Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Rongxiu arrives at Wancheng Television Station with family, friends, and classmates for the recording of 'I'm the Biggest Star' to promote 'Killer of Ang'.
• He meets Lin Wanhui, the male lead of the film, and they exchange pleasantries.
• Li Rongxiu gets his makeup done by Lin Wanhui's makeup artist, Kimi.
• The hosts, Hua Hua and Bai Bai, discuss the script with Li Rongxiu, who finds it too formal and lacking in fun.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu shows maturity and composure, indicating his growth and understanding of his family's influence.
• Lin Wanhui demonstrates thoughtfulness and consideration towards Li Rongxiu.
• Kimi, the makeup artist, feels nervous and pressured due to Li Rongxiu's background.
• Hua Hua, the host, is cautious and attentive to Li Rongxiu's feedback, showing deference to his status.

Significant Themes

• The influence of Li Rongxiu's family background on those around him, causing them to tread carefully.
• The tension between Li Rongxiu's desire for a normal life and the expectations and pressures that come with his status.

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu and Lin Wanhui exchange polite conversation, with Lin Wanhui showing deference to Li Rongxiu's status.
• Li Rongxiu and Hua Hua discuss the show's script, with Li Rongxiu expressing his desire for a more lively and fun experience.
• Kimi, the makeup artist, feels intimidated by Li Rongxiu's family background, despite Li Rongxiu's friendly demeanor.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Rongxiu clarifies his stance on the show's questions and games, expressing willingness to cooperate within reasonable limits.
• The episode begins with Li Rongxiu's appearance, causing a stark contrast in audience reaction between his fans and the Li family's relatives.
• Li Rongxiu discusses his views on love, relationships, and family background matching in candid interviews.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu shows unexpected maturity and professionalism, handling the show's questions with ease and grace.
• Hua Hua, the host, gains a new respect for Li Rongxiu after seeing his cooperative attitude.
• The Li family and their relatives by marriage appreciate Li Rongxiu's handling of the situation.

Significant Themes

• Professionalism and understanding one's role in society.
• The importance of family background and upbringing in relationships.
• The differences between real life and idol dramas.

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu interacts with the hosts, answering questions openly and honestly.
• Li Rongxiu's responses spark reactions from the audience and other guests.
• Zhang Wanyu praises Li Rongxiu's suitability as a life partner, contrasting him with her character's love interest in Killer of Ang.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Rongxiu and Zhang Wanyu participate in a game show, "I'm the Biggest Star," where they play the 'flour bomb' game, and Li Rongxiu impresses everyone with his quick and accurate answers.
• Li Rongxiu is interviewed about his acting aspirations and expresses his openness to letting things happen naturally.
• After the show, Li Rongxiu treats the cast and crew to dinner at a seafood restaurant. He and Shen Yujun later go to Shen's place to have spicy hot pot.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu demonstrates his intelligence and quick thinking during the game show, earning admiration from the hosts and audience.
• Li Rongxiu shows his humility and lack of pretension when he says he hasn't thought about his future as an actor and is open to things happening naturally.
• Shen Yujun reveals his culinary skills and plans to win Li Rongxiu's heart through food.

Significant Themes

• Intelligence and quick thinking: Li Rongxiu's performance in the game show highlights his intelligence and ability to think on his feet.
• Humility and lack of pretension: Li Rongxiu's response to the interview question about his acting aspirations shows his humility and lack of pretension.
• Food as a bonding tool: Shen Yujun uses his cooking skills to connect with Li Rongxiu and win his favor.

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu and Zhang Wanyu: They playfully banter during the game show, showing a friendly and comfortable rapport.
• Li Rongxiu and Shen Yujun: They go grocery shopping together and plan to have hot pot at Shen's place, indicating a growing closeness and comfort between them.
• Li Rongxiu and the cast and crew of "I'm the Biggest Star": They enjoy a meal together after the show, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Rongxiu and Shen Yujun go grocery shopping together, with Shen Yujun displaying professionalism in selecting ingredients.
• They return to Shen Yujun's apartment, where Shen Yujun reveals a photo of his mother, showing a side of him that Li Rongxiu has never seen before.
• Shen Yujun cooks a hot pot meal for them, using his secret recipe for the dipping sauce.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Shows curiosity about Shen Yujun's home and displays a willingness to help with housework, though he's inexperienced.
• Shen Yujun: Reveals a gentle, caring side while cooking and interacting with Li Rongxiu in his personal space.

Significant Themes

• Family and home: Shen Yujun's apartment represents his personal space and connection to his mother, contrasting with his usual cold and distant demeanor.
• Intimacy and shared experiences: The grocery shopping trip and cooking together foster a sense of closeness between Li Rongxiu and Shen Yujun.

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu and Shen Yujun: Their interactions are more relaxed and intimate, with Li Rongxiu showing curiosity about Shen Yujun's personal life, and Shen Yujun revealing more of his gentle side while cooking for Li Rongxiu.

Here is a concise summary of Chapter 78:

Key Plot Points

• Shen Yujun prepares a lavish hot pot meal for Li Rongxiu, who regrets having eaten too many snacks beforehand.
• They invite Li Rongxiu’s brothers, cousins, and friends (Zhao Qijun, Xin Mengmeng) to share the meal; the elders decline.
• After the first lunar month, Shen Yujun leaves Wancheng for the capital to handle business for the Fate Group, while Li Rongxiu stays busy with coursework and the Super Alliance Foundation.
• The chapter reveals the Li family’s scheme: they have located Qiao An, a small-time thug and the illegitimate son of Shen Yingbo (head of the Shen family), to use as a tool against Shen Yingbo’s wife, Sun Minqiu.
• Li Rongjia has been intensively training Qiao An—manners, etiquette, aesthetics, finance, and current affairs—to make him presentable enough to enter the Shen family.
• At Shen Yingbo’s 55th birthday banquet, the Li family arrives with the now-polished Qiao An, who bears a striking resemblance to the birthday celebrant. Qiao An’s presence causes private gossip, and Shen Yingbo asks who he is.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu shows enjoyment of a lively social life and good food; he is pragmatic and sharp when dealing with Qiao An, reminding him not to appear nervous.
• Shen Yujun remains devoted to Li Rongxiu and deliberately works to integrate into his social circle, believing companionship matters more than romance.
• Qiao An transforms from a crude parking attendant into a well-mannered, well-dressed young man, though behind his polished surface he still harbors ambition—hoping to use the Li family to secure the Shen fortune.
• Li Rongjia demonstrates his ability to manage complex schemes involving people and training.

Significant Themes

• Schemes and manipulation for power and revenge (using illegitimate heir against the Shen family).
• Social class and transformation—making a “hoodlum” pass as a gentleman.
• The tension between genuine happiness and calculated plotting.
• Companionship vs. romance in personal relationships.

Character Interactions

• Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu have a warm, teasing dynamic; Shen Yujun cleverly works to win over Li Rongxiu’s family and friends.
• Li Rongxiu and Li Rongjia coordinate their plan to introduce Qiao An to the Shen family.
• Li Rongxiu straightforwardly admonishes Qiao An’s nervousness, while Qiao An responds with flattery and promised loyalty—neither fully trusting the other.
• At the banquet, Shen Yingbo notices Qiao An’s resemblance to himself, setting up the next stage of the plot.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Bingheng reveals that Qiao An is Zhao Meilan's son, hinting at a connection to the Shen family.
• Sun Minqiu reacts furiously, accusing Li Bingheng of using Qiao An to seize the Shen family's property.
• Shen Yingbo becomes interested in Qiao An, while the Shen family members express their reservations.
• Li Bingheng announces that Qiao An will have a role in Meihua Entertainment's upcoming film, with Li Rongxiu also planning to make a guest appearance.
• Shen Manyao suggests that Chi Entertainment also offer Qiao An a role in their upcoming film.

Character Developments

• Qiao An demonstrates his ability to adapt to high society, maintaining composure under scrutiny.
• Li Bingheng shows his cunning and manipulative side, using Qiao An to stir up trouble for the Shen family.
• Shen Yingbo becomes increasingly interested in Qiao An as a potential heir, while Sun Minqiu remains hostile.
• Shen Manyao tries to assert her influence by offering Qiao An a role in Chi Entertainment's film.

Significant Themes

• Bloodline and inheritance: The Shen family's focus on blood relations and the potential threat Qiao An poses to Shen Manyao's position.
• Manipulation and power struggles: Li Bingheng's use of Qiao An to disrupt the Shen family's dynamics, and the Shen family's attempts to maintain control.
• Social status and reputation: The importance of one's background and image in high society, as seen through Qiao An's transformation and the reactions of the Shen family members.

Character Interactions

• Li Bingheng and the Li family work together to position Qiao An as a potential threat to the Shen family.
• Shen Yingbo and Sun Minqiu clash over Qiao An's potential claim to the Shen family's property.
• Shen Manyao and Chi Junrui discuss offering Qiao An a role in Chi Entertainment's film, attempting to assert their influence.
• Qiao An maintains a polite and composed demeanor throughout the banquet, avoiding direct confrontation with the Shen family.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Shen Manyao suggests Qiao An make a guest appearance in a Chi Entertainment film to boost its publicity.
• Li Rongjia, Chi Junrui, and Shen Manyao discuss Qiao An's potential role in their plans.
• Li Rongxiu, Qiao An, and their friends plan to go to a nightclub. Xin Mengmeng suggests inviting Lin Yuxing and Zhang Yuxiang, but Zhou Ruixin insists on inviting female celebrities as well.

Character Developments

• Shen Manyao seeks to improve her image and standing in her father's eyes by suggesting Qiao An's involvement in a film.
• Chi Junrui sees Qiao An's potential value in gaining Shen Yingbo's trust and securing a stake in the Shen family's affairs.
• Li Rongxiu enjoys watching the drama unfold and is amused by the situation.
• Qiao An remains composed and unoffended by Shen Manyao's provocation.
• Zhou Ruixin displays jealousy and disdain towards Xin Mengmeng's admiration for Lin Yuxing.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and manipulation: Characters use Qiao An's potential to further their own agendas.
• Jealousy and competition: Xin Mengmeng and Zhou Ruixin's argument highlights their insecurities and desires.
• Appearances vs. reality: Shen Manyao's public image contrasts with her true intentions.

Character Interactions

• Shen Manyao and Chi Junrui collaborate to use Qiao An for their benefit.
• Li Rongxiu and Qiao An maintain a friendly dynamic, with Li Rongxiu showing interest in Qiao An's situation.
• Xin Mengmeng and Zhou Ruixin clash over their celebrity crushes, revealing their competitive nature.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Rongjia and friends discuss Zhou Ruixin's unconfessed feelings for Xin Mengmeng.
• They decide to teach Zhou Ruixin a lesson at the nightclub.
• Qiao An tactfully leaves them to discuss the matter.
• The group parties until dawn.

Character Developments

• Zhou Ruixin: Realizes he needs to confess his feelings to Xin Mengmeng.
• Xin Mengmeng: Stands her ground, refusing to accept Zhou Ruixin's half-hearted attempts.
• Qiao An: Shows maturity and understanding by giving the group privacy.

Significant Themes

• Unspoken feelings and communication.
• Friendship and loyalty.
• Growing up and taking responsibility.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Ruixin and Xin Mengmeng: Their unspoken feelings and the group's intervention bring tension and humor.
• Qiao An and the group: Qiao An's understanding and maturity earn him respect from the group.

Summary of Chapter 82

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• The Li family reaches a compromise: Li Rongxiu may stay in Wancheng for university instead of studying abroad, but he must maintain excellent grades and intern at Meihua; Father Li warns he must gain admission on his own merit or else repeat a year.
• Grandma Mo reveals that being a Diwan Top Student grants direct admission to any key university in the country (including Wancheng University) and even offers advantages for top foreign universities with scholarships — news Li Rongxiu had never known. He excitedly calls his friends to share it.
• Li Rongxiu and his friends gather at Zhao Qijun’s club to discuss college plans:
  • Xin Mengmeng jokingly recommends literature for an easy life, but Alan points out job prospects are poor.
  • Zhao Qijun will study business at Harvard; Xin Mengmeng plans to study beauty salon management in F Country; Alan will attend Cambridge; Zhou Ruixin also chooses F Country (to follow Xin Mengmeng); Wu Zhiheng’s father will decide for him.
  • The friends acknowledge they will scatter but agree to host each other during holidays.
• Later, Shen Yujun calls from the capital. Li Rongxiu urges him to make Uncle Li (Li Bingru) eat on time. Shen Yujun complies and drags the workaholic Li Bingru out for Western food — even though Shen Yujun dislikes it.
• Li Rongxiu’s second uncle, aunt, and second brother (Li Rongjia) arrive with gossip: Shen Yingbo (a wealthy man) confirmed through a paternity test that Shen Qiao’an is his illegitimate son. He brought Qiao’an home, causing his wife Sun Minqiu to throw a huge fight; Shen Yingbo then sent her back to her maiden family. Li Rongjia gloats that Sun Minqiu will now be too busy with her own problems to meddle in others’ affairs.

2. Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Shows relief at staying home, some laziness (hoping for an easy path), but also genuine warmth — caring about his uncle’s health and sharing good news with friends. His impulsive, mischievous nature remains.
• Father Li: Stern and principled, insists on self-reliance and discipline; reluctantly grants his son’s request but sets strict conditions.
• Grandma Mo (Mo Wanrou): Supportive and doting, serves as Li Rongxiu’s advocate and source of important information about Top Student privileges.
• Shen Yujun: Demonstrates devotion and obedience to Li Rongxiu’s wishes, even sacrificing his own taste (Western food) to ensure Li Bingru eats properly.
• Li Bingru: Portrayed as a workaholic who neglects meals.
• Friends: Each reveals different family pressures and aspirations, showing the transition from carefree youth to future responsibilities.
• Li Rongjia / second uncle & aunt: Enjoy schadenfreude over their rival Sun Minqiu’s misfortune, reflecting family rivalries.

3. Significant Themes

• Family authority vs. personal choice: The negotiation over studying abroad vs. at home highlights generational compromises and parental control.
• Meritocracy and opportunity: Diwan Top Student status is shown as a powerful credential that opens doors — emphasizing the value of academic achievement.
• Friendship and impermanence: The friends’ diverging paths underscore the end of an era and the bittersweet nature of growing up.
• Romantic/careful care: The phone call between Li Rongxiu and Shen Yujun displays quiet intimacy and mutual consideration.
• Status and gossip: The subplot about Shen Yingbo’s illegitimate son and Sun Minqiu’s downfall ties into themes of social standing, revenge, and family reputation.

4. Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu ↔ Father Li / Grandpa Li / Grandma Mo: Heated but ultimately affectionate negotiation over his university plans; Grandma Mo shields him while Father Li lays down the law.
• Li Rongxiu ↔ Friends: Lively, teasing conversation about future careers, with Xin Mengmeng joking about literature’s perks and the group agreeing to stay in touch across countries.
• Li Rongxiu ↔ Shen Yujun: Brief but warm phone call; Li Rongxiu gives gentle orders about Uncle Li’s meals, and Shen Yujun obeys happily.
• Shen Yujun ↔ Li Bingru: Shen Yujun coerces his workaholic uncle to eat, using Grandma Mo’s name as leverage.
• Li Rongjia & parents ↔ Li family: They share gossip with glee, reinforcing the closeness of the extended family and their shared disdain for Sun Minqiu.

1. Key Plot Points

• The Li family discusses the fallout from Shen Yingbo driving his lawful wife Sun Minqiu back to her parents' home; they speculate about the reactions of the Chi family and Shen Manyao. Li Rongxiu seems pleased.
• Li Rongxiu announces his intention to major in literature, claiming it is the easiest. His family strongly advises against it, suggesting economics/finance or business instead.
• Li Rongxiu later visits his elder brother Li Rongyu in the study, learns that Meihua (Bach) and Fate Group (Maserati) are considering a joint venture to create a new car brand for upper-middle-class consumers.
• Li Rongxiu warns that combining the two brands' different styles could produce a "neither fish nor fowl" product. He then offers creative suggestions, including designing a business car for women using Bach's body style and Maserati's colors, plus performance-focused ideas. Li Rongyu is impressed and asks for more.

2. Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Despite laziness in choosing a major, he demonstrates genuine business intuition and knowledge of the automotive market, surprising his brother. He remains playful and family-oriented.
• Li Rongyu: Appreciative and patient, he values Li Rongxiu's input and encourages him to share more ideas, showing trust in his younger brother's judgment.
• Zhuang Meiru, Grandpa Li, Mo Wanrou, Li Rongyu: They embody a close-knit, supportive family, with lighthearted banter and concern for Grandpa Li's health.

3. Significant Themes

• Family expectations vs. personal interest (college major choice).
• Business legacy and innovation (car brand collaboration, adapting to market needs).
• Gossip and social repercussions of family scandal (Sun Minqiu, Shen family).
• Generational wisdom vs. youthful creativity in business.

4. Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu jokes with family during the fruit discussion; Grandpa Li is tempted by cantaloupe but restrained by health.
• The elders collectively try to persuade Li Rongxiu to choose a practical major, showing affectionate but firm parenting.
• Li Rongxiu and Li Rongyu share a productive conversation in the study, with Li Rongxiu drinking Li Rongyu's coffee and complaining about its bitterness, then requesting watermelon juice and rice noodles—showing their easygoing sibling relationship.

Summary of Chapter 84

1. Key Plot Points

• Li Rongxiu visits Li Rongyu’s study, where they share snacks (hot and sour rice noodles, iced watermelon juice, coffee). Li Rongxiu asks about the plan regarding Wang Zhengxuan (Li Rongmei’s suspected boyfriend). Li Rongyu deflects, suggesting Li Rongxiu could handle the project later when he starts university.
• Li Rongxiu leaves Diwan High School early (thanks to his guaranteed admission to Wancheng University) and becomes an intern at Meihua Group. He chooses Computer Science, partly because Wang Zhengxuan is in that department and partly because he foresees the future growth of the internet industry.
• At Meihua, Li Rongxiu returns to the Secretarial Department, receives a warm welcome, and gets new office supplies from Zhou Fan. He learns of an afternoon meeting about cooperation between Bach Automobile (Meihua) and Fite Automobile, including forming an inspection team.
• Li Rongxiu notices Sun Han—his former office rival—has become mature and socially adept. Sun Han asks him about the inspection team’s composition, hinting he wants inside information.

2. Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Shows his playful, rebellious personality (eating junk food, teasing his brother). He reveals ambition: he wants to use his good memory to identify talent and become a “mind laborer,” not just a physical one. He is strategic, choosing Computer Science for future opportunities.
• Li Rongyu: The responsible eldest brother, calmly managing work while gently humoring Li Rongxiu. He avoids direct answers about Wang Zhengxuan, showing a knack for redirection.
• Sun Han: Transformed remarkably in two years—from arrogant and confrontational to polished and seemingly worldly. He now values networks and asks probing questions, indicating he is more career-conscious.

3. Significant Themes

• Youth vs. experience: Li Rongxiu’s carefree energy contrasts with the seasoned, compliant attitude of older employees like Sun Han.
• Ambition and foresight: Li Rongxiu’s choice of Computer Science reflects his awareness of future industry trends; he intends to leverage his memory and academic position.
• Social adaptability: Sun Han’s change underscores how workplace and time reshape people; Li Rongxiu, by contrast, presents the same face to everyone.

4. Character Interactions

• Li Rongyu & Li Rongxiu: Warm sibling banter over food; Li Rongxiu teases his brother about coffee, and Li Rongyu affectionately ruffles his hair. Their exchange reveals both closeness and Li Rongyu’s gentle authority.
• Li Rongxiu & the Secretarial Department: Colleagues welcome him; Linda organizes a lunch, and Katrina gives an enthusiastic hug, showing he is liked.
• Li Rongxiu & Zhou Fan: Professional yet friendly; Zhou Fan jokes about Li Rongxiu’s choice of major, then assigns him the meeting agenda.
• Li Rongxiu & Sun Han: An awkward but polite reconciliation. Sun Han deliberately approaches Li Rongxiu to clear old grudges and subtly extract information about the inspection team, showing his newfound tact.

Summary of Chapter 85

1. Key plot points and events

• At a casual lunch, Sun Han asks Li Rongxiu about the second Secretarial Department spot for the upcoming inspection trip to Fitt Automotive Group in the capital. Li Rongxiu says he doesn’t know the details.
• During an afternoon shareholders’ meeting, Li Rongxiu repeatedly dozes off and is nudged awake by his brother Li Rongyu. He embarrasses himself in front of executives; both his father and brother are exasperated yet amused.
• After the meeting, Linda tells Li Rongxiu that the two department spots go to Director Zhou and Sun Han. Li Rongxiu himself will also accompany the delegation—his father personally paying for his expenses—without taking an official spot.
• Sun Han is pleased and asks Li Rongxiu to “take care” of him on the trip. Li Rongxiu offers to treat the team to dinner and karaoke to celebrate.
• Li Rongxiu calls Li Rongyu to skip dinner, then gets a call from Shen Yujun. They make tentative plans to meet in the capital; Li Rongxiu rejects roast duck and vegetarian dinner ideas. Li Rongxiu suggests calling Li Jiuying, but Shen Yujun explains that Li Jiuying is entangled in the princes’ power struggle over the aging Emperor, so they should not bother him.
• Colleagues tease Li Rongxiu about the call, assuming he has a girlfriend; he clarifies that Shen Yujun is just a good friend.
• The group enjoys dinner and singing, then heads home. Zhuang Meiru packs Li Rongxiu’s suitcase for the next morning’s flight.

2. Character developments

• Li Rongxiu remains relaxed and underexperienced in corporate life—napping through meetings, joking about work—but shows growing social ease with colleagues and warmth toward family and friends. He is also naive about how his affectionate phone tone might be perceived.
• Sun Han reveals ambition and self-interest: he angles for the trip spot and later acts overly friendly once he gets it.
• Shen Yujun is shown as busy and stressed under a heavy workload, yet he makes time for Li Rongxiu. Their playful back-and-forth highlights his caring, slightly indulgent attitude toward him.
• Li Rongyu and Li Bingheng are affectionate but mildly exasperated with Li Rongxiu’s immaturity, showing a protective family dynamic.
• Li Jiuying is mentioned as being in political trouble—hinting at deeper Empire-level intrigue beyond the business setting.

3. Significant themes

• Nepotism and privilege: Li Rongxiu gains access to the business trip entirely through family money, without needing to earn an official slot.
• Ambiguity in relationships: Colleagues perceive Li Rongxiu’s interaction with Shen Yujun as intimate, while Li Rongxiu himself sees it as ordinary friendship—hinting at romantic subtext.
• Political intrigue: The Emperor’s aging and the princes’ succession struggle form the backdrop of the Empire, foreshadowing larger conflicts.
• Work-life balance: Li Rongxiu advises Shen Yujun to delegate and leave work on time, underscoring a laid-back attitude vs. high-pressure corporate responsibility.

4. Character interactions

• Li Rongxiu & Sun Han: A mix of politeness and unspoken tension—Sun Han probes for info, then sweetens his tone after securing the spot.
• Li Rongxiu & Li Rongyu / Li Bingheng: Family members show tolerant exasperation: they wake him, scold him playfully, and still arrange for him to tag along.
• Li Rongxiu & Linda: She serves as his informal guide to department logistics and also joins in the teasing about his phone call.
• Li Rongxiu & Shen Yujun: Warm, playful conversation full of gentle bickering over food choices; Shen Yujun steers the conversation away from Li Jiuying’s problems, showing protectiveness.
• Li Rongxiu & colleagues (group): Lighthearted social banter, with colleagues affectionately mocking his phone manner; they accept his treat and enjoy the evening together.

Chapter 87 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Li family and the Meihua inspection team fly to the capital for business with Fite Automobile Company.
• Shen Yujun picks them up at the airport and treats everyone to an exclusive vegetarian banquet at "Imperial Kitchen," a high-end private restaurant with a legendary chef whose grandfather served in the previous dynasty's imperial kitchen.
• The meal is a remarkable display of culinary sophistication, with vegetarian dishes mimicking meat textures so authentically that even the "phoenix claw" (braised vegetarian chicken feet) has a bone-like texture.
• After the meal, Shen Yujun invites the group to experience the capital's nightlife; Father Li and Li Rongyu decline, and the employees tactfully follow suit, leaving Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu time alone.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Remains carefree and food-obsessed, thinking about meals and vacations before work begins. He is perceptive and charismatic enough that Li Rongyu suggests he head the reception team.
• Shen Yujun: Shows deep thoughtfulness in arranging a remarkable meal. His behavior is conspicuously doting toward Li Rongxiu and his family, treating Father Li with the courtesy of a junior family member rather than just a business partner.
• Father Li and Li Rongyu: Both are work-focused and mildly exasperated by Li Rongxiu's laziness; Father Li delivers a lecture on the importance of respecting time and commitments.
• Sun Han (Secretarial Department): Notes that Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu are "definitely not just ordinary friends," confirming Linda's earlier intuition.

Significant Themes

• Hospitality as status and courtship: Shen Yujun's elaborate preparations serve to impress his lover's family as much as business partners.
• Work ethic vs. leisure: The contrast between the disciplined Li Rongyu/Father Li and the pleasure-seeking Li Rongxiu highlights competing values.
• Perception and suspicion: The employees begin noticing the intimacy between Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu, setting up potential complications.

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu and Li Rongyu: Playful banter; Li Rongxiu's endless talk about food interrupts his brother's work, with Li Rongyu ironically suggesting hospitality as his future role.
• Father Li and Li Rongxiu: Father Li uses Shen Yujun's business partners' unreliability as a teaching moment about respecting schedules.
• Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu: Their dynamic is warm and familiar; Shen Yujun excitedly describes the menu like a boy showing off a treasure, and Li Rongxiu is openly delighted.
• Shen Yujun and Father Li/Li Rongyu: His respectful, almost familial courtesy surprises Father Li, while Li Rongyu's expression "looked much better" in response.

Chapter 88 Summary

Key Plot Points

• Li Rongxiu is in Beijing with the Meihua inspection group but is treated as a tagalong family member, not an actual employee
• Shen Yujun takes Li Rongxiu to a wind tunnel flying experience center, booking the entire venue after Li Rongxiu expresses interest
• They undergo flight training (comically compared to turtles stretching limbs) and spend hours flying
• Li Jiuying unexpectedly shows up, having tracked them down through inquiries
• After the flying session ends past midnight, Shen Yujun escorts an exhausted Li Rongxiu back to the hotel
• Li Jiuying leaves without saying goodbye, which prompts Li Rongxiu to complain about his lack of hospitality

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Shows his spoiled, playful nature and his "Li family temperament" of refusing to settle for second-best once he knows the best option exists. Complains about Li Jiuying's behavior, showing he values reciprocal hospitality
• Shen Yujun: Demonstrates his domineering pursuit of Li Rongxiu by booking an entire venue. Secretly drives Li Jiuying away with threats, showing his willingness to prioritize romance over friendship and manipulate situations to protect their private time
• Li Jiuying: Appears briefly as an uninvited third wheel, shamelessly inserting himself into their outing before being quietly removed

Significant Themes

• Romantic pursuit and possessiveness: Shen Yujun's strong pursuit of Li Rongxiu, including his willingness to remove obstacles (even friends) to preserve their time together
• "Lovers before friends": The contrast between Li Rongxiu's awareness of this dynamic and Shen Yujun's active practice of it
• Business vs. pleasure: The distinction between Li Rongxiu's leisure-focused visit and his family's actual business purposes

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu and Shen Yujun share a playful dynamic, with Li Rongxiu showing dogged persistence (the wind tunnel flying) and Shen Yujun accommodating his desires
• Li Jiuying's arrival creates subtle tension; Shen Yujun's smile disappears as he coldly stares at the newcomer
• Li Rongxiu remains unaware of Shen Yujun's behind-the-scenes manipulation of Li Jiuying's departure

Timeline Note

The chapter concludes with a summary of the following half month: Shen Yujun spends the time demonstrating his business capabilities to Li Rongxiu's father during inspection activities, showing both his strength as a partner and his demanding terms for cooperation, establishing his credibility with the family. The next planned activity is a trip to Chengde Mountain Resort with a bonfire-roasted whole lamb.

1. Key Plot Points

• Li Rongxiu and the Li family return to Wancheng with a delegation from the international automaker Fate Group; the branch relocation is underway.
• Shen family learns—through deliberately planted information—that Shen Yujun is the executive president of Fate Group’s Empire branch and first heir to the Alie family.
• The Shen family arrives at the Li family’s old residence to demand answers and attempt to claim kinship with Shen Yujun.
• Li Rongxiu bluntly tells them to take their grievances to Shen Yujun at the Evening City Grand Hotel.
• Shen Yingbo tries to bribe his way into the Li-Fate partnership by offering Li Bingheng valuable land near West Bay Wharf.
• Li Bingheng grows suspicious: the Shen family has no auto industry experience, and the offered concessions are too generous.

2. Character Developments

• Shen Yujun remains off-screen but is described as far less ruthless than in his previous life. With the Alie patriarch, the Li family, and Li Rongxiu’s support, he is calmer and more strategic—"a tiger disguised as a housecat."
• He deliberately lets his opponents expose themselves, and privately plots to use his “pitiful” situation to win Li Rongxiu’s sympathy and advance his relationship with him.
• Li Rongxiu shows fierce loyalty and contempt for the Shen family, unhesitatingly mocking them and defending Shen Yujun.
• Li Bingheng is cautious and shrewd, quickly seeing through Shen Yingbo’s excessive offers.
• Shen Yingbo is opportunistic and shameless, willing to humble himself and offer major assets to gain access to Shen Yujun’s newfound status.

3. Significant Themes

• Family hypocrisy: the Shen family ignored and mistreated Shen Yujun, but now claim blood ties for profit.
• Identity and rebirth: Shen Yujun’s changed circumstances alter his methods and priorities compared to his previous life.
• Business as warfare: corporate partnership talks double as bargaining, manipulation, and trap-setting.
• Hidden strength: the most dangerous players do not advertise their power.

4. Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu interrupts Shen Yingbo and dismisses the Shen family’s moral claims, saying the matter should be settled with Shen Yujun directly.
• Li Bingheng politely but firmly refuses to reveal “commercial secrets,” protecting the Li-Fate partnership from Shen family interference.
• Shen Yingbo tries to reconcile and tempt the Li family with land; Li Bingheng listens but remains wary.
• Li Rongxiu ends by suddenly asking about Shen Qiao’an, hinting at ongoing tension within the Shen family over illegitimate children.

Chapter 89 Summary

Key Plot Points

• The Shen family (Shen Yingbo, Shen Zongqing) visits the Li residence to discuss matters, but the conversation is tense and full of veiled jabs.
• Li Rongxiu excuses himself and privately calls Shen Yujun to warn him about the Shen family's visit; Shen Yujun calmly says he'll handle it.
• Li Rongxiu receives a call from his homeroom teacher about graduation photos and the senior prom, reminding him of his high school's end.
• He initially plans to buy an autograph book with Shen Yujun, but learns that Zhao Qijun already prepared one for him—with messages from classmates—saving him the effort.
• The group gathers on Li Rongxiu's yacht for a summer reunion, toasting and catching up. Shen Yujun is gradually accepted by Li Rongxiu's friends, mainly due to his status as Alie heir.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Shows nostalgia for high school and appreciates Zhao Qijun's attentiveness. His playful, "carefree playboy" persona is balanced by sentimental moments.
• Shen Yujun: Strategically decides to integrate into Li Rongxiu's social circle. He feels threatened by Zhao Qijun's closeness to Li Rongxiu but keeps it hidden. Displays mature handling of the Shen family's intrusion.
• Li Rongyu: Remains quiet and reticent, rebuffing Shen Zongqing's attempts at conversation.
• Shen Zongqing: Snarky and provocative, openly criticizes Shen Yingbo's family scandals and needles Li Rongyu about Ji Weibai.
• Zhao Qijun (mentioned): Demonstrates extraordinary thoughtfulness—he prepared the autograph book for Li Rongxiu without being asked.

Character Interactions

• Shen Yingbo vs. Li Rongxiu: Shen Yingbo tries to brush off criticism of his family, but Li Rongxiu drops pointed remarks about fate and forcing things.
• Shen Zongqing vs. Li Rongyu: Shen Zongqing attempts to provoke Li Rongyu, referencing Ji Weibai and her scandal; Li Rongyu brushes him off coldly.
• Li Rongxiu & Shen Yujun (phone calls): Slightly flirtatious, practical, and warm; Shen Yujun wants alone time but agrees to meet friends.
• Yacht gathering: Xin Mengmeng teases Li Rongxiu; friends show tentative approval of Shen Yujun; group dynamic is warm but class-conscious.

Significant Themes

• Social class and acceptance: Shen Yujun's status as Alie heir matters more than personal warmth in gaining friends' approval—society is pragmatic.
• Friendship and nostalgia: The end of high school, the autograph book, and the reunion emphasize valuable bonds and passing time.
• Family tension and hypocrisy: Shen Yingbo's public shame (Shen Manyao's affair) clashes with his moralizing; old grudges simmer beneath politeness.
• Subtle jealousy and insecurity: Shen Yujun's unease about Zhao Qijun's closeness to Li Rongxiu, though unexpressed, undercuts his outward confidence.

Chapter 90 Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Shen Yujun deliberately displays his closeness to Li Rongxiu by peeling and feeding him crayfish in front of all of Li's friends.
• During a group gathering, Zhou Ruixin accidentally reveals he had planned to confess to Xin Mengmeng at the graduation prom, which he blurts out under her provocation.
• Li Rongxiu admits he hasn't chosen a graduation prom date yet. Shen Yujun volunteers, insisting a prom date doesn't have to be female. Li Rongxiu agrees to take him.
• Zhao Qijun grows suspicious of Shen Yujun's influence over Li Rongxiu and, despite initially deciding to stay silent, resolves to speak with Li Rongxiu's eldest brother about it.
• Zhou Ruixin recruits Li Rongxiu to help with his elaborate confession/proposal plan: a remote-controlled helicopter with a red string, a hidden ring, and coordination to deliver the ring onto Xin Mengmeng's hand.
• The chapter ends as the graduation prom officially begins—fireworks, a violin performance, and the formal introduction of graduating students by the vice principal.

2. Character Developments

• Shen Yujun: Demonstrates his subtle, strategic influence over Li Rongxiu, carefully positioning himself as the most important person in Li's life. His offer to be the prom date reveals his romantic intentions disguised as casual friendship. He is also keenly aware of Zhao Qijun's suspicion and views him as an obstacle.
• Li Rongxiu: Still somewhat oblivious to Shen Yujun's deeper feelings, he accepts the offer at face value. His lack of a prospective date reveals he has had no romantic luck since his rebirth, in contrast to his previous life when he picked a young actress.
• Zhao Qijun: Acts as the observant, protective friend. His intuition warned him early on about Shen Yujun, and he now sees Shen's manipulation firsthand. Despite hesitation, he decides to take action to protect Li Rongxiu.
• Zhou Ruixin: Shows genuine commitment to Xin Mengmeng by planning an elaborate graduation prom confession, wanting to make things official.
• Xin Mengmeng: Despite her aggressive, proud demeanor, she honors her promise to be Zhou Ruixin's prom date and clearly cares more than she lets on.

3. Significant Themes

• Class and social ritual: Diwan High School's prom is framed as a prestigious, Oscar-style event—reflecting the elite social circle and the transition into adulthood as a networking occasion.
• Visible power vs. hidden manipulation: Shen Yujun uses public gestures to claim Li Rongxiu, while Zhao Qijun recognizes this quiet influence as a threat.
• Obliviousness vs. awareness: Li Rongxiu misjudges what is "strange" (a cousin as date vs. a man as date), while Zhao Qijun reads the situation clearly.
• Loyalty in friendship: The playboys work together for Zhou Ruixin's plan, and Zhao Qijun's concern stems from genuine friendship.
• Coming-of-age and romance: The prom serves as the backdrop for declarations, confessions, and first steps into adult relationships.

4. Character Interactions

• Shen Yujun & Li Rongxiu: Intimate, casual, and affectionate—Shen feeds Li, and Li readily accepts; their banter shows comfort and closeness.
• Xin Mengmeng & Zhou Ruixin: Comedic bickering on the surface; their argument leads to Zhou's accidental confession, followed by teasing from the group.
• Zhao Qijun & Shen Yujun: A quiet but tense exchange of glances, representing mutual wariness and unspoken confrontation.
• Li Rongxiu & the playboys: Li remains carefree and cheerful with his friends, while they accept his unusual choice of prom date with voiced doubts but no strong objection.
• Zhou Ruixin & Li Rongxiu: Zhou enlists Li's help with the ring/string plan; Shen Yujun silently agrees with Zhou's unspoken concern that Li can't keep secrets from Xin Mengmeng.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhou Ruixin confesses to Xin Mengmeng at the graduation ball, using a remote-controlled helicopter to deliver a ring.
• Xin Mengmeng accepts Zhou Ruixin's confession.
• Shen Yujun confesses to Li Rongxiu on the fifth floor of the auditorium.
• Li Rongxiu is shocked and hesitant about Shen Yujun's confession.

Character Developments

• Zhou Ruixin shows his romantic side, confessing to Xin Mengmeng in a grand manner.
• Xin Mengmeng, usually tough, shows her vulnerable side when faced with Zhou Ruixin's confession.
• Shen Yujun confesses to Li Rongxiu, revealing his serious and sincere feelings.
• Li Rongxiu is taken aback by Shen Yujun's confession and struggles to accept it.

Significant Themes

• Love and relationships: The chapter explores the dynamics of love and relationships, with both Zhou Ruixin and Xin Mengmeng, and Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu expressing their feelings for each other.
• Acceptance and change: Li Rongxiu struggles to accept Shen Yujun's feelings and the potential changes in their relationship.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Ruixin and Xin Mengmeng: Zhou Ruixin confesses to Xin Mengmeng, and they express their love for each other.
• Shen Yujun and Li Rongxiu: Shen Yujun confesses to Li Rongxiu, and Li Rongxiu is hesitant about accepting Shen Yujun's feelings.

Chapter 92 Summary

Key Plot Points & Events

• Shen Yujun reveals he's bought a 300-square-meter renovated apartment near Wancheng University and suggests Li Rongxiu live with him instead of in the dorms
• At the graduation dance, Zhou Ruixin executes an elaborate romantic confession to Xin Mengmeng—a giant heart-shaped candle arrangement with a smaller inner heart, earning them the titles of dance king and queen
• Li Rongyu drags Li Rongxiu back to the family; Shen Yujun follows, effectively presenting himself as part of the Li family circle
• After the dance, Li Rongxiu interns at Meihua, specifically assigned to receive Fate Group's inspection delegation—spending nearly a month eating and drinking around Wancheng
• Shen Yujun returns to Beijing to handle Fate Group's relocation and business cooperation
• Li Rongxiu registers for university (handled by Zhou Fan), visits his assigned four-person dormitory, is disgusted by it, and retreats to Shen Yujun's apartment—but never actually stays overnight because Li Rongyu insists on picking him up daily
• On the third day of military training, Li Rongxiu fakes a medical note to get exempted; Grandma Mo Wanrou defends him, silencing the Li men's criticism

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Remains resistant to Shen Yujun but no longer outright refuses; continues his pattern of avoiding hardship (skipping military training) and remains unsuited to ordinary college life; still hasn't formally agreed to be with Shen Yujun
• Shen Yujun: Executes a quieter romantic confession (fireflies in a dark corridor) at the dance; publicly positions himself as an "outsider son-in-law" of the Li family; continues his patient, strategic courtship
• Li Rongyu: Stays fiercely protective of his younger brother, serving as a deliberate obstacle to Shen Yujun's plans
• Zhou Fan: Acclimates to his demotion from department head to errand-running assistant, reflecting on how much Li Rongxiu has matured
• Grandpa Li: Shows practical concern that Li Rongxiu's avoidance of military training and off-campus living will isolate him from classmates

Significant Themes

• Class privilege: Wealth easily solves problems others can't—dormitory avoidance, medical exemptions, family connections
• Family protection vs. independence: The Li family's coddling of Li Rongxiu (especially the grandmother) conflicts with traditional expectations of masculine toughness
• Public vs. private romance: Shen Yujun orchestrates private romantic moments while Li Rongxiu refuses public displays; their relationship remains unacknowledged
• The Li-Shen family rift: The estrangement between the families is an open secret in Wancheng's upper class, and Shen Yujun's visible allegiance to the Li family signals future trouble for the Shens
• Maturing but sheltered youth: Li Rongxiu has grown but remains cosseted and unable (or unwilling) to endure ordinary difficulties

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu & Shen Yujun: Shen proposes cohabitation; Li is suspicious but non-committal, saying he'll ask his parents; later, in the dark corridor, Shen confesses romantically amid fireflies—Li says nothing but doesn't reject him
• Li Rongyu & Shen Yujun: Li Rongyu confronts Shen about "luring" his brother away; Shen gives evasive answers while continuing to follow the family
• Shen Yujun & Zhou Ruixin's father: Zhou's father thanks Shen formally; Shen's reply—"Xiu Xiu's friends are my friends"—signals his total alignment with the Li family
• The adults' social circle: The gathered parents exchange knowing remarks about Shen Yujun's defection from the Shen family to the Li camp; Zhou's father toasts Li Bingheng, implying the Li family engineered Shen's rise
• Li Rongxiu & his family: Grandma Mo Wanrou shields him from criticism; Grandpa Li worries about his future social integration; Li Rongyu continues his daily chauffeuring

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Rongxiu returns to the military training camp, bringing cooling soup and pastries for his classmates.
• The production crew of Urban Women Soldiers, including Ji Weibai and Shen Manyao, is also training at the camp.
• Wancheng University's president announces that Li Rongxiu's class will cooperate with the crew for a scene in the drama.

Character Developments

• Li Rongxiu: Shows his caring and considerate side by bringing treats for his classmates, winning them over. He also demonstrates his pride and disinterest in the dark-tanned students, preferring Shen Yujun's fairness.
• Shen Manyao: Feels conflicted and unwilling to accept Li Rongxiu's thriving life after their breakup. She harbors resentment towards him and the Li family for their past actions.

Significant Themes

• The power of kindness and generosity (Li Rongxiu winning over his classmates with treats).
• The consequences of past actions (Shen Manyao's resentment towards Li Rongxiu and the Li family).
• The struggle for power and position (Shen Manyao's internal family conflicts).

Character Interactions

• Li Rongxiu interacts positively with his classmates, winning them over with treats and kindness.
• Li Rongxiu and Shen Manyao have an unspoken tension due to their past, with Shen Manyao feeling resentment and Li Rongxiu showing disinterest in her.