compounded when he learns Shi Shuangjiao has taken time off from work, and his condition deteriorates to the point that he collapses. At home, his mother finds him compulsively spraying disinfectant everywhere, insisting the house is filthy and calling his own existence a "spot" that only causes harm. Shi Junjie is also struggling, making mistakes at the coffee shop where he works. He confesses to Lu Xian how useless he feels, unable to comfort his family.
Lu Xian offers a compassionate perspective, explaining that everyone faces hardship and quotes the saying, "There are cracks in everything; that's how the light gets in." He urges Shi Junjie to be the man of the house and a source of strength for his family, inspiring Shi Junjie to commit to protecting them. Later, Jiang Wenchi and his associate, Heipi, intercept Li Dongxian after his shift.
Still resentful over Li Dongxian's relationship with Wang Qianqian, Jiang Wenchi tries to intimidate him. Li Dongxian firmly warns them against bothering Wang Qianqian or Gu Renqi. He then allows Heipi to hit him, but issues a dire warning about the consequences if they dare to harm Gu Renqi. Just then, Lu Xian arrives and disperses the crew.
Lu Xian then reveals to Li Dongxian that he is Gu Renqi's former psychologist and is worried the recent events will cause his condition to relapse. Lu Xian visits Gu Renqi at his home during his breakdown. He acknowledges his own feelings for Shi Shuangjiao but affirms that she loves Gu Renqi and that he is there strictly as a psychologist to help.
He confronts Gu Renqi, telling him that self-destruction is unfair to Shi Shuangjiao, especially since his grandfather's case is not yet closed, and offers to help him recover if he cooperates with a new treatment plan. Despite her earlier pronouncements, Shi Shuangjiao visits Gu Renqi. He notices she has injuries on her face and body, but she deflects his concern. She mentions going to his company and being told he hadn't come to work.
Though she reiterates her stance that they can no longer meet, Gu Renqi confesses he still wants to see her. Their conversation drifts to a memory of a merry-go-round, a brief moment of connection despite the immense challenges separating them.
Episode 21 Recap
Following the revelation of his family's past, Gu Renqi agrees to undergo intensive, isolated treatment arranged by Lu Xian to manage his worsening condition. Before leaving, he meets with Shi Shuangjiao for what he states will be their final time. He acknowledges that their relationship is a source of pain and, knowing they cannot be together, selflessly wishes for her happiness above his own.
Understanding her passion for her work, he entrusts his colleagues with key responsibilities—Hu You with the lab, Wu Yu with equipment, and Li Dongxian as a continuing partner—and hands over company plans to Uncle Jin before departing. He urges Shi Shuangjiao to take care of herself and find happiness. After their farewell, Shi Shuangjiao decides to "archive" her painful memories and returns to Kelin Zhishang, determined to carry on her mission of bringing the warmth of family to others.
She also notes a positive change in her brother, Shi Junjie, who has surprisingly become a diligent student. As his treatment begins, Gu Renqi's condition deteriorates. Li Dongxian reveals to Wu Yu that Gu Renqi is suffering from severe side effects from his medication, including drowsiness and headaches, and is now sleeping only three hours a night. His obsessive behaviors have also intensified, leading him to constantly wash his hands and wear gloves even at home.
Deeply worried, Shi Shuangjiao learns Gu Renqi's schedule from Li Dongxian and uses her birthday—the password to his apartment—to secretly enter while he is out. She tidies up, prepares his favorite porridge, and leaves two succulent plants she names "Xiaojiepi" (Little Neat Freak) and "Xiaolata" (Little Messy). When Gu Renqi returns, he knows she has been there and finds a recording she left in a pillow, in which she encourages him to rest and dream of her.
He begins a nightly ritual of listening to her voice after taking his medication, which helps him fall asleep. Meanwhile, Gu Renqi's mother, Mei Hua, heartbroken over his state, pleads with his grandfather, Gu Shiheng, to reveal the truth about the past accident, believing it could help her son's recovery. Gu Shiheng adamantly refuses, prioritizing the company's reputation and stability over his grandson's well-being, fearing disclosure would expose them to competitors.
In a lighter subplot, Shi Junjie and Zhu Yan's attempt at a movie date is repeatedly delayed by urgent work calls, but she eventually arrives, and he promises to stay by her side forever. At Kelin Zhishang, Gu Shiheng takes charge and implements drastic measures. He threatens dismissals and demands that the Manual Cleaning Department achieve a top-three performance ranking in the next quarter or face reduced investment.
Amidst this pressure, Li Dongxian faces a personal crisis when he learns his grandmother's nursing home is closing due to financial hardship, forcing the elderly residents to be separated. Seeing an opportunity to secure a new project for her department, Shi Shuangjiao proposes that they offer cleaning services to the nursing home to improve its environment and attract new residents, potentially saving it from closure.
During a survey at the nursing home with Hu You and Wu Yu, Shi Shuangjiao observes the residents' loneliness. Wu Yu, normally quiet, discovers he can easily connect with the elderly just by listening to their stories, which reminds him of his own grandmother. This leads Shi Shuangjiao to a profound realization: more than just physical care, the seniors crave companionship.
Inspired, she devises a revolutionary plan: allow young people to live in the nursing home rent-free in exchange for cleaning and spending time with the residents. This symbiotic relationship would ease the financial burden on the youth while enriching the elders' lives. Her colleagues, though finding the idea unconventional, agree it is compelling and decide to present it to the board. Later, Li Dongxian updates Gu Renqi on the company, mentioning the board rejected Shi Shuangjiao’s innovative proposal.
Immediately seeing its potential, Gu Renqi provides practical advice through Li Dongxian, suggesting they screen applicants and use a shift system to manage lifestyle differences. He stresses that Li Dongxian must not reveal his involvement, as the board has already dismissed the plan. He suggests that winning an award or gaining recognition for the project might force the board to reconsider. Meanwhile, Shi Shuangjiao reflects on what Gu Renqi would do.
She conceptualizes that a nursing home often feels like a sterile institution, whereas a true home is defined by "people" and warmth. This reinforces her mission to transform the nursing home into a real home for its residents.
Episode 22 Recap
Having immersed herself in the "Warm Home Program" after taking over the HR department, Shi Shuangjiao continued to channel her efforts into the project, incorporating Gu Renqi's vision for it to feel like a family. Meanwhile, Li Dongxian arrived early at Wang Qianqian's place, bringing a homemade nutritional meal and dumbbells.
He explained that just eating vegetables wasn't enough for her goal of being slim; she needed protein to support her body and exercise to build strength, so carrying a heavy bag wouldn't be an issue anymore. Wang Qianqian was touched by his thoughtful gesture. After her successful presentation of the "Warm Home Program" at a meeting, which impressed everyone with its innovative and bold approach, Shi Shuangjiao encountered Gu Renqi on her way home.
As Gu Renqi crossed the street, he was almost hit by a car, deeply worrying Shi Shuangjiao, who expressed her fear and urged him not to make her anxious again. Gu Renqi then told her that seeing her performance made him relieved, recalling her promise to live well after their separation. Shi Shuangjiao implored him not to talk about living a happy life alone, stating they both deserved happiness and urged him to recover quickly.
As they walked together, Gu Renqi confessed his longing to return to their past, to walk hand-in-hand, and work together, acknowledging it was an unrealistic hope now. Shi Shuangjiao, however, told him they could not go back and those happy memories would remain in the past, urging him to take good care of himself. Upon arriving home, she left him, while he, feeling tired, lingered outside.
Lu Xian later brought medication to Gu Renqi, urging him to return to the hospital. Gu Renqi, however, insisted that his true problem wasn't physical but a deep-seated lack of courage to confront the real culprit behind the accident. He feared that if his maternal grandfather, Gu Shiheng, was involved, he would have been a loser from childhood, never able to win against him.
Yet, for Shi Shuangjiao's sake, he was determined to uncover the truth and seek justice, even if it meant risking his life. Lu Xian supported his resolve to find the truth. They then visited Liu Li, the son of the driver involved in the accident. Liu Li denied knowing the specifics, claiming he wasn't in the car and suggested they ask "their family's old man."
He added that his parents always acted mysteriously when the car accident was mentioned, leading him to believe something was amiss. Gu Renqi and Lu Xian continued their search for answers, eventually finding Liu Xiaowei's wife. Upon seeing the unclean conditions, Gu Renqi, struggling with his phobia, almost fainted, prompting Lu Xian to quickly lead him away. Undeterred, Gu Renqi, despite his phobia, returned later and even managed to help Liu Xiaowei's wife sort through trash.
She recognized him instantly as a member of the Gu family. Initially evasive about any "pension," she eventually admitted that her son, Liu Li, was constantly blackmailing Gu Shiheng for money. She clarified that the car accident was caused by her husband, Liu Xiaowei, not Gu Shiheng. She revealed that Gu Shiheng, out of kindness, gave them money, not as "hush money," but her son gambled it all away and continued to extort him.
Gu Shiheng had even persuaded Liu Xiaowei to surrender, which led to a lighter sentence. Gu Renqi reassured her that it wasn't her fault and asked her to publicly clarify the truth to clear Gu Shiheng's name and prevent Liu Li from further wrongdoing. She agreed. Shi Shuangjiao's "Warm Home Program" successfully won the first prize at the Venture Capital Summit.
Shi Junjie eagerly reported this to Gu Shiheng, who initially dismissed the achievement as insignificant, emphasizing the need for pragmatic work over awards. Shi Junjie clarified that the city had adopted their project as a pilot public welfare initiative, attracting significant media attention and increasing orders, and credited Shi Shuangjiao as the leader. The project officially began, with young people moving into the nursing home to live and help the elderly, braiding hair and threading needles.
The younger employees discussed how their presence would benefit the elderly and serve as a powerful public relations tool for the program. They also noted the convenience of living closer to the company. They decided to share this good news with Shi Shuangjiao. Shi Junjie later informed Shi Shuangjiao that Gu Shiheng had been told about their award but simply acknowledged it, leading Shi Junjie to suspect Gu Shiheng already knew.
To celebrate, Shi Junjie and Zhu Yan took Shi Shuangjiao out. Shi Shuangjiao, frustrated, expressed disappointment that no company leaders had formally congratulated them. She then vented her deeper emotions, complaining that Shi Junjie's passive listening showed a lack of understanding of her efforts and the simple recognition she craved. She passionately articulated her view on true love, where partners instinctively understand each other's needs without explicit words, citing examples from Shi Junjie and Zhu Yan's own interactions.
She concluded that honesty and direct communication are paramount in a relationship. Shi Junjie then asked if she was missing Gu Renqi. Shi Shuangjiao vehemently denied it, claiming she only wanted to focus on work, and abruptly left. Shi Junjie pondered the difficulty of letting go of love. Following Liu Xiaowei's wife's agreement to tell the truth, Gu Renqi later found her outside with her trash cart and offered to help.
She reiterated her commitment to publicly clarify the truth, emphasizing that her husband, Liu Xiaowei, was responsible for the accident and Gu Shiheng's financial help was out of kindness, not hush money, but had been exploited by her son, Liu Li, for blackmail. Later, Liu Xiaowei's wife recorded a video statement. She tearfully apologized to the victims' families, recounting how her husband, Liu Xiaowei, returned home in a panic after hitting someone while driving Gu Shiheng home.
The next day, Gu Shiheng took Liu Xiaowei to surrender, cooperating with the police investigation that confirmed Liu Xiaowei's guilt. She emphasized Gu Shiheng's compassion in providing financial assistance, which her son, Liu Li, later twisted into a "hush money" narrative to extort the Gu family. She apologized for the trouble Liu Li had caused. Shi Shuangjiao saw this public confession video on a large screen and immediately rushed to find Gu Renqi.
She found him collapsing near some trash bins. Gu Renqi's mother arrived, asking about his condition. Lu Xian explained that Gu Renqi's health had severely deteriorated since his breakup with Shi Shuangjiao, exacerbated by his persistent efforts to investigate the truth, even leading to medication overdose and repeated collapses. Shi Shuangjiao was distraught, blaming herself for his condition.
Gu Renqi's mother then sought Shi Shuangjiao's help regarding the nursing home project, but then shifted to express her family's apologies for Shi Shuangjiao's mother's past situation, acknowledging Gu Shiheng's wrongdoings. Shi Shuangjiao, however, stated that the past was gone and that Gu Renqi and his mother were not to blame. She regretfully admitted that her own emotional reaction had inadvertently harmed Gu Renqi.
Lu Xian added that Gu Renqi's cleanliness obsession and other issues were symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, stemming from a lack of familial love and trust since childhood, deeply connected to his relationship with his maternal grandfather, Gu Shiheng. He stressed that Gu Renqi's healing required confronting these root causes and rebuilding trust with Gu Shiheng, who held the key to his recovery. Gu Renqi's mother worried about Gu Shiheng's stubborn pride, but they resolved to try regardless of the difficulty.
Episode 23 Recap
Following up on Shuangjiao's discovery of Gu Renqi's severe condition, she stays by his side until he awakens. Gu Renqi immediately holds her hand, pleading with her not to leave him ever again. He apologizes for his past actions, admitting he failed to protect her and caused her tears. Shuangjiao gently reassures him, agreeing to his heartfelt promise of a lifetime together. Determined to help Gu Renqi heal, Shuangjiao visits his grandfather, Gu Shiheng.
She explains that Gu Renqi's mysophobia stems from a childhood psychological trauma and urges Gu Shiheng to help him resolve this deep emotional issue. While Gu Shiheng defends his strict upbringing as being for Gu Renqi's own good, Shuangjiao points out that it has created misunderstanding and distance between them. She emphasizes that despite Gu Renqi's impressive achievements, what he truly yearns for is his grandfather's recognition.
Back in his room, Gu Renqi receives flowers from his colleagues, Hu You and Wu Yu, who wish him a swift recovery. When Shuangjiao inquires about his upcoming birthday, he reveals that he has never truly celebrated it. He recalls a childhood memory of waiting in vain for his busy grandfather to celebrate with him, making him feel that birthdays were nothing special.
Gu Renqi also shares how his mysophobia had prevented him from simple gestures of intimacy like holding hands or hugging, a barrier only Shuangjiao has broken. Moved, Shuangjiao expresses her desire to visit his childhood home to understand his past more deeply. Meanwhile, Gu Renqi's mother, Meihua, prepares a bland, healthy meal for Gu Shiheng outdoors. When he complains and demands liquor, Meihua serves him a glass of celery, bitter gourd, and okra juice.
As Gu Shiheng vehemently refuses it, Meihua seizes the opportunity to make a point, asking if it feels uncomfortable to be forced to do something against his will. She reminds him that he often imposes his own rules on Gu Renqi without considering his feelings. Realizing Meihua is advocating for their son, a reluctant Gu Shiheng drinks the juice.
Elsewhere, Shi Junjie expresses his reluctance to accept a recommendation for an exchange student program abroad, citing his poor English, unfamiliarity with foreign food, and fear of loneliness. Zhu Yan encourages him to seize the opportunity for personal growth, promising to help him study and send him familiar foods. Shi Junjie’s primary worry, however, is being separated from Zhu Yan. She reassures him of her fidelity, and he passionately reaffirms his lifelong devotion to her.
Gu Renqi and Shuangjiao arrive at his childhood home, where he is filled with anxiety due to memories of his grandfather's harsh criticisms. Shuangjiao comforts him, holding his hand as they enter. His mother, Meihua, warmly welcomes them with a table full of his favorite dishes and tearfully apologizes for her past shortcomings as a mother. To Gu Renqi's surprise, Gu Shiheng praises his work at his company, Kelin Zhishang, and the impressive team he has assembled.
Gu Shiheng then leads Gu Renqi to a room and reveals a hidden box filled with toys and gifts he had secretly bought for him every birthday. Deeply moved, Gu Renqi realizes his grandfather has always cared. At the dinner table, his mother serves traditional birthday noodles with two eggs, expressing her wish for him to be happy and for their family to be whole again.
Gu Shiheng offers his first-ever direct praise, telling Gu Renqi he has always been excellent and shouldn't be so hard on himself. Later, before meeting Shuangjiao's father, Shi Yingxiong, a nervous Gu Renqi worries he won't be trusted. Their conversation is interrupted when they witness a surprising sight: the proud Gu Shiheng humbly apologizing to Shi Yingxiong for his past prejudice against Shuangjiao.
Astonished by his grandfather's change of heart, Gu Renqi thanks Shuangjiao for helping bridge the gap within his family. He then formally approaches Shi Yingxiong and asks for his blessing, promising to always protect and care for Shuangjiao. Zhu Yan meticulously helps Shi Junjie prepare for his exchange program interview, role-playing as the interviewer. Shi Junjie explains that his passion for mechanical design stems from a desire to help people by creating reliable machines.
When asked about his future plans, he firmly states he will return to China because Zhu Yan, the woman he loves, is waiting for him there. Li Dongxian accompanies Wang Qianqian to a horse farm's anniversary celebration. Deciding to end the secrecy, Wang Qianqian publicly introduces Li Dongxian as her boyfriend to fans and journalists. Li Dongxian confirms their relationship, expressing his admiration for her dedication and kindness. He promises her fans he will ensure her happiness and accepts their "full supervision," demonstrating his commitment.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
Gu Renqi approached Shi Yingxiong, expressing his desire for Shi Yingxiong to once again entrust Shi Shuangjiao to his care. Shi Yingxiong acknowledged that past disagreements were resolved but stated that if Gu Renqi was determined to ensure Shi Shuangjiao's lifelong happiness, he should serve a cup of tea to both him and Shuangjiao's mother.
Gu Renqi solemnly performed the tea ceremony before Shuangjiao’s mother's memorial tablet, promising to cherish and protect Shuangjiao, ensuring she would never experience hardship, which moved Shuangjiao to tears as she embraced Shi Yingxiong. Shi Junjie, however, sternly warned Gu Renqi that if he ever mistreated his sister, they would hold him accountable. Gu Renqi reassured them he would keep his word, declaring that from then on, they were all his family.
Finally, Shi Yingxiong formally placed Shi Shuangjiao's hand into Gu Renqi's, reiterating the importance of his promise to care for his daughter. That evening, Shi Junjie and Zhu Yan returned home, joining Shi Shuangjiao and Gu Renqi for dinner. Shi Yingxiong expressed his relief about Shuangjiao's situation, though he admitted some lingering worry about Shi Junjie's upcoming study abroad.
He praised Zhu Yan for helping Shi Junjie come around to the idea of being an exchange student, stating that Junjie’s excellence led to such a good opportunity. Seeing his children settled, Shi Yingxiong then turned his attention to Zhu Yan’s marital status, suggesting he could introduce her to eligible young men her age. He specifically proposed their neighbor, Lu Xian, describing him as gentle, thoughtful, mature, and steady, far superior to "immature children."
Before Shi Junjie could object, Gu Renqi feigned a leg injury. Shi Junjie then shocked everyone by declaring himself Zhu Yan's boyfriend, asserting his responsibility for her. Seeing the brewing conflict, Shi Shuangjiao discreetly led Gu Renqi away, confident that Shi Junjie could handle his father, who she believed was only pretending to be upset since he secretly approved of Junjie marrying Zhu Yan. Later, Shi Shuangjiao surprised Gu Renqi for his birthday.
She blindfolded him and led him to a beautifully lit bridge adorned with flowers. She wished him a happy birthday and encouraged him to make a wish. Gu Renqi wished for Shi Shuangjiao's lifelong happiness, to which Shuangjiao playfully chided him for wishing too quickly and for someone else. She then made a wish for him, hoping Gu Renqi would be happy forever, confident it would come true.
She revealed that the illuminated path they had walked represented their shared journey and time together, and she promised to celebrate every future birthday with him, preparing countless gifts and helping him fulfill his desires. Deeply moved, Gu Renqi confessed, "You are my gift. I love you," words that surprised Shuangjiao, noting it was the first time he had expressed those three words to her.
Upon Gu Renqi’s full recovery, he returned to the company, where he was met with a warm welcome from his colleagues. His office had been meticulously tidied in anticipation of his arrival. Employees spoke highly of Shi Shuangjiao’s efforts in his absence, noting her hard work and overtime. Gu Renqi commended Shuangjiao, acknowledging her hard work. During this time, Li Dongxian approached Gu Renqi to resign, explaining his decision to pursue his own growth and experiences outside the company.
Gu Renqi, though sad to see him go, fully supported his ambition and wished him well, affirming his belief in Li Dongxian's capabilities. As a final request, Gu Renqi asked Li Dongxian to complete the nursing home project with them as a collaboration, maintaining the same high standards. Li Dongxian agreed, ready for the challenge.
After they officially started dating, Gu Renqi playfully confessed to Shi Shuangjiao that he had a "girlfriend," causing her to feel a pang of jealousy, especially since she had never dated before. He teased her further, describing this "girlfriend" as slim, well-shaped, smart, gentle, obedient, and very clean.
When Shuangjiao pressed him on why he wasn't with such a perfect person, he explained that she was a "Premium Series" cleaning robot, and before Shuangjiao entered his life, only the robot could stay by his side for so long. He shared how his meticulously ordered world, which once couldn't tolerate a speck of dust, now felt wonderful with her presence, and he looked forward to their future together with great joy.
Meanwhile, Li Dongxian was diligently looking after Wang Qianqian. Recognizing his own straightforward nature, he honestly communicated to her that he sometimes lacked romantic flair and struggled to understand hints. He urged her to be direct about her needs and desires, promising to learn and do everything for her if she just told him. He even attempted to help her build strength for carrying bags by encouraging her to learn horse riding.
Wang Qianqian found his earnestness endearing, noting his thoughtfulness despite his rugged appearance. She also acknowledged potential public scrutiny over their relationship, hinting at her willingness to give up her career as an anchor if necessary to be with him. Despite his self-doubt about being good enough for her, Wang Qianqian assured him of her affection, stating her deep feelings for him.
Eventually, Gu Renqi's cleanliness fetishism was confirmed to be cured, a positive development that Lu Xian, as his therapist, congratulated him on. Lu Xian announced his decision to return to the United States for work. Shi Shuangjiao pressed him for details, saddened by his departure. Lu Xian, with a mix of seriousness and humor, told her that if she ever regretted her choices or found herself unhappy, he would wait for her, even for decades.
Shuangjiao playfully questioned his commitment to being single, but Lu Xian joked about American girls waiting for him. As a parting gesture, Shuangjiao returned a power bank he had lent her, suggesting he give it to someone he loved, despite his initial reluctance to take it back. She insisted on its practical use for his flight and for maintaining their connection as important friends.
Gu Renqi orchestrated an elaborate proposal, sending Shi Shuangjiao to a remote grassland under the pretense of a very important work project. Upon arrival, Shuangjiao was confused to find nothing but a single hot air balloon, mistakenly believing she was there to clean it. Once inside, she was surprised to find Gu Renqi already there. As the hot air balloon ascended, Gu Renqi spoke profoundly about changing perspectives, likening life’s difficulties to vast distances that shrink from a different viewpoint.
He recalled his past hesitation to commit, acknowledging that Shuangjiao had always taken steps towards him, while he lacked the courage to take his own. Now, he declared, he was finally taking that step. He vowed to love and protect her until the end of their lives, promising to walk ahead of her, holding her hand, and ensuring they would never be apart. Kneeling, Gu Renqi asked Shi Shuangjiao to marry him.
With tears in her eyes, Shuangjiao joyfully accepted, promising to love him unconditionally, whether he was Gu Renqi or her "little cleanliness," in good times or bad, in wealth or poverty, in sickness or health. Gu Renqi held her hand, his heart full of love for his "Xiaolata," as they gazed into the distance while the hot air balloon soared.
