Your Highness, The Class Monitor Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Your Highness, The Class Monitor Synopsis
Su Niannian, a straight-a-student who wants to enter Peking University and Qinghua University, failed her entrance exams because of a traffic accident. She entered an ordinary university in a small city.
In this university, which she completely despised, she met a lot of “problem students” that she could not accept inside.
She persuaded herself to stay for the time being with the idea that she would soon be able to transfer to another university, but she met Gu Zichen who caused her to miss her exams, and was also involved in a past affair of their fathers.
The unconvincing character of Su Niannian also touched every one of her classmates, those seemingly unruly male classmates were actually just using their appearance to cover up their vulnerability, they quietly studied hard and had a sense of teamwork.
Niannian gradually changed her prejudice against everyone, got along with everyone well, and influenced and motivated everyone with her positive and optimistic attitude and rich knowledge.
In the end, under the leadership of Su Niannian, they worked together to win the championship of the science and technology competition, creating an academic miracle.
Everyone started a different life, and Su Niannian not only gained a sincere friendship but also started a pure and romantic love.
Your Highness, The Class Monitor Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Su Nian Nian, a dedicated student who had studied diligently for twelve years with the dream of attending Tsinghua University, faced a devastating setback. A car accident caused her to miss her comprehensive liberal arts exam. On the day college entrance exam results were released, she anxiously went to an internet cafe, praying for a miracle, even as she admitted to herself that admission to Tsinghua was impossible.
Her hopes were dashed when the screen displayed "Good luck, continue to work hard." Distraught, she left the cafe and was accidentally bumped into by a porter, falling into a flowerbed, adding to her misery. Su Nian Nian called her father from the internet cafe, who then picked her up.
She tearfully confessed she had let him down, but he calmly reassured her, highlighting her excellent scores in other subjects—129 in Chinese, 127 in Math, and 139 in English—while acknowledging her zero in the liberal arts portion. He comforted her with a metaphor about God closing a window but opening a door, even as he accidentally burned himself while trying to get her some chicken soup.
Unbeknownst to Su Nian Nian, her father had consulted a doctor who explained that her fainting spell, which occurred during the bike accident, was not due to the fall but rather extreme pressure and mental overexertion, leading to oxygen deprivation in her brain. The doctor strongly advised against high-intensity study and urged her father not to reveal the true cause of her illness to avoid adding more stress.
Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen, a wealthy young man who had just returned to China, faced his own family struggles. His family constantly dictated his life choices, which he resented. Upon arrival, he dismissed his father's secretary and immediately went to Jing Ying Internet Cafe to meet his friend, Ye Xing Yu. Ye Xing Yu was surprised to learn Gu Zi Chen was returning for university, asking if he had angered his father again.
Gu Zi Chen vaguely attributed it to fate. Back home, his mother tried to mediate as his father, Gu Wei Ye, angrily confronted Gu Zi Chen for his lack of discipline and for ditching his secretary. Gu Zi Chen retorted that he felt like a pet, forced abroad for university and then pulled back, accusing his father of only caring about "honor" and controlling his life. Gu Wei Ye, infuriated, questioned how he could entrust the Gu Group to him.
Gu Zi Chen dismissed his father's concerns, confidently stating Gu Wei Ye could run the company for another thirty years and reiterating his lack of interest in the family business before storming off. His father later called the principal of Qun Ying University to arrange Gu Zi Chen's enrollment. He then instructed his secretary to ensure Gu Zi Chen attended, suggesting he live in the dorms to foster integration and placing "informers" to report on his activities.
Though hesitant, the secretary complied. Su Nian Nian soon received an admission letter from Qun Ying Machinery and Electrical University. She initially dismissed the school as an unknown institution, but her father proudly declared it his and her mother's alma mater, emphasizing its past reputation and high employment rates. Despite his reassurances, Su Nian Nian checked online, finding numerous negative comments describing it as a "gathering place for NCEE losers" and bemoaning the scarcity of female students.
She declared her intention to retake the college entrance exam for Peking or Tsinghua. Her father firmly rejected this, citing their financial difficulties due to her previous hospitalization, which had depleted her tuition savings. He proposed she try Qun Ying for a short period, promising to support her decision to drop out and retake the exams if she genuinely couldn't adapt.
Su Nian Nian, with a secret plan to attend for a few days and then find an excuse to withdraw, agreed. Ye Xing Yu, facing financial hardship and a bedridden mother, was also forced to abandon his music dreams and enroll at Qun Ying University. On the day of registration, Gu Zi Chen was driven to the university by his father's secretary.
During the drive, the secretary lectured him on parental love and maintaining a low profile, but Gu Zi Chen ignored him. He later met up with Ye Xing Yu at the university. Su Nian Nian arrived at the school with her father. At the registration desk, her dismay grew upon learning her incoming class had only eight female students in total.
Her father, however, was delighted by the school's progress, especially its job placement program, and proudly chatted with the teacher as an alumnus. Afterwards, as her father reminisced and wandered ahead, Su Nian Nian was left to be gawked at by male students who she found "abnormal." When her backpack was accidentally knocked to the ground, Ye Xing Yu stepped in to pick it up for her.
Su Nian Nian felt a sense of relief, thinking he was the only "normal" person she had met. Ye Xing Yu, in turn, was puzzled to find such a high-achieving student enrolling at Qun Ying. Inside her dorm, Su Nian Nian's father continued to try and soothe her anxieties, affirming that he made his choices for her benefit and reiterating his promise to let her withdraw if she remained unhappy.
Just then, Song Yuxi, an energetic fellow student, burst in, introducing herself and unilaterally declaring Su Nian Nian her best friend. Su Nian Nian's father was delighted and asked Song Yuxi to look after his introverted daughter, which Song Yuxi eagerly agreed to do. Song Yuxi then told Su Nian Nian about their third roommate, Yin Chu Xia, who had a peculiar personality.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the male-dominated campus, Song Yuxi offered to show Su Nian Nian around, explaining that she had already been there for two days and received campus gossip from her childhood friend, Xiao Huang, her "informer." As they walked through the campus, male students openly stared, making Su Nian Nian feel like a spectacle, while Song Yuxi enjoyed the attention. Su Nian Nian quickly pulled her away. They eventually found a quiet spot.
Su Nian Nian commented it would be a good place for morning reading, but Song Yuxi, ever the romantic, retorted that such a scenic place was ideal for dating, lamenting her lack of a boyfriend. When they were approached by another group of persistent male students attempting to flirt, Song Yuxi quickly dispatched them.
Su Nian Nian again complained about the difficulty of finding a quiet reading spot, but Song Yuxi assured her that the school had plenty of such places and promised to show her.
Episode 2 Recap
On her first day at Qun Ying University, Su Nian Nian was given a tour of the campus by her outgoing roommate, Song Yuxi. Su Nian Nian observed the campus lacked a strong academic environment, noting that many students seemed disinclined to study.
They passed a classroom where students were engaged in Electric Welding assignments, and some enthusiastic seniors invited them to join their major, promising guaranteed jobs and cheap tuition with the help of "handsome seniors" who ensure no one fails. Su Nian Nian politely declined their offer. Song Yuxi then asked Su Nian Nian about her major, to which Su Nian Nian replied Mechanical Manufacturing, much to Song Yuxi's delight, as it was her major too.
Su Nian Nian then inquired about the library and study rooms. Song Yuxi led her to the old academics building, explaining that most classrooms were now repurposed as study rooms because few students at Qun Ying were interested in studying. Su Nian Nian, who had always valued academics, declared she would rather die than not study. As they continued their tour, they spotted a diligent student, whom Song Yuxi excitedly identified as Ye Xing Yu, "Mr. Wonderful No. 2."
She knew extensive details about him, including that he was 19 years old, a Cancer, a paragon of virtue and learning, a "super sunshine boy," and a specially recruited student who had no girlfriend. Song Yuxi proudly stated that her "spy," Xiao Huang, kept her informed about all the handsome guys on campus. After a while, Song Yuxi felt hungry, so they headed to the bustling cafeteria.
There, they encountered Ye Xing Yu, who generously offered them two bowls of noodles, claiming his roommates couldn't make it. Song Yuxi was thrilled. Su Nian Nian, having heard about "Mr. Wonderful No. 2," asked about "Mr. Wonderful No. 1." Song Yuxi identified him as Gu Zi Chen, a 20-year-old "kid from a rich family" who had studied Computer Science and Business Management at Princeton University and was known as "Cool Demon" for his love of basketball.
As she spoke, Gu Zi Chen walked into the cafeteria. Su Nian Nian's curiosity quickly turned to anger as she recognized him. A flashback revealed the truth: Shortly before her National College Entrance Exam, Su Nian Nian's father was driving her to the exam hall when they encountered a massive traffic jam due to an accident. Desperate not to miss the exam, Su Nian Nian got off and borrowed a shared bike, racing towards the exam venue.
Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen, driving his car, had to brake suddenly to avoid an elderly man who ran a red light. Simultaneously, Su Nian Nian, biking nearby, fell and fainted. Gu Zi Chen initially mistook her for a con artist due to the distance between his car and her fall. However, seeing she remained motionless, he rushed her to the hospital.
Su Nian Nian woke up in the hospital, still disoriented and wanting to go to the exam, only for her father to sadly inform her that she had missed it. She unjustly blamed Gu Zi Chen for her predicament, believing he was a hit-and-run driver who caused her to miss the exam and consequently end up at Qun Ying University.
Back in the cafeteria, Su Nian Nian, unable to contain her fury at finding the "perpetrator," lunged at Gu Zi Chen with a fork, but he swiftly blocked her. She then slapped him across the face, stunning everyone, including Gu Zi Chen himself. Su Nian Nian cursed him as scum, while Gu Zi Chen, not wanting to argue with a girl, walked away. Later, Ye Xing Yu approached Gu Zi Chen, asking what had happened.
Gu Zi Chen recounted his version of the accident, feeling wronged that his act of kindness resulted in such treatment. Ye Xing Yu, who knew Su Nian Nian as a famous "studybug" from Dong Zhou No. 1 High School, realized that her presence at Qun Ying University was a direct consequence of missing her college entrance exam. He attempted to empathize with Gu Zi Chen, but Gu Zi Chen dismissed the idea, expressing his frustration.
Meanwhile, Xiao Huang, an opportunistic and dramatic student, had already posted a sensational story on his social media, framing the cafeteria incident as a dramatic confrontation between former lovers, with Gu Zi Chen as the "playboy" who betrayed Su Nian Nian. Su Nian Nian, after being dragged out by Song Yuxi for some retail therapy, was showing her friend a book lent to her by Ye Xing Yu.
He had given it to her while helping his friends sell their old books, remarking that people with glasses enjoy reading. Delighted, Song Yuxi interpreted this as a sign of affection, but her mood shifted when she saw Xiao Huang's post, expressing disbelief at Su Nian Nian's "complicated love life" with "Mr. Wonderful No. 1."
Su Nian Nian vehemently denied any romantic involvement, insisting there was no "story" between them, only an "accident" that led her to Qun Ying University and ignited her hatred for him. She was enraged by the false narrative and demanded to know Xiao Huang's whereabouts. Both Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian converged on Xiao Huang, each demanding he delete the defamatory post.
They recounted their conflicting versions of the accident, with Su Nian Nian accusing him of a hit-and-run and Gu Zi Chen claiming she was a con artist. Their heated argument only reinforced Xiao Huang's belief in the dramatic "scandal," and he stealthily took more photos, planning a sequel. Gu Zi Chen, attempting to resolve the situation, offered Xiao Huang money, but Xiao Huang defiantly refused, proclaiming his integrity.
Su Nian Nian was further incensed by Gu Zi Chen's attempt to use money to cover up the incident, accusing him of believing money could solve everything, including hit-and-runs. As their argument escalated, Xiao Huang discreetly slipped away, leaving them to their unresolved dispute. Later that day, Gu Zi Chen returned home, where his parents insisted he attend a company celebration that evening to network with peers.
Gu Zi Chen reluctantly agreed to act as "the great Gu Wei Ye's son." At the lavish event, he was introduced to other children of Dong Zhou's elite, including Zhang Hai Yang, Yu Feng, and Li Xiao Xiao, and also met He Mei from Dong Zhou University. While mingling, Gu Zi Chen noticed Zhu Cheng, a Qun Ying University classmate, working as a server.
Attempting to avoid him, Gu Zi Chen inadvertently drew attention when Zhu Cheng accidentally spilled something on Zhang Hai Yang's limited-edition shoes. Zhang Hai Yang demanded Zhu Cheng clean the shoes. Zhu Cheng, recognizing Gu Zi Chen, appealed to him for help, mentioning they were classmates. However, Gu Zi Chen feigned ignorance, coldly asking if they knew each other, causing Zhu Cheng to denounce him as scum and promptly quit his job in indignation.
Gu Zi Chen then offered to pay for the soiled shoes, but Zhang Hai Yang was more offended by Zhu Cheng's audacity. Upon learning they were classmates from Qun Ying University, Zhang Hai Yang disparaged the institution as a "third-rate university." He Mei, however, defended Qun Ying, noting its focus on practical skills and high standards, and mentioned a bright classmate of hers also attended the school.
Episode 3 Recap
Gu Zi Chen found himself in a difficult situation when Zhang Haiyang accused Zhu Cheng of using Gu Zi Chen to boost his own status. Gu Zi Chen clarified that he and Zhu Cheng were indeed classmates at Qun Ying University, a place Zhang Haiyang's friend disparagingly referred to as a "third-rate university."
Fortunately, another friend, realizing Su Nian Nian also attended Qun Ying, stepped in to defend the school, describing it as one that highly values student development and has strict requirements. This saved face for Gu Zi Chen and surprisingly impressed Zhang Haiyang and his friends, who then invited Gu Zi Chen to bond over drinks. Meanwhile, Zhu Cheng, after encountering Gu Zi Chen at the classy ballroom where he was working, felt the stark disparity in their lives.
He confided in his friends about the significant gap between people and questioned whether fate was predetermined. His friends encouraged him to work hard to change his destiny. Distressed, Gu Zi Chen drank heavily at the reception and became completely intoxicated. Concerned, Gu Zi Chen's mother decided against taking him home to avoid his father's wrath and instead put him in a taxi, instructing the driver to take him safely to school.
By coincidence, the taxi driver was Su Nian Nian's father, Su Dazhi, who mentioned his daughter also attended Qun Ying University. Despite Su Dazhi's attempts to converse, the unconscious Gu Zi Chen remained unresponsive upon reaching the school gate. Su Dazhi, unsure what to do, considered calling his daughter.
Earlier, Su Nian Nian had received a call from Tang Yu, who encouraged her to study hard and join him at Peiching University, solidifying her resolve to drop out of Qun Ying. Later, Su Nian Nian called her father, intending to discuss her decision to drop out and asking him to pick her up. Su Dazhi, still at the school gate, told her to come out and help him with a drunk student.
Upon arriving, Su Nian Nian immediately recognized the intoxicated student as Gu Zi Chen, her nemesis, declaring she would know him even if he were "burnt to ashes." She angrily accused him of being the hit-and-run driver who had also publicly labeled her a "con artist" in front of the entire class. She insisted on taking him to the police station. Su Dazhi, however, cautioned her against acting rashly without evidence, especially given Gu Zi Chen's inebriated state.
Su Dazhi expressed sympathy for the young man, believing he must be troubled, but Su Nian Nian countered, calling Gu Zi Chen her "enemy." Since Su Nian Nian was new to the school and unfamiliar with the dormitories, they decided to take Gu Zi Chen to the reception office. After Su Dazhi departed, Su Nian Nian decided against mentioning her plan to drop out, seeing how tired her father was.
She was then accosted by the reception attendant, who mistakenly assumed Gu Zi Chen was her boyfriend and demanded she clean up his vomit. Despite her protests, the attendant chastised her for being "cold-hearted," forcing Su Nian Nian to reluctantly comply. As she cleaned, Gu Zi Chen mumbled for water and suddenly grabbed her hand, pulling her onto him. Infuriated, Su Nian Nian called him a "rascal" and a "pervert."
In an act of revenge, she used a pen to draw on his face, prominently writing "Handsome" on his forehead. The next morning, Gu Zi Chen walked across campus, confused by the widespread laughter directed at him. His narcissistic initial thought that it was due to his handsomeness was quickly dashed when The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying—Zhao Mingyuan, Zhu Cheng, and Chen Yuan—appeared, also laughing. They sarcastically complimented his "charming" face.
Gu Zi Chen rushed to the restroom, where his reflection revealed the prank. He realized he had been "ambushed" while "blacked out" and demanded that Ye Xing Yu, who arrived chuckling, help him identify the culprit before asking for face wash. Meanwhile, in the girls' dorm, Yin Chu Xia returned, startling Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi. Yin Chu Xia jokingly referred to Su Nian Nian as the "glasses girl who fought the cold demon," highlighting her newfound notoriety.
Later, Song Yuxi convinced a reluctant Su Nian Nian to try the Teacher's Dining Hall. There, they inadvertently overheard their future teacher, Jiang Mu, being publicly broken up with by his girlfriend, Na Na. She criticized his low salary and the simple handwritten card he had given her for her birthday.
When Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi tried to discreetly leave, claiming they saw nothing, Jiang Mu, embarrassed, sternly told them that as students, they should "seek truth from facts." Later, Su Nian Nian had another unpleasant encounter with Gu Zi Chen, who called her "Four Eyes" and implied she was seeking his forgiveness.
She retorted that he was delusional, and he in turn accused her of being responsible for the drawing on his face at the reception office, which she angrily denied. The first class for Mechanical Class II began, and Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi were surprised to discover that The Three Remarkable, Ye Xing Yu, and Jiang Mu, who was their form teacher and main subject lecturer, were all in the same class.
Gu Zi Chen arrived late, and Jiang Mu instructed him to sit next to Su Nian Nian, much to her chagrin. The two immediately began bickering. As Jiang Mu led the class in self-introductions, He Xiao enthusiastically shared his dream of becoming a stylist. The Three Remarkable pledged to live up to their name, and Ye Xing Yu offered a friendly greeting. Gu Zi Chen, when introducing himself, claimed he returned from abroad because he "didn't learn anything."
Song Yuxi humorously stated that she only knew how to eat. Yin Chu Xia was absent. During the lecture, Su Nian Nian tried to reclaim her space by nudging Gu Zi Chen with her elbow. He deliberately pulled his arm back, causing her to lose balance and fall onto him, eliciting gasps from their classmates. Gu Zi Chen smirked, remarking, "Girls nowadays pounce on men."
Jiang Mu, noticing the commotion, chose to focus on the class's "high energy" and continued his lecture. After class, Jiang Mu called Su Nian Nian out for a private conversation, while The Three Remarkable announced their intention to get their "boss" elected as class monitor.
Episode 4 Recap
During the class monitor election, Zhao Ming Yuan, known as the Ploy Master of The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying, intended to become the monitor. However, their homeroom teacher, Mr. Jiang, had another candidate in mind: Su Nian Nian, a top student whom he hoped would improve the class's academic atmosphere. Su Nian Nian, having only been an assistant leader for a three-person group in the past, felt unqualified for such a significant role.
Overhearing their conversation, Gu Zi Chen deliberately provoked Su Nian Nian, mocking her as a "nerd" and questioning her ability to manage Mechanical Class II. He even alluded to her having a part-time job as a street performer, specifically a "con artist." Angered by his words, Su Nian Nian accepted the position, determined to prove him wrong and demonstrate she was more than just a bookworm.
Gu Zi Chen, meanwhile, found newfound amusement in this "lousy place" by antagonizing Su Nian Nian. After Su Nian Nian became the class monitor, The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying began to torment her. They put cockroaches in her water cup and the love letters left on her desk, and applied super glue to her chair. When Su Nian Nian tried to get up, her pants ripped, leaving her in a difficult situation.
She immediately asked her friend, Song Yuxi, to return to their dorm to get a new pair of pants. Suddenly, Su Nian Nian was hit with an urgent stomach ache. Realizing there was no women's restroom nearby, she accidentally stumbled into the men's restroom. After quickly apologizing and retreating, she found herself still needing a facility. Just then, Ye Xing Yu and Gu Zi Chen arrived.
Gu Zi Chen teasingly suggested they "go together," but Ye Xing Yu, being more considerate, informed her that the women's restroom was on the third floor. Su Nian Nian, grateful for the information, hurried off. Returning to the classroom, Ye Xing Yu and Gu Zi Chen encountered Song Yuxi, who was carrying a pair of pants and looking for Su Nian Nian.
Ye Xing Yu, putting the pieces together, realized Su Nian Nian's predicament and rushed out to find her, with Gu Zi Chen following behind. He found Su Nian Nian in the hallway, embarrassed by her torn pants and reluctant to return to class. Without hesitation, Ye Xing Yu removed his pink shirt and gently tied it around her waist, providing her with cover. Su Nian Nian was visibly nervous at their close proximity.
Observing this scene from a distance, Gu Zi Chen turned and left, his face devoid of emotion. Su Nian Nian returned to the classroom, keeping her head down. Song Yuxi was ecstatic upon recognizing Ye Xing Yu's shirt and eagerly pressed Su Nian Nian for details about how he tied it around her, suggesting she demonstrate. However, Su Nian Nian was distracted. She discovered her very important book was missing, which deeply upset her.
She walked to the front of the class and boldly announced that she would not succumb to any underhanded tactics to force her resignation as class monitor. She also warned whoever took her book to return it immediately, threatening to take "necessary actions" if they didn't comply. In a flashback, Su Nian Nian recalled a tender moment with Tang Yu. He had given her a book filled with his exam strategies and key points, hoping it would help her.
She, in turn, gave him a book of "Hot Picks of NCE Exams." Tang Yu then suggested they apply to Peiching University together, implying a future beyond academics. The memory highlighted the book's deep personal significance to Su Nian Nian. Meanwhile, as Zhao Ming Yuan and his friends were handling Su Nian Nian's stolen book, a photo of Tang Yu fell out. They immediately assumed Tang Yu was Su Nian Nian's boyfriend, or rather, her "ex-boyfriend."
Ye Xing Yu entered the scene and, upon seeing the book and photo, quickly deduced that The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying were behind the pranks. He chastised them, telling them they underestimated Su Nian Nian and that their "little tricks" wouldn't faze her. He then instructed them to return the book, urging them to seek leniency.
Episode 5 Recap
Upon Ye Xing Yu's return to the dormitory, he found The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying huddled together, engrossed in a photograph. When he inquired about the person in the picture, Ming Yuan's follower admitted they didn't recognize the individual but confirmed the photo was taken from Su Nian Nian's book. Ye Xing Yu then chastised them for their pranks, stating that such trivial tricks would never deter Su Nian Nian.
He sincerely advised Ming Yuan to reflect on the extensive duties of a Monitor, suggesting that he currently lacked the capacity to lead. Ye Xing Yu assured him that once he developed the necessary abilities, Su Nian Nian would gladly yield the position. Accepting this counsel, Ming Yuan instructed his follower to discreetly return Su Nian Nian's book.
Determined to set a better example for his friends and move beyond aimless living, Ming Yuan later secured a part-time job at a car repair shop, where he impressed the owner with his skills and secured an hourly wage with daily payment. On his way home, Ye Xing Yu intervened to protect a young student who was being bullied, chasing off the aggressors and personally escorting the child home.
He advised the child to always walk with a classmate and avoid troublesome students. Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen's mother called, expressing concern about his continued stay at school. He reassured her, promising to visit when he had time. Later, his father discussed his apprehension with Gu Zi Chen’s mother, finding his son's lack of mischief unsettling. He stressed the importance of Gu Zi Chen developing strong character to eventually take over the family business.
Elsewhere, Song Yuxi collided with Zhu Cheng. Annoyed, she scolded him. Zhu Cheng, in turn, warned her about rampant car thefts on campus and, seeing her apprehension, offered to walk her back to the dorm. Unaware of these events, Gu Zi Chen stood before the school supermarket's glass door, admiring his reflection and thinking, "Four Eyes said I was narcissistic. But I am truly handsome."
Just as he basked in his self-admiration, Su Nian Nian unexpectedly opened the door, leading to a startling collision. Both were momentarily stunned. At that precise moment, Xiao Huang appeared, gleefully snapping photos. He accused them of being caught in a secret relationship, ignoring their claims of a mere coincidence. He asserted that this incident was a clear follow-up to their previous "canteen incidence," which had made him delete his original post.
He declared his intention to expose their "underground love" to the entire student body, titling his new "news" as "The reunion of two lovers after a breakup." Frustrated by Xiao Huang's persistence, Gu Zi Chen impulsively grabbed the camera and smashed it on the ground, then quickly fled. Su Nian Nian, after a glance at the broken camera, also hurried away. Later, He Mei visited Su Nian Nian at the university, expressing how much she missed her.
Su Nian Nian shared her ongoing confusion and the feeling of being lost. He Mei also mentioned that Tang Yu was very concerned about Su Nian Nian after her incident, to which Su Nian Nian replied that she didn't want him to worry.
When Ye Xing Yu and Gu Zi Chen arrived, Su Nian Nian introduced Ye Xing Yu to He Mei, but pointedly "forgot" Gu Zi Chen's name, eliciting a sarcastic remark from Gu Zi Chen about her poor memory. He Mei, clearly disappointed by Gu Zi Chen's lack of recognition, felt a pang of sadness.
Inside her dorm, Su Nian Nian’s roommates, having discovered a photo of Tang Yu in her book earlier and mistakenly identifying him as Gu Zi Chen, were still clamoring to see the picture, unaware of the true identity of the handsome man. Overwhelmed by her uncertainties, Su Nian Nian suddenly stood up and declared, "I have to control my own destiny!" startling her roommates.
Determined to make a change, Su Nian Nian decided to approach Mr. Jiang Mu about withdrawing from school. However, before she could utter a word, Mr. Jiang Mu enthusiastically presented her with exciting news. He revealed that due to her exceptional academic performance, the school leaders were deeply impressed and planned to designate Mechanical Class II as a key experimental class, offering substantial support and resources.
He praised Su Nian Nian as the most outstanding student enrolled that year and thanked her on behalf of the entire class. Faced with such high expectations and the potential positive impact on her class, Su Nian Nian found herself unable to voice her desire to leave, fearing it would jeopardize the class's future. Mr. Jiang Mu then assigned her a crucial role in leading the dormitory hygiene inspection.
He emphasized that this task transcended mere cleanliness, aiming to correct students' behavioral norms, an initiative he noted had declined significantly since his own graduation. He hailed Su Nian Nian as a pivotal figure who could reshape Qun Ying's history, placing immense responsibility on her shoulders. Though apprehensive, Su Nian Nian accepted the task, resolving to tackle it first and address her personal dilemma later.
Back in her dorm, Su Nian Nian discussed the upcoming inspection with Song Yuxi, who was eager to join, expressing curiosity about the boys' dorms. Su Nian Nian, however, dismissed her curiosity as "nasty thoughts." As Su Nian Nian led other monitors through the male dormitories, she encountered various chaotic and unsanitary scenes: students watching inappropriate videos, others lounging improperly dressed, and some even attempting to flirt with her.
In one particularly foul-smelling room, a student brazenly feigned nudity under his quilt to scare her away, which disgusted Su Nian Nian. She fled, thinking, "Had I brought Song Yuxi, she'd go blind." Her inspection continued to Gu Zi Chen's dorm, where she found Ye Xing Yu, freshly showered and topless, standing beside Gu Zi Chen, who was showing him a new website his research group had developed to sell products.
Mistaking the innocent scene for something inappropriate, Su Nian Nian was horrified and ran away. Returning to her dorm, she frantically drank water, visibly shaken. Song Yuxi pressed her for details, but Su Nian Nian could only describe the experience as a "disaster" and "disgusting," wishing to forget it. Still, Song Yuxi persisted, recalling the supermarket incident with Gu Zi Chen and demanding an explanation.
Su Nian Nian tried to clarify that their collision was an unfortunate coincidence, explaining that "it felt like an electric shock. It felt like time stood still. That's how we got photographed."
Episode 6 Recap
The gossip king, Xiao Huang, successfully repaired the memory card and re-posted the photo of Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen kissing online. Seeing the picture, Song Yuxi felt a pang of jealousy and questioned Su Nian Nian if she was secretly dating Gu Zi Chen. Su Nian Nian vigorously denied it, asserting that the incident was a complete accident and a total nightmare for her.
Su Nian Nian confided in Song Yuxi about the leaked photo, hoping she could leverage her friendship with Xiao Huang to have the pictures deleted. However, Song Yuxi explained that Gu Zi Chen had previously broken Xiao Huang's phone, which Xiao Huang considered his "lifeblood" for all his gossip activities. This act had created a deep grudge, making it impossible for Song Yuxi to persuade him.
Frustrated by the chaotic situation at school, Su Nian Nian declared her determination to get revenge. Meanwhile, Su Nian Nian received a phone call from her father, who, having heard from Mr. Jiang that she had become the class monitor, called to congratulate her. He reminded her of her responsibility to lead by example and live up to her teachers' expectations.
Su Nian Nian expressed her discomfort and finding the school and its people strange, but her father encouraged her to persevere before ending the call for work. On his way home, Ye Xing Yu encountered Xiao Jia, a young girl he had previously saved, who was once again skipping class. He took her for noodles, urged her to stop missing school, and promised to help her with her studies.
Xiao Jia remained silent about her family's difficulties, and after dropping her off at her doorstep, Ye Xing Yu left. Shortly after, her brother returned home and found Xiao Jia. He sternly reiterated that she must not skip classes and reassured her that he had secured a high-paying job, promising to cover her tuition fees. Xiao Jia then mentioned that "a brother" had offered to teach her, to which her brother cautioned her to be wary of strangers.
Finding his son's recent good behavior highly unusual, Gu Zi Chen's father ordered Secretary Liu to discreetly follow him. Gu Zi Chen quickly noticed he was being tracked and hid, planning to ambush his pursuer. However, when he lunged out, he unexpectedly grabbed Su Nian Nian, who had been drawn by curiosity and was peeking around the corner. As he tried to hold her back, he pinned her against the wall, their faces inches apart.
Enraged and convinced it was deliberate, Su Nian Nian started furiously hitting him, yelling that he was crazy. At that precise moment, Secretary Liu stumbled upon the scene. Startled, he mumbled, "What a coincidence! Continue," and quickly retreated, mistakenly concluding that Gu Zi Chen had found a girlfriend. Still fuming, Su Nian Nian continued her assault on Gu Zi Chen, warning him never to let her see him again.
During the struggle, Su Nian Nian's old phone fell and its screen was shattered, though she was unaware of it as she stormed off. Secretary Liu reported back to Gu Zi Chen's father, the Chairman, confirming that Gu Zi Chen was indeed dating. This news brought immense relief and joy to Gu Zi Chen’s mother, who was delighted by her son's newfound romance and eagerly inquired about the girl's appearance and qualities.
Secretary Liu admitted he hadn't seen her clearly, having been too flustered. The Chairman, however, instructed his secretary to discreetly gather detailed information about the girl—her name, parents, major, and class—while the mother excitedly planned to meet her son’s new girlfriend the following weekend, emphasizing that any future daughter-in-law must be capable both socially and domestically. Gu Zi Chen himself, now more attentive to Su Nian Nian, would often find himself smiling when thoughts of her crossed his mind.
Later, Gu Zi Chen presented Su Nian Nian with a brand-new, expensive phone. However, she rejected it, explaining that her old, broken phone held sentimental value as a reward from her father for her academic achievement, making it far more precious. Gu Zi Chen then produced her old phone, which he had thoughtfully repaired, but Su Nian Nian showed no gratitude, simply stating that he was obligated to fix it.
His friends commented on his good looks, but Su Nian Nian, still irritated, vehemently claimed that seeing him made her "blind." Gu Zi Chen couldn't help but wonder why Su Nian Nian constantly avoided him. Zhao Mingyuan remained disgruntled by Su Nian Nian's appointment as class monitor.
He tried to persuade Ye Xing Yu to support him, arguing that it was undignified for a girl to lead a class of boys and expressing doubt about her leadership capabilities, suggesting she would "only cry" if problems arose. Ye Xing Yu, however, firmly defended Su Nian Nian, praising her strong academic record and leadership potential. He expressed his full support for her, reminding Zhao Mingyuan that even historical figures like Mulan led armies.
Recognizing he couldn't sway Ye Xing Yu, Zhao Mingyuan decided to pursue "extreme measures" with his close friends. Shortly thereafter, the results of the dorm hygiene inspection were released, and Zhao Mingyuan's dorm was penalized three academic credits. Enraged, he vowed to unmask the informant. His friends immediately implicated Su Nian Nian, recalling that she had been diligently writing notes during the inspection.
Although Zhao Mingyuan initially doubted a "weak girl" would dare to report them, he found the idea "interesting" and formulated a plan to intimidate the other class monitors into revealing the truth without resorting to physical violence. Unable to concentrate on her studies amidst Song Yuxi's energetic exercises in the dorm, Su Nian Nian sought refuge in a classroom.
There, she found Ye Xing Yu playing the guitar, which made her ponder why someone so handsome, intelligent, and musically talented would attend their school. She tried to slip away unnoticed, but Ye Xing Yu, recognizing her distinctive "rhythmic and energetic" footsteps, called her back. She joined him to study and eventually dozed off. Ye Xing Yu, noticing she was asleep, gently covered her with his jacket and quietly continued playing his guitar, waiting for her to awaken.
When she finally stirred, he woke her and offered to walk her back to her dorm. The next morning, Yin Chuxia eagerly roused Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi, insisting they attend a basketball match featuring the "two male gods of QYU," Ye Xing Yu and Gu Zi Chen. Su Nian Nian, preferring to sleep or read, initially resisted, but her friends persuaded her that it was a unique event she shouldn't miss. She reluctantly agreed, asking to return early.
At the basketball court, Xiao Huang was enthusiastically live-streaming the game, dubbing it a "QYU Two Male Gods Basketball Challenge." He jokingly declared it a "draw" regardless of the outcome, as either player losing would break the hearts of countless fans, and secretly voiced his hope for Ye Xing Yu to win. The match then commenced with fierce competition and roaring cheers from the large crowd.
Episode 7 Recap
Qun Ying University hosted a friendly basketball match, with the popular Gu Zi Chen and Ye Xing Yu leading their respective teams. Many students came to watch, and Su Nian Nian was reluctantly pulled along by her roommates. As the game intensified and the two male stars showcased their skills, Su Nian Nian grew bored and decided to leave. Just as she was about to depart, a basketball shot by Gu Zi Chen struck her, knocking her unconscious.
Concerned, Gu Zi Chen rushed to help, offering to carry her to the infirmary. However, Ye Xing Yu quickly intervened, scooping Su Nian Nian up and hurrying her off, leaving Gu Zi Chen to follow. After receiving treatment and regaining consciousness, Su Nian Nian was furious to find Gu Zi Chen sitting by her bedside. She berated him, asking why he was always around and accusing him of harming her.
Gu Zi Chen playfully suggested she was "bold" for head-butting a basketball like a football. Su Nian Nian fired back, reminding him he was the one who threw the ball. He then advised her to be more gentle, which only angered her further. She declared she didn't want to see or hear him.
Gu Zi Chen retorted that he felt the same, but asserted his responsibility to stay, implying he was worried she might "run like last time," referencing an earlier hit-and-run accusation. He insisted the doctor wanted her observed and ordered her to rest. Su Nian Nian dismissed his concern, calling him "sick" and blaming him for a past incident involving a broken phone and rumors that had left her "disgusted." Without another word, she abruptly fled the infirmary.
Ye Xing Yu, who had returned, questioned Gu Zi Chen about her sudden departure, to which Gu Zi Chen replied he couldn't stop her and that she was more stubborn than a donkey. Shortly after, the doctor arrived, confirming Su Nian Nian was fine and had gone home. Later, at home, Gu Zi Chen's father, Gu Weiye, expressed his dissatisfaction with his son's vague responses about school life.
He directly questioned Gu Zi Chen about having a girlfriend, prompted by Secretary Liu's report. Gu Zi Chen denied it, dismissing Liu's observation as unreliable. Gu Weiye then sternly warned his son about the importance of responsibility if he were to enter a relationship. His mother encouraged him to find a girlfriend, noting how young she and his father were when they had him. Gu Zi Chen sarcastically suggested they find him a "mayor's daughter" to marry.
His father, annoyed, reiterated that character was more important than social status in choosing a partner. Meanwhile, Ye Xing Yu tutored a young girl named Zhao Ming Jia before going home to cook for his mother. She expressed her desire for him to find a good partner and settle down, to which he playfully agreed to ask the first pretty girl he saw to be his mother's daughter-in-law.
Elsewhere, Zhao Mingyuan and his friends, the Three Remarkable of Qun Ying, plotted against Su Nian Nian, vowing to either expel her or force her to resign as class monitor because of her "tattletale" behavior regarding their dorm's hygiene. A male friend of Su Nian Nian's overheard their plans and boldly confronted them, scolding them for their unmanly behavior and for targeting Su Nian Nian over deducted credits. He threatened to report them to their teacher, Mr. Jiang.
Later, he informed Su Nian Nian about the plan, but Su Nian Nian remained calm, believing she wouldn't be easily driven out and that facing such challenges might even be beneficial. Unbeknownst to her, her earlier report on male dorm hygiene had already incited widespread resentment among male students, who now stared at her menacingly. In class, students threw paper at her.
Her friends, Song Yuxi and her male friend, defended her, while Su Nian Nian declared that she would face any repercussions herself and asked them not to involve her friends. Her chair was then sabotaged, causing her to fall. Gu Zi Chen witnessed this and openly mocked the boys for bullying a girl. Ye Xing Yu spoke with Gu Zi Chen, expressing his hope that the Three Remarkable would mature and suggesting he would talk to them.
Gu Zi Chen, though, described Su Nian Nian as "a rock in a latrine, tough and smelly," yet also found her "interesting." Song Yuxi voiced her worries that Su Nian Nian might lose her monitor position. Ye Xing Yu later confronted Zhao Mingyuan and his friends in their dorm, urging them to stop harassing Su Nian Nian.
He defended her as a competent and admirable monitor, despite their initial complaints that she hadn't given them a chance to improve and was hindering their graduation plans with her "honesty and responsibility." Ye Xing Yu acknowledged their financial struggles, relating them to his own, and suggested Su Nian Nian likely had her reasons for her actions, proposing an open discussion.
One of Zhao Mingyuan's friends, Chen Yuan, admitted it was wrong to treat a girl that way and pointed out Su Nian Nian's academic prowess, noting she had accepted her placement at Qun Ying. Zhao Mingyuan ultimately agreed to cease their actions, but only if Su Nian Nian publicly apologized and relinquished her monitor position. Ye Xing Yu relayed this to Su Nian Nian, suggesting it as a temporary measure.
However, Su Nian Nian vehemently refused to apologize or give up her role, especially under duress. She emphasized that she wasn't motivated by the position itself, but by the personal growth she experienced through these challenges. She insisted that the only way for the boys to regain lost credits was through diligent study, their primary responsibility as students. While Ye Xing Yu agreed her logic was sound, he felt her approach was too harsh and still advocated for peaceful coexistence.
Su Nian Nian, while agreeing to communicate, stated she could only do so much. Later, in the cafeteria, Zhao Mingyuan confronted Su Nian Nian with a large group of students whose credits had been deducted. He demanded she choose between resigning as monitor or being expelled from Qun Ying. Su Nian Nian defiantly told him to look at himself. Enraged, Zhao Mingyuan grabbed her collar. As he escalated, Song Yuxi tried to intervene.
Just then, Ye Xing Yu arrived, sternly ordering Zhao Mingyuan to release Su Nian Nian and questioning his reckless behavior. From a distance, Gu Zi Chen observed the scene and promptly went to inform their class tutor. The tutor arrived, reprimanded the Three Remarkable, and took them to the office, assuring Su Nian Nian he would ensure justice. After the crowd dispersed, Su Nian Nian, overwhelmed by the ordeal, broke down in tears.
Disappointed by his roommates' behavior, Ye Xing Yu moved out of the Three Remarkable's dorm, hoping they would reflect and change. Feeling the weight of Ye Xing Yu's departure and the tutor's admonishment, Zhao Mingyuan and his friends decided to apologize to Su Nian Nian, though Zhao Mingyuan still secretly planned for her to "pay a price." On their way, Zhao Mingyuan was ambushed by an old group of enemies who had brought more people this time.
Spotting the escalating fight, Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi approached. Despite Song Yuxi's warnings about the dangerous situation, Su Nian Nian intervened, stepping in front of Zhao Mingyuan and his friends. She pulled out her phone and, pretending to call the police, loudly announced that law enforcement was on their way, urging the aggressors to leave. The intimidating group retreated but not before mocking Zhao Mingyuan for needing a woman to protect him. Unappreciative of Su Nian Nian's intervention, Zhao Mingyuan was further angered by the humiliation, calling her "nuts" and instructing her to mind her own business.
Episode 8 Recap
Gu Zi Chen contacted Xiao Huang, claiming to have exciting news. Xiao Huang, intrigued, agreed to record a video for him. Gu Zi Chen faced the camera and declared that he and Su Nian Nian were indeed in a long-term relationship, having recently reconciled after a minor misunderstanding. He expressed their happiness and even promised wedding candies when they got married, instructing Xiao Huang to edit out his "cut" commands.
Xiao Huang recorded, wondering if Gu Zi Chen had lost his mind. Later, Gu Zi Chen cryptically told a baffled Su Nian Nian to keep an eye on her Moments for "big news." Song Yuxi recounted to Chu Xia Su Nian Nian's bravery during a recent fight at the school gate, where she diffused the situation by falsely claiming to have called the police. Song Yuxi also criticized Gu Zi Chen for his perceived timidity and inaction in that incident.
Su Nian Nian, overhearing, dismissed these comments, stating she had no relationship with Gu Zi Chen and he wouldn't help without personal gain. Meanwhile, Ye Xing Yu had moved into Gu Zi Chen’s dorm. During a conversation, Ye Xing Yu praised Gu Zi Chen for subtly intervening in the cafeteria incident by calling Mr. Jiang Mu, acknowledging Gu Zi Chen's newfound maturity. Gu Zi Chen, downplaying his actions, simply said he had "grown up" and that fighting was childish.
As punishment for the cafeteria incident, Mr. Jiang Mu ordered The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying to apologize to Su Nian Nian and clean the academic building for a week, threatening expulsion if they failed. The trio delivered a terse "Sorry" written on a note. Chu Xia was unimpressed by their insincere apology, but Su Nian Nian suggested letting it go, understanding it was already difficult for them.
Gu Zi Chen’s mother, accompanied by Secretary Liu, visited the school, hoping to meet Gu Zi Chen’s rumored girlfriend. She saw Su Nian Nian embracing Chu Xia, mistakenly assuming it was a male student, and immediately deemed Su Nian Nian "frivolous" and unsuitable. This negative impression was reinforced when she witnessed The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying's perfunctory apology, solidifying her belief that Su Nian Nian was unworthy of her son.
When she confronted Gu Zi Chen, he denied having a girlfriend, blaming Secretary Liu for the misunderstanding. His mother then toured his dormitory, finding it too simple and urging him to return home. Gu Zi Chen refused, praising the school. When Ye Xing Yu arrived, Gu Zi Chen introduced him to his mother, who was charmed by Ye Xing Yu and his childhood connection to her son. Pleased, she did not further insist Gu Zi Chen move home.
While The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying performed their cleaning duties, Song Yuxi and Chu Xia delighted in their predicament, even playfully directing them. Su Nian Nian, however, felt uneasy, fearing their punishment would only deepen their resentment towards her. After classes, Su Nian Nian went alone to the equipment room to return some items. The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying, still cleaning, noticed her. Zhao Mingyuan seized the opportunity and locked the door, trapping Su Nian Nian inside.
Chen Yuan expressed concern, reminding Zhao Mingyuan that Su Nian Nian had helped them before and that trapping her, especially as it grew dark, was dangerous and risky. Zhao Mingyuan, however, angrily dismissed his concerns, calling him a "traitor" and asserting that Su Nian Nian deserved punishment for causing them trouble and for embarrassing him earlier. He decided to leave her there for a few hours.
Inside, Su Nian Nian’s cries for help went unanswered, and her panic escalated into terror when the last flickering light bulb died, plunging her into complete darkness—a nightmare for her severe claustrophobia. Frantically, Su Nian Nian searched her phone contacts, desperate to call Song Yuxi, Chu Xia, or Ye Xing Yu, but realized she hadn't saved their numbers. Close to tears, she then spotted Gu Zi Chen's number, realizing he must have saved it when he repaired her phone.
Without hesitation, she dialed him. Gu Zi Chen, who was dining with his mother, answered the phone. Su Nian Nian tearfully informed him she was locked in the equipment room and experiencing a claustrophobic attack. Gu Zi Chen immediately reassured her, telling her not to be afraid, and hastily excused himself from his mother, instructing Uncle Liu to take her home safely, as he rushed back to the school.
He called Su Nian Nian again, telling her he was almost there, but his phone died shortly after she mentioned hearing a rat, further terrifying her. Meanwhile, Ye Xing Yu, leaving after guitar practice, heard faint sounds from the equipment room. He called out, and Su Nian Nian, relieved, identified herself, explaining she was locked inside.
Ye Xing Yu identified himself and offered to find a teacher for the keys, but Su Nian Nian, overwhelmed by fear, pleaded with him to stay. He agreed, sitting outside the door and playing a newly composed, though unfinished, song on his guitar to soothe her, promising to remain until help arrived. Gu Zi Chen arrived but, seeing Ye Xing Yu already comforting Su Nian Nian, decided not to interfere.
Instead, he quickly ran to fetch Mr. Jiang Mu and the school doctor, Dr. Jin. Unaware of the unfolding crisis, Song Yuxi and Chu Xia, realizing Su Nian Nian was still missing, went looking for her. They encountered Mr. Jiang Mu, who informed them about Su Nian Nian's distress. The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying, deciding to finally release Su Nian Nian after several hours, were then shocked to see her being carried to the infirmary.
Guilt-ridden and worried she might be ill, Zhao Mingyuan immediately warned his companions not to return to the scene or admit their involvement, emphasizing that there was "no evidence" and they should "don't admit it." Mr. Jiang Mu, accompanied by Dr. Jin, arrived at the equipment room. Upon opening the door, they found Su Nian Nian unconscious. Dr. Jin quickly diagnosed her with claustrophobia, a lingering effect from a childhood illness.
Ye Xing Yu, without hesitation, scooped her up and rushed her to the infirmary. In the infirmary, Su Nian Nian regained consciousness. When asked if she saw who locked her in, she vaguely stated she saw no one suspicious and attributed the incident to someone inadvertently locking the door. Dr. Jin recommended a few days of rest at home for Su Nian Nian to prevent recurrence and admonished Mr. Jiang Mu for his perceived lack of diligence.
Su Nian Nian declined to inform her father to avoid worrying him. Mr. Jiang Mu then suggested she rest in the dorm for two days, with Song Yuxi and Chu Xia looking after her. Gu Zi Chen found himself restless all night, deeply affected by seeing Ye Xing Yu comforting Su Nian Nian, realizing that Su Nian Nian had entered his heart.
Later, Su Nian Nian went to Mr. Jiang Mu’s office and, to his shock, announced her intention to withdraw from the university. Mr. Jiang Mu promised a thorough investigation into the locking incident to ensure justice, urging her to reconsider. Su Nian Nian clarified that the incident was an "accident" she didn't wish to pursue. She explained that she felt unsuited for Qun Ying and had always intended to return to a previous school to repeat her studies.
Mr. Jiang Mu tried to persuade her, acknowledging her academic potential but stressing the opportunities Qun Ying might offer. Su Nian Nian, firm in her decision, reiterated that her time at Qun Ying was merely a "small chapter," a valuable experience for making friends, but not her ultimate path. Realizing he couldn't easily convince her, Mr. Jiang Mu recalled the university's policy requiring parental signatures for withdrawal.
He granted Su Nian Nian an extended leave of absence, suggesting she return home to discuss her decision with her father. As Su Nian Nian packed her belongings for her long leave, her roommates expressed their sadness and curiosity about her return. She assured them she would be back once she recovered and generously gave her meal card to Song Yuxi. She planned to surprise her father by arriving unannounced.
Just as she was about to depart, Song Yuxi discovered the video Gu Zi Chen had uploaded through Xiao Huang, where he publicly claimed to be in a long-term, happily reconciled relationship with Su Nian Nian. Song Yuxi, astonished, showed the video to Su Nian Nian, who watched in disbelief.
Episode 9 Recap
Mr. Jiang Mu, considering Su Nian Nian's health and her request to withdraw, granted her an extended leave so she could fully consider her decision. After receiving his approval, Su Nian Nian returned to her dormitory to pack. Her roommates, Song Yuxi and Yin Chuxia, felt something was amiss, noticing she had an unusual amount of luggage, as if she wouldn't be returning.
Just before she left, Song Yuxi saw shocking news on her social media: Gu Zi Chen had publicly admitted that Su Nian Nian was his girlfriend. In a video message, Gu Zi Chen announced, "Su Nian Nian and I are indeed lovers. We broke up once due to a small misunderstanding, but now we've happily reconciled. Thank you all for your concern. When we get married, I'll be sure to give you wedding candy."
Su Nian Nian reacted with indifference to the news, not understanding Gu Zi Chen's intentions, but she no longer cared, as she was leaving the school anyway. Her roommates worried she wouldn't come back. As Su Nian Nian walked out of the school gates, she felt a pang of sadness about leaving. Suddenly, Gu Zi Chen emerged from behind some bushes, startling her. Su Nian Nian immediately questioned him about the video.
Gu Zi Chen explained his strategy was to "fight poison with poison" to get rid of the snooping reporter, Xiao Huang. He elaborated, "We're always in the limelight and gossiped about. That's why Xiao Huang was trying so hard to find evidence. But now that I've confirmed the news, he has no reason to search for evidence anymore." Su Nian Nian retorted that she was indifferent, saying, "I'm leaving this lousy place anyway.
Even if they say I'm an alien, it has nothing to do with me." She then hailed a taxi and departed, with Gu Zi Chen following in another. After a short while, Su Nian Nian got out, and Gu Zi Chen followed. Su Nian Nian quickly spotted him and demanded to know why he was following her. He awkwardly claimed he was just "walking around" and had gotten lost.
As they argued, a car sped toward Su Nian Nian, and Gu Zi Chen quickly pulled her into his arms, saving her from danger. Furious, Su Nian Nian broke free and hurried away, warning Gu Zi Chen not to follow her again. Gu Zi Chen watched her go, smiling at her spirited reaction. Meanwhile, Mr. Jiang Mu entered the classroom, creating a tense atmosphere for The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying.
They feared the school had discovered their involvement in Su Nian Nian's predicament. However, Mr. Jiang Mu gravely informed the class that Su Nian Nian was taking a long leave to recuperate at home. He also revealed that the school had intended to thoroughly investigate the incident in the equipment room, but Su Nian Nian had repeatedly requested them to drop the matter. He then addressed the students, saying, "I'm not stupid. I believe this incident was man-made.
So, I hope the students responsible feel a troubled conscience. Don't take Su Nian Nian's kindness as an excuse for your misdeeds, and don't make her pay the price for them!" The Three Remarkable were astonished by Su Nian Nian's magnanimity, something they hadn't anticipated. Her generous actions filled them with immense guilt. Despite this, Zhao Mingyuan, ever protective of his pride, asserted that it was merely Su Nian Nian's cunning plan to make them feel uneasy.
Earlier, the news of Su Nian Nian's departure spread through Xiao Huang's social media post, which showed her leaving with luggage. Many students in the class, particularly some boys, celebrated their "freedom." However, upon hearing the news, Ye Xing Yu realized that Su Nian Nian's words to him the day before had actually been a farewell, and he felt foolish for not noticing.
Later, Gu Zi Chen confided in Ye Xing Yu that he believed her leaving was a better choice, suggesting she never truly belonged there. Ye Xing Yu expressed sadness that a "simple and kind girl" like her, who only cared about studying, couldn't endure such a prank. Back home, Su Nian Nian's accumulated grievances burst forth, and she tearfully told her father, Su Dazhi, that she didn't want to study at Qun Ying University anymore.
Su Dazhi was heartbroken but knew she couldn't handle the high-intensity stress of re-studying for the entrance exams. He comforted her and then went to the kitchen to prepare a meal. Su Nian Nian observed him eating a simple meal of pickled vegetables and rice, realizing his own hardships. This spurred her decision to earn her re-study tuition fees herself. Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan and Zhu Cheng were engaged in an arduous part-time job, moving heavy boxes.
After hours of strenuous labor, their boss tricked them into believing the boxes contained cultural relics and that the police were coming, causing them to flee without payment. The next day, Su Nian Nian set about searching for tutoring jobs online. During breakfast, she informed Su Dazhi that she had applied to drop out and planned to work to earn her tuition for re-studying.
Su Dazhi strongly opposed her working, offering to sell their car to support her, but Su Nian Nian was resolute in her decision to be self-reliant. After she left, Su Dazhi called Mr. Jiang Mu to confirm her withdrawal. Su Nian Nian's job search proved challenging; she was often rejected once companies heard she was from Qun Ying University.
At a job agency, she was told they couldn't help high school students, despite her excellent academic record from Dong Zhou High School. With no other options, a disheartened Su Nian Nian resorted to distributing flyers on the street. While distributing flyers, she was spotted by her friend He Mei. He Mei expressed concern, offering her financial help and promising to look for tutoring jobs for her.
Su Nian Nian accepted the offer of help but asked He Mei not to tell Tang Yu about her situation. Determined, Su Nian Nian resolved to continue working. As she was heading home to cook for her father, she encountered Su Dazhi on the road, involved in a minor car accident and being pressured by the other car owner to pay for damages.
Episode 10 Recap
Su Nian Nian diligently distributed flyers under the scorching sun, determined to earn enough tuition for her re-examination. She encouraged herself, believing that failure was merely a stepping stone to success and that she was capable of achieving her goals. On her way home, she witnessed her father, Su Dazhi, being accosted by a man who angrily demanded payment for damages to his car.
The man threatened Su Dazhi, accusing him of negligence and demanding 2,000 yuan for his "imported" vehicle. Su Dazhi tried to appease him, but Su Nian Nian intervened, pushing the man away and insisting they call the police. Her father quickly pulled her aside, whispering that a police report would cause him to lose his taxi company deposit due to a "no accident" clause in his contract. He pleaded with the man to settle privately.
With only 1,600 yuan, Su Dazhi tried to negotiate paying the rest later, but the car owner refused. Seeing her father's distress, Su Nian Nian silently took out her own money, handing over the remaining 400 yuan. After she left, she glanced back to see her father and the "car owner" in a friendly embrace, retrieving the money.
Su Nian Nian immediately realized her father had orchestrated the entire scenario to trick her out of her hard-earned money, hoping to prevent her from re-enrolling for another year of high-intensity study. Feeling profoundly disappointed and betrayed, she later called He Mei, who sympathized with her plight. Su Nian Nian, however, chose to forge ahead, declaring she couldn't waste more time and asked He Mei to help her find more part-time jobs.
Meanwhile, a group of Qun Ying students, known as the "Qun Ying Three Musketeers," expressed their guilt to Ye Xing Yu over locking Su Nian Nian in the equipment room. They confessed their intention was merely to scare her, not to cause such a serious incident, and admitted they were too afraid to apologize for fear of her reporting them to a teacher.
Ye Xing Yu chastised them for their actions, reminding them that Su Nian Nian had been absent from school for a week, and urged them to apologize personally. However, they feared their direct approach might further alienate her, so they persuaded Ye Xing Yu, whom they saw as a close friend of Su Nian Nian's, to convince her to return, promising to apologize once she was back. Ye Xing Yu reluctantly agreed, taking her home address from them.
Following her request, He Mei suggested a job as a wine promoter at a bar. Despite He Mei's concerns about the chaotic environment and Su Nian Nian's inexperience, Su Nian Nian insisted she could handle it, reasoning that her role was to sell, not to drink, and that she could adapt to wearing high heels. At the bar, Su Nian Nian found herself in an uncomfortable position as customers pressured her to drink.
Unexpectedly, Gu Zi Chen was also present with his friends. After briefly leaving, he returned and, observing her discomfort, deliberately provoked her by offering to buy all the bar's wine if she took one drink. Annoyed, Su Nian Nian splashed the drink on him. Seizing this, Gu Zi Chen feigned outrage, demanding the bar owner take action. To avoid offending a significant client, the owner immediately fired Su Nian Nian and had her escorted out, despite her protests.
Outside, Su Nian Nian angrily confronted Gu Zi Chen for costing her the job. As she stumbled away, unaccustomed to high heels, Su Nian Nian twisted her ankle. Gu Zi Chen quickly appeared, swept her into his arms, and placed her in his car. Initially, she screamed, thinking she was being kidnapped, but upon realizing it was Gu Zi Chen, she demanded to be let out.
Gu Zi Chen, however, warned her of the dangers of being alone at night, convincing her to accept a ride home. Upon their arrival, Su Dazhi recognized Gu Zi Chen, thanking him for driving him home on a previous occasion when he was drunk, an incident where Su Nian Nian had comically drawn on Gu Zi Chen's face.
Su Dazhi then expressed his deep gratitude to Gu Zi Chen for saving Su Nian Nian during a car accident on the day of her college entrance exam. He confided that doctors had advised against intense academic stress for Su Nian Nian due to her fragile health, which was why he had subtly manipulated her into attending Qun Ying, a less demanding school closer to home.
Gu Zi Chen understood that revealing the truth about her health and the true reason for her attendance at Qun Ying would crush her dreams of a prestigious university. He silently resolved to let Su Nian Nian continue believing he was responsible for her missing the exam, rather than exposing the painful reality about her health. Back inside, Su Nian Nian confronted her father, angrily accusing him of lying and scheming to keep her from her academic aspirations.
Su Dazhi, unable to reveal the true reason, merely apologized and reiterated his desire for her to remain at Qun Ying, emphasizing his contentment with simply having her nearby. Su Nian Nian, however, argued that her efforts were for their family's better future and questioned if her father was being controlled by the school principal. Su Dazhi, trying to deflect, reminded her that Qun Ying was where he and her mother met, attributing her attendance there to fate.
He tearfully begged her to stay, claiming he valued her presence above all else. Shortly after, Mr. Jiang Mu arrived at Su Nian Nian's home, explaining that he was there on behalf of the school's highest leadership. He presented her with an employment contract to be the class monitor for Mechanical Class II, complete with a salary.
Su Nian Nian found the offer tempting, as it would allow her to earn tuition for her re-take while staying at Qun Ying, seemingly fulfilling both her and her father's desires. Despite this, she initially refused, citing her inability to adapt to Qun Ying. Mr. Jiang Mu then launched into an elaborate monologue about adaptation and Qun Ying's "self-respect," to which Su Nian Nian playfully remarked on his dramatic flair, even referencing his past breakup.
Unfazed, Mr. Jiang Mu, after failing to convince her through persuasion, resorted to a coin toss to decide her fate. When the coin landed on the side indicating she should stay, he triumphantly declared it "the arrangement of God," brushing aside her protests that the decision was "sloppy." He handed her the contract and hastily departed.
After Mr. Jiang Mu left, Su Nian Nian excitedly told her father about the class monitor contract, explaining how she could now earn money while studying at Qun Ying. She called it "riding a donkey to find a horse," with the "donkey" (Qun Ying) even paying her tuition. Su Dazhi, overjoyed that she would not pursue re-examination, playfully chided her for comparing him to a "donkey," but his happiness was evident.
Su Nian Nian assured him her decision was made out of consideration for him. Soon after, Ye Xing Yu arrived at Su Nian Nian's house, finding Mr. Jiang Mu just leaving. Mr. Jiang Mu, confident he had secured Su Nian Nian's return, quickly pulled Ye Xing Yu away. However, later, feeling his coin-toss method might not have truly convinced Su Nian Nian, Mr. Jiang Mu sent Ye Xing Yu back to ensure her commitment.
When Ye Xing Yu arrived again, Su Dazhi warmly welcomed him, but Su Nian Nian was visibly annoyed. Before Ye Xing Yu could speak, Su Dazhi, noting Su Nian Nian's hunger, offered to cook for both of them, leaving them to talk. Alone, Ye Xing Yu began to apologize for the earlier incident where she was locked in the equipment room, but Su Nian Nian stopped him, expressing her gratitude for his help during that time. Ye Xing Yu, however, insisted that wasn't the main purpose of his visit.
Episode 11 Recap
Gu Zi Chen returned home fuming, directly confronting his father in his office about disbanding his scientific research group. His father admitted to it, claiming it was for Gu Zi Chen's future as the heir to Hao Cheng Enterprise. Gu Zi Chen, however, accused his father of always imposing his own ideas, expressing his deep dislike for such authoritarian control and stating that he felt suffocated by years of having to live according to his father's expectations.
He asserted that he would rather "break his head" than be controlled, believing they were "not in the same world." Later, a despondent Gu Zi Chen found himself outside Su Nian Nian's home. He silently promised himself that if Su Nian Nian appeared then, he would pursue her. As if on cue, Su Nian Nian emerged, standing by her window, lost in thought. She questioned whether her decision to return to Qun Ying was the right one.
Startled by her sudden appearance, Gu Zi Chen quickly hid to avoid being seen. Meanwhile, Ye Xing Yu visited Su Nian Nian at her house, warmly welcomed by her father. He apologized on behalf of Zhao Mingyuan, Zhu Cheng, and Chen Yuan (The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying) for locking her in the equipment room.
Su Nian Nian revealed she had actually seen Zhu Cheng mopping outside the room at the time but hadn't reported them, partly because she had initially intended to drop out. She agreed to forgive them, but made it clear that she was returning to school and "won't be bullied by them," declaring her lifelong habit of doing things to the best of her ability. Ye Xing Yu, remarking on her "strong woman" demeanor, expressed his confidence in her leadership.
Ye Xing Yu then met up with Gu Zi Chen, and they discussed Gu Zi Chen's ongoing conflict with his dictatorial father. The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying soon arrived, anxious to know if Su Nian Nian had accepted their apology. Ye Xing Yu confirmed her return and urged them to apologize in person, which Gu Zi Chen found shameful, mocking their previous actions.
Zhao Mingyuan then proposed they enlist Ye Xing Yu for a planned fight against rivals that evening. Gu Zi Chen openly ridiculed the idea of them, grown men, engaging in a schoolyard brawl, but then offered to discreetly adjust their deducted credits if they promised to show genuine remorse to the teachers and, crucially, to stop targeting Su Nian Nian.
After some initial skepticism from Zhao Mingyuan, Chen Yuan and Zhu Cheng convinced him that Gu Zi Chen's "strategy" was sound, and they reluctantly agreed. Su Nian Nian returned to Qun Ying with renewed resolve. Her friends, Song Yuxi and Yin Chu Xia, excitedly greeted her, having heard the news through the school's efficient "intel." Zhu Cheng, hoping to offer a peace offering, had bought two "cute" hamsters and placed them under Su Nian Nian's chair as a surprise.
During the first class, Mr. Jiang Mu officially welcomed Su Nian Nian back, announcing her important new mission: to lead the class in studying and to help establish a new, comprehensive academic system, with the ultimate goal of making Mechanical Class II a role model for Qun Ying.
Su Nian Nian then presented her strict new study plan, which included mandatory library self-study three times a week, at least four night-study sessions of three hours each, and an hour of daily practice in the equipment room, with credit deductions for any violations. The students were visibly disheartened, perceiving these measures as excessively harsh.
Mr. Jiang Mu, however, fully endorsed the plan and dramatically warned against non-compliance by breaking a piece of chalk, stating that rule-breakers would suffer the same fate. Back at her desk, Su Nian Nian discovered the hamster cage. Screaming in terror, she accidentally threw it onto the table. Song Yuxi, finding the hamsters adorable, was overjoyed and suggested they keep them in the dorm, even playfully naming them "Male God No. 1" and "Male God No. 2."
Zhu Cheng, realizing his mistake, apologized for not knowing her fear, yet was secretly pleased that Song Yuxi liked his gift. In the following days, Song Yuxi became obsessed with the hamsters, much to Su Nian Nian's annoyance. Su Nian Nian encountered Gu Zi Chen again, firmly stating her return to Qun Ying was her own business and that she was "full of battle power."
Gu Zi Chen, though still in conflict with his father (as revealed during a phone call where he refused to back down), privately admitted to being happy about her return. During the first mandatory night-study session, many students were still disengaged, but Su Nian Nian diligently urged them to focus. The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying received an anonymous message ordering them to publicly embarrass Su Nian Nian.
Zhu Cheng was reluctantly pushed to confront her first, but he only managed to ask a genuine question about a problem, failing to embarrass her. Frustrated, Zhao Mingyuan then openly reported He Xiao for cutting hair in class to distract Su Nian Nian. As she stepped down from the podium to address He Xiao, Zhao Mingyuan deliberately tripped her. Su Nian Nian fell, scraping her hand badly.
Ye Xing Yu, witnessing the incident, was furious with Zhao Mingyuan, reminding him of his promise. He immediately took Su Nian Nian to the infirmary, where Dr. Jin bandaged her hand and advised regular dressing changes. There, Ye Xing Yu revealed he had attended Dong Zhou High School and had known Su Nian Nian from afar, observing her dedication in competitions. Su Nian Nian, not remembering him, was surprised.
She then complained about Gu Zi Chen, attributing past misfortunes to him, including a car accident. Ye Xing Yu, however, clarified that Gu Zi Chen was not the culprit in that accident and had actually taken her to the hospital. Su Nian Nian remained skeptical, claiming Gu Zi Chen still "owed" her. Later, Zhao Mingyuan received another anonymous message.
Feeling guilty about Su Nian Nian's injury, which he hadn't intended to be so severe, he discussed with his friends his initial plan: to observe the class to identify who was truly behind the anonymous "orders." He suspected the instigator was either from their class or someone previously penalized. Zhu Cheng then suggested they stop all such mischievous actions, a sentiment Zhao Mingyuan surprisingly agreed with, recognizing the potential for more serious harm.
Episode 12 Recap
Over the weekend, a gaming session took an unexpected turn when Yin Chuxia and Zhao Mingyuan had a disagreement. During their playful squabble, Zhao Mingyuan accidentally pushed Yin Chuxia, his hand landing on her chest. The moment was instantly awkward as Zhao Mingyuan stammered, realizing to his astonishment that Yin Chuxia was a girl. His loud exclamation drew the attention of others nearby, who had all assumed Yin Chuxia was a boy.
Zhu Cheng's reaction was particularly exaggerated, as he laughed and repeatedly exclaimed that Yin Chuxia was a woman. Deeply embarrassed and hurt by their reactions, Yin Chuxia fought back tears and ran out. Zhao Mingyuan, feeling terrible, immediately chased after her to apologize but she disappeared too quickly. The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying discussed the recent prank against Su Nian Nian.
Zhao Mingyuan suspected the real culprit was a classmate seeking revenge for a credit deduction and initially wanted to find and "beat him up." However, Chen Yuan convinced him to stop their childish behavior. Later, Zhao Mingyuan was confronted by the arrogant female student who had hired them. He cancelled their deal and forcefully warned her to stay away from Su Nian Nian.
Solidifying his change of heart, Zhao Mingyuan then established a new rule with his friends: from now on, only their group was allowed to bother Su Nian Nian, and they would unite to protect her from any outsiders. Yin Chuxia's boyish appearance stemmed from a childhood trauma. After her parents' divorce, her father, resenting her resemblance to her mother, cut off her long hair and forbade her from wearing girls' clothes, insisting she be raised as a boy.
This experience left her with a sensitive spot for being mistaken as a male, and she privately cried in her dorm. Later, Song Yu Xi excitedly announced her new part-time job at a coffee shop, but Yin Chuxia's subdued reaction led Song Yu Xi to inadvertently comment on Yin Chuxia's lack of "femininity" once more, upsetting her.
Realizing her mistake, Song Yu Xi then recalled that Zhao Mingyuan had chased after Yin Chuxia and asked if he had apologized, which somewhat brightened Yin Chuxia's spirits. Later, Zhao Mingyuan encountered Yin Chuxia and formally apologized for his actions. He admitted to treating her like a man before and being rude but promised to treat her like a girl from then on. When Yin Chuxia asked the difference, Zhao Mingyuan stated simply, "I don't hit girls."
Satisfied, Yin Chuxia accepted his apology. Meanwhile, Su Nian Nian spotted Gu Zi Chen on campus and pursued him, demanding to know why he was skipping class. Gu Zi Chen was preoccupied, still upset that his father had unilaterally disbanded his research study group, and ignored her. Su Nian Nian persisted, following him to the school lake, relentlessly scolding him. Suddenly, she stumbled and fell into the lake, accidentally pulling Gu Zi Chen in with her.
Su Nian Nian couldn't swim and struggled in the water. Though initially annoyed and having already made it to shore, Gu Zi Chen quickly jumped back in to rescue her. Dripping wet and facing each other, Su Nian Nian, feeling a pang of guilt, thanked him. Gu Zi Chen, surprised but pleased, smiled and ruffled her hair, commenting that he never expected to hear words of gratitude from her. Both then hurried back to their respective dorms to change.
During this time, Su Nian Nian's father, Su Dazhi, was diligently operating his taxi service near the school. He recognized Gu Zi Chen about to leave and enthusiastically offered him a ride. Gu Zi Chen discreetly locked his own car and accepted. During the ride, Gu Zi Chen assured Su Dazhi that Su Nian Nian was doing well in class, being both a good student and enthusiastic.
Su Dazhi shared his anxieties about Su Nian Nian, explaining his decision for her to attend Qun Ying was out of concern for her future, and how he wished she would understand his good intentions without the added pressure of knowing the full truth. Gu Zi Chen comforted him, saying Su Nian Nian would eventually understand his efforts.
When Su Dazhi coughed, Gu Zi Chen offered him cold medicine, explaining he always carried it due to his mother's frequent illnesses, which further impressed Su Dazhi with Gu Zi Chen's politeness despite his family's wealth. Gu Zi Chen returned home, but his desire to leave quickly was met by his mother's attempts to persuade him to stay. She mentioned his father missed him, a sentiment Gu Zi Chen dismissed, accusing his father of being overly controlling, stubborn, and irritable.
His father, Gu Weiye, then intervened, offering to allow Gu Zi Chen to resume his project with financial support if he would visit his company next week. Gu Zi Chen gave a silent but affirmative gesture, and Gu Weiye, despite his son's stubbornness, was relieved.
Back at school, Su Nian Nian and Mr. Jiang reintroduced the rigorous English study plan to boost the class's College English Test Band 4 (CET 4) pass rate, which was met with groans from the students, especially The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying. Mr. Jiang firmly stated that the plan was set and would not change, warning that any personal attacks on Su Nian Nian would be considered attacks on him.
Su Nian Nian explained that it was her duty as class monitor to help them improve, reiterating that unexcused absences would result in credit deductions. During morning reading, The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying tried to sleep, claiming they couldn't understand the English material. Zhao Mingyuan challenged Su Nian Nian to demonstrate, and she flawlessly read a complex passage, leaving them speechless and compelled to continue the morning reading.
That evening, discussing their predicament in the dorm, The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying, particularly Zhao Mingyuan, expressed their frustration, lamenting that the study plan was disrupting their work and money-making ventures. Zhao Mingyuan hatched a plan for them to collectively fake a stomach ache the next morning, arguing that since they always ate together, it would be a believable excuse. They then hilariously practiced their "stomach ache" performances, with Zhao Mingyuan coaching them on realistic expressions and body language.
The next morning, during roll call, Su Nian Nian noticed The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying were absent. He Xiao informed her that they were in their dorm, claiming to have food poisoning from the previous day. Yin Chuxia, hearing this, immediately found it suspicious, commenting on the sheer coincidence of all three getting sick together.
Episode 13 Recap
During class, Su Nian Nian called out names, noticing that The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying were absent. When she asked if anyone knew why, He Xiao informed her that they were in their dormitory, claiming to have eaten something bad and were suffering from stomach aches. Chu Xia burst into laughter, finding it too coincidental for all three to be sick at the same time.
Later, Mr. Jiang Mu learned of their truancy and visited their dorm, sternly warning them that any further such incidents would lead to their expulsion. The Three Remarkable quickly apologized, assuring him they were cured and would not cause trouble again. The school announced that Su Nian Nian’s English morning reading program was highly praised and would be implemented across the entire university.
This news was met with dismay by some students, especially Zhao Mingyuan, who felt Su Nian Nian was now "afflicting the whole school." Other students, already discontent with Su Nian Nian's strict study plans, began to emulate The Three Remarkable’s absence. Song Yu Xi even called Su Nian Nian to explain she couldn't participate in the study plan due to a part-time job, which she considered a "special occasion" concerning her "life and future."
During a morning reading session, Gu Zi Chen was found sleeping. When a student named Lv Meng Nan questioned why Su Nian Nian was lenient with Gu Zi Chen but harsh on others, accusing her of favoritism due to a rumored relationship, Su Nian Nian denied it. She then asked Gu Zi Chen to recite the English content she had just taught.
To everyone's astonishment, Gu Zi Chen stood up and flawlessly recited the passage from memory, proving his competence and silencing Lv Meng Nan. He then nonchalantly asked if he could go back to sleep. Observing the near-empty classroom, Gu Zi Chen sarcastically remarked on the effectiveness of Su Nian Nian's study plan, suggesting it was counterproductive to impose her methods on others.
Su Nian Nian, though initially defiant, began to reflect on Gu Zi Chen's words, wondering if she was indeed imposing her own ideas too much. That weekend, instead of attending self-study, The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying decided to play cards in a classroom to avoid Mr. Jiang Mu’s detection and Su Nian Nian’s study plan. They were determined to "wear her down."
Unbeknownst to them, a group of thugs, led by Brother Wang, quietly infiltrated the campus, looking for Zhao Mingyuan to settle a score. They intended to catch him by surprise. He Xiao, entering the building, was stopped by the thugs and overheard their plan to "catch a turtle in a jar," realizing they were targeting Zhao Mingyuan. He quickly rushed to Su Nian Nian to inform her of the danger. Chu Xia, upon hearing the news, immediately took action.
While Su Nian Nian rallied their classmates to stall the thugs, Chu Xia ran to the mechanical classroom, convincing students there that their teacher was summoning them and they needed to bring their tools. When Su Nian Nian and her classmates confronted Brother Wang and his gang, Chu Xia arrived with a large group of students carrying various tools. Intimidated by the sheer number of students and their tools, Brother Wang's gang quickly backed down.
Su Nian Nian demanded that they promise to never bother Zhao Mingyuan again, and Brother Wang swore on "Batman, Spider-Man, and Iron Man" that they wouldn't. The thugs then fled. Despite being rescued, Zhao Mingyuan, still proud, haughtily told Su Nian Nian he didn't need a woman's help, leaving her and her classmates feeling unappreciated.
Su Nian Nian's father, Su Da Zhi, also picked her up from school that weekend, expressing his happiness about her being a "real class monitor" for the first time. Happy to see his daughter, he reminded her of the benefits of attending a school so close to home. Recalling Ye Xing Yu’s advice to understand her classmates’ diverse backgrounds, Su Nian Nian began to observe them more closely.
She learned that Zhao Mingyuan, far from being idle, worked part-time at a car repair shop every week to support his family, including paying for his own tuition and living expenses. He also helped his parents sell fruit, and his younger sister, Xiao Jia, even collected waste to help him pay school fees.
Su Nian Nian also discovered that Zhu Cheng had a passion for electric welding, often practicing in the classroom and working various jobs to save up for his own welding machine. This deeper understanding made Su Nian Nian realize her previous assumptions were wrong and that she hadn't truly understood her own roommates either. With this new perspective, Su Nian Nian decided to abandon the mandatory morning reading plan, recognizing it wasn't suitable for all students.
She proposed a new idea to Mr. Jiang Mu: organizing a school-wide event or competition. She believed this would not only motivate students but also foster unity. Mr. Jiang Mu supported her initiative, encouraging her to proceed freely. Su Nian Nian enlisted Chu Xia and Ye Xing Yu to research past school competitions. Their investigation, however, revealed that Qun Ying had very little history of participating in or winning any major competitions, beyond some talent-based activities.
Ye Xing Yu suggested approaching Gu Zi Chen for help, knowing his family's influence could easily resolve their problem. Su Nian Nian, however, immediately rejected the idea, stating she would never ask Gu Zi Chen for help. Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen faced his own struggles. His attempts to secure startup funds for his ventures were consistently thwarted by his father, Gu Weiye.
Gu Weiye called Gu Zi Chen, revealing he was behind the financial roadblocks and urged his son to come work at his company, promising immediate funds if he complied. Gu Zi Chen angrily recognized his father's manipulation.
Episode 14 Recap
Facing difficulties in organizing a competition, Su Nian Nian consults with Ye Xing Yu. He suggests she ask Gu Zi Chen for help, noting that it wouldn't be a problem for him or his family. However, Su Nian Nian adamantly refuses, declaring she would never seek his assistance. Determined, she then goes to Mr. Jiang Mu for advice. She explains that Qun Ying University has no history of such competitions and her class's situation makes securing funding difficult.
Mr. Jiang Mu confirms the school administration supports her initiative but cannot offer direct help. Instead, he advises her to approach Gu Weiye, the chairman of Hao Cheng Enterprise, an alumnus who has been a silent benefactor to the university, emphasizing that he values student development over institutional requests. Mr. Jiang Mu’s overly dramatic encouragement leaves Su Nian Nian thinking that the teachers at Qun Ying are just as peculiar as the students.
Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen receives a phone call from his father, Gu Weiye, who pressures him to join the family company. Gu Zi Chen rejects the offer, prompting his father to threaten to sabotage his startup by blocking his loans. Gu Zi Chen confronts his father at his office, demanding to know what he needs to do to be left alone.
Gu Weiye proposes that if Gu Zi Chen can achieve something significant at Qun Ying University, he will not only stop interfering but also provide financial backing for his son's entrepreneurial dreams. Gu Zi Chen agrees, realizing this might be an opportunity to work with Su Nian Nian and make a mark at the university. Elsewhere, Zhi Ge's subordinate tracks down Zhao Mingyuan at a car repair shop. He intentionally provokes Zhao Mingyuan, criticizing his work and disrespecting him.
Zhao Mingyuan, desperate to keep his job, tries to tolerate the harassment. Just as the confrontation escalates, Gu Zi Chen, who is passing by, intervenes, quickly neutralizing the threat. Zhao Mingyuan's boss warns him against fighting, but Gu Zi Chen takes responsibility for the incident. Zhao Mingyuan is grateful to Gu Zi Chen for saving his employment.
Later, Song Yuxi excitedly informs Su Nian Nian and Yin Chu Xia that all the boys in their class are at the basketball court involved in a bet. Gu Zi Chen and Ye Xing Yu have challenged a group of students led by Zhu Cheng (Team Blue), with the agreement that if Team Blue loses, they will have to follow Su Nian Nian's instructions.
Unaware of the true purpose of the game, Yin Chu Xia, seeing Gu Zi Chen and Ye Xing Yu dominating, steps onto the court, eager to win a point for her classmates. She quickly scores, but Ye Xing Yu quietly explains that the match is designed to help Su Nian Nian rally the class. Understanding, Yin Chu Xia immediately feigns a sudden stomachache and leaves the game. Team Blue is ultimately defeated, leaving the players disheartened.
As the crowd disperses, a shy student approaches Su Nian Nian, hands her a love letter, and then quickly runs away. Yin Chu Xia and Song Yuxi are overjoyed, teasing Su Nian Nian about her new admirer. Yin Chu Xia then asks if Su Nian Nian is dating Ye Xing Yu, catching Su Nian Nian off guard.
Gu Zi Chen, having overheard their conversation, walks over with a smirk, implying that Ye Xing Yu would never be interested in someone like Su Nian Nian. Angered by his mockery, Su Nian Nian defiantly declares that she and Ye Xing Yu are indeed in a relationship. Ye Xing Yu simply smiles, neither confirming nor denying her statement, while Gu Zi Chen forces a smile, struggling to hide his evident displeasure.
That night, Zhu Cheng and Chen Yuan discuss how they were tricked by Gu Zi Chen and Ye Xing Yu, now bound to follow Su Nian Nian's directives. Zhao Mingyuan joins them, troubled by the favor he owes Gu Zi Chen. They speculate about Gu Zi Chen's enigmatic behavior, suspecting he harbors ulterior motives and is trying to "tame" them into becoming his loyal followers. The next morning, despite initial reluctance, most of the students attend class.
Su Nian Nian announces her competition plan, which receives some support despite widespread skepticism. After class, Ye Xing Yu invites Su Nian Nian to the library to research competition materials. There, Su Nian Nian proposes a "creation and invention" competition, believing it would leverage their technical skills and build confidence. Ye Xing Yu notes that their city lacks such specialized competitions, but Su Nian Nian suggests they establish one.
Unbeknownst to them, Xiao Huang secretly photographs them as Su Nian Nian sleeps at the table and Ye Xing Yu drapes his jacket over her, ready to spread new gossip. Gu Zi Chen, seeing the circulating photos, becomes jealous and heads to the library. He rudely interrupts Su Nian Nian, who expresses her annoyance at his presence.
Ye Xing Yu tries to smooth things over, revealing that the basketball bet was Gu Zi Chen's idea to unify the class under Su Nian Nian's leadership. However, Su Nian Nian criticizes Gu Zi Chen for his incomplete plan, pointing out that Zhao Mingyuan was still left out. Ye Xing Yu explains Zhao Mingyuan’s heavy financial burdens.
Gu Zi Chen offers financial help, but Su Nian Nian scolds him for always resorting to money as a solution, arguing that Zhao Mingyuan's strong self-esteem would prevent him from accepting charity. Feeling suffocated by their conversation, Su Nian Nian abruptly leaves the library. Gu Zi Chen then smiles triumphantly, determined to find a project where everyone, including Zhao Mingyuan, can participate, leaving Su Nian Nian no room for complaint.
Later, Su Nian Nian calls her father, Su Dazhi, requesting his help in finding work for Zhao Mingyuan. Su Dazhi, who happens to be nearby, readily agrees. Soon after, Su Dazhi arrives at Zhao Mingyuan's repair shop with several taxi drivers. Initially, Zhao Mingyuan and his friends fear more trouble, but Su Dazhi clarifies that they heard about Zhao Mingyuan’s excellent repair skills and are there specifically for his services, bringing a wave of new business.
Zhao Mingyuan is relieved and thrilled by the unexpected influx of work. Meanwhile, Gu Weiye dines with Mr. He of He's Group to discuss a potential business partnership. Mr. He suggests a marriage alliance between their children, Gu Zi Chen and He Mei, as a way to solidify their collaboration and conquer the Southeast Asian market. Gu Weiye politely declines, implying that Mr. He’s true concern lies with the investment ratios.
When Mr. He insists on the marriage as a condition for his investment, creating a tense atmosphere, He Mei, who is present with Gu Zi Chen’s mother, intervenes to ease the tension. She reassures Gu Zi Chen’s mother that she is accustomed to business discussions. He Mei, a 19-year-old freshman, expresses her willingness to keep Gu Zi Chen’s mother company in the future.
Episode 15 Recap
Su Nian Nian, determined to help Zhao Mingyuan, contacted her father to ask for his assistance with Zhao Mingyuan's car repair business. Su Dazhi promptly brought several of his business associates to the shop, much to Zhao Mingyuan’s delight. He innocently believed his exceptional car repair skills were drawing customers.
Su Nian Nian, reflecting on the situation, felt that this financial boost would enable her to slowly convince Zhao Mingyuan to return to school, confident that if the leader of "The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying" came back, the others would follow. Later, Su Nian Nian visited Zhao Mingyuan at the repair shop, urging him to focus on his studies to change his fate.
Zhao Mingyuan, however, was dismissive, pointing out that she couldn't even change her own fate, so she had no right to preach to him. He defiantly stated he was working hard, not giving up, and eventually dismissed her, suggesting she bring a car next time if she wanted his services, as he only washed cars, not people. Unbeknownst to Su Nian Nian, Zhao Mingyuan later felt a pang of guilt for having driven her away with a water hose.
He returned to class, only to find Su Nian Nian herself absent, a fact that puzzled him and his friends. They noted that both she and Gu Zi Chen were missing, speculating they might be together, though they also commented that neither was the type to skip class for romance. Meanwhile, He Mei, who harbored strong feelings for Gu Zi Chen, was at the center of discussions between their parents.
Gu Zi Chen’s mother was extremely fond of He Mei, praising her beauty, elegance, and her enrollment at a prestigious university. She believed a marriage between their children would be a "win-win" situation, providing them with a daughter-in-law and a long-term business partner for her husband, Gu Weiye, as the He Group was a top company in Dongzhou.
Gu Weiye, however, was highly displeased that He Mei's father, Mr. He, was using their children's potential marriage as a condition in business negotiations. He viewed this as an attempt to "tie interests together" through marriage, making him feel as though he was "selling his son." He insisted he didn't lack money and would rather forgo the business deal than compromise his son's happiness.
Gu Zi Chen’s mother, unfazed, continued to advocate for the match, emphasizing Mr. He's deep devotion to his daughter. She eventually called Gu Zi Chen, asking him to come home for an important discussion, which he reluctantly agreed to. He Mei later visited Gu Zi Chen’s mother again, charming her with compliments about her unique taste in home decor and bringing her flowers.
Gu Zi Chen’s mother, delighted, invited He Mei to stay for dinner, mentioning that Zi Chen would be home soon and they could chat. When Gu Zi Chen arrived, he politely greeted He Mei as "Aunty," causing her considerable embarrassment. His mother quickly intervened, explaining He Mei was a guest and urged him to talk to her. He Mei tried to initiate conversation, asking about his hobbies like art, painting, singing, and American TV shows.
Gu Zi Chen gave curt answers, eventually asking if she was conducting an "interview." Frustrated by his disinterest, He Mei struggled to find common ground. Suddenly, Gu Zi Chen remembered that He Mei was Su Nian Nian's high school classmate and asked her to talk about Su Nian Nian.
He Mei recounted a humorous story from high school about Su Nian Nian winning an essay contest, only to receive a bottle of mineral water as a prize, which was part of a promotional campaign. This anecdote unexpectedly sparked an idea in Gu Zi Chen's mind for his project. He abruptly announced that he had an urgent matter to discuss with his father at the company and left, skipping dinner.
His mother explained to He Mei that he was frequently on campus due to a bet with his father. Driven by his new idea, Gu Zi Chen found Su Nian Nian later as she was heading to class with friends. After she refused to get in his car, he forcefully pulled her inside. He declared he had found a way for the students of Class Two, Mechanical Engineering, to realize their value.
Su Nian Nian, skeptical and believing he was trying to trap her, scorned his plan as unrealistic for students who disliked studying. She accused him of becoming increasingly conceited, reminding him that despite his privileged background, money couldn't solve everything. Gu Zi Chen chuckled, asking if she watched too many idol dramas and thought he was a "fish pond boss" who would buy everything. His words were cut short by Su Nian Nian's sudden scream of "Be careful!"
as a large truck veered into their path. Reacting instantly, Gu Zi Chen instinctively used one hand to steer the car and the other to shield Su Nian Nian. His car swerved, crashing violently into the central barrier. Both were injured and lost consciousness. After a while, Su Nian Nian, with lighter injuries, regained consciousness. She saw Gu Zi Chen beside her, unresponsive, and desperately called his name.
Unable to rouse him, she forced herself to use her phone to dial 120. She struggled to identify their location but managed to state "Dongji Road" before losing consciousness again. They were soon transported to the hospital by ambulance. Inside, Gu Zi Chen, still disoriented but briefly lucid, believed he might not survive.
Wanting no regrets, he told Su Nian Nian not to be afraid, clarifying that he was not at fault for her first accident and then confessing, "I love you." He then slipped back into unconsciousness, terrifying Su Nian Nian, who tightly held his hand and called for a doctor. At the hospital, after her wounds were treated, a police officer presented Su Nian Nian with two dashcam videos related to her.
To her shock, one of the videos was from the car accident on the day of her college entrance exam. Watching the footage, she was overwhelmed by guilt and realized that Gu Zi Chen had saved her back then, not caused her accident as she had always believed. She felt immense remorse for having misunderstood and mistreated him. Shortly after, Ye Xing Yu arrived at the hospital, concerned about her. Su Nian Nian questioned him about the past accident.
Ye Xing Yu confirmed her new understanding, revealing that Gu Zi Chen, a man of integrity, rarely explained himself. He recounted other instances of Gu Zi Chen helping her, like when he called the teachers and doctor when she was locked in the equipment room. He further explained that Gu Zi Chen had missed his college entrance exam because he was taking her to the hospital, which was why he ended up enrolling at Qun Ying.
He also mentioned how terribly Gu Zi Chen was scolded by his father for it, suggesting it was their destiny. Ye Xing Yu then left to check on Gu Zi Chen. Su Nian Nian stayed by Gu Zi Chen's bedside. A nurse assured her that despite a concussion, he was out of danger and just needed rest. Soon after, Gu Zi Chen woke up. Noticing her injuries, he immediately asked if she was alright.
Su Nian Nian, tears streaming down her face, apologized profusely for her past misunderstandings. Gu Zi Chen, happy to see her care for him, casually dismissed her apologies, adding playfully that he was glad she was finally "starting to care about him." He then teased her, asking if she now wanted to "marry him in return."
Su Nian Nian called him conceited for joking, and as she glanced at him, she was overcome with emotion and impulsively leaned in to kiss him. Realizing what she had done, she stammered an apology about his injury and quickly ran out of the room in embarrassment. As she fled, Gu Zi Chen called out to her, reiterating that his confession in the ambulance was genuine and asked if she would now be his girlfriend.
Just as Su Nian Nian was running out, she encountered He Mei in the hallway, who asked about her injuries. Su Nian Nian quickly replied that they were minor and told He Mei she was in room 1945. He Mei then found Gu Zi Chen's room, 1948, and walked in. Gu Zi Chen, still reeling from Su Nian Nian's kiss and assuming she had returned to accept his proposal, exclaimed, "You agreed to be my girlfriend!"
He reached out to hug her, still believing it was Su Nian Nian. He Mei, delighted, hugged him back, saying, "Sure, Zi Chen." Gu Zi Chen, confused, pulled back, realizing it was He Mei. She explained that his mother had called her to visit. He asked if she had seen Su Nian Nian, and He Mei confirmed she had, remarking that Su Nian Nian was also injured but speculating she was just visiting him as his class monitor.
Gu Zi Chen quickly corrected her, stating that he and Su Nian Nian had been in the car accident together. He Mei was visibly shocked by this revelation. Gu Zi Chen then tried to distance himself from He Mei, clarifying that his earlier declarations were a "misunderstanding," as he had believed her to be someone else.
Episode 16 Recap
He Mei quietly entered Gu Zi Chen's hospital room. Mistaking her for Su Nian Nian, Gu Zi Chen confessed his feelings again. Overjoyed, He Mei enthusiastically accepted, declaring herself his girlfriend. Gu Zi Chen was startled when he heard He Mei's voice, his expression turning to one of horror. He quickly explained that it was a misunderstanding and he thought she was someone else. However, He Mei, infatuated, refused to believe him, convinced that his confession was meant for her.
Feeling helpless, Gu Zi Chen hastily sent He Mei away. After leaving his room, He Mei went to Su Nian Nian's room and excitedly announced that she now had a boyfriend. She explained that she had only gone to check on Gu Zi Chen's injuries, but he had unexpectedly confessed to her. Su Nian Nian was incredulous and repeatedly asked He Mei if the person who confessed was indeed Gu Zi Chen.
Upon receiving He Mei's affirmation, Su Nian Nian gave a bitter laugh, finding Gu Zi Chen's actions increasingly perplexing. She was also upset and couldn't understand why he would confess to her and then to He Mei shortly after. Later, Gu Zi Chen's parents arrived at the hospital. His father blamed him for the car accident, while his mother was delighted to see He Mei there, who volunteered to stay and care for Gu Zi Chen, much to his annoyance.
Su Nian Nian, affected by He Mei's words, requested an early discharge from the hospital. At home, she recounted the events involving Gu Zi Chen to her father. She was surprised to learn that Gu Zi Chen frequently took rides in her father's car, making her even more confused about him. Unable to make sense of it, Su Nian Nian convinced herself that Gu Zi Chen might have been disoriented from the accident and that she shouldn't believe his words.
Ye Xing Yu visited Gu Zi Chen in the hospital, asking about the accident. That's when Gu Zi Chen learned Su Nian Nian had already been discharged. He was upset that Su Nian Nian left without informing him. He started talking about Su Nian Nian to Ye Xing Yu but was interrupted by He Mei's arrival. Seeing He Mei, Ye Xing Yu promptly left, leaving Gu Zi Chen frustrated.
Gu Zi Chen then clarified to He Mei that he had actually intended to confess to Su Nian Nian that day, admitting he had mistaken her for Su Nian Nian. He Mei was shocked to discover that Su Nian Nian was the object of Gu Zi Chen's affection. Despite her anger, she tried to insist on staying to care for him, but Gu Zi Chen, exasperated, left the room to avoid her.
He Mei then informed Gu Zi Chen that Su Nian Nian already had a boyfriend, Tang Yu, a super studybug, and that they had pledged to attend Beiqing University together. Gu Zi Chen, however, remained unfazed by He Mei's attempts to sow discord. He declared that Su Nian Nian's only boyfriend was him, dismissing any mention of Tang Yu as irrelevant.
However, he then recalled Su Nian Nian's strong protectiveness over a photo of Tang Yu, which made him realize He Mei's words might hold some truth. After being rebuffed, a frustrated He Mei left the hospital. Later, He Mei sought out Su Nian Nian at Qun Ying University for a talk. She embellished and fabricated numerous romantic stories about herself and Gu Zi Chen. Hearing these tales left Su Nian Nian distraught.
She had initially planned to visit Gu Zi Chen with Ye Xing Yu, but now she had no desire to see the "big liar." Gu Zi Chen sensed that something was amiss. Su Nian Nian was not answering his calls, and he couldn't find her, clearly indicating she was avoiding him. She hadn't visited him even by the time he was discharged, leading him to believe something significant had happened.
Gu Zi Chen called Ye Xing Yu, asking if he knew what was going on with Su Nian Nian. Ye Xing Yu told him that they had planned to visit the hospital that day, but Su Nian Nian had later angrily refused to go, stating that Gu Zi Chen had family with him and it would be inconvenient. Gu Zi Chen was puzzled but quickly suspected He Mei was behind it all.
Back at school, Su Nian Nian announced the official establishment of the technology group and stated that the day's task was to discuss research projects. The students plunged into a lively discussion, proposing various inventions: an automatic hair-washing machine, a super hairdressing helmet, and even a "manly evaluation machine." Su Nian Nian found none of the suggestions practical and asked Ye Xing Yu for his ideas.
Ye Xing Yu suggested that their project should address real-world needs, and as students, the invention should be related to learning and help everyone in their studies, such as by easily finding knowledge points or building mind maps. The other students enthusiastically agreed, vowing to buy such an invention if it were developed. Su Nian Nian concurred with Ye Xing Yu's proposal and asked if he had thought of a name. Before Ye Xing Yu could respond, Gu Zi Chen, who was nearby, chimed in, suggesting "Wisdom Pouch."
Episode 17 Recap
The class continued its discussion on the new creative development project. Su Nian Nian reiterated that as students, their invention should focus on aiding learning, such as helping to find knowledge points or build mind maps. Several classmates expressed excitement, saying they would eagerly purchase such a product. When Su Nian Nian asked Ye Xing Yu if he had a name for the project, Gu Zi Chen interjected, suggesting "Wisdom Pouch."
Su Nian Nian then officially named the project "Wisdom Pouch" and encouraged everyone to dedicate themselves to its creation, despite some students' concerns about their ability to invent something as unenthusiastic learners. She assured them that they were young and capable, and the university would provide technical support. Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan was eating at a noodle shop when Yin Chuxia unexpectedly appeared and sat opposite him. An unspoken eating competition ensued.
When Zhao Mingyuan finished and left for his job at an auto repair shop, Yin Chuxia insisted on following him, curious to see the workshop. He reluctantly took her along. Later that night, Zhao Mingyuan asked his friend, Zhu Cheng, if they would have become friends with Yin Chuxia if she were a boy. Zhu Cheng reasoned that they wouldn't, as they had initially treated her like a boy and still hadn't become friends.
This answer brought visible relief to Zhao Mingyuan. After class, Gu Zi Chen attempted to speak with Su Nian Nian, but she avoided him, stating they had nothing to discuss. A secretary then approached Gu Zi Chen, informing him that his mother was worried and calling him home. Ye Xing Yu also urged Gu Zi Chen to go, offering to look after Su Nian Nian, who seemed to be in a bad mood.
Gu Zi Chen reluctantly left but later called Su Nian Nian, insisting they needed to talk to clear up any misunderstandings. He decided to wait for her near the campus. While waiting, he briefly entered a coffee shop, where he witnessed the owner, Xu Jia, being confronted by a woman who revealed she had funded the shop. Disgusted by their argument, Gu Zi Chen left and waited by the school gate.
The gatekeeper recognized him from a previous incident where he was drunk and mentioned that Su Nian Nian, whom he mistook for Gu Zi Chen's girlfriend, had taken care of him. Su Nian Nian, who had just arrived, quickly denied being his girlfriend before heading off to work at the coffee shop. At the coffee shop, Xu Jia presented Song Yuxi with flowers, romantically expressed his admiration, and asked her to be his girlfriend.
Overwhelmed by his sweet words, Song Yuxi accepted. After Su Nian Nian got into Gu Zi Chen's car, he pressed her about why she was keeping her distance. Su Nian Nian insisted his confession was one-sided and denied loving him. She explained that her emotional reaction when he was unconscious only indicated they were friends who had endured hardship together, not that she held romantic feelings.
She further elaborated that her current priority was to wholeheartedly prepare for the upcoming competition and help all her classmates, leaving no time for a relationship. When Gu Zi Chen persisted, Su Nian Nian became distressed and coldly asked him to respect her decision. Seeing her reaction, he backed down, promising to fully support her in the competition without forcing the issue of their relationship. Later, Song Yuxi, overjoyed with her new relationship, suggested a shopping trip to celebrate.
She tried to convince Su Nian Nian and Yin Chuxia to join. Su Nian Nian was initially hesitant, wanting to focus on her studies, but Song Yuxi and Yin Chuxia persuaded her, arguing that a new semester called for a new look and a fresh start, which could also help lift Su Nian Nian’s mood. Su Nian Nian agreed to go.
The friends went shopping, and after some coaxing, Su Nian Nian tried on a skirt, something she had never worn before. Back in the classroom, her dramatic transformation—featuring new clothes, a new hairstyle, and the absence of her usual glasses—stunned everyone. Students gathered around her, eager to ask questions about their studies. Su Nian Nian then announced the official start of creative development for the competition and encouraged everyone to participate.
Ye Xing Yu approached, offering to help answer questions, but the students' attention remained on Su Nian Nian. Observing them, Song Yuxi whispered that Su Nian Nian and Ye Xing Yu made a perfect, talented couple, which prompted other students to chant their support for them to be together. Annoyed, Gu Zi Chen left the classroom, changed clothes, and returned wearing sunglasses. He grandly announced his academic achievements, including studying abroad and speaking seven languages, offering to answer any questions.
However, the students remained focused on Su Nian Nian. Suddenly, Mr. Jiang Mu stumbled into the noisy classroom. Having lost his glasses and struggling with extreme nearsightedness, he mistook the commotion for gambling and demanded order. Without his glasses, he failed to recognize Su Nian Nian and questioned why a student from another class was present. This sparked laughter among the students, who informed him of his mistake. Approaching her, Mr. Jiang Mu was astonished by her beauty. He awkwardly praised her new look and instructed her to continue guiding the students.
Episode 18 Recap
Tang Yu unexpectedly arrived at QYU, intending to persuade Su Nian Nian to leave the university. Her classmates were displeased by this "Tang Cu Yu" and decided to challenge him. In the cafeteria, Tang Yu openly criticized the QYU students' table manners, stating, "Is this how you usually eat? Why is everyone fighting over food? Shouldn't guys let girls go first?" Su Nian Nian countered, "This has nothing to do with equality. This has to do with manners.
They don't see girls as the weaker group. I think that's great." Suddenly, Gu Zi Chen and Ye Xing Yu joined their table. Gu Zi Chen introduced himself to Tang Yu, mockingly calling him "Hong Shao Yu" and then "Tang Cu Yu," asking why he was "at ours." Su Nian Nian apologized for Gu Zi Chen's joking, but Tang Yu dismissed it, saying, "It's QYU after all. I understand."
Tang Yu, claiming to be full, then asked Su Nian Nian to speak with him privately, to which she agreed. Meanwhile, the Three Remarkable of QYU observed from afar. They quickly deduced that Tang Yu, a former high school classmate of Su Nian Nian, harbored feelings for her, a suspicion confirmed by a photo in Su Nian Nian's book.
They also noticed that Ye Xing Yu, another high school classmate who liked Su Nian Nian, felt threatened by Tang Yu's presence. Song Yuxi chimed in, revealing that Gu Zi Chen also liked Su Nian Nian. Driven by a desire to support Ye Xing Yu, they decided to follow Tang Yu and Su Nian Nian to the coffee shop and disrupt their conversation. At the coffee shop, the Three Remarkable of QYU confronted Tang Yu one by one.
The first, He Xiao, approached him, but Tang Yu quickly disarmed him with a sarcastic remark about his hair and an offer of an expensive American hair dye. Next, Lv Meng Nan flexed his muscles to impress, but Tang Yu, with his sharp tongue, critiqued his physique, suggesting it was for show and lacked true strength, and also pointed out his disproportionately skinny legs.
Finally, Zhu Cheng stepped up, but Tang Yu immediately challenged their motives, accusing them of trying to avenge their "defeated" classmates. He asserted that his confidence came from knowledge, which allowed him to "crush them effortlessly." He went on to insult all QYU students, labeling them as an "unorganized bunch" whose intelligence couldn't keep up, and claimed their violent tendencies were why QYU had such a bad reputation.
Zhao Mingyuan, unable to tolerate these insults, moved to punch Tang Yu, but Su Nian Nian intervened, telling him, "Violence isn't the way to solve problems. Can't you please leave? I will solve the problem here." She insisted they leave, and they reluctantly retreated. Tang Yu then renewed his efforts to persuade Su Nian Nian to leave QYU, which he called a "foul place," fearing she would be negatively influenced or bullied.
He presented her with study materials, urging her to repeat a grade and join him at Peiching University. Su Nian Nian firmly rejected his proposition, saying, "I don't want to hear you say these things anymore. Yes, QYU isn't as good as before. But you can't disclaim QYU just after one day. This is unfair for the students." She admitted to having once disliked QYU and its students, but now felt ashamed of that past view.
She had come to realize that every student in QYU, regardless of their outward appearance or behavior, possessed inherent kindness and charm. She even expressed pride in them, considering it QYU's unique quality. Tang Yu dismissed her sentiments as mere "temporary novelty" and accused her of being "tarnished" by QYU's influence. He declared that if she chose to align with QYU, they would have to go their separate ways.
Su Nian Nian, resolute, told him, "Tang Yu, if you came with prejudice, then please leave with your prejudice. Yes, I'm in the same front as QYU." Defeated, Tang Yu left the study materials and departed. Gu Zi Chen, who had been secretly observing their conversation, was secretly delighted by Su Nian Nian's transformation in perspective and his rival's departure. The Three Remarkable of QYU attempted to "beat him up" as he left, but Tang Yu managed to flee.
Concerned for Su Nian Nian, Gu Zi Chen followed her after she left the coffee shop. She was preoccupied, almost getting hit by a cyclist, but Gu Zi Chen pulled her into his arms, saving her. He then confessed his profound feelings for her, saying, "I love you. Let's be together, ok?" His words, however, angered Su Nian Nian, who began to hit him. Confused, Gu Zi Chen questioned why she was attacking him.
She accused him of being deceitful, saying, "You confess your love even though you have a girlfriend, you deserve it." She demanded to know how he could treat He Mei, her good friend, this way. Gu Zi Chen was taken aback, denying having a girlfriend. He explained that He Mei was merely a high school classmate whose family had business ties with his, and that he barely paid attention to her outside of that connection.
Su Nian Nian, however, was skeptical, as He Mei herself had told her they were in love. Gu Zi Chen passionately swore his sole affection for Su Nian Nian, stating, "I don't love her. I could never love her. You're the only one I love." He reiterated that his relationship with Su Nian Nian should be free of third-party interference.
Despite his earnest pleas, Su Nian Nian insisted she couldn't accept his proposal until the situation with He Mei was clarified, unwilling to believe her friend would lie. Gu Zi Chen, though frustrated, agreed to give her time, reassuring her once more that he only loved her. Elsewhere, Song Yuxi and Xu Jia went on a movie date.
Afterward, Xu Jia invited Song Yuxi to his home, citing the late hour, but she politely declined, preferring to take a taxi back to the dormitory. Unbeknownst to Xu Jia, his older female benefactor had seen him with Song Yuxi, recognized her as a student, and vowed to confront him.
Later that night, in their dorm, Su Nian Nian reflected on her high school days to her roommate, feeling nostalgic and a bit melancholic, saying, "I was just suddenly missing my time of youth. I feel like some things are more beautiful without saying them aloud." Her roommate then mentioned that Song Yuxi was out with her "Coffee Prince."
The next day in class, Gu Zi Chen bribed Song Yuxi to switch seats, allowing him to sit beside Su Nian Nian. He spent the entire class covertly observing her. Their interactions became noticeably sweeter, with Gu Zi Chen actively flirting.
Ye Xing Yu, seeing their closeness, tried to discuss a project idea with Su Nian Nian, suggesting they develop it into something "high-end," but she was dismissive, asserting that their project should be based on their own capabilities without external help. Gu Zi Chen, seizing the opportunity, agreed with Su Nian Nian and offered to consult his professional friends on her behalf, which she happily accepted. Ye Xing Yu, feeling awkward, excused himself with a feigned stomach ache.
Gu Zi Chen continued to tease Su Nian Nian, admitting he had been watching her, saying, "Every cell in my body is on you." After class, as Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen were outside, a group of men in black suits appeared. Gu Zi Chen recognized them as "old friends" and warned the men, "I'm warning you. You are scaring my girlfriend." He reassured her he would "be right back" before being forcefully led away by the men.
Su Nian Nian, fearing he had gotten into trouble, immediately called a taxi and followed them. The men took Gu Zi Chen to his luxurious family residence. His mother, Meilin, expressed her relief and frustration, scolding him for leaving the hospital after a car accident without informing her. She explained that she had asked his father to bring him home.
Gu Zi Chen tried to leave, but his mother insisted he stay and drink the soup she had specially prepared, citing doctor's orders for him to rest at home. Meanwhile, Su Nian Nian arrived outside the house, observing the men in black. Believing it to be a kidnapping, she decided to call the police.
When the police arrived, Su Nian Nian argued fiercely with an officer, insisting on an investigation and even accusing him of being bribed due to the grand appearance of the house. Gu Zi Chen and his mother then emerged. Su Nian Nian, seeing Gu Zi Chen, realized her mistake and apologized to the police for the misunderstanding. Meilin, upon learning that Su Nian Nian had called the police to her home, became openly hostile.
She told Su Nian Nian that she would not be invited inside, especially as they were expecting guests, adding, "It will be inconvenient to invite a little girl like you in." Su Nian Nian apologized for the misunderstanding, but firmly stated her integrity, saying, "I always act honorably. I never do things that are shady." Meilin, angered by Su Nian Nian's response, called her an "unmannered girl" whom she found disagreeable.
Deeply offended, Su Nian Nian thanked them and turned to leave. Gu Zi Chen, visibly upset by his mother's behavior, chastised her for being "too harsh" and immediately ran after Su Nian Nian, ignoring his mother's protests. He caught up to her, apologizing sincerely for his mother's words. Su Nian Nian dismissed his apology, saying he had done nothing wrong.
He happily assumed she had followed him because she was worried, but Su Nian Nian denied special concern, saying she would have done the same for anyone. She then asked to leave, now that the misunderstanding was cleared.
Episode 19 Recap
Gu Zi Chen held Su Nian Nian after confessing his feelings to her. From a distance, He Mei witnessed this, clenched her fists, and rushed towards them. She confronted them, yelling, "Su Nian Nian, what are you doing?" Su Nian Nian, flustered, pushed Gu Zi Chen away, attempting to explain. He Mei accused Su Nian Nian of pursuing Zi Chen despite knowing He Mei's feelings for him.
Gu Zi Chen stepped in, defending Su Nian Nian and telling He Mei that he had never agreed to her affection. He plainly stated, "Actually, I didn't feel that disgusted about you before. But if you keep going like this, I will hate you. He Mei, I only have Su Nian Nian in my heart. No room for anyone else. So let's not do this."
Enraged, He Mei called Gu Zi Chen "too much" and stormed off, vowing to speak to his mother. Su Nian Nian chastised Gu Zi Chen for being so blunt, but he insisted, "We have to be clear about how we feel. It's also for her good." When Su Nian Nian worried about explaining their "friendship" to He Mei, Gu Zi Chen reassured her, "You don't have to explain. I will make them accept you.
Let me take you to a place." Gu Zi Chen took Su Nian Nian to an amusement park for their first date, a dream he'd cherished since childhood. He excitedly remarked, "I've been dreaming of coming to a place like this since I was little. This is my first time." Su Nian Nian found his enthusiasm endearing. After enjoying some rides, Gu Zi Chen started to feel dizzy, jokingly blaming it on his car accident.
Su Nian Nian sensed his fear of heights, but he tried to play it off, declaring, "In this world, there is nothing that I am afraid of. . . except you." They then rode the Ferris wheel. Gu Zi Chen, still looking uneasy, told Su Nian Nian, "Nian Nian, if there is a power outage, hold me immediately. I'll protect you."
As they reached the highest point, Su Nian Nian shared a romantic legend: "It is said that if lovers hug together at the highest point, they'll be together forever." Gu Zi Chen, amused by her coy request, tightly embraced her. Su Nian Nian then mischievously shouted "Power outage!" making Gu Zi Chen jump, before revealing her trick. Meanwhile, a cunning He Mei arrived at Gu Zi Chen's house, feigning domesticity by offering to cook for Mrs. Gu.
While asking the housekeeper to follow a recipe on her phone, He Mei ensured Mrs. Gu would see the pictures of Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian together stored on it. Seeing the images, Mrs. Gu was furious, realizing Gu Zi Chen had been spending time with Su Nian Nian instead of attending to school matters as he claimed.
After He Mei departed, Mrs. Gu called Secretary Liu, demanding to know about Gu Zi Chen's activities at school, especially why he didn't come home after his car accident. Caught between the family, Secretary Liu tried to pacify Mrs. Gu, assuring her that Gu Zi Chen's interest in school indicated a love for studying and that he had "good taste in every respect." Mrs. Gu, unconvinced, insisted that Secretary Liu immediately report any information about her son.
After the call, Secretary Liu sighed, feeling like he was caught in a "Mission Impossible" scenario. Later, Zhao Mingyuan reflected on his sister Xiao Jia's "mysterious tutor." He was grateful for Xiao Jia's significant academic improvement and newfound cheerfulness, though he still hadn't discovered the tutor's identity. Elsewhere, paparazzi Xiao Huang, seeking new gossip, went to Gu Zi Chen's dorm, only to find Ye Xing Yu.
Ye Xing Yu, tight-lipped, dismissed Xiao Huang, telling him Gu Zi Chen wasn't there and wouldn't provide any information even if he were. Xiao Huang, annoyed, vowed to continue investigating both Gu Zi Chen and Ye Xing Yu. Gu Zi Chen drove Su Nian Nian back to school. Su Nian Nian was anxious, fearing further gossip after already being photographed by paparazzi Xiao Huang.
Gu Zi Chen advised her that staying in the car might attract more attention, convincing her to get out. As they walked towards her dorm, he took her hand and reassured her, "You only need to know you have me. I am your only one." He then pulled her into an affectionate hug, and they both smiled happily before she shyly ran inside.
Back at school, Xiao Huang spotted Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian walking hand-in-hand, seizing the opportunity to snap more photos. Ye Xing Yu, practicing nearby, also saw them, his heart heavy with mixed emotions, wondering how Su Nian Nian had accepted Gu Zi Chen so quickly.
Chen Yuan had received Ye Xing Yu's application for the singing competition, but when Zhu Cheng showed him Xiao Huang's latest news about Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian, they both became deeply concerned for Ye Xing Yu, fearing he might do something drastic. They immediately set off to find him. In their dorm, Song Yuxi and Yin Chuxia excitedly grilled Su Nian Nian about her date.
Song Yuxi remarked on the rapid development of her and Gu Zi Chen's relationship, calling it a "forest fire." Su Nian Nian quickly shifted the topic, playfully interrogating Yin Chuxia about her connection with Zhao Mingyuan and their "buddies" relationship. Song Yuxi then proposed a group dinner where everyone would bring their partners. She clarified that male friends were also welcome, suggesting Yin Chuxia invite Zhao Mingyuan to "test the waters" and show collective support.
Delighted, Yin Chuxia messaged Zhao Mingyuan. Meanwhile, Zhu Cheng and Chen Yuan caught up with Xiao Huang, blaming him for the circulating gossip and compelling him to help them find Ye Xing Yu. Xiao Huang, using "the principle of proximity," suggested they search the dorm building and was reluctantly dragged along. Zhao Mingyuan, finishing a late shift, was thrilled to receive Yin Chuxia's message.
He joyfully hummed a tune on his way back to school, determined to earn more money to ensure Yin Chuxia wouldn't "lose face" at the dinner. Zhu Cheng, Chen Yuan, and Xiao Huang eventually found Ye Xing Yu on the rooftop, near the edge. Fearing he was contemplating suicide, they frantically called out his name.
Ye Xing Yu clarified he was merely seeking a quiet place to play his guitar and was not "that vulnerable," expressing gratitude for their concern which revealed "true friendship in adversity." Chen Yuan reminded him about his singing competition application, urging him to come down. Xiao Huang, believing he had a sensational scoop, quickly posted news about Ye Xing Yu being "lovesick."
When Ye Xing Yu returned to the dorm, he saw Xiao Huang's post, feeling awkward but assuring his friends he was fine. Gu Zi Chen soon arrived, finding Ye Xing Yu waiting outside because he had forgotten his key. The tension from Xiao Huang's post hung heavy between them. Gu Zi Chen, looking at Ye Xing Yu, directly addressed the situation: "I am with Nian Nian. I know you know. Still, I have to tell you in person. We're brothers after all. Are we. . . still brothers?"
Episode 20 Recap
Upon returning to his dorm, Gu Zi Chen found Ye Xing Yu to be unusually dejected. Gu Zi Chen realized that the news of him and Su Nian Nian being in a relationship had spread widely. He then formally informed Ye Xing Yu that Su Nian Nian was now his official girlfriend. Ye Xing Yu questioned Gu Zi Chen's sincerity, fearing that Gu Zi Chen's feelings might be a fleeting infatuation, which would deeply hurt Su Nian Nian.
He declared he would not allow that to happen, emphasizing that both Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen were the most important people to him and he didn't want either of them to suffer. Gu Zi Chen was surprised to learn that Ye Xing Yu thought of him in such a way, and he solemnly assured Ye Xing Yu of his profound seriousness towards Su Nian Nian, vowing to protect her with all his might.
Convinced by Gu Zi Chen’s words and acknowledging that love cannot be forced, Ye Xing Yu accepted the situation and expressed his wish to be the first to bless their relationship. Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan was upset to hear about Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian's relationship, feeling that Gu Zi Chen had acted unfairly given Ye Xing Yu's feelings for Su Nian Nian. He decided to confront Gu Zi Chen at a planned group dinner.
Arriving dressed in his mechanic's uniform with unwashed grease stains on his face, Zhao Mingyuan made it clear he was there to cause trouble, declaring it a "Hongmen Banquet" (a dinner set up as a trap) for Xing Yu. At the dinner table, Zhao Mingyuan continuously provoked Gu Zi Chen, who, trying to avoid making everyone uncomfortable, excused himself to use the restroom.
In the hallway, Gu Zi Chen noticed Song Yuxi's boyfriend, Xu Jia, flirting with a waitress at the front desk, confirming his suspicion that Xu Jia was not a good person. He discreetly sent a message to Su Nian Nian, warning her about Xu Jia and advising her to be careful. Back at the table, Gu Zi Chen subtly alluded to Xu Jia's behavior, saying some people like to "eat from their bowl while looking at the pot."
Zhao Mingyuan immediately retorted, saying that looking at the pot was better than habitually eating from other people's bowls, a clear jab at Gu Zi Chen. Losing his patience with Zhao Mingyuan's veiled insults, Gu Zi Chen was on the verge of arguing, but Yin Chuxia intervened. Feeling embarrassed by Zhao Mingyuan's behavior, she pulled him away from the table. Outside, Yin Chuxia scolded Zhao Mingyuan.
He explained that his anger was directed at Gu Zi Chen for Ye Xing Yu's sake, not at her. Yin Chuxia then lectured him, explaining that love cannot be forced and that it was natural for two people who love each other to be together. Zhao Mingyuan, chastened, admitted his actions had been rash. Back in the dorm, Su Nian Nian relayed Gu Zi Chen's warning about Xu Jia to Song Yuxi.
However, Song Yuxi brushed off the concerns, feeling that Gu Zi Chen was being nosy and criticizing him for talking behind people's backs. The dormmates discussed the rampant rumors on the school forum about Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian, linking them to Ye Xing Yu's supposed heartbreak and Zhao Mingyuan's anger. Separately, Gu Zi Chen was diligently spending time with Su Nian Nian at the library and research lab for their studies.
His father, Chairman Gu, instructed his secretary, Liu, to monitor Gu Zi Chen's activities, prompting Secretary Liu to bribe student Xiao Huang for information on Gu Zi Chen's whereabouts. Xiao Huang reported Gu Zi Chen’s frequent visits to the library, canteen, and occasional trips outside school. Later, Zhu Cheng asked Zhao Mingyuan about Song Yuxi’s boyfriend, seemingly interested in Song Yuxi himself, and expressed his dislike for "tall and handsome" guys, hoping the couple would break up.
An unexpected incident occurred when Gu Zi Chen, Su Nian Nian, and Ye Xing Yu stumbled upon Zhao Mingyuan being assaulted by Wang Zhi and his gang at the Garage on Dong Xing Road. Zhao Mingyuan was already unconscious. Seeing the arrival of Zhao Mingyuan’s friends, Wang Zhi ordered his men to attack Gu Zi Chen and the others. In the ensuing chaos, Ye Xing Yu was injured while protecting Su Nian Nian.
After Wang Zhi and his group fled, Zhao Mingyuan and Ye Xing Yu were rushed to the hospital. Gu Zi Chen was taken to the police station for questioning, along with the garage owner. The police reprimanded Gu Zi Chen and informed the school authorities about the incident. The school's Principal was furious, firmly deciding to expel Zhao Mingyuan to address the misconduct of fighting.
Despite Mr. Jiang's persistent pleas for leniency, emphasizing that Zhao Mingyuan was a "kid" and deserved another chance, the Principal remained resolute, stating that such behavior damaged the school’s reputation and Zhao Mingyuan's life was ruined by his own actions. Later, Mr. Jiang informed Gu Zi Chen at the police station that the school's condition for resolution was Zhao Mingyuan's expulsion.
When students learned of Zhao Mingyuan's impending expulsion, they became anxious, worrying about his parents and urging Su Nian Nian to intercede. Although Su Nian Nian was unsure if she could persuade the Principal, she agreed to try. Ye Xing Yu encouraged her, believing the school should know the full truth before making such a severe decision.
At the hospital, the doctor informed Ye Xing Yu that his hand injury was severe and might permanently affect his ability to play the guitar, causing Su Nian Nian immense guilt. Ye Xing Yu reassured her, saying it wasn't her fault and that he had a chance to recover with physical therapy. Zhu Cheng and Chen Yuan visited Zhao Mingyuan, breaking the news of his expulsion.
Initially stoic, Zhao Mingyuan then stated he could find work outside of school, but his friends vowed to stand by him and find a solution. Yin Chuxia also visited, bringing a homemade soup, which Zhao Mingyuan eagerly consumed. Their friends teased them about their budding romance, but Zhao Mingyuan insisted Yin Chuxia was just a friend, especially given his precarious situation with the school.
Episode 21 Recap
Su Nian Nian approached Mr. Jiang Mu to discuss Zhao Mingyuan’s impending expulsion, hoping to mitigate the punishment before it was finalized. Mr. Jiang Mu, though also wanting to help Zhao Mingyuan, explained the school’s strict regulations. He recounted his own unsuccessful attempt to plead with the Principal, who had angrily dismissed him.
Mr. Jiang Mu suggested that if they could find concrete evidence proving Zhao Mingyuan was the victim and not the instigator, there might be a chance for the school to reconsider. Su Nian Nian understood, determined to find the necessary evidence. Later that day, Su Nian Nian visited Ye Xing Yu in the hospital, bringing him a meal. She felt immense guilt as he had been injured while protecting her during the fight.
Seeing Ye Xing Yu struggle to eat with his injured right hand, she gently took the chopsticks and began to feed him. Ye Xing Yu, touched by her care, made her promise not to thank him anymore, solidifying their bond with a pinky promise. That night, Su Nian Nian, exhausted from worry and care, inadvertently fell asleep on Ye Xing Yu’s hospital bed. Ye Xing Yu watched her peacefully sleeping, a soft smile gracing his lips.
He raised a hand, intending to gently touch her head, but hesitated, ultimately lacking the courage to do so. The next morning, back at school, Gu Zi Chen noticed Su Nian Nian’s absence from class and anxiously inquired about her. Song Yuxi informed him that Su Nian Nian had prepared soup and visited Ye Xing Yu the previous day, staying at the hospital all night. Just as this news settled, Su Nian Nian entered the classroom.
A visibly jealous Gu Zi Chen immediately confronted her, playfully demanding that she make soup for him too. Su Nian Nian found his unexpected jealousy endearing. She also updated her friends that Mr. Jiang Mu was firm on needing evidence to change Zhao Mingyuan's punishment, noting that the incident still constituted a violation of school rules. Gu Zi Chen reassured her, promising that Zhao Mingyuan would not be expelled.
Following this, Su Nian Nian prepared more soup and even some chicken with rice. She brought these to the hospital, this time accompanied by Gu Zi Chen. To appease his jealousy, she had thoughtfully prepared his portion of the meal as well. In Ye Xing Yu’s hospital room, Gu Zi Chen ate his chicken with rice, remarking that he had skipped breakfast in anticipation of this meal.
Ye Xing Yu, observing their dynamic, playfully commented on Gu Zi Chen being a "green-eyed monster." Gu Zi Chen, while still lamenting Su Nian Nian’s lack of concern for his own injuries from the fight, clarified that his true worry was for Zhao Mingyuan, expressing concern about the significant impact expulsion would have on Zhao Mingyuan and his family. After giving it much thought, Gu Zi Chen decided to help Zhao Mingyuan.
He went to the garage, the scene of the fight, hoping to find surveillance footage, but the owner told him the cameras had been broken for a long time. Unable to find evidence, Gu Zi Chen located Wang Zhi, the leader of the thugs who had attacked Zhao Mingyuan. Together, they went to the Principal's office. Gu Zi Chen dramatically declared to the Principal that the previous fight was not Zhao Mingyuan's fault.
Wang Zhi then supported this, stating that the conflict originated from Gu Zi Chen smashing his car at the garage, and since he didn't dare retaliate against Gu Zi Chen directly, he had targeted Zhao Mingyuan instead. The Principal was taken aback, realizing Gu Zi Chen had also been involved in property damage. Gu Zi Chen then offered to take full responsibility, insisting that if someone had to be expelled, it should be him.
He also assured the Principal that his father, Gu Wei Ye, would not blame the school and that all due compensations would be made. Wang Zhi further corroborated that he hadn't informed the police about Gu Zi Chen's involvement due to Gu Zi Chen's influential background. Convinced by their unified front, the Principal agreed to handle the matter impartially. Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan was being discharged from the hospital.
His friends, Chen Yuan and Zhu Cheng, were discussing how Gu Zi Chen had paid all his medical bills, making them deeply indebted. Zhao Mingyuan, though grateful, was irritated by their constant reminders and their suggestion that he stay longer to take advantage. Back in class, Zhao Mingyuan thanked Gu Zi Chen, promising to repay the medical expenses.
Gu Zi Chen, in a lighthearted manner to ease Zhao Mingyuan's pride, jokingly said he would charge interest, making the repayment feel more like a business transaction. Shortly after, Mr. Jiang Mu announced the school's revised decision: Zhao Mingyuan would receive a demerit, but would not be expelled. Zhao Mingyuan and his friends celebrated joyously. Despite the positive outcome, Zhao Mingyuan was puzzled by the change in the school’s stance.
He persistently questioned Mr. Jiang Mu, who initially resisted revealing the details, urging Zhao Mingyuan to simply focus on his studies and appreciate his friends' support. However, under Zhao Mingyuan's relentless questioning, Mr. Jiang Mu inadvertently blurted out that "one of them might even be expelled because of you." Pressed further, Mr. Jiang Mu finally disclosed the truth: Gu Zi Chen had taken Wang Zhi to the Principal's office and assumed full blame for the incident, potentially facing expulsion himself.
Zhao Mingyuan was stunned, feeling the weight of Gu Zi Chen's sacrifice. He silently left Mr. Jiang Mu's office. Distraught by Gu Zi Chen’s self-sacrificing act, Mr. Jiang Mu, determined to save him, decided to contact Gu Wei Ye, Gu Zi Chen's father, hoping his influence could avert the expulsion. Gu Wei Ye, upon learning of his son's actions, was furious and immediately ordered Gu Zi Chen home.
At home, Gu Wei Ye angrily confronted Gu Zi Chen, accusing him of constantly causing trouble and questioning if he deliberately sought expulsion to leave the school. Gu Zi Chen remained largely silent, only admitting his fault and stating he could handle the situation himself. He eventually clarified that he had grown to appreciate his time at QYU and was not trying to get expelled.
Gu Wei Ye, frustrated by his son's stubbornness and reluctance to confide, stated he would only intervene when Gu Zi Chen was ready to fully explain. Unaware of Gu Zi Chen's actions, Zhao Mingyuan approached Su Nian Nian, asking if she knew why Gu Zi Chen had taken the blame. Su Nian Nian was equally surprised, realizing Gu Zi Chen had kept this significant decision from her.
Feeling that she didn't truly understand him, she later confided in Ye Xing Yu, asking him to describe Gu Zi Chen's character. Ye Xing Yu explained that while Gu Zi Chen used to be rebellious, maverick, and stubborn, he was fundamentally kind, vulnerable, and deeply loyal. He added that Gu Zi Chen might appear impatient, but once he set his mind on something, he would see it through to the end. Su Nian Nian pondered this, acknowledging that this description largely aligned with her own understanding.
Episode 22 Recap
Ye Xing Yu's arm cast was finally removed, and the doctor advised him to rest well, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a while. The doctor remarked on his quick recovery and mistakenly referred to Su Nian Nian as his girlfriend. Su Nian Nian promptly clarified they were "just ordinary friends," a statement Gu Zi Chen, who had just arrived to visit, overheard and commented on.
After the doctor left, Su Nian Nian gently reminded Ye Xing Yu to heed the doctor's instructions. Gu Zi Chen greeted Ye Xing Yu, but Su Nian Nian immediately pulled him aside for a private conversation. Su Nian Nian confronted Gu Zi Chen about why he hadn't told her that he took the blame for Zhao Mingyuan. Gu Zi Chen explained that as a man, he prefers to simply "do it" rather than "say it," to spare her worry.
Su Nian Nian argued that as his girlfriend, she had a right to know and to share his burdens. Gu Zi Chen, seeing her upset, apologized profusely and tried to lighten the mood, promising there would be "no next time." Su Nian Nian, still serious, warned him, "Don't do it again." Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen's mother called He Mei, inviting her over for a chat. She probed He Mei about Zi Chen's recent contact.
He Mei, feigning ignorance about Zi Chen's relationship with Su Nian Nian, subtly implied that Zi Chen's recent fight and potential expulsion were "because of Su Nian Nian," claiming he "always messed up because of Su Nian Nian." Gu Zi Chen's mother then confided in He Mei, asking if she truly liked Zi Chen, and promised to help her if she remained patient.
Later, Gu Zi Chen's mother confronted Gu Wei Ye about Zi Chen's girlfriend, expressing her strong dislike for Su Nian Nian. Gu Wei Ye grew angry, telling her not to interfere in the youngsters' affairs before knowing the full story. Despite his anger, she insisted there was "no point for him to stay with a girl like that." Gu Wei Ye had instructed Secretary Liu to investigate the incident involving Gu Zi Chen.
Secretary Liu reported that the school had kept the matter strictly confidential, making it difficult to gather information. Gu Wei Ye, dissatisfied, then asked for an update on the investigation into Zi Chen's girlfriend. Secretary Liu presented photos of Su Nian Nian on his phone. Gu Wei Ye was struck by her resemblance to a woman from his youth, Xiao Ru, whom he had wronged. Stirred by these memories, he abruptly decided to go to the school himself.
At Qun Ying University, Gu Wei Ye privately spoke with the Principal, advocating for his son's continued enrollment. Afterward, he quietly observed Su Nian Nian from the doorway of Mechanical Class II, captivated by her resemblance to Xiao Ru and recalling painful flashbacks of Xiao Ru attempting to commit suicide after he broke her heart, only to be saved by Su Da Zhi.
The school's teacher, Jiang Mu, announced to Mechanical Class II that, in light of Gu Zi Chen's overall good conduct, the school decided to issue a disciplinary probation instead of expulsion, with a stern warning against future misconduct. Zhao Mingyuan expressed great relief. Su Nian Nian congratulated Gu Zi Chen, who then invited her to pick up Ye Xing Yu from the hospital. Su Nian Nian declined, citing a "secret" appointment.
Later, Gu Zi Chen assisted Ye Xing Yu, who was being discharged, by carrying his belongings. Ye Xing Yu inquired if Gu Zi Chen's mother had been suspicious during his visit to her. Gu Zi Chen playfully dismissed the concern, boasting that his affectionate words to Su Nian Nian were "100 times more nasty" than anything he said to Ye Xing Yu. Su Nian Nian met He Mei as planned.
He Mei immediately launched into an attack, blaming Su Nian Nian for Gu Zi Chen's near-expulsion and his mother's distress. Su Nian Nian tried to explain the situation, but He Mei cut her off, stating that she and Zi Chen's mother wanted her to leave Gu Zi Chen. He Mei then revealed that her engagement to Zi Chen was a family arrangement, implying that Su Nian Nian was an outsider who couldn't change their fate.
She further insulted Su Nian Nian, questioning if someone like her "was worthy of talking about love being mutual" and calling her "silly." He Mei went on to belittle Su Nian Nian's family, claiming that the Gu family's annual tax payments surpassed what Su Nian Nian's father could earn in decades. Angered, Su Nian Nian declared, "You can insult me. But you have no right to insult my dad. I'm telling you, I'm determined to have Gu Zi Chen."
He Mei challenged her, asserting Su Nian Nian would come crying to her when she was abandoned. Su Nian Nian stood firm, telling He Mei to "let's see." Later, Song Yu Xi, Su Nian Nian, Ye Xing Yu, and other friends gathered at the cafe where Song Yu Xi worked, which she playfully called her "Coffee Prince's" establishment. The owner was out.
Ye Xing Yu offered to treat everyone to celebrate Zhao Mingyuan and Gu Zi Chen avoiding expulsion, as well as his own discharge. Su Nian Nian and Zhao Mingyuan also insisted on paying. Gu Zi Chen intervened, stating it was Ye Xing Yu's treat but he would handle the ordering. He proceeded to order several expensive dishes and discreetly paid the entire bill.
Su Nian Nian initially chided him for ordering excessively given Ye Xing Yu's financial situation, but Ye Xing Yu reassured her that it was fine. Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan returned to the repair shop where he had caused damage. The owner refused to rehire him and demanded 100,000 yuan for the losses within two months. Zhao Mingyuan pleaded to work off the debt with his salary, but the owner refused, telling him to borrow money from his rich classmate instead.
Zhao Mingyuan refused to involve his friends further, but the owner was unmoved, insisting on the two-month deadline. Determined to meet Gu Wei Ye, Su Nian Nian and Yin Chuxia, conspicuously dressed in windbreakers on a hot day, attempted to discreetly enter Hao Cheng Enterprise. Their odd attire quickly drew attention, and they were caught by security and taken to the security room.
Simultaneously, Gu Zi Chen was meeting his father, Gu Wei Ye, at Hao Cheng Enterprise to secure sponsorship for his project. Gu Wei Ye, testing his son's resolve, presented a contract filled with "unconscionable clauses." Gu Zi Chen protested, accusing his father of being overly calculating even with his own son. However, he cleverly negotiated to add a clause stipulating that "all the excellent students in this competition. . . may work in Hao Cheng Enterprise. . .
and must be given a high salary." Gu Wei Ye agreed, and Gu Zi Chen signed the revised contract. As Gu Zi Chen left his father's office, he discovered Su Nian Nian and Yin Chuxia in the security room. The security guard explained they were "sneaking around." Gu Wei Ye also appeared and remarked on their unusual clothing for the weather.
Gu Zi Chen casually dismissed their presence, referring to them as "weak women" who posed no threat, subtly ensuring their release. Outside the building, Gu Zi Chen teased them for their "courage but lack of wit" in their failed attempt, commenting on how uncomfortable they must be in their windbreakers. He then informed them that he had already arranged a meeting with President Gu on their behalf and expected "some benefits" (a reward) for his assistance.
Su Nian Nian argued that as her boyfriend and acting for the class, he should help without expecting anything in return. He jokingly insisted on a reward before leaving to finalize the official arrangements.
Episode 23 Recap
Gu Zi Chen escorted Su Nian Nian to meet his father, Gu Wei Ye, the chairman of Hao Cheng Enterprise, to discuss the competition project. Su Nian Nian was initially unaware of Gu Wei Ye's identity, only realizing it upon their meeting. Gu Wei Ye expressed great fondness for Su Nian Nian. He announced that Hao Cheng was deeply interested in their project and would provide sponsorship.
He also shared plans to expand the competition and create a "green employment channel" for outstanding students to join the company, promising further support for any needs. Both Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen were elated by the news. During their conversation, Gu Wei Ye inquired about Su Nian Nian's academic excellence and questioned why she chose to attend Qun Ying, a decision she attributed to missing a National College Entrance Examination due to an accident.
Su Nian Nian revealed that her parents were also Qun Ying alumni and her father fully supported her enrollment. Intrigued, Gu Wei Ye pressed for her parents' names. Su Nian Nian disclosed her father's name as Su Dazhi and her mother's as Tang Xiaoru, adding that her mother had passed away many years ago. Hearing these names, Gu Wei Ye became visibly agitated and emotional, confirming his suspicion that they were old acquaintances, but deeply shocked by Tang Xiaoru’s death.
Noticing his father’s distress, Gu Zi Chen quickly steered Su Nian Nian away. After leaving, Su Nian Nian playfully chastised Gu Zi Chen for not revealing his father's identity sooner, to which he teasingly replied that she only had eyes for him and he had many more secrets for her to discover.
Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan was packing his belongings, having decided to withdraw from school to work full-time and repay the 100,000 yuan debt demanded by the repair shop owner for damages from a previous fight. He visited his younger sister, Xiao Jia, who sadly informed him that their father was drinking again, upsetting their mother.
Zhao Mingyuan instructed Xiao Jia to protect their mother and call him if his father drank, but also asked her not to tell their parents he had visited. His friends, Zhu Cheng and Chen Yuan, tried to dissuade him from leaving, offering to borrow money or combine their savings. When Zhao Mingyuan refused their help, they proposed they all work part-time together, calculating that even with minimum wage and frugal living, it would take them three years and five months.
Zhao Mingyuan insisted they should not sacrifice their studies for him, especially with the promising opportunity of the upcoming competition, and told them to find him at the garage if needed. Later, Ye Xing Yu visited Zhao Mingyuan, asking about his recovering arm and urging him not to feel guilty for the fight. Zhao Mingyuan expressed fatalistic sentiments, feeling cursed and destined to cause trouble, and hinted that finishing four years of university felt "a bit extravagant."
Ye Xing Yu encouraged him to believe in himself and change his destiny. At school, Su Nian Nian excitedly announced the Hao Cheng sponsorship and the "green employment channel," which thrilled most students. However, Zhu Cheng and Chen Yuan declared that their dorm would not be participating, prompting Su Nian Nian to question their decision and the absence of Zhao Mingyuan.
She confided in Gu Zi Chen, lamenting that despite being motivated, her friends were letting go of a rare opportunity, and Gu Zi Chen promised to investigate. When Ye Xing Yu found Zhu Cheng, Chen Yuan, and Zhao Mingyuan discussing their plans, they hastily made up excuses for not joining the competition. Ye Xing Yu directly questioned Zhao Mingyuan, sensing his friends were not telling the full truth.
Zhao Mingyuan tried to deflect, telling Ye Xing Yu not to ask further. Ye Xing Yu, undeterred, encouraged them all to join the competition, extending an open invitation. At home, Zhang Meilin, Gu Zi Chen's mother, received a package containing the results of her investigation into Su Nian Nian's family. Distraught and refusing to eat, she found an old photograph Gu Wei Ye had hidden, depicting Tang Xiaoru, Su Dazhi, and himself.
She recalled how Gu Wei Ye had constantly shed tears while looking at the picture and how he often came home drunk, calling out Tang Xiaoru's name. She revealed to Gu Zi Chen that Tang Xiaoru was Gu Wei Ye's college girlfriend, and they had even planned to marry before Gu Wei Ye married her instead.
This history, combined with Gu Wei Ye's persistent melancholy and secretive behavior, led her to a grave suspicion: Su Nian Nian was Gu Wei Ye's illegitimate daughter. Gu Zi Chen was stunned, remembering his father’s odd reaction during the meeting with Su Nian Nian earlier. He wanted to confront his father, but Zhang Meilin desperately begged him not to, fearing that the revelation would destroy their family and leave her with nothing.
She tearfully pleaded with him to break up with Su Nian Nian. That evening, Gu Zi Chen was supposed to attend Su Dazhi's birthday dinner with Su Nian Nian, having promised to impress her father. However, a frantic phone call from his mother forced him to rush home, leaving Su Nian Nian to celebrate alone with her father, who, despite having prepared a "Formal banquet," insisted on waiting for Gu Zi Chen, calling him a "savior."
Overwhelmed by his mother's plea and the disturbing possibility that Su Nian Nian might be his half-sister, Gu Zi Chen was unable to answer Su Nian Nian's worried calls. He went to a bar, ordering whiskey, as fragmented memories of happy moments with Su Nian Nian flashed through his mind, indicating his struggle to let go. Unable to reach Gu Zi Chen, Su Nian Nian's concern grew.
Meanwhile, Zhang Meilin, still distraught, called Ye Xing Yu, who confirmed Gu Zi Chen was not at school. She then contacted He Mei, admitting they had a "little quarrel" and asking her to find Gu Zi Chen, suggesting he might be at a bar. He Mei reassured her and immediately called Jason for help in locating Gu Zi Chen.
Episode 24 Recap
Gu Zi Chen’s mother grew increasingly anxious when her son failed to return home after an argument. She contacted He Mei for help, mentioning that she had already called Ye Xing Yu, who confirmed Gu Zi Chen was not at school.
He Mei speculated that Gu Zi Chen might be drinking at a bar due to his mood and offered to search for him, reassuring his mother that she would check all the bars in Dong Zhou and call with any news. He Mei then called a friend, Jason, asking him to use his social network to help locate Gu Zi Chen, and promised to send him a photo. He Mei soon found Gu Zi Chen at a bar.
The bartender confirmed that Gu Zi Chen had consumed many drinks. He Mei tried to rouse him, urging him to come home, but a disoriented Gu Zi Chen repeatedly called out for Su Nian Nian, mistaking He Mei for her and saying he knew she wouldn’t leave him. He Mei, frustrated by his constant mention of Su Nian Nian, managed to help him out of the bar.
Instead of taking him home, she brought him to a hotel and settled him on the bed. Once Gu Zi Chen was on the bed, still murmuring Su Nian Nian’s name, He Mei called Gu Zi Chen’s mother to inform her that she had found him and he was safe, advising her to rest.
However, seeing Gu Zi Chen's flushed face and hearing Su Nian Nian’s name, He Mei took a selfie with the unconscious Gu Zi Chen and sent it to Su Nian Nian, further fueling Su Nian Nian’s anxiety and leaving her sleepless all night. The next morning at school, Su Nian Nian noticed Gu Zi Chen smelling of alcohol and confronted him about his whereabouts the previous night, mentioning that his mother had called her.
She then showed him the photo He Mei sent and demanded an explanation. Gu Zi Chen calmly stated that the photo was real. Shocked and disbelieving, Su Nian Nian gritted her teeth and gave him one last chance to explain, but Gu Zi Chen reiterated that the photo was indeed real. Heartbroken and with tears in her eyes, Su Nian Nian stifled her sobs and ended their relationship, saying, “Let’s break up.”
Gu Zi Chen, with a heavy heart, simply replied, “Okay.” After Su Nian Nian walked away, Gu Zi Chen could no longer maintain his composure and broke down in tears. Ye Xing Yu, witnessing the emotional exchange, asked Gu Zi Chen what had happened. Gu Zi Chen revealed that they had broken up.
Ye Xing Yu questioned why, especially since they had seemed fine just the day before, but Gu Zi Chen refused to elaborate, only stating that there was no specific reason. Later, Ye Xing Yu found a crying Su Nian Nian. He offered his help as a friend to resolve any misunderstanding, but Su Nian Nian felt that some things couldn't be solved with wishful thinking.
When Ye Xing Yu pressed her, Su Nian Nian disclosed that He Mei was Gu Zi Chen’s girlfriend. Ye Xing Yu dismissed this, believing it to be a misunderstanding, but Su Nian Nian explained that love and suitability were different, and that He Mei and Gu Zi Chen were a perfect match in terms of family background. Ye Xing Yu promised to get to the bottom of the matter, but Su Nian Nian asked to be left alone.
Back in his room, Gu Zi Chen lay distraught, haunted by memories of Su Nian Nian. Ye Xing Yu found him there and urged him to stop pretending. He questioned Gu Zi Chen’s relationship with He Mei, wondering if he was confused or was trying to dump Su Nian Nian, but Gu Zi Chen just asked to be left alone.
When Ye Xing Yu demanded an explanation, Gu Zi Chen replied that since he hadn't explained to Su Nian Nian, he wouldn't explain to Ye Xing Yu either, only admitting that he had wronged her. Ye Xing Yu confronted Gu Zi Chen about how haggard Su Nian Nian looked. Gu Zi Chen stated that Su Nian Nian needed protection and that Ye Xing Yu should be the one to provide it, imploring him to do so.
Ye Xing Yu rejected the idea, stating he was not the kind of person to take advantage of a crisis, and accused Gu Zi Chen of becoming unrecognizable. Gu Zi Chen remained evasive, suggesting that being happy was what mattered. Ye Xing Yu questioned if Gu Zi Chen was truly happy, to which Gu Zi Chen responded affirmatively before changing the subject. Gu Zi Chen concluded that breaking up was the best option, infuriating Ye Xing Yu with his unreasonableness.
Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen’s mother tried to comfort him, acknowledging his pain but insisting that life must go on. Gu Zi Chen asked if she didn't want to know why they broke up, to which she replied that she didn't. She confessed that she had to endure the situation, as she didn't want to divorce his father.
As long as his father didn't see Su Nian Nian, she could pretend nothing happened, acknowledging the hardship this placed on Gu Zi Chen. She then suggested he forget the past and pursue a new relationship with He Mei, who truly liked him. Gu Zi Chen firmly rejected the idea, stating he didn't like He Mei and needed time to process things.
Separately, Song Yuxi confided in Xu Jia at his cafe, ranting about Gu Zi Chen being a "scum, playboy, and stinking rascal" for breaking Su Nian Nian's heart. She criticized Gu Zi Chen’s arrogance and irresponsibility in relationships, then asked Xu Jia if all men were like that. Xu Jia was relieved when he realized Song Yuxi was talking about Gu Zi Chen, not him, and reassured her of his sincerity.
Just then, his ex-girlfriend arrived, prompting Xu Jia to quickly send Song Yuxi to the kitchen. His ex, who had funded his cafe, reminded him of his promise to marry her. Later, Mr. Jiang Mu announced to the class that an exchange student from Dong Zhou University would be joining them. He Mei then entered and introduced herself, explaining her interest in mechanical engineering. Mr. Jiang Mu invited her to choose a seat.
He Mei approached Su Nian Nian, greeting her warmly despite Su Nian Nian’s cold response, and then turned to Ye Xing Yu, politely asking him to move so she could sit next to Gu Zi Chen. Ye Xing Yu conceded his seat, allowing He Mei to sit beside Gu Zi Chen. He Mei then hinted to Gu Zi Chen that he owed her thanks for the previous night, but he remained silent.
After class, Gu Zi Chen asked He Mei for a favor. Correctly guessing he wanted her to pretend to be his girlfriend, He Mei happily agreed. Soon after, she encountered Su Nian Nian again, informing her that she would also be living in the school dorms and they would see each other often. When He Mei continued to provoke her, Su Nian Nian told her not to go too far.
He Mei retorted, reminding Su Nian Nian that she had once said relationships were a matter of mutual affection when she took Gu Zi Chen from He Mei. Su Nian Nian replied that she had been blind at the time. Gu Zi Chen and He Mei then deliberately appeared in front of Su Nian Nian, displaying affectionate behavior. Song Yuxi and Yin Chuxia were shocked, calling Gu Zi Chen a “scum.”
From a distance, Xiao Huang, the QYU Daily reporter, seized the opportunity to snap photos of the dramatic scene. He Mei told Gu Zi Chen that despite their act, he should consider her feelings because she genuinely liked him. However, Gu Zi Chen, tired of the pretense, apologized and retreated to rest. Song Yuxi and Yin Chuxia comforted Su Nian Nian, questioning why she was giving up on Gu Zi Chen so easily and blaming him for hurting her.
Su Nian Nian revealed that He Mei and Gu Zi Chen had been together for a long time. Soon after, Xiao Huang’s QYU Daily published a sensational article titled “The Real Girlfriend Declares Her Right and the Pretty Monitor Becomes the Third Party.” Song Yuxi and Yin Chuxia were outraged, but Su Nian Nian asked to be left alone.
Ye Xing Yu, seeing the article, confronted Gu Zi Chen again, expressing his disappointment that Gu Zi Chen would hurt Su Nian Nian this way. Gu Zi Chen, however, maintained his indifferent facade and refused to offer any explanation, reaffirming that he was "happy."
Episode 25 Recap
Su Nian Nian quietly shed tears as she recalled her past with Gu Zi Chen, forcing herself to suppress her emotions and forget the pain he caused. She decided to focus on her life and projects, believing that without romance, she would have more energy for important endeavors. Despite her attempts to move on, she couldn't help but be affected by gossip. Ye Xing Yu noticed her distress and offered comfort, telling her to ignore those who criticized her.
He assured her that he would always support her, no matter what. Meanwhile, Song Yuxi went to work at the coffee shop, unaware of Xu Jia's deceitful intentions. He encouraged her to leave early, feigning concern for her well-being by suggesting she looked pale. Naively, Song Yuxi believed his tender words and happily left for school. However, a group of three women soon intercepted her, exposing Xu Jia as a manipulative scumbag who was simultaneously dating all of them.
Song Yuxi was initially in disbelief, but her suspicions grew when Xu Jia called one of the women, allowing Song Yuxi to hear his sweet talk. When he subsequently called another, Song Yuxi confronted him over the phone, ending their relationship and demanding back her investment in the coffee shop. Xu Jia desperately tried to convince her they were destined for marriage. The women then presented undeniable photographic evidence, including wedding photos, solidifying Song Yuxi's heartbreak and anger.
Together, the women stormed into the coffee shop, where they found Xu Jia receiving a shoulder massage from a waitress. The waitress boldly claimed Xu Jia's affection, dismissing Song Yuxi as "extra baggage." Xu Jia attempted to explain, framing his relationships as "friends of the opposite sex," but his explanations quickly unraveled as the other women arrived and collectively denounced him as a "scum." The furious women began to physically assault Xu Jia, leaving him defenseless.
Song Yuxi watched the chaotic scene, a bitter smile gracing her lips, before turning and leaving the cafe for good. Later, a despondent Song Yuxi was found weeping on a garden bench by Zhu Cheng. Upon hearing she was lovelorn, Zhu Cheng initially burst into joyous laughter, quickly trying to compose himself and offer comfort while secretly celebrating. Song Yuxi sought solace from Yin Chuxia, who, much to Song Yuxi's dismay, responded with a cheerful "Congratulation! Finally!"
Finding no sympathy there, Song Yuxi turned to Su Nian Nian, who, drawing from her own recent heartbreak, urged her to stop crying and focus on her studies. Song Yuxi revealed Xu Jia had been juggling multiple relationships, causing her friends to tease her about finally experiencing what she used to do to others. Su Nian Nian noticed the unusual behavior of the Qun Ying San Jie (The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying), who had been frequently skipping classes.
She tasked Song Yuxi with investigating and discovered that Zhao Mingyuan, their leader, was being forced to pay a hefty 100,000 yuan in compensation for the damaged car repair shop. To help him avoid dropping out, his close friends Chen Yuan and Zhu Cheng were discreetly working multiple jobs. Su Nian Nian learned that Zhao Mingyuan came from a poor family with ailing parents, making him self-reliant but also extremely proud and reluctant to accept charity.
Understanding his plight, Su Nian Nian devised a plan for a confidential fundraising drive within their class, explaining that a public donation would damage his pride. Inspired by her initiative, their classmates and teachers all contributed. Dr. Jin Yun even secretly gave 1,000 yuan to Mr. Jiang for the fund.
Separately, Gu Zi Chen learned about the debt from Ye Xing Yu and went directly to the repair shop owner, proposing that Zhao Mingyuan work at the shop to generate 100,000 yuan in sales within a year to repay the debt, an arrangement the owner accepted. However, when Su Nian Nian and the classmates sincerely presented the collected money to Zhao Mingyuan, his pride got the better of him. He refused their help, stating he didn't need their pity.
At that moment, He Mei appeared and arrogantly offered a bank card, contemptuously telling him to use it to pay his debt. This public humiliation was the last straw for Zhao Mingyuan, who felt his dignity was being trampled. Enraged, he stormed off. He Mei continued to entangle herself with Gu Zi Chen.
She brought expensive chocolates to class, attempting to win over classmates and declare her territory, implying that "someone" (referring to Su Nian Nian) had interfered in her relationship with Gu Zi Chen. Su Nian Nian politely refused the chocolates, and He Mei made a snide remark about her weight. Later, as He Mei tried to affectionately feed Gu Zi Chen in public, Yin Chuxia and Song Yuxi confronted them, calling Gu Zi Chen a "scum" for his poor taste.
Gu Zi Chen pulled He Mei away, urging her to ignore them. Later that day, a strange woman suddenly appeared, embracing a shocked Yin Chuxia and claiming to be her mother. The woman presented her with a pile of beautiful clothes, but Yin Chuxia, visibly distraught, pushed her away and ran off crying, locking herself in her dorm room.
Episode 26 Recap
Yin Chuxia, reeling from an unexpected encounter with her estranged mother, locked herself in her dorm room, crying inconsolably. Song Yu Xi, worried about her friend, quickly sought out Su Nian Nian. Su Nian Nian found Chuxia's mother outside and tried to convince her to speak to Yin Chuxia directly. Chuxia's mother, however, explained that she hadn't seen her daughter in many years and felt Yin Chuxia harbored deep resentment, so she preferred to give her space.
She asked Su Nian Nian to deliver a bag of branded items to Yin Chuxia, which Su Nian Nian agreed to do. Later, Su Nian Nian and Song Yu Xi attempted to comfort Yin Chuxia, who was still deeply upset. Su Nian Nian pointed out that having living parents was a blessing and that many classmates were dealing with family issues. She suggested that, as adults, they should try to understand their parents' situations from a different perspective.
Song Yu Xi added that their parents' generation faced different pressures, often marrying and having children at a young age without the freedom to be as carefree as their generation. Yin Chuxia, however, was adamant, declaring that the woman was not her mother and she refused to acknowledge her. She couldn't fathom how a mother could abandon her own child.
Yin Chuxia painfully reflected on the 17 years she had waited, her mother's image fading, and questioned why her mother had reappeared only to disturb her life again, wishing they could remain estranged. Meanwhile, Su Nian Nian, Yin Chuxia, and Ye Xing Yu approached Zhao Mingyuan to offer the money they had raised for him. Zhao Mingyuan, aware of their intentions, tried to leave, but they stopped him.
Su Nian Nian explained that they understood his desire for independence, but the money was a heartfelt gesture from his classmates, and rejecting it would disappoint them. Zhao Mingyuan dismissed their efforts, asking if they suffered from a "need to be needed" complex and stating he had never asked for help. He called their actions "sympathy, pity, or boredom" and requested that they stop having expectations of him, as he could handle his own problems.
Ye Xing Yu interjected, reminding him not to disregard their friendship, but Zhao Mingyuan angrily told them to stop bothering him. At that moment, He Mei arrived, mockingly asking if Su Nian Nian was "buying people's loyalty." She presented a bank card, claiming it held enough money to pay off Zhao Mingyuan's debts, and condescendingly told him the password was "her love code with Zi Chen."
She made it clear she was doing this to expose Su Nian Nian's pretense of being a kind-hearted person. Ye Xing Yu, fed up with He Mei, criticized her "snake-like face" and accused her of creating trouble. He Mei retorted, leading to a heated exchange where she insulted Su Nian Nian.
Ye Xing Yu intervened, reminding He Mei that despite their past friendship, Su Nian Nian was already hurt and didn't need further torment, especially since Gu Zi Chen had returned to He Mei. He Mei countered that she would stop bothering Su Nian Nian if Su Nian Nian completely gave up on Gu Zi Chen and tried to manipulate Ye Xing Yu by suggesting this would give him a chance with Su Nian Nian.
Ye Xing Yu dismissed her, stating his feelings were his own business. Following this chaotic scene, Zhao Mingyuan stormed off, refusing the money from everyone. Su Nian Nian, feeling she had failed to help, took the collected money to Mr. Jiang Mu. Mr. Jiang Mu praised her growing maturity as a monitor and her ability to empathize with classmates. He then shared exciting news: he had submitted Zhao Mingyuan's student loan application and informed the school about his family's difficulties.
In response, the school not only approved the loan but also arranged jobs for Zhao Mingyuan's parents. Zhao Mingyuan would soon be able to return to class. Overjoyed, Su Nian Nian accepted the responsibility of holding onto the funds for future class activities. Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen was with He Mei, who feigned a stomachache to keep him company. He Mei continued to badmouth Su Nian Nian, claiming she disliked the school and was only trying to improve her life.
Gu Zi Chen defended Su Nian Nian, stating that her difficult background was not her choice and that using her own efforts to change her life was commendable. He Mei then invited Gu Zi Chen to her home, but Gu Zi Chen firmly reminded her that their relationship was merely an act and declined the invitation. He Mei insisted on her genuine feelings for him, asserting that they belonged together, but Gu Zi Chen reiterated that feelings couldn't be forced.
Su Nian Nian later found Gu Zi Chen and He Mei in the classroom, where He Mei provocatively kissed Gu Zi Chen in front of her. Acting in her capacity as Monitor, Su Nian Nian reminded Gu Zi Chen that his presence was crucial for their important research project. She recalled his past commitment to focus on the competition, urging him to work with the class to achieve good results. Gu Zi Chen agreed, saying he would uphold his word.
He Mei insisted on following him to the research room, where she continued to distract him. He gave her the cold shoulder while warmly accepting research materials from Su Nian Nian and eventually told He Mei to be quiet. Ye Xing Yu approached Su Nian Nian to request leave to visit his mother, explaining that his hand injury had prevented him from going home, causing his mother worry.
Su Nian Nian, feeling apologetic for his injury, not only approved his leave but offered to accompany him. During their conversation, Su Nian Nian overheard Ye Xing Yu on the phone with staff from the Campus Folk Singer Contest, informing them that he would be withdrawing due to his injury. She expressed her regret, but Ye Xing Yu brushed it off.
He Mei, observing them, remarked to Gu Zi Chen that Su Nian Nian was "hooking up" with Ye Xing Yu, but Gu Zi Chen told her comments were excessive. Su Nian Nian accompanied Ye Xing Yu on his visit home. His mother was delighted to meet her, mistakenly assuming she was his girlfriend. Feeling apologetic, Su Nian Nian volunteered to cook dinner but, being her first time in the kitchen, she quickly created chaos.
Ye Xing Yu had to step in and help her finish the meal. Despite the kitchen mishaps, the three shared a joyful dinner together, and Su Nian Nian was happy to have learned a new skill she could show her own father. Gu Zi Chen, growing weary of He Mei's constant presence, suggested they maintain a more professional distance when alone. He Mei accused him of using her.
Gu Zi Chen acknowledged their mutual benefit but gently told her that he wasn't the one who could treasure her, suggesting she find someone who would. When He Mei persisted, Gu Zi Chen, needing a reprieve, asked her to visit his mother to keep her company since he was busy.
At the car repair shop, the owner, preparing to sell the business, aggressively demanded Zhao Mingyuan pay 80,000 yuan within a week, threatening legal action or involving his parents if he didn't. Zhao Mingyuan, desperate, said he couldn't raise the amount and told the owner to sue him if necessary. Enraged, the owner grabbed Zhao Mingyuan's collar. Suddenly, Yin Chuxia intervened, pushing the owner away.
She told the owner there was no need for violence and assured him he would receive the money within a week, having secretly overheard their conversation. The owner revealed that Gu Zi Chen had previously paid 20,000 yuan towards the debt with a car wash card, and he was now pressuring Zhao Mingyuan to ensure the full amount was paid. Yin Chuxia met her mother, who was excited to see her after Yin Chuxia called her.
Yin Chuxia's mother confessed that she and Yin Chuxia's father were too young and incompatible, and her father was unfaithful. She claimed to have endured the marriage for Yin Chuxia's sake but eventually left when Yin Chuxia was six years old due to her father's affair. Yin Chuxia asked why her mother didn't take her along.
Deciding not to live in hatred any longer, Yin Chuxia, though unable to fully accept her mother yet, revealed the true purpose of their meeting: she asked her mother for a loan of 80,000 yuan to help a friend. Due to her deep guilt, Yin Chuxia's mother agreed to her daughter's request without hesitation.
Episode 27 Recap
Yin Chuxia finally met with her mother, confronting her about abandoning her at the age of six. Chuxia tearfully recounted how her father had cut her hair to make her look like a boy, and how she felt like an orphan despite having a father, as he only provided money and no other care. She questioned why her mother hadn't taken her along if she knew how difficult her father was.
Her mother, filled with regret, apologized and explained that she herself didn't know where to go at the time and how she could have cared for Chuxia. She revealed that after leaving, she had started a business and, once stable, tried to return for Chuxia, but her father prevented them from seeing each other. She confessed that she never remarried or had another child, insisting she didn't want one, because she always hoped to make amends to Chuxia.
Chuxia admitted that seeing her mother appear felt like a dream, and she wasn't sure how to face her. Ultimately, Chuxia eased her heart and then revealed the purpose of their meeting: she needed to borrow 80,000 yuan to help a friend. Her mother, initially worried Chuxia might be cheated, still readily agreed to lend her the money, eager for any chance to redeem herself. Having secured the money, Chuxia promptly paid off Zhao Mingyuan's debt.
When Zhao Mingyuan learned what she had done, he was upset and called her to meet, insisting she retrieve the money. Chuxia explained that the car repair shop boss would never return the cash once he had it, and subtly suggested that it was better for him to owe her than to owe the boss, as she wouldn't constantly demand repayment. Zhao Mingyuan reluctantly accepted, asking to write an IOU.
Chuxia, producing a pen and paper she "always carried," agreed but jokingly demanded interest. She then offered to waive the interest if Zhao Mingyuan rejoined the research team and committed to their class arrangements. Recognizing her genuine concern, Zhao Mingyuan agreed, promising to put his full effort into the project. Later, Zhao Mingyuan and his friends discussed the situation, with his friends teasing him about Chuxia's actions being a declaration of affection.
Zhao Mingyuan explained that Chuxia's "interest" was not money, but his commitment to the research team. Relieved of his burden, Zhao Mingyuan actively returned to the research group, apologizing to Su Niannian and the rest of the team for his past pride and for hurting their feelings. He expressed deep gratitude for everyone's support, particularly Mr. Jiang Mu, who had helped him secure a student loan and arranged jobs for his parents.
He acknowledged how much he had matured through the ordeal. Zhao Mingyuan then shared some innovative ideas for expanding the "Wisdom Pouch" project beyond students, suggesting functionalities like fatigue detection and drunk driving alerts for general drivers. Su Niannian was greatly impressed by his vision and asked him to prepare a detailed 5000-word report. Meanwhile, Jiang Mu, known online as "Loner Knight," had been cultivating a sweet online romance with a user named "Little Gold Fish."
They decided to meet in person, agreeing to rendezvous at the bridge near the school, each holding a rose as a sign. Overjoyed, Jiang Mu eagerly prepared for the date. While on campus, he bumped into Dr. Jin, the school's medical officer, and they both noticed each other's unusually smart attire, playfully hinting at a date. Later, at the designated meeting spot, Dr. Jin, rushing to arrive, saw Jiang Mu holding a rose from a distance.
The sight made her suspicious that "Loner Knight" might be Jiang Mu. When he spotted her and greeted her warmly, she quickly hid her own rose and claimed she was meeting a friend. After a brief, awkward exchange, Dr. Jin hurried away, leaving a puzzled Jiang Mu to continue waiting for his "Little Gold Fish." Jiang Mu then sent a text message to "Little Gold Fish" asking if she had arrived.
Dr. Jin received the message, confirming her suspicion that Jiang Mu was "Loner Knight," and felt relieved she hadn't been recognized, narrowly avoiding an embarrassing situation. Zhao Mingyuan visited the car repair shop again and learned that Gu Zichen had secretly paid 20,000 yuan towards his debt by purchasing car wash services.
The boss later revealed to Gu Zichen that since Zhao Mingyuan's friend had paid 80,000 yuan, and with Gu Zichen's 20,000 yuan, the full 100,000 yuan debt was settled. The boss, no longer needing Gu Zichen's services, tried to void their contract. Later, Zhao Mingyuan met Gu Zichen for a drink, expressing profound gratitude for his help. Gu Zichen downplayed his contribution, emphasizing that Chuxia had done more and advised Zhao Mingyuan to cherish her efforts.
Zhao Mingyuan then turned the conversation to Gu Zichen and Su Niannian, making Gu Zichen uncomfortable and leading him to evade the topic by urging more drinks. At home, Gu Zichen's mother, Aunt Mei Lin, hosted He Mei. He Mei complained about Su Niannian relentlessly pursuing Gu Zichen, using the science competition to spend time with him, and being verbally aggressive towards her. She expressed fear that Gu Zichen might waver.
Aunt Mei Lin reassured He Mei, stating definitively that Gu Zichen and Su Niannian could never be together because they were siblings. He Mei was stunned by this revelation. Aunt Mei Lin explained that while she lacked concrete proof, she had told Gu Zichen, who was now seeking answers from his father.
She swore He Mei to secrecy, citing the family's reputation and her desire to prevent Su Niannian from entering the Gu family and claiming a share of their assets. He Mei, however, urged Aunt Mei Lin not to tolerate the situation, emphasizing the financial implications if Su Niannian were to claim half the family fortune. Swayed by He Mei's arguments, Aunt Mei Lin agreed to eliminate Su Niannian as a potential threat.
Consumed by anger, Aunt Mei Lin later confronted Su Niannian at Qun Ying, warning her to give up on Gu Zichen and not follow her mother's destructive path. Su Niannian, confused and defiant, refused to abandon Gu Zichen unless given a clear explanation. Enraged, Aunt Mei Lin blurted out that Gu Zichen was Su Niannian's biological brother before being taken away by another person, leaving Su Niannian in utter shock.
After failing to meet his online girlfriend, Jiang Mu was heartbroken and continued sending messages to "Little Gold Fish," but received no reply. Overwhelmed with sadness, he sought out Dr. Jin, asking for a "sovereign remedy for sadness." He confided in her about his disappointing online date, how he waited for three hours on the bridge, sensing "Little Gold Fish" saw him but didn't come forward.
He lamented that despite his sincere efforts in every relationship, he always ended up hurt, feeling now afraid to love again. Dr. Jin offered comforting words, urging him to be strong and not give up. Determined to uncover the truth, Su Niannian confronted He Mei. He Mei, realizing Su Niannian was aware of something, confirmed that Aunt Mei Lin had shared the family secret with her.
She maliciously elaborated, claiming that Su Niannian's mother and Uncle Gu were a well-known couple in university, but Uncle Gu married Aunt Mei Lin for family reasons. He Mei then accused Su Niannian's mother of continuing to meet Uncle Gu after his marriage, branding her a mistress and claiming that Su Niannian was the product of this affair.
Su Niannian vehemently denied these accusations, arguing that she and Gu Zichen could not be siblings as he is older than her, and accused He Mei of having no right to meddle in her family affairs. He Mei mockingly suggested Su Niannian search her home for evidence. Angered, Su Niannian left, while He Mei savored her apparent triumph. The next day, students noticed Su Niannian's absence from class and cast suspicious glances at He Mei.
Mr. Jiang announced that Su Niannian had taken two days leave, feeling unwell, and urged the students to be well-behaved to lighten the burden on him and their class monitor. Concerned, Gu Zichen called Su Niannian after hearing she was sick. She insisted she was fine, though still feeling unwell, and told him she would handle the school matters. Gu Zichen expressed worry and offered to be there for her if she needed someone to talk to, but Su Niannian maintained her composure and ended the call.
Episode 28 Recap
Ye Xing Yu received an exciting phone call from the organizers of a singing competition. They informed him that his original song was exceptionally good, and they decided to purchase its copyright to make it their featured song. They also extended an invitation for him to perform it himself. Overjoyed, Ye Xing Yu shared this fantastic news with his roommate, Gu Zi Chen. Gu Zi Chen was equally thrilled, suggesting a celebration to mark the occasion.
Their joyful moment was interrupted when Gu Zi Chen's mother called. She anxiously urged him to come home, as his father, Gu Wei Ye, had just returned from a business trip and was asking about him, hoping for a family reunion. Gu Zi Chen was initially reluctant, fearing another argument with his father, but his mother's insistence, coupled with a warning that his father might send someone to bring him back, ultimately swayed him.
He agreed to return home, promising Ye Xing Yu they would celebrate later. Meanwhile, Su Nian Nian was grappling with unsettling questions about her own identity. She tried to subtly ask her father, Su Dazhi, about her mother, Tang Xiao Ru, and their love story. Su Dazhi fondly recalled Tang Xiao Ru's beauty in college and how hard he worked to win her heart.
He lovingly described Tang Xiao Ru's deep affection for Su Nian Nian when she was little, dressing her up and braiding her hair. When Su Nian Nian directly asked about her mother's death, Su Dazhi became visibly distressed, stating her mother had succumbed to a sudden illness when Su Nian Nian was very young, and asked her not to bring it up again, as it was the saddest event of his life.
Su Nian Nian thanked him for raising her, and he dismissed her gratitude, calling it a father's natural duty and expressing his happiness in raising her. Su Nian Nian then made him promise to be her father in their next lives. Upon arriving home, Gu Zi Chen faced his father, Gu Wei Ye. Gu Wei Ye praised Gu Zi Chen's progress at school and his participation in a meaningful competition.
He specifically mentioned Su Nian Nian and Ye Xing Yu, describing Su Nian Nian as diligent and ambitious, even suggesting Gu Zi Chen learn from her and invite both classmates over for dinner as a thank-you. Gu Zi Chen, suspicious of his father's sudden interest, questioned why he constantly mentioned Su Nian Nian, given they had only met once. His mother, Meilin, tried to intercede, but the conversation quickly escalated. Gu Wei Ye became angry, criticizing Gu Zi Chen's attitude.
Gu Zi Chen retorted, calling his father "sanctimonious" and reminded him of the Gu family motto: "bright and open, honest and no lying." He then directly confronted Gu Wei Ye, asking, "Who is Tang Xiao Ru? Is Su Nian Nian your illegitimate child with Tang Xiao Ru?" Gu Wei Ye erupted in fury, calling him outrageous and crazy, emphatically denying that Su Nian Nian could ever be his daughter. He blamed Meilin for instigating the rumors.
Gu Zi Chen, elated by his father's vehement denial, hugged him, expressing gratitude and an apology, before rushing out of the house. Meilin later confronted Gu Wei Ye, demanding to know how the story of Tang Xiao Ru got out and why he let their son believe it. Gu Wei Ye, exasperated, stated that he put everything from his past behind him the day he married her and asked why she couldn't let Tang Xiao Ru rest in peace.
Meilin accused him of still harboring feelings for Tang Xiao Ru after all these years. She revealed she told Gu Zi Chen because he was dating Su Nian Nian, and if Nian Nian really was his daughter, it would be a major issue. Meilin declared that even though the misunderstanding about Su Nian Nian's parentage was cleared, she would never allow Gu Zi Chen to marry Su Nian Nian, insisting Gu Wei Ye stand by her.
After her difficult conversation with her father, Su Nian Nian, still troubled, decided to search his room for clues while he was out. Hidden in a book, she discovered an old photo of Su Dazhi and Gu Wei Ye. This discovery startled her, seemingly confirming her suspicions. When Su Dazhi returned, she cautiously asked if he knew Gu Wei Ye, chairman of Hao Cheng Enterprise.
Su Dazhi denied it, claiming a taxi driver like him wouldn't know such a prominent businessman. Su Nian Nian then tearfully presented the photo, accusing him of lying and asking about her true parentage. Su Dazhi, taken aback, admitted to lying, explaining that he and Gu Wei Ye were old friends who had a misunderstanding.
He claimed he kept it from her to prevent past grievances from affecting her and that he genuinely didn't know Gu Wei Ye was Gu Zi Chen's father. Su Nian Nian asked if their old grievances involved her mother, but Su Dazhi vehemently denied it, reiterating his and her mother's love for each other and for her. She then questioned why he prevented her from retaking the university entrance exam, despite her talent, pushing her into QYU instead.
Su Dazhi confessed he had his reasons, which she would understand later, and that sending her to QYU was a coincidence; he simply wanted her close. Misinterpreting his words, Su Nian Nian concluded that his "hardship" was because she was not his biological daughter. With tears in her eyes, she thanked him for not abandoning her over the years and declared that no matter whose daughter she was, he would always be her beloved father.
Later, alone, Su Dazhi confided in a photo of Tang Xiao Ru, expressing his desire to shield their daughter from the painful past. Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen went to find He Mei. He explained that his relationship with her was an act to keep Su Nian Nian away, as he had mistakenly believed Nian Nian was his half-sister. Now that the misunderstanding was cleared, he no longer needed her help and could reunite with Su Nian Nian.
He Mei was shocked and hurt, questioning why he would use her in such a way. She asked if he would be with her only when Nian Nian was his sister and leave her when she wasn't. Gu Zi Chen apologized, reminding her that they had clearly established their arrangement was an act from the beginning. He thanked her for her cooperation but stated he would explain the situation to the entire school, clarifying that she was not his girlfriend.
He firmly told her that regardless of whether he and Su Nian Nian were siblings, he and He Mei were not a suitable match. Enraged and frustrated, He Mei vowed that no one would take what she wanted. Later, as Gu Wei Ye was leaving his office, he unexpectedly encountered Su Dazhi, who was driving a taxi.
Recognizing each other after decades, they reminisced about their college days, including their shared dormitory life and how they both fell for the same girl, Tang Xiao Ru. Gu Wei Ye recalled Su Dazhi's initial enthusiasm and helpfulness. Su Dazhi acknowledged Tang Xiao Ru was a wonderful person and that loving her was a blessing.
Gu Wei Ye noted that Su Nian Nian bore a striking resemblance to Tang Xiao Ru, prompting Su Dazhi to reveal that Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen were classmates at QYU and had even sought sponsorship from Gu Wei Ye for a project. Gu Wei Ye then asked Su Dazhi when he moved to Dong Zhou and how Tang Xiao Ru died, recalling a time he visited her hometown.
He recounted how he and Tang Xiao Ru spoke at length, with her expressing happiness with Su Dazhi and urging Gu Wei Ye to move on. He explained that he had to leave abruptly due to an emergency, and that was the last time he saw her. Su Dazhi, with a heavy heart, then revealed, "That's the day Xiao Ru passed away." Gu Wei Ye was stunned, expressing disbelief as she had seemed fine when he left.
Su Dazhi clarified that Tang Xiao Ru had a fatal car accident on her way home after dropping Gu Wei Ye at the train station. He also revealed that Su Nian Nian was injured in the same accident, leading to a long period of trauma and silence. To care for her, Su Dazhi lost his job, eventually moving to Dong Zhou to work as a taxi driver, raising Su Nian Nian alone.
Unbeknownst to them, He Mei was secretly listening to their entire conversation. She realized that Su Nian Nian's mother's death was linked to Gu Wei Ye. This discovery fueled her resolve, giving her a new way to ensure Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen could never be together, regardless of whether they were siblings. She saw it as destiny.
Back at school, Ye Xing Yu and other classmates encouraged Gu Zi Chen to reconcile with Su Nian Nian now that the misunderstanding was resolved. Ye Xing Yu reminded him not to hurt Su Nian Nian again and to be considerate of He Mei's feelings. Gu Zi Chen promised not to let Nian Nian down or hurt He Mei. Later, Gu Zi Chen stood outside Su Nian Nian's dormitory, holding a bouquet of roses and calling out her name.
Her dorm mates noticed, commenting on his "tacky but romantic" gesture and urging Su Nian Nian to go down. Despite her earlier firm assertion that she and Gu Zi Chen would never reunite, the "miracle" had indeed happened, and Su Nian Nian was seen heading downstairs.
Episode 29 Recap
Gu Zi Chen approached Su Nian Nian with a bouquet of roses, eager to reconcile. Su Nian Nian, however, sarcastically questioned if he had forgotten to take his medication, reminding him that they were siblings. Gu Zi Chen explained that he had confirmed with his father, Gu Wei Ye, that they were not related, dismissing the "sibling" misunderstanding as full of loopholes.
He apologized sincerely for his past mistakes that had caused her pain, professed his love, and asked to get back together. Su Nian Nian, though grateful he had clarified the situation, insisted she wasn't ready for a relationship and wanted to focus on her father. She also pointed out that he was He Mei's boyfriend and should respect both her and He Mei, especially since He Mei had transferred to QYU for him.
Gu Zi Chen clarified that his relationship with He Mei was merely a "partnership" formed due to the sibling misunderstanding and that no romantic feelings existed between them, swearing to it. He argued that love couldn't be given away out of gratitude, even if He Mei loved him. Their conversation shifted to Su Nian Nian's father, Su Da Zhi. Gu Zi Chen explained that her father's "lies" were out of love and concern for her health.
He revealed that Su Nian Nian suffered from headaches due to a childhood brain injury and partial memory loss. This condition, exacerbated by intense study pressure, led to her fainting before the college entrance exams. Her father, fearing she couldn't handle the truth, encouraged her to attend QYU when a late recruitment notice arrived.
Realizing her headaches had a medical cause, Su Nian Nian felt unfilial for doubting her father, admitting she no longer desired to repeat the year and had grown to love QYU and the Energy II class. Meanwhile, He Mei, having seen Gu Zi Chen and Su Nian Nian together, called the paparazzi, Xiao Huang, urging him to take photos.
Angry that Gu Zi Chen had used her and determined not to lose him, she later met with Xiao Huang and provided him with information about Su Nian Nian's background, boasting that Su Nian Nian was "still wet behind the ears" in their rivalry. Eager for a scoop, Xiao Huang listened intently as He Mei hinted at a secret involving Su Nian Nian's "employment" as class monitor, a fact known to her father and Mr. Jiang Mu.
As Su Nian Nian walked alone, He Mei confronted her, mocking her and Gu Zi Chen as "siblings." Su Nian Nian asked why He Mei continually targeted her, stating that love was mutual and that she couldn't "steal" an adult like Gu Zi Chen. He Mei aggressively accused Su Nian Nian of feigning innocence, stealing Zi Chen, and even flirting with Ye Xing Yu.
She warned Su Nian Nian to stay away from Gu Zi Chen and not to end up like her mother, "ruining two men's lives." Deeply hurt by the malicious words about her mother, Su Nian Nian was brought to tears. Gu Wei Ye returned home looking distraught. He dismissed his overly concerned secretary with a sarcastic remark. Inside, Zhang Ma welcomed him, noting his wife, Mei Lin, was worried.
Gu Wei Ye, however, declined dinner, stating he had already eaten and needed to rest. He retreated to his room and gazed at a photograph of Tang Xiaoru, reminiscing about her. He lamented that their last farewell had been permanent and wished he hadn't met her if he had known her fate.
He recalled their last conversation where Tang Xiaoru told him she and Su Da Zhi were happy and at peace, wishing him happiness and assuring him that no one owed anyone anything. She had even introduced Nian Nian to him, asking her to call him "uncle," and advised him to be more considerate of his wife. Mei Lin brought tea, only to discover Gu Wei Ye's emotional state.
Enraged, she confronted him, accusing him of grieving for another woman in front of her. Gu Wei Ye tried to explain that his sadness was due to Tang Xiaoru's untimely death, but Mei Lin was inconsolable. She bitterly questioned if she would always come second to Tang Xiaoru, accusing him of never truly loving her and claiming their marriage was merely a transaction, unlike his "unforgettable love" for Tang Xiaoru.
Feeling like a replacement, she expressed regret for marrying him, finally understanding his unhappiness on their wedding day and his reluctance to come home. After a heated argument, Mei Lin declared herself unnecessary in their home, packed her bags, and left despite Gu Wei Ye's attempts to stop her. He told Zhang Ma that Mei Lin was likely heading to a hotel and asked her to check on her frequently.
Convinced by He Mei's information, Xiao Huang disguised himself as the "assistant to the director of studies" and approached Su Da Zhi. He praised Su Nian Nian's performance at QYU, mentioning her diligence in fulfilling her "contractual agreement" and how she had improved student morale. He then subtly inquired about renewing her "employment contract," prompting Su Da Zhi to inadvertently confirm that such a contract existed and was nearing its expiration.
Excited by his success, Xiao Huang recorded their conversation and gloated about the impending popularity of his "shocking news." Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen, wanting to completely resolve the misunderstanding, met with He Mei and gave her a watch as a thank-you gift for her "cooperation." He Mei, feigning understanding, assured him she had reflected and realized her obsession was wrong, agreeing that love couldn't be forced.
Gu Zi Chen then asked her to explain their "fake relationship" to Su Nian Nian, hoping it would help her accept him. He Mei agreed to do so the next day before class. The next day, as He Mei and Gu Zi Chen arrived in class, they found it in an uproar. Xiao Huang's news had been published online, claiming that "the beautiful class monitor was actually hired" and that "Mechanical Class II has become a tool for profit."
Many students dismissed it as fake, but others played the audio recording of Xiao Huang and Su Da Zhi discussing the employment contract, which confirmed its existence. He Mei feigned ignorance, asking about the commotion. The students, feeling betrayed, lashed out at Su Nian Nian, accusing her of being a liar.
The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying stepped forward to defend her, urging everyone to listen to her explanation and stating that the person who leaked the information must have ulterior motives. Unable to remain silent, Su Nian Nian admitted that the story was true. She explained that when she first arrived, she was unwilling to study at QYU, so her teacher, Jiang Mu, had her sign the employment contract to make her stay.
However, she clarified that she had no intention of exploiting them and had grown to love her classmates and the school, having long forgotten her initial desire to repeat a year. He Mei, seizing the opportunity, mockingly questioned Su Nian Nian's conscience.
Episode 30 Recap
The classroom descended into chaos as students expressed their dissatisfaction with Su Nian Nian, feeling manipulated after news of her contract with the university broke. He Mei, seizing the opportunity, fueled their discontent, questioning why Su Nian Nian would hide such a deal if she was truly honest. She went further, accusing Su Nian Nian of being ruthless, reminiscent of her high school days, and using the class for her own gain while suppressing their individuality.
Ye Xing Yu attempted to defend Su Nian Nian's sincerity, suggesting the leaker had ulterior motives, while Yin Chuxia fiercely countered He Mei, stating it was Su Nian Nian's private matter. However, swayed by He Mei's provocations, the students eventually abandoned their studies and left the classroom. Enraged by He Mei's actions, Gu Zi Chen confronted her, telling her to stop. He pulled her outside the classroom, where she angrily accused him of tricking her despite knowing her feelings.
She recounted how she had sacrificed her pride for him, even influencing her father to invest in Hao Cheng. He Mei reminded Gu Zi Chen that their parents had long arranged their marriage and threatened to withdraw her father's investment from Hao Cheng, highlighting the devastating consequences for his family's company if he didn't comply.
Gu Zi Chen apologized for his past actions but firmly reiterated that he could not force his feelings, and his heart belonged only to Su Nian Nian, emphasizing that they could never be together, regardless of Su Nian Nian. Disgusted by He Mei's manipulative tactics and her attempt to use business for personal gain, Gu Zi Chen declared that any previous guilt he felt towards her had vanished, replaced by disdain.
He firmly stated that neither he, his father, nor their company would ever agree to such a transactional marriage. He Mei, infuriated, vowed not to forget his words before leaving. Zhao Mingyuan, worried about Su Nian Nian, discussed the situation with Song Yuxi and The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying. Song Yuxi defended Su Nian Nian's character, assuring them she would never use her classmates selfishly.
She then revealed that Su Nian Nian had secretly arranged for her father to send many taxi drivers to Zhao Mingyuan's repair shop to boost his business. Zhao Mingyuan was shocked, recalling the recent influx of customers who claimed to be "here because of your fame," and realizing it was Su Nian Nian's doing. Touched by her discreet kindness, he felt remorse for his previous self-pity and immediately wanted to help her.
His friends, including Yin Chuxia and Song Yuxi, agreed to support Su Nian Nian, but decided to stay out of the romantic entanglements between her, Gu Zi Chen, and He Mei, focusing instead on countering He Mei's bullying. Driven by his new understanding, Zhao Mingyuan, along with Chen Yuan and Zhu Cheng, forcefully gathered the reluctant students back into the classroom. Meanwhile, Su Nian Nian went to Mr. Jiang Mu, confessing the class strike and taking full responsibility.
She asked for her contract back. Despite being worried about the principal's reaction, Mr. Jiang Mu praised Su Nian Nian's growth as a class monitor and supported her decision to resolve the issue. Once all the students were reluctantly seated, Su Nian Nian stood before them. She apologized for not disclosing the contract, explaining that it was a confidentiality agreement. She candidly shared her initial despair at joining Qun Ying and her desire to re-study.
However, she confessed that through her interactions with them, she had fallen in love with the Mechanical Class II and the university, forgetting all about her plans to re-study. To demonstrate her sincerity and her genuine commitment to them, she dramatically tore up her contract in front of everyone, earning enthusiastic applause. Mr. Jiang Mu then urged the class to unite and refocus on their academic projects.
Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen's parents, Mei Lin and Gu Wei Ye, were embroiled in a heated argument over recent events, leading Mei Lin to move into a hotel. Gu Zi Chen visited his mother, attempting to persuade her to return home. He explained that the misunderstanding about Su Nian Nian being his father's daughter had been resolved.
However, Mei Lin admitted her reluctance to reconcile, still hurt by Gu Wei Ye secretly keeping and crying over pictures of another woman, Aunt Xiao Ru. Gu Zi Chen attributed her anger to jealousy and urged her to trust his father more, emphasizing the importance of family harmony.
When she remained stubborn, Gu Zi Chen resorted to reverse psychology, dramatically suggesting she divorce his father and that Gu Wei Ye, who he claimed was sick and crying for her to return, deserved to live alone while Mei Lin took control of Hao Cheng, a company saved by her own father. This tactic worked, prompting Mei Lin to defend Gu Wei Ye and reveal her true feelings.
She then asked for time to process everything, specifically her difficulty accepting Su Nian Nian into their family. Su Nian Nian, after her identity crisis, apologized to her father, Su Dazhi, for having secretly rummaged through his belongings and for doubting if she was his biological daughter. She told him she now understood his good intentions for opposing her repeating school, as it was out of concern for her health.
Su Dazhi expressed his relief that his daughter was no longer upset and was glad he wouldn't have to tell her about the car accident from that year. Su Nian Nian also mentioned that Gu Wei Ye was sponsoring their current competition, reinforcing her commitment to doing well, and proudly told him about tearing up her contract with QYU, which Su Dazhi wholeheartedly supported, as long as she was happy.
When Su Nian Nian tried to ask about her birth mother's death, Su Dazhi avoided the topic, stating that medical science wasn't advanced enough for a confirmed diagnosis back then and that he didn't wish to dwell on it, indicating it was a painful memory. Later, at a noodle shop, Zhao Mingyuan was surprised to find his younger sister, Xiao Jia, eating with his good friend, Ye Xing Yu.
Neither had realized the other's connection to Zhao Mingyuan, as Ye Xing Yu had been tutoring Xiao Jia. Touched by Ye Xing Yu's kindness, Zhao Mingyuan tried to treat him to a celebratory meal. However, Ye Xing Yu, understanding Zhao Mingyuan's financial situation, suggested they postpone the big meal until Xiao Jia successfully got into a key junior high school. The three of them then happily enjoyed their noodles together.
Episode 31 Recap
Gu Zi Chen’s mother spoke to him, explaining that her previous emotional outbursts were fueled by her deep concern for his future. She wanted him to make wise choices in his career, studies, love life, and in starting a family, fearing he might stray from the right path. Gu Zi Chen acknowledged her understanding, and his mother then gently advised him to reflect on how to win someone over.
Soon after, Gu Zi Chen approached Su Nian Nian, urging her to come with him. Despite her resistance and question of "Why would I?" , he led her to a cafe, proposing they have a serious conversation. Su Nian Nian initially stated there was nothing left to discuss and asked him to stop with the "nonsense" if he desired peace between them.
Gu Zi Chen, however, argued that their connection had always been special and questioned if they could genuinely become strangers. When prompted, he revealed that He Mei was responsible for the recent misunderstandings and asked Su Nian Nian to reconcile now that the truth was out. Su Nian Nian was hesitant, doubting if there was still a chance, and pointed out that his mother's acceptance was not guaranteed, despite their fathers being friends.
She asked if he would pursue a relationship that wasn't approved of. Gu Zi Chen declared that his relationship didn't require anyone's blessing and confessed that he had been in "very painful" recently, implying he couldn't let go of her. He pleaded for another chance, expressing his reluctance to experience the pain of losing her again. Su Nian Nian admitted her own desire not to lose him again.
Hearing this, Gu Zi Chen urged her to give them both another chance and to believe in him once more, leading to their heartfelt reconciliation. Back in class, Gu Zi Chen made a triumphant announcement: he and Su Nian Nian were officially back together. When questioned about his recent public displays of affection with He Mei, he dismissed the queries, stating it was none of their business.
He then revealed that, at his request, He Mei had "put on a show" for him, admitting it was childish but thanking her for her help. He Mei, attempting to appear gracious, responded that she was happy to help as they were all friends, but couldn't resist a passive-aggressive remark, warning them, "show off your love, and soon you'll die."
Other students noted her jealousy and criticized Gu Zi Chen's arrogance, suggesting Su Nian Nian would be better off with Xing Yu. Mr. Jiang Mu intervened, restoring order and urging everyone to focus on their studies. Gu Zi Chen then apologized for any trouble caused and offered to treat the entire class to dinner.
Amidst the classroom buzz, He Mei approached Su Nian Nian privately, delivering a bombshell: she claimed Su Nian Nian’s mother’s death was linked to Gu Zi Chen's father, Gu Wei Ye. He Mei questioned how Su Nian Nian could remain with Gu Zi Chen while honoring her mother's memory. Furious, Su Nian Nian accused He Mei of being "crazy."
Outside, He Mei pressed her claim, asserting that "even Heaven doesn't give you two their blessing," and cited overhearing Su Nian Nian's father discuss Gu Wei Ye's involvement in her mother's death. Su Nian Nian fiercely refuted it, reiterating that her mother died from an illness, but He Mei insisted she verify the truth with her father. Gu Zi Chen tried to intervene, urging Su Nian Nian not to believe He Mei’s accusations.
Distraught, Su Nian Nian called her father, Su Dazhi, her voice filled with urgency. Upon arriving home, she immediately confronted him, demanding to know if her mother's death was indeed connected to Gu Zi Chen’s father. Su Dazhi, surprised, asked where she heard such information and attempted to sidestep the topic, suggesting they should not disturb her mother’s peace. Su Nian Nian, asserting her right as an adult to know the truth, pressed him further.
Su Dazhi expressed his reluctance for the past generation's grudges to affect his daughter's life. When Su Nian Nian directly asked for confirmation about Gu Zi Chen's father's involvement, Su Dazhi remained silent, implicitly confirming her fears. He advised her against dwelling on the past, prioritizing her happiness, but Su Nian Nian insisted she couldn't be happy without knowing the truth, preferring to hear it from him rather than from others.
She repeated her direct question about Gu Zi Chen's father's involvement, but Su Dazhi stayed silent. Meanwhile, Gu Zi Chen confronted He Mei, demanding she tell him the truth. He Mei provocatively told him to ask his own father, confidently stating he wouldn't believe her anyway, and daring him to retaliate if she was lying. Gu Zi Chen immediately called his father, Gu Wei Ye, asking directly about Tang Xiao Ru's death.
Gu Wei Ye confessed that Xiao Ru's death was indeed connected to him, explicitly stating she wouldn't have died if it weren't for him, and that this was the reason for his argument with Gu Zi Chen's mother. Armed with the truth, Gu Zi Chen angrily confronted He Mei again, questioning why she hadn't revealed it sooner, causing Su Nian Nian such distress.
He Mei, irritated by his singular focus on Su Nian Nian, retorted that she wouldn't have bothered if Su Nian Nian hadn't meddled. She defiantly declared that if she couldn't have Gu Zi Chen, no one else would. Gu Zi Chen, his patience exhausted, expressed profound disgust, stating that while he once felt a sense of obligation due to their families’ ties, her current behavior made her "truly hateful." Enraged, He Mei threatened to make him pay for his words.
Feeling responsible for reopening old wounds, Su Nian Nian apologized to her father. He gently reassured her, expressing his wish for past grievances not to burden her. He spoke highly of Gu Zi Chen, suggesting he might be a blessing sent by her mother, and expressed his desire for their happiness. However, Su Nian Nian felt she couldn't fully embrace a relationship with Gu Zi Chen, knowing the truth about their parents' past.
She also anticipated disapproval from his family and feared He Mei's potential gossip would bring shame upon her parents, reiterating her desire for her parents not to be "criticized behind their backs again." Gu Zi Chen offered to resolve the issue with He Mei, even begging her if necessary, but Su Nian Nian remained steadfast in her conviction. Respecting her decision, Gu Zi Chen agreed not to pressure her for an immediate answer but vowed to wait for her.
Su Nian Nian then left for class. Later, Gu Zi Chen's mother, Mei Lin, approached him, still trying to dissuade him from Su Nian Nian, citing the intertwined business interests between his father and He Mei's father. Gu Zi Chen questioned if he was merely a "bargaining chip" in their dealings and expressed his unhappiness with being forced into a relationship.
He articulated his genuine affection for Su Nian Nian, explaining that being with her brought him "ease," "relaxation," and "happiness," unlike the constrained nature of his parents' own marriage. Mei Lin, touched by his sincerity, conceded that his happiness was paramount to her. Elsewhere, Gu Wei Ye was in a business meeting with He Mei's father, discussing an urgent investment for his company, Hao Cheng. He Mei called her father, crying hysterically about Gu Zi Chen's rejection and public humiliation.
Her father, prioritizing his daughter's distress, abruptly ended the crucial meeting, assuring He Mei he would handle everything. Gu Wei Ye's assistant was baffled by the sudden departure, but Gu Wei Ye shrewdly deduced that the situation regarding their business deal had likely changed. Gu Wei Ye later visited Mei Lin, who immediately warned him not to try to persuade her to return home. He apologized, stating he merely wanted to see her.
He confided that he had been unable to sleep, reflecting on their shared past – the frantic joy of Zi Chen's birth, Mei Lin's protective measures when Zi Chen learned to walk, and the simple happiness in their small apartment. Mei Lin bitterly retorted that she might have been happier if she hadn't married him. Gu Wei Ye admitted his shortcomings as a husband and acknowledged her numerous sacrifices for the family.
He genuinely apologized, expressing remorse for his past actions. Mei Lin retorted that his words were hollow after "twenty-some years," feeling reduced to "someone else's replacement." Gu Wei Ye denied this, claiming he would have forgotten "that person" had he not seen Su Nian Nian. Mei Lin, unconvinced, pointed to his continued possession of "that person's" photograph. Gu Wei Ye conceded his failure as a husband and pleaded for another chance to make amends.
Mei Lin, however, refused any "compensation" and declared her intention to break up. Gu Wei Ye urged her not to be impulsive and suggested they both take time to cool down. Mei Lin then left. The "Knowledge Pouch" project continued to gather momentum. During a discussion, students celebrated their initial progress and deliberated on the model's design.
Su Nian Nian clarified that the current model was merely an external shell, and the true power lay in the "kernel" and the programming that would bring it to life, emphasizing the need for collective effort. Gu Zi Chen, confident in his programming skills, was noted alongside Chen Yuan, who was praised as "QYU's master programmer." This sparked a friendly rivalry, with Gu Zi Chen challenging Chen Yuan to a programming match, which Chen Yuan readily accepted.
Meanwhile, Xiao Huang instructed his junior, Xiao Qiang, to capture scandalous photos, but was disappointed with the unexciting image Xiao Qiang provided. Undeterred, Xiao Huang fabricated a sensational headline claiming that Zhao Ming Yuan and Gu Zi Chen were feuding over Su Nian Nian, much to Su Nian Nian's annoyance. She criticized Xiao Huang's unethical pursuit of clicks, comparing him to "gum stuck to your shoes" or a persistent "toad."
When Song Yu Xi expressed concern about the rumor involving Zhao Ming Yuan, Su Nian Nian reassured her that the news was confined to QYU students and that people wouldn't believe Zhao Ming Yuan was involved, unlike if it were Ye Xing Yu. Song Yu Xi, taking offense, challenged Su Nian Nian's implication that Zhao Ming Yuan was "bad" or "didn't deserve her."
Su Nian Nian clarified that she meant Zhao Ming Yuan and herself were "not on the same path" but suggested Song Yu Xi and Zhao Ming Yuan were well-suited, similar to Song Yu Xi and Zhu Cheng. Su Nian Nian then urged Song Yu Xi to "discipline her childhood sweetheart" (Xiao Huang), predicting he'd cause societal disturbance if left unchecked. In the tech rivalry, Gu Zi Chen and Chen Yuan faced off in the lab.
Their challenge: to hack into Xiao Huang's computer and then his news application platform within a minute, aiming to teach him a lesson for his constant trouble-making. The duel was intense, with both demonstrating impressive speed. Though they seemed to finish almost simultaneously, Gu Zi Chen ultimately emerged victorious, having completed the task just 2. 68 seconds faster than Chen Yuan. Students praised both for their skill and acknowledged the much-needed lesson given to Xiao Huang.
To boost student morale after their hard work on the "Knowledge Pouch" project, Su Nian Nian proposed a class outing to Mr. Jiang Mu. He readily agreed, noting unused class funds from a previous fundraiser and the opportune timing to reward everyone. He envisioned a trip to a place with "ocean, a beach, and bonfire." Su Nian Nian happily agreed to notify the class. Seizing the opportunity, Mr. Jiang Mu then went to the infirmary to invite Dr. Jin.
Dr. Jin initially hesitated, questioning why she, not a class member, should join. Mr. Jiang Mu gently persuaded her, explaining that a school doctor would enhance safety and also mentioning a desire to thank her for her previous help with Ye Xing Yu's arm injury. Dr. Jin, after a moment of feigned indifference, eventually agreed, citing the need for a supervising teacher to ensure student safety. Mr. Jiang Mu was overjoyed, profusely thanking her.
Meanwhile, Gu Wei Ye and Su Dazhi met, and Gu Wei Ye brought up his lingering guilt over Xiao Ru's death, expressing concern it might affect their children. Su Dazhi reassured him, stating he wouldn't object to Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen being together if they agreed. Gu Wei Ye was relieved, though still felt awkward discussing the children's relationship.
Su Dazhi then revealed that Gu Zi Chen had once saved Su Nian Nian's life, surprising Gu Wei Ye, who saw it as fate and an atonement for his past. Su Dazhi proposed that as parents, they should respect their children's autonomy in their relationship, to which Gu Wei Ye readily agreed. Gu Wei Ye praised Gu Zi Chen and Nian Nian, also acknowledging Su Dazhi's struggles as a single parent.
He then offered Su Dazhi a position at his company. Su Dazhi politely declined, explaining his detachment from society, but affirmed their bond as brothers. They toasted to their renewed friendship. In their dorm, Song Yu Xi was buzzing with excitement for the upcoming beach trip, eagerly discussing swimsuits. Su Nian Nian teased her, pointing out the two-day wait. Song Yu Xi then tried to implicate Yin Chu Xia, claiming she was also impatient, evidenced by her holding a dress.
Yin Chu Xia denied it, but both Su Nian Nian and Song Yu Xi playfully urged her to try on the dress, curious to see her in it. Yin Chu Xia bashfully refused, insisting dresses didn't suit her and that she'd "scare everyone away." Song Yu Xi joked that it was fine as long as Zhao Ming Yuan stayed.
Episode 32 Recap
Feeling humiliated after Gu Zichen made her lose face in public, He Mei decided she could no longer stay at Qun Ying. She packed her belongings and called her father to pick her up, complaining bitterly that Gu Zichen had been ruthless and shamed her publicly despite all her efforts to win his heart.
Enraged by his daughter’s distress, Mr. He, who was coincidentally on his way to Hao Cheng Group to discuss an investment, immediately pulled out of the deal, asserting he would not tolerate Gu Zichen’s behavior towards his precious daughter. Gu Wei Ye, seeing Mr. He’s furious departure while on the phone, correctly surmised that the investment was lost. Gu Wei Ye later attempted to salvage the deal by meeting with Mr. He.
He explained that he preferred not to interfere with the children’s personal matters and that Gu Zichen already had a girlfriend at university, hoping these issues wouldn't affect their business relationship. However, Mr. He remained steadfast, stating his daughter’s hurt was unacceptable and the investment was off.
Back at the office, Secretary Liu, concerned about Hao Cheng Group's financial stability due to the sudden withdrawal of funds, suggested that Gu Zichen could make a temporary sacrifice by dating He Mei, emphasizing it wasn't a marriage. Gu Wei Ye was furious at the suggestion, firmly refusing to sacrifice his son's happiness or use his children's emotions as a bargaining chip, as he didn't want Gu Zichen to repeat the same path he himself had taken.
Secretary Liu also prepared flowers for Gu Wei Ye to give his wife, Mrs. Gu, after his unsuccessful meeting with Mr. He. Gu Wei Ye declined to deliver them, rebuking Secretary Liu for presuming his intentions and for implying he only thought of his family when things went wrong. Meanwhile, Xiao Huang was distraught after his computer crashed.
When his friends told him about Gu Zichen and Chen Yuan's speed typing match, he realized they were responsible for his computer's demise, as they wanted to teach him a lesson. He rushed to Gu Zichen’s dorm, begging him to fix it and tearfully promising to only post positive content in the future. Gu Zichen, wanting Xiao Huang to learn his lesson, politely turned him away.
Xiao Huang then sought help from Chen Yuan, who directed him back to Gu Zichen. Next, Xiao Huang approached Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi, pleading with Su Nian Nian to intercede for him. Both girls told him to reflect on his past habit of posting sensational and fabricated stories, even mentioning how he depicted them. Xiao Huang admitted his wrongs and swore to become a new man, promising to write only positive things.
They advised him to reflect and wait for news. Chen Yuan later counseled Gu Zichen to seize the upcoming class outing as an opportunity to reconcile with Su Nian Nian, remarking that "God sent Nian Nian down to vanquish" Gu Zichen for his past arrogance. Gu Zichen affirmed he would ensure Su Nian Nian wouldn't suffer and that his mother's acceptance was "almost settled."
He also revealed the ongoing cold war between his parents, which made it difficult to pressure Su Nian Nian at that moment, expressing concern for his lonely mother. Su Dazhi visited Su Nian Nian at the university, where Gu Zichen also met him. Gu Zichen apologized for missing Su Dazhi's birthday, explaining an unforeseen urgency. Su Dazhi, having heard about the situation, assured him it was not his fault, but rather a consequence of the previous generation's unresolved issues.
Gu Zichen shared that Su Nian Nian was still hesitant to reconcile because of his mother. Su Dazhi encouraged him to be understanding, believing Su Nian Nian would eventually come around, as she was a sensible child burdened by guilt towards her own mother. He then delivered the surprising news that Gu Wei Ye would not interfere in their relationship, which delighted Gu Zichen. Su Dazhi advised Gu Zichen to communicate more with Su Nian Nian during the upcoming outing.
The day for the Mechanical Class Two outing to the beach arrived. Before departure, Mr. Jiang Mu showed great enthusiasm, meticulously advising Dr. Jin on what to pack for a beach trip, including sunscreen and a parasol, to protect her beautiful skin. He even presented her with an "imported" gift, which turned out to be shampoo instead of sunscreen, much to Dr. Jin's amusement.
The students, including Yin Chuxia, Su Nian Nian, and Song Yuxi, noticed Mr. Jiang Mu's obvious affections for Dr. Jin and his romantic intentions for the beach trip. They discussed Dr. Jin's "playing hard to get" demeanor and decided to secretly act as matchmakers. On the morning of the outing, Mr. Jiang Mu eagerly waited for Dr. Jin, worried she might not show up. She arrived late, beautifully dressed, and he immediately helped her with her bags.
Their playful banter continued on the way, with Dr. Jin teasing him about being a proud counselor. During the outing, while everyone was enjoying themselves, Xiao Huang called Song Yuxi, reiterating his heartfelt apology and begging her to ask Gu Zichen to fix his computer. Song Yuxi and Su Nian Nian then spoke to Gu Zichen, who eventually agreed to repair Xiao Huang's computer once they returned. At the beach, Mr. Jiang Mu remained attentive to Dr. Jin.
When she slightly burned her finger during the barbecue preparations, he fussed over her, offering to blow on it, which she found both caring and overly dramatic. They chatted about his childhood ambition to lead an extraordinary life, and he playfully teased her about her age and admired her figure, leading to her playfully hitting him. The students couldn't help but notice their blossoming connection, commenting that they "glowed" together and were a "perfect match."
They vocally encouraged Dr. Jin not to let go of Mr. Jiang Mu and even playfully argued about who should pay for dinner, with Mr. Jiang Mu insisting on treating her. Later, Gu Zichen approached Su Nian Nian for a heartfelt conversation. He reassured her that his parents' issues would be resolved and his family would not fall apart. He explained that her father, Su Dazhi, supported their relationship and promised he would persuade his own mother to accept her.
Su Nian Nian, moved and reflecting on her father’s forgiveness of the past, concluded that she too should let go. She acknowledged that everything had passed and they should believe in a better tomorrow. Gu Zichen affirmed, "Everything that happened in the past, let's just treat it as a test from Heaven." He extended his hand, and Su Nian Nian, smiling, took it, sealing their reconciliation.
Zhu Cheng, in his persistent effort to win over Song Yuxi, tried to prevent her from wandering off alone. Song Yuxi, however, twisted her ankle. Zhu Cheng attempted to carry her but couldn't manage, causing her to get angry and accuse him of thinking she was fat.
She eventually accepted him, defending his perceived shortcomings by praising his ability to make her laugh and "ward off evil spirits," a declaration that impressed her friends, Su Nian Nian and Yin Chuxia, as a testament to true love. Meanwhile, Zhao Mingyuan continued to evade Yin Chuxia’s romantic overtures. He expressed gratitude for her help, but when directly asked if he admired or loved her, he chose "admire."
He cited his poor financial conditions, stating he didn't want to burden her or make her suffer, and insisted their relationship was purely "brotherly." Yin Chuxia, despite her efforts to explain that their bond was about his good character and shared dreams, reluctantly accepted his "brother" label. As he tried to leave, she cleverly feigned a leg cramp, forcing him to stay and help her to the barbecue.
Her friends, Chen Yuan and others, tried to persuade Zhao Mingyuan to let go of his insecurities and pursue Yin Chuxia, pointing out that she was clearly not materialistic. However, he remained steadfast, believing his family background made him unsuitable for a relationship.
As the outing continued, Chen Yuan revealed a secret to Su Nian Nian and her friends: he had discovered that Dr. Jin and Mr. Jiang Mu were already "online dating," with Mr. Jiang Mu using the username "A Lonely Fisherman By The Riverside." He proposed that they only needed to give them a slight push to formalize their relationship in real life.
Episode 33 Recap
As evening fell, the students gathered on the beach for a barbecue, happily skewering food together. Inside a room, Song Yuxi was meticulously applying makeup, wanting to look her best. Yin Chuxia and Su Nian Nian noticed her focus and teased her about her relationship with Zhu Cheng. Yin Chuxia then shared her own worries, feeling disheartened that despite her efforts, Zhao Mingyuan remained indifferent.
Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi advised Yin Chuxia, agreeing that Zhao Mingyuan's lack of initiative was due to Chuxia's tomboyish appearance, which lacked femininity. Song Yuxi even pointed out that Chuxia's hair was shorter than Zhao Mingyuan's, making him uninterested. Feeling dejected, Yin Chuxia wondered if she looked that bad. Su Nian Nian tried to comfort her, telling her not to listen to Song Yuxi's nonsense and that she looked good without makeup.
However, Song Yuxi persisted, suggesting that Chuxia's delicate features would be more appealing if she dressed up. After this conversation, Su Nian Nian and Song Yuxi left the room, leaving Yin Chuxia to ponder. Influenced by their words, Yin Chuxia secretly tried on a dress, put on a wig, and attempted to do her makeup like Song Yuxi. With everything ready, Yin Chuxia nervously appeared before Zhao Mingyuan.
However, Zhao Mingyuan was shocked by her appearance, asking what was wrong with her. The other students burst into laughter at Yin Chuxia's comical look. Deeply hurt by Zhao Mingyuan's reaction and the laughter, Yin Chuxia cried and ran back to the room. Su Nian Nian started to follow her to offer comfort, but Gu Zi Chen stopped her, implying that Zhao Mingyuan was the one Chuxia needed.
Zhu Cheng and others then scolded Zhao Mingyuan for his slow reaction and urged him to go after Yin Chuxia. A short while later, Zhao Mingyuan appeared outside the room, sincerely apologizing to Yin Chuxia. From inside, Yin Chuxia tearfully accused Zhao Mingyuan of being hurtful. She revealed that she had been constantly changing to suit his preferences but received no response. Listening to her, Zhao Mingyuan felt terrible and realized he hadn't been a true man.
He then confessed his feelings for Yin Chuxia, assuring her that he had always liked her, no matter how she looked. Overjoyed, Yin Chuxia eagerly opened the door and embraced him. Separately, Mr. Jiang confessed his feelings to Dr. Jin. He revealed himself as "Loner Knight," her online chat friend, thanking her for her warmth during his difficult times. Dr. Jin was surprised but, touched by his bravery, accepted his heartfelt proposal to take care of her for life.
Mr. Jiang also announced to the students that Ye Xing Yu's song had been signed by a record company, and everyone celebrated the good news and the relationships blooming on their trip. After the excursion, Mr. Jiang sent Dr. Jin home, leaving Su Nian Nian to dismiss the other students. Su Dazhi called Su Nian Nian, inviting her and Gu Zi Chen for dinner at home. Gu Zi Chen brought gifts when they visited.
Su Dazhi warmly welcomed Gu Zi Chen, expressing his gratitude for Zi Chen saving his daughter. He shared his belief that Zi Chen and Nian Nian's paths were destined to cross and that Nian Nian's late mother would have been happy about their relationship. During dinner, Gu Zi Chen directly asked Su Dazhi about the circumstances surrounding Nian Nian's mother's death and its connection to his own father.
Su Nian Nian, who had suffered amnesia from the accident, also wanted to know the truth. Su Dazhi explained that Nian Nian's mother died saving Su Nian Nian during a car accident, a truth he had kept from Nian Nian for years to spare her pain. He expressed his deepest wish for Nian Nian to live a safe and healthy life, and confirmed that both he and Nian Nian's late mother would approve of their relationship.
Gu Zi Chen promised Su Dazhi that he would always protect Su Nian Nian from any hardship and that he would convince his mother to accept her, emphasizing that he and Nian Nian would never separate. Meanwhile, He Mei visited Zi Chen's mother, who was living separately from Zi Chen's father.
He Mei complained about Su Nian Nian, stating her intention to leave Qun Ying University and her belief that Zi Chen would eventually realize she was the most suitable for him. Zi Chen's mother, however, explained that suitability was different from love and that she herself was separating from Zi Chen's father because he didn't truly love her. She cautioned He Mei against forcing a relationship.
He Mei then tried to use business as leverage, revealing that her father's investment in Hao Cheng was due to her affection for Zi Chen. She threatened that she could easily have it withdrawn, causing Gu's company to face ruin. Zi Chen's mother dismissed this, stating that emotions could not be bartered and that such actions would only make Zi Chen dislike her more. He Mei then sought out Ye Xing Yu, proposing a deal.
Knowing his feelings for Su Nian Nian, she offered him a large sum of money for his mother's medical expenses if he would work with her to break up Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen. Ye Xing Yu found her proposition pathetic, mocking her belief that money could buy love. He asserted that he didn't need her "filthy money" and suggested she keep it to find a doctor for her and her father's "brain problems."
Later, He Mei confronted Su Nian Nian at school. She mocked Nian Nian for having taken Gu Zi Chen to meet her parents and accused her of being manipulative. He Mei threatened to have her father withdraw his investment in Hao Cheng, which would lead to the Gu family's bankruptcy, if Su Nian Nian didn't leave Gu Zi Chen. Su Nian Nian remained unfazed, calling He Mei pathetic for trying to buy affection with money and attempting to sow discord.
Back in the dorm, Yin Chuxia was enthusiastically trying on various dresses, determined to embrace her feminine side. She proudly shared that Zhao Mingyuan had told her he loved her no matter what she looked like. The other students playfully commented on the drastic change in her, with Zhu Cheng remarking that he didn't know how to interact with the new, more feminine Chuxia. Zhao Mingyuan, however, instructed Zhu Cheng and others to treat her as their "sister-in-law." Song Yuxi offered Chuxia some "tricks" to spice up her relationship, such as playing hard to get, which Chuxia readily embraced.
Episode 34 Recap
Mr. He, from He's Group, visited Hao Cheng Group again, directly stating that he would immediately inject funds into Hao Cheng if Gu Zi Chen returned to his daughter, He Mei. He candidly admitted that his daughter was his "Achilles's heel" and insisted that the business collaboration was "inseparable" from their children's relationship. Gu Wei Ye, however, firmly opposed this proposition, believing that young people should make their own decisions in matters of the heart.
He also suggested that He Mei, being a well-educated young woman, surely had many other admirers, questioning Mr. He's insistence on Zi Chen. Despite this, Mr. He remained unyielding, explaining that he had earned enough money and his primary desire was his daughter's happiness; he "can't let her down." Gu Wei Ye retorted that emotions should not be used as a bargaining chip in business.
Mr. He then threatened to breach their contract if Gu Zi Chen did not comply, mentioning Hao Cheng's substantial initial investment and the potential for the project to fail and incur greater losses without the new funds. Nevertheless, Gu Wei Ye maintained his stance, asserting that he would never compromise his son's happiness for financial gain. Witnessing Gu Wei Ye's resolve, Mr. He ended the discussion and departed.
Later, Gu Wei Ye was tormented by the thought of his wife and son bearing the brunt of his business failures, as the company faced the imminent threat of bankruptcy and crippling debt. Overwhelmed, he went to the hotel where his wife, Mei Lin, was staying. Mei Lin had just finished packing her belongings, intending to return home. Gu Wei Ye confessed his previous stubbornness and expressed shame for making their maturing son, Zi Chen, worry about them.
He apologized to Mei Lin for failing to provide her and Zi Chen with a better life, acknowledging how much he had realized their importance during their separation. He then announced his considered decision to divorce, presenting a drafted agreement. He stipulated that Mei Lin and Zi Chen would keep all the family savings and the house, while he would only retain the company's management rights, effectively leaving with nothing.
Mei Lin, heartbroken and believing he no longer loved her, was initially shocked but then, in a fit of anger, signed the divorce papers and ordered him to leave immediately. Soon after, Gu Zi Chen learned about his parents' divorce from a distressed phone call with his mother. He immediately went to his father's office, demanding to know the real reason behind the sudden decision, especially when he and his mother were planning to reconcile.
Gu Wei Ye was evasive, stating it was a deeply considered choice and asking Zi Chen to understand, drawing a parallel to how he had respected Zi Chen's own romantic decisions. Gu Wei Ye then claimed that he and Mei Lin had lost their affection for each other, suggesting that since she now knew about his past, they could no longer cohabitate.
Gu Zi Chen, however, refused to believe his father's explanation and vowed to uncover the true circumstances behind the divorce. Meeting with Gu Zi Chen, Su Nian Nian suspected there was more to the story. She recounted how, after their last excursion, He Mei had threatened her, claiming that because Gu Zi Chen chose Su Nian Nian, He's Group had halted its cooperation with Gu's Group, potentially leading to Hao Cheng's bankruptcy.
Su Nian Nian wondered if this was the reason for his parents' divorce. Gu Zi Chen confirmed that He Mei had repeatedly used the investment issue to threaten him in the past, though he had dismissed them as mere angry words. He concluded that his father must be divorcing to protect their family, and that he should trust his father's decisions rather than question them.
Gu Zi Chen expressed admiration for his father's willingness to "give up everything" and "take up everything" for the woman he loves, proudly stating it was the "Gu family way." Feeling a pang of guilt, Su Nian Nian asked if she was "worth it," concerned about the potential impact on his family's business and his parents' marriage.
Gu Zi Chen reassured her, affirming that Hao Cheng's success was not reliant on any single company's cooperation and urged her to believe in them. Then, in a playful yet sincere tone, he asked if she would stay with him even if he were to become "miserable and poor" and "penniless." Su Nian Nian responded with a firm "No," emphatically nodding her head.
The group of thugs, led by Wang Zhi, who had previously caused trouble, found themselves in financial straits after being released from "the bureau." Wang Zhi attempted to extort money from Gu Zi Chen, reminding him of a past favor when he made a false statement to help Zhao Ming Yuan. Gu Zi Chen rejected the demand, instead offering them stable employment. When Wang Zhi's subordinate called Gu Zi Chen ungrateful, he retorted that they were acting like "robbers."
Wang Zhi left, telling Gu Zi Chen to "think about it." Soon after, He Mei approached Wang Zhi, noting his desperate financial situation and proposing a "cooperation." Later, Gu Zi Chen received a phone call from Wang Zhi, who claimed to have kidnapped his girlfriend and demanded three million RMB within half an hour, threatening to make her "disappear" if he tried any tricks. Panicked, Gu Zi Chen immediately tried to call Su Nian Nian, but her phone was off.
His friends also confirmed they had not seen her. Frantically, Gu Zi Chen contacted his mother, Mei Lin, urgently requesting three million RMB, stressing that it was a "matter of life and death" for a friend. Mei Lin could only secure just over one million RMB and then revealed that she had learned from Secretary Liu about Hao Cheng Group's dire crisis and potential bankruptcy, which she now understood was the true reason behind Gu Wei Ye's divorce.
She implored Zi Chen to prioritize helping his father with the company. However, Gu Zi Chen insisted on resolving this immediate "matter of life and death" first, promising to assist his father afterward. Mei Lin reluctantly agreed to help him gather the initial funds. Gu Zi Chen also instructed Secretary Liu not to inform his father about the money he was borrowing.
Wang Zhi then called again, setting the rendezvous point as the Industrial Zone of the East Suburb in an hour. Gu Zi Chen quickly informed Ye Xing Yu and their teacher, Mr. Jiang, about the kidnapping, specifically instructing them not to call the police to avoid endangering Su Nian Nian. However, Ye Xing Yu and Mr. Jiang, realizing the peril of the abandoned factory location, decided to alert the police themselves before heading to the scene.
Gu Zi Chen, having gathered the combined three million RMB from his mother and the company, arrived alone at the designated location by taxi. Wang Zhi, impressed by Gu Zi Chen's ability to procure the money, provocatively demanded he open the cash box. Gu Zi Chen insisted on seeing Su Nian Nian first. A thug threatened to "kill your girlfriend" if he didn't comply, prompting Gu Zi Chen to open the box, revealing the stacks of cash.
Seeing the money, Wang Zhi smirked and signaled for someone to come out. To Gu Zi Chen's astonishment and anger, He Mei slowly emerged from behind the thugs, a proud smirk on her face. She casually revealed that she had simply "spent some money to let them act with me," confident that his presence proved he still harbored feelings for her.
Enraged, Gu Zi Chen confronted her, questioning if she truly believed "money is everything" and that her wealth granted her the right to "order people" and "ignore people's feelings." He Mei coolly retorted that "it's good to be rich" and pointedly brought up his family's current financial struggles.
She then offered to call her father to provide funds to Gu Wei Ye, but Gu Zi Chen vehemently rejected her "charity," declaring that his only reason for coming to the desolate industrial zone was his belief that Su Nian Nian was in danger.
Episode 35 Recap
He Mei, having already paid Wang Zhi 100,000 to lure Gu Zi Chen, was surprised when Wang Zhi and his gang reappeared, now openly showing their greed for the three million Gu Zi Chen had brought. Wang Zhi's men discussed the potential repercussions if Gu Zi Chen reported them, but they quickly decided that in such a deserted area, they could get away with anything and no one would ever know.
Wang Zhi declared that if Gu Zi Chen was heartless, they would not hesitate to be unkind, and they all agreed to keep the matter a secret. Gu Zi Chen, who had initially told He Mei that his family did not need her charity and that he had only come for Su Nian Nian, sensed the situation escalating. He told He Mei to hide and bravely confronted Wang Zhi and his two men.
Despite his efforts, Gu Zi Chen was quickly overwhelmed and beaten with iron rods, falling to the ground. He Mei, terrified, cried out for Wang Zhi to stop, urging Gu Zi Chen to run and not to mind her. However, Wang Zhi retorted that he wouldn't let them go, scoffing at the idea of them reporting him to the police.
He then opened the box Gu Zi Chen had brought, expecting to find the three million, but discovered it was mostly filled with paper, not even reaching one million. Enraged, Wang Zhi accused Gu Zi Chen of tricking him, calling him a "phony" for pretending to be rich. A disoriented Gu Zi Chen mumbled that his family was already bankrupt and had no money. Terrified by the brutal beating, He Mei desperately offered to call her father for money.
Wang Zhi snatched her phone. He Mei, crying, told her father she had been kidnapped. Wang Zhi took over the call, demanding ten million in cash from Mr. He, threatening to make him see his daughter's dead body if he didn't comply. Gu Zi Chen, barely conscious, warned Wang Zhi that he was committing a serious crime and urged him to stop, suggesting they could pretend it was all a joke.
However, Wang Zhi, feeling cornered, blamed Gu Zi Chen and He Mei for his current predicament, claiming his own father had "cut him off" because of Gu Zi Chen and that He Mei had used him. Mr. He, hearing his daughter's distress, immediately prepared the cash and raced towards the remote suburban location. Meanwhile, back at school, news of Gu Zi Chen's plight spread quickly.
Mr. Jiang Mu, accompanied by Su Nian Nian and The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying—Zhao Mingyuan, Chen Yuan, and Zhu Cheng—rushed to the suburbs to find him. Su Nian Nian was distraught, blaming herself for her phone running out of battery, fearing for Gu Zi Chen's safety. Zhao Mingyuan also expressed his guilt, believing that Gu Zi Chen wouldn't be in this trouble if it weren't for him.
Mr. Jiang Mu reassured them, urging them to stop blaming themselves and to focus on finding Gu Zi Chen quickly. As they searched, they heard sounds of a struggle coming from a nearby factory. Zhao Mingyuan quickly called Mr. Jiang Mu to report the finding, and Mr. Jiang Mu cautioned them not to act rashly until he arrived. Upon reaching the factory, Mr. Jiang Mu shouted for the thugs to stop.
Zhao Mingyuan took on Wang Zhi, while Mr. Jiang Mu himself engaged the other two thugs. Displaying unexpected martial arts prowess, Mr. Jiang Mu effortlessly defeated his opponents using a ruler, impressing his students. He joked to the defeated thugs that they had no future as robbers and should consider joining Qun Ying University instead. As the fight concluded, Su Nian Nian and the others rushed to the injured Gu Zi Chen and He Mei.
Shortly after, Mr. He arrived on the scene, rushing to his daughter's side in tears. After Wang Zhi and his accomplices were subdued, ambulances arrived to transport the injured to the hospital. On the way, impressed by his fighting skills, the students praised their teacher.
Mr. Jiang Mu then revealed his own past as a "problem child" at Qun Ying, notorious as "QYU's Bane of Ghosts," before a dedicated teacher (their current principal) guided him onto the right path, even teaching him to dance. He expressed his pride in The Three Remarkable of Qun Ying for finding their own way. At the hospital, Gu Zi Chen's parents, having rushed there upon hearing about their son's severe injuries, kept a vigil by his bedside.
Gu Zi Chen's mother, initially upset, mistakenly blamed Su Nian Nian for the incident. However, Xing Yu quickly clarified that it was He Mei's doing, and Su Nian Nian had actually helped to rescue Gu Zi Chen. A police officer present also confirmed that Wang Zhi's statement implicated He Mei in the initial events.
Mr. He, though grateful to Mr. Jiang Mu and his students for saving his daughter, was informed that He Mei would need to provide a truthful statement to the police once she recovered. Gu Zi Chen's mother, realizing her mistake, apologized to Su Nian Nian. When He Mei regained consciousness, she was distressed, admitting she had made a terrible mistake and apologizing to Gu Zi Chen's parents. Her father took full responsibility for spoiling her.
Gu Zi Chen's parents, seeing her remorse, told her to surrender to the police for leniency, noting that Gu Zi Chen had risked his life to save her, implying his forgiveness. He Mei was then taken by the police for further questioning. Sometime later, Gu Zi Chen's parents reconciled, his father explaining that he and his mother were back together, thanks to Gu Zi Chen and his mother's efforts to delay their divorce.
Su Nian Nian visited Gu Zi Chen in his hospital room, sharing the exciting news that their "Knowledge Pouch" project had won first place in the first National College Students Science and Technology Competition and was now entering the production engineering phase. His parents left him in her care. Later, Gu Zi Chen finally woke up but suffered temporary amnesia.
He recognized Xing Yu but was confused about Su Nian Nian and his other classmates, even remarking rudely about Nian Nian's appearance and questioning how he could possibly have such a girlfriend. At a school assembly, Mr. Jiang Mu first celebrated Xing Yu's rise to stardom and then dramatically announced the class's triumph in the national competition. He announced a commendation ceremony for which they would prepare three performances.
Most importantly, he declared that the entire class's mission for the next half-month would be to help Gu Zi Chen regain his memory, asking for their full confidence. Gu Zi Chen, still bewildered, turned to Xing Yu, asking if he truly knew all these people and if he really remembered nothing.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
During Gu Zi Chen's hospitalization, Mr. Jiang Mu brought good news to the class: their "Wisdom Pouch" project had won first prize in the National College Student Scientific Competition, and a company would later take over its refinement and production. The students rejoiced, but Mr. Jiang Mu also reminded them that they needed to prepare three programs for an upcoming recognition conference in two weeks and, more importantly, they needed to help Gu Zi Chen regain his memory.
Gu Zi Chen, still suffering from amnesia, expressed his disbelief to Ye Xing Yu, questioning if he truly knew these people and stating that he remembered nothing. Su Nian Nian dedicated her time to caring for Gu Zi Chen while he was in a coma, a fact that deeply moved his mother, who gradually began to accept Su Nian Nian.
One day, as his classmates gathered around his bed, sharing happy memories in hopes of waking him, Gu Zi Chen's hand unexpectedly moved. Su Nian Nian immediately called for a doctor. Soon after, Gu Zi Chen regained consciousness and even called out Ye Xing Yu's name.
However, he ignored Su Nian Nian and even asked her name, revealing that his brain injury had erased his memories of his time at Qun Ying University, reverting him to his initial, more detached self. The classmates tried to recreate Gu Zi Chen's first day in class, hoping to jog his memory, but he remained unresponsive.
Despite many telling him that Su Nian Nian was his girlfriend, he couldn't recall anything, finding the people at Qun Ying University peculiar and expressing a preference to return to the United States. Later, Gu Zi Chen informed his mother of his intention to go back to America. His mother reacted strongly, reminding him that he had once been willing to cut ties with her to be with Su Nian Nian, only to now deny knowing her.
She recounted how Su Nian Nian meticulously cared for him in the hospital, from washing his face to trimming his nails. Gu Zi Chen, puzzled, questioned why his mother, who once had such high standards for a daughter-in-law, would now accept Su Nian Nian, who didn't meet those criteria. His mother admitted her previous dislike but explained she had realized her mistake, emphasizing Su Nian Nian’s good qualities and urging Gu Zi Chen not to hurt or disappoint her.
She eventually conceded that she would not pressure him regarding Su Nian Nian if he agreed to stay and continue his studies at Qun Ying University. Determined to help Gu Zi Chen recover, Su Nian Nian was willing to try any method. Ye Xing Yu, also keen on helping, approached Su Nian Nian with a plan to stimulate Gu Zi Chen's memory by having her pretend to be locked in the equipment room, echoing a past incident.
Su Nian Nian was hesitant, fearing Gu Zi Chen wouldn't believe it, but Ye Xing Yu insisted, assuring her that if he came, it would prove his feelings for her. Su Nian Nian called Gu Zi Chen, feigning distress, and he rushed to the school. As she waited in the dark room, Ye Xing Yu spoke from outside, expressing his long-standing admiration for her since high school and her inspiring bravery at Qun Ying.
Gu Zi Chen soon arrived and rescued her, but he remained cold, accusing them all of treating him like a fool and questioning if they found it amusing. Gu Zi Chen found himself wrestling with internal conflict. He realized that Ye Xing Yu harbored feelings for Su Nian Nian, and he felt that pursuing a relationship with Su Nian Nian would deeply hurt his friend. This belief fueled his detachment towards Su Nian Nian's attempts to help him.
Ye Xing Yu later apologized for the prank, and Gu Zi Chen, showing a flicker of curiosity, asked him to recount what had happened during his period of amnesia. Later, Gu Zi Chen found himself drawn to the school lake, though he couldn't explain why. He told Su Nian Nian that he sensed Ye Xing Yu cared for her deeply and hoped they would get together.
He thanked her for her care during his recovery and reiterated his intention to return to America. Desperate, Su Nian Nian reminded him of their past argument at that very spot, where she had fallen into the lake and he had saved her. She questioned if he truly remembered nothing. In a last-ditch effort, and despite being unable to swim, Su Nian Nian threw herself into the water. Gu Zi Chen, witnessing her leap, immediately jumped in after her.
As he pulled her out, the memories of their past, like a film, flashed through his mind. Gu Zi Chen looked at Su Nian Nian and, with deep emotion, declared that he remembered everything, embracing her as she shed tears of joy. Xiao Huang and Xiao Qiang, now operating a school news outlet focused on positive energy, reported on Su Nian Nian and Gu Zi Chen's reconciliation, celebrating Gu Zi Chen's memory recovery.
Gu Zi Chen later thanked his classmates and Mr. Jiang Mu for their help, expressing gratitude for meeting them. Mr. Jiang Mu announced that Qun Ying University was undergoing a revitalization, with over a hundred new students expected next semester. The school then held a grand recognition conference. During the event, Mr. Jiang Mu discreetly informed the Principal that Dr. Jin Yun was pregnant.
The Principal praised his efficiency, but Mr. Jiang Mu clarified that he and Dr. Jin Yun had actually gotten their marriage certificate earlier, keeping it a secret to surprise everyone at their wedding. He asked the Principal to be their wedding witness. The Principal then addressed the students, praising Mechanical Class II for winning the national scientific competition with their "Wisdom Pouch," announcing that the product would be commercially launched during the summer break.
Following this, Ye Xing Yu performed an original song, dedicating it to his classmates and teachers, expressing his appreciation for their time together and the beautiful memories created. His performance cemented his status as a popular star. Reflecting on their journey, Su Nian Nian confessed to Gu Zi Chen her initial disdain for Qun Ying University and its students, whom she once perceived as directionless.
Now, she realized each person possessed unique strengths and passions, from mechanics to computers, and she genuinely loved them all. She then confessed that the person she once disliked the most upon arriving at Qun Ying was now the person she loved most, and who loved her most—Gu Zi Chen. He affirmed her words, affectionately calling her "My Highness, Class Monitor."
Meanwhile, other couples like Zhao Ming Yuan and Yin Chuxia, and Song Yuxi and Zhu Cheng, also found happiness, with Song Yuxi even celebrating the birth of baby mice in their care.
