Jiang Shen is seven years old and hasn’t started school yet, helping his family with farm work.

He lives in a village near a county where children often start school at eight or nine, after running wild like "unrestrained dogs."

The Jiang family is poor and only has Jiang Shen, in contrast to other families in the village.

Jiang Shen's mother, Tan Lingling, wants to send him to school in the city, but his father, Jiang Luoshan, is hesitant because they need his help during harvest.

Jiang Luoshan catches Jiang Shen reading a comic book before bed, warns him not to let his mother see it, and tells him to sleep.

Early the next morning, Jiang Shen helps his mother deliver vegetables to the city, despite being sleepy and shivering from the cold water he used to wash up.

On the bus to the city, Tan Lingling gives Jiang Shen some White Rabbit milk candy and tells him not to fall asleep.

At the city’s Children’s Center, Tan Lingling sells vegetables to teachers while Jiang Shen waits, fascinated by the sight of little girls practicing dance.

He becomes entranced watching two girls spin in their Chinese-styled dance gowns during a practice session.

Tan Lingling teases Jiang Shen, saying that the little girls work hard, but Jiang Shen misunderstands and wonders if he is the one working hard.

The dance teacher, Miss Lin, notices him watching and engages with him, encouraging him to try stretches, much to his embarrassment.

Miss Lin is impressed by how flexible and obedient Jiang Shen is during the stretches.

Afterward, Miss Lin talks with Tan Lingling while Jiang Shen watches the dancers, feeling slightly embarrassed when one girl hides from his gaze.

On the way home, Tan Lingling buys more candy and seems to be considering something, eventually asking Jiang Shen if he wants to learn to dance.

Jiang Shen doesn’t give a clear answer, but the mention of daily leg stretches makes him hesitant.

Back at the village, Jiang Shen returns the comic book he had rented and tells the bookstore owner that he won’t be renting any more because he’s going to start learning to dance.

The old man is amused, saying dancing is for little girls but gives Jiang Shen a worn-out book with illustrations of dance poses as a gift.

When Jiang Shen returns home, he sees his parents talking, with his father looking disapproving, so he sneaks away to the fields instead of confronting them.

Jiang Shen meets his neighbor Goumao, who is planting seeds and asks about Qingling, Goumao’s younger sister, who went to the city to learn how to draw.

Jiang Shen is too shy to tell Goumao that he wants to learn to dance.

Goumao invites Jiang Shen to join him and other boys in searching for wild chicken and duck eggs, suggesting they compete with the older boys to win Shubao’s new phone for the semester.

Jiang Shen is not interested in owning a phone and prefers reading Doraemon comic books during his free time.

Despite not attending school in the city, he can read simple comics due to learning vocabulary in preschool.

Goumao and other older boys treasure phones; they envy Shubao, whose wealthy family bought him one.

The village children organize an egg-hunting game, a pastime they've enjoyed since they were young.

Jiang Shen, being the youngest, is assigned as the referee and waits at the edge of the woods with two bags.

Motivated by the chance to win Shubao's phone, Goumao aggressively hunts for eggs, even stealing them directly from chickens.

A large, colorful wild chicken chases Goumao after he steals its eggs, pecking at his head as he runs.

Jiang Shen also runs away when Goumao heads toward him with the angry chicken in pursuit.

Despite the chicken's persistent attacks, Goumao refuses to return the eggs.

The chicken continues to follow Goumao, pecking his head periodically and causing him to lose some hair.

Jiang Shen considers telling Goumao that it's not worth getting hurt over a phone but decides against it.

Shubao emerges from the woods and is shocked by the chicken; he jokes that Goumao should raise it.

Goumao, ecstatic about winning the phone, contemplates killing and eating the chicken.

Jiang Shen reminds him that wild animals are protected and shouldn't be eaten.

Goumao ties a willow branch around the chicken's neck, effectively leashing it, and decides to let his sister Qingling-zi raise it.

He gives the bag of eggs to Jiang Shen and suggests they eat them at Jiang Shen's house that evening.

The boys and the chicken hitch a ride home on a passing tractor, getting covered in dust along the way.

Jiang Shen worries about his mother's reaction to his dirty clothes.

Upon arrival, Jiang Shen's father, Jiang Luoshan, is already out looking for them but doesn't scold them.

At home, the boys shower while the chicken settles into its new coop, cared for by Tan Lingling.

Tan Lingling scolds the boys for their mischief; Goumao admits that he and Shubao were responsible.

She mentions that Qingling-zi had been waiting for Jiang Shen earlier.

Goumao uses his new phone to call Qingling-zi to join them.

Qingling-zi arrives wearing a new dress and carrying a drawing board; she greets Jiang Shen warmly.

She shows Jiang Shen her new drawing titled "Busy Spring"; he compliments it, making her happy.

Goumao tries to look at the drawing but is pushed away by Qingling-zi.

They argue about the cost of her paints and his shoes, revealing she used his allowance to buy paints after secretly buying him new shoes.

After Qingling-zi leaves, Shubao teases Goumao about doting on his sister.

Goumao complains about how expensive her paints are and how he had to earn money to pay for them.

The wild chicken starts screeching again, scaring Goumao, who fears it recognizes him and will continue pecking him.

The boys joke about the chicken; Shubao mocks Goumao for being afraid.

The next day, Jiang Shen helps his father with tilling and seeding the fields using their old, inefficient machine.

Jiang Shen fixes areas not properly tilled by the machine, working hard and getting his shoes muddy.

Jiang Luoshan notices and cleans Jiang Shen's shoes, asking if he's tired.

Jiang Luoshan informs Jiang Shen that they've arranged for him to start school in September, entering the third-year class.

Aware of his family's financial struggles, Jiang Shen is hesitant about the news.

Jiang Luoshan brings up that Jiang Shen wants to learn to dance.

Jiang Shen quietly admits that he does want to learn to dance.

Jiang Luoshan jokingly says Jiang Shen can't read comic books anymore and must save his allowance for dance lessons.

Remembering this, Jiang Shen hands over his deposit from returning the comic book to his father, promising not to read comics anymore.

Moved by his son's gesture, Jiang Luoshan tells Jiang Shen to ask his mother to buy him a new pair of shoes when they go to the city the next day.

Jiang Shen prepares for a trip to the city with his mother, Tan Lingling, who dresses them both in their good clothes, usually reserved for special occasions.

Tan Lingling comments on how quickly Jiang Shen is growing out of his clothes and shoes, while Jiang Shen innocently suggests adjusting the old ones.

Jiang Shen interacts with the family's wild chicken, Tony, and tells it they're going out.

Tan Lingling and Jiang Shen take the bus to the city, and the driver, recognizing them, offers them a chance to rest during the trip.

Tan Lingling explains they are going to the city to visit Jiang Shen’s new school, as he’ll start in September.

Jiang Shen is happy to hear that he’ll be in the same class as Chen Qingling and can go to school with her.

After arriving in the city, Tan Lingling first buys two cartons of cigarettes, wrapping them carefully, as a gift for the school.

The school is not top-tier but has a primary, middle, and high school, making it convenient for students to stay within the system, and it was affordable for the Jiang family.

Tan Lingling thanks the school management in person, feeling it’s important to maintain relationships, and leaves Jiang Shen to explore the campus.

Jiang Shen happily explores classrooms, playing around like a child, while Tan Lingling eventually finds him using the school’s broadcast system.

After the school visit, they head to the Children’s Center, where Miss Lin, Jiang Shen’s dance teacher, warmly greets them.

Miss Lin lends Jiang Shen a pair of ballet shoes, which fit well, though he struggles to tie the ribbons.

Miss Lin helps Jiang Shen with stretching exercises, including backbends and splits, praising his flexibility and encouraging him to practice daily.

Jiang Shen feels shy when he notices his pants stretched tightly during the splits, prompting his mother, Tan Lingling, to laugh.

Miss Lin lets Jiang Shen keep the ballet shoes, suggesting they swap the ribbons so he can wear them longer.

On the way home, Jiang Shen clutches the ballet shoes in his sleep, waking up to Tan Lingling gently teasing him about his sore legs.

When they return home, Jiang Luoshan has prepared dinner, and the wild chicken, Tony, greets them by flapping its wings.

After dinner, Goumao arrives to invite Jiang Shen to catch birds, and Jiang Luoshan sends him off to play.

While chatting with her husband, Tan Lingling repairs the ribbons on Jiang Shen’s ballet shoes.

Tan Lingling and Jiang Luoshan discuss the family's finances, with Tan Lingling worrying about their outdated planting machine and Jiang Luoshan reassuring her they’ll manage.

Tan Lingling talks about Jiang Shen’s enjoyment of dance, though Jiang Luoshan finds it curious that their son likes dancing despite being a boy.

Tan Lingling dismisses the concern, saying times have changed, and fantasizes about their son becoming a great dancer.

The couple shares a lighthearted moment, enjoying each other's company while preparing for the challenges ahead.

By April and May, the weather warms up quickly after a few rainfalls, and the village is covered in greenery.

Goumao, excited about his new scooter, offers to drive Jiang Shen home every weekend.

While Jiang Shen is planting shoots in the field, Goumao offers to help but is stopped by Jiang Shen, worried his father will scold them.

Goumao suggests borrowing Shubao’s seeding machine, recalling that Jiang Shen’s father has borrowed it in the past when his back was bad.

Two years ago, Miao Hua’er (Goumao’s mother) and Tan Lingling had a falling out after Miao Hua’er bad-mouthed Shubao’s mother, Li Zhuo, during a card game. Tan Lingling defended Li Zhuo, leading to tensions between the two families.

Despite the argument, Miao Hua’er regrets it but struggles with pride, especially after returning the borrowed seeding machine.

Miao Hua’er decides to visit the Jiang family in an attempt to mend the situation and bring the seeding machine.

Upon arriving at the Jiang’s home, Miao Hua’er is surprised to find Li Zhuo already there, offering to lend her small seeding machine.

Miao Hua’er awkwardly agrees to lend her larger seeding machine to help both families, feeling flustered by Li Zhuo’s polite and refined demeanor.

The women laugh and joke, mending their strained relationships.

Jiang Shen arrives home, greets the women, and hurriedly prepares to go to his dance class with ballet shoes hanging around his neck.

Jiang Shen sprints through the village, catching a bus to the city just in time.

At the Children’s Center, Jiang Shen is the only boy in a class of around a dozen girls. He feels shy but begins his warmups, including backbends and splits.

A girl takes notice of Jiang Shen’s flexibility and helps him press his back down during a split, drawing the attention of all the other girls, who are surprised by how flexible he is.

The girls compare him to the boys in a nearby boxing gym and take Jiang Shen over to see them. The boys, lined up for their training, don’t notice the girls at first.

One boy from the boxing class finally looks over, but the girls quickly duck, gushing about how fierce and dirty they think the boys are, contrasting them with Jiang Shen's clean and flexible nature.

Bai Jinyi, a serious-looking boy with upturned eyes, is distracted in his boxing class, looking at the dance studio next door. His coach scolds him, and other boys mock him, but Bai Jinyi ignores them and focuses on wrapping his hands.

The girls in Jiang Shen’s dance class, including Song Xin, gather around Miss Lin, who mentions that Jiang Shen could dance Sleeping Beauty or The Moon’s Reflection on the Second Spring.

Jiang Shen nervously joins the class and follows Song Xin’s lead, with Miss Lin correcting his posture. He tries his best to hold the correct position, impressing Miss Lin.

After class, Jiang Shen stays behind to practice, writing down the names of the dances in his notebook. Miss Lin offers to bring her computer to show him the dances next time, and he is excited.

While cleaning the studio with Song Xin, Jiang Shen encounters Bai Jinyi from the boxing gym. Bai Jinyi seems cold but shields Jiang Shen from teasing when other boys call out to him.

Jiang Shen runs off, unsure of how to thank Bai Jinyi, and later tells Song Xin about the encounter. She recognizes Bai Jinyi as the fierce boy from the international school and warns Jiang Shen to ignore him in the future.

Exhausted, Jiang Shen catches the last bus home, almost falling asleep on the way. At home, he quickly eats dinner, eager to return to the bookstore to read more about the dances.

Jiang Shen arrives at the village bookstore, where the old man, familiar with him, retrieves a book titled The Complete Series of China’s Ballets and Operas.

While Jiang Shen prepares to read, Goumao shows up, making it difficult for Jiang Shen to leave or focus on his ballet studies. Reluctantly, Jiang Shen invites Goumao to the bookstore.

Goumao greets the old man, who becomes angry, reminding Goumao about the books he still owes him.

Jiang Shen begins reading the ballet book while hiding it behind a comic book to avoid drawing Goumao's attention. As he reads, he becomes emotional, sniffling and tearing up over the content.

The old man silently observes Jiang Shen, adjusting the lamp to provide better light, smiling as he watches the boy engrossed in his book.

Jiang Shen wakes up with swollen eyes after a night of sadness, and Tan Lingling helps him reduce the swelling with a damp cloth and a boiled egg, which he later eats.

Tan Lingling informs Jiang Shen that they borrowed a seeding machine from Auntie Hua’er, relieving his concern about his father’s back.

With no farm work to do, Jiang Shen spends the morning practicing his dance stretches at home. He attempts to go en pointe but experiences intense pain, which he hides from his mother.

Goumao arrives, chased by Tony the chicken, and urges Jiang Shen to visit their family’s seeding machine. Jiang Shen brushes off the offer, focused on his sore toes.

Goumao notices that Jiang Shen’s toe is bleeding from his failed attempt at going en pointe. He helps Jiang Shen clip his toenails and lightens the mood by joking about his family dynamics.

After lunch, Jiang Shen prepares for dance class, bringing his shoes and snacks, and exchanges a playful moment with the old man at the bookstore before heading for the bus.

At the dance studio, the girls comment on Jiang Shen’s tanned skin and attempt to apply makeup on him, including lipstick and a red dot between his brows.

Miss Lin finds them and instructs Jiang Shen to wash off the makeup. Jiang Shen is unfamiliar with makeup remover but follows her directions.

In the washroom, Jiang Shen encounters Bai Jinyi, who mocks him for having makeup on his face. Despite this, Bai Jinyi helps Jiang Shen remove the makeup by directing him where to wipe.

Bai Jinyi eventually takes control, snapping a candid photo of Jiang Shen’s smeared face, then impatiently cleans off the rest of the makeup for him. Jiang Shen feels reluctant but doesn’t stop him.

Bai Jinyi helps Jiang Shen remove the makeup from his face, but finds Jiang Shen's giggling at the ticklish sensation amusing and scolds him for being delicate.

After cleaning his face, Jiang Shen asks Bai Jinyi if it looks clean. Bai Jinyi playfully pushes Jiang Shen's face with his boxing glove before letting him finish washing.

The two boys realize they are both traditionally nine years old. Bai Jinyi, though initially intimidating, shows a friendly side, and they walk back to their respective studios together.

Bai Jinyi seems curious about Jiang Shen's ballet shoes, asking if they hurt his feet, to which Jiang Shen explains he got used to the discomfort over time.

As they reach the boxing gym, an older boy, Lai Song, notices Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi together. Lai Song is this year's youth boxing champion and warns Jiang Shen not to provoke him.

In the dance studio, Miss Lin begins teaching Jiang Shen how to press down on his toes for ballet en pointe. She advises him to speak up if he feels pain, but he tries to tough it out despite his discomfort.

Miss Lin notices a slight injury on Jiang Shen’s big toe and tells him he must take better care of his feet, emphasizing that his toes are crucial to his future in ballet.

Tan Lingling visits the dance studio with fresh vegetables, and Miss Lin discusses Jiang Shen’s new dietary needs to support his energy and muscle development for dancing.

After class, Jiang Shen stays behind to practice, humming and tapping to the beat. On his way out, he passes the boxing gym and watches Bai Jinyi and Lai Song training.

Lai Song teases Jiang Shen about Bai Jinyi’s expensive branded water bottle and questions Jiang Shen’s family background, making him feel self-conscious.

Lai Song remarks on the irony that Bai Jinyi, a rich kid, boxes, while Jiang Shen, from a modest background, dances—reversing traditional expectations.

Bai Jinyi defends Jiang Shen’s interest in ballet, and Jiang Shen bravely declares that one day he’ll dance Swan Lake for them, showing his dedication to dancing despite Lai Song's teasing.

Jiang Shen, still filled with dreams of performing Swan Lake, found motivation in his daily foot stretches, even though they were painful.

Tan Lingling began to worry about how to meet the increased nutritional demands for Jiang Shen's ballet training and briefly considered using Tony the chicken for food.

Jiang Luoshan suggested asking the Shen family about getting a daily supply of milk from the local dairy farm where Shen Shubao's father worked.

Tan Lingling visited the Shen family to request help in securing a regular milk delivery for Jiang Shen’s nutritional needs. Li Zhuo agreed to arrange it, making Tan Lingling deeply grateful.

After securing the milk order, Tan Lingling promised to send over wontons to thank the Shen family.

Jiang Shen returned home from his dance class, happily telling the old man at the bookstore about his progress in standing en pointe, though he could only hold it briefly.

The old man, pleased, gave Jiang Shen a DVD of an all-male Swan Lake ballet performance, which excited Jiang Shen.

At home, Tan Lingling asked Jiang Shen to deliver wontons to the Shen family. He begrudgingly agreed, not fully understanding the reason but following his mother’s orders.

After taking a long, playful walk to Shubao’s house, where he even played with loaches, Jiang Shen delivered the wontons and was invited to stay for dinner, though he declined.

Li Zhuo packed food for Tan Lingling, and Shubao walked Jiang Shen to the fields on his way back home.

Before Jiang Shen left, Shubao gave him a yogurt, which Jiang Shen was thrilled to receive, as dairy was a rare treat for him.

Shubao reflected briefly on whether to reveal something to Jiang Shen but ultimately decided against it, leaving Jiang Shen confused but happy with the yogurt.

Jiang Shen returned home to find that Li Zhuo had sent a boiled spring chicken for him, which made Tan Lingling emotional. Jiang Shen enjoyed two chicken drumsticks for dinner, a rare luxury.

Jiang Shen spent the evening pressing his toes, while also thinking about how to ask Goumao to borrow his computer.

After being told to scrub his father’s back during his shower, Jiang Shen talked with Jiang Luoshan about dance class and his new acquaintance, Bai Jinyi.

The next morning, Jiang Shen completed his morning routine of cleaning Tony the chicken’s coop and doing basic training before Goumao and Shubao came to find him.

Shubao persuaded Goumao to give Jiang Shen his breakfast eggs and milk since he needed the extra nutrition.

The boys went to Goumao’s family’s fishing grounds, where Qingling-zi was sitting by the pond barefoot. Goumao made her put her shoes back on, and the siblings bickered.

While Goumao and Shubao played in the pond, Jiang Shen and Qingling-zi sat together, and she promised not to tell anyone that Jiang Shen was taking dance lessons.

As Jiang Shen prepared to head to his dance class, Tan Lingling rode her bicycle to meet him and handed him a lunchbox with two eggs to eat later.

At the dance studio, Jiang Shen practiced with Miss Lin and spoke with Song Xin, who was frustrated about her parents wanting her to focus on school instead of dance.

During a break, Jiang Shen sat in the corridor to eat an egg. Bai Jinyi, messy from boxing, joined him and accepted an egg when Jiang Shen offered one.

Bai Jinyi quickly ate the egg, commenting on its small size, which annoyed Jiang Shen, leading him to hide his second egg.

Jiang Shen regretted giving away his egg because, by the end of the day, he was very hungry. Miss Lin gave him some biscuits and told Song Xin to help him mop the floor.

Jiang Shen sat by the backdoor of the boxing gym to eat his biscuits, only to be found by Lai Song, who asked him about his food and invited him to watch Bai Jinyi train.

In the boxing gym, Bai Jinyi was practicing the slip rope drill alone. Lai Song explained the drill to Jiang Shen and joked that no one wanted to train with Bai Jinyi because he was too dominant in the ring.

Lai Song noticed that Jiang Shen’s ballet shoes were worn out and offered to help him get new shoes.

Bai Jinyi noticed Jiang Shen and called him over, asking if he was still hungry after finishing his biscuits. When Jiang Shen’s stomach growled, Bai Jinyi felt bad for eating his egg earlier.

Bai Jinyi, Lai Song, and Jiang Shen went to KFC, where Bai Jinyi ordered an overwhelming amount of food. Lai Song and Bai Jinyi ate quickly, while Jiang Shen was shocked by the amount.

While eating, they discussed village life. Jiang Shen shared stories about his village, including Goumao stealing eggs and raising a wild rooster named Tony.

Lai Song found it funny that they raised chickens instead of typical pets like cats or dogs, while Bai Jinyi corrected Jiang Shen’s pronunciation of "Tony."

Bai Jinyi commented that unlike the fierce swans Jiang Shen mentioned, he wasn’t fierce at all, calling him "a little swan" with a smile.

Jiang Shen had accepted being called "Little Swan" by Bai Jinyi and Lai Song, realizing nicknames were common, like calling Chen Maoxiu "Goumao."

After eating KFC with Bai Jinyi and Lai Song, they walked Jiang Shen to the bus station, with Bai Jinyi reminding him that he needed new ballet shoes.

At home, Jiang Shen confessed to his mom that he had already eaten KFC with friends, specifically Bai Jinyi, who had taken one of his eggs and repaid him with the meal.

Tan Lingling teased him, saying he got a good deal but reminded him to think of a way to repay Bai Jinyi.

Goumao, needing to copy Shubao’s homework, was forced to help with the strawberry field in exchange. Qingling-zi was exasperated by her brother’s dependence on Shubao.

Jiang Shen, anxious about repaying Bai Jinyi for the KFC meal, began contemplating what gift to offer. He considered offering milk but realized Bai Jinyi wouldn’t need it.

Goumao grumbled about Shubao being demanding in exchange for letting him copy homework, but Shubao was firm in his demands.

As Jiang Shen and Goumao helped tend to the strawberry field, Goumao excitedly pointed out the growth of the strawberry leaves, foreseeing a great harvest.

Jiang Shen worried about his family’s financial situation and the upcoming school expenses, wishing he could help his father more, but Miss Lin's instructions prevented him from doing heavy field work.

Jiang Shen considered giving Bai Jinyi strawberries as a gift but worried they wouldn't measure up to what Bai Jinyi had access to in the city.

The group speculated about the quality of strawberries in the city and decided to visit the city to figure out how Jiang Shen could repay Bai Jinyi.

Jiang Shen, Goumao, and Shubao took a bus to the city to shop, with Jiang Shen feeling nervous because he didn’t bring much money.

Instead of going to the mall, they ended up at Sam's Club, where Shubao had a membership. The three boys aimlessly wandered around, trying to decide what to buy.

They all gravitated towards the chocolate section, where Goumao wanted Ferrero Rocher, while Jiang Shen, more practical, chose Dove chocolates.

After some back-and-forth about who would buy what, Jiang Shen settled on the Dove chocolates as a gift for Bai Jinyi.

They explored the fruit section, finding strawberries that were larger and more expensive than the ones grown in their village, but Jiang Shen couldn’t afford them.

Jiang Shen wandered into the shoe section and found ballet shoes. He struggled to decide if he should buy them, but ultimately couldn’t afford them after buying the chocolates.

Shubao and Goumao secretly bought the ballet shoes for Jiang Shen without his knowledge, and Goumao exaggeratedly pretended he had mistakenly purchased them.

Jiang Shen was confused but delighted to receive the shoes, and after some protest, accepted them without knowing they were a planned gift.

Upon returning home, Jiang Shen practiced in his new shoes, feeling elated, and confessed to his mother that Goumao had refused to take money for them.

Jiang Shen offered to help Goumao copy homework in exchange for the shoes, which Tan Lingling gently discouraged, but Jiang Shen was enthusiastic about his idea.

Shubao and Goumao visited Jiang Shen later, each bringing gifts—Shubao brought eggs and Goumao brought strawberries.

The boys shared a tacit understanding about supporting Jiang Shen, with Goumao even planning to save his breakfast milk for him.

As school started, Jiang Shen found himself adjusting to the classroom environment. His restlessness during class, especially when hearing the rhythm of a marching band, caused some amusement among his classmates and teacher.

During lunch, Shubao gave Jiang Shen a chicken drumstick, while Goumao also contributed a pork rib, with both boys teasing Jiang Shen about washing their bowls in exchange for the food.

Qingling-zi scolded Jiang Shen for being too polite when accepting food from others, giving him a yogurt from Goumao to drink later.

Jiang Shen rushed to the Children’s Center after school, running into Goumao hanging out with some questionable friends, which made him recall Qingling-zi’s comments about her brother skipping class.

Jiang Shen couldn't stop thinking about Goumao’s friends and Qingling-zi's warnings, nearly missing his bus stop for the Children’s Center.

Song Xin stopped coming to dance classes due to extra schoolwork, and Miss Lin reassured Jiang Shen that junior high doesn’t have to mean the end of dancing.

After his boxing practice, Bai Jinyi met Jiang Shen, who excitedly gifted him a box of Dove chocolates, leaving the price tag on to show his effort.

Bai Jinyi humored Jiang Shen by eating the chocolates and teased him about drooling, which wasn’t true, making Jiang Shen feel embarrassed.

Lai Song was surprised by the chocolates but was denied when he asked Bai Jinyi to share, with Bai Jinyi locking them away, stating they were a gift meant only for him from Jiang Shen.

Jiang Shen, Shubao, and Goumao took a bus trip to the city, planning to buy something for Bai Jinyi as repayment for the KFC meal. Shubao led them to Sam’s Club instead of a mall, as it was more practical.

The boys were unsure what to buy and spent time in the food section, with Goumao eyeing expensive Ferrero Rochers while Jiang Shen modestly picked Dove chocolates.

Goumao offered to buy Jiang Shen the strawberries he liked, but Jiang Shen declined, feeling guilty about the cost.

While browsing, Jiang Shen found ballet shoes, but he couldn't afford them after buying the chocolates. Shubao and Goumao secretly decided to buy the shoes for him without him knowing.

On the bus home, Goumao exaggeratedly acted like he’d accidentally bought the ballet shoes, and Jiang Shen, confused but excited, gratefully accepted them.

Jiang Shen tried to pay Goumao back with his remaining money, but Goumao insisted on giving the shoes to him for free, leading to an awkward but heartwarming moment.

Back home, Jiang Shen proudly wore his new ballet shoes and practiced his basic steps. He felt deeply grateful for Goumao's generosity.

Tan Lingling suggested Jiang Shen repay Goumao, and Jiang Shen, in a burst of enthusiasm, offered to help Goumao copy Shubao’s homework in return.

Despite the odd repayment offer, the three boys’ friendship deepened, with Shubao and Goumao taking turns to support Jiang Shen in small but meaningful ways.

Jiang Shen helped Goumao finish his holiday homework late into the night, leaving him tired the next morning. Shubao snuck milk into his bag, and Goumao added two eggs.

Qingling-zi noticed Jiang Shen’s sleepiness and woke him up, offering him a White Rabbit candy, which Jiang Shen gratefully accepted. She took pride in her gesture, gloating at Shubao and Goumao, who were jealous but couldn’t show it.

Jiang Shen fell asleep again on the bus after eating the candy, holding Qingling-zi’s bag.

On his first day of third grade, Jiang Shen, being tall, was seated at the back. He struggled to sit still during class, distracted by the marching band’s music. He started tapping his feet to the beat of "Full of Joy" and accidentally kicked his desk, drawing attention from the teacher, who teased him about his love for dancing.

During lunch, Jiang Shen met up with Qingling-zi, Shubao, and Goumao in the cafeteria. Jiang Shen had a simple meal with shredded meat and eggs because he thought meat was too expensive.

Shubao noticed Jiang Shen’s modest meal and gave him a chicken drumstick, insisting he had too much. Goumao, not wanting to be outdone, gave Jiang Shen a pork rib.

Both Shubao and Goumao asked Jiang Shen to wash their bowls in return for the food, leaving Jiang Shen stunned but grateful.

Qingling-zi gave Jiang Shen a yogurt and questioned why he didn’t accept gifts from others more easily, advising him to be less polite when accepting food.

Jiang Shen hurried to the Children’s Center after school. Along the way, he ran into Goumao, who was hanging out with some rough-looking friends, reinforcing what Qingling-zi had said about Goumao’s questionable behavior.

Feeling conflicted about Goumao’s behavior, Jiang Shen sat in a daze on the bus and almost missed his stop.

At the dance studio, Miss Lin informed Jiang Shen that Song Xin had extra classes and wouldn’t be attending the dance sessions as regularly. She encouraged Jiang Shen, who reaffirmed his love for dancing.

After his dance class, Jiang Shen visited Bai Jinyi at the boxing gym, bringing him a box of Dove chocolates as a gift.

Bai Jinyi humored Jiang Shen by eating a piece of chocolate, though he joked about Jiang Shen drooling, which wasn’t true.

Back in the gym, Lai Song was curious about the chocolates but Bai Jinyi refused to share, stating that Jiang Shen had bought them for him and him alone.

The Jiang family’s harvest season finally began, with golden rice fields in full bloom. However, Tan Lingling stopped Jiang Shen from helping in the fields, as they had borrowed a harvesting machine, which spared his father’s back from injury.

Jiang Shen had been improving in ballet and could now stand en pointe, though Tan Lingling worried about his joints and regularly gave him foot massages after class.

Tan Lingling asked Jiang Shen to pick up Tony, their rooster, from Goumao’s house, where Tony was helping incubate eggs.

Jiang Shen visited Goumao’s house, where Goumao, Qingling-zi, and Jiang Shen were excitedly watching Tony sit on eggs. They discussed how soon the chicks would hatch, and Goumao offered Jiang Shen the chicks once they were born.

During dinner with Miao Hua’er’s family, Qingling-zi decided she wouldn’t eat chicken anymore because she found the chicks too cute, but was still willing to eat eggs despite Goumao’s teasing.

After dinner, Jiang Shen took Tony back home, but the rooster was heavy with the eggs, so Jiang Shen carried it carefully. Goumao, afraid of Tony, kept his distance.

Jiang Shen questioned Goumao about skipping class and learned that Goumao was secretly working part-time to save money to buy Qingling-zi a set of expensive oil painting brushes for her tenth birthday.

Later, back at Goumao’s home, his mother, Miao Hua’er, mentioned stopping Qingling-zi’s art classes to focus on school when she gets older. Goumao was upset, defending his sister’s passion for art.

That night, Goumao found Qingling-zi awake. He took care of her, tucking her back into bed and tidying up her art sketches while thinking about how much he wanted to support her dreams, despite their mother’s practical concerns.

Tony the chicken successfully hatched two chicks after 21 days. Jiang Shen’s mother prepared cornmeal and water for the chicks, reminding him to feed them carefully.

Jiang Shen planned to give the chicks to his friends, Song Xin and Bai Jinyi, and carefully transported them to the Children’s Center.

Song Xin and the girls were thrilled to receive one of the chicks. Jiang Shen warned them to handle it carefully since it was still young.

Jiang Shen then took the second chick to Bai Jinyi at the boxing gym. Both Bai Jinyi and Lai Song were initially stunned by the chick but found it adorable. Jiang Shen made Bai Jinyi promise to take care of the chick.

Lai Song joked about raising the chick, suggesting it should be raised until it becomes an elder and receives a proper burial.

Jiang Shen and Song Xin practiced their splits, chatting about new ballet shoes and their future in dance. Song Xin suggested Jiang Shen ask Bai Jinyi to let him watch the male version of Swan Lake on his computer.

After dance class, Jiang Shen was surprised to see Qingling-zi, who asked about her brother Goumao’s whereabouts. Jiang Shen hid the truth about Goumao’s side job running errands at karaoke for money.

Qingling-zi insisted on searching for Goumao herself. Jiang Shen had no choice but to follow her to various karaoke places.

They encountered Lai Song at one karaoke, who recognized Goumao as an errand boy for a group. He revealed Goumao was earning money to buy Qingling-zi a set of expensive Escoda painting brushes.

Qingling-zi became emotional upon learning this, feeling conflicted about her brother’s efforts. She expressed frustration, telling Jiang Shen she hated her brother, despite his sacrifices for her dreams of continuing art.

Jiang Shen and Qingling-zi sat silently on the bus ride home after the emotional day. Qingling-zi asked Jiang Shen to keep her knowledge of her brother's sacrifices a secret.

They passed by the harvested paddy fields, and Qingling-zi asked if Jiang Shen would continue dancing. He was unsure but expressed hope that she would continue drawing, saying her brother likely wished for the same.

At home, Qingling-zi withdrew to her room, feeling frustrated. She crumpled some of her sketches in anger but later regretted it and tried to smooth them out, crying quietly.

Meanwhile, Jiang Shen’s mother informed him that Bai Jinyi had called. Jiang Shen commented that Bai Jinyi was not as polite when talking to him.

During dinner, Jiang Shen received another call from Bai Jinyi, who was worried that his chicken wasn’t eating. Jiang Shen assured him it would be fine. They had a long conversation, with Bai Jinyi asking Jiang Shen to note down his phone number.

Bai Jinyi expressed confidence that Qingling-zi could continue drawing if she truly wanted to, but Jiang Shen felt it wasn't that simple, considering their circumstances.

Jiang Shen waited for Goumao to return home late at night. When he did, Goumao gave Jiang Shen imported candy, half for him and half for Qingling-zi.

After returning home, Goumao quietly checked on Qingling-zi, fixing her blanket and tidying up her drawing materials. He noticed she had been drawing a figure and wondered playfully if his sister had someone she liked.

Bai Jinyi took raising his chick seriously, researching care methods and carefully measuring its food and water intake, much to the confusion of his housekeeper, Auntie Zhu.

Bai Jinyi regularly visited the chick in the yard and handled it with great care, ensuring it was well-fed and comfortable.

He headed to the boxing gym, bringing sliced beef with him. Lai Song teased him about his strict chicken-raising methods, and Bai Jinyi casually revealed he was doing it “fixedly.”

Bai Jinyi visited Jiang Shen at the dance studio, surprising the girls. He gifted Jiang Shen sliced beef, and in return, Jiang Shen gave him an egg, which made Jiang Shen extremely happy.

Back at the gym, Lai Song expressed envy at Bai Jinyi’s close relationship with Jiang Shen, commenting on the gifts Bai had received.

Lai Song mentioned that Jiang Shen and his friend Qingling-zi had been at the karaoke bar the day before looking for someone, which reminded Bai Jinyi of the boy who ran errands for drinks.

In the cafeteria, Chen Maoxiu avoided drawing attention to his relationship with his sister, Chen Qingling, but she surprised him by calling out to him and joining him, Jiang Shen, and Shen Shubao for lunch.

Qingling-zi’s friends judged her for associating with Chen Maoxiu, calling him a “hooligan” for skipping school. They even reported her drawing of him to the teacher.

Furious, Qingling-zi defended her brother, shouting that Chen Maoxiu wasn’t a hooligan and was the best person in the world, revealing that he was her brother.

Qingling-zi’s drawing of Goumao was found undamaged in the teacher’s office. Miss Shen, their homeroom teacher, reprimanded the class leader for rummaging through her desk and made him apologize.

Qingling-zi accepted her drawing back from Miss Shen but did not forgive the class leader. She and Jiang Shen went to their respective classes at the Children’s Center afterward.

Bai Jinyi visited Jiang Shen at the dance studio, gifting him a box of food. Jiang Shen offered Bai strawberries from his family's farm, and Bai agreed to try them.

Jiang Shen hurriedly caught his bus home after class, where the driver teased him about his dancing, making him blush with embarrassment.

After dinner, Jiang Shen waited eagerly by the phone for Bai Jinyi to call. His mother teased him about waiting so early.

Chen Maoxiu called first, asking if anything was wrong with Qingling-zi. Jiang Shen lied to avoid revealing the truth and reassured Goumao that everything was fine.

Bai Jinyi called soon after, inquiring about his chick’s growth. He revealed that he was taking its height and weight daily and even asked if it needed vaccinations.

Bai Jinyi mentioned that he would be going to the United States over the New Year to meet a professional boxing coach, surprising Jiang Shen, who couldn’t comprehend such a distant dream.

Bai Jinyi reassured Jiang Shen not to overthink and expressed his admiration for Jiang Shen’s dancing, comparing him to the stars and moon in his eyes. He made Jiang Shen promise not to eat the strawberries and wait for his return.

Winter holidays began, and despite the cold, Jiang Shen, Goumao, Shubao, and the other village children were excited to play outside in the first snow of the season.

Wrapped up warmly by Tan Lingling, Jiang Shen joined his friends, and they headed to the grassland by the water to watch ducks, dig holes in the ice, and set off firecrackers.

They admired the ducks swimming and being taken onto a boat, with Qingling-zi especially charmed by their cuteness.

Shubao suggested getting ducklings in the spring, but Jiang Shen declined, saying Tony the chicken would get jealous.

As the group caught loaches for Tony, they passed the adults working in the fields. Jiang Shen chatted briefly with his father, Jiang Luoshan, who mentioned they would burn rice stalks in the spring.

The children picked strawberries at Shubao’s place, but Jiang Shen decided to save his strawberries to give to a friend. Shubao pointed out that the strawberries wouldn’t last until after the winter holidays, worrying Jiang Shen.

The group decided to turn the strawberries into dried fruit. They looked up instructions on Qingling-zi’s computer, and, under Tan Lingling’s supervision, began the drying process.

The children took turns chopping firewood, starting the fire, and flipping the strawberries in the pan as they roasted with honey water.

Goumao wanted to eat the strawberries, but Jiang Shen refused, explaining that he was saving them for someone special, a person most important to him.

Blushing, Jiang Shen proudly declared he had promised to give the strawberries to this person, and they were meant for them alone.

Jiang Shen's Chinese New Year was very busy. He made dried strawberries, collected red packets, took care of Goumao’s chickens, and lit firecrackers with friends.

Bai Jinyi called Jiang Shen from the United States on New Year’s Eve. Jiang Shen was amazed by the long-distance call, but Bai Jinyi downplayed it, wishing Jiang Shen a happy New Year.

With the arrival of spring, the Jiang and Chen families burned rice stalks together for fertilizer. Qingling-zi picked flowers while Jiang Shen reflected on his ballet practice, especially his upcoming dual role in a Children’s Center ballet performance.

Jiang Shen worried because Bai Jinyi hadn’t been to the boxing gym in a long time. He brought dried strawberries for Bai Jinyi, but only saw Lai Song, who hinted that Bai Jinyi might now be training in big cities like Shanghai.

Jiang Shen and Qingling-zi talked about their future aspirations. Jiang Shen was nervous about his ballet, but asked Qingling-zi to invite Goumao and Shubao to watch his performance.

Qingling-zi won a national painting competition with a piece titled My Brother. Shubao, accepted into a top high school, maintained his studious image but still enjoyed village life with Goumao.

Jiang Shen completed learning the ballet choreographed by Miss Lin. Song Xin complimented his dancing, and the two watched a rehearsal recording together.

Lai Song, now in his second year of high school, gave Jiang Shen a gift from Bai Jinyi, a pair of new ballet shoes.

Over the past two years, Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi had continued their long-distance friendship, speaking several times a week and exchanging gifts. Bai Jinyi had once sent Jiang Shen a phone, which took him days to start using.

Lai Song teased Jiang Shen about his close friendship with Bai Jinyi, but Jiang Shen smiled, feeling certain that Bai Jinyi knew his size perfectly.

The performance at the Children’s Center was crucial, with many renowned teachers and professionals attending to scout young talent. Miss Lin had recommended Jiang Shen to several important people, but this raised concerns for his parents, especially Jiang Luoshan, who initially thought ballet was just a hobby for their son.

Tan Lingling was both hopeful and anxious about Jiang Shen’s future, knowing that pursuing a dance career would involve significant challenges, including finances and relocating to a big city.

The night before the performance, Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi had a phone call where Bai Jinyi reassured Jiang Shen he would attend. Bai Jinyi also shared updates about his spoiled pet chicken, Bai’er, who had become worryingly overweight.

On the day of the performance, Jiang Shen and Song Xin prepared early, doing a final rehearsal. The ballet was about an androgynous god of the earth, with Jiang Shen dancing both male and female roles. Their costumes and makeup were intricate, with Jiang Shen’s chest painted for the role.

Jiang Shen’s friends, Goumao, Qingling-zi, and Shubao, attended the performance, having saved seats. Lai Song also arrived with Bai Jinyi, surprising the group with Bai Jinyi’s presence, as they had only speculated about him before.

During the show, the villagers, especially Goumao and Shubao, were in awe of Bai Jinyi’s wealth, but Lai Song tried to keep things lighthearted.

As the finale approached, Goumao loudly encouraged Jiang Shen, causing Jiang Shen to peek out from backstage. Song Xin confided in Jiang Shen that this would be her last performance, as she planned to focus on school instead of continuing dance.

The curtains rose, and the performance began, with Song Xin stepping into the spotlight like a graceful hawk, symbolizing the beginning of the final act.

Jiang Shen performed the first act of the ballet, portraying the god of the earth, impressing the audience with his powerful and expressive dancing. The visuals of the performance, such as the body paint and dramatic movements, left a strong impact, particularly on Qingling-zi and Chen Maoxiu, who were moved to tears.

Backstage, Song Xin praised Jiang Shen for his exceptional performance, but the mood quickly shifted when the makeup artist discovered a large tear in Jiang Shen's pants. With no backup costume available, they became anxious about how to handle the situation.

As Jiang Shen considered dancing in his practice pants, Song Xin proposed a surprising solution. She insisted that Jiang Shen perform both his role and hers, believing that he had the talent to be selected by the famous teachers in the audience.

Song Xin quickly tied her feathered skirt around Jiang Shen, instructing him on how to perform her role, focusing on kicking the skirt high to make the movements look good. Despite Jiang Shen's protests, she reassured him, expressing her belief in his talent and admitting that while she loved dancing, she knew she wasn’t destined to be a professional dancer.

Song Xin’s heartfelt words left Jiang Shen emotional, as she explained that even if she couldn’t pursue her dream, dancing had been a meaningful part of her life and would always remain in her heart.

Jiang Shen performed a captivating dance, blending both his male and female roles seamlessly. His skill in embodying Song Xin’s part stunned the audience, leaving them in awe.

Lai Song, confused at first, realized that Jiang Shen was dancing Song Xin’s part. The audience, including Jiang Shen’s friends, gave him a standing ovation, with Miss Lin leading the applause.

Backstage, Song Xin was emotional and praised Jiang Shen for his performance, reminding him of her earlier advice about kicking the skirt high to make the dance look good.

Miss Lin introduced Jiang Shen to Zhou Luoxiang, a famous representative of the Northern school of contemporary dance. Zhou invited Jiang Shen to study under him, giving him time to decide and leaving him with a business card.

Song Xin explained to Jiang Shen that Zhou Luoxiang is a renowned dancer, likening him to Shen Junyi, and told him how significant the opportunity was.

As Jiang Shen and Song Xin reflected on the future, Song Xin reaffirmed that while she may not continue dancing professionally, her dream of dancing would always stay with her, even as a hobby.

After Jiang Shen’s performance, his friends, including Qingling-zi, were emotional, with Qingling-zi even crying from being moved by his dance.

Bai Jinyi helped Jiang Shen remove his makeup backstage, teasing him about his modesty but also acknowledging how well Jiang Shen danced. Jiang Shen, in turn, sought Bai Jinyi's validation, which Bai Jinyi playfully gave.

Jiang Shen asked Bai Jinyi about dreams, reflecting on Song Xin’s decision to stop dancing. Bai Jinyi shared his own dream of becoming a professional boxer and how even when his career ends, he would still feel fulfilled by having pursued it.

Bai Jinyi reassured Jiang Shen that imperfections are okay, sharing a bonding moment over their "ugly" feet and hands, deepening their connection.

Jiang Shen realized that his dream had become real, shaped by the people around him, his passion for dancing, and moments shared with Bai Jinyi. It became part of his life, symbolized by the memories of dance studios, friendships, and Bai Jinyi’s scarred hands.

After the show, Bai Jinyi resumed training but sent Jiang Shen photos of his chicken, Bai’er. Jiang Shen reciprocated with a photo of Tony, his rooster.

Jiang Shen, Goumao, and Shen Shubao spent time by the fields, fishing for loaches. Goumao asked Jiang Shen if he would be continuing school, to which Jiang Shen responded that he would focus on ballet once he found a professional teacher.

While the boys played and tussled around, a stranger approached Jiang Shen and called his name. The stranger turned out to be Shen Junyi, a renowned ballet dancer, who critiqued Jiang Shen for neglecting the care of his feet.

Shen Junyi visited Jiang Shen’s home and evaluated his potential by making him perform ballet movements. He offered to take Jiang Shen to Shanghai for professional training but warned that the path would be strict and expensive.

Shen Junyi’s offer left Jiang Shen and his family conflicted. They were concerned about the costs and the strict training but were open to the idea of Jiang Shen pursuing his dream.

Jiang Shen also received interest from Zhou Luoxiang, another well-known dancer. When discussing the decision with Bai Jinyi, Bai Jinyi expressed a dislike for Zhou, noting that he seemed overly feminine, but Bai Jinyi was also excited about the idea of Jiang Shen moving to Shanghai.

Bai Jinyi invited Jiang Shen to visit Shanghai and watch him participate in a youth lightweight boxing match, suggesting that they spend time together afterward.

Jiang Shen was excited about the trip to Shanghai, even considering making a banner to cheer for Bai Jinyi, though Lai Song found the idea excessive. They traveled to the city together, and Jiang Shen was impressed by the respect Lai Song received from others at the boxing gym.

As they settled into the boxing gym, Lai Song emphasized the differences between ballet and boxing, implying that boxing was a rougher and more brutal path compared to Jiang Shen’s artistic one.

The friendly boxing competition had less strict rules with four rounds, each lasting three minutes. Jiang Shen was initially under the impression that matches only ended with a knockout (KO), but Lai Song explained that lightweight matches typically rely on scoring points by hitting specific areas above the waist.

In the locker room, Bai Jinyi prepared for the match, with a coach advising him on strategy. Bai Jinyi was focused solely on boxing, dismissing learning English to focus on training. Before the match, he performed a ritual with Jiang Shen, who innocently prayed for Bai Jinyi's safety rather than his victory.

Jiang Shen was nervous about the fight, while Lai Song embraced the competitive atmosphere, even engaging in aggressive gestures toward the opposing side’s supporters. As Bai Jinyi entered the ring, Lai Song urged Jiang Shen to shout encouragement, though Jiang Shen was too overwhelmed to do so.

Bai Jinyi's opponent was aggressive, throwing punches quickly. Bai Jinyi dodged and landed some strikes, but Jiang Shen was deeply concerned each time Bai Jinyi got hit, mimicking his movements from the sidelines with intense worry.

After the first round, Bai Jinyi’s score was higher, but he asked his coach if he could achieve a KO to look cool in front of Jiang Shen, despite being advised to focus on defense and maintain his lead.

As the second round began, Lai Song warned Jiang Shen that Bai Jinyi’s opponent was a dirty fighter, which meant he would likely start using underhanded tactics.

Bai Jinyi's opponent played dirty, stepping on his foot multiple times, but the referee only gave a warning.

The opponent taunted Bai Jinyi, trying to distract him. When he mentioned Jiang Shen, Bai Jinyi briefly looked at him, leading to his opponent landing a punch on his face, knocking him into the ropes.

Jiang Shen, with red eyes, shouted Bai Jinyi’s name, wanting to help, but Lai Song held him back, reminding him it was against the rules.

Bai Jinyi got up, spat out blood, and ignored the referee’s check. When the opponent continued mocking him, Bai Jinyi countered with a powerful punch, knocking the opponent down.

The referee counted to 10, declaring a KO, and the crowd erupted in excitement.

Bai Jinyi, after the victory, calmly removed his gear and fixed his hair. He crouched down to help Jiang Shen climb into the ring.

Instead of praising Bai Jinyi’s win, Jiang Shen asked loudly if the injury hurt, leaving Bai Jinyi speechless.

Bai Jinyi suffered a punch to the face, causing swelling and cuts both inside and outside his lips. Though not severe, it left his mouth visibly injured.

Bai Jinyi's personal doctor provided an ice pack, which Jiang Shen gently applied to his wound.

Lai Song questioned if Bai Jinyi knew the opponent would fight dirty. Bai Jinyi replied that most fighters do, indirectly implying this was the norm.

Lai Song, frustrated, insisted that he didn’t fight dirty, which led Bai Jinyi to retort that this was why Lai Song didn’t win the championship.

Bai Jinyi explained to Jiang Shen that during Lai Song's attempt at winning a fourth national youth heavyweight championship, his opponent struck him illegally on the back of his head in the second-to-last round, a dangerous move that could have been fatal.

Lai Song dismissed the seriousness, saying people don’t die so easily from such incidents, and despite the setback, he was content with the awards he had earned.

Lai Song added that he didn’t plan on boxing for life, indicating he was ready to move on from the sport.

Lai Song left the locker room to collect Bai Jinyi’s medal, leaving Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen alone. Jiang Shen continued to hold the ice pack to Bai Jinyi’s swollen mouth.

As Bai Jinyi rested, droplets from the ice pack rolled down his neck, and Jiang Shen wiped them away. Bai Jinyi playfully asked if he looked good, to which Jiang Shen honestly responded that he did.

Bai Jinyi suggested visiting Shen Junyi’s studio, but Jiang Shen hesitated, feeling shy about going without an invitation. Bai Jinyi dismissed Jiang Shen’s concerns, encouraging him to visit.

Lai Song returned with Bai Jinyi’s small gold belt from the lightweight category, which Bai Jinyi casually gave to Jiang Shen. Jiang Shen was thrilled and promised to hang it on his wall.

The boys went to a fancy restaurant with Caucasian servers, but the portions were tiny. Jiang Shen, unused to such dining, ate everything, including the garnishes. Bai Jinyi noticed and ordered more food for him, ignoring Lai Song’s playful protests.

Jiang Shen felt out of place not practicing ballet and took the opportunity to practice in the yard while staying at Bai Jinyi’s house in Shanghai. Bai Jinyi observed Jiang Shen’s graceful movements and, after his shower, joined him outside.

Jiang Shen applied ointment to Bai Jinyi’s wounded lip. After wiping away water droplets from Bai Jinyi’s lips, he commented on the strawberry scent of his breath.

Bai Jinyi asked Jiang Shen to blow on the wound, and Jiang Shen innocently complied. Lai Song, coming downstairs at that moment, was startled by their closeness and jokingly offered to help as well, leaving Bai Jinyi speechless.

Jiang Shen wakes up early at Bai Jinyi’s place and is greeted by Auntie Zhu, who prepares steamed egg with soy sauce for him, calling him "Young Master," which makes him flustered.

Lai Song shamelessly embraces being called "Young Master Lai" and eats Jiang Shen’s steamed egg before heading out for a run.

Bai Jinyi, unlike Jiang Shen and Lai Song, likes to sleep in. When he comes downstairs, he's in a bad mood but improves after a shower and breakfast.

Lai Song discusses Bai Jinyi’s strict workout routine, but Bai Jinyi tries to resist training for the day.

Bai Jinyi arranges for Jiang Shen to visit Shen Junyi’s studio alone, although he offers to accompany him, which Jiang Shen declines out of guilt for interrupting his training.

Jiang Shen visits Shen Junyi’s studio, where the receptionist initially tells him Shen Junyi is unavailable. However, the teacher Ren Hui recognizes Jiang Shen and is excited to see him, assuming he is there to learn from Shen Junyi.

Ren Hui enthusiastically shows Jiang Shen around the studio and even offers him cake, though he declines, worried about gaining weight.

Ren Hui informs Jiang Shen that Shen Junyi will personally teach him and that there are only three students in total, including him.

Jiang Shen feels shy about his old clothes in the studio, but Ren Hui reassures him and brings him new shoes to try on.

Ren Hui, fascinated by Jiang Shen’s flexibility and grace during stretches, takes a photo of him while he practices, leaving Jiang Shen unsure how to respond.

Shen Junyi leaves a lecture halfway and instructs his manager, Zuo Xingzhi, to take over. Zuo Xingzhi pleads to meet Shen’s promising new student, Jiang Shen, but Shen dismisses him, saying Ren Hui will take videos.

Shen Junyi had previously shown a video of Jiang Shen’s God of the Earth performance to the teachers at his studio. Ren Hui was immediately excited, wanting to bring Jiang Shen back, but Shen revealed that Zhou Luoxiang had also spoken to Jiang Shen.

Ren Hui is upset that Zhou Luoxiang is trying to "steal" Jiang Shen, but Shen Junyi explains that Zhou is a highly respected ballet dancer, expected to become the “Number One Ballet Dancer” after the next major competition.

Shen Junyi had tried to find Jiang Shen by waiting at the Children’s Center after his performance, but had been unsuccessful in locating him for several days.

During this time, Bai Jinyi notices Shen Junyi waiting at the Children’s Center and eventually speaks to him, asking who he’s looking for. When Shen Junyi says he’s looking for a boy from the ballet class, Bai Jinyi shows him a photo of Jiang Shen.

Shen Junyi is surprised that Bai Jinyi knows Jiang Shen, and Bai Jinyi asks if Shen Junyi is "more impressive than Zhou Luoxiang." Shen Junyi is taken aback by the question and realizes Bai Jinyi is not just any student.

Bai Jinyi, unimpressed with Shen Junyi’s famous dancer status, gives him Jiang Shen’s contact information and tells Shen Junyi that Jiang is a good student. Shen Junyi remains reserved, saying he will decide if Jiang is a good student after teaching him.

As they finish talking, Shen Junyi notices a colorful chicken photo on Bai Jinyi’s phone, and when he asks about it, Bai Jinyi rudely brushes him off.

Ren Hui strikes up a conversation with Jiang Shen, asking about his rooster, Tony. Jiang Shen talks about his village life, mentioning how they grow their own food and raise animals.

When asked if he would miss home, Jiang Shen admits he would miss his family, friends, and Tony, but expresses his stronger passion for ballet.

Shen Junyi arrives with Jing Luoyun, Jiang Shen’s shijie (senior disciple). She is introduced to Jiang Shen, who greets her politely.

Jing Luoyun is tall, with androgynous features, both elegant and handsome. She seems shy but smiles warmly at Jiang Shen, calling him “Shenshen-shidi.”

Shen Junyi asks Jing Luoyun to demonstrate some basic ballet moves, and Jiang Shen observes her graceful style, which contrasts with his own powerful and flexible movements.

Afterward, Shen Junyi instructs Jing Luoyun to perform a lift. Jiang Shen is confused, but Jing Luoyun gently lifts him into the air, surprising him with her strength and assuring him that he is light and won’t fall.

Jing Luoyun lifts Jiang Shen during a ballet move, showing her strength despite being a girl. Jiang Shen is steady but unsure about his balance.

Shen Junyi critiques Jiang Shen’s balance and gives him homework: to practice demi pliés in a circle with alternating legs, emphasizing footwork.

Shen Junyi unexpectedly brings up tuition fees, telling Jiang Shen he can owe today’s class fee and include it next time. Jiang Shen feels awkward and worried about the money.

Jiang Shen calls home, and his father reassures him that they will pay his tuition because he enjoys ballet.

Bai Jinyi completes his training, and workers finish creating a dance studio at his house for Jiang Shen, splitting his boxing room. Bai Jinyi plans to keep this from Jiang Shen, wanting him to practice there.

Jiang Shen returns to Bai Jinyi’s place, excited about his day at the studio and his new "shijie" (senior disciple), Jing Luoyun, who is impressive.

Jiang Shen tells Bai Jinyi and Lai Song that he’s decided to learn from Shen Junyi, mentioning the school fees and his commitment.

Bai Jinyi shows Jiang Shen the newly built dance studio in his house, which surprises and delights Jiang Shen.

Bai Jinyi asks Jiang Shen what he wants to give him in return. Jiang Shen offers to buy him boxing gloves, but Bai Jinyi suggests that dancing Swan Lake for him would be more meaningful.

Bai Jinyi reflects that Jiang Shen dancing for him is a romantic gesture, showing their deepening bond.

Jiang Shen used his red packet money from Lunar New Year to buy Bai Jinyi a new pair of boxing gloves, which Bai Jinyi immediately used in his training.

He also bought a wrist guard for Lai Song, who accepted it cheerfully.

With his ballet school and teacher decided, Jiang Shen needed to go home to prepare and change his residential address, while Bai Jinyi stayed in Shanghai to continue his intense training.

Lai Song, preparing for his third year of high school, decided to go back with Jiang Shen to make up his classes.

Lai Song shared that Song Xin was also attending make-up classes and was happy about Jiang Shen’s decision to learn from Shen Junyi.

Lai Song promised that he and Song Xin would visit Jiang Shen and hang out together in the future, to which Jiang Shen happily responded that the hydrangea fields had bloomed and Song Xin would love them.

Goumao and Qingling-zi waited at the bus stop to greet Jiang Shen, who returned home after his trip to Shanghai.

Jiang Shen gifted Qingling-zi a small present he bought, but Goumao urged them to talk more at home while offering ice cream.

They walked back to the village, passing the bookstore where Jiang Shen greeted the old man, gifting him a backscratcher.

The old man gave Jiang Shen a photo album of his dance performance, which he had developed.

Shen Shubao arrived on his new mountain bike, joining the group as they continued walking home, talking about small gifts Jiang Shen had bought for his friends.

Jiang Shen was teased for spending all his money on small presents for them, including keychains for Goumao and Shen Shubao, and a pencil case for Qingling-zi.

At home, Jiang Shen's family prepared a celebratory meal with neighbors Miao Hua'er and Li Zhuo helping. Firecrackers were set off, and everyone gathered to enjoy the evening.

During the dinner, Jiang Shen was seated at the center of attention, receiving red packets from the neighbors for his accomplishments.

The children later gathered in Jiang Shen's room to watch Swan Lake, with only Qingling-zi falling asleep.

Shen Shubao explained that the male version of Swan Lake was a love story between two men, leaving Jiang Shen surprised and contemplative.

After everyone left, Jiang Shen stayed up to finish watching the ballet, feeling confused and lost about his own thoughts.

He finally opened the photo album given to him by the old man, finding photos of himself dancing, with a note at the end wishing him a life where his dreams glow brightly and grow wildly without hindrance.

Lai Song kept his word and brought Song Xin to the village, where they met up with Jiang Shen, Goumao, and Shen Shubao, who were digging for crawfish.

Song Xin stood out in her elegant white dress and parasol, but she expressed an eagerness to join in the activity despite her attire.

Jiang Shen tried to find a solution for Song Xin to join without ruining her clothes and offered to borrow pants for her. Song Xin was determined to catch crawfish, much to everyone's amusement.

The group decided to explore the blooming hydrangeas in the nearby forest, which amazed Song Xin with its beauty.

Qingling-zi, the younger sister of Goumao, joined Song Xin, and they quickly bonded, taking many photos together in the flower fields.

Lai Song and the boys picked flowers for Song Xin, while Jiang Shen sat with a large bouquet. Lai Song secretly took a photo of Jiang Shen and sent it to Bai Jinyi.

Bai Jinyi, who was in training, received the photo and quietly saved it, asking for more pictures of the group.

Song Xin eventually borrowed Goumao’s farming pants and continued her mission to catch crawfish, with Lai Song joining in to ensure her safety.

Jiang Shen, sitting by the field guarding their shoes, received a text from Bai Jinyi asking for a selfie. Though hesitant, Jiang Shen considered it, unsure how to respond to the persistent request.

Bai Jinyi received Jiang Shen’s selfie, and shortly after, Song Xin had finished her mud-filled adventure, having caught six pounds of crawfish.

The adults ate indoors while the children peeled crawfish in the yard. Song Xin, who arrived looking elegant, now sat disheveled, wearing Goumao’s pants, eating crawfish with one bare foot on a stool.

The group bonded over the meal, forming a strong connection despite Song Xin’s earlier fairy-like appearance.

As the night cooled, Song Xin suggested dancing, and she and Jiang Shen performed Picking Lotuses on a bamboo mat. Lai Song provided live singing, impressing the group with his deep voice.

Qingling-zi was moved to tears by the dance, and Goumao comforted her. Song Xin joyfully wiped Qingling-zi’s tears and the group celebrated with applause and laughter.

Jiang Shen sent a message to Bai Jinyi, telling him how much he loved dancing. Bai Jinyi replied with a voice message, asking Jiang Shen to return soon, to which Jiang Shen teasingly asked if Bai Jinyi missed him.

Bai Jinyi admitted he wanted crawfish, and Jiang Shen promised to bring some the next day.

Lai Song and Song Xin left for the city after a few days, with Jiang Shen preparing to return with them. Song Xin left a message for Jiang Shen, telling him to work hard in ballet or she would come after him.

Lai Song also left a message for Bai Jinyi, saying he would fight one last match in his senior year of high school to win back his gold belt before retiring.

Bai Jinyi met Jiang Shen at the train station. Jiang Shen brought a sack of crawfish and a bouquet of dried hydrangeas, which he gave to Bai Jinyi, much to Bai Jinyi’s surprise.

They discussed Jiang Shen’s upcoming dorm arrangement, and when Jiang Shen mentioned possibly living with his shixiong, Bai Jinyi got possessive, jokingly calling the shixiong “a pile of shit,” leaving Jiang Shen bewildered.

The annual tuition for Shen Junyi’s ballet classes is around 80,000 RMB, covering everything from food to lodging, but Jiang Shen plans to stay with Bai Jinyi instead of at the dormitory. Shen Junyi agrees to refund Jiang Shen’s dormitory fee each month.

Shen Junyi asks if staying with Bai Jinyi, a boxer, would cause any issues, but Jiang Shen assures him that Bai Jinyi treats him well.

Jiang Shen receives his new fitted white dance clothes, which are subtly embroidered with clouds.

Jing Luoyun, Jiang Shen’s shy senior, warmly welcomes him back as they prepare for their dance session.

Shen Junyi asks about another student, Liu Xingzhi, who is late because he was with a fan. Shen Junyi expresses concern about his closeness to fans.

Jing Luoyun explains to Jiang Shen that Liu Xingzhi is an accomplished dancer who has already performed and won silver prizes in Russia and France.

Liu Xingzhi arrives and immediately displays a cocky attitude, mentioning he had already won a national ballet competition at Jiang Shen’s age, which intimidates Jiang Shen.

Liu Xingzhi, with his distinct dreadlocks and aloof personality, shows disapproval and hostility toward Jiang Shen, who greets him respectfully.

Shen Junyi instructs Liu Xingzhi to take care of Jiang Shen, but Liu’s attitude remains cold, and Shen Junyi is puzzled by the tension between the two.

Shen Junyi works one-on-one with Jiang Shen, correcting his posture and helping him improve his basic ballet techniques. Jiang Shen, despite the difficulty, works hard and doesn’t complain.

Liu Xingzhi expresses resentment toward Jiang Shen’s arrival, fearing that Jiang Shen will compete for roles and performance opportunities.

After a long day of practice, Jiang Shen is picked up by Bai Jinyi, who massages his sore legs. Jiang Shen tells Bai Jinyi that Liu Xingzhi seems to dislike him.

Exhausted, Jiang Shen humorously wonders if it’s because he kept staring at Liu Xingzhi’s dreadlocks, comparing them to a centipede before falling asleep.

Jiang Shen spent three months training rigorously under Shen Junyi’s intense instruction, enduring difficult ballet practices as he continued to live with Bai Jinyi.

Jiang Shen started helping with household chores to repay Bai Jinyi's family for their kindness, even allowing Auntie Zhu, the housekeeper, to return to the Bai family home.

Bai Jinyi adjusted his morning schedule to accommodate Jiang Shen’s routine, although he remained grumpy in the mornings. The two boys spent their mornings together in relative silence.

Bai Jinyi informed Jiang Shen of his plan to move up to the middleweight class in boxing, increasing his training to gain more muscle and weight, despite the potential increase in injuries and danger. Jiang Shen, visibly concerned, stayed silent but was unhappy with Bai Jinyi’s decision.

At the dance studio, Jiang Shen helped Jing Luoyun clean and greeted Liu Xingzhi, who continued to be cold toward him. Despite Jing Luoyun's reminders about overtraining, Liu Xingzhi remained stubborn and defiant.

Jiang Shen attended a weekly morning meeting at Laiyi Dance Studio with Jing Luoyun and Liu Xingzhi. It was Jiang Shen’s first time being in such a setting, and he felt anxious and out of place.

Liu Xingzhi, though initially rude and hostile, defended Jiang Shen in front of other dancers, telling them Jiang Shen was more talented than they were, but still criticized Jiang Shen privately for being timid.

Liu Xingzhi prepared for his upcoming "first dance" performance, which was significant as it was his debut performance as an adult. Jing Luoyun explained the importance of this to Jiang Shen and encouraged him to aim for his own future performances.

Liu Xingzhi's dance was powerful and free, embodying the spirit of the grasslands, leaving a deep impression on Jiang Shen. Jing Luoyun invited Jiang Shen to participate in Liu’s performance, but Jiang Shen felt unworthy, believing Liu Xingzhi wouldn’t want him to join.

Bai Jinyi left his boxing gym with a new injury on his face, frustrated by his opponents hitting him in the face despite his instructions to avoid it. He hid the injury from Jiang Shen, but knew the boy would notice.

When Jiang Shen got into the car, he discovered Bai Jinyi pretending to sleep to avoid showing his injury. Jiang Shen eventually cupped Bai Jinyi’s face, forcing him to reveal his injury, and reacted with uncharacteristic anger, demanding to know who hit him.

Jiang Shen applied ointment to Bai Jinyi’s injured face, pressing harder when Bai Jinyi downplayed the pain.

Despite being angry at first, Jiang Shen’s heart ached seeing Bai Jinyi's swollen face, and he gently blew on the injury afterward.

Bai Jinyi informed Jiang Shen about an upcoming match against the national youth runner-up, calling himself a “rising star.” Jiang Shen was nervous but avoided showing it.

Bai Jinyi playfully suggested Jiang Shen attend the match, offering a front-row ticket, but Jiang Shen declined, saying he needed to practice a dance.

Bai Jinyi left a ticket for Jiang Shen in the bathroom mirror as a subtle reminder, and Jiang Shen later took it with him, despite saying he wouldn’t go.

Jiang Shen arrived at the dance studio early and helped Jing Luoyun clean up, discussing their academic and dance schedules.

Jiang Shen was surprised to learn that Liu Xingzhi, his strict senior, excelled academically and could easily attend university if he wanted.

During class, a fellow dancer named Zhang Zhi from the third floor approached Jiang Shen, asking about life on the fifth floor and teasingly calling him a “genius,” making Jiang Shen uncomfortable.

At lunch, Zhang Zhi and others continued to prod Jiang Shen with questions about his dance abilities, putting him on the spot, but Jing Luoyun arrived to take him back upstairs.

Jing Luoyun and Liu Xingzhi argued about the theme for Jing’s solo performance, with Liu suggesting birds instead of flowers. They humorously debated the symbolism of birds in dance.

Liu Xingzhi teased Jiang Shen when the boy expressed his desire to dance the male version of Swan Lake, saying that romantic ballets require love between the dancers.

Jiang Shen was shocked by the idea that two men could be romantically involved, but Liu Xingzhi and Jing Luoyun calmly explained that same-sex relationships were common in the dance world, especially among male dancers.

Jing Luoyun encouraged Jiang Shen to uphold a tradition at Laiyi, where dancers perform Swan Lake for their loved ones, suggesting he do the same in the future.

At the boxing gym, everyone greeted Jiang Shen as "Little Swan," finding it endearing that such a delicate dancer was friends with a boxer.

Jiang Shen arrived at the waiting lounge to find Bai Jinyi, who was preparing for his match. Jiang Shen helped him put on his boxing gloves and nervously whispered a pre-match prayer.

Bai Jinyi’s coach, Senbu, and manager, Su Fang, entered, exchanging warm greetings with Jiang Shen.

Jiang Shen, anxious about the match, sat beside Su Fang, who reassured him that Bai Jinyi would be fine.

Bai Jinyi’s opponent, Luo Zhou, entered the ring, and Bai Jinyi followed, briefly locking eyes with Jiang Shen.

The first round saw both fighters scoring points, but Bai Jinyi lagged behind slightly.

Over the next seven rounds, Bai Jinyi switched to a more aggressive style, leading to intense exchanges of blows with his opponent.

By the eighth round, both fighters were visibly exhausted, with Bai Jinyi suffering a bleeding nose and a severe injury near his eye.

Despite Su Fang’s advice to conserve strength, Bai Jinyi continued to fight aggressively, pushing the match to a near KO in the final round.

Luo Zhou narrowly won by points, though Bai Jinyi impressed everyone by going the full distance.

After the match, Jiang Shen comforted a bruised and injured Bai Jinyi in the locker room, expressing his unhappiness at seeing Bai Jinyi hurt.

Bai Jinyi, despite losing, was comforted by Jiang Shen’s words and asked to hold him for a while, leading to a tender moment between them.

Jiang Shen, flustered by their closeness, eventually covered Bai Jinyi’s exposed chest with a towel, worried about others seeing him.

After the match, Bai Jinyi’s mood was low, so he spent time with Jiang Shen as the latter practiced ballet at home.

Bai Jinyi teased Jiang Shen about his Swan Lake performance, eagerly anticipating seeing him dance, even if he wasn’t the lead.

The dance school had a special holiday arrangement, with only ten days off during Chinese New Year, while the dance troupe continued rehearsals.

Jiang Shen, wanting to buy a front-row ticket for Bai Jinyi to watch him perform, asked Jing Luoyun for help, and she was surprised but managed to get him a half-priced ticket.

Liu Xingzhi, noticing Jiang Shen’s request, teased him about getting Bai Jinyi to pay since he's wealthy, but Jiang Shen insisted Bai Jinyi would never have to pay to watch him perform.

Jing Luoyun advised Jiang Shen to take care of his body, as overworking could cause injuries, using Liu Xingzhi's past injury as an example.

Jiang Shen learned that Liu Xingzhi charged even his close fan, Mr. Pu, more for performance tickets, with Mr. Pu happily complying.

In the winter cold, Jiang Shen struggled with the broken heating in Bai Jinyi’s mansion, though Bai Jinyi helped by applying lotion to his face and suggesting they sleep together for warmth.

Jiang Shen was distracted during his academic class due to the cold and Bai Jinyi's offer, and his deskmate Zhang Zhi noticed, asking if he hadn’t slept well.

Later, the supporting lead for Jing Luoyun’s performance was selected, with Jiang Shen being chosen after performing in front of her and Liu Xingzhi.

Some third-floor dancers gossiped that Jiang Shen was favored because of his status, but Zhang Zhi defended him, praising both his talent and hard work.

Liu Xingzhi reprimanded the third-floor dancers for their lack of practice, pointing out their arrogance, and calling Jiang Shen’s twelve-hour daily practice far from the mark of a "genius."

After practice, Jiang Shen was cold and unable to sleep, thinking about Bai Jinyi’s offer. Finally, after waiting too long, he decided to bring his pillow and blanket to Bai Jinyi’s room himself.

Jiang Shen, carrying his pillow and blanket, went to Bai Jinyi's room, reminding him they were supposed to sleep together. Bai Jinyi teased him, saying Jiang Shen didn’t specify where they would sleep.

Bai Jinyi invited Jiang Shen into bed. Jiang Shen noticed Bai Jinyi hiding a boxing magazine, and after some back-and-forth, Jiang Shen found an interview about Bai Jinyi. Excitedly, Jiang Shen cut out the article and added it to his collection.

Bai Jinyi teased Jiang Shen about his fandom, jokingly suggesting that Jiang Shen’s fans should be called “The Little Swan Ecological Protection Centre.”

Jiang Shen bought a ticket for Bai Jinyi to his Shijie Jing Luoyun’s performance, explaining how quickly her tickets sell out because of her devoted fans. They discussed potential fandom names for Jiang Shen.

As they talked, Jiang Shen asked Bai Jinyi if he was ever afraid while boxing. Bai Jinyi admitted he was, especially when Jiang Shen was watching because he wanted to seem like an invincible hero to him. Jiang Shen reassured Bai Jinyi that he already was a hero in his eyes.

When Bai Jinyi asked what Jiang Shen thought about while dancing, Jiang Shen shared that he thought about his home, family, and friends, including Bai Jinyi, but he fell asleep before explaining more.

Bai Jinyi tenderly kissed Jiang Shen’s forehead while he slept.

For the first time, Jiang Shen did not return home for Chinese New Year to focus on his performance. Bai Jinyi also stayed in Shanghai to keep him company. They had a New Year’s Eve dinner, with a chef preparing the food.

Jiang Shen video-called his family, including Goumao, Qingling-zi, and Shen Shubao. Qingling-zi proudly showed a prize-winning drawing of Jiang Shen dancing, and Shen Shubao showed off their fireworks, which the boys lit while wishing Jiang Shen a happy New Year.

Jing Luoyun’s performance attracted a large audience, primarily rich female fans. Bai Jinyi attended in a suit, sitting in the front row among these fans.

Jiang Shen, as the supporting lead, had many scenes with Jing Luoyun. After the performance, Jing Luoyun brought him to the front for a special bow.

Bai Jinyi went backstage to see Jiang Shen, whose dressing room was noticeably less adorned with flowers compared to Jing Luoyun’s. However, Jiang Shen was happy and excited after his performance.

Bai Jinyi quietly arranged for an extravagant flower stand, featuring a swan design, to be delivered after the performance.

While Bai Jinyi was waiting, he overheard Shen Junyi and Zhou Luoxiang discussing a dancer named Ai Lai, who had faced challenges in the past, with Zhou expressing concern about Jiang Shen possibly encountering similar struggles.

Zhou Luoxiang argued that Jiang Shen, like Ai Lai, danced with more than just technique, hinting at deeper emotional challenges.

Shen Junyi was defensive about Jiang Shen, insisting he knew what was best for him as his teacher.

After the performance, there was a party in Jing Luoyun’s dressing room. Jiang Shen was praised by Liu Xingzhi for his performance, and Bai Jinyi introduced himself to Liu Xingzhi as Jiang Shen’s very rich fan.

When the party ended, Bai Jinyi’s extravagant flower stand was revealed outside the theater, complete with a life-sized swan made of white roses and a team of foreigners with bouquets. Confetti was launched as Jiang Shen stood stunned by the overwhelming display.

Bai Jinyi nonchalantly explained it was his first time doing something like this and promised to deliver the flowers more discreetly next time.

Bai Jinyi's ostentatious and tacky flower delivery at Jiang Shen's performance became a popular topic of discussion in the ballet circle, but neither Bai Jinyi nor Jiang Shen cared about the opinions of others.

Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi spent the winter sleeping in the same bed, but when the weather warmed, Jiang Shen moved back to his own room, which left Bai Jinyi slightly displeased and Jiang Shen feeling disappointed.

Jiang Shen continued to improve his dancing and practiced Swan Lake, wanting to perform it for Bai Jinyi. Jing Luoyun and Liu Xingzhi teased him about who he was dancing for, not knowing the person he liked was Bai Jinyi.

Liu Xingzhi helped Jiang Shen adjust his dance for Swan Lake and advised him to use his eyes to convey emotion during the dance, referencing how Swan Lake should be performed.

Liu Xingzhi’s highly anticipated "first dance" performance was being planned for his 18th birthday, and Shen Junyi was personally handling the choreography.

Jing Luoyun encouraged Jiang Shen, saying he had already garnered some attention in the industry and had made a name for himself through smaller performances. However, Shen Junyi didn’t want Jiang Shen to participate in national competitions yet.

Jiang Shen inquired about whether he had a fan club or super topic like his seniors, showing a mix of humor and curiosity.

When auditions were held for the supporting lead role in Liu Xingzhi’s performance, Shen Junyi rejected Jiang Shen for the role, despite Liu Xingzhi supporting his junior’s inclusion. Shen Junyi argued that Jiang Shen's style clashed with Liu Xingzhi’s and Jing Luoyun’s, making him unsuitable for the grand stage.

This decision caused tension between Liu Xingzhi and Shen Junyi, leading Liu Xingzhi to storm out in frustration. Ren Hui later revealed to Shen Junyi that Jiang Shen had gained a nickname, “Little Swan,” and had a fan club called "The Little Swan’s Ecological Protection Center."

Liu Xingzhi vented to Jiang Shen and Jing Luoyun, questioning why Jiang Shen didn’t stand up for himself and telling him he was old enough to have his own opinions. He mocked the idea that Jiang Shen could dance Swan Lake for someone but couldn’t be his supporting lead, causing Jiang Shen to blush as he explained that dancing Swan Lake for someone he liked was different.

Liu Xingzhi, although furious that Jiang Shen was initially rejected as his supporting lead, couldn’t stay mad at his junior. He pushed Jiang Shen hard to learn the role quickly, and Jiang Shen proved to be a fast learner, mastering the part in just a few days.

Shen Junyi, though initially opposed, eventually allowed Jiang Shen to take on the supporting lead role, as he couldn’t control Liu Xingzhi's rebelliousness.

News spread through Laiyi that an important figure, referred to as the "ancestor," was returning. Jing Luoyun explained that this person was deeply connected to the studio and had a romantic history with Shen Junyi, which intrigued Jiang Shen.

Shen Junyi called Jiang Shen for an assessment, asking him to perform a dance. Jiang Shen danced beautifully, but his expressive style, filled with personal thoughts and emotions, concerned Shen Junyi. He worried that this experiential way of dancing could be a double-edged sword.

Shen Junyi advised Jiang Shen to not only dance because he liked it, but to find a deeper passion for it. He warned that if something more important than dance appeared in his life, it could disrupt his growth as a dancer.

Jiang Shen, when asked by Shen Junyi about practicing Swan Lake, became flustered and embarrassed. Shen Junyi jokingly scolded him for being so focused on love.

Shen Junyi confirmed that Jiang Shen could now officially be Liu Xingzhi’s supporting lead, but warned Liu Xingzhi not to complain if Jiang Shen overshadowed him.

Shen Junyi revealed that Ai Lai, Jiang Shen’s "Second Shifu," would be returning soon to help Jiang Shen with his ballet. Jiang Shen, emboldened by gossip from his seniors, asked if Ai Lai and Shen Junyi were romantically involved, which Shen Junyi angrily denied.

After this confrontation, Jing Luoyun and Liu Xingzhi were scolded by Shen Junyi for filling Jiang Shen’s head with gossip.

Despite the teasing, Liu Xingzhi continued to check on Jiang Shen's progress with Swan Lake, concerned that his junior’s personal "confession" might delay the preparations for his "first dance."

Jiang Shen expressed fear about the potential consequences of dancing Swan Lake for the person he liked, worrying that they might not understand or reciprocate his feelings. For the first time, he felt that dancing wasn’t always a source of joy, especially when tied to his emotions.

Bai Jinyi submitted an application to train in the United States and planned to work with Mayweather as his new coach, thanks to Senbu’s connections. His parents intended to buy a boxing club for him to train at.

Bai Jinyi’s manager, Su Fang, informed him of a magazine interview to celebrate his win at the National Middleweight Youth Championship, but Bai Jinyi was indifferent.

Bai Jinyi’s physique had matured, and his popularity was growing, particularly due to his appearance. Su Fang mentioned Bai Jinyi's plans to move to the American boxing circuit, but he hadn't told Jiang Shen yet.

At Laiyi, the studio prepared for the arrival of an important figure, referred to as the "ancestor." Liu Xingzhi advised Jiang Shen to be prepared and continue working on Swan Lake.

Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi had dinner together, during which Jiang Shen cut out an article praising Bai Jinyi’s accomplishments. He stumbled upon information about Bai Jinyi’s move to the U.S. in the next two years, which made him anxious.

Bai Jinyi reassured Jiang Shen that he wouldn’t be leaving soon, but asked if Jiang Shen would miss him when he did leave. Jiang Shen admitted he wouldn’t be able to bear it.

Later that night, Jiang Shen went to Bai Jinyi’s room and asked to sleep together. The two shared a tender moment in bed, with Jiang Shen expressing his feelings about not wanting Bai Jinyi to leave for the U.S.

The following morning, the boys continued their lighthearted interactions, with Jiang Shen teasing Bai Jinyi about his messy hair and calling him cute, to which Bai Jinyi jokingly responded by acting cutely.

Jiang Shen returned to Bai Jinyi’s bed, but the next day, he still felt sad about Bai Jinyi’s impending departure to the U.S. His melancholy affected his practice, and Shen Junyi noticed his poor condition.

A commotion arose when the “ancestor” and second shifu, Ai Lai, arrived at the studio. Jiang Shen, Jing Luoyun, and Liu Xingzhi were curious and nervous about meeting him.

Ai Lai, a graceful and ethereal-looking man, critiqued Liu Xingzhi and Jing Luoyun harshly, continuing his reputation for being a demanding teacher who made students cry.

Ai Lai's scolding extended to Jiang Shen, calling his dancing "idiotic nonsense" and asking if he was heartbroken, referencing Jiang Shen’s feelings for Bai Jinyi.

For the next two weeks, Ai Lai scolded the students relentlessly, leaving them exhausted. Ai Lai also continuously teased Jiang Shen about his unspoken confession to the person he liked.

Jiang Shen revealed to his seniors that Bai Jinyi was going to the U.S., making him hesitant about confessing his feelings through Swan Lake. His seniors encouraged him not to give up.

Ai Lai and Jiang Shen had a private conversation. Ai Lai spoke about his own experiences as a dancer, including tearing his Achilles tendon and feeling inferior to Shen Junyi's technical brilliance.

Ai Lai revealed that, unlike Shen Junyi, he could never dance without emotional attachment. He admitted to falling in love with many of his dance partners, including once being infatuated with Shen Junyi.

Ai Lai explained that Shen Junyi’s cold rejection led him to move on, but Shen Junyi tried to save Ai Lai by renaming the studio Laiyi and making Ai Lai’s Swan Lake performance a tradition. However, Ai Lai lost his passion for dancing.

Ai Lai encouraged Jiang Shen to hold on to his feelings and belief in "liking" someone, insisting that like is priceless and shouldn't be lost, even if the person doesn’t reciprocate those feelings.

Rumors about Shen Junyi’s love life proved to be more complicated than expected. Ai Lai returned to his usual strictness, though he stopped scolding Jiang Shen.

Shen Junyi explained that Laiyi’s motto consists of two parts: diligence (his contribution) and heart-led passion (Ai Lai’s contribution). Ai Lai wanted Jiang Shen to achieve what he couldn’t.

Ai Lai privately coached Jiang Shen for a few days, praising his talent and deep emotions, but dismissed the idea of rekindling romance with Shen Junyi.

Ai Lai shared a story about Zhou Luoxiang, revealing why Shen Junyi disliked him: Zhou took Ai Lai's lead role in a competition after Ai Lai injured his Achilles tendon, winning a gold medal. While Zhou sought glory, Shen Junyi remained loyal to Ai Lai.

Jiang Shen received a ten-day break, during which he invited Bai Jinyi to visit his village. Su Fang teased Bai Jinyi about their close relationship, and Bai joked about going on a "honeymoon."

Jiang Shen video-called his friends from his village, including Tan Lingling and Shen Shubao, planning a return visit. He invited Bai Jinyi to join him for the trip.

At the village, Bai Jinyi was warmly welcomed by Jiang Shen’s family and friends. They ate a large meal, and later, Jiang Shen suggested they take a walk to the rice fields.

Under the night sky, Jiang Shen revealed he had finished learning Swan Lake and performed it for Bai Jinyi in the rice field, barefoot and shirtless.

Jiang Shen’s dance conveyed the story of a swan and a prince, culminating in him kneeling before Bai Jinyi, emotionally confessing his love. Jiang Shen declared that his soul belonged to Bai Jinyi, just as he loved dancing and the earth.

Bai Jinyi had a vivid dream where he was in a boxing ring surrounded by a golden paddy field. He saw a bright star falling towards him and instinctively caught it, feeling its warmth in his heart.

Waking up, Bai Jinyi found Jiang Shen was not by his side. He went outside to wash up, clumsily using the tap, and was joined by Jiang Shen, who had fetched soy milk.

As they shared a quiet morning together, Bai Jinyi almost confessed his feelings to Jiang Shen, but they were interrupted by Tan Lingling calling them for breakfast.

After breakfast, the boys went for a walk. Jiang Shen climbed a tree to pick mandarins, and Bai Jinyi lifted him down, carrying him in a princess carry, playfully eating mandarins together.

Later, they lay in a sea of flowers on a hill, basking in the sunlight. Bai Jinyi finally confessed his feelings to Jiang Shen, comparing him to a star that fell from the sky into his arms.

Bai Jinyi kissed Jiang Shen under the sunlit trees and flowers, expressing his deep affection. He told Jiang Shen he could stay and not go to the United States, prioritizing their relationship.

Jiang Shen, though flustered and anxious, admitted he didn’t want Bai Jinyi to leave. Bai Jinyi reassured him, continuing to kiss him gently, and declared that he liked Jiang Shen more than anything else.

Jiang Shen had no experience in romantic relationships but had observed others at Laiyi, where relationships were not restricted. Bai Jinyi, who grew up with rough boys, had only ever formed ideas of love based on his feelings for Jiang Shen.

They couldn’t show much affection in the village due to constant company from friends like Goumao and Shen Shubao, who joined them for lunch after catching up on sleep.

After lunch, they went to the lake to watch the adults harvest hairy crabs. Goumao invited them to join in, suggesting Bai Jinyi get into the water. Bai Jinyi hesitated but was eventually convinced by Jiang Shen, who reassured him he'd still be the most handsome, even dirty.

Bai Jinyi, reluctant but dressed in wader pants, entered the water and awkwardly scooped up a few crabs while Goumao and Shen Shubao worked more efficiently.

In the evening, they cooked and ate the crabs. Bai Jinyi picked out the crabs he caught for Jiang Shen, emphasizing that they were special because they were his catches. Jiang Shen ate them, savoring the crab fat, and Bai Jinyi wiped some off his face, licking his own finger in front of everyone.

Qingling-zi and the others noticed the subtle affection between Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi. Shen Shubao teasingly suggested that if Jiang Shen liked someone, he would express it by dancing for them, unlike engineering boys who made trinkets.

Bai Jinyi responded that if he liked someone, he would want to be their hero and give them his whole heart, looking meaningfully at Jiang Shen.

That night, after washing up, Jiang Shen joined Bai Jinyi in bed. Bai Jinyi was reading about boxing clubs, but Jiang Shen gently encouraged him to go to the United States to pursue his boxing career.

Jiang Shen admitted that he liked watching Bai Jinyi in the ring and believed his hero should reach even greater heights. He promised to keep Bai Jinyi’s heart safe within his own, though the conversation was emotional and painful.

Wrapped in Bai Jinyi’s embrace, Jiang Shen fell asleep, feeling both the bliss and the bittersweet pain of young love, unsure of the future but cherishing the moment.

Jiang Shen's break was cut short when Liu Xingzhi urged him to return to rehearsals, emphasizing the importance of his "first dance."

Bai Jinyi received pressure from Senbu to take up the opportunity to train with Mayweather in the United States, and he agreed to go.

Jiang Shen returned to Laiyi’s dance studio, where Liu Xingzhi questioned whether his confession to Bai Jinyi had been successful, making Jiang Shen blush with embarrassment.

Liu Xingzhi’s "first dance," titled Silvergrass, was a major event with many important figures in attendance, and it required extensive rehearsals.

Ai Lai, though no longer harsh with his critiques, subtly expressed his concern that Jiang Shen might outshine Liu Xingzhi during the performance.

As Jiang Shen prepared for the performance, he noticed tension and subtle malice from other dancers, who seemed resentful of his role as Liu Xingzhi’s supporting lead.

Despite Jiang Shen’s attempt to downplay the situation, Liu Xingzhi overheard students gossiping about how they had sabotaged Jiang Shen's shoes to prevent him from outshining the principal dancer.

Furious, Liu Xingzhi stormed in, confronting the students and beating them with Jiang Shen’s shoes, commanding them to stop bullying Jiang Shen.

Liu Xingzhi declared that Jiang Shen’s skill was due to his hard work and that if Jiang Shen outshone him during the performance, it would be because of his own shortcomings, not Jiang Shen's.

He warned Jiang Shen to perform at his best and not to hold back during his "first dance" or risk losing his respect as a fellow dancer.

Bai Jinyi spent a month training at Mayweather’s boxing gym in L.A., under the watchful eye of Floyd Mayweather, who shared a similar defensive counterattack style with him.

Despite Mayweather’s daily presence, he never personally trained Bai Jinyi, leaving the young boxer to rely on his own efforts and studies.

Bai Jinyi faced constant harassment from fellow boxers at the gym due to his Asian background, but he gained respect after knocking out a black boxer in his weight class during his second month, though he was severely bruised in the process.

Bai Jinyi hid the severity of his injuries from Jiang Shen, but Jiang Shen suspected what had happened. When asked if it hurt, Bai Jinyi responded that winning made it bearable.

During a phone conversation, Bai Jinyi asked Jiang Shen to stop asking if he was hurt and instead ask if he missed him or liked him. Jiang Shen agreed, sweetly acknowledging their mutual feelings despite the long distance.

Jiang Shen’s senior, Jing Luoyun, probed about his relationship, learning that he was dating Bai Jinyi, who she initially worried might be a delinquent because he boxed. Liu Xingzhi clarified, and the group shared lighthearted banter.

Liu Xingzhi teased Jiang Shen about dating a boxer, calling it "vulgar," while Jiang Shen teased him back about his love for money.

As the day of Liu Xingzhi’s "first dance" Silvergrass arrived, Bai Jinyi sent a massive display of flowers to Jiang Shen’s dressing room.

Liu Xingzhi, adorned with a ponytail of dreadlocks and colorful feathers, encouraged Jiang Shen to dance with all his soul during the debut performance.

Tan Lingling, Jiang Luoshan, and several other friends and family members dressed formally to attend Jiang Shen's ballet performance, emphasizing the importance of the event and their desire not to embarrass Jiang Shen.

Chen Laoshi, Shen Guoliang, Miao Hua’er, and others from the village also attended the event, with Shen Guoliang carefully carrying a large flower basket for Jiang Shen.

Upon arriving at the theater, Tan Lingling and the others struggled to navigate the big city but eventually made it to the venue. Qingling-zi, Goumao, and Shen Shubao were already seated and feeling out of place among the well-dressed and important-looking audience members.

Song Xin, a friend of the group, reassured them to be confident and proud, as Jiang Shen was the supporting lead in the performance, an important role.

A reporter interviewed Shen Shubao and Goumao, who expressed their pride in Jiang Shen, though the reporter's reaction implied he found their enthusiasm naive given the ballet world's strict hierarchy.

The old bookstore owner, referred to as Jiang Shen’s “Grandpa Caretaker,” also arrived at the performance, proudly carrying his camera to capture moments of his "Little Swan."

Bai Jinyi and Lai Song arrived shortly before the performance. Bai Jinyi took his seat next to Tan Lingling, while Lai Song sat near Song Xin, teasing her playfully.

Zhou Luoxiang entered with Liang-lao, a legendary figure in the ballet world, causing a commotion among the audience and media. Zhou stood up for Jiang Shen when a reporter disparaged Jiang Shen’s background, reminding the reporter of Jiang Shen's talent and calling out his inappropriate comments.

Backstage, Jiang Shen prepared for his performance alongside Liu Xingzhi. Though they couldn’t see each other, they shared an unspoken connection and determination to give their best onstage.

The symphony orchestra began, and with the haunting sound of the horsehead fiddle, Jiang Shen and Liu Xingzhi leapt onto the stage as the curtains rose, marking the start of their performance.

Liu Xingzhi performed as Xilutuzhao, a Mongolian youth becoming a god in Silvergrass. His movements were powerful, graceful, and depicted compassion and strength.

Jiang Shen played the shepherd boy Wu’en, displaying reserved and earthy movements that contrasted with Liu Xingzhi’s ethereal freedom.

The two danced together in an intertwined performance, with Xilutuzhao gifting golden bells to Wu’en, symbolizing spiritual connection.

Tan Lingling and Jiang Luoshan were overwhelmed with pride and emotion as they watched their son perform.

The audience, including ballet elites like Liang-lao and Zhou Luoxiang, was stunned by the performance. After a brief silence, the entire theater erupted into applause.

Backstage, Jiang Shen remained immersed in his emotions. Liu Xingzhi tapped his head and reminded him to snap out of it, preparing for curtain calls and media interviews.

Jiang Shen and Liu Xingzhi took multiple curtain calls, receiving many flowers and praise from the media. Jiang Shen, inexperienced with interviews, relied on Liu Xingzhi and Jing Luoyun for most responses.

Jiang Shen’s friends and family, including Bai Jinyi, waited in the celebratory reception room, buzzing with excitement.

Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi reunited after the performance, with Jiang Shen jumping into Bai Jinyi’s arms, radiating joy.

Liu Xingzhi’s fanbase included Mr. Pu, his number one VIP fan. Jing Luoyun joked that Liu Xingzhi had numbered his fans based on how much money they spent.

Mr. Pu approached Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi to compliment Jiang Shen’s performance. Bai Jinyi responded coldly, showing jealousy and distaste toward Mr. Pu’s bias for Liu Xingzhi.

Liu Xingzhi intervened playfully, teasing Mr. Pu and joking that he might have developed a crush on Jiang Shen, adding humor to the situation.

Liu Xingzhi delivered a performance that surpassed expectations, showcasing flawless footwork and exceptional muscle control, putting him ahead of other modern ballet dancers in China.

His performance conveyed a sense of divinity, earning admiration from the audience.

Liu Xingzhi dispelled any prior criticism about his "insufficient expressiveness" by fully embracing his emotions on stage.

Jiang Shen, the supporting lead, played a crucial role in inspiring Liu Xingzhi to perform even better, contributing significantly to the overall success of Liu Xingzhi's 'first dance.'

The article recognized two of the three rising stars in China's modern ballet scene, with both Liu Xingzhi and Jiang Shen gaining international recognition.

Laiyi was praised for continuing its legacy of producing top ballet dancers, referencing the institution’s earlier success with Shen Junyi, Zhou Luoxiang, and Ai Lai.

Jing Luoyun compiled praise and compliments for both Jiang Shen and Liu Xingzhi after their performance, noting that videos of them trended on Weibo, crossing beyond the ballet circle into mainstream attention.

The success of Liu Xingzhi's 'first dance' created a celebratory mood at Laiyi, leading Shen Junyi to give the students a break. Jiang Shen, unsure how to spend his time, practiced at Laiyi with Bai Jinyi.

During practice, Bai Jinyi, watching Jiang Shen, teased him about his lack of focus and asked him to come with him to America during the break.

Jiang Shen quickly got his passport, and despite Tan Lingling's concerns about his trip, Jiang Shen reassured her that Bai Jinyi had everything set up, including buying a place in the U.S.

At the airport, Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi unexpectedly encountered Ai Lai, who ended up sitting next to them on the flight and later revealed that his dance studio was also in Los Angeles, requesting Jiang Shen to report there.

Jiang Shen, tired from the journey, fell asleep on the couch in Bai Jinyi's apartment, and despite Bai Jinyi’s efforts to wake him up, he stayed asleep.

The next day, Jiang Shen visited Bai Jinyi at Mayweather’s gym, where he met Su Fang and received compliments about his rising fame in the ballet world.

Jiang Shen attended Bai Jinyi’s amateur boxing match, where Bai Jinyi openly referred to Jiang Shen as his boyfriend in front of Mayweather and Su Fang. Jiang Shen was surprised at Bai Jinyi’s frankness about their relationship.

Bai Jinyi reassured Jiang Shen that his family likely already knew and accepted their relationship. He reminded Jiang Shen that they were both godsons in each other’s families.

Before Bai Jinyi’s match, Jiang Shen kissed his boxing gloves and wished him luck, hoping he would win and return safely.

Despite having watched many of Bai Jinyi’s matches, each one felt intense for Jiang Shen, and he didn’t care much about the result, only Bai Jinyi’s safety.

The gym’s atmosphere was wild, with muscular men shouting. Bai Jinyi faced a new Hispanic boxer. Su Fang reassured Jiang Shen that Bai Jinyi wouldn’t lose.

Bai Jinyi, known for his quick footwork and aversion to getting hit in the face, dominated the match. He won by knockout in the sixth round.

After the match, Su Fang pushed Jiang Shen into the ring, where Bai Jinyi hugged him and joked about being "hot." Jiang Shen kissed his sweaty forehead.

Bai Jinyi, reluctant to leave Jiang Shen, told him to wait at home after visiting Ai Lai’s studio.

Jiang Shen went to Ai Lai’s dance studio, where Ai Lai scolded his students, as usual. He introduced Jiang Shen to his students as his own pupil.

Jiang Shen showed Ai Lai boxing magazines featuring Bai Jinyi, to which Ai Lai reacted with frustration, reminding Jiang Shen that he came to dance, not cut out articles.

Ai Lai revealed that Jiang Shen had been registered for the prestigious Prix de Lausanne ballet competition in January, leaving Jiang Shen shocked and anxious.

When Bai Jinyi returned home, he found Jiang Shen asleep on the couch. Teasing him after hearing him call him “hubby” in his sleep, Bai Jinyi asked why Jiang Shen was dieting.

Jiang Shen explained that he had gained weight and had to go on a strict diet because of the upcoming ballet competition. He expressed his frustration that he no longer had time to cut out Bai Jinyi’s flattering magazine articles.

Jiang Shen was practicing ballet at Ai Lai's studio early in the morning, wearing his Laiyi uniform. Although he hadn’t yet gotten familiar with the other dancers due to the language barrier, they worked together well through dance.

Chils, a fellow dancer with a powerful, muscular build, asked Jiang Shen to help him practice as his partner since Novie, his usual partner, was on break. Jiang Shen agreed.

The duet they practiced was a modern ballet about a couple’s conflict and reconciliation. Jiang Shen played the female role with ease, impressing Chils, despite initially being unsure if Chils could lift him.

Chils lifted Jiang Shen successfully during their practice, and they ended with a close embrace, causing some playful teasing from other dancers. Chils complimented Jiang Shen enthusiastically, but Jiang Shen quickly clarified that he already loved someone else.

Ai Lai gave Jiang Shen a list of music pieces for the Prix de Lausanne competition and told him to choose one for his solo performance. He also promised to send Jiang Shen videos of past performances for reference.

Meanwhile, Bai Jinyi trained intensely in the boxing gym, preparing for four upcoming amateur matches. His coach, Senbu, was surprised by Bai Jinyi’s ambition to become the first Chinese welterweight grand slam champion.

Bai Jinyi mentioned that he was not on break anymore, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience before entering professional boxing. Despite Senbu’s suggestion to take it easy, Bai Jinyi was determined to grow stronger.

Senbu was curious about Bai Jinyi’s relationship with Jiang Shen, teasing him about whether they were spending their time alone together. Bai Jinyi responded coolly, revealing that Jiang Shen slept on the couch, leading Senbu to jokingly ask if Bai Jinyi had any physical issues, which left Bai Jinyi speechless.

Jiang Shen had been sleeping on the couch since arriving at Bai Jinyi's apartment, despite Bai Jinyi repeatedly asking him to sleep in the bed. Jiang Shen claimed he didn’t want to disturb Bai Jinyi with his early morning practices.

Bai Jinyi grew frustrated but didn't force him to move, even though he felt increasingly bothered by the situation.

One evening, while Jiang Shen was preparing a meal, Bai Jinyi deliberately spilled strawberry juice on the couch, ensuring it wouldn’t be usable that night. He casually told Jiang Shen he'd have to sleep in his room.

Jiang Shen reluctantly agreed, clearly embarrassed. He tried to deflect the conversation by talking about other things, such as his practice and competition preparation.

Bai Jinyi noticed a viral Weibo video showing Jiang Shen practicing a lift with another dancer, Chils, where Jiang Shen played the female role. Bai Jinyi, feeling competitive, insisted that he could also lift Jiang Shen.

After some playful banter, Bai Jinyi insisted on proving his point by lifting Jiang Shen in their bedroom. Despite Jiang Shen's doubts, Bai Jinyi successfully lifted him, much to their mutual surprise.

As they laughed and joked, the playful mood turned intimate. They kissed, with Bai Jinyi questioning Jiang Shen about his closeness with other dancers.

Their teasing escalated into physical intimacy, with Jiang Shen initially feeling embarrassed but eventually giving in to his feelings.

Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen shared a moment of intimacy, with Bai Jinyi teasing Jiang Shen about his reactions and whether he could request a day off from his practice. Despite the teasing, the encounter ends with the two sharing a passionate moment in bed.

Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen woke up in each other’s arms after their first night together, with Bai Jinyi in a groggy, but affectionate mood. He kissed Jiang Shen forcefully, leaving his lips swollen.

Bai Jinyi offered to pick up Jiang Shen after his class later that day, which made Jiang Shen happy. They shared a playful moment, with Bai Jinyi wiping water off Jiang Shen’s collarbone.

In Ai Lai’s dance studio, Jiang Shen interacted with Chils' dance partner, Novie, who appeared aloof but was impressed by Jiang Shen's skills. Ai Lai revealed that Novie had been very sick as a child, but both Jiang Shen and Novie were determined to not lose to each other in future competitions.

Ai Lai confronted Jiang Shen about sleeping with Bai Jinyi, warning him not to get distracted before the upcoming Prix de Lausanne competition. Ai Lai scolded both Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi about "abstaining" from intimate activities.

Bai Jinyi teased Jiang Shen about the small chaise lounge he replaced the couch with, joking about their need to follow Ai Lai's advice. He also installed a luxurious jacuzzi in their bathroom, suggesting they bathe together.

Despite Ai Lai's warning, Bai Jinyi’s constant shirtless state and his intense presence made it difficult for Jiang Shen to focus. Jiang Shen even got a nosebleed from the sight of Bai Jinyi’s muscles, which Bai Jinyi found amusing.

After Jiang Shen's nosebleed, Bai Jinyi tended to him and then shared a passionate kiss. Despite Jiang Shen admitting he was aroused, Bai Jinyi playfully reminded him they had to "abstain," leaving Jiang Shen flustered and speechless.

Jiang Shen, despite the abstinence, channeled his desire into focused practice, leading up to the Prix de Lausanne competition. Ai Lai, more nervous than Jiang Shen, suggested he call Liu Xingzhi for advice.

Jiang Shen video called Liu Xingzhi, who bragged about his own gold medal at the Prix de Lausanne two years ago and teased Jiang Shen. Liu Xingzhi gave him no real tips but shared details about Novie, a fellow dancer with congenital heart disease, and her past struggles in ballet competitions.

Liu Xingzhi mentioned the pressure of competing against top talents like Zhou Luoxiang and encouraged Jiang Shen to dance with passion and triumph over his opponents.

As the competition approached, Jiang Shen traveled to Lausanne with Ai Lai. Ai Lai acted like an overprotective parent, offering advice, but Jiang Shen was calm and more focused on texting Bai Jinyi, who was busy with important amateur boxing matches back in Los Angeles.

Upon arriving at the Beaulieu Theatre, Jiang Shen and Ai Lai met Shen Junyi, who reassured Jiang Shen, asked about his confidence, and noted that Jiang Shen had grown taller.

In Los Angeles, Bai Jinyi prepared for his third-to-last amateur match with confidence, wrapping a ballet shoe ribbon that Jiang Shen had given him around his wrist as a pre-match prayer.

Meanwhile, Jiang Shen found his old pair of ballet shoes and did his own pre-competition prayer before going onstage for the Prix de Lausanne.

Both Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi, in their respective arenas, prepared to step into the spotlight, with Jiang Shen leaping into his performance on stage and Bai Jinyi entering the boxing ring for his match.

Lunar New Year had just passed, and the village was still in a festive mood, but the old man’s rental bookstore had already reopened.

The old man checked Weibo and saw that the results for the Prix de Lausanne, a ballet competition that Jiang Shen participated in, had been announced. Not understanding the foreign language, he rushed to find help.

He asked Shen Shubao and Chen Maoxiu for assistance. They picked him up in their car, and Shen Shubao began translating the competition’s results page.

Shen Shubao discovered that Jiang Shen had made it to the finals, and after much suspense due to a frozen page, they found out Jiang Shen had won the gold medal, finishing in first place.

The group was ecstatic, with Chen Qingling, Shen Shubao, and Chen Maoxiu overwhelmed with emotion. Tan Lingling, Jiang Shen’s mother, was in disbelief and started crying with joy.

Tan Lingling received a phone call, presumably from Jiang Shen, confirming his win and announcing a family celebration for his success. She told everyone to buy firecrackers to celebrate.

Jiang Shen revealed over the phone that he would be returning home next month, and Bai Jinyi would be coming back with him.

Jiang Shen shared additional good news: Bai Jinyi had officially entered the professional boxing stage in the United States and aimed to win the gold belt.

Jiang Shen enthusiastically called all his friends, relatives, and ballet colleagues to share his victory. Song Xin cried loudly and congratulated him, saying he lived up to her expectations.

Song Xin shared with Jiang Shen that she had opened her own dance studio and joined Mr. Shen’s Laiyi Dance Studio. They planned to open the new studio next year.

Jiang Shen became emotional, asking Song Xin if her dreams had come true, to which she tearfully responded that she was proud of herself and her choices.

After Bai Jinyi booked their flights to return to China, he helped Jiang Shen soothe his swollen eyes from crying. Bai Jinyi also mentioned that he gave money to Lai Song to start a boxing gym, which came from his winnings in amateur matches.

Jiang Shen expressed concern about the hard-earned money but said he didn’t mind Bai Jinyi spending it. This exchange deepened their connection.

Upon arriving in China, they were picked up by Bai Jinyi’s family secretary and taken to Bai Jinyi’s family home, where his mother, Qin Wanjun, awaited them.

Bai Jinyi and his mother exchanged sharp words, with Qin Wanjun teasing him about his childhood and a pet chicken she pampered, now named Bai’er. Despite the tension, there was affection between them.

Qin Wanjun met Jiang Shen warmly, joking about giving him money to leave Bai Jinyi, which Jiang Shen responded to cleverly, saying he would buy a place in Lujiazui and take care of Bai Jinyi instead.

The dinner went smoothly, with Bai Jinyi tasked with mundane chores like washing fruits, leaving Jiang Shen and Qin Wanjun to have a gentle conversation where she acknowledged the hard work of both boys.

Despite some playful tension, Jiang Shen grew more comfortable with Qin Wanjun, who showed him a softer side, calling him a good child.

Jiang Shen spent time chatting with Qin Wanjun, showing her a video of his Prix de Lausanne performance. Despite her refined and wealthy appearance, Qin Wanjun was not very familiar with ballet and had materialistic tendencies.

Qin Wanjun shared her disapproval of Bai Jinyi’s decision to become a boxer, explaining that as a mother, she didn’t want her son to endure such hardship, preferring a more artistic pursuit.

Bai Jinyi sarcastically apologized, but Qin Wanjun playfully responded that it was "too late" and now there were others to beat him up in the ring.

Qin Wanjun watched a video of one of Bai Jinyi’s matches, and despite her earlier tough talk, she became emotional and started crying when she saw him getting hit.

Bai Jinyi reassured her that she could watch him live when he went professional, sitting right next to Jiang Shen at ringside.

Qin Wanjun had personally prepared a room for Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi to stay in. She made sure Jiang Shen felt welcome, telling him that their house was now his home too.

Qin Wanjun reflected on how she had come to accept Bai Jinyi’s choices, realizing that she didn’t have the right to take away what made him happy, and she shared this sentiment with Jiang Shen, implying she accepted their relationship.

That night, Jiang Shen kissed Bai Jinyi and told him nothing significant had been discussed with Qin Wanjun.

The next day, they went back to the village, where Bai Jinyi participated in a lighthearted task of sowing seedlings in a rice paddy as a playful experience arranged by Chen Maoxiu’s family.

Shen Shubao and Goumao teased Bai Jinyi while taking pictures of him working in the field. Afterward, Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi shared a playful moment, sneaking kisses and spraying water at each other.

Bai Jinyi’s pet chicken, Bai’er, was brought to the village, where it had an encounter with Jiang Shen’s chicken, Tony. Despite their relation as father and child, Tony intimidated Bai’er, who struggled to maintain its dignity.

Jiang Shen intervened, giving Tony a handkerchief of its own to stop it from bullying Bai’er, which left Bai’er disheartened.

Later, Bai Jinyi found Jiang Shen upset while reading the news on his computer. Jiang Shen revealed that it seemed Liu Xingzhi, his senior, had lost at the ballet competition in Vienna.

Shen Junyi had been the reigning "Number One Dancer" for a decade, revitalizing ballet in China after Liang-lao's decline.

Ai Lai and Zhou Luoxiang were also notable dancers from the same school, but Shen Junyi’s brilliance overshadowed them both.

Zhou Luoxiang, considered the most mediocre of the three, unexpectedly became a grand slam winner, claiming gold at all major international ballet competitions.

Shen Junyi, serving as a judge at the Vienna competition, voted for Zhou Luoxiang, signaling the passing of the "Number One Dancer" title to him.

Despite Liu Xingzhi's impressive performance earning second place, Zhou Luoxiang's victory was celebrated, and they appeared together in interviews, with Zhou offering mentorship to Liu Xingzhi.

Although Zhou Luoxiang was cordial, Liu Xingzhi was clearly bitter about his loss, barely maintaining composure during interviews.

Shen Junyi bumped into Zhou Luoxiang in the hallway and, despite his personal dislike for Zhou, they posed for a photo together, acknowledging each other's achievements.

Liu Xingzhi was deeply frustrated with his loss and briefly met with fans, but his mood remained sour. He claimed that Zhou's victory was deserved, though his bitterness lingered.

After his loss, Liu Xingzhi informed Jiang Shen that he planned to quit dancing and return to the grasslands, a shocking announcement that left Jiang Shen distraught.

Jiang Shen hurried to Shen Junyi’s office to share the news, but Shen Junyi revealed that Liu Xingzhi had already been granted a one-year break for rest and recovery.

Jing Luoyun reassured Jiang Shen that Liu Xingzhi would likely return to dancing after his break, as this behavior was typical of him after setbacks.

Shen Junyi packed Jiang Shen’s year with international ballet competitions, making him his representative overseas, while Bai Jinyi focused on his professional boxing career.

Despite their busy schedules, Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi managed to see each other for a few days each month, with a longer break together in June during Jiang Shen’s USA competition.

Liu Xingzhi still refused to answer Jiang Shen’s calls, leaving him deflated, but Bai Jinyi comforted him, encouraging him to stay focused on his own upcoming competition.

During Liu Xingzhi’s year-long leave, Jiang Shen became the new star of the ballet world, gaining widespread media attention and being hailed as a worthy successor in Chinese ballet.

After his viral performance in Silvergrass, Jiang Shen attracted attention both inside and outside the ballet circle, with fans from the “Little Swan Ecological Protection Organization” celebrating his every success.

Bai Jinyi, while not usually active in Jiang Shen’s fandom, posted an intimate photo of Jiang Shen after the Jackson competition, creating a stir among fans.

Jiang Shen became adept at handling interviews but was often asked about Liu Xingzhi, who had been absent from ballet. Jiang Shen expressed his intent to find him.

Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen embarked on a journey to find Liu Xingzhi, using information they gathered about his location in the Xilamuren Grassland.

Upon arrival at the grassland, they received help from herdsmen who directed them to where Liu Xingzhi was spending time.

Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi found Liu Xingzhi by a lake, surprising him with their arrival. Despite his initial reluctance, Liu Xingzhi agreed to let them stay and spend time together.

Liu Xingzhi shared stories of his family’s struggles and success, and the bond he felt towards his family and his Mongolian roots.

The three of them enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the grasslands, riding horses and attending a bonfire celebration where Liu Xingzhi performed a traditional dance.

At the bonfire, Jiang Shen and Liu Xingzhi had a friendly dance battle, delighting the tourists, and ending the night with laughter and exhaustion.

Before parting, Liu Xingzhi’s brother thanked Jiang Shen for coming to fetch his brother, acknowledging Liu Xingzhi’s significance as a free-spirited soul.

Jiang Shen revealed to Bai Jinyi that he had invited Liu Xingzhi to be the supporting lead in his first dance, a special performance that was postponed from his eighteenth birthday due to his competition schedule.

As they lay on the grass under the stars, Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi shared a tender moment, with Jiang Shen affirming that his star was Bai Jinyi.

At the age of 25, Jiang Shen won the French Modern Ballet Union’s gold, completing a grand slam of all prestigious international ballet competitions, following in Liu Xingzhi’s footsteps.

Back in Jiang Shen’s village, firecrackers were set off in celebration, and Shen Shubao and Chen Maoxiu returned from their respective trips to join the festivities.

Shen Shubao noted Bai Jinyi’s impressive career as a boxer, who had recently KO-ed the previous WBC champion, Limann, in the eighth round and was gearing up for the WBO.

Chen Maoxiu, who ran a successful farm stay business with his sister Chen Qingling, welcomed a group of researchers led by Yang Shaohui, a serious and focused professor there for water quality experiments.

Yang Shaohui, overwhelmed by her work’s difficulty, had a conversation with Chen Maoxiu, who was planting strawberries. He admired her achievements, emphasizing the pride the village felt for hard-working students like his friend Shen Shubao.

Despite her frustration with her own research, Yang Shaohui found solace in the lighthearted camaraderie between Chen Maoxiu and Shen Shubao, who spent the day skipping stones and offering her compliments.

Chen Maoxiu encouraged Yang Shaohui, telling her that even difficult work had meaning and that her efforts were admirable, prompting her to relax and enjoy the day.

By evening, Yang Shaohui’s mood had shifted, and she enjoyed the warmth of the setting sun, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Over dinner and drinks with Chen Maoxiu and Shen Shubao, Yang Shaohui learned that Chen Qingling, the famous artist whose work she had seen at the farm stay, was actually Chen Maoxiu’s sister.

Chen Maoxiu’s outlook on life was simple: he found fulfillment in providing a space for people to relax and celebrate. He offered Yang Shaohui encouragement, promising to pick strawberries for her when she completed her research.

Jiang Shen finally performed his long-awaited "first dance" at age 20, two years after his initial rise to fame at 17 due to competition commitments. The media viewed the delay as a missed opportunity.

Liu Xingzhi, who had been in seclusion for a year, returned to the ballet world and achieved great success in Russia and France, filling the gap left by Jiang Shen’s absence. He agreed to perform in Jiang Shen’s first dance.

Song Xin expressed frustration with media coverage, which romanticized Liu Xingzhi’s participation as an emotional reunion rather than a professional arrangement.

Jiang Shen mentioned that Liu Xingzhi gave him a discount for performing with him, and Song Xin teased him about his relationship with Bai Jinyi.

Despite being in a long-term relationship, Jiang Shen blushed when Song Xin teased him about their intimacy, revealing they hadn’t been very physically intimate recently due to their busy schedules.

Bai Jinyi bought a house for them using his earnings from boxing, while Jiang Shen provided him with pocket money. Though they were seen as a "fairytale couple," their busy lives often kept them apart.

Bai Jinyi took time off from his professional boxing career to be with Jiang Shen in the months leading up to his first dance, and they cherished the rare time spent together.

The two shared an intimate moment in their kitchen, where Bai Jinyi playfully teased Jiang Shen and then took the initiative, leading to a tender sexual encounter, revealing their deep affection despite their hectic lives.

Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi engage in an intimate moment in the kitchen, where Bai Jinyi takes control and dominates the encounter, making Jiang Shen submit to his advances.

The two share passionate sex, with Bai Jinyi teasing Jiang Shen throughout the process, showing both their intense physical connection and mutual affection.

After finishing in the kitchen, they move to the bathtub where their sexual activities continue, with Jiang Shen showing his incredible flexibility while Bai Jinyi remains energetic and affectionate.

Bai Jinyi makes playful comments about growing old together, symbolizing their long-term commitment to one another.

Liu Xingzhi arrives at Song Xin’s studio early in the morning and is roped into teaching a group of children, much to his irritation.

Bai Jinyi answers Jiang Shen’s phone and has a humorous conversation with Liu Xingzhi, hinting at their recent intimacy and leaving Liu Xingzhi frustrated.

Jiang Shen is embarrassed but affectionate toward Bai Jinyi, who continues to tease him.

Liu Xingzhi becomes increasingly annoyed as he waits for Jiang Shen at the studio, only for Jiang Shen to arrive meekly, expecting to be scolded for indulging in his relationship.

Liu Xingzhi scolds Jiang Shen for not practicing abstinence, arguing it will affect his dancing. Jiang Shen feels guilty, but Bai Jinyi steps in and calmly asserts that he is in charge of their intimate life.

The chapter concludes with a mix of lighthearted banter, frustration, and affection, illustrating the close relationships between the characters and the balance of professional and personal life.

Liu Xingzhi discovered he was adopted after a school physical checkup. Though children mocked him for his looks, his loving family reassured him.

His parents and brother took him horseback riding and to see the Milky Way, reinforcing his identity as the "son of the grasslands."

In second grade, Liu Xingzhi encountered ballet for the first time during a school showcase. He was captivated by the dancers and received a pair of ballet shoes from one of them.

Liu Xingzhi told his parents he wanted to learn ballet, which required traveling 100 kilometers to the city. His father sold land, and his mother stopped working to support his ballet lessons.

Liu Xingzhi’s talent for ballet became clear early on, and when he wanted to pursue it professionally, his family held a meeting to determine where he should study.

At age 12, Liu Xingzhi confidently declared he would study under Shen Junyi, one of the greatest dancers in Shanghai, and become the world’s best dancer.

Liu Xingzhi became Shen Junyi's student, winning national and international ballet competitions, and he quickly rose to fame.

Though his ballet journey was smooth, everything changed when Jiang Shen appeared. Jiang’s talent and emotional depth rivaled Liu Xingzhi’s skill.

Years later, Liu Xingzhi and Jiang Shen stood as equals in the ballet world. They reflected on their shared ballet origins, realizing they were inspired by the same ballet, The Heroic Little Sisters of the Grasslands.

Liu Xingzhi suggested they choreograph a pas de deux together, calling it The Swan and the Stars.

Shen Junyi, nearing sixty, officially retired from the ballet stage, although he continued choreographing. His main concern was finding someone to take over Laiyi, the prestigious ballet school.

Jiang Shen, Liu Xingzhi, and Jing Luoyun had all established their own studios, leaving Shen Junyi conflicted. Unexpectedly, Zhou Luoxiang offered to help manage Laiyi, along with Ai Lai.

Shen Junyi resisted agreeing with Zhou Luoxiang’s proposal, despite knowing that Laiyi’s success was partly due to Zhou's contributions.

Meanwhile, Jiang Shen and Liu Xingzhi worked together on choreography for their studio, Swan Star. Liu Xingzhi initially planned to dance the principal role in a new performance, but after reviewing the choreography, he insisted that Jiang Shen should take the lead.

After a few rehearsals, it became clear that the dance was more suited to Jiang Shen’s expressiveness, and the decision proved to be the right one.

Shen Junyi and others, including Bai Jinyi, attended a rehearsal, where Jiang Shen performed the principal role with great success, earning applause from everyone.

Jiang Shen thanked Liu Xingzhi for letting him dance the principal role, but Liu Xingzhi downplayed it, insisting it was because Jiang Shen was better suited for the part.

Despite his senior’s stubbornness, Jiang Shen was deeply grateful for Liu Xingzhi's support and guidance throughout their careers.

Xia Yiyang, influenced by Shen Luo, began appreciating fine arts and joined Shen Luo in vlogging and collaborating with niche companies.

Ji Qinyang mentioned working on the theme song for a ballet, which surprised Shen Luo and Xia Yiyang.

Shen Luo was unimpressed with Xia Yiyang’s excitement over Ji Qinyang but lightened the moment with humor.

Xia Yiyang discovered Jiang Shen, the co-founder of Swan Star, and was impressed by his achievements at such a young age.

Attending a live ballet performance for the first time, Xia Yiyang and Shen Luo wore matching outfits, and Xia Yiyang tied Shen Luo’s tie, expressing excitement over their couple-style attire.

At the theater, they met Xie Meng, who introduced them to Bai Jinyi, the famous boxing champion and friend of Jiang Shen.

Bai Jinyi recognized Shen Luo for his work on Ji Qinyang’s album cover, offering potential collaboration, but Shen Luo declined, stating he doesn’t photograph people.

The ballet was a solo performance by Jiang Shen, accompanied by Ji Qinyang on piano, depicting a day in the life of a swan.

After the performance, they went backstage where Ji Qinyang was so excited that he spun Xie Meng around. Xia Yiyang noted the overwhelming number of flowers Jiang Shen received, highlighting his fame.

Bai Jinyi entered Jiang Shen’s dressing room, and Jiang Shen, still in partial makeup, eagerly embraced him, displaying their close relationship.

Shen Luo filmed the scene with his GoPro and pulled Xia Yiyang into the frame, sharing a playful moment and complimenting Xia Yiyang’s appearance, sealing it with a kiss.

Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen, due to their demanding careers, rarely spent New Year with their families in the past, but now that they were more established, they tried to make time for it.

A year ago, Bai Jinyi had just won the World Boxing Championship, narrowly winning by score. He returned home with injuries, including a bruise on his face, which limited his social interactions during New Year.

His mother, Qin Wanjun, initially felt bad for him, but after spending too much time together, she started to scorn his large build and urged him to leave soon.

Bai Jinyi planned to leave after Jiang Shen's upcoming performance in Shanghai, where Qin Wanjun had been attending secretly, hiding Bai Jinyi's injury from Jiang Shen to avoid worrying him.

Qin Wanjun teased her son about being afraid of Jiang Shen, and Bai Jinyi humorously responded that he had no choice as he was too handsome and considered a "sugar baby."

Meanwhile, a major event in Jiang Shen's village was the upcoming marriage of their friend Chen Maoxiu (Goumao) to a doctorate student, which astonished everyone.

Jiang Shen and his friends were curious to meet Goumao’s fiancée, initially suspecting she might have been tricked into marrying him.

When they gathered at Cultural Hall, the villagers treated Yang Shaohui, Goumao’s fiancée, with great respect, as if she were a Top Scholar.

Yang Shaohui was initially worried about fitting in due to her academic background and age, but everyone, including Goumao’s mother, Miao Hua'er, treated her gently and with pride.

Miao Hua'er, known for her tough demeanor, proudly referred to Yang Shaohui as her daughter-in-law, more often than she had mentioned her son in thirty years.

Yang Shaohui, feeling overwhelmed by the attention, humbly stated that she was just an ordinary person, but the group praised her as the new "Star of Wisdom," surpassing even their previous admiration for their top student, Shen Shubao.

After Bai Jinyi got injured, he avoided watching Jiang Shen's performances, claiming he had to attend a training camp. However, he was actually trying to speed up the healing of his facial injury.

For the first week, Jiang Shen believed Bai Jinyi's excuse, but by the second week, he started to become suspicious when Bai Jinyi continued to avoid seeing him.

Jiang Shen, frustrated, confronted Bai Jinyi, asking if he was interested in "other flowers" (suggesting infidelity). Bai Jinyi, confused, mentioned sending Jiang Shen flowers, but it only made Jiang Shen angrier.

Jiang Shen accused Bai Jinyi of lying about the training camp, pointing out that he had confirmed with a mutual friend, Lai Song, that no such camp was happening.

Jiang Shen's accusations escalated, jokingly threatening that in their village, someone caught cheating would be locked in a pig's cage and drowned.

This argument took place in front of other members of the dance troupe, leaving them shocked at Jiang Shen's bluntness.

Jiang Shen also expressed concern that if Bai Jinyi didn't come to see him soon, the old ladies in their village would gossip about their relationship during the New Year.

To appease Jiang Shen, Bai Jinyi rushed to the dance troupe, still with a healing injury on his face. After Jiang Shen's performance, they spent two hours alone in Jiang Shen's dressing room.

During this time, Jiang Shen's emotions fluctuated between anger and concern. He expressed outrage at Bai Jinyi getting hit, lamented that boys from their village are taught never to let their faces get hit, and ultimately showed tenderness, offering to blow on Bai Jinyi's injury to "make the pain go away."

Some members of the dance troupe speculated that Bai Jinyi might have coaxed Jiang Shen into this tender reaction after his initial outburst.

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Shen Mo is performing oral sex on Ji Mingxuan when he hears Zhou Yang's name, which deeply affects him emotionally.

Ji Mingxuan teases Shen Mo about his reaction to Zhou Yang's name and forces him to focus back on the act.

Shen Mo is distracted and not particularly skilled, leading Ji Mingxuan to finish quickly and leave shortly after.

Shen Mo reflects on his unfamiliar appearance in the mirror and the past relationship he had with Zhou Yang.

He dreams of a tender, youthful moment between him and Zhou Yang from their university days, only to wake up disoriented.

At breakfast, Ji Mingxuan announces plans to pick someone up from the airport and insists Shen Mo accompany him.

Shen Mo is nervous when he realizes Zhou Yang and Ji An’an, Ji Mingxuan's sister, are arriving together.

At the airport, Shen Mo feels uncomfortable as Ji Mingxuan publicly displays their "relationship" while Ji An’an joyfully greets her brother.

Zhou Yang and Shen Mo recognize each other, and Ji Mingxuan introduces Zhou Yang as Ji An’an's boyfriend, emphasizing their relationship.

Zhou Yang subtly tests Shen Mo by bringing up their shared past, but Shen Mo deflects skillfully, though he feels tense.

During lunch, Ji Mingxuan continues to perform the role of a loving partner, creating awkwardness between Shen Mo and Zhou Yang.

Ji An’an asks about Shen Mo and Zhou Yang’s shared history as classmates, but Zhou Yang distances himself from Shen Mo by saying they weren’t close.

Ji Mingxuan questions Zhou Yang and Ji An’an’s marriage plans, pushing them toward engagement and ensuring Zhou Yang remains committed to his sister.

Shen Mo excuses himself to the restroom, only for Ji Mingxuan to follow and corner him, asserting dominance and warning Shen Mo to stay away from Zhou Yang.

Ji Mingxuan sexually manipulates Shen Mo in the restroom and taunts Zhou Yang, who witnesses the encounter partially.

After Zhou Yang leaves, Ji Mingxuan coldly reminds Shen Mo of his power and control, ensuring Shen Mo will not interfere with Ji An’an and Zhou Yang’s future.

Shen Mo returns home and falls into a deep sleep, only to wake up late at night and find Ji An’an in the kitchen.

Ji An’an shares her thoughts on Zhou Yang and their childhood relationship, expressing her affection and curiosity about relationships.

Shen Mo deflects personal questions from Ji An’an about his relationship with Ji Mingxuan, instead emphasizing that Ji Mingxuan saved his life.

Shen Mo reflects on his lack of sexual skills and the transactional nature of his relationship with Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan does not return home that night, leaving Shen Mo feeling inadequate and resolved to improve himself for Ji Mingxuan’s satisfaction.

Shen Mo experiences a recurring nightmare of making unanswered phone calls in the dark, reflecting his desperation and unresolved trauma.

Waking up, he prepares for work at a small company under the Ji family, a job arranged by Ji Mingxuan.

Shen Mo is known as easy-going by colleagues, but rumors circulate about his "connection" to Ji Mingxuan.

When asked to design a poster, Shen Mo declines, struggling with his inability to draw since an unresolved hand injury three years ago.

Shen Mo reflects on his past with Zhou Yang, including their shared university life and his artistic pursuits.

After work, Shen Mo encounters Zhou Yang, who insists on taking him to dinner despite Shen Mo’s reluctance.

During dinner, Zhou Yang questions Shen Mo’s seafood allergy and expresses self-doubt about not knowing him as well as Ji Mingxuan does.

Zhou Yang presses Shen Mo for answers about their breakup, leading Shen Mo to deflect with vague responses and point out Zhou Yang’s compliance with his parents' wishes.

Zhou Yang accuses Shen Mo of being with Ji Mingxuan during their breakup, deeply wounding Shen Mo, though Shen Mo doesn’t reveal the truth about his own suffering during that time.

They part on bad terms, with Shen Mo choosing to walk home alone.

At home, Shen Mo finds Ji Mingxuan waiting in the dark, seemingly aware of his meeting with Zhou Yang.

Ji Mingxuan mocks Shen Mo for his repeated mistakes but is placated when Shen Mo promises not to meet Zhou Yang again.

Ji Mingxuan reasserts dominance by initiating an intimate encounter, which Shen Mo complies with to maintain their precarious arrangement.

During the encounter, Ji Mingxuan’s rare display of tenderness, including a kiss, surprises and unsettles Shen Mo, highlighting the complexity of their power imbalance.

Shen Mo wakes up to find a visible bite wound on his lip, left by Ji Mingxuan, and suspects it was intentional to provoke gossip.

At breakfast, Ji An’an notices Shen Mo's lip injury, and Ji Mingxuan intervenes, leaving her to make assumptions and excuse herself.

Ji Mingxuan teases Shen Mo by kissing his injured lip under the guise of “sterilizing” it before driving Shen Mo to work.

The injury sparks subtle gossip at Shen Mo’s workplace, but colleagues avoid confronting him directly.

A few days later, Ji An’an convinces Shen Mo to accompany her shopping for Zhou Yang’s birthday gift, despite his initial hesitation.

During the shopping trip, Ji An’an struggles to choose a gift, eventually buying two pairs of cufflinks—one for Zhou Yang and one for Ji Mingxuan.

Ji An’an takes Shen Mo to a restaurant for dinner, where they unexpectedly encounter Ji Mingxuan, who is dining with the actor Zhao Yi.

Ji Mingxuan introduces Shen Mo as the “future Mrs. Ji,” shocking Ji An’an and Zhao Yi, but his tone implies it’s not entirely serious.

During dinner, Ji An’an reveals that Shen Mo helped her pick Zhou Yang’s gift, and Ji Mingxuan pointedly acknowledges it.

Zhao Yi subtly interrogates Shen Mo about his relationship with Ji Mingxuan and his living arrangements, indirectly asserting dominance in the power dynamic.

After dinner, Ji Mingxuan holds Shen Mo’s hand publicly, causing Shen Mo discomfort while Zhao Yi observes from a distance.

Ji Mingxuan quizzes Shen Mo on his, Zhou Yang’s, and Shen Mo’s birthdays, exposing Shen Mo’s inability to remember his own supposed partner’s birthday.

Ji Mingxuan sends Shen Mo home with Ji An’an, choosing to give Zhao Yi a lift instead, leaving Shen Mo reflecting on his lack of importance.

Later, Zhao Yi is involved in a tabloid scandal with rumors hinting at a connection to Ji Mingxuan, but Ji An’an reassures Shen Mo that it’s baseless.

Shen Mo, feeling inadequate, begins studying gay pornography to improve his sexual skills, driven by his insecurities in the relationship.

Zhou Yang unexpectedly calls Shen Mo, revealing that Ji An’an gave him Shen Mo’s number, and insists on meeting him despite Shen Mo’s resistance.

Zhou Yang offers to “take Shen Mo away” and rekindle their relationship, but Shen Mo dismisses him, recalling how Zhou Yang failed to support him in the past.

Shen Mo skips work the next day, avoiding Zhou Yang’s request to meet, and busies himself with house cleaning to distract from his emotions.

Shen Mo reflects on his and Zhou Yang’s past, acknowledging that their relationship cannot be repaired despite lingering memories.

Ji Mingxuan arrives home late at night, visibly drunk and disheveled, an unprecedented sight for Shen Mo, who helps him inside and to the sofa.

Ji Mingxuan stares at Shen Mo with an uncharacteristic vulnerability, leaving Shen Mo uncertain about his state or intentions.

Ji Mingxuan is drunk, unusually gentle and confused, and struggles to recognize Shen Mo at first.

Ji Mingxuan unexpectedly pulls Shen Mo into an intense sexual encounter on the sofa, where his primal and dominant nature takes over.

Shen Mo endures the night, even as Ji Mingxuan continues to assert control in multiple rounds of intimacy, leaving Shen Mo completely exhausted and sore.

The following morning, Shen Mo notices the snow outside and begins tidying the mess from the previous night while Ji Mingxuan wakes up leisurely.

Ji Mingxuan comments on Shen Mo’s day off, revealing he is aware of Shen Mo’s activities, and deletes a series of messages from Zhou Yang on Shen Mo’s phone, reinforcing his authority.

Ji Mingxuan, unusually lenient, asks for time off for Shen Mo and himself, allowing them to relax together on the snowy day.

Shen Mo observes Ji Mingxuan sleeping peacefully and reflects on his own emotional detachment and lingering memories of his youth.

Ji Mingxuan wakes with a fever, appearing uncharacteristically vulnerable and refusing to go to a hospital, which worries Shen Mo.

Shen Mo cares for Ji Mingxuan, making congee and administering medicine, staying by his side as Ji Mingxuan sleeps fitfully and occasionally calls out Shen Mo’s name.

When Ji Mingxuan grips Shen Mo’s hand in his fevered state, Shen Mo quietly stays with him, feeling a mix of guilt and responsibility.

Shen Mo ventures out to buy medicine, learning from Ji Mingxuan’s driver, Lao Zhang, that Ji Mingxuan had been drinking heavily after visiting Jinxiu Villa the previous night.

Shen Mo realizes that Ji Mingxuan’s unusual state, including his confusion about Shen Mo’s presence, might stem from emotional turmoil related to his activities at Jinxiu Villa.

While reflecting on Ji Mingxuan’s behavior, Shen Mo unconsciously fiddles with the silver ring on his finger, silently acknowledging the complex and ambiguous nature of their relationship.

Shen Mo buys medicine for Ji Mingxuan but forgets to eat, realizing this only after returning home.

Shen Mo spends the evening taking care of Ji Mingxuan, ensuring he eats congee and takes medicine, checking his temperature until it stabilizes.

Exhausted, Shen Mo falls asleep beside Ji Mingxuan’s bed, experiencing a dream where he confuses Ji Mingxuan with Zhou Yang, only for Ji Mingxuan to reject him in the dream.

Waking up from the dream after falling from his chair, Shen Mo is pulled into bed by Ji Mingxuan, who reassures him and insists he stay close.

Shen Mo reflects on the six months after leaving the hospital, a time he can barely remember, during which Ji Mingxuan took him in and gave him stability.

Ji Mingxuan recovers and begins resuming his usual authoritative behavior, asking Shen Mo to cook specific dishes while remaining in bed.

Shen Mo discovers his belongings have been moved to Ji Mingxuan’s room, and Ji Mingxuan dismisses this as a convenience for his care.

Ji Mingxuan reveals that Ji An’an went on a trip with Zhou Yang starting on the day Zhou Yang had asked Shen Mo to meet, suggesting that Shen Mo’s absence prompted Zhou Yang to move on quickly.

Shen Mo returns to work, where his routine remains unchanged, though he notices Ji Mingxuan has started coming home earlier and spending more time at home.

Ji An’an returns from her trip, excitedly describing romantic moments with Zhou Yang and sharing gifts, unaware of Shen Mo’s underlying tension.

Ji Mingxuan announces that Zhou Yang proposed to Ji An’an, and she accepted, causing Shen Mo to experience a wave of numbness as he processes the news.

At dinner, Shen Mo awkwardly toasts Ji An’an’s engagement, his discomfort reflected in over-salted potatoes he cooks.

Shen Mo realizes Ji Mingxuan had manipulated the situation by informing Zhou Yang of his family’s illegitimate son, influencing Zhou Yang’s decision to align with Ji An’an for stability.

Shen Mo confronts Ji Mingxuan about the lack of genuine love in Zhou Yang and Ji An’an’s relationship, only to be dismissed by Ji Mingxuan, who prioritizes familial and business gains over emotions.

Ji Mingxuan becomes passive-aggressive toward Shen Mo, ignoring him at home while maintaining a façade of normalcy in public.

Shen Mo reflects on the emotional distance between him and Ji Mingxuan, realizing their relationship is built on pretense rather than mutual understanding or love.

Shen Mo moves back to his own bedroom but wakes up to find Ji Mingxuan sleeping next to him, claiming it’s to avoid arousing Ji An’an’s suspicion.

Ji Mingxuan declares he will continue sleeping in Shen Mo’s room, dismissing any objections.

Ji An’an notices Ji Mingxuan’s recent bad mood and advises Shen Mo to "coax" him, reminiscing about how Ji Mingxuan raised her after their mother passed away.

The engagement banquet for Ji An’an and Zhou Yang is held at the Dynasty Hotel, where Shen Mo attends reluctantly, feeling out of place among the crowd.

Shen Mo encounters Zhao Yi at the event, who mentions receiving an invitation from Ji Mingxuan, further unsettling Shen Mo.

As Zhou Yang and Ji An’an appear together on stage, Shen Mo reflects on how unfamiliar Zhou Yang has become to him.

Shen Mo overhears whispers about Ji Mingxuan’s potential future wife, and Zhao Yi’s glances intensify his discomfort.

While mingling, Shen Mo notices a man with a scarred brow, triggering his traumatic memories of being abducted and tortured three years ago.

Shen Mo excuses himself to the restroom, where he struggles with fear as footsteps approach, locking himself in a stall and debating whether to call Ji Mingxuan for help.

Despite his hesitation, Shen Mo calls Ji Mingxuan, who answers, calming Shen Mo and confirming his presence.

Ji Mingxuan finds Shen Mo in the restroom, reassures him, and notices Shen Mo’s fear of the scarred man.

After ensuring Shen Mo is safe, Ji Mingxuan removes his suit jacket, gives it to Shen Mo, and leaves to handle the situation.

Shen Mo later hears commotion in the hallway and finds Ji Mingxuan, injured but calm, standing over the scarred man, who is beaten and humiliated.

Ji Mingxuan casually waves Shen Mo over, reiterating that he should have waited as instructed.

Shen Mo, deeply moved, realizes that even though he’s learned to rely on himself, in moments when he can’t, he still has Ji Mingxuan to protect him.

After Ji Mingxuan’s fight, Shen Mo finds himself holding Ji Mingxuan’s hand as they leave the hall.

Zhou Yang arrives, surprised to see Ji Mingxuan and Shen Mo holding hands. Ji Mingxuan downplays the incident, leaving Zhou Yang to handle the aftermath.

Ji Mingxuan takes Shen Mo to a quiet garden outside the hotel, where they walk repeatedly. Shen Mo questions Ji Mingxuan’s actions but receives no direct answers.

In the moonlight, Ji Mingxuan gazes at Shen Mo and unexpectedly kisses him.

Shen Mo, unable to stop thinking about the kiss, is distracted the following day.

Ji An’an questions Ji Mingxuan about the previous night’s fight, but Ji Mingxuan brushes off her concerns, claiming the situation was under control.

Ji Mingxuan offers to buy Ji An’an a car as an engagement gift and suggests Shen Mo accompany her, hinting at buying Shen Mo a car as well.

At the auto show, Ji An’an teases Shen Mo, saying Ji Mingxuan’s real intention is to gift Shen Mo a car.

Zhou Yang unexpectedly arrives at the auto show. He mentions that his cousin, the scar-faced man, has faced consequences after the banquet incident.

Shen Mo finds a practical car he likes but is interrupted by Zhou Yang, who insists on speaking with him privately.

In a stairway, Zhou Yang confronts Shen Mo about what happened three years ago, suspecting there’s more to their breakup and Shen Mo’s past trauma.

Shen Mo reveals Zhou Yang’s mother had orchestrated his abduction as a warning to stay away, effectively ending their relationship.

Zhou Yang is visibly shaken but unable to refute Shen Mo’s words. Shen Mo advises him to cherish Ji An’an and leaves the conversation.

As Shen Mo exits the stairway, he notices Zhou Yang’s younger brother, Zhou Chu, overhearing their conversation, but Shen Mo dismisses it.

Shen Mo loses interest in buying a car, while Ji An’an selects one, with Zhou Yang paying for it.

That night, Ji Mingxuan teases Shen Mo about not finding a car and indirectly gifts him one by tossing a key under the guise of it "collecting dust in the garage."

Shen Mo hesitates but eventually drives the car to work, garnering attention from his colleagues. He resolves to meet Ji Mingxuan’s expectations to maintain harmony.

Over time, Ji Mingxuan becomes more present at home, eating dinner and spending nights with Shen Mo, easing their earlier tensions.

Shen Mo reflects on their undefined relationship and realizes Ji Mingxuan’s birthday is approaching. Feeling the need to reciprocate the car gift, he decides to find a meaningful present, enlisting Ji An’an’s help.

Ji An’an suggests Shen Mo gift Ji Mingxuan a romantic trip for his birthday, referencing the island where Zhou Yang proposed to her.

Shen Mo hesitates, thinking it wouldn’t be romantic for them and deflects by mentioning Ji Mingxuan’s busy schedule.

During dinner, Ji An’an almost reveals the plan, but Shen Mo stops her. Ji Mingxuan becomes curious about the February dates.

Shen Mo overhears Ji Mingxuan rearranging his schedule to free up the proposed days, despite pretending it’s coincidental.

When Ji Mingxuan directly asks Shen Mo about the trip, Shen Mo reveals the idea. Ji Mingxuan decides they’ll go but chooses a different destination, surprising Shen Mo.

Ji Mingxuan acknowledges his busy schedule but reassures Shen Mo, even though Shen Mo knows the work has been rushed to accommodate the trip.

That night, Shen Mo asks Ji Mingxuan why he fought Zhou Yang’s cousin at the engagement banquet. Ji Mingxuan avoids answering, leading Shen Mo to directly ask if Ji Mingxuan loves him.

Ji Mingxuan doesn’t verbally respond but aggressively kisses and makes love to Shen Mo, eventually confessing in the heat of the moment that he does love him.

Shen Mo wakes up the next morning with evidence of their night together but still feels uncertain about Ji Mingxuan’s confession.

Ji Mingxuan grows busier with work but ensures he comes home every night, maintaining a stable dynamic with Shen Mo.

Ji Mingxuan’s secretary efficiently books a romantic trip, including a stay on a honeymoon destination island. Shen Mo starts considering the trip more fondly.

Ji An’an involves Shen Mo in her wedding preparations, using his new car to run errands. They visit Dynasty Hotel for tea, where Shen Mo spots Zhou Yang’s mother, Mrs. Zhou, with Zhou Chu.

Shen Mo avoids meeting Mrs. Zhou due to their past, staying behind while Ji An’an greets her. Mrs. Zhou takes Ji An’an to a private room.

Shen Mo receives a suspicious text from Ji An’an claiming she’s unwell in a hotel room and asking him to come. Concerned, Shen Mo heads to the room.

Shen Mo enters Room 6018 and finds Zhou Yang, shirtless, inside. Zhou Yang reveals Ji An’an is with his mother downstairs, confirming the text was a setup by Zhou Chu.

The door to the room is mysteriously locked from the outside. Zhou Yang realizes Zhou Chu orchestrated the situation, likely intending to create trouble for them.

Shen Mo calls the hotel for assistance and tries contacting Ji Mingxuan, but Zhou Yang snatches Shen Mo’s phone and destroys it, accusing Ji Mingxuan of being manipulative.

Zhou Yang reveals that Ji Mingxuan disclosed Shen Mo’s relationship with Zhou Yang to Zhou Yang’s parents, triggering the events that led to Shen Mo’s abduction three years ago.

Shen Mo recalls Ji Mingxuan rescuing him during the abduction but starts questioning the timing and Ji Mingxuan’s involvement in the broader situation.

Shen Mo begins to piece together how everything, from Zhou Yang’s departure to Shen Mo’s abduction and eventual relationship with Ji Mingxuan, might have been orchestrated.

Doubt and betrayal overwhelm Shen Mo as he questions the sincerity of Ji Mingxuan’s love and his role in Shen Mo’s past suffering.

Zhou Yang accuses Ji Mingxuan of being self-serving, claiming Ji Mingxuan’s actions were calculated to break him and Shen Mo up and force a marriage between Zhou Yang and Ji An’an.

Shen Mo instinctively defends Ji Mingxuan, arguing that his actions were for Ji An’an’s benefit, but Zhou Yang questions whether Ji Mingxuan truly cares about his sister's happiness.

Zhou Yang’s accusation plants a seed of doubt in Shen Mo, but Shen Mo counters, highlighting Zhou Yang’s role in the situation. He points out that Zhou Yang chose to go abroad, get engaged, and lie to Ji An’an about his feelings.

Shen Mo asks if Zhou Yang intended to keep their relationship secret while living a double life, having a family with Ji An’an while keeping Shen Mo as a secret lover.

Zhou Yang is left speechless, unable to refute Shen Mo’s accusations.

Shen Mo softens slightly, acknowledging that if two people truly loved each other, no external force could separate them. He concludes their breakup was inevitable because their love wasn’t strong enough.

Zhou Yang dejectedly asks if they can start over, but Shen Mo immediately rejects the idea.

Zhou Yang, desperate, hugs Shen Mo and tries to kiss him.

Shen Mo defends himself by kicking Zhou Yang, who groans in pain but doesn’t let go.

As they struggle, the locked door suddenly opens, revealing Ji An’an standing outside.

Ji An’an catches Zhou Yang and Shen Mo in the room and overhears everything through a listening device, which Shen Mo realizes must have been Zhou Chu's doing.

Ji An’an confronts Zhou Yang, asking if he’s been lying to her the whole time. Zhou Yang eventually admits that he has never loved her.

Shen Mo punches Zhou Yang in anger, feeling he should have done it long ago.

Ji An’an questions Shen Mo, asking if his relationship with Ji Mingxuan is also fake. Shen Mo avoids answering directly, suggesting Ji Mingxuan explain when he arrives.

Ji An’an realizes Shen Mo and Zhou Yang were once together and feels utterly betrayed. She leaves the room, looking devastated.

Shen Mo tries to follow Ji An’an, but Zhou Yang grabs him, claiming Ji Mingxuan orchestrated their breakup and manipulated the situation for his own benefit.

Ji Mingxuan arrives and urgently asks where Ji An’an is. Shen Mo informs him that Ji An’an ran off and might know everything.

Shen Mo hesitantly asks Ji Mingxuan if he told the Zhou family about his past relationship with Zhou Yang. Ji Mingxuan does not answer and rushes off to find Ji An’an.

Shen Mo and Zhou Yang search for Ji An’an, fearing the worst. They spot her unconscious in Ji Mingxuan’s arms as he takes her to the hospital.

At the hospital, Shen Mo learns from Ji Mingxuan that Ji An’an has congenital heart disease, inherited from their late mother. Ji Mingxuan reveals he has devoted his life to ensuring her happiness, even fabricating an illusion of love between Ji An’an and Zhou Yang.

Ji An’an regains consciousness and tells Ji Mingxuan she doesn’t want to see Zhou Yang again. Ji Mingxuan coldly tells Zhou Yang to leave.

Shen Mo confronts Ji Mingxuan, asking again if he told the Zhou family about his relationship with Zhou Yang. Ji Mingxuan finally admits he did.

Weeks later, Ji Mingxuan’s lawyer meets with Shen Mo, handing over valuable assets and properties as part of their “breakup.” Ji Mingxuan leaves without meeting Shen Mo in person.

Shen Mo learns that Ji Mingxuan transferred a house in Jinxiu Villa under his name three years ago, raising questions about Ji Mingxuan’s true intentions.

Shen Mo decides to visit the house in Jinxiu Villa to uncover the truth.

Mr. Chen suggests Shen Mo should already have the keys to the house in Jinxiu Villa, leading Shen Mo to search through his belongings.

Shen Mo finds an old, dusty gift box with a bowtie on top, which Ji Mingxuan had given him casually years ago for his birthday.

Shen Mo realizes that the timeline is odd: Ji Mingxuan had given him this house before their contract was signed. He wonders if it was some kind of deposit or something more significant.

Inside the gift box, Shen Mo finds a key and a note written in Ji Mingxuan’s handwriting with the address of the house in Jinxiu Villa.

Shen Mo decides to visit the house immediately, feeling compelled to uncover the mystery.

The house is located in a serene, high-end area, quiet yet central. Shen Mo finds the lock unchanged, suggesting Ji Mingxuan never stopped maintaining the property.

The house is elegantly decorated and fully furnished. The wardrobe contains Ji Mingxuan's suits, indicating he likely stayed there at times, but there are no signs of anyone else living there.

Shen Mo feels disappointed at first, finding nothing extraordinary or revealing in the main rooms of the house.

He opens the door to the study, only to discover it transformed into a fully equipped studio.

The studio walls are covered with paintings of varying styles and levels of detail, but all share the same signature: Shen Mo.

Shen Mo realizes that Ji Mingxuan has been painting him or his likeness for years, hinting at an enduring and profound affection.

Shen Mo awakens in a hospital room, confused and in immense pain, recalling the trauma of being abducted and tortured in an abandoned warehouse.

He remembers his captors taunting him about Zhou Yang's absence while they crushed his fingers, leaving him traumatized and emotionally broken.

A tall man enters the hospital room; Shen Mo initially mistakes him for Zhou Yang but soon learns that he is Ji Mingxuan, Ji An’an's brother.

Ji Mingxuan reveals Zhou Yang is abroad with Ji An’an and that Shen Mo’s medical bills have been covered as "compensation."

After four days of silence, Shen Mo calmly asks to call Zhou Yang. During the call, he ends their relationship with three sentences and offers no explanation.

Shen Mo’s nightmares and PTSD worsen, causing insomnia and emotional detachment as he isolates himself in his rental.

Ji Mingxuan unexpectedly visits Shen Mo's messy apartment, bringing back a watch lost during the abduction, and notices Shen Mo has been living on spoiled food.

Ji Mingxuan forcibly takes Shen Mo to the hospital, ensuring he eats and begins treatment for PTSD, though Shen Mo denies being ill.

Shen Mo continues to mistake Ji Mingxuan for Zhou Yang, reflecting his fractured mental state and inability to process reality.

Ji Mingxuan watches over Shen Mo during his fever-induced unconsciousness after Shen Mo spends a full day waiting in the rain, calling out for Zhou Yang.

Shen Mo gradually recovers with Ji Mingxuan’s care, but his confusion about Ji Mingxuan’s identity persists.

Ji Mingxuan decides Shen Mo shouldn’t live alone and attempts to take him to his place, but Shen Mo adamantly refuses, insisting he must stay at the rental to “wait.”

Ji Mingxuan reluctantly agrees to stay at Shen Mo’s rental, sleeping on the uncomfortable sofa while Shen Mo continues to fixate on him as Zhou Yang.

Ji Mingxuan quietly asks Shen Mo if he mistakes everyone for Zhou Yang or if Ji Mingxuan is the only exception, highlighting Shen Mo’s distorted perception.

Shen Mo insists that Ji Mingxuan, whom he believes to be Zhou Yang, is "special," inadvertently touching Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan assures Shen Mo gently, “You can sleep. I’m right here,” showing his tender yet conflicted feelings as he watches over Shen Mo.

Shen Mo wakes up to find the man, whom he believes is Zhou Yang, sleeping uncomfortably on the sofa, still dressed in his work clothes.

He makes noodles for both of them despite his injured hand, and the man finishes the meal quickly, though he only remarks that it’s “not too bad.”

The man continues to balance his work with taking care of Shen Mo, ensuring he is present for Shen Mo’s return visits to the hospital.

Over time, the man starts staying more frequently as he realizes Shen Mo has recurring nightmares, upgrading the sofa for comfort and sometimes working from Shen Mo’s place.

Shen Mo protests the man’s refusal to sleep in the same bed, but the man dismisses his complaints, even joking that he is “impotent,” leaving Shen Mo flustered but giving up.

Shen Mo begins to recover physically and emotionally, gaining weight and sleeping better thanks to the man’s consistent presence.

Wanting to return to work, Shen Mo decides to paint again but finds his right hand still weak and in pain, leaving him unable to hold a paintbrush.

As Shen Mo struggles to accept that he can no longer paint, memories of his injury resurface, causing confusion and distress.

The man finds Shen Mo hiding his art tools after an emotional breakdown. Gently but firmly, he confronts Shen Mo, ultimately helping him pick up a fallen paintbrush.

When Shen Mo’s hand pain prevents him from gripping the brush, the man notices Shen Mo’s pale face and evasive excuses, prompting concern.

Shen Mo, determined to move on, locks away his art supplies and starts working as a grocery clerk. On his first day, the man unexpectedly shows up, distressed after failing to find Shen Mo at home.

The man hugs Shen Mo tightly in the grocery store, repeatedly calling his name with an unusual intensity, alarming Shen Mo but confirming the man had been searching for him all day.

That evening, the man suggests Shen Mo quit the clerk job and focus on treatment for his hand so he can paint again, but Shen Mo hesitates.

After Shen Mo agrees, the man arranges for top experts and a surgery that successfully treats Shen Mo’s hand, although extensive rehabilitation is required.

Despite the man’s insistence, Shen Mo refuses to move out of his rental, forcing the man to adjust his routine to accommodate Shen Mo’s preferences.

The man dedicates himself to Shen Mo’s recovery, massaging his hands every evening with medicinal liquor to improve blood circulation and relieve stiffness.

Shen Mo grows increasingly confused about the man’s character, finding him tender and attentive, far different from how he remembers Zhou Yang.

During one massage session, Shen Mo promises that when his hand heals, the man will be the first person he paints.

The man pauses at Shen Mo’s words, then continues massaging his fingers with quiet intensity, finally agreeing to Shen Mo’s promise.

Shen Mo falls asleep on the sofa while the man finishes the massage. Half-asleep, he feels the man drape a blanket over him and circle nervously.

Shen Mo senses the man lean down, and just before fully drifting off, he feels the man’s warm lips lightly brush against his temple.

Shen Mo wakes up confused, wondering if the kiss he felt on his temple was real or a dream.

The man appears to be asleep on the sofa, and Shen Mo decides not to dwell on it, falling asleep again.

As the year-end approaches, the man becomes busier with work, spending nights out while still making time for Shen Mo’s rehabilitation.

The man informs Shen Mo that he will spend New Year’s abroad with his family but offers to spend Christmas with Shen Mo instead.

Shen Mo plans a Christmas Eve dinner, preparing his best dishes and wine in an attempt to seduce the man.

Despite Shen Mo’s efforts to get the man drunk, the man remains unaffected while Shen Mo becomes tipsy.

After dinner, Shen Mo drunkenly hugs the man from behind in the kitchen, expressing how much he misses him.

Shen Mo kisses the man on the neck and throat, but the man initially resists.

Shen Mo persists, kissing the man on the lips, and the man finally responds, pushing Shen Mo against the counter and kissing him passionately.

The man stops the encounter before it goes too far, citing Shen Mo’s recovery as the reason, and returns to washing the dishes.

Shen Mo feels embarrassed but lets the incident go, realizing the man won’t push things further.

The man departs abroad as planned, leaving Shen Mo alone for the New Year.

On New Year’s Eve, Shen Mo attempts to call his estranged father but is met with rejection and silence, reminding him of his painful family history.

Shen Mo lies to the man during their New Year’s phone call, claiming he is with his parents, but the man seems unconvinced.

Shortly after, Shen Mo falls asleep on the sofa but is awakened by a knock at the door on New Year’s Day.

To his shock, the man stands outside, having returned unexpectedly, and confronts Shen Mo about spending New Year’s alone.

Shen Mo offers a weak excuse about his parents traveling, but the man doesn’t press further, only observing the pitiful remnants of Shen Mo’s lonely New Year’s dinner.

The man unexpectedly trips Shen Mo into his arms and embraces him tightly, whispering his name in a strained tone.

The man kisses Shen Mo’s eye and eventually admits he returned early because of Shen Mo’s lie about being with family.

Shen Mo playfully confesses his love for the man, prompting an emotional response as the man kisses Shen Mo deeply.

Their intimacy escalates, and the two finally consummate their relationship on the sofa, with the man alternating between tenderness and passion.

Afterward, they shower together and sleep in the same bed, Shen Mo feeling secure and content in the man’s arms.

The next morning, Shen Mo casually chats with the man, questioning why he didn’t use his key to enter the house.

The man mentions his sister, prompting Shen Mo to point out that the man had always said he was an only child, raising suspicions.

The man avoids answering directly, instead stroking Shen Mo’s hair, but soon presses Shen Mo to reveal why he didn’t return home for New Year’s.

Shen Mo, caught off guard, realizes the man doesn’t believe his earlier lie and hesitates to provide an honest answer.

Shen Mo hesitantly explains to the man that he didn’t go home for New Year’s because his parents had kicked him out when he came out during summer vacation years ago.

He reveals he still calls home every few months, but no one ever answers.

The man hugs Shen Mo tightly, sympathizing with his loneliness.

Shen Mo reassures the man, saying he isn’t alone because he has him, and asks if they will ever break up.

The man hesitates, then covers Shen Mo’s eyes and answers, “Of course not.”

Shen Mo’s right hand continues to heal, allowing him to regain basic function, though he still struggles psychologically with using a paintbrush.

Shen Mo is in high spirits as his recovery progresses, and he begins planning his future, searching for art-related jobs online.

He tells the man of his plans to work and support their life together if the man’s family disapproves of their relationship, prompting the man to laugh before agreeing.

While sorting through his old belongings, Shen Mo discovers a photo album containing high school and college photos.

As he flips through the photos, he realizes the man he has been living with isn’t the same Zhou Yang he remembers from high school.

Shen Mo becomes increasingly anxious, questioning his memories and feeling a deep unease.

The man returns home, and Shen Mo tries to act normal, hiding the photos before greeting him.

During dinner and afterward, Shen Mo behaves nervously, but the man doesn’t seem to notice.

Later in bed, Shen Mo lies awake, questioning the man’s identity but is hesitant to confront him.

The next morning, the man affectionately mentions Shen Mo’s upcoming birthday and suggests celebrating it together.

Shen Mo visits the hospital and asks his doctor if PTSD could cause him to mistake someone for someone else. The doctor confirms it’s possible in cases of memory loss or avoidance of reality.

Shen Mo decides to confront the man after piecing together his fragmented memories.

On the eve of his birthday, Shen Mo calls the man by “Zhou Yang” but then declares that he knows the man isn’t Zhou Yang.

The man confirms Shen Mo’s realization, stating Shen Mo was the one who mistook him for Zhou Yang in the first place.

Shen Mo accuses the man of pretending, but the man insists he initially visited out of concern for Shen Mo’s wellbeing and later stayed because he fell in love with him.

The man confesses his feelings, kissing Shen Mo passionately, but Shen Mo retreats, asserting his love for Zhou Yang.

Hurt, the man remains composed and calmly leaves the house after saying he won’t stay the night.

Shen Mo instinctively follows him to the door but stops, realizing he needs to recover his memories and understand what happened between him and Zhou Yang before he can act.

Shen Mo sat on the sofa, lost in thought, as rain began to fall outside.

The house he and Zhou Yang had furnished now felt filled with the shadows of another man.

Time passed until the doorbell rang. Shen Mo hurried to open it and saw the man standing there.

The man was soaked from the rain, his clothes drenched, water dripping from his hair, and his eyes glistening with rain and emotion.

Shen Mo was momentarily speechless at the sight.

The man didn’t step inside but instead took Shen Mo’s hand and placed a delicate box in it.

The man explained he had prepared this present long ago and intended to give it to Shen Mo personally.

The sound of the heavy rain blurred the man’s words, making his voice seem distant.

The man told Shen Mo he could either open the gift to see what it was or pretend he never received it, implying that Shen Mo’s choice would reveal his feelings.

Standing close to Shen Mo, the man seemed about to kiss him but stopped and whispered his words instead.

Shen Mo held the warm, dry box tightly, wondering where the man had hidden it to keep it from the rain.

As Shen Mo grasped the gift, it felt as though he was holding the man’s entire heart in his hands.

Shen Mo spent his birthday alone, eating plain noodles in his small rental while reflecting on his choices and the gift box from the man.

The box contained a key and a note with an address in Jinxiu Villa, but Shen Mo decided to delay making a decision until he resolved his questions about Zhou Yang.

He called Zhou Yang’s number repeatedly, only to find it powered off, and reached out to former classmates, but they offered little useful information.

Shen Mo remembered Zhou Yang’s connection to a man named Fang-shu, who worked for the Zhou family, and decided to visit the Zhou family’s company to seek answers.

At the company, Shen Mo encountered Zhou Yang’s mother, Mrs. Zhou, whose cold gaze triggered painful memories of being abducted, tortured, and threatened to stay away from Zhou Yang.

Overwhelmed by resurfacing memories, Shen Mo fled the building, falling down the stairs in his confusion. As he landed, a vivid memory returned: Ji Mingxuan had been the one to rescue him from the warehouse.

Shen Mo woke up from the memory in a park, reflecting on how Ji Mingxuan had saved him and the subsequent unraveling of their relationship.

Years after breaking up with Ji Mingxuan, Shen Mo had opened a studio using the property Ji Mingxuan had gifted him. He now lived quietly, focusing on his art.

Shen Mo often dreamed of Ji Mingxuan and their time together, especially the room in Jinxiu Villa filled with his old paintings.

Despite regaining his memories, Shen Mo had been unable to rekindle his connection with Ji Mingxuan, who avoided him and remained out of reach.

As the Lunar New Year approached, Shen Mo booked a trip to S Island, a place tied to bittersweet memories of wanting to visit it with Ji Mingxuan years ago.

Yang Yue, his studio assistant, teased Shen Mo about his annual trips to the island, which he justified as seeking inspiration despite its reputation as a honeymoon destination.

Shen Mo prepared for the trip, recalling how his life had changed since Ji Mingxuan entered and left it, and the deep longing he still felt.

Arriving at S Island, Shen Mo stayed at a luxurious cliffside hotel with stunning ocean views. The island’s serene beauty provided him solace and inspiration for painting.

Shen Mo spent his days biking around the island, painting the landscape, and enjoying the local culture, though he harbored quiet hopes tied to his memories of Ji Mingxuan.

Shen Mo initially planned to rent a yacht but ended up staying in his hotel room, focusing on painting and occasionally walking by the pool.

At the swimming pool, he overheard someone call out "Mingxuan," which briefly startled him, but it turned out to be unrelated to Ji Mingxuan.

However, Ji Mingxuan appeared moments later, looking as composed and handsome as Shen Mo remembered, leaving Shen Mo speechless.

A chaotic moment at the pool resulted in Shen Mo burning his hand, and Ji Mingxuan immediately helped him, rinsing his hand with cold water and applying burn ointment.

Ji Mingxuan remained gentle and attentive, engaging Shen Mo in polite conversation while carefully treating his injury.

During their exchange, Ji Mingxuan’s young son, Ji Ning, appeared, calling Ji Mingxuan "Daddy," which shocked Shen Mo.

Ji Ning, an adorable and lively boy, interacted warmly with Shen Mo, who found himself unexpectedly fond of the child.

Shen Mo assumed Ji Mingxuan was married and congratulated him, noticing a faint ring mark on Ji Mingxuan’s finger.

Ji Mingxuan casually asked Shen Mo about Zhou Yang, to which Shen Mo truthfully admitted they hadn’t been in contact for years.

Shen Mo hinted at remembering some past events, including the house in Jinxiu Villa, but Ji Mingxuan’s attention was diverted by his son.

Shen Mo declined Ji Mingxuan’s invitation for dinner, using his painting as an excuse, and returned to his room, reflecting on their brief interaction and the unspoken history between them.

Ji Mingxuan later sent dinner and burn ointment to Shen Mo’s room, accompanied by a note in his familiar handwriting.

Shen Mo contemplated how his life and relationship with Ji Mingxuan might have differed had he visited Jinxiu Villa years ago.

The next morning, Ji Mingxuan visited Shen Mo’s room, ensuring Shen Mo’s hand was healing and asking him to look after Ji Ning for the day while Ji Mingxuan attended a meeting.

Shen Mo reluctantly agreed, finding himself unable to resist Ji Ning’s charm and Ji Mingxuan’s insistence.

Ji Ning proved to be a lively but well-behaved child, bonding quickly with Shen Mo, who found himself deeply touched by Ji Ning’s affectionate gestures, including sharing food.

The morning passed pleasantly, with Shen Mo growing increasingly fond of Ji Ning, feeling warmth in the boy’s innocence and sweetness.

After lunch, during which Ji Ning happily finished all his food, Shen Mo took him to the bedroom for an afternoon nap, reflecting on how naturally they connected.

Shen Mo woke up after a good nap and found Chen-jie preparing powdered milk for Ji Ning, who finished it enthusiastically and sought praise from Shen Mo.

Ji Ning began to show his willful side, refusing to put on shoes until Shen Mo coaxed him, then climbing onto Shen Mo’s back and asking to play games.

Ji Ning retrieved an old phone from under the pillow, which Shen Mo immediately recognized as Ji Mingxuan’s outdated model from years ago.

Ji Ning asked Shen Mo to turn on the phone so he could play games. Shen Mo hesitated, finding it strange that Ji Mingxuan would keep such an old phone but ultimately helped Ji Ning.

Ji Ning excitedly used the phone, opening apps and playing a maze game, while Shen Mo monitored him, limiting his screen time to ten minutes.

After confiscating the phone, Shen Mo saw his own name in the outbox of the messages app, which caught his attention.

Despite hesitating, Shen Mo opened the messages and found dozens of texts from Ji Mingxuan to him, all sent on the same day four years ago.

The texts reflected Ji Mingxuan’s desperation, containing messages like: “Where are you, Shen Mo?”, “Did you go with Zhou Yang?”, “Come back.”, “Stay here.”, “Stay by my side.”

As Shen Mo read through the texts, his vision blurred with emotion, overwhelmed by the sheer intensity of Ji Mingxuan’s words and the feelings they conveyed.

Four years ago, Zhou Yang called Shen Mo, asking him to elope, but Shen Mo declined and avoided contact by staying home with his phone off.

Ji Mingxuan returned home drunk, mistaking Shen Mo’s detachment for betrayal. He acted out passionately, pinning Shen Mo down in frustration and heartbreak.

The next day, Ji Mingxuan deleted messages on Shen Mo’s phone, seemingly from Zhou Yang, indicating his insecurity and possessiveness.

Shen Mo’s current discovery of dozens of desperate texts from Ji Mingxuan sent four years ago—pleading for Shen Mo to stay—overwhelms him with emotion, realizing how deeply Ji Mingxuan loved him.

Shen Mo, emotional, hugged Ji Ning tightly and asked him about Ji Mingxuan’s love for his mother, with Ji Ning confidently replying that his father loved his mother.

Ji Mingxuan returned after his day’s work, greeted warmly by Ji Ning and subtly meeting Shen Mo’s gaze, hinting at lingering emotions.

They dined together, with Ji Ning present, creating a semblance of family life. Shen Mo felt bittersweet, his thoughts lingering on past moments with Ji Mingxuan.

Shen Mo impulsively requested Ji Mingxuan’s time after dinner, proposing to paint something for him, citing an old promise. Ji Mingxuan agreed, his emotions veiled.

After dinner, Ji Mingxuan put Ji Ning to sleep, narrating a bedtime story where the big bad wolf and the little white rabbit live happily ever after—possibly mirroring his hope for himself and Shen Mo.

Ji Mingxuan arrived at Shen Mo’s room, noticing Shen Mo’s packed suitcase, signaling his imminent departure. Shen Mo requested Ji Mingxuan’s patience while he painted.

Instead of a traditional portrait, Shen Mo painted a symbolic red ring on Ji Mingxuan’s ring finger, representing his heart and love for Ji Mingxuan.

Shen Mo confessed through the symbolic act, explaining the significance of the ring finger being closest to the heart and admitting his long-standing feelings for Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan, deeply moved, did not wash off the painted ring. Instead, he cornered Shen Mo, revealing he was never married and addressing Shen Mo’s misconceptions.

Ji Mingxuan admitted his enduring love for Shen Mo, solidifying it by kissing the painted ring on his finger, a gesture that confirmed his feelings.

Overwhelmed by mutual emotions, Shen Mo and Ji Mingxuan shared a passionate kiss, solidifying their reconciliation.

Shen Mo, trembling with emotion, attempted to unbutton Ji Mingxuan’s shirt, signaling a rekindling of their physical and emotional bond.

Ji Mingxuan caught Shen Mo's hands as he tried to unbutton Ji Mingxuan’s shirt, taking control and beginning their intimate encounter.

Ji Mingxuan teased Shen Mo, using deliberate movements to heighten Shen Mo’s desire, pressing his body against him and stimulating him through his clothes.

Shen Mo, overwhelmed, called Ji Mingxuan’s name in both formal and intimate tones, revealing his emotional vulnerability.

Ji Mingxuan escalated the moment by preparing Shen Mo with lube, despite Shen Mo’s initial hesitation about the location by the glass window.

Ji Mingxuan reassured Shen Mo, confidently continuing while creating a mix of physical sensations as Shen Mo’s body pressed against the cold window.

Ji Mingxuan carefully prepared Shen Mo, patiently ensuring comfort before moving forward, balancing gentleness with passion.

Their physical connection intensified, with Shen Mo caught between embarrassment and growing pleasure from their intimate position by the window.

Ji Mingxuan increased the intensity, deeply affecting Shen Mo, who felt physically overwhelmed yet emotionally tethered to Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan teased Shen Mo further, heightening his arousal with verbal and physical provocations, blending dominance and care.

Shen Mo reached climax first, consumed by overwhelming pleasure and fantasies of eternal unity with Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan, not yet finished, continued moving, expressing possessive affection through kisses and a biting mark on Shen Mo’s nape.

Ji Mingxuan declared, “Shen Mo, you are mine now,” solidifying the deep bond and marking their reunion as one of mutual emotional and physical possession.

Shen Mo admitted his devotion to Ji Mingxuan, saying, “I have always been yours,” after which Ji Mingxuan embraced him tightly and released inside him.

After their intimacy, Ji Mingxuan helped Shen Mo to the bathroom, where they cleaned up before collapsing into bed together.

During the night, Ji Mingxuan initiated a second round of lovemaking, gently arousing Shen Mo and teasing him until Shen Mo professed, “I love you, Mr. Ji.”

Shen Mo questioned Ji Mingxuan about their past, specifically why Ji Mingxuan broke up with him and ignored his attempts to reconnect. Ji Mingxuan revealed that his sister, Ji An’an, had asked him to set Shen Mo free and allow him to be with Zhou Yang.

Ji Mingxuan shared that Ji An’an’s request stemmed from her belief that people who love each other should be together, despite the pain caused by Zhou Yang’s betrayal.

Ji Mingxuan explained that Ji Ning was Ji An’an’s son, conceived despite the risk to her life, and that he had taken responsibility for raising Ji Ning as his own to avoid ties with the Zhou family.

Shen Mo felt regret for not being by Ji Mingxuan’s side during his most difficult moments but resolved to stay by him in the future.

Ji Mingxuan playfully insisted Shen Mo paint a matching ring on his left hand, mirroring the one Shen Mo had painted on his. Shen Mo complied, feeling both touched and embarrassed.

Ji Mingxuan and Shen Mo spent quality time together on the island, including private meals and leisurely walks by the beach, growing closer with every moment.

Ji Mingxuan’s careful washing of his hands to preserve the painted ring revealed his sentimentality, though Shen Mo eventually forced him to wash it off, which displeased Ji Mingxuan.

Shen Mo told Ji Ning a bedtime story, and while doing so, noticed Ji Mingxuan had fallen asleep by the bed. Shen Mo tenderly placed a blanket over him and kissed his cheek, reminiscing about their past.

Shen Mo decided to return home after spending a few more days on the island, while Ji Mingxuan planned to visit him once his work was done.

Ji Ning was reluctant to see Shen Mo leave, asking for reassurances and a pinky promise that they would meet again.

Ji Ning inadvertently revealed that Ji Mingxuan kept a photo of Shen Mo in his wallet, causing Shen Mo to question Ji Mingxuan about it. Ji Mingxuan evaded Shen Mo’s inquiries, leaving Shen Mo curious and touched.

Shen Mo, before boarding his flight, asked Ji Ning about the photo Ji Mingxuan kept in his wallet, but Ji Mingxuan deflected by kissing Shen Mo and calling the photo “beautiful.”

Shen Mo returned home late at night and texted Ji Mingxuan to confirm his safe arrival.

The next day, Shen Mo resumed work at his studio, bringing local treats for Yang Yue and hinting at his relationship with Ji Mingxuan without fully explaining.

Yang Yue misunderstood Shen Mo’s hints, imagining a love story involving a foreign woman and a child, which amused Shen Mo.

Shen Mo spent the next month preparing for Ji Mingxuan’s return, including designing and painting rings on paper and upgrading the home for Ji Ning’s arrival.

Ji Mingxuan returned from abroad a month later, without Ji Ning, explaining that Ji Ning was too young to adjust to a new place immediately.

Shen Mo offered to let Ji Mingxuan stay at his place, and instead, they drove to Jinxiu Villa, where Shen Mo had been secretly preparing Ji Mingxuan’s old home.

On the way to the seventh floor, Shen Mo recounted his past fall and memory loss, which had delayed his visit to Jinxiu Villa years ago. Ji Mingxuan asked if it had hurt, showing his deep concern for Shen Mo’s well-being.

Ji Mingxuan carried Shen Mo up the last few floors, and Shen Mo admitted he had kept the key to the villa.

Inside the villa, Ji Mingxuan noticed childproofing measures Shen Mo had added and saw that Shen Mo had turned the second bedroom into a child’s room for Ji Ning.

Ji Mingxuan hesitated before entering the study, where he found numerous paintings of himself, all signed by Shen Mo. The artwork displayed various expressions of Ji Mingxuan, vividly bringing him to life.

Shen Mo revealed the paintings had been completed in one month using his right hand. Ji Mingxuan, though touched, kept his emotions understated, but Shen Mo noticed a hint of blush behind Ji Mingxuan’s ear.

Shen Mo proposed to Ji Mingxuan with custom-designed rings resembling the ones he had painted on the island. He declared his intention to work hard, support their family, and spend his life with Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan, overwhelmed, silently examined the ring before pushing Shen Mo against the wall, responding with a tender kiss.

The room, filled with portraits of Ji Mingxuan, became the backdrop for the couple’s intimate moment as they solidified their love for one another.

Ji Mingxuan reflected on an ID photo of Shen Mo that he had received in an investigation file. The photo depicted Shen Mo as a serious, student-like young man with striking dark eyes.

Ji Mingxuan learned from the investigation that Shen Mo was an art student who recently graduated and was looking for a job. He also discovered Shen Mo was in a relationship with Zhou Yang, despite Zhou Yang being arranged to marry Ji Mingxuan’s sister, Ji An’an.

Ji Mingxuan visited the Zhou family to discuss the arranged marriage. The Zhou parents emphasized the advantages of the match, but Ji Mingxuan raised concerns about Zhou Yang’s existing relationship.

Ji An’an expressed her excitement about studying abroad with Zhou Yang, revealing her long-standing feelings for him. Ji Mingxuan decided to support her wish despite knowing about Zhou Yang’s relationship with Shen Mo.

Zhou Yang and Ji An’an left to study abroad together, and Ji Mingxuan assumed Zhou Yang had broken up with Shen Mo. However, Ji Mingxuan felt compelled to continue monitoring Shen Mo.

Days later, Ji Mingxuan received news that Shen Mo had gone missing. He suspected the Zhou family might be involved in silencing Shen Mo to avoid complications for Zhou Yang and Ji An’an.

Ji Mingxuan located Shen Mo in an abandoned warehouse. Shen Mo was severely injured, particularly his right hand, and was on the verge of death. Ji Mingxuan rescued him and took him to the hospital.

At the hospital, doctors revealed that Shen Mo’s right hand might never fully recover, potentially ending his ability to paint. Ji Mingxuan, despite having no obligation, stayed by Shen Mo’s side until he regained consciousness.

When Shen Mo woke up, he weakly asked about Zhou Yang. Ji Mingxuan coldly informed him that Zhou Yang was abroad with Ji An’an.

Shen Mo, in a broken state, borrowed Ji Mingxuan’s phone and called Zhou Yang to break up, citing concern for his family’s safety. Ji Mingxuan observed Shen Mo’s determination despite his fragile condition.

After Shen Mo recovered and left the hospital, Ji Mingxuan found Shen Mo’s watch in the warehouse and decided to return it personally.

Ji Mingxuan visited Shen Mo’s apartment, finding Shen Mo living in squalor and mistaking Ji Mingxuan for Zhou Yang. Ji Mingxuan discovered Shen Mo was malnourished and emotionally unstable.

Realizing Shen Mo’s condition, Ji Mingxuan took him to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed Shen Mo with PTSD caused by his traumatic experience.

Ji Mingxuan ensured Shen Mo received medical attention and stayed to make sure Shen Mo took his medication. However, he tried to distance himself afterward, feeling that Shen Mo was not his responsibility.

Despite his resolve to stay away, Ji Mingxuan found himself returning to Shen Mo’s neighborhood, unconsciously drawn to check on him. He saw Shen Mo outside, confirming his lingering concern.

Shen Mo, drenched and freezing in the rain, was sitting outside his rental, waiting for Zhou Yang, unaware that Zhou Yang would never come for him.

Ji Mingxuan fought his internal conflict before deciding to approach Shen Mo, holding an umbrella. Shen Mo mistook him for Zhou Yang and embraced him tightly.

Shen Mo developed a high fever that evening due to prolonged exposure to the rain. Ji Mingxuan called a doctor, stayed by his side, and comforted him through the night.

Shen Mo repeatedly called Zhou Yang’s name in his fevered sleep, which made Ji Mingxuan wonder what was so captivating about Zhou Yang.

Ji Mingxuan began visiting Shen Mo frequently and arranged for a housekeeper to clean and care for him daily. He occasionally tried to correct Shen Mo’s misconception about his identity but ultimately gave up.

Shen Mo only mistook Ji Mingxuan for Zhou Yang, ignoring others around him, which confused and defeated Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan noticed Shen Mo suffered from recurring nightmares, which worsened his condition. Shen Mo’s reluctance to leave the rental because of his insistence on waiting for Zhou Yang led Ji Mingxuan to stay with him.

Ji Mingxuan moved into the rental temporarily. His presence stopped Shen Mo’s nightmares, and they lived together peacefully.

Shen Mo discovered his right hand’s injury and his inability to paint, which caused him great distress. Ji Mingxuan arranged for a top medical team and successfully had Shen Mo undergo surgery to restore his hand.

Ji Mingxuan cared for Shen Mo during his recovery, massaging his cold-sensitive hands in the winter and encouraging him to paint again. Shen Mo promised to paint "Zhou Yang" first once he recovered, which hurt Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan began avoiding Shen Mo to distance himself emotionally, but Shen Mo’s clueless affection made it impossible. Ji Mingxuan claimed impotence to fend off Shen Mo’s advances.

During New Year’s, Ji Mingxuan left to visit his sister Ji An’an abroad but couldn’t stop thinking about Shen Mo. He later discovered that Shen Mo had lied about spending New Year’s with his family; Shen Mo had no contact with them after coming out.

Feeling guilty, Ji Mingxuan cut his trip short and returned to Shen Mo, despite vowing to stay away. Shen Mo greeted him warmly, making Ji Mingxuan abandon all hesitation.

Shen Mo’s hand healed well, and Ji Mingxuan began sleeping on the bed with him, further indulging in their shared life despite knowing Shen Mo still saw him as Zhou Yang.

Ji Mingxuan prepared an elaborate birthday present for Shen Mo: a house in Jinxiu Villa decorated to match Shen Mo’s dream home, complete with a studio displaying Shen Mo’s paintings.

The night before Shen Mo’s birthday, he regained his memories and realized Ji Mingxuan was not Zhou Yang. Shen Mo felt betrayed, confronting Ji Mingxuan about lying to him.

Shen Mo regained his memories and confronted Ji Mingxuan about pretending to be Zhou Yang, feeling betrayed by his actions.

Ji Mingxuan acknowledged Shen Mo’s anger but believed Shen Mo needed to face reality instead of staying in his illusions.

Despite the confrontation, Ji Mingxuan forced Shen Mo to take the key to the house in Jinxiu Villa, telling him he could visit or ignore it entirely.

Ji Mingxuan waited at Jinxiu Villa for three days in the rain, hoping Shen Mo would come, but Shen Mo never appeared, indirectly rejecting the gesture.

A week later, Ji Mingxuan returned to Shen Mo’s rental, encountering him by chance, but Shen Mo treated him like a stranger, refusing to acknowledge him.

Ji Mingxuan left Shen Mo alone until hearing two months ago that Shen Mo had been evicted due to unpaid rent and was nearly homeless.

Ji Mingxuan found Shen Mo in a terrible state—malnourished, confused, and physically weakened—but Shen Mo retained his mental clarity and remembered his kidnapping and breakup with Zhou Yang.

Shen Mo refused Ji Mingxuan’s offer to take him in, insisting they were strangers and declining his help despite his deteriorating condition.

Determined, Ji Mingxuan created a contract that obligated Shen Mo to pretend to be his lover under the pretense of protecting Ji An’an’s happiness.

Shen Mo, feeling indebted to Ji Mingxuan for saving his life, signed the contract and moved in with him despite their strained relationship.

Shen Mo acted as if he didn’t know Ji Mingxuan, forcing Ji Mingxuan to play along, though Ji Mingxuan used the “act” as an excuse to be close to Shen Mo.

Ji Mingxuan had a pair of plain silver rings custom made; one was engraved with something personal, while the other was left plain.

Ji Mingxuan instructed his secretary to deliver the unengraved ring to Shen Mo, downplaying its significance by claiming it was bought hastily at a random store.

Alone in his office, Ji Mingxuan gazed at the engraved ring, gently tracing the letters, sliding it onto his left ring finger with a tender smile.

Shen Mo found an old ID photo of himself in Ji Mingxuan’s wallet, realizing Ji Mingxuan had been keeping it for a long time despite Shen Mo thinking it wasn’t a good photo.

Shen Mo quickly put the wallet back when Ji Mingxuan stirred, pretending nothing happened. Ji Mingxuan hugged Shen Mo and expressed his enjoyment of holding him in bed.

Ji Ning interrupted their morning by knocking on their door, calling for “Daddy” and “Uncle.” Ji Mingxuan, refreshed, took Ji Ning to breakfast, leaving Shen Mo to rest.

After lunch, Ji Mingxuan suggested going out to buy cufflinks together, giving them a rare opportunity to spend time alone.

Ji Mingxuan subtly showed off his ring, telling Shen Mo to pick cufflinks that matched it, displaying satisfaction when Shen Mo chose a wine-colored pair.

They encountered Zhao Yi, an acquaintance of Ji Mingxuan’s, who appeared injured and in a disheveled state but maintained composure.

Zhao Yi hinted at past interest in Ji Mingxuan, joking he should’ve pursued Ji Mingxuan more persistently. Ji Mingxuan dismissed the notion, focused only on Shen Mo.

During dinner, Ji Mingxuan unexpectedly brought up Zhao Yi and clarified their relationship as purely business-related, though he seemed disappointed by Shen Mo’s indifferent reaction.

Upon returning home, Ji Ning, upset at being left alone, threw a tantrum. Shen Mo soothed him by playing games, and Ji Ning was soon smiling again.

Ji Ning called Ji Mingxuan to join them for a selfie, capturing a rare family moment of all three together. Shen Mo promised to print out the photo and keep it in his wallet.

Later, Shen Mo had the photo printed and replaced the old ID photo in Ji Mingxuan’s wallet, although Ji Mingxuan kept the old photo elsewhere.

Shen Mo found a velvet box hidden in a drawer while storing Ji Ning’s photo with his New Year’s money. Inside was a pair of diamond rings that Ji Mingxuan had prepared but never revealed.

Shen Mo realized Ji Mingxuan had also planned a confession and felt deeply moved but decided to keep Ji Mingxuan’s secret, letting it remain unspoken.

Returning to the living room, Shen Mo saw Ji Mingxuan and Ji Ning engaged in their activities and felt a quiet warmth, choosing not to confront Ji Mingxuan about the rings.

Shen Mo reflected on Ji Mingxuan’s claim that Shen Mo had pursued him first and decided to let Ji Mingxuan’s secret remain hidden as a testament to their bond.

Shen Mo reflected on his awkwardness during their first sexual encounter, recalling Ji Mingxuan’s silence afterward and his struggle to perform due to inexperience.

Shen Mo thought about how Ji Mingxuan had saved him after his abduction, brought him back when he was almost living on the streets, and proposed they act as lovers to protect Ji Mingxuan’s sister’s happiness.

Ji Mingxuan returned from work, noticed the ring he’d given Shen Mo on the table, and insisted Shen Mo wear it. Ji Mingxuan placed the ring on Shen Mo’s hand himself, emphasizing the importance of “putting on the full act.”

Shen Mo reminisced about the three years they wore matching rings and how far they’d come, reflecting on his recent successful proposal to Ji Mingxuan.

Ji Mingxuan offered Shen Mo a unique New Year’s present by painting on him. Shen Mo realized he was the canvas as Ji Mingxuan teased him with a syrup-dipped paintbrush, drawing a flower on his chest.

Ji Mingxuan heightened Shen Mo’s arousal with the painted flower, teasing him further with intimate touches and playful provocations.

Ji Mingxuan escalated the teasing with a paintbrush, using lubricant to stimulate Shen Mo’s entrance. Overwhelmed with both pleasure and discomfort, Shen Mo begged Ji Mingxuan to replace it with himself.

Ji Mingxuan complied, thrusting deeply into Shen Mo and bringing him to climax before continuing their passionate session against the wall.

Ji Mingxuan confessed his long-standing desire to be with Shen Mo in this way, intensifying Shen Mo’s emotions and deepening their connection.

The sound of firecrackers marked the approach of midnight as Ji Mingxuan kissed Shen Mo’s ring and whispered a heartfelt “Happy New Year,” symbolizing their shared journey and future together.

On Valentine’s Day, Shen Mo woke up to find a single red rose, not yet fully bloomed, placed beside his pillow, likely left by Ji Mingxuan.

Shen Mo admired the thoughtful gesture, put the rose in a vase, and joined Ji Mingxuan and Ji Ning for breakfast.

Ji Ning spent the morning drawing a giraffe in the study, inspired by their recent trip to the zoo. Shen Mo posted a photo of Ji Ning’s drawing to his WeChat Moments, a habit he picked up from his studio assistants.

Ji Mingxuan noticed Shen Mo’s post and seemed displeased. Later, he returned with the rose and suggested Ji Ning draw it after finishing his giraffe.

Shen Mo realized Ji Mingxuan was upset because Shen Mo hadn’t shown off their relationship. He took photos of the rose to appease Ji Mingxuan, who took over and spent half an hour photographing it himself.

Ji Mingxuan selected the best photo, which Shen Mo posted to his Moments. Ji Mingxuan promptly liked the post.

In the afternoon, the family visited the amusement park. Ji Mingxuan and Ji Ning, dressed in matching suits, looked strikingly alike. Shen Mo noticed Ji Mingxuan changing their car last minute, citing maintenance needs.

Ji Ning enjoyed the bumper cars and was energetic throughout the day, making Shen Mo sweat from chasing after him in the sunshine.

After dinner, Ji Mingxuan worked while Shen Mo told Ji Ning bedtime stories. Ji Ning later drew two pictures—one of a bumper car and another of their car covered in flowers.

Ji Ning innocently revealed that Ji Mingxuan had filled the car with roses but told him not to mention it to Shen Mo.

Shen Mo pieced together that Ji Mingxuan had gone to great lengths to prepare an extravagant gesture but only chose one rose to give him, in classic understated Ji Mingxuan fashion.

After getting Ji Ning to sleep, Shen Mo reflected on the rose and felt deeply touched by the gesture.

Late at night, when Ji Mingxuan came to bed, Shen Mo quietly thanked him for the Valentine’s Day present with a kiss.

Ji Mingxuan laughed softly, told Shen Mo to sleep, and held him gently as they drifted off together.

Ji Mingxuan planned a romantic vacation to S Island for Shen Mo’s birthday, revisiting the location of their reunion. They stayed in a luxurious villa with a sea view and private pool.

During their candlelit dinner, Shen Mo got drunk after only two glasses of wine, revealing his low alcohol tolerance.

Drunk Shen Mo became unusually talkative, sharing childhood memories and asking Ji Mingxuan for constant validation, which Ji Mingxuan patiently provided.

Shen Mo suddenly accused Ji Mingxuan of hiding secrets, mentioning the rings and the flowers Ji Mingxuan had secretly prepared.

Shen Mo’s drunken state shifted, and he abruptly decided to swim, jumping into the private pool fully clothed. Ji Mingxuan followed to ensure his safety.

Shen Mo splashed around like a child, prompting Ji Mingxuan to seize him and hold him still. Their playful interaction turned intimate under the moonlight.

Shen Mo boldly complimented Ji Mingxuan’s looks, kissing his eye, nose, and lips. Their affection escalated into a passionate encounter in the pool.

Ji Mingxuan prepared Shen Mo for intimacy underwater, teasing him to the point of Shen Mo begging for him to continue.

Their physical connection deepened, with Shen Mo expressing his love for Ji Mingxuan in a vulnerable and heartfelt moment.

Ji Mingxuan, deeply moved, asked Shen Mo to repeat his confession. Shen Mo affirmed his love, calling Ji Mingxuan’s name again during their climax.

The encounter ended with a sense of fulfillment and intimacy, marking the continuation of their deepening relationship on a meaningful day.

Liang Yunsheng, three years after a car accident that left him physically impaired and emotionally scarred, made a guest appearance at a singing competition.

Zhao Yi, a contestant with average singing abilities but striking ambition, caught Liang Yunsheng’s attention. Zhao Yi confidently declared himself a fan of Liang Yunsheng’s work and expressed his desire to sing one of his songs.

Liang Yunsheng dismissed Zhao Yi’s chances of winning, predicting his lack of talent would hinder his success.

Despite this, Zhao Yi sang one of Liang Yunsheng’s songs during the final round but failed to make the top five. His performance and the competition faded into obscurity.

Two months later, Liang Yunsheng’s friend requested him to write a song for Zhao Yi, which Liang Yunsheng refused, still mourning the loss of his beloved from the accident.

Zhao Yi received a mediocre song from another songwriter, which failed to gain traction. A year later, Zhao Yi shifted to acting and gained attention playing a supporting role in a costume drama.

Liang Yunsheng’s friend commented on Zhao Yi’s ambition and adaptability, which allowed him to seize opportunities and rise in the entertainment industry.

Liang Yunsheng later encountered Zhao Yi at a social dinner. Zhao Yi, soaked and disheveled after a confrontation, maintained his poise and elegance, impressing Liang Yunsheng.

Despite their brief interaction, Zhao Yi left a lasting impression. He later contacted Liang Yunsheng to return a jacket Liang had lent him, showing persistence in building a connection.

Visiting Liang Yunsheng’s home, Zhao Yi noted its cleanliness and serenity, teasing Liang about living a retired life. He tried to persuade Liang Yunsheng to make a comeback, proposing he write a theme song for Zhao Yi’s upcoming movie.

Liang Yunsheng resisted the idea, but Zhao Yi cleverly saved his phone number in Liang Yunsheng’s phone, leaving an open invitation for collaboration.

Zhao Yi’s relentless ambition and determination stood in stark contrast to Liang Yunsheng’s withdrawn lifestyle, sparking a subtle yet significant interaction between them.

Shen Mo's roommate, A-Wen, woke him up early and begged him to attend an economics lecture in his place, promising a big meal as a reward.

Reluctantly, Shen Mo agreed, despite being an art student with no interest or knowledge in economics.

Shen Mo had lunch with his close friend Zhou Yang, discussing their plans to study art abroad. Zhou Yang seemed hesitant and troubled about his decision due to family pressure.

The conversation ended on a sour note, leaving Shen Mo unsettled.

Shen Mo arrived late to the lecture and, feeling flustered, entered through the front door, inadvertently drawing everyone’s attention.

Ji Mingxuan, the young, successful entrepreneur giving the lecture, teased Shen Mo about standing at the door, making Shen Mo even more embarrassed.

Forced to sit in the front row, Shen Mo struggled to understand the lecture and could only jot down random notes to fulfill his promise to A-Wen.

After the lecture, A-Wen expressed his disappointment with Shen Mo’s inadequate notes but still treated him to a meal as promised.

A-Wen enthusiastically praised Ji Mingxuan, calling him an idol, and shared his admiration for the entrepreneur’s success and charisma.

Shen Mo dismissed Ji Mingxuan’s achievements as the product of privilege, but A-Wen remained adamant in his admiration.

Shen Mo, embarrassed to admit he hadn’t caught Ji Mingxuan’s name during the lecture, finally learned it from A-Wen’s brochure.

The story ended with the revelation that the captivating lecturer, Ji Mingxuan, was the man who would later play a significant role in Shen Mo’s life.

Shen Mo received a call from Zhou Yang while shopping, with Zhou Yang vaguely explaining he needed to return home for a family matter and would be gone for a few days.

Shen Mo adjusted his dinner plans to something simple and spent the next day tidying their rental home.

That evening, Shen Mo tried calling Zhou Yang but received no answer.

While walking home from the supermarket, Shen Mo noticed a car following him. Despite trying to ignore it, two men abducted him and forced him into the car’s trunk.

Shen Mo was taken to an abandoned warehouse in a remote area. During the drive, he realized he had been kidnapped but couldn't understand why, as he was a poor student.

Shen Mo seized a chance to escape when he was pulled from the car. He rammed his head into one of the men and fled, though he fell and injured himself.

The fall loosened the ropes binding Shen Mo’s hands, allowing him to free himself and call the police. He also repeatedly called Zhou Yang, but Zhou Yang didn’t answer.

Shen Mo was recaptured and brought back to the warehouse.

Inside the warehouse, the scar-faced kidnapper taunted Shen Mo, revealing Zhou Yang was abroad studying with his childhood sweetheart, abandoning Shen Mo without warning.

The scar-faced man crushed Shen Mo’s right hand under his shoe, leaving Shen Mo in unbearable pain, unable to move.

Shen Mo, in despair, continued to call Zhou Yang’s name, hoping for rescue, but Zhou Yang never came.

Just when Shen Mo thought he would die, the warehouse door opened, and light streamed in.

A figure approached from the doorway, stepping closer until Shen Mo could see their face. It wasn’t Zhou Yang, but the stranger became Shen Mo’s savior.

For two weeks, it rained continuously as Ji Mingxuan adjusted to life after his sister Ji An’an’s death. She had passed away due to a congenital heart defect, leaving behind her infant son, Ji Ning.

Ji Mingxuan struggled with the responsibility of raising Ji Ning, but after some hesitation, he held and comforted the baby for the first time, realizing they only had each other now.

When Ji Ning finally fell asleep, Ji Mingxuan reflected on how much Ji Ning resembled Ji An’an, and the rain outside finally stopped, symbolizing a glimmer of hope.

When Ji Ning was ten months old, he called Ji Mingxuan "Daddy" for the first time. Ji Mingxuan was moved by the moment, feeling an unexpected sense of joy amidst his grief.

Ji Mingxuan received a call from Mr. Chen, who informed him that Shen Mo had started a painting studio and expressed a desire to meet Ji Mingxuan.

Despite Shen Mo’s request, Ji Mingxuan decided not to meet him, remembering Ji An’an’s wish for Shen Mo to live freely. He asked Mr. Chen to convey that he was doing well and didn’t want to trouble Shen Mo.

Ji Mingxuan focused on raising Ji Ning, traveling with him every year after New Year’s. They frequently visited S Island, where Ji Mingxuan and Shen Mo once planned to vacation.

On Ji Mingxuan’s birthday, he spent time at S Island with Ji Ning. While watching Ji Ning play by the pool, Ji Mingxuan heard someone call his name but assumed it was directed at someone else.

Moments later, Ji Mingxuan turned and saw Shen Mo nearby. Their eyes met in silence.

The bright weather and Shen Mo’s appearance marked the end of the figurative rain that had lingered in Ji Mingxuan’s heart.

Ji Mingxuan, Shen Mo, and Ji Ning traveled by train during the Chunyun season to visit Shen Mo’s hometown for the Lunar New Year. It was Ji Ning’s first time on a train, and he was excited, while Shen Mo felt nervous.

Ji Mingxuan revealed that he had bought the tickets and planned the trip without telling Shen Mo, hoping to help him reconcile with his estranged parents.

Shen Mo was reluctant to knock on his parents' door, but with encouragement from Ji Mingxuan and Ji Ning, he finally did. To Shen Mo’s surprise, his parents welcomed them warmly, having already prepared the reunion dinner.

Shen Mo’s mother revealed that Ji Mingxuan had been calling Shen Mo’s father every night for three months and even brought him high-quality tea to win him over.

Ji Ning’s sweet behavior charmed Shen Mo’s parents, and they quickly grew fond of him. Shen Mo helped his mother make dumplings, which weren’t a traditional dish in the South but were made for Ji Ning’s request.

Sleeping arrangements were tight in the small house, so Ji Mingxuan and Shen Mo shared Shen Mo’s old bed, which was cramped and noisy. Shen Mo suggested sleeping on the floor, but Ji Mingxuan brushed off the idea.

At midnight, Ji Mingxuan suggested setting off fireworks, something Shen Mo had nearly forgotten due to the bans in big cities. Ji Mingxuan had already prepared fireworks in advance.

As they prepared to light the fireworks, Ji Mingxuan reminisced about a New Year’s Eve when he had called Shen Mo, who had lied about spending the holiday with his family. Ji Mingxuan had resolved then to one day celebrate New Year’s Eve with Shen Mo in his hometown.

At the stroke of midnight, Ji Mingxuan and Shen Mo lit the fireworks together. As the fireworks illuminated the night sky, Ji Mingxuan turned his gaze to Shen Mo, a look of tenderness in his eyes, fulfilling his long-held promise.

On New Year’s Day, Shen Mo woke up naturally for once, as Ji Ning was being taken care of by Shen Mo’s parents, who had taken him to an amusement park.

Ji Mingxuan revealed they were left alone and suggested they go on a date. He handed Shen Mo a movie theater brochure to choose a film.

Shen Mo picked a comedy, and Ji Mingxuan summoned an assistant who mistakenly brought tickets for every movie available during the New Year season. Ji Mingxuan brushed it off as the assistant being new.

After breakfast, Shen Mo and Ji Mingxuan walked to the town’s movie theater, which was bustling with people. Ji Mingxuan bought popcorn for Shen Mo, and they enjoyed the film together.

Shen Mo laughed along with the audience, tugging Ji Mingxuan’s sleeve when he didn’t join in. The movie ended sentimentally, even making Shen Mo shed some tears.

For lunch, they dined at a nearby restaurant. When Ji Mingxuan asked about afternoon plans, Shen Mo suggested painting in the park since the weather was unexpectedly sunny.

They returned home to collect Shen Mo’s painting tools and went to the park, which was lively with people flying kites. Shen Mo found a spot, set up his easel, and began painting.

While Shen Mo painted, Ji Mingxuan sat under a tree. Shen Mo lost track of time as he became immersed in his art, only finishing as the sun began to set.

Turning around, Shen Mo found Ji Mingxuan had fallen asleep under the tree. Not wanting to wake him, Shen Mo gently placed his jacket over him.

Shen Mo admired Ji Mingxuan’s serene, handsome sleeping face before adding a silhouette resembling Ji Mingxuan to his painting.

The spring-like breeze swept through the park, signaling a peaceful and content start to the year.

Ji Ning had grown up quickly and was preparing to start elementary school, prompting Ji Mingxuan to decide to move back to the Ji family house for convenience.

Shen Mo insisted on personally cleaning the house before moving in to ensure it was suitable for Ji Ning, despite Ji Mingxuan suggesting hiring help.

After a morning of cleaning, Shen Mo rested on the sofa and unexpectedly fell asleep.

Upon waking, Shen Mo noticed subtle differences in the living room’s furnishing and heard noises from upstairs.

Investigating, Shen Mo encountered a young boy who resembled Ji Mingxuan, realizing he had seemingly traveled twenty years into the past.

The boy mistook Shen Mo for a house cleaner, and Shen Mo played along, discovering the boy had a fever and convincing him to rest while Shen Mo made congee.

The boy revealed his mature determination to protect his sick younger sister, Ji An’an, which deeply moved Shen Mo.

Shen Mo fed the boy the congee, who grudgingly admitted it wasn’t terrible, displaying hints of the adult Ji Mingxuan’s personality.

As Shen Mo cared for the boy, he noticed the child’s loneliness and pessimism, which stemmed from his mother’s early death and his sister’s fragile health.

Just as the boy showed a desire for Shen Mo to stay, Shen Mo began to lose consciousness and heard someone calling his name.

Shen Mo woke up on the sofa in the present day, with Ji Mingxuan covering him with a blanket and telling him to sleep in his room to avoid catching a cold.

Still shaken by the dream-like experience, Shen Mo told Ji Mingxuan someone would always stay by his side, unknowingly addressing the boy’s long-past fears.

Ji Ning made two birthday wishes: to own a kitten and for his dad to spend more time with him.

The next morning, Ji Ning heard a noise and found Shen Mo sitting on a messy bed, claiming Ji Mingxuan had gone to work for an urgent matter.

Shen Mo hid an odd-eyed white cat under the blanket, which was actually Ji Mingxuan transformed into a cat.

Shen Mo struggled with the bizarre situation, contemplating posting humorous WeChat Moments about it but refrained.

The cat, still work-driven, used a computer with its paws, shocking Shen Mo.

Ji Ning found the cat, was overjoyed, and named it "Xiao-Bai," despite Shen Mo’s subtle objections.

Ji Ning played fetch with the cat, who refused to cooperate, making Ji Ning fetch the ball himself.

Shen Mo prepared noodles for the cat at lunch, which the cat ate reluctantly out of politeness.

Ji Ning asked the cat to read a picture book with him. The cat joined Ji Ning, lying on his lap while they "read" together, effectively bonding.

Shen Mo watched the heartwarming interaction without disturbing them, noticing how well they communicated despite not speaking the same language.

The cat spent the entire day playing with Ji Ning, including hide-and-seek in the evening, fulfilling Ji Ning’s wish for attention.

As Ji Ning went to bed, Shen Mo joked about Ji Mingxuan possibly staying a cat forever, earning a stern glare from the cat.

The cat tucked Ji Ning in by pulling up his blanket, showing its deep care.

Shen Mo turned off the light, leaving Ji Mingxuan as a cat curled up next to Ji Ning for the night.

Yang Yue sent Shen Mo a photo of Ji Mingxuan’s car with a stylish woman stepping out, jokingly referring to the "missus."

Shen Mo denied the existence of a “missus” and brushed off Yang Yue's teasing.

Over the weekend, Shen Mo didn’t go home, instead staying overnight at the studio, claiming he was busy with work.

On Monday, Shen Mo arrived at the studio early, looking tired and avoiding Yang Yue’s questions about his absence.

Ji Mingxuan visited the studio during lunch, asking Yang Yue to join him for coffee.

Ji Mingxuan asked Yang Yue about Shen Mo’s recent behavior, ruling out health, work, or financial issues as the cause of his odd behavior.

Yang Yue mentioned the photo of the woman and the car. Ji Mingxuan revealed the car was his, but he had lent it to a friend, ruling out any romantic involvement.

Ji Mingxuan returned in the evening with Ji Ning, urging his son to coax Shen Mo out of the resting room.

Ji Ning convinced Shen Mo to open the door. Ji Mingxuan slipped inside the room, shutting the door behind him.

Ji Ning exited the room moments later, reporting to Yang Yue that Shen Mo and Ji Mingxuan had been arguing but had already "made up."

Ji Ning casually asked for a reward (chocolate), implying he had seen such situations before, leaving Yang Yue amused but unsurprised.

January 28th: Yang Yue notes her boss (Shen Mo) is going on his usual annual trip abroad, finding it dull and considering setting him up with someone to date.

February 3rd–11th: Shen Mo extends his trip by a week, which Yang Yue finds uncharacteristic. She wonders if he met someone abroad.

February 15th: Shen Mo returns, looking unusually radiant, fueling Yang Yue’s suspicions that he might have met a potential "missus."

February 18th: Through indirect questioning, Yang Yue learns details about the "missus"—a beauty in her thirties, divorced, single, and raising a child. Shen Mo is clearly infatuated with her.

March 14th: Shen Mo mentions the "missus" will visit the studio, leaving Yang Yue anxious about making a good impression.

March 19th–20th: The "missus" arrives, and Yang Yue is shocked to discover the person is Ji Mingxuan, a stunning man who fits all the previous descriptions but completely upends her expectations.

March 22nd–24th: Yang Yue grows increasingly fond of her job, particularly enjoying the presence of the "missus," whom she finds captivating and charming.

March 28th: Ji Mingxuan visits the studio, bringing desserts and snacks for the employees. While his demeanor is elegant, he subtly requests Yang Yue to keep an eye on Shen Mo and report back to him if anything happens. Yang Yue interprets this as Ji Mingxuan ensuring Shen Mo remains loyal.

March 29th: After much deliberation, Yang Yue resolves to side with Ji Mingxuan and act as his "spy," vowing to monitor Shen Mo’s actions and report back loyally. She ends her "Work Diary" and plans to start a "Boss Observing Diary" the following week.

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