With You Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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With You Synopsis

Geng Geng, an ordinary student, is accidentally admitted to Zhenhua High School and meets Yu Huai, a “Straight-A-Student” by chance.

During military training, Geng Geng befriends Jian Dan, and Jiang Niannian, and then becomes a tablemate with Yu Huai.

After entering Zhenhua, Geng Geng’s life is just as difficult as she expected it to be. She is “hit” hard by the test exams, she is unable to understand the lessons, and when she returns home, she is overwhelmed by the sudden appearance of her new mother and brother.

However, all this becomes different because of the company of her tablemate Yu Huai and the group of good friends she has made. They make Geng Geng’s high school life less lonely.

During the three years of high school, Geng Geng and Yu Huai grow up together from the ordinary little things, and they say goodbye to their youth with their ignorant and youthful affection

After the college entrance exam, the most special boy in Geng Geng’s heart surprisingly disappeared. After years of separation, when they meet again, Geng Geng, who is still remembering the agreement of the year, is facing to choose between Yu Huai, who he has always remembered, and Lu Xinghe, who is pursuing her fiercely.

With You Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

On the evening of August 14, 2004, high school freshman Geng Geng, accompanied by Yu Huai and several other classmates, sneaked into a school classroom to watch the Olympic Games. The broadcast showed Chinese athlete Liu Xiang competing in the finals of a short-distance running event. The commentator noted Liu Xiang's confidence, highlighting that none of his rivals had beaten him that year, and advised him to focus on the first hurdle.

As the race began, Liu Xiang started smoothly, taking the lead against competitors like Trammel and Olijars. When Liu Xiang ultimately won, creating history as a Chinese man with black hair and yellow skin, Geng Geng, overwhelmed with excitement, embraced Yu Huai. However, she quickly became self-conscious and stepped back, blushing. Their illicit viewing was interrupted when a security guard was heard approaching.

One of the students, Zhou Mo, had used the TV remote control batteries to light candles, accidentally damaging them, which meant they couldn't watch TV initially. Yu Huai, however, quickly used his scientific knowledge to fix the remote control, allowing them to continue watching the race. When the security guard got closer, some students wanted to flee immediately, but Geng Geng decided to stay and watch the end of the race with Yu Huai.

After Liu Xiang's victory, they all scattered, running out of the campus to escape the guard. As they ran, Geng Geng and Yu Huai discussed their future class choices, with Yu Huai wondering if Geng Geng would choose liberal arts or science, emphasizing his desire for them to remain desk mates.

Geng Geng reflected on that night, remembering their hands clasped as they ran under the moonlight, and how he was the best version of himself then, but she became her best self much later, with an entire youth separating their "best selves." A year prior, the SARS epidemic caused widespread disruption, leading to reforms in the high school entrance exam, reducing it to three subjects with lower difficulty.

Geng Geng, an average student, unexpectedly got into the prestigious Zhenhua High School. She felt she had simply stumbled into good fortune and anticipated that such luck would eventually have consequences. The morning she left for Zhenhua, she quietly took down a framed exam award her father had proudly displayed on the wall, not wanting to draw attention.

Her name, a combination of characters from her parents' names, symbolized a union of love, but they had divorced, leaving her often sad and missing her mother. During breakfast, her father encouraged her to make new friends and leave a good impression. At Zhenhua, Geng Geng found herself among students from elite middle schools, feeling out of place.

That evening, her father celebrated her admission to Zhenhua, but Geng Geng put on a brave face, saying the school and students were "good" and "friendly." She inquired when she could see her mother again, but her mother, speaking on the phone from work, gently rebuffed her, telling her to focus on her studies and promising a visit later, leaving Geng Geng feeling disheartened. Her father later mentioned wanting to introduce her to an aunt.

On her first day at Zhenhua, Geng Geng struggled to get through a narrow gate. Yu Huai, who happened to be nearby, helped her, teasing her for being "stupid" and having a "big head." She was surprised to learn he was also a freshman. Later, while looking at the class assignment list, Geng Geng overheard parents celebrating their children getting into the advanced classes. She eventually found her own name on the last page.

To her surprise, Yu Huai was also in the same class, and they ended up as desk mates. Yu Huai noticed their names, "Geng Geng" and "Yu Huai," combined to sound like "Geng Geng Yu Huai," an idiom meaning "obsessed" or "to have something on one's mind." He teasingly called her a "haunting ghost," and Geng Geng felt Zhenhua was already being unkind to her. During roll call, their class supervisor and physics teacher, Zhang Ping, introduced himself.

Students like Liu Wanhui and Xu Yanliang introduced themselves, and Yu Huai, the top student, mentioned his love for basketball, with classmates noting he only missed the advanced classes due to a minor exam mishap. When Geng Geng introduced herself, stating she was from No. 13 Middle School, some classmates openly questioned how someone from such an ordinary school could get into Zhenhua.

The next day, during the military training, Director Pan Yuansheng, the administration director, reprimanded Geng Geng for not wearing her uniform. Yu Huai was also caught in casual wear. It turned out they had accidentally swapped bags. Director Pan, a stern figure, announced that military training was to test their willpower and character, demanding they shed bad habits and confiscate all non-study related items.

Another student, Zhou Mo, was caught with a romance novel and was punished to clean the storage room. Pan Yuansheng then discovered Geng Geng's camera in her bag, confiscating it. Geng Geng and Yu Huai secretly exchanged their uniforms through bathroom stalls. While changing, Geng Geng lamented about her camera and Yu Huai his Walkman, which were both confiscated. After military drills, they tried to figure out how to retrieve their belongings from the storage room.

Later, at lunch, Yu Huai helped Geng Geng get some meat, then lied to Xu Yanliang that the instructor was looking for him, allowing Yu Huai to sit next to Geng Geng. He then pressed Geng Geng to help him steal his Walkman back, threatening to hand in her camera otherwise. Geng Geng reluctantly agreed. During a break in training, Jiang Niannian, nicknamed Beta, suggested the girls fake fainting from the heat to get a rest.

Geng Geng tried to join in but her acting was so poor that Director Pan immediately saw through it. However, Yu Huai, seeing Geng Geng struggling, quickly supported her and helped her fake a severe fainting spell, convincing the instructor to send all the girls to rest in the shade. Jiang Niannian then formally introduced herself to Geng Geng. Later, Geng Geng overheard Director Pan scolding the girls for their collective "fainting" act.

When he demanded to know who initiated it, some girls blamed Geng Geng. Director Pan, already frustrated with Geng Geng, ordered the entire squad to do one hundred frog jumps. Yu Huai defended her, stating that Geng Geng shouldn't be solely blamed, but it was too late.

That night, Yu Huai and Zhou Mo, feeling bored and hungry, sneaked out to roast figs. Geng Geng found them and Yu Huai offered her a roasted fig, teasing her that it was a family secret recipe. She tried it, admitting it was tasty. They shared stories, with Yu Huai recounting a childhood prank involving firecrackers and a "dung beetle's nest." Geng Geng joked about how academically smart students could be so unreliable.

Yu Huai then shared his ambition to study at Tsinghua, pursue a Ph. D. in America, and become a physicist. When they ran out of figs, Yu Huai and Zhou Mo went to pick more, leaving Geng Geng to mind the fire. Yu Huai promised Geng Geng he would return her camera the next day. Director Pan, on patrol, discovered Geng Geng alone by the fire. He furiously accused her of arson.

As he interrogated her, Yu Huai returned and confessed it was his fire, trying to shield Geng Geng. Director Pan, however, furious with "the two of them again," punished both Geng Geng and Yu Huai, ordering them to clean the storage room that night and write a five-thousand-word self-reflection report by morning. Yu Huai tried to protest, asserting that Geng Geng was innocent, but Director Pan didn't listen.

While they were being punished, it was noted that another student, Lu Xinghe, was missing from his class. As Geng Geng cleaned, she burst into tears, feeling unjustly accused and overwhelmed. Yu Huai comforted her, promised to give back her camera, and ended up cleaning the entire storage room by himself.

He later asked her how to spell a complex Chinese character and explained that he stepped up because she was "dumb" and couldn't defend herself, adding that he couldn't leave her to cry alone all night in Zhenhua. He then mischievously returned her Walkman, which he had secretly retrieved while cleaning, and they listened to music together. The next morning, Director Pan's uniform was discovered hung on the flagpole, eliciting widespread laughter from the students.

He vowed to find the culprit. Meanwhile, a student named Lu Xinghe complained loudly to Zhang Ping, calling Zhenhua "perverted" and demanding expulsion. Later, some students grumbled about having to sit with Geng Geng due to her poor academic performance, fearing she would affect them. Zhang Ping defended Geng Geng against her classmates' criticisms. Director Pan then arrived, giving everyone a stern warning against further misbehavior.

Episode 2 Recap

The episode opens with the aftermath of a prank on Director Pan: his military uniform is strung up on the flagpole. Director Pan furiously demands to know the culprit, calling the act an intolerable shame for Zhenhua. When no one confesses, he orders fifty frog jumps for all students, threatening more until someone admits. Lu Xinghe steps forward, declaring he is the one responsible.

He boldly states he is "that rat in the soup" and dares Director Pan to expel him. Director Pan, having a deep friendship with Lu Xinghe's father, initially wanted to give Lu Xinghe a pass, but Lu Xinghe insisted on being expelled. Later, in Director Pan's office, Lu Xinghe reiterates his desire to be expelled, claiming no connection to his father who sent him to Zhenhua to study.

Director Pan, acknowledging Lu Xinghe's academic potential, tries to persuade him to apply himself. Zhang Ping, the class supervisor, announces an upcoming placement exam to assess students' capabilities. Geng Geng, aware that she was admitted to Zhenhua by luck, fears being expelled. She voices her worry that the exam is meant to "expose the poor students" like herself, feeling like an "accident" at Zhenhua. Yu Huai, seeing her distress, offers to be her deskmate and help her.

Later, Geng Geng attends a dinner with her father and his new partner, Miss Qi, who has a son named Lin Fan. Miss Qi greets Geng Geng warmly and praises her admission to Zhenhua. Lin Fan refers to Geng Geng as his "sister," but Geng Geng remains quiet and has no appetite. Afterward, Geng Geng calls her mother to confide about her father's impending marriage, tearfully asking if her mother will "leave" her.

Her mother reassures her, explaining her work keeps her busy but she would care for Geng Geng if she could. When the placement exam results are posted, students anxiously gather. Geng Geng worries about being expelled, but a senior student, Luo Zhi, reassures her it's a typical Zhenhua scare tactic. Beta and Jian Dan also express concerns, imagining dire consequences for poor results. To their relief, they find their names on the list, confirming they are not expelled.

Seating is arranged by scores, with Geng Geng, Jian Dan, and Beta placed in the back rows. Zhu Yao, who ranked fourth in admission, expresses disdain for sitting with "poor students" like Geng Geng, attributing her own low ranking to a fever during the exam. During a math class taught by Zhang Feng, Zhu Yao continues to openly disparage Geng Geng and her friends, leading to a heated argument and a physical scuffle between Jiang Niannian and Zhu Yao.

Class supervisor Zhang Ping arrives to find the commotion. Jiang Niannian complains about Zhu Yao's bullying and the unfair seating arrangement based solely on exam scores, despite it being Zhenhua's tradition. Yu Huai intervenes, challenging Zhang Ping to a "Match between teachers and students" to determine the seating arrangement. The rules are set: they will take turns asking questions, one point for a correct answer, the first to five points wins. The winner dictates Class 5’s seating.

If the students lose, they will stand for a week of classes. The match begins. Zhang Ping asks traditional academic questions, while Yu Huai poses riddles and trick questions, challenging the very nature of "knowledge." After several rounds, the score is tied 4-4. For the final question, Yu Huai asks about the final destination of the bus he previously described. Zhang Ping is unable to answer.

Yu Huai then quotes an ancient saying, "Where there’s knowledge, there’s teacher," implying that true knowledge isn't limited to what's taught in textbooks or by teachers. The students erupt in cheers, believing they have won. Zhu Yao immediately tries to change her seat. Yu Huai turns to Geng Geng, reminding her of their earlier agreement to be deskmates. When asked if she would sit in the back row with him, Geng Geng confidently replies, "I do."

The class bursts into laughter as Jiang Niannian jokes about the "proposal." Yu Huai then greets Geng Geng, "Hi, deskmate!" Zhang Ping reminds the students to apologize to Zhang Feng for disrupting his class, then muses about how he and Zhang Feng were deskmates and how "the one next to you will be the biggest treasure in your life." He then asks Geng Geng to take a class photo of everyone.

Later, Director Pan scolds Zhang Ping for allowing the "Match between teachers and students," calling it an embarrassment to Zhenhua. Zhang Ping accepts full responsibility, promising to bear all consequences if Class 5's mid-term exam results decline. Geng Geng's mother visits, expressing concern about Geng Geng's back-row seat and planning to use her connections to either change Geng Geng’s teacher or class, as Zhang Ping is a recent graduate with no teaching experience.

She also bitterly reminds Geng Geng that it was Geng Geng's father who insisted on the divorce. As she leaves, she takes the framed wedding photo of herself and Geng Geng's father. Geng Geng's father observes her departure, commenting on her "bad temper." The episode ends with Geng Geng asking her father if he will continue to love her, before contemplating her parents' unresolved issues and the unpredictable changes in her life.

Episode 3 Recap

Lu Xinghe, frustrated by a dispute with his deskmate and a teacher's rebuke, impulsively moves his desk to the back of Geng Geng's classroom. Yu Huai, the class monitor, confronts him, explaining that seating arrangements are based on academic performance and the teacher's careful planning.

Lu Xinghe retorts that students in Class 5 are allowed to swap seats, prompting Mr. Zhang, the math teacher of Class 5, to challenge him, telling him to transfer to Class 5 if he likes it so much. Surprisingly, Lu Xinghe takes him up on the offer and officially transfers to Class 5, sitting behind Geng Geng. Geng Geng, recognizing her former junior high classmate, expresses her astonishment, and a playful exchange ensues.

Lu Xinghe's rebellious nature quickly becomes apparent in his new class. During a physics lesson, the teacher, noticing Lu Xinghe's inattentiveness, tells him to go home if he finds sleeping in class more comfortable. Lu Xinghe responds by audaciously throwing a crumpled paper. Later, Mr. Zhang from Class 2 arrives to retrieve Lu Xinghe, who defiantly argues that the Class 5 teacher is more reasonable and that "pursuit, courage, and freedom" are Zhenhua's true school motto.

Exasperated, Mr. Zhang warns him never to return to Class 2. After class, Jiang Niannian, impressed by Lu Xinghe's bold challenge to the teachers, approaches him and suggests they become friends, proudly declaring herself a "heroine." Jian Dan approaches Geng Geng to discreetly inquire about Han Xu's academic standing, first asking about Yu Huai's impressive scores, particularly his full marks in physics. Geng Geng confirms Yu Huai's academic prowess, describing him as "scary" in exams.

Jian Dan then sheepishly admits her curiosity is for Han Xu and asks Geng Geng to keep it a secret. Later, Jian Dan and Geng Geng seek out Mr. Zhang for the overall grade ranking. Initially hesitant, fearing it might discourage students, Mr. Zhang relents when they insist it is not for themselves.

Yu Huai then appears, playfully seizing the ranking from Geng Geng and revealing that he is ranked 15th in the entire grade, with Han Xu three positions behind him. He teases Geng Geng about her own standing, prompting Jian Dan to defend her. Despite the slight difference in their rankings, Jian Dan's affection for the quiet Han Xu remains steadfast. During a geography lesson, the teacher voices her frustration that Zhenhua students often undervalue liberal arts.

She singles out a distracted Lu Xinghe at the back and asks for his view on geography. He casually states that geography is essentially about "eating, drinking, peeing, and pooping," humorously illustrating his point with examples of different national diets influenced by local produce, drawing laughter from the class and infuriating the teacher. Yu Huai then steps forward, volunteering a more scientific explanation. He meticulously details Kepler's Three Laws, including the law about orbits and the law about areas.

Lu Xinghe then counters, describing geography as having "warmth," citing examples like Japan's railway culture, scenic routes, and local cuisine, and specifically mentioning the canal in Aomori. Yu Huai, however, argues that science is inherently unemotional, built on rational deductions by countless geniuses, and that reducing it to mere scenery and food is a narrow perspective. The teacher commends both students for their spirited contributions. Geng Geng's father informs her of his plans to register his marriage with Aunt Qi.

Concerned, Geng Geng immediately advises him to arrange for a prenuptial property notarization to avoid future complications. Her father dismisses the idea, stating that their assets, including the house and bank accounts, are already separate, and he believes such a formality would negatively impact their relationship, as they are simply "living together." That evening, Geng Geng finds her father drinking alone in the living room, seemingly burdened by his impending remarriage.

The next day, her father asks if Aunt Qi's son, Lin Fan, can use Geng Geng's old closet when he moves in, and Geng Geng agrees. Coming to terms with the reality of her father's new marriage, Geng Geng suggests he host a small wedding dinner for the two families. During the dinner, Aunt Qi and her family praise Geng Geng's academic achievements at Zhenhua and her photography skills.

Geng Geng briefly leaves to buy more camera film but finds the shop is sold out. Lu Xinghe's father visits Zhenhua School, expressing his deep frustration to Mr. Zhang about his son's academic indifference and his desire to quit school to pursue painting. Angered by his son's lack of focus, he slaps Lu Xinghe, accusing him of being irresponsible and whimsical, and questions the practical value of a painting career. Mr. Zhang attempts to mediate the tense situation.

After the confrontation, a dejected Lu Xinghe returns to the classroom, picks up Geng Geng's camera, and walks out of the school. Realizing Lu Xinghe has taken her camera, Geng Geng, disregarding it being class time, frantically chases after him. She warns him not to waste her film. At the school gate, a guard tries to stop them, but Lu Xinghe bypasses him.

Geng Geng quickly tells the guard that Lu Xinghe stole her camera and she needs to retrieve it, then follows him out of the school. Lu Xinghe invites Geng Geng to join him on his electric bike, and they ride to the seaside. Instead of immediately demanding her camera back, Geng Geng patiently teaches him how to use it, explaining the viewfinder, focus, and aperture settings.

Lu Xinghe takes a few photos, which Geng Geng criticizes for his lack of preparation. He philosophically retorts that "many beautiful things in our life don’t show up before you’re prepared." As they observe the few people on the beach, Lu Xinghe speculates about a middle-aged man, wondering if he intends to jump into the sea. Geng Geng offers a darker interpretation, claiming the man is with his daughter and is secretly plotting to escape her.

Lu Xinghe then points out a couple, believing them to be deeply in love, but Geng Geng suggests it's a "last trip" where both are waiting for the other to initiate a breakup. Finally, Lu Xinghe expresses concern for a little girl playing alone, only for Geng Geng to reveal she is the daughter of the "plotting" middle-aged man, prompting Lu Xinghe to call her "scary." After Lu Xinghe drops her off, Geng Geng sits alone at the school gate.

Yu Huai unexpectedly appears, having correctly guessed her location, and returns her backpack. Geng Geng confides that she has attended her father's weddings three times and has learned that "those who appear in our life won’t wait for you to be prepared; they're all surprises to us." She expresses her new understanding that "a surprise might not be disastrous; it could be a pleasant one." With this newfound acceptance, Geng Geng declares her intention to return to Class 2 the next day, ready to embrace her own surprises.

Episode 4 Recap

Following their unauthorized absence from school, Geng Geng and Lu Xinghe were summoned to Director Pan's office. Pan informed them he would not punish them for cutting class, but instead assigned them a task: to photograph and translate for a visiting Japanese student delegation from Sakura Middle School. Geng Geng was to be the photographer, and Lu Xinghe, despite initially denying it, was assigned as the translator, as evidence suggested he had lived in Japan.

Geng Geng was distressed, explaining that her class had a basketball match, and she wanted to photograph it. Director Pan dismissed her concerns, stating she was "led astray by Lu Xinghe’s individualism" and reminded her she was a member of Zhenhua. He offered a compromise: if her class reached the finals, she could photograph. Lu Xinghe advised Geng Geng against arguing with Director Pan, assuring her he had her back.

Before the delegation's arrival, the school was abuzz with excitement for the basketball match. Geng Geng's classmates discussed preparing water for the players, and Yu Huai, confident in his skills, boasted about his past MVP titles and expected popularity. He even asked Geng Geng to photograph him during the game. Geng Geng, however, had to decline when she received Director Pan’s assignment. The Japanese delegation arrived at Zhenhua, warmly welcomed by students and staff.

A student named Yamin from Sakura Middle School delivered a speech emphasizing the long-standing cultural exchanges between China and Japan. Geng Geng, though assigned to the delegation, noticed Yu Huai seemed preoccupied. She faked a stomachache to try and sneak away to the ongoing basketball match but was caught by Director Pan. She learned that Class 5 had won its semi-final. Later, Geng Geng congratulated Yu Huai on his performance, and he thanked her.

He then asked if she would come to their next game. Returning home, Geng Geng was met by her father, who informed her that Miss Qi was moving in. Miss Qi's son, Fanfan, was playing with Geng Geng’s cherished plane toy. Despite Miss Qi's suggestion to put away the toys, Geng Geng’s father encouraged Fanfan to continue playing, stating toys were meant to be played with and wouldn’t break.

Later, Geng Geng discovered her plane was indeed broken and confronted Fanfan, who blamed the adults. Her father dismissed her distress, saying it was "just a toy" and criticized her for making a scene in front of the new family. Overwhelmed, Geng Geng called her biological mother, recounting how the plane was a precious 10th birthday gift from her parents.

Her mother advised her to focus on her studies and manage her relationship with her new family, promising to get her another gift in the future. Geng Geng later realized that her first batch of photos for the Japanese delegation was completely unusable due to incorrect camera settings. Director Pan had emphasized the importance of these photos for school publications and city newspapers, threatening severe punishment if they were unsatisfactory.

Desperate, Geng Geng sought help from Yu Huai, showing him the blurry photos, but he jokingly teased her about her lack of photographic talent. During class, Yu Huai was reprimanded by a teacher for drawing basketball strategies. He and Geng Geng left the classroom together. Later, during a basketball game, Yu Huai appeared agitated and aggressive, a tension Geng Geng and a friend noted.

Determined to watch Yu Huai play in the finals, Geng Geng, during Director Pan's speech to the Japanese delegation, seized an opportunity. As Pan spoke about Zhenhua's excellent educational methods and spirit, Geng Geng subtly suggested to Lu Xinghe that the delegation might enjoy watching the basketball finals to "feel the diligence and progress" of Zhenhua students. Lu Xinghe, understanding her intention, gave a "creative translation" to the Japanese students, who enthusiastically agreed to attend the game.

Lu Xinghe then relayed their excitement to Director Pan, using Pan's own school motto, which flattered Pan into permitting everyone to go to the basketball court. At the finals, Geng Geng cheered for Yu Huai, but during the match, Yu Huai sustained an injury. Geng Geng and a friend accompanied him to the infirmary, only to find it empty. Yu Huai later downplayed his injury, saying he was used to spraining his ankle.

Geng Geng promised to find a way to help him, and he thanked her. As evening fell, Geng Geng left school and saw a woman burning paper offerings outside the gate. Jiang Niannian appeared and explained that the woman was the mother of a student who had committed suicide years ago during an exam, and she came to mourn her child annually before exams.

This somber scene led to a discussion among students about the looming mid-term exams and the potential consequences, including students being swapped back to different classes if they failed. Her friend Beta offered to help Geng Geng, but warned of the risk of students being swapped back to different classes if their mid-term exam results were poor, urging Geng Geng to "get going."

Episode 5 Recap

Zhenhua High School faced a rising challenge as Affiliated Middle School to Normal University declared its intent to surpass Zhenhua within three years. This news sparked a sense of urgency in Director Pan, who called a meeting with his teachers, including Zhang Ping, to emphasize the critical task of competing with their rival school.

Director Pan expressed concern over Class 5's lax attitude and criticized Zhang Ping, stating that "fish begins to rot from the head" and demanded that he find ways to improve the class's overall academic performance. Zhang Ping promised to be strict with his students. Director Pan then instructed Zhang Ping to send Geng Geng to his office. Ahead of the mid-term exams, students were already feeling the pressure.

Some students discussed a competition student who had committed suicide years prior after a bad exam result. Outside the school gates, a grieving mother was seen burning joss paper for her deceased child. Subsequently, some students, including Jiang Niannian, gathered in the classroom, praying to a "God of Exams" for good fortune, with a peach wood sword and offerings. Jiang Niannian even chastised a classmate for disrespecting their ritual.

However, their superstitious activities were interrupted by Zhang Ping, who was displeased to see them "still having fun." He questioned Jiang Niannian about her unfinished quiz from a week ago, reminding the class of their promise to study hard when they swapped seats. He threatened to revert their seating arrangements if they performed poorly in the upcoming mid-term exams.

Geng Geng had previously confessed her worries to a classmate, stating that Director Pan had made her take photos, leaving her no time to study for physics, geography, or math. The classmate challenged whether she would have studied even if she had been in class, and cautioned her against spending too much time with Lu Xinghe, suggesting it might jeopardize her college admission.

Geng Geng had questioned why, to which the classmate replied they would be "even madder" if she continued to do so, urging her to "turn over a new leaf." When Geng Geng finally arrived at Director Pan’s office, he immediately inquired about the photos of the Japanese delegation, which he needed for the education authority and the evening news. Geng Geng fabricated a story about the photo shop's equipment being broken.

Director Pan dismissed her excuse, insisting on getting the crucial group photo. With the first set of photos for the Japanese delegation unusable, Geng Geng was in a bind. Lu Xinghe offered his help. He suggested taking a new group photo of the Japanese delegation and then using darkroom technology to "patch" Director Pan into it later, rather than trying to perfectly composite every individual.

Geng Geng was concerned about gathering all the necessary equipment like reagent, a basin, red light, and a magnifier, but Lu Xinghe insisted they had no other choice but to try. Subsequently, Lu Xinghe approached the Japanese delegation and secured their agreement to retake a group photo. During this retake, a Japanese delegate mentioned that Director Pan often subjected his students to "training on their will," implying his strictness.

Geng Geng attempted to photograph Director Pan discreetly, but she struggled to get a clear focus. Meanwhile, at home, Geng Geng's stepmother, Miss Qi, greeted her warmly, explaining she was on a day off. Later, Geng Geng called her mother, expressing how much she missed her. Her mother playfully questioned if her father or "his new wife" were treating her poorly, but Geng Geng reassured her that everyone was kind and she simply missed her.

Geng Geng's mother later visited her, bringing a new SIM card with prepaid credit, encouraging Geng Geng to use it to contact her if she needed anything she couldn't discuss with her father. Geng Geng affirmed that she didn't lack anything. Later, in a hidden corner of the school, Lu Xinghe led Geng Geng into a deserted women's restroom he had converted into a makeshift darkroom. He demonstrated his equipment and process.

Geng Geng observed that images were inverted due to the convex lens. She joked that Director Pan looked like "Tarzan the ape man" in a test print, suggesting they only develop his head. However, Lu Xinghe dismissed her idea and confidently took the negatives, promising to "fix it," telling her to "have faith in me" if she wanted to avoid trouble. As the mid-term exams approached, Zhang Ping's pressure on the students was palpable.

Geng Geng was given a practice question by Beta, which Beta had copied after finding it in Zhang Ping's office. It turned out to be a difficult competition-level problem. Geng Geng initially struggled, but Yu Huai, who had spotted her, offered to explain how to solve it by drawing a coordinate axis. They also had a brief conversation about Lu Xinghe, with Geng Geng describing him as "special" and "nice" despite their homeroom teacher Mr. Zhang Feng's dislike.

Yu Huai then walked Geng Geng home, and they discovered a shared appreciation for Beyond's music, particularly the song "Life is Wonderful." Yu Huai admitted that he only knew how to play that one song on his harmonica. On the day of the mid-term exams, Geng Geng was surprised to find that the challenging physics question Beta had copied was an exact match to one on the test. After the exam, Director Pan summoned Geng Geng.

Instead of scolding her, he was ecstatic, praising the group photo of the Japanese delegation. He believed Geng Geng had delayed delivering it to surprise him and called it "nicely done." He announced that the evening news would be invited to take pictures. Director Pan publicly credited Lu Xinghe for his work on the photo, but also lightly chided Geng Geng for her "carelessness," playfully noting how her name had become associated with Lu Xinghe as "Geng Geng and Xinghe." Geng Geng, elated by her success in the physics exam, called her mother to excitedly share that she had done "great" and solved the last physics question.

Episode 6 Recap

The school anniversary was approaching, and Class Five's teacher, Zhang Ping, tasked the class monitor, Wen Xiaoxiao, with leading the rehearsal for a play, "Snow White." During a class meeting, Zhang Ping announced that each class was required to present a performance for the school's 88th anniversary celebration. Geng Geng, observing the discussions and daydreaming of herself as Snow White with Yu Huai as her Prince, decided to join the production.

Lu Xinghe, known for his artistic flair, suggested performing "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves," mentioning he had previously adapted the script. Geng Geng thought it sounded like a good idea. Yu Huai was eventually, somewhat reluctantly, included in the cast as an indispensable member of the class. Jian Dan and Geng Geng also volunteered to participate. However, gossip had already begun circulating that Lu Xinghe was pursuing Geng Geng, an artistically inclined friend of hers.

Geng Geng, concerned about the rumors, specifically asked Lu Xinghe to keep his distance for two weeks, requesting that he refrain from overly sentimental gestures. Lu Xinghe, unfazed by the gossip, agreed to her request. The casting was announced with Han Xu as the Prince and Wen Xiaoxiao as the Queen. To everyone's surprise, Xu Yanliang was cast as the Princess, a decision Wen Xiaoxiao attributed to Zhang Ping. Despite the initial odd casting, rehearsals for the play began.

While Geng Geng found the collaborative activity enjoyable, Yu Huai viewed it as merely "boring formalism" and "a bedtime story," expressing a general reluctance to participate. Their physics teacher, Zhang Feng, held a contrasting view to Zhang Ping. Zhang Feng prioritized academic achievement above all else, while Zhang Ping believed in fostering a more diverse high school experience beyond just studying.

Zhang Feng interrupted a rehearsal session, sternly reminding the students that their primary duty was to study, especially with mid-term exams approaching. Geng Geng, however, remained dedicated to the play. She diligently rehearsed her lines at home, even imagining conversations with a magic mirror about whether boys liked her. During one rehearsal, she proposed an insightful modification to the Queen's lines, which Wen Xiaoxiao praised, noting Geng Geng's unexpected talent for drama.

Geng Geng admitted she was simply happy for a temporary escape from her textbooks. Her mother, hearing her practicing, playfully guessed she was rehearsing "Snow White" after Geng Geng described the plot as "a woman fainting in the woods and being dragged into a dark cabin by seven men." Geng Geng had also called her mother, expressing her longing and receiving a new phone card with pre-paid credit, which allowed her to stay in touch more easily.

Following the mid-term exams, Class Five achieved unusually high scores in the last two physics questions, drawing the attention of Director Pan. He found this suspicious, as Zhenhua Middle School had no history of large-scale cheating. He immediately ordered Zhang Ping to investigate the students' activities leading up to the exam. Reviewing the school's surveillance footage, Director Pan spotted Geng Geng acting suspiciously outside Zhang Ping's office before the exam.

He concluded that she had cheated, which led to Zhang Ping's demotion as class teacher. The students of Class Five, fiercely loyal to Zhang Ping, were dismayed and decided to collectively approach Director Pan to clear their teacher's name and ensure his reinstatement. On the day of the anniversary celebration, Geng Geng encountered a senior student, Luo Zhi, who inquired about her "desk mate with the tiger tooth" (Yu Huai).

Geng Geng later observed Luo Zhi watching student representative Sheng Huainan's speech with clear admiration. Just before Class Five's performance of "Snow White," Geng Geng was overcome with nervousness and developed uncontrollable hiccups. Her classmates frantically attempted various remedies, including startling her and making her hold her breath, but to no avail. Finally, a classmate offered her an apple, which surprisingly cured her hiccups.

This relief was short-lived, however, as it was discovered that the apple Geng Geng ate was actually the crucial prop for the play. As Class Five's "Snow White" began, the audience struggled to hear the actors' lines. When it came time for the Queen, played by Wen Xiaoxiao, to present the poisoned apple to Snow White, played by Geng Geng, Yu Huai ingeniously improvised.

He stepped forward, declaring himself "the little apple," and mimed being the fruit, earning laughter and applause from the audience and saving the scene. The play continued with the Prince, played by Han Xu, finding Snow White and reviving her with a kiss. Backstage after the performance, Yu Huai commented to Geng Geng that the "behind-the-scenes story" was far more interesting. He then playfully admitted that he genuinely enjoyed sitting next to her.

Geng Geng teased him about his perceived popularity, to which Yu Huai playfully retorted, asking if she wanted him to admit she loved him. Their exchange continued lightheartedly, with Yu Huai reaffirming his confidence in being universally liked.

Episode 7 Recap

Following a mid-term exam, Director Pan summoned Geng Geng, suspecting her involvement in collective physics cheating. Geng Geng explained that she had been washing photos in the lab building with Lu Xinghe when Director Pan found them. She apologized for not telling him about the damaged photos and for secretly developing them with Lu Xinghe on the roof of the male toilet during lunch.

Director Pan then questioned her about being in his office or touching his computer before the exam, which Geng Geng denied, and Zhang Ping, her homeroom teacher, confirmed she had not asked him for any questions. Director Pan, convinced of cheating, presented Class 5’s physics exam scores, noting their exceptionally high performance on the last question, far exceeding other classes.

When the class monitor credited Zhang Ping’s strict teaching, Director Pan dismissed it as nonsense and accused Zhang Ping of giving the questions beforehand, or Geng Geng of obtaining them. Zhang Ping defended Geng Geng, explaining that she had been busy with the Japanese delegation and had no time to enter his office. Angered, Director Pan removed Zhang Ping from his position as Class 5’s homeroom teacher and declared all of Class 5’s physics scores null, assigning them zeros.

An experienced educator, Mr. Zhang, was temporarily assigned to oversee Class 5. He was given the student files by a colleague. Meanwhile, Zhang Feng harshly criticized Zhang Ping. An older teacher comforted Zhang Ping, assuring him the truth would come out. The students were distraught, with some attempting to calm others, insisting it was just an exam and not one person’s fault, and suggesting they talk to Zhang Ping.

In class, Mr. Zhang, the temporary teacher, wanted to skip explaining the last physics question, but students insisted. He chastised Yu Huai for enabling copying and others for not showing steps, ordering them to re-solve the problem to understand their own abilities. The classroom quickly became messy under the temporary supervision.

Jiang Niannian, feeling responsible, attempted to confess to Director Pan, believing "one person takes responsibility for one's actions," but her classmates held her back, reminding her that they were all involved. Mr. Zhang lamented being a homeroom teacher again after a decade, noting he was now the oldest in the school to hold the position. Students teased him, suggesting he resign again, but he stressed the importance of students taking responsibility for their actions.

Meanwhile, Zhang Ping called his mother, fabricating stories about being busy and about his job status, stating he would become a full member in three months. He assured her he was fine, carefully avoiding any mention of his dismissal. Geng Geng also spoke to her mother, who was pressing her for exam results, causing Geng Geng to abruptly end the call to avoid further discussion.

Geng Geng, Jiang Niannian, Yu Huai, and Xu Yanliang later followed Zhang Ping to an arcade, where he was observed watching others play. The students encouraged him to play a claw machine, suggesting he apply his physics knowledge to master the game's mechanics. Zhang Ping, with the help of the students, successfully won a toy. He bought drinks for everyone, and the students reiterated that he was still their homeroom teacher in their hearts.

Back at school, students continued to argue over who was truly to blame for the cheating. Jiang Niannian, still struggling with guilt, again declared her intention to confess to Director Pan. After a group discussion, they collectively agreed to admit their mistake and apply for a make-up exam, believing that performing well could help Zhang Ping get his job back.

Jiang Niannian courageously confessed to Director Pan that she had stolen the physics question and admitted her responsibility for sharing it. She detailed how it was obtained, including the jammed printer and the specific software version (Word 2000) used on Mr. Zhang's computer, asking Director Pan to verify this proof that she had accessed the office. Xu Yanliang admitted to printing the questions, and Yu Huai admitted to teaching the class the answers.

Other students also confessed, emphasizing that Zhang Ping had no knowledge of their actions. They pleaded for a retest. Director Pan was initially unyielding, but Mr. Zhang (the temporary homeroom teacher) intervened. He argued that he was too old to be a homeroom teacher and reminded Director Pan that assigning zero scores would lead to an impossible parents’ meeting.

Relenting, Director Pan agreed to allow a make-up exam, revealing that Zhang Ping and the students had been eavesdropping outside his office. Director Pan then announced that the make-up physics exam for Class 5 would be held that Friday, overseen by him. When Director Pan requested Jiang Niannian's parents to sign her punishment papers, she revealed that her parents worked in Beijing and she lived with her elderly grandparents.

She begged him not to inform them, fearing the stress would harm them. Director Pan insisted that her parents must attend the parents' meeting or she would be sent back to Beijing. For the make-up exam, Mr. Zhang (the temporary homeroom teacher) appointed Yu Huai, known as the best physics student and P. E. commissary, as the class's "commander" for preparation. Yu Huai reluctantly accepted.

During their study session, Lu Xinghe approached Geng Geng, trying to distract her for a photo opportunity and questioning the concept of collective glory at the expense of individual talent. Geng Geng, focused on preparing for the exam, declined. Later, Yu Huai saw Geng Geng studying alone. He silently cleaned the blackboard and offered to explain some physics problems to her. During the make-up exam, Director Pan closely monitored the students.

Geng Geng, recalling Yu Huai's blackboard notes about dynamics, electricity, and simplified formulas, was able to answer the questions. Although Jiang Niannian successfully passed, Director Pan attached a note to her transcript detailing her cheating, which would prevent her from receiving preferential admission to schools in Beijing. This left her feeling deeply troubled and annoyed. Later, Mr. Zhang (the temporary homeroom teacher) proudly announced that he had successfully applied for Zhang Ping’s reinstatement.

Zhang Ping returned to a cheering class, jokingly scolding them for the mess. He revealed their make-up exam results: though individual scores had declined due to the increased difficulty, Class 5 collectively ranked third in their grade. Jiang Niannian, still feeling guilty and unworthy, cried, but her classmates comforted her, asserting that her actions had ultimately motivated them to improve their physics scores.

As the parents' meeting approached, Jiang Niannian expressed her intention to ask Zhang Ping to highlight her improved physics grades. Geng Geng mentioned the upcoming meeting to Yu Huai, who seemed anxious and quickly rode away on his bicycle, suggesting his reluctance for his parents to attend.

Episode 8 Recap

The school was abuzz with preparations for the upcoming parents' meeting. Jiang Niannian, worried about her academic performance, pondered whether to send her dad or mom, noting that the results would be "too cruel." Her younger brother mockingly questioned her "EQ" for grappling with this dilemma. Determined to spare her parents, Jiang Niannian went to the market.

There, she spotted a pig butcher with a full beard and brazenly asked him to "be my dad" for the meeting, a request he initially found "inappropriate" (from subtitles). Meanwhile, Lu Xinghe was found by the sea, sketching. A young boy challenged him on the usefulness of painting, but Lu Xinghe firmly declared his aspiration to be a painter and mentioned his mother’s support for him to attend the Fine Art High School and then the Fine Art University.

Geng Geng, encountering Lu Xinghe later, felt a pang of sadness as he confessed Zhenhua High School didn't suit him and expressed his intention to transfer to an art training school, citing his pursuit of "freedom." Back at school, Zhang Ping, the class supervisor, meticulously prepared for the parents’ meeting, hoping to make a good impression.

He sought Geng Geng’s advice on which tie would make him look more "mature," though Geng Geng candidly told him both were "worse" before settling on one as "good." Both Geng Geng and Yu Huai found his new attire amusing, lightheartedly teasing him, to which Zhang Ping promised to praise Geng Geng during the meeting. The parents' meeting began, with Zhang Ping formally welcoming everyone and distributing academic transcripts, followed by a "brief analysis" of the mid-term exam results.

Jiang Niannian's hired "dad," the pig butcher, lively and fond of showing off, seized an opportunity to speak as the meeting neared its end (from plot summary). He complimented the school's atmosphere and the teachers’ professionalism. He then launched into a vivid analogy, comparing the process of educating children to "butchering a pig," emphasizing the necessity of "skills" and a nuanced approach to find the "bones" rather than simply hacking.

He argued that educators shouldn't "force them to do what we want" but rather "guide them to a good way," a sentiment Zhang Ping agreed with. During his speech, Zhang Ping checked Jiang Niannian's parent identity form and, to his surprise, discovered that her actual father was a surgeon (from plot summary).

Later, Yu Huai commented on the "surgeon" using such "terms," only for Jiang Niannian to admit she had "employed him from the market," leaving Yu Huai impressed by her daring act. On the playground, Geng Geng shared with Yu Huai her "strange" observation of seeing classmates with their parents, revealing "what they were like out of the school." Yu Huai admitted he was feeling "bothered by his mom." Geng Geng playfully suggested he teach her basketball, praising his "good" skills.

Yu Huai, while acknowledging his talent, humbly said "interest is the best teacher" and his long-standing passion. He then shifted to a more serious tone, stating that if he had to choose between basketball and physics, he would pick physics, explaining that "We don't have another choice. Only when we enter a good university can we do what we want."

He reflected on Lu Xinghe, noting they were "same sometimes" in their determination but criticizing Lu Xinghe's approach as "avoiding the reality." The conversation grew intimate when Yu Huai asked Geng Geng, "Let's always be desk mates," and she softly agreed. Their moment was interrupted by Jiang Niannian, who confessed that her "dad" was actually a butcher she "employed. . . from the market," leading Yu Huai to exclaim how "brave" she was.

Later, Yu Huai’s mother approached Zhang Ping during the meeting. Zhang Ping praised Yu Huai's intellect and autonomy in studies. However, his mother insisted his seat be changed to sit "beside a boy," revealing that Yu Huai had lied about Geng Geng's gender as his deskmate, knowing she "wouldn't let him sit beside a girl." Zhang Ping attempted to reassure her, stating, "But his desk mate is Geng Geng," subtly downplaying any perceived threat.

Overhearing this, Geng Geng was later approached by Yu Huai's mother, who apologized, "I'm not aiming at you. Don't blame me. I know you're good." The tension escalated dramatically at home. When Yu Huai expressed frustration with his mother, calling her "annoying," she retorted by accusing him of being "annoying."

She then emotionally detailed his father's sacrifices working in Africa and her constant worry that his studies would be jeopardized by early romance, referencing a past incident with a deskmate named Chen. She declared, "If you go astray, we both will lose hope. This family will be ruined." Feeling his "freedom" was being stifled by his mother's interference, Yu Huai stormed out of the house into the rain, ignoring her desperate pleas for him to stop.

Deeply shaken by the day’s events and worried about a potential seat change, Geng Geng took a taxi home and cried uncontrollably (from plot summary). Initially, she asked the driver to "drive a bit slower." The driver noticed her distress and compassionately urged her to "cry if you want to."

Overwhelmed with emotion and having no desire to return home, Geng Geng then instructed the driver to "drive as hard as you can" until the fare reached "50 yuan," asking him to drive wherever he liked (from plot summary).

Episode 9 Recap

The day after the parent-teacher conference, Geng Geng's classmate, Xu Yanliang, excitedly approached her. He gossiped about how Yu Huai had bravely confronted his mother the previous night, likening Yu Huai and Geng Geng to the dramatic characters Yu Shuhuan and Geng Yiping, rebelling against authority. Xu Yanliang also teased Geng Geng about hiring a "fake dad," remarking that even he could tell the acting was over-the-top, let alone Zhang Ping.

Meanwhile, Yu Huai arrived at school with a bandaged hand, claiming it was just a minor scrape that his mother insisted on wrapping. When Zhang Ping tried to inquire further, Yu Huai quickly left. Later, Geng Geng met with Yu Huai, who questioned why she sought information about Chen Xuejun from Xu Yanliang instead of him. Geng Geng retorted that he would never have told her the truth.

Yu Huai became visibly agitated, accusing her of having a "brain full of spicy hot pot" for thinking his actions were related to Chen Xuejun. He vehemently denied owing Chen Xuejun anything or using Geng Geng to compensate for it. When Geng Geng pressed him for the real story, Yu Huai clarified that his current hand injury had nothing to do with past events. He admitted to feeling deeply embarrassed and guilty about the previous situation involving Chen Xuejun.

Geng Geng, still puzzled by his behavior, asked why he had been so cynical the day before. Yu Huai dismissed her concerns, saying that any issues were between him and Xu Yanliang, and it was "none of her business." Geng Geng, frustrated, left for the restroom, wondering why she was so keen to understand his past, and whether he knew why she wanted to be his desk mate.

Geng Geng accompanied Xu Yanliang to meet his online female friend, "Tokyo Hot," in person. As they walked, Xu Yanliang recounted the story of Chen Xuejun, a fair-skinned girl who had transferred to Yu Huai's middle school Class 5. He described Chen Xuejun as a blunt person who spoke and acted without thinking, struggling to get along with others.

She frequently caused her desk mates to request seat changes due to her annoying habits, like applying smelly nail polish during class, discussing questions about boys and girls falling in love, or even cutting her desk mate's hair. Due to her constant conflicts with female classmates, Yu Huai volunteered to be Chen Xuejun's desk mate, believing her to be innocent and hoping to influence her positively. Xu Yanliang told Geng Geng that many students believed Chen Xuejun liked Yu Huai.

Their bond seemed to stem from playing a game together, but Yu Huai’s grades rapidly declined while preparing for a science league. His mother, already burdened with caring for Yu Huai and his grandparents while his father was working in Africa, confronted Yu Huai about his slipping grades. Concerned about a female deskmate's influence on his studies, she demanded Teacher Wang assign him a same-sex desk mate.

In a flashback, Chen Xuejun was shown asking Yu Huai if he would miss her if she left, to which he responded, "Could you stop being annoying?" Yu Huai’s mother eventually succeeded in having Chen Xuejun moved to a different desk, away from Yu Huai and the rest of the class. After the unified exam, Chen Xuejun rarely attended school and was not seen again.

When "Tokyo Hot" arrived at the meeting spot, a milk tea shop, a gang leader with dyed hair soon followed. The leader accused "Tokyo Hot" of breaking up with him for Xu Yanliang, whom he called a "curl-hair boy." "Tokyo Hot" defensively claimed she was "married" to Xu Yanliang in their game and asserted that Xu Yanliang had initiated their meeting. The gang leader, enraged, promised to settle the score.

Recognizing the danger, Geng Geng urged Xu Yanliang to escape and find Yu Huai and their friends for help. The gang leader and his subordinates pursued them. Yu Huai, Lu Xinghe, and other classmates eventually arrived. As tensions escalated and a fight seemed inevitable, Yu Huai, demonstrating his resolve, wrapped cloth strips around his hand, ready to confront the gang leader one-on-one. Just as violence was about to erupt, Director Pan appeared.

Fearlessly, he berated the pretentious gang, asserting that harming Zhenhua students was an affront to the school and himself. Intimidated, the gang leader and his group retreated. Director Pan then turned his attention to Xu Yanliang, punishing him with a 10,000-word self-reflection for his involvement with the hooligans. When Xu Yanliang complained, Director Pan promptly doubled the penalty to 20,000 words. As night fell, Lu Xinghe invited Geng Geng to an open-air poem-reading club.

A diner at the venue mistakenly assumed Geng Geng was Lu Xinghe's girlfriend, a remark Lu Xinghe quietly encouraged Geng Geng to let pass without explanation. He then recited a beautiful poem dedicated to a friend, wishing her well. Geng Geng confessed she didn't fully understand the poem, prompting Lu Xinghe to explain that art's value lies in feeling and life, not just comprehension, citing Vincent van Gogh.

Geng Geng countered that scientific pursuits, like chemistry equations, also held beauty and meaning, calling Lu Xinghe's dismissal of other fields "childish" and concluding they were "different people," with him being an artist and her an "ordinary person." Lu Xinghe gently disagreed, assuring her, "You're not ordinary." Geng Geng, citing homework, soon left. After she departed, Lu Xinghe's friend asked him if he had genuinely fallen for Geng Geng, to which he affirmed, "Yes."

Episode 10 Recap

Jiang Niannian hired a man to impersonate her father at the school parents’ meeting. Mr. Zhang discovered the deception and called Jiang Niannian to his office, where he sternly reprimanded her. Jiang Niannian confessed to stealing test papers, hiring a fake dad, and skipping physics classes. She explained that her parents were extremely strict, and she feared they would punish her severely if they knew, saying they would "take my skin off and cover the sofa."

As her parents worked in Beijing, she felt like a disadvantaged child who had grown accustomed to only sharing good news. Mr. Zhang acknowledged her intelligence but questioned how she used it, reminding her that while she was preparing for future exams in Beijing, she still needed to take all school exams seriously.

He urged her to stop lying about her grades and promised to speak with her parents to ensure she wouldn't face harsh punishment if she had them attend future meetings. Jiang Niannian, grateful, called him the best teacher and accepted a hawthorn roll from him. Later, on a phone call with Geng Geng, Jiang Niannian recounted being caught by Mr. Zhang.

She pondered whether Mr. Zhang had a girlfriend and what type of girl he might like, then declared her intention to "work hard on study" and become a "different Jiang Niannian," asking Geng Geng to join her. As the weekend approached, Mr. Zhang announced a class autumn outing, granting Friday off for the activity to foster class unity and provide a break.

Most students were excited, but Yu Huai requested to skip it, stating he needed to prepare for an upcoming physics competition. Mr. Zhang emphasized that participation was voluntary but encouraged everyone to join, noting it was their first class activity. When only Zhu Yao initially raised her hand to opt out, Mr. Zhang threatened to cancel the outing and hold regular classes. Jiang Niannian protested, arguing that participation numbers shouldn't determine the activity.

Ultimately, Yu Huai's good friend Xu Yanliang decided to forgo the outing to study with Yu Huai. Yu Huai stated he would decide their study location, rejecting typical outing spots like mountains, museums, or parks. Geng Geng, feeling disappointed by Yu Huai's decision to skip the outing, faced further discouragement when her father visited school.

After reviewing her academic transcript, her father advised her to prioritize math, Chinese, and English, suggesting she focus on liberal arts when she reached Grade 2, implying her struggles in physics. This conversation left Geng Geng disheartened. During the actual outing, Mr. Zhang led the students on a bus.

Lu Xinghe jokingly complained about the humble transport, preferring his scooter, which prompted Mr. Zhang to scold him about riding a motorcycle to school and remind him that education was for his own benefit. Lu Xinghe retorted that he didn't find school lessons appealing and preferred art, which he considered "prettier than science," leading Mr. Zhang to call him ignorant. On the mountain, many students felt tired.

Lu Xinghe suggested taking a cable car, but Jiang Niannian championed Mr. Zhang's idea of hiking, a sentiment Geng Geng echoed. During a rest stop, Geng Geng silently observed while others shared snacks. Jian Dan complained about Han Xu's fast walking pace, wishing she could be alone and free. Geng Geng reflected on her own feelings, noting that when one likes someone, one often feels inexplicably upset, wondering "Why did he treat me like this?

Did he ever think about me?" , yet remains willing to endure any grievances for that person. As students later shouted wishes down the mountain, Geng Geng wished for things to "always be like this." Jiang Niannian then loudly confessed her admiration for Mr. Zhang, finding him particularly "handsome in white shirts." Driven by his desire to impress Geng Geng, who had expressed an interest in physics, Lu Xinghe visited a technical university to learn science.

He was seen in a chemistry lab and later sought out Director Pan to ask a chemistry question, demonstrating his commitment to understanding science. He even declared to Geng Geng that chemical equations, like poetry, possessed their own beauty, showing his efforts to connect with her interests. Meanwhile, at the university, a student named Zhoumo was seen attempting to flirt with a female student using various lines, but she skillfully rebuffed each one.

Later, Xu Yanliang was studying with Yu Huai in a library or study area. He spotted an attractive female student, but his attempt to approach her was thwarted when she received a phone call from her boyfriend. Disappointed, Xu Yanliang jokingly lamented his "crossed in love" status after only "a few minutes," prompting Yu Huai to suggest playing basketball. Xu Yanliang declined, citing unfinished homework and dismissing Yu Huai's Sudoku as unhelpful.

While on the mountain, Jiang Niannian discovered a small, injured bird. Initially hesitant to handle it, she passed it to Geng Geng, who insisted on taking care of it and bringing it back to school despite Mr. Zhang's warning about the responsibility. Geng Geng placed the bird in a cage. Yu Huai, seeing the bird, commented on its plight, comparing its freedom in the sky to its comfort in the cage.

He then jokingly asked Geng Geng to do his cleaning duties, calling her a "warm-hearted angel" and quipping that if kindness equated to IQ, she would have already won a Nobel Prize. Later, Yu Huai gave Geng Geng a notebook filled with math notes, explaining that he had written them during a break from his competition studies.

He stated it covered all the key points of high school math functions, implying that for someone of Geng Geng's "intelligence," repetitive training of "conditioned reflexes" was the most effective learning method. Geng Geng sarcastically thanked him, but appreciated the gesture.

Lu Xinghe continued to diligently study science, having previously declared to Geng Geng that chemical equations hold a beauty akin to poetry and that he would do anything for her, confessing, "I must tell you the words that I have kept for long." He was clearly determined to become a "Physics Prince" to win Geng Geng's favor.

Episode 11 Recap

Yu Huai was down with a high fever at home. His mother brought him Porridge, urging him to drink it and reminding him to shut his window when sleeping to avoid catching a cold again. Before going home, Yu Huai had lent Geng Geng a character grid notebook. Though it was an ordinary item, Geng Geng treasured it. During class, Geng Geng and Yu Huai, who was recuperating, were secretly exchanging text messages.

Geng Geng playfully texted Yu Huai, thanking him for the notebook, to which Yu Huai replied, impersonating his mom and saying he’d do anything for her. He followed with a romantic line, then another, quickly stopping with a "we are still young". To prevent being caught by the teacher, Geng Geng set her phone to vibrate. However, the buzzing sound was distinctly audible in the quiet classroom, drawing the attention of Ms. Lai.

The teacher confiscated Geng Geng's phone, looking furious and intending to check its contents. In a moment of panic, Geng Geng forgot she was facing her teacher and angrily protested, "No one is allowed to touch my phone. Who gave you right to invade my privacy? You can't!" After her outburst, Geng Geng quickly realized her mistake and profusely apologized.

All the students stared at Geng Geng in astonishment, some commenting on how lucky she was that Ms. Lai let her off so easily. After class, Jiang Niannian and other friends praised Geng Geng for her bravery, as she was usually gentle and rarely argued, especially not with a teacher. Geng Geng later learned from her friends that Yu Huai had been the one texting her in his mom’s tone, calling him a "lad" for it.

Xu Yanliang, who had earlier been teased about being a "master on relationship" who hadn't solved his own problems, decided to share his expertise with Geng Geng and her friends, who listened intently. He explained that femininity and attention to details were crucial.

He outlined three quick tips: "Soratani Orchids," which involved speaking tenderly and acting helpless, like saying "Wow, you are so great" when a boy helps; "the Deflowering Concubine," a pose where one slightly pulls down their collar to show their clavicle, aiming to make men curious; and "the Willow Blew by Spring Wind," a graceful movement of gently stroking hair behind the ear to appear elegant. He joked that he was now their teacher in these matters.

Meanwhile, Zhang Ping was excited after receiving a call from his former junior, Ding Ying, who needed advice on her internship. He revealed to Jiang Niannian that Ding Ying had asked him out for dinner, expressing surprise that she chose him out of many other students. Jiang Niannian, harboring feelings for Zhang Ping, suggested it might only be KFC, which Zhang Ping then wondered if it counted as a date.

Later, Zhang Ping explicitly asked Jiang Niannian if girls liked eating at KFC. She confirmed they did, but he quickly dismissed the conversation without further explanation. As Yu Huai was still out sick, Geng Geng was tasked with returning Sheng Huainan's composition book. Luo Zhi, who had a long-standing crush on Sheng Huainan, seized the opportunity to follow Geng Geng, knowing she was heading to the dancing room where Sheng Huainan was.

As they walked, Geng Geng asked Luo Zhi why she, a literal art student and the top student in liberal arts, was so interested in physics, especially since Sheng Huainan was the top student in science. Geng Geng then told Luo Zhi that their teacher had praised Luo Zhi's excellent essay and shared it with Geng Geng's class, and Geng Geng expressed how much she appreciated Luo Zhi's writing. Luo Zhi was visibly touched by this sincere appreciation.

Luo Zhi also explained that one shouldn't be utilitarian about interests, as a utilitarian approach makes the world more mysterious. She acknowledged that Sheng Huainan was well-known, even if they didn't officially know each other. Upon meeting Sheng Huainan, Geng Geng introduced herself as Yu Huai’s desk mate and conveyed Yu Huai’s thanks while returning the composition book. Sheng Huainan was casual, saying the notes were useless after being written.

He then recognized Luo Zhi from a previous flag-raising ceremony, recalling her name. This unexpected recognition caused Luo Zhi to become instantly shy and quickly depart, leaving Geng Geng confused by her abrupt exit. Luo Zhi later thanked Geng Geng, noting that good articles were circulated in their grade too. Separately, Jian Dan was pursuing Han Xu, who loved astronomy.

Despite finding complex astronomy books like "A Brief History of Time" difficult, Jian Dan dedicated herself to studying them to create a common topic with him. In the library, she and Han Xu discovered a series of poignant messages hidden within the books, forming a secret diary between a past couple who expressed their love and shared their thoughts through these notes.

Jian Dan found it incredibly romantic and touching, especially how the girl had read challenging books for the boy she liked. Han Xu initially dismissed it as "girls always imagine" and "boring," but he eventually joined Jian Dan in searching for more of these hidden love notes throughout the library. When Yu Huai finally recovered and returned to school, he and Geng Geng resumed their playful banter in the classroom.

Geng Geng complained about the Sudoku puzzle Yu Huai had given her as a "great gift" for returning his composition book, reminding him that she was bad at math. Yu Huai defended his "personally designed" Sudoku, promising a bigger reward if she solved it. Their lighthearted argument, with Geng Geng chasing Yu Huai, was witnessed by Lu Xinghe, who was carrying chemicals. This sight spurred him to action, making him realize he needed to escalate his pursuit of Geng Geng.

During a break, outside the school building, Lu Xinghe approached Geng Geng and, with an audience, dramatically ignited a carefully prepared chemical display. He explained that science and art both have the same goal, and he wanted to show her the beautiful reaction between two ordinary things. The reaction produced a spectacular, fireworks-like eruption, stunning everyone. Geng Geng understood it was a grand gesture of confession and looked deeply uncomfortable, even vowing to "make him pay for it."

Director Pan, upon hearing the commotion, rushed to the scene and angrily reprimanded Lu Xinghe for causing a disturbance and damaging school property. Afterwards, Yu Huai approached Geng Geng, visibly concerned, and asked if she had ever liked him, then checked if she was hurt.

Episode 12 Recap

Following Lu Xinghe's public confession, Geng Geng and Lu Xinghe became the talk of Zhenhua High School. Students gossiped, believing Geng Geng was dating Lu Xinghe and speculating about their wedding. Some even made harsh comments, calling Geng Geng "slutty." Geng Geng, however, was bothered by the attention and stated that she and Lu Xinghe were not close, wishing to live out her life quietly. Meanwhile, Yu Huai was visibly upset by the situation.

During lunch, Geng Geng tried to talk to him about Lu Xinghe's fountain incident, but Yu Huai was dismissive and told her to ignore Lu Xinghe, suggesting her engagement with him was causing problems. Geng Geng's friends, Jian Dan and another classmate, noticed Yu Huai's aloofness and advised Geng Geng to pursue Lu Xinghe.

They compared the situation to "Boys Over Flowers," stating that Lu Xinghe, being handsome, talented, rich, and brave enough to confess publicly, was the better choice compared to Yu Huai, who seemed to have other affections, likening his situation to Hua Ze Lei's with Toudou Jing. Lu Xinghe, still dealing with the aftermath of his fountain explosion, was writing a self-criticism. When the teacher mentioned "puppy love," he corrected it, calling his confession an "unrequited love."

Later, two male classmates mocked his public declaration of love. Lu Xinghe retorted that confessing required more courage than mocking and revealed their own crushes. He then left to find Geng Geng, who was hiding in the girls' restroom, urged by her friends to face him. Her friends, however, soon abandoned her to do their homework. Lu Xinghe waited outside, threatening to enter if she didn't come out.

Geng Geng finally emerged, but Lu Xinghe continued his persistent declarations, saying he would confess a second and third time. He passionately told her he liked her and wanted to be with her forever, even outlining their future life together, promising to stop dangerous stunts. However, Geng Geng firmly rejected him, stating that if he continued, they couldn't even be friends. As they talked, Yu Huai appeared, visibly angry.

He grabbed Geng Geng's hand and pulled her away, ignoring her attempts to explain the situation with Lu Xinghe. Lu Xinghe, undeterred, simply declared that he was a better match for Geng Geng. Later, Chen Xuejun arrived at Zhenhua and called Yu Huai out of his class. Yu Huai was playing basketball with a friend, who quickly left them alone. Chen Xuejun confronted Yu Huai, asking if he had ever liked her.

Yu Huai coldly stated that he never had, and being deskmates did not imply affection. Enraged, Chen Xuejun slapped him across the face, a scene witnessed by many students, including Geng Geng, who looked on with complex emotions. Students observing the scene commented on the drama, likening Chen Xuejun to Toudou Jing, Rui's love interest in "Boys Over Flowers," further fueling the high school gossip. To lift Geng Geng's spirits, Yu Huai took her to a game arcade.

He bought her a chick toy and suggested a "good place" she hadn't been to. Geng Geng was initially reluctant but eventually agreed to go. At the arcade, Geng Geng was surprised by the variety of classic game consoles like the Sega Saturn and PS2. They played a soccer game, which Yu Huai won 5-0. Geng Geng complained he didn't go easy on her and wished to play an old-school shooting game like Contra.

Yu Huai asked the owner to find one for them. While they were playing, Chen Xuejun, heavily intoxicated, arrived at the arcade. The owner, with ill intentions, led her into a private room and made advances. Hearing Chen Xuejun's screams for help, Yu Huai immediately dropped his controller and rushed to the room, confronting the owner. He fought with the owner and quickly helped Geng Geng and Chen Xuejun escape from the arcade.

During their escape, Geng Geng realized she had left her beloved camera behind. Yu Huai instructed her to find some water for Chen Xuejun while he went back alone to retrieve the camera. Geng Geng took the still-drunk Chen Xuejun to her home. Geng Geng's aunt kindly welcomed them and offered food. Chen Xuejun, in her inebriated state, made embarrassing comments.

She complimented the food but then mistakenly assumed Geng Geng's aunt was her stepmother, asking if Geng Geng's parents were divorced. Geng Geng clarified that it was her aunt. When Geng Geng's family pointed out that Chen Xuejun didn't even know Geng Geng's name, Geng Geng explained that they weren't very close. She then argued loudly on the phone with her father. Later, in the bathroom, Chen Xuejun criticized Geng Geng's beauty products and inappropriately touched Geng Geng.

In the living room, she took another drink and bluntly asked Geng Geng about her last kiss, then demonstrated "femininity" in front of Geng Geng's embarrassed father, Mr. Geng, and her aunt. Eventually, Geng Geng led Chen Xuejun out. Yu Huai soon rejoined them, with a bruised face, confirming he had fought for the camera he handed back to Geng Geng. Chen Xuejun, still refusing to go home, expressed her desire to see Yu Huai before she left for Beijing.

Geng Geng tried to understand Chen Xuejun's situation, admitting she saw the slap but didn't ask about it, fearing Yu Huai wouldn't want to talk. Yu Huai downplayed the incident, saying he found it embarrassing. Geng Geng pointed out that he had been slapped. Yu Huai playfully pushed Geng Geng and then joked that he got hurt for her.

As Geng Geng gently wiped his wounds, Yu Huai wondered aloud what was wrong with him, noting Chen Xuejun didn't even know what makeup remover was. Leaving Chen Xuejun, Geng Geng and Yu Huai walked home. On the way, they found Lu Xinghe waiting for Geng Geng. He said he was bored and hoped to see her, then gave her a letter and asked her to read it at home. The letter began, "Dear sixteen-year-old Geng Geng, I’m sixteen-year-old Lu Xinghe."

Episode 13 Recap

Zhenhua School was preparing for a patriotic event, a chorus competition to celebrate the December Ninth Movement. Wen Xiaoxiao, who was in charge of the event along with Xu Yanliang, announced the school party committee's decision. During a discussion, students questioned the timing, and a classmate sarcastically remarked on why it wasn't held on January 29th, suggesting that approaching holidays would mean "students would leave school," making it unsuitable for "revolutionary events."

Wen Xiaoxiao then clarified the song selection, listing "On the Songhua River," "My Motherland," "March of the Volunteers," and "Yellow River Cantata" as mandatory choices for the first song, with a second song being optional. Yu Huai then suggested "My Future is not Dream," humorously defending it by saying "a chorus is just a lot of people singing a solo together." The class agreed with his suggestion, and the class representatives were asked to gather for a meeting.

Wen Xiaoxiao began leading the class in practicing "The Yellow River Cantata," singing each line for the students to repeat. Despite her best efforts and repeated attempts, the class struggled with the rhythm, singing more like "reading books" than performing. Wen Xiaoxiao acknowledged their busy schedules but emphasized the importance of collective activities for well-being.

Frustrated by the lack of enthusiasm, she threatened to tell the CCYL Committee that the class would withdraw from the competition, sarcastically suggesting they "love study" more than other classes. Later, Geng Geng observed some female students in the dance studio, clad in tight bikinis, gracefully rehearsing a dance. Their beauty made Geng Geng feel self-conscious. At home, she practiced dance moves, inspired to improve her own appearance.

She also had a conversation with her dad about why some girls dressed lightly in winter, attributing it to vanity, which resonated with her growing awareness of her own looks. Lu Xinghe took Geng Geng shopping, where she admired a pink scarf. Without hesitation, Lu Xinghe wanted to buy it for her, despite Geng Geng's protests that it wasn't a special occasion. Lu Xinghe sincerely confessed his feelings, telling her, "You are so pretty in my eyes.

You are not a beauty in Zhenhua. But I like you, whether you laugh, cry, get mad, or even when you pick nose." He explained that seeing her daily made him happy, and he wished to give her gifts like hairpins, clothes, or scarves, feeling good when she used something from him. Geng Geng, touched by his genuine words, accepted the scarf.

Earlier, Geng Geng had also received a serialized love letter from Lu Xinghe at school, which she had to sign for. Upon receiving another installment of his "composition" at school, she felt annoyed but still acknowledged its serialized nature. Throughout this period, Yu Huai was often absent from chorus rehearsals, busy preparing for a physics competition. Geng Geng defended his absences to concerned classmates, assuring them he was diligent and would join for the official rehearsal.

Wen Xiaoxiao, increasingly frustrated by his repeated absences and the lack of a recorder for practice, felt like she was the only one caring about the chorus. Other students also felt Yu Huai was "being special." Geng Geng confronted Yu Huai, who explained his tight schedule. She asked if he had considered Wen Xiaoxiao's feelings, leading to a tense moment.

Eventually, Wen Xiaoxiao, understanding the importance of his competition, told Yu Huai to prioritize his physics competition and skip the rehearsals, saying she wouldn't mention his absence to anyone. Yu Huai thanked her for her understanding. The class also had to deal with costume fittings for the competition. Yu Huai was asked to help with compiling statistics for costume sizes.

Amidst the chaos of students not knowing their sizes and complaining about the "waste of money," Xu Yanliang explained to the class how to get their measurements, and Wen Xiaoxiao further elaborated on the need for proper measurements. When the costumes arrived, students had to try them on. A male student joked about having to take off pants in the classroom. Wen Xiaoxiao decided that the girls would change in the classroom, while the boys would go to the washroom.

The girls also took photos in their new "Republic of China" style costumes, looking elegant. The class then engaged in a role-play activity, simulating parts of the December Ninth Movement. During this, a student called out "Zhen! Are you alright?" to another, prompting a classmate to jokingly scold him for not knowing "Liu Hezhen" and implying he lacked culture.

Geng Geng and Yu Huai participated, with Beta (a classmate) jokingly taking their picture and saying it looked like a "wedding photo from the Republic of China era," demanding Wall's ice cream if the photos turned out well. Yu Huai then reminded Geng Geng about their first meeting at the playground, where he accidentally hit her head, yet still thought she was pretty. He also complimented her new scarf, saying it suited her well.

A day before his physics competition, Geng Geng found Yu Huai on the school terrace. He expressed his anxieties about the upcoming exam, revealing he wasn't a "genius" like other top students and that his performance would determine his future path. He confided that a similar competition in middle school had negatively impacted his high school entrance exam, and he couldn't balance subjects like others due to his weaker Chinese and English.

Geng Geng reassured him, observing that his continued dedication showed his genuine love for physics. Yu Huai confirmed his passion. Geng Geng encouraged him, saying she believed in him, and playfully added that she "couldn't accept his omnipotence." Yu Huai, boasting about his capabilities, also sought reassurance, asking if Geng Geng looked down on him. She then sincerely said, "I only admire you."

To motivate him, Geng Geng then playfully offered him a "sedative injection" with her pen on his arm, promising it would help him do well and ensure "no electromagnetism" on the paper. Yu Huai joked about needing to take off his pants for an injection and admitted he was "afraid of needles." After she drew a symbol on his arm, Yu Huai, feeling encouraged, confidently declared that he would "surely do well tomorrow. After all, I’m the one you admire."

Episode 14 Recap

The school party committee announced that a chorus competition would be held, requiring all students and teachers to participate. Wen Xiaoxiao was enthusiastic about leading Class 5 to practice patriotic songs, but many students were uninterested and struggled to keep pace or sing in tune. Even Yu Huai, though initially listed for the baritone part, was absent as he was busy preparing for his physics competition. Students found various excuses to leave rehearsals early, frustrating Wen Xiaoxiao.

After his physics competition, Yu Huai treated Geng Geng to dinner at a newly opened restaurant. He had previously joked about doing poorly, but he had actually performed well. They decided to take on the "Super Hamburger" challenge, where finishing the giant burger within a time limit would grant them a free meal. Geng Geng was surprised by the burger's massive size, but Yu Huai was confident.

However, Yu Huai soon felt nauseous, while Geng Geng, despite her small stature, ate a significant portion with gusto. Wen Xiaoxiao harbored feelings for Yu Huai. While out for ice cream, she probed Geng Geng about Yu Huai's personality and whether he would reject someone pursuing him. Geng Geng responded that it depended on the person. When Wen Xiaoxiao then asked if Geng Geng herself would pursue Yu Huai, Geng Geng denied it.

Satisfied, Wen Xiaoxiao decided to buy a pair of cups, seemingly as a gift for Yu Huai. Later, Wen Xiaoxiao baked homemade cookies and offered them to Yu Huai. He politely declined, saying he didn't usually eat snacks, but she urged him to keep them for when he was hungry. Soon after, other students stumbled upon the cookies and mistakenly believed Geng Geng had made them for Yu Huai.

They eagerly devoured the cookies, much to Wen Xiaoxiao's extreme annoyance, though Yu Huai was puzzled by her reaction. Realizing Wen Xiaoxiao's intentions, Geng Geng found herself in an unspoken rivalry. Her friends encouraged her to take a more assertive stance, advising her to act like a girlfriend to Yu Huai. Geng Geng later showed her friends a series of photos she had taken. While reviewing them, they noted Jiang Niannian's obvious fondness for Zhang Ping in one shot.

Another photo drew exclamations as it showed Wen Xiaoxiao with her head intentionally cut out of the frame, revealing Geng Geng’s subtle act of sabotage against her rival’s attempt to get closer to Yu Huai. Wen Xiaoxiao continued her pursuit by inviting Yu Huai to play the blues harmonica as accompaniment for their class's chorus performance, while she played the piano.

She also asked Geng Geng to come along to take photos for the school newspaper, ensuring Geng Geng would witness their collaboration. Feeling upset, Geng Geng sought out Lu Xinghe to learn drumming. Yu Huai called Geng Geng, but she didn’t answer her phone, as she was engrossed in practicing with Lu Xinghe. Upon seeing them together, Yu Huai confronted Lu Xinghe, leading to an impromptu soda-drinking competition between the two boys, both seemingly trying to impress Geng Geng.

During their intense rivalry, Lu Xinghe directly asked Yu Huai if he liked Geng Geng. After a moment of hesitation, Yu Huai admitted, "I like. . ." The chorus competition eventually took place. Class 2, led by Lu Xinghe, performed a song titled "Love" and delivered an excellent performance, earning them a prize. Class 5, despite wearing costumes of the Republic of China and performing "The Yellow River Cantata," struggled with their singing and only received a consolation prize.

After the awards, their teacher, Zhang Ping, encouraged them, stating that the true meaning lay in the collective effort and the memory of wearing Republic of China student uniforms, rehearsing, and striving together. Later, Geng Geng was asked to comfort a disheartened Wen Xiaoxiao. Geng Geng found Wen Xiaoxiao in an isolated study spot, which Wen Xiaoxiao knew was Yu Huai's preferred place.

Wen Xiaoxiao, still upset, revealed her deep admiration for Yu Huai, praising his kindness and helpfulness to her when she first started school and during class activities. Geng Geng offered Wen Xiaoxiao a tissue she had borrowed from Yu Huai, further solidifying the unspoken connection between them. Afterward, Geng Geng found Yu Huai and asked him if he liked Wen Xiaoxiao, like a fan admires a sports star. Yu Huai gave an ambiguous answer.

Suddenly, Lu Xinghe reappeared, challenging Yu Huai to another soda-drinking contest. He then announced his impending departure from Zhenhua High School, expressing a surprising sadness. Lu Xinghe informed Geng Geng that he was leaving Zhenhua to pursue studies at the Fine Art High School in Beijing. He promised her that she could call him anytime if anyone ever bullied her.

Before his final departure, he mused about how science and art, in their essence, were fundamentally similar, and suggested that in a relationship, one person could focus on art while the other grounded them in practical life. Lu Xinghe then took the stage and gave an unexpected speech about the December Ninth Movement, criticizing the audience for not understanding the historical significance of the event and instead focusing solely on competition scores.

He dedicated a "true revolutionary song" to "the only girl he cared about," hoping she would remember him. His emotional declaration deeply moved Geng Geng. As the new semester began, Geng Geng reflected on her seventeen-year-old self, filled with the warmth of being liked and the flutter of liking someone in return.

Episode 15 Recap

As exam results were pending, Jiang Niannian played the role of a soothsayer, predicting fortunes for her classmates. Geng Geng, curious about her fate, approached Jiang Niannian, asking, "Soothsayer, please predict my fortune." She provided her birth details, February 13, 1987, at one past a half.

Jiang Niannian told Geng Geng that while she might score 600 points, her English was destined to be poor, and her "fate root was weak," implying she wouldn't perform well in the upcoming exam, and needed "an angel to help." Yu Huai then entered the classroom and scolded Geng Geng for being superstitious, asking how she expected to excel in science. Geng Geng lightheartedly called him "Angel Yu" and pleaded for his help.

Shortly after, Mr. Zhang entered the classroom with the exam papers, announcing with pride that their class achieved a remarkable fourth place ranking in the entire grade. He singled out several students for their significant improvement that semester, including Lu Yangyang, Zhao Xun, and Geng Geng. Geng Geng, surprised and delighted by her good fortune, turned to Yu Huai and asked, "I'm your guardian angel, right?" to which he readily agreed.

Mr. Zhang encouraged the class to maintain their excellent momentum and promised to commend them at the upcoming parents' meeting, wishing them a joyous Spring Festival holiday. After Geng Geng's English class, she was leaving the English school when she unexpectedly encountered Yu Huai, who was also exiting. Shortly after, Geng Geng's father arrived to take her to a restaurant for dinner, and they invited Yu Huai to join them.

Geng Geng introduced Yu Huai to her father as her desk mate, praising him as the top student in their class. Having heard of Yu Huai's reputation from the parents' meeting and his national competition prize, Geng Geng's father respectfully invited him to join them for lunch. During the meal, Yu Huai engaged in a lively discussion with Geng Geng's father about ancient philosophy and opportunism.

Yu Huai asserted that knowledge transcends age and that social progress hinges on the contributions of dissidents, rejecting the idea that opportunism is merely human nature. Geng Geng's father, while listening, suggested that prejudice often stems from ignorance. Unfazed by potentially offending her father, Geng Geng firmly supported Yu Huai's views, stating, "I think Yu Huai is right. We shouldn't be opportunists."

Geng Geng's father later confided in Geng Geng that Yu Huai was an "extraordinary" student with a "promising future," urging her to learn from him. Yu Huai, in turn, teased Geng Geng about her upcoming birthday gift, promising she would know "the day after tomorrow." As the Spring Festival approached, Yu Huai and other classmates planned a birthday celebration for Geng Geng.

Her father, unaware of these plans, arranged a surprise birthday dinner at home, complete with a cake and gifts from Lin Fan's mother, who was celebrating Geng Geng's birthday for the first time. On her birthday, Geng Geng, eager to join her friends, announced her plans to her father.

This led to a tense exchange, as her father initially insisted she stay home, feeling hurt that she preferred to be with friends over family, and expressed, "You're not allowed to go anywhere today." Geng Geng countered that she was born of her mother, intensifying the argument. Lin Fan's mother intervened, presenting Geng Geng with a new camera as a gift and wisely counseling Geng Geng's father that teenagers prioritize their social engagements.

Eventually, Geng Geng's father conceded, allowing her to go out but stipulating that she return early, ensure her safety, and first spend some time setting off firecrackers with her younger stepbrother, Lin Fan. Before heading out, Geng Geng fulfilled her father's condition, accompanying her younger stepbrother, Lin Fan, to light firecrackers outdoors. Lin Fan, in an attempt to get Geng Geng to stay longer, persuaded her to let him light one more.

Tragically, this last firecracker exploded, injuring Lin Fan, who collapsed to the ground. Panicked, Geng Geng rushed inside to her father for help. Lin Fan's mother, in a state of extreme anxiety for her son, burst out of the house and accidentally knocked into Geng Geng, sending her stumbling backward. Geng Geng hit her head hard against the wall, nearly losing consciousness.

Her father quickly emerged, helped Geng Geng back into the house, and assured Lin Fan's mother that Geng Geng was not to blame, urging her to focus on Lin Fan's well-being. Geng Geng, still reeling from the accident, left her father's home to seek solace from her biological mother. She explained Lin Fan's situation, only to find that her mother had completely forgotten her birthday.

It wasn't until Geng Geng explicitly mentioned that it was her special day that her mother realized her oversight. With a look of deep remorse, her mother gripped Geng Geng's hand and profusely apologized. Meanwhile, Yu Huai's friends at their planned birthday dinner were growing concerned about Geng Geng's absence, wondering if she had forgotten or met with an accident, though Yu Huai brought snacks, indicating his own concern.

Yu Huai attempted to call Geng Geng, but her phone was unreachable. Lin Fan's injuries were superficial; he had suffered minor burns to his chest and was choked by smoke, but he woke up the following morning and was expected to be discharged that afternoon. Lin Fan's mother, consumed by guilt, sought out Geng Geng at her biological mother's home.

She expressed profound regret for accidentally pushing Geng Geng during the chaotic moment of the accident, admitting, "I got crazy back then. I pushed you, but I didn't mean to retaliate or blame you. My mind went blank." Geng Geng, understanding a mother's frantic concern, empathized with her, remarking that her own mother would also react "crazily" but "wouldn't push me," though she might "stab them with a knife" if she knew Geng Geng was deliberately harmed.

Lin Fan's mother humbly accepted full responsibility and apologized once more. She then earnestly asked Geng Geng to return home, to which Geng Geng agreed. Geng Geng later joined Yu Huai and her friends, including Xu Yanliang, for a meal at Fanta Park to make up for missing her birthday. Yu Huai, limping slightly from a sprained foot, had been teased as "the cripple." Geng Geng apologized for her absence, explaining she "had a trouble that day."

During the meal, their friend Zhou Mo exuberantly announced that Yu Huai had won "the third prize" in a competition, which secured him a "nomination for college," jokingly implying he was now free to pursue romance. Geng Geng congratulated him, only to learn it was a prank designed to tease her. Afterwards, Geng Geng noticed Yu Huai's sprained foot, but he brushed it off.

Geng Geng confided in him about Lin Fan's injury and revealed that Lin Fan was her stepmother's son, explaining that her parents divorced in junior high. She reflected on the fragility of relationships despite promises of "forever," contrasting it with the stability she longed for. Yu Huai shared his own distant family life, admitting he "envied" Geng Geng's frequent contact with her mother and her father's understanding.

Geng Geng thanked him for the "hyacinth" (which Yu Huai clarified was an "ostrich eggshell" from Africa that he crafted), and proposed they "plant a tree" together, as "a tree seems more stable in the face of time." Yu Huai agreed. He then asked Geng Geng, "Be my desk mate as ever," to which she assented. Later, as they sat by a lake, Geng Geng got something in her eye.

Yu Huai gently blew it out for her, a gesture that, from a distance, led Xu Yanliang and their other friends to comically speculate, "Are they kissing?" Suddenly, Lu Xinghe, who had returned from Beijing, appeared before Geng Geng, wishing her "Happy birthday!" He revealed he had spent his vacation taking English classes at New Oriental in Beijing, and that if things progressed well, he might not return to Zhenhua next semester.

He then presented Geng Geng with a special birthday gift: a painting of her, "specially drew. . . on the wood board," expressing his wish for her to remain "carefree forever like the girl playing drums." Geng Geng thanked him and wished him "a good journey" and "may everything go well." As Geng Geng walked away, Lu Xinghe followed, stopping by a railway track.

As a train roared past, he seized the moment of overwhelming noise to loudly declare his feelings, repeatedly shouting, "Lu Xinghe likes Geng Geng!" After the train departed, Lu Xinghe was gone, leaving Geng Geng in a complex emotional state, on the verge of tears. She reflected on starting her "17-year-old life" with newfound feelings of "loving and being loved," preparing to return to school despite potential academic challenges and self-doubt. The new semester began with Mr. Zhang informing the class about the upcoming division into science and liberal arts streams for Senior 2.

Episode 16 Recap

The new semester had begun, and Geng Geng still hadn't finished her winter break homework. Before school started, she hastily completed the remaining questions under Yu Huai's guidance. With only ten minutes left until class, Yu Huai didn't hesitate; he quickly rode his bicycle, carrying Geng Geng to school. Geng Geng nervously checked her watch, noting they had about seven minutes left. Yu Huai's heart tightened, and he pedaled faster, causing Geng Geng to scream and clutch his shirt tightly.

They arrived at school just before class. In the classroom, Mr. Zhang announced the implementation of the arts and sciences division, stating that students opting for liberal arts would leave Class 5, while science students would remain. Yu Huai shared his ambition to study engineering at Tsinghua University and pursue a PhD abroad, though he hadn't planned beyond that. Jiang Niannian, who harbored a crush on Mr. Zhang, hesitated over her choice.

She confided in Mr. Zhang that she was unsure. Mr. Zhang, while acknowledging her emotional attachment to friends like Geng Geng, advised her to consider her own situation, pointing out her low math score and higher physics score, subtly suggesting liberal arts. Later, Ms. Shen, during lunch, shared a story about a former top student who chose law but later resigned to travel the world, emphasizing that true value lies beyond the immediate benefits of a specific track.

When Niannian asked if liberal arts would improve her grades, Ms. Shen sternly told her that liberal arts couldn't guarantee better grades and was not a shortcut. Ms. Shen's candid advice resonated with Niannian, who declared she would stick with sciences, vowing to write her nickname "Beta" backwards if she ever considered switching to liberal arts again. Geng Geng also wavered between liberal arts and sciences.

Her mother, during a phone call, supported her choice of sciences, considering liberal arts outdated. This sparked an argument with Geng Geng's father, who was in liberal arts and listened in, vehemently defending his field and eventually supporting Geng Geng in choosing liberal arts. Geng Geng later sought advice from Luo Zhi, a senior student, asking if she should pursue liberal arts.

Luo Zhi remarked that Geng Geng was the second student to ask her about this after Ling Xiangqian, a popular girl from their grade. Geng Geng explained that she was reluctant to leave someone. Luo Zhi empathized, acknowledging Geng Geng's dilemma about whether to bravely pursue her feelings or wait for them to naturally develop, a question she herself had no answer to.

Lu Xinghe sent a letter to Geng Geng from Beijing, along with a painting depicting scenes of his new life in the city. Seeing his confident pursuit of his chosen path made Geng Geng feel inspired to be more decisive. However, she was still unwilling to study liberal arts, as it would mean leaving Class 5 and no longer being Yu Huai's desk mate.

She also signed up for the volleyball competition, using it as a way to distract herself from her worries. Yu Huai, during volleyball practice, tried to teach Geng Geng to improve her technique. When Geng Geng told him she might choose liberal arts, he emphasized that it was her future and she must decide for herself, an answer Geng Geng found "correct" but unhelpful. Yu Huai later watched her from afar as she considered her options.

Meanwhile, Mr. Zhang was planning to confess his feelings to a Junior fellow apprentice he had admired for years. He called her, only to be told she was busy with her internship and might become a permanent employee after graduation. He decided to invite her to dinner to celebrate her birthday and career prospects, using it as an opportunity to confess. Jiang Niannian, having learned about Mr. Zhang's plans, accidentally overheard him talking to a colleague about it.

Overwhelmed, Niannian rushed out. Later, she coincidentally met Mr. Zhang in a shop where he was buying a gift for his Junior fellow apprentice. Niannian, posing as a helpful student, offered him fashion advice, successfully distracting him from his original date plans. However, his Junior fellow apprentice called to cancel due to work. Mr. Zhang was disappointed, though he tried to put a positive spin on it.

Niannian, despite her sadness over Mr. Zhang's potential relationship, felt a pang of disappointment when his confession plan failed. During a phone call with Geng Geng, she tearfully expressed her confusion, realizing her own feelings for Mr. Zhang ran deeper than she thought and questioning if she should persist in a seemingly hopeless situation.

During the final submission of the division forms, Mr. Zhang delivered an emotional speech, reminding students that while leaving friends or a beloved class might be difficult, true connections relied on whether they could "deserve" those they cared about in the long run. Geng Geng and Jian Dan both submitted forms for liberal arts, while Niannian, after much internal struggle, decided to stay in sciences.

Yu Huai watched Geng Geng's choice with a complex expression, snapping a pen in his hand. Later, Lu Xinghe returned and took Geng Geng to a special place. Meanwhile, Jian Dan and Bei Lin had a conflict. Jian Dan confronted Bei Lin about her seemingly hypocritical behavior. Bei Lin, feeling attacked, retorted with "Don't be too much," and the disagreement escalated, with Jian Dan declaring that they were no longer friends.

Episode 17 Recap

Geng Geng bravely challenged herself by participating in a volleyball match. Due to her inexperience and small stature, she was unable to dodge a powerful volleyball that hit her nose, causing her to collapse, clutching her face, as blood streamed out. Yu Huai, alarmed, quickly took her to the restroom to clean the wound. Expressing his frustration, Yu Huai muttered, "How dare they hit my girl? I think he/she is tired of living!"

Though Geng Geng was still shaken, Yu Huai found her injured appearance endearing and snapped some photos with his camera. He reassured her, telling her not to cry: "It doesn't make sense to win the game, but I just don't want to work hard only for the result anymore. I just want to cherish this process, to cherish this last time. . . that we can fight together in this class."

He comforted her further, saying that even with different classes, "We are still a team. Relax. I won’t leave you alone." Meanwhile, the class division for sciences and liberal arts was a hot topic. Jiang Niannian, previously firm in her decision to stay in sciences, declared, "If I have a little more idea of studying liberal arts, I would read my name backward!" Surprisingly, Xu Yanliang presented Jiang Niannian with study materials, an unexpected gesture.

His "kindness" was met with sharp ridicule from Jiang Niannian. She mockingly asked, "Who gives study material as a gift? Why don't you give me money directly?" and accused him of looking down on her. Word spread through Zhenhua High School that Lu Xinghe had successfully gained admission to a prestigious art academy in Beijing. The school celebrated his achievement over the broadcast, highlighting his early entry into China's highest academy of fine arts.

Despite the public celebration, Geng Geng appeared indifferent when her friends mentioned Lu Xinghe's return. Lu Xinghe then visited Pan Teacher, not for a reunion, but to process his withdrawal papers. He presented Pan Teacher with a drawing, which the teacher initially praised as "art" before realizing its oddness after Lu Xinghe left. Later, Lu Xinghe sought out Geng Geng, taking her to a small, unassuming restaurant he frequented, known for its exceptional local cuisine.

Geng Geng, surprised by the choice, quickly devoured a bowl and asked for another. After their meal, they walked along the river as night fell. Lu Xinghe became serious, revealing he had officially withdrawn from school and would not be returning. Geng Geng felt a pang of sadness and uncertainty, struggling to articulate her complex emotions. She did feel a little love for the bold and decisive Lu Xinghe.

Lu Xinghe then confessed his feelings, stating, "I just like you, without any reason. That is the answer." He pleaded, "Please let me finish this for the last time. Because I can’t have this chance again." The next day, before leaving, Lu Xinghe bid Geng Geng a very public farewell, ignoring the other students as he walked away, loudly proclaiming, "Geng Geng, see you! I’ll miss you so much!"

Yu Huai, at home, was studying when his father encouraged his focus, assuring him of full support if he chose liberal arts, provided he was happy. Yu Huai then talked to his mother on the phone, subtly probing her opinion on studying liberal arts by mentioning senior students who were admitted to top universities for minor languages.

However, his mother remained unyielding, emphatically stating that studying liberal arts was "impossible" for him and she would "not let him make any mistake." Yu Huai pressed her for a "perfect reason" to study liberal arts, but his mother evaded the question, urging him to eat and return to his studies. Geng Geng and her friends decided to go out, where class divisions were a hot topic. They initially planned to watch the movie "House of Flying Daggers".

Yu Huai was hesitant to join, citing library plans and his mother's discomfort, but his friends, especially Jiang Niannian, playfully insisted, eventually convincing him. Their dinner plans were derailed when Jiang Niannian, annoyed by someone cutting in line, stormed out of the first restaurant, leading them to a different, less ideal spot. During dinner, Yu Huai and Geng Geng briefly discussed exam questions, but Geng Geng admitted she still couldn't understand him.

At the cinema, they watched "House of Flying Daggers". A line from the movie, "Can't my three years waiting for you compare with his three days?" , sparked a conversation among them about the nature of waiting and love. After the movie, they went to KTV. Xu Yanliang, against initial resistance from the monitor, brought in beer to "cheer up." After drinking too much alcohol, the three girls—Geng Geng, Jian Dan, and Jiang Niannian—became tearfully emotional.

They hugged and cried, lamenting the impending class divisions that would separate them and expressing sorrow over not being able to study with the ones they loved. Jiang Niannian specifically addressed Jian Dan, asking why she couldn't stay in Class 5 for Han Xu, and Geng Geng, questioning why she couldn't stay for "that person." Geng Geng and Jian Dan admitted their reluctance to leave their friends or study liberal arts, expressing how much they would miss everyone.

They concluded the night by taking a group photo to remember their bond, with Xu Yanliang as the photographer. As Yu Huai walked Geng Geng home, Geng Geng expressed her fondness for summer, believing that an apocalypse would never happen in summer because it offers a "blind sense of belief" that all worries disappear, including homework and exams. Yu Huai agreed. Geng Geng then subtly added that it wasn't just summer that provided this feeling, but "also, you… and them."

At her doorstep, Geng Geng finally asked Yu Huai directly: "Do you think I should study liberal arts or sciences?" Yu Huai, after a pause, replied that she should decide for herself, explaining he couldn't be selfish and advise her, as it concerned her future. Geng Geng actually hoped Yu Huai would speak his heart, but once again, she felt a pang of disappointment as he only spoke of studies and relevant topics, not expressing deeper feelings.

He then revealed a "ridiculous thought" he'd had: "Since you don’t need to study sciences, how about I go study liberal arts? I’m so smart anyway. Maybe I still can be better than you." He admitted these thoughts were late and futile, simply wishing her good luck.

The next day, as new students, including Huang Shuai and Bei Lin, were assigned seats in Class 5, Yu Huai, who had been feeling down about being separated from Geng Geng, was stunned to see Geng Geng walk in. When he questioned her presence, Geng Geng explained that she had changed her mind at the last minute for her friends and decided to stay in Class 5 to study sciences. Yu Huai, surprised and pleased, agreed to her presence.

Meanwhile, Jian Dan expressed her immediate dislike for Bei Lin, accusing her of being "hypocritical." This led to a heated argument between Jian Dan and Jiang Niannian, with Jiang Niannian angrily declaring their friendship over, before quickly asking Jian Dan to comfort her.

Episode 18 Recap

Before the new academic term began, Lu Xinghe, who had returned from abroad, shared a past thought with Geng Geng: if she no longer needed to study sciences, he would consider switching to liberal arts for her. Geng Geng, however, believed one should always pursue what is best for them.

Around the same time, a new student named Bei Lin introduced herself to Geng Geng, stating that she chose to stay in Class 5 to study sciences for her friends and then asked if she could sit next to Yu Huai. As the school year progressed, Geng Geng and Jiang Niannian found themselves on duty as senior students, taking a firm stance against latecomers. Jiang Niannian sternly addressed a group of first-year students, emphasizing the importance of punctuality.

Geng Geng remarked playfully that she felt quite imposing in her new senior role. Soon after, Yu Huai arrived late, acknowledging his tardiness and joining the line of punished students. Geng Geng, noticing he looked tired, asked if he had stayed up late due to a competition, but he brushed off her concern. Seizing an opportunity when Director Pan was absent, Geng Geng covertly allowed Yu Huai to return to class without penalty.

When the junior students questioned this special treatment, Jiang Niannian quickly interjected, fabricating a story that Yu Huai was the principal's son to appease their protests. In the first exam of the new term, Bei Lin quickly established herself as a top student, consistently ranking first. Despite her academic success, she openly expressed surprise at the chaotic atmosphere of Zhenhua High's Class 5 and criticized the new class supervisor for being too lenient.

Jian Dan, impressed by Bei Lin's confidence and academic prowess, swiftly became her close friend. However, Jiang Niannian developed an immediate and strong dislike for Bei Lin, finding her hypocritical. Geng Geng shared this sentiment, warning Jiang Niannian to keep her distance from Bei Lin and comparing her to a cunning "female version of Han Xu."

During a Chinese class, Mr. Zhang distributed exam papers and singled out Yu Huai for his low score, contrasting it with Bei Lin and Han Xu's strong performance across all subjects. He then announced new study groups: Jiang Niannian, Han Xu, Bei Lin, and Wang Zhiyong were placed in one group. Geng Geng voiced her concern about the grouping, to which Jiang Niannian sarcastically suggested a different arrangement to avoid being with Bei Lin.

Bei Lin, however, calmly accepted the original placement. As time went on, Bei Lin and Han Xu's academic collaboration deepened, with them discussing an English teacher's teaching style and their shared admiration for the author Shi Tiesheng. Han Xu even offered Bei Lin a romance novel he had read, further cementing their bond. Jiang Niannian, noticing the growing closeness, expressed to Geng Geng her fear that "Jian Dan will be betrayed this time," a worry Geng Geng echoed.

The tension between Jiang Niannian and Bei Lin escalated. When Jian Dan naively tried to bridge the gap between them by bringing Bei Lin to the cafeteria, Jiang Niannian met Bei Lin with sarcasm, leading to Jian Dan angrily pulling Bei Lin away. Later, at the basketball court, Jiang Niannian deliberately provoked Bei Lin again with sarcastic comments. Jian Dan intervened, urging Jiang Niannian not to "go too far," but Jiang Niannian retorted sharply, claiming Jian Dan "knows nothing."

Jian Dan, feeling increasingly caught between her friends, later tried to reconcile with Jiang Niannian, suggesting they stop fighting. However, when Geng Geng and Jiang Niannian tried to warn Jian Dan about Bei Lin and Han Xu, portraying them as manipulative "wolves," Jian Dan accused Jiang Niannian of being childish and trying to sow discord. Jian Dan expressed her frustration with Jiang Niannian's controlling behavior, stating that she was tired of having her friendships dictated.

The argument culminated with Jian Dan declaring that Jiang Niannian should no longer interfere in her life, and Jiang Niannian, hurt and angry, retorted that their friendship was over, blaming Bei Lin for everything. Later, Jiang Niannian tearfully confided in Geng Geng, explaining that her actions stemmed from wanting to protect Jian Dan, knowing how deeply Jian Dan cared for Han Xu.

Meanwhile, Bei Lin continued to tutor Han Xu, with the two of them seemingly oblivious to Jian Dan's presence. Witnessing their closeness, Jian Dan felt a sharp pain, made an excuse to leave, and walked alone on the dark street, crying inconsolably as she began to recall Jiang Niannian's past kindness. Distraught, Ms. Lai, the English teacher, approached Geng Geng and Jiang Niannian, revealing that her fifteen-year-old daughter had run away from home.

She expressed her distress, lamenting her daughter's online friendships and constant use of the computer, especially after the police advised her to simply wait at home. Geng Geng and Jiang Niannian offered their help, asking if Ms. Lai knew her daughter's QQ number, believing it could provide crucial clues. To aid in the search, Geng Geng and Jiang Niannian sought out Yu Huai at an internet cafe, where he was engrossed in online games despite neglecting their study sessions.

They explained Ms. Lai's predicament, and Yu Huai, surprised by the news, agreed to help. Using Geng Geng's QQ account, Yu Huai added a user named "Single Lord," whom they suspected was connected to Ms. Lai's daughter. The online conversation quickly escalated into suggestive flirtation, with "Single Lord" sending roses and even proposing marriage to Geng Geng's profile, much to Jiang Niannian's disgust.

Undeterred, Yu Huai skillfully accessed "Single Lord"'s Qzone, where he discovered a cryptic post: "It’s happy to enjoy the afternoon sunshine alone." Recognizing it as a coded location, Yu Huai directed Geng Geng to open Google Maps and input coordinates (North latitude 36 degrees 37 minutes, East longitude 120 degrees 37 minutes), successfully pinpointing the address to the Xinghai Pearl Community.

As they prepared to leave, Geng Geng called Jian Dan, who was crying, and told her to take a taxi to meet them there. Upon arriving at Xinghai Pearl Community, the group—Geng Geng, Jiang Niannian, and Yu Huai—began searching for the "Single Lord." After a few false alarms, they spotted a plump man who matched the profile photo they had found online.

They confronted him, demanding to know his identity and where he had taken "Krystal Love" (Ms. Lai's daughter's online alias). The man denied any involvement and tried to flee, calling them "madcaps" when they threatened to call the police. As they chased him, Jian Dan, who had just arrived and was still visibly upset from her earlier argument and recent emotional turmoil, saw the commotion.

Without a second thought, she grabbed a nearby trash can and, with a powerful swing, threw it over the man's head, momentarily trapping him. Seizing the opportunity, Geng Geng, Yu Huai, and Jiang Niannian quickly surrounded the stunned man.

Episode 19 Recap

Geng Geng, Jian Dan, Zhou Mo, and Beta successfully captured the man, identified as a "male fatty" and known online as "Single Lord," who was suspected of running away with Ms. Lai's daughter. Jian Dan notably assisted in his capture by using a trash can. When confronted, the man initially denied knowing the daughter but eventually admitted they had chatted online and arranged to meet at a hotel. He claimed he waited there all night but she never showed up.

Just as the group began to suspect they had made a mistake, a small boy appeared, calling the "Single Lord" his father. Realizing their error, Geng Geng and her friends quickly fled the scene. Soon after, Zhou Mo received a phone call confirming that Ms. Lai’s daughter had been found, relieving the group, though they joked about at least having caught a "bad guy," even if it was the wrong one.

Later that evening, Geng Geng, Jian Dan, and Beta were by the river. Jian Dan tearfully apologized to Beta for not believing her warnings about Han Xu and Bei Lin. She confessed to seeing them exchanging notes and now understood that Han Xu might truly have feelings for Bei Lin. Beta, comforting her, reassured Jian Dan, and they pledged to remain inseparable friends.

However, the mood quickly shifted when Beta revealed her parents had booked her flight for next Saturday to attend school in Beijing. This sudden news left Geng Geng and Jian Dan heartbroken, begging her to stay at least until the end of the semester, but Beta explained it was impossible. News spread that Ms. Lai had resigned, prompting speculation among students about a major event. Meanwhile, Mr. Zhang visited Geng Geng’s home to discuss her academic future.

He suggested that focusing solely on the college entrance exam wasn't the only path and presented options like independent recruitment or sports and arts specialties, mentioning universities outside Beijing like Jinan University and Wuhan University. When Geng Geng’s father brought up her mother's desire for her to study abroad, Mr. Zhang supported the idea of broader education, though he noted that Beijing universities were highly competitive.

Geng Geng’s mother later pressed her to prepare for studying abroad, enrolling her in TOEFL classes, but Geng Geng showed reluctance. Xu Yanliang, clearly smitten, continued to pester Beta about her departure details, despite her firm instructions not to see her off. During a study session, Yu Huai tutored Geng Geng, growing impatient with her repeated careless errors. Geng Geng tried to lighten the mood by discussing new music releases, mentioning David Tao's "Black Tangerine" (mispronouncing it as "Black Rivet").

Their session was interrupted by Xu Yanliang, who claimed Mr. Zhang sent him to collect homework. Separately, Mr. Zhang spoke to Beta, expressing how much he would miss her, calling her his "most troublesome student." He mentioned Xu Yanliang’s idea for a farewell party, which Beta promptly rejected, wary of attracting more attention as a "Gao Kao migrant."

Mr. Zhang then presented her with a book, "Harvard Girl," a class gift representing good wishes, and Beta noticed Xu Yanliang's familiar handwriting on the cover. Later, Geng Geng, Jian Dan, and Beta gathered at a roadside stall, drinking and sharing their deepest worries. Beta, with tears in her eyes, voiced her fears about being alone in Beijing, the challenges of intense study, and her anxiety about leaving her friends and Mr. Zhang.

In her frustration, she cried, laughed, and even overturned the table to vent her feelings. Jian Dan, still reeling from Han Xu's new affections, confided her pain, feeling foolish for her unrequited love. Geng Geng comforted them, explaining that her love for Zhenhua stemmed from her friendships with them. She then admitted that while her mother wanted her to study abroad, she herself yearned to stay in Beijing.

Mr. Zhang, having been alerted to their late-night outing, arrived at the stall. After compensating the owner and scolding the girls, he prepared to take them home. Geng Geng, spotting an opportunity, suggested he take Beta home, claiming she and Jian Dan would go together. At Beta’s doorstep, she bravely confessed her feelings for Mr. Zhang, thanking him for his constant care and protection. Caught off guard, Mr. Zhang chuckled and reciprocated, saying he also liked her.

As she was about to go inside, Beta made one last request, asking him to call her "Beta"—the nickname used by her closest friends—which he gently did. The day of Beta’s departure arrived. At the airport, Xu Yanliang, despite Beta's earlier wishes, appeared to bid her farewell. He openly declared his love for her, promising to follow her to Beijing to see her every day.

Beta, deeply moved, shared a tearful goodbye with her friends and Xu Yanliang and boarded her flight, leaving for Beijing with a heavy heart. Back at school, Yu Huai continued to tutor Geng Geng over the phone. During one such call, Geng Geng tentatively asked Yu Huai about applying to the Beijing Film Academy, specifically for its photography program. Yu Huai, excited at the prospect of them both being in Beijing, encouraged her wholeheartedly.

Geng Geng later confronted her mother, firmly stating her decision to apply to Beijing Film Academy and rejecting the plan to study abroad. That evening, after school, Han Xu and Bei Lin were seen walking together, arms intertwined. Jian Dan, observing them from a distance, was devastated and ran off. Zhou Mo, witnessing Jian Dan's heartbreak, angrily punched Han Xu and then rushed to comfort Jian Dan. He found her, expressing remorse for what she had endured.

Jian Dan, accepting the pain of unrequited love with the phrase "one-sided love means you have to accept the loss," decided to transfer to the liberal arts class but assured Zhou Mo that their friendship would endure forever.

Episode 20 Recap

Jian Dan vanished suddenly after witnessing Han Xu and Bei Lin together. Zhou Mo, distraught, informed Yu Huai and Geng Geng, and the three then went together to confront Han Xu at his home. Geng Geng, furious, accused Han Xu and Bei Lin of emerging from a hotel, suggesting Jian Dan's disappearance was due to this.

Han Xu vehemently denied the insinuation, while Geng Geng passionately reminded him of all Jian Dan had selflessly done for him over the years, from bringing breakfast to borrowing books. Though Han Xu insisted he didn't know where Jian Dan was, he recalled places she frequented as a child, such as a pet shop, a bomb shelter, and her desire to visit the Fangte amusement park, especially its merry-go-round. Meanwhile, Mr. Zhang and Ms. Shen also embarked on a search.

Ms. Shen, believing modern students were more precocious, suggested checking internet cafes and KTVs. Mr. Zhang, however, staunchly defended Jian Dan, convinced she wouldn't frequent such places, favoring more artistic venues like parks with merry-go-rounds. After checking an internet cafe and finding other students there, Ms. Shen used it to highlight Mr. Zhang's outdated understanding of students. She also teased him about his hot temper potentially hindering his chances of finding a partner.

Jian Dan's anxious mother arrived at the school, blaming Mr. Zhang. Director Pan intervened, stating Jian Dan's departure was premeditated and partly the parents' responsibility for not addressing her psychological issues. Director Pan instructed Mr. Zhang to continue searching while Ms. Shen accompanied Jian Dan's mother to the police station. At the station, Ms. Shen learned they couldn't file a missing person report until 24 hours had passed.

As Yu Huai and Geng Geng continued their search through a dark tunnel, Geng Geng became increasingly nervous. Yu Huai, intending to lighten the mood, jokingly called her a "ghost," causing her to jump and fall into his arms. Realizing their close proximity, Geng Geng quickly apologized, feeling more flustered than before. Out on the sea, Zhou Mo finally located Jian Dan, stranded on a rock as the tide rose.

Jian Dan, overwhelmed, confessed she didn't want to die; she longed to study hard, attend a good university, and build a family with a loving partner. Remaining calm, Zhou Mo questioned her about the tide's height when she first arrived, estimating it was about half her height. He reassured her that he had calculated the tide would soon ebb, promising to return with help, and then left to find a boat.

Yu Huai and Geng Geng, still searching, received a phone call from Zhou Mo, who informed them that he had found Jian Dan and they were on an island, though the connection was poor. Relieved yet concerned, they decided to head towards the island. Han Xu, upon hearing Jian Dan might be on an offshore island, was preparing to go himself, but was told by Geng Geng that Zhou Mo had already located her. He simply replied, "That’s great."

Later, Han Xu called Geng Geng to express his apologies to Jian Dan. Yu Huai and Geng Geng reflected on whether Jian Dan should know Han Xu had also worried about her, deciding it was better if she didn't. Meanwhile, Mr. Zhang, still searching with Ms. Shen, stumbled and injured his leg. Ms. Shen attentively cleaned and bandaged his wound, playfully chiding him for his stubbornness, but also showing deep concern.

He, in turn, joked about his "heart" being hurt, and she promised they would visit the students in the morning, but insisted he go to the hospital first. After finding a boat, Zhou Mo rescued Jian Dan from the rock. They stayed on the island to watch the sunrise, with Zhou Mo reflecting that his wish had already come true. Upon their return to the mainland dock, Yu Huai and Geng Geng were there waiting.

Geng Geng rushed to hug Jian Dan, scolding her tearfully for scaring them and threatening to end their friendship if she ever did something so reckless again. Jian Dan tearfully promised she wouldn't. Soon after, Mr. Zhang and Ms. Shen arrived. Jian Dan apologized to Mr. Zhang for causing concern, to which he responded warmly, saying he wasn't blaming her, just relieved she was safe.

As the four friends observed Mr. Zhang wearing Ms. Shen's scarf, they playfully speculated about a burgeoning romance between their teachers. Later, Bei Lin confided in Han Xu that her and her mother had seen Bei Lin's father with another woman at the hotel. This revealed the true reason Han Xu and Bei Lin were at the hotel, which Jian Dan had misunderstood.

Subsequently, Han Xu was surprised to learn from a classmate, Xu Yanliang, that Jian Dan had already transferred to the liberal arts class two months prior. Jian Dan explained to Geng Geng that she regretted her initial choice to study science, feeling she had let her parents down. She admitted her unrequited love for Han Xu was "my fault" and that she "made the choice," therefore she "should bear the result," concluding that "one-sided love means accepting the loss."

She felt satisfied knowing Han Xu had looked for her at Fangte. Jian Dan confirmed her move to the liberal arts class but assured Geng Geng they would remain friends forever. As Yu Huai and Geng Geng looked towards their future, Geng Geng's arts exam in Beijing (for Beijing Film Academy) and Yu Huai's physics competition, which involved off-campus intensive training, were approaching. They realized their schedules would overlap, meaning they wouldn't see each other for weeks.

They promised to call each other every day. Yu Huai encouraged Geng Geng, emphasizing that if she passed her arts exam, they could "be together again" in Beijing. They sealed their shared aspirations with a pinkie promise.

Episode 21 Recap

Geng Geng arrived in Beijing with her parents to start school. Her friend, Jiang Niannian, who was already studying in Beijing, met them at the airport. Jiang Niannian had been impatiently waiting, having called Geng Geng earlier to ask about her whereabouts. After a warm hug, they went to eat. Jiang Niannian noticed a checkmark drawn on Geng Geng’s arm, which Geng Geng revealed Yu Huai had drawn as a lucky symbol.

Geng Geng asked about class gossip, and Jiang Niannian shared that Zhang Ping was now dating Shen Tong. Geng Geng expressed her surprise, while Jiang Niannian tried to appear unaffected, declaring she had moved on from her past feelings for Zhang Ping. Meanwhile, Yu Huai had successfully enrolled in Peking University and was preparing for a physics competition, for which he had entered a closed training program.

His mother had emphasized the importance of this competition, telling him it was a make-or-break moment. Upon entering the training facility, he was informed that parents were not allowed inside due to strict rules. He met his roommates, Fan Bin, Zhou Mo, and Zhao Shi. Fan Bin noticed the checkmark on Yu Huai's arm, mistaking it for a tattoo, but Yu Huai fiercely protected it, stating that Geng Geng had drawn it.

In a phone call with Geng Geng, Yu Huai tried to downplay the pressure of being surrounded by elites, promising they would call each other daily for encouragement. However, soon after, Mr. Wang, the strict instructor, collected everyone's cellphones, making it impossible for Yu Huai to contact Geng Geng. Unable to concentrate in class, he even struggled with simple homework problems in the dorm.

During a practice exam, Yu Huai was shocked to discover they only had twenty minutes to complete the paper, a stark contrast to the slower pace of high school tests. Mr. Wang stressed that as competition participants, they should answer such questions effortlessly, adding that their routine would now consist only of eating, sleeping, and studying. After successfully passing the first-round exam for the directing department, Geng Geng received a congratulatory call from Yu Huai.

She was surprised to find Chen Xuejun, a former classmate, also taking an exam there, this time for the acting department. Chen Xuejun asked why Geng Geng chose directing, to which Geng Geng admitted she mostly wanted to attend university in Beijing, seeing it as the nation’s cultural and economic center.

Chen Xuejun, who was trying out for acting for fun after being offered a leading role by a friend, joked that she only had a pretty face, while Geng Geng responded, "I can only direct since I neither know stuff nor have a pretty face." Later, Lu Xinghe took Geng Geng to the Central Academy of Drama to observe rehearsals, which he suggested would help her with her second-round acting exam.

He explained his philosophy on acting, comparing the detailed preparatory work to Da Vinci's numerous drafts before a painting was finalized. Lu Xinghe invited Geng Geng to dinner, but she declined, explaining that she hadn't had a proper meal with her family and her mother had an early flight the next morning, so she wanted to spend time with her.

Lu Xinghe was visibly disappointed, noting that he wouldn't see her again for a while as his class was going on a painting tour. As he dropped her off, he asked if she still liked her old deskmate. Geng Geng confessed that she had hoped a new life in Beijing would change her feelings.

Lu Xinghe then expressed his happiness at seeing her doing well in Beijing, to which Geng Geng replied that she was also very happy to see him. Lu Xinghe then spontaneously kissed her forehead, leaving Geng Geng flustered as she rushed into the school building, her heart pounding. Unable to contact Geng Geng by phone due to his confiscated device, Yu Huai desperately tried to repair a broken public phone on the street. Meanwhile, Geng Geng entered her acting exam.

The theme for her group was "waiting for someone important at a bus station." As the other students improvised, complaining about the wait, Geng Geng’s phone unexpectedly rang, and she answered it. It was Yu Huai, calling from the public phone. The connection was noisy, but Geng Geng's emotions poured out as she scolded him for his absence, reminding him of their promise to encourage each other.

She tearfully admitted she missed him, urging him to do well as she admired him. The examiners, witnessing her emotional outburst, mistakenly believed it was part of her improvised performance. One examiner commented on the romantic "Geng Geng Yu Huai" (a Chinese idiom meaning "to hold a grudge") pun, asking if Yu Huai was her imaginary boyfriend.

Geng Geng clarified that Yu Huai was not her boyfriend and that she had genuinely received a phone call, apologizing for breaking the rules but explaining that she just wanted to encourage a classmate who was about to take an important exam. She was then dismissed from the room. Later, Geng Geng called Yu Huai, leaving a message that she had failed her exam and wishing him luck. Despite her hopes for him, Yu Huai also failed his competition.

His mother expressed her disappointment, questioning if she (or others) had truly understood him and lamenting that more pressure had been added instead of relieved. Yu Huai was left contemplating his failures, questioning his talent, and feeling immense exhaustion and guilt, especially towards Geng Geng.

Episode 22 Recap

As the college entrance exam drew near, Zhou Mo submitted his application for recommendation to Tsinghua University, earning Geng Geng's admiration. Zhou Mo, however, downplayed the achievement, noting it was just an application, and his acceptance remained uncertain, dependent on his overall mock exam performance. Yu Huai's mother, deeply invested in his future, acknowledged his recent competition results were less than stellar. She suggested he discreetly seek assistance from a well-connected teacher to influence his exam outcome.

Yu Huai, despite his self-doubt about securing first place, firmly rejected the idea of currying favor with anyone to alter his destiny. The immense pressure of the impending exams cast a pall over the students. Zhenhua High School was rocked by a tragic incident when Zhu Yao attempted suicide by ingesting poison. The school swiftly called for medical help, causing a stir throughout the building.

Students flocked to windows, witnessing paramedics rush a comatose Zhu Yao, foaming at the mouth, away on a stretcher. Later, Zhu Yao's mother arrived at the school to collect her daughter's belongings, overcome with grief, sobbing and blaming the high-stakes exam for her daughter's desperate act. Fortunately, Zhu Yao survived, though she would likely endure long-term health issues and need a period of recuperation.

Geng Geng reflected on the incident, lamenting that despite being classmates for three years, she had never truly connected with Zhu Yao, who, she now realized, was a kind person who had even helped her with math problems. Yu Huai's mother confronted Geng Geng outside the school, demanding she maintain a distance from Yu Huai. Unexpectedly, Geng Geng, usually mild-mannered, found a surge of courage.

She vehemently accused Yu Huai’s mother of over-controlling her son's life and excessively interfering with his freedom, stifling him like a bird in a cage and leaving him unhappy for many years. Geng Geng's passionate words left Yu Huai's mother momentarily speechless, and Geng Geng walked away, leaving the older woman with a pensive expression. During the third mock exam, Jian Dan was caught cheating by a proctor and consequently expelled from the classroom, leading to her dismissal from school.

Zhou Mo, incensed by the injustice, confronted Director Pan and, in his protest, also lost his eligibility for the college entrance exam. However, their teacher, Mr. Zhang, later informed them that they could still independently register for the exam. Geng Geng and Yu Huai joined Jian Dan and Zhou Mo for dinner.

Zhou Mo explained that he had declined offers from other universities because he wasn't certain about Tsinghua, and he also desired to experience the unified college entrance exam with his friends, believing life would be incomplete without it. After the meal, the group split into pairs.

As Zhou Mo and Jian Dan encountered Director Pan on their way, Zhou Mo, now unburdened by fear since he was about to leave Zhenhua for university, casually and openly put his arm around Jian Dan's shoulder as they walked off. Later, as Yu Huai and Geng Geng walked together, their hands accidentally touched and intertwined. After a brief, surprised pause, they both shyly withdrew their hands.

With the college entrance exam concluded, Yu Huai invited Geng Geng to a quiet, open area to plant a tree. Geng Geng arrived, and Yu Huai explained he remembered her wishing to plant trees, despite his mistaken belief it was Arbor Day. Geng Geng, initially tearful at his gesture, soon joined in. They used a small knife to carve lucky symbols onto each other's forearms, wishing each other success in the college entrance exam.

Geng Geng confessed her admiration for Yu Huai, calling him her "pillar" and expressing how his presence had given her confidence at Zhenhua. She admitted that if he gave up, she wouldn't know what to do. Yu Huai then revealed his desire for them to attend college in the same city, hoping she would always be by his side to face new challenges in Beijing. He promised to tell her something important after the exams, calling it a "reward."

They sealed their pact with a pinky swear and also agreed to meet at school after the exams to compare answers. Days later, Geng Geng arrived at school to check her exam answers, only to find that Yu Huai had already been there to review the questions but had left without a word. When she inquired about his whereabouts, no one could provide any information.

Episode 23 Recap

Geng Geng, now graduated from a university in Beijing, decided to forgo a stable civil servant position after only three months to pursue her passion for photography. She eventually joined a magazine but resigned due to creative differences with her superior. Her boss criticized her, asking if she wanted to quit, but Geng Geng defiantly stated, "I wanted to quit long time ago! Now watch I’m quitting!"

After leaving her job, Geng Geng said goodbye to Lu Xinghe in Beijing and returned to her hometown with the intention of opening her own photography studio, explaining that she wanted "to take whatever I want." As she was leaving, Lu Xinghe dramatically proposed to Geng Geng on the street. She was not in the mood for such surprises, despite his confession that he had proposed to her 56 times over the years.

Lu Xinghe also jokingly lamented, "I haven’t got a chance to draw you naked!" Back home, Geng Geng immediately faced pressure from her family to marry. During a video call, her mother sternly questioned her choices, chastising her for giving up a "stable job" as a civil servant for photography and asking, "What can you do going back home?" and "How could you find someone with your personality?"

Geng Geng's father was eager for her to marry, and Auntie Qi tried to set her up on blind dates, even suggesting a "handsome boy" just back from Britain. To temporarily quell her parents' worries, Geng Geng enlisted Lu Xinghe, who had also returned to their hometown, to pretend to be her boyfriend. Lu Xinghe, ever the impish one, seized the opportunity to formally propose to Geng Geng's father.

He spun a tale of their long-standing relationship in Beijing, his sadness over her planned blind dates, and his determination to "get her back," even claiming he "got her back" from a blind date. Although Geng Geng's father was eager for her to marry, he seemed taken aback by the suddenness of Lu Xinghe's proposition, especially after Lu Xinghe introduced himself as a successful painter whose controversial works included a piece titled "Alien Rapes Earth Girl."

The family's attention was soon diverted when Geng Geng's younger step-brother, Lin Fan, was rushed to the hospital after a football injury. Geng Geng, accompanied by Lu Xinghe, went to visit him. Lin Fan, sporting a neck injury, quickly saw through Geng Geng and Lu Xinghe's act. He remarked that Lu Xinghe seemed quite nice and advised Geng Geng to "just make it real," emphasizing, "It’s not easy for you to meet someone who likes you."

Geng Geng retorted, "Are you forcing me too?" and playfully teased him about his own "classmate relationship" in high school. Still holding onto hope for Yu Huai, who had been unreachable for years, Geng Geng was determined to find him. She received an order to shoot at Zhenhua High School, her alma mater, but the client chose to remain anonymous.

During her visit, she encountered a security guard whom she convinced by naming her former teachers, Mr. Zhang Ping and Mr. Zhang Feng. She also met Zheng Yamin, a former classmate who was now a teacher at Zhenhua. Zheng Yamin reminisced about how Geng Geng and Yu Huai got to sit together and asked if Geng Geng still had contact with Yu Huai, to which Geng Geng falsely replied, "I don’t."

Zheng Yamin added Geng Geng to their class WeChat group. Geng Geng then visited Mr. Zhang Ping, who also talked about the "best time" of their youth, showing her a class photo where both she and Yu Huai were absent. When asked, Mr. Zhang Ping also confirmed he had no news of Yu Huai. Despite Geng Geng's continued emotional attachment to Yu Huai, Lu Xinghe offered to help her find him.

He revealed that he had solved a Sudoku puzzle Yu Huai had once given Geng Geng, which turned out to be a geographic coordinate. Following the coordinates, Geng Geng and Lu Xinghe drove to what was supposed to be Yu Huai's home. However, an old lady informed them that Yu Huai and his family had moved out "some days ago" without saying where.

Lu Xinghe, frustrated by Yu Huai's apparent disappearance, promised Geng Geng, "I’ll dig him out no matter where he’s hiding! I’ll make you give up on him." He once again pressed Geng Geng about their relationship, explaining that he had marked 56 unsuccessful proposals on his wall and describing his printmaking of Geng Geng as his "only picture" of her, representing his desire to keep that moment of her forever. He declared, "I don’t want to miss you.

Let’s be together." Geng Geng, still conflicted, responded, "I’m not ready yet." Lu Xinghe acknowledged her hesitation, saying, "Alright, wait till I dig out that jerk Yu Huai, and you’ll be ready then." Later, Geng Geng received a video call from Jian Dan, who was visiting Zhou Mo in the US.

Jian Dan, impatient with Zhou Mo's secrecy, revealed a shocking truth: "For the past four or five years, Zhou Mo and Yu Huai actually had been renting an apartment together." She showed Geng Geng Yu Huai's notebook and blanket, confirming that he had been living there and had only moved out "just a couple of days before I came," specifically "to avoid you."

Zhou Mo tried to interrupt and explain, but Jian Dan pressed on, even showing Yu Huai's old high school English book, which he "always kept with him" but "left it behind after all." Jian Dan concluded, "Yu Huai won’t come back." Overhearing this devastating news from a hidden spot nearby, Lu Xinghe was heartbroken for Geng Geng and inwardly cursed Yu Huai. Deeply saddened by the revelation, Geng Geng returned to the hospital to look after Lin Fan.

Suddenly, she heard a crash and a cry from Lin Fan's room. Rushing in anxiously, she accidentally collided with a stranger. Upon hearing his voice, Geng Geng froze, her eyes widening in shock as she slowly looked up at him.

Episode 24 (Ending) Recap

In the hospital, Geng Geng, distraught and caring for her injured brother Lin Fan, rushed into his room after hearing him fall, accidentally colliding with a stranger. Looking up, Geng Geng unexpectedly encountered Yu Huai after a decade. Their reunion was awkward, and Geng Geng noticed the weariness etched on Yu Huai’s face, including a beard that added to his changed appearance. Yu Huai explained he had returned from the U. S.

because his mother was sick with uremia, and he hoped she could get a kidney transplant to recover. Geng Geng asked about his father, and Yu Huai confirmed he had returned from Africa due to poor health as he had gotten older. Suddenly, Yu Huai received an urgent call regarding his father and had to rush back to his ward, leaving without getting Geng Geng’s new phone number.

Before leaving, he asked Geng Geng if she had ever tried to find him in Beijing. Lin Fan later asked Geng Geng who Yu Huai was. Distraught after seeing Yu Huai, Geng Geng was accompanied by Lu Xinghe to a wedding dress shop. Lu Xinghe suggested they visit a contemporary European photography exhibit, but Geng Geng declined, citing numerous orders. He then mentioned that her "mysterious order" client had requested textbooks and stationery from ten years ago.

At the wedding dress shop, after a sales assistant suggested a "Mermaid dress" which Geng Geng found "tacky," Lu Xinghe insisted she would eventually get married. Geng Geng resisted, revealing, "Yu Huai showed up." Lu Xinghe's annoyance was evident, but he simply stated, "Nothing will change," and continued to encourage her to try dresses, even buying two for her.

Later, at the hospital, Lin Fan complained to Geng Geng that the bone soup she brought for him was too greasy, saying he preferred Guliduo grain milk. Yu Huai tracked Geng Geng down at Zhenhua Middle School, where she was conducting a photoshoot, having called her studio to find her location. He admitted he had been searching for her online to get her phone number, as he had forgotten to ask for it earlier.

He also confessed he hadn't slept for two days because his mother had been in critical condition the previous night. Geng Geng, suspecting the "mysterious order" might be from him, took him back to her studio where he quickly fell asleep on the sofa. As he slept, Geng Geng gently rolled up his left sleeve, discovering a checkmark symbol tattooed on his arm.

This symbol was one she had drawn for him years ago before going to Beijing, meant to bring him luck. The original drawing had faded over ten years, but Yu Huai had it re-tattooed to preserve it, though his past decade had been far from lucky. Touched by this, Geng Geng believed she was still the woman he loved. When Yu Huai woke up, she kissed him passionately.

He eventually pushed her away, falsely claiming he didn't love her, stating the tattoo was just for good luck and meant nothing more. She then confronted him about his promise to tell her something before the college entrance exams, but he simply said he had forgotten. Later, at the hospital, Yu Huai found Geng Geng and apologized for the kiss. She pressed him again about what he had intended to tell her before the exams.

Before he could answer, Lu Xinghe appeared, holding a diamond ring. He asked Geng Geng if she liked the ring, and when Geng Geng put it on, Yu Huai congratulated them and urged Lu Xinghe to take good care of her, before turning to leave. Enraged by Yu Huai's apparent indifference, Lu Xinghe angrily confronted him, accusing him of being a "son of a bitch" for making Geng Geng wait ten years without a word.

He demanded to know what Yu Huai kept in his pocket. Lu Xinghe knew he couldn't truly win Geng Geng's heart. Before returning to Beijing, he made one last attempt to express his love. Geng Geng, with tears in her eyes, returned the diamond ring to him. Lu Xinghe decided to keep the ring as a memento, and as he departed, he proactively kissed her, acknowledging that this separation might mean they would never see each other again.

Geng Geng watched him leave, her heart sinking. She mused that if Yu Huai hadn't reappeared, she might have fallen in love with Lu Xinghe. Geng Geng visited Yu Huai's mother, who tearfully recounted Yu Huai's difficult decade. She explained that Yu Huai had not gotten into college the first year and had become deeply depressed.

The second year, he was accepted into Tsinghua University, but he sacrificed the opportunity to stay and care for his mother, who had fallen ill. He then attended a local university and, after three years, secured a full scholarship for a PhD in the U. S. However, his mother's illness relapsed just as he was about to complete his doctorate, forcing him to abandon that opportunity as well.

Yu Huai's mother expressed deep regret, blaming herself for all his misfortunes, and revealed that he felt ashamed to face Geng Geng. After learning Yu Huai’s story, Geng Geng's emotions were in turmoil. She exchanged text messages with Yu Huai, expressing her unwavering support. She reminded him of the many letters she had sent during his re-examination year, which he admitted had sustained him.

Geng Geng also confessed that she had searched for him every week at Tsinghua and on the streets of Beijing for years. Yu Huai then revealed his side of the story: he had also come to Beijing to find her to "give her an explanation" after his disappearance. He called her dorm, but she wasn't there. As he waited downstairs, he saw her roller skating hand-in-hand with another boy, making him believe she had moved on.

Geng Geng then asked if he had ever liked her. He deflected, asking if she remembered the sudoku puzzle she gave him in high school, which he had solved but never understood. She then told him, "That book was the answer." Realizing the hidden message, Geng Geng called him "stupid" and a "jerk." She passionately declared her love, confessing she chose to study science for him, gave up Lu Xinghe, and waited for him for years.

Yu Huai, burdened by his past and current struggles, tried to push her away, claiming he was no longer the "good Yu Huai" she knew and that she was now "more outstanding." He insisted he would only "drag her down" and begged her to forget him. However, Geng Geng steadfastly declared her commitment, stating that regardless of future difficulties, she would always be with him, as the meaning of love was about being together.

Yu Huai, visibly moved but still hesitant, apologized. Later, Geng Geng and Yu Huai met at Wǎnqiū Gāodì (Late Autumn Highland). As they gazed at each other, Yu Huai softly said, "Sorry, I’m late."